Ufologen - No 11 - 1973

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFOLOGEN, number 11 from October 1973, is published by Arbetsgruppen för ufologi and features a cover headline announcing 'Förändringar' (Changes). The issue includes articles on mysterious imprints, commentary on the Skiren case, literature reviews for ufologists, and a discussion on the potential dangers of ufology. The editorial section details significant changes in the magazine's publication and editorial direction.

Changes and Editorial Transition

The editorial, signed by Anders Liljegren, announces a significant transition for UFOLOGEN. Due to the demanding nature of publishing, which often encroaches on personal time, Liljegren has decided to 'lower the tempo' and has found a willing successor in Håkan Blomqvist. Blomqvist, described as knowledgeable and experienced in investigating UFO phenomena, is set to continue the publication. This marks a shift from the magazine's initial role as a supplement to another publication, allowing for greater freedom in its design and content. The frequency of publication will be reduced to six issues per year, with each issue approximately 16 pages long. Subscriptions will now be directed to Håkan Blomqvist's postgiro account. Liljegren expresses confidence in Blomqvist's ability to provide interesting content and states he will contribute occasionally. A new initiative is also mentioned, building upon the 'field researcher network' and ideas previously put forth by Blomqvist and Liljegren for UFO-Sverige, aiming for broader collaboration in fieldwork and analysis.

The Skiren Case: Mysterious Imprints Baffle Experts

This extensive article, authored by Stig fggestad and previously published in Tidningen Folket, details the mysterious event near Skiren, Sweden, on October 30, 1971. Construction engineer Lennart Engström and a ryttmästare were investigating the area when they discovered a striking phenomenon: a red-and-white, oval-shaped ring about 3 meters in diameter, with a central area of burnt grass approximately 90 cm across. Within the ring, a white, powdery substance and a red coloring agent were found. Outside the main ring, four rectangular holes, about 2 inches deep, were imprinted in the earth, appearing as if the soil had been sharply removed. Engström initially suspected a large game animal had been slaughtered, but the nature of the marks and substances defied this explanation.

Representatives from UFO-Södertälje were soon on the scene, meticulously measuring and photographing the site. Samples of the white powder and red substance were sent to FOA (Försvarets Forskningsanstalt) for analysis. The FOA report, dated April 4, 1972, revealed that the white powder was pure starch, easily identifiable by its reaction with iodine and its spectral analysis. However, the red coloring agent proved more elusive. Extraction with chloroform yielded an orange substance, and ethyl alcohol produced a pink substance, neither of which could be definitively identified. Thin-layer chromatography showed different values for the orange and pink substances, with the latter fluorescing orange under UV light. Neither substance was soluble in water, acids, or bases. The report concluded that the sample size was too small for further extensive investigation.

Alternative explanations were explored. The possibility of a sophisticated home-distilling apparatus was dismissed by experts. A more plausible theory suggested the use of pyrotechnic materials, possibly homemade rockets. This was supported by a rumor of an intense light seen in the area prior to the discovery. However, the lack of footprints leading to or from the site, except for a small patch of trampled grass near the main circle, cast doubt on this theory.

Lennart Engström's personal account emphasizes the strangeness of the event. He described an impression of a 'conical object' landing, with its surface material melting and forming the colored ring. He stated that after nearly two years, he had found no other explanation and believed the object had ascended vertically.

Skiren Case: Commentary and Additions

Anders Liljegren provides further commentary and details on the Skiren case. He visited the site in June 1972 with members of Södertälje UFO-Center. The article describes the location and the specific details of the tracks found: a central circular area where grass was 'sweated' (wilted), a ring of red and white substances, four rectangular holes, an 'imprinted' area, and a pine sprig stuck in one of the holes. Interviews with Lennart Engström and the landowner, Karl Johansson, revealed no evidence of a prank. Engström's initial suspicion of poaching was ruled out due to the absence of animal remains.

Liljegren recounts Engström's description of the 'smet' (paste) as fatty and lipstick-like, staining hands and forming a band around the ring. Engström reported no unusual physical sensations or smells at the site. The article clarifies a previous report of 'tiredness' experienced by an early investigation group, attributing it to a long trek in deep snow rather than the phenomenon itself. The rectangular holes were described as if made by 'hole pipes or giant cookie cutters,' with grass and soil seemingly cut and removed. A pine sprig was found in one hole, with no clear indication of its origin from nearby trees, though a fresh break was noted on an aspen tree on the edge of the clearing.

Further witness accounts from the area are presented, including sightings of luminous objects near a power station and what was described as a 'world's strongest meteor' by Kristian Öhrn. An anonymous report described a 'strange shape' moving towards the horizon. The article notes that these observations, while not definitive proof, are suggestive of unusual aerial activity in the region during October-November 1972.

The article also touches upon the 'Skottvång incident,' where a moped repeatedly stopped near a slag heap in 1967, and a shiny white powder (identified as bismuth) was found. A strong, sticking odor was present, and a compass consistently pointed towards the area. This incident is presented as another example of unexplained phenomena in the region.

Liljegren also includes anecdotal accounts of 'small folk' seen by local boys near Skiren, and similar stories of encounters with small, gnome-like beings reported by older residents. These accounts, while folkloric, are presented as part of the local lore surrounding the area.

Regarding the Skiren site itself, it is noted that the ground slopes towards a ditch. Tony Eckhardt of Stockholm UFO-Center suggests that this slope might explain the varying distances between the holes if a landing object had telescoping landing gear, adapted to the terrain. The article includes a sketch by Lennart Moberg depicting a UFO with such landing gear and a diagram from Stockholm UFO-Center detailing the measurements of the landing site.

Analysis of Substances:

Further analysis of the Skiren samples was conducted by various labs. Astra in Södertälje reported that the red substance, when burned, became hard and brittle, but they lost interest in further investigation. The metallurgic laboratory at Saab-Scania, under Ing. Roland Högh, identified the presence of heavy metals in the red substance, including strontium, barium, copper, zinc, and iron. The significant amount of strontium raised questions about its connection to radioactive Strontium-90. However, due to a lack of spare parts for their X-ray equipment, further investigation was stalled. Högh noted that the components found were reminiscent of Bengal fires. Ing. Högh's repeated attempts to obtain spare parts were unsuccessful, indicating a loss of interest.

FOA's report, as referenced in Aggestad's article, indicated that the starch was exceptionally pure, free from egg white substances. The ninhydrin test for fingerprints was negative. The article notes that pure starch is available commercially but is expensive, and questions why such a large quantity would be dispersed in a remote forest.

An anonymous chemist suggested the substance might be related to 'drug manufacturing,' a theory dismissed by the article due to the remote location and lack of context.

Observations in the area:

Reports of unusual aerial phenomena in the Skiren area in the days preceding the discovery are mentioned, including observations of luminous objects and unusual lights, though these are considered too poor to be conclusive evidence.

Sources and References:

A detailed list of sources is provided, including telephone interviews with Lennart Engström, Karl Johansson, Sten Lindgren, Roland Högh, Evert Carlson, Fru Lönnestam, and Kristian Öhrn, as well as band recordings, newspaper articles, and reports from UFO organizations.

The Dangerous Ufology

Authored by Håkan Blomqvist, this article explores the potential risks associated with engaging in ufology. Blomqvist, after three years of active UFO work, shares personal experiences and observations suggesting that ufology can be a risky pursuit. He divides the risks into two main categories: the 'mind-bending effect' of ufology and the 'UFO beings' themselves.

The 'mind-bending effect' is described as a phenomenon where a significant portion of individuals involved in ufology lose touch with reality. They become so engrossed in certain aspects of ufology that they fail to see anything else. Blomqvist admits to having a 'sad experience' with this effect, characterized by wishful thinking, a lack of logic and common sense, and a blindness to or unwillingness to accept facts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOLOGEN strongly focuses on detailed case studies of unexplained phenomena, particularly the Skiren incident, emphasizing the collection of physical evidence and scientific analysis. The magazine appears to maintain a stance of rigorous investigation, presenting witness testimonies alongside laboratory results and expert opinions. There is a clear interest in exploring the 'mysterious' aspects of UFO reports while also acknowledging the need for careful analysis and avoiding sensationalism. The transition in editorship signals a potential shift towards a more collaborative and perhaps broader approach to UFO research within Sweden, emphasizing fieldwork and analysis.

This issue of "Ufologen" (pages 182-190) from 1973 addresses critical aspects of ufology, focusing on the challenges of research, the nature of UFO phenomena, and numerous sighting reports from Sweden and Norway.

Dangers and Criticisms in Ufology

The article begins by highlighting a significant problem within the UFO community: a large portion of ufologists fall into a category that is easily influenced, with many being psychologically unstable. This, it is suggested, deters scientists and intellectuals from engaging with the topic. The author stresses the responsibility of active ufologists to avoid bringing just anyone into the field, advocating for critical thinking, logical approaches, and scientific methodology. The formation of small, informal research teams is proposed as a better alternative to large associations, which often attract individuals unsuitable for UFO research.

A second major risk discussed is the nature of the UFO beings themselves. The article questions their intentions, noting that contactees often receive contradictory information and may be manipulated. Those attempting to break contact sometimes experience mysterious events, including threats to their lives, which are likened to 'psychic attacks' that can lead to mental breakdown. The author suggests that some of these events bear resemblance to 'satanic' forces, drawing from personal investigations in Sweden.

Many ufologists, it is argued, focus on trivial issues like blaming authorities rather than addressing the fundamental question: "Why are they here?" The article emphasizes the need to investigate contactees and their messages. Competence in research is crucial, requiring psychological strength, stability, a clear intellect, an open mind, and a sense of humor.

• For those in direct or indirect contact with UFO beings, the following advice is given:
• Never work alone on a 'deeper' contact case; always work in a team of two or more.
• If experiencing a UFO encounter, try to maintain a 'safety distance' and avoid light or rays from the craft or beings.
• Keep a close record of time during a UFO event. If significant time appears to be missing afterward, seek medical attention and possibly hypnosis to ascertain what happened.

Interview with Staffan Stigsjöö

The issue features an interview with Staffan Stigsjöö, author of "Tefatsfolket ser oss!" (The Saucer People See Us!). Stigsjöö, a 23-year-old journalist, discusses his four years of intensive study of UFO phenomena. He notes the scarcity of serious Swedish literature on the subject, contrasting it with the rich offerings available internationally, particularly in the USA. He mentions that respected scientists have published on the topic and that he has access to specialized journals. Stigsjöö also participates in a research group in Gothenburg that investigates UFO cases by contacting witnesses and examining circumstances.

He asserts that his book provides clear evidence of UFO existence, citing hundreds of Swedish individuals, including police officers, pilots, and meteorologists, who have provided names and addresses for their testimonies. The book focuses on Swedish and Nordic cases but also includes examples of foreign sightings and landed UFOs with humanoid occupants. Stigsjöö covers the history of UFOs, stating they are not merely modern interpretations of ancient myths like 'tomtar' (gnomes) and 'trolls', and even references Tom Goethe's UFO observations.

Stigsjöö aims to reach a broad audience, including skeptics, believing that facts cannot be ignored and that by the year 2000, people will look back at the current era's superstitions about being alone in the universe with amusement. He mentions his father, Zinderman, who publishes books, and that his father found the book so compelling that he regretted not publishing it himself.

Stigsjöö is already planning a new book, which will explore topics similar to those discussed by Erich von Däniken but with a more critical approach.

Literature Review: "UFO-Gåtan" by Bjarne Håkansson

This section reviews Bjarne Håkansson's book "UFO-Gåtan" (The UFO Riddle), a 100-page work costing 23 SEK. The reviewer notes the lack of UFO literature published in Swedish and questions why more foreign books aren't translated, citing prominent authors like Hynek, Vallee, Lorenzen, and others. While acknowledging that Swedish contributions may lag behind international ones, they can still be interesting.

The book is praised for its focus on interviews and thematic information rather than just a dry listing of reports, making it a valuable introduction to the UFO question. The interviews with politicians and government officials are highlighted as revealing the public sector's ignorance and unwillingness to engage with the UFO issue. The reviewer suggests that trying to 'sneak' the problem into high government circles is an unproductive approach.

The chapter "A New Scientific Tool" discusses futuristic concepts that many have dreamed of, including those mentioned by Hynek. However, the reviewer expresses doubt that data handling, as advocated by Håkansson, will solve the core problems, viewing it as merely a useful tool for the 'basic level' of UFO logging, which involves documenting events in clear text. Some phenomena, it is noted, cannot be adequately represented by statistical data, regardless of available resources.

The chapter "UFO Contacts" is considered interesting and fascinating, but the reviewer feels something is missing. They suggest that Håkansson, in his eagerness to highlight contact cases for study, may have overlooked negative consequences. The assumption that 'a hand is extended to us' is deemed outdated, referencing the era of George Adamski. The reviewer points to the work of Vallee, Bowen, Lorenzen, and Keel, who have explored the UFO phenomenon with interesting theories.

Bjarne Håkansson has received publicity for his book through radio and TV appearances. However, the reviewer notes that Larsons, a publisher, releases such a volume of occult books that Håkansson's work might get lost among them.

Report Overview

Starting with this issue, "Ufologen" will consolidate reports into shorter summaries, focusing on Swedish incidents. This change is due to the magazine's reduced publication frequency and format. However, the journal will still welcome investigations into UFO cases and promises to publish interesting ones.

UFO Sightings from Summer 1973

The issue details numerous UFO sightings reported across Sweden and Norway during the summer of 1973:

• June 17, Jönköping: A family observed a luminous phenomenon that moved in a north-westerly direction, initially mistaken for Venus.
• June 21, Lake Ullvättern: Two fishermen saw a round, luminous object hovering over the lake.
• June 27, Karlshamn: Two friends observed a bright light that followed them and seemed to hover at a low altitude.
• June 29, Gotland: A vehicle with three red blinking lights was observed descending into a forest near Brissund.
• June 30, Arvidsjaursjön: A large, round object with intense light passed low over the road, then disappeared northwards.
• July 1-2, Kristdala: A reddish-yellow object was observed for several evenings, changing shape and color, and moving erratically.
• July 16, E18 near Kragerø, Norway: Two young men observed a luminous object that moved across their path.
• July 17, Bråviken: A group observed a bright, round object moving at high speed and altitude, estimated at 200-250 km/h.
• July 24, Oxelösund: Eight people observed a flying object that emitted white light, turning red as it entered the forest.
• July 25 or 26, Lärbro, Gotland: A strong light phenomenon was observed, causing the moon and stars to fade, with a star-like object emitting light and being obscured by mist.
• July 27, Tisvattnet, Nordli, Norway: A luminous yellow object was observed hovering and emitting light, later moving north-east and disappearing. A second, similar object was also observed.
• July 29, Tjappsåive: A serviceman and others observed a powerful light on the clouds, which appeared to be an elongated object with sharp edges.
• July 29, Fårö, Gotland: A teacher observed what appeared to be a moving star that changed direction and speed multiple times, later observing three more similar phenomena.
• July 30 or August 1, Högsby: Four people observed four luminous objects, one of which was cigar-shaped.
• August 12, Helsingborg: A luminous 'star' was observed moving slowly from east to west, with an elongated shape.
• August 13, Säter: A strange object with a yellow glow and high speed was observed moving horizontally.
• August 13-15, Gislaved: Two luminous objects were observed, which separated and then rejoined, exhibiting unusual movements.
• August 14, Göteborg area: Several people observed a glowing, luminous sphere, with some reporting smoke.
• August 14, Dalsland: A fireball the size of a football was seen over Åmål and Göteborg.
• August 14-15, Visby, Gotland: A 'star' that did not belong to any constellation was observed moving slowly, stopping, and then continuing its path.
• August 16, Lindome: A fireball, the size of a football, landed on a lawn, leaving a metallic fragment.
• August 16, Karlstad: Three boys and a girl reported seeing two flying saucers over their houses.
• August 20, Köping: Employees observed a luminous object moving northwest, which later reappeared and hovered, described as saucer-like and yellow.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of ufology as a field, the potential dangers posed by both the subject matter and the individuals involved, and the persistent reporting of unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, advocating for scientific rigor and critical thinking while acknowledging the reality of numerous unexplained sightings. There is a clear emphasis on the need for responsible research practices and a skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly those stemming from unstable individuals or potentially manipulative entities.

Title: Ufologen
Issue: nr 3/73
Volume: 1973
Issue Date: August 1973
Publisher: Ufologen
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Ufologen delves into the complex world of UFO phenomena, featuring a mix of eyewitness accounts, investigative reports, and discussions on the methodology and direction of UFO research.

Attitudes Towards the UFO Problem

The issue opens with a debate sparked by Jaan Noor of UFO-Motala regarding the focus of UFO work. Anders Liljegren responds, arguing that while Noor's point about psychological aspects is valid, a reliance on half-truths and uncontrolled information is counterproductive. Liljegren emphasizes the need for controlled, well-processed data to convince the public, scientists, and politicians, suggesting that an open approach is crucial for advancing UFO research. He criticizes the impatience of 'information ideologists' who demand quick, definitive results and official investigations, contrasting them with 'research ideologists' who have produced tangible results. Liljegren stresses that the UFO problem is vast and complex, requiring patient data collection and analysis rather than grand, immediate solutions.

Eyewitness Accounts and Sightings

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to detailed reports of UFO sightings across Sweden:

• August 22, 1973: A helicopter crew observed a luminous object near Valskog that hovered, then moved erratically before disappearing.
• August 25-26, 1973: Helge Ericson and Lena Spens in Ulricehamn witnessed a large, square, luminous object for over an hour. Lena Spens managed to photograph it.
• August 25, 1973: Fru Aina Johansson and her family in Skara observed a cross-shaped, luminous object for five hours. The object emitted beams of light, causing fear, particularly in their young daughter.
• August, 1973: An anonymous woman in Gislaved reported seeing two luminous objects that appeared and then vanished.
• September 3, 1973: Residents of Huskvarna reported a bright, luminous object moving erratically, with a changing light and a tail-like phenomenon.
• September 4-5, 1973: Two boys in Nässjö described a large, white object with a blue tail flying over their town.
• September 10, 1973: Fru Vivian Svensson in Jönköping reported a bright, star-like object moving slowly across the sky.
• September 12, 1973: Several reports from Western Sweden and Dalarna are discussed, with Professor Ulf Synnerstad suggesting a large meteor. However, other observations of slow-moving luminous objects suggest satellite passages.
• Sven Thorvaldsson, a lighthouse keeper, saw a bright white light moving rapidly with two tails.
• Ernie Pettersson described a luminous sphere that moved quickly.
• Benno Jansson saw a blue star with two tails disappear towards Trollhättan, noting a burnt smell.
• Tony Sundkvist reported an object flying directly over his house.
• Marie Storgaard in Kortedala, Göteborg, witnessed an object directly overhead that emitted a humming sound before exploding.
• Sven-Olof Norberg observed light beams descending from an object near the ground.
• Rolf Svennberg saw a large, glowing red and white object with a tail move rapidly past his car.
• Britt Nilsson reported a bright object moving horizontally towards Silvberg, brighter than a mast lamp.
• September 12, 1973: Lennart in Göteborg described a bluish, sparkling 'cloud' with two tails, flying rapidly.
• September 18, 1973: Västerviks-Tidningen published a photograph of a luminous object over Tjust, noting its strong light.
• September 23, 1973: Håkan Forslund in Mattila was 'blinded' by a flying object that moved from west to east, described as having a half-moon shape and emitting an intense fire-like glow.
• September 30, 1973: Per Hållén and others off Bohus-Malmön observed a sharp, star-like object moving slowly in a northeast direction, appearing to hang under another luminous object.
• October 3, 1973: Witnesses in Hillared saw a strange object moving up and down, changing color, and described as a twinkling star.
• October 4, 1973: Ingvar Hallgren and his family in Ulatofta witnessed a mysterious fiery glow, described as a craft that moved westwards.
• October 5, 1973: A person in Järsnäs reported a balloon-like object that suddenly released an antenna-like object downwards, possibly for communication.

The Aurora 'Airship' Incident

The magazine revisits the 1897 Aurora, Texas, 'airship' crash incident. It presents the original newspaper reports describing a crash, a pilot not of this world, and strange metallic debris. However, subsequent investigations by UFO researchers, including Dr. Alfred Ed. Kraus and Professor J. Allen Hynek, suggest the story was likely fabricated. Despite this, later research by Eileen Buckle and analysis of metal fragments found at the alleged crash site suggest the event might have a basis in reality, though its origin remains debated.

Project U.R.D. (UFO Reporting and Data System)

A significant section details the formation of 'Project U.R.D.', a collaborative effort by various Swedish UFO groups. Held on September 22-23, the meeting aimed to establish guidelines for cooperation, define UFOs, and set up an organizational structure. The definition of a UFO was agreed upon as 'An observed phenomenon that, after thorough preliminary investigation, could not be identified as caused by known phenomena.' The project proposes a decentralized structure where groups contribute to different functions like data collection, registration, and information dissemination. The goal is to create a unified system for collecting and analyzing UFO reports across Sweden.

Imjärvi Events and Green Lights

The issue also touches upon the ongoing documentation of the Imjärvi events through Jorma Heinonen's 'UFO diary.' Additionally, a personal account describes a disturbing encounter with a green light phenomenon that the witness believes caused subsequent health problems, including skin rashes and chronic headaches. Rune Rydebrandt of UFO-Göteborg confirms similar cases, including instances of blindness linked to such encounters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous data collection, critical analysis, and open communication in UFO research. It highlights the diversity of UFO sightings and the challenges in interpreting them, often pointing to psychological factors or misidentification while leaving room for genuine unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor a methodical, evidence-based approach, encouraging collaboration among researchers while cautioning against sensationalism or premature conclusions. The recurring theme is the ongoing effort to understand and document UFO phenomena in Sweden through organized research and public reporting.

Title: Press-stopp extra
Issue Date: October 15, 1973 (raw date)
Location: Vittangi, Sweden

This issue of "Press-stopp extra" reports on a startling incident that occurred in Vittangi, Sweden, on October 15, 1973, where a group of children playing hockey on the Torne River witnessed what they described as a flying saucer.

The Vittangi Incident

The main article details the experience of several children who were playing on the ice of the Torne River near Vittangi around 6 PM. They observed a strong, luminous object approximately one hundred meters away. The object was described as dark with a bright light surrounding it, flashing in multiple colors, and featuring two prominent points of light resembling car headlights. Bengt Waaranperä, an 11-year-old witness, recounted being so frightened that he crawled on his knees to safety while his friends ran to the shore. His father, Allan Waaranperä, confirmed that the children were genuinely distressed and that the event had become a major topic of conversation in the town of 1300 inhabitants.

Mats Kemi, 14, the oldest of the child witnesses, corroborated the sighting, stating that the light moved slowly over an island in the river. While many children ran to the shore in panic, Bengt Waaranperä remained on the ice longer, observing the object's details.

Even people within the community who did not witness the object directly saw a flashing light over the river, lending credence to the children's accounts. The local newspaper, NSD, reported on October 17th and 18th that investigations of the area yielded no physical evidence. The children remained fearful, and the local ice hockey rink, usually frequented by children, was empty for two consecutive evenings.

Explanations and Community Reaction

Scientific circles suggested that the phenomenon might have been caused by a falling satellite. However, this explanation was met with skepticism in Vittangi, as the weather conditions on the evening of the sighting were not clear enough for such an object to be easily visible or identifiable as a satellite.

Allan Waaranperä also recalled a similar phenomenon he and his brothers witnessed 20 years prior while sawing timber near the Vittangi River – a strong light that disappeared over the trees after a few minutes. This past experience contributed to his belief that the children had indeed seen something unusual.

The incident sparked considerable discussion and anticipation in Vittangi, with residents wondering if the spectacle would repeat itself. Allan Waaranperä predicted that many townspeople would gather by the riverbank that evening to watch.

Visual Documentation

Page 202 of the magazine features a drawing made by 11-year-old Bengt Waaranperä, depicting his interpretation of the phenomenon observed on the evening of October 15th. The drawing shows a typical UFO-like shape with antennae, large eyes, and a jagged mouth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The article focuses on a specific UFO sighting with child witnesses, highlighting the fear and confusion it caused within a small community. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting the event and the local reactions, while also acknowledging the skepticism and attempts at scientific explanation. The inclusion of a child's drawing and a past similar sighting suggests an interest in unexplained aerial phenomena and the subjective experiences of witnesses.