UFO - 2005 No 3

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO Magazine, number 3 from 2005 and the 24th volume, is the largest specialized magazine on UFO phenomena in Norway. Published by UFO-Norge, it aims to provide information and registration of UFO phenomena. The cover features a collage of images, including a nebula, a hot air balloon, a radar screen showing two objects, and a nighttime sea scene, with the main headline focusing on a potential explanation for UFO observations over Mexico.

Editorial Content

From the Editor's Desk

The editorial section by Mentz Kaarbo notes a lull in new observations but highlights that there is still plenty to write about, including re-examining old cases and theoretical articles on UFO propulsion and psychosocial aspects. The issue features a follow-up on the UFOs over Mexico case from issue 2, 2005, suggesting a conventional explanation has been found, much to the potential disappointment of some enthusiasts. The editor also congratulates UFO-Sverige on their publication 'UFO-Aktuellt' and mentions the participation of UFO-NORGE members in a field researcher course in Sweden. The passing of Philip Klass, a prominent UFO debunker, is noted with a mixed assessment of his work. A significant article by co-editor Ole Jonny Brænne discusses meteorological balloons observed over Norway in 1946, drawing a parallel to the Roswell incident of 1947 where a similar explanation was offered for a crashed object.

Featured Articles and Reports

Rapportnytt (Report News)

Arnulf Løken from the Rapportsentralen reports a steady stream of UFO observations despite the summer season. Two detailed cases are presented:

• Dividalen, Troms (August 1994): A witness and his friend experienced an intense, pulsing white light that illuminated the forest. They initially thought they were dying but later realized it was an unexplained phenomenon.
• Arendal (September/October 2001): A witness observed a large, stationary, star-like object in the sky for about 30 seconds.

A table provides a summary of other observations registered between May 15 and September 15, 2005, including sightings in Håkøyboten, Elverum, Oslo, Fredrikstad, Flisa, Rørvik, and Vågøya, with brief descriptions and potential identifications like 'Meteor?' or 'Sky Tracker'.

UFOer over Mexico - en mulig oppklaring? (UFOs over Mexico - a possible explanation?)

This article revisits the spectacular UFO observation by Mexican Air Force crews on March 5, 2004. The article suggests that the observations likely have a conventional explanation, supported by arguments from skeptical UFO investigators. While not 100% certain, the evidence is considered convincing, and the case is considered closed.

På feltforskerkurs i Sverige (On a field researcher course in Sweden)

Four representatives from UFO-NORGE participated in UFO-Sverige's annual field researcher course in August. The course is described as having a high professional standard, and it is recommended that more members attend in the future.

Philip Klass er død (Philip Klass is dead)

Philip Klass, an 85-year-old prominent figure in ufology, known as an "ultraskeptiker" (ultraskeptik), passed away in August. Despite being controversial, he is remembered for his work, whether as a disinformation agent or not.

Et merkelig frimerke (A strange stamp)

This short piece mentions an example of creative use of PC and the Internet.

Ballonger som faller ned (Balloons falling down)

This article by Ole Jonny Brænne discusses meteorological balloons observed over Norway in 1946, the same year as the 'ghost rockets' sightings. The author notes that the public had little difficulty identifying these objects as balloons, unlike the later Roswell incident where a crashed object was explained as a downed balloon from the Mogul project. The author finds it remarkable that military experts, including Jesse Marcel, could not identify the object, questioning the official explanation.

Gammel mynt med UFO-motiv (Old coin with UFO motif)

A French coin from the 16th century is featured, surprising numismatists.

Avtrykkene i Stordalen syv år etter (The imprints in Stordalen seven years later)

Arnulf Løken reports on his visit to Kleivabotnen, Stordalen, in July 2004, to investigate the 1997 findings of 12 strange ground imprints and a 60-ton stone moved several meters. Leif Skodje and Jakob Øvrebust accompanied Løken. They found 11 imprints in the valley, with a 12th found later by Skodje. The imprints shared characteristics with those found in Rødal, despite a 50 km distance and significant elevation differences. The pattern suggested something flying and scraping the ground. The Rødal imprints showed evidence of high speed, with grass, earth, and stone thrown forward. Geologist Lars Harald Blikra had previously examined the Rødal tracks in 1998 and could not explain them, ruling out a rockslide due to the tracks' alignment. The article concludes that the origin of the Stordalen and Rødal imprints remains a mystery.

Fotosak: UFO over Danmark (Photo case: UFO over Denmark)

Yngve M. Sem from Stavanger reports a videofilmed UFO sighting near Løkken, Denmark, on June 30, 2005. He and two friends observed two lights over the sea that moved erratically before accelerating rapidly and disappearing. The lights were initially mistaken for aircraft but their size and non-blinking nature were unusual. The phenomenon was later identified by the Norwegian Armed Forces' Air Operations Center as flare rockets from a Danish fighter jet during an exercise.

Observasjoner og ringer i bakken ved Rørvik (Observations and rings in the ground near Rørvik)

This section details observations made near Rørvik and Vågøya in Nord-Trøndelag.

• Rørvik (July 30, 2005): A witness observed a cigar-shaped oval object with a yellowish-white light that moved and disappeared.
• Vågøya (August 3, 2005): Three witnesses saw a sharp, round, yellowish-white light that moved south and disappeared into the clouds. This sighting is potentially linked to a military exercise.
• Ground rings on Vågøya: Field researcher Per Johan Rauø investigated reports of seven rings found in the ground on Vågøya. Upon his visit, two more rings were discovered, totaling nine. The article suggests these rings might be explained by deer (rådyr) during their mating season, as described in a local newspaper report. The imprints showed signs of being treated with a herbicide-like substance, and the grass within the rings was laid down clockwise, with some exceptions.

Sky Tracker

This section discusses the possibility of 'Sky Tracker' devices, powerful spotlights used for light shows, as an explanation for some observed phenomena. It notes that these devices can create unusual light effects, especially with cloud cover, and can be mistaken for UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO Magazine maintains its focus on investigating and reporting UFO phenomena, while also attempting to provide rational explanations where possible. The magazine appears to adopt a balanced approach, acknowledging both unexplained sightings and conventional explanations like meteorological balloons and military exercises. There is a clear emphasis on detailed case reports and witness testimonies, alongside efforts to verify and analyze these accounts. The recurring theme is the ongoing mystery and fascination surrounding UFOs, with a commitment to exploring the subject through rigorous reporting and investigation. The magazine also highlights the importance of international cooperation and information sharing within the UFO research community.

This issue of UFO nr. (Number 3, 2005) features a cover story titled "UFOer over Mexico – en mulig oppklaring?" (UFOs over Mexico – a possible clarification?) by Mentz Kaarbø. The magazine also includes an article by Ole Jonny Brænne about a field research course in Sweden, and a tribute to the late UFO skeptic Philip Klass. The issue is dated 2005 and published by UFO-NORGE.

UFOer over Mexico – en mulig oppklaring?

This extensive article by Mentz Kaarbø delves into the UFO observation event over Mexico on March 5, 2004. The event involved 11 luminous objects recorded by an infrared surveillance camera from a Mexican Air Force aircraft over the Campeche region, on the Yucatan Peninsula. These objects were also reportedly detected by radar. The initial report described the observation as spectacular and lacking conventional explanation.

The article presents various proposed explanations, including weather balloons, meteorites, and ball lightning. However, it focuses on the analysis conducted by Alejandro Franz Navarrete, a Mexican pilot and UFO investigator, and James C. Smith, a flying engineer and UFO investigator based in the USA. Their research suggests that the luminous objects were likely heat signatures from flares at oil fields in the Gulf of Mexico, specifically the Cantarell oil field.

Smith and Navarrete compared the infrared video footage with satellite data (DMSP) and geographical coordinates of the oil platforms. They created a 3D model to match the camera's field of view with the known locations of oil flares. The analysis indicated a strong correlation between the observed 'UFOs' and flares from three specific platforms: Akal-C, Akal-J, and Nohoch-A. The article discusses the challenges of identifying these flares, including the limited resolution of satellite imagery and the possibility that some flares might have been extinguished during the observation period.

Key questions addressed include why the aircraft crew did not visually see the lights (attributed to the narrow field of view of the infrared camera and the need for zoom), why the phenomenon hadn't been observed before (potentially due to flight path and atmospheric conditions), and why the lights appeared to move (explained by the presence of clouds and the camera's perspective). The article concludes that while some individual lights might be unidentifiable, the main '10 UFO' segment likely corresponds to oil field flares.

Nytt besøk i 2004 (New Visit in 2004)

This section, by Ole Jonny Brænne, details a revisit to the Kleivabotnen site in Norway on July 25, 2004. The author describes finding the large, 60-ton stone and other white stones mentioned in a previous issue (nr. 1). The earth mounds that were present in 1997 had significantly subsided, making the stones more prominent. Several of the large imprints were still visible, though some were overgrown with grass and bushes. The author reflects on the powerful forces that must have been involved in creating these imprints, noting the absence of any metallic debris found in 1997. The article includes photographs of the site in 1997 and 2004, highlighting the changes.

Philip Klass er død (Philip Klass is Dead)

This obituary by Mentz Kaarbø commemorates Philip Klass, a prominent UFO skeptic and journalist who passed away on August 9, 2005, at the age of 85. Klass was known for his work in aviation electronics and for his extensive investigations into UFO sightings, often debunking them. He was considered part of the "skeptical troika" alongside James Oberg and Robert Shaeffer, taking over the role of chief skeptic from Donald Menzel.

The article highlights Klass's career, including his work for "Aviation Week & Space Technology" and his contributions to the field of avionics. It details his approach to UFO investigation, which focused on identifying misinterpretations of natural phenomena, aircraft, and hoaxes. Klass's theory of plasma, suggesting that many UFOs were actually ball lightning or similar atmospheric events, is mentioned. He wrote several books, including the influential "UFOs Explained" (1975), and frequently appeared in media to present his skeptical views.

The article quotes Klass stating that "97.98 percent of people who report seeing UFOs are fundamentally intelligent, honest people who have seen something – usually at night, in the dark – that is unknown, something they cannot explain." He attributed many sightings to satellites re-entering the atmosphere, meteors, and hot air balloons.

På feltforskerkurs i Sverige (On a Field Researcher Course in Sweden)

Written by Ole Jonny Brænne, this article recounts the experience of attending a field researcher course in Ludvika, Sweden, held on August 27-28, 2005. The course was organized by UFO-Sverige and attended by 36 participants, including 11 beginners and four from Norway. The venue, Barken Konferens, is described as having excellent facilities and catering.

The course covered various topics, including misinterpretation of phenomena, interview techniques, different types of aerial lights, UFO history, digital imagery, and astronomical phenomena. A key emphasis was placed on the importance of skepticism and critical evaluation of reported events. Examples were given of how celestial bodies like Jupiter and planets, as well as mundane objects like light masts, have been mistaken for UFOs.

The article also touches upon the challenges of dealing with 'mythomaniacs' and individuals who may intentionally mislead others regarding UFO sightings. The author stresses the importance of understanding the background of a witness and their potential biases.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained sightings, the editorial stance leans towards seeking conventional explanations, often involving misidentification of natural phenomena, human-made objects, or atmospheric events. The articles in this issue, particularly the one on the Mexico sighting and the tribute to Philip Klass, highlight the importance of scientific investigation, skepticism, and rigorous analysis in the field of ufology. The inclusion of the field research course report further emphasizes UFO-Norge's commitment to training and educating its members in proper investigative techniques and critical thinking.

Title: UFO nr.
Issue: 3
Volume: 2005
Issue Date: March 2005
Publisher: UFO-Aktuellt
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
Cover Headline: NEMI og UFOer

Articles

Ballonger som faller ned (Balloons Falling Down)

This article by Ole Jonny Brænne explores early UFO-like sightings in Norway in 1946, a year before the famous Roswell incident and Kenneth Arnold's "flying saucers." Several instances are detailed where objects falling from the sky with parachutes were initially perceived as mysterious. However, in most cases, these were identified as radiosondes or meteorological balloons sent up by American weather stations. The article contrasts these mundane explanations with the enduring mystery of Roswell, questioning why a radiosonde wasn't immediately identified there. It cites reports from Norwegian newspapers like Stavanger Aftenblad, Totens Blad, Velgeren, and Gudbrandsdølen, detailing finds in locations such as Rennesøy, Sola, Fluberg, Nordre Tomter, and Fåberg.

The article also touches upon the "ghost rocket" phenomenon that occurred in Scandinavia around the same time. It includes a diagram of a cluster flight balloon train and a summary of US Air Force findings on Project MOGUL, which they claim explains the Roswell incident. The explanation suggests the debris was from a weather balloon used for surveillance.

UFO-feber herjer blant kineserne (UFO Fever Rages Among the Chinese)

This section, a press clipping from Aftenposten (May 7, 2005), reports on a growing UFO phenomenon in China. It highlights the story of Meng Zhanoguo, who claimed to have met a three-meter-tall alien with six fingers. The article notes that Chinese authorities permit serious UFO organizations, which have around 50,000 members, while an estimated tens of millions of Chinese are interested in the phenomenon. It mentions Sun Shili, a former professor and interpreter for Mao Zedong, who believes Earth will be visited by extraterrestrials and is part of a delegation to negotiate with them. The article suggests that in a country facing poverty and economic disparities, UFO enthusiasm offers a welcome escape. It draws parallels to similar "abduction" narratives in the West, as noted by psychologist Richard McNally from Harvard University, who observes that Chinese accounts resemble those of Westerners claiming to have been abducted.

Finnes det flere «UFO»-observasjonar? (Are There More "UFO" Observations?)

This news report from Sogn Avis (July 18, 2005) discusses mysterious green lights observed in various locations in Sogn, Norway. Despite multiple sightings, the exact nature of the object remains unknown. The organization UFO-NORGE is collecting and analyzing reports. Johannes Anonby from Leikanger, associated with UFO-NORGE, suggests that cross-referencing observations from different viewpoints could help identify the objects, potentially distinguishing them from astronomical phenomena like Venus. He emphasizes that "UFO" simply means "unidentified flying object" and not necessarily alien spacecraft. The article also mentions that Norway is a significant focus for international UFO research, partly due to the Hessdalen phenomenon.

Århundregammel UFO-mynt fremdeles et mysterium (Centuries-Old UFO Coin Still a Mystery)

This article discusses a 17th-century French copper coin featuring a mysterious object that experts have been unable to definitively identify. Kenneth E. Bresset, an expert in ancient coins, describes the object as resembling a "flying saucer in the clouds." He notes that it could be interpreted as a UFO or as Ezekiel's wheel from the Bible. The object is identified as a "jeton," a token used for counting money or in games, rather than a standard coin. The inscription on the coin, "OPPORTUNUS ADEST," translates to "It is here at a suitable time." The article concludes that such mysteries contribute to the fascination of coin collecting.

Book Reviews

• Vetenskap eller villfarelse (Science or Delusion) edited by Jesper Jerkert and Sven Ove Hansson: This book features skeptical analyses of various phenomena, including UFOs, by researchers. The UFO section, written by Dan Tilert, is criticized for defining UFOs narrowly and misinterpreting the Roswell incident. The review notes that while some sections on memory and contactees are good, the UFO section lacks Swedish examples and relies heavily on external sources.
• The Phoenix Lights by Lynne D. Kitei: This book details Kitei's personal UFO sightings and the mass sightings in Phoenix, Arizona, in 1997. While the military attributed the lights to aircraft, Kitei believes they were extraterrestrial. The review notes that the book also offers advice on lifestyle and personal growth, but is criticized for not exploring alternative theories beyond the extraterrestrial hypothesis.
• Nye religioner (New Religions) edited by Christipher Partridge: This encyclopedia covers over 200 spiritual movements, including UFO-related ones like the Raël movement and Heaven's Gate. It is described as a factual and comprehensive reference work, though the UFO section is noted as not being particularly in-depth.
• Hercolubus eller røda planeten (Hercolubus or the Red Planet) by VM Rabolú: This book, described as a small pamphlet, posits that the planet Hercolubus is heading towards Earth, which scientists are allegedly hiding. The author expresses disdain for scientists and a belief in advanced Venusian and Martian societies.
• Sight Unseen: Science, UFO Invisibility and Transgenic Beings by Budd Hopkins & Carol Rainey: This book explores UFO abduction claims, with Carol Rainey contributing sections that attempt to rationalize seemingly impossible phenomena through scientific advancements. The review notes that while the book presents witness testimonies, it relies heavily on the extraterrestrial hypothesis and the concept of "transgenic beings."
• Jakten på en indre gud: New Age som religionsform og samfunnsstrømning (The Hunt for an Inner God: New Age as a Religious Form and Social Current) by Audhild Skoglund: This book is an introduction to the New Age movement, covering its beliefs, practices, and controversies. It is praised for its accessible writing style and critical yet engaging approach.
• UFO må til doktoren (UFO Must Go to the Doctor) and UFO i barnehagen (UFO in Kindergarten) by Kenneth Andersson: These are two children's books translated from Swedish, which the reviewer finds overpriced and questions the appropriateness of introducing UFO concepts to young children.

Other Sections

• Lesebrev (Letters to the Editor): Includes a letter from Albert Hauser discussing a Russian inventor offering magnetic and nitrogen engines for pollution-free energy.
• Presseklikk (Press Clippings): Features a comment on Johannes Anonby's work and a report from NRK about the 30th anniversary of the UFO ring phenomenon on Espevær. It also includes a discussion of Michel Houellebecq's book "La possibilité d'une ile" and its connection to cloning and the Raelian sect.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena from various angles, including historical accounts, skeptical investigations, and book reviews. There's a clear interest in debunking sensational claims while acknowledging genuine mysteries. The editorial stance appears to favor critical analysis and scientific explanations, as evidenced by the focus on Philip J. Klass and the reviews of skeptical literature. However, it also covers more fringe topics and beliefs, such as the Raëlian sect and the Hercolubus theory, often presenting them with a degree of critical distance. The recurring theme of distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misidentifications (like radiosondes) or hoaxes is prominent throughout the issue.

This issue of UFO-Norge, dated July 30, 2005, is primarily focused on engaging its readership and soliciting support for its activities, alongside reporting on astronomical discoveries. The magazine welcomes submissions of articles, reader letters, press clippings, and links, providing specific guidelines on length and format, and offering editorial assistance. It also appeals for financial contributions to the UFO-Norge Support Fund and for Project Hessdalen, which operates an automatic measuring station.

Submissions and Contributions

The "Stoff mottas!" (Material Received!) section details the editorial policy for accepting contributions. Articles should ideally be around 1500 words (approximately three A4 pages), while reader letters should not exceed 300 words. The magazine is open to various file formats for digital submissions and accepts photos and illustrations, with authors encouraged to provide captions. While no payment is offered, the editorial team will assist with language editing. For mailed submissions, unsolicited manuscripts and images will only be returned if a pre-paid, self-addressed envelope is included. The magazine is also seeking individuals who can translate articles from other languages into Norwegian, with a preference for those proficient in English, German, and French.

UFO-Norge Information and Support

Readers are encouraged to help promote UFO-Norge by distributing information folders, which can be requested by mail or downloaded from the UFO-Norge website (www.ufo.no). A reward of a free subscription is offered for recruiting five new subscribers. The "UFO-Norges Støttefond" (UFO-Norge Support Fund) is highlighted as a means for groups and individuals to provide financial assistance. Donations can be sent to the specified bank account (Konto: 2470 17 28854) or mailed to the organization's address in Oslo.

Project Hessdalen

The magazine features a prominent appeal to support "Prosjekt Hessdalen" (Project Hessdalen) and the operation of its automatic measuring station. The project requires updated equipment and funding for its ongoing activities. The appeal notes that the work has been ongoing for years, with thanks extended to the University College of Østfold, individuals, and institutions for their support. However, the project's funds are running low, with specific mention of the costs associated with transferring images from the station to the University College of Østfold, where project leader Erling Strand is a lecturer. Readers are urged to contribute financially to ensure the project's continuation. Donation details, including a postal account number and address for Project Hessdalen, are provided.

Astronomical Discoveries: The 10th Planet

The issue includes an article titled "10. planet oppdaget" (10th planet discovered), reporting on the recent discovery of two significant objects in the outer solar system. The first, designated 2003 UB313, is described as being larger than Pluto, with an estimated diameter of 2600 kilometers, and may be considered the 10th planet in the solar system. It is composed of ice and rock, located about 15 billion kilometers from the Sun, receiving very little light and having a temperature of around -240 degrees Celsius. Its orbit is significantly inclined (44 degrees) relative to the rest of the solar system, suggesting it may have been ejected into its current path by the gravitational influence of Neptune. The object was first photographed in 2003, but its orbit was calculated two years later by astronomers Mike Brown (Caltech), Chad Trujillo (Gemini Observatory), and David Rabinowitz (Yale University).

A second object, 2003 EL61, announced on July 29, 2005, is also discussed. While smaller than 2003 UB313, it is estimated to be around 1700 kilometers in diameter and could be as large as Pluto (2360 kilometers). This object was discovered by astronomers at the Institute of Astrophysics in Andalusia and independently by an American group. Its orbital period is 285 years, and its distance from the Sun is similar to Pluto's. The discovery of a moon orbiting 2003 EL61 has been crucial for estimating its mass. The combined mass of 2003 EL61 and its moon is estimated to be 29 percent of the mass of Pluto and its moon, Charon. The article notes that 2003 EL61, having one-third the mass of Pluto (including its moon), is also a large, nearly planet-like object.

The article is attributed to Mentz Kaarbø, with the source cited as astronomi.no, July 30, 2005. An accompanying illustration depicts an artist's rendition of the 10th planet, emphasizing that its surface has never been seen, and the Sun appears very faint from that distance. An inset provides a comparative overview of planets, moons, and objects in the solar system to illustrate their relative sizes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around community engagement, the importance of research funding, and the dissemination of information related to UFO phenomena and astronomical discoveries. The editorial stance is one of active solicitation of reader participation, both in terms of content submission and financial support for the organization's projects. There is a clear emphasis on the need for resources to continue investigations, such as those conducted by Project Hessdalen, and to maintain the publication of UFO-Norge. The inclusion of astronomical news, like the discovery of new solar system objects, suggests an interest in broader scientific developments that may intersect with or inform the study of unexplained phenomena.