UFO - 1992 No S

Magazine Overview

This special issue of UFO magazine, titled "NÆRKONTAKT MED TRO" (Near Contact with Faith), published in 1992 as the 11th volume, is an output of UFO-NORGE, a Norwegian organization dedicated to the registration and study of the UFO phenomenon. The magazine aims to provide information to its members and the public.

Editorial Stance and Content

The magazine's editorial stance, as articulated by responsible editor Finn W. Kalvik and further elaborated by Torfrid Urdal, leader of the Rapportsentralen, is one of open-minded inquiry. They emphasize admitting "openly and honestly that we don't know!" rather than adhering to rigid theories. The organization strives to research the phenomenon using scientific principles without prematurely accepting or rejecting any single theory.

Torfrid Urdal's lead article, "NÆRKONTAKT MED TRO," addresses the inherent mystique surrounding UFOs and the difficulty of objective observation. She notes that while many people seek answers, some are quick to claim they have them, often without rigorous evidence. Urdal recounts a "telephone storm" following a VG report, where numerous individuals claimed to have the solution, attributing the public's inability to understand to a lack of readiness. She expresses frustration with those who claim to know all the answers and dismiss those who don't accept their word.

Urdal highlights that while some dismiss UFOs entirely, others are genuinely interested, and a significant portion claims to have answers. She believes that scientific interest in UFOs is growing, and the 1990s might be a decade for finding answers. She posits that the UFO phenomenon is likely a complex problem with multiple facets, requiring multiple questions rather than a single answer. The organization's guideline is to avoid taking a specific theoretical stance.

The magazine then explores various UFO sightings and related phenomena from around the world:

• Global Sightings: Reports include observations from biblical times (Ezekiel, Jakob), Christopher Columbus, and former US President Jimmy Carter. The article stresses that UFO witnesses come from all walks of life.
• Japan (1975): A TV reporter witnessed a disk-shaped object, approximately 1700 meters in size, near Akita airport, observed by about 50 people for five minutes.
• New York (1975): A large, red, blinking object was observed over Albany, New York, by police and citizens. Two smaller objects appeared and merged with the main one, which emitted a blinding white light.
• World War II: Allied and German aircraft were reportedly pursued by unexplained fireballs, known as "foo-fighters."
• Australia (1978): Pilot Frederick Valentich disappeared after reporting a UFO with four sharp lights, exhibiting unusual speed and acceleration.
• New Guinea (1959): Pastor William Booth Gill and others observed a shining object with four figures on top, emitting a blue light, and later joined by three more craft. This is described as a "classic" close encounter.
• Brazil: The country has a high number of UFO reports (OVNI). The Brazilian Air Force has a special group studying the phenomenon. The Catanduva incident (1973) involved Onilson Papero, who reported a blue light inside his car and a beam of blue light from an object outside, causing him to lose consciousness and experience skin discoloration.
• Czechoslovakia (1960): A military unit observed a colored light that repeatedly appeared and disappeared at different locations, evading radar.
• Romania (1967): A Romanian major observed an unusual craft that moved erratically and shone with a clear, unsteady light.
• China: Historically, UFO reports were rare and mostly oral. However, with increased openness, Chinese scientists are showing interest. The term for UFO is "bu min fei ching ou" and for flying saucer is "fay dea." An archaeological discovery in the Payenk Ara Ulaa mountains involved granite plates with symbols, speculated to be related to UFO phenomena, possibly from an ancient extraterrestrial landing.
• Trinidade, Brazil (1958): A naval ship's crew photographed a luminous, flattened disc with a ring around the center, which exhibited extreme acceleration and speed.

Theories and Scientific Perspectives

The magazine explores the "spaceship theory," which posits that UFOs are inter-planetary spacecraft from intelligent beings. It acknowledges the vast distances in space as a primary argument against this theory, but also considers the rapid pace of technological development and the potential for future breakthroughs in travel, including the speculative use of black holes for theoretical space travel.

Carl Sagan, a prominent astronomer and skeptic of the spaceship theory, is mentioned. Despite his skepticism, Sagan's work supports the idea of extraterrestrial life, estimating that billions of stars in our galaxy might host planets capable of developing technological civilizations. The magazine notes that scientists are sending coded messages into space, such as the one on the Pioneer 10 probe.

Radio astronomy has confirmed the existence of molecules necessary for life in space, and the sheer number of stars and nebulae makes the existence of extraterrestrial life highly probable. The question then becomes whether such life could visit Earth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of belief, the challenges of scientific investigation into unexplained phenomena, and the exploration of various theories surrounding UFOs. The editorial stance consistently emphasizes open-mindedness, the admission of ignorance, and the need for rigorous questioning rather than premature conclusions. The magazine aims to present a broad spectrum of reported events and theoretical possibilities without endorsing any single explanation, encouraging readers to engage critically with the subject matter.

This issue of UFO SPESIAL, identified as issue/volume 92, published in 1992, delves into various facets of UFO theories and experiences. The content is primarily in Norwegian, with a confidence score of 4, indicating good legibility but with some potential for minor inaccuracies.

Erich von Däniken and Ancient Astronauts

The issue begins by discussing the controversial theories of Erich von Däniken, a Swiss author who proposed in his 1968 book that ancient astronauts visited Earth thousands of years ago. His theories suggest these beings interbred with humans, influencing their development and creating the concept of Homo sapiens. Däniken pointed to ancient mythologies featuring gods with wings and flying objects, and argued that ancient architecture provides evidence of advanced extraterrestrial teachers.

The author acknowledges that Däniken's work is fascinating and sparks new thinking about our past and future, posing the question of whether humanity is alone in the universe. It raises a provocative thought: if Däniken's theories are true, why haven't these 'ancestors from space' revealed themselves publicly to guide humanity away from its self-destructive path of war and environmental destruction.

Däniken has faced accusations of sloppy research and even fraud, but the author, as a regular reader, cannot verify the authenticity of his claims. However, the article notes Däniken's frequent references to the Bible, prompting a closer look at biblical texts through a UFO lens.

Biblical UFO Observations: The Prophet Ezekiel

The magazine then turns to the biblical prophet Ezekiel, who lived around 600 BCE. Ezekiel's account in chapter 1 describes a vision of a great storm from the north, a large cloud with fiery, flashing light, and four figures that appeared human-like but had four faces and four wings. These beings moved rapidly. The text describes this as 'the vision of the glory of the Lord.'

UFO enthusiasts interpret Ezekiel's description as an account of a spacecraft's arrival. The issue includes an engraving depicting an artist's interpretation of Ezekiel's vision.

Challenging Biblical Interpretations: Donald H. Mentzel

Astronomer Donald H. Mentzel of Harvard University attempted to explain away biblical UFO observations as natural phenomena. He suggested Ezekiel's vision might have been an optical illusion caused by ice crystals (a 'bisol'), and that Jacob's ladder was a northern light, while the parting of the Red Sea for Moses was a mirage.

The author strongly disagrees with Mentzel's explanations, finding them unscientific and lacking common sense, particularly questioning how Moses and his people could cross a mirage while their pursuers drowned in it.

Josef F. Blumrich and the Ezekiel Spaceship

Josef F. Blumrich, an engineer at NASA who worked on the Saturn V rocket, also sought to debunk Däniken's theories. He meticulously analyzed Ezekiel's description, expecting to find flaws. To his surprise, he concluded that the description could indeed represent a functional spacecraft, possibly a landing craft deployed from a mothership. Blumrich published his findings in a 1973 book, which he described as a 'total defeat' that was 'fruitful, fascinating, and glorious.'

The Adamski Syndrome: Contactees and Their Messages

The article then shifts to the 'Adamski syndrome,' which refers to individuals who claim to have had contact with extraterrestrials. George Adamski, a former diner worker, claimed to have seen a UFO in 1946 and later, in 1952, met an alien named Orthon from Venus. Adamski described journeys to Mars, Jupiter, and Venus, and claimed the Moon had cities and lakes, predating Soviet lunar photography.

Despite apparent flaws in his accounts, Adamski's stories launched a new era of 'contactees.' The magazine lists several others, including Truman Bethurum (claiming contact with Aura Rhanes from Clarion), George van Tassel (contacted by 'The Council of the Seven Lights'), George King (who claimed Jesus lived on Venus and founded The Ethereal Society), Ruth Norman (Uriel), Rauni-Leena Luukanen (dictated books by extraterrestrials), and Howard Menger (who claimed to be married to Connie from Venus and traveled the world lecturing).

These contactees share common themes: claims of communication with intelligences from space, delivering messages of peace, love, and the need to stop war and pollution. The author notes the growing popularity of these messages, especially in times of global crisis, suggesting they offer a form of salvation for those whose traditional religions have lost their appeal.

The 'Star People' Religion and Concerns of Racism

The article posits that belief in 'Star people' is becoming a new religion, offering hope and a sense of belonging. However, the author expresses concern about individuals who exploit people's gullibility for profit through books and lectures. The author draws a parallel between these beliefs and religious movements, noting that many founders claim solitary encounters with divine or extraterrestrial beings.

Examples cited include Moses receiving the Ten Commandments, Saul's vision on the road to Damascus, Muhammad's encounters with Allah, and Joseph Smith finding the Book of Mormon. The author criticizes the creation of 'religions' out of these claims, particularly the idea of a 'chosen race' of 'Star people' who are more intelligent and capable of saving Earth than humans themselves. The author warns that this concept, focusing on superior intellect and soul, bears disturbing resemblances to Hitler's ideology and the Aryan race, raising concerns about a new form of racism.

The Hill Syndrome: Abductees and Their Experiences

The third category discussed is the 'Hill syndrome,' named after Betty and Barney Hill, one of the earliest known abduction cases. Unlike contactees who often seek the spotlight, abductees typically experience frightening events and wish to remain anonymous. The article details the Hills' 1961 encounter with a UFO while driving near Boston. They reported seeing a strange, disk-shaped object that followed their car. After stopping, they were approached by beings and later found to have lost two hours of time.

Under hypnosis, both Betty and Barney Hill recounted similar experiences of being taken aboard the craft and subjected to medical examinations. Betty described a needle being inserted into her navel for a pregnancy test, a procedure that was not common medical practice in 1961, suggesting a level of knowledge beyond that time.

Hypnosis and UFO Evidence

The article explores the role of hypnosis in UFO research, particularly in abduction cases. It acknowledges that hypnosis can be suggestive and memories can be fabricated or altered. Professor Alvin H. Lawson's theory that UFO observations might be purely psychological phenomena, generated by the human brain in response to stress, is mentioned. Lawson compared accounts from alleged abductees with those of students hypnotized into believing they were abducted, finding similarities in descriptions of sensations like floating and weightlessness.

However, the author argues against Lawson's purely psychological explanation by highlighting significant differences between genuine abductees and the control group. The consistency in the descriptions of the aliens (small stature, large eyes, narrow mouths) and the events (being taken aboard, examined, and told to forget) across different abductees suggests a shared experience rather than individual fabrication.

The Case of Betty Andreasson

The case of Betty Andreasson, a deeply religious woman who experienced disturbing dreams for years, is presented. After seeing an advertisement from Dr. J. Allen Hynek seeking contact with UFO experiencers, she was put in touch with a research group and a hypnotist. Under hypnosis, Andreasson described being taken aboard a craft and examined, including a needle inserted into her head. She also described visiting a strange world populated by ape-like creatures and floating crystals. A psychiatric evaluation found her to be free of mental disorders.

The Case of Kathie Davies

Kathie Davies, a pseudonym, reported a large, round, scorched area in her backyard in 1983, preceded by electrical system failures. She had exchanged letters with UFO researcher Budd Hopkins. Despite the seemingly fantastical nature of her story, psychological tests indicated she was not paranoid or schizophrenic. Davies recounted an early childhood encounter with a small alien and a later experience on the night the backyard was scorched, involving a needle inserted into her ear and an examination. Three family members reportedly had mysterious scars. Under hypnosis, Davies described an unpleasant gynecological examination and a subsequent pregnancy that was later terminated by the aliens.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of UFO phenomena, ancient history, religion, and psychology. It highlights the provocative nature of Erich von Däniken's theories, the interpretive lens applied to biblical texts, and the emergence of 'contactee' and 'abductee' narratives. The magazine seems to approach these topics with a degree of skepticism, particularly regarding claims of profit-making and the potential for cult-like behavior or even racism within some 'Star people' belief systems. The use of hypnosis as a tool for uncovering experiences is discussed, along with the debate over whether these accounts are genuine memories or psychological constructs. The overall stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to think about these phenomena and their implications for understanding humanity's place in the universe.

Title: UFO SPESIAL
Issue: 92
Date: 1992
Publisher: UFO-NORGE
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
Cover Headline: Den menneskelige hjerne (The Human Brain)

This issue of UFO SPESIAL delves into the complex relationship between UFO phenomena, human consciousness, and the potential of the human brain. It features articles exploring alien abduction theories, psychological interpretations of UFO experiences, and the historical divergence and potential reunification of science and religion.

Budd Hopkins and Alien Abductions

The magazine opens by discussing Budd Hopkins's views on alien visitations. Hopkins believes that extraterrestrials are visiting Earth and suggests that the mysterious marks found on abductees, such as those on the ankles of family members in a case described, might be evidence of medical examinations. He speculates that these aliens could be conducting genetic research, attempting cross-breeding, or seeking to restore a lost genetic strength or viability.

Speculations and Skepticism

Budd Hopkins is presented as one of many trying to understand why we are being visited, if indeed we are. The article notes that speculations are numerous and limited only by imagination. These abduction accounts, with subsequent examinations, are described as being of a different character than stories told by contactees, though both stem from the idea of UFOs being spaceships from other worlds. The piece acknowledges that many critics dismiss these accounts as nonsense. Ufologists like Bruce Maccabee are quoted expressing skepticism, warning that the wave of alleged abductions could lead to widespread delusion. The author agrees that while 'crackpots' might latch onto the phenomenon, the core stories are remarkably consistent. The author questions the purpose of speculation without proof but emphasizes the consistency of the narratives. The article posits that these experiences are not driven by psychological issues or financial gain, and their geographical separation makes 'hysterical contagion' unlikely. While urging skepticism, it cautions against being overly dismissive.

Philip Klass, a known skeptic, is mentioned for pointing out that no abductee has ever returned with tangible proof or a souvenir. He questions why none have reported kidnappings to the FBI, suggesting that a mentally disturbed person would not hesitate to do so. The author wonders if Klass himself would report such an experience to the FBI, fearing being labeled as crazy.

Ridicule and Official Stance

The article criticizes the general ridicule surrounding UFO phenomena. It notes that most public authorities dismiss UFOs, and the US government formally withdrew from UFO investigation in 1969, deeming the phenomenon unworthy of serious study. The author questions why UFOs are ridiculed while theological research and religions with no tangible proof are publicly accepted. A hypothetical scenario is presented: if someone claimed a visitation from Jesus Christ, they would likely be seen as a religious person having a revelation, not ridiculed. This highlights a perceived double standard where religious experiences are accepted, but UFO experiences are not.

The text suggests that fear of losing religious beliefs might contribute to the rejection of new knowledge. It poses the question of whether discovering new energies or inhabited planets would diminish faith in God, arguing instead that it could make God seem greater. J. Allen Hynek is quoted stating that it's a universal tendency to refuse to acknowledge what we don't already know, calling it a nutshell description of humanity.

Alternative Theories

Beyond the spaceship theory, the article explores other explanations for UFOs. It dismisses theories involving demonic activity or the soul's movement as primitive. A more intriguing idea is that UFOs represent a type of energy not yet discovered. The article references Nikola Tesla, known for his work with alternating current, who believed electricity was harmful and developed wireless energy transmission. Tesla's ideas, though revolutionary, were largely lost after his death.

Another theory suggests a 'shadow universe' existing alongside our own, possibly with different dimensions or a non-linear flow of time where past, present, and future coexist. The author encourages further research into these possibilities.

UFO Experiences and the Human Brain

This section explores the idea that UFO experiences might occur within our own minds. It references psychologist Carl Jung's concept of the collective unconscious and archetypes, suggesting that UFO sightings could be 'mandalas'—symbols of wholeness—seen by individuals longing for harmony. The author questions what kind of harmony people are seeking if they see cigar-shaped objects or 'illuminated Christmas trees'.

The article discusses the possibility that the brain, being largely unexplored (only about 10% is consciously used), might generate these experiences. It touches upon lucid dreaming, where one is aware of dreaming and can sometimes control the dream. It also mentions hallucinations induced by sensory deprivation, where the brain creates its own stimuli.

Jenny Randles' research is cited, suggesting that UFO witnesses sometimes experience timelessness and sensory isolation, as if being temporarily absorbed into a void. Randles speculates that these subjective experiences might be so powerful that they could manipulate objective reality, potentially leading witnesses to photograph something that doesn't physically exist. Despite this, Randles does not rule out contact with extraterrestrials, suggesting they might communicate via consciousness rather than advanced technology.

The Brain's Untapped Potential

The magazine highlights the human brain as an incredibly vast and largely untapped resource, with ca. sixteen billion cells capable of processing immense amounts of information. It explains the brain's two hemispheres: the left, dominant for logic, analysis, and language; and the right, responsible for intuition, spatial awareness, and creativity. Parapsychologists are interested in whether the intuitive right hemisphere houses psychic abilities.

The article addresses the common perception that UFO experiences are mere fantasy. It notes that the word 'hallucination' carries negative connotations, often linked to mental illness or drugs. The author finds it hard to accept that a phenomenon witnessed by many people, including radar confirmations and photographic evidence, could be a shared hallucination.

Hessdalen Lights

The Hessdalen phenomenon in Norway, where UFOs were observed almost continuously between 1981 and 1986, is presented as an example. The author argues that if this were mere fantasy, it would have taken on a life of its own, creating perspectives difficult for the average person to comprehend.

The Limits of Logic and the Unknown

The article posits that humans use only about 10% of their brain capacity, leaving 90% unexplored. While this presents a daunting prospect, it also offers hope for untapped potential. What is considered 'natural' is simply what we currently understand; the unknown is often feared and rejected as 'supernatural'. The focus of development has been technological, neglecting the potential for self-improvement through mental capabilities.

The author reflects on the rapid technological advancements, like the moon landing, and questions whether humanity has become 'smarter' or merely better at using the logical part of the brain for technological pursuits, while neglecting ancient wisdom and intuition. Logic, once a tool, has become a barrier.

Reintegrating Science and Religion

The magazine explores the idea that 'mysticism' and 'mysteries' might hold answers already within our minds, resources that have been discarded or forgotten. Phenomena like telepathy, clairvoyance, and reincarnation are labeled 'supernatural' simply because they don't fit into our logical, technological worldview.

The article advocates for a holistic approach, suggesting that by reintegrating science and religion, we might gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the universe. It questions whether we might find proof of a soul independent of the body or learn about time travel. The author concludes that humans are creatures of infinite potential and that embracing positive aspects can overcome negativity.

Ancient Wisdom and Legends

Ancient legends, such as the 'Golden Age' where science and religion were unified, are discussed. The Naacal tablets and Niven's Mexican tablets are mentioned as evidence of advanced ancient civilizations with knowledge of physics and cosmology. The article suggests that these ancient understandings, often dismissed as myth, might hold keys to our development.

The 'Shaman' Archetype

Indigenous cultures, like the Yakima Indians, have legends of beings with healing powers who arrived from the sky. The Hessdalen area is noted for numerous UFO reports, suggesting it might be a 'window' for such phenomena. The article draws a parallel between these legendary figures and modern 'shamans' or individuals with extraordinary abilities, suggesting that the 'mask' of shamanic knowledge might be what modern researchers need to retrieve.

Psychic Energy and the Brain

Neuroscience is beginning to acknowledge the mind's influence on the body, a concept long understood by shamans. The article references Sir John Eccles, a Nobel laureate, who postulated an unknown, PK-like force within the brain. Biophysicist R.A. McConnel is quoted suggesting that future scientific research will be based on understanding psychic energy.

The Voyager Message

Finally, the issue includes a section on the 'Message from Earth' carried by the Voyager spacecraft. It details the contents of the golden record—sounds, images, and greetings—sent into space as a message from humanity, expressing hope for future contact with other civilizations. The message is attributed to Jimmi Carter, President of the United States, dated June 16, 1977.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of UFO phenomena, the potential and mystery of the human brain, the conflict and potential synergy between science and religion, and the value of ancient wisdom and alternative perspectives. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to question conventional explanations and consider a broader range of possibilities, while acknowledging the need for evidence and rigorous research. There is a clear critique of excessive skepticism that dismisses phenomena outright and a call for a more integrated understanding of reality that includes both the known and the unknown.