Klipprunden - 1983 03 11

Magazine Overview

This issue, primarily composed of newspaper clippings from February and March 1983, focuses heavily on UFO (Unidentified Flying Object) sightings and related discussions in Norway, particularly in the northern regions. The main headline, "UFO-feber i nord" (UFO fever in the north), sets the tone for the content, which explores various reported phenomena, scientific perspectives, and public reactions.

UFO Sightings and Reports

The issue compiles several reports of UFO sightings from different locations in Norway:

• Solbergfjorden Area (January 10, 1983): A luminous phenomenon was observed by multiple people, initially appearing as an 8-tall, M, J, P, and a round shape, later transforming into a skewed cross with red, white, and green lights. The lights blinked irregularly, with one red light remaining constant.
• Bodø Lufthavn (January 16, 1983): A cigar-shaped object with a condensation trail was seen by seven individuals working in meteorology and other professions.
• Stokmarknes (January 13, 1983): An object resembling a moon with half its disk obscured by a mountaintop was observed for about three minutes in total, appearing blue.
• Alta Area (Christmas 1983): A family reported seeing a light over the mountains that intensified, causing their car lights to go out temporarily.
• Mehamn/Lakselv (Early March 1983): An object initially thought to be a UFO was later identified as a Soviet rocket passing at a high altitude.
• Søgne (February 24, 1983): A couple witnessed a strange, luminous object resembling a large, blinking star, which moved and left a green light trail.
• Kapp (February 25, 1983): A reader reported a red glow that turned out to be a clear red light moving in a zigzag pattern, possibly appearing as two objects.
• Drammen (March 3, 1983): Randi Wang observed a disk-shaped object that moved slowly and changed its shape.

Scientific and Skeptical Perspectives

• Jan Erik Solheim (Nordlysobservatoriet, Tromsø): Solheim explains that UFOs, by definition, are unidentified. He suggests that many sightings can be explained by rocket launches (which release sporstoffer, or trace substances, of various colors and forms) and large balloons used for scientific equipment (reflecting sunlight and creating unusual shapes). He notes that these balloons typically drift from west to east at altitudes of 25,000 to 30,000 meters.

Solheim also addresses the question of extraterrestrial life, stating that while the scientific community is divided, many believe it is probable that intelligent life exists elsewhere due to the vast number of stars and planets. However, he emphasizes that communication or travel would likely involve signals or robotic probes rather than direct contact, given the immense energy required for space travel.

• Jan Krogh (Norsk institutt for vitenskapelig forskning og opplysning): Krogh comments on the Mehamn sighting, identifying it as a Soviet rocket. He states that his institute works to counter pseudoscientific research, particularly concerning UFO clubs, and that most reported UFOs have natural explanations.

• Asbjørn Hallan's Criticism: Hallan is criticized for his claims in an article (MOM 17/1) about UFO hysteria in Hessdalen, suggesting that the local population suffers from inbreeding and resulting psychological issues like synesthesia (hallucinations). He implies that people in remote areas are more superstitious.

• Knut Aasheim's Rebuttal: Aasheim strongly refutes Hallan's claims, calling them baseless, ridiculous, and defamatory. He questions Hallan's medical expertise and argues that the Hessdalen phenomenon is not related to superstition. Aasheim points out that many people, including those from outside the area and even from the military, have witnessed UFOs in Hessdalen, and questions how visitors could experience the same 'hallucinations' immediately upon arrival.

• Observator Brahde: Brahde is mentioned as having suggested that Hessdalen UFOs are temperature inversions caused by passing trains. Aasheim dismisses this, noting that Brahde apparently did not check train schedules against UFO sighting times.

Organizations and Investigations

• UFO Norge: This organization, with a Northern Norway branch (UFO Norge avd. Nord-Norge), is actively investigating UFO sightings. They collect reports via questionnaires and contact individuals for more details. The organization encourages anyone who observes mysterious phenomena to contact them.
• PET Installasjon A/S: The initial letter in the issue mentions the author's last day of work at this company due to layoffs, highlighting a personal impact of economic downturn.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a strong public interest in UFOs in Norway during early 1983, with a notable concentration of reports from Northern Norway. There is a clear tension between scientific explanations (rockets, balloons, atmospheric phenomena) and the possibility of genuine, unexplained aerial phenomena or extraterrestrial contact. The articles present both skeptical viewpoints and a more open-minded approach, encouraging investigation and data collection. The debate surrounding the Hessdalen sightings highlights the polarized nature of discussions around UFOs, with accusations of pseudoscience and personal attacks. The overall stance seems to be one of cautious inquiry, acknowledging that while many sightings have explanations, some remain unexplained, and the possibility of intelligent life beyond Earth is a valid consideration.

The editorial tone leans towards reporting on the phenomena and presenting different viewpoints, encouraging readers to share their own experiences and opinions. The inclusion of personal accounts and the active role of UFO Norge suggest a community deeply engaged with the topic.