Klipprunden - 1985 02 17

Magazine Overview

This issue of VG, dated Wednesday, February 20, 1985, features a prominent cover story revealing a major UFO hoax. The magazine is published in Norway and covers national news, with a focus on the UFO phenomenon in this particular issue.

Main Cover Story: "Jeg lurte hele verden" (I Fooled the Whole World)

The lead story details how Pål Kristian Vaag, a 21-year-old from Aure on Nordmøre, Norway, successfully deceived experts and the public with a seemingly authentic UFO photograph. The article, written by Morten Aasbø and Janne Møller-Hansen, and also covered by Tom Bakkelii, explains that Vaag constructed the 'UFO' using a two-meter long cut water pipe and a grey bookend, suspended by a thin fishing line. He attached this to the roof of a woodshed and took the photograph. Vaag admits to having 'cheated' and that the UFO was a 'bluff'. The photo was first presented to VG, which published it under the title "UFO: (Un- derlig Foto Objekt)" (UFO: (Strange Photo Object)). This led to extensive scrutiny, with even the Norwegian Air Force's experts unable to identify it as fake initially. Vaag claims the idea for the UFO image came from a street preacher he met in Copenhagen. He also mentions that the bookend was a Christmas gift from his brother, Geir Magne (17), who made it on a lathe. The photograph was developed six months later, after Vaag had started his military service. He sold copies of the photo to friends, with one person from Sandefjord reportedly paying 500 Norwegian kroner for it. This Sandefjord resident then shared the photo with VG, leading to its worldwide circulation.

Other UFO-Related Content

UFO over Alta?

A report from Hammerfest, dated February 9, 1985, describes a bright light observed near the moon in Alta on February 4, 1985, at 5:43 PM. The observer noted the light was much brighter than a star and disappeared and reappeared. The report suggests it was not an airplane due to its speed and lack of sound. The observer, Evald F. Larsen from the UFO department of Nord, appeals for other witnesses to come forward.

Venus som malangsværing (Venus as a Harbinger of Bad Weather)

This article by Arnold Lockertsen discusses observations of Venus and other celestial phenomena. Lockertsen, who has a reputation for publicizing his observations and interpretations, notes increased UFO activity. He mentions an incident in Lithuania where four fighter jets were sent to intercept a UFO, but the missiles exploded upon launch, and two of the jets disappeared along with their pilots. He also describes a large, disc-shaped object observed over Norwegian mountains. Lockertsen connects some UFO activity to the Hessdalen project, suggesting that similar craft are being deployed. He warns observers to stay at least eight meters away from fallen objects and avoid staring at them, as it could damage their eyesight. He also touches upon astronomical events like Venus's passage and the moon's position.

UFO-observasjoner i Langsund-området (UFO Observations in the Langsund Area)

Lockertsen details UFO observations in the Langsund area, including sightings of 'telemeterskiver' (telemetry discs) operating at constant yellow light, with diameters ranging from meters to 3.5 meters. He believes these are part of a larger project, possibly related to Hessdalen, and that they are controlled from motherships in the upper atmosphere. He also mentions geological anomalies and potential earthquake activity in the region.

UFO-observasjoner i Finnmark (UFO Observations in Finnmark)

This section discusses UFO sightings in Finnmark, noting that both ground and air observers have reported unknown objects. Evald F. Larsen from the UFO department of Nord requests that pilots and other individuals who have observed unusual phenomena contact him to help distinguish between UFOs and known phenomena. He states that the military is aware of the UFO phenomenon but denies it to avoid public panic.

Flybussen fra Fornebu er nettopp landet (The Flybussen from Fornebu has just landed)

A brief caption accompanies a photo of a SAS Flybussen, noting its arrival from Fornebu.

«Teit» å trikke (Silly to take the Tram)

This short piece criticizes Oslo Sporveier's advertising campaign promoting public transport. Employees of the tram service have complained to the Consumer Ombudsman about misleading advertising, stating that waiting for trams and buses in the cold is not a pleasant experience.

Laffen

A small cartoon or anecdote titled "Laffen" comments on a photograph, stating that the photographed UFO was not a flying saucer and that people could 'fly into a rage' (fly i flint).

Other Brief Items

• Rett & Slett (Right & Straight): A national section with various short, often humorous, observations. One item mentions Toralv and Peer Gynt. Another references "Nevrosa Grønn" commenting on "Treholt" (likely referring to Arne Treholt, a Norwegian spy arrested in 1984).
• PANGSAK (Pang-sack): A section with short news items. One mentions a deadline for applications to Bærum Pistolklub.
• SPOR I ORD (Trace in Words): A section with wordplay and definitions. "Bordell" is defined as "driftsbygning" (operational building).
• VÅR ENGELSKE VENN (Our English Friend): A humorous observation about the difficulty of getting into prison in Norway compared to getting out.
• NYTT I NORD (News in the North): A cartoon depicting people finding parts of a 'Russian rocket' and commenting on the 'exploding cold'.
• Vanskelig å få barn på kino i Sandefjord (Difficult to get children to the cinema in Sandefjord): A short, humorous piece questioning the necessity of taking children to the cinema.
• VILTER BUKSE (Wild Trousers): A humorous anecdote about a mouse found inside a man's trousers.
• Tjassa..? av morten m...: A recurring humorous column with illustrations, featuring short, witty observations.
• Ørken i snø (Desert in Snow): A photo of a cactus in a snowy desert landscape, with a caption noting that Arizona experienced a sandstorm, suggesting cacti might need to be renamed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO phenomena, skepticism, and the media's role in reporting such events. The prominent exposé of the Pål Kristian Vaag UFO hoax suggests an editorial stance that values debunking sensational claims and highlighting the constructed nature of some 'evidence'. The inclusion of various short, humorous, and observational pieces indicates a broader interest in current events and popular culture, often with a satirical or lighthearted tone. The magazine also touches on societal issues like public transport advertising and the challenges of everyday life, interspersed with the more sensational UFO content.

This issue of Helgeland Arbeiderblad, dated February 11, 1985, focuses heavily on UFO (Unidentified Flying Object) sightings and related phenomena in Norway. The cover headline asks "UFO sett i Grane?" (UFO seen in Grane?), setting the tone for the articles within. The magazine features reports from various locations, discussions on UFO research, and internal organizational matters of Norwegian UFO groups.

The UFO Hoax Revealed

A significant portion of the magazine addresses a debunked UFO photograph. The article "Avslørt" (Revealed) details how a famous UFO picture, which had initially garnered attention and even scrutiny from defense experts, was proven to be a hoax. Kolbjørn Stenødegård from NIVFO (Norwegian Institute for Scientific Research and Information) explains that a special digital technique, which breaks down the image into 30,000-40,000 points, was used for analysis. This technique is credited with exposing most false UFO images. Pål Kristian Vaag expresses surprise at how many people were fooled before the hoax was revealed, hoping the incident will foster greater skepticism towards UFO images presented in the media. He mentions getting the idea for the hoax from a UFO enthusiast in Copenhagen who explained how images can be faked.

The Hessdalen Phenomenon

Several articles are dedicated to the Hessdalen phenomenon, a series of unexplained lights and sightings in the Hessdalen valley. Professor J. Allen Hynek, described as the world's foremost UFO researcher, is featured prominently. He states that the Hessdalen observations are unique and have provided valuable data, particularly through the extensive photographic evidence. Hynek has spent time in Hessdalen to personally investigate the phenomenon and interview witnesses. He notes the high number of observations, the seriousness of the witnesses, and the frequency of sightings. He also mentions that the phenomenon occurred during his visit, but he missed seeing it himself as he was inside his tent.

Sivilingeniør Erling Strand, a leader of the "Prosjekt Hessdalen" (Hessdalen Project), reports that the phenomenon remains unexplained despite ongoing investigations. He confirms that the phenomenon, whatever it may be, can be measured using advanced equipment like lasers and radar. Strand emphasizes that the phenomenon is unlike anything known, suggesting it is complex and possibly beyond current understanding, citing radar measurements of speeds up to 8000 meters per second as an example of its unusual nature.

Other UFO Sightings and Reports

The issue includes several other reports of mysterious lights and objects:

• Grane and Mosjøen: A woman from Grane reported seeing a strange light that moved and hovered. This report prompted a woman from Mosjøen to share her own sighting of a mysterious, luminous yellow ball that moved silently. Other residents in the Mosjøen area also witnessed similar phenomena.
• Gildeskål and Steigen: Multiple witnesses in Gildeskål observed a blue-white light on the northern sky, described as a flying object moving at a low altitude and speed. Arthur Pettersen from Steigen reported seeing a similar object with a massive flame trail, described as blue, red, and yellow, moving westward.
• Skjomen: A woman in Skjomen reported seeing a UFO, which was later identified by the Andøya Rocket Launch Site as a large rocket launched that evening.
• Etne: Residents in Etne observed a large, luminous object in the sky, described as oval-shaped with lights, moving low and silently.

UFO-Norge and RUFOF Organizational Matters

The latter part of the magazine addresses internal issues within Norwegian UFO organizations. A letter from the Ringsaker UFO Forening (RUFOF) to UFO-Norge, dated February 11, 1985, expresses dissatisfaction with UFO-Norge's financial management, particularly a large deficit. RUFOF states that they cannot be a guarantor for UFO-Norge's refinancing credit and that UFO-Norge should be responsible for its own financial missteps. RUFOF also indicates that they currently lack the capacity to support UFO-Norge's projects. Furthermore, the letter criticizes UFO-Norge's current election system for its central leadership, deeming it undemocratic and suggesting that current board members are self-elected for indefinite terms.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the scientific investigation of these phenomena, and the debunking of hoaxes. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these events while also encouraging critical thinking and skepticism, as highlighted by the debunking of the UFO photograph. The magazine also addresses the organizational challenges within the UFO community in Norway, suggesting a need for greater transparency and democratic processes.

This issue of Nordlandsposten, dated January 30, 1985, prominently features the "Unique UFO Research Project in Hessdalen." The publication also includes reports on UFO sightings and the organizational activities of the Ringsaker UFO Forening.

Unikt UFO-forsknings-prosjekt i Hessdalen

The main article details the ongoing investigation into UFO phenomena in Hessdalen, Norway. Leif-Normann Solhaug, chairman of UFO Norge, Northern Norway branch, is spearheading efforts to find solutions to the persistent UFO observations in the valley. The project has attracted international attention, with the renowned American expert on UFOs, J. Allan Hynek, participating. Hynek, an astronomer and professor, visited Hessdalen at his own expense and expressed keen interest in the project.

Solhaug highlights the unprecedented scale of the preparations, involving numerous measuring instruments. He states that both he and Hynek believe they are on the verge of groundbreaking activities. The project has established three observation stations in the Hessdalen area, with round-the-clock monitoring using a variety of instruments, including a spectro-analyzer, magnetometer, radar (Atlas 2000), IR-viewer, Geiger counter, seismograph, and video cameras.

Despite the intensive efforts over the past fourteen days, no definitive explanation for the phenomena has been found. However, the instruments did detect UFOs, which is considered significant in itself. The project has also deployed marine radars and additional spectro-analyzers, with increased personnel to monitor the equipment.

Regarding the speed of the observed objects, radar data indicated speeds of 8500 meters per second, approximately 30,000 kilometers per hour. This extreme speed leads to the conclusion that these are not conventional aircraft. Solhaug emphasizes the need for continued funding for a "Project III" to further investigate the phenomena, stressing the importance of establishing a hypothesis for what is being observed.

Hynek's participation, despite unfavorable weather conditions, is noted. A peculiar aspect of the observed phenomena is their regular timing, with most appearing around 19:30, 22:30, and 22:47. While the number of observations in Hessdalen has decreased recently, there has been an increase in sightings in Dalarne, Sweden, with reports of landings and approximately 300 observed phenomena.

The article includes a photograph of four individuals identified as UFO hunters at one of the Hessdalen stations: Arne W. Wisth (professor), Jens A. Tellefsen (UFO Sweden), J. Allan Hynek (USA), and Leif-Normann Solhaug (UFO Norge).

Solhaug also mentions his role in collecting UFO information for Northern Norway and surrounding areas and his intention to start a UFO association in Bodø.

A press conference was held in Hessdalen where Hynek commented on "Project Hessdalen," suggesting that sending probes into space might be a waste of resources when answers could be found right before our eyes. He praised the project as "entirely unique."

Hynek is scheduled to be interviewed by NRK television in Oslo with Bodø reporter Arne W. Wisth. Wisth's book on the UFO mystery in Hessdalen is to be translated into American English due to Hynek's admiration for the photographic material presented.

UFO Sightings and Reports

Soviet UFO Encounter

An article from Aftenposten (January 31, 1985) reports on a Soviet passenger plane's encounter with an unidentified flying object over White Russia. The object was described as a mysterious green sky that emitted powerful light beams and flew alongside the Tupolev-134 aircraft. The crew and passengers observed the phenomenon, which was also detected by radar. The object reportedly sent down three beams of powerful white light, illuminating houses and roads from an altitude of approximately 40-50 kilometers. The object then stabilized its course alongside the plane, and the light beams turned upwards, forming a green sky.

According to the newspaper "Trud," the organ of the Soviet trade union movement, the pilot was highly experienced with 7,500 flight hours. The sighting was also observed by another aircraft 15 kilometers away, and air traffic control confirmed the presence of the object on radar. Nikolaj Sjeltukhin, vice-chairman of the official Soviet UFO commission and a member of the Soviet Academy of Sciences, stated that similar cases have been registered before. He dismissed explanations involving atmospheric changes, as the pilot accurately registered the object's position using light beams against the ground. Sjeltukhin concluded that the plane had encountered what they call a UFO.

Green "Sky" Sighting

Another report, from Romsdalsposten (date not specified, but likely around January 1985), details a sighting by 14-year-old Therese Taknes from Kristiansund. While fishing with her grandmother on Smøla during the summer, she observed a green, luminous "sky" that appeared to descend. The phenomenon was also seen by the crew and passengers of a Russian aircraft, described as a green sky emitting powerful light beams that flew alongside the Tupolev-134. The object was also registered on radar. The report reiterates that the object sent down three beams of white light, illuminating the ground from a height of 40-50 kilometers.

Venus and Mars Visibility

A separate article from Nordlandsposten (February 2, 1985) discusses the visibility of the planets Venus and Mars. It notes that Venus has become increasingly visible in the evening sky and that its brightness peaked on February 26th. Mars is also visible but appears fainter. The article mentions that Venus and Mars will appear closer together on February 8th, with Venus being 3 degrees north of Mars. It also notes that both planets will be visible together in the morning sky in the autumn.

Ringsaker UFO Forening Meetings

This issue includes minutes from two meetings of the Ringsaker UFO Forening.

Styremøte nr. 1 (Board Meeting No. 1)

This meeting, held on January 18, 1985, at Jon Øyjordet's location in Berglund, Brumunddal, at 19:00, was attended by Eddy Elstrom, Hans Petter Halvorsen, Roger Olsen, Jon Øyjordet, and Wolfgang Michelson. The board discussed a cover letter regarding a clipping round from January 5-15, 1985. The main decision was that the association would not support UFO-Norge's refinancing project or the Hessdalen Project. The board stated that it is up to each individual member to support any projects or initiatives they wish. The association will send a detailed letter to UFO-Norge explaining their decision.

Medlemsmøte nr. 1 (Member Meeting No. 1)

This meeting, held on January 4, 1985, at the leisure facilities of Moelv Kino, focused on electing the board for Ringsaker UFO Forening. The elected board members are: Chairman Eddy Elstrom, Vice-Chairman Hans Petter Halvorsen, Secretary Wolfgang Michelson, Treasurer Roger Olsen, and Board Member Jon Øyjordet. The meeting also discussed guidelines for the board and the election system. The election committee for 1985 was elected, consisting of Arvid Sunde and Trond Kiendeli. An interview group was formed with Trond Kjendeli, Arvid Sunde, and Finn Grønvold. The meeting also appointed a material manager (Odd Sigmund Syversen), a car manager (Jon Øyjordet), an archivist (Hans Petter Halvorsen), a photo album manager (Arne Tveter), and a provisions manager (Arvid Sunde). Planning for an "insatsbil" (response vehicle) was also on the agenda.

Further Decisions from Board Meeting

Following the initial points of the board meeting, a discussion was held regarding the central election system. The board expressed its dissatisfaction with the election system practiced within the central organization of UFO-Norge and decided to convey this dissatisfaction via letter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO phenomena, particularly the Hessdalen Project, and the organizational activities of UFO associations in Norway. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into UFOs, with a focus on scientific methodology and international cooperation, as exemplified by the involvement of J. Allan Hynek. The publication also highlights the importance of UFO organizations in gathering and disseminating information, as seen in the detailed minutes of the Ringsaker UFO Forening meetings. There is a clear distinction made between the organizational decisions of UFO-Norge and the individual members' choices regarding support for specific projects.

This issue of 'Arbeidets Rett' from January 30, 1985, focuses heavily on the UFO phenomenon in Hessdalen, Norway, featuring articles on Swedish artists investigating the sightings, the visit of renowned UFO researcher J. Allen Hynek, and the ongoing efforts of UFO-Norge.

Swedish Artists in Hessdalen

Swedish artists Joakim Hansen and Erling Johansson have traveled to Hessdalen with the express purpose of painting UFOs. They view this as a natural extension of their artistic exploration of life's mysteries, where UFOs and art both play a role in understanding the human psyche. While they hoped to witness the phenomenon during the 'Prosjekt Hessdalen' activities, they are still keen to gain insight. Johansson mentioned an upcoming exhibition in Trondheim the following year, where he might revisit Hessdalen.

Johansson's artistic technique involves using two strong spotlights on either side of a model's head to enhance contours and color spectrums, amplifying them up to 100 times. He has painted notable politicians and athletes in Sweden using this method. Beyond art, Johansson is deeply interested in the human soul, a fascination stemming from his childhood in Lapland. He recounts a childhood vision of his grandmother sitting dead in a rocking chair and later, a spacecraft slowly descending, which he believes laid the foundation for his artistic expression and his visit to Hessdalen.

J. Allen Hynek's Visit and Insights

Dr. J. Allen Hynek, described as the world's foremost UFO researcher, visited Hessdalen. He expressed his admiration for the seriousness and dedication of the local investigators and the unique nature of the Hessdalen phenomenon, noting the high frequency and consistent reporting over several years. Hynek, who has a background in astronomy and worked with the US Air Force on projects like the V-1 missile defense and the atomic bomb, stated that he has never regretted his work on the atomic bomb. He later broke away from conventional explanations, feeling that the dismissal of credible witnesses like pilots and meteorologists required a more thorough investigation.

Hynek's work led him to collect and classify UFO reports, and he began to suggest that there might be scientific grounds for phenomena that couldn't be easily explained. He was instrumental in establishing the first UFO center in the USA in 1972. Comparing himself to astronomers Tycho Brahe and Johannes Kepler, Hynek explained that while the US Air Force collected vast amounts of data, he was the one who could analyze it. He meticulously copied data from the Air Force's 'Project Blue Book' and built his own archive, realizing there was more to the reports than was publicly acknowledged.

He emphasized that the witnesses' credibility is paramount, especially when they include professors and leaders of balloon projects. Hynek believes that the Hessdalen phenomenon is a significant piece of a larger puzzle and that Hessdalen has become one of the world's first laboratories for UFO observation due to the consistent and frequent sightings. He noted that reports from the surrounding districts also lend credibility to the Hessdalen observations. Hynek's visit was partly to meet with reporter Arne W. Wisth, who has written a book about the Hessdalen UFOs.

UFO-Norge's Appeal for Help

Leif Havik, head of UFO-Norge's Midt-Norge division, appealed to the public for assistance in their investigations into the Hessdalen phenomenon. He urged anyone who observes or hears about luminous phenomena to report it, stating that even seemingly minor observations can be vital. Havik acknowledged that people might be hesitant to come forward, fearing ridicule, but assured that all reports are taken seriously. He highlighted that the Hessdalen phenomenon is unique and unlike anything seen elsewhere, and while the cause is unknown, it is measurable.

Project Hessdalen and Future Studies

The 'Prosjekt Hessdalen' report from the previous year indicated that the phenomenon remains unknown, though it is measurable. The project utilized instruments like radar, magnetographs, and spectral analyzers. While Geiger counters did not yield measurable results in the previous year's project, instruments were used again this year to register even seemingly insignificant events, hoping they might lead to a future clarification. The project aims to gather data without locking into specific theories, keeping all possibilities open. The project engineers, including Erling Strand, noted that radar measurements of speeds up to 8000 meters per second are difficult to explain with conventional means. They are committed to continuing the project, believing that Hessdalen offers a unique opportunity to study an unknown dimension of reality.

Arne W. Wisth and the Hessdalen Mystery

Bodø reporter Arne W. Wisth, author of the book "UFO-mysteriet i Hessdalen," met with J. Allen Hynek. Wisth expressed his flattered surprise that Hynek had heard of him and looked forward to their meeting. Wisth has spent considerable time in Hessdalen, documenting sightings and taking photographs. He noted that Hynek hopes to witness the phenomena firsthand. Wisth also mentioned that NRK television filmed approximately fifty meters of footage of luminous objects over Hessdalen, including one object flying upwards out of the valley.

Wisth stated that he never claimed the flying objects were from other planets but acknowledged their strangeness and speed. Hynek, educated at the University of Chicago and having taught at various universities, was a specialist in UFO problems for the US Air Force starting in 1948. He worked on satellite development and spent time in Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Americas. With over 35 years of lecturing on astronomy, Hynek has written extensively on the subject and is considered a leading expert. He advocates for more comprehensive scientific exploration of UFO phenomena. Hynek currently heads three major observatories in the USA and has served as a consultant for films like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."

Hynek's Engagement with UFO-Norge

J. Allen Hynek met with UFO-Norge in Oslo, expressing enthusiasm for their work in Hessdalen. He suggested that UFO-Norge should involve more of the local population. Hynek offered to finance a camera and provide training for a local individual in photography, emphasizing the importance of having a camera ready at all times. He believes that Hessdalen is a unique location for UFO phenomena due to its stationary nature over a long period. He suggested that individuals near Trondheim could assist with the practical training. Hynek stressed the importance of continuing to visit Hessdalen, observe, take photos, and report findings to the appropriate individuals, keeping the investigation active.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the seriousness and scientific interest surrounding the Hessdalen phenomenon. There is a strong undercurrent of belief that these sightings are not easily explained by conventional means and warrant dedicated investigation. The articles highlight the international interest in UFOs, the importance of credible witnesses, and the need for open-minded scientific inquiry. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging further research and public participation in documenting these events, viewing Hessdalen as a crucial site for understanding this complex mystery.

This document is a single page from the magazine "Hessdalen", issue number 1, from 1984. The primary focus of this page is an article by Roar Wister, which relays the strong emphasis placed by ufologist J. Allen Hynek on the importance of meticulous photographic documentation when investigating unexplained phenomena.

Photography and Documentation in Phenomenon Investigation

The article begins by stating that Hynek strongly emphasized how careful one must be during photography. It lists essential technical details that photographers need to be aware of, including:

• Exposure time
• Aperture
• Lens type
• Film type
• Whether a tripod was used
• The time interval between shots (especially for series)

Hynek's advice is to "rather take a series of pictures of the phenomenon than 1 shot, the latter is little or nothing worth." The author notes that while these are generally known principles, many films still lack good documentation.

Hessdalen Case and Funding

The article then directly quotes Hynek regarding the Hessdalen case: "If I am to get support for the Hessdalen case when I get home, I must be able to answer as many questions as possible regarding the photographs. Can you provide me with more data on the slides I have received?" This quote underscores the practical implications of good documentation, linking it directly to the ability to secure financial support, whether from the USA or domestically.

The author, Roar Wister, concludes by urging readers to "Shape up when it comes to photo documentation......" This call to action highlights the perceived deficiency in photographic evidence and the need for greater diligence from those involved in documenting such events.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the critical need for high-quality, detailed photographic documentation in the study of unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance, as conveyed through Wister's article and Hynek's statements, is that scientific rigor demands precise technical data accompanying any visual evidence. The implication is that without such documentation, the credibility and potential for further investigation (and funding) of cases like Hessdalen are severely compromised. The article serves as a reminder and a plea for improved standards in the field.