UFO-Vision - 1989

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO VISION
Issue: 1989
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
ISSN: 0902-2341
ISBN: 87-87628-42-2
Price: Dkr. 78,- (+ porto Dkr 12,-)
Cover Headline: Årbog for UFO-litteratur (Yearbook for UFO Literature)

This 1989 issue of UFO VISION, subtitled 'Årbog for UFO-litteratur,' presents a collection of articles exploring various facets of the UFO phenomenon, with a particular emphasis on cults, contactees, and the historical development of ufology. The magazine has undergone a layout change for the current year, aiming for a more affordable and user-friendly format.

Articles and Content

"I ufoernes grænseland" (In the Borderland of UFOs) by Kim Møller Hansen

This editorial piece sets the tone for the issue, noting that many current UFO publications focus on alleged abductions, government secrecy, cults, and contactees. The editor highlights Kevin McClure's article on UFO cults as the lead piece, suggesting that in a time of declining UFO sightings, interest is shifting inward towards psychological and historical aspects of ufology. The article also mentions Willy Wegner's book on the history of Danish ufology, acknowledging its potential for irony and criticism, but asserting its value as entertaining reading.

"UFO-kulte" (UFO Cults) by Kevin McClure

McClure's article delves into the phenomenon of UFO cults, positing that the UFO experience brings the unknown closer to ordinary people, engaging more than just visual perception. He suggests that these experiences can alter observers' personalities and beliefs, often intertwining with religious frameworks. The article discusses how UFO encounters can be interpreted through religious or mythological lenses, citing figures like Erich von Daniken, Arthur Suttlewood, and Lord Clancarty (Brinsley Le Poer Trench) and their interpretations of UFOs as ancient visitors or 'Sky People.'

#### Marian Keech and The Guardians

This section details the 'Guardians' cult, which originated in Utah and was studied by sociologists Leon Festinger, Henry Riecken, and Stanley Schachter. The cult's contact person, Marian Keech, claimed to receive messages from her deceased father and later from 'higher beings' from the planet Clarion. These messages included prophecies of a major catastrophe, specifically a flood on December 21st, which would be averted by extraterrestrial intervention. The group's activities and beliefs gained media attention, leading to increased detail in their pronouncements.

#### "The Elder Brother" and Clarion

Messages received by Marian Keech spoke of 'The Elder Brother' and beings from Clarion and Cerus, planets unknown to astronomers. Sananda of Clarion claimed to have been Jesus in a past life. The group's predictions, particularly the December 21st flood, generated significant interest, leading to a press release in August 1954. The article notes that the cult's beliefs evolved over time, becoming more detailed as interest grew.

#### "The Planted" Observers

Sociologists involved in studying the 'Guardians' planted observers within the group to document its development. The cult's members reportedly abandoned their jobs and families, preparing for the predicted event. A peculiar rule was that participants could not wear metal, leading to discussions about clothing and dental fillings.

#### The Final Days and Disillusionment

As the predicted date of December 21st approached, the cult members experienced intense emotions, with their hopes ultimately crushed when neither the flood nor the promised rescue occurred. The group dissolved in disillusionment.

#### "One World Family"

Founded by Allen-Michael Noonan in California, this cult describes Noonan's alleged transportation to another planet where he encountered angelic beings and was tasked with saving the world. He claims to be a Messiah and is writing a new interpretation of the Bible, assisted by his group. The group also discusses the possibility of taking over power in the USA and UN, after all Christians are 'eliminated.'

#### "Bluebird" - A Flying Saucer Cult

The 'Institute for Cosmic Research,' founded in Michigan in 1967 by a man known as 'Gordon,' focused on building a flying saucer named 'Bluebird.' The cult's existence was tied to its members' belief in this endeavor. Gordon claimed supernatural birth and presented himself as a conduit for 'Ashtar,' an entity from Venus. The group reportedly engaged in hallucinogenic drug use and psychic experiences. Gordon also claimed to have represented Earth at an 'Intergalactic Council' on Jupiter's moon Io. He warned of Earth's rotation stopping due to 'uncontrolled hate' and stated that 'Brotherhoods' had a plan to change humanity by providing him with the means to build a flying saucer. Participation in this project was limited to 'highly developed souls' who would build and fly the saucer, joining others from different planets to orbit Earth and darken the sky, prompting awe and a return to 'Universal Law.' Gordon's cosmology included a cold sun and inhabited stars, and he was described as having a significant 'aura.' The group lasted for seven years before its members grasped the fundamental truths.

#### "Light Affiliates"

This group, active in the 1960s in Burnaby, British Columbia, acted as a channel for 'runic beings' who delivered warnings of impending catastrophes. A 22-year-old woman, Robin McPherson, identified as 'Ox-Ho,' began receiving messages from a being in a galaxy near our own. These messages provided information on future disasters, evacuation plans, and food supply strategies. 'Ox-Ho' predicted doomsday for November 22, 1969, stating that humanity would have a final chance to redeem itself before a series of catastrophes. Failure to do so would result in the 'rumbrødre' (space brothers) returning the chosen few to Earth after its 'crystallization.' This reconstruction involved altering Earth's tilt and causing widespread flooding. Members were encouraged to preach this message. However, the predicted date passed without incident, and Robin McPherson later admitted her predictions were mistaken, attributing it to a misunderstanding and a shocking first vision of destruction.

#### "Truman Merit" and "Estelle"

Within the 'Light Affiliates,' Robin McPherson was known as 'Estelle,' her sister Aileen as 'Nagdalene,' and a friend Sally as 'Celeste.' A young man received the name 'Truman Merit.' McPherson later stated that the 'rumbrødre' were trying to get as many people as possible to leave Earth.

#### HIN - Human Individual Metamorphosis

Emerging in California in 1975, HIN appealed to individuals involved with drugs, spiritual development, and the 'New Age' movement. Led by a couple known as Bo and Beep (N.H. Applewhite and Bonnie Nettles), the group's teachings included life after death and the necessity of transcending physical existence. Their promotional material stated that UFOs were here to explain the shift from a human level to a higher one, promising a return within three months. The group's members were expected to make significant sacrifices, including giving up their names, possessions, drugs, alcohol, and media consumption, and abstaining from sex and reading books. They lived in semi-permanent camps. Bo and Beep believed they were more than human and had undergone a transformation. Initially, they claimed they would be murdered and resurrected after three days, a claim later abandoned. They emphasized that to leave Earth's atmosphere, one had to travel alone and set aside all needs for other people and things.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores themes of belief, prophecy, and the human need for meaning, often through the lens of UFO phenomena. The articles highlight how individuals and groups interpret extraordinary experiences, frequently drawing parallels with religious narratives. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical examination, presenting various cults and their beliefs without necessarily endorsing them, while acknowledging the psychological and historical significance of these phenomena. The shift in focus towards historical accounts and psychological interpretations suggests a maturing of the UFO field, moving beyond simple sighting reports to deeper analyses of belief systems and societal influences.

Key Persons and Organizations

Key Persons: Kim Møller Hansen, Kevin McClure, Marian Keech, Willy Wegner, Erich von Daniken, Arthur Suttlewood, Lord Clancarty, Brinsley Le Poer Trench, Allen-Michael Noonan, 'Gordon', Robin McPherson, N.H. Applewhite, Bonnie Nettles.

Organizations: SUFOI, Mikro-Forma, The Guardians, Institute for Cosmic Research, One World Family, HIN - Human Individual Metamorphosis, Light Affiliates, ARKIVET FÖR UFO-FORSKNING.

Locations Mentioned

Odense (Denmark), Gentofte (Denmark), Ringsted (Denmark), Utah (USA), Clarion (Unknown), Cerus (Unknown), Lake City (USA), Mexican Golf (Region), Io (Moon of Jupiter), Jupiter (Planet), Michigan (USA), Burnaby (Canada), British Columbia (Canada), Vancouver (Canada), California (USA).

Object Characteristics

The primary object characteristic mentioned is 'Flying saucer' (shape).

Themes

UFO Cults, Contactees, UFO History, Prophecy, New Age.

Tags

UFO, Vision, Yearbook, UFO Literature, Cults, Contactees, Prophecy, New Age, Marian Keech, The Guardians, One World Family, Light Affiliates, HIN, Kevin McClure, Kim Møller Hansen.

Time Period

The articles primarily discuss events and phenomena from the 1970s, with references to earlier periods and the current year of publication (1989).

Notable Quote

"The UFO phenomenon brings the unknown very close to ordinary people in a vivid way, more so than any other phenomenon."

Speaker: Kevin McClure

FAQ

Q: What is UFO VISION?
A: UFO VISION is a yearbook for UFO literature, published by Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI).

Q: What topics are covered in the 1989 issue?
A: The 1989 issue focuses on the 'borderland of UFOs,' including UFO cults, contactees, and historical aspects of ufology.

Q: Who are some of the writers featured in this issue?
A: Writers include Robert A. Baker, Håkan Blomqvist, Per Borgaard, Michael R. Dennett, George N. Eberhart, Anders Liljegren, Kevin McClure, Hans-Werner Peiniger, Sven-Olov Svensson, and Paolo Toselli.

Q: What is the significance of the 'The Guardians' cult mentioned?
A: 'The Guardians,' led by Marian Keech, was a cult that believed in messages from extraterrestrial beings and predicted a major catastrophe.

This issue of UFO-VISION, identified as issue number 31 from 1990, published by AFU Newsletter, delves into various aspects of ufology, with a strong emphasis on UFO cults and prominent figures within the field. The cover story, "Dom over Adamski?" (Judgment over Adamski?), suggests a critical examination of the controversial contactee George Adamski. The magazine features articles discussing the Aetherius Society, the nature of UFO cults, and a critique of a book titled "Introduktion til UFO-sagen" (Introduction to the UFO Case).

The Aetherius Society

The article on the Aetherius Society highlights its founding in England around 1955 by George King, who claimed to be a spokesperson for an "Interplanetary Parliament." The society's structure is described as similar to other groups, with a messenger, a message, and a mission. Despite the unusual nature of their claims, which involved interactions with entities like "Mars Sektor 6" and "Master Jesus," the society has attracted members worldwide. The article notes King's prior involvement in healing and his book "You Are Responsible," which touches upon his metaphysical studies and a potential breakthrough in cancer treatment that was allegedly interrupted.

King's claims of traveling to Venus and Mars, and even engaging in a battle with an interplanetary fleet, are presented. The article suggests that without the claim of "Master Jesus," the group might have been taken more seriously. The Aetherius Society's activities include "Prayer Power" operations, such as "Operation Sunbean," "Operation Bluewater," and "Operation Starlight," where members undertake pilgrimages to charge "spiritual energy batteries" at various locations on Earth. An example given is the charging of batteries E-1 and E-3 in 1981, involving significant hours of "prayer energy" from members and even non-terrestrial sources.

George Adamski and the "Flying Saucer" Phenomenon

The article "Dom over Adamski?" by Håkan Blomqvist examines George Adamski's role in popularizing the flying saucer phenomenon and its transformation into a cult. Adamski's encounter with a Venusian named Orthon in the Californian desert in 1952 is detailed, along with his subsequent books, "Flying Saucers Have Landed" (1953) and "Inside the Space Ships" (1955). These books, co-authored with Desmond Leslie and Charlotte Blodget respectively, described Adamski's alleged meetings with extraterrestrials and his travels to the Moon, Mars, and Venus. The article points out the similarities between Adamski's accounts and theosophical theories, particularly the idea of Venusians landing on Earth millions of years ago.

Adamski's claims of a habitable Moon with vegetation and human-like beings, and of people living on Mars and Venus, are contrasted with scientific findings. The article suggests that Adamski's experiences were likely psychic or out-of-body experiences, which he later presented as physical events. Despite his death in 1965, Adamski retains followers organized under the IGAP program (International Get Acquainted Program).

Modern UFO Cults and the "Introduktion til UFO-sagen" Critique

Another article discusses the evolution of UFO cults in contemporary times, noting a shift towards the Extra-Terrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) and a focus on physical UFOs. It also observes a tendency to interpret phenomena through the lens of Eastern religions. The article criticizes the book "Introduktion til UFO-sagen" by IGAP-forlaget, authored by Per Borgaard. Borgaard argues that the book is intellectually dishonest, presenting propaganda disguised as information. He contends that the book falsely claims UFOs are identified spacecraft from other planets, ignoring the lack of conclusive evidence and the crumbling of the spaceship theory. The book is accused of manipulating readers by using dubious or untrue information, such as the reference to a 1290 manuscript that may not exist. Borgaard specifically challenges Adamski's claims about habitable conditions on the Moon, Mars, and Venus, contrasting them with scientific data and the findings of space probes.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section listing books received for review by UFO-VISION, such as "Mystiske dyr" by Lars Thomas, "Lake Monster Traditions" by Michel Meurger, and "Extra-Terrestrials Among Us" by George C. Andrews. A small review of "På sporet af ufo-nauten" (On the Trail of the UFO-naut) by Age Skjelborg is also present, posing the question of whether UFO-nauts are a modern version of ancient mythical beings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the phenomenon of UFO cults, the credibility of contactee claims, and the critical analysis of UFO literature. The Aetherius Society and George Adamski represent key case studies in the development of UFO-based belief systems. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, particularly evident in the review of "Introduktion til UFO-sagen," which strongly condemns the book for its alleged dishonesty and manipulative tactics. There is a clear distinction made between genuine investigation and the promotion of unsubstantiated beliefs, with a preference for evidence-based analysis over sensationalism.

This issue of the magazine features articles primarily focused on UFOs and the phenomenon of alien abductions, with a strong emphasis on skeptical analysis. The main cover headline is "Fortabt i de flyvende tallerkeners jungle" (Lost in the jungle of flying saucers), authored by Michael R. Dennett.

Book Reviews and Analysis

'In Advance of the Landing: Folk Concepts of Outer Space' by Douglas Curran

Reviewed by Michael R. Dennett, this book is praised as one of the few serious works on flying saucers, notable for its photographic approach. Douglas Curran's work is described as a photographic narrative covering often overlooked facets of the UFO phenomenon. Tom Wolfe is quoted, stating that Curran is not just a photographer but also a reporter and a gifted investigator. The book is the result of Curran's investigation into the North American flying saucer subculture, containing over 60 photographs with accompanying text. The review highlights Curran's ability to identify and showcase his subjects, including an anecdote about Orlando Toroni, who uses aircraft lights to signal to UFOs he claims hide behind Earth's satellites.

Curran also encountered UFO contactees and believers, including George van Tassel, whom he met at Giant Rock, California. Van Tassel was seeking help with propulsion systems for his 'Bluebird' craft. The article mentions Henry DiCienzo's Flying Saucer Drive-In near Niagara Falls, which reportedly showcases "96 lights."

The review touches upon the subculture of UFO fanatics, suggesting that their stories, while sometimes humorous, stem from individuals lost in society who are seeking answers. The book is recommended as a good investment for those interested in UFOs.

'UFO-Abductions: A Dangerous Game' by Philip J. Klass

Reviewed by Robert A. Baker, a professor of psychology, this book is presented as a critical examination of UFO abduction claims. Baker notes that 1987 was a significant year for UFO chronology, with the rise of books like Whitley Strieber's 'Communion' and Budd Hopkins' 'Intruders'. Klass's book aims to debunk these claims, examining cases like Betty and Barney Hill's famous encounter, which Klass argues was a detailed fantasy mode, amplified by John Fuller's book and the subsequent NBC film 'The UFO Incident'.

The review details several abduction cases that Klass analyzes, including the Travis Walton incident, which Klass suggests was a hoax. It also covers claims by Charles Moody, three women from Kentucky, David Stephens, Steve Harris, and Helene White, all of whom allegedly experienced abductions, often after undergoing regressive hypnosis.

Klass's analysis of the Andreasson case, documented by Raymond Fowler, is also discussed. Klass suggests that even honest, religious individuals with vivid imaginations can create elaborate stories that are mistaken for reality by credulous ufologists.

Analysis of Abduction Narratives

The article delves into the psychological aspects of abduction claims, suggesting that many are a result of suggestion, particularly through regressive hypnosis. Experiments conducted by Alwin Lawson, John De Herrera, and William McCall in 1977 are cited, where participants were hypnotized to believe they had been abducted by UFOs, producing narratives similar to those reported by alleged abductees.

Klass proposes the term "Hopkins syndrome" for individuals whose fantasies are so strong they believe they have been abducted. He suggests that Budd Hopkins, despite his work, may have inadvertently contributed to this phenomenon. The review also touches upon the rivalry between Budd Hopkins and Whitley Strieber, and Klass's questioning of why abduction reports are not reported to the FBI.

Klass offers a $10,000 reward for any reported abduction case that the FBI confirms as genuine, while also noting the potential legal consequences for false reporting.

Broader Implications and Skepticism

The issue highlights the difficulty for psychologists and psychiatrists to disseminate their findings to the public, and the public's tendency to overestimate the knowledge of experts. Klass's work is seen as a significant contribution to understanding the human tendency towards fantasy and gullibility in the face of UFO claims.

'Mysteriet om....' Series

A brief mention is made of a new series of children's books titled "Mysteriet om...." (Mystery about....), including titles on the Bermuda Triangle, the Loch Ness Monster (Nessie), and "Ånden i glasset" (The Spirit in the Glass). The review notes that while Nessie's existence remains unproven, there is evidence suggesting something exists in the Scottish lake.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a strongly skeptical stance towards UFO abduction claims, emphasizing psychological explanations, suggestion, and potential hoaxes. While acknowledging the existence of a UFO subculture and the public's fascination with these topics, the editorial focus is on debunking sensational claims and promoting a rational, scientific perspective. The reviews of Curran's book offer a more balanced view of exploring the subculture, while Klass's work is presented as a definitive skeptical argument against the reality of alien abductions. The underlying theme is the exploration of human psychology, belief systems, and the influence of media and anecdotal evidence on public perception of the unexplained.

This issue of 'MYSTERIET OM' (Mystery About) delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena and their cultural impact. The cover highlights three books: 'Bermuda Trekanten' (The Bermuda Triangle), 'Nessie' (referencing the Loch Ness Monster), and 'Anden i glasset' (The Spirit in the Glass). The main cover headline focuses on the Bermuda Triangle, where ships and planes disappear, a topic brought to global attention by Charles Berlitz in the 1970s. The article suggests skepticism towards the Bermuda myth but acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding the many disappearances.

Articles and Features

The Bermuda Triangle and Other Mysteries

The article on the Bermuda Triangle notes that while the mystery is debated, the sheer number of disappearances in the area makes it difficult to dismiss entirely. It also touches upon other unresolved mysteries, such as the ghost ship Mary Celeste. The 'Spirit in the Glass' by Klaus Aarsleff is highlighted as the most controversial and topical of the series, discussing the Ouija board-like practice of spirit communication that has been popular among Danish schoolchildren.

The article notes that the practice involves an inverted glass on letters and numbers, which is believed to move to spell messages. While often resulting in nonsense, sometimes understandable messages are received. It warns that some children have been frightened by messages about their lifespan. Aarsleff, however, does not readily accept the spirit explanation and recounts an experiment from Toronto where a group invented a spirit that then manifested itself, despite never having existed. The article also mentions telepathy as a potential explanation for some phenomena.

UFOs and Advertising

Paolo Toselli's article, 'UFOer og reklamer' (UFOs and Advertisements), explores how UFOs have become a symbol of the fantastic in a world dominated by positivism. They appear in various media, including films, TV, books, comics, and advertisements. The public's interest in UFOs and extraterrestrials was capitalized on by profit-driven marketers before intellectuals fully engaged with the topic.

The first known example of a UFO in an Italian advertisement dates back to the 1960s, with Alfa Romeo naming a sports car 'Flying Saucer' and Agnesi using a round 'pasta' shape. The influence of Steven Spielberg's 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' is noted as having a strong impact on the Italian advertising industry, leading to direct connections with the term 'nærkontakt' (close encounter) and visual elements like UFO-like spaceships and lights from above. Danone yogurt commercials are cited as a prime example, featuring a beam of light from above and flying objects. Fiat also used a similar scene for their 'Croma' car. The film 'E.T.' inspired a 'Yono' yogurt campaign.

Zenith watches were featured in campaigns using 'typical' UFO photos and slogans like "The perfect Zenith technology will interest even advanced ET-visitors." Other campaigns showed UFOs lighting up watches or watches disappearing in TV commercials. UFO imagery was also used in advertisements for Peugeot cars, Philips TVs, Pioneer CD players, Texas calculators, Sony video recorders, and even a Bidone Aspiratutto vacuum cleaner, where a UFO activates the vacuum.

The article suggests that the widespread presence of UFOs in daily life, even if not believed, has made UFO observations seem trivial, potentially leading to fewer sightings in the sky and more in advertising. The symbolic message conveyed is "We are not alone."

UFO Research and Organizations

'Et overblik...' (An Overview...) by Hans-Werner Peiniger discusses the MUFON 1987 International UFO Symposium Proceedings. The symposium, held at American University, featured numerous UFO researchers presenting their findings. Key speakers included Dr. Roberto Pinotti on the Italian UFO scene, Cynthia Hinds on UFOs in Southern Africa, J.J. Velasco on the work of the French organization GEPAN, and Kanishk Nathan on UFOs in India, referencing ancient Sanskrit texts about 'Vimanas' (flying machines).

Willy Smith discussed ufology in Uruguay and Brazil, while Hilary Evans covered 40 years of British UFO research. Davis N. Jacobs presented a historical perspective on the UFO phenomenon, dividing research into phases focused on proving existence and understanding the motives of intelligences behind it, noting the later emphasis on abduction cases.

Other presentations included 'Deception Island UFO Sightings' by Daniel A. Perisse, 'Forty Years of Ufology in Sweden' by Bertil Kuhlemann, and 'A Historical Survey of the UFO Cases in Chile' by J. Antonio Huneeus. The collective conclusion of these presentations was that the UFO phenomenon exists and warrants broader, more intensive scientific research, particularly concerning abduction cases. The MUFON meetings are considered an important information source for UFO researchers.

Danish UFO History

Per Borgaard's article, 'Da ufoerne sværmede over det ganske land' (When UFOs Swarmed Over the Entire Country), reviews Willy Wegner's book 'Ufoer over Danmark, bd.1 (1946-64)' (UFOs Over Denmark, Vol. 1). The book covers the early history of UFO phenomena in Denmark, starting with 'ghost rockets' over Scandinavia, which Wegner attributes to German rockets captured by the Russians. However, he questions why such experiments would be conducted over foreign territory and why debris was never found.

The article highlights Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting of nine flying discs as the catalyst for the global UFO fever. It details early Danish UFO books and the significant influence of George Adamski, who claimed to have met a 'handsome and happy spaceman' from Venus. The author expresses skepticism about Adamski's claims, particularly the idea of a Venusian surviving on Earth due to Venus's high atmospheric pressure. The article suggests Adamski's stories were likely fabricated or borrowed from occult sources.

It also recounts the rise of Danish UFO groups, mentioning H.C. Petersen, who discovered that the USA was actively collecting UFO reports despite public statements to the contrary. This led Petersen to found Scandinavian UFO Investigation (SUFOI) in Vojens, which became dominant in the field. The article also touches upon the Veggerby-dammen incident involving mysterious holes in the ice.

A special chapter details a 1951 incident on Als where a contact person reportedly saw a spaceship land, piloted by a crew of 200 men, 100 women, and 100 dwarves. Willy Wegner's book also covers other unusual observations, concluding with the dissolution of SUFOI in 1964 when skeptics demanded scientific investigation rather than missionary work for Adamski's 'prophecies'.

UFO Belief Without God

Another article by Per Borgaard, 'UFO-tro uden Gud, men med et hedt Helvede' (UFO Belief Without God, But With a Hot Hell), reviews Claude Vorilhon's (Rael's) book 'The Message Given to Me by Extra-Terrestrials/They Took Me to Their Planet'. The author finds Rael's religion, which posits a godless yet eternally hellish existence, to be abhorrent. Rael, a Frenchman, claims to have been contacted by extraterrestrials in 1973. The article describes Rael's teachings as extremely repulsive, particularly given his background and later life as a racing journalist before his alleged contact.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of the unexplained with popular culture, particularly advertising. There is a clear interest in documenting UFO sightings, historical research, and the activities of UFO organizations. While presenting various accounts and theories, there is an underlying tone of critical inquiry, especially regarding claims like those of George Adamski. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting and analyzing these phenomena, acknowledging their cultural significance while maintaining a degree of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims. The recurring theme is the enduring human fascination with mysteries, whether they be extraterrestrial, paranormal, or historical enigmas.

This issue of UFO Kontakt, identified by page number 41, focuses on a critical examination of UFO phenomena and related literature. The cover story, 'Lysår fra sandheden?' (Light Years from Truth?), by Svend-Olov Svensson, reviews Gary Kinder's book 'Light Years: An Investigation into the Extraterrestrial Experiences of Eduard Meier'. The magazine delves into various UFO-related topics, including the Raelian movement, historical UFO sightings, and the analysis of alleged extraterrestrial encounters.

The Raelian Movement

The issue begins with a critique of the Raelian movement, led by Rael. It describes Rael's teachings, which posit that humans were created by extraterrestrials from a previous humanoid race. The article highlights Rael's interpretation of biblical figures like Moses and Jesus as extraterrestrial messengers and criticizes the 'gory' symbol combining a swastika and Star of David. The Raelian concept of cloning and 'resurrecting' individuals by retrieving cells from a 'freezer' is presented with a tone of disbelief and disgust, using terms like 'mental nausea' and 'mental sickness'. The article questions the intelligence of those who follow Rael, suggesting that they are easily fooled.

Eduard Meier Case and Book Review

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the Eduard 'Billy' Meier case, reviewed by Gary Kinder. Meier claims to have had contact with extraterrestrials from the Pleiades, specifically a being named Senjase, from whom he received religious and philosophical messages. He also claims to have taken hundreds of photos and films of UFOs. The review notes that Meier's case has attracted cult-like followings in Europe and the USA. However, the article points out that many of Meier's photos are third-hand copies, and the original negatives are unavailable, making authenticity difficult to verify. It also mentions that Meier lives in modest circumstances, with his income primarily from a disability pension. The review criticizes Gary Kinder's book for being uncritical and potentially driven by economic motives, noting the large initial print run. The article also touches upon the involvement of Wendelle Stevens and the Elders couple, who are associated with Meier and have written positive books about his case.

Other UFO Cases and Books

The magazine also reviews several other UFO-related books and cases:

• 'Colors in the Dark' by Marianne Sheenefield: This book recounts Sheenefield's alleged UFO abduction experiences at ages 11 and 19, after which she regained her sight and developed psychic abilities.
• 'Invasion, They Come in Silence' by Ellen Crystal: Mentioned as an upcoming work on UFO abductions.
• 'Mind Powers, Transmutations and UFOs' by Albert Dardanelli: This book by a doctor focuses on the skin marks left on abductees and suggests extraterrestrials manipulate human psychology.
• 'Failure at Science' by Robert D. Boyd: A critical analysis of the 'Gulf-Breeze' case, which is compared to the Meier case. Boyd is critical of American UFO enthusiasts.
• 'Disneyland of the Goods' by John A. Keel: Described as a return of the author to his 'cosmic prankster' persona.
• 'Animal Mutilations, the UFO Factor' by Linda M. Howe: Howe's book discusses animal mutilations and her encounter with an intelligence officer who allegedly showed her classified documents about a crashed saucer.
• 'Night Siege' by J. Allen Hynek, Philip Imbrogno & Bob Pratt: This book covers UFO observations in the New York valley over a five-year period.
• 'UFOS, ETS & Visitors from Space' by Melvin Berger: Aimed at younger readers, this book omits certain famous cases like Arnold and Zamora but highlights the George Washington University case from 1961.
• 'A Research Paper Pertaining to the Foo Fighters & Ghost Rocket Phenomenon' by Mark Ian Birdsall: Birdsall suggests that many UFO reports from 1942-1948 are linked to secret German projects.
• 'Scavengers from Space: The UFO Hostility Hypothesis' by Jerome Eden: This book considers UFOs to be extremely distant.
• 'Transformation' by Whitley Strieber: Strieber is working on a follow-up to his book 'Communion', detailing 'visitation experiences'.
• 'UFO Abductions: The Measure of a Mystery' by Thomas E. Bullard: This extensive work compares over 300 abduction cases, finding numerous similarities that suggest they are not all hoaxes or fantasies.
• 'Phanton Arial Flaps and Waves' by Nigel Watson: This booklet summarizes various UFO cases from 1830 onwards, exploring whether they are ufological or sociological in nature.
• 'Parapsychology and the UFO' by Manfred Cassier: Cassier identifies links between UFO cases and psychic phenomena, suggesting that experiences in one scientific field can shed light on another.
• 'The Mystery of....UFOS' by Mary Blount Christian: This book is described as potentially confusing for children, with a brief mention of Billy Meier.
• 'Major UFO Waves, 1896-1982: Postmortem and Findings' by Ahmad Jamaludin: Jamaludin analyzes UFO wave patterns, proposing a theory about a rotating electromagnetic force in the solar system used by UFOs, and predicts future UFO waves.
• 'The October Scenario' by Kevin D. Randle: Randle argues that the only genuine non-terrestrial UFO observation occurred in October 1973, dismissing others as hoaxes or fraud.
• 'AIDS: Soviet First Strike' by Tom Bearden: Bearden, described as anti-Russian, links AIDS to Russians and claims to have found a cure using electromagnetic waves.
• 'The Problem of Extraterrestrial Civilizations: Philosophical and Methodological Aspects' by Vladimir V. Rubtsov and A.D. Ursul: This book, written in Russian, is recommended for those interested in SETI.
• 'High Weirdness by Mail' by Ivan Stang: A book about UFO phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical analysis of UFO claims, the questioning of the motives behind UFO research and reporting, and the exploration of various historical and contemporary UFO cases and theories. The editorial stance appears to be skeptical, aiming to provide a more grounded and analytical perspective on the often sensationalized topic of UFOs. The magazine emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and evidence-based investigation, while also acknowledging the complexity and enduring mystery of the UFO phenomenon.

Title: UFO-VISION
Issue: 1988 Yearbook
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information
Date: March/April 1988

This issue of UFO-VISION, the only yearbook on UFO literature, presents reviews and debate material on a wide range of UFO-related topics, drawing from both Danish and international sources. The content delves into various books and articles, examining UFO phenomena, channeling, intelligence agency involvement, and the potential for misinformation.

Book Reviews and Articles

Channeling: Investigations on Receiving Information from Paranormal Sources Reviewed by George M. Eberhart, this book by Jon Klino is described as a necessary historical insight into paranormal mediums and their messages, covering mysticism, psychology, and physics. It notes the increasing overlap between ufology and New Age philosophy, which blurs the lines between UFO phenomena and psychic messages. The review highlights Klino's objective and academic approach, contrasting him with other authors like Kathryn Ridall.

The Alien Agenda This is a reprint of Clifford Wilson's 1974 book, which posits that UFOs are demonic manifestations. A new chapter discusses what might happen when a fundamentalist investigates a UFO abduction case.

The UFO Conspiracy: The First Forty Years Reviewed by George M. Eberhart, Jenny Randles' book is praised for its engaging style and focus on government deception regarding the UFO phenomenon. It highlights the global spread of ufology and presents physical evidence for UFO existence. Randles' theory of a government 'UFO information program' is mentioned, though the reviewer finds her comparison to 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' illogical given Hollywood's practices.

The Fellowship: Spiritual Contract Between Humans and Outer Space Beings Brad Steiger's book on contactees is reviewed. It retells the New Age narrative of the 'renaissance man' and contactee Fred Bell, who claims to have met the same beings as Billy Meier. The review notes Steiger's exploration of ancient astronauts, galactic plans, and a mix of Nazi UFOs, alchemy, and Egyptian mystery schools, deeming it suitable for believers but 'clumsy' for a 'meat and potatoes' ufologist.

Cycles of Fire: Stars, Galaxies and the Wonder of Deep Space This is the third volume in a series by William K. Hartmann and Ron Miller, offering a richly illustrated introduction to astrophysics. It explores the outer limits of the known universe, distant planets, supernovae, nebulae, neutron stars, black holes, quasars, and galactic atomic cores. The book also includes notes on UFOs, likely due to Hartmann's past involvement with the Condon Committee and Miller's work as a UFO-Vision illustrator.

Survey of Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon Reports in Delaware Country, Ohio This article by Irena Scott reports on a study of UFO sightings in a specific Ohio region. Dr. Scott, a physiologist, interviewed 62 people and found that 31% had seen something they believed to be a UFO, and 17% knew someone who had. Scott suggests that the increasing acceptance of the UFO phenomenon is due to more sightings and media coverage.

Fantasy Proneness and Psychopathology Authored by Judith W. Rhue and Steven Jay Lynn, this article, though not directly mentioning UFO abductions, is presented as relevant to understanding the psychological profiles of those who experience them. The authors' research suggests that 'fantasy-prone' individuals are often good hypnotic subjects with vivid imaginations. They may experience anxiety related to violence and report psychic or mystical experiences, sometimes even false pregnancies. The article implies that understanding this trait could shed light on the experiences of UFO abductees.

Stealth - and Beyond This article by Al Frickley (pseudonym) in 'Gung-Ho' magazine discusses new stealth aircraft and mentions rumors of an 'alien Technology Center' at Nellis AFB, Nevada, where UFO technology was allegedly studied for military applications. It also touches upon rumors of advanced propulsion systems.

Enciclopedia de los encuentros cercanos con OVNIS This Spanish-language book by Vincente-Juan Ballester Olmos and Juan A. Fernandez Peris is described as a casebook of carefully selected Iberian UFO cases. It categorizes sightings by characteristics such as luminous objects, physical traces, EN-effects, physiological effects, and encounters with beings. The book also includes a chapter on UFOs and a supplement detailing Spanish government actions regarding UFOs in 1985.

CIA, misinformation og ubåde Authored by Anders Liljegren, this section discusses Bob Woodward's book 'The Secret Wars of the CIA 1981-87'. It highlights how Woodward, known for the Watergate scandal, investigated the CIA under William Casey. The review emphasizes the difficulty of uncovering classified information and the potential for misinformation. It draws parallels between intelligence agency operations and the UFO phenomenon, suggesting that UFO reports might be subject to similar levels of secrecy and manipulation. The article mentions the use of advanced submarine technology by both the US and Soviet Union for eavesdropping on underwater cables, and speculates on whether similar technology was used to intercept Swedish communication cables.

Intelligence Agencies and UFOs This section, drawing from Woodward's book and other sources, explores the role of intelligence agencies like the CIA and NSA in handling sensitive information. It suggests that these agencies operate as a 'state within a state', potentially withholding crucial information and making independent analysis difficult. The article quotes Stansfield Turner on the dangers of single-source analysis and Ronald Reagan on the possibility of individual errors within large organizations. It also details NSA's extensive surveillance capabilities, including the interception of telephone, radio, and satellite communications, raising concerns about privacy.

Submarine Operations and Eavesdropping The issue details Soviet and American submarine operations, particularly focusing on the US Navy's use of 'listening capsules' to tap Soviet underwater communication cables. It describes how these capsules were developed, deployed, and retrieved using mini-submarines and underwater robots. The article notes a Soviet 'mole' within the NSA who reportedly revealed these operations. It also speculates that the Soviets may have deployed similar eavesdropping devices on Swedish cables, coinciding with alleged Soviet submarine incursions into Swedish waters in 1981-82.

Avoiding Misinformation The article advises ufologists to engage with intelligence groups on their own terms to counter misinformation. It reiterates quotes from Woodward's book and intelligence figures emphasizing the need for critical analysis and awareness of potential errors or deliberate deception within intelligence operations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the complex and often obscured nature of UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on the potential for government and intelligence agencies to control information, spread misinformation, and conduct secret operations that may intersect with UFO research. The issue also explores the psychological aspects of belief in UFOs and the influence of New Age philosophy. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, urging readers to be skeptical of official narratives and to seek out verifiable information, while acknowledging the difficulty in doing so due to the secretive nature of intelligence operations. The publication itself, UFO-VISION, positions itself as a platform for discussing and analyzing UFO literature, providing a critical overview of the field.