UFO - 1997 No 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO Magazine, identified as Nr. 1, 1997, and part of the 16th year of publication, is published by UFO-NORGE, described as Norway's only specialized journal on UFO phenomena. The cover prominently features the headline "1947 - 1997: 50 years of modern UFO history and still lacking answers," alongside a collage of significant UFO-related terms and locations such as Roswell, Gulf Breeze, Project Sign, Namsenfjorden, Condon Report, Blue Book, and Kenneth Arnold. A cartoonish illustration of a hand holding a UFO with 'TOP SECRET' is also present.

Editorial and Publication Details

The editorial section, "FRA REDAKSJONEN," acknowledges a significant delay in the publication of Issue 1, 1997, admitting it to be "almost a scandal." The editor, Mentz Kaarbø, explains that UFO-NORGE has consistently faced challenges with timely publication, with delays escalating in recent years. He notes that since taking over editorial responsibility in 1993, changes like the A4 format and four issues per year have increased the workload. Despite implementing measures to improve production, the delays persist, especially in 1997. A discussion about the future of the magazine and subscriber relations is planned for the annual board meeting. The editor assures readers that the number of pages paid for will always be delivered, totaling 144 pages per year. He expresses gratitude to subscribers for their continued support.

The issue's content includes a brief mention that the series on Namsenfjorden will be concluded in the next issue (Nr. 2, 1997), following an expected underwater exploration.

UFO-NORGE's internet presence is highlighted with the website http://www.ufo.no.

The "RAPPORTSENTRALEN" (Report Center) has a new postal address due to the closure of its previous post office. The new address is UFO-NORGE, v/Odd-Gunnar Røed, POSTBOKS 124, 3140 BORGHEIM. Phone numbers and postgiro accounts remain unchanged.

The "NESTE NUMMER" (Next Issue) will focus on findings from Namsenfjorden, a report from the BUFORA conference in Sheffield, England, and potentially an analysis of a piece from the Roswell crash. It is expected to be available around November 1st.

Table of Contents

• The issue includes the following sections:
• Leder (Editorial)
• Rapportnytt (Report News)
• 50-års jubileum for «flygende tallerkener» (50th Anniversary of 'Flying Saucers')
• 50 år siden Roswell (50 Years Since Roswell)
• Leserbrev (Letters to the Editor)
• Bokanmeldelser (Book Reviews)
• På jakt etter jordlignende planeter - og liv (Searching for Earth-like Planets - and Life)
• Presseklipp (Press Clippings)
• Astronomi (Astronomy)
• Analyse av implantater (Analysis of Implants)
• «The Summoning» - Norges første «X-files kongress» ('The Summoning' - Norway's First 'X-Files Congress')

Rapportnytt (Report News)

This section, edited by Mentz Kaarbø, presents a collection of UFO reports received by the Report Center. It notes that few reports were received recently, mostly concerning night lights and distant phenomena. The section includes a detailed categorization of observation types (NL, DD, CE-1 to CE-4).

Case Reports:

• Svilosen i Etnedal, Valdres: An NL phenomenon observed around January/February 1986, described as a luminous object with an extension. A detailed illustration was provided, and the report includes a re-drawn illustration with explanatory text. The estimated distance was 1-1.5 kilometers.
• Hagafoss, Hol i Hallingdal: Observed in the autumn of 1995, a powerful, luminous, rocket-shaped object with flames emanating from its underside was seen. It moved gracefully and disappeared. The witness, Elisabeth Rue, recalled it as a strong light, and the event was reported in local media. The object's direction was estimated to be south-west.

Overview of Observations (January 15 - June 15, 1997):

• A table lists significant observations, including:
• 28.12.96: Ånum, Åsgreina near Lillestrøm. A luminous object with a blue tail, observed for 1.5 hours. The witness described it as a luminous phenomenon that moved downwards, stopped, and then showed 'windows' with colored lights. The commentary suggests it might be an astronomical phenomenon like a planet, noting that atmospheric effects and psychological perception can alter interpretations.
• 19.01.97: Svilosen, Etnedal, Valdres. A cigar-shaped object with flashing red, blue, yellow, green, and orange lights, observed for 8 minutes. It moved horizontally with intermittent stops.
• 24.01.97: Furnes, Nydal, Hedmark. A brief sighting (2 seconds) of a light blue object moving at jet-like speed. It disappeared after two light flashes.
• 23.03.97: Grøtålia, Hessdalen, Sør-Trøndelag. A square object with blue-green, diamond-like colors observed for 5 minutes. It moved south-west, then north, and descended into the valley.
• 22.-29.03.97: Hessdalen/Grøtådalen, Sør-Trøndelag. Multiple observations over seven evenings of objects with windows and colored lights, described as oval or triangular, appearing around 23:00.

Hessdalen/Grøtådalen Reports:

Detailed reports from Hessdalen describe observations between March 22-29, 1997. One witness described an oval object with flashing red, blue, yellow, green, and orange lights, later displaying blank white light from its 'windows'. Two such objects were observed, one following the other. Another report from March 26 describes an object with constant blank lights that moved along the valley, stopped, and then rapidly ascended a mountainside. The commentary notes similarities between reports from Grøtålia and Hessdalen, particularly the timing around 23:00. It also discusses potential confusion in estimating object size and duration, suggesting possible misinterpretation of reporting forms.

Sundbyfoss, ved Hof:

Observed on April 29, 1997, a large, bright yellow ring of light was seen in a clear sky with a pink horizon. The observation lasted 20 seconds.

"UFO-aften" i Gudbrandsdalen:

An article from the newspaper Gudbrandsdølen Lillehammer reported strange lights observed in Jotunheimen on March 15, 1997. Search parties found nothing. The report mentions that the Vågå lensman was informed of suspicious lights in three locations in Norway that evening. The article generated numerous calls, with most sightings concentrated in the Gudbrandsdalen area. Observations included fast-moving lights, luminous spheres with colored tails, and a bright blue light.

2nd Scandinavian Conference on Extraterrestrial Intelligence and Human Future

This section announces a conference to be held in Oslo on October 4-5, 1997. The main themes are extraterrestrial visitation and human reactions to potential contact. Featured speakers include Roar Krogshus, Rauni-Leena Luukanen, Steven M. Greer, Jim Courant, Bob Dean, and Michael Hesemann. The venue is Ingeniørenes Hus, Oslo. Ticket prices and purchase information are provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings and phenomena, with a strong focus on Norwegian cases. The magazine dedicates significant space to detailed reports from various locations across Norway, including Hessdalen, Etnedal, and Hallingdal. There is an emphasis on the 50th anniversary of modern UFO history, particularly the Roswell incident. The editorial stance acknowledges the challenges in timely publication but reaffirms the commitment to providing content and information to subscribers. The magazine also touches upon astronomical phenomena and the scientific study of UFOs, as seen in the discussion of planets and the mention of a conference on extraterrestrial intelligence. The publication aims to document and analyze UFO phenomena, encouraging public engagement and reporting.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated 1/97, focuses on significant events and ongoing debates within the UFO community. The main articles commemorate the 50th anniversary of Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting and delve into the complexities of the Roswell incident. The magazine also explores various UFO hypotheses, discusses new research, and includes reader letters and book reviews.

Kenneth Arnold's 1947 Sighting

The issue begins by marking the 50th anniversary of Kenneth Arnold's sighting on June 24, 1947. While searching for a crashed military plane, Arnold observed nine silver-shining, half-moon shaped, tailless aircraft flying over Mount Rainier, USA. His description to Associated Press journalist Bill Bequette, particularly the phrase "they flew like a saucer would if you skipped it across the water," led to the coining of the term "flying saucer." This event is credited with initiating the modern UFO era. The article notes that while Arnold's description of the objects' appearance was unique, their maneuverability was not as frequently described by other UFO witnesses. It also briefly mentions the science fiction film "Plan 9 from Outer Space" for its similar up-and-down movements. Arnold's observation was part of a larger wave of UFO sightings in 1947, with six of these incidents being listed as unexplained in Project Blue Book. The article also references earlier sightings, such as the "ghost rockets" in Scandinavia and "foo-fighters" during World War II, and even ancient accounts of "flying chariots" and "silver shields."

Kenneth Arnold became an active UFO investigator until his death in 1984. He believed UFOs were organisms living in Earth's atmosphere. The article points out that Arnold's original sighting, lacking other witnesses and having a short duration under questionable conditions, would likely receive low priority today.

The Roswell Incident

The magazine dedicates significant attention to the Roswell incident, which occurred around the same time as Arnold's sighting but gained more notoriety over the years. The article details the discovery of wreckage by ranch foreman William W. "Mac" Brazel on July 3, 1947, near Roswell, New Mexico. Brazel reported his find to Sheriff George Wilcox, who then alerted the military at Roswell Army Air Field. Major Jesse Marcel, an intelligence officer, investigated and collected the debris. A press release on July 8, 1947, from base commander Colonel William Blanchard, announced the recovery of a "crashed disc," which was widely reported. However, a second press release from Brigadier General Roger Ramey later that day retracted the initial statement, claiming the object was a weather balloon with a radar reflector. This retraction became the basis for the "official" explanation, with the Roswell Daily Record headlining "Gen. Ramey Empties Roswell Saucer."

The article notes that the Roswell case gained renewed attention in 1978 with a tabloid report and subsequent investigations by UFO researchers like Stanton Friedman, William Moore, and Charles Berlitz, who co-authored "The Roswell Incident" in 1980. Later authors like Donald Schmitt and Kevin Randle also contributed significantly.

In 1994, the U.S. Air Force (USAF) released a report confirming that the 1947 press release was a cover story to conceal the true nature of the event. The report stated that the crashed object was part of the top-secret "Mogul" balloon project, designed to detect Soviet nuclear tests. However, some believe this is also a cover story, and that the wreckage was from an extraterrestrial craft with humanoids. The article references Ray Santilli's controversial film allegedly showing the autopsy of a humanoid.

A new report, "Roswell Report: Case Closed," released on June 24, 1997, by Captain James McAndrew, attempted to explain the "alien" sightings by suggesting witnesses mistook "crash test dummies" dropped from balloons during experiments between 1954-59 for humanoids. The report claims descriptions of the beings match these dummies. However, critics, including UFO investigators Dennis Balthaser and Jerome Clark, find this explanation implausible, noting that crash test dummies were not used until later and questioning why the USAF would offer an explanation for "aliens" if they were just dummies. Author Kevin Randle also criticizes the report for citing questionable sources and suggests a continued "cover-up."

The article also discusses the existence of four possible crash sites near Roswell, based on various witness accounts, some of which are considered dubious. It mentions the Foster ranch, San Augustin, Hub Corn ranch, and a site near El Capitan mountains.

A large 50th-anniversary festival was held in Roswell, attracting an estimated 40,000 people. The event included a rock concert and other activities, reflecting the ongoing public interest in the Roswell incident.

The Day After Roswell - A New Book

The issue features a review of Philip J. Corso's book, "The Day After Roswell." Corso, a retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel with a background in military intelligence, claims that the Roswell crash involved an extraterrestrial craft, not a balloon. He states he studied classified Pentagon documents and personally saw an extraterrestrial being in a storage room at Fort Riley in July 1947. Corso alleges that the bodies of the extraterrestrials were sent to Walter Reed Hospital for autopsies. He also claims that one extraterrestrial survived the crash but was shot by soldiers. According to Corso, the extraterrestrials were genetically engineered and hostile, and their technology, including particle beam weapons and infrared night vision, influenced later U.S. military developments like the Strategic Defense Initiative ("Star Wars").

Corso's book has received mixed reviews, with some critics calling it a blend of "kiosk thriller" and "pop science fiction" lacking concrete evidence. Bob Shell describes it as a "very poorly written science fiction novel." The article notes that Corso's claims about modern technology originating from alien craft are highly controversial and likely to fuel debate.

New Piece from the Roswell Crash

A segment reports on the presentation of a new alleged piece from the Roswell crash at the New Mexico Military Institute. Chemist Russel Vernon Clarke claimed that isotopic analysis of the piece showed a composition significantly different from Earth's elements, suggesting it was not of terrestrial origin. He stated the piece was 99% pure silicon with traces of nickel, germanium, and zinc. Clarke left the presentation without answering questions. UFO investigator Michael Lindeman called the finding "extraordinary, if true," but suggested it could be an elaborate hoax. The piece was shown on video and described as a shiny "coal briquette." The presenter, Paul Davids, cited security concerns for not allowing closer examination.

Kent Jeffrey's Changing Stance

UFO investigator Kent Jeffrey, formerly a strong proponent of the extraterrestrial explanation for the Roswell incident, has become skeptical. He now believes the crash involved conventional wreckage, likely from a Mogul balloon. Jeffrey, a senior pilot for Delta Air Lines, was initially interested in the case due to his father's acquaintance with Colonel William Blanchard. He co-founded the "International Roswell Initiative" to push for the release of classified UFO information. However, after reviewing declassified documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act and interviewing 15 pilots and two navigators from the 509th Bomb Group stationed at Roswell in 1947, he concluded that no extraterrestrial craft crashed there. Many pilots had never heard of a "crashed saucer" until years later. Jeffrey also collaborated with Jesse Marcel Jr., son of the intelligence officer involved in the original recovery. Despite hypnotic regressions, Marcel Jr. could not recall more details than he remembered as a child, and his drawings of the wreckage were similar to those of other witnesses who saw the recovered "weather balloon."

Jeffrey argues that the Roswell incident has become a "red herring," diverting time and resources from genuine UFO research. His change of opinion is presented in a 17-page document titled "Roswell - Anatomy of a Myth."

UFO and the "Visitation Hypothesis"

In a reader's letter, John-Erik Hove discusses the term "UFO" and the "visitation hypothesis." He argues that "UFO" should refer to any unidentified flying object, not necessarily extraterrestrial craft, and suggests "IFO" (Identified Flying Object) might be more appropriate if the object's nature is known. He notes that many, including some UFO researchers and media outlets, use "UFO" synonymously with extraterrestrial spacecraft. Hove believes that while extraterrestrial visits are possible, they represent only about 5-10% of unexplained UFO observations. He questions the feasibility of interstellar travel due to vast distances and the energy required, referencing concepts like wormholes and advanced propulsion systems discussed in other UFO articles. He emphasizes the lack of concrete evidence for extraterrestrial visits and the need for more rigorous scientific investigation.

Report on Strange Light

A brief report describes a man's experience in his youth witnessing a luminous object that split into several smaller parts before disappearing. He believes it was ball lightning, citing its rarity. The article also touches on the Mosjøen case from 1954, which the man dismisses as a helicopter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the UFO phenomenon with a critical yet open-minded approach. It highlights both sensational claims and official explanations, often questioning the latter. There's a strong emphasis on historical events like the Kenneth Arnold sighting and the Roswell incident, examining them from multiple perspectives. The publication seems to encourage debate and critical thinking within the UFO community, as evidenced by the reader's letter section and the inclusion of differing viewpoints, such as Kent Jeffrey's shift from believer to skeptic. The editorial stance appears to be one of thorough investigation, presenting evidence and theories while acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the potential for hoaxes or misinterpretations. The magazine also promotes UFO-NORGE's activities and publications.

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated January to July 1997, is a comprehensive collection of articles, book reviews, and news related to UFO phenomena and related topics. The magazine, published by UFO-Norge, features a mix of personal accounts, scientific discussions, and historical perspectives on unidentified flying objects and potential extraterrestrial contact.

Articles

The Possibility of Extraterrestrial Visitors

The issue opens with a discussion comparing the likelihood of observing ball lightning versus UFOs. The author suggests that while statistically ball lightning might seem more probable, a significant percentage of UFO sightings (5-10%) remain unexplained after investigation, potentially pointing to unknown natural phenomena or even advanced craft from intelligent beings. The article touches upon famous cases like Roswell and Rendlesham Forest, and references Carl Sagan's estimate of a million technical civilizations in the Milky Way, though the author believes the number is likely much lower, perhaps in the hundreds.

The role of the Moon in stabilizing Earth's climate is also discussed, with a theory suggesting it was formed by a collision with a Mars-sized planet. The author speculates that if the Moon's stabilizing effect is crucial, the number of technical civilizations in the Milky Way might be limited.

Book Reviews

Several books are reviewed, offering insights into different aspects of UFO research:

• Man-Made UFOs 1944-1994. 50 Years of Suppression by Renato Vesco and David Hatcher Childress: This book is described as a detailed examination of secret weapons development by leading industrial nations, suggesting that a significant portion of UFO sightings may represent advanced, clandestine technology rather than extraterrestrial craft. It explores the Nazi era's role and includes information on Area 51 and Bob Lazar.
• The Oz Files by Bill Chalker: This review highlights Chalker's extensive experience in Australian UFO research, including access to RAAFS (Royal Australian Air Force) UFO archives. The book covers key events and reports in Australia and surrounding areas, from 1945 onwards, with special attention to cases like New Guinea (1959) and Frederick Valentich (1978).
• MUFON 1996 International UFO Symposium Proceedings: This compilation features 14 lectures, including Kevin D. Randle on CE-4 cases, Chris Styles on the Shag Harbour incident, John W. White on UFO theories, Carlos A. Guzman Rojas on UFO perceptions in Mexico, Philip Mantle on the Santilli film, Budd Hopkins on the Linda Cortile case, John S. Carpenter on psychological explanations for abductions, A.J. Gevaerd on UFO sightings in Brazil, John E. Mack on understanding UFO phenomena, and Dr. Roger K. Leir on analyzing implants. Bruce S. Maccabee discusses UFO acceleration, and Vincent F. DiPietro presents evidence for life on Mars.
• Forbidden Science: Journals 1957-1969 by Jacques Vallée: This review focuses on Vallée's early journals, detailing his personal quest to understand UFO phenomena and his involvement with Project Blue Book. It suggests that Blue Book may have been a 'public front' for secret investigations.
• Sfinksens Hemmelighet by Ivan Troëng: This book explores theories about Atlantis, Mu, and extraterrestrial seeding of life on Earth, linking it to the formation of the Moon and the destruction of Atlantis. The review notes that the book mixes facts with speculation and legends.

UFO Conference Report

Dansk UFO-Konferanse 1. Nov. 1997: This section announces a conference in Lyngby, Denmark, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Skandinavisk UFO Informations. It lists several speakers, including Per Andersen, Clas Svahn, Peder Nørgård, Torben Birkeholm, Ole Henningsen, Mikael Rothstein, John Spencer, Jenny Randles, and Richard F. Haines. Information on ticket purchases is provided.

UFO-Norge Goes Online

The article announces that UFO-Norge has launched its own domain on the internet (http://www.ufo.no), making information more accessible. It also mentions previous websites and the establishment of a mailing list for discussions.

Crop Circles Revealed

This piece reports on a TV 2 news segment that allegedly debunked crop circles as a hoax. The report claims that two individuals created the circles at Elton Gård near Raufoss using simple tools like a curtain rod and a measuring tape, suggesting that ufologists were mistaken and the public is easily fooled.

Searching for Earth-like Planets and Life

This extensive article by John-Erik Hove discusses the ongoing search for planets outside our solar system. It details the discovery of several large planets (gas giants) and the ongoing projects like NASA's 'Origins' program and the European 'Darwin' project. These projects aim to find, study, and potentially image Earth-like planets and detect signs of life, such as water and ozone, using advanced optical interferometry with telescopes like the Keck telescopes.

The article also addresses the '51 Pegasi' case, where initial claims of a planet orbiting the star were later questioned by astrophysicist David Gray, who suggested the observed phenomena might be stellar pulsations rather than a planet.

Press Clippings

This section compiles numerous newspaper clippings from January to July 1997, detailing UFO sightings and related events reported in various Norwegian newspapers. These include:

• Hamar Dagblad: Reports on Stig Haave's UFO observation, Torild Glad Iversen's sighting of a sharp light, Olaug Røhne's encounter with a zeppelin-like craft, Erna Jevne's observation of a UFO with beings, and Liv Andersen's sighting of strange lights. It also features interviews with UFO observers Gunnar Mørk and Odd Nysæter.
• Ringsaker Blad: Interviews related to Stig Haave's observation.
• Gudbrandsdølen Lillehammer Tilskuer (GLT): Reports on sightings of strange lights at Heimdalshø and interviews with Per Ottesen regarding UFO observations in Gudbrandsdalen.
• Hjemmet: An interview with Trygve Opsahl about a frightening experience near Hjerkinn involving a bright light and engine failure.
• Trønder-Avisa: Reports on sightings of a mysterious light over Hallbakkan and Ravloberget, initially unexplained but later attributed to a logging machine.
• Verdens Gang: An article referencing Stephen Hawking's views on the possibility of alien attacks, comparing it to Columbus's encounter with Native Americans.
• Dagbladet: An article discussing the Roswell incident and the upcoming 50th anniversary, with a somewhat skeptical tone towards UFO believers. It also mentions Area 51, John Mack, and Philip Corso.
• Bergens Avisen: A large feature on the UFO phenomenon over the last 50 years, starting with Roswell, and presenting arguments for and against the extraterrestrial hypothesis. It includes interviews with local figures, including a skeptical pop artist and a more reserved nature advocate.
• Bergens Tidende: A satirical piece about the Espevær imprint, attributing it to a prank by comedian Eddi Eidsvåg and local personality Kåre Larssen.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation, advanced unknown technologies, and the scientific search for life beyond Earth. While presenting various accounts and theories, there's an underlying skepticism towards sensational claims, as seen in the critique of the Espevær explanation and the balanced approach to the Roswell incident. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to share their own experiences while critically evaluating the evidence. The recurring theme of UFO sightings in Norway, particularly in the Hamar region, highlights local interest and reporting on the phenomenon. The magazine also emphasizes the importance of scientific research and technological advancements in understanding the universe and the potential for other life forms.

Title: ASTRONOMI
Issue: 1/97
Date: January 1997
Publisher: UFO-NORGE
Country: Norway

This issue of ASTRONOMI, published by UFO-NORGE, offers a diverse range of articles covering astronomical phenomena, space exploration, and unexplained aerial phenomena (UAP).

Astronomical Observations

Celestial Events in October and November

Jan Qvam's article "Stjernehimmelen i oktober og november" (The Celestial Sky in October and November) guides readers through the autumn sky. The Big Dipper is noted as being low in the northern sky, with Polaris easily locatable. The Milky Way stretches across the sky, with constellations like Auriga, Perseus, Cassiopeia, Cygnus, and Aquila mentioned. The planet Saturn is highlighted for its visibility in the constellation Pisces, with its rings expected to become increasingly visible due to an increasing tilt angle towards Earth. Jupiter is described as bright but low on the southwestern horizon after sunset, making sharp observation difficult due to atmospheric turbulence. The Orionid meteor shower is expected around October 21st, and the Taurid shower around November 5th, originating from Taurus.

Comet Hale-Bopp

The article "Komet Hale-Bopp" discusses the comet's closest approach to the Sun on April 1st, noting its brightness was slightly lower than anticipated but still making it one of the most visible comets of the century. Its light was concentrated in a relatively small area of the sky, making it easier to observe than Comet Hyakutake. The comet's two tails are explained: a gas tail pointing away from the Sun and a dust tail trailing behind due to inertia. A diagram illustrates Hale-Bopp's trajectory through the solar system.

Space Exploration

Mars Pathfinder and Mars Global Surveyor Reach Their Goal

Mentz Kaarbø reports on the arrival of the Mars Pathfinder (MP) and Mars Global Surveyor (MGP) spacecraft at Mars in September. MP landed successfully on July 4th in the Ares Vallis region, employing a unique direct entry and landing sequence involving atmospheric friction, a parachute, retrorockets, and airbags. The lander deployed its rover, Sojourner, which was equipped with a laser navigation system and an alpha proton X-ray spectrometer for elemental analysis. After nine weeks of operation, the missions had sent back extensive data, including hundreds of images. Preliminary findings suggest Mars' surface composition is similar to Earth's, and that large parts of the Martian surface may have been covered by liquid water 1-2 billion years ago when the atmosphere was denser. The article also mentions the renaming of the Mars Pathfinder landing site to "Carl Sagan Memorial Station." MGP, which entered orbit on September 11th, will conduct a high-resolution photographic mapping of the surface over two years, including attempts to photograph the "Face on Mars" in the Cydonia region.

Analysis of Implants

Analysis of Metal Samples

This section, authored by Mentz Kaarbø, details the analysis of objects removed from two individuals in August 1995 by Dr. Roger K. Leir, in collaboration with CE-4 investigator Derrel Sims. Initial laser spectroscopy analysis by The National Institute of Discovery Science (NIDS) yielded inconclusive results. Further metallurgical testing was conducted at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology. The objects, designated T1,2-A, T1,2-B, T3-A, and T3-B, were subjected to various tests, including density measurements, hardness testing, electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Objects T1,2-A and T1,2-B were described as needle- or lamella-shaped, strongly magnetized, and composed primarily of iron, calcium, and chlorine, with a gray-black coating. Object T3-A was more complex, with varying compositions, including iron, silicon, phosphorus, molybdenum, and chlorine. Object T3-B was found to be non-metallic and relatively soft.

Physical Properties

Density measurements showed T1,2-A at 5.65 g/cm³, T1,2-B at 5.81 g/cm³, T3-A at 4.95 g/cm³, and T3-B at 2.70 g/cm³. Hardness tests revealed T1,2-B to be very hard (similar to hardened tool steel), while T3-B was soft (like chalk).

Electron Microscopy and Chemical Analysis

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) were used. T1,2-B showed high concentrations of iron, phosphorus, and calcium, with smaller amounts of chlorine, and a cracked surface. T3-A exhibited a complex microstructure with distinct regions, including a central area rich in silicon, phosphorus, and calcium, and a "neck" region containing iron, copper, tin, and nickel. The flaky structures suggest a layered silicate structure.

Phase Identification - Detection of Crystalline Structure

X-ray diffraction experiments were attempted but were not fully successful due to the small sample sizes. However, analysis suggested the presence of minerals like Anapaite, Goethite, Iron phosphide, and Phosphorus oxide. Metallographic examination of the core material of T1,2 revealed a jern-rich alloy with significant carbon content, possibly iron carbide, giving it high hardness and ferromagnetism. T3-A was described as a complex mixture, with its outer layer similar to T1,2 but with additional elements. T3-B appeared to be an amorphous mineral casing without a metallic core.

Conclusion

The analysis of the samples suggested similarities to certain types of meteorites, particularly iron and iron-stone meteorites, due to their complex elemental composition and crystalline structures. The presence of minerals like chlorapatite was noted. However, the absence of significant nickel in T1,2 and only a small amount in T3 posed a question, as most meteorites contain substantial nickel. Alternative hypotheses included the objects being fragments from a meteorite or biological implants causing calcification reactions within the body.

UFO Congress and Sightings

"The Summoning" - A Congress on X-Files

Odd-Gunnar Røed reports on "The Summoning," Norway's first "X-files congress" held in April 1997 at Blindern. The event, organized by The Shadowcon Project, focused on UFO phenomena, conspiracy theories, and featured screenings of X-files episodes, other science fiction films, and lectures. Røed was the sole lecturer, presenting information on UFOs and their classification. He noted the audience's interest, particularly in the Santilli film. The event's organization, including catering and security, received some criticism, but the organizers were encouraged to hold future events.

UFO Crater in Tafjord?

Mentz Kaarbø reports on a strange incident near Tafjord, Norway, where a large track or crater was discovered in the forest. The track was approximately 6-8 meters long and several decimeters deep, filled with mud. Trees along the side of the track were cut down. Radioactivity measurements indicated a higher level within the track compared to the surrounding area. Geologists were puzzled, suggesting possibilities like a falling rock or ice block, but found these explanations unsatisfactory. The incident was investigated further by Willy Ustad and Arnulf Løken, who planned to use a metal detector and Geiger counter.

Mass UFO Sightings Over Arizona

Mentz Kaarbø details mass UFO sightings over Phoenix, Arizona, on March 13, 1997. Hundreds of people observed a silent, V-shaped object, described as triangular and enormous, hovering at low altitude. The object was estimated to be up to a mile long. The Ley family provided a close-up observation. Jim Dilettoso of Village Labs created a virtual reality model based on the descriptions. The article notes that the Phoenix and Tucson areas have experienced numerous UFO reports since mid-1995, with the March 13th event being a peak. It also points to online resources for further information.

UFO-NORGE Information

Back Issues and Thematic Issues

The magazine provides a list of available back issues of UFO from 1982 to 1996, with prices for photocopies and originals. It also lists five thematic issues published by UFO-NORGE, covering topics like Nikola Tesla, a supposed UFO crash in Spitsbergen, UFO theories, and Norwegian UFO sightings. The collected thematic issues are available as a single A4 booklet for 165 Norwegian Kroner.

Subscriptions and Donations

Information is provided on how to subscribe to the magazine, including payment methods for domestic and international subscribers. The organization also thanks readers for donations to its support fund, which is earmarked for research.

Submission Guidelines

UFO-NORGE welcomes articles and submissions, requesting manuscripts to be typewritten with double spacing. Black and white illustrations are preferred, and submissions can also be made on diskette. The editorial staff reserves the right to edit or shorten articles.

Competition Winners

"Competition Winners" - Alien Encounters

The final page features "Competition Winners" from the English magazine "Alien Encounters." Carsten Bjørndal from Tromsø, Norway, won first prize for his illustration "There's An Alien Inside My Mind!" The winning design, an alien figure, was to be produced in a polyester-rubber base with latex paint and acrylic teeth and claws, measuring 30 cm. The "Jekyll & Hyde Makeup Company" organized the competition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of ASTRONOMI reflects UFO-NORGE's ongoing interest in UFO phenomena, space exploration, and scientific analysis of unexplained events. The magazine aims to provide detailed reports on astronomical observations, space missions, and investigations into alleged UAP encounters. There is a clear emphasis on scientific methodology, as seen in the detailed analysis of the implant samples, while also acknowledging the speculative and theoretical aspects of UFO research. The publication encourages reader participation through submissions and support for their research fund.