UFO Forum - 1974 - No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO FORUM
Issue: 1
Volume: 2
Date: 1974
Publisher: Norsk UFO Center
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of UFO Forum marks the second year of publication and focuses on the organizational growth and international cooperation within the UFO research community.

Editorial Stance

The editorial expresses satisfaction with the continued readership and the securing of the second year of publication for UFO Forum, despite a slight delay in its release. It acknowledges that while the subscription numbers are not yet sufficient to transition to a printed magazine, the foundation for continued publication is strong. The editorial also highlights the need for dedicated personnel to ensure the presentation of reliable and current material. Gratitude is extended to readers who have contributed to the Norsk UFO Center's support fund, with renewals of subscriptions.

Norsk UFO Center (NUFOC) Bergen Established

A significant announcement is the formal establishment of Norsk UFO Center in Bergen, Norway, effective January 1, 1974. This development is the result of dedicated effort and administrative work by the former leadership of the UFO Bergen association. The Bergen branch will now operate under the name Norsk UFO Center (NUFOC), Bergen. This move is part of a broader national collaboration initiative decided upon at the UFO national meeting in Trondheim in May 1973. The primary goal of this nationwide team is to collect data indicative of UFO activity within Norwegian airspace and from around the world, deemed relevant to the institution's work. Each regional association is to adopt the name Norsk UFO Center, followed by its city name, and adhere to established guidelines for UFO work, particularly in public outreach. Norsk UFO Center is closely linked with Skandinavisk UFO Information in Copenhagen and maintains contacts throughout Scandinavia and internationally. The article lists the organizational structure of the Bergen branch, including roles such as Regional Leader, Report Center (Inland, Local, International), Head of "RAPPORTNYTT", Photo-Technical Section, Secretariat, Library, Cashier, and Archive/Press Clippings. Due to illness, Egon Nielsen has temporarily taken over as editor for "RAPPORTNYTT".

Distribution of Tasks and Report Collection

Following the establishment of Norsk UFO Center Bergen, a reminder is issued to reporters and field researchers regarding the submission of UFO report/observation materials. All Norwegian materials should be sent to the Norsk UFO Center's report center in Bergen (Postboks 1155, 5001 Bergen) or directly to Egon Nielsen. Inquiries regarding Norwegian reports registered in 1974 should also be directed to the Bergen report center. An exception is made for the Trøndelag region, where individuals should contact Norsk UFO Center in Trondheim directly. The report section is now divided into two main departments: one in Bergen and one in Trondheim. The Bergen department (Rapportsentral) is responsible for receiving all Norwegian material, making copies for NUFOC Trondheim, maintaining contact with NUFOC representatives, following up on Norwegian reports, and handling some international contacts and field research in the Bergen area. The Trondheim department (Rapportseksjonen) is divided into Research, Response, and Technology departments. It receives copies of all Norwegian report material from Bergen, scientifically processes this material, publishes concrete results in "RAPPORTNYTT", conducts field research in the Trøndelag areas, and works on developing technological equipment for field research.

Scandinavian and Global Sections

The Scandinavian Section, now also receiving materials from Bergen, will continue to duplicate and distribute Norwegian reports to major associations in Sweden, Denmark, and Finland. Similarly, materials from these countries will be sent to Bergen for use in "RAPPORTNYTT". The Global Section, which handles contacts outside Scandinavia, will delegate some of its work to the NUFOC Bergen department for international contacts. The magazine "RAPPORTNYTT" is now produced as a separate entity by NUFOC Bergen, while the editorial, accounting, stenciling, and correspondence for UFO Forum remain with the Trondheim office.

Future Expansion and Oslo Initiative

The current structure represents the initial phase of the Norsk UFO Center Bergen/Trondheim collaboration. Future adjustments are anticipated as the organization evolves. The goal is to establish more UFO Centers or departments across the country, leveraging existing representatives in various cities. An initiative to form a Norsk UFO Center in Oslo is mentioned as a pressing task, but progress has been slow despite appeals to subscribers in the area. The article encourages potential volunteers, emphasizing that no specific qualifications are needed beyond a general interest, and tasks will be distributed according to individual capabilities and available time.

"UFO-UGEN 1973" - A Danish Information Initiative

The issue features a detailed report on "UFO-UGEN 1973", an impressive information campaign organized by the Frederiksberg UFO Studiekreds in Denmark. This event, which had been in planning for a long time, was held in November 1973, touring several cities including Copenhagen, Odense, Esbjerg, Herning, Ålborg, and Århus. The exhibition included eight main functions: a poster exhibition, literature exhibition, a "cinema", a detector stand, information booths, a clipping board, a sales table, and slide lectures. The poster exhibition featured 20 posters covering various aspects of UFO phenomena. Literature was provided by Valby Antikvariat and Bogimport. The "cinema" showed films accompanied by taped lectures. A notable feature was the UFO detectors, specifically the Alfa Mark 1 and 2, developed by Jan Steen Sørensen. The report highlights the extensive efforts of the organizing team, listing the participants from Frederiksberg UFO Studiekreds. The event attracted a significant number of visitors, with detailed statistics provided for each city, totaling 3200 visitors to the exhibitions and 1150 attendees at the lectures. The report also notes the distribution of 2300 sample issues of "UFO Aspakt" and a similar number of literature catalogs.

Center for UFO Studies in the USA

Parallel to the developments in Norway, the formation of the American "CENTER FOR UFO STUDIES" is announced, with Dr. J. Allen Hynek as its leader. This organization is described as a private, independent group of interested researchers, scientists, and specialists aiming to investigate the UFO phenomenon without prejudice. Its primary objectives are to explore the nature and origin of UFOs and to disseminate findings in an understandable manner to the public. The Center will receive and analyze UFO reports, conduct on-site investigations with the help of local police, and document all non-confidential data for public release. Funding for the institution will come from various sources, including industry, educational institutions, media, and the general public. The article outlines how the public can collaborate by sending monetary contributions (which are tax-deductible in the USA) or by reporting UFO observations. The address for the Center is provided: UFO CENTER, P.O. BOX 11, Northfield, Illinois 60093, USA.

International Cooperation and Future Outlook

The establishment of the Center for UFO Studies is viewed as a major advancement in UFO research. The article expresses optimism about the potential for collaboration between American scientists and the Norwegian research network. The Norsk UFO Center has previously sent a report on the Namsenfjorden incident to Dr. Hynek, who expressed significant interest in it. The magazine promises to discuss this case further with the American researchers and report any findings in a future issue. The issue concludes with encouragement for the "tireless pioneers of science" and a call for active participation in UFO work to support their efforts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the expansion and formalization of UFO research organizations in Norway and internationally, the importance of data collection and scientific investigation, and the value of public engagement and cooperation. The editorial stance is one of cautious optimism regarding the growth of UFO research and publications, emphasizing the need for continued effort and collaboration to advance the field. There is a clear focus on building a structured and credible approach to UFO studies.

Title: Norsk UFO Forum
Issue: 1/74
Date: 1974
Publisher: Norsk UFO Forum
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of Norsk UFO Forum delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, scientific research, and anthropological discoveries. It continues the discussion from the previous issue regarding "UFO-UGEN 1973" and features a report from the formann, Staen Landsy, emphasizing the importance of disseminating UFO information widely and establishing local groups.

UFO-UGEN 1973 and Danish UFO Activities

The issue highlights efforts in Denmark to establish UFO groups in cities like Odense, Esbjerg, and Herning, with a focus on informing the public. While acknowledging that much information is still lacking, the primary goal is to spread awareness about UFOs and their various aspects. The article notes that while Norway may not have achieved the same level of activity as Denmark, the Giganten Fritidsklubb in Lillestrøm has organized a new exhibition from May 17-26 at Stormussen. The Lillestrøm group's efforts are seen as a potential first step towards more extensive UFO arrangements in Norway, with Frederiksburg UFO Studiekreds being commended for their pioneering work.

Editorial Notes

The editorial section addresses reader feedback regarding the magazine's split into two editions, expressing hope that this division is seen as justified. Subscribers are reminded to specify which edition they wish to receive when sending in their subscription fee. The next issue is planned for May, aiming to bring the publication back on schedule. The editors express gratitude to all who participated in 1974.

Paperbacks & Pocketbooks (Advertisement)

Page 2 features a comprehensive list of books related to UFOs, ancient mysteries, and related topics, with prices in Danish Kroner (excluding VAT). Titles include works by Donald Keyhos, Arthur Shuttlewood, Brad Steiger, Erich von Däniken, Charles Fort, and others. The advertisement also provides contact information for VALBY ANTIKVARIAT & BOGIMPORT in Denmark.

Is There Life on Other Planets?

An article discusses the work of Australian scientist Professor Ron Brown from the University of Melbourne, who is investigating the origin of life in the universe. Brown suggests that the universe contains hundreds of millions of galaxies, each with numerous solar systems, and that many habitable planets likely exist. He posits that life is a highly organized chemical process and does not require a unique act of creation. While contact between Earth and other planets is unlikely due to vast distances, Brown believes that life has likely developed on many planets over billions of years. He also touches upon the expansion of the universe and the possibility of life within our own solar system, concluding that while Mars and Venus are too hot, other planets might be suitable. The article notes that this perspective challenges religious beliefs about creation.

Mysterious Signals from Outer Space

This section reports on Soviet scientists detecting signals from outer space that could originate from an advanced civilization. The signals were first registered in Gorkij and later in other Soviet cities. Astronomer Samuil Kaplan stated that the signals are not from satellites or spacecraft and could be a natural phenomenon or from an advanced civilization. Over 30 Soviet scientists, led by physicist Vsevolod Troitskij, are investigating the phenomenon.

We Are Not Descended from Apes

This article discusses new anthropological findings from Lake Rudolf, Kenya, which suggest that human evolution may be much older than previously believed. Hominid skull findings and stone tools, dated to nearly 3 million years ago, challenge the traditional timeline of Homo Erectus appearing around 1 million years ago. Professor Glynn L. Isaac of the University of Berkeley led the dating of these finds, establishing their age at 2.6 million years. The evidence indicates that early humans were capable of tool-making, suggesting a more complex evolutionary path.

Life in Space

Two Swedish scientists, Professor Olof Rydbeck and Joel Ellder, claim to have found evidence for life on other planets. They presented their findings at the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences in Uppsala, stating they had discovered the CH-radical, which proves that complex organic molecules can form in space. They also detected hydrocarbon radicals, which, along with oxygen and nitrogen, are considered essential for life.

Striking Color Photos and Information from Jupiter

This report details the Pioneer 10 probe's historic flyby of Jupiter. The unmanned American spacecraft transmitted striking color photographs of the planet, revealing details previously unseen. One image suggested a large protrusion on Jupiter's surface, possibly detectable from Pioneer 10 due to its unique viewing angle. Scientists expressed excitement and some confusion regarding measurements of Jupiter's magnetic field and particle environment, indicating that previous theories might need revision.

"A Solution to the UFO Mystery is Near"

This section discusses a report from "US News & World Report" suggesting that most reported UFOs (about 90%) are conventional objects like weather balloons, stars, or aircraft. However, a small percentage of objects remain unexplained and might be related to an electronic phenomenon. A private laboratory near Washington has been investigating whether UFOs are a result of electronic stimulation. While no conclusion has been reached, there is optimism that a solution to the mystery might be found. An experiment involving igniting ammonia vapor with a high-voltage spark produced a glowing gas mass that closely resembles UFOs in its behavior, hovering, diving, and moving erratically.

Norsk UFO Center's Commentary on the Ammonia Experiment

Norsk UFO Center offers a critical perspective on the ammonia experiment, stating that it is not a new discovery and that the "laboratory models" of glowing ammonia vapor have been produced for years without significant advancement. While acknowledging that such phenomena might explain some UFO reports, they strongly dismiss the idea that it could explain the entire UFO enigma or solid reports.

The Story of the Crashed UFO on Spitsbergen Was a Hoax

This article debunks the long-standing story of a crashed UFO on Spitsbergen, which has circulated for nearly twenty years. Journalist Arne Borcke, investigating unrelated matters for the Norwegian Ministry of Defence, found no evidence to support the claim. The story appears to have originated from a German newspaper article in 1955, which described a crashed UFO with unknown materials. The Norwegian Ministry of Defence has no record of such an event. Norsk UFO Center states they have never given this story much attention due to its weak documentary basis and now dismiss it as a regrettable hoax.

Investigation in Namsenfjorden

Norsk UFO Center plans to commence investigations in Namsenfjorden using frogmen and technological equipment in June. They are seeking interested readers who might wish to participate or assist. The center also appeals for information about any equipment that could be useful for the operation. A mention is made of the NORSK UFO CENTER'S STØTTEFOND (Support Fund), with details on how to contribute via postgiro.

Dementi (Correction)

This section clarifies a report in "Adresseavisen" and "Aftenposten" stating that Norsk UFO Center was promised financial support from the USA. The article clarifies that this is incorrect and that the support mentioned was intended for a private American group of scientists called THE UFO CENTER, not Norsk UFO Center.

UFO Group Formed in Kongsvinger

Eldar Bråten reports the successful formation of a UFO group in the Kongsvinger district, consisting of ten members, primarily school students. The group, officially named KONGSVINGER UFO GRUPPE, aims to study UFOs and may eventually become the Norsk UFO Center Kongsvinger. Inquiries can be directed to Eldar Bråten.

UFOs Exist, Americans Believe

A poll in the USA indicates that over half of the respondents believe in the existence of unidentified flying objects (UFOs). 51 percent thought UFOs exist, and 11 percent reported having personally seen UFOs. This latter figure has doubled since the previous poll seven years ago.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently addresses the UFO phenomenon with a critical yet open-minded approach. It aims to inform the public, investigate reports, and debunk hoaxes while also exploring scientific and anthropological connections. There is a clear emphasis on evidence-based analysis and a commitment to distinguishing between credible phenomena and misinformation. The editorial stance appears to be one of active engagement with the UFO subject, encouraging participation and research while maintaining a skeptical outlook towards unsubstantiated claims.