UFO Forum - 1975 - No 4

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO FORUM
Issue: 4
Volume: 1975
Publisher: NORSK UFO CENTER
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
Date: 1975

This issue of UFO Forum, published by the Norsk UFO Center, delves into several compelling UFO-related cases and investigations. The cover headline teases a "MYSTERIOUS 'SILVER SPHERE' - SCOUTING MISSION FROM OUTER SPACE?", indicating a focus on unusual aerial phenomena.

Contents Overview

The issue features a table of contents listing several articles:

• NAMSENFJORDEN: Investigations in Namsenfjorden were conducted as planned, though with challenges due to low participation. Despite issues with equipment, the planned investigation with a metal detector was carried out.
• MYSTISK "SØLVKULD" - SPEIDERBESØK FRA VERDENSROMMET ? (Mysterious "Silver Sphere" - Scouting Mission from Outer Space?): This article details the discovery of a silver sphere by the Betz family in Florida. The object exhibited remarkable properties, including self-movement, response to magnetic fields, and unusual sound replication.
• UFOer SETT PÅ MILITÆRT OMRÅDE I DANMARK (UFOs Seen in a Military Area in Denmark): An interview with a witness named L.N. describes radar detections of multiple objects with extraordinary speeds at a military airbase in Skagen, Denmark, in January 1973.
• TREDIMENSJONALT FOTO AV ET UFO ! (Three-Dimensional Photo of a UFO !): This section presents a unique three-dimensional photograph of a UFO taken in Sweden.
• OMTALE AV BOKEN "UFO'S PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE" (Review of the Book "UFO's Past, Present & Future"): A book review is mentioned.
• UFO CENTER ØSTLANDET - EN SUKSESS ! (UFO Center Eastern Norway - A Success !): This indicates a positive report on the activities of a regional UFO center.
• MYSTERIET OMKRING DE FREMMEDE UBÅTER (The Mystery Surrounding the Fremmed Submarines): This suggests an article about unidentified submerged objects.
• MERKELIGE AVTRYKK I ÅKER PÅ FETSUND (Strange Impressions in a Field at Fetsund): This points to a report on crop circle-like phenomena.

Detailed Article Summaries

Namsenfjorden Investigation

This section details the Norsk UFO Center's investigation in Namsenfjorden. The investigation faced challenges with participant numbers but was carried out with the help of a metal detector. The official start was delayed, but the investigation proceeded. Swedish UFO-Sverige members participated briefly. Despite initial difficulties, the work progressed, including reviewing previous year's positional calculations and conducting instrumental surveys. A boat was used to tow a detector probe along the fjord. Notably, over a location where a torpedo-shaped object was previously registered, the probe detected something rising from the seabed, though no electronic signal was received.

The Mysterious "Silver Sphere"

This article recounts the discovery of a silver sphere by the Betz family near Fort George Island, Florida. The sphere, found in a field, was initially examined by the family. It exhibited intelligent behavior, rolling on its own, changing direction, and even replicating musical tones played by Terry Matthews. The sphere attracted attention from various individuals and authorities. Carl Williston of the Omega Minus One research institute analyzed the sphere, noting its remarkable magnetic properties. Further analysis revealed it had two poles with a 90-degree deviation and possibly a third, undefined pole, suggesting it operated outside known physical laws. The magnetic fields within the sphere varied in strength, a phenomenon unknown in physics. Reports of similar spheres have emerged from Australia and New Zealand. X-ray examination showed three smaller spheres inside the main one, with a fourth object of different density. The outer layer resembles steel. The sphere moves perfectly balanced and avoids falling off surfaces. It appears to have a built-in guidance system. Preliminary tests suggest it is sensitive to weather changes, becoming more active on sunny days, though not due to direct heat or electrical currents. A comparison of the sphere's dimensions to Earth's shows striking similarities (Diameter: 7.96 inches vs. 7,926 miles; Circumference: 24.99 inches vs. 24,868 miles; Outer layer: 4.29-4.50 inches vs. 25 miles).

UFOs Detected by Military Radar in Denmark

This section features an interview with a witness, L.N., who served at a Danish air force radar station near Skagen. In January 1973, over two separate occasions, radar screens displayed multiple objects exhibiting extraordinary speeds, moving from the Randers area towards the south. These objects were described as small, luminous dots moving at speeds exceeding twelve times the speed of sound. L.N. initially joked with a colleague that they resembled UFOs. He explains that such detections are automatically filtered out by the computer system because their speeds fall outside the parameters for normal aircraft echoes. The objects appeared in series, with one disappearing near the German border as another appeared near Aarhus. The witness could not precisely track their altitude, suggesting they might have been outside the radar's measurement range or that the system's automatic altitude meter did not engage. The witness states that these were the only such incidents he personally observed, though his brother has reported seeing UFOs multiple times.

Three-Dimensional UFO Photograph

This article presents a "sensational discovery" by GICOFF from Sweden: a three-dimensional photograph of a UFO. The photo was taken on May 6, 1971, by Lars Thørn, a 25-year-old truck driver, near Skillingaryd, Småland. Thørn and his son observed a shiny object descending and moving horizontally. He stopped his moped and ran towards a bunker to get a better view. While trying to get a clear shot with his Minolta 16 camera, he took two photos, one standing and one kneeling, without adjusting the exposure settings properly. The object was described as a disc-type craft. The article notes that the photos were examined by three major photo laboratories (Kodak AB, Hultins foto, and Colorfoto), who confirmed they were not manipulated and were genuine. The issue of the photo's authenticity has been a subject of much discussion among members. The article explains that a 3-D image is much harder to fake than a flat one, requiring significant technical skill and knowledge of stereoscopy. The authors state they are cautious in accepting all witness testimonies due to the burden of proof required for such controversial topics, but they do not dismiss them outright.

Other Mentions

• A review of the book "UFO's Past, Present & Future" is noted.
• The article "UFO Center Eastern Norway - A Success!" suggests positive developments for a regional UFO group.
• An article titled "The Mystery Surrounding the Fremmed Submarines" indicates coverage of unidentified submerged objects.
• "Strange Impressions in a Field at Fetsund" points to a report on ground traces.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings, investigations, and related phenomena. There's a strong emphasis on collecting and analyzing witness testimonies and photographic evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, acknowledging the need for rigorous analysis and caution while not dismissing extraordinary claims. The publication serves as a platform for sharing information among UFO enthusiasts in Scandinavia, highlighting the work of various UFO centers and research groups. The issue also touches upon the challenges of information management in the growing field of UFO research and the importance of coordination between different groups.

Title: Norsk UFO Forum
Issue: 4/75
Date: 1975
Publisher: Norsk UFO Forum
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

Cover Story: Fremmede Ubåter i Norsk Farvann (Foreign Submarines in Norwegian Waters)

The lead story details the Norwegian authorities' encounter with a mysterious submarine in their fjords. The Norwegian Minister of Defence, Johan Kleppe, stated that "It is not just guesswork, we must stick to the facts. There is a foreign submarine in Norwegian waters. This is based on both visual and technical information." A fleet of 30 naval ships, including American and British units, was deployed to the area. Despite a tight net, the submarine managed to escape, baffling the authorities. The article notes that similar unexplained submersible craft have been reported worldwide.

Eyewitness accounts describe these craft as significantly larger than conventional nuclear submarines, with smooth, featureless surfaces and no visible hatches. In some instances, they have reportedly ascended from the water and flown away like giant airships. The article includes a quote from a retired naval officer recalling an encounter during WWII in the North Atlantic with a large, smooth object that outmaneuvered his destroyer.

While these craft are observed globally, there's a tendency for them to appear north of the Arctic Circle, near Scandinavian countries, in treacherous, iceberg-filled waters. The most recent incident mentioned occurred in a remote fjord on November 12, 1973. The Norwegian Navy, with assistance from NATO ships and aircraft, failed to capture a mysterious submarine. A fisherman near Sognefjorden reported seeing something resembling a periscope. Radar on the Vangsnes ferry detected an unexpected "blip." Other sailors also observed the object.

Over the course of a week, ten observations of the vessel were reported. The warship "Trondheim" made sonar contact with the object. The Norwegian Ministry of Defence issued a formal announcement confirming the presence of a foreign submarine in Norwegian waters. Despite extensive efforts, including depth charges and a blockade, the submarine reportedly escaped around November 23, 1973. Witnesses near Lusterfjorden reported seeing a large, dark object moving on the surface. Simultaneously, a warship in Aurlandsfjorden registered a large object on its instruments. A 14-year-old named Martin Nielsen claimed to have seen "six rockets" shoot out of the water and disappear into the air. Red and green lights were observed on the snow-covered mountains. The Norwegian military mentioned "light phenomena," including a mysterious "helicopter" not belonging to the fleet. On November 24, a massive bombing attempt was made, but all electronic equipment on the ships malfunctioned, rendering radio communication, radar, and sonar useless.

GICOFF-Information and a 3D UFO Photograph

The magazine features a section on GICOFF-Information, which provided a 3D UFO photograph as a supplement to its issue number 1-1975, along with stereobrilles. The article describes the photograph as "quite astonishing." When viewed through the stereobrilles, the UFO appears to be located some distance behind a bunker, with its form resembling two deep saucers placed against each other. Readers interested in obtaining this photograph are directed to contact GICOFF-Information.

The 1959 Case: Telepathic Contact and CIA Investigation

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed account of a case from 1959 involving a USAF officer, Major Friend, who reportedly facilitated telepathic communication with extraterrestrials.

The case began with an organization called "DEEV" (Universal Association of Planets) and a project named "EU" or "EUNEZA." Major Friend was allegedly told by a woman that "they" were willing to answer questions through him (the officer), who had no prior experience with telepathic communication. He then began writing down answers to questions posed by his associates.

The results of these communications were reported to Washington, reaching official representatives and a skeptical CIA. However, the report was not entirely dismissed.

In 1959, Major Friend was invited to a meeting in a Washington government building's security department. He received a briefing on an experiment involving the same officer who, in a trance state, had communicated with extraterrestrials in front of CIA members and military personnel. Questions were asked about governmental preferences, the possibility of a third world war, and even a request to see a spaceship. The answers, received while the officer was in a trance, were "No" to a third world war and "No" to favoring any specific government or race. The officer then asked the group to go to a window to see proof, and they observed a UFO. A radar confirmation was requested, and the response indicated that the quadrant of the sky was clear on radar at that time.

After being briefed, the author asked the officer to attempt contact. The officer entered a deep trance, and his hand wrote answers to questions. The names of alleged extraterrestrials were mentioned: "CRILL" (Jupiter), "ALOMAR" (Mercury), and "AFFA" (allegedly from the planet Uranus).

The individuals involved had high-level security clearances and were respected members of the CIA. The report states that the case was dropped because another government office was conducting investigations into the matter.

The author possesses the actual report from one of the agents present. Due to the unusual nature of the case and after consulting a CIA agent in Maryland, the names of seven men involved are kept confidential.

A memorandum details a contact made on July 6, 1959, with a Colonel regarding unidentified flying objects. A meeting with Major Friend at the CIA occurred on July 9, 1959. Another meeting took place at the CIA on July 9, 1959, at 2:00 PM.

Further details from the case include discussions about "V330" and the "Universal Association of Planets." The officer, Major Friend, facilitated contact by relaxing and allowing an unknown force to control his hand. The Canadian government had reportedly conducted an extensive investigation into the claims of a woman named Mrs. S. from South Berwick, Maine.

During a contact session, Mrs. S. reportedly communicated with beings from Uranus, Jupiter, Mercury, and Centaurus. The beings allegedly stated they did not favor any particular government, religious group, or race, and that there would not be a third world war. When asked if they could see a spaceship, they instructed the observers to go to a window, where a UFO was seen. Radar confirmation was sought, but the relevant sector was clear.

During a discussion, it was noted that the material lacked sufficient substance for further action, but specific questions were recommended if the Air Force intended to pursue the matter. A new contact was scheduled for July 11, 1959.

The author inquired about the results of this contact, but was told by a general to "forget it." Later, it was discovered that the witnesses had been transferred to other bases or reassigned. The author considers this case an unsolved mystery and "completely unique" in his experience with UFO investigations.

The article emphasizes the unusual nature of the content, explaining that it was included due to the "solid documentation" of the events. It also touches upon the theory that "ufonauts" often provide misleading information.

UFO Literature and Book Reviews

The magazine includes a section on UFO literature, listing numerous books available in Danish and Swedish, along with some English pocketbooks. Prices are listed in Danish Kroner.

• Danish Books: Includes works by George Adamski, H. C. Petersen, C. T. Fontes, Ole Henningsen, and John A. Keel.
• Swedish Books: Features books by George Adamski, Bjarne Håkansson, M. K. Jessup, Kosta Rehn, and Staffan Stigsjo.
• English Pocketbooks: Lists titles by Charles Bowen, Robert Chapman, Robert Emenegger, John G. Fuller, J. Allen Hynak, Donald E. Keyhos, E. Graham, Ralph & Judy Blum, Ivan T. Sanderson, Jacques Vallée, Clifford Wilson, and Richard Winer.

Valby Antikvariat & Bogimport in Denmark is listed as a supplier for these books.

Expansion of Norsk UFO Center Østlandet

The magazine reports on the ongoing development of Norsk UFO Center Østlandet. The group has established its headquarters in Lillestrom, led by Erik and Elbjørg Fjeldberg. Lillestrom also serves as the center's laboratory research section.

The research section in Kongsvinger is operational, and a special rapid response unit has been formed in Moss, led by field researcher Arne Smevik. Smevik is noted for possessing significant equipment for field research.

All former representatives in the region are now members of Norsk UFO Center. A catalog of 50-60 pages detailing the regional group has been compiled and distributed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, unexplained aerial and underwater craft, and alleged extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation, emphasizing the importance of documentation and factual reporting, even when dealing with controversial or unusual cases like telepathic contact and unidentified submarines. There is a clear effort to present detailed accounts of specific incidents, often supported by witness testimonies and official reports, while also acknowledging the speculative nature of some aspects of ufology.

Title: Norsk UFO Forum
Issue: 4/1975
Date: 1975
Publisher: Norsk UFO Forum
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of Norsk UFO Forum delves into a series of perplexing incidents involving unidentified submarines (USOs) and aerial phenomena, primarily focusing on events in Norway and Scandinavia, but also extending to other parts of the world. The magazine presents a collection of witness reports, official statements, and investigative findings, highlighting the persistent mystery surrounding these encounters.

The Namsenfjorden Submarine Incident

The issue opens with the dramatic account of the 'last big 'battle'' in November 1972, when a large submarine reportedly disappeared in Namsenfjorden, Norway. The Norwegian government, through Defense Minister Kleppe, announced the failure to surface and identify the vessel, which was covered by a 'solid carpet of security measures.' Despite efforts by Norwegian and NATO forces, the submarine was never found. The Soviet agency 'Izvestia' denied any connection to the incident. Later, witnesses near Hardangerfjorden reported seeing a periscope and a conning tower, prompting renewed searches.

Mysterious Submarines in Swedish Waters

The magazine then shifts focus to Sweden, detailing a history of encounters with phantom submarines. In September 1969, Swedish authorities were alerted to an object in a 'limited military area' near Stockholm. Despite attempts to intercept it, the submarine escaped. It reappeared in March 1970, leading to another naval operation that again failed to capture it. Earlier, in August 1962, residents of Gotland reported a 'mysterious submarine' which the Swedish navy located and attempted to bomb, but the vessel evaded the attack.

Historical Context and International Sightings

Beretninger about these mysterious underwater craft extend further back, with mentions of 'submarine scares' in the 1920s. The article posits that such craft would require significant supplies, making prolonged operational periods unlikely without external support. Scandinavian investigators, including Jan-Ove Sundberg and Åke Franzen of UFO-Sverige, have researched old newspaper archives to reconstruct forgotten events from the 1930s. These include reports of 'ghost planes' (spøkelsesfly) over Norway, Sweden, and Finland, which were observed flying in formations and at low altitudes. These phenomena were also reported over England, France, and New York City. In 1937, a 'ghost plane' repeatedly circled the Boden fortress in Sweden, leading to a government meeting and extensive investigations with searchlights and listening devices, though no conclusive results were found.

Encounters in the Arctic and Beyond

The 'ghost planes' were also seen over the Arctic regions, particularly in snow-covered, sparsely populated areas. During the winter of 1933-34, these 'ghost planes' flew regular routes. They were described as ordinary-looking, gray aircraft, some with multiple engines. Simultaneously, people reported receiving strange signals on their radios, and unidentified ships were observed in the cold Arctic waters.

Submarines off Scotland, England, and Argentina

Similar to the Scandinavian sightings, submarines have been frequently reported in waters around Scotland and England. In February 1965, four witnesses near North Devon reported seeing a strange, unclear aerial object that made no sound. Investigations by RAF ships and helicopters found nothing. In February 1960, a large, dark-looking metallic 'cigar' was reported gliding over the water in Argentina, prompting a major naval operation. The Argentine fleet deployed ships and aircraft to the area near the Antarctic Circle and dropped depth charges, detecting two submarines. However, these objects disappeared, leading to speculation about a possible base for flying saucers in the deep waters of San Matias Gulf.

Australian and New Zealand Encounters

In 1965, mysterious submarines were also active around Australia and New Zealand, leading to a massive search by the Royal Australian Navy. In January, a pilot reported seeing a long, metallic object with a hatch on top in shallow water at Kaipara Harbour, New Zealand. Later, three different submarines were observed over four days near Brisbane, Australia, described as at least 100 feet long with small superstructures.

Brazilian Submarine Sighting

In July 1967, a private pilot and a TV cameraman observed five 'mysterious objects' flying near Brisbane. Separately, off the coast of Brazil in July 1967, a luminous submarine was sighted by the crew of a cargo ship named 'Naviero.' The object, about 30 meters long, displayed a brilliant blue and white light and moved at high speed before disappearing.

The Fetsund Crop Circle Case

The issue dedicates significant attention to a case in Fetsund, Norway, in July 1975. A crop circle was discovered in a field belonging to smallholder Ingar Ramslie. Within the circle, a blue-gray stone smelling of sulfur was found. The local newspaper 'Arbeiderbladet' initially suggested it might be a meteorite. However, experts from the Geological Museum determined the mineral composition was of terrestrial origin. NUFOC investigators, including Elbjorg Fjeldberg, Kåre Elvik, and Les Hendy, visited the site and found the crop formation to be cross-shaped, not circular, and that the stone was not radioactive but likely composed of limestone and quartz. They concluded that the stone was not a meteorite and that the phenomenon was not caused by explosives.

Investigation and Funding

NUFOC Østlandet's field researcher Kjell Christensen analyzed the stone, finding its pH to be 11.7. The organization is pursuing further analysis. The magazine notes that the Fetsund case has garnered international attention, and NUFOC is exploring funding possibilities from foreign publications and private individuals to support future investigations. They express gratitude to factory owner Trygve Larsen for lending a detector and to all who contributed to the support fund.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent and often unexplained sightings of unidentified underwater and aerial objects, the challenges faced by investigators and military forces in identifying and explaining these phenomena, and the role of media in reporting such events. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into these matters, encouraging reader participation and emphasizing the need for objective and thorough investigations. The magazine aims to provide factual information and encourages speculation based on evidence, while acknowledging the inherent mysteries involved.