UFO - 2003 No 2

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO Magazine, number 2 from 2003 and the 22nd volume, is published by UFO-Norge, an organization dedicated to the independent registration and study of UFO phenomena. The magazine aims to inform subscribers and the public about UFOs. The cover features a prominent "UFO" logo against a backdrop of Earth from space, with inset images of a crop circle, a man in a library, and a Viking ship. The main cover headline announces a "Big interview with James Oberg."

Editorial and Content

The editorial section, "Fra redaksjonen," by Mentz Kaarbø, reflects on the past year and looks forward to 2004, hoping to catch up on publications with a double issue in March. The editor notes a "UFO drought" but anticipates increased sightings during the darker winter months. The editorial also commemorates several prominent UFO researchers who passed away in 2003, including Gordon Creighton, Graham Birdsall, and Alve Holmquist, as well as the retirement of Philip Klass, a notable skeptic.

The table of contents highlights several key articles:

• Rapportnytt: UFO observations from across the country.
• Kornsirkelmysteriet: An exploration of crop circles, their increasing complexity, and the possibility of "Greys" being involved.
• Australias Min Min-lys kan ha fått sin forklaring: An investigation into the mysterious Min Min lights in Australia.
• UFOer og russiske raketter: An interview with James Oberg, described as an "understanding skeptic," space expert, and former NASA employee.
• Bokanmeldelser: Reviews of two books on the subject.
• Charles Berlitz er død: An obituary for the author and linguist known for his books on unexplained phenomena.
• Thor Heyerdahls UFOer: An article presenting Thor Heyerdahl's own UFO observations.
• UFO ved World Trade Center: Debunking a UFO film from the World Trade Center as a commercial.
• Informasjonsside
• Baksiden: A summary of the UFO-Norge national meeting in 2003.

Rapportnytt (Report News)

Arnulf Løken reports that the UFO-Norge Report Central has received few reports, indicating a continued "observation drought," though a slight increase has been noted recently. The section details several specific sightings:

• Hardangervidda (May 28, 1998): A strange white light was observed for about 4 hours, moving up and down and sometimes standing still. It is compared to the Hessdalen phenomenon, with no natural explanation found yet.
• Hommersåk, Rogaland (March 11, 2003): Two friends observed a bright light, described as yellowish-white, green, and red, moving in the sky for 30 minutes.
• Røyrvik, Nord-Trøndelag (August 19, 2003): Three triangular imprints, each 70 cm per side and 40-50 cm deep, were found in the ground in a bog area. These were found by hikers.
• Andebu, Telemark (August 24, 2003): Two women observed three blinking lights in the night sky, arranged horizontally. The lights moved away and disappeared.
• Bergen (October 2, 2003): A young man reported seeing a large, bright object in the sky that moved slowly and descended, appearing smaller than the full moon and having a luminous tail.

A table summarizes observations from September 1 to November 15, 2003, including sightings in Hardangervidda, Hommersåk, Sirdalen, Røyrvik, Andebu, and Bergen.

Merkelig lysfenomen i Sirdal (Strange Light Phenomenon in Sirdal)

This section details a photographic case from Sirdalen on April 22, 2003. Photographer Geir Rasmussen captured an image of a white light phenomenon that was not visible to the naked eye at the time of the photo. Enhancements of the digital photo reveal a light with a "tail" and dark spots around its body, suggesting it might be pushing air away. The phenomenon was observed during winter vacation, and the photographer used a Canon digital camera. He recalls seeing a flash of light earlier that day and asking his wife about it, but she saw nothing. The processed images show a bluish-white light.

Kommentarer fra Rapportsentralen (Comments from the Report Central)

This section discusses the challenges of interpreting digital images, noting the presence of "noise" in many digital photos. It suggests that the light spot in the Sirdalen photo could be digital noise or a lens reflection. The possibility of it being caused by long exposure due to twilight is also considered. The article also mentions a report from Oslo where a person observed a "fireball" that moved rapidly and disappeared. The observer contacted a neighbor who suggested it was an airplane, but the speed and movement were unlike any known aircraft.

Undersøkelser av “UFO-ringene” i Åfjord (Investigations of "UFO Rings" in Åfjord)

This article details an investigation into two circular patterns found in the ground in Stordalen, Åfjord, Norway, discovered by elk hunters in 1999. The author, Arnulf Løken, visited the site in August 2003. The rings were measured: the inner ring had a diameter of 2.30 meters, a second ring was 7 meters outside the first and 1 meter wide, and the outermost ring had a diameter of approximately 18.70 meters. The rings were mostly round, with slight deviations. No signs of the ground being pressed down were observed. The area was described as a sloping mire with small rocky outcrops. The investigation considered "witch's rings" (fairy rings) as a possible explanation. Six soil samples were taken from inside and outside the rings and sent to LabNett AS for analysis. The results, received on September 10, 2003, indicated large accumulations of fungal spores and mold in the soil samples from Åfjord, with significantly lower values in the reference samples. The conclusion was that the phenomenon was a witch's ring caused by fungi, not related to any "mysterious craft."

LabNett AS provided a detailed analysis report, showing high concentrations of mold and yeast in samples P1, P3, P4, P5, and P6, with P2 showing exceptionally high mold counts. The report is dated September 12, 2003.

Kornsirkelmysteriet (The Crop Circle Mystery)

This article, by Rolf Kenneth Myhre, discusses the evolution of crop circles from simple circles to complex pictograms. It mentions that in 2002, a hint was given that "Greys" might be involved, and questions whether this will be confirmed in 2003. The author distinguishes between "pranksters" who create crop circles to deceive people and "bluffmakers" who falsely claim credit for them. The article traces the history of crop circles, referencing a 1678 English pamphlet titled "The Mowing-Devil," which describes a farmer's field being mysteriously mowed overnight. It also mentions Terry Wilson's book "The Secret History of Crop Circles" and notes that crop circle phenomena gained significant attention in the 1970s, with many appearing in Wiltshire, England. A notable event was the witnessing of a spontaneous crop circle formation by Arthur Shuttlewood and Bryce Bond on August 15, 1972. The 1980s saw the development of "cerealogy" as a field of study, with early crop circles being simple circles. The article also references Andy Thomas's book "Vital Signs" and the web resource "The Crop Circle Connector."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, investigative reporting, and analysis of sightings and related events. There is a clear emphasis on presenting evidence, even from skeptical viewpoints, as seen in the discussion of James Oberg and Philip Klass. The publication also engages with historical cases and scientific investigations, such as the analysis of the Åfjord rings. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, seeking explanations for unexplained phenomena while maintaining a critical perspective and acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and technology, particularly concerning digital imagery. The magazine also serves as a platform for UFO-Norge's activities, including reports from its regional groups and national meetings.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated February 2003, delves into the complex and evolving phenomenon of crop circles, tracing their history from simple formations to intricate geometric designs and pictograms. It also explores the scientific investigation into the mysterious Min Min lights observed in Australia.

Crop Circle Evolution and Research

The magazine details the progression of crop circles, starting with simple rings noted in the late 1970s and early 1980s, which were often attributed to natural forces or pranks. The late 1980s saw an increase in reports, with military helicopters often observed near formations, fueling speculation about government interest. The publication of the first crop circle book in 1989 by Delgado and Andrews significantly boosted public interest.

The early 1990s marked a significant shift with the appearance of 'pictograms' – complex symbols composed of multiple geometric figures. These formations, such as the one at Chilcomb in Hampshire in May 1990, were more elaborate and sparked media sensation. The Center for Crop Circles Studies (CCCS) was formed, with branches internationally, to investigate these phenomena.

1991 was a year of further development, with figures resembling whales and insects appearing. A notable event was the complex geometric figure at Barbury Castle, Wiltshire, on July 17th, which could be interpreted as a sacred geometry symbol. The first fractal crop circle also emerged in Cambridge, demonstrating self-similar patterns at smaller scales, a concept pioneered by mathematician Benoit B. Mandelbrot.

Germany contributed with a complex pictogram in Grasdorf on July 22nd, 1991, which was found to have three inscribed metallic plates (gold, silver, and bronze) buried nearby. The issue also recounts the sensational claim by Dave Chorley and Doug Bower in September 1991 that they had been creating crop circles since 1978 using simple tools. However, researchers quickly dismissed their claims due to their lack of mathematical and geometric knowledge.

The period from 1992-1995 saw a decrease in media interest following the 'Dave and Doug' incident, but also an increase in 'bluff-makers' claiming responsibility for formations. Despite this, the complexity and quality of some formations in 1994 suggested human creation was unlikely within the given timeframes.

Key formations highlighted include a 1994 pictogram at Sussex with a quality that seemed impossible for humans to create in five hours, and a 'Julia set' fractal near Stonehenge in 1996. The year 1997 saw formations appearing outside England, with the Netherlands and Germany becoming significant locations. A triangular fractal at Milk Hill in 1997 and a DNA-like pattern at Alton Barnes were notable.

The magazine discusses scientific findings related to crop circles, including research by Eltjo Haselhoff, who suggests that the formations are created by an electromagnetic point source. Factors such as the 'pulvinus' length increase in affected stalks, unusual soil composition (high silica and magnesium dioxide), and the presence of magnetic material are discussed. The issue also touches upon the potential for psychological effects on humans and animals within crop circles, and the malfunction of electronic equipment.

• Specific scientific observations include:
• The Executing Force: Theories suggest one or more 'light balls' emitting intense heat, possibly through microwave radiation, causing swollen stalk nodes.
• Internal Geometric Relationships: Professor Gerald S. Hawkins noted precise mathematical and graphical relationships in crop circle designs, suggesting a sophisticated creator.
• Sprout Anomalies: Seeds from crop circles show altered germination rates, growing slower if the circle was formed early in the season and faster if formed later.
• Effects on Humans, Animals, and Equipment: Reports include psychological effects and electronic malfunctions within circles.
• Parapsychology: Some individuals claim to have visualized patterns that later manifested as crop circles, suggesting telepathic influence or precognition.
• After-effects: Crop circles can leave a 'shadow' of reduced growth in the following year, unlike human-made formations.

The issue also mentions the formation of the Norsk Kornsirkelgruppe in Norway in 2000, dedicated to documenting and researching crop circles.

The Min Min Lights Mystery

The second major section of the magazine focuses on the Min Min lights, a mysterious phenomenon observed in the Australian outback, particularly in West Queensland. These lights, often seen near the horizon after dark, have long been the subject of folklore and speculation, with explanations ranging from animal spirits to UFOs.

Professor Jack Pettigrew of the University of Queensland is presented as having potentially solved the mystery. His research, published in 'Clinical and Experimental Optometry', suggests the lights are an optical phenomenon, specifically a 'Fata Morgana' or inverted mirage. This occurs when light is refracted over long distances by atmospheric temperature inversions, creating illusions where light sources appear distorted or in unexpected locations.

Pettigrew's theory is supported by his own observations and experiments, including one where car headlights were seen from a considerable distance due to atmospheric conditions. He notes that while normal mirages occur with warm air near the ground, Fata Morganas involve cold air layers near the ground, allowing light to bend over the horizon and even be amplified.

Similar phenomena, like the Marfa lights in Texas, are also cited as having similar optical explanations. The article notes that scientific explanations for UFO-related phenomena can be met with resistance, especially in towns like Boulia, which have built their tourism industry around the mystery of the Min Min lights.

Communication from the Crop Circle Makers?

A significant event discussed is the 'Chilbolton response' in 2001, a crop circle that resembled a point-image of a human face and contained a binary coded message. This message, when decoded, read: "Beware the bearers of FALSE gifts & their BROKEN PROMISES. Much PAIN but still time. BELIEVE. There is GOOD out there. We OPpose DECEPTION. Conduit CLOSING. Acknowledge." This message has been interpreted in various ways, with some seeing it as a warning and others as a call for a response.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena with scientific investigation, presenting both the mysteries and the attempts to find rational explanations. The editorial stance appears open to the possibility of non-human intelligence behind crop circles, while also critically examining claims and presenting scientific research. The recurring theme is the ongoing quest to understand these complex phenomena, whether they originate from extraterrestrial sources, unknown natural forces, or sophisticated human hoaxes. The issue concludes by suggesting that the crop circle mystery is moving towards a climax, with the creators potentially identifying themselves.

This issue of UFO Magazine, titled "UFOer og russiske raketter" (UFOs and Russian Rockets), features an in-depth look at the intersection of space exploration and unexplained aerial phenomena. The cover story focuses on James Oberg, a former NASA expert and a self-proclaimed "understanding skeptic" with a lifelong interest in UFOs and Russian spaceflight. The magazine explores his investigative methods and his views on various UFO cases, often linking them to space activities.

James Oberg: A Skeptical Investigator

The article delves into James Oberg's background, highlighting his early fascination with space and science fiction, which began in the 1950s. His interest in space grew alongside his academic pursuits, leading him to study mathematics and Russian. Oberg's career at NASA involved preparing software for space shuttles and working in ground control, giving him a unique perspective on space operations. He began his own UFO investigations in 1975, initially finding the Condon Report to be accurate but later becoming surprised by the material related to UFO phenomena in space.

Oberg's approach to UFO investigation is meticulous. He emphasizes understanding the observer's perception and comparing it to known phenomena. He often uses methods similar to those used in accident investigations, focusing on the raw experience rather than interpretations. He notes that pilots, while technically proficient, can be poor witnesses for UFOs because their training leads them to interpret events through a lens of known aviation scenarios.

UFOs in Space: The Gemini 4 Incident and Beyond

A significant portion of the article is dedicated to Oberg's analysis of UFO sightings related to space missions. He discusses the famous McDivitt sighting from Gemini 4 in 1965, where a cylindrical object was filmed. Oberg concluded that it was likely McDivitt's own booster, a finding supported by his analysis of the original film. He also addresses the STS-75 mission, where mysterious objects were seen behind a cable. Oberg explains these as artifacts of lighting and camera technology, not extraterrestrial craft.

He recounts his early work in preparing software for the space shuttle and his role in ground control. Oberg also discusses how space missions, particularly those involving rocket launches, have generated numerous UFO reports. He cites the Petrozavodsk incident in 1977 as an example where a UFO report coincided with a Russian rocket launch, which he was able to investigate using tracking data.

The Role of Media and Misinterpretation

Oberg expresses frustration with how UFO incidents are often sensationalized and misrepresented in the media. He points out that details are often omitted or distorted to create compelling narratives, leading to public misunderstanding. He believes that many so-called UFO sightings in space are actually misinterpretations of natural phenomena, ice particles, or equipment malfunctions.

Charles Berlitz and Popularizing Mysteries

The magazine also features a tribute to Charles Berlitz, who passed away in December 2003. Berlitz, a linguist and author, is credited with popularizing concepts like the Bermuda Triangle and the Roswell Incident. While not always rigorous in his investigations, his books brought these mysteries to a wide audience. The article notes that Berlitz's work on the Bermuda Triangle, while influential, built upon earlier research by others.

Book Reviews

Two book reviews are included:

• "Without Consent" by Carl Nagaitis and Philip Mantle: This book compiles accounts of alleged alien abductions. The reviewer notes that the authors do not take a stance on the cause of these experiences but highlight their prevalence. The reviewer expresses skepticism about the use of hypnosis in gathering these accounts.
• "Svarta Skuggor" (Black Shadows) by Robert Thornberg: This is a fictional work that incorporates UFO themes, Roswell, and conspiracy theories. The reviewer finds the book to be poorly written, predictable, and lacking in suspense, despite its interesting subject matter.

Other Articles

• Radar Echo Causes White House Evacuation: A brief report details an incident where the White House was evacuated due to a radar echo, not an actual aircraft.
• Jølster Case Solved: The article reports on the resolution of a UFO sighting in Jølster, Norway, which was identified as two large helium balloons.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of space exploration, military activities, and UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on critical analysis and debunking sensationalized claims, particularly through the lens of scientific and technical expertise, as exemplified by James Oberg's contributions. The editorial stance appears to favor rational explanations for reported phenomena while acknowledging the existence of genuine mysteries that warrant further investigation. The magazine also highlights the role of popular culture and media in shaping public perception of UFOs.

Title: UFO
Issue: 2-2003
Date: 2003
Publisher: UFO-Norge
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of UFO magazine features a cover story on Thor Heyerdahl, focusing on his expeditions and alleged UFO sightings. It also includes an in-depth investigation into a widely circulated "UFO film" purportedly taken over the World Trade Center, revealing it to be a staged production.

Thor Heyerdahl and UFOs

The magazine begins by referencing Thor Heyerdahl's accounts from his expeditions. While the Kon-Tiki expedition is described as involving observations of biological phenomena like deep-sea fish and bioluminescent plankton, a more intriguing incident is detailed from the Ra 2 expedition. On June 30, 1970, at 0:30 AM, crew members Norman Baker and Santiago Genovèse witnessed a large, pale, round object rising from the horizon. Described as "perfectly symmetrical round, growing in dimensions like a mushroom without a stem," it appeared to move towards the ship. The object was "aluminum-colored, luminous, and grew to cover thirty degrees of the sky" before dissolving and disappearing. The crew fired flares to signal their position, but the accompanying UN research vessel Calamar did not see them. The next morning, a radio amateur in Barbados reported similar sightings across the West Indies. Heyerdahl speculates if it could have been a falling rocket part from Cape Kennedy, a theory supported by the timing of a Poseidon rocket test from Cape Kennedy on June 29th, which occurred around the same time as the sighting and in the correct direction.

The World Trade Center UFO Film

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to debunking a video that gained traction online, claiming to show a UFO over the World Trade Center. The article, written by Leif Persson, reveals that the woman in the helicopter, identified as Barbara Sicuranza, is an actress. The video was a commissioned job for Sci-Fi Channel, intended to look like a home video. Sicuranza, who is married to musician Chris Stein of 'Blondie,' stated that the plot involved a woman in a helicopter spotting a flying saucer. The video was used as a prelude to a show called "Happens." The article emphasizes that the object was CGI (computer-generated imagery), not a real UFO. The analysis was performed by a specialist in the USA, who focused on the history behind the film rather than just its technical aspects. The article notes that Sicuranza has received much attention for the video but clarifies her role as an actress hired for the job.

UFO-Norge Operations and Finances

The magazine also provides updates on UFO-Norge's activities. The annual national meeting (Landsmøte) was held on October 18, 2003, in Oslo. Despite an expected attendance of 7-8, only five members were present: Ole Jonny Brænne, Stein Carlsen, Mentz Kaarbø, Ottar Sæbjørnsen, and Ole-Morten Vestby. The meeting addressed the organization's financial situation, which is described as "not the best." There has been a significant decrease in paying subscribers and members over the years, from approximately 960 in 1995-96 to around 390 currently. However, the situation is not considered critical, and the organization aims to continue publishing the magazine. The need for a new treasurer was also highlighted.

Reporting and Future Plans

Reports from UFO-Norge's departments indicated a generally quiet year for UFO sightings, with few reports received. The article mentions the possibility of using advertising in 'Illustrert Vitenskap' to attract more subscribers, though the cost is considered high. The next national meeting is scheduled for October 2004. The organization also discussed the role of local groups and field researchers, deciding to retain the groups and continue featuring field researchers in the magazine.

Project Hessdalen

There is a call for support for Project Hessdalen, which aims to acquire more modern equipment for its automatic measuring station. The project, led by Erling Strand, requires funds for operational costs, including the transfer of images from the station to the University of Østfold. Readers are encouraged to contribute financially to ensure the project's continuation.

Mysterious Object or Balloon?

Another report details a sighting in Ohio, USA, where a family observed a large, dark, disc-shaped object that blocked the sun and emitted lights before disappearing. The observers ruled out it being a conventional aircraft due to its size and lack of markings. The commentary suggests that the object could have been a large balloon, noting that size estimation can be difficult and that the sun's position might have created the observed light effects. The report also questions the assumption that objects without text or markings cannot be balloons, as such features are not always present on balloons or airships.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO magazine demonstrates a commitment to critical analysis of UFO phenomena. While acknowledging and presenting accounts of alleged sightings, such as Thor Heyerdahl's experiences, the publication actively investigates and debunks hoaxes, as seen with the World Trade Center video. The editorial stance appears to be one of seeking factual evidence and rational explanations, even when dealing with potentially sensational topics. The magazine also serves as a platform for organizational updates and appeals for support for ongoing research projects like Hessdalen. The recurring theme is the careful examination of UFO reports, distinguishing between genuine phenomena, misidentifications, and deliberate fabrications.