UFO-Nytt - 2009 No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO-NYTT
Issue: Nr 3
Volume/Year: 2009
Publisher: Västerbergslagens UFO-förening
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of UFO-NYTT, the third issue from 2009, is published by the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening. The cover features an illustration of the Space Needle and the magazine's title and issue details. The table of contents indicates a strong focus on debunking pseudoskepticism, particularly concerning the Betty and Barney Hill case, alongside other articles on UFO-related phenomena.

Editorial and Foreword (Förord)

The foreword, likely written by an editorial board member or the chairman, reflects on the uniqueness of individuals and the tendency to appreciate people more after their passing. It contrasts this with the idea of valuing people while they are alive. The author touches upon the pleasantness of summer but acknowledges its transient nature. A significant portion of the foreword is dedicated to a critique of the current political and societal landscape in Sweden. The author expresses dissatisfaction with politicians, banks, and the regional government (Landstinget), advocating for a more streamlined and efficient approach to public services and a reduction in funding for associations, suggesting they should be self-sufficient. The foreword concludes with an optimistic outlook on the potential discovery of extraterrestrial life and an invitation for readers to submit their own theories and contributions to the magazine, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and evidence in the study of UFOs. It also mentions Claes Svan as a capable chairman of UFO SVERIGE and notes that their organization is part of UFO SVERIGE, which collects material and reports to AFU.

Pseudoskepticism's Deception Regarding Betty and Barney Hills' UFO Encounter

This lengthy article, authored by Kathleen Marden, systematically addresses and refutes common 'false' claims made by pseudoskeptics about the Betty and Barney Hill UFO experience, presenting the 'true' account based on investigations. Marden defines pseudoskepticism as the intentional spread of false and misleading information, characterized by cynicism and manipulation of data to fit a preconceived belief system, often targeting fields like psi-phenomena and UFOs.

The article contrasts historical instances where new scientific paradigms were met with resistance, citing examples from Darwinism, bacteriology, and early telecommunications. It then applies this framework to the modern era, asserting that similar forces are attacking pioneers by spreading lies and distorting information, particularly online.

The core of the article is a point-by-point refutation of specific 'false' claims about the Hill case:

• False: The Hills saw a star-like object that seemed to follow them, mistaking it for a flying saucer. Betty thought it was a spaceship, Barney a plane. True: The Hills observed a brightly lit object with an unusual shape and flight pattern. The craft descended, revealing windows and figures. Barney's intense observation of the figures, described as precise and emotionless like German officers, frightened him, leading him to withhold details from the Air Force Base initially.

• False: Betty called Major Paul Henderson at Pease Air Force Base. True: The Hills never met Major Paul Henderson.

• False: The Hills became nervous when a star-like object followed them, turned onto a narrow mountain road, and got lost. True: After the object descended, the Hills heard a 'buzzing' sound and felt vibrations. They reported the object disappeared without warning. Barney made a sharp left turn, becoming disoriented and lost on unfamiliar roads, which added about 8 km to their journey.

• False: Upon returning home, the Hills had vague memories of seeing a star-like object, only becoming convinced of a UFO encounter after Betty's dreams of abduction, with the experience mostly recalled through hypnosis. True: The Hills had clear, conscious memories of a close encounter with a silent, hovering craft. Barney reported the observation of figures onboard to his father within two days. Detailed descriptions of the figures, their uniforms, and their movements were later provided, with the leader at the window having a 'special drawing power' that frightened Barney.

• False: Betty stated the compass needle spun erratically over six strange, luminous dollar-sized points on the car's trunk, while Barney's test showed normal needle behavior. True: There were 12 to 18 luminous points, described as perfect circles the size of silver dollars. The compass spun erratically when brought near these points, but behaved normally when moved to a spot without a point.

• False: Betty Hill wrote accounts of her dreams over a two-year period before hypnosis, likely repeating the story until Barney was tired of it. True: Barney recounted hearing Betty tell her dreams to NICAP investigator Walter Webb. She wrote them down initially in a notebook, with one entry titled 'Dreams or Memories?'.

• False: Betty had vivid nightmares of being taken aboard an alien craft for medical experiments, and the information revealed during separate hypnosis sessions was identical to her dream accounts. True: Betty did not dream of being taken aboard an alien craft. The article asserts significant differences between Betty's dreams and the information revealed during regressions. The next article is promised to reveal data not present in Betty's dreams.

• False: The Hills were completely undressed and subjected to intrusive experiments focused on their genitals. True: They were not undressed naked; Betty remembered wearing underwear and a slip. Barney's clothes were pulled up or down. The examination focused on differences in skin, skeletal structure, mouth, eyes, etc., not genitals. A needle was inserted into Betty's navel.

• False: There are reasonable, everyday explanations for the damage to Betty's blue dress, such as dust mites, moths, and mold. True: The dress had a 5 cm tear near the zipper and a 2.5 cm tear in the thick zipper fabric. The lining was torn, and the hem hung down. The dress was also covered in a pink, powdery substance and was stained, particularly along the hem, sleeves, and bodice. An analysis by a chemist compared the dress to a 40-year-old control dress, finding only dust and cat hair, with no other similarities.

• False: One rarely hears a critical treatment of their story. True: This is stated to be untrue, as pseudoskeptics have widely spread unsubstantiated accounts in books, articles, and media.

The article concludes by referencing the book "Captured! The Betty and Barney Hill UFO Experience" by Stanton Friedman and the author.

Other Content

The table of contents also lists other articles: "Märken efter rymdvarelser" (Marks after aliens), "Fiskarnas historia 1973" (The Fish's History 1973), "Ögon i skyn" (Eyes in the sky), "Saxat" (Snipped), "Klipp" (Clip), and "Agneta Sjödin." The magazine also includes photographs of members of the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening at gatherings, such as enjoying coffee and preparing for a barbecue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the debunking of pseudoskepticism, and the presentation of evidence-based accounts of UFO encounters. The editorial stance, as expressed in the foreword and the detailed analysis of the Hill case, is one of advocating for a scientific and evidence-driven approach to UFO research, while actively combating misinformation and what they perceive as deliberate attempts to discredit the field. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of critical thinking and the need for verifiable proof.

This issue of UFOS magazine, dated October 17, 1973, with the identifier 10 and volume 11/10 1973, focuses on various UFO sightings and encounters. The cover headline questions the authenticity of the Betty and Barney Hill abduction story, suggesting it might be a fabrication by a lifelong UFO enthusiast.

Betty and Barney Hill Abduction Case

The article debunks the claim that Betty and Barney Hills were lifelong UFO enthusiasts, stating that Barney had little interest in UFOs before their encounter and that Betty was 42 when the event occurred. It addresses the discrepancy in Betty's descriptions of the alien star map, initially described as three-dimensional under hypnosis and later drawn as two-dimensional. The article highlights Marjorie Fish's work in creating 26 three-dimensional models of the local galaxy, which she used to find a match for the Hills' star map. Her findings were reviewed by Dr. Walter Mitchell of Ohio State University. The article notes that while the Hills' encounter provided significant evidence, only Betty's dress underwent laboratory analysis. A comparative analysis of hypnosis tapes suggests that something unusual happened to the Hills on September 19-20, 1961, and the author welcomes skepticism but rejects personal attacks.

Jeff Greenshaw UFO Encounter in Falkville, Alabama

On October 17, 1973, Police Chief Jeff Greenshaw of Falkville, Alabama, responded to a report of a UFO sighting. He encountered a human-sized figure in a reflective suit and filmed the event. The object, described as an underwater boat-like craft, stopped and then fled when Greenshaw activated his patrol car's lights. Greenshaw later resigned due to the publicity, and his trailer was burned, suggesting unknown elements were involved. He claimed government investigators visited him and confirmed a UFO had been tracked by radar in Falkville. However, no official evidence was released, and Greenshaw lost his job.

Hickson and Parker UFO Encounter in Pascagoula, Mississippi

On October 11, 1973, at approximately 9 PM, fishermen Charles Hickson (42) and Calvin Parker (19) reported an encounter with alien beings. They heard a 'zipping' sound and saw an oval object with windows and blue lights descend. Three figures emerged, described as robot-like, about 5 feet tall, with claw-like hands. Two beings reportedly grabbed Hickson, causing a stinging sensation. The men were left in a semi-conscious state, recalling an internal light and an eye-like object scanning their bodies. Hickson claimed to have heard a telepathic voice saying, "we are peaceful." They reported the incident to a local airfield and the government, but the UFO investigation was reportedly halted. Sheriff Fred Diamond noted their honesty and terror, and they insisted on a lie detector test, which was not fulfilled. The police offered no publicity.

An interview revealed that the men were left alone in a room with a hidden tape recorder, but their conversation did not reveal any inconsistencies. The sheriff arranged for a medical examination at a nearby airbase, where a 'scorch mark' was found. Military officers also questioned them. Charles Hickson later passed a lie detector test, with the machinist Scot Glasgow stating he was telling the truth. Calvin Parker suffered a nervous breakdown and required medical care. The author met Charles Hickson in 1987 and described him as a simple, honest man who never sought attention. Hickson stated that he had learned to accept what happened, as it had nearly ruined Parker's life.

Rendlesham Forest UFO Incidents

Several accounts from the Rendlesham Forest area in the UK are presented:

• Arthur Smekle (December 26, 1980): While driving through Rendlesham Forest, Smekle saw a large number of lights moving low between the trees, appearing to be a triangular craft.
• The Webb Family (December 26, 1980): Roy Webb, his wife, and daughter Hayley saw a large, glowing object that appeared like a star following their car. They stopped to observe it, and the object, described as silent and triangular, accelerated away.
• Gerry Harris (Morning of December 27, 1980): Harris, who owns a workshop near Woodbridge, saw a flashing light over the forest.
• Tony Sorrell (Night of December 27, 1980): Tony Sorrell, a food products manager, saw a triangular object resembling frosted glass moving across the sky, which obscured the stars and was sharply defined.
• Gordon Lavett (Night of December 27, 1980): Lavett witnessed a glowing, mushroom-shaped object that hovered over his property and then descended into Rendlesham Forest. His dog became ill and later died, with a veterinarian suspecting poisoning.
• David Roberts and Girlfriend (Night of December 27, 1980): While parked in Rendlesham Forest, they saw a massive white globe emerge from above the trees.
• Michael Simms and Friends (Night of December 27, 1980): Simms, the teenage son of a USAF officer, and his friends saw a large, light-covered object above the forest. It later split into three lights that flew in different directions.

The article notes that these observations are independent and that similar light-splitting phenomena have been reported elsewhere. The NSA was also reportedly active near Menwith Hill during the late 1980s.

Fenny's Encounter in Yorkshire (November 30, 1978)

Fenny, encountered a UFO two years before the Rendlesham Forest incident. She described a lens-shaped object with an unclear glow, which felt like a spiritual connection. She felt as if the object was 'drying her out,' and her thoughts were intensely focused on it. She found it difficult to describe the experience and impossible to convince others.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently presents accounts of UFO sightings and alien encounters, often emphasizing witness testimony and the mysterious nature of these events. While acknowledging the need for skepticism, the publication appears to lean towards validating the experiences of those who report such phenomena. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena, presenting detailed narratives of encounters and investigations, while also highlighting the challenges in obtaining official confirmation or evidence. The use of translated accounts from various sources suggests an international scope for UFO research.

This issue of Expressen, dated March 16, 2008, and identified as issue number 23, features a prominent interview with Agneta Sjödin, whose cover headline proclaims "I believe in both angels and UFOs." The magazine explores a diverse range of topics, from astronomical discoveries and paranormal phenomena to personal reflections and historical events.

Agneta Sjödin: Angels, UFOs, and Spirituality

The central piece is an interview with Agneta Sjödin about her second novel, "En av de tolv" (One of the Twelve), which focuses on the Apostle Jacob. Sjödin discusses her inspiration for the book, drawing from her pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela and her interest in Jacob's life and the early Christian message. She touches upon the historical uncertainty surrounding Jacob's remains and the Vatican's reasoning for their identification. Sjödin emphasizes that her book aims to convey Jesus's core message of loving one's neighbor in simple terms.

She reveals a lifelong interest in spirituality, stemming from childhood faith and strengthened by personal challenges, including a period of anxiety after her daughter Maja's birth. Sjödin describes her process of self-analysis and gratitude exercises. She also discusses her interviews with authors Deepak Chopra and Paulo Coelho, acknowledging the criticism she faced for being uncritical of Chopra's "new-age mumbo jumbo" but defending her genuine interest. Sjödin clarifies that while she finds Chopra's reliance on Ayurveda interesting, she believes he may have commercialized it.

Sjödin expresses her belief in angels and UFOs, stating, "I believe in very much. I think it's fun to believe in things. In life on other planets and UFOs, for example." She declines to share personal experiences of the supernatural, finding such accounts in print often seem "silly." She also touches upon her views on demons and contact with the dead, believing in a spirit world with both good and bad entities.

Her personal life is described as calm and pleasant, with a focus on writing and painting icons. She mentions her participation in the TV program "Spårlöst" (Trace-less) and upcoming travel to Iceland and Thailand. Sjödin is currently working on a book about a woman's struggle in various situations, incorporating supernatural elements as a side story.

Regarding her career, Sjödin hopes to move away from accepting jobs solely for financial reasons, prioritizing writing. She acknowledges the societal perception of who is allowed to write books and who is not, feeling she has overcome the label of "light entertainment." She emphasizes focusing on what she enjoys and wants to convey.

Sjödin also comments on her relationship with her husband, describing him as open-minded and non-judgmental. She draws a parallel with Carola, another well-known figure, noting their shared faith but distancing herself from direct comparisons. She expresses strong disapproval of the mobbing Carola has faced.

UFOs and Paranormal Phenomena

The issue features an article detailing a sighting in Hessdalen, Norway, on November 6, 1982. Barbro Magnusson of UFO-Sverige photographed a luminous object gliding north over the valley. The article notes that the exact nature of the object is unknown and that the photograph was found among Magnusson's belongings after her passing. The Hessdalen phenomenon became a significant topic, leading to the establishment of Project Hessdalen in 1983, involving extensive documentation efforts by UFO enthusiasts.

Another section discusses how dogs have reportedly alerted their owners to UFOs in several cases, citing examples from Sizewell (1975), Walsden (1978), and Sudborne (1980). The article suggests that witnesses' observations of UFOs might be linked to energy fields or atmospheric changes that affect their perception.

Astronomy and Paleontology

A news brief announces the discovery of the youngest exoplanet found to date, named TW Hydrae b. This gas giant orbits the star TW Hydrae at a distance of 180 light-years and is only eight to ten million years old, compared to our solar system's nearly five billion years. Its young age makes it particularly interesting for scientists studying planet formation.

Another article reports on the discovery of ancient spider web remnants within a 140-million-year-old piece of amber found in England. Researchers from Oxford University, including paleobiologist Martin Brasier, identified the web as spun by a prehistoric spider belonging to the same family as modern orb-weavers. This find pushes back the known timeline for spider web existence by ten million years.

Extreme Weather and Other Features

The magazine includes a report on extreme weather, specifically the extensive undercooled rain that fell in Canada in January 1998. Over five days, a ten-centimeter thick layer of undercooled rain covered large parts of the country, causing significant human and economic consequences. The article explains how undercooled rain forms when rain falls through a sub-zero air layer but remains liquid until it hits the ground.

Several short, humorous anecdotes and jokes are interspersed throughout the magazine, including a riddle about a police dog, a dialogue about weight, a joke about hunters, and a child's misunderstanding in a swimming pool. There is also a brief mention of Neil Armstrong's moon landing and the filming of the event.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue demonstrates a clear interest in the unexplained, the paranormal, and scientific frontiers. The prominent placement of the interview with Agneta Sjödin, who openly discusses her belief in angels and UFOs, signals an editorial stance that is open to exploring these topics. The inclusion of UFO sightings, astronomical discoveries, and even a piece on ancient spider webs suggests a broad curiosity about the world, both natural and potentially supernatural. The magazine balances these more speculative topics with factual reporting on science and current events, such as the undercooled rain in Canada. The overall tone appears to be one of exploration and open-mindedness, encouraging readers to consider a wide range of possibilities.