UFO - 1992 No 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of "UFO" magazine, volume 11, number 1, from 1992, is published by UFO-NORGE, a Norwegian organization dedicated to the registration and study of UFO phenomena. The magazine serves to inform its members and the public. The cover prominently features the headline "NÆRKONTAKT VED HAMAR" (Close Encounter at Hamar), accompanied by a drawing of a UFO with occupants observed by two individuals.

Editorial Content

From the Editor (Fra Redaksjonen)

The editorial section notes that the first of three issues for the year is being published later than expected due to contributors' limited free time, but this will result in shorter intervals between the remaining issues. The editors express gratitude for 12,100 Norwegian Kroner in donations received in 1991, which have been invested in a new PC to expedite content delivery. Recent press clippings indicate ongoing sightings of mysterious lights, including one that reportedly landed on Osterøy on the night of the second Christmas day in the previous year. The article mentions that the Vest department investigated this case and interviewed the witness, with Mentz Kaarbø providing further details elsewhere in the magazine. Readers are encouraged to complete a survey to help improve the magazine. Members who have not yet paid their 1992 dues are reminded to do so.

Report News (Rapportnytt)

Authored by Torfrid Urdal, this section details recent UFO reports. It notes a lull in reports but suggests this might precede a storm, with significant events occurring nationwide. The difficulty in obtaining report forms from the public is mentioned. The reports include:

• Røskeland, Osterøy (December 26, 1991): A woman reported hearing a loud dur and seeing a weakly lit object land near a road.
• Guddal (January 12, 1992): Sindre Naterstad observed a luminous object moving in a zigzag pattern through a telescope.
• Alvdal (January 14, 1992): Agnes and Egil Selboe witnessed strange lights, including a large 'star' and multiple smaller lights, moving in circles.
• Trondheim (January 21, 1992): A red light was observed, described as 'spruting' from a 'core'. This was later explained as the burning of military ammunition.
• Hisøy v. Arendal (January 21, 1992): An object was seen moving back and forth sideways near a water tower for approximately 10 minutes.
• Hamar (March 9, 1992): Two women reported a close encounter with a triangular object with a dome, emitting bright light, and saw two figures inside.
• Veggli, Numedal (April 19-20, 1992): Unknown light phenomena were observed, described as silent, high-altitude, and exhibiting specific light patterns.
• Strømmen (May 2, 1992): A woman reported a large round ball with a strong white light hovering over a barn.
• Gullverket, Eidsvoll (May 12, 1992): Two men observed a luminous point moving erratically and blinking lights forming a circle.

A table summarizes these observations from November 1, 1991, to May 15, 1992.

Hisøy Water Tower at Arendal, 21.01.92

A drawing depicts the Hisøy water tower, illustrating the Arendal sighting.

"SørlandsUFOet"

This section calls for UFO-NORGE members in the Arendal region to submit reports, as information has been scarce. The Arendal sighting from January 21 is detailed: an object moved near the Hisøy water tower for about 10 minutes, described as unlike any known craft.

Close Encounter at Hamar

This article details the Hamar incident on March 9, where two women reported a close encounter. They described a low-frequency, vibrating sound and a powerful white light that blinded them. They saw a triangular object with a dome, approximately 2-3 meters above the ground, with three lights on its underside. The light suddenly died down, and then reappeared, revealing two figures inside. The figures were described as moving jerkily, one possibly holding a steering mechanism. The women approached the object despite their fear. One woman described the occupant on the right as having long light hair and large, dark, slanted eyes with black pupils, giving a cold, penetrating gaze. The object then disappeared suddenly. The women experienced ear pressure and nosebleeds, and one reported visual disturbances and fatigue for weeks afterward. The description of the object varied slightly between the two witnesses, with one recalling a rounder craft.

Veggli in Rollag Municipality (Numedal)

Reports from Veggli describe unknown light phenomena observed at high altitude. The lights were compared to military or civilian aircraft but were silent and moved at extreme speeds. One phenomenon stopped for 20 minutes before accelerating away. Witnesses Thorleif Magne and Bjørn Kristian Lentz described the object's movement and a sequence of light flashes (yellow, white, yellow, dark).

Strømmen

A report from May 2 describes a large round ball with a strong white light hovering over a barn. The object remained stationary for 2-3 minutes before vanishing.

Eidsvoll

On the night of May 12, strange phenomena were observed over Gullverket. Two men saw a luminous point moving erratically and blinking lights forming a circle, with colors and positions changing constantly. They ruled out it being the Northern Lights.

Voss

This section addresses a persistent UFO observer in Voss who has registered 555 objects since 1984 and criticizes UFO-NORGE for lack of interest and engagement, comparing it to the Hessdalen project. The magazine acknowledges limited resources for extensive fieldwork but states they must prioritize cases. A submitted video of the Voss phenomena is deemed unusable due to shaky camera work and lack of reference points. The organization maintains an open mind but notes that some observations may be identifiable as passing aircraft. They continue to seek witnesses in the Voss area.

Correction

A correction is made regarding the location of crop circles previously reported in Kjær, Vestfold. The correct location is approximately 9 km north of Tønsberg, near Skoppum, not 40 km southwest.

UFO-SVERIGE RIKSTÄMMA (UFO-Sweden National Meeting)

This section reports on the UFO-Sverige annual meeting held in Gothenburg on May 17, 1992. The author, Odd-Gunnar Røed, was invited to speak on "UFOs on Video, Unexplained Objects over Norway." The presentation included a French film from 1985, a film from Torfinn Tonning (1986), and slides from Arendal (1981). It also covered the Belgian UFO wave with triangular objects, though the promised Belgian video was delayed due to customs. The meeting also discussed a new report form being developed by UFO-NORGE.

Observations in "The Argentine Triangle"

Since mid-July 1991, numerous UFOs and similar phenomena have been reported in Victoria, Entre Rios Province, Argentina. Sightings include lights crossing the sky, photographic evidence of craft and non-terrestrial beings, and a TV team reportedly filming a landed craft. UFO researchers worldwide have visited Victoria, and NASA is said to have sent technicians. Witnesses reported seeing tall, non-terrestrial beings near a landed UFO, which emitted a powerful, threatening light. Reports suggest that triangular objects have chosen the Victoria region as a target for increased visits. Some reports claim that inhabitants of remote villages disappeared after going out to investigate the mysterious lights.

The Case of Berit Clemmensen, Part 1

Authored by Mentz Kaarbø, this article introduces the life story of Berit Clemmensen, a woman who has experienced numerous unusual events throughout her life. The article aims to present her experiences for readers to form their own opinions. Berit Clemmensen (BC) was first contacted by UFO-NORGE in 1987 through Jean-Luc Rivera, who was in Oslo. Rivera had been advised by Budd Hopkins to contact BC. In January 1988, Rivera and Odd-Gunnar Røed located BC at Valestrandsfossen on Osterøy. The first meeting included BC, Rivera, Røed, and an interested acquaintance. BC is 65 years old, divorced, and has lived in Skår for the past 20 years. She was born and raised on Osterøy. She has six siblings and a son, his wife, and two grandchildren. Her experiences are categorized into three main types: A) Visual UFO observations, B) Dream-like states involving communication with beings, messages, and out-of-body experiences, and C) Strange occurrences in broad daylight. The article promises to detail these categories in subsequent issues, with Part 2 to appear in issue #2, 1992.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings and close encounters reported within Norway, with occasional international reports (e.g., Argentina, Sweden). UFO-NORGE positions itself as an independent organization dedicated to studying these phenomena. The editorial stance appears open-minded, encouraging witness reports and seeking to provide information, while also acknowledging the need for careful investigation and resource allocation. There is a clear emphasis on gathering data, encouraging member participation through surveys and subscriptions, and maintaining an "open mind without blinders." The magazine also addresses criticisms and defends its approach to investigations, particularly concerning the Voss sightings.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated 1/92, focuses on UFO phenomena and related experiences primarily in Norway, with a significant emphasis on the island of Osterøy. The issue includes detailed witness testimonies, investigative reports, and a brief mention of international UFO news.

Article: Nærkontakt på Osterøy (Close Encounter on Osterøy)

This article, authored by Mentz Kaarbø, details a close encounter experienced by Lillian Reigstad on December 26, 1991, near Røskeland on Osterøy. Reigstad, a 32-year-old woman living with her three children, reported hearing a strange, monotonous engine hum around 00:30. Investigating the sound, she observed a disk-like object with a faint greenish glow above Burkelandsfjellet. The object then descended rapidly, flying towards her and landing approximately 15 meters away. Reigstad described the object as about 3-4 meters in diameter, with four grapefruit-sized, dim yellow lights on its outer edge. The hum was continuous and penetrating. Her dogs were extremely frightened. After a few minutes, the lights went out, and the object's outline was visible against the frosty ground. The object eventually moved away, its sound fading into Røskeland Valley. The witness was deeply shaken and experienced fear for weeks afterward. The following morning, Reigstad and her children observed a circular area on the ground where the object had landed. The frost was melted, and the earth was soft, forming a circle about 3 meters in diameter, with a small hole (10-12 cm diameter, 20 cm deep) in the center. Initial investigations by Rune Århus using a Geiger counter found no significant radioactivity. UFO-NORGE investigators Finn W. Kalvik and the author visited the site, confirming the hole's dimensions (10-12 cm diameter, 41 cm depth, with a discrepancy possibly due to digging). The site was filmed. Attempts to verify weather conditions with Flesland Airport and the Meteorological Institute revealed that the reported cold and frost were unusual for the mild, rainy weather of that night, though the witness remained certain of her observations.

Article: BC's Experiences

This section details the UFO experiences of a witness identified only as 'BC'. Her first reported experience occurred around 1934 when she was seven years old. While lying in a haystack, she saw a luminous object descend from a nearby mountain. The object approached, then vanished, leaving a gap in her memory. She later speculated about possible abduction and physical examination, a theory reinforced after reading Budd Hopkins' 'Missing Time' in 1982. Her next significant experience was around 1939-1940, at age 12-13, with a friend near Røskeland. They were enveloped in an unusual light, causing fear and excitement. They could not recall how they returned home, possibly due to memory loss or heightened emotional state.

Later, in 1984, BC began having more regular UFO observations. On November 3, 1984, she witnessed two luminous objects flying erratically over a mountain near Skår. One object moved very actively, emitting a flame-like light. This was described as her most significant and negative experience.

Between 1985 and 1992, BC reported 12-15 classic UFO observations, often described as bright lights descending rapidly from the sky. She is certain these are not meteorites, satellites, or aircraft.

Dreams

A week after the November 3, 1984 sighting, BC had a vivid dream. She described seeing a tropical landscape from above, like looking through a spaceship window, and later encountered a female being resembling figures from ancient Babylon, Mesopotamia, or Egypt, who exuded wisdom and authority. BC felt this being was an extraterrestrial attempting contact. She noted the dream's visual presentation as 'like a film,' a description she later found in accounts of Betty Andreasson's experiences.

BC has had numerous other dreams, some with precognitive elements and 'out-of-body' experiences. She believes these beings, first seen shortly after the November 1984 sighting, are the 'extraterrestrials' in contact with her, acting as her 'mouthpiece.' Her dreams often refer back to this key observation and others.

Special Experiences

BC also reported unusual waking experiences, including a vision of a face being painted on a window in Bergen in April 1986, and a 'deja vu' experience in Bergen city center in the late 1970s, where she felt completely alone and as if transported to a past era.

BC's Medical History

BC has a history of kidney problems, particularly affecting her right kidney, which she believes began around age 9-10 and may be linked to her first UFO experience. An unexplained scar above her right kidney was discovered when she was 24-25.

She also experienced severe problems falling asleep between ages 10 and 13, feeling a sensation of suffocation, and later developed claustrophobia, especially concerning elevators. She connects these issues to a possible abduction during her first UFO experience.

BC's Stance and Social Profile

BC feels increasingly convinced that extraterrestrial intelligences are in contact with her and wish to use her as a spokesperson. She expresses concern about global issues like war and pollution and believes these intelligences will eventually reveal themselves more openly. Initially hesitant to share her experiences due to fear of ridicule, she has become more open over the past two years. While some family members remain skeptical, her immediate circle has become supportive. She is described as down-to-earth, socially adaptable, and well-informed.

Article: Howard Menger in Oslo

This article by Odd-Gunnar Røed reports on a lecture given by Howard Menger in Oslo. Menger claimed to have contact with beings from the universe, including Mars and Venus, who resemble humans. He asserted that the Moon has an atmosphere and that Mars is on a path to becoming like Earth in the future. Menger also claimed to have built a working flying saucer, but was allegedly prevented from demonstrating it by the FBI. He spoke of large domed buildings on the Moon where 'people from the universe' work. Menger's claims about extraterrestrial intervention in human evolution, suggesting a hybrid race to instill the necessity of certain things, are presented as disturbing. The article questions Menger's assertions, particularly regarding alleged US government involvement in building UFOs in Colorado Springs, and suggests his claims may be driven by the need to sell books.

Report: Silver 'Banana' Filmed on Video

This section reports on an investigation led by Zitha Rodriguez in San Baltazar, Mexico, concerning a silver, banana-shaped object with lights seen by over a thousand people in August 1991. The object reportedly appeared in the same location, hovering over a white house. Rodriguez's son filmed the object on two occasions. The report also mentions other UFO sightings in Mexico during 1991, including during a solar eclipse.

SAF-BULLETIN

A notice for SAF-BULLETIN, a publication of the Solna Astronomical Association, is included, detailing its content (astronomy, radio, mysticism, UFOs, parapsychology, archaeology, ancient history) and membership fees.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently presents UFO phenomena as a serious subject worthy of investigation, giving significant weight to witness testimonies, especially those with detailed accounts and physical evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to consider the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence and unexplained phenomena. The magazine also highlights the challenges faced by witnesses in coming forward and the skepticism they often encounter. The inclusion of personal accounts, dreams, and physical trace evidence suggests a focus on the more personal and tangible aspects of UFO encounters. The reporting on Howard Menger's claims, while presenting his assertions, also includes critical commentary, indicating a balanced approach to extraordinary claims. The overall tone is one of documenting and exploring the UFO phenomenon from various angles, including witness experiences, investigative efforts, and broader implications.

This issue of UFO (1/92) features a prominent article detailing a UFO observation in Dyrøy, Norway, and includes several other pieces discussing the broader landscape of UFO research, attitudes within the community, and related scientific endeavors.

Observation of a Luminous Object in Dyrøy

The main article, authored by Mentz Kaarbø, reports on an observation made by a young couple in Dyrøy, Norway, in January 1987. The report was initially brought to the attention of UFO-NORGE through Arild Mikkelsen, who was seeking other witnesses with similar experiences after an article about the Raufoss observation. The witnesses, Cathe Rasmussen (then 16) and her partner, were living at Myrvoll farm in Brøstadbotn, Dyrøy municipality. The observation likely occurred on a Monday evening, either January 12th or 19th, around 10:00 PM, with a full moon present.

Cathe Rasmussen was on the second floor of their house when she heard a strange, high, monotonous humming sound and looked out the window. She saw an object with blinking lights hovering stationary over Finlandsneset, approximately 2-3 km to the west, at an elevation of about 45 degrees. Her partner joined her, and together they observed the object move towards Dyrøya (8-10 km to the southwest), then back to Finlandsneset, and then back to Dyrøya again. The object displayed red, green, and blue lights that appeared to rotate. It then moved towards the witnesses, exhibiting a zig-zag pattern, and stopped directly in front of their house at a distance of about 15 meters. The object was at the same height as their second-floor window (5-6 meters above ground). The surface of the object was described as dark, illuminated by the full moon, and its shape was characterized as "flat top and bottom, with pointed edges (8-sided)". The size was estimated at 5 meters in diameter. The humming sound, previously heard, ceased when the object was close. The object remained stationary for approximately 7 seconds before disappearing with extreme speed, described as if it "vanished into the ground". However, the witnesses then looked towards the forest to the east and saw the object again.

The object disappeared between the trees, and the humming sound, which had returned, also ceased. The entire observation lasted about 10 minutes. No physical traces or artifacts were found. The weather was cold and clear, with the moon in an assumed northwesterly direction.

Both witnesses were scared but not panicked. Cathe Rasmussen had difficulty sleeping that night due to the impact of the observation. They were also concerned about how neighbors might react if they shared their experience.

His parents, who were sleeping in a bedroom on the second floor, heard or saw nothing, despite the object being visible from their side of the house. When Cathe Rasmussen casually asked her mother the next day if she had noticed anything unusual, her mother's response was negative.

The house is somewhat isolated, with other farms and a new housing area a few hundred meters away. No one else in the immediate vicinity reported observing anything suspicious that night. However, a neighbor about 250 meters away mentioned hearing a sound and seeing what they thought was a helicopter briefly. The witnesses initially considered the possibility of a military exercise involving helicopters but concluded it was unlikely.

The article concludes that the phenomenon, as described, is to be considered unidentified unless further information comes to light. It notes the commonality of such observations being made by only one or a few people in otherwise populated areas.

"Have We Stagnated?" by Torfrid Urdal

This article reflects on the state of UFO research and the broader UFO community. Torfrid Urdal questions whether the interest in UFOs can lead to a stagnation of understanding if it becomes a rigid belief system rather than an open inquiry. He notes that in the early years of PSI (Norsk Forening for Psykisk Studium og Informasjon), UFO research was central to its program, and mentions the Mengers, known for their "contactee" experiences.

Urdal expresses concern about how UFO interest can sometimes lead individuals into areas like parapsychology, star people beliefs, or alternative spiritual paths like Eckankar, without further exploration. He argues that instead of dismissing these aspects, one should engage with them to gain a deeper understanding.

The article is partly prompted by reactions to a previous interview with Erling Strand in VG newspaper, which received a significant response, including many negative and even threatening messages from individuals with strong religious beliefs.

Urdal observes that while religious faith is understandable and deserves respect, he encounters a similar, deeply held faith among some in the UFO community, where their beliefs are the foundation of their lives. He suggests that in a world that can feel far from a paradise, people seek alternatives to traditional religion, finding meaning in other belief systems.

He describes the UFO phenomenon as unclear and mysterious, making it susceptible to theories that appeal to individuals. He warns against jumping into the unknown without a safety net, likening it to historical beliefs about the edge of the world. Urdal identifies the cause of "derailment" in UFO circles as the creation of personal theories, often mixed with personal desires and others' stories, leading to a "life faith" rather than continued research. He criticizes the belief that "UFOs are spaceships from alien planets" and that "star people are among us," stating that this has become a religion for some, with little room for doubt.

Urdal acknowledges that the spaceship theory might be correct, as we don't know for sure, but emphasizes the lack of tangible evidence. He advocates for a middle ground, discarding theories that have been disproven and retaining those that are still viable. He points out that many UFO researchers have their own opinions, but a collective agreement is needed for progress. He suggests that research should be based on facts, not just belief.

He contrasts the scientific and religious approaches, suggesting they can coexist if there is mutual respect. He argues that understanding UFO phenomena should not necessarily negate religious faith, just as scientific understanding of lightning did not diminish faith.

Urdal mentions the Mengers again, referencing a claim that Howard Menger witnessed American authorities in contact with a spaceship in 1968 and filmed it, but the film was confiscated. He questions whether this is convenient for those who want to maintain their beliefs without proof.

He criticizes a particular "religion" that he encounters, which he describes as insidious, stealing the mind and soul, and offering an exit that is difficult to find. This religion's motto is "You decide for yourself," which he finds deceptive, as individuals are subtly controlled. He notes that while many in this group are sincere, they are trapped by their upbringing, believing they are thinking for themselves.

Urdal expresses concern that this phenomenon might be a passing phase or a search for meaning. He questions if it is related to money and power.

He contrasts this with the natural, uninhibited expression of children, who ask questions without prejudice. He urges UFO researchers to adopt a similar childlike approach, asking "What could this be?" without preconceived notions.

"Holdninger!!!" (Attitudes!!!)

This section, attributed to Odd-Gunnar Røed of UFO-NORGE, addresses attitudes within the UFO community. It stems from a group of UFO enthusiasts in a southern Norwegian city who have been active since 1973 and are now re-engaging. They maintain a collaborative relationship with UFO-NORGE, primarily through exchanging reports and having a voice at the UFO-NORGE National Meeting.

The article highlights a specific incident from the summer of 1990, where a video was taken in the archipelago of a white flying object during the day. This video, described as being of good quality, was of interest for analysis. Several other UFO sightings had occurred in the same area over a couple of years. UFO-NORGE requested copies of reports and any accompanying material, but only received newspaper clippings. When the video was made, there was an opportunity for proper analysis, especially through Erling Strand at Østfold Ingeniørhøyskole in Sarpsborg.

Despite a promise to provide a copy of the video, it was eventually refused, with the majority deciding not to share the film. The authors emphasize that UFO-NORGE is not seeking financial gain but is an idealistic organization aiming to understand the UFO mystery. They offer credit to contributors and return original materials after analysis. They also state that any fees from using photos or films in publications would be forwarded to the witness/photographer.

The article expresses frustration with attitudes that dismiss the need for investigation, claiming the phenomenon is already understood. UFO-NORGE states that officially, no observation has met the criteria for objective approval. They believe that presenting a solid analysis that even skeptics would accept would be valuable.

In the specific case of the video, the witness/cameraman is not a member of UFO-NORGE but belongs to the local group that is being uncooperative. UFO-NORGE has recently had other interesting observations for analysis (Øydeskyvatn - Raufoss), and this information is shared with the local group and others actively involved with UFO-NORGE.

The authors express hope that such uncooperative attitudes will be avoided in the future, reiterating that UFO-NORGE is willing to set aside past grievances if the interest in further analysis changes. They extend thanks to everyone who submits reports and materials, acknowledging their reliance on individual contributions.

Swedish Videofilm Explained

This section clarifies a Swedish videofilm that was presented in the Danish magazine UFO-Nyt in 1991. The video, recorded by Tom Joneström on May 12, 1991, showed a Swedish flag and two rocket-like objects flying past rapidly. This case had generated considerable attention in Swedish and Danish UFO publications.

UFO-Sverige conducted extensive tests with a similar video camera and concluded that the objects, which appeared elongated due to the camera's settings and movement, were actually two birds.

UFO-Sverige emphasizes that there is no reason to suspect Joneström of fraud, as he approached them in good faith with what he believed to be an unexplained phenomenon. The image on the left is from Joneström's video, while the image on the right is from UFO-Sverige's test series, showing a ball.

Delta på reise til Mars (Join the Journey to Mars)

This short piece announces an opportunity for individuals to participate in Mars exploration. The Russian space organization has invited the private American organization "The Planetary Society" to help develop and test a Mars rover. This rover is intended to be a key component of the Soviet Union's future Mars'96 mission, which aims to collect scientific data about the Martian atmosphere, winds, and surface. The rover will be used to drive on the surface and collect measurements and samples. The article notes that the Russians have sought Western technology and have formed an alliance with the Planetary Society, which draws on the knowledge of American scientists. Membership in The Planetary Society allows individuals to support future Mars exploration. The article also mentions that the Planetary Society is involved in SETI research, using radio telescopes at Harvard and Buenos Aires to search for intelligent radio signals across millions of frequencies. Contact information for The Planetary Society is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO magazine exhibits a strong focus on empirical evidence and critical analysis within UFO research. The Dyrøy observation, while presented as a compelling witness account, is ultimately categorized as "unidentified" pending further information, reflecting a cautious and evidence-based approach. The article "Har vi stagnert?" by Torfrid Urdal directly addresses the dangers of rigid belief systems and the importance of maintaining an open, scientific mindset, urging researchers to avoid dogmatism and to base their work on facts rather than speculation. The piece on the Swedish videofilm demonstrates how seemingly anomalous phenomena can be explained through scientific investigation. The editorial stance, particularly in the "Holdninger!!!" section, emphasizes the need for cooperation and transparency within the UFO community for the sake of genuine research, while also expressing frustration with uncooperative attitudes. The inclusion of the Mars exploration and SETI projects suggests an interest in broader scientific endeavors related to space and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, framing UFO research within a larger context of human curiosity and scientific inquiry.

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated 1/92, is titled "UDEFINERTE GJESTER" (Undefined Guests) and features an article by Bruce Goldman. The magazine focuses on unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena, presenting a mix of scientific inquiry, eyewitness accounts, and analysis of documented cases.

Interview with Peter Sturrock

The main feature is an interview with Professor Peter Sturrock, a distinguished professor of space science and astrophysics at Stanford University. Sturrock, a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, American Physical Society, and Royal Astronomical Society, has published extensively in scientific journals. He co-founded the Society for Scientific Exploration in 1982 to investigate phenomena that mainstream science often overlooks. In the interview, Sturrock emphasizes the importance of being skeptical yet objective, collecting all available evidence, and conducting accurate investigations. He shares an anecdote about a film from a rocket launch at White Sands, New Mexico, initially thought to show UFOs, but later identified as dust particles or other debris from the rocket.

Sturrock also discusses the Ubatuba incident in Brazil (1957), where fragments of an object that reportedly exploded in the air were analyzed as nearly pure magnesium. He notes the irony that while most UFO cases have witnesses but lack physical evidence, this case has physical evidence but lacks direct witnesses. He also touches upon the Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947, noting it wasn't the first documented UFO observation but occurred around the time the US Air Force began studying UFO reports.

He references the Project Sign analysis from the late 1940s, which categorized UFO shapes into four types: saucer, torpedo, sphere, and 'luminous balls'. Sturrock highlights a peculiar finding: the better the data available for a case, the higher the probability it would be classified as 'unknown'. He also discusses J. Allen Hynek's evolving perspective from initially explaining away sightings to acknowledging the possibility of 'genuine UFOs'.

Sturrock explains his own entry into UFO research as a result of chance, mentioning Jacques Vallée and the Condon Report as key influences. He critically analyzes the Condon Report, suggesting that reading it 'backwards' reveals a different conclusion than the official one, which led to the closure of Project Blue Book. He points out flaws in the report, such as downplaying 'unidentified cases' and the counter-intuitive correlation between better data and 'unknown' classifications.

Regarding who sees UFOs, Sturrock states that most reports come from ordinary people, including pilots, but acknowledges the presence of pranksters. He notes that in 1977, a significant portion of the American Astronomical Society members believed the UFO question deserved scientific investigation, and a small percentage reported their own sightings.

UFO Organizations and Research

The magazine mentions several organizations involved in UFO research. In the US, the Center for UFO Studies, founded by Hynek, continues investigations. In France, GEPAN (Group d'Etude des Phenomenes Aerospatiaux Nonidentifies), officially affiliated with the defense and gendarmerie, is highlighted for its systematic approach to collecting evidence and involving laboratories. The article details a GEPAN investigation involving a witness named Colini in Southern France.

Press Clippings (December 1991 - March 1992)

A section provides a summary of press clippings related to UFOs from various Norwegian newspapers. It covers reports of a UFO wave in Trengereid, Norway, an interview with Erling Strand about an unexplained light over Lødingen, an investigation by the Norwegian military into a sighting near Kristiansand, and a report of strange lights over Tronfjell in Alvdal. It also mentions a 1979 sighting of a 'giant cigar' over Hurum, Norway.

'ET EKTE UFO' (A Real UFO) by Mentz Kaarbø

This article details the discovery of a mysterious astronomical object, designated 1991 VG, by astronomer James Scotti in Arizona in November 1991. Initially thought to be a small asteroid, its unusual pulsating brightness led astronomers like Brian Marsden to believe it was an artificial object, possibly a spent rocket stage. The object passed within 460,000 km of Earth on December 5, 1991. Despite efforts using powerful telescopes like the NTT at ESO and radar observations, the object could not be definitively identified. Its orbit suggests it follows Earth's path with a period of 1.06 years, and it is expected to reappear in 16-18 years. The article concludes by noting that the International Astronomical Union has not yet definitively classified the object, considering possibilities like an unusual asteroid or a spent rocket stage from early interplanetary probes.

'Bolid over Danmark og Sverige' (Fireball over Denmark and Sweden)

This report describes a luminous phenomenon observed by thousands across Europe on November 5, 1990. While initially causing a stir and leading to numerous reports to UFO organizations like SUFOI in Denmark and UFO-Sverige, the phenomenon was later identified as a bright meteor (bolide), likely part of the October Draconids meteor shower. The bolide was visible over a significant distance, at altitudes ranging from 400 to 9300 meters.

Video Review: 'Cropcircle communiqué'

This section reviews a VHS video titled 'Cropcircle communiqué', produced by John Macnish, which investigates the mystery of crop circles. The review highlights the video's balanced presentation, featuring interviews with a dozen individuals with diverse views on the phenomenon, including physicists and astrologers. It discusses the evolution of crop circle patterns and formations, particularly in 1990 and 1991, and briefly touches upon sightings in the USA and Canada. The review mentions the appearance of alleged hoaxers Dave Chorley and Doug Brower, and their refutation by Colin Andrews. It also features a presentation of amateur video footage from German students showing a strange luminous sphere near crop circles, which the reviewer found particularly impactful. The video compares a specific crop circle pattern to fractal geometric figures like the Mandelbrot set, linking it to the study of chaos. The review praises Macnish's use of artistic elements, including music, to enhance the mysterious and dramatic aspects of the phenomenon. The reviewer, while leaning towards more conventional explanations, admits to being captivated by the presentation and the ideas of other researchers, concluding that the phenomenon might hold more significance than initially perceived.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a stance of open-minded yet critical investigation into UFO phenomena. It encourages the collection of evidence and objective analysis, even when dealing with controversial topics. The recurring themes include the scientific study of UFOs, the importance of eyewitness testimony, the analysis of specific cases (like Ubatuba and 1991 VG), and the exploration of related phenomena such as crop circles. The editorial stance appears to be that while many sightings can be explained by conventional means, a core of unexplained cases warrants continued scientific attention and research. The magazine also highlights the efforts of various organizations dedicated to this pursuit.

Title: UFO
Issue: 1/92
Issue Date: January 1992
Publisher: UFO-NORGE
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of the Norwegian UFO magazine "UFO" delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, featuring reports on sightings, scientific investigations, and organizational news.

Undefined Guests: A Case Study

The issue begins with a continuation of a story about "Undefined Guests," detailing a case where a man named Colini observed a dark grey, circular object approximately 2.5 meters in diameter landing on his lawn. The object emitted a faint whistling sound and left a distinct ring on the grass. His wife initially disbelieved him, but subsequent investigation by gendarmes, including interviews, photography, and soil/vegetation samples, provided evidence. Samples of alfalfa from the affected area were sent to the Institut National de la Recherce Agronomique for analysis by Dr. Michel Bounais. Bounais found that the biochemical composition of the alfalfa, including chlorophyll, varied with distance from the ring, a result considered remarkable and difficult to explain as a hoax.

The Society for Scientific Exploration

The magazine includes an interview with a representative (referred to as PS) about the founding of the Society for Scientific Exploration. PS explains that the society was formed in response to a 1977 survey where many members of the American Astronomical Society expressed a desire for more information on UFO-related journals, as publications like Science and Nature did not cover such topics. The Society was established in 1982, and its journal, the Journal of Scientific Exploration, debuted in 1987. PS expresses hope that the organization will help bring UFO-related questions into the open for discussion, acknowledging that scientific progress is slow. PS also touches upon the scientific community's responsibility to the public when collective ignorance is shown towards a topic of public interest. The discussion then moves to the possibility of extraterrestrial visitors, with PS referencing the independent analyses of Condon and Hynek, who both considered and rejected the idea of alien visitation due to the vast distances involved or the sheer number of UFO reports that would need to be explained.

PS expresses a personal view that the UFO problem is complex and its solution may be unsettling, possibly even frightening. He acknowledges the possibility of natural phenomena or even mass psychological processes as explanations, but remains open to exploring complex scenarios.

Flying Triangles

Another section reports on sightings of flying triangles, including an incident in Switzerland on February 23, 1991, where witnesses in Viganello and Chiasso observed a dark, triangular object hovering for about 20 minutes before moving rapidly towards Italy. The object had two luminous points on its underside. The report also notes a resurgence of Belgian triangular UFO sightings in January 1991, with Paul Vanbrabant of NUFOC-BELGIUM suggesting a link to the Gulf War. The Belgian UFO organization SOBEPS received an average of 10 reports per day during this period, with a peak on March 12th, featuring detailed close-range observations, some as near as 10 meters, with a spotlight-like beam. Some witnesses reported seeing the triangles disappear into thin air. SOBEPS had 45 field operatives, but it was insufficient to handle the volume of reports.

The article on flying triangles is attributed to UFO-NYT nr. 4/1991.

UFO-Norge News and Information

This section provides practical information for readers. It details how to submit articles and contributions to the magazine, including formatting requirements for manuscripts and images, and preferred diskette formats (WordPerfect 4.2 or later on 5.25-inch disks). It also encourages readers to send in clippings from Norwegian or foreign newspapers and magazines, and seeks translators for articles from other languages.

Readers are also reminded to help promote UFO-Norge by sharing information folders and recruiting new members.

A call is made for support for the UFO-NORGE Support Fund, explaining that financial contributions are needed to carry out the organization's work, as personal funds are limited. A postgiro number is provided for donations.

What to Do If You See a UFO

A comprehensive checklist is provided for individuals who witness a UFO. It advises observers to note the time and duration of the sighting, the exact location (including bearings), the object's course, its estimated altitude, and its size, shape, and color. Observers are also encouraged to record weather conditions, the presence of aircraft, and to make other witnesses aware of the sighting, noting their names and addresses. The guide emphasizes the importance of taking photographs if possible and contacting known individuals in the object's direction of travel to gather more witnesses. If a landing is observed, the site should be visited promptly to look for tracks and marks, which should be photographed and the area secured if possible. Observers are urged to report their sightings as soon as possible to the relevant UFO-Norge department or reporting center, preferably by phone, and to fill out a report form. The guide also advises seeking out and interviewing other witnesses and providing them with information folders.

UFO-Norge National Meeting 1992

Details are provided for the UFO-Norge national meeting in 1992, which was scheduled to take place in Drammen on September 12th and 13th at Veikroer Leir Sør Motell A/S. Information on room rates (single and double occupancy) and breakfast prices is included. The meeting venue is located approximately 4 km from Drammen city center. The motel has a meeting room for the event. Binding registrations were to be sent to Ole Jonny Brænne in Drammen by August 1st, with proposals for agenda items to be attached. The meeting program was to be sent out to registered attendees by mid-August, and all subscribers were entitled to attend and vote.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings, investigations, and the scientific study of anomalous phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on collecting detailed reports, encouraging scientific analysis (as seen in the alfalfa case), and fostering discussion within the UFO community and potentially with the broader scientific establishment. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the complexity and sometimes unsettling nature of the subject matter. The magazine also serves as a platform for UFO-Norge's organizational activities, including member recruitment and fundraising.