Norwegian UFO Newsletter - 1983 No 4

Magazine Overview

This issue of the NORWEGIAN UFO NEWS LETTER, published by NORSK INSTITUTT FOR VITENSKAPELIG FORSKNING OG OPPLYSNING (Norwegian Institute for Scientific Research and Information), is dated 1983, issue number 4. The cover prominently features the NIVFO logo and the main title, indicating a focus on UFO phenomena in Norway.

Reports from Hessdalen

The issue begins with a report from Hessdalen dated April 16, 1983. Witnesses observed a star-like object over a mountain ridge, which they initially mistook for a star but noted its movement and disappearance behind the horizon. Local UFO enthusiasts publicized this report, mentioning a 'vessel'. The data received was considered thin, with the positions and time aligning with the planet Venus.

Another report from Hessdalen, dated February/March 1983, describes a housewife witnessing a rocket-like object with a silver-shining light underneath. The object moved slowly, made course and height changes, and produced no sound. Its estimated length was 15 meters, and it was observed at an angle height of about 25-30 degrees.

A more detailed account from Hessdalen involves two puppies that disappeared and were later found in Hessdalen, appearing as if dropped from the sky. Some speculate UFOs were involved in their transport, while others suggest a more natural explanation involving a ski-scooter.

UFO Over Halden

A report from Halden, dated March 7, 1983, details three readers observing two reddish balls moving quietly over the town. The objects were seen through binoculars for three minutes and were described as red with twinkling lights, resembling searchlights.

Phenomenon Over Porsgrunn

On July 23, 1983, a lady from Skien reported observing a mushroom- or cigar-formed object moving northward near the Porsgrunn bridge. She described it as spaceship-like, moving slowly without sound. The object was seen moving over Herøya and Sundsjordet.

Earlier reports from Porsgrunn in February 1983 also mentioned shining objects in the sky.

Observations in other locations

On February 16, 1983, an observer on Hovenga reported seeing an object resembling an airship with a shining tail. The following day, only two lights were visible. Another observation on Stridsklev involved a shining phenomenon.

Edith Solberg from Holt i Fiane reported seeing a strange, round, flattened object outside her bedroom window on July 25, 1983, with violet and blue flames radiating from it. The object was about one meter away and was described as fantastic to look at.

A mysterious print was discovered in Moland, Norway, between July 21 and 29, 1983. It was a quadrangular mark with an oval ring inside, measuring 126 x 11 centimeters.

UFO-Naivism and Professionalism

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a discussion on 'ufology' and the distinction between serious investigation and naive belief, drawing heavily on the views of Dr. J. Allen Hynek. Hynek is quoted emphasizing the need for ufology to become a profession with accepted standards to avoid being seen as a mass of unprofessional actions and statements. He notes that many UFO organizations attract 'fantasts and naive souls' and tend to focus on 'mystery cultivation.'

The article criticizes the tendency of some UFO enthusiasts to attack those who question their beliefs, rather than engaging with the arguments themselves. It highlights instances where UFO-related news is presented with inaccuracies and misleading information, often amplified by UFO magazines.

The 'Norwegian Experiment' mentioned refers to the magazine's attempt to provide sober information, which reportedly triggered negative reactions from some within the UFO community.

Science and Official Instances

The magazine discusses the UFO movement's criticism of science and authorities, suggesting that those who don't accept prevalent doctrines are often labeled as slow-witted or in league with nefarious entities. It points out that while some UFO organizations claim to be serious and scientific, they often spend their time criticizing science and expressing indignation when forgeries are exposed.

The publication contrasts the emotional reactions of some UFO enthusiasts with the more measured approach of leading UFO spokesmen like Hynek and Jacques Vallee, suggesting that UFO engagements are often motivated by psychological needs rather than intellectual curiosity.

Further Conclusions

The issue concludes by reiterating Hynek's call for a thorough cleanup within UFO organizations, both in the USA and internationally. It questions whether these organizations are prepared to follow such advice, expressing doubt based on past experiences. The article suggests that the UFO-syndrome is controversial and complicated, often marred by doubtful assertions and emotional contributions. It also touches upon the criticism of science and authorities by the UFO movement, noting that those who question established beliefs are often met with personal attacks rather than reasoned debate.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings and reports from various locations in Norway, the investigation of these phenomena by NIVFO, and a critical examination of the UFO community's approach to belief and professionalism. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for a more scientific and rigorous approach to ufology, distinguishing it from uncritical acceptance and emotional reactions. The magazine aims to present factual information while also critiquing the methods and attitudes of some within the UFO movement.

This document is page 11 of a magazine identified as 'NIVFO', published in Norway. The content is primarily text-based, discussing UFO phenomena, specifically those reported in Hessdalen. The overall tone is skeptical and critical of many UFO claims and enthusiasts.

Skepticism Towards Hessdalen Phenomena

The article begins by strongly dismissing claims made by an individual named Havik, who reportedly spoke about UFOs in Hessdalen at 'The Saturday University' in Trondheim. The author asserts that Havik is not an expert on electronics and that his presentation, including photographs, proved nothing significant. The article suggests that the observer's life being changed by viewing light phenomena in Hessdalen says more about the observer than the phenomena themselves, a sentiment common within the UFO cult.

Doubtful Reports and Recurring Witnesses

There is considerable uncertainty surrounding the Hessdalen light phenomena. The article points out that some of the most frequently cited 'best' observations come from the same individuals repeatedly. Other reports are dismissed as merely bright spots seen from afar. Cases that initially appeared extraordinary were investigated and found to have simple, 'earthly' explanations. Despite this, the witnesses' accounts are sometimes described as 'mystical,' leading to the conclusion that one must accept 'miracles from Hessdalen' if the history is taken at face value.

One specific case mentioned involved a metallic, semilunar UFO seen in broad daylight, which was eventually identified as Venus. The article also notes a 'competition' among some neighbors in Hessdalen to showcase the 'best' UFO sightings, implying a lack of seriousness or genuine evidence.

UFO-Cult and 'Starmen'

The text criticizes the UFO community, noting that some individuals who claim to be in 'contact with the space brothers' have shared stories from Hessdalen, supported by photos. The author questions whether these accounts will be accepted uncritically by the public.

NIVFO's Investigations and Findings

NIVFO, the publisher, has conducted multiple expeditions to Hessdalen and has a person stationed there. However, they have not been able to identify anything directly inexplicable. The article mentions that 'ufologists' have reportedly collected money for an 'action' in Hessdalen. It also recounts an anecdote about someone who, after his life changed by visits to Hessdalen, rushed to the location believing he saw a landed spaceship and an 'UFO-naut,' only for this to be based on an April Fool's joke in a Trondheim newspaper.

Hot-Blast Balloons and Possible Coincidence

Reliable sources indicate that around the end of 1981, extensive 'experiments' involving hot-blast balloons were conducted in Norway and Denmark. A competition between Norwegian and Danish 'balloon-operators' developed. This activity started concurrently with the observations in Hessdalen, leading the author to suggest this might be a coincidence or a potential explanation for some of the photographic evidence.

The article posits that photographs from Hessdalen might be of hot-blast balloons, or even stars if the camera was out of focus or used with strong telephoto lenses.

Explanations and Future Investigations

Regarding the Hessdalen phenomena, the article states that explanations can be varied. It does not disregard the possibility that the events could be a misunderstood natural phenomenon. Certain aspects might point towards such an explanation.

NIVFO is expected to have conducted a considerable investigation in Hessdalen using modern measuring instruments and equipment. The magazine intends to cover instruments of general current interest.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of NIVFO are skepticism towards extraordinary claims, particularly concerning UFOs and alleged extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance is critical of the UFO community, emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific investigation and the debunking of unsubstantiated reports. The article promotes critical thinking and suggests that many phenomena, including those in Hessdalen, can be explained by natural causes, misidentifications, or even hoaxes. The focus is on presenting a rational, evidence-based perspective against what the magazine perceives as sensationalism and uncritical belief in the paranormal.