NIVFO-Bulletin - 1985 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: NIVFO bulletin
Issue: NR.1.85 (Volume 5, Issue 1)
Date: January 1985
Publisher: NORSK INSTITUTT FOR VITENSKAPELIG FORSKNING OG OPPLYSNING (Norwegian Institute for Scientific Research and Information)
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
ISSN: 0800-0360

This issue of the NIVFO bulletin, published by the Norwegian Institute for Scientific Research and Information, focuses on debunking UFO phenomena and examining claims of the paranormal. The cover prominently features Uri Geller and headlines related to the 'Trindade-saken' and a 'VG-UFO'en' (VG-UFO). The issue includes a survey of reader feedback, an overview of NIVFO's international partnerships, and a detailed investigation into several prominent UFO cases.

Editorial and Reader Feedback

The "REDAKSJONELT" (Editorial) section for January 1985 reflects on the past year and the feedback received from a reader survey. Approximately 10% of subscribers responded, indicating that most readers (98%) read most of the content. Desired topics included scientific results (50%), more on UFOs (60%), astrology (30%), astroarchaeology (40%), natural medicine (20%), and parapsychology (10%), with only 0% interested in Uri Geller. The majority found the bulletin useful, with some suggesting improvements in presentation and print quality. The editorial notes that academic and media professionals were particularly positive in their feedback. It also addresses criticism regarding the use of exclamation points and 'mocking comments,' stating these are typically used when discussing pseudoscientific proponents rather than in purely academic articles.

The editorial also mentions the upcoming completion of a meteorology course and encourages interested individuals to contact NIVFO to become UAP investigators. It highlights the "Trindade-saken" as a classic UFO case that the issue aims to clarify.

The Trindade Case and the VG-UFO Photo

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "Trinidade-saken" (Trindade Case), described as the world-famous UFO observation at Trindade in 1958. This case is presented as a cornerstone for UFO believers. The issue also features an article titled "VG-UFO'EN AVSLØRT" (VG-UFO Revealed), which details the computer analysis of a UFO photo allegedly taken in daylight in Aure, Nord-Møre, Norway. The analysis, conducted by NIVFO and SUFOI in the USA, concluded that the object was a model suspended by a thread. The article criticizes the handling of the case by the Norwegian newspaper VG and discusses how UFO organizations reacted, noting that most media outlets were negative or dismissive of the claim. The article laments the typical media cycle of UFO reports: sensation, ridicule, and eventual forgetting.

Further details are provided about the Norwegian UFO photo, including its publication in KODAKERY, the official organ of Eastman Kodak Company. The article mentions that the object was estimated to be 33-50 feet in diameter and at a distance of 450-750 feet. It states that neither Norwegian authorities nor the Norwegian Air Force could prove the photo was faked, and even a powerful electron microscope in Norway could not find evidence of forgery. However, the computer analysis, including 'Heavy Filter,' 'Edge Enhancement,' and 'Hi-Resolution' images, clearly shows a thread suspending the object, revealing it as a model.

The issue also notes that the story of the Norwegian UFO photo had spread internationally, reaching publications like The A.P.R.O. Bulletin in the USA. NIVFO had sent information to APRO to counter the emerging myth. The computer analysis results were also reportedly sent to VG, which was said to be interested in publishing the exposé.

Uri Geller: An Examination

The magazine features a detailed examination of Uri Geller, asking "Who is he? What does he do? How does he do it?" The article describes Geller's appearance on a TV show, highlighting the presence of scientists and experts. It notes his ability to bend spoons, fix watches, and perform telepathic drawings, but questions the source of his powers, particularly his claim of using "cosmic forces." The article suggests that his tricks are designed for television and are not as easily controlled as live audience performances. It also mentions that three Danish priests compared Geller's abilities to those of Jesus.

Uri Geller was born in Tel Aviv, Israel, in 1946. His mother was a distant relative of Sigmund Freud. The article recounts Geller's early life and his claims of discovering supernatural abilities as a child. He initially performed as a magician with ordinary tricks before developing his 'occult' abilities. The article notes that Geller left Israel partly because some scientists copied his tricks. Professor Izaak Kelson of Tel Aviv University is mentioned as someone who debunked Geller's myth by replicating his tricks using information from English magic books, stating that Geller's portrayal of himself as a "superman" could cause confusion.

An advertisement for a lecture on "HVA OG HVEM ER URI GELLER?" (Who and What is Uri Geller?) at a community hall in Norway is also included, indicating public interest in the subject.

NIVFO's Structure and International Connections

The issue provides information about NIVFO's organizational structure, including regional offices in Norway (Øst, Sør, Nord, Vest) and contact details. It also introduces CSICOP (The Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal) as NIVFO's partner organization in the USA. A list of CSICOP's fellows, including prominent scientists and writers like Isaac Asimov, Carl Sagan, and Martin Gardner, is presented. A map of Europe illustrates NIVFO's collaborations, showing its main organization, countries where it is represented, countries with CSICOP sections, and countries with which NIVFO has contact.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO claims, the debunking of alleged evidence through scientific and computer analysis, and skepticism towards paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly one of scientific inquiry and a desire to present factual information, contrasting with what the magazine perceives as sensationalism and myth-making in the UFO community and media. The magazine positions itself as an advocate for rationalism and scientific investigation, aligning with the principles of CSICOP.

This issue of UFO-Nyt, dated 1/82 and referencing a 1967 publication, delves into the historical "Trinidade Historien.." (Trinidade Story). The cover features a photograph of a smiling man, likely related to the content within, and is headlined with the aforementioned story.

The Uri Geller Phenomenon and Skepticism

The issue begins by referencing Jan Crosby's book on Uri Geller, highlighting Crosby's background as a magician and his numerous awards in the field. Crosby's book aims to answer questions surrounding Uri Geller, concluding that Geller is not a magician. The article recounts Geller's 1974 appearance on Norwegian television, which was met with sensationalist media coverage and claims of "supernatural" powers. Newspapers reported extreme headlines, quoting various sources that suggested Geller's abilities were inexplicable and beyond scientific understanding.

However, the article also introduces skepticism. It mentions that Jan Crosby, despite Geller's claims, is a magician by profession. Geller's alleged fear of magicians is noted, with instances of him refusing to perform if a magician was present. The text also discusses Geller's participation in studies at the Stanford Research Institute in 1972, a private institution. The results of these studies were not publicly disclosed, and the article questions their scientific validity, suggesting they did not provide conclusive proof of Geller's extraordinary abilities.

Further skepticism is presented regarding Geller's claims of cosmic powers. The article notes that Geller has claimed his abilities come from "cosmos." It also touches upon his association with UFOs, with Geller reportedly considering himself a medium for extraterrestrial forces. An anecdote is shared about an alleged encounter with a UFO near Tel Aviv in 1971, where Geller reportedly entered a flying saucer.

Jan Crosby's 1974 assessment is quoted, stating that Geller was facing increasing skepticism and that his performances might soon be limited to "uncritical gatherings." The article concludes this section by referencing a 1984 radio program where Geller's current activities were questioned, with the response being that he had withdrawn for "private reasons."

The Trinidade UFO Incident: A Detailed Examination

The main focus of the issue is the Trinidade UFO incident. The article begins by stating that photographic material often forms the initial impression and support for UFO theories. The Trinidade case is presented as a "key case," even credited by the German federal government as an official photo series from the Brazilian Navy.

An investigation into the negatives by the Hydrographic Institute, the Navy's photo lab, and the aerial photography service in Rio de Janeiro yielded specific details: the object had a diameter of 40 meters and a height of 8 meters, traveling at speeds of 900-1000 km/h. These findings were reportedly confirmed by Ground Saucer Watch's computer and engineer W. Spaulding.

International Coverage and Official Statements

UFO Nachrichten (April 1958) is cited for reporting on the Trinidade photos, describing the object as resembling Saturn with a ring around its axis. The photos were taken aboard the "Almirante Saldahna" during a geophysical mission and were initially classified as an "intelligence matter" by the Navy Department before being released.

United Nations (UN) issue 59 (July 1981) is mentioned for featuring the Trinidade photos as "new evidence for UFOs," referencing a report by Dr. Olavo T. Fontes.

Karl Ludwig Veit, writing in 1962, also discussed the Trinidade case, citing it as proof of UFO existence.

Brazilian Air Force and Navy Involvement

The article details a 1956 conference by the Brazilian Air Force's intelligence department in Rio, which discussed the existence of flying saucers. Eduard Keffel and Joao Martins were reportedly sent to this conference due to a photo series that was considered impossible to falsify, supporting the existence of UFOs.

Veit's source is identified as "Geist. Leben," a parish magazine, which published a photo of the UFO over Trinidade taken on January 16, 1958. The photo was published in the newspaper "Folha da Manho" and later released by the Brazilian president.

In March 1969, Colman VonKeviczky's press release (UN 151) brought the Trinidade case up again, analyzing "identified space objects" submitted to the Condon Committee through ICUFON.

Dr. H. Bühler's article in UN 155 (July 1969) is highlighted, where he argued that the Trinidade photos were genuine UFOs of extraterrestrial origin. He noted that the object's proximity caused the ship's radar and all other electrical equipment to temporarily shut down, suggesting forces equivalent to millions of gauss were in operation.

Photographic Analysis and Skepticism

The article then shifts to a critical analysis of the photographs themselves. It suggests that while photos can create a strong impression, a flying object photographed at a distance appears "firmer." The author draws a parallel to Alexander Brich's paintings of UFOs on windows. The Trinidade object is described as symmetrical, with upper and lower dome halves that are not hemispherical.

Surprising inconsistencies are noted, such as the object appearing blurred in contrast to its surroundings (cliffs, ship structures). Even with telephoto lenses, the objects in other photos are clear, but the Trinidade object remains indistinct. The article questions why interested parties have not addressed these discrepancies.

NICAP is mentioned as likely considering the Trinidade photos authentic, but the wording is described as cautious, indicating a contrast to what has been seen before. The author poses the question, "Doesn't it smell like trouble?"

Ronald D. Story's "The Encyclopedia of UFOs" is referenced, describing Trinidade as a small, abandoned island. The island was used as a military base during WWII and later became the site for an oceanographic and meteorological station.

Detailed Account of the Trinidade Sighting

The article provides a detailed account of the events on January 16, 1958. The ship "Almirante Saldahna," a former training vessel, was on a research mission. Almiro Barauna, a photographer, was aboard. The ship anchored near Trinidade for a few days. At 12:15 PM on January 16, as the ship prepared to depart for Rio, a mysterious object was sighted by several people on deck. It flew over the island at high speed, hovered over a peak, disappeared behind it, and reappeared over the sea.

Barauna photographed the object throughout this period. In an interview with reporter Joao Martins for "O Cruzeiro" (March 8, 1958), Barauna described the object as dark gray, possibly surrounded by a greenish, phosphorescent vapor or fog. He confirmed that the negatives were handed over to the Navy without any pressure.

Official Statements and Contradictions

Following the publication of the photos, the Brazilian Navy initially issued a statement that the reports were baseless and that the department could not confirm the object's nature, as the photographs were not considered good evidence. However, the article notes that President Kubitschek was reportedly very interested and convinced by the case.

On February 24, 1958, the Navy Department issued a final statement. Simultaneously, the article mentions that the US Air Force UFO investigator declared the photos to be fakes. Donald Menzel, a deceased astronomer, believed the Trinidade pictures were a hoax, suggesting they appeared after daily weather balloon launches began. Menzel and Lyle G. Boyd concluded that none of the witnesses had actually seen a UFO, and the ship's captain was not on deck when the event occurred.

A Navy spokesman stated that no officer or sailor from the "Almirante Saldahna" observed the phenomenon. Menzel and Boyd also pointed out Barauna's prior interest in UFOs, citing a humorous article he had written titled "A Flying Saucer Chased Me Home," which was illustrated with fake pictures.

Further Analysis and International Reactions

The article notes that Barauna had set up the photographic arrangement and overlooked his friend Viegas's presence. It questions how witnesses could identify the blurry object in the negatives as what they had seen, suggesting the photo could not have been a mistake. The object in the photos is described as barely larger than 4.2 mm, with no visible shine, contrary to witness descriptions of a bright, shimmering object.

J. Allen Hynek, in "UFO-Report," is quoted as citing Project Blue Book material, calling the incident a "trick by a dishonest photographer," with the Brazilian Navy implicated.

The Trinidade Incident in Context

The article mentions that the Trinidade incident was discussed in the book "Ungewöhnliche Gravitations-Phänomene" by von Ludwiger. MUFON-CES stated that there are many serious UFO photos, including the one from Trinidade, where all 100 crew members on the research ship saw a Saturn-shaped object. The ship's power supply reportedly failed three times.

The article also references a section on "OM FOTOGRAFIENE" (About the Photographs), which analyzes the visual aspects of the images. It suggests that the object's shape is not hemispherical and that its appearance varies between photos. The article questions why these inconsistencies have not been more widely discussed.

It is noted that the Trinidade photos were published in "UFOs - A Pictorial History from Antiquity to the Present" by David C. Knight, with NICAP likely considering them authentic.

Conclusion of the Trinidade Section

The article concludes the Trinidade section by referencing a UFOIS booklet titled "TRINIDADE OBSERVATIONENE" from UFO-NYTs Forlag, 1967.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the examination of photographic evidence in UFO cases, the contrast between sensationalized media reports and scientific skepticism, and the historical analysis of significant UFO incidents. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting both the claims and the counterarguments, particularly regarding the Trinidade photos and the Uri Geller phenomenon. There is a clear emphasis on scrutinizing evidence and questioning official narratives when inconsistencies arise.

This issue of Illustrert Vitenskap (Illustrated Science), a new monthly magazine launched in January 1984 by Fogtdals Blade, is reviewed. The magazine aims to be a popular science publication for the Scandinavian market, featuring articles on science and technology. The review notes the magazine's extensive marketing campaign and its ambition to present "80-Årenes aktuelle populærvitenskapelige månedsblad" (The 80s' current popular science monthly).

Content Analysis

The magazine covers a wide array of topics, including astronomy, psychology, medicine, technology, biology, zoology, geology, anthropology, and archaeology. The review highlights that while some articles are interesting and educational (e.g., on Halley's Comet, King Penguins, Easter Island, and medical topics), a significant portion tends towards sensationalism, making it difficult to assess credibility. The use of color illustrations is extensive, with a reported 55% of the content being visual and 45% text, intended to make the material more digestible.

UFOs and Paranormal Claims

Several UFO-related topics are discussed:

• Trindade UFO Photos: The issue references the well-known UFO photos from Trindade, Brazil, from the late 1950s. While initially considered compelling, the review points out that the documentation was problematic, and investigators struggled to locate witnesses. The images themselves are described as having a sharp island but an unclear disk with low contrast and no sharp shadows.
• Rex Heflin Case: The magazine features a report on the Rex Heflin UFO photo case from Santa Ana, California, 1965, calling it one of the best in UFO literature. A 14-page detailed report by Kim Møller Hansen of SUFOI is mentioned, along with a GSW analysis report.
• Australian Pyramids: A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to debunking claims of pyramids in Australia, as promoted by Danish off-beat author Leif Kjær. Investigations involving the University of Queensland, Griffith University, and the Queensland Institute of Technology, as well as the Australian Department of Mapping and Surveying, found no evidence of artificial pyramid structures. The identified formations were natural geological features, and the claims were dismissed as pseudoscientific.
• IGAP and UFO Lobbying: The issue criticizes the group IGAP for sending numerous letters to politicians and government officials, attempting to convince them of UFOs as alien spacecraft. The review suggests that IGAP's 'evidence' is based on misinterpretations of statements, such as a remark by Robert L. Schweitzer of the US Army, which was later clarified to refer to the threat of USSR's strategic superiority over the USA, not extraterrestrial threats.
• Hynek's Visit to Hessdalen: The magazine reports that UFO researcher J. Allen Hynek planned to visit Hessdalen, Norway, a known UFO hotspot. Hynek is described as being skeptical himself and viewing the trip as a vacation. The article notes that Norwegian UFO enthusiasts planned to host him.

Journalistic Quality Assessment

The review is critical of Illustrert Vitenskap's journalistic standards. It notes that the magazine often relies on sensationalism and lacks proper sourcing and citations, which are considered essential in scientific publications. The news section is described as a poor imitation of serious scientific journals, with content that is often boring, superficial, and outdated. Translations are also criticized for inaccuracies, particularly in scientific terminology. The review concludes that while the magazine is entertaining and visually appealing, its current form falls short when viewed from a scientific perspective, particularly lacking in expert input and rigorous research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, the critical examination of pseudoscientific claims (like the Australian pyramids), and an assessment of popular science journalism. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism towards extraordinary claims, emphasizing the need for solid evidence, proper documentation, and accurate scientific reporting. The magazine itself is presented as an attempt to fill a gap in the market for accessible yet informative popular science, though its execution is found to be wanting in several key areas, particularly in journalistic rigor and scientific depth.

Title: UFO-NYT
Issue: 6/84
Volume: 26
Date: March/April 1984
Publisher: NIVFO
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish
Price: 13,-Nkr. (incl. postage)

This issue of UFO-NYT, published by NIVFO, focuses on the serious study of UFO phenomena and critiques the current state of UFO research and reporting in Denmark. The cover headline, "APROPOS VG-UFO EN," suggests a discussion related to UFOs in the context of the Norwegian newspaper VG.

NIVFOS KOMMENTARER (NIVFO Comments)

The commentary section addresses the perception of UFO research in Denmark, stating that it will take at least five more years for it to be taken seriously. It references a previous article in NIB nr. 2/83 titled "UFO-NAIVISME - 'Ufologi' - profession or pastime?" The article notes that in the spring of 1982, similar articles appeared in several Norwegian newspapers, signed by someone known within the "believer" circles. These articles urged taking UFOs very seriously and referred to ICUFON's "green and blue memorandum." ICUFON is described as an American organization similar to IGAP, which was referenced in an article by Per Andersen.

NIVFO, represented by Jan S. Krogh, had valid reasons to voice its objections in the newspapers. This naturally stirred up a hornet's nest. The Norwegian UFO association's representative in Northern Norway responded, receiving support from IGAP leader H.C. Petersen. This exchange brought the claims of these organizations to the attention of the Norwegian public.

The commentary expresses doubt that the Norwegian UFO movement is aware of the actual facts presented by Per Andersen and highlighted by NIVFO. The best evidence for this is claimed to be the Norwegian UFO movement's own magazine.

UFO-FOTO Special Issue

The magazine features a discussion about a well-known photograph, often presented in UFO literature as a genuine image of a flying saucer. This photo was even sold as a poster by a Norwegian UFO organization. However, the article reveals that computer analysis showed the "saucer" was suspended by wires, similar to a debunked photograph from VG.

This information is published because the image was not included in NIVFO's special issue, "UFO-FOTO." This special issue contains 40 (41 with the cover) black and white photographs of alleged UFOs, accompanied by text for each image. The "UFO-FOTO" special issue is priced at 13,-Nkr. and consists of 40 black and white photos across 24 A4 pages.

Other Content and Offers

The magazine also showcases other past issues of UFO-NYT, highlighting articles on topics such as Italian NÆROBSERVATION, the BARJOLS photograph from France, UFOs over Danish airbases, whether UFOs are tourists, radar observations, a photo from Greenland, and a question about whether Jimmy Carter saw a UFO. It also poses the question: "How are reactions to UFO experiences?"

There is a promotional offer for a free trial issue, and a special subscription offer for the entire year of 1985 at 88 kroner. The subscription is managed by SUFOI, located at Postbox 6, 2820 Gentofte, Denmark.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO claims, the debunking of purported evidence, and the promotion of serious, evidence-based UFO research. NIVFO appears to position itself as a proponent of skepticism and rigorous investigation, contrasting its approach with what it perceives as naive or uncritical acceptance of UFO phenomena by some other organizations.
The editorial stance is clearly one of critical inquiry and a desire to separate credible research from sensationalism and hoaxes. The magazine aims to provide a platform for serious UFO research and experiences, distinguishing itself from less rigorous approaches.