Intern Avis For NUFOC - 1977 no 05

Magazine Overview

Title: INTERN avis for NUFOC
Issue: 5
Volume: 1
Date: July 30, 1977
Publisher: NORSK UFO CENTER
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of 'Intern Avis for NUFOC' serves as an internal bulletin for the Norwegian UFO Center (NUFOC), providing updates, discussions, and clarifications on various topics related to UFO research and the organization itself.

Editorial and Subscription Information

The magazine is available via subscription for kr. 20 per year. Subscriptions and correspondence should be directed to Terje Hansen at Nedre Ålevei 8, 1620 Gressvik. The issue also lists a postgiro account number (395 396 5). A notable disclaimer states that all submitted contributions are the responsibility of the sender and do not necessarily represent the principles or opinions of NUFOC.

Content Overview

• Table of Contents:
• Pages 1-6: Commentary on P.O.'s previous contribution.
• Pages 7-9: General information about NUFOC Sør.

Commentary on P.O.'s Contribution and Per Ottesen's Response

The issue begins with a commentary on an article by P.O. and a detailed response from Per Ottesen. Ottesen clarifies his role as an organizational leader, emphasizing that his intention is not to 'strike down sinners' but to uphold organizational guidelines. He stresses the importance of an 'agnostic' and 'objective' stance in UFO research, warning against wishful thinking and the tendency to favor specific theories without sufficient evidence. Ottesen argues that scientific inquiry requires a commitment to truth and an active effort to counteract influences that might steer research away from objectivity. He supports P.O.'s point about scientists sometimes being 'believers' rather than agnostic, which can lead to breaches of scientific principles. Ottesen agrees with P.O.'s assertion that 'science must necessarily be true, otherwise it is not science.'

Ottesen also addresses P.O.'s question about the violation of constitutional law § 14. He explains that this refers to issuing public statements in the name of NUFOC without proper authorization or basis. He notes that while NUFOC rules allow for personal viewpoints, they prohibit elevating these to dogmas and proclaiming them in the organization's name. He acknowledges that personal viewpoints may sometimes conflict, which is natural and should be discussed calmly. Ottesen states that he has not personally seen violations of § 14 in P.O.'s contributions and notes the general improvement in the quality of NUFOC's press releases over recent years.

"ROMSKIP KONTRA HUL JORD" (Spaceship vs. Hollow Earth)

This section discusses the 'hollow earth' hypothesis, a myth suggesting the Earth is hollow with intelligent beings living inside. The author notes that this idea has been linked to UFOs, with some suggesting UFOs are advanced craft from this inner civilization. The author points out that this hypothesis is similar to the extraterrestrial hypothesis, differing only in the origin of the craft. The article contrasts this with the idea of 'trolls and sprites,' referencing the work of Dr. Jacques Vallee, who has explored ancient accounts of encounters with non-human beings. The author suggests that the similarities between these ancient accounts and modern UFO reports are striking, with the main difference being the absence of 'spacesuits and craft' in older tales. The author poses the question of why a serious researcher would not consider such parallels.

The article further delves into the difficulties of the 'spaceship hypothesis' for UFOs, citing work by Hynek and Vallee. It suggests that the material discussed might offer clues to a 'hidden dimension' of the UFO phenomenon. The author expresses a desire for arguments against the spaceship hypothesis, noting that current arguments often focus on the possibility of advanced civilizations visiting Earth without addressing the core problems. The author refers to an article in 'UFO Forum' nr. 2/77 and mentions Dr. Hynek's views, while maintaining an open mind to all possibilities.

Regarding the claim that recent research makes the existence of other intelligent beings in the universe unlikely, the author attributes this to Soviet astronomer Josef Sjklovski, referencing an article in 'UFO Forum' nr. 1/77. The piece concludes by reiterating the importance of keeping all possibilities open, regardless of how improbable they may seem today.

"OPERASJON BØRCKE" (Operation Børcke)

This section discusses a legal matter involving the organization. Their legal advisor, Arvid Dahle, had a similar view to P.O. regarding the case. An attempt was made to file a complaint, but the police dismissed it, deeming the matter not to be a criminal offense. The author agrees with P.O.'s assessment of the situation and notes that A.B., a journalist with NTB, has good contacts.

NORDISK PLANLEGGINGSMØTE (Nordic Planning Meeting)

This section reports on the progress of organizing a Nordic planning meeting. Responses from various Nordic UFO organizations have been received, indicating a broad interest in the initiative. Despite initial enthusiasm, the timing of the meeting presents challenges, as key groups are occupied with other important activities in the fall. The article suggests postponing the meeting to the following year to ensure a more favorable time and allow for better planning.

KORT OG GENERELT OM NUFOC SØR (Brief and General About NUFOC Sør)

This article provides an overview of NUFOC Sør, an organization established on October 24, 1975. The author, Alf Thommassen, became involved in 1973 and has since been active in local press discussions about UFOs. NUFOC Sør was founded to create a 'UFO forum' for individuals with diverse viewpoints to share their opinions without fear of ridicule. The organization is affiliated with NUFOC, adopting its statutes and principles. NUFOC Sør has held 24 meetings and has approximately 15 active members. Their meetings typically include a review of incoming and outgoing correspondence, a 'FAGLIG INNSLAG' (professional segment) on a chosen topic (such as ancient Mexican culture), and an open discussion period.

Thommassen emphasizes the importance of motivating members to actively participate in UFO research and of fostering a social forum for those who feel outside traditional political or religious groups. He believes in the importance of individual independence and has explored biblical accounts for potential connections to UFO phenomena, leading to his designation as NUFOC's 'Bible specialist.' He sees this as a valuable branch of UFO work, providing a more concrete and grounded perspective, and potentially offering an advantage in any future confrontation with non-human intelligences.

The section also mentions an attempt to engage Fru Ingjerd Stobbe for the Global Section, but the workload proved overwhelming. The author expresses hope for better times for this initiative.

Organizational Matters and Future Outlook

Another point raised is the caution against organizing for the sake of organizing, which could lead to the organization becoming like a religion. The author warns against viewing NUFOC as a deity or Stenødegård as a 'high priest,' urging members to remain rational. The article acknowledges that UFOlogy has sometimes been labeled a new religion. It notes that 'UFO Forum' magazine has been printed in offset since mid-1976. The author suggests rotating the position of section leader to bring in fresh perspectives. The core mission of NUFOC is reiterated as registration, documentation, and dissemination of information.

The issue concludes with a call for maximum participation in the NUFOC National Meeting in 1977.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of 'Intern Avis for NUFOC' strongly emphasizes the importance of a scientific and objective approach to UFO research, advocating for an agnostic stance and warning against bias and wishful thinking. It highlights the role of NUFOC as a forum for open discussion and information sharing, while also addressing internal organizational matters and the need for rational engagement. The recurring theme is the pursuit of truth through critical analysis and open-mindedness, even when dealing with unconventional topics like the hollow earth hypothesis or potential connections to religious texts.