Ufologen - No 14 - 1974

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOLOGEN
Issue: Nr 14
Date: March-April 1974
Publisher: Arbetsgruppen för ufologi (AFU)
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of UFOLOGEN, published by the Arbetsgruppen för ufologi (AFU), delves into UFO experiences and contact cases within Sweden, spanning a decade. The cover prominently features a photograph and the headline 'Kontaktfall i Sverige: Tio år av UFO-upplevelser' (Contact Cases in Sweden: Ten Years of UFO Experiences).

Arbetsgruppen för ufologi (A.F.U.)

The introductory section on page 2 explains that AFU's work is based on the fact that unidentified flying objects (UFOs) are constantly reported worldwide. Many of these sightings cannot be explained by conventional means, leading researchers to believe they represent a hitherto unknown phenomenon. AFU aims to clarify the nature of the UFO phenomenon through research and documentation. It is described not as a formal organization but as an informal association of research-interested ufologists, avoiding bureaucracy to focus on its core activities. AFU collaborates with other UFO groups and organizations under the name 'Projekt J.R.D.' (U.R.D. = UFO Reporting and Data System). The magazine 'Ufologen' serves as a common organ for actively research-interested ufologists in Scandinavia, published four times a year.

AFU seeks collaborators and representatives in Scandinavia to conduct field investigations or act as advisors. Contact information for UFO observations is provided, with specific contacts for Håkan Blomqvist and Anders Liljegren.

Table of Contents

The table of contents on page 3 lists several key articles:

• Kontaktfall i Sverige: Tio år av UFO-upplevelser (Contact Cases in Sweden: Ten Years of UFO Experiences) - page 2
• Gösta Rehns böcker får världsvid spridning - intervju (Gösta Rehn's books gain worldwide distribution - interview) - page 7
• 11-åring besprutad av tefat (11-year-old sprayed by a flying saucer) - page 11
• Plogbil stoppad av tefat på vägen (Snowplow stopped by a flying saucer on the road) - page 14
• Rapportöversikt (Report overview) - page 15
• Rapportstatistik (Report statistics) - page 19
• Litteratur för ufologen (Literature for ufologists) - page 20
• Kort-Nytt (Short News) - page 23

U.R.D. and UFO-Sverige

This section discusses the ideological divide within Swedish ufology, particularly between U.R.D. and UFO-Sverige. It highlights the need for cooperation in research and documentation, despite differing viewpoints. A conference is planned for the autumn to foster understanding and collaboration. Håkan Blomqvist is credited with this piece.

Kontaktfall i Sverige: Tio år av UFO-upplevelser (Contact Cases in Sweden: Ten Years of UFO Experiences)

This extensive article, primarily authored by Håkan Blomqvist based on interviews with Erik and Rut Andersson, details their experiences with UFO-related phenomena and potential contact.

Background: The article introduces Erik and Rut Andersson, a Stockholm-area couple. Rut possesses clairvoyant abilities and has had numerous parapsychological experiences. Their involvement with ufology began in 1964 after attending a lecture. The narrative recounts their experiences in chronological order, using their own words.

Early Experiences (1964): Shortly after the lecture, Rut received a telepathic message directing them to a place called Väggarö. During subsequent visits for meditation, they experienced strange blue-purple waves or radiation emanating from their car. During the winter of 1964, their car repeatedly malfunctioned when they attempted to go to Väggarö, leading them to suspect they were being deliberately hindered.

Intensivt ljus bakifrån (Intense Light from Behind): On a snowy night, while walking to Väggarö after the car failed again, Erik and Rut saw an intense light, described as like a rocket, approaching from behind. They jumped into a ditch as the light passed over them and then ascended rapidly into the sky. Erik had a camera with him, but the incident happened so quickly that he didn't capture it.

The Car Shook: The Anderssons continued their visits to Väggarö. On October 29, 1965, a significant event occurred. Rut received a 'mental' message to go to Väggarö around 10 PM, with a warning about a 'power struggle on Earth.' Upon arrival, they saw several small, floating humanoid figures, approximately 1.25-1.50 meters tall, with large heads and glowing, phosphorus-like eyes. They moved smoothly, not walking. During this encounter, their transistor radio played continuously, and the car shook violently as if something was landing on it. They hid under the dashboard, fearing the car would be crushed. They did not see a ship take off. The next day, they found no physical traces.

Confirmation of Events: The article mentions that on the same evening (October 29, 1965), numerous UFO observations were reported across Sweden. Olof Lagercrantz, editor-in-chief of Dagens Nyheter, described seeing a bright, cigar-shaped object over Stockholm. Ingrid Sjölund also reported observing a cigar-shaped object with windows near Väggarö.

Further Encounters: The Anderssons continued to have experiences. In the spring of 1967, they were involved in other parapsychological events that are not detailed due to their sensitive nature, but which caused Rut to become ill and seek medical advice. A strange encounter occurred on a boat trip outside Norway, where Rut communicated with a figure she recognized from dreams. This figure spoke of future events, including the assassination of Martin Luther King and riots in Paris, which later proved to be accurate.

Medium Confirms Encounter: About a year later, Rut participated in a séance where a medium stated she had met a 'Christ figure' on a boat, without Rut mentioning it. The medium also predicted global catastrophes due to a 'frequency increase.'

Unusual Tourist Visitor: In the summer of 1969, while hosting tourists, Rut encountered a strikingly beautiful woman who communicated telepathically, suggesting she was not from this world.

UFO Phenomenon on Lidingö: On January 22, 1974, Rut and her sister observed unusual figures on a golf course on Lidingö, described as tall and very thin, resembling poles. They also saw a luminous object flying low. Erik Andersson also reported seeing a luminous object from his window that evening. Later that night, they heard footsteps and a humming sound outside their house.

Discussion and Evaluation: The article concludes by acknowledging the difficulty in verifying such experiences, relying heavily on witness accounts. Erik and Rut express fear for their children's lives, citing 'forces' within the UFO phenomenon. The author notes the similarities to other contact cases and the potential for witnesses to develop religious fanaticism. Hypnosis is suggested as a means to uncover more details.

Gösta Rehns böcker får världsvid spridning (Gösta Rehn's books gain worldwide distribution)

This interview with author Gösta Rehn, conducted by Anders Liljegren, discusses the international success of his books on UFOs. Rehn lives in a picturesque house outside Stockholm. He notes that his books are being translated into several languages, including German, Dutch, Japanese, Finnish, Danish, and English, with discussions ongoing with a Polish publisher. He mentions the extra work involved in adapting the books for different markets and retrieving original Swedish texts. Rehn expresses interest in the theories of ufologists Keel and Vallee but questions their claims about similarities between humanoids, gnomes, and elves. He intends to consult folklore authorities like Mats Rehnberg and Jan-Öyvind Swahn regarding these claims and the 'New Age' movement. He also touches upon contact cases, suggesting they require psychiatric evaluation and that some 'contactees' may be experiencing hallucinations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of empirical research and documentation in ufology, as exemplified by AFU's mission and the U.R.D. project. There is a clear focus on witness testimonies, particularly from Sweden, and an effort to analyze these cases critically, often referencing international UFO literature and theories. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that UFOs are a genuine phenomenon requiring serious investigation, while also acknowledging the psychological and parapsychological aspects that often accompany such experiences. The divide between different UFO organizations in Sweden is highlighted, with a call for greater cooperation. The personal accounts, like those of the Anderssons, are presented with a degree of empathy, while also noting the challenges of verification and the potential for misinterpretation or psychological distress.

This issue of "Ufologen" (1/1974, Volume 1) delves into recent UFO and humanoid sightings, primarily from Scandinavia, alongside discussions on the scientific approach to ufology. The magazine highlights witness testimonies, analyzes reported phenomena, and touches upon the difficulties in gaining academic acceptance for UFO research.

Key Articles and Reports

The Marttila Incident (Finland)

The issue details a significant case from Marttila, Finland, involving an 11-year-old boy, Anssi Hakala. On September 30, 1971, while cycling home, Anssi reported seeing a green, humanoid creature with unusually long fingers and thin limbs, approximately 180 cm tall. The creature had large, glowing round eyes and a peculiar facial structure. He also observed a hovering, disc-shaped object, about 6-7 meters in diameter, which emitted a liquid that felt like a 'tingling' sensation. The object then accelerated rapidly and disappeared. The report includes drawings of the object and the humanoid. The magazine notes similarities to other humanoid sightings, such as those in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

UFO Sightings in Sweden

Several reports from Sweden are presented:

• Svängsta (January 30, 1974): A bright light and explosion were observed over Sundsjön, baffling local authorities and residents. No wreckage was found, and no unusual aircraft activity was reported.
• Edsbyn-Bollnäs (February 9, 1974): A taxi driver reported a bright light with an inverted 'V' shape underneath, moving in a peculiar manner. The phenomenon was also observed by others, including an ambulance driver.
• Alfta (February 9, 1974): Multiple witnesses reported a large red light that disappeared towards Långhed. The witnesses ruled out conventional aircraft.
• Bollnäs (February 13, 1974): A large, luminous half-moon shape was seen in the southern sky, appearing significantly larger than the moon.
• Malmö (March 11, 1974): A patrol car observed a comet-like object descending in the northern sky.
• Malmö (March 23, 1974): A strong light, changing colors and stationary in the air, was witnessed by a woman.
• Laholm (March 23, 1974): A rectangular object was seen hovering and emitting an intense light.
• Jönköping (March 24, 1974): A glowing orb followed by smoke was observed west of Jönköping. While military exercises were occurring, the nature of the phenomenon remained unexplained.

UFO Sightings in Finland and Norway

• Timovaara, Finland (December 27, 1973): A snowplow driver reported a disc-shaped object blocking the road. A figure in white clothing briefly appeared from the object.
• Tromsø, Norway (Date not specified, but likely recent): A car driver reported a large, strongly luminous object that covered the entire road and moved directly towards his car. The car's electrical systems failed, and the object passed over it. The witness also saw the object return and hover before disappearing.

UFO Sightings in Denmark

• Fyn (November 20, 1973): A man reported seeing two large, red, luminous objects flying slowly. The phenomenon caused electrical disturbances and power outages in the area.

Research and Methodology Discussions

The magazine features a discussion on how to advance UFO research. Key points include:

• Statistical Analysis: The importance of collecting and analyzing data to identify correlations in reports, citing Jacques Vallée as a pioneer in this area.
• Witness Testimony: The need for at least two witnesses per case for evaluation, as suggested by J. Allen Hynek. The importance of understanding witness psychology and avoiding excessive focus on minor details is also mentioned.
• Academic Involvement: The difficulty in engaging academics due to time constraints and prejudices. The author suggests that if UFO research were accepted by respected figures like Tord Hall, Gerholm, Eisenberg, and Hoyle, it could attract funding from institutions like the Riksbank. The potential for interdisciplinary studies involving physics, psychology, and ethnology is noted.
• Humanoids as a Key: J. Allen Hynek's suggestion that humanoids might be the key to understanding the UFO problem is discussed, linking it to the work of researchers like Keel and Vallée, though this approach is acknowledged as bordering on the occult.

Personal Reflections and Experiences

One interviewee, a pianist, states they have not had any personal unexplained experiences but believes that an appreciation for art, music, and poetry can make one more receptive to understanding concepts related to the occult and the work of researchers like Keel and Vallée.

References and Commentary

Several references are provided, including articles by Gösta Rehn on Keel and Vallée's theories, and commentary on J. Allen Hynek's book "The UFO Experience." The issue also references Joanne Greenberg's book "Ingen dans på rosor" (No Dance on Roses) for its insights into schizophrenia, drawing a parallel to UFO experiences.

Editorial Notes

An announcement regarding the change in publication frequency for "Ufologen" from six to four issues per year due to workload is included. The price remains 25 kronor for six issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence of UFO sightings and humanoid encounters across Scandinavia, the detailed nature of witness accounts, and the ongoing debate about the scientific validity and approach to ufology. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation, statistical analysis, and the pursuit of academic credibility for the field, while acknowledging the more speculative or 'occult' aspects that some researchers explore. There is a clear emphasis on presenting factual reports and encouraging further investigation, particularly from official sources like military flight units.

Title: Ufologen
Issue: nr. 1, 1974
Publisher: Svensk UFO-Information
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Price: 10 SEK

This issue of Ufologen focuses on UFO phenomena and the literature surrounding them, providing practical advice for enthusiasts and exploring the cultural and religious implications of UFO beliefs.

UFO Sightings

Karlshamn Sighting (March 26, 1974)

The magazine reports a UFO sighting in Karlshamn, Sweden, on the evening of March 26th. A reader called the newspaper Allehanda to report a luminous phenomenon moving sideways and up and down in a southwest direction from Asarum. The object emitted a sharp light that alternated between white, green, and red. While the newspaper's editorial staff also observed the phenomenon, they speculated it might be a star, albeit an unusually colorful one. The report notes that no confirmation of the 'star theory' was available that evening.

Vallentuna Sightings (March-May 1974)

Vallentuna, a small town north of Stockholm, experienced a significant number of UFO observations during March, April, and May. The article describes these events as having a 'very sensational character.' The editorial team, in collaboration with experts, was investigating these observations and hoped to present a documented report in a future issue of Ufologen.

Statistics

A statistical report based on newspaper clippings from AB Pressurklipp covers the period from January 1 to February 28, 1974. A bar graph illustrates the number of observations per day, showing a low number in January and a notable increase in February, with several peaks.

Literature Guide

Acquiring UFO Books

Lennart Johansson provides a comprehensive guide on how to obtain UFO books, acknowledging that it can be challenging. He suggests checking well-stocked bookstores and provides contact information for Swedish publishers specializing in UFO literature: Parthenon, Larson, Waldia, and Zindermans. He also mentions two specific Swedish publications on UFO propulsion hypotheses: "UFO och relativitetsteorin" by Borgny Tingstedt (published by Svensk IGAP) and "Vimaana II: Världsormen" by Lehel Répits (published by UFO-tryck).

International Literature

For Danish literature, readers are advised to contact IGAP, Strubes, or SUFOI for catalogs. Dansk UFO-Center also plans to publish UFO books, and FUFOS has released several booklets.

In English, pocket UFO books can be found in many bookstores, with specific recommendations in Stockholm including Hörnan, Nordiska Bokhandeln, and Sandbergs Bokhandel. For hardcover books, postorder bookstores are recommended. In Sweden, Agharta, Edista, and Vattumannen are listed. Edista offers the possibility to visit their warehouse by appointment. Valby Antikvariat & Bogimport in Denmark is also a source for UFO books.

For English-language books, the magazine highlights two sellers: Mr. Lionel Beer and Miss Susanne R. Stebbing in England. Beer provides a free catalog, while Stebbing requires 10% of the order total for postage and suggests sending International Reply Coupons (IRC) for book lists. In the USA, Flying Saucer News is recommended.

For German literature, Edista offers a small selection, and Ventla-Verlag is another option.

Antiquarian Literature

Readers are encouraged to check local antiquarian bookstores for rare UFO books. Antikvariatet Lyktan is mentioned as a newly opened specialized antiquarian bookstore that plans to publish a catalog four times a year, focusing on religious history, theology, and unusual subjects.

Health Research in the USA is a postorder bookstore that specializes in reprinting out-of-print books in facsimile and offers extensive catalogs. They require IRC coupons for catalog requests.

Other contacts for antiquarian UFO literature include Edista, Strubes, and Valby Antikvariat och Bogimport.

Ordering Advice

When ordering within Sweden and from Denmark, payment via postgiro or cash on delivery is generally straightforward. For payments to England, USA, or Germany, purchasing a bank check is recommended. Buyers should also factor in potential customs duties.

New Religions and UFOs

Ernst Bendz: 'New Religions'

Håkan Blomqvist reviews Ernst Bendz's book "Natur och kultur, 1973," specifically focusing on the chapter titled "Ifology – the religion of planet dwellers and flying saucers." Bendz, a German historian of religion and church, categorizes new religions that have emerged in society, including the Jesus Movement, Bahai, and Native American peyote cults. He argues that a significant portion of ufology can be classified as a new religion, driven by a deep dissatisfaction with modern culture and the scientific understanding of extraterrestrial life.

Bendz distinguishes between UFOs and IFOs (Identified Flying Objects), defining IFOs as vehicles with inhabitants from other planets. He notes that the rise of the space age has made visits from extraterrestrials more conceivable. The review points out that Bendz's analysis, while interesting from a religious history perspective, overlooks specific UFO cults like the Aetherius Society and the Church of Jesus the Saucerian.

Library for UFO Literature

Lennart Johansson and the editorial team are working to establish a central lending library for UFO literature. Recognizing that older materials can be difficult and expensive to acquire, they aim to create a comprehensive, independent library. Interested individuals can contribute by donating literature or, at their own risk, lending materials. Loan regulations and book lists will be provided in the next issue.

Announcements

Free classified ads are offered to readers for buying, selling, or trading UFO-related books and magazines. The purpose is to facilitate the acquisition of UFO material for enthusiasts, not for commercial gain.

Specific 'wanted' ads include M.K. Jessup's "The case for the UFO" and "The expanding case for the UFO," as well as older issues of BSRA's "Round Robin." Trevor James's "They live in the sky" and several issues of Palmer's "Flying Saucers" are also sought.

Short News

Hynek Forms UFO Research Center

J. Allen Hynek, a professor of astronomy at Northwestern University, has established the "Center for UFO studies." This organization aims to bring together scientists, engineers, and specialists to investigate the nature and origin of UFO phenomena. The center will collect, analyze, and disseminate UFO observation reports. Donations of $10 or more will receive the organization's bulletins.

Uri Geller Again

The article discusses Uri Geller, describing him as an 'ambassador' for an advanced extraterrestrial civilization. The book by Andrija Puharich details Geller's alleged contact with 'the nine,' who claim responsibility for several 'flying saucer waves' since 1947. Puharich claims to have recorded their voices and filmed strange phenomena, but the recordings and films were allegedly erased by the entities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Ufologen strongly emphasizes the practical aspects of UFO research, particularly the acquisition of literature and the establishment of a central library. It also explores the intersection of UFO beliefs with new religious movements, presenting a critical yet interested perspective on 'Ifology.' The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging serious investigation and information sharing within the UFO community, while also acknowledging the challenges of obtaining resources and the diverse interpretations of the phenomenon.