UFO Forum - 1975 - No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO FORUM
Issue: No. 3, Third Year
Date: 1975
Publisher: Norsk UFO Center
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
Price: Kr. 30,-

This issue of UFO Forum, published by Norsk UFO Center, focuses on significant UFO-related events and investigations. It features a detailed account of a baffling incident in Rawlins, Wyoming, USA, and extensive reports on UFO sightings by astronauts in space.

Table of Contents Highlights

The cover and table of contents list several key articles:

• REDAKSJONELT (Editorial): Discusses the establishment of Norsk UFO Center Østlandet as a significant step for the organization.
• FORBLØFFENDE HENDELSE I RAMLINS, WYOMING, USA (Astonishing Event in Rawlins, Wyoming, USA): A detailed report of Carl Higdon's encounter.
• ENNÅ IKKE ALT KJENT OM SKYLAB-OBSERVASJONEN (Not Everything is Known About the Skylab Observation Yet): Focuses on UFO observations made by Skylab astronauts.
• "ILDFLUER", SYLINDERE og "EGG" ("Fireflies", Cylinders and "Eggs"): Likely discusses specific shapes or types of UFOs observed.
• INTERVJU MED DEN FRANSKE MINISTER ROBERT GALLEY (Interview with French Minister Robert Galley): Explores the French government's perspective on UFOs.
• UFO PÅ RADAR (UFO on Radar): Reports on radar detection of UFOs.
• MONSTRE SKREMMER BEFOLKNING I SØR-FLORIDA (Monsters Scare Population in South Florida): A separate, potentially unrelated, report.
• OMTALE AV NYE BØKER (Review of New Books): Book reviews related to UFO topics.

The Carl Higdon Case: Rawlins, Wyoming

The article "EN SAK FRA RAWLINS, WYOMING FORBLØFFER ETTERFORSKERNE" (A Case from Rawlins, Wyoming, Astonishes Investigators) by Sue Taylor details an extraordinary event experienced by Carl Higdon on October 25, 1974. Higdon, an employee of AM Well Service, was elk hunting south of Rawlins when he encountered a being approximately six feet tall, wearing a black suit and boots, with a star on its belt and a yellow emblem. The being, described as having no chin and thin hair standing on end, asked if Higdon was hungry. After Higdon ate a pill offered by the being, he found himself in a seven-by-seven-foot room with two other beings and five elk.

Higdon agreed to accompany them, recalling a past wish to interact with UFOs and their occupants. He was fitted with a helmet and taken on a journey to a place described as a "tower resembling a rotating restaurant" like the Seattle Space Needle. The light was intensely painful, and the beings mentioned their home was 163,000 miles away. They noted that sunlight bothered them, and they always stayed in the shadows. Due to the intense light, the beings returned Higdon, who then found himself talking to Roy Fleming over his car radio.

Higdon's truck was found stuck in a muddy ditch about three miles from where he had parked. He was taken to Carbon County Memorial Hospital for observation. His physician found no physical injuries, but Higdon reported persistent headaches and back pain. His wife and friends had seen a bright red, white, and green light in the sky resembling a star, too high for a helicopter and too low for a plane.

Dr. Leo Sprinkle investigated the case. He was contacted by Rick Kenyon, a teacher, and Robert Nantkes, a counselor. They reported that Higdon was intelligent and honest. The investigation involved interviews and hypnotic sessions, including pendulum techniques. During these sessions, Higdon recounted the experience, and photographs were taken of the area and a bullet he had picked up. Higdon was willing to lend the bullet for examination by Dr. Walker, an APRO consultant.

Higdon expressed a desire for privacy, not wanting his address published to avoid unwanted attention. Dr. Sprinkle's assessment was that Higdon appeared to be an honest man with average education and a strong sense of curiosity. Despite the difficulty in assessing single-witness accounts, the indirect evidence supported Higdon's report. The investigation also noted that Higdon does not drink alcohol or use drugs.

Astronaut UFO Sightings

The magazine dedicates significant space to UFO observations by astronauts. It states that unidentified flying objects have continued to puzzle and amaze US astronauts, with NASA admitting that crews from Skylab II and III, in addition to 20 other astronauts, have observed UFOs.

• Skylab II & III: Owen Garriott and Alan Bean photographed a mysterious object for ten minutes before it disappeared. Edward Gibson reported being chased by "small red lights." PR spokesman Dennis Williams of Houston's ground control stated that the Skylab II and III crews "saw UFOs with certainty" and that NASA could not explain what they saw or photographed.
• George D. Fawcett, a leading UFO expert, believes that at least 20 UFOs have been observed or photographed by American and Russian space travelers.
• Apollo 11: Neil Armstrong, Edwin Aldrin, and Michael Collins reported being followed by a UFO for two days on their way to the Moon.
• Skylab III: Astronauts photographed a mysterious red light, but further details were withheld by NASA.
• Skylab II: Bob Gordon mentioned a glowing red object seen at an altitude of about 270 miles above Earth. Astronaut Owen Garriott described a large, red "star" that was brighter than Jupiter, surrounded by a reddish glow, and rotated slowly with varying intensity for about ten minutes.

Further Space Encounters:

• John Glenn (Mercury): Saw three objects following his capsule.
• Scott Carpenter (Mercury VII): Photographed objects resembling fireflies and a "flying saucer."
• Joe Walton (X-15): Photographed five disc-like objects.
• Bob White (X-15): Photographed an object about 9-10 meters away at an altitude of 58 miles.
• Walter Shirra (Mercury VIII): Reported a large, glowing craft over the Indian Ocean.
• Gordon Cooper (Mercury IX): Saw a greenish UFO with a red tail and other mysterious objects over South America and Australia.
• Russian Cosmonauts (Voschod I): Reported being surrounded by a formation of disc-shaped objects performing rapid positional changes.
• Russian Cosmonauts (Voschod II): Reported an unidentified object within Earth's atmosphere.
• Jim Mc Divitt (Gemini IV): Photographed several strange objects, including a cylinder with protruding arms and an egg-shaped UFO.
• Frank Borman & Jim Lovell (Gemini VIII): Photographed two oval-shaped UFOs with glowing bottoms.
• John Young & Mike Collins (Gemini X): Observed two smaller, brighter objects following a large cylinder-shaped object. John Young succeeded in photographing these smaller objects.
• Richard Gordon & Charles Conrad (Gemini XI): Observed a yellow-orange UFO about 6 miles away.
• Jim Lovell & Edwin Aldrin (Gemini XII): Saw four UFOs that appeared to form a chain.
• Frank Borman & Jim Lovell (Gemini XI): Reported a "bogie" (unidentified object) at an altitude of 10 miles.
• Apollo 11: Was reportedly chased by a UFO for half the journey to the Moon.
• Pete Conrad, Allan Bean, Dick Gordon: Reported a UFO that pursued them until 132,000 miles from Apollo 12's landing.

Several astronauts, including Gene Cernan, Gordon Cooper, and John Young, expressed their belief that UFOs exist and are the product of intelligent beings, suggesting they originate from other civilizations and have visited Earth for thousands of years.

French Minister Robert Galley on UFOs

An interview with French Minister Robert Galley, then responsible for equipment and localization issues, reveals a surprisingly open stance on the UFO phenomenon. Galley acknowledges that "it is a fact that there are cases that are inexplicable, or, if you will: unexplainable." He mentions that the French Defense Ministry established a department in 1954 to collect and study eyewitness reports of unidentified objects, reviewing about 50 such reports covering the period up to 1970.

Galley believes that the attitude towards UFOs should be open and that phenomena previously considered inexplicable, like static electricity, are now understood. He suggests that in 50 years, current UFO phenomena might also be understood. While he is not aware of French fighter jets pursuing UFOs, he notes radar observations, such as one in Aquitaine in the 1950s, that remain unexplained. He states that the French Air Force receives few reports compared to other countries and that since 1970, the Air Force considers UFOs not to be a threat to national security. The study of UFOs is now considered the domain of the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (C.N.E.S.), where individuals like Monsieur Poher are conducting significant work.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently presents UFO phenomena as a serious subject worthy of investigation. The editorial emphasizes the importance of organized efforts, as seen in the establishment of Norsk UFO Center branches. The extensive coverage of astronaut sightings suggests a belief in the reality of UFOs and their potential extraterrestrial origin. The interview with Minister Galley indicates a growing, albeit cautious, acceptance of UFOs as a legitimate area of study, even within governmental circles. The overall tone is one of inquiry and a desire to understand unexplained aerial phenomena, encouraging readers to remain open-minded.

This issue of Norsk UFO Forum, number 3/75, is a Norwegian publication focused on UFO phenomena. It features interviews, articles on specific cases, book reviews, and organizational updates.

Interview with Galley

The issue begins with an interview with Galley, who discusses unidentified aerial phenomena in France. He notes that the French military is investigating these phenomena, and personally, he is interested in the connection between magnetic field variations and UFOs, suggesting they might be magnetic in nature. Galley acknowledges that some phenomena are difficult to comprehend and that the French Air Force maintains they pose no threat. He also confirms that radar anomalies are reported to scientific bodies and that police investigations into UFO sightings often conclude that witnesses are telling the truth. Galley emphasizes the need to be open-minded about these complex issues, citing the large volume of reports received by the police and forwarded to C.N.E.S.

UFOs on Radar

An article titled "UFO PÅ RADAR" (UFOs on Radar) highlights a publication from SUFOI in Denmark. It discusses the collection of serious UFO reports worldwide, with a focus on those involving electrical, magnetic, or radiation effects, as well as photographic evidence and radar sightings. The article mentions NICAP's report of 81 radar UFO incidents between 1948 and 1962. It also references a presentation by Dr. James E. McDonald at the 14th Radar Meteorology Conference in 1970, where he discussed meteorological factors in unidentified radar echoes. McDonald is critical of Project Blue-Book and the Condon Committee for their superficial work. The article notes that McDonald's book "UFO'er - DET STØRSTE VITENSKAPELIGE PROBLEM I VÅR TID?" was published by SUFOI in 1967 and is sold out. McDonald personally interviewed over 500 witnesses and investigated cases, including one from 1957 where an RB-47 aircraft was shadowed by a UFO for over an hour. The article points out inaccuracies in the Condon Committee's conclusions due to incorrect dating of events.

It further details how the U.S. Air Force officially views radar UFO reports, referencing appendices in Project Blue-Book and Project Grudge reports, and Edward Ruppelt's book "The Report On Unidentified Flying Objects." The article also touches upon NATO's radar systems and the NADGE system in Denmark. A 1968 UFO symposium in the U.S. House of Representatives is mentioned, where Dr. Robert L.M. Baker Jr. discussed tracking systems. Dr. J. Allen Hynek is quoted stating that the U.S. radar warning system BMEWS rejects 800 radar targets monthly without explanation.

The article emphasizes the importance of the "UFO PÅ RADAR" publication for those involved in UFO research, noting its affordability at 10 Danish kroner.

Monsters in the "Florida Triangle"

This section, "MONSTRE I "FLORIDATRIANGELEN" SKREMMER BEFOLKNINGEN" (Monsters in the "Florida Triangle" Scare the Population), investigates claims of UFOs having underground bases in the USA, specifically in southern Florida. Joan Whritenour and her husband Ron Chapman, along with other ufologists, studied a triangular area between Brooksville and New Port Richey for seven years. They believe a UFO base exists near Brooksville, possibly near lakes, and report hearing a high-frequency "tone" from a disused well in the area. The article recounts a personal experience of Whritenour and a colleague in 1964, where they heard heavy footsteps near this well and saw footprints appear on the ground, but no visible entity.

Ten "points of evidence" for a UFO base in the "Florida Triangle" are listed, including the concentration of sightings in the Brooksville area, unusual "foam" over a lake, a specific lake dying out inexplicably, and police statements that locals "know something" but won't talk. It also mentions people camping around the lakes with infrared cameras and the lakes being connected by underwater currents and caves. Sightings often involve glowing cigar-shaped and spherical objects. The article notes that ufologists are convinced of an underground base. A case is described where a person was struck by an invisible force after hearing a high-frequency tone. Another incident on November 18, 1965, involved 15 people witnessing several UFOs emerge from a lake, described as massive, glittering, disk-shaped objects that engaged in maneuvers with jet planes.

Green Hairy Monster

A separate incident describes two teenagers in New Port Richey, Florida, encountering a grotesque, hairy, green creature with large luminous eyes. The creature was described as hostile and approached their car. The teenagers fled and reported the incident to the police, who confirmed their account and found a green, foul-smelling substance at the scene.

Hunters Observe Hairy Monster

Further reports of a hairy, ape-like "green monster" are detailed, seen along highways and scaring people. Descriptions consistently mention a height of 2 meters, a powerful build, green or dark brown color, long hair like a gorilla, and a foul odor. The article questions the connection between these creatures (referred to as Bigfoot or Sasquatch) and UFOs, noting that while some believe they are extraterrestrial, others argue they are ancient terrestrial beings. It mentions a report from Mr. Hewes about an object dropping something from the sky, leaving large footprints.

Book Reviews

"UFO-MYTEN OG DE PSYKISKE FÆNOMENER" by Brinsley le Poer Trench

This book, translated into Danish, is presented as a significant contribution to understanding UFOs. The author argues that UFOs are physical objects from another space-time continuum, and their occupants experiment with humans, causing psychic manifestations. The book covers various UFO reports, linking them to phenomena like materialization, dematerialization, teleportation, and levitation. It also discusses UFOs seen by astronauts, UFO bases on Earth and the Moon, and the CIA's alleged efforts to misdirect attention from UFO issues. The book includes an analysis of photographs of obelisks on the Moon, comparing their arrangement to Egyptian pyramids. Brinsley le Poer Trench is described as an heir to the Earl of Clancarty and a long-time UFO researcher, having edited "Flying Saucer Review."

"FORTIDS GÅDERS FORKLARING" by Gerhard Gadow

This book is a critique of Erich von Däniken's theories. Gadow argues that Däniken's work is based on questionable sources and contains factual errors and misspellings. The book aims to provide scientific explanations for Däniken's "unsolved historical riddles" and questions whether Däniken's "god-astronaut theory" can be substantiated by archaeological evidence. The review suggests that Gadow's work significantly reduces the impact of Däniken's hypotheses.

"FORSVUNDEN TEKNIK" by Henry Kjellson

This book is presented as a counterpoint to Erich von Däniken's methods. Originally published in 1961, it received mixed reviews, with some dismissing it as a joke and others seeing merit in Kjellson's ideas, though viewing him more as an initiator than a serious researcher. The book was popular and quickly sold out, becoming sought after throughout Scandinavia.

Organizational Updates

An editorial section mentions that the Lillestrøm group will continue to be the "LABORATORY SECTION" within the Norsk UFO Centers Report Department. Plans include establishing a special RESEARCH SECTION for Norsk UFO Center Eastern Norway (NUFOC Øst.), an INFORMATION SECTION for NUFOC Øst. to actively work with media and lectures, and a special RESPONSE GROUP from Eastern Norway. The article encourages members to help make the new regional group known and invites interested individuals to join the RESPONSE GROUP if they have a car. It also thanks those who contributed to the establishment of the new regional department and wishes NUFOC Østlandet success.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include UFO sightings, radar detection of UFOs, alleged extraterrestrial bases, encounters with strange creatures, and the scientific and psychological aspects of UFO phenomena. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of open-mindedness and critical inquiry, presenting various theories and evidence while also scrutinizing popular claims, particularly those of Erich von Däniken. There is a clear effort to provide detailed information and analysis, drawing from interviews, research reports, and book reviews.

Title: Norsk UFO Forum
Issue: 3/75
Date: 1975
Publisher: NIHIL PRESS
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of Norsk UFO Forum focuses on ancient mysteries, advanced prehistoric technology, and a reported UFO/submarine sighting. It features reviews of books that explore these themes, alongside a prominent report on an unusual observation.

Featured Articles and Reviews

"FORSVUNDEN TEKNIK" by Henry Kjellson

The magazine highlights the book "FORSVUNDEN TEKNIK" (Vanished Technology) by the late Sivilingeniør Henry Kjellson. Kjellson, known for his work on the Swedish "Draken" aircraft, was also passionate about ancient research. The book explores the idea that ancient cultures possessed highly developed technology, but Kjellson did not conclude this stemmed from extraterrestrial visits, leaving the reader to draw their own conclusions. The book is described as a significant work that deserves study. It was published by NIHIL PRESS in 1974, has 112 pages, is unbound, and costs Dkr.28.75.

• The article poses several questions related to ancient mysteries that Kjellson's book might address, including:
• The existence of cipher writing in the Bible, such as "Juvenius cipher".
• Biblical passages concerning a dangerous radioactive substance.
• Excavations in Jerusalem (1909-1911) related to these findings.
• Geiger measurements and the origin of strong radiation in the vicinity of the tombs of kings, questioning where "The Ark" might be located.
• How Tibetans lifted heavy stone blocks using sound waves, referencing experiences of Linauer and Spalding.
• Detailed accounts of Tibetan stone lifting techniques and attempts at technical explanations.
• The possibility of levitation and whether Tibetan methods were used in Egypt and Syd-Amerika.
• Ancient artifacts exhibiting high technical knowledge, such as the Assuan monolith and the stonework at Baalbek, Lebanon, as well as unexplained hieroglyphs.

The book includes an afterword by Frede Melhedegård, who suggests that the solution to the energy problem was known thousands of years ago.

"TUT-ANKH-AMON ER VÅGNET" by Frede Melhedegård

This section introduces Frede Melhedegård, a Danish researcher, and his book "TUT-ANKH-AMON ER VÅGNET" (Tutankhamun Has Awakened). Melhedegård believes that humanity is facing a self-destructive process and that ancient discoveries hold keys to understanding our past and potentially altering our destructive future. He suggests that by activating the pyramids, humanity could be helped to change its course. Melhedegård's work aims to foster international cooperation and believes that even if religions fall, the UN could become the intended form of global cooperation.

The article mentions Melhedegård's previous appearance on a Norwegian TV program ("Kanal X") in March 1973, which caused a stir, though not for his research but due to the host's (Kjell Arnljot Wiig) personal interests. Melhedegård's book, co-authored with Danish journalist Steen Hansen, analyzes ancient findings, drawings, symbols, and the Old Testament. He theorizes that a highly advanced civilization visited Earth approximately 5,000 years ago, and their experiences were recorded by people who lacked the understanding to interpret them correctly.

Melhedegård points to impressive ancient structures in Egypt and elsewhere as evidence of these visitors. He also cites Sanskrit texts describing "metal birds" and beings emerging from them. A specific example is the Nandi bull sculpture in the Hoysalevaratemplet in Halebid, India, which is too large to have been brought into the temple through its entrance. A Sanskrit passage is quoted, suggesting a future mechanism capable of immense power and flight.

Melhedegård's book is described as unusual and highly recommended for study. It is published by his own publishing house, with Nihil Press as the sole distributor. The book has 96 pages, is unbound, and costs Dkr 32.00.

"SPÅDOMME OM VERDENS UNDERGANG" by Camille Flammarion

This review discusses the book "SPÅDOMME OM VERDENS UNDERGANG" (Prophecies of the End of the World) by the French astronomer Camille Flammarion. The reviewer notes that the book's connection to UFO phenomena is distant, but it is reviewed nonetheless. Flammarion's work covers historical prophecies of doom, apocalypses, plagues, famines, astrological predictions, comets, eclipses, new stars, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. The book is considered interesting and timely, especially as Flammarion, a renowned astronomer and popular author, died 50 years prior to this issue's publication. The book is published by NIHIL PRESS in 1973, has 48 pages, is unbound, and costs Dkr 14.75.

Submarine Sighting in Namsenfjorden

A prominent report on the cover details a "most sensational message" from Fellesavisa (Namsos) dated April 18th: "SUBMARINE OBSERVED IN NAMSENFJORDEN!". While details are scarce, the report states that reliable witnesses made the observation. The article raises questions about the presence of a submarine in Namsenfjorden, speculating on its purpose and whether it was searching for something or if another type of craft was involved. The report concludes by suggesting that the matter is highly topical and that someone might be trying to get ahead of others.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of ancient civilizations, their potential advanced technologies, and the interpretation of historical and religious texts through a lens of prehistoric engineering and extraterrestrial influence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, encouraging readers to consider alternative interpretations of history and phenomena. The inclusion of a UFO/submarine sighting alongside ancient mysteries suggests a broad scope for the magazine's coverage of unexplained events.