Klipprunden - 1986 10 13

Magazine Overview

This issue of Landstyrenytt, dated October 13, 1986, serves as a newsletter for UFO-NORGE, detailing recent activities, committee meetings, and UFO sightings reported by members and the public. The publication focuses on UFO phenomena, investigations, and related news from Norway and internationally.

Committee Meeting Minutes

A committee meeting was held at Erling Strand's home in Eidsvoll on Sunday, October 5, 1986. The meeting was fully attended, with the exception of Per Ottesen. Several letters from Norway and abroad were reviewed. Philip Mantle's advertisement for the Hessdalen report in his magazine 'QUEST' has generated good response, leading to increased orders and a decision to raise the price of the report to 100 kroner due to dwindling stock. A reprint with additions from the 1985 project will be discussed when only 10 copies remain.

Carl-Anton Mattsson from UFO-SVERIGE inquired about distributing book lists, similar to the previous year. An agreement was reached, and the list, including new Swedish and one new Norwegian UFO book, will be featured in the Christmas issue.

Regarding financial support, few applications were received. Odd-Gunnar applied for and was granted 2000 kroner for UFO-related expenses. Per Ottesen, who has been diligently processing incoming articles, was allocated 1200 kroner for his significant work on the magazine. The committee also decided to transfer 2500 kroner to the UFO-Norges Prosjektfond to cover unforeseen expenses, with applications for funding to be made to the committee.

The next board meeting is scheduled for July 4-5, 1987, at Einar Urdal's home in Flekkefjord.

UFO Sightings and News Clippings

The issue compiles numerous newspaper clippings detailing UFO observations across Norway:

• Sunnmøringen (September 3, 1986): Reports an "UFO Observation" near Stranda, witnessed by four credible adults. The object was seen hovering between 22:45 and 23:30 on August 28th, leaving a deep impression on the witnesses. The newspaper notes that the data equipment was uncooperative during the observation and appeals for other witnesses.

• Varingen (September 5, 1986): Titled "UFO Over Nittedal?", this article describes an object seen by an anonymous witness and his wife at 04:00 on September 4th. It was a bright, luminous object with distinct edges near the church spire in Nittedal, which slowly faded and disappeared.

• Widespread Sightings (Early September 1986): Several newspapers (Gjengangeren, Samhold, Varden) reported on a phenomenon seen over large parts of southern Norway, speculated to be barium clouds, halogen phenomena, or ionized particles. UFO-NORGE contacted various institutions, including observatories and research institutes, but received diverse answers. The consensus was that it was a man-made phenomenon.

• Finnmark Dagblad (September 20, 1986): Reports "UFO Over Havøysund" on September 16th, where a large spotlight-like object moved from east to northwest. No sound was heard, and the sky was clear.

• Eidsvoll Blad (September 11, 1986): Features "The Luminous Sphere Over Nordbymøen", referencing historical events and local occurrences.

• Johan Hjelvik's Crop Circle Investigation: The issue mentions Johan Hjelvik's follow-up on crop circles observed at Torpo in Hallingdal. His report is described as impressive, and several newspapers (Fremtiden, Hallingdølen, Varden) published an announcement related to his findings.

• Tonning Film Case: An update indicates that the Tonning film case will be shown to FFI at the end of the month, with Erling organizing a meeting and Tonning himself attending.

• Finnmarksposten (September 20, 1986): A caller reported seeing a stationary light on September 17th that began to move and disappeared upwards at high speed, prompting the newspaper to ask if others had seen the same.

• Adresseavisen (September 20, 1986): Features an interview with astronomer Sebastian von Hoerner, who believes humanity is not alone in the universe but expresses discomfort with the idea of alien visitation.

• NTB (September 23, 1986): Reports significant activity in Central Europe, particularly over Luxembourg and West Germany, with speculation about satellite debris or rocket launches.

• Oppland Arbeiderblad (September 26, 1986): "UFO Over Landåsbygda?" describes a luminous sphere seen on September 25th that hovered, changed color, and then disappeared.

• Aftenposten (September 24, 1986) & Bergens Arbeiderblad (September 24, 1986): Both report "UFO Observed" in Western Europe.

• Dagbladet Rogaland (September 23, 1986): Discusses Erich von Däniken's theories, which have influenced NIVFO's activities.

• Namdal Arbeiderblad (September 23, 1986): "Merkelig Lys På Himelen" features a report from Holand where Dagmar and Ola Nybo observed a large sphere with a cone-shaped tail moving across the sky for two minutes.

• UFO Prank: An anecdote about Per Ottesen being the subject of a prank where a landing site was reported, but it turned out to be a land surveying activity.

• Dagnigen (September 26, 1986) & Gudbrandsdølen & Lillehammer Tilskuer: Mentioned in relation to a trip.

• Kvinnheringen (October 3, 1986): "UFO-Feber" reports people seeing mysterious things in the sky.

"Kvikkas bak rattet" (Quickie Behind the Wheel)

This is a humorous anecdote about a taxi ride with a driver who drives at extremely high speed, with loud music playing. The passengers are alarmed by the reckless driving and the driver's poor tires, leading to a tense but ultimately uneventful journey.

UFO or Barium Cloud?

This section compiles reports and discussions about a mysterious phenomenon observed in various locations. A red, sun-like object was seen over Elverum, described as a "barium cloud" by the observatory at Harestua, likely resulting from a rocket or satellite launch. This phenomenon had been observed previously in Eastern Norway. The article notes the peculiarity of the object being seen for several consecutive nights. The Meteorological Institute in Oslo could not provide an explanation, and Sveriges Radio suggested it might be a Soviet rocket launch. The article includes a drawing of the object based on witness descriptions and appeals for further information from anyone who may have observed similar events or experienced related disturbances.

UFO Observation in Stranda

This detailed report from Sunnmøringen describes an UFO sighting by four individuals on August 28, 1986. The object, initially mistaken for aircraft, lacked visible lights and exhibited unusual movements. It was later joined by three smaller, similar objects connected by a luminous line. The objects were perfectly spherical, with the smaller ones being slightly dimmer than the main object. The report notes the difficulty in assessing the object's size, altitude, and distance due to the lack of comparable references. It is suggested that the object operated at an altitude that prevented radar detection. The report also mentions interference with data equipment during the observation.

UFO Over Nittedal?

An article from Varingen describes a sighting on September 4, 1986, by an anonymous witness who saw a luminous half-sphere rising and fading away near Nittedal church. The object was described as bright white with distinct edges.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, investigations, and the dissemination of information within the UFO community. UFO-NORGE appears to be actively involved in collecting reports, corresponding with international contacts, and managing finances for its operations. The editorial stance is one of serious inquiry into UFO phenomena, while also acknowledging the need for accurate reporting and distinguishing between genuine sightings and misidentifications or hoaxes. The publication encourages public participation by reporting observations and contributing to the collective knowledge base. There is also a clear effort to provide updates on the organization's internal affairs, such as committee meetings and financial matters.

This issue of Varden, dated September 5, 1986, focuses heavily on reports of unexplained aerial phenomena and UFO sightings across Norway and Europe. The cover story, "Lysfenomen 'skremte' mange telemarkinger" (Light Phenomenon 'Scared' Many Telemark Residents), highlights a widely observed event that caused public concern and speculation.

Cover Story: Light Phenomenon in Telemark

The main article by Ronald Haakonsen details a strange light observed in the night sky over Telemark around 4 AM. The phenomenon, described as a powerful light, caused many residents to call Varden with theories ranging from a large planet to rocket tests. However, experts identified it as a 'halo phenomenon,' caused by the refraction and reflection of sunlight or moonlight in ice crystals. While similar to the aurora borealis, this phenomenon was described as colorless, resembling a faint rainbow.

Other UFO Sightings and Investigations

The magazine features several other reports of alleged UFO sightings:

• UFO over Havøysund: A mysterious, bright light was observed by a woman and her child, described as a strong spotlight moving from east to northwest.
• "Den lysende himmelkulen over Nordbymoen" (The Luminous Sky Sphere over Nordbymoen): A report by Knut Sørli Ljøgodt recounts a sighting from New Year's Eve 1977/78, where a large, yellow sphere was seen hovering over a forest before moving rapidly and disappearing. Investigations at the local airport ruled out any known Norwegian aircraft.
• Mysterious Rings on Torpoåsen: Several articles discuss large rings discovered on a field in Torpo, Hallingdal. Initially suspected to be UFO landing sites, investigations by Johan Hjelvik of UFO Norge concluded they were 'mushroom rings' or 'hekseringer' (fairy rings), caused by the growth of fungi.
• UFO over Landåsbygda?: Bernt Rognstad reported seeing a luminous sphere hovering and changing color before disappearing.
• "UFO" Observed (Western Europe): A report from Aftenposten mentions a luminous green object seen over Western Europe, which West German astronomers suggested was likely a meteorite weighing between three and five kilograms.
• UFO-meldiger (UFO Reports): A summary of reports from several Central European countries where authorities were inundated with calls about unidentified flying objects, with scientists suggesting natural phenomena.
• Merkelig lys på himmelen (Strange Light in the Sky): Dagmar and Ole Nybo reported seeing a strange object resembling a rocket launch with a luminous sphere and a conical tail.
• Mystisk spor i Heidal (Mysterious Track in Heidal): Olaf and Ruth Stulen found unusual oval tracks on their farm, with no visible entry or exit points, leading to speculation of an aerial origin.
• UFO-spøk i Murudalen? (UFO Prank in Murudalen?): Olaf Stulen discovered marks on his land, described as three landing footprints, prompting speculation about a UFO landing.

Interview with Astronomer Sebastian von Hoerner

Dr. Sebastian von Hoerner, a renowned astronomer involved in SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) projects, is interviewed. He expresses the belief that humanity is not alone in the universe and that extraterrestrial intelligences are likely far more advanced. However, he dismisses current UFO sightings as lacking credible evidence and believes that any true contact would be a deliberate communication, not accidental sightings. He emphasizes the vast distances involved in space communication and the long-term nature of projects like SETI.

Erich von Däniken's Theories

The magazine also touches upon the theories of Erich von Däniken, who claims ancient religious texts describe visits from extraterrestrial beings. His ideas are presented as controversial, with the established scientific community often labeling him a 'bløffmaker' (charlatan). Despite criticism, his books have sold millions, and he continues to promote his theories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a public fascination with UFOs and unexplained phenomena, juxtaposing scientific explanations with anecdotal evidence and speculative theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious reporting, presenting both the sensational aspects of sightings and the more rational, scientific explanations offered by experts. There's a clear effort to debunk some of the more outlandish claims, particularly regarding the Torpo rings, while still acknowledging the public's interest in the unknown. The recurring theme is the human tendency to seek extraordinary explanations for unusual events, whether they be natural phenomena, misidentifications, or genuine mysteries.

Title: Kvinnheringen
Issue Date: October 3, 1986
Volume: 14
Issue Number: 111
Price: KR. 3.50
Publisher: NORSKE ARGUS
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of Kvinnheringen, a Norwegian publication, features a prominent cover story titled "UFO-FEBER" (UFO Fever), accompanied by an illustration of a person in a spacesuit. The magazine delves into reports of unexplained aerial phenomena and sightings across Norway.

Article 1: "UFO I DALEN" (UFO in the Valley) - From DAGNINGEN

This article, clipped from the newspaper DAGNINGEN, discusses UFO sightings in the Lillehammer region. It highlights skepticism from the local business community but notes that people in Norddal are more open to the idea. A farmer in Murudalen reported strange imprints on his land, described as resembling three large footprints, suggesting something significant had landed. The article humorously concludes by stating that despite skepticism, the evidence points to something happening in Norddal.

Article 2: "<<UFOer>> fra teknisk etat" (<<UFOs>> from the Technical Department) - From DAGNINGEN

This piece from DAGNINGEN reveals the explanation behind a reported UFO incident. The initial skepticism about the unknown was met with a clarification: the supposed UFO sighting was actually a prank. Two employees from the technical office in Sel, Jan Ragnar Holmøy and Bjarne Berntsen, were conducting land surveying in Murudalen. To stay warm in the cold weather, they stomped in a circle around the measuring equipment, creating large, circular imprints on the field belonging to Olaf Stulen. This act was misinterpreted as evidence of a UFO landing.

Article 3: "UFO-FEBER" (UFO Fever) - Main Article from Kvinnheringen

The main article in Kvinnheringen focuses on a widespread "UFO fever" affecting the region. It states that while no one has yet seen "moon men," unexplained phenomena are being reported after dark. The article mentions that many people in Kvinnherad and other parts of Western Norway have seen "mysterious things" in the sky on Monday evenings. Specifically, two individuals in Uskedalen reported seeing a luminous object, and another sighting of an object moving across the sky was reported from Sandvoll. The article connects these reports to a previous incident where Kvinnheringen published a picture of a two-meter-wide ring in Monrad Prestnes's yard, leading more people to share their experiences and link them to the phenomenon.

Key Incidents and Locations

• Murudalen, Norway: Mysterious imprints on a field were initially thought to be from a UFO but were later explained as a hoax by technical office workers. The imprints were described as large and circular, resembling three landings.
• Uskedalen, Norway: Two individuals reported seeing a luminous object in the sky.
• Sandvoll, Norway: An object was observed moving across the sky.
• Kvinnherad, Norway: General reports of "mysterious things" seen in the sky.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, unexplained aerial phenomena, and the public's reaction to them, ranging from skepticism to excitement. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena while also investigating and, in the case of the Murudalen incident, debunking them. The publication aims to capture the public's fascination with UFOs, as indicated by the "UFO Fever" headline, while also providing rational explanations when available. The inclusion of both a debunked incident and ongoing unexplained sightings suggests a balanced approach to the topic.