CENAP Report - No 116

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, titled "CENAP-REPORT Nr.116", dated October 10, 1985, is a UFO-focused journal published by CENAP, a German research organization. The cover prominently features a dramatic image of a space shuttle launch and highlights a story about a jet having to evade a UFO over the Alps. The issue also includes contact information for Hansjürgen Köhler and Werner Walter, and details the subscription cost and payment method for the CENAP REPORT.

CENAP: Central Research Network for Extraordinary Phenomena

The magazine begins by defining CENAP as a private, non-commercial research organization focused on the serious, factual, and critical study of the UFO phenomenon. It cites Klaus Webner's definition of a UFO as an object that appears unfamiliar to the observer and cannot be identified during the observation period, emphasizing that the term itself does not necessarily imply extraterrestrial spacecraft. CENAP's research aims to demythologize and identify the UFO phenomenon by examining its physical manifestations and socio-psychological impacts. The organization also investigates the influence of "UFO-belief" on society and its portrayal in mass media. CENAP affirms the existence of the UFO phenomenon and the necessity of its serious investigation.

CENAP REPORT: Publication Details

The CENAP REPORT (CR) is a monthly publication that continuously covers current events and the latest research findings on UFOs, presenting case studies with authentic material in text and images. It also addresses the public UFO debate and interdisciplinary discussions. The CR is published in German and includes the Luxembourg publication INFO-CEPS by Gilbert Schmitz. The annual subscription is DM 35,--, payable to Werner Walter at the Ludwigshafen Postgiro account.

Cover Story: Jet Evades UFO Over the Alps

Page 3 features a bold headline from the Swiss newspaper "Blick" dated August 19, 1985: "Jet musste über den Alpen UFO ausweichen" (Jet had to evade UFO over the Alps). Page 4 expands on this story, detailing an incident on Thursday, August 15, 1985, where the pilot of a Greek Boeing 727 flying from Zurich to Athens had to perform a risky maneuver to avoid a mysterious, dark, cigar-shaped flying object. The object was observed at a distance of about 100 meters. The pilot, Christos Stanulis, described it as looking like a missile. The incident occurred near the Swiss-Italian border, with the object flying towards Swiss territory. Italian and Swiss authorities reportedly dismissed speculation about it being a stray missile. The article also mentions a toy called "UFO Solar," a black, three-meter-long balloon-shaped object, which was being sold in Italy and could be mistaken for a UFO.

Feature Article: UFO-CE3 on GDR Territory? The Oskar Linke Case

Pages 5 through 10 are dedicated to a detailed investigation of the Oskar Linke UFO case, which occurred on June 30, 1952 (though some sources suggest June 17, 1950). The article, documented by W. Walter, recounts the story of Oskar Linke, a former Wehrmacht Major, and his 11-year-old daughter Gabriele, who encountered a circular, pink object with a diameter of approximately 7.5 meters resting on the ground in a clearing near Haselbach, East Germany. They observed two small beings (about 1 meter tall) in metallic suits working around the object. When they felt observed, the beings quickly returned to their machine, which then took off vertically. The object was described as a type of "Schmorpfanne" (frying pan) with a cylindrical structure. The report notes that this case is particularly fascinating due to its occurrence behind the Iron Curtain. The article references a MUFON UFO JOURNAL report from November 1980 by Ted Bloecher, which places the sighting on June 17, 1950, near Haselbach, East Germany. Oskar Linke, then the 48-year-old mayor of Gleimershausen, had four children. Fearing repercussions from the Russians, he fled to West Berlin in April 1951. The story gained international attention after Linke reported it to West Berlin police in July 1952. The article mentions that no official Air Force investigation files related to this sighting could be found in Project Blue Book archives. Linke's story was reported by various newspapers and featured in early books about flying saucers.

The investigation into the Oskar Linke case by CENAP Berlin involved tracing family members and legal records. Ossi Linke, Oskar's son, provided information, stating his father was an artist and writer who passed away in 1976/77. His mother, Irmgard, was born in 1921-22. Gabrielle, his daughter, married Klaus Klepzig and reportedly has photos and newspaper clippings. The family's first apartment was in Charlottenburg. While Ossi did not know the notary Dr. Oskar Krause, CENAP-Berlin obtained a photocopy of Oskar Linke's original sketch and the NACHT-DEPESCHE newspaper article from August 15, 1952. Gabrielle and Klaus Klepzig confirmed that Gabrielle and her father were filmed and interviewed in 1953/54, but Gabrielle refused to allow the reproduction of a photo showing her with her father. The investigation into Dr. Oskar Krause, the notary who confirmed Linke's statement, revealed he was a lawyer who died in 1965. The article concludes that Oskar Linke is deceased, his notary is deceased, and Gabrielle is unwilling to provide further testimony, leaving the case's direct experience in 1950 as the primary evidence.

Other Mentions and Sections

• CENAP-ARCHIV: A section titled "CENAP-ARCHIV" appears on page 9, featuring a newspaper clipping from "nacht-depesche" dated August 15, 1952, with the headline "'Ich sah die fliegende Untertasse gelandet!'... Oskar Linke meint, es ging mit rechten Dingen zu" ('I saw the flying saucer landed!'... Oskar Linke says it was done properly). This clipping details Linke's account of seeing a landed flying saucer, described as a "Wärmflasche" (hot water bottle) with a crew, and his daughter Gabriele's perspective.

• Models of Flying Saucers: Page 9 also includes a brief mention of Pietro Agostini, an engineer, and his father Pietro Guest, who build and improve models of flying saucers. These models, about 70 centimeters in diameter, are described as biconvex and slightly asymmetrical, flying at speeds of up to 220 km/h. They are planning a four-meter diameter, remotely controlled saucer with jet propulsion.

• Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance: The magazine consistently promotes a serious, evidence-based approach to UFO research, emphasizing the need for critical analysis and documentation. CENAP positions itself as a credible source for UFO information, aiming to demythologize the phenomenon. The editorial stance is one of belief in the existence of UFOs and the importance of their thorough investigation, while also acknowledging the socio-psychological aspects and media influence surrounding the topic.

This issue of CENAP-ARCHIV, identified by its cover and page numbering, focuses on UFO phenomena and space exploration. The primary narrative revolves around the Oskar Linke UFO case from 1952, supported by a sketch attributed to Linke himself and now in the CENAP possession. The magazine also features an extensive report on the German Spacelab D1 mission.

The Oskar Linke UFO Case

The issue highlights 1952 as a year of widespread UFO reporting. Oskar Linke, described as an artist and writer, publicly shared his experience with a UFO. The report suggests he waited some time before reporting, possibly to gauge the media climate, as UFO sightings had already made headlines, including those over Washington D.C. The article references an SBI REPORT from May-June 1983, which details a 'terrifying CE3' in East Germany where a mayor and his daughter allegedly saw landed saucers with occupants. Antonio Huneeus is cited as reporting that the US Air Force was heavily involved in collecting UFO reports in the summer of 1952, with the CIA also receiving an 'unrated' report on August 23, 1952.

An affidavit signed by Oskar Linke before a judge in West Berlin on July 1, 1952, is presented. The report notes that this affidavit, while dated, was registered by the CIA later, suggesting it was treated as a newspaper report rather than a formal investigation file. The article questions whether Linke was capitalizing on the 'signs of the times.'

Dr. Hynek is mentioned as stating that the CIA report received no evaluation from ATIC, but was considered 'one of the more interesting, but isolated Air Force 'unidentified'...' cases. This contrasts with a MUFON finding that the Linke case did not appear in Project Blue Book records. The SBI report implies that the case might have remained secret if Linke's family hadn't fled from East to West Berlin after the incident, thus making the event public. The article suggests a 'UFO cover-up' at work, with the CIA merely filing a newspaper clipping.

Oskar Linke is quoted as saying, "I never heard the expression flying saucer until I fled to West Berlin from the Soviet zone." The full report was reportedly published in an article titled "The most terrifying flying saucer story of all" by Anton Terry of Kemsley Newspapers Overseas Service on July 9, 1952, and later in the 1952 Fawcett book "The Mystery of Other Worlds Revealed."

Linke recounted that various people in the area had seen a similar object, some mistaking it for a comet. The SBI notes that it does not know the conclusions of the West Berlin intelligence experts who investigated the incident, nor if the Soviets conducted their own investigation.

The article further speculates that the object was a real flying saucer, not a Soviet machine, and that CE3 cases are currently dismissed, creating a dilemma. It argues that if a similar event had been reported by a farmer in the Midwest, it would have been dismissed as a hoax. However, Linke's credibility as a witness, especially given his reliance on Allied goodwill after fleeing East Germany, makes the report highly valuable.

Linke's direct encounter with the Allies after his escape is not detailed, but he reportedly waited a year before making his report in the UFO-heavy summer of 1952.

The article anticipates that Erich Reinhold from Fulda will share direct information at the sixth CENAP-organized UFO/UAP conference in Schwetzingen in 1985, addressing the difficulty of speaking with direct witnesses due to the passage of time.

Spacelab D1 Mission

This section, authored by Hansjürgen Köhler of CENAP, details the first German Spacelab mission, designated D1. It explains that as preparations for the mission are complete, this report aims to cover current space research projects. The article notes that potential UFO reports might arise from less informed citizens mistaking the Spacelab for an unknown flying object, especially if it's visible due to good weather and its size.

Germany's significant involvement in the European development of the Spacelab laboratory is highlighted as a central aspect of the 4th Space Program of the Federal Republic of Germany. Since 1974, efforts have been underway to analyze Spacelab's utilization possibilities and plan for technological and scientific research based on demand and financial feasibility. The initial step involved a substantial contribution to the payload of the first Spacelab mission with experiments and equipment.

The Spacelab D1 project represents the first complete Spacelab mission under German leadership, encompassing planning, preparation, execution, and evaluation of scientific and technological results. Key tasks include selecting and preparing experiments, developing and providing payload elements, integrating and verifying the payload with the Shuttle/Spacelab system, planning and controlling payload operations during the mission, selecting and training the flight crew, preparing mission results, and coordinating services provided by NASA.

The mission's significance extends to fostering industrial and research capabilities in Germany, creating the conditions for economically competitive space utilization. Companies like MBB/ERNO possess advanced centers for payload integration, while DFVLR offers capacities for project management, a simulation and training center, and ground facilities for mission control.

The primary research areas for Spacelab D1 include surface phenomena, chemical processes, materials science, and electronic applications, utilizing microgravity conditions. Experiments in biology and medicine requiring microgravity are also included, alongside technological research and development in navigation.

A significant portion of the experimental equipment was newly developed for the D1 mission, while some had been used in the first American/European Spacelab mission in 1983. The mission will employ multi-purpose equipment, including five melting furnaces, two fluid dynamics observation systems, three chambers for environmental conditions for test subjects, and a vestibular sled for stimulating astronauts with defined acceleration.

Most experimental equipment is housed in standardized racks within the Spacelab's crew module, supplied with power, cooling, and vacuum. Data from the mission will be transmitted to the ground via Spacelab and Shuttle data processing systems. Three botanical experiments focus on the "origin and development of gravity-sensing systems" and orientation processes.

Biological experiments include "Froschstatolith" for studying vertebrates, focusing on the development of frog larvae under microgravity to examine the formation of their balance organs upon return to Earth. Medical experiments, "Tanometer" and "Central Venous Pressure," will measure astronauts' intraocular pressure and central venous pressure to study "fluid shifts" and the adaptation of human organs to microgravity.

The Vestibular Sled allows for experiments on astronauts' balance and spatial orientation systems under microgravity. It involves mechanical acceleration combined with caloric stimuli to the inner ear and visual stimulation via moving stripe patterns displayed on a helmet-mounted camera. Physiological parameters like pulse, respiration, and skin potential will be measured. Experiments with moving patterns and a "Rotating Dome" will influence posture and sensations, providing insights into visio-vestibular coordination and sensory integration.

The NAVEX (Navigation Experiment) payload aims to develop and test a clock synchronization procedure with nanosecond accuracy and a one-way distance measurement method.

Other UFO Reports

The issue also contains several shorter reports on UFO sightings:

• Pavia, Italy: A round, intensely green and orange object was seen hovering and spinning over a cemetery, later disappearing in a zig-zag course.
• Italy: Reports from Portonovo (Ancona) and Alberobello (Bari) describe a luminous, elongated, black-brown object with a protruding pipe, and a formation resembling the "Great Bear" constellation with a red light beam.
• Boeing 727 Pilot: A pilot reported seeing a "missile-like object" 100 meters from his jet, prompting an investigation by Italian aviation authorities, who ruled out military exercises.
• Gehlenbeck, Germany: A couple found a shiny object in their garden, initially fearing it was a UFO, but it turned out to be a weather sonde.
• UFO over the night sky: Reports from Oberpfalz, Germany, and southeastern Australia describe circular, color-changing discs and spinning silver discs with red lights.
• UFO-Storch (UFO-Stork): A woman in Schweinfurt, Germany, reported a strange object in her garden, which turned out to be a styrofoam stork attached to balloons, a prank by a wedding party.
• "Party-Knüller" as UFO?: A sighting in the Steinbachtal area was later identified as a large hot air balloon, described as a "Party-Knüller" that glows at night.
• Gerolzhofen, Germany: Three men reported seeing a circular, reddish disc-like object, similar to a sighting near Tirschenreuth.
• Jupiter as UFO?: A bright celestial object observed over Stiftland, Germany, was identified by the Hof Observatory as the planet Jupiter.

Skepticism and Investigation

A section titled "Nach drei Jahren sitzen wir immer noch auf unserem Geld" (After three years, we are still sitting on our money) discusses a committee of skeptical detectives, including magician and psychologist Richard Busch, who offer a $5,000 reward for proof of supernatural abilities. The committee, part of an international group with members like Carl Sagan and B.F. Skinner, has investigated numerous claims but has yet to award the prize. They emphasize the need for scientific proof and warn against people paying for simple solutions to life's problems.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to maintain a balanced approach, presenting UFO sightings and witness accounts while also exploring scientific explanations and skeptical investigations. There's a clear interest in documenting UFO phenomena, from historical cases like Oskar Linke's to contemporary reports. Simultaneously, the publication dedicates significant space to the Spacelab D1 mission, underscoring a commitment to reporting on advancements in space science and technology. The recurring theme is the exploration of the unknown, whether in the skies above or in the vastness of space, with an underlying emphasis on critical evaluation and scientific inquiry.

This issue of JOURNAL TAP, Volume 2, features articles on the Betty and Barney Hill abduction case, the German D1 Spacelab mission, and UFO sightings in South America. The cover highlights the Hill abduction with the question 'Fact or fantasy?' and features photos of astronauts Ernst Messerschmid and Reinhard Furrer.

D1 Spacelab Mission

The issue details the planned Space Shuttle Flight STS 61-A, scheduled for October 30, 1985, from the Kennedy Space Center. The mission, named D1, was to last approximately 165 hours (7 days), with about 150 hours dedicated to operating the scientific payload. The mission aimed to minimize maneuvers that could disturb weightlessness. The flight would carry eight crew members, including a commander, two pilots, two mission specialists, and three payload specialists/scientists. The article outlines the operational responsibilities, including the primary operation of the D1 payload by the onboard crew, supported by the DFVLR's mission control center in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany. The NASA Mission Control Center in Houston remained responsible for Shuttle flight control. The DFVLR's tasks included monitoring and controlling the payload, data processing, and providing necessary parameters to control stations.

UFO's / Folklore by Ulrich Magin

This article explores the connection between UFO sightings and folklore, drawing parallels with historical accounts and legends. Carl Gustav Jung is quoted, suggesting UFO sightings have become a 'living myth.' The author examines how natural phenomena in the past, such as meteors, auroras, and ball lightning, were interpreted as supernatural or extraterrestrial, similar to modern UFO reports. Examples include a fiery glow in the Northern Palatinate in 1618, a fiery object falling near Neunkirchen, hovering blue flames in Finkenbach, and a mysterious light in Roden. The article posits that many 'folklore UFOs' can be explained by natural occurrences, and that the tendency to embellish these events with fantastical details is a recurring theme.

UFO's Über Südamerika! by CENAP-Mannheim

This section reports on UFO sightings in South America, specifically in Argentina. Two Argentine journalists claimed to have photographed unidentified flying objects during a flight on August 21, 1985. The newspaper 'Clarin' published photos of these objects, described as spherical and banana-shaped, exhibiting high speeds and zig-zag movements. The article includes correspondence from the German Embassy in Buenos Aires, confirming the media's attention to the topic and providing contact information for further details. The report suggests that the phenomena might be explained by re-entry of Russian rocket bodies or atmospheric tests, referencing similar events observed in Gran Canaria. The section includes several photographs of alleged UFOs and a map indicating the locations of sightings in Argentina.

The Hill abduction: Fact or fantasy by Rudy De Groote

This article critically examines the Betty and Barney Hill abduction case, suggesting it may be largely fictional. The author, Rudy De Groote, points to several weaknesses in the case, particularly questioning the reliability of testimony obtained through post-hypnotic regression. Dr. Benjamin Simon is quoted stating that the abduction was a 'fantasy' or 'dream' and did not happen. UFOlogists Vallee and Hynek also discussed the case, with hypnosis expert Dr. Larry Garrett acknowledging that regressions can allow individuals to incorporate fantasies and wishes. The article also questions the accuracy of Marjorie Fish's star map, which was based on Betty Hill's description, noting that the distances between stars might not be accurately represented. The author concludes that while Betty Hill was a compelling witness, her claims of ongoing UFO sightings and 'militant' UFOs burning her car lack corroboration, with some lights identified as conventional aircraft or streetlights.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of UFO phenomena, distinguishing between factual reports and folklore or psychological interpretations. The magazine appears to adopt a skeptical stance towards sensational UFO claims, particularly those based on hypnotic regression, while acknowledging the public's fascination with the topic. The D1 mission article provides a factual account of a scientific space endeavor, contrasting with the more speculative UFO content. The editorial stance leans towards rational explanations and the scientific method when analyzing UFO reports, while also exploring the cultural and historical aspects of unexplained aerial phenomena.

Title: UFO INFO
Issue: 2(7)
Publisher: NIVFO (Norwegian Institute of Scientific Research and Enlightenment)
Date: September 1978

This issue of UFO INFO delves into two significant UFO-related topics: the re-examination of the Betty and Barney Hill case and an in-depth report on the Hessdalen phenomenon in Norway.

The Betty and Barney Hill Case Re-examined

The article begins by discussing astronomical mapping and the discrepancies between different star charts, specifically mentioning Marjorie Fish's and another unnamed chart, and a star named Nu-Phoenicis. It then introduces the concept of the 'Stimulus' as defined at the First International UFO Congress in London in 1979, which is anything that evokes a UFO report.

The focus then shifts to the Hill-Fall, with Robert Sheaffer's 1976 analysis. Sheaffer reviewed the sky over New Hampshire on the night of September 19, 1961. He noted that the Moon was near Sagittarius and Capricorn, with no particularly bright stars visible. However, two bright planets were present: Saturn just below the Moon, and Jupiter, a much brighter light source, above Saturn and to the left of the Moon. Betty Hill initially saw the Moon and Saturn. Despite meteorological reports indicating clearing weather, she did not see Jupiter immediately due to clouds. When Jupiter became visible, she described it as a 'spaceship' rather than a planet. The article emphasizes that this observation lasted about 30 minutes. Sheaffer's key point is that if a genuine unknown object had been present, she should have reported three bright objects near the Moon, but she only reported two. This leads to the conclusion that Betty Hill mistook the planet Jupiter for a UFO, attributing the experience to an emotional drama triggered by the unexpected observation during a long, solitary drive.

Rudy de Groote is mentioned as an experienced UFO investigator and researcher.

The Hessdalen Report

The second major section focuses on the Hessdalen phenomenon in Norway, based on a report from NIVFO. The phenomenon gained attention in early 1982, with reports initially coming to NIVFO and later becoming famous through media coverage. The Hessdalen case is noted as being extensively studied due to the long duration of reported sightings.

Investigation and Findings:

NIVFO has dedicated significant time and energy to investigating the Hessdalen mystery since 1982. While some images of the light phenomena exist, many are deemed fraudulent. The report stresses that images are worthless without accompanying information. In April 1984, NIVFO established a meteorological observation station in Hessdalen, and the report's findings are partly based on this data.

The People of Hessdalen:

A few individuals, notably Lars Lillevold and Rutt Marry Moe and their families, have been active in reporting sightings. Despite the valley being a focus of international media attention for a period, most of the over 200 inhabitants have not reported phenomena or commented on the matter.

The Beginning of the Hessdalen Case:

NIVFO received isolated reports in the autumn/winter of 1981, but initially paid little attention due to similar reports from elsewhere in Norway. In January 1982, local newspaper reports brought the case to prominence, leading to increased NIVFO observation. By autumn/winter 1982, the phenomenon expanded, with reports of 'flying objects' being photographed. A report of a humanoid appearing and conveying religious ideas via telepathy also emerged. This led to the association of the lights with spaceships, and speculation about the origin of these strange light phenomena.

Media Coverage and Official Reactions:

The mass media extensively covered the Hessdalen case, generating national interest. NIVFO, however, refrained from drawing conclusions, stating they knew little beyond what the locals reported and their own expeditions.

Reported Activities and Explanations:

On January 18, 1982, the newspaper "Arbeidets Rett" first reported on the case. Later reports mentioned soldiers searching the Hessdalen mountains, though the responsible commander stated it was a normal exercise. A US tabloid, GLOBE, published an article in February 1982 that was largely detached from reality. In March 1982, Thomas McClimans suggested the lights might be reflections from atmospheric inversion layers. Captain Arne Nyland and Lieutenant Peter Reymert visited Hessdalen but made no observations due to bad weather. Flight Officer Kjell Berkan speculated that some lights could be aircraft lights, as many sightings occurred during clear weather and at regular times, with some aircraft lights visible in the Hessdalen area when planes were approaching Trondheim Airport.

An April 1, 1982 article in "Arbeider-Avisa" claimed that the Space Shuttle COLUMBIA and the US Air Force were preparing to investigate, featuring photos of a 'spaceman' and a 'machine'. UFO-NORGE expressed willingness to meet the 'spaceman'. A prediction by seer Anna Elisbath Westerlund for a special event in Hessdalen on December 28, 1982, did not materialize, though about 1,000 people gathered. In March 1983, Arne Wisth presented his book "UFO-Rätsel in Hessdalen", stating UFOs originate from space.

Photographic Evidence and Analysis:

Page 7 features a striking headline in Norwegian: "Farkost fra fremmed planet i Hessdalen" (Craft from a foreign planet in Hessdalen). It describes sensational photos taken by Magnar Kirknes of the Hessdalen plateau, allegedly confirming a craft from another planet with living beings aboard. Kirknes described seeing a luminous craft descend and land, and a being emerged, dressed like a space traveler. The article mentions that American space experts were en route to Hessdalen, offering rewards for significant information. Erik Tandberg, a Norwegian contact person, stated that Norwegian fighter jets would be unable to track the objects and that the space shuttle COLUMBIA might be used for pursuit. The intention would be to map the craft's route for further research.

Pages 8-10 discuss NIVFO's ongoing efforts to demystify the Hessdalen lights. They hypothesized plasma lights, ruling out earthquake lights. A meteorological station was deployed from March to May 1984. NIVFO presented their findings at a press conference, suggesting the phenomenon was explained by their measurements. However, a Hessdalen resident, supported by Arne Wisth, reacted negatively, claiming the equipment used was basic (buckets and thermometers). NIVFO dismissed this as a lack of understanding. NIVFO officially closed its Hessdalen investigation on May 28, 1984. UFO-NORGE continued their project from April 1984 to April 1985, with their results supporting NIVFO's findings, though they received few questionnaires back, indicating low local interest.

The media presented varied views, with ADRESSEAVISEN siding with NIVFO, "Arbeider-Avisa" remaining neutral, and a smaller paper supporting the 'spaceship' theory. The article notes that after years of hearing about 'things' or 'spaceships', it's difficult for Hessdalen residents to consider natural explanations. NIVFO found examples of photographic hoaxes, including a photo of paper stuck to a window and another from a comic book. The report asserts that most photos show stars, planets, and aircraft lights, with no unexplainable objects. The widespread images of distorted phenomena are attributed to camera focus issues or the use of high-speed film, creating effects that appear surprising in the Hessdalen photos.

Religious Aspects:

Locals initially perceived the lights as tangible objects. The Norwegian language lacks a specific term for 'lights that cannot be felt,' leading to the association of 'lights' with 'spaceships.' The article suggests that after years of imagining lights from alien spacecraft, it became difficult for Hessdalen residents to consider other possibilities. Sightings often occurred in clear weather, allowing observation of planets (Venus, Mars), stars (Sirius), satellites, aircraft, helicopters, and balloons, many of which were misidentified as UFOs. The autokinetic effect, where a stationary light appears to move, is also cited as a factor in misidentifying stars and planets.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO INFO adopts a critical and analytical stance towards UFO reports. It emphasizes the importance of scientific investigation, rigorous analysis of evidence, and the potential for misidentification of natural phenomena or known objects. The re-examination of the Betty and Barney Hill case serves as a prime example of how emotional responses and misinterpretations can lead to extraordinary claims. The Hessdalen report similarly scrutinizes photographic evidence and media sensationalism, advocating for rational explanations over speculative ones. The magazine appears to lean towards debunking or providing mundane explanations for many widely reported UFO incidents, while acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena that warrant further scientific study.

Title: UFO-Nyt
Issue: 2
Volume: 1984
Date: 1984
Publisher: Norsk UFO-Informasjon
Country: Norway
Language: Danish
ISSN: 0800-2978
Cover Headline: Hessdalen-Lyset

Hessdalen Light Phenomena

The article "Hessdalen-Lyset" (The Hessdalen Light) delves into the mysterious light phenomena observed in the Hessdalen valley in Norway. Despite poor weather conditions, more than 30 meteors and satellites were registered during the observation period, but no UFOs were identified. The author suggests that many of the Hessdalen sightings are likely attributable to meteor observations, noting that approximately 150 meteorites are found on Earth annually, with about 11 of them in Norway.

A significant factor discussed is the proximity of routine flight paths to the Hessdalen area. Aircraft heading to Trondheim Airport often pass over Hessdalen. These planes are required to fly within an 18 km wide corridor, and the radio navigation stations are located west of Hessdalen. The article points out that the "land lights" in the Hessdalen area are switched on, and these powerful searchlights might occasionally be visible through cloud layers, potentially appearing as a light phenomenon moving across the sky. During observations by NIVFO (Norsk UFO-Informasjon), aircraft were frequently sighted on this route. Private aircraft, in particular, were noted for making irregular changes in their flight direction, which may have caused confusion among observers. The presence of an active aircraft club operating only 25 km from Hessdalen is also highlighted as a potential source of sightings. The air route from Røros to Trondheim follows the Hessdalen valley in a northerly direction.

Conclusions and Explanations

The article posits that the light phenomena in the Hessdalen area may have persisted for a long time, with reports dating back 100 years. However, regular observations have only occurred in the last 2 1/2 years, during which time the area has gained international attention for these sightings. It is suggested that this attention may have stimulated people to look for lights in the sky. Nevertheless, the article emphasizes that the local residents of Hessdalen have only observed natural lights or objects. There is no evidence presented to suggest that anything other than natural phenomena has occurred. The author concludes that all reported phenomena in the Hessdalen area can be explained by the current understanding of natural phenomena. Various types of lights have been observed and reported, but known causes are suggested to account for any inaccuracies in the reports. Crucially, the article states that no description of the Hessdalen phenomenon falls outside the scope of descriptions of known phenomena, objects, or lights.

"Neues von Woody" Cartoon

The issue also includes a cartoon strip titled "Neues von Woody" (News from Woody), featuring characters named Pierks, Muriel, and a mouse. The dialogue in the cartoon touches upon the lifespan of a mouse and a humorous remark about returning to the kitchen in about a year and a half.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the investigation and demystification of the Hessdalen light phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism, leaning towards natural explanations for the observed events. While acknowledging the long history and recent increase in sightings, the article consistently attempts to ground the phenomena in known scientific principles, such as meteor activity, aircraft, and natural atmospheric lights. The publication, UFO-Nyt, by Norsk UFO-Informasjon, seems to aim at providing information and analysis of UFO-related reports, with a focus on rational explanations where possible.