1989 07 00 OMNI - Jerome Clark - Hessdalen

Magazine Overview

This issue of OMNI magazine, dated July 1989, features a prominent cover story on the Apollo missions, with the headline "APOLLO THE DARK SIDE: 20 YEARS LATER THE ASTRONAUTS SPEAK OUT." Another significant feature is "NORMAN MAILER: REFLECTIONS ON SPACE." The cover also highlights a "FREE FOLDOUT LUNAR CALENDAR INSIDE" and a price of $3.50. The visual on the cover is an illustration of an astronaut saluting next to a US flag, with the OMNI logo prominently displayed.

UFO UPDATE: The Hessdalen Lights

The article "ANTI MATTER" delves into the mysterious Hessdalen lights, which were observed in the Hessdalen Valley in Norway. The phenomenon began in December 1981, with residents reporting a fleet of spherical and bullet-shaped lights moving across the sky. These lights appeared individually or in small groups, moving in unusual ways: sometimes stopping motionless for extended periods, other times streaking northward at incredible speeds. Witnesses reported that the lights flashed, changed shape and color, and even followed cars.

Norwegian UFO researchers were drawn to the valley, and between 1981 and 1985, approximately 200 photos of glowing shapes were taken. Radar tracking suggested the lights were attached to something "solid" moving at speeds up to 32,000 kilometers per hour. A peculiar observation was that when investigators shone a laser light at the objects, they frequently flashed back.

One theory explored was that the phenomena were "earthquake lights," luminous bursts of energy caused by stressed underground rock formations. However, seismographic testing revealed no concurrent earthquake activity, leading scientists to express despair.

By 1986, the Hessdalen lights had vanished as suddenly as they had appeared. Despite their disappearance, the lights remained a subject of serious discussion and debate among UFOlogists and atmospheric scientists. Odd-Gunnar Roed, head of Project Hessdalen, suggested that while the lights were a complex natural phenomenon, their ability to stay in one place for five years was unusual.

Engineer Erling Strand, another project member, expressed skepticism about the 'natural phenomenon' explanation, questioning why the lights existed for such a long period and were recorded specifically in Hessdalen. He posited that if it was a natural phenomenon, it was an "unknown phenomenon, perhaps even the basis of a new science."

Physicist Eivand Thrane of the University of Oslo's Institute of Physics, after interviewing many Hessdalen witnesses, stated his impression that the lights were real. He noted that the witnesses were experienced outdoor people, such as hunters, accustomed to observation, and expressed regret that the phenomena could not be explained.

Apollo and Space Reflections

While the details of the Apollo and Norman Mailer articles are not fully provided in the scanned text, the cover headline indicates a significant focus on the 20th anniversary of the Apollo missions. The mention of "THE DARK SIDE" suggests that the astronauts will be sharing less-publicized or perhaps more critical perspectives on their experiences. Norman Mailer's contribution, "REFLECTIONS ON SPACE," implies a broader commentary on space exploration, its implications, and perhaps its cultural impact.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of OMNI appears to maintain its characteristic blend of science, mystery, and cultural commentary. The focus on the Apollo anniversary suggests a look back at a pivotal moment in human history, possibly with a critical or investigative lens given the "dark side" angle. The inclusion of the Hessdalen lights article aligns with OMNI's history of exploring unexplained phenomena and the intersection of science and the unknown. The presence of Norman Mailer, a prominent literary figure, indicates an engagement with the philosophical and societal aspects of space exploration. The magazine seems to encourage critical thinking and exploration of topics that push the boundaries of conventional understanding, as evidenced by the ongoing debate surrounding the Hessdalen lights.