UFO - 1992 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO
Issue: 2
Volume: 11
Year: 1992
Publisher: UFO-NORGE
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
ISSN: 0800-1758
Price: 35,- per issue

This issue of UFO-NORGE's magazine, published in 1992, covers a range of topics related to UFO phenomena, with a strong focus on Norwegian cases and the organization's activities.

Content Summary

Cover Story: Espevær-Ringen

The cover prominently features the "Espevær-Ringen" (Espevær Ring), a mysterious ground mark discovered on the island of Espevær in Bømlo municipality, outside Haugesund. The article "Espevær 17 År Etter" (Espevær 17 Years Later) by Odd-Gunnar Røed revisits this case, which was first officially discovered in April 1976. The mark was egg-shaped, measuring 63.5 meters in circumference. The article notes that while the official discovery was in 1976, some witnesses claim to have seen the mark as early as November 1975. The incident was also accompanied by reports of strange lights, TV interference, and a dog behaving erratically. The article discusses various explanations offered over the years, including natural phenomena and even a 'witch's ring,' but emphasizes that investigations by UFO-NORGE (then UFO Center) confirmed the ground was sterile within the mark. The author, along with a reporter from the weekly magazine "Hjemmet" and a gold prospector, visited Espevær to investigate. The article concludes that the mystery of what created the mark remains unsolved, but suggests that the ongoing visits by tourists and locals may have contributed to its preservation.

Rapportnytt (Report News)

This section, authored by Odd-Gunnar Røed, presents a summary of recent UFO observations reported to UFO-NORGE between May 15 and November 15, 1992. The number of reports received in the past 12-15 months has been low. The issue highlights several specific sightings:

• Skjåk: On the night of August 30, 1992, Finn Valbjørgsløkken and Kåre Kluften observed a dark, disk-shaped craft moving silently from the left. It disappeared behind clouds and reappeared, moving southeast. The object was described as silent and was estimated to be slightly smaller than the moon.
• Hammarøy: On September 7, 1992, a bright light, as wide as the moon but flat, was observed over Hammarøy near Harstad. It illuminated the dark surroundings before disappearing. The distance was estimated to be 15-20 miles. A photographer's wife reportedly took some pictures.
• Eksingdalen, Hordaland: On September 21, 1992, the Gullbrå family reported a strange phenomenon. Their pets became agitated, and they observed a light column. Nils Gullbrå witnessed a sharp yellow-white light column that pulsed and then disappeared to the south at an estimated speed of 1000 km/h. The object was estimated to be 300-350 meters long.
• Sandefjord: On November 3, 1992, a report was received about three lights moving, stopping, and changing course at regular intervals. The Sandefjord newspaper also received anonymous tips about a similar phenomenon.
• Moss: On November 6, 1992, a driver observed sharp flashes followed by four strong white lights near Vansjø. The military radar station at Måkerøy reported no activity in the area between 18:00 and 19:00.

A table provides a summary of these and other observations, including dates, locations, durations, and descriptions.

Tilfellet Berit Clemmensen 2. del (The Berit Clemmensen Case Part 2)

Authored by Mentz Kaarbø, this article continues the report on Berit Clemmensen (BC) and other unusual experiences on Osterøy. It presents several historical accounts:

• 1939-1940, Røskeland, Osterøy: BC and Dagveig Berntsen experienced a powerful, unusual light that illuminated the landscape for several seconds, making them feel enveloped.
• Circa 1941, Skår-Osterøy: A relative of BC observed a bright, fiery object moving rapidly westwards over Osterfjorden, described as a large meteor or bolide, but flying unusually low and visible for about half a minute.
• 1979-1980, Skår: Liv Sigrun Losnegård (LSL), a neighbor of BC, observed one or two objects flying rapidly from south to north. The objects were yellow-orange, appeared to 'burn' or be surrounded by heat, and changed shape from oval to round.
• Autumn 1985 or 1986, Skår: A relative of BC observed a strong light in the southeast that moved rapidly upwards and sideways in a semicircle or spiral motion.

The article also mentions that two of BC's children had experiences, including seeing a "red star" in 1986 and a luminous, drop-shaped phenomenon in 1988.

Other Articles

• Fra Redaksjonen (From the Editorial Office): This section discusses the successful UFO-NORGE national meeting in Drammen, notes increased media attention to UFO phenomena in Norway, and mentions a growing membership base. It also reminds members to include their name and address on giro payments and to report address changes.
• Holdninger II (Attitudes II): This is likely a continuation of a discussion on attitudes towards UFO phenomena.
• Big Bang: A brief mention, possibly related to cosmological theories or a specific event.
• Løsning på Roswell-saken? (Solution to the Roswell Case?): This title suggests an article discussing the famous Roswell incident.
• Landsmøtet 1992 (National Meeting 1992): Details about the organization's annual meeting.
• Om Howard Menger (About Howard Menger): Likely an article about the well-known UFO contactee.
• Leserundersøkelsen 1992 (Reader Survey 1992): Results or discussion of a survey conducted among the magazine's readers.
• Århundrets sak (Case of the Century): A feature on a significant UFO case.
• Presseklipp (Press Clippings): A collection of newspaper articles related to UFOs.
• Konferanse om kulelyn (Conference on Ball Lightning): An article about a conference on the phenomenon of ball lightning.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings and related phenomena within Norway, aiming to register, study, and inform the public and its members. The editorial stance, as stated in the "Utgivelse" section, is that the articles reflect contributions to understanding UFO phenomena, and the organization or its editors are not necessarily responsible for or in agreement with all expressed opinions. The magazine encourages submissions and reserves the right to edit them. There is a clear emphasis on documenting sightings, investigating cases, and providing a platform for discussion and information sharing within the UFO community in Norway. The issue also highlights the growing public interest and media coverage of UFOs in Norway.

This issue of UFO 2/92, titled "UFOER PÅ KOMMANDO" (UFOs on Command), presents a collection of UFO sightings and related phenomena, with a significant focus on cases from Norway and a detailed examination of the controversial Gulf Breeze sightings in the USA.

Norwegian Sightings

The magazine details numerous reported UFO incidents in Norway, primarily in the Osterøy region, and surrounding areas. These accounts span from the mid-1980s to early 1990s and involve various types of phenomena:

• Summer 1986, Skår: A witness (BC) and a relative observed a bright, blank light hovering and moving erratically, ruling out aircraft.
• November/December 1986, Breistein fergekai: An individual (N.N.) reported seeing a luminous figure, described as a woman with classical features and a 'long bob' hairstyle, hovering about 3 meters above the ground. The figure was composed of light and had distinct features.
• November/December 1986, Hamre boligfelt, Osterøy: Mona Holgar encountered a 'being' about a meter away, hovering at least two meters above the ground. The entity had wing-like structures and a severe expression, surrounded by a blue-white light.
• January/February 1987, Hamre, Osterøy: Aina Holgar experienced a strong, unusual humming and buzzing sound.
• Autumn 1987, Hylkje: Mona Holgar observed strange, bright white, large round lights hovering briefly over Skår mountain.
• February 1991, Skår: Aina Holgar saw light beams, possibly from spotlights, sweeping over a mountain.
• February 1991, Valestrandsfossen: Fru N.N. observed a luminous, spherical object moving slowly across the sky.
• October 16, 1991, Skår: Mona Holgar encountered a luminous figure similar to one seen in 1986, which hovered close before moving away.
• December 26, 1991, Røskeland: Lillian Reigstad reported a disc-shaped object landing near her house, leaving a circular imprint.
• Winter 1992, Skår: Torill Tveiten reported seeing lights moving erratically and 'jumping' in the sky, as well as 'large stationary lights' and 'grey-white spheres'.

Several of these accounts are attributed to witnesses named BC, N.N., Mona Holgar, and Aina Holgar, with some information relayed through family members or researchers.

The Gulf Breeze Case

The article dedicates significant space to the "Gulf Breeze observations" in Florida, USA, which began in November 1987 with Ed Walters. The case involves numerous alleged close-up UFO sightings and photographic evidence by Ed Walters and his family. The events became known as the "Gulf Breeze Sightings," and a book was published in 1990.

However, the article highlights the controversial nature of the case. Several aspects raised suspicion, including the quality of the photographs, which appeared "too good" and almost staged, reminiscent of models. Photo experts like Ray Stanford and William G. Hyzer questioned the lack of reflection from the UFO in Ed Walters' car's motor cover in a key photograph (photo #19), suggesting it was a double exposure. A UFO model was later found in Ed Walters' former home.

Furthermore, Thomas Smith, a friend of Ed Walters, claimed Walters admitted to creating fake UFO images using models and previously producing fake UFO sightings in Costa Rica using homemade balloons. Walters was reportedly pressured into a polygraph test, which he took with a hired examiner, rendering the results inconclusive.

UFO Research and Theories

The magazine touches upon the efforts of UFO researchers, including Bruce Maccabee and the Gulf Breeze Research Team (GBRT), who analyzed the sightings and photographic evidence. Maccabee concluded that not all observed phenomena could be explained as simple balloons, particularly a bright light that increased in intensity by a factor of 100.

Despite Maccabee's findings, the article presents the "balloon theory" as a significant counter-argument, suggesting that the red lights (RUFOs) observed over Gulf Breeze were likely flares from balloons sent up to deceive UFO enthusiasts. Arguments for this theory include the behavior of the lights (hovering, descending, changing color) and their location over water, which provides cover for observers.

The article also mentions the "tectonic strain model," a theory suggesting that geological pressure can create luminous phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, witness testimonies, the investigation of these phenomena, and the persistent question of whether they are genuine encounters or hoaxes. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting the evidence and accounts, while also critically examining them and exploring alternative explanations, particularly the possibility of deception in cases like Gulf Breeze. The article acknowledges the difficulty in verifying UFO reports and the need for thorough investigation, while also suggesting that the sheer volume of reports in certain areas warrants further consideration.

There is a brief mention of a peculiar claim about a "kidnapped woman from California" who allegedly found the word "sex" written in tiny letters on her skin, discovered by looking through a magnifying glass. This is presented as a new dimension to physical evidence reported by abductees.

This issue of "UFO" magazine, dated 2/92, is a Norwegian publication focusing on UFO phenomena, scientific theories, and unexplained events. It features a mix of investigative articles, opinion pieces, and reports on organizational activities.

Articles and Content

Gulf Breeze UFO Case

The magazine presents a critical look at the Gulf Breeze UFO case, citing several articles from "International UFO Reporter" (IUR) and "SUN". Bruce Maccabee, Art Hufford, Zan Overall, and Barbara Becker are listed as authors discussing "The Gulf Breeze Lights" and "The Invention of a Gulf Breeze UFO." Philip J. Klass is noted for his analysis calling Ed Walters' UFO photo a "fake" based on new test data, and also for an article on "Gulf Breeze Red-light UFOs (RUFOS) Love to Appear on TV." Allan Hendry's "The UFO Handbook" from 1979 is also referenced.

The section "Kilder til artiklene om Gulf Breeze" (Sources for the articles on Gulf Breeze) lists these publications and authors, indicating a deep dive into the controversy surrounding the case, particularly Ed Walters' claims and photographic evidence.

"HOLDNINGER II" (Attitudes II)

This section is a response to an article by Odd-Gunnar Røed in issue 1/92, addressing attitudes within the UFO-NORGE organization. The author, responding to a frustrated ufologist's letter, details an observation from July 2, 1990. Alf Thommassen, a former department head of UFO-Norge, reported seeing a round, disc-like object with stable speed and course moving eastwards near Fløyheia, Arendal. He initially mistook it for a charter plane but realized it was not. The object disappeared behind a hill.

Later, Thommassen met Leonard Tønnesen, who reported a similar observation on the same day. Tønnesen had been on a boat trip near Tromøy and filmed a wingless object in the sky. This video, described as a "world sensation," was analyzed by a serious Arendal firm, Media Service, which confirmed it as an unidentified object with no natural explanation. The article emphasizes the video's high quality and states it is not being lent out or copied due to its unique status.

Odd-Gunnar Røed responds to these accounts, clarifying that his previous article did not name specific individuals or locations. He questions the direction of Thommassen's observation (eastward) and Tønsberg's location relative to Arendal. Røed also contacted Media Service, where Svein Tallaksen stated they could only enlarge the video and could not perform a technical analysis, suggesting a model airplane as a possible explanation, given a nearby model airplane club.

"VERDEN FØR BIG BANG: INGENTING" (The World Before Big Bang: Nothing)

Written by Jan Teuber, this article explores the scientific question of what existed before the Big Bang. Teuber explains that the modern scientific view is that the universe is expanding from an explosive event approximately 15 billion years ago. The official scientific answer to what was before the Big Bang is "nothing." However, Teuber delves into the philosophical and scientific considerations behind this answer, referencing NASA's COBE satellite observations of early matter structures. He discusses the concept of time and space being intertwined, as suggested by Einstein's theory of relativity, and touches upon theories like quantum fluctuation and "inflation" as potential triggers for the universe's creation.

"13 vitner observerte sjøorm i Storsjön" (13 Witnesses Observed a Sea Serpent in Storsjön)

This report details an incident on April 29, 1992, where 13 students from the AMU school in Østersund, Sweden, witnessed a sea serpent in Storsjön. The creature was described as 8-10 meters long with a head and tail. One witness, Hans Söderman, expressed shock, having previously dismissed sea serpent stories. A female witness drew a sketch of the creature, which was approved by the others. Local historian Sten Rentzhaug noted this was the earliest sighting on record, occurring before the lake was fully free of ice. Plans for a scientific investigation by Rentzhaug and folklorist Jan-Øjvind Swahn are mentioned.

"LØSNING PÅ ROSWELL-SAKEN?" (Solution to the Roswell Case?)

Authored by Ole Jonny Brænne, this article provides an overview of books published on the Roswell incident over the past 12 years. It highlights the growing importance of the 1947 event for UFO researchers and the hope that it might expose an American "cover-up." Books by Charles Berlitz & William L. Moore, Kevin Randle & Donald Schmitt, Gerald Anderson, Betty Barnett, Stanton T. Friedman, and Don Berliner are discussed. The article notes that accounts from Gerald Anderson and Betty Barnett are considered weakened, as most of the 150 interviewed individuals did not corroborate their stories. However, there is a consensus among witnesses that "something" crashed near Roswell/Corona, New Mexico, in July 1947, and was subsequently removed by the RAAF. The article dismisses conventional explanations like weather balloons, aircraft, or rockets due to the nature of the debris and the military's behavior. It concludes that the object was indeed "unknown."

UFO-NORGE National Meeting 1992

This section reports on the UFO-NORGE national meeting held on September 12-13, 1992, in Drammen. Activities included presentations by Odd-Gunnar Røed on UFO-NORGE's work and development, noting increased media attention. Erling Strand reported on his participation in a seminar in Los Angeles and his upcoming conference in Moscow on laser physics and ball lightning. Reports from various regional departments (Vest, Sør, Øst) indicated a decrease in UFO reports but highlighted interesting cases. The meeting also involved the distribution of a special issue and discussions on future plans.

Presentations and Discussions at the Meeting

Major Dag Roar Fredriksen of the Air Force was scheduled to speak on "The Air Force's View on the UFO Phenomenon," but was replaced by Lieutenant Colonel Jan Henning Skaar. Skaar discussed radar coverage in Norway and instances where fighter jets were scrambled to investigate unidentified radar contacts, which unfortunately yielded no results. He recommended contacting the Air Force Command for potential collaboration.

Erling Strand's USA trip was also mentioned. An open forum included an extensive account from Gunnar Pedersen about his observations from Voss, accompanied by a video. The evening concluded with videos on the Roswell case, Cash/Landrum case, and "Cover-ups."

Landsstyret (Board Meeting)

The board meeting focused on improving the reporting system, aiming to establish an electronic database. Mentz D. Kaarbø was appointed the official editor of the "UFO" journal starting in 1993, succeeding Finn Kalvik. Plans were made to translate the 1989 Tesla special issue into English for international sale and to increase the distribution and price of the newsletter. The subscription price for "UFO" was raised to 80 NOK due to rising postage costs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded stance towards UFO phenomena. It emphasizes rigorous investigation, analysis of evidence, and the importance of credible sources. While acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained events, it also scrutinizes claims, particularly those involving photographic or video evidence, as seen in the Gulf Breeze case. The organization, UFO-NORGE, appears to be dedicated to serious research and maintaining a clear, transparent accounting system, as evidenced by the discussion of their financial reports and membership benefits. The magazine also shows an interest in broader scientific topics, such as cosmology (Big Bang) and folklore (sea monsters), linking them to the wider context of unexplained phenomena.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated 2/92, features a cover story titled 'ÅRHUNDRETS SAK - ELLER RØYK UTEN ILD?' (The Case of the Century - Or Smoke Without Fire?), written by Ole Jonny Brænne. The issue also includes a reader survey from 1992 and various press clippings.

Article: OM HOWARD MENGER by Knut Aasheim

Knut Aasheim writes to clarify and correct a previous report by Odd-Gunnar Røed about Howard Menger's visit to Norway and his lecture in Oslo in February. Aasheim, who was an organizer and host for Menger's visit, states that Menger is a well-known contact person in the USA, active since the late 1950s. Menger claims to have had contact with 'spacemen' since the age of 10 and to have flown a radio-controlled model spaceship based on 'electrodynamic principles' in 1951. His first book about his contacts and spaceship journeys was published in 1957, and his new book, 'The High Bridge Incident,' was released recently.

Aasheim disputes Røed's description of Menger's lecture as having a 'sparse audience' and lasting three hours with talk about his family. Aasheim states that nearly 120 people attended the lecture, which was held in a venue that seats 160. He acknowledges that Menger, in a typical American style, spent time discussing his family, but notes that Menger also mentioned his past work in intelligence and his patriotism. Aasheim describes Menger, who is 70 years old, as a sincere man who admitted his experiences seemed almost too fantastic to believe, even to himself. Aasheim does not have space to discuss Menger's claims in detail but notes that Menger is one of many who speak of contact with 'spacemen' and extraterrestrial activities on the moon. He also touches upon the idea of US military knowledge of or contact with extraterrestrials.

Aasheim criticizes Odd-Gunnar Røed for his comments on 'the white cosmic brotherhood' and racism, questioning Røed's understanding. He also refutes Røed's assertion that Menger needs to sell books to make a living, stating that Menger and his wife live on a small pension and are in financial difficulty. Aasheim mentions that Menger brought copies of his new book to Oslo, some of which Aasheim helped sell, with the agreement that Menger would send the money later. Aasheim believes few people make a living writing about UFOs.

Menger is reportedly working on a new book with new revelations and has plans for projects like 'electrocraft' with special propulsion systems and an electric car with a range of over 1500 km.

Aasheim offers copies of Menger's book 'The High Bridge Incident' for sale at 200 NOK plus postage, with details on how to order.

Commentary on Knut Aasheim's Article by Odd-Gunnar Røed

Odd-Gunnar Røed responds to Knut Aasheim's article. Røed acknowledges that Menger and Aasheim might be on the right track regarding UFOs but states they have not presented any evidence. He criticizes Aasheim's defense of Menger's financial situation, reiterating that Menger needs to sell books. Røed mentions examples of UFO authors who have received significant advances, such as Ed Walters (450,000 dollars) and Whitley Strieber, implying that making money from UFO books is possible. He also mentions Timothy Good's book 'Above Top Secret' and Erich von Däniken.

Røed emphasizes UFO-NORGE's stance of not advocating any single theory without concrete evidence, warning against 'blinders' that prevent open-mindedness. He argues that both those who believe solely in the 'visitation theory' and those who dismiss all phenomena are equally closed-minded.

Correction

A correction is issued regarding a previous article in the special issue 'Nærkontakt med tro' by Torfrid Urdal, where an extra 'nei' was included in a sentence.

LEZERUNDERSØKELSEN 1992 (Reader Survey 1992) by Mentz Kaarbø

This article presents the results of a reader survey sent out to 590 subscribers of UFO magazine. A total of 159 responses were received, indicating a good response rate and a more active membership compared to a similar survey in 1985.

Key findings from the survey include:

• How did you become a subscriber/member? 57% heard/read about UFO-NORGE, a significant increase from 27% in 1985, indicating improved profiling in mass media.
• Why are you a member/subscriber? 79% cited scientific curiosity, while 21% cited other reasons, including entertainment (10%).
• Have you observed a UFO yourself? 38% answered 'Yes', 60% answered 'No', with some being unsure.
• What is your position/role in UFO-NORGE today? 96% are passive members, with only 4% holding active positions.
• Would you like to become active? A surprising 57 people (36%) volunteered for various tasks, a significant increase from 12-13 people in 1985.
• Opinions on 'UFO' magazine: Most readers (59%) wanted the magazine's frequency increased. 82% were satisfied with the current page count, with most preferring 50-60 pages. Content was rated as 'very good' by 41% and 'satisfactory' by 58%. The magazine's appearance was rated 'very good' by 19% and 'satisfactory' by 69%, with some finding it 'amateurish'.
• The magazine/organization is: 88% described it as 'serious', with 29% adding 'scientifically sound'. Only 3% found it unserious or unscientific.
• Preferred topics in 'UFO': Readers wanted more of everything, but key preferences included: Theories about the UFO phenomenon (57%), news from abroad (52%), UFO crashes/crashes (48%), foreign reports (42%), Norwegian reports (35%), and Scandinavian reports (32%). Least preferred topics were parapsychology (4%), astronomy, physics, space travel, and theoretical/speculative articles (5-8%).
• Main explanation for the UFO phenomenon? 77% believed it could be visits from other planets, 59% suggested visits from other dimensions, and 39% considered unknown natural phenomena.

The survey indicates a more active membership and a desire for more content, with the organization aiming to improve the magazine based on reader feedback. However, increasing the number of pages or issues is limited by financial constraints.

Article: ÅRHUNDRETS SAK - ELLER RØYK UTEN ILD? by Ole Jonny Brænne

This article investigates the alleged abduction of a woman named 'Linda Cortile' (pseudonym) in New York City on November 30, 1989. Budd Hopkins, an UFO researcher, brought this case to light. According to Hopkins, at least 14 independent witnesses observed the event, with four later contacting him. These witnesses included a political figure, two security guards, and a woman driving over the Brooklyn Bridge. They reported seeing a UFO hovering over Linda's 12th-floor apartment, with a blue-white beam of light descending.

Hopkins received a letter from 'Linda' in April 1989, mentioning a lump near her nose from a previous UFO experience. She joined Hopkins' support group for 'close encounter of the 4th kind' witnesses. On November 30, 1989, 'Linda' reported being 'kidnapped' shortly after 3 AM. Three beings allegedly levitated her out of her window and into a UFO. Her 6-year-old son was reportedly taken aboard two months prior.

Hopkins initially dismissed the story but later received a letter from two police officers, 'Richard' and 'Dan', who claimed to have witnessed the event. They described an orange glow and saw three figures and a woman in a white nightgown levitating into the UFO, which then descended into the East River. They also mentioned seeing wreckage of a plane in the river.

When Hopkins tried to locate 'Dan' and 'Richard' through the NYPD, no matching officers were found. 'Linda' later received a new letter from 'Dan', stating they were not police officers but security guards for a VIP referred to as 'The Third Man'. They claimed the VIP's car had an unexplained engine failure during the event.

Hopkins believes 'The Third Man' might be Javier Perez de Cuellar, the former UN Secretary-General. However, descriptions of 'Dan' and 'Richard' did not match the UN Secretary-General's security detail. The article also mentions that 'Dan' and 'Richard' claimed two other cars, from the delegations of England and Yemen, were also involved.

'Linda' claims she was abducted again by 'Dan' on October 15, 1991, taken to a house on Long Island, and forced to wear a white nightgown. 'Dan' then allegedly attempted to harm her but was stopped by 'Richard'. 'Dan' later sent 'Linda' a postcard from a psychiatric institution.

A witness driving over the Brooklyn Bridge on November 30, 1989, reported her car and other cars on the bridge stopping, and seeing the UFO. This witness did not mention the UFO descending into the East River, contradicting 'Dan' and 'Richard's' account.

UFO researchers Joseph J. Stefula and Rich Butler interviewed 'Linda' and found aspects of her story suspicious, including her claim that Hopkins agreed to a 50/50 split of future book and film earnings. Hopkins dismissed their concerns.

A meeting was held at Budd Hopkins' home with various UFO researchers and witnesses present to discuss the case. No consensus was reached, but the case was reported to the Inspector General's Office/Treasury Department due to allegations of kidnapping and attempted murder.

UFO-NORGE comments that a science-fiction book, 'Nighteyes' by Garfield Reeves-Stevens, published in April 1989 (seven months before 'Linda' reported her experience), contains a story with striking similarities to 'Linda's' alleged abduction, including the location and the involvement of a UFO researcher.

Press Clippings

This section provides a list of press clippings from April to November 1992, detailing UFO sightings and related news:

• Fredrikstad Blad (April 25, 1992): Interview with Erling Strand about an unexplained light phenomenon over Sarpsborg, which he believes is a UFO. He emphasizes that UFO means unidentified flying object and not necessarily 'little green men'. Strand, a civil engineer and lecturer, has been researching UFOs for 13 years and was involved in the Hessdalen project.
• Eidsvold Blad (May 14, 1992): Reports on strange physical phenomena observed over Gullverket, described as a star-like point moving erratically and blinking lights forming a circle. UFO observer Knut Aasheim was contacted about the event.
• Norske Argus A/S (May 25, 1992): A passenger plane en route to Gatwick from Cyprus nearly collided with a UFO, described as a black object. The British Civil Aviation Authority could not provide a definitive explanation but did not rule out a weather balloon.

Redaktørskifte (Editor Change)

This issue marks the last one signed by the responsible editor, who has been involved since 1973. The new editor, Mentz D. Kaarbø, is introduced, who will continue to edit 'UFO-Norway News'. The outgoing editor thanks the members and the board for their cooperation over twenty years.

FINK (Humor/Joke)

A short, humorous exchange about the meaning of UFO.

LESERUNDERSØKELSEN 1992 (Continued)

This section continues the discussion from page 34, focusing on the reader survey. It reiterates the thanks to the readers and encourages them to submit their own thoughts, ideas, and articles.

BERIT CLEMMENSEN (Continued)

This section continues from page 14, discussing theories about UFO reports, particularly in relation to Osterøy. It mentions contact with the Geophysical Institute and the Seismological Station at the University of Bergen, but notes a lack of expertise on the specific theory being discussed. The article concludes that there are currently too few observations and reports to establish a 'Project Hessdalen' on Osterøy, but that it could be considered if a wave of observations similar to Hessdalen occurs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers UFO sightings, alleged abductions, and the research surrounding these phenomena. It features articles by researchers and contactees, as well as critical analyses and discussions of evidence. The editorial stance, as highlighted in the reader survey and Odd-Gunnar Røed's commentary, is to present information and allow readers to form their own conclusions, while emphasizing the need for concrete evidence and an open, yet critical, mind. The magazine also includes sections for reader feedback, press clippings, and occasional humor. The issue also reflects on the challenges of UFO research, including funding and public perception, and the need for more scientific investigation.

Title: KONFERANSE OM KULELYN (Conference on Ball Lightning)
Issue: 2/92
Volume: 41
Date: January 1992 (implied by issue number and year)
Publisher: UFO-NORGE
Country: Norway
Original Language: Norwegian

This issue of UFO-Norge features a report by Erling Strand on an international conference concerning ball lightning, held in Los Angeles, USA. The magazine also includes a report on a suspected secret supersonic aircraft and information regarding upcoming UFO conferences and UFO-Norge's activities.

Conference on Ball Lightning in Los Angeles

Erling Strand, representing UFO-Norge, attended the international conference on ball lightning held at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) from July 28th to 31st, 1992. This was the third such conference, following earlier ones in Tokyo (1988) and Budapest (1990). Strand presented findings from Norway, including a video of a possible ball lightning event filmed in August 1991 near Kvikne in Nord-Østerdalen. His presentation received a positive response, and new contacts were established.

Strand was also elected to a newly formed international committee focused on ball lightning research. He noted that ball lightning and UFO phenomena share similarities, such as being unknown atmospheric light events. He stressed the importance of collaboration between ball lightning and UFO researchers to leverage resources and access to data on unknown light phenomena.

Theories and Research

The conference featured numerous presentations on theories attempting to explain ball lightning. Strand observed that many pure theorists seemed to lack laboratory-based evidence for their hypotheses. Professor Handel from the USA proposed that ball lightning is formed by a maser effect in the atmosphere, while Professor Manykin from Russia suggested it could be created using lasers.

Significant laboratory research was presented by Professor Ohtsuki from Waseda University in Tokyo, who also discussed UFOs and ball lightning, explaining UFO characteristics through his ball lightning experiments. Other presentations referenced older experiments, including those by R.K. Golka discussing Tesla's work, and K.L. Corum, who was mentioned despite his absence.

Dr. Chukanov described a device that purportedly generated more energy than it consumed, which was met with skepticism. The generated light also did not resemble typical ball lightning. The overall impression was that laboratory research in this field is limited.

Field research and observations of ball lightning were also reported to be scarce, with Russia having the most registrations. Amirov presented statistical data from 200 observations, and Grigorev from 5000 observations. Y-S Zou from China presented a theory based on an observation near Harbin Airport.

Strand also presented his analysis of observations in Norway, specifically the Øydeskyvatn track and the Kvikne video. He noted that previous conferences had covered similar statistical data from China, Russia, and Hungary, as well as the Hessdalen project.

New Committee and Future Prospects

Jean François Leitner from Belgium proposed the formation of a collaborative project involving various research groups to understand the ball lightning phenomenon. This led to the establishment of a project committee, with Leitner financing it. The committee aims to develop research plans, with Russian researchers expected to conduct the practical work due to lower costs, expertise, and available equipment. The committee includes Professor Handel (USA), Professor Ohtsuki (Japan), Professor Manykin (Russia), J.F. Leitner (Belgium), and Erling Strand (Norway). The researchers will work under Manykin at the I.V.Kurchatov Institute for Atomic Energy.

An excursion to Pasadena included a welcome from Mayor Rick Cole, who declared July 31st, 1992, as "Ball Lightning Day" in the city.

Strand concluded that the conference had yielded significant results and would likely advance ball lightning research, particularly through the newly formed committee. However, he cautioned against overstating the progress, acknowledging that many obstacles remain and that a definitive solution might take considerable time.

UFOs: Fact, Fraud or Fantasy? Conference in Sheffield

The magazine also announced an upcoming international UFO conference titled "UFOs: fact, fraud or fantasy?" organized by The Independent UFO Network. It was scheduled to take place at Sheffield Polytechnic, UK, on August 14th and 15th, 1993. The conference featured a list of notable speakers, including Budd Hopkins, Jenny Randles, Linda Moulton Howe, and others. It promised a lecture hall with air conditioning, refreshments, book stands, and opportunities to meet the speakers.

UFO-Norge Activities and Information

UFO-Norge actively seeks articles and submissions for its magazine, requesting manuscripts to be typed with double spacing and accompanied by black-and-white illustrations. They also accept text and images on PC diskettes. Readers willing to translate articles from other languages are encouraged to contact the editor.

Readers are also encouraged to help promote UFO-Norge by distributing informational folders. The magazine provides contact information for UFO-Norge, including a postal address in Duken.

A "Support Fund for UFO-Norge" was announced, appealing for donations to support the organization's work, which is often hampered by a lack of funds. A postgiro number for donations is provided.

Hemmelig fly beskyldt for overlydssmell (Secret Aircraft Accused of Sonic Boom)

This section reports on a phenomenon that occurred over the Netherlands on August 19th, which was initially attributed to an exploding meteorite. However, scientists, including Hein Haak from the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute, have revised their conclusions. After analyzing seismograms and witness reports, they believe the shockwaves were caused by a secret supersonic aircraft developed for the US Air Force by Lockheed.

The event is estimated to have occurred over the North Sea, about 50 km west of the island of Texel, at an altitude of at least 10 km, making it invisible to radar. Similar acoustic shockwave observations have been reported in the USA, particularly in the Los Angeles area. An article in "Aviation Week and Space Technology" mentioned observations of a delta-winged supersonic aircraft near Lockheed's test site in the Mojave Desert, with a Boeing 747 crew reporting a near-collision with such an aircraft near George Air Force Base in California. The US Air Force has denied the existence of this aircraft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-Norge demonstrates a strong focus on the scientific investigation of anomalous phenomena, particularly ball lightning and UFOs. The magazine actively promotes research, encourages collaboration between different scientific communities, and reports on international conferences and findings. There is a clear editorial stance favoring a rational, evidence-based approach to understanding these phenomena, while acknowledging the current limitations of scientific knowledge. The publication also serves as a platform for UFO-Norge's own activities, including membership drives and fundraising efforts, and keeps its readers informed about related events and potential new discoveries, such as the suspected secret supersonic aircraft.