UFO Forum - 1973 - No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO FORUM
Issue: 1
Volume/Year: 1973
Publisher: Norsk UFO Center
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
Price: Kr. 15,00

This is the inaugural issue of UFO Forum, published by Norsk UFO Center in Trondheim, Norway, in 1973. The magazine aims to serve as a forum for Norwegian UFO associations and interested individuals, continuing the work of the previous 'Norsk UFO-Tidsskrift' but with a simpler technical format. The editorial emphasizes a commitment to providing current information, particularly from Norway, and encourages active participation from readers through letters and contributions. The editors acknowledge the basic technical and layout limitations of this first issue, expressing hope for improvement as subscriptions grow, and pledge to focus on the content's quality.

Norsk UFO Center: Organization and Mission

The issue provides a detailed overview of the Norsk UFO Center, explaining its origins from the Trondheim UFO-Forening. Its primary tasks include:

1. Collecting all information and data indicating UFO activity over Norwegian territory.
2. Gathering information and data from the rest of the world relevant to UFO research.
3. Processing available material using orthodox scientific principles.
4. Disseminating factual and objective information about the UFO problem through accessible channels.
5. Translating relevant Norwegian UFO material into English for distribution to international UFO organizations.

The organizational structure is based on sections, each with a designated leader, forming the Norsk UFO Center's board along with the overall leader. These sections include:

• Report Section: Collecting reports on Norwegian UFO observations.
• International Section: Handling contact with other countries and translations.
• Data Section: Classifying, cataloging, and archiving all materials.
• Real Scientific Section: Conducting investigations and analyses of concrete material related to suspected UFO presence.
• Information Section: Handling all tasks related to information dissemination.
• Writing Section: Performing all transcription work.
• Technological Section: Dealing with technological tasks, such as developing advanced detection equipment.
• Photographic Section: Handling photographic or phototechnical tasks.

Additionally, the Center utilizes external experts on a consultant basis. The Center maintains regular contact with leading UFO organizations in many countries, including Sweden, Denmark, Finland, USA, England, France, Germany, and South America, with established routines for rapid and efficient information exchange.

Research Methodology: The Namsenfjorden Tracks

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the investigation of mysterious triangular tracks discovered in the tidal zone on Kjølsøya and Sundsøya in Namsenfjorden during the summer of 1973. The tracks, described as equilateral triangles with 160 cm sides and a depth of 30-35 cm in the clay, were found to have sharp edges and smooth, pressed-down bottoms. Initial investigations by the Norsk UFO Center, with assistance from Namdal Arbeiderblad, focused on these tracks.

While initial tests on Kjølsøya yielded no significant findings, subsequent tests on Sundsøya revealed radioactivity specifically within the tracks, not in the surrounding soil. This finding was considered particularly interesting, leading to further analysis using a Philips radiation monitor. Although the radioactivity was too weak for detailed chamber analysis due to its rapid halving time, its presence solely in the tracks and its decay strongly suggested it was not natural background radiation, but rather artificially introduced.

Several hypotheses were considered, including heavy objects or pressure, but the nature of the tracks and the tidal conditions made conventional explanations difficult. The possibility of objects arriving by air was raised, suggesting a craft heavier than those used for lunar landings.

Other Reports and Observations

• TV Interference: Coinciding with the discovery of the tracks on Kjølsøya, residents near Bangsund experienced severe TV interference, with screens rolling and signals dropping out entirely. Televerket (the Norwegian Telecommunications Administration) reported no issues with their equipment, adding to the mystery.
• Luminous Object near Bangsund: In mid-April 1973, Asbjørn and Andreas Grav reported observing a luminous object over Bangsund. They described it as intense red/orange/yellow, moving slowly and in waves, at an estimated normal flight altitude. The object emitted two intense beams of light downwards, similar to spotlights. They could not explain what they saw, despite being described as calm and reliable witnesses.
• Alleged UFO Crash in Namsenfjorden (1959): The issue revisits a report from forester Lorentz Johnsen, who in late 1959 observed a dark, wingless object resembling a 'Volkswagen bus' with windows. The object made a loud noise, turned red-hot, and appeared to crash into the fjord. Investigations by Trondheim UFO-Forening and the 'NAUTILUS' frogman club in 1968 were hampered by depth and cost. The proximity of the 1973 tracks to the reported crash site in 1959 is noted as potentially significant, although not definitively linked.
• Possible Explosion Traces: Near where Johnsen believed the 1959 object crashed, a 'mark' was found on the mountain, suggesting rock had been blown out. Additionally, traces in the tidal zone below indicated possible explosion or intense heat. Samples from these locations were sent for analysis. A curious detail from Johnsen's experience was a knife blade turning black after contact with the water above the crash site.
• UFO Observation in Haltdalen: A report from a father and son who observed a strange object over a forest in Haltdalen in the spring of 1973 is mentioned, with their credibility noted as high, though they wished to remain anonymous.

Editorial Stance and Ideology

The editorial section, titled 'LITT OM "IDEOLOGI"' (A Little About "Ideology"), outlines the Norsk UFO Center's philosophical approach. They emphasize basing their work on factual circumstances and place minimal weight on speculation and theorizing. The Center concludes that UFOs represent a real phenomenon of an extremely unconventional nature, an empirical fact. However, they state that the available material is insufficient to establish a definitive conclusion about the phenomenon's 'reality content'.

The Center expresses caution regarding the tendency to identify UFOs as extraterrestrial spacecraft, noting that such assumptions often rely on unproven premises. They advocate for a careful approach, avoiding hasty theories and conclusions, especially when dealing with phenomena of unknown origin. The importance of acknowledging the 'uncertainty factor' due to incomplete knowledge of nature is stressed. The editorial criticizes the 'skeptical' approach, particularly referencing the Condon Report, questioning the scientific integrity of conclusions drawn from potentially biased or misleading analyses.

The core principle of a serious UFO researcher is defined as an objective pursuit of truth, regardless of its implications. Similarly, 'skeptics' are urged to base their arguments on factual circumstances rather than distorted views. The Norsk UFO Center's current expansion and efficiency efforts are framed within this context, aiming to serve as a vital link between the organization and those interested in UFO phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of physical evidence of UFO activity, particularly the Namsenfjorden tracks and their associated radioactivity. The magazine strongly advocates for a scientific, empirical, and objective approach to UFO research, distinguishing between factual data and speculation. There is a clear emphasis on the organizational structure and methodology of Norsk UFO Center, highlighting its efforts to collect, analyze, and disseminate information both domestically and internationally. The editorial stance is one of cautious optimism, acknowledging the reality of the UFO phenomenon while stressing the need for rigorous investigation and avoiding premature conclusions. The issue also touches upon the challenges of public perception and the importance of scientific integrity in addressing the UFO question.

Title: Norsk UFO Forum
Issue: 1/73
Date: January 1973
Publisher: Norsk UFO Forum
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of Norsk UFO Forum delves into several intriguing UFO cases and related topics, highlighting witness accounts, physical evidence, and theoretical discussions.

Vanga, Sweden: The Mysterious Imprint

The issue details a significant event in Vanga, Sweden, where Åke Johansson discovered a peculiar triangular imprint in the grass on June 1st, 1968. The imprint, measuring 170 cm per side with rounded corners, was initially dismissed but later revealed to have withered grass and emitted a strong odor reminiscent of ammonia or vanolen. Johansson and his son-in-law's dog reacted negatively to the smell. Subsequently, Johansson experienced physical symptoms including itching, facial inflammation, and tongue swelling, prompting him to contact UFO Gøteborg for investigation.

Physical Effects and Investigation

The article elaborates on the physical effects experienced by Johansson and a female visitor, including tongue swelling. Johansson contacted UFO Gøteborg, a group under Riksorganisationen UFO-SVERIGE, to report the incident. Despite Johansson's skepticism about 'flying saucers,' the unusual nature of the imprint and the associated physical reactions warranted investigation. The location of the imprint was remote, making accidental creation unlikely.

UFO Gøteborg, after preliminary investigations, concluded that the event was likely a UFO landing. Local residents reported seeing a bright light over a nearby lake the evening before the imprint was discovered. Laboratory tests on soil samples from the imprint, including the oily substance, yielded no definitive answers regarding its composition, with tests for radioactivity, organic chemicals, and known lubricants or pesticides coming back inconclusive.

Several members of UFO Gøteborg, including Rune Rydebrandt (leader), Stig Jadermark, Jörgen Kjernell, Jan Timmerås, Jan Kullenbäck, Britta Mosesson, and Sven Ostergaard, were present during the investigation in Vanga.

Norsk UFO Forums Commentary

The editorial section notes the parallel between the Vanga incident and similar cases worldwide. Reports often describe unconventional aerial objects followed by the discovery of strange ground traces, sometimes indicating intense heat or radioactivity. The article highlights that in some cases, like Vanga, the traces are found first, followed by reports of unusual aerial phenomena. Common descriptions of UFOs include intense lights of varying colors, undulating movements, and the emission of light beams. The issue also mentions recurring symptoms like 'house inflammations' and other sickness-related effects associated with close UFO encounters.

The Kjølsøya and Sundsøya Incidents

The article refers to 'gigantic' imprints found on Kjølsøya and Sundsøya in Namsenfjorden. Conventional explanations such as ice floes, halibut, drifting pontoons, or pranks were ruled out. The imprints were geometrically precise, triangular, and the soil samples contained radioactive particles with a relatively short half-life. Norsk UFO Center pledged to continue its investigations.

Djupsjøen Incident Revisited

Attention is drawn to a renewed focus on the Djupsjøen incident near Røros, involving a strange object that allegedly crashed in 1947. Norsk UFO Center, in collaboration with local authorities and divers, planned a large-scale search operation for the object's wreckage in the lake during the summer. The investigation was expected to take approximately 14 days.

Agent Network Initiative

Norsk UFO Center announced its intention to establish an 'AGENTNETT' (agent network) across the country to enhance its UFO research efforts. They are seeking individuals or small groups willing to act as contact persons to gather information from local newspapers and assist in investigating UFO sightings within their respective regions.

Book Review: Erich von Däniken's "Fortids gåder - Fremtids virkelighed"

Arvid Dahle reviews Erich von Däniken's latest book, which presents his hypothesis that ancient space-faring beings battled in the cosmos and later chose Earth as a refuge, creating humans from existing apes. The book details newly discovered tunnel systems in South America, which von Däniken believes were built as shelters by an unknown ancient race. Dahle acknowledges von Däniken's pioneering work in exploring unexplained phenomena but questions the extent of his theories, comparing them to science fiction. The review also touches upon the interpretation of ancient texts and artifacts, such as biblical accounts and Mayan imagery, as potential evidence of ancient alien visitation.

Book Reviews: "Tefaten Ar Her!" and "UFO I Fokus"

Two other books are briefly reviewed: "Tefaten Ar Her!" by K. Gøsta Rehn, described as his third UFO book, available from ZINDERMANS FORLAG in Sweden. "UFO I Fokus" by Ribera/Farriols is presented as a documentary account with striking photographs of an alleged 'flying saucer,' available from STRUBES BOGHANDEL in Denmark.

Book Review: "The UFO Experience"

Prof. Dr. J. Allen Hynek's book, "The UFO Experience," is described as a scientific investigation rather than typical UFO literature. It raises questions about mysteries and miracles, suggesting that future answers may emerge. The book is initially available from the USA but expected in Scandinavia.

New UFO Wave Over Trøndelag

The magazine reports on a surge of UFO observations in the Trøndelag region during late October and early November 1972. Several reports are summarized, including one from Pål Dekkerhus of Ryum, Vikna. Dekkerhus described observing a bright, crescent-shaped object with a powerful light for five minutes. The object moved at high speed, then hovered at approximately 40 meters above the ground, appearing to be about 10 meters in diameter. He noted the object emitted a strong light and a cloud of smoke or steam, and he was certain it was a real phenomenon, not an illusion.

Another witness reported seeing a bright light that disappeared quickly, initially thought to be a meteor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the unexplained, focusing on physical evidence like imprints and alleged trace elements (radioactivity). It highlights the challenges in explaining these phenomena with conventional theories and emphasizes the need for continued investigation. The magazine also engages with speculative theories, such as those proposed by Erich von Däniken, while maintaining a critical yet open-minded stance. The editorial tone encourages reader participation and the sharing of information, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of UFO phenomena.

Title: Norsk UFO Forum
Issue: 1/73
Date: 1972
Publisher: Norsk UFO Forum
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of Norsk UFO Forum (1/73) is dedicated to reporting and analyzing UFO sightings, with a significant focus on events occurring in and around Trondheim, Norway, during 1972. The magazine presents multiple witness accounts, details investigations by the Norsk UFO Center, and touches upon international UFO research.

UFO Sightings in Trondheim

Luminous Object Over Byåsen

The cover story, reported by Arbeideravisa on October 31, 1972, details a UFO observed over Trondheim. Alf Haugan, from Tvetestien in Byåsen, reported seeing an unknown, luminous object in the sky every night. He described it as brighter than a satellite or star, with a strong yellow-white glow. Haugan noted that the object appeared between 4 and 7 AM and sometimes moved in circles around its own axis. He also mentioned that the object was visible over Lade and sometimes remained stationary for extended periods, such as three-quarters of an hour over Risvollan. Haugan had even filmed the object, and the film was awaiting development. The report indicated that several families in Byåsen had also witnessed the phenomenon.

Cigar-Shaped Object Over Tydal

Adresseavisen reported on November 1, 1972, about a "luminous cigar" observed over Tydal and Trondheim. Civil engineer Jørgen B. Lysholm recounted seeing an orange-colored, cigar-shaped object on a Saturday afternoon at 3:30 PM. He emphasized that it was not a jet, helicopter, or balloon, and guaranteed it was not a fireball. Lysholm estimated the object's length at approximately 150 meters and its distance at about a thousand meters. He also estimated its speed at around 120 kilometers per hour, based on cloud drift. He and his wife observed the object for three to four minutes. Lysholm, initially skeptical of UFO reports, stated that this experience had made him less certain in his skepticism. He described the object as having a diffuse edge and emitting an orange glow, comparable to the color of safety vests, but with a slightly paler hue. No exhaust trail or sound was detected.

Other Sightings and Investigations

Additional reports of similar cigar-shaped objects were noted as appearing nightly over Trondheim, with some observed hovering and then suddenly accelerating. One person had also filmed such an object.

UFO Detector Plans and Related Phenomena

UFO Detector in Trondheim

Kolbjørn Stenødegård, organization leader for Norsk UFO Center in Trondheim, spoke to NRK-lokal about the growing number of UFO observations. He stated that Pål Dekkerhus's reports from Ytre Namdalen were typical of thousands of observations worldwide. Stenødegård proposed establishing a UFO detector in the Trondheim area and possibly a smaller one in the Namdal region, citing the presence of 'declination lines' (magnetic force fields) that have intersection points that can be located. The article also referenced strange imprints found near Namsenfjorden in June, some of which were reportedly radioactive and lacked a scientific explanation.

UFO Over Bangsund

Another sighting reported by Arbeideravisa on November 1, 1972, involved a luminous object seen in Bangsund. A woman observed an intensely bright, cigar-shaped object about 300-400 meters from her house. She initially thought it was a star, but its movement indicated it was not a celestial phenomenon. The object was observed for about a minute before disappearing rapidly to the south. This sighting was noted as being consistent with other credible witness accounts in Namdal.

The Reitstøa to Ålen Incident

Norsk UFO Forum highlighted a report from "Arbeidets Rett" (Røros) dated September 14, 1972, concerning an "UFO following a car from Reitstøa to Ålen." A couple, Liv and Jan Hegseth, reported an oval-shaped UFO with a blue-white flame that followed their car from Reitstøa to Dragåsen, disappearing behind a mountain. It reappeared on their left side, emitting a bluish glow over Haltdalen before ascending. The object reappeared near Eidet bridge and followed their car to Graftås. At Graftås, the object stopped and hovered. Using binoculars, they observed its contours and flames. The car's lights were turned off, but the object remained visible for about half an hour before being obscured by a cloud. When the cloud passed, the object reappeared, turned, and moved eastwards, then turned again. It then rapidly returned, stopped, and began to 'flash' before remaining stationary. The observation lasted from 02:30 to 03:45 AM under clear, calm conditions with no moon visible.

Norsk UFO Center's Activities

Norsk UFO Center has been actively collecting detailed information on these sightings. They have distributed report forms to observers and are working on developing technological equipment to detect potential physical effects associated with UFO presence. The film taken in Byåsen has been sent to Sweden for processing. The magazine includes sketches of the object as described by the observers.

International UFO Research

Symposium on Unidentified Flying Objects

The issue includes a significant section on a symposium held at the U.S. House of Representatives on July 29, 1968, concerning Unidentified Flying Objects. A prepared statement by Professor James E. McDonald, Senior Physicist at the Institute of Atmospheric Physics and Professor of Meteorology at the University of Arizona, is presented. McDonald was one of six scientists invited to present their findings on UFOs from various disciplines. The article notes that McDonald was well-known for his serious attention to the UFO problem. Norsk UFO Center obtained and translated McDonald's detailed presentation, which reportedly includes a thorough critique of "official explanations" for UFO reports and recounts numerous 'classic' observations. The translated version comprises 54 stenciled pages and is available for purchase.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Norsk UFO Forum strongly emphasizes the reality of UFO phenomena, presenting numerous witness testimonies as credible evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and a desire to move beyond dismissive or simplistic explanations. The magazine actively promotes UFO observation and the development of detection technology. There is a clear intent to provide detailed accounts of sightings and to analyze them, often in contrast to official explanations. The publication also highlights the international nature of UFO research, referencing U.S. scientific involvement and the need for continued study. The magazine also includes practical information for readers, such as subscription details and information about past publications, indicating a commitment to ongoing publication and reader engagement.