Klipprunden - 1991 10 21

Magazine Overview

This issue of Dagbladet, dated Monday, August 5, 1991, features a prominent cover story titled "«SÅ VI EN UFO?»" (Did We See a UFO?). The main headline highlights a potential UFO sighting by two women, Bodil Gerzhaliu and Elisabeth Herrebrøden, from Halden, who filmed and photographed strange lights over their cabin in Nord-Østerdalen. The issue also delves into the 'crop circle' phenomenon, revealing it as a hoax perpetrated by two Englishmen, Dave and Doug, and includes reports on the activities of the Norwegian UFO organization, UFO-NORGE.

UFO Sighting in Nord-Østerdalen

The lead story details an encounter by Bodil Gerzhaliu (29) and Elisabeth Herrebrøden (38) who, while at their cabin in Nord-Østerdalen, witnessed a large, oval, luminous object in the sky. They described it as being as big as four full moons side-by-side, with a pulsating light above it that shifted from red to yellowish-white. They filmed the phenomenon with a video camera, capturing a brief glimpse before the battery died. Attempts to find an explanation from aviation authorities and meteorologists proved unsuccessful. Major Hårbeg from the Forsvarets Overkommando at Kolsås stated there was no military activity in the area, and flight controller Odd Arne Haugvold from Værnes Lufthavn confirmed no unusual air traffic. Meteorologist Dag Kvamme noted no special meteorological phenomena, though he mentioned warm air layers could cause light reflections. Both women expressed a desire to know what they saw but were hesitant to be associated with 'little green men'.

The Crop Circle Hoax: Dave and Doug

Another significant piece in the magazine exposes the 'crop circle' phenomenon as a hoax. The article, "UFO-BLØFF!", reveals that Dave Chorley and Doug Bower from Southampton have admitted to creating the mysterious circles in British crop fields over the past decade. They explained that they conceived the idea in Australia in the late seventies after seeing farmers create similar patterns for amusement. Their method involved using a wooden plank attached to a rope, a baseball cap for aiming, and a treeline as a reference. They claimed to have created the first circle in 1978 and that their work was often mistaken for UFO activity, especially in areas with reported UFO sightings. The article notes that experts like Pat Delgado, who had written extensively on the subject and believed it to be beyond human capability, were among those fooled. Even Prince Charles had reportedly asked to be kept informed about further developments.

UFO-Norge Activities and Reports

The issue also provides extensive coverage of UFO-Norge's activities, including a report on their Landsstyremøte (National Board Meeting) held on October 5-6, 1991, in Ullerøy, Østfold. The meeting was attended by several committee members and department heads.

Committee and Department Reports

Odd-Gunnar Røed presented the committee's annual report, highlighting media appearances by members and the acquisition of a laser printer to improve the quality of their publication. He also mentioned a positive meeting with the leadership of UFO-Sverige, discussing future collaboration, and participation in an international UFO congress in England where he presented on the Hessdalen Project.

Finn Kalvik reported on the distribution of the magazine and the increase in membership, surpassing the 1990 record of 450 members. A special issue was going to print.

Einar Glendrange noted a quiet period for UFO activity in Southern Norway, with few interesting cases reported and a general reluctance from the public and media to discuss UFOs.

The author of the article (undertegnede) reported on efforts to gather information from the military regarding UFO reports and their involvement, as well as the localization of archival material on 'ghost planes' at the National Archives in Oslo. This individual also produced the year's special issue.

UFO Reports and Statistics

The Rapportsentralen (Report Center) received 28 UFO reports in 1990, in addition to numerous IFO (Identified Flying Object) reports. A plan was made to issue an annual press release summarizing the previous year's reports.

International Research and Conferences

Erling Strand provided an update on international research into 'ball lightning' (kulelyn), in which he acts as the Norwegian representative. A new ball lightning congress was being planned, offering potential benefits for UFO-Norge through scientific expertise.

Financial Matters and Publications

Mentz Kaarbø presented and reviewed the 1990 financial statement. The meeting also discussed the establishment of a UFO-Norge library and archive, with the possibility of it being located at Avdeling Øst.

Collaboration with UFO-Sverige

Discussions were ongoing with UFO-Sverige regarding the development of a joint report form and a shared database for UFO reports. The possibility of presenting a unified front as a group, similar to the 'Hessdalen Project' period, and future collaboration on administration and the magazine were also on the agenda.

Magazine and Future Plans

It was decided that the UFO-Norge journal would be published twice a year, with one special issue. The subscription price was increased to 70 Norwegian Kroner. An advertising campaign was planned, encouraging members to place ads in local newspapers to increase membership and inform the public about the organization's existence. The 'Argus' clipping service was now functioning more regularly.

UFO Conference 1992

A major UFO conference and exhibition was planned for July 29 to August 2, 1992, in Østfold, Norway, in collaboration with UFO-Sverige. The event was expected to include lectures, possibly a concert with CE4, and other activities, with opportunities for public access and significant PR.

Other News and Mentions

An article from Dagbladet on August 5, 1991, titled "- Filmet vi en UFO?", detailed the sighting by Bodil Gerzhaliu and Elisabeth Herrebrøden. Another article from Dagbladet on August 5, 1991, featured an interview with the Finnish author Rauni-Leena Luukanen-Kilde, with Berit Clemmetsen from Norway sharing her experiences.

An article from Hallingdólen on September 3, 1991, discussed the potential establishment of a UFO center at Syningen in Torpoåsen, proposed by Oddvar Eriksen of 'The Faraos Electric Foundation And Science'.

An article from Agderposten on September 12, 1991, reported a UFO sighting over Gjerstad, Norway, by a woman who described a square-shaped object emitting a red-yellow light.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, the debunking of the crop circle phenomenon, and the organizational activities of UFO-Norge. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation into unexplained phenomena, while also being critical and evidence-based, as demonstrated by the coverage of the crop circle hoax. There is a strong emphasis on media engagement and public awareness, with plans for conferences and advertising campaigns. The organization seems dedicated to collecting reports, fostering collaboration, and disseminating information within the UFO community and to the wider public.

Title: NORSKE ARGUS
Issue Date: September 17, 1991
Publisher: NORSKE ARGUS A-S
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of Norske Argus delves into various unexplained phenomena, primarily focusing on UFO sightings and related investigations within Norway. It also touches upon broader scientific and philosophical questions regarding the existence of life in the universe.

Articles and Reports

"Normalt igjen" (Tønsbergs Blad, September 12, 1991)

This article humorously critiques the media's tendency towards sensationalism, referencing Steven Spielberg's film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" as an example of excessive focus on the unnatural. It contrasts this with the perceived lack of "normal" entertainment, mentioning a rock musical and a radio music program. The author, Ragnhild, expresses a desire for more grounded content.

"UFOer på Kjær 39" (Agderposten, September 16, 1991)

John K. Wogn-Henriksen recounts a similar incident to one reported earlier, involving a landing mark from a presumed UFO at Espevær in 1989. He notes that the elliptical mark, approximately 29x70 meters, was still visible. He also references an article in "Time" magazine about similar crop circle-like marks in England. Wogn-Henriksen posits that it's plausible for intelligent life to exist elsewhere in the universe.

"? Hvor'i all verden - Nesten nærkontakt av tredje grad" (Agderposten, September 16, 1991)

This report details a sighting in Øyestad, Norway, where a luminous object was observed at an altitude of 200-300 meters, moving silently and disappearing at high speed. The witness, who created a drawing of the object, noted it was similar to the UFO depicted in Steven Spielberg's film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" shown on NRK the same evening.

"MYSTERIER i åkrene" (Sandefjords Blad, September 14, 1991)

This article discusses mysterious crop circles found in fields in Vestfold, Norway, and England. While initially attributed to UFOs, the report reveals that in England, two farmers admitted to creating these patterns as a prank to fool UFO researchers. The article questions whether the Norwegian crop circles at Kjær might also have a non-UFO explanation, mentioning local folklore about deer mating rituals.

"Falsk UFO-teori" (Article without a specific newspaper source, dated September 17, 1991)

This piece debunks a widely circulated UFO theory based on a supposed secret report from 1947 signed by President Truman, detailing a UFO crash near Roswell, New Mexico, and the discovery of alien bodies. A journalist has revealed this document to be a forgery, with Truman's signature being a copy and the typewriter used not being available until 1963.

"Uforklarlig lys over Sørvågen" (Lofotposten, September 17, 1991)

This article reports on a sighting by Tore Markussen and his family in Sørvågen, Norway. They observed a large, bright, luminous phenomenon in the sky, described as being like part of the full moon, with four lights appearing as one. The object moved towards the mountains and disappeared. The sighting occurred the day before NRK aired Spielberg's "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."

"Alene i universet?" (Article without a specific newspaper source, dated September 21, 1991)

This lengthy article explores the scientific and philosophical question of whether humanity is alone in the universe. It traces the shift from the optimistic, mechanistic worldview of the 1950s and 60s, which assumed life must be common, to a more recent perspective that acknowledges the unique conditions required for life's emergence. The author notes that after 30 years of SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) efforts, no signals have been received. The article suggests that the uniqueness of life on Earth might be a valid hypothesis, and that life could be the purpose of the universe rather than a mere accident.

"UFO er stadig et spennende fenomen" (MG, Oslo, September 25, 1991)

This piece discusses the enduring mystery of UFOs, focusing on the 5% of sightings that lack natural explanations. It recounts the classic case of Captain Thomas Mantell in Kentucky, 1948, who pursued a disc-shaped object and subsequently crashed. His plane was found perforated with small holes, and his watch stopped at the time of his supposed close encounter.

"Fortel om parapsykologi" (MORE, September 28, 1991)

This is an announcement for a lecture by Dr. Rauni Lena Luukanen Kilde, an author who will speak about parapsychology, paranormal phenomena, and UFO experiences. Her previous book, "Det finnes ingen død" (There is no death), dealt with reincarnation and the afterlife. Her new book is titled "Budbringer fra stjernene" (Messenger from the stars).

"Merkelig syn" (Varden, Skien, September 28, 1991)

A woman from Gråtenmoen reported seeing a strange, round, luminous object with a ring and two legs in the sky one Friday morning. While she suspected a natural explanation like a weather balloon, she wondered if others had seen the same phenomenon.

"Hallo!" (GJENGANGEREN, Horten, September 26, 1991)

Emely Harboe-Larsen describes a peculiar sighting from her kitchen window: a dark blue cloud with a large, white, hotel-like structure with open windows. She speculates it might be a mirage but is intrigued by the detailed and unusual nature of the observation.

"EN DAG I TO UFOLOGERS LIV. Øydeskyvatn. kapittel 2."

This is the second part of a narrative detailing a trip by two UFO-loggers, Gøran E. Granath and Odd-Gunnar Røed, to Øydeskyvatn in Norway. They investigate a location where red lights were observed during Easter. They find unusual phenomena, including sterile snow samples and withered grass in distinct patterns, suggesting a non-natural origin. The loggers also encounter reindeer and take photographs, but a humorous twist occurs when Odd-Gunnar discovers his camera is empty.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the persistent mystery surrounding UFO sightings and unexplained aerial phenomena. The magazine presents various eyewitness accounts, some of which are attributed to natural causes or hoaxes, while others remain puzzling. There's a clear interest in documenting these events and exploring potential explanations, ranging from folklore to scientific inquiry. The article "Alene i universet?" reflects a shift in scientific thinking, moving away from the assumption of abundant extraterrestrial life towards the possibility of Earth's unique status. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness and curiosity towards the unexplained, while also maintaining a critical eye for debunking hoaxes and seeking rational explanations where possible. The inclusion of personal anecdotes and investigative reports suggests a commitment to exploring these phenomena from multiple angles.

This issue of UFO-Norge, dated 1987, chronicles a dramatic and harrowing night-time adventure experienced by two members, Odd-Gunnar and Gøran, who became lost in the Norwegian wilderness. The narrative, written in Norwegian, details their struggle for survival after what they perceived as a UFO sighting led them astray from their intended path.

The Ordeal Begins

The story begins with the two men feeling a sense of disappointment and frustration, questioning why their pursuit of a potentially significant observation had led them to such an isolated and difficult location. They debated the best course of action, concerned about the approaching darkness and the potential for a rescue operation to be more of a spectacle than a necessity. Their decision was to attempt a retreat to their cabin before complete darkness fell, a task that proved far more challenging than anticipated.

As they navigated back, the landscape began to play tricks on their perception. Distances became distorted, and familiar landmarks seemed to vanish or appear unexpectedly. The terrain, described as rugged and uneven, further compounded their difficulties. Gøran, who had a history of being easily startled, was particularly affected by the conditions, his physical exertion exacerbated by his medicine.

Navigating the Darkness

The descent proved to be more arduous than their ascent. The encroaching darkness transformed the familiar environment into an alien and disorienting space. They encountered unexpected bodies of water, dense vegetation, and steep inclines, making their progress slow and perilous. Their sense of direction faltered, leading them in circles and through marshy areas where they risked sinking.

Odd-Gunnar, despite the growing fatigue and the physical strain, maintained a determined focus on finding their way. He used a flashlight sparingly to conserve battery power, its intermittent beams revealing the treacherous nature of their surroundings. Gøran, meanwhile, struggled with exhaustion and a growing sense of unease.

Moments of Humor and Despair

Throughout their ordeal, the two men relied on their shared sense of humor to cope with the escalating stress. They exchanged jokes and observations, even as they faced the very real possibility of serious injury or worse. This shared humor, however, did not entirely mask the underlying fear and desperation.

At one point, Odd-Gunnar became separated from Gøran, leading to a moment of intense panic for Gøran, who feared he was alone and that his companion might have succumbed to the elements. This separation, though brief, underscored the precariousness of their situation.

Finding the Way Back

Odd-Gunnar's perseverance eventually paid off when he located their boat. The description of finding the boat, a small blue vessel, is a moment of immense relief. He managed to start the motor after several attempts, and then called out for Gøran, whose hope was rekindled by the sound of his friend's voice.

They navigated back towards what they believed was their intended destination, encountering more obstacles and disorientation. The narrative highlights the importance of a small flashlight, which had previously been used to signal a mysterious light in the sky, and how its battery was crucial for their eventual return. They also noted the presence of two faint lights in the distance, which they initially mistook for a quarry, but which ultimately guided them.

The Return and Reflection

Upon reaching land, they found their car, which Odd-Gunnar described as a welcome sight. The drive back was a mix of relief and continued fatigue. They stopped for fuel and sustenance, and the journey home was a slow, cautious one due to low fuel levels and the need for careful driving.

They eventually reached the home of Olav Midtbø, who had been worried about their prolonged absence. The narrative concludes with the two men reflecting on their experience. Gøran, exhausted and cold, vows to quit smoking, a testament to the profound impact of their night in the wilderness. The story emphasizes how, despite technological advancements, humans remain vulnerable to the overwhelming power of nature.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are survival, the challenges of the natural environment, the psychological impact of disorientation and fear, and the importance of friendship and humor in overcoming adversity. The narrative also touches upon the unexplained phenomenon of UFOs as the catalyst for the adventure. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting unusual experiences and exploring the human response to extraordinary circumstances, with a clear emphasis on the personal narrative and the emotional journey of the individuals involved. The publication, UFO-Norge, positions itself as a chronicler of such events, highlighting the resilience and sometimes humorous aspects of human endurance in the face of the unknown and the overwhelming power of nature.