UFO - 2002 No 2

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO magazine, NR. 2-2002, Volume 21, published by UFO-Norge, focuses on the ongoing mystery of UFO phenomena. The cover headline, "Ydmyk skeptiker søker svar" (Humble Skeptic Seeks Answers), highlights an interview with Hilary Evans, a prominent UFO investigator known for his skeptical approach. The issue also commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Namsenfjorden imprints and announces the opening of the Norwegian UFO Center.

Editorial and Publisher Information

The magazine is published by UFO-Norge, an organization dedicated to independently registering and studying UFO phenomena, and providing information to subscribers and the public. The editorial team includes Ole Jonny Brænne as the responsible editor, Mentz D. Kaarbø as co-editor, and Stein Carlsen as the internet editor. The publication details, including subscription prices and contact information for various regional UFO-Norge groups, are provided.

Featured Articles and Reports

Interview with Hilary Evans

The issue features a significant interview with Hilary Evans, described as one of the world's leading UFO investigators. Evans, who has spent 40 years building a vast collection of illustrations and images, supports the "psychosocial explanation" for UFO phenomena. The article acknowledges that some might view him as a skeptic who dismisses evidence pointing towards a more "saucer-oriented" solution. However, the author argues that Evans is one of the most interesting figures in the UFO arena, and his arguments remain strong in the absence of direct proof for the visitation hypothesis, despite events like the Greer hearing.

The Namsenfjorden Imprints

A report details the 30th anniversary of the mysterious imprints discovered in Namsenfjorden, Norway, in June 1972. Dozens of strange triangular and round impressions were found in the mud. Investigations at the time were inconclusive, suggesting that one or more objects had likely come from above. Arnulf Løken from the report center has written an article commemorating this case.

Podkletnov's Anti-Gravity Apparatus

The magazine mentions the sensational news about Russian scientist Yevgeny Podkletnov's anti-gravity apparatus. Originally developed 10 years prior, his discovery of a possible gravity-reducing effect has gained attention from major news channels, including the BBC. While researchers have yet to verify Podkletnov's results, the potential for developing "UFO technology" like levitation and fuel-less propulsion is highlighted.

Rapportnytt (Report News)

This section, compiled by Arnulf Løken, presents several UFO sighting reports from the summer of 2002:

• Åndalsnes: Four young people reported seeing a strange light phenomenon almost every night from April to August. The light, described as yellow, red, green, blue, and white, blinked and moved at high speed before disappearing. The phenomenon was estimated to be between the size of a star and a half-moon. A dog accompanying the witnesses became agitated.
• Molde Area: Two new observers reported a similar phenomenon on the evening of August 15th. A sharp white light blinked in the sky, illuminating the mountains. The light appeared approximately every 3 minutes until 11:15 PM. The witnesses initially thought it was a boat but concluded the light came from above.
• Ålen, Sør-Trøndelag: On an early June morning, a cigar-shaped craft was observed hovering from Rogne towards the north over Ålen. The craft was white with a black ring around its middle, moved slowly and silently at low altitude, and disappeared over the northern mountains. The witness had seen a similar object 15 years prior.
• Geiteryggen, Hallingskarvet: On July 28th, three individuals on a fishing trip observed a luminous sphere, described as white and pulsating with red, green, blue, and yellow light. The object moved slowly, stopped multiple times, and then disappeared at high speed and silently. The witnesses estimated the object to be less than a kilometer away.

The Mothman Prophecies

An article by Ole Jonny Brænne discusses the film "The Mothman Prophecies," based on John Keel's book about the mysterious events in Point Pleasant, West Virginia, in the late 1960s. The article recounts the sightings of a winged creature, dubbed "The Mothman," and its alleged connection to the collapse of the Silver Bridge, which resulted in 46 deaths. The phenomenon is explored as a potential messenger or omen.

What Lies Behind Half a Century of Intense UFO Observations?

This article by Michael D. Swords, a professor emeritus, speculates on the significance of UFO phenomena over the past 50 years. Swords argues that the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) is the simplest explanation for high-tech observations. He questions the motivations of potential extraterrestrial visitors, suggesting they are not altruistic but driven by self-interest. He proposes theories ranging from societal manipulation (e.g., preparing humanity for contact or religious conversion) to entertainment through emotional parasitism, where advanced beings might terrorize individuals for their own amusement.

Other Articles

• Reportnytt: A brief mention of UFO reports from across the country.
• Fant kopi av vårt solsystem: NASA scientists have discovered a solar system resembling ours, 41 light-years away.
• UFO - In the air or in the head?: The third part of Hilary Evans' series, questioning the reality of UFO experiences.
• Asteroid grazed Earth: An asteroid the size of a football field narrowly missed Earth.
• Are UFO observers psychologically disturbed?: A question posed with contrasting viewpoints.
• Letter to NICAP: A letter from the Norwegian Embassy in Washington to NICAP dated October 29, 1958.
• Boeing will abolish gravity: Boeing is reportedly testing theories to create a device that can abolish gravity.
• Book Reviews: Reviews of four books.
• Press Clippings: News items from newspapers, magazines, radio, and TV from the summer months.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the UFO phenomenon from various angles, including eyewitness accounts, scientific investigations, and theoretical discussions. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena, the editorial stance appears to be open to different interpretations, including skeptical viewpoints like Hilary Evans' psychosocial model, alongside the more traditional extraterrestrial hypothesis. The publication aims to inform and stimulate discussion within the UFO community and the broader public, as evidenced by the detailed reports and the exploration of complex theories regarding the nature and intent of potential extraterrestrial visitors.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated June 2002 (Issue 2, Volume 2002), focuses on two main themes: the discovery of an exoplanet system remarkably similar to our own and an exploration of the psychological aspects of UFO sightings, alongside a revisit to a significant UFO case from Norway.

Exoplanet Discovery: A Twin Solar System

The lead article, "NASAs planetjegere: Fant kopi av vårt solsystem" (NASA's Planet Hunters: Found a Copy of Our Solar System), reports on the groundbreaking discovery by NASA scientists of a solar system that closely resembles our own. Located 41 light-years from Earth, the system orbits the star 55 Cancri. Researchers, including Professor Geoffrey Marcy and Dr. Paul Butler from Berkeley University, have identified 15 planets so far. One of these planets is a gas giant similar to Jupiter, orbiting its star in 13 years and being 3.5-5 times more massive. Its orbit is highly eccentric, at 5.5 astronomical units (AE) from its star, compared to Jupiter's 5.2 AE from our Sun. While the possibility of an Earth-like planet in this system is considered theoretically possible, scientists deem it speculative. The discovery is seen as a significant step towards finding a 'perfect twin' of our solar system among the thousands being explored. Dr. Debra A. Fischer notes that 55 Cancri is a prime target for future imaging missions. The team also announced the discovery of 13 other new planets, including the smallest ever found, orbiting HD49674. The star 55 Cancri is five billion years old.

UFOs: In the Air or in the Head?

Authored by Hilary Evans, this multi-part article series delves into the psychological underpinnings of UFO experiences. The second part examines an experiment conducted by Professor Lawson at California State University in 1977, where hypnotized volunteers, with no prior knowledge of UFOs, described encounters that mirrored common UFO narratives. Evans references the work of Bertrand Meheust, who noted similarities between contemporary UFO accounts and science fiction stories from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He posits the idea of a collective 'idea bank' from which the subconscious mind draws inspiration, comparing it to how religious figures might be invoked in different eras. The article also discusses the case of a young girl who reported a 'bedroom guest' from space, suggesting her subconscious may have created this figure based on cultural archetypes, similar to how Jeanne d'Arc might have envisioned a saint. The author explores the concept of 'fantasy proneness' as a factor in some UFO observations, citing studies that found no overt psychopathology in UFO witnesses but noted a higher degree of fantasy proneness in those with more intense experiences like abductions.

The Namsenfjorden Imprints: A 30-Year Mystery

Arnulf Løken revisits the Namsenfjorden case from June 1972, where strange, triangular imprints were discovered in the mud on Kjølsøya. These imprints, some of which were found to be radioactive, were between 30 and 40 centimeters deep and suggested an object of immense weight (estimated between 30 and 150 tons) had landed. The article notes that TV interference was reported in the area around the time of the discovery. Investigations by local authorities and the Norwegian UFO Center (NUFOC) concluded that the imprints were caused by an aerial object. The case remains unsolved, with speculation pointing towards a UFO. The article also touches upon a related sighting by farmers Asbjørn and Andreas Grav, who observed a bright, fiery ball in the sky around the same period. They described it as an intensely luminous, red-colored fireball that moved slowly and changed color. The article highlights the difficulty in explaining such phenomena and the skepticism they often encounter.

UFO-Senter Opens in Norway

The issue also reports on the opening of the Norwegian UFO Center (NUFOS) in Ålen, Norway, in June 2002. The opening ceremony included a theatrical UFO landing and a guided tour of the facilities. Mayor Ivar Volden emphasized the center's importance for the local community and its unique concept.

Other Articles

Asteroid Near-Miss

A brief report details an asteroid, "2000 MN," approximately 120 meters in diameter, that passed Earth at a distance of about 120,000 kilometers. The asteroid was discovered only three days after its closest approach. Had it impacted Earth, it would have caused significant damage, comparable to the 1908 Tunguska event.

Are UFO Observers Psychologically Disturbed?

This article examines studies investigating the psychological state of UFO observers. It references early claims of psychopathology but highlights later studies, including those from the University of Wyoming and the University of Colorado (Condon report), which found no evidence of overt psychopathology among UFO witnesses. However, some studies noted a higher degree of 'fantasy proneness' and unusual sensory experiences in individuals with more intense UFO encounters.

Norwegian Embassy Letter

A scanned document shows a letter dated October 29, 1958, from the Norwegian Embassy in Washington D.C. to the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP). It states that the Royal Norwegian Air Force's UFO material is classified and cannot be provided to NICAP, suggesting instead that requests be directed to the "Norwegian UFO Investigations Group."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the UFO phenomenon from multiple angles, including scientific investigation, psychological interpretation, and historical case studies. There's a clear interest in presenting both evidence-based findings (like the exoplanet discovery and asteroid near-miss) and more speculative or debated aspects (psychological origins of sightings, unexplained aerial phenomena). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the complexity and mystery surrounding UFOs while also seeking rational explanations and scientific understanding. The recurring theme is the persistent question of whether UFOs are physical craft from elsewhere, psychological projections, or a combination of both, operating under unknown laws or within the human mind.

Title: UFO nr.
Issue: 2
Volume: 2002
Issue Date: February 2002

This issue of UFO nr. delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, ufology, and related mysteries, featuring interviews, historical accounts, and scientific research.

Hessdalen: A Hub for UFO Phenomena

The magazine highlights the Norsk UFO-senter in Hessdalen, Norway, an area known for its high number of UFO sightings. The center, a collaboration between Holtålen Kommune and private investors, aims to be a tourist magnet and a platform for research. Erling Strand from Prosjekt Hessdalen is featured, discussing the ongoing efforts to understand the Hessdalen phenomenon. Visitors can see texts, images, and real-time data from an automatic monitoring station. A film showcasing testimonies from witnesses like Ruth Mary Moe and Bjarne Lillevold (who claims to have seen UFOs 58 times in Hessdalen) is also mentioned.

Hilary Evans: Seeking Answers Within

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to an interview with Hilary Evans, a British ufologist and researcher. Evans, who runs the Mary Evans Picture Library with his wife Mary, emphasizes that the roots of UFO phenomena, apparitions, and visions lie within human consciousness. He argues that the subjective experience and its impact on the individual are more crucial than seeking physical evidence of alien craft. Evans critiques researchers like Budd Hopkins and Whitley Strieber for potentially manipulating witnesses and their own beliefs, suggesting that many UFO experiences might be manifestations of the human psyche rather than extraterrestrial encounters. He also discusses his early interest in psychical research and his skepticism towards poorly conducted investigations.

The Bermuda Triangle and Avro Tudor Aircraft

The issue examines the mysterious disappearances of two Avro Tudor passenger aircraft, 'Star Tiger' and 'Star Ariel', in the Bermuda Triangle in 1948 and 1949. While the incidents have fueled speculation about UFOs, the article, authored by Willy Ustad, explores a more natural explanation. It details the troubled history of the Avro Tudor, including design flaws, operational issues, and its rejection by major airlines. The article suggests that the aircraft's inherent problems, coupled with questionable approval processes, likely contributed to the tragedies, rather than extraterrestrial intervention.

Antigravity Research at Boeing

An article by Mentz Kaarbø reports on Boeing's controversial research into antigravity technology, based on the work of Russian scientist Dr. Yevgeny Podkletnov. Project GRASP aims to investigate the possibility of creating a device that can negate gravity. While many scientists remain skeptical due to a lack of reproducible results, Boeing sees potential for a revolution in the aerospace industry, including fuel-less propulsion and advanced weaponry. The article includes a diagram illustrating Podkletnov's theoretical antigravity 'machine'.

Book Reviews and Back Issues

The magazine also features promotional material for books related to UFOs and mysteries. These include Erich von Däniken's 'Budskapet fra Nazca' (The Nazca Message), Willy Ustad's 'Roswell-mysteriet' (The Roswell Mystery) and 'UFO i Norge' (UFO in Norway), and a compilation titled 'On This Day in UFO History'. Information on purchasing back issues of the 'UFO' magazine is also provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance of UFO nr. appears to be one of open inquiry, exploring both conventional and unconventional explanations for reported phenomena. There's a clear interest in the psychological underpinnings of belief and experience, as highlighted by the extensive coverage of Hilary Evans' views. While not dismissing the possibility of unknown phenomena, the magazine seems to favor critical analysis and the search for rational explanations, even when discussing highly speculative topics like antigravity or historical mysteries like the Bermuda Triangle incidents. The publication also actively promotes UFO-related literature and its own back issues, positioning itself as a resource for enthusiasts.

Title: UFO
Issue: 2
Volume: 2002
Issue Date: 2002
Publisher: UFO-NORGE
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
ISSN: 0332-0008
Price: kr. 200,-

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated 2002, delves into a variety of topics related to UFOs, paranormal phenomena, and scientific investigations. It features articles on antigravity research, notable UFO sightings, book reviews, and the establishment of a UFO center in Norway.

Antigravity Research and Skepticism

The magazine begins with an examination of Yevgeny Podkletnov's controversial research claiming to reduce gravity by 2% using a superconducting ceramic disc. The report notes that his findings, initially published in Physica C, were withdrawn, and subsequent attempts by institutions like BAE Systems and NASA to replicate his experiments have been unsuccessful. The article highlights the skepticism within the scientific community, while also mentioning some supporters who have tried to verify his results.

Buzz Aldrin and the Moon Landing Debate

A separate article recounts an incident where astronaut Buzz Aldrin allegedly assaulted a man who claimed the moon landings were a hoax. The man, Bart Sibril, had confronted Aldrin, demanding he swear on the Bible about his moonwalk. Aldrin reportedly struck Sibril, leading to a police investigation. Sibril maintains his disbelief in the moon landings, calling them a media bluff.

Book Reviews

Several book reviews are featured:

• "You Can't Tell the People" by Georgina Bruni: This book is presented as a definitive account of the Rendlesham Forest UFO Mystery. The reviewer notes Bruni's focus on witness testimonies and her interviews with individuals like Gordon E. Williams, who was Wing Commander at RAF Bentwaters/Woodbridge during the incident.
• "The Infinite Mind" by Betty Shine: The review discusses Betty Shine, a medium and healer from England, who explores her contacts and experiences, including a chapter dedicated to UFO phenomena. Shine claims to have received telepathic images of a spacecraft.
• "Kooks: A Guide to the Outer Limits of Human Belief" by Donna Kossy: This book is described as a collection of unusual beliefs and individuals associated with the paranormal and UFO phenomena. It covers groups like Unarius and mentions figures such as Raël, Aetherius Society, and John Keel.
• "UFO! Narkontakt!" by Norvald Sandvik: This review covers a children's book about a UFO that crash-lands and establishes contact with its intelligent brain. The reviewer praises its engaging narrative and philosophical themes.

UFO Sightings and Events

Several news items report on UFO sightings and related events:

• Scotland as a UFO Hotspot: An article from Aftenposten highlights Scotland as a new favorite destination for UFOs, with an average of 300 reported sightings annually, significantly more than France and Italy. The town of Bonnybridge is noted as a particular area of interest.
• Mysterious Pyramid in China: A report from VG discusses local beliefs in China that a pyramid-shaped structure in Baigong, Qinghai province, was built by extraterrestrials. Chinese researchers are investigating the site.
• Opening of Norsk UFO Senter: The magazine covers the opening of the Norsk UFO Senter in Ålen, Norway. The center aims to showcase the Hessdalen phenomenon and other UFO-related exhibits. The article mentions the center's cost and its potential as a tourist attraction.
• Hessdalen Phenomenon: The Hessdalen phenomenon, known for its mysterious lights, is discussed in relation to the new UFO center. The article notes that the center will feature spectacular images and data related to the lights.
• Search for Extraterrestrial Life: A report from VG discusses the ongoing search for extraterrestrial life, with scientists predicting discoveries within 25 years. While SETI has received signals, they have been identified as human-made. The discovery of new planets is seen as a positive development.
• UFO Sighting over Washington: An article reports that two F-16 fighter jets were scrambled to intercept an unidentified flying object (UFO) over Washington. The object disappeared before it could be identified.
• Mysterious Object over Ny-Hellesund: Bjørn Haugen observed a bright, two-tailed object for ten minutes near Ny-Hellesund, Norway. Initially considered a UFO, it was later identified as an Airbus 340 passenger jet.
• Alleged UFO Attacks in India: Reports from Shanwa, India, describe a flying sphere with red and blue lights attacking residents, causing injuries and deaths. Police attribute these incidents to insects, but villagers remain convinced of a mysterious attacker.

Scientific Exploration of Out-of-Body Experiences

A C-blad article titled "Elektroder kan utløse ut-av-kroppen-opplevelser" (Electrodes can trigger out-of-body experiences) by Helen Pearson explores research from Switzerland. Neurologist Olaf Blanke stimulated a specific part of the brain (the right angular gyrus) using electrodes, which induced out-of-body experiences in a female patient. These experiences involved sensations of detachment from the body and visual perceptions of oneself from above. The article suggests a link between these experiences and phenomena like the 'alien hand syndrome' and phantom limb sensations. While acknowledging that these findings do not disprove paranormal beliefs, they offer a scientific explanation for subjective experiences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers UFO sightings, scientific investigations into anomalous phenomena, and the paranormal. There is a clear interest in both verifiable scientific research and more speculative theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various perspectives and news items related to the UFO phenomenon, while also offering critical reviews of books and events. The magazine encourages reader participation through submissions and a subscription drive. The recurring theme is the exploration of the unknown, whether in space, the human mind, or unexplained aerial phenomena.