NIVFO-Bulletin - 1984 No 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of NIVFO bulletin, dated 1-84 and part of the 4th volume, is published by NORSK INSTITUTT FOR VITENSKAPELIG FORSKNING OG OPPLYSNING (Norwegian Institute for Scientific Research and Information). The cover boldly questions the validity of astrology with the headline "Hva er astrologi ? EN BLOFF?" (What is astrology? A HOAX?). The issue features a central illustration of an anatomical figure surrounded by astrological symbols, suggesting a critical examination of the subject.

Table of Contents

• The table of contents reveals a diverse range of articles, including:
• "HVA ER ASTROLOGI ?" (What is Astrology?)
• "UFO FOTO" (UFO Photo)
• "SCIENTOLOGI" (Scientology)
• "MOT EN LØSNING PÅ HESSDALS-FENOMENENE ?" (Towards a Solution for the Hessdalen Phenomena?)
• "UFO-BELEIRING I USA" (UFO Siege in USA)
• "AVSLØRENDE KRITIKKLØSHET" (Revealing Skepticism)
• "MAKROBIOTIKK" (Macrobiotics)
• "BIORYTMER" (Biorhythms)
• "UT-AV-KROPPEN-OPPLEVELSER" (Out-of-Body Experiences)
• "FARTØYET SOM LANDET I IPSWICH" (The Vessel that Landed in Ipswich)
• "WOODBRIDGE-UFO 'ET" (The Woodbridge UFO)
• "NYHET!" (News!)

Astrology: A Critical Examination

The main article, "Hva er astrologi?", delves into the history and nature of astrology, framing it as a pseudoscience. It references Lawrence E. Jerome's book "Astrologi- En Bløff?" (Astrology - A Hoax?). The article traces astrology's return to prominence during the Renaissance, where it became intertwined with alchemy and other occult sciences. It notes that astrology's first widespread popularity in Europe was partly due to a widely publicized prediction that failed to materialize.

The text highlights how astrology permeated medieval and Renaissance society, offering a sense of guidance in turbulent times. It discusses the division of astrology into "serious" and "popular" branches, with figures like Sir Christopher Heydon and Roger Bacon representing the former, and charlatans and almanac makers the latter. The article points out the sheer volume of almanacs produced by the 1600s, indicating astrology's significant cultural impact.

However, the rise of modern science in the 17th and 18th centuries led to a decline in astrology's influence. The article contrasts the scientific worldview with astrological fantasies, noting that scientific discoveries like those of Darwin, Newton, and Herschel shifted focus away from astrology. It also mentions the ongoing struggle by astrologers to maintain relevance by attempting to integrate new scientific concepts into their framework.

The article explores the "Samsvarighetsprinsippet" (Principle of Correspondence), a core concept in astrology and magic, which relies on analogies and perceived connections between celestial bodies and earthly events. It illustrates this with the planet Mars, whose red color was associated with blood and war, linking it to the god of war.

Johannes Kepler's brief involvement with astrology is mentioned, noting his eventual reliance on Tycho Brahe's observational data to develop his astronomical theories. The article contrasts this with Isaac Newton's mathematical laws of gravity, which provided a scientific explanation for planetary influence.

It is argued that the appeal of astrology in the 20th century might stem from a growing distrust of science and technology, or a rebellion against impersonal modern institutions. The article draws a parallel between the increasing interest in occultism and astrology before the rise of Nazism, suggesting a potential link to societal desperation and loss of security.

Scientology: A Pseudo-Scientific System

The article "SCIENTOLOGI" details the origins and development of Scientology, tracing it back to Lafayette Ron Hubbard's Dianetics. Hubbard, a science-fiction writer, launched Dianetics in 1950, claiming it was a new science capable of curing psychosomatic illnesses. The book "Dianetics: the modern science of mental health" became a bestseller, appealing to the American do-it-yourself mentality.

Hubbard later developed Scientology, which incorporated elements of occultism, science fiction, and reincarnation, introducing concepts like "thetaner." A key tool in Scientology is the E-meter, described as a simplified lie detector that measures skin moisture. The article notes that the E-meter was found to be unreliable by the British Psychological Society.

The establishment of Scientology as an international organization is described, with local offices being set up by groups of fans. The article also touches upon the controversial "purification program" of Scientology, which involves prolonged sauna sessions and high doses of vitamins, purportedly to cleanse the body of toxins. The text mentions legal issues and criticism faced by Scientology, including a raid by US authorities in 1963 and attempts to infiltrate educational institutions in England.

UFOs and Other Topics

The issue includes a section on "UFO FOTO" (UFO Photo), featuring sensational images from Svalbard. The article cautions readers to be wary of "credible witnesses," suggesting that the reported UFO images might be lens reflections.

Other articles cover topics such as macrobiotics, biorhythms, and out-of-body experiences, reflecting the magazine's focus on off-beat literature and pseudoscientific topics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of pseudoscientific beliefs, particularly astrology, Dianetics, and Scientology. The magazine adopts a skeptical stance, contrasting these subjects with scientific methodologies and historical evidence. There is a clear editorial stance against the uncritical acceptance of these phenomena, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and scientific rigor. The articles aim to debunk or at least question the validity of these subjects, often drawing parallels to historical events and psychological phenomena. The magazine positions itself as a forum for critical discussion of pseudoscience and off-beat literature.

Title: UFO - vår tids tusser og troll (UFO - Our Time's Trolls and Goblins)
Issue: 1/1984
Volume: 2
Date: January 1984
Publisher: UFON
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
ISSN: 0800-2882

This issue of the Norwegian UFO magazine "UFO - vår tids tusser og troll" delves into various unexplained phenomena, with a significant focus on the Hessdalen phenomena in Norway.

Hessdalen Phenomena: Seeking Solutions

The cover story, "Mot en løsning på Hessdalen-fenomenene...?" (Towards a Solution for the Hessdalen Phenomena...?), explores the ongoing investigations into the mysterious lights and objects reported in Hessdalen. In November 1983, a team from NIVFO (Norwegian Institute for UFO Research) visited Hessdalen equipped with measuring apparatus and photographic gear. Their objective was to test various hypotheses, including one suggesting a link between the phenomena and seismic activity. This theory posits that crystalline rock under pressure can generate electrical charges, potentially causing luminous events observed before, during, and after earthquakes throughout history. Historical accounts from Plinius and modern observations by Yutaka Yasui in Japan are cited, along with the acknowledgment by Dr. John Derr of the US Geological Survey that 'earthquake lights' are a recognized phenomenon.

However, NIVFO's own studies of the geological conditions in Hessdalen, based on detailed geological maps, indicated that the area lacks the specific geological conditions required to support the seismic-electrical hypothesis. This led to the elimination of that particular theory.

Other Hypotheses and Misidentifications

The magazine addresses the common occurrence of misinterpretations of ordinary phenomena as UFOs. Examples include the planet Venus being mistaken for a 'metallic object' or a 'luminous craft'. A report of a 'helicopter-like object' hovering silently in an inaccessible ravine was also investigated and found to be misreported, likely involving small lights from flashlights.

Plasma Phenomena

The article then explores the concept of plasma phenomena as a potential explanation for some of the Hessdalen sightings. Plasma is defined as a gas with electrically charged particles in equilibrium, making it electrically neutral externally but possessing unique properties like electrical conductivity and susceptibility to electromagnetic fields. It is considered the fourth state of matter. While plasma is abundant in the universe, it is less common on Earth, found in phenomena like lightning, St. Elms fire, and flames. The article explains that plasma can be artificially produced in laboratories and that the Earth's upper atmosphere contains permanent plasma due to electromagnetic radiation from the sun. Plasma's microscopic and macroscopic characteristics are described, including its electrical conductivity, wave emission, and interaction with electromagnetic radiation.

No New Phenomenon

It is noted that the Hessdalen phenomena are not new, with reports of strange lights in the area dating back decades. When speaking to witnesses beyond the 'core group' of known observers, variations in descriptions emerge, including amorphous, luminous masses that move like 'burning gas'. After filtering out misinterpretations, the remaining phenomena might be related to plasma or similar occurrences. The article briefly mentions temperature inversions in Hessdalen and how they could potentially extend the lifespan of ball lightning, suggesting that measuring electrical potential variations could be a way to investigate this.

UFO Congress and Critical Scrutiny

A section titled "AVSLØRENDE KRITIKKLØSHET" (Revealing Lack of Criticality) discusses a UFO congress held in England in August 1983, attended by J. Allen Hynek. Nordic ufologists reportedly presented Hessdalen findings, captivating the audience. The author criticizes the lack of critical thinking among attendees, who readily accepted extraordinary claims from a small group of young people without questioning the credibility of the stories or the thoroughness of the investigations.

Bigfoot and Animal Mutilations

The magazine also touches upon the 'bigfoot' phenomenon and animal mutilations, often linked to UFO lore. An account from Ohio describes encounters with a large, hairy creature, including a farmer shooting at it and the subsequent discovery of unusual footprints and evidence of animal distress. The author expresses skepticism about the 'bigfoot' and UFO connection, suggesting that many such cases might have more mundane explanations, and criticizes the 'hysteria' surrounding these topics. The article questions why such phenomena, if real and widespread in the US, would not attract more official attention.

Macrobiotics and Michio Kushi

Another article introduces macrobiotics, a dietary and lifestyle philosophy based on Yin and Yang principles. It describes a diet rich in fresh vegetables, beans, fish, whole grains, and soy products, emphasizing harmony with nature and the seasons. The article profiles Michio Kushi, a prominent figure in macrobiotics, who, along with his wife Aveline, lectures and writes on the subject. Kushi, a student of Georg Ohsawa, advocates for a holistic approach to health and believes that 90% of hospitals could be closed if people followed macrobiotic principles.

Biorythms

The issue concludes with an explanation of biorythms, a theory suggesting that human activity and performance are influenced by three distinct cycles: physical (23 days), emotional (28 days), and intellectual (33 days). These cycles, starting at birth, can be positive or negative, with critical days occurring when cycles cross the midline, leading to increased errors. The article notes that certain companies, like a Japanese taxi company, have utilized biorythm calculations to reduce accidents.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFON magazine demonstrates a critical yet open approach to unexplained phenomena. While exploring intriguing cases like Hessdalen and Bigfoot, it emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, debunking misidentifications, and seeking rational explanations. The magazine also broadens its scope to include alternative health and lifestyle topics like macrobiotics and biorythms, reflecting a holistic interest in the unexplained and the human condition. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, encouraging readers to question sensationalism and to look for evidence-based conclusions.

This issue of NIVFO-bulletin, dated 7/1983, delves into various aspects of parapsychology and unexplained phenomena, with a strong emphasis on critical analysis and debunking sensationalized reports. The magazine features articles on biorythms, out-of-body experiences (OBEs), and specific case studies, including the Woodbridge UFO incident and the Wilmot case.

Biorythm Calculation

The issue begins with an article by Tobias A. Helgemoe explaining how to calculate personal biorythms. It outlines a method to determine one's position within the physical, soul, and intellectual rhythms based on the number of days lived. The calculation involves dividing the total days lived by the cycle length of each rhythm (23 for physical, 28 for soul, 33 for intellectual), and then using the decimal part to find the specific day within that rhythm. The article includes a diagram illustrating these rhythms and suggests that being above the midline indicates a positive state, while being below suggests taking it easy.

Out-of-Body Experiences: A Psychological Phenomenon?

Susan Blackmore contributes an article exploring the nature of out-of-body experiences, questioning whether they are purely psychological phenomena or if they involve paranormal influences. She argues that while not entirely ruling out paranormal events, the focus should be on psychological explanations. Blackmore discusses the implications for parapsychology if OBEs are explained psychologically, suggesting they might be relegated to a different field of study. She also touches upon the possibility of OBEs being a 'psi-conducive state' but reiterates that theories explaining them do not necessarily need to involve psi.

Blackmore examines various cases, including spontaneous OBEs and those reported in experimental settings. She highlights the difficulty in verifying anecdotal accounts, citing the Wilmot case as an example where the evidence was weak and relied heavily on one person's testimony. She also discusses the Danvers case, another example of a spontaneous OBE that, despite initial appearances, lacked solid corroboration. Blackmore critiques the claim that remote viewing is a common feature of OBEs, presenting statistics that suggest it is not a widespread phenomenon among those who experience OBEs.

Case Studies and Analysis

The issue presents several case studies to illustrate the challenges in parapsychological research:

• The Wilmot Case: This case involves a report of a wife appearing to her husband on a ship. The article points out that the account is primarily from the husband and lacks independent verification, making it difficult to assess its validity.
• The Danvers Case: This case, considered one of Hart's best, involved Miss Danvers attempting to project herself to her friend Mrs. Fleetwood. However, the timing of the report and the friend's account raised questions about the authenticity and potential for manipulation or misinterpretation.
• Robert Monroe: The article references Robert Monroe's book 'Journeys out of the Body,' noting that while Monroe claimed accurate perceptions during OBEs, his descriptions were often vague and lacked corroboration, even in cases where his wife was involved.
• Karlis Osis and the Fulham Case: An architect claimed to have projected himself to London and described a street in Fulham with specific details. However, upon investigation, the description did not match the actual appearance of the area, leading to the conclusion that the experience was not a veridical perception of London.

Blackmore emphasizes that while many OBEs are vivid and convincing to the experiencer, the details reported do not always align with reality. She notes that claims of remote viewing are often not independently verified, and when they are, the evidence is frequently weak.

The Woodbridge UFO Incident

Jan S. Krogh provides an analysis of the Woodbridge UFO incident, which was reported in the News of the World. The article systematically debunks the sensational claims, presenting factual evidence that contradicts the UFO narrative. Key points include:

• Incorrect Dates: Police records show the incident occurred on December 26th, not December 27th as stated in some reports.
• Meteor Sighting: Astronomical records indicate a bright fireball was visible over Southern England around the time of the alleged landing, which could have been mistaken for a UFO.
• Lighthouse Beam: The pulsating light observed through the trees was likely the lighthouse beam from Orford Ness, which can appear to hover due to its distance and the observer's perspective.
• Misinterpretation of Natural Phenomena: The article suggests that witnesses, already convinced of a UFO presence, misinterpreted natural phenomena such as stars (Sirius), animal tracks, and even the movement of the lighthouse beam.
• Sensationalism: The report highlights how sensationalist newspapers amplified the story, adding details not supported by evidence, such as a soldier being 'hypnotized' by the light.

Krogh concludes that the Woodbridge incident is a classic example of how UFO reports can arise from misinterpretations of natural events, combined with sensationalist reporting and a predisposition to believe in the paranormal.

Other Content

The issue also includes a brief mention of the year 1983 and a preview of the upcoming year 1984, noting that the magazine will cover topics such as astrology and Scientology. It announces a new special issue titled 'UFO-FOTO' dedicated to UFO photographs. There is also a contact point for NIVFO in Stavanger.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of paranormal claims, the distinction between psychological and paranormal explanations, and the importance of rigorous scientific investigation. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of unsubstantiated anecdotal evidence and sensationalism, advocating for a rational and evidence-based approach to understanding unexplained phenomena. The magazine aims to provide objective information and foster critical thinking among its readers, particularly those interested in 'off-beat' topics.

This document is the first issue of a Norwegian publication titled "UFO-fenomener over Norge" (UFO Phenomena Over Norway), referred to as UFON. The cover features a striking blue and black illustration of several UFOs in space approaching a planet, with the main title prominently displayed. The issue is dated 1984 and appears to be Volume 1, Issue 1.

Editorial Content

The primary purpose of UFON, as stated in the editorial, is to serve as a dedicated organ for collecting all reported UFO/UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) cases from Norway. The publication aims to consolidate these reports, which are often scattered across the press or sent directly to NIVFO (Norsk Institutt for Vitenskapelig Forskning og Opplysning - Norwegian Institute for Scientific Research and Information).

Each issue of UFON will present all Norwegian UFO/UAP reports, accompanied by commentary. Furthermore, the magazine intends to publish research findings and statistical data related to these phenomena. The editorial emphasizes the importance of having a centralized source for this information.

Publication Details and Ordering Information

The price for a single issue of UFON is 20 Norwegian Kroner (NOK), including postage. The plan for 1984 was to release two issues. Subsequent issues in 1985 and beyond would also be priced at 20 NOK each. An annual subscription is offered for 40 NOK.

To order, readers are instructed to send the subscription amount of 40 NOK to:

NIVFO NORD
POSTBOX 990
9401 HARSTAD

Payment can also be made via Postgiro account number 5 39 56 86.

The publication is issued by the Norsk Institutt for Vitenskapelig Forskning og Opplysning, Data og Informasjonsavdelingen (DIA), located in Harstad.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The core theme of this issue is the systematic collection and dissemination of UFO/UAP reports within Norway. The editorial stance is one of serious inquiry and documentation, aiming to provide a comprehensive and organized resource for anyone interested in the subject. The publication positions itself as a vital tool for researchers and the public alike, seeking to bring together disparate pieces of information into a cohesive whole. The emphasis on "research results" and "statistics" suggests a commitment to a more analytical approach to the phenomenon.