UFO Forum - 1976 - No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO FORUM
Issue: 1
Volume/Year: 1976
Publisher: NORSK UFO CENTER
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
Cover Price: Kr.40,-

This issue of UFO Forum, the first of 1976 and the fourth year of publication, presents a range of articles on UFO phenomena, investigations, and organizational news within the Norwegian UFO community.

Contents Overview

The table of contents highlights several key articles:

• "FLYGENDE TALLERKEN SKUTT NED OVER SARAJEVO ?" (Flying Saucer Shot Down Over Sarajevo?)
• "MERKELIG GJENSTAND REGISTRERT PÅ HAVBUNNEN I 'DØDENS TRIANGEL'" (Strange Object Registered on the Seabed in the 'Triangle of Death')
• "NORSK UFO CENTER SØRLANDET ER ETABLERT" (Norwegian UFO Center Sørlandet is Established)
• "MYSTISK FLY KUTTET ESPEIT" (Mysterious Plane Cut Short)

Article Summaries

"FLYGENDE TALLERKEN SKUTT NED OVER SARAJEVO ?"

This article, by Jan Ove Sundberg, investigates a sensational claim published by the Yugoslav evening newspaper 'Necernje Novosti' in March 1975. The report detailed a 1968 incident where a UFO was allegedly shot down over Sarajevo by the Yugoslav Air Force, under the command of Stevan Korda. The newspaper claimed the object was not from another planet but a super-secret spy aircraft. Commander Korda is quoted as stating that flying saucers are actually spy balloons, designed for more intensive espionage than satellites. These balloons are described as being made of special material, filled with hydrogen or helium, remotely controlled, and equipped with mini-instruments. They are approximately 50 meters long and 30 meters wide, flying at an altitude of 24 km. The article notes that their transparency makes them visible only under specific conditions, such as when the sun is low. Korda suggests that blaming UFOs for these sightings is a way to create excitement. The article also touches upon similar incidents and the public's fascination with the idea of flying saucers.

"MERKELIG GJENSTAND REGISTRERT PÅ HAV- BUNNEN I 'DØDENS TRIANGEL'"

This special report by Jan Ove Sundberg focuses on the ongoing mystery of the 'Bermuda Triangle,' where numerous ships and aircraft have disappeared. The US Navy's Office of Naval Research (ONR) has been tasked with solving this century-old enigma, deploying specialized research vessels, submarines, and aircraft. The article presents new reports from journalist John A. Keel regarding mysteries in the Triangle. On March 4, 1975, the coast guard cruiser 'Mermaid' detected a large object on sonar at a depth of 60 meters, which moved erratically. Investigations confirmed it was not a known submarine. In January 1974, a research vessel near Bimini Island recorded unusual 'clanking, banging, and other strange sounds' from an area of over 5 square kilometers, but no physical evidence was found. The most significant sensation reported is the discovery by the research vessel 'Discover II' on June 18, 1975, off Miami. While photographing the seabed at a depth of 40 meters, a large, peculiar arrow-shaped construction was found. Described as approximately 45 meters long and 21 meters wide, it points westward. The article notes that while ONR considers it 'constructed by someone,' the commander is skeptical, suggesting it might be a natural phenomenon or a symbol. The NUFOC addition suggests the object might be 'imprinted' on the seabed rather than made of metal, and hopes to provide further details.

"NORSK UFO CENTER SØRLANDET ER ETABLERT"

This article announces the establishment of a new regional department for NUFOC in Arendal, spearheaded by Alf Thommassen. Thommassen's efforts to recruit collaborators through local newspapers resulted in a team of nine new members, bringing the total for NUFOC Sørlandet to eleven. The new department aims to focus on practical tasks, including field research and information gathering, and hopes to expand its geographical coverage. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding NUFOC's organizational structure and principles for effective operation. It also discusses the potential for regional representatives to have a voice in the national board and expresses hope for a national meeting in 1976 to solidify these organizational aspects. The article highlights the success of NUFOC's current organizational system, which has enabled significant growth and achievements.

"MYSTISK FLY KUTTET ESPEIT"

This section appears to be a brief mention or continuation of a story, possibly related to the 'Bermuda Triangle' incidents or another unexplained aerial phenomenon.

Other Articles and Sections

• Editorial (REDAKSJONELT): The editorial, titled "GODT NYTT ÅR !" (Happy New Year!), reflects on 1975 as a year of significant work and results for NUFOC. It acknowledges the contributions of various departments, particularly NUFOC Østlandet and NUFOC Bergen, for their efforts in registration and reporting. The establishment of NUFOC Sørlandet is also mentioned as a positive development.
• "95% AV VERDENS KLOKE HODER TROR PÅ UFO'er" (95% of the World's Smartest Minds Believe in UFOs): This article reports on a survey conducted among members of MENSA INTERNATIONAL, an organization for individuals with high IQs. Out of 332 respondents (93% of those surveyed), 95% declared themselves convinced of the existence of UFOs. Furthermore, 76% were willing to support new investigations. Daniel Auduc, who conducted the survey, is quoted stating that the findings represent a 'representative opinion for the thinking human being.' The article also includes personal anecdotes from MENSA members who have seen UFOs or would be willing to board one.
• Military Secrecy: A section highlights a military secret related to the US Air Force, stating that anyone who takes or forwards descriptions of a certain object or its location will be prosecuted. This suggests a government effort to control information about UFOs.
• Henry J. Taylor's 'UFO Revelation': The article references a radio broadcast by Henry J. Taylor in the USA in June 1950, which was later published in Reader's Digest. Taylor claimed that UFOs were real and part of a secret US experimental project. However, the article notes that Taylor's claims have since been exposed as fabricated.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of UFOs, the efforts of organizations like NUFOC to investigate and document sightings, and the perceived secrecy or cover-up by governmental and military bodies. The editorial stance is one of active engagement and a commitment to rigorous research, while also acknowledging the challenges and complexities of the UFO phenomenon. There is a clear emphasis on the organizational development of NUFOC, aiming for greater efficiency and broader reach across Norway. The articles suggest a belief in the reality of UFOs, with a focus on providing factual accounts and investigative reports, even when debunking sensational claims or highlighting official stonewalling.

Title: Norsk UFO Forum
Issue: 1/76
Date: January 1976

This issue of Norsk UFO Forum, a Norwegian publication focused on UFO phenomena, features a variety of articles covering organizational news, scientific investigations, space exploration, and media adaptations of UFO cases. The magazine aims to inform its readers about the latest developments in ufology and related scientific fields.

Organizational News and Activities

The magazine opens with an update on the Norsk UFO Forum's activities, noting that local chapters are holding regular meetings and showing strong interest. The NUFOC Sørlandet chapter, led by Alf Thommassen, has received positive media attention. The issue also announces that Knut Aasheim has stepped down as a representative for NUFOC Østlandet, citing reasons related to constitutional and guideline paragraphs, though he remains interested in cooperation on an equal basis. Norsk UFO Center thanks him for his past contributions.

Further organizational news comes from the research section in Kongsvinger, NUFOC Østlandet. Bjørn Arnfinn Godtland is named the new head of the research section, which includes an Information Group led by Jan-Petter Thoresen and a Field Researcher Group. Eldar Bråten serves as the coordinator. The section is working on a new reporting system to address issues with insufficient data in previous reports. They also mention the possibility of contributing to UFO Forum with content related to astronomy. Arne Smevik, section leader for the rapid response unit in Moss, is credited with a significant article in Moss Dagblad titled "UFO - The 20th Century's GREATEST MYSTERY!"

Kolbjørn Nilsen, head of the lab section in Porsgrunn, has completed his first assignment for NUFOC Østlandet, investigating a case previously covered in UFO Forum concerning strange marks on a field in Fetsund. This investigation focused on a peculiar 'stone' found at the site.

Scientific Investigations and Case Studies

The Fetsund 'Stone' Analysis

Kolbjørn Nilsen's report details his analysis of the 'stone' found in Fetsund. He concludes that the material is neither a rock nor a mineral, and unlikely to be a light meteorite. Upon heating, the material emitted a smell reminiscent of ammonium nitrate. Testing with litmus paper indicated the release of ammonia when heated, suggesting the presence of CO3. Further tests using hydrochloric acid and ammonium oxalate confirmed the presence of calcium (CaO). Small white grains were identified as quartz. Notably, the material did not contain nickel, which is common in meteorites. The conclusion is that the 'stone' is ammonium nitrate, a type of artificial fertilizer. The farmer had apparently left a sack of fertilizer in the field, which was then plowed and harrowed, creating the 'cross' pattern. The smell was likely a weak ammonia odor. The 'cross' formation was coincidental, resembling the Rosicrucian symbol.

'Angel Hair' - A Mysterious Fall

An article by Lars Andersson discusses the phenomenon of 'angel hair,' a substance associated with UFOs since 1952. The article references various UFO-related materials found, including magnesium, tin, and copper. It recounts a specific incident from October 17, 1952, in Oloron, France, where rector M. Yves Prigent and his family observed a white, cylindrical object with a white trail, followed by 13 other objects resembling red and yellow spheres. These objects descended and left behind a substance that resembled wool or nylon fibers. The material was described as gelatinous and disappearing upon contact, making chemical analysis difficult. The phenomenon was also witnessed by residents of nearby Geronce.

Further details on 'angel hair' are provided, referencing a report from the University of Florida's analytical chemistry institute from November 30, 1954. The analysis indicated that silicon, calcium, magnesium, and boron were the main components, suggesting a glass-like material. The article also explores potential functions of 'angel hair,' including waste material from UFOs or a means to disrupt radar systems, though no radar interference has been reported in connection with 'angel hair' incidents.

UFOs and Law Enforcement

The FBI's Federal Bureau of Investigation published an article in its "LAW ENFORCEMENT BULLETIN" dedicating five pages to the Center of UFO Studies. Dr. J. Allen Hynek, former director of astronomy at Northwestern University and head of the Center, authored the article. It highlights the establishment of a 'hotline' for UFO reports to police stations, enabling them to be relayed to the Center. The article emphasizes the role of police in securing UFO sighting locations, similar to crime scenes, to preserve physical evidence from souvenir hunters. FBI leadership, including Clarence Kelly and Special Agent Richard Held, acknowledged the value of the information provided.

Space Exploration and Astronomical Discoveries

Venus 9 Mission

An article reports on the Soviet Venus 9 mission, which successfully landed on Venus on June 6th, sending back images of the planet's surface for 53 minutes. Sivilingenior Chr. Rovsing commented that the images revealed a landscape with sharp-edged cliffs, contradicting previous assumptions of a flat, sandy surface. He stated that while life is impossible on Venus due to its extreme temperature (500 degrees Celsius), the mission has significantly altered scientific understanding of the planet.

New Galaxy Discovery

Astronomer S. Christian Simonsen III announced the discovery of a new galaxy, named 'Snickers,' located closer to the Milky Way than any previously known. Snickers is estimated to contain 200 million stars and is 55,000 light-years away. It was previously obscured by other star clusters and cosmic dust. Simonsen's discovery surpasses the Magellan Clouds as the closest known galaxy. He noted that while Snickers is much closer, it is more difficult to observe due to its obscured nature.

Media and UFOs

Film Adaptation of Barney and Betty Hill Case

Hollywood has completed production on a film based on the Barney and Betty Hill UFO encounter. The movie, set to air on NBC-TV, is based on their hypnotic recall of being abducted by aliens. James Earl Jones plays Barney Hill, and Estelle Parsons plays Betty Hill. The production reportedly stayed true to the original tape recordings and included materials from the US Air Force and John G. Fuller's book, "THE INTERRUPTED JOURNEY." The film aims to portray the visitors as non-hostile and curious, potentially fostering unity by acknowledging extraterrestrial visitors. The article notes that the US Air Force confirmed radar tracking of a UFO landing in the White Mountains around the time of the Hills' experience. The film also highlights Betty Hill's star map, which accurately depicts the Zeta Reticuli system from an unusual perspective, a feat considered remarkable by astronomers.

Other Media Mentions

• The magazine "NYE ALLE MENN" featured UFO content in its issues 43 and 47 of 1975. Issue 43 included an article titled "FLYGENDE TALLERKENER - FINNES DE?" with illustrations of an 'Adamski-type' saucer and a miniature UFO. Issue 47 featured a large article titled "FLYVENDE TALLERKENER OVER DANMARK" with a color photograph allegedly taken in Odense, Denmark.
• A report from Løten, Norway, mentions a ten-year-old boy finding a hot, spherical object that fell from the sky, suspected to be a meteorite and sent for analysis.

Book Reviews and UFO Literature

"FLYGENDE TEFAT" by Sven Magnusson

The issue reviews Sven Magnusson's book "FLYGENDE TEFAT" (Flying Saucers), which is described as a new addition to Swedish UFO literature. The book covers many essential aspects of ufology, though it may not offer much new to seasoned researchers. Magnusson's humble approach, acknowledging his limited knowledge, is praised. The review highlights the book's interesting content, presentation, and selection of topics, making it recommendable. It discusses the Condon Report, scientists' views on UFOs, and includes an interview with Dr. J. Allen Hynek. The book also features a section on 'lunatic fringe' UFO enthusiasts, advocating for understanding and humor while cautioning against potential exploitation by charlatans.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Norsk UFO Forum include the ongoing efforts of UFO research organizations in Norway, the scientific analysis of unexplained phenomena, and the intersection of UFOs with media and popular culture. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting findings from various sources, including scientific investigations, eyewitness accounts, and media reports, while encouraging critical thinking and further research. There is a clear emphasis on the scientific approach to understanding UFO phenomena, as seen in the detailed analysis of 'angel hair' and the reporting on space missions.

Title: Norsk UFO Forum
Issue: 1/1976
Date: January 1976
Content Type: Magazine

This issue of Norsk UFO Forum delves into various UFO-related topics, offering critical analysis, news reports, and a book review.

Adamski and Skepticism

The lead article critically examines the claims of George Adamski, referencing an article from the American UFO magazine 'Probe.' The 'Probe' article, under the heading 'SUNN FORNUFT' (Common Sense), debunks Adamski's assertions by questioning the scientific feasibility of his descriptions of the moon. It argues that if the moon's surface were as soft as described, and considering its movement, it would create a significant atmospheric effect that would cause lunar dust to be blown away, making the moon appear to shrink rather than remain static. The article dismisses Adamski's explanations as weak and unscientific, questioning the authority of those who claim expertise in astronomy without ever having visited space.

Eugen Semitjov is cited as stating that Adamski's astronomical knowledge was at a primary school level, yet he presented himself with boundless self-confidence, disregarding scientific principles. The magazine highlights a psychological aspect: how individuals with weak convictions can tenaciously hold onto the 'stories of charlatans,' even when evidence clearly refutes them.

Book Review: "FLYGANDE TEFAT"... Vad säger vetenskapen ?

The issue includes a review of Sven Magnusson's book, "FLYGANDE TEFAT"... Vad säger vetenskapen? (Flying Saucers... What Does Science Say?). The book is described as an interesting and easy-to-read work, considered among the best in its field. It is 181 pages long, hardcover, published by Zindermanns Førlag in 1975, and priced at approximately 45 Swedish Kronor.

The author of the review offers his personal view on the matter, introducing a discussion on 'ufology and intellectual morality.' He suggests that the way the UFO problem is approached significantly influences the conclusions drawn, a point he believes is valid for many complex issues, not just UFOs.

"The Man from Outer Space" Incident

A news report from Waldport, Oregon (AP), details an investigation into claims that about 20 people in the area had sold everything they owned and disappeared. These disappearances followed a meeting with a man who allegedly claimed to be from another planet. Sheriff-detective Ron Sutton reported that an elderly man sold his fishing boat for a fraction of its value, and another individual gave away his mobile home. A hippie reportedly gave away his guitar, which meant everything to him. Mel Gibson of the state police mentioned a report of a man giving away a 600-acre farm and his three children to neighbors before vanishing. A woman whose son disappeared received a postcard stating she would never hear from him again. This man, who had rented out a meeting hall for $50 in September, was described as not looking like a 'Martian.' Approximately 300 people attended the meeting on September 14th, where the visitor reportedly told the audience that within ten years, people from Earth would be taken to another planet for a better life. Attendees were advised to sell all their earthly possessions and dissolve their earthly relationships. They were also informed of a meeting place in Colorado where UFOs would pick them up to take them to another world. No requests for searches of the missing individuals had been made. Mel Gibson commented that this was the strangest case he had encountered in his 20 years of service. The source is cited as "Several Norwegian newspapers, Oct -75."

Loch Ness Monster: No Proof of Great Beasts?

A report from London (NTB-Router) discusses the skepticism surrounding the existence of a prehistoric monster in Loch Ness, Scotland. Leading British scientists are reportedly downplaying speculation. An underwater film captured by American scientists has revived interest in the possibility of a colony of prehistoric creatures inhabiting the lake. Researchers from Boston's Academy of Applied Research used sonar to deploy underwater cameras when a large object approached. Only a few people have seen the footage. Sir Peter Scott, a British scientist, stated that the images could depict a swimming dinosaur, a species thought to have been extinct for 70 million years. However, other experts who have examined the photographs claim they do not prove anything.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue exhibits a critical and skeptical stance towards sensational UFO claims, particularly those of Adamski, by contrasting them with scientific reasoning and psychological analysis. It also presents news reports on unusual events, such as the Waldport disappearances and the Loch Ness mystery, while maintaining a cautious approach to definitive conclusions, especially regarding the Loch Ness Monster. The magazine appears to encourage a reasoned and intellectual approach to ufology, emphasizing the importance of methodology in drawing conclusions.