UFO-Vision - 1999 No 7

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO-VISION
Issue: Nr. 7
Date: August 1999 (with publication details for September 1999)
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-VISION, edited by Kim Møller Hansen, presents a collection of book reviews and an analytical article on mass hysteria. The magazine's editorial reflects on the current state of UFO publications and the challenges of keeping up with new journals. It highlights the inclusion of articles by Australian sociologist Robert Bartholomew and reviews of various UFO-related books.

Book Reviews

From Other Worlds by Hilary Evans

This review focuses on Hilary Evans' book, which examines UFO phenomena from sociological and psychological perspectives. Evans, a long-time follower of abduction issues, expresses skepticism towards sensationalized abduction stories by authors like Whitley Strieber and Budd Hopkins. The book explores encounters with supposed aliens, linking them to psychological experiences triggered by personal crises, cultural events, and media. Evans acknowledges the existence of paranormal phenomena but remains skeptical about extraterrestrial visitation. The review praises the book's thorough research and extensive illustrations.

UFOs & Alien Contact: Two Centuries of Mystery by Robert E. Bartholomew and George S. Howard

This book is reviewed as a critical examination of UFO myths, similar to Hilary Evans' approach. It covers major UFO waves, including the 1897 airship wave, Canadian ghost balloons, the 1909 New England airship hoax, and the 1912-13 UFO panic in Britain. The authors analyze the factors that lead people to report extraordinary aerial sightings and how these narratives evolve based on time, location, and media influence. The book is noted for its extensive appendix listing 200 cases of human-alien communication.

Area 51 - Fantasiens drømmeland (Area 51 - Dreamland of Fantasy)

This section discusses Philip Patton's book, 'Travels in Dreamland: The Secret History of Area 51'. Area 51 is identified as a highly classified US Air Force facility involved in testing advanced aircraft like the U-2, SR-71, and F-117. Patton's book is described as well-researched, detailing the history of the site and the experiences of people living nearby. The review notes that Patton concludes the most 'alien' elements at Area 51 are actually Soviet aircraft acquired by the US.

Alien Abductions: Creating a Modern Phenomenon by Terry Matheson

Terry Matheson, an English professor, analyzes abduction narratives as a literary genre that shapes public perception of aliens. He traces the evolution of alien portrayals from benevolent beings to the 'Greys' who abduct humans for experimentation. Matheson draws parallels between abduction myths and the creation of social myths, offering insights into how past myths originated and influenced societies. The review suggests that Matheson's critical examination of authors like John Fuller and Budd Hopkins is well-deserved, though the book's academic style might limit its reach.

The UFO Invasion: The Roswell Incident, Alien Abductions, and Government Coverups

This is a collection of articles from 'Skeptical Inquirer' magazine, featuring contributions from prominent skeptics like Philip Klass and Joe Nickell. The book is recommended for its critical approach to UFO phenomena, aiming to combat superstition and fraud.

Alien Base: Earth's Encounters With Extraterrestrials by Timothy Good

Timothy Good's book is presented as a comprehensive, albeit uncritical, compilation of UFO incidents dating back to the 1920s. The review notes that Good, a professional violinist and UFO researcher, presents witness accounts without significant analysis, including extensive coverage of George Adamski and Paul Villa's photographic evidence. While useful as a reference for UFO history, the book does not prove alien visitation or bases on Earth.

UFO Danger Zone: Terror and Death in Brazil - Where Next? by Bob Pratt

Bob Pratt's book compiles stories from Brazilians who claim encounters with alien craft and beings. The review highlights the often hair-raising nature of these accounts, suggesting they would appeal to folklorists. The book is described as a collection of well-written and exciting narratives.

The UFO Encyclopedia (2nd Edition) by Jerome Clark

The review notes the release of the second edition of Jerome Clark's comprehensive encyclopedia, now in two volumes. While acknowledging its updated content and extensive lists, the reviewer reiterates previous criticisms regarding the high price and sparse illustrations.

Mass Hysteria: A Skeptic's Guide by Robert Bartholomew

This article defines mass hysteria as a crucial concept for skeptics, as it can influence millions. Bartholomew outlines four types of mass hysteria: direct threats to society, mass panic, symbolic fears, and wishful thinking. He provides historical examples, such as the 1806 'Christ is coming' chicken in Leeds, the 'crazy gas' in Mattoon, Illinois, and the 1973 Auckland chemical scare. The article also discusses the 'rocket scares' in Sweden in 1946, the Taipei 'razor man' incident, and the phenomenon of headhunting myths in Southeast Asia. Mass panic is illustrated with the 'War of the Worlds' radio broadcast in 1938 and a similar incident in Quito, Ecuador, in 1949. Symbolic fear is linked to witch hunts and scapegoating. The article emphasizes that while mass hysteria can be driven by imagination, it often has negative consequences, including Nazism, mass suicides, and moral panics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical yet open-minded approach to UFO phenomena. It prioritizes critical analysis, sociological and psychological perspectives, and well-researched information. The editorial stance favors evidence-based reporting and debunks unsubstantiated claims while acknowledging the possibility of unexplained phenomena. The reviews of books like those by Hilary Evans and Robert Bartholomew highlight the importance of critical thinking in understanding UFO reports. The extensive coverage of mass hysteria underscores the magazine's interest in the psychological and social factors that contribute to belief systems and collective behavior, particularly in relation to unexplained phenomena.

UFO-Vision nr. 7 is a Danish magazine issue focusing on various aspects of UFO phenomena, mass hysteria, and related cultural beliefs. The issue features articles that explore the psychological underpinnings of collective delusions, historical accounts of unexplained aerial phenomena, and reviews of digital media related to UFOs.

Satanic Cults and Mass Hysteria

The first article discusses the historical context of rumors about satanic cults and networks, linking them to societal anxieties and a perceived decline in traditional values. It draws parallels between these fears and historical scapegoating of minorities. The author notes that such rumors thrive during periods of economic hardship and social unrest, offering simplistic explanations for complex problems. The article highlights how these fears are amplified by sensationalized media and can manifest as 'mass hysteria,' where collective anxieties are projected onto specific groups or phenomena. It mentions Victor (1990) and Hicks (1990) in relation to satanic cult rumors and Bromley (1989) and Victor (1989) regarding the function of these rumors as cultural metaphors for weakened family structures.

Common Daydreams and Elevated Desires

This section explores how collective daydreams and desires mirror the processes that trigger mass fear and panic, but are focused on something positive or necessary. These often manifest in waves and are linked to unconscious desires for transcendence and immortality. Examples include the 'apparitions' of the Virgin Mary, moving religious statues, stories of fairies, and the phenomenon of flying saucers since 1947. These myths are seen as filling a spiritual void left by humanism and secularism. The article references Carl Jung's concept of 'technological angels' as UFOs, interpreting them as a Rorschach test for the collective psyche, reflecting a promise of technological advancement during a period of spiritual decline. It also touches upon accounts of 'ufonauts' and elves as god-like beings capable of transcending natural laws, incorporating themes from religion, mythology, and folklore. The concept of 'elevated temptation,' as described by Paul Kurtz (1991), is discussed, noting that even observations of cryptids like Bigfoot and the Tasmanian tiger are presented as evidence that challenges conventional science.

Non-Western Hysteria: Koro

The article then shifts to 'non-Western hysteria,' focusing on the phenomenon of 'koro.' It describes koro as a type of mass hysteria, particularly prevalent among men in parts of Asia, where individuals become convinced that their genitals are shrinking due to a contagious disease. These episodes are triggered by rumors and can affect thousands of men, causing symptoms like anxiety, sweating, and heart palpitations. Victims may resort to extreme measures to prevent shrinkage. The article cites examples of koro epidemics in Singapore (1967) and Northeast India (1982), detailing the societal disruption and the efforts by authorities to quell the panic. It notes that while the object of mass hysteria may differ (genitals in koro vs. other fears in the West), the underlying psychological mechanisms are similar. The author suggests that the only reason similar epidemics don't occur in the West is the lack of a 'koro tradition.'

The Allure of Mass Hysteria

This section delves into the 'drag' of mass hysteria, describing it as a powerful lure that allows individuals to realize their innermost desires. While acknowledging that fears of koro and headhunters are products of myth and superstition, the article points out that Western societies also exhibit a tendency to believe in flying saucers, ghosts, and psychic phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of critically evaluating extraordinary claims based on available facts, rather than emotional judgments. The article draws parallels between contemporary fears, such as those surrounding child abuse and satanic cults, and historical events like the witch hunts in Europe. It also links modern daydreams to the 'elevated elements' found in religious movements throughout history, noting that only the social and cultural patterns change. Robert Bartholomew, a sociologist, is credited with this analysis.

References

A comprehensive list of references is provided, citing numerous academic articles and books related to mass hysteria, folklore, UFOs, and related topics. Key authors and works include R.H. Barnes, Robert Bartholomew, D.G. Bromley, R. Buckhout, T.E. Bullard, H. Cantril, A. Chakraborty, J. Clark, L. Coleman, A. Cockburn, R.A. Drake, W.Y. Evans-Wentz, G. Forth, E. Goode, A.L. Gwee, T. Healy, P. Cropper, R.D. Hicks, N. Jacobs, D. Johnson, C. Jung, R. Kirk, P. Kurtz, E. Loftus, C. Mackay, W.R. McLeod, C.I. Mun, A. Park, M. Persinger, J. Derr, D.J. Read, M. Toglia, R. Sheaffer, C. Toibin, J. Victor, and R. Yassa.

Before Roswell: The Background to UFO Myths

This article by Robert E. Bartholomew explores the historical context of UFO crash myths, arguing that the phenomenon is significantly older than the Roswell incident. It debunks the popular notion of the Roswell crash being the origin of UFO myths, stating that the first reported crash of a non-terrestrial spacecraft occurred in the Indian Ocean in 1862, and another in Aurora, Texas, in 1897. The article details these early accounts, including descriptions of alien beings and their craft. It highlights how these narratives, often passed down through eyewitness testimony, serve as a valuable tool for skeptics to create distance from emotional reactions and analyze data. The author contrasts early UFO descriptions (humanoid aliens with smoking exhaust pipes) with modern depictions (large-headed aliens communicating telepathically), suggesting that these evolving narratives are part of a larger, evolving myth.

The article further examines the 'airship hysteria' of 1896-1897 in the USA, where numerous reports of crashed airships emerged. It recounts specific incidents in San Francisco, Bethany (Missouri), Rhodes (Iowa), Waterloo (Iowa), and Tennessee, often involving mysterious craft and crew members. The Aurora, Texas, incident is revisited, with Philip J. Klass suggesting it was a hoax. The article also touches upon theories of government cover-ups and the alleged secret manufacturing of these airships in military installations. It notes that similar waves of sightings and crash reports occurred internationally, such as in New Zealand in 1909, linked to rumors of German attacks.

Finally, the article discusses the 1930s 'ghost plane' sightings over Scandinavia and rumors during World War II about the British government finding a crashed saucer and extraterrestrial beings. It also mentions the post-war wave of UFO crashes in Scandinavia in 1946, linked to rumors of Soviet V-rocket tests. The author concludes that the explanation for these accounts lies not in secret military hangars, but in the human mind and the need for compelling narratives that connect to current beliefs and offer a moral or message, as described by folklorist Jan Brunvand.

Digital Mysticism II

This section reviews digital media related to UFOs. The first part, "Fakta og flimmer" (Facts and Flicker), by Kim Møller Hansen, discusses the CD-ROM "UFOs - Just the Facts." While acknowledging its multimedia capabilities and user-friendliness, the reviewer notes that it doesn't always live up to its promotional claims and that much of the content has been seen before. It's recommended for those seeking to confirm their UFO beliefs rather than for hard-hitting investigative facts. The CD-ROM includes numerous photos, video clips, and government documents, along with a bibliography of UFO researchers. It also offers access to an online update service.

The second part of this section reviews three electronic books from Software Sculptors: "Left at East Gate," "Beyond Roswell," and "Psychic Discoveries. The Iron Curtain Lifted." The reviewer finds "Left at East Gate," which covers the Bentwaters-Woodbridge UFO incident, to be a superfluous release with poor-quality video clips. "Beyond Roswell," also available as a CD-ROM, is similarly deemed redundant. "Psychic Discoveries. The Iron Curtain Lifted," a digitized version of a bestseller on psychic research, is presented as a hit in the USA, featuring historical recordings and lectures by the authors. However, the video quality is criticized as unacceptable. The reviewer concludes that these digital releases are generally not compelling and may even induce sleep after a few chapters.

Swedish Exception: UFO Bilder

The final article, "Svensk undtagelse" (Swedish Exception), reviews the CD-ROM "UFO Bilder. Ett Bildgalleri Från UFO-Sverige" (UFO Pictures. A Picture Gallery from UFO-Sweden), released by Riksorganisationen UFO-Sverige and Union Media. Unlike the other digital products reviewed, this CD-ROM is praised for not over-promising. It is described as a straightforward digital slide show featuring 40 international and Swedish UFO photos, some of which remain unexplained or have been considered evidence of UFO existence. Each photo is accompanied by a brief text detailing its origin, the story behind the photograph, potential explanations, and its source. While some photos are in black and white, the reviewer notes that color versions exist. The CD-ROM allows users to control the pace of viewing or set it to run as a self-playing slideshow, making it suitable for exhibitions and public events.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes throughout the issue include the psychological and sociological factors behind mass hysteria, the enduring power of myths and folklore in shaping beliefs about the unexplained, and the critical examination of UFO phenomena. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that acknowledges the cultural significance of UFOs and related phenomena while also encouraging a skeptical and evidence-based approach, particularly in the reviews of digital media. There's an underlying theme of how societal anxieties and spiritual voids can be filled by extraordinary narratives, whether they involve satanic cults, alien visitations, or psychic powers. The editorial stance seems to be one of exploring these phenomena critically, distinguishing between factual reporting and speculative interpretation, and highlighting the role of media in both creating and disseminating these narratives.

This issue of UFO-Vision, number 7, features a prominent article titled "Gray Barker: Min ven - mytemageren" (Gray Barker: My friend - mythmaker) by John C. Sherwood. The magazine covers various aspects of ufology, including book reviews and discussions on the psychology of belief.

Gray Barker: Mythmaker

The main article delves into the life and work of Gray Barker, a Danish ufologist and publisher credited with introducing the concept of 'Men-in-Black' (M.I.B.) into ufology. John C. Sherwood recounts his personal connection with Barker, stating that Barker helped him start his journalistic career. Sherwood reveals that Barker was not averse to fabricating sensational stories about flying saucers, as long as they seemed realistic, viewing it as a 'joke'.

Barker, who led Saucerian Publications, published numerous books and articles on UFOs. Sherwood details how Barker published his early, youthful work, including a book titled 'Flying Saucers Are Watching You', which led to Sherwood's first job at a newspaper. Barker also introduced Sherwood to other figures in ufology, such as Richard Shaver.

Sherwood explains how Barker's 1956 book, 'They Knew Too Much about Flying Saucers', popularized the M.I.B. concept. The book described encounters where black-suited men would appear to UFO witnesses, intimidating them into silence. Sherwood notes that while the M.I.B. concept might have been inspired by real events, Barker actively encouraged deception to sell his publications.

Barker's approach to presenting fiction as fact is further illustrated by his advice to Sherwood regarding a science fiction story about time-traveling UFOs. Barker suggested making the story appear as factual as possible, even advising Sherwood to make it technically detailed to fool scientific readers. Sherwood's articles, such as 'Flying Saucers: Time Machines' and 'The Strange B.I.C.R. Affair', were published in Barker's magazine, Saucer News, and were reportedly well-received by fans.

In 1983, shortly before his death, Barker published 'M.I.B. - The Secret Terror Among Us', dedicated to Al K. Bender, who had inspired 'They Knew Too Much about Flying Saucers'. Barker included a chapter on 'Dr. Pratt', presenting the fictional narrative as truth.

Sherwood admits to having previously denied knowledge of the 'B.I.C.R.' affair but now feels it's time to reveal information about Barker's role in creating myths. He notes the cultural impact of the M.I.B. concept, particularly with the release of the film 'Men in Black'. Sherwood concludes that Barker's legacy makes it difficult to distinguish between fact and fiction in ufology.

Book Reviews

The magazine features several book reviews related to UFOs and unexplained phenomena:

• "Svenske ufo-mysterier" (Swedish UFO Mysteries) by Clas Svahn: This book provides an overview of significant and well-known Swedish UFO incidents and crop circles. Svahn approaches the subject objectively, often interviewing witnesses and referencing archival material. He attributes phenomena like 'ghost flyers' to German spy planes and psychological factors, while acknowledging the complexity of UFO reports.
• "Uforklarligt" (Unexplained) by Clas Svahn, Anette Persson, Johanne Ländin, and Åke Persson: This is described as an accessible introductory book covering spontaneous human combustion, visions, ESP, psychokinesis, Nostradamus, and other paranormal topics. It offers brief mentions of phenomena but provides good source references for further research.
• "UFO från A till Ö" (UFO from A to Z) edited by Clas Svahn and Mikael Sjöberg: This is an updated reference work from UFO-Sverige, providing concise information on ufologists, contactees, organizations, theories, and historical events in ufology.
• "Mysteriet om UFO'er" (The Mystery of UFOs) by Kim Møller Hansen: A book aimed at 12-15 year olds, offering an updated overview of UFO concepts, including recent Danish observations. It covers topics like the TV series 'Dark Skies' and the Roswell incident, advising readers to keep their feet warm and their minds cool when exploring the subject.
• "Ufoens Gåde" (The Riddle of UFOs) by Anne Øgendahl: A children's book for 10-13 year olds that presents a modern UFO myth with elements of conspiracy and media involvement. The review highlights its factual inclusion of UFO literature references and its engaging narrative.
• "Jagtmarken" (Hunting Ground) by Patrick Leis: A suspense novel about how life on Earth can be affected by beings from an alien planet, involving a time warp and an alien invasion.
• "De og Vi" (We and They) by Vladimir P. Gilēv: A debate novel exploring the self-destruction of humanity and how alien beings, with superior intelligence, avoided similar mistakes.
• "Ufoerne kommer" (The UFOs are Coming) by Tom and Sofie: A children's story about two children who encounter mysterious lights and sounds, which are eventually revealed to be from a disco's spotlights, illustrating how everyday phenomena can be misinterpreted.
• "Ufoerne kommer!" (The UFOs are Coming!) by Jørn Jensen: A book for young readers about UFOs, presented as part of the 'Mini Zoom Mysterie' series.
• "Fakta om UFO" (Facts about UFOs) edited by C. Göran Norlén and Clas Svahn: A Swedish publication intended as background information for students and study groups, providing a concentrated and objective overview of UFO phenomena and their historical development.

Psychology of Belief

Two books are reviewed concerning the psychology behind belief in the unexplained:

• "Why People Believe Weird Things" by Michael Shermer: This book explores why people believe in strange phenomena, examining superstition and the psychology of belief. The reviewer finds it less insightful than Vyse's book.
• "Believing in Magic. The Psychology of Superstition" by Stuart A. Vyse: Considered the better of the two, this book by a psychology professor examines superstition and how even rational individuals can resort to it when faced with uncertainty. It highlights how a witness's beliefs, knowledge, and social status significantly influence their perception of events, including UFO sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of UFO phenomena with myth-making, hoaxes, and the psychology of belief. There's a clear emphasis on critical examination, as seen in the reviews of books that dissect the reasons behind belief in the paranormal and the potential for fabricated accounts within ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism and a desire to separate fact from fiction, particularly in light of Gray Barker's legacy of creating UFO myths for commercial purposes.

Title: UFO-Vision
Issue: nr. 7
Date: 1999
Publisher: UFO-Vision
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of UFO-Vision explores various facets of the UFO phenomenon, from the possibility of extraterrestrial life on Mars to the critical analysis of UFO evidence and the increasing accessibility of UFO-related documents online.

Are There People on Mars? Or Elsewhere in Space?

This lead article, previously unpublished, is attributed to the papers of Edward J. Ruppelt, former head of the US Air Force's Project Blue Book. It delves into the historical fascination with the possibility of life on Mars, starting with Giovanni Schiaparelli's 19th-century observations of "canals" and the subsequent attempts to communicate with potential Martian inhabitants, such as digging large trenches in the Sahara. The article discusses the challenges of observing Mars, the limitations of early telescopic technology, and the ongoing scientific interest in the planet. It also touches upon the mysterious flashes of light observed on Mars by Japanese astronomers and the debate surrounding their origin, including theories ranging from volcanic activity to artificial signals.

Statistics on UFO Observations

Authored by Ole Henningsen, this section reviews Richard F. Haines' book "Project Delta: A Study Of Multiple UFO." Haines' work compiles 473 UFO observations from 1504 BC to 1993, focusing on cases involving multiple objects and witnesses. The article notes that while Haines' research is extensive, some cases may not withstand critical scrutiny. It also mentions the book's foreword by W.D. McGuigan and Haines' background with NASA. The review highlights the book's conclusion that highly developed spaceships may visit Earth, but suggests this is a simplified assessment. The article also references Larry Hatch's "UFO DATABASE" and its new website.

Michael Swords' Commentary

Michael Swords provides commentary on the article concerning the Mars debate and the historical context of UFO investigations. He identifies the "Beacon Hill Group" as scientists connected to Project Lincoln, which was involved in radar and electronic intelligence, and suggests that some members may have participated in meetings with Ruppelt. Swords discusses the historical involvement of organizations like MIT and the CIA in UFO research, referencing figures like Dr. Julius Stratton and Dr. Walter G. Whitman, and their roles in projects related to flying discs and potential applications for the USAF.

New Videos

This section reviews several UFO-related video releases.

Portrait of a Swindle

This part critically examines the controversial "alien autopsy" video attributed to Ray Santilli. The article exposes the "tent footage," a purported reconstruction of an alien autopsy, as a deliberate hoax. It details how the video was staged by Keith Bateman and Andy Price-Watts, using a dummy and sheep's intestines, and then deliberately aged to appear authentic. The segment also mentions the involvement of Elliot Willis and Roger Meakins in the production.

Meeting in the Forest

This review covers a video based on the famous encounter of Swedish ufologist Gösta Carlsson with a UFO in a forest near Ängelholm in 1946. The video, "Mõtet i gläntan," documents Carlsson recounting his experience and its significance, filmed on the 50th anniversary of the event.

Films from Around the World

Authored by Michael Hesemann, this section reviews his extensive video series, "UFOs: The Footage Archives." This collection comprises over 250 UFO recordings from 1950 to 1998, including clips from Project Blue Book archives, and footage from various notable figures and locations. Hesemann's approach is to present the footage with minimal commentary, relying on captions for details. While acknowledging the series' potential to help viewers critically assess UFO evidence, the reviewer finds the extensive use of background music tiresome and the overall collection, despite its educational value, to be largely uninteresting due to the prevalence of natural phenomena and misidentified objects.

UFO Documents on the Internet

Mark Rodeghier discusses the increasing availability of UFO-related documents online, particularly through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). He notes that organizations like Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS) have used FOIA to access documents from various US government agencies, including the FBI, NSA, and CIA. The article highlights that the FBI's direct involvement in UFO investigations was brief, primarily focusing on interviewing witnesses after the Kenneth Arnold sighting. It also mentions the FBI's initial skepticism towards claims of crashed UFOs, viewing them as potential hoaxes. The piece concludes by noting that both the FBI and NSA have made their UFO documents accessible on their respective websites, making them readily available to the public.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded stance towards UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the public's fascination and the efforts of researchers, UFO-Vision emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and evidence-based analysis. The publication actively debunks hoaxes and misidentifications, as seen in the "alien autopsy" video review. Simultaneously, it explores historical cases, scientific inquiries, and the potential for extraterrestrial life, particularly concerning Mars. The increasing accessibility of UFO documents online is presented as a positive development for transparency and research. The editorial stance appears to favor critical examination of claims while remaining open to genuine evidence, promoting a balanced perspective on the complex subject of UFOs.

Title: UFO-Vision
Issue: 7
Publisher: SUFOI
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
ISSN: 0902-2341

This issue of UFO-Vision, number 7, focuses on government UFO documentation and related topics. It provides readers with direct access to online archives from major intelligence agencies and explores the historical context and implications of UFO phenomena.

FBI UFO Documents

The FBI's involvement in UFO investigations has been limited since the 1950s, primarily focusing on cases with potential links to the Soviet Union. Their website features a section titled "Unusual Phenomena," which, despite its name, also includes documents concerning FBI investigations into cattle mutilations in the southwestern USA. These investigations were prompted by public pressure following numerous incidents in New Mexico. The FBI concluded that predators were responsible, a conclusion disputed by local farmers and law enforcement.

NSA UFO Documents

The NSA's archive of UFO documents is more extensive. While the NSA did not specifically investigate UFO reports, its mandate to monitor all communications for US security purposes means it collects data on unusual objects or phenomena. The NSA website offers a more comprehensive collection, though some documents remain classified for national security reasons and are heavily redacted. The NSA's collection includes articles from UFO journals like "The U.S. Government and the Iran Case" from IUR, and documents from the Prime Minister's Office regarding UFO sightings. It also contains information on the Air Force's recent investigations into the Roswell incident. A notable document is a 1968 theoretical article titled "UFO Hypothesis and Survival Questions," which originally was classified and discusses hypotheses including fraud, natural phenomena, secret weapons, and extraterrestrial origins, concluding that UFO investigation allows for "discovery and adaptation to the real environment."

This preliminary report, though possibly never finalized or part of an official NSA investigation, is considered interesting reading that demonstrates the serious attention given to the UFO issue by the intelligence community in the late 1960s.

Accessing UFO Documents Online

Documents from both the FBI and NSA are available in PDF format. Readers can download Adobe Acrobat Reader for free to access these files. Many documents are large, some up to 7 MB, requiring a good internet connection. The issue provides specific web addresses for accessing these documents:

• FBI Documents: foia.fbi.gov/unusual.htm
• NSA Documents: www.nsa.gov:8080/docs/efoia/r.intro.html
• Black Vault: www.blackvault.com/
• CIA Documents: www.foia.ucia.gov/scripts/popdoc.asp?docType=ufo

These addresses were last checked on August 20, 1999.

Featured Articles and Content

The table of contents reveals a wide range of articles, including:

• "Mass Hysteria: A Skeptic's Guide"
• "Pendulation Can Go Far"
• "Before Roswell: The Background to the Myths of UFO Crashes"
• "Digital Mysticism II"
• "Gray Barker: My Friend - The Myth Maker"
• "Swedish UFO Mysteries"
• "Books for Children and Young People"
• "Facts about UFOs"
• "Belief, Hysteria and Superstition"
• "Statistics on UFO Observations"
• "Web Tip"
• "Are There Humans on Mars? Or Elsewhere in Space?"
• "New Videos"
• "UFO Documents on the Internet"

Back Issues and Subscriptions

The magazine also promotes the sale of back issues of UFO-Vision, including:

• UFO-Vision 1988 (48 pages): kr. 78.00
• UFO-Vision 1989 (60 pages): kr. 78.00
• UFO-Vision 1990/91 (36 pages): kr. 78.00

Orders for these back issues require payment plus 15 kr. for postage and handling to SUFOI, Postboks 6, 2820 Gentofte, with specific order numbers (T-014, T-015, T-016).

UFO-Vision nr. 5 (1997): A 100-page issue featuring reviews of UFO books, videos, films, and CDs, as well as articles by Hilary Evans on UFOs and folklore, Keith Basterfield on the connection between UFO phenomena and the supernatural, and Søren Thomas on science fiction films. It costs kr. 163.00 (including postage).

UFO-Vision nr. 6 (1998): This issue includes translations of two chapters from the book "UFO 1947-1997. From Arnold to the Abductees," focusing on the history of ufology. It also touches on parodies in science fiction films. This 56-page issue costs kr. 111.00 (including postage).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the official investigation and documentation of UFO phenomena by government agencies, the historical development of ufology, and the critical analysis of UFO reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of providing access to information and encouraging critical examination of the subject matter, evidenced by the inclusion of skeptical viewpoints and factual data alongside discussions of more speculative topics. The magazine aims to inform readers about the UFO phenomenon from various perspectives, including scientific, historical, and cultural.