UFO-Observatoren - 1983 No 2

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO OBSERVATØREN, published by NIVFO (Norsk Institutt for Vitenskapelig Forskning og Opplysning), is dated February 1983 and is identified as NR. 2. The cover features a striking illustration of a village under a sky filled with flying saucers, posing the question: 'UFOs: Can millions of people be wrong?' The magazine aims to explore UFO phenomena from a scientific and research-oriented perspective.

FRA FORSKNINGSFRONTEN: Forstadier til liv på Titanus?

This article, authored by fil. dr. Harry Bökstedt, discusses the exciting possibility of life evolving on Titan, Saturn's largest moon. Recent discoveries by scientists at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center revealed the presence of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in Titan's atmosphere, a significant finding given its predominantly nitrogen composition. Although Titan's surface temperature is extremely low (-180°C), its atmosphere contains methane and other organic compounds. The Voyager 1 and 2 missions provided crucial data, identifying molecules like hydrogen cyanide (HCN) and cyanoacetylene (HCN), which are considered precursors to living organisms. Laboratory experiments suggest that under energy input, these compounds could form more complex biological molecules, such as adenine, a base in DNA. The article posits that Titan may possess an 'organic primordial soup,' analogous to early Earth, with liquid methane forming its oceans and lakes. The author speculates on the potential for chemical evolution leading to life, though the lack of liquid water and the extremely cold temperatures present significant challenges. The article also touches upon the possibility of other substances, like ammonia (NH3), fulfilling a role similar to water.

Et forslag til undersøkelse af 10 punkter

Written by Jacques Vallée, this piece is a call to action for UFO researchers, advocating for a more scientific and systematic approach. Vallée critiques the two prevailing theories for UFOs: conventional explanations and extraterrestrial intelligence, finding both inadequate. He argues that for two decades, the scientific community's silence or ignorance has forced enthusiasts to develop their own terminology and methods. Vallée proposes a 10-point plan to establish a solid foundation for UFO research, focusing on fundamental technical problems rather than speculative theories. These points include:

1. Information-Investigation System: Developing a system for rapid and precise registration of UFO observations to enable statistical studies.
2. Archive Improvement: Enhancing existing archives and classification systems to process a large volume of observations, aiming to catalog around 3,000 observations for computer analysis.
3. Historical Cataloging: Creating a comprehensive list of unusual aerial phenomena reported by scientists in the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries.
4. Pre-WWII Observations: Compiling a list of other observations (not by scientists) from before September 1939, presented chronologically and without commentary.
5. 'Foo-Fighters' Data: Gathering precise information on 'foo-fighters' observed during World War II by contacting veterans.
6. Scandinavian Wave Documentation: Translating and reprinting documents related to the 1946 Scandinavian UFO wave in chronological order.
7. Electromagnetic Field Monitoring: Establishing a network of shortwave radio stations to track unusual objects and developing instruments to measure electromagnetic field variations.
8. Interview Methodology: Critically evaluating existing report-taking procedures and questionnaires, and training interviewers and investigators.
9. Sociological Patterns: Investigating sociological patterns related to UFO phenomena to assess the risk of panic during high UFO activity and the role of organized research groups.
10. Reorganization of Local Research: Reorganizing UFO research in countries where it has stalled due to internal disputes and creating a global list of responsible organizations and publications.

Vallée emphasizes that while some points are nearing completion, others require diligent bibliographical work or well-organized teams with access to computers. He notes that while some problems might require official support, many could have been addressed by amateur groups if they had focused on research rather than speculation and uncritical acceptance of rumors.

NIVFO er med

This section is a call for volunteers to staff NIVFO's booth at the St. Hans-Messen Stor-Martnan in Trondheim from June 18-26, 1983. It highlights the need for more people to cover shifts and states that travel costs are covered, but meals and accommodation are free. Interested individuals are asked to contact ØST or the administration.

Brev til OSS

This section invites readers to write in. It also features a striking image of a crystal skull, described as possessing supernatural power and dating back to a 1000-year-old Maya temple. The article questions how it was made and by whom, given the Maya's lack of optical knowledge. It touches upon the allure of the unknown, mysterious phenomena, and the potential for both genuine discovery and deception.

FANTASTISKE BILDER

A brief note mentions a new book titled "Det Beste" which includes "Mystikk og mysteries" and a section on UFOs, available in the Øst region.

Hessdøler og hallusinasjoner

This article by Asbjørn Hallan proposes an explanation for the UFO sightings in the Hessdalen and Røros areas of Norway. The author suggests that the phenomena might be linked to inbreeding within the local population, leading to psychological conditions such as visual hallucinations. This theory posits that the 'seige overtro' (stubborn superstition) of the locals, combined with potential inbreeding, results in misinterpretations of natural phenomena or psychological events as UFOs. The article concludes that this explanation will stand unless proven otherwise.

LYSMÅL. Forslag til tilleggsopplysning på rapportskjema.

Authored by Erling Strand, this section provides practical advice for UFO reporting, specifically regarding light measurements. Strand explains that witness descriptions of light intensity are often subjective and inconsistent. He advocates for the use of standardized light measurement units, such as 'lux,' to quantify the brightness of observed phenomena. This would allow for more accurate and comparable data in UFO reports. He recommends the 'Electro-Optics Handbook' by RCA as a valuable resource for understanding light measurement.

Oversikt over forskjellige størrelser å anngi lyset med:

This section includes tables and diagrams explaining radiometric and photometric measurements of light. It differentiates between radiometric quantities (like radiant flux and irradiance, measured in Watts) and photometric quantities (like luminous flux and illuminance, measured in lumens and lux). The article emphasizes that photometric measures are more relevant for describing how the human eye perceives light, as they account for the eye's varying sensitivity to different colors (wavelengths). It provides examples of how to calculate illuminance based on light source strength and distance, using basic mathematical principles like powers of 10.

Tabell over illuminansen ifra sola, ved forskjellige høyder over horisonten, (i klarvær).

This table presents data on the illuminance (in lux) on a horizontal surface from the sun at various altitudes above the horizon under clear sky conditions. It ranges from astronomical twilight (-18 degrees) to zenith (90 degrees), showing how light intensity increases significantly as the sun gets higher.

Tabell over illuminansen ifra månen, ved forskjellige høyder over horisonten, og forskjellige grader ifra sola.

This table details the illuminance on a horizontal surface from the moon at different altitudes and lunar phases (elongation angles). It shows how the moon's illuminance varies greatly depending on its altitude and phase, with full moon providing the most light.

Tabell over illuminansen ifra sola og månen ved forskjellige værforhold.

This table summarizes approximate levels of illuminance (in lux) under various sky conditions, from direct sunlight to moonless overcast night sky. It also includes a graph illustrating illuminance from the sun, moon, and stars as a function of altitude above the horizon, under different conditions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO OBSERVATØREN revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the challenges and methodologies of UFO research, and the exploration of unusual aerial sightings. The magazine adopts a stance that favors rigorous, evidence-based research, as exemplified by Jacques Vallée's call for systematic data collection and analysis. It seeks to bridge the gap between amateur enthusiasts and professional scientific inquiry, encouraging a more objective approach to understanding UFOs. The issue also touches upon the potential for extraterrestrial life, as seen in the article on Titan, and explores alternative explanations for sightings, such as psychological factors in the Hessdalen case. The emphasis on light measurement highlights a practical, scientific approach to reporting observations. Overall, the editorial stance promotes a serious, analytical, and open-minded investigation of the UFO phenomenon, grounded in scientific principles and methodologies.

This issue, dated July 1976, is titled "ALARMERINGSPLAN" (Alarm Plan) and is published by UFO-SVERIGES CENTRALGRUPP (UFO Sweden's Central Group). It focuses on the organization's operational structure for UFO identification and reporting.

Alarmeringsplan (Alarm Plan)

The central group has developed a preliminary alarm plan to improve the study of UFO overflights. This system is built around a central headquarters and a network of local alarm leaders, who in turn establish local alarm systems within their own areas. The system is intended for use only with reliable UFO observations, not for ambiguous sightings. Speed is emphasized, as old reports are of little value. The system is considered particularly valuable during 'flaps,' when multiple sightings occur simultaneously.

Reporting Procedure:

1. First Reporter: Calls their local alarm leader. If the local leader is unavailable, the reporter contacts the next local leaders in the object's direction of travel, using the code word 'extraplan'.
2. Local Alarm Leader: Contacts their local branch points according to a set plan, confirms the central group has been informed, and then contacts the nearest local alarm leader in the object's direction of travel. If the object remains in the area, all nearby local leaders are contacted. If a leader is unreachable, their branch points are contacted.
3. Observer's Resources: Each observer must have a local map showing other observers' names and phone numbers, their local alarm plan, plans for adjacent alarm systems, and the national main plan.
4. Reporting Clarity: UFO alarms should be brief and clear. Speak slowly and distinctly. An example is given of reporting an observation near Valskog, Sweden, involving two orange, cigar-shaped objects.
5. Observation Chains: Local observation chains with observation towers or fixed posts gather according to a pre-arranged local plan, with necessary equipment always packed.
6. Radio Networks: Groups with internal radio networks develop a staffing plan for base radio stations or mobile transmitters.
7. Long-Range Transmitters: Major shortwave transmitters covering Scandinavia are informed directly from the central group at the initial stage, using 3775 kHz SSB.
8. Documentation: Continuous notes must be made during observations, with exact times for each phase. A detailed summary is to be posted to the central group the following day for evaluation and mapping. If an object remains in the area or multiple objects appear, the central group must be continuously informed.
9. Existing Systems: Some local alarm chains already have functioning air surveillance systems with fixed observation posts, staffed on Saturday evenings during even-numbered weeks throughout the year.
10. Public Information: Local press should always be informed when the alarm system is active, especially if an object remains in the area for an extended period. Statements should be factual, focusing on what is happening, how the work is done, and the system's structure.

Summary: Each local alarm leader creates a local alarm plan for their area, which is sent to neighboring leaders and the central group.

Note: The nationwide alarm system can be used for important messages, such as notifying the central group about interesting radio or TV programs related to UFOs.

Information from the central group is disseminated north and south according to the main alarm plan. Messages are forwarded latitudinally (e.g., Eskilstuna to Stockholm, Stockholm to Karlskoga, etc.). A ruler should be used on the map to maintain the correct order. If a local alarm leader is unreachable, they are skipped, and the central group is informed. The central group will then use local branch points in the skipped area to ensure information dissemination. The geographically furthest local alarm leaders (currently Kiruna and Olofström) call the central group to confirm the message has reached its destination.

Structure of Local Alarm Systems

A diagram illustrates the hierarchical structure of a local alarm system, with a local alarm leader at the top, branching out to points like A-1, A-2, B-1, B-2, and further down to C-1, C-2, D-1, D-2, E-1, E-2, F-1, and F-2. An example explains that C-1, a reporter, contacts their local leader, who then contacts the central group. The local leader contacts A-1 and A-2, who then contact their respective branches. A-2 contacts C-1, confirming the system is active.

An 'Extraplan' (Emergency Plan) is detailed for when a local alarm leader is unreachable. In such cases, the reporter (e.g., C-1) contacts A-1 and A-2, then the central group, and then takes over the role of alarm leader, contacting the next local alarm leader.

UFO'ER I NORD? - Bilder granskes i USA (UFOs in the North? - Pictures examined in the USA)

This article, from VG newspaper dated February 3, 1983, discusses UFO sightings in Nordland, Norway, particularly near Mo i Rana. Photographs of these sightings are to be professionally examined, including in the USA. Asbjørn Borge, a watchman at Bodø air station, describes seeing a cigar-shaped object simultaneously with others, including those in a watchtower who observed it through binoculars. He states that they would not have reported it if they weren't sure it was unnatural. The article mentions that many credible individuals have reported observations, suggesting a 'UFO wave'.

Another sighting involved a 40-50 meter long, metallic, cigar-shaped object over Sandviksfjellet, observed for about five minutes. It stopped, started, and disappeared behind a cloud, leaving behind heat radiation. Jan Krogh from the UFO organization 'Norsk Institutt for Vitenskapelig Forskning og Informasjon' expresses excitement about studying the Mo i Rana photos, indicating that the area is gaining attention for UFO observations, similar to Hessdalen.

Fenomener og fakta: Bermuda-triangelet ikke så mystisk likevel? (Phenomena and Facts: The Bermuda Triangle Not So Mysterious After All?)

This article questions the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle, a region in the western Atlantic Ocean where numerous ships and thousands of people are said to have disappeared. It notes that the concept of the Bermuda Triangle is relatively recent, originating from a 1964 article by Vincent H. Gaddis and later popularized by other writers. Despite its notoriety, the article suggests there is nothing inherently special about the area that makes it a death trap.

Lawrence D. Kusche's book, 'The Bermuda Triangle Mystery – Solved' (1975), is presented as a critical analysis that debunks many popular claims. Kusche argues that many 'unexplained disappearances' were either fabricated or fully explainable.

One prominent case examined is the disappearance of five Grumman Avenger torpedo bombers on December 5, 1945. The popular version states the pilots were experienced and became disoriented, reporting compass failures. A subsequent search by a Martin Mariner seaplane also ended in disappearance. However, Kusche's detailed review of the 400-page investigation report reveals inaccuracies in the popular narrative. The Avenger pilots were mostly trainees, and the flight leader, Charles Taylor, was not experienced in that air area. The radio calls described in popular accounts are largely undocumented, except for Taylor's mention of compass failure. Kusche suggests the Avengers ran out of fuel in bad weather and darkness, crashing into the sea. The Mariner seaplane departed after dark, and witnesses reported a mid-air explosion shortly after. The article highlights that the accident statistics for Mariner aircraft were poor, with pilots calling them 'flying gas containers'.

Kusche concludes that the legend of the Bermuda Triangle originates from sloppy research and sensationalism. The US Coast Guard supports Kusche's findings, stating that the combination of natural forces and human unpredictability often overshadows even the most fantastic science fiction stories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the systematic organization and reporting of UFO phenomena, emphasizing the need for credible data and rapid response. The publication advocates for a structured approach to UFO investigation, involving a network of observers and a clear communication protocol. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into UFOs, aiming to gather and analyze evidence objectively, as demonstrated by the critical examination of the Bermuda Triangle myth and the detailed plan for UFO reporting.