UFO - 1988 No 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of "UFO" magazine, published in 1988 as part of the 7th year of publication, is from Norway and is written in Norwegian. The cover features a hand-drawn illustration of a house and the prominent title "UFO" along with a "ROM-Novelle" (Science Fiction Novella) designation. Subscription information indicates a price of KR. 90 for the year and KR. 20 per issue.

Editorial Content and Organization

Page 2 provides organizational details for UFO-NORGE, the publishing entity. It states that the magazine "Tidsskriftet UFO" is published by UFO-NORGE, an independent organization dedicated to the registration and study of UFO phenomena, providing information to its members and the public. The editorial staff is listed, with Finn W. Kalvik as the responsible editor based in Bergen. Contact information for various departments and regional offices (Øst, Sør, Vest, Midt, Nord) across Norway is provided. The magazine is published four times a year, with the 1988 subscription costing kr. 90, payable via postgiro. A disclaimer notes that articles published in "UFO" represent contributions to knowledge and understanding of UFO phenomena, and the organization or editorial staff are not necessarily responsible for or sharing the views expressed. Material from the magazine may only be reproduced with full source attribution. The editorial staff welcomes reader submissions and reserves the right to edit or shorten them.

The "ORGANISASJONSOVERSIKT FOR UFO-NORGE" section details the daily leadership committee and provides contact information for the information and contact address, as well as a "RAPPORTSENTRAL" (Report Central).

"Fra Redaksjonen" (From the Editor)

In the editorial section on page 3, the editor apologizes for the delay in publishing, citing problems with a lack of UFO sightings and a general shortage of material. The editor acknowledges that the current issue's content might be varied due to these circumstances, including a focus on a pure narrative. They express hope that this "mixed" content will appeal to readers and invite feedback. The next issue is planned for "St. Hans-tider" (around midsummer). The editor also reminds readers about the annual subscription price of kr. 90 and includes a blank giro form for payments or donations.

"ROM-GJESS" (Space Guests) - A Novella

Pages 4 through 8 feature a science fiction novella titled "ROM-GJESS," translated by Per Ottesen, which is presented as a story by Bill Brown called "Star Ducks." The story follows reporter Rafferty, who investigates a supposed aircraft crash on the Alsop farm. He encounters the Alsop family and discovers a strange, balloon-like craft in their barn. The occupants, described as beings with lavender faces and flexible antennae, claim to be from Alpha Centauri and are there to collect fertilized eggs. Rafferty, initially skeptical, becomes increasingly convinced of the extraterrestrial nature of the visitors. He struggles to document the event, lamenting the lack of photographic evidence. The beings communicate telepathically and explain they need to leave by a specific time related to the moon. The story concludes with Rafferty realizing the beings traded star-shaped eggs for food six years prior and that the 'space guests' were actually 'star-geese' that laid star-shaped eggs. He is left with no concrete proof of the encounter.

"BREV TIL LESERNE" (Letters to the Readers)

On page 9, Roar Wister suggests that the magazine "UFO" should broaden its scope beyond just UFO phenomena to include other mysteries. He believes that while UFOs will remain the primary focus, readers might be interested in topics like quantum physics, astronomy, parapsychology, near-death experiences, reincarnation, pyramid power, and ghosts. Wister encourages readers to submit articles on these subjects to enrich the magazine's content.

"UFO OG DET MYSTISKE" (UFO and the Mysterious)

Authored by Hans Kr. Moe, this article on page 10 discusses the challenges faced by UFOlogy in gaining scientific recognition. Moe argues that the field has struggled for 40 years to be accepted as a scientific problem. He attributes this partly to the lack of discipline among UFO enthusiasts, making structured data collection and media communication difficult. Moe notes that UFO phenomena are still not fully understood, and while many hypotheses exist, few are rigorously tested. He criticizes the tendency for "grassroots" UFOlogy to engage in wild speculation, which he believes deters scientific inquiry and scares away potential resources. Moe also touches upon the financial needs of UFO organizations and the practice of publishing newsletters to improve finances and disseminate information. He observes that despite 40 years of investigation, there has been little "new" material that brings the UFO complex closer to a solution, leading to reader fatigue and declining sales for UFO publications globally.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the challenges of UFOlogy as a scientific discipline, the importance of evidence and structured investigation, and the appeal of mystery and the unknown. The editorial stance, as expressed by the editor and in the article by Hans Kr. Moe, emphasizes the need for a more rigorous and scientific approach to UFO research, while also acknowledging the public's fascination with the unexplained. The inclusion of a fictional novella suggests an openness to narrative storytelling within the UFO context, while the "Letters to the Readers" section indicates a willingness to explore a broader range of mysterious phenomena.

Title: SÆROPPGAVE OM UFO

Issue: 14

Volume: 14

Issue Date: 1987

Publisher: UFO-Norge

Country: Norway

Language: Norwegian

Price: 25 kr

Cover Headline: MAN'S CONTACT WITH UFO'S.

This issue of Særoppgave om UFO delves into the complex and often mysterious world of unidentified flying objects (UFOs), presenting a collection of reports, investigations, and personal accounts.

Exploring Hypotheses and Skepticism

The magazine opens with a discussion on the diverse interests within the UFO community, noting that many enthusiasts are drawn to the paranormal and mystical aspects, seeking answers beyond conventional scientific explanations. It acknowledges the criticism often leveled at authorities and scientists for their perceived closed-mindedness regarding UFOs. However, it also cautions against the selective use of data to fit pre-conceived, fantastical hypotheses, which can alienate other UFO researchers.

A hypothetical scenario is presented involving two friends, A and B, where A witnesses a luminous, hovering object while B sees and hears nothing. Two initial explanations are offered: A experiencing a hallucination, or the object being a telepathic projection. The text suggests other possibilities, such as B having temporary sensory impairment, highlighting the subjective nature of some sightings.

Jørgen Steen's Særoppgave

Jørgen Steen, a 14-year-old student from Lunde, Telemark, submitted a comprehensive report on UFOs for a school assignment. His paper, compiled with material from Roar Wister, is presented in the magazine. Steen notes the commonality of UFO sightings, estimating that over 5 million people in the USA alone have seen them. He distinguishes between the common perception of UFOs as 'flying saucers' and the broader reality that UFOs can manifest in various forms. He lists several potential explanations, including plasma, ball lightning, and misidentified objects.

Steen recounts the origin of the term "flying saucer" following a 1947 incident where a pilot reported seeing nine luminous objects. While initially attributed to military aircraft, the public had already embraced the idea of extraterrestrial visitors. The article notes how UFO stories became popular in the media, often sensationalized and based on free imagination rather than fact.

The Scientific Approach and Challenges

The magazine touches upon a significant event in 1969: a conference in Boston organized by the "Amerikanske Selskap for Vitenskapens Fremme" (American Society for the Advancement of Science). This gathering brought together leading US scientists to discuss UFO phenomena. The primary conclusion was a severe lack of factual data, making scientific study difficult. Unlike phenomena that can be studied in a laboratory, UFOs have never been successfully lured into controlled environments, nor do they provide advance notice of their appearance.

Misidentifications and Common UFO Stories

A section lists numerous objects and phenomena that are frequently mistaken for UFOs, including weather balloons, kites, parachutes, experimental aircraft, birds, fireworks, streetlights, comets, the moon, planets, reflections, smoke, satellites, and clouds. The article also shares a humorous anecdote about a French village mistaking chrysanthemum plants for "Martians" due to white cloth covering them.

The Hessdalen Phenomenon

Norway is highlighted for its unique UFO-related phenomena, particularly those observed in Hessdalen. Reports describe unknown lights appearing in the valley, capable of hovering, moving slowly or rapidly, and stopping suddenly. Due to the lack of official action, a private project group, "Project Hessdalen," was formed in June 1983, involving collaboration with Swedish groups and Norwegian universities. The project aimed to study these phenomena, which included unusual light displays and potential electromagnetic effects.

"Nærkontakt i måneskinn" (Close Encounter in Moonlight)

This section details a story about Fru A, who reported seeing a large, luminous yellow object hovering outside her window. The object changed shape, appearing as a cross, and emitted a pulsating light. Her son's wife, Jeanette, also witnessed the phenomenon. The object reportedly changed forms, including a "vertical cigar," "two golden saucers," and a "half-moon shape," and emitted smoke that acted as camouflage. The object eventually moved away, reappearing as a red disc before disappearing.

Herbert Schirmer's Hypnotic Regression

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the case of Herbert Schirmer, a 22-year-old police officer from Ashland, Nebraska. After experiencing a strange night on December 3, 1967, involving unusual animal behavior and a sighting of a craft, Schirmer underwent hypnotic regression facilitated by Loring G. Williams. Under hypnosis, Schirmer recounted seeing a craft with flashing lights that ascended rapidly. He described the craft as being made of metal, working against gravity, and having a strange interior. He claimed to have been taken aboard the craft, where he interacted with beings who communicated telepathically and verbally.

Schirmer stated that the beings explained their purpose was to study Earth and its inhabitants, and that they were not hostile. They claimed to draw energy from power lines and water. He was told that their presence was being monitored and that contactees would help prepare humanity for their eventual open appearance, which he described as a friendly "invasion" rather than a hostile takeover. He was instructed not to reveal the full extent of his experience, only that he saw a flying object.

UFO in Misvær

Another report details an experience by Brynhild V. Pedersen in Misvær, Norway, in March 1987. She awoke to a loud motor sound and witnessed a hexagonal object with blue-white lights and colored beams. The object moved in a zig-zag pattern and had a long, red-lit appendage. Both she and her family observed the phenomenon. Investigations by Bodø Lufthavn and the Air Force confirmed no official air activity in the area at that time. The sighting was noted as fitting a pattern of hexagonal UFOs reported elsewhere.

UFO Technology and Capabilities

Through Schirmer's hypnotic regression, details emerge about UFO technology. The craft reportedly use reverse magnetic and electric energy to control matter and overcome gravity. They are described as being invisible due to a circular electromagnetic field. The beings also mentioned drawing energy from water sources, explaining why UFO sightings are often reported near rivers and lakes. They claimed to have been observing Earth for a long time, gradually revealing themselves through contactees to prepare humanity for their open presence.

The "Mothership" and Alien Beings

Schirmer's account includes descriptions of "motherships" as interplanetary stations serving as headquarters. He described seeing a disk-like object used for remote reconnaissance, displaying images of landscapes and military formations. The beings themselves were described as short (1.50-1.60 meters), wearing silver uniforms, with elongated heads, gray skin, flat noses, and eyes that blinked without pupils. They communicated through a combination of telepathy and a "broken" English, with their voices seeming to emanate from within them.

Conclusion and Editorial Stance

The magazine concludes with a reminder to look to the skies, as anyone could be a witness to a UFO. The overall tone suggests a belief in the reality of UFO phenomena and a desire to explore all possible explanations, while also acknowledging the challenges of scientific verification and the potential for misidentification. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, encouraging readers to consider the evidence and hypotheses presented.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes in this issue include the diversity of UFO hypotheses, the challenges faced by scientists in studying UFOs, the importance of witness testimony, and the potential for extraterrestrial contact. The magazine seems to advocate for an open-minded approach to UFOlogy, encouraging readers to consider unconventional explanations while also being critical of unsubstantiated claims. The editorial stance is one of exploration and inquiry into the unexplained, presenting various perspectives on UFO phenomena without definitively concluding their origin or nature.

This issue of "det ukjente" (The Unknown) from May 1987, Volume 19, Number 5, published by Hilt & Hansteen, focuses on the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI), UFO sightings in Norway, and paranormal phenomena like Near-Death Experiences (NDEs).

The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI)

The lead article, "HALLO, ER DET NOEN DER ?" (Hello, is anyone there?), introduces the work of Paul Horowitz, a Professor of Physics at Harvard University. Horowitz is leading a large-scale project using a specialized radio telescope to listen for signals from outer space, specifically at the 1420 megahertz frequency, which is associated with hydrogen atoms. The article highlights the scientific rigor of this search, contrasting it with earlier, less scientific investigations into UFOs. Horowitz's project is described as a serious scientific endeavor, aiming to answer the age-old question of whether humanity is alone in the universe. The article also touches upon the motivations of SETI researchers, including ambition and the potential for humanity to evolve through contact with advanced civilizations. Horowitz's daughter, Misha, is mentioned with a touching request to speak with E.T. if he calls.

The SETI project is supported by a grant of 800,000 kroner, funded by donations solicited by friends like filmmakers Steven Spielberg and astronomer Carl Sagan, who have promoted the idea of looking beyond Earth through their work.

Horowitz's research laboratory is located near Boston, featuring a 25-meter radio telescope. His unique computer program analyzes 8.4 million signals simultaneously, searching for patterns that indicate deliberate transmissions rather than background noise. The program compensates for Earth's movement to ensure accurate signal reception.

Carl Sagan's TV series "Cosmos" is credited with sparking public interest in the mysteries of the universe. The telescope was inaugurated in September 1985 with Spielberg and Sagan present.

Horowitz explains that communication via electromagnetic waves is key, and the challenge is distinguishing intelligent signals from background noise. He believes that universal laws of nature would be understood by extraterrestrials, forming the basis for a cosmic language.

UFO Sightings in Norway

The magazine reports on several UFO sightings in Norway:

• Gudbrandsdalen: Following up on a previous report, two women saw a strange flying object in late 1987. In early 1988, a man from Gausdal reported seeing a similar phenomenon for three consecutive evenings, described as the 'first phase' of a known report. Another report from Anny Hammervold and a friend corroborated the Gausdal sighting.
• Tydal/Skardøra: Two individuals from Stjørdal reported seeing a UFO in Tydal, near Skardøra, in November 1985. The object disappeared, and the witnesses experienced a strong pressure on their heads.
• Rogaland: In December, a strange light was observed in the sky before dark, which dissolved and descended like a dust cloud, followed by a distant rumbling sound. Witnesses speculated it might have been a meteor, while meteorologists suggested it could be related to a cold front.

Psychological Aspects of UFO Encounters

An article titled "STUDIE AV 9 UFO-BORTFØRTE" (Study of 9 UFO Abductees) by D. Scott Rogo discusses a psychological study funded by the "Fund for UFO Research." The study, conducted by researchers Ted Bloecher, Budd Hopkins, and Aphrodite Clamar, analyzed nine individuals who claimed to have been abducted by UFOs. Clinical psychologist Lisa Slater administered psychological tests to these individuals, who came from various professional backgrounds. The tests revealed no obvious psychological disorders but indicated that the subjects had experienced significant psychological strain or shock, exhibiting suspiciousness and paranoia, leading Slater to compare them to victims of assault.

When informed of the UFO abduction claims, Slater stated that the test results did not contradict the reported experiences. Another anonymous psychologist reviewed five cases and agreed with Slater's findings.

While most UFOlogists believe the study doesn't prove abductions are real, astronomer J. Allen Hynek suggests it indicates that "a number of normal people have gone through what for them was a vividly shocking experience – one that had a deeply affecting impact on their lives."

Skeptics like psychologist Ronald Siegel from UCLA propose that such experiences could be neurological quirks or misperceptions. However, the "Fund for UFO Research" has gathered evidence suggesting that UFO abductees do undergo something significant, though the nature of it remains unclear.

Near-Death Experiences (NDEs)

"LIVETS SPEIL" (Life's Mirror) by Rune Amundsen, a clinical psychologist, is reviewed. The book compiles NDE accounts from fifty Norwegian individuals, finding them consistent with international reports. The review highlights the common description of a "dark carpet" representing death in modern science, questioning if this view is too simplistic. A typical NDE described involves a feeling of floating towards a tunnel with an intense light, experiencing profound understanding of life's meaning, and feeling overwhelming harmony and happiness. The experience is often interrupted by medical intervention, such as a doctor's report on a patient's condition.

Film and UFOs

The article "FILMEN BLE VIRKELIGHET!" (The Movie Became Reality!) recounts Sigourney Weaver's experience of seeing mysterious lights in the sky, reminiscent of the movie "Alien." She believes these were signs of alien spacecraft visiting Earth.

Book Reviews and Requests

"UFO-BØKER SØKES !" (UFO BOOKS WANTED!) features a letter from Ole Jonny Brænne, who is seeking specific UFO-related books to complete his collection. He lists several titles, including works by John Armand, Andrè Bjerke, Josef Blumerich, Paul Jan Brudal, Erich von Däniken, Budd Hopkins, J. Allen Hynek, Finn W. Kalvik, Donald Keyhoe, Desmond Leslie, and George Adamski. Brænne also mentions his interest in a series of pamphlets by Stein Ravn and Gunnar Bertelsen on "Technical Ufology."

Other Sections

• "PRESSEKLIPP" (Press Clippings): This section includes a correction to a previous article about UFOs from "Selbyggen" in Selbu, clarifying details about UFO sightings in Hessdalen and a specific incident in Tydal involving a strong pressure sensation on the head.
• "EN SKREMMENDE OPPLEVELSE" (A Terrifying Experience): This is a personal account from a witness named Ole, who in 1930 or 1931, saw a man on the roadside who then rolled away, shrinking in size and disappearing. Ole experienced panic and his mother confirmed his extreme fear.
• "SPØKELSESHISTORIER FRA BYENE" (Ghost Stories from the Cities): An appeal to readers to submit ghost stories from urban environments.
• Space Exploration: A brief mention of NASA's plans to launch research platforms in geostationary orbit in the late 1990s to study Earth's systems.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, mystery, and the unknown. It presents reports on UFO phenomena and extraterrestrial intelligence with a degree of seriousness, often citing scientific research and expert opinions, while also including personal accounts and anecdotal evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional understanding. There is a clear interest in promoting Norwegian contributions to these fields, as seen in the focus on local sightings and NDE accounts. The magazine also highlights the role of popular culture, such as films, in shaping public perception and interest in these topics. Skeptical viewpoints are acknowledged, but the overall tone leans towards exploring the unexplained.

This document is a promotional flyer from BORGHILD LIND A/s, a company based in Tønsberg, Norway, specializing in optical equipment. The flyer prominently features illustrations of various Pentax telescopes (models J80, J60, and J60c) and poses the question 'KIKKERTER - TELESKOP - ETC.?' (Binoculars - Telescopes - Etc.?), indicating a sale or offering of these items. The company's contact details, including address and phone number, are clearly displayed at the bottom.

HVIS DU SER EN UFO - HVA GJØR DU DA? (If You See a UFO - What Do You Do?)

In addition to promoting optical equipment, the flyer includes a detailed guide on how to respond to a UFO sighting. This section, titled 'HVIS DU SER EN UFO - HVA GJØR DU DA?', provides a comprehensive checklist for witnesses to ensure they gather crucial data. The guide emphasizes the importance of recording:

• TID (Time): The exact time of the observation and its duration.
• STED (Location): The precise location of the observation, including any navigational bearings.
• KURS (Course): The direction of the object's movement, preferably using a compass heading.
• HØYDE (Altitude): The estimated altitude of the UFO, using angular measurements relative to the horizon at the beginning and end of the observation.
• UFO'en (The UFO): Its size, shape, color, and any discernible details. A practical tip is given: a thumb held at arm's length covers the moon.
• VÆR/FLY (Weather/Aircraft): Wind and weather conditions, the position of the sun/moon, and whether any aircraft (planes/helicopters) were observed nearby during or after the sighting.
• VITNE(R) (Witness(es)): Alerting other people to the UFO and noting their names and addresses.
• FOTO (Photo): Encouraging the use of cameras to take multiple photos, varying time and aperture settings.
• KONTAKT (Contact): Suggesting contacting individuals in the direction the object was heading to enlist their observation and potentially plot the object's trajectory.
• LANDING (Landing): If a landing is observed, the site should be visited promptly to look for and photograph any tracks or marks. The area should be secured if possible, and the local department leadership or report center contacted.
• RAPPORT (Report): Urging immediate reporting of the observation to the department leadership or report center, preferably by phone, and completing a report form.
• ANDRES (Others): If information about other UFO sightings in the locality is heard, witnesses should be sought out, their accounts investigated, and reports filed, ideally with informational brochures.

The guide stresses the importance of acting quickly and systematically to gather reliable data for analysis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The flyer's stance is dual: promoting the sale of optical instruments essential for observation, and providing practical, structured guidance for UFO reporting. It positions Borghild Lind A/s as a knowledgeable source for both equipment and information related to aerial phenomena. The inclusion of a detailed UFO reporting guide suggests an editorial interest in the subject matter, possibly to attract a specific demographic interested in astronomy, observation, and potentially, unexplained aerial phenomena.