UFO-Observatoren - 1983 No 6

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO OBSERVATØREN, published by NIVFO (Norsk Institutt for Vitenskapelig Forskning og Opplysning) in June 1983, under number 6, presents a collection of intriguing articles on paranormal phenomena, UFO sightings, and scientific explanations for unusual events. The cover story, "Spøkelset som arbeidet overtid" (The Ghost Who Worked Overtime), is a detailed account of a haunting experienced by the staff of the Community Development Corporation in Brownsville, Texas.

The Ghost Who Worked Overtime

The article, written by Claire Safran, describes the unsettling experiences of Nick Ramon, the administrative director of the CDC, and his colleagues. The phenomena began with unexplained footsteps and creaking chairs in the office, even when the building was empty and locked. Nick Ramon, a rational man, initially sought logical explanations, attributing sounds to the building's structure. However, the occurrences escalated, including a misty, gray-black apparition seen by Ramon and his friend Ruben Quintanilla in October 1981. The apparition was described as over 1.80 meters tall, with an oval head and shoulders, but no discernible limbs.

Further incidents included unexplained cold spots, strange smells (like sulfur or a corpse), and objects moving on their own. Nick's secretary, Estela Von Hatten, felt someone behind her, and Yolanda Garcia experienced walls 'shaking' and a roll of toilet paper moving as if thrown. The staff became increasingly uneasy, with some opting to leave work early or avoid being alone in the offices. Even a priest, Pater Tim Ellerbrock, who was called to bless the building, sensed something 'sad' nearby.

Local traditions in Brownsville, a border town between American and Mexican cultures, often speak of restless spirits. The building's history was investigated, with some speculating about past events related to the Mexican-American War. Theories about unresolved issues of deceased individuals, including a former owner killed in a car accident and a tenant who committed suicide, were considered.

Nick Ramon consulted a spiritual medium who advised him to hang crucifixes and have the staff pray. He himself began reciting the 23rd Psalm daily. The phenomena seemed to shift focus, affecting other staff members when Ramon was away. Eventually, due to the impact on morale and productivity, the CDC decided to move to new offices in May 1982, hoping the move would provide a positive distraction.

Ball Lightning (Kulelyn)

Several articles in the issue focus on ball lightning, a fascinating and mysterious atmospheric phenomenon. The article "OM KULELYN" by James R. Powell and David Finkelstein, translated from American Scientist, Volume 58, discusses how ball lightning is as common as conventional lightning and can be simulated in laboratories. It can float for seconds or minutes before dissipating or exploding.

The article mentions G.W. Richman from St. Petersburg Academy as one of the first scientists to study ball lightning, noting his experiments were similar to Benjamin Franklin's, but Richman died during an experiment.

It highlights that ball lightning can behave fantastically, leading some to dismiss its existence. The authors suggest that flying saucers are often used to discredit ball lightning rather than vice versa. Theories explaining ball lightning range from quantum mechanics to magneto-hydrodynamics. Electroluminescent air in lightning channels is proposed as a likely component, requiring a significant energy input to maintain its luminosity. The phenomenon is thought to be sustained by a critical electric field of 1000-2000 V/cm, with electro-hydrodynamic forces playing a role in its movement.

Observations indicate that ball lightning can be accompanied by sound and smell. It typically appears near concentrated lightning strikes, often moves downwards, can penetrate closed windows, and lasts for several seconds. Its color varies, and it frequently disappears with an explosion. Theories for its existence include hot air, metastable electronic stimulation, and non-linear current discharge.

Another section, "OPPFØRSEL HOS KULELYN" (Behavior of Ball Lightning), details radiofrequency experiments that created luminous balls resembling ball lightning. These experimental balls lasted for a shorter duration due to rapid energy dissipation. The article explains how positive ions can leave the ball towards the ground, and electrons towards the clouds, with Townsend multiplication generating positive ions within the ball. The electric forces can prevent convective mixing and move the ball. Negative current is channeled into the ball, providing sufficient energy to sustain it. The theory predicts a stable size under certain conditions, and the ball can move towards conductors due to its positive charge, potentially exploding upon contact. It is suggested that ball lightning cannot exist in regions without an electric field for more than a second.

The article also describes how ball lightning might pass through closed windows by following electrical lines, accumulating ions on one side of the glass and electrons on the other. The glass then becomes conductive, allowing the ball to pass through. A peculiar attraction to chimneys is also noted.

Reports of ball lightning entering aircraft through the front windshield and traveling down the aisle are mentioned, causing panic. Advice is given to avoid acting as a lightning rod and to adopt a crouched or bent-over posture if encountering ball lightning.

A table lists NASA's planned space shuttle missions for 1983, including their payloads, such as communication satellites and scientific instruments.

The Groendal Reserve Case

Another significant report is "SAKEN FRA GROENDAL RESERVE" (The Case from Groendal Reserve), detailing an observation in South Africa. The story begins with headlines in the Port Elisabeth "Week-End Post" about visitors from space at the Eastern Cape. The author, who arrived in Uitenhage on October 25, 1978, investigated the incident involving alleged sightings of humanoids in Groendal Reserve.

Contact with the reserve's superintendent, D.P. Zeelie, was restricted by his department. The author then spoke with Keith Ross from "Week-End Post," who was initially skeptical. The report focuses on four schoolboys—Peter Simpson (16), Jannie Bezuidenhout (15), Hugo Ferreira (12), and Joe Perino (13)—who claimed to have seen three "silver men" in Groendal Reserve. They also discovered what appeared to be a landing site.

The boys described the figures as wearing silver suits resembling aluminum foil, which were shiny and completely silver, obscuring their faces. The men moved in a strange, gliding manner, as if rolling. They were seen moving from a shiny silver object and were joined by a third man who appeared suddenly, carrying a square silver bag. The boys noted that the men had no visible arms or feet, and their movement was described as being from the knees down, like a "tail fin."

When asked if they thought the beings could be from another planet, Peter admitted this thought only occurred after they had left. The boys had not read any UFO books or seen UFO films. Peter mentioned his interest in history. During the observation, the boys felt disoriented and a strange sense of isolation.

After the men climbed over a fence and disappeared, the shiny silver object also vanished. The boys described the men moving up the hill in a rigid, upright position. Peter's mother corroborated his feeling of disorientation.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section for reader letters and opinions, with a contribution from Willy Petterson regarding a UFO sighting over Drammen. He argues against the explanation that the sighting was simply an aircraft, citing the witnesses' descriptions and the unusual behavior of the object.

There is also a review of the book "STEMMER FRA FORTIDEN" (Voices from the Past) by Jeffrey Iverson, with a foreword by Professor Magnus Magnusson. The book is described as a mystery involving strange events and detective work, touching upon the subject of reincarnation and past lives, with commentary from Professor Preben Plum.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO OBSERVATØREN consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, personal testimony, and scientific inquiry. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting detailed accounts of alleged sightings and experiences while also exploring scientific theories and historical context. The magazine aims to document and analyze UFO sightings, paranormal events, and related mysteries, encouraging reader participation through letters and opinion pieces. The recurring themes include unexplained apparitions, mysterious aerial phenomena (ball lightning, UFOs), and the human element of witnessing the extraordinary, often contrasting rational explanations with compelling personal accounts.

This issue of MUFON UFO JOURNAL, dated September 1977, focuses on reports of unusual encounters, including humanoid sightings and UFO phenomena, with a particular emphasis on physical trace evidence and witness testimonies. The magazine features articles detailing investigations and personal accounts from various locations.

DE TO LEENDE HUMANOIDENE I BEDARRIDES (The Two Laughing Humanoids in Bedarrides)

This article, authored by Jean Bastide, recounts an event that occurred on September 27, 1973, at 05:30 in the morning near Mount Real in the French commune of Bedarrides. The witness, referred to as 'Herr A' (who wished to remain anonymous), was picking mushrooms when he noticed two small figures, approximately 120 cm tall, dressed in beige overalls. They appeared to be twins and moved with human-like agility. Herr A initially mistook them for children. The figures then ran into the undergrowth. Shortly after, a large, oval object, described as matt blue-grey and about five meters long and two meters high, ascended vertically from behind the bushes. It emitted a faint whistling sound and then shot off horizontally at high speed towards Mount Ventoux. The witness noted that the object's departure was very quick, occurring within the short time it took for the humanoids to disappear. The landing site showed signs of disturbance, with grass and bushes pressed down, and the witness speculated that the object might have hovered a few feet above the ground. The article draws parallels to other similar cases, such as the Socorro, New Mexico, incident of 1964, and mentions reports of 'laughter' from humanoids in other cases.

South African Encounters and Trace Evidence

This section details an incident involving four boys who reported seeing three silver-clad men near Big Stone monument. The men moved with extraordinary speed and agility, even on a steep incline. Fru Simpson, the mother of one of the boys, recounted the event, noting the unusual movements of the figures. The boys described them as being like normal adult humans in size and appearance. Later, strange oval footprints, about 18 cm long, were discovered by forestry workers approximately 2 km from the sighting location. Investigators, including Sergeant Powell and Christopher Powell, examined the site. While the exact location of the landing was difficult to pinpoint due to heavy rain and overgrowth, they noted that the indentations were highly symmetrical and not naturally formed. The absence of burn marks or abnormal radioactivity was also reported. The article also mentions that Herr Zeelie, a local resident, had previously seen green lights over the reserve and that an indigenous woman had reported seeing a disk-shaped object.

Other Reports and Investigations

Mysterious Holes and UFOs in Australia

Rancher George Blackwell reported being awakened by panic among his livestock. He observed a spinning-top-shaped object that took off with incredible speed. Another rancher, John Camberlain, discovered mysterious holes in his field, described as about four inches deep and possibly radioactive. Researchers suggested these holes might have been caused by a UFO taking off. Similar holes have been reported in England.

Johnny Cash's UFO Sighting

Hollywood star Johnny Cash reported seeing a UFO while in Jamaica. He described it as an oval object with an unusual color, possibly purple or pink, and a strange sound. The object disappeared before he could point it out to his friends, and he described it as 'unearthly'.

UFO and Religion

This article by Dr. Barry H. Downing explores the complex relationship between UFO phenomena and religion. It discusses the early efforts by UFO investigators to distance themselves from what were perceived as 'fanatical' elements, emphasizing a purely scientific approach. The article highlights the evolution of thought among prominent researchers like Jacques Vallee and J. Allen Hynek. Vallee, in his later works, suggested that UFOs might represent a new form of religion, a view that has drawn criticism. Hynek, while maintaining a scientific stance, has also acknowledged the growing connection between UFO studies and religious or psychological interpretations. The article uses the analogy of a house appearing overnight and the subsequent investigation, including the possibility of being drawn into the house by strange beings and experiencing a hypnotic trance, to illustrate the challenges of applying scientific methods to such phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena, encounters with non-human intelligences (humanoids), and the physical evidence left behind. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation, encouraging detailed reporting and analysis of witness accounts and physical traces, while also acknowledging the challenges of applying conventional scientific methods to these often-bizarre events. The journal aims to document and explore these phenomena, seeking to understand their nature and origin.

This issue of UFO NYTT, identified by its issue number '21', delves into the complex and often intertwined nature of UFO phenomena, religion, and scientific investigation. The cover story, 'Den forsvundne boghandel' (The vanished bookstore), features actress Shirley Lawrence recounting a personal, mysterious experience involving a bookstore that seemingly disappeared. The magazine's primary focus, however, appears to be the analysis of 'CE III' (Close Encounter of the Third Kind) cases, particularly the 'Andreasson Affair,' which is highlighted for its significant religious dimensions and parallels to biblical narratives.

The Andreasson Affair: A Religious Dimension

The articles extensively discuss the Betty Andreasson case, emphasizing how careful, scientific investigation of this CE3 case reveals profound religious dimensions. The author questions whether Andreasson experienced a scientifically-oriented space age encounter with religious overtones, or a religious experience with space age overtones, or if religion itself possesses scientific dimensions. Parallels are drawn between Andreasson's experiences and biblical accounts, such as the prophet Isaiah's vision in Isaiah chapter 6. The cleansing of Isaiah's lips by a burning coal is compared to Betty's baptism by a clear light, and Isaiah's divine commission is mirrored in Betty being told she was chosen to deliver a message. The sensation of heat experienced by Betty is also likened to Isaiah's experience.

Ray Fowler, an investigator who agrees with the author's assessment of the Andreasson Affair as one of the most thoroughly investigated CE3 cases, is frequently cited. J. Allen Hynek also provides an introduction, lending further credibility. The issue notes that Betty Andreasson experienced pain during her examination, which was alleviated by the beings, suggesting it was a test or a necessary part of an investigation into 'flaws' within her.

The encounter with the 'bird' is interpreted by some, including Fowler, as an unconscious representation of Betty's Christian faith and its needs. The beings encountered by Betty are described as not confirming or denying their divine nature when asked if they were from God.

Scientific vs. Religious Interpretation

The magazine grapples with the paradox of divine revelation, where divine reality is revealed yet remains hidden. It suggests that UFOs operate similarly, revealing some aspects while concealing others, which can be seen as an affront to science. This inherent secrecy makes it difficult to distinguish between scientific inquiry and fanaticism, especially in CE3 cases. The issue advocates for a more cautious approach to investigating highly unusual cases, citing Richard Hall's call for such caution.

However, the articles argue that if the Andreasson case is representative, then careful investigation leads to the conclusion that UFOs will not reveal themselves on strictly scientific terms. Betty was led by beings who sought her trust, possibly testing her through pain. When asked about their origin, they remained ambiguous.

The issue acknowledges that UFOs have provided enough evidence of their existence to convince many scientists, but their origins remain unproven. The psychic aspects of CE3 cases, including Andreasson's, are described as extremely broad.

Ray Fowler's attempt to adhere to traditional science leads him to suggest that Betty's experience with the 'bird' was an unconscious representation of her Christian beliefs. However, the author contends that even an objective scientist must consider possibilities, and that UFOs might represent a demonic reality, a divine reality, or a combination, as Betty Andreasson believes.

The magazine questions how to approach the religious dimension of UFO cases scientifically, suggesting that involving theologians from different faiths would compromise scientific objectivity due to religious biases.

UFOs and the Nature of Reality

The issue posits that a scientific theory is a system of knowledge that explains life and its purpose. In the context of UFOs, 'facts' are intertwined with both scientific theories and religious beliefs. The convenience of separating science and religion is now over.

The film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' is mentioned as an example where the protagonist, a 'contact-prophet,' is driven by a vision, and scientists, using their instruments, arrive at the same location. The film is deemed truthful in that UFOs have caused science and religion to converge.

NIVFO NORD's Activities and Publications

NIVFO NORD is presented as an organization actively involved in UFO research. Its Data and Information Department (DIA) is operational, and the Investigation and Development Departments are in advanced stages. NIVFO NORD publishes a magazine and is seeking more people to assist with their stand at the St. Hans-Messen (Mid-Summer Fair) in Nidarohallen, offering free admission and accommodation for volunteers.

The magazine also promotes several special booklets available for purchase from NIVFO, including:

• 'Avtrykkene ved Namsenfjorden' (The imprints at Namsenfjorden): detailing strange triangular marks and sightings of silent, flying objects.
• 'Norsk Nærkontakt av Tredje Grad?' (Norwegian Close Contact of the Third Kind?): about the 1954 Mosjøen case involving Edith Jacobsen and Åsta Solvang.
• 'Ishullene på Silsetvatnet' (The ice holes at Silsetvatnet): concerning unusual holes in the ice and mysterious lights.
• 'Om Romskipsteorien' (About the Spaceship Theory): examining the validity of the spaceship hypothesis for UFOs.
• 'Om UFO-problemet - Dette bør du vite' (About the UFO Problem - You should know this): a historical overview of UFOs.
• 'Politibil knust av UFO' (Police car crushed by UFO): detailing the Val Johnson case.
• 'UFO FOTO': a special issue featuring over 40 alleged UFO photographs with commentary and data.

Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Near-Death Experiences

An article discusses near-death experiences (NDEs), noting the consistent patterns observed in Western cultures, such as tunnels, lights, and encounters with deceased relatives. These are often categorized as reincarnation or life-after-death experiences. However, the article contrasts this with Russia, where clinical tests after resuscitation of individuals declared dead show no such experiences. Soviet psychologist M. Nilin attributes Western NDEs to hallucinations based on cultural expectations, a view shared by another Russian expert. The article notes that even though Russia has many religious individuals who might expect an afterlife, the response regarding NDEs is 'NJET' (No).

Chinese Spaceflight

A brief report mentions China's launch of its 12th satellite on September 9, 1982, a reconnaissance satellite that returned to Earth five days later. The launch used an FB-1 rocket, a civilian version of the military CSS-X-4. China is working on improving its rockets for future communication satellites to reach geostationary orbit.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the profound connection between UFO phenomena and religious or spiritual experiences, the challenges and limitations of applying scientific methodology to such phenomena, and the importance of careful, detailed investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the evidence for UFO existence while grappling with the elusive nature of their origins and purpose. There is a clear emphasis on the religious and psychic dimensions of UFO encounters, suggesting that a purely materialistic or scientific explanation may be insufficient. The magazine also actively promotes its own publications and organizational activities, positioning itself as a key resource for UFO enthusiasts in Norway. The issue advocates for a nuanced understanding that bridges the gap between the scientific and the spiritual, recognizing that these realms may be more interconnected than traditionally assumed.

Title: FOTOSPALTEN
Issue: 31
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "FOTOSPALTEN" (Photo Column) focuses on practical advice for photographers, covering camera maintenance, the use of filters, and optimal lighting conditions for different types of shots. It also features advertisements for a company specializing in esoteric and paranormal literature.

Photography Tips

The "Fotoråd" (Photo Advice) section stresses the importance of always checking camera equipment before going on a trip. Key recommendations include ensuring batteries for the light meter and flash are fresh, and carrying spares, especially for longer excursions. Modern cameras are described as highly advanced, often performing many functions automatically, which allows photographers to shoot faster (snapshots) or take more time to compose their shots.

Care for the camera is emphasized, warning that snow, water, and sand can cause damage that is costly or impossible to repair. It is advised never to leave a camera unprotected on a beach or in the mountains. Using a camera bag or a plastic bag on the beach is recommended to protect the equipment.

Filters

The article discusses the use of UV or Skylight filters, which are primarily seen as protective for the lens. They also help to reduce the effect of UV rays in the air, which can otherwise influence the film. A "solblender" (sun filter or perhaps a lens hood) is mentioned for preventing reflections on the photos.

Lighting Conditions

Sunlight: While sunny days are generally good for landscape photography, bringing out the brilliance of colors and creating depth, they are not ideal for portraits. Harsh sunlight creates strong shadows and can lead to unflattering facial expressions. The column suggests that overcast days or shaded areas are much better for portrait photography.

Flash Photography: This can be challenging, often resulting in subjects close to the camera being overexposed (white faces) while the rest of the image is properly exposed. The advice is to avoid taking flash photos of people standing in a line or one after another. Instead, it's better to photograph them around a table or similar setup to ensure more even lighting from the flash.

Expert Tips

An expert tip is provided for photographing in backlight situations where a silhouette effect is not desired. The advice is to adjust the light meter. For cameras with manual ASA settings, one can set the ASA to a lower value (e.g., 32 or 25 instead of 100) to allow more light into the camera, effectively compensating for the backlight.

Advertisements and Catalog

Page 2 features advertisements, including one for a "MINI CRUISER" water scooter. The main advertisement is for "STRUBES," a company that offers a vast selection of books on subjects such as Astrology, Parapsychology, Mysticism, UFOs, Occultism, Eastern Wisdom, Religions, Psychology, Health, and Yoga. Strubes highlights their 40 years of experience in providing knowledge and assistance to customers seeking information in these areas. They offer a free catalog of their books.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to cater to an audience interested in photography and potentially in subjects related to the paranormal, esoteric, and self-help, as indicated by the Strubes advertisement. The editorial stance in the photography section is practical and instructional, aiming to improve the reader's photographic skills through clear advice and tips. The inclusion of Strubes suggests an editorial openness to topics beyond mainstream interests, encompassing the unexplained and alternative knowledge.