Klipprunden - 1981 00 00

Magazine Overview

This issue of Bergens Tidende, dated Tuesday, January 27, 1981, features a prominent article about a Bergen resident, Mentz Kaarbø, who is the editor of the new Nordic UFO Newsletter. The newspaper also includes several other articles and letters related to UFOs, reflecting a significant public interest in the topic in Norway at the time.

Bergenser Redaktør for Nordisk UFO-blad

The main article introduces Mentz Kaarbø, a 23-year-old science student in Bergen who also serves as the editor of "Nordic UFO Newsletter." Kaarbø expresses an open-minded approach to the UFO problem, stating that while he acknowledges that only 10-20% of reported UFO sightings are truly inexplicable, this small percentage warrants further investigation. He notes that interest in UFOs spans all age groups, but is most prevalent among those in their 20s and 30s. The newsletter is published in English to reach international UFO groups, facilitating an exchange of information and focusing on cases from Norway and Sweden.

Kaarbø is somewhat skeptical of the theory that UFOs are extraterrestrial visitors, finding the idea of small green beings picking moss for 40 years unlikely. He also touches upon the possibility of UFOs being creations of the human psyche, acknowledging that parapsychological forces are often associated with UFO observations, though not always.

He confirms that authorities, particularly in the USA (mentioning the CIA), have often obstructed scientific research into UFOs, withholding information. The reasons for this are speculated to be the avoidance of panic. However, the release of documents in the USA is expected to shed more light on these issues. Kaarbø believes a solution to the mystery might be close, though he notes that researchers have held this belief for 30 years.

Regarding proof, Kaarbø admits there is no irrefutable evidence, such as clear photographs or landing traces. However, he finds it hard to believe that the numerous credible witnesses reporting inexplicable sightings are all lying. He remains open to explanations for what UFOs might be.

On the topic of research, Kaarbø states that Norway does not officially support UFO research, unlike other countries. He mentions a research section being established in Trondheim, connected to the Norwegian Institute of Technology, which has access to instruments and equipment.

Kaarbø notes that UFO sightings occur in waves, both in Norway and globally, with the USA and South America reporting the most. He personally has not seen a UFO but has been interested in the subject since childhood.

UFO-landsmøte på Tromøy

Another article reports on a national meeting for the Norsk UFO Center held at Hove on Tromøy. The meeting discussed strange and unexplained events reported by the club in recent years. While public turnout was not high, the club believes their perspective on these phenomena will eventually gain wider acceptance. They state that things are happening in the world that cannot be explained, but this does not necessarily mean the existence of extraterrestrial beings, rather that these phenomena need to be investigated.

The article includes a photo of several individuals associated with the UFO Center, including Arne Thomassen, Finn Kalvik (leader of Bergen UFO Center), Odd Gunnar Røed, and Hans Ås. Hilary Evans, an English author of UFO books, is also pictured.

UFO-fantaster vs. Realister

This section presents a debate through letters to the editor. One letter, signed "Realist," dismisses UFO enthusiasts as belonging to religious sects and questions their sanity. Another letter, signed "E. M. Larsen," defends UFO enthusiasts, arguing that "Realist" lacks insight and unfairly characterizes the entire UFO community based on a minority with religious overtones. Larsen emphasizes that UFO stands for "Unidentified Flying Object" and that the origin from space is just one theory. He also posits that it's unrealistic to assume Earth is the only planet with intelligent life and that advanced civilizations might have different concepts of time and technology, making interstellar travel feasible.

Larsen criticizes "Realist" for dismissing UFO reports and images, noting that while 80-90% of reports can be explained conventionally, the remaining significant number come from diverse, credible witnesses and cannot be easily dismissed.

A third letter, signed "Oss fornuftige" (We sensible ones), responds to "Realist" and E.H. Larsen. This writer acknowledges the existence of UFO cults but argues that the "little knowledge" of skeptics is insufficient. The letter cites several UFO sightings reported in the American magazine "UFO NEWS" from 1981, including sightings in Ohio, Kansas, Texas, Arizona, Michigan, and Indiana, involving various shapes and behaviors, some even mentioning "humanoids" and cattle mutilation. The writer suggests that "Realist" should attend a meeting to engage in a debate rather than outright dismissal.

"Realister og fantaster"

This article directly addresses the debate, criticizing "Realist" for making unsubstantiated arguments and displaying an "all-knowing" attitude. It asserts that UFO witnesses come from all walks of life and are not typically mentally disturbed, citing a study by psychiatrist Berthold Sehwarz that found no UFO experiences among mentally ill patients. The article argues that "Realist" should distinguish between genuine UFO phenomena and those who interpret them in religious or sectarian terms, such as believing UFOs are angels. It also points out that the lack of concrete evidence is a problem for serious UFO research, and that the credibility of a report increases with the number of witnesses.

The article dismisses the "rare atmospheric phenomena" explanation as an "official bluff" and states that the Norsk UFO Center encourages open debate and continues its work to understand the UFO phenomenon, which it considers one of the greatest mysteries of the time.

UFO sett i Lånke

Two articles report on a UFO sighting in Lånke, Norway. Hjørdis Hokstad described seeing a man-sized, cigar-shaped object with a red, heart-shaped plate on its side. The object rotated as it ascended and disappeared into the sky. The article notes that while many UFO sightings can be explained, some remain unexplained. It also mentions that meteorologists consider it highly unlikely that a weather balloon would behave in such a manner.

UFO-leder

Kolbjørn Stenødegård, leader of the Norwegian Institute for Scientific Research and Information (NIVFO), discusses the Lånke sighting. He initially thought it might be a prank but changed his mind after speaking with witnesses. He describes the object as cigar-shaped, man-sized, and rotating. Stenødegård plans to investigate the sighting further. He defines UFOs as phenomena observed in the atmosphere or on the ground that remain unexplained after scientific investigation. He hopes that UFO phenomena will generate more debate and interest among professional researchers.

Nytt nordisk UFO-blad utgis fra Bergen

This article announces the launch of "Nordic UFO News Letter," published by Nordic UFO Groups and edited by Mentz Kaarbø in Bergen. The publication aims to provide information on UFO cases from Norway and Sweden, featuring both historical and recent sightings, including close encounters and reports of "humanoids." The article acknowledges that the publication is written by "UFO-believers" but suggests this is not necessarily negative, given the skepticism many people hold towards UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the UFO phenomenon, its investigation, and the societal reaction to it. There is a clear division between those who actively research and believe in the existence of unexplained aerial phenomena (UFO enthusiasts, researchers, and editors of UFO publications) and those who are skeptical or dismissive (labeled as "realists"). The editorial stance, as presented through the articles and interviews, leans towards encouraging open-mindedness, scientific investigation, and a critical approach to both belief and disbelief. The articles highlight the lack of definitive proof but emphasize the importance of exploring unexplained events and the potential for new discoveries. There's a sense that the topic is treated seriously by some, despite the prevailing skepticism and the association with fringe groups or religious interpretations by others. The establishment of a Nordic UFO Newsletter and research initiatives suggests a growing, organized effort to understand the phenomenon.

This issue of Norske Argus, a Norwegian publication, features a collection of articles and reports related to UFO phenomena and ufology in Norway. The content spans various dates, with a focus on events and discussions from 1981, but also includes historical references from 1956 and earlier.

Anti-UFO-fantasier & Oss fornuftige

The cover presents a dichotomy between 'Anti-UFO-fantasies' and 'Us sensible ones,' suggesting a critical or skeptical approach to some UFO claims, while also acknowledging the ongoing discussion.

Hjørdis Hokstad i Lånke: Jeg så en UFO

This article details a sighting by Hjørdis Hokstad in Lånke on July 25, 1981. She describes seeing a UFO and a small, 'mann'-like being, which she insists she is not fantasizing about. She observed the object through binoculars, noting its unusual movement and a red, heart-shaped emblem. The object ascended rapidly and disappeared. Hokstad expresses frustration that her experience was dismissed as a balloon sighting. The article also mentions that another person in the vicinity reported seeing an unidentified flying object, and a farmer's livestock became agitated around the same time. Kolbjørn Stenødegård from the Norwegian Institute for Scientific Research and Information visited the site and noted 'something' on the landing spot that could have been caused by heat or radiation, but a biological explanation was also possible. Investigations with Andøya rocket range and air traffic control at Værnes indicated no known Norwegian or foreign research balloons matched the description, and the object's steady course against the wind made a balloon theory unlikely. The report criticizes a misleading statement made to NRK Trøndelag that the object was likely a balloon. The article concludes that the observation remains interesting as no conventional explanation fits.

UFO - religion for Fiskeridirektoratet?

This piece, dated November 25, 1980, is a response from Alf Thommassen to an article by Gunnar Christensen, editor-secretary at the Directorate of Fisheries, who apparently linked UFO phenomena to religion. Thommassen questions Christensen's seriousness and criticizes the attempt to dismiss UFO issues as mere religious fanaticism, referencing Ernst Benz's book 'Nye religioner.' He argues that while some UFO enthusiasts may be fanatical, this does not invalidate the serious study of UFOs. Thommassen suggests Christensen contact Swedish ufologist K. Gøsta Rehn for more information, highlighting Sweden's advanced approach to UFO research compared to Norway's Directorate of Fisheries.

Leif-Normann Solhaug på Fredvang

This article from August 29, 1981, introduces Leif-Normann Solhaug, an 18-year-old from Fredvang in Lofoten, who has been appointed as the department head for NUFOC Nord-Norge (Norsk UFO Center Northern Norway). The organization has divided the country into departments, and Solhaug is one of five department heads. The article notes his serious interest in UFOs and his commencement of work in his new role.

UFO-kommentar

This commentary, likely from Agderposten, discusses the complexity of UFO phenomena. It acknowledges the work of Hans Aass in his UFO column but expresses skepticism towards reports of deceased humanoids. The author notes the fabrication of many UFO stories globally but suggests that extraterrestrial beings might have different biological qualities that allow them to survive conditions humans find impossible. The commentary also touches upon the Norsk UFO Center's internal discussions about whether their publications have gone too far in printing 'adventure stories.' It concludes by agreeing that UFOs are a reality.

- Vi er mer skeptiske enn de fleste

This article from Fædrelandsvennen, dated July 12, 1981, reports on a Norsk UFO Center camp at Hove. It highlights the skepticism of the attendees, including a young boy named Roar Heiland who was more interested in Donald Duck comics than the UFO presentations. The article emphasizes that the 250 members of Norsk UFO Center are not fantasists but are naturally curious and committed to systematic observation. Hans Aass, from Arendal UFO Center, is quoted stating that their skepticism is greater than that of TV personalities like Brade and Tandberg. Aass suggests that irrefutable proof of UFOs will eventually emerge, and the world's readiness to accept such knowledge remains to be seen.

Naturlig forklaring på hytte-fenomenet i Homborsund

This article from Fædrelandsvennen, dated July 10, 1981, investigates the Homborsund cabin phenomenon. In the summer of 1980, two inexplicable half-circles were found on the roof of the Meyers family's cabin. The Norsk UFO Center's investigative section, in collaboration with researchers from the Norwegian Institute of Technology (NTH) and the roofing manufacturer, concluded that the marks were likely caused by water expansion within the singel, possibly due to repeated freezing and thawing or heating and cooling. NTH student Johan Hjelvik presented the findings, noting that experiments on similar roofing material replicated the damage. The article suggests that initial scratches on the roof could have been caused by various natural means, including attempts to dislodge something with a rake.

Lysende gjenstand over Haug

Reported in Ringerikes Blad on August 22, 1981, this incident describes an observation by Ekteparet Helgesen at Schjongstangen. At 11 PM on a Wednesday evening, they saw an inexplicable, large, luminous object moving horizontally from north to south for several minutes. Helgesen, who works at Fornebu airport, stated it was not an airplane, estimating its distance at one kilometer and its length as a fathom. The object was described as moving at a steady speed.

Tyfusen brer seg (1931) & UFO i Torpa (1956)

This section from Arbeiderbladet includes two distinct historical notes. The first, from October 21, 1981, references an older article from 1931 about a typhus outbreak in Gjøvik, detailing the difficulty in finding the source of infection and the admission of a new patient. The second note, from an unspecified date in 1981 referencing an event in 1956, reports on two luminous objects seen over Vest-Torpa. Leif Åsødegård described the objects as one spherical and one saucer-shaped, each with a long, luminous tail. They moved back and forth for a few minutes before disappearing to the west. Åsødegård was certain they were not shooting stars or meteors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, investigations, and the public's perception of these phenomena. There is a clear tension between those who report sightings and those who seek rational explanations, often highlighting the role of organizations like Norsk UFO Center in documenting and analyzing these events. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious inquiry, acknowledging the reality of UFOs as a subject of interest while also emphasizing the need for critical analysis and skepticism, as seen in the 'UFO-kommentar' and the 'Vi er mer skeptiske enn de fleste' articles. The publication seems to aim at presenting both eyewitness accounts and the results of scientific or investigative efforts to understand these occurrences.

Title: NORSKE ARGUS

Issue Date: November 1981 (based on multiple dated clippings)

Publisher: NORSKE ARGUS A-S

Country: Norway

Language: Norwegian

Document Type: Magazine Issue (compilation of newspaper clippings)

Cover Headline: En UFO (A UFO)

Cover Description: The cover features the title "En UFO" in large, stylized letters, with a drawing of a flying saucer below it. The Norske Argus logo is at the top.

Content Summary

This issue of Norske Argus compiles a series of newspaper clippings detailing numerous UFO (Unidentified Flying Object) and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon) sightings reported across Norway in late 1981. The clippings, sourced from various regional newspapers, highlight a perceived 'UFO wave' during this period.

"Ildkule" over Oslofjorden (Sandefjords Blad, Nov 3, 1981)

A woman residing on Vesterøya reported observing a luminous sphere over the Oslofjord for approximately half an hour. The object, described as sun-colored with a reddish hue at times, moved from east to west in a low arc near Svenner. Upon disappearing, it emitted a bluish-white flash. The phenomenon was visible to the naked eye, and the witness also observed it through binoculars. Torp Air Station reported no related sightings.

Lysfenomen på Assiden (fremtiden, date not specified, but context suggests late 1981)

A man on Assiden reported seeing a strange luminous object moving from Bragernesåsen towards the high-rise buildings and then towards Nedre Eiker around 10 PM on a Sunday evening. The object was described as a luminous round sphere.

Flere så lysende gjenstand (Gudbrandsdølen Lillehammer Tilskuer, Nov 24, 1981)

This article reports multiple sightings of mysterious objects in the sky on a Saturday. One observation occurred in Åsstuveien, Lillehammer, around 3:45 PM. A family at dinner noticed a luminous object moving south in a bow, with a tail that separated from the main body. The phenomenon suggested heat and lasted about 20 minutes before disappearing, leaving a smoke-like trail. The object's movement was described as possibly controlled. Merete Jørstad and Ane Bræin also witnessed the phenomenon from Sigrid Undsetsvei, noting it appeared to be burning before vanishing behind a hill.

UFO over Helgøya (Ringsaker Blad, Nov 24, 1981)

An object was observed over Helgøya on a Saturday evening by residents of Hemer. It was described as round and red-glowing, moving towards Gjøvik.

Mystiske rør ved Sjoa (Hamar Dagblad, Nov 24, 1981)

Two large, white-glowing tubes were reported to have entered the ground at high speed behind Sjoa on Saturday afternoon. They resembled large paper rolls, moved parallel to each other, and emitted a strong white light. This observation was reported to the Norsk UFO Center.

UFO over Lillehammer (Hamar Dagblad, Nov 25, 1981)

This clipping reiterates the sighting from Gudbrandsdølen Lillehammer Tilskuer, describing a luminous object moving in a bow with a tail, suggesting heat, and lasting about 20 minutes before disappearing.

UFO over Helgøya! (Hamar Dagblad, Nov 23, 1981)

This report from Hamar Vest describes an object seen over Helgøya on Saturday evening as round and red-glowing, moving slowly towards Gjøvik. The article also references a similar report from Løten the previous Saturday evening, where a red-glowing spot was seen through binoculars over the Skreia-fjella.

KONNERUDKOLLEN I Drammen (Arbeiderbladet, Nov 26, 1931)

This article details an observation at Konnerudkollen in Drammen where several families witnessed a large luminous object hovering silently for an hour before disappearing below the horizon. Witnesses were certain it was not an airplane. Similar phenomena were reported multiple times on Konnerudkollen the previous year.

Katinka og Marianne så UFO på Fagernes? (Valdres, Dec 5, 1981)

Two young girls, Katinka Eggen and Marianne Stensrud, reported seeing a large luminous object over Marsteinshøgda near Fagernes on a Monday evening. The object had multiple lights and moved towards Strandefjorden before disappearing. The girls' father, initially skeptical, became more convinced when Katinka drew a depiction of the object that matched descriptions.

"UFO" sto på himmelen i en time: Flere på Konnerud observerte lysende gjenstand på himmelen (fremtiden, Nov 25, 1931)

This article by Roy Hansen provides a more detailed account of the Konnerud sighting. Several families observed a large luminous object in the eastern sky between 5 PM and 6 PM on a Saturday. They emphasized it was not an airplane due to its stationary behavior for about an hour. Witnesses compared it to a passing airplane and noted significant differences. Attempts to contact the Norsk Institutt for Vitenskapelig Forskning og Opplysning were unsuccessful due to an incorrect phone number. The police were also contacted but reportedly dismissed the report. The object moved slowly, then hovered, and finally disappeared below the horizon. Witnesses also noted a similarity to sightings on Åssiden previously.

De gåtefulle UFO'er (Agderposten, Dec 23, 1981)

This article discusses a 'UFO wave' in the Arendalsdistriktet starting in early November 1981. The author, Ragnar Mathisen, recounts his own UFO experience in September 1980 near Utsjoki, Finland, where he saw two red lights that appeared to be vertically aligned and moved irregularly. He describes an object with a strong light and blue light in its windows, which ascended as he approached. He also mentions a similar sighting reported in Agderposten and a 'susende lyd' (whistling sound).

The article details a specific sighting on November 8th, around 8 PM, near Solåsveien, where blinking lights were observed. The author notes that the intensity of these sightings seemed to be increasing. He requests public assistance in identifying the phenomena, which he categorizes as UFO (unidentified).

UFO-bølge over Arendalsdistriktet (Agderposten, Dec 23, 1981)

This is a continuation or related article to the one above, focusing on the Arendalsdistriktet UFO wave. It describes a sighting by an eyewitness couple on November 19th, around 6:45 PM, near Strømmen. They observed two large red lights moving slowly towards Arendal. Later that evening, around 8:20 PM, they witnessed a shimmering blue light in the southeast that moved erratically. After turning off all lights in their house, they observed a flickering yellow light that turned blue, hovering for about an hour. They also noted a large, elongated object with red lights at each end moving silently over Blogestadvannet. The object was estimated to be 200-300 meters long. The family expressed fear and a sense of unreality.

Sigarformet (Agderposten, Dec 23, 1981)

This section discusses the skepticism surrounding UFO reports, particularly when described by a single witness. It then details the November 19th sighting by the couple from Austre Moland, corroborating the previous account. The article includes a sketch of the object, approved by the witnesses.

En kommentar til U.F.O. hendelsen på Helgeroa (Nybrott, Oct 16, 1981, as reported by NUFOC Tønsberg)

This report details an investigation by NUFOC representatives Jan Snekkestad and Arne Foss into a UFO incident near Helgeroa on October 14, 1981. They interviewed six children, aged 5-10, whose accounts were recorded. The children described an object that was round or oval, emitting a red light like brake lights, with white light beams reaching down. Some saw a blue light. The object moved erratically, pulsating and rotating. A falling object was also mentioned but not confirmed by all. The children reported being scared but unharmed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout these clippings is the reporting of unexplained aerial phenomena, primarily characterized by luminous objects, unusual lights, and non-conventional flight patterns. The articles generally present witness testimonies without overt skepticism, though some acknowledge the inherent difficulty in verifying such accounts. The compilation suggests a significant public interest in UFOs in Norway during 1981, with multiple sightings reported across different regions. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting these events and encouraging further reports, as evidenced by calls for public assistance and contact information for UFO investigation groups.

Title: Nybrott
Issue Date: October 16, 1981
Document Type: Magazine Issue
Language: Norwegian

UFO Sighting in Helgeroa

The main article details a reported UFO sighting by eight children aged between 5 and 11 years old near Helgeroa, Norway. The children described a powerful, intense light that caused them to fall to the ground. They were adamant that it was not an airplane or lightning, but rather a UFO.

One of the children, Linn, recounted how the light was so strong that several of them were thrown to the ground. She also mentioned that another child was asked if he was sick upon returning home because he was so pale.

After observing the object for a while, it disappeared behind trees in the direction of Stavern. Before it vanished, the children noticed an object, described as resembling a suitcase, being dropped from the craft.

Synøve Gausdal, a parent, stated that the children returned home screaming and highly agitated. Her husband, Tor Gausdal, initially didn't understand the situation but calmed the children down and heard their consistent accounts. He asked his daughter to draw what she had seen.

Recognizing the unusual nature of the event, Tor Gausdal took the children to the Larvik police. The children recounted their experience to the authorities. The police then contacted the air traffic control tower at Fornebu and meteorologists. Based on the information available from these sources, it was confirmed that the phenomenon was neither an aircraft nor lightning.

Additionally, other residents in the Helgeroa area reported witnessing strong flashes of light during the same time period, lending further credence to the event.

Witness Accounts and Drawings

The article includes quotes from several of the children, including Linn, who described the object as a "flying saucer" and mentioned seeing windows on it. Eirik Mathisen initially thought it was a plane with its lights on but realized it was moving in a circular pattern. Monica Gausdal's drawing of the object is featured, depicting a disc-like shape with lights around the perimeter and windows.

Official Investigation and Other Sightings

The report highlights the steps taken by the police to investigate the sighting, including contacting aviation authorities and meteorological services. The lack of conventional explanations from these sources points towards an anomalous event. The mention of other local witnesses seeing strong light flashes suggests the event might have been observed by more people in the vicinity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The article focuses on a specific UFO sighting with multiple child witnesses, emphasizing the intensity of the light and the unusual behavior of the object. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting the event seriously, including the official investigation and the consistent testimonies of the children, while acknowledging the lack of a definitive conventional explanation. The use of children's drawings and direct quotes adds a personal and compelling dimension to the report.