NIVFO-Bulletin - 1983 No 2

Magazine Overview

This issue of NIVFO bulletin, number 2 from 1983, is the third volume of the publication. The cover prominently features the title 'NIVFO bulletin' and the theme 'UFO Naivisme' (UFO Naivety), with a collage of imagery related to UFOs and a stylized face. The magazine is published by NORSK INSTITUTT FOR VITENSKAPELIG FORSKNING OG OPPLYSNING (Norwegian Institute for Scientific Research and Information) and is in Norwegian.

"UFO-BORTFØRELSEN" - En hypotese som kan prøves (Part 2)

This article, authored by Dr. Alvin H. Lawson, delves into a hypothesis connecting UFO abduction experiences with prenatal and birth trauma. It begins by categorizing UFO beings described in reports, including humanoids, 'devils,' exotic combinations, and automatons. The author posits that these descriptions may be linked to specific emotional stresses experienced during embryonic development, such as during the 'good' and 'bad' womb experiences. These experiences, whether positive (uninterrupted inner life) or negative (disturbed inner life), are suggested to echo abduction narratives. Lawson highlights that the dominant type of UFO being reported is humanoid and resembles a human fetus or embryo, with underdeveloped facial features and other anatomical traits. This similarity to fetuses and embryos is presented as a significant parallel between abduction and 'FT-beretninger' (presumably 'Fremmed-tilstedeværelse' or 'Foreign Presence' reports).

The article then presents a comparative table (Table 3) contrasting reported humanoid characteristics with human prenatal characteristics. For instance, small size, fragile bodies, disproportionately large heads, and large eyes in reported humanoids are paralleled with similar features in human fetuses. The table also notes the lack of distinct genitalia in many reported humanoids, mirroring the undeveloped state in early fetal stages. The author suggests that many humanoid qualities align more with embryonic stages (up to nine weeks) than later fetal development. Furthermore, the article touches upon the concept of 'genetic memory' and the idea that individuals might access memories from conception, including experiences of sperm and egg. The embryonic disc, the initial flat, circular structure within the fertilized egg, is described as potentially resembling a UFO shape and serving as the foundation for all future human development.

Table 4: How they came aboard and left the UFO

This section presents Table 4, which compares the experiences of individuals born via normal birth versus those born via Cesarean section when asked about boarding and leaving UFOs. The table shows that individuals born normally often describe experiences involving tubes, hoses, or being 'sucked up,' akin to the birth canal. Those born via Cesarean section, who did not experience the birth canal, generally do not report these tube-like experiences. This data is presented as further evidence for the hypothesis that UFO experiences, particularly abductions, are deeply rooted in prenatal and birth trauma.

UFO-NAIVISME «Ufologi» - profesjon eller tidsfordriv?

This article critically examines the state of ufology, particularly in Norway, questioning whether it is a serious field of study or merely a pastime. It quotes Dr. J. Allen Hynek, described as perhaps the world's foremost authority on UFOs, who spoke at a MUFON symposium in July 1981. Hynek expressed concern that without professionalization and established standards, ufology would continue to be a chaotic collection of unprofessional actions, statements, intrigues, and nonsense, often perpetuated by individuals who market themselves as experts with little basis. He called for a thorough 'cleaning up' of the field, both in the USA and internationally, to distinguish serious work from sectarianism and 'clownery'.

The author of this article agrees with Hynek, noting that UFO organizations often attract fantasists and naive individuals who need to worship questionable phenomena. The lack of necessary rules and standards leads to 'cozy clubs' for mystery worship, which has brought ufology into disrepute. The article highlights that media outlets often fail to check the competence of individuals claiming expertise on UFOs, allowing dilettantes to present themselves as authorities.

It recounts a specific instance in Norway where a regional leader of NIVFO, Jan S. Krogh, received criticism for his counter-arguments in a newspaper debate. This criticism came from H.C. Petersen, the leader of IGAP in Denmark, an organization dedicated to promoting the stories of George Adamski, who claimed to have met Venusians. The article satirizes Adamski's accounts of meeting aliens, drinking from large goblets, and being shown the dark side of the moon.

The article further criticizes the tendency of some UFO proponents to react emotionally and with personal attacks when their claims are challenged, rather than engaging in factual arguments. It notes that when confronted with fabricated quotes, they often resort to more fabricated quotes. The author suggests that many UFO enthusiasts are motivated by a psychological need rather than a genuine desire to solve intellectual problems, aligning with the views of Dr. Jacques Vallee.

Ytterligere Konklusjoner

This section reiterates Dr. Hynek's call for a 'thorough cleaning up' within UFO organizations, emphasizing the need to differentiate serious work from sectarianism. The author expresses skepticism that most organizations are willing to follow Hynek's advice, suggesting they often ignore or actively try to erase the distinction between serious and naive approaches.

The article also touches upon the criticism UFO proponents often direct at science, authorities, and the media, accusing them of secrecy or cover-ups. However, it suggests that the perceived 'apathy' from official bodies might have other explanations. The author points out that exposing erroneous claims in the press can backfire, giving publicity to the naive elements and potentially creating negative consequences for serious researchers. It is suggested that sometimes, the most sensible approach might be to ignore the extreme and naive aspects of the UFO circus.

The UFO syndrome is described as controversial and complex, burdened by dubious claims and emotional, error-filled contributions. The article mentions a specific instance where a UFO club distributed a flyer at a cinema promoting the film 'E.T.', claiming that Earth is visited by extraterrestrials, and that the UFO club has only two interested members in Husnes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critique of 'UFO naivisme' – the uncritical, often emotionally driven, and unscientific approach to UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for a professional, evidence-based approach to ufology, akin to scientific inquiry. The magazine positions itself as a forum for critical discussion, contrasting the 'serious' and 'scientific' claims of ufology with its more naive and pseudoscientific manifestations. The publication aims to expose what it views as unfounded beliefs, emotional manipulation, and a lack of rigor within parts of the UFO community, drawing parallels with psychological phenomena like birth trauma to explain some reported experiences.

This issue of DIA, a new operational department focused on information and investigation, presents a collection of reports on unidentified aerial phenomena (UFOs) and mysterious lights observed across Norway. The magazine highlights investigations conducted by NIVFO (Norwegian Institute for UFO Research) and features witness testimonies, photographic evidence, and preliminary analyses of these events.

Hessdalen

The magazine notes that a team from NIVFO visited Hessdalen during Easter, equipped with measuring instruments and film equipment. Despite their presence, no UFOs were seen or registered during their stay. The report mentions that the 'neutral day' was perhaps not the best timing for observations. However, numerous fantastic sky formations were registered, which changed shape at the request of a witness. The article humorously suggests paying attention to the clouds if one visits Hessdalen without seeing a UFO, implying that 'Captain Gork' might put on a new show. The involvement of NRK's entertainment department in Hessdalen is also mentioned with a rhetorical question about its relevance.

DIA - Information Department

A new operational department, DIA, has been established to handle information and investigations on a national level. DIA, founded in March, is undertaking a broad range of activities including constructing schemas, registering data (including on EDB - Electronic Data Processing), processing data, providing information, and conducting analyses. DIA also publishes its own magazine, which has already released its first issue, detailing the department's activities. Readers interested in these matters are encouraged to contact DIA for more information.

Reports from Across Norway

"RAPPORTER" (Reports)

February 23, 1983, near Nyplass bru, Røros-Glåmos: A witness, Fru NN (38), reported seeing an object resembling an aircraft fuselage without wings, moving at high speed and a gray color. It traveled from south to north, parallel to the road. The witness noticed a distinct line along the middle of the object that differed in color from the rest of the fuselage, possibly like windows on a plane. Later, something emerged vertically from the rear of the object, emitting a yellow light. The witness was surprised when the object disappeared after passing a ridge, as it should have been visible. The witness also noted that the snow plain to the east and the pine trees behind the object appeared as if illuminated by the sun.

December 16, 1982 (approx.), Sula, Fosna: Fru NN (60) observed an elongated, smoky object from her kitchen window. After the smoke dissipated, three lights appeared in a vertical position, pulsing in red, blue, and white. The object appeared to be moving directly towards the house at a moderate speed before turning away and disappearing over a neighbor's roof. The witness also recalled seeing a 'star' near the ground or on the ground earlier in 1983.

Ground Traces: NIVFO's investigation in the area where the object was seen revealed two marks on the ground, approximately 30 cm in diameter and 150 cm apart. One mark was scorched, the other was not. Both were bowl-shaped in cross-section. Further investigation suggested that these marks might be related to the replacement of a radio mast, which involved the use of spotlights that could have created the appearance of a 'star' and potentially caused the scorched mark.

Gildeskål and Hessdalen: The report mentions a similar observation over Gildeskål, south of Bodø, on January 16, 1983, and a similar sighting in Hessdalen on the same date.

"MYSTISK LYS I LOFOTEN" (Mysterious Light in Lofoten)

Early December 1982 - January 1983, Vestvågøy, Lofoten: The coast guard ship "Senja" was dispatched to investigate a mysterious light observed by several people off the coast of Borge. On the night of January 10-11, 1983, police officers observed a single yellow light near the sea surface, approximately 15 nautical miles northwest of Kvalnes. The light had been seen for about a month, appearing near the sea surface and possibly on a vessel, with no significant movement other than that caused by the sea.

"MYSTISK LYS UTENFOR BORGE" (Mysterious Light Outside Borge)

January 10-11, 1983, Vestvågøy, Lofoten: Lensmann (sheriff) Bernt Strand reported observing a light for about a quarter of an hour until midnight. Despite using binoculars, the nature of the phenomenon remained unclear. The light was described as round and blank, with irregular but distinct brightness, resembling a strong lantern with a dome. The police were alerted, and the coast guard ship "Senja" searched the area without success. This was not the first time such a light had been seen in the area.

"UFO OVER SOLBERGFJORDEN" (UFO Over Solbergsfjorden)

January 15, 1983, Solbergsfjorden: After watching a movie, a witness looked out the kitchen window and saw a bright light hovering almost stationary in the sky between Gompen and Bjørga. The witness observed the object for about 15 minutes. The object then began to move slowly, forming shapes in the sky, including an '8', a circle, and a round shape. A bright, luminous point with a green tail and a red color at the top appeared. When the movements stopped, the light turned white. The witness described the object as larger than the '18-star' (presumably Venus). The witness contacted neighbors, and at least four people saw the phenomenon. The neighbor followed the object until 1 AM when it was over Vågan.

Analysis by Ove Harang: Associate Professor Ove Harang of the Auroral Observatory in Tromsø stated that he could not identify the phenomenon, noting that it was difficult to say if it was a UFO based on the description. He mentioned that people often observe things very well and recalled similar reports from two years prior.

Analysis by Bjørn R. Pettersen: Stipendiary Bjørn R. Pettersen suggested that the phenomenon was not astronomical (planet, comet, or shooting star). He proposed that it was likely a man-made object equipped with lights, calling it a classic UFO case but distancing himself from equating UFOs with 'flying saucers'.

"UFO EN LAGET AV MENNESKER" (UFO Made by Humans)

This section reiterates Bjørn R. Pettersen's analysis from the previous report, emphasizing that the observed phenomenon was likely man-made and not astronomical.

"UFO SLUKKET BILLYSENE" (UFO Turned Off Car Lights)

Early January 1983, Lyngenfjorden: A family on a trip to Alta reported seeing a sharp light in the sky over Birtavarre. The light became sharper and moved slowly. As they drove closer, the car's lights suddenly went out. The light in the sky appeared stronger but continued its slow movement. After a few minutes, the lights on the sky object returned, and the car's lights came back on. The driver accelerated, and the car sped away.

NIVFO Nord's Conclusion: NIVFO Nord concluded that these sightings were likely related to Soviet rockets, a conclusion that was communicated to local newspapers.

"LYSENDE OBJEKT OVER DRAMMEN" (Luminous Object Over Drammen)

February 22, 1983, Drammen/Konnerudåsen: A former director (72) reported seeing a luminous, rotor-shaped object hovering silently for about 30 minutes before disappearing at high speed towards the southwest. The object had clear, white, pulsing lights on the outer edges and indistinct, colored lights within. The witness was certain it was not an aircraft, balloon, or any other known object.

Ground Traces in Drammen: A family reported seeing a UFO landing near Spiraltoppen, leaving behind a circular imprint about half a meter deep with soot-like material inside. The imprint was described as geometrically perfect. NIVFO's W. Pettersson investigated the site and found that the traces were likely from a Home Guard exercise, explaining the 'landing' marks.

"MILITÆRRADAR TOK INN NOE" (Military Radar Picked Up Something)

March 18, 1983, near Bodø: Two flight captains from SAS and Widerøe were tasked by the Air Force to look for an 'object' operating at an altitude of approximately 6-7000 feet, moving at about 100 knots, similar to a helicopter. The object was detected by radar but not visually by the pilots. The object was reportedly moving west and then northwest. The Air Force considered deploying a military helicopter, but the object disappeared from radar before it could be launched. The radar conditions were ideal, and the duration of the observation suggested it was not a radar echo. The pilots speculated it might be a foreign helicopter involved in military exercises.

NIVFO Nord's Explanation: NIVFO Nord investigated this incident and concluded it was likely a case of 'ducting,' a phenomenon where a dense air mass can reflect radar signals. Major Terje Øvergård of the Norwegian Defence Command also suggested the possibility of a bird migration. However, NIVFO Nord's atmospheric analysis pointed towards 'ducting' as the more probable explanation.

"WIDERØE OG SAS PÅ UFO-JAKT I MØRKET" (Widerøe and SAS on UFO Hunt in the Dark)

This article details the radar detection of an unidentified object near Bodø, as described above.

"ENDA ET FLYGENDE RØR ?" (Another Flying Tube?)

December 16, 1982 (approx.), Sula, Fosna: This section reiterates the report of an elongated, smoky object with three pulsing lights (red, blue, and white) seen by Fru NN. The object moved at a moderate speed and changed course.

"LYSENDE OBJEKT OVER LARVIK" (Luminous Object Over Larvik)

February 12, 1983, Larvik: Odd Svendsen (62) and his wife, along with a neighbor, observed a blank, metallic object with a red-lilac glow. The object hovered silently for a period, then moved at a slow speed, followed by a rapid increase in speed. The object was described as having a metallic sheen, with a lower part resembling two stacked plates hanging vertically. The object was estimated to be about 500 meters above Larviksfjorden. The witness was certain it was not a known object and compared its size to a parachute jumper, estimating it to be about twice the size of a full moon.

Possible Connection to Porsgrunn Dagblad: The witness suggested that some reports in the Porsgrunn Dagblad newspaper might refer to the same object.

"LYSENDE OBJEKT OVER HOVDEN" (Luminous Object Over Hovden)

April 3, 1983, Lille Bjørnevann, Aust-Agder: Gunnar Nielsen reported observing a strong, luminous object with slow speed and course and altitude changes, approximately 200 meters above the ground. Several other cabin owners had also observed the phenomenon. Per Rødde, who was at his cabin on Hovden, also saw a strong light phenomenon around the same time, originating from behind a mountain peak. Rødde described the light as unusually strong, resembling powerful spotlights, and yellowish. He noted that the light seemed to emanate from one or more points in a center. The light was constant and steady until it disappeared. Rødde also mentioned observing a 'black object' the previous evening on top of the mountain in front of where he believed the light originated.

Kristiansand Report: An interesting note mentions that a couple in Kristiansand reported a luminous object over the city, moving from south to north, about 15 minutes before Nielsen's observation.

"Rapporter fra Ålen-området også i 1972" (Reports from the Ålen Area Also in 1972)

September 12, 1972, Reitstøa to Graftås, Ålen: A couple driving from Trondheim to Røros reported being followed by a UFO-like object from Reitstøa to Dragåsen, where it disappeared behind a mountain peak. The object reappeared later. It was described as oval and emitted a blue flame over the treetops. The couple stopped the car to listen for sounds but heard nothing. The object followed the car again to Eidet bridge and disappeared. It reappeared when the couple reached Graftås. The man used binoculars to study the object, but it vanished when the car's lights were turned off.

October 28, 1972, Tydal: Civil engineer Jørgen B. Lysholm and his wife observed a cigar-shaped object over Tydal, about 30 km northeast of Ålen. They saw the object from their living room window. Lysholm, accustomed to estimating distances and sizes due to his profession, described the object as approximately 150 meters long and cigar-shaped, with a thicker front. He estimated its speed at about 120 km/h, based on cloud drift. The object was initially about 1000 meters above the ground, ascending and descending several times, and varying its speed. It disappeared when it was less than a couple of hundred meters above the ground. Lysholm stated he was certain it was an object of some kind and not a solar reflection. He had never believed in UFOs before this experience.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the reporting and investigation of UFO sightings and unexplained aerial phenomena across Norway. The magazine presents a variety of witness accounts, ranging from luminous lights to structured objects, and details the efforts of NIVFO to gather information and provide explanations. While some incidents are attributed to known phenomena like 'ducting' or military activities, a significant number remain unexplained, fostering a sense of mystery and ongoing inquiry. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation and reporting, encouraging public participation and providing a platform for sharing these unusual experiences.

This issue of the magazine, dated February 1983, features a prominent article titled "Amerikansk sensasjonspresse om Hessdalen" (American Sensationalist Press on Hessdalen). The magazine is published by NIVFO and appears to focus on UFO phenomena, skepticism, and related topics.

American Sensationalist Press on Hessdalen

The main article discusses how the American sensationalist magazine GLOBE, in its February 15th issue, reported on the Hessdalen phenomena in Norway. Journalist Len Stone's article is quoted, suggesting that "Norwegians are paralyzed by fear that the sudden and massive UFO flash signals the beginning of an extraterrestrial invasion of their small country." The article highlights the fear among Hessdalen residents, who appealed to the Norwegian Ministry of Defence for help. The Ministry assured them that they were investigating and advised the public to be alerted when the invasion starts. The Norwegian Air Force reportedly failed to track the objects on radar, but the Ministry of Defence photographed intense light points. The article also mentions a bus driver, Olav Peterson, and a passenger, Margit Olesen, who described a "gray, metallic object with red light" appearing before their bus.

Leif Havik, described as the "chief of Norway's UFO watch force," is quoted as saying that the UFO flashes began in the spring of the previous year and have intensified. The article notes that Fredrik Skagen commented on the GLOBE article in Adresseavisen. It also references a NIVFO-Bulletin regarding an "expert" who went to Hessdalen to investigate a landing and traces left by an "urinating ufonaut."

Literature Reviews

Martin Gardner's "Science: Good, Bad and Bogus"

Willy Wegner reviews Martin Gardner's 1981 book, "Science: Good, Bad and Bogus," which is a collection of articles and book reviews spanning 30 years. The book critiques pseudoscience, mentioning figures like Uri Geller, John G. Fuller, J. Allen Hynek, and Jerry Mander. Gardner also addresses topics such as biorhythms, new religious movements, psychic surgery, black holes, and UFOs. Wegner notes that Gardner doesn't take pseudoscience too seriously, finding amusement in its banalities. Gardner believes education is the best weapon against pseudoscience. The review mentions how pseudo-anthropology contributed to the spread of Nazism. Wegner recommends the book, stating it's healthy to see the 'face of pseudoscience from the opponent's trenches,' and that Gardner sometimes hits the mark.

Erich von Däniken's Books

Another review by Willy Wegner discusses two new books by Erich von Däniken: "Fortidens Profet" (Prophet of the Past) and "Gudernes budskab" (Message of the Gods). Wegner summarizes Däniken's hypothesis that Earth was visited by unknown extraterrestrial beings who altered human DNA, leading to the development of human intelligence. Däniken believes ancient religions are connected to these visits. His theories are presented as 'explosive' to the scientific establishment. Däniken is described as proud of challenging experts and considers attacks on him as validation. He often refers to himself as a 'Sunday researcher' and takes pride in provoking science without formal education. The review traces Däniken's publishing history in Denmark, noting that his books were initially published by Strubes forlag and later by Chr. Erichsens forlag, with some books becoming bestsellers while others failed.

Elizabeth Klarer's "Beyond the Light Barrier"

Willy Wegner also reviews Elizabeth Klarer's book, "Beyond the Light Barrier." Klarer, from South Africa, recounts her encounters with an alien named Akon and her travels to his home planet, Meton. The review notes that Klarer's story was previously published in UFO magazines and in Danish. Wegner is critical of the book, calling it "UFO-romanticism" and placing it alongside Joseph Farris' "UFO, Ho! Ho!" The review points out that Klarer's claims of being hailed by scientists from 22 nations are likely exaggerated.

Other Articles and Sections

"Snippy" the Horse

This section recounts the story of "Snippy," a horse that reportedly died under mysterious circumstances in 1967. The horse's flesh was allegedly consumed by unknown entities, leaving no blood or tracks, only strange indentations. The incident sparked debate among UFO organizations. A natural explanation was later proposed: the horse died from a natural cause, and its carcass was scavenged. The owner, Beryl Lewis, who was reportedly a UFO enthusiast, is suggested to have exaggerated the story.

"Mystisk metall" (Mysterious Metal) Analyzed by NIVFO

This section details the analysis of small metal or stone lumps found in a mining area in Mårnes, Norway, in 1979. The samples were sent to Elkem Spigerverket and then to NIVFO for analysis. The initial physical analysis revealed metallic luster and crystalline structures. Chemical analysis showed a significant percentage of unknown substances. However, NIVFO's results indicated that iron (Fe) content was much higher than initially reported, reducing the unknown percentage and suggesting the "mysterious Mårnesite" was not so mysterious after all.

GEPAN Disbanded

This short article reports that the French state UFO research group GEPAN has been disbanded following a government change. GEPAN, established in 1977, was criticized by French UFO organizations for portraying itself as "superior experts." The group had a skeptical stance and had exposed several cases of fraud.

Horoscope Study

An investigation by Douglas P. Lackey, a philosophy professor, into astrology is summarized. 38 students participated, comparing their own horoscopes with randomly assigned ones. The results showed a slight tendency for participants to favor their own horoscope, but the study also suggested that people often misperceive themselves or are influenced by the 'personalization effect,' where they identify with general predictions.

Special Issues

The final page lists several "Special Issues" available for purchase from NIVFO, including:

• "Avtrykkene ved Namsenfjorden" (The Imprints at Namsenfjorden)
• "Norsk Nærkontakt av Tredje Grad?" (Norwegian Close Contact of the Third Kind?)
• "Ishullene på Silsetvatnet" (The Ice Holes on Silsetvatnet)
• "Om Romskipsteorien" (On the Spaceship Theory)
• "Om UFO-problemet - Dette Bør Du Vite" (On the UFO Problem - This You Should Know)
• "UFO Foto" (UFO Photo)

These special issues cover various UFO-related topics, historical cases, and theoretical discussions.