UFO - 2006 No 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of "TIDSSKRIFTET UFO NR. 1 2006 - 25. ÅRGANG" (UFO Magazine No. 1, 2006 - 25th Volume) is published by the organization UFO-NORGE, described as Norway's largest specialty magazine on UFO phenomena. The magazine is committed to independently registering and studying UFO phenomena, and disseminating information to subscribers and the public. The cover prominently features headlines about "Area 51 and the Skylab incident" and "Close contact on Ytterøy," alongside images related to these topics. The issue includes a subscription price of NOK 260,- per year and a single copy price of NOK 70,-.

Editorial Stance and Key Articles

The editorial, written by Mentz Kaarbø, adopts a more skeptical tone for the new year. It highlights an article critically examining UFO investigators in England during the 1960s and 70s, who initially believed many observations were scientific evidence of extraterrestrial origins but later became skeptical after discovering deliberate hoaxes. The editorial suggests that while most UFO phenomena might be explainable by conventional means, a small percentage could potentially have an extraterrestrial cause, though definitive proof remains elusive. The magazine also presents a close encounter story from Ytterøya, Norway, from the mid-1980s, involving a man who encountered a small humanoid and a craft.

Article: "Når UFO-observasjoner etterforskes av ufologer" (When UFO Observations are Investigated by Ufologists)

This article delves into the practices of UFO investigators, particularly focusing on a group in England that became skeptical after encountering hoaxes. It questions the validity of evidence presented for extraterrestrial visitation, suggesting that UFO phenomena might increasingly be viewed as a psychosocial phenomenon, although the ET hypothesis is not entirely dismissed.

Article: "Nærkontakt på Ytterøy" (Close Contact on Ytterøy)

This detailed account describes an encounter on Ytterøya, Levanger, in mid-June 1985 or 1986. The witness, referred to as Leif, reported seeing a small humanoid, approximately 1.20 meters tall, wearing a bright blue suit, with large, dark, slanted eyes. The encounter occurred near a cooperative store. The humanoid moved with a precise, almost military gait. Leif also observed a disc-shaped craft, about two meters in diameter, resting on three legs. The craft ascended rapidly and disappeared. Leif initially kept the experience secret due to fear of being labeled or ridiculed.

Article: "Area 51 og Skylab-hendelsen" (Area 51 and the Skylab Incident)

This section discusses an incident where astronauts on the Skylab space station allegedly took unauthorized photos of the highly classified Area 51 in 1974. It touches upon the US intelligence community's response to this sensitive area from the 1960s onwards.

Other Notable Sections:

• Rapportnytt (Report News): This section, compiled by Arnulf Løken, notes a continued high number of photo-based UFO reports. It details specific sightings from Surnadal (red lights), Volda (orange lights), and Vikhamar (objects near Mars), as well as a case from Finnmark involving a weather balloon identified as a potential UFO. A case from Drammen involving yellow lights was resolved as reflections.
• Kraftige lysfenomener over Vestlandet (Powerful Light Phenomena over Western Norway): This article reports on a bright light observed over Vestlandet on February 18, 2006, which appeared to descend into Storavannet, Loddefjord. The following day, a large hole was found in the ice. While some speculated it was a meteor, experts like Knut Jørgen Røed Ødegaard and Kjartan Olafsson expressed doubt that a meteor would create such a large hole or that the observed lights were meteors due to their duration and the lack of a sonic boom.
• Fotosak: Tre objekter ved Mars (Photo Case: Three Objects near Mars): A report from Vikhamar describes a photograph taken of Mars that appears to show three unidentified objects. The case was investigated with the help of Birger Andresen from Trondheim Astronomiske Forening (TAF), who identified the objects as a 'triplet satellite' after correcting the time discrepancy in the photo's metadata.
• Observasjoner av Sirius (Observations of Sirius): This section addresses reports of unusual lights in the sky, particularly in Southern Norway, identified as the star Sirius. It explains Sirius's brightness, distance, and its apparent 'blinking' due to atmospheric refraction, which can make it appear larger and more dynamic, especially near the horizon or in areas with air pollution.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers UFO sightings, investigations, and related phenomena within Norway. While acknowledging the possibility of genuine extraterrestrial encounters, there is a clear trend towards critical analysis and skepticism, as evidenced by the editorial and the resolution of several cases as misidentifications (weather balloons, reflections, satellites). The organization UFO-NORGE actively collects and analyzes reports, aiming to provide explanations and information to the public. The magazine also touches upon broader UFO-related topics like Area 51 and astronomical curiosities, maintaining a balance between reporting on unexplained events and offering rational explanations.

Title: UFO nr.
Issue: 1-2006
Date: January 2006
Publisher: UFO-NORGE
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of UFO nr. delves into several intriguing topics within the realm of ufology and unexplained phenomena. It features updates on UFO-NORGES new web portal, explores the possibility of life on Mars, and critically examines UFO investigations and alleged hoaxes.

UFO-NORGES New Web Portal

Harald Søvik, Nettredaktør for UFO-NORGE, announces the launch of their new web portal on February 22nd. After a period of testing and bug fixing, the portal is now live. An internal survey indicated that 80% of voters were satisfied with the new system. The portal's main feature is an improved reporting system, making it easier to submit sightings. Additionally, a knowledge base has been implemented, functioning like an advanced FAQ section where users can search for information using keywords or categories. Old articles from previous issues of the magazine are now easily accessible, requiring only a couple of clicks. The English section of the website has been streamlined to focus on organizational information and English news. A forum for registered users is also planned. Søvik encourages readers to visit www.ufo.no regularly.

The Mysterious Spots on Mars

Ingrid Spilde's article, "De mystiske flekkene på Mars" (The Mysterious Spots on Mars), discusses the discovery of dark, mysterious spots on the Martian sand dunes. Hungarian researchers, led by Eörs Szathmáry from Eötvös University in Budapest, hypothesize that these spots could be colonies of living microorganisms. The spots are ring-shaped and appear on sand dunes, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight. The "biological hypothesis" suggests that these organisms live under a protective layer of ice and snow, becoming active during the Martian spring and summer. They utilize photosynthesis and possess a dark pigment for protection against UV radiation. The article also touches upon the challenges of proving such hypotheses and the skepticism faced by Szathmáry's team, while noting that subsequent data since 2001 has supported their theory.

UFO Investigations and Hoaxes in England

Mentz Kaarbø's article, "Når UFO-observasjoner blir etterforsket av ufologer" (When UFO Observations are Investigated by Ufologists), examines a publication titled "Conclusions from Controlled UFO Hoaxes" by David Simpson. Simpson and his group, the Society for the Investigation of UFO Phenomena (SIUFOP), conducted experiments in the late 1960s and early 1970s to test the credulity of UFO investigators. They created staged UFO phenomena, such as lights and landing marks, to see how they would be reported and investigated. The article details several such hoaxes, including those at Sack Hill and Cradle Hill near Warminster, England. These staged events, involving lights, balloons, and even fabricated landing marks, were often accepted as genuine by prominent UFO researchers and the public, highlighting the role of belief and the desire to find evidence of extraterrestrial life.

Area 51 and the Skylab Incident

Dwayne A. Day's article, "Astronauter og Area 51 - Skylab-hendelsen" (Astronauts and Area 51 - The Skylab Incident), recounts an event in the mid-1970s where astronauts aboard the Skylab space station inadvertently photographed the highly classified US military facility known as Area 51. The article discusses the US government's extensive efforts to maintain secrecy around Area 51, which has been the subject of numerous myths and speculations, including claims of housing crashed UFOs and alien technology. The incident occurred when the Skylab crew, despite explicit instructions not to photograph the area, captured images of the base. This event posed a significant challenge for intelligence agencies like the CIA and the National Photographic Interpretation Center (NPIC), which were responsible for analyzing aerial and satellite imagery. The article also touches upon the history of aerial reconnaissance and the challenges of interpreting photographic data from space.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the critical examination of UFO phenomena, distinguishing between genuine sightings and potential hoaxes or misidentifications. There's a recurring theme of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and an emphasis on rigorous investigation and scientific analysis. The magazine promotes an "open mind" but cautions against accepting speculative theories without sufficient evidence, as highlighted in the concluding quote: "It is better to have an open mind than a hole in your head!" The editorial stance appears to favor a rational and evidence-based approach to understanding UFO reports, while acknowledging the public's fascination with the subject.

Title: UFO
Issue: 1-2006
Issue Date: 2006
Publisher: null
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of UFO Magazine, published in Norway in early 2006, features a diverse range of articles related to UFO phenomena, conspiracy theories, and related scientific and cultural discussions.

Cover Story: Area 51 and Secret Aircraft

The cover story delves into Area 51's role as a development base for top-secret aircraft over 50 years. It highlights aircraft like the U2, SR-71 Blackbird, and F-117 Stealth, and speculates about the existence of the 'Aurora' project, potentially capable of hypersonic speeds. The article notes that the existence of these advanced aircraft is not officially confirmed, but the images suggest significant ongoing development.

Declassified Documents and Government Secrecy

A declassified CIA memo is discussed, revealing internal debates about the public release of a photograph taken from a non-secretive aircraft. Different government departments, including the USAF, NRO, JCS, and ISA, favored keeping the photo classified, while NASA and the State Department advocated for public disclosure. The memo highlights the complexities of classifying information, especially when gathered by non-secret organizations, and the potential for international scrutiny.

The article further explores the culture of secrecy within the US government, using the National Archives and Records Administration as a backdrop. It discusses the long-standing practice of denying the existence of organizations like the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) until its existence was indirectly revealed in 1971. The secrecy surrounding Groom Lake (Area 51) is also detailed, with its existence only officially acknowledged by the U.S. Air Force in 1999, despite photographic evidence being available for years.

Critics argue that excessive secrecy is often unnecessary and can undermine government authority, leading to speculation about UFOs and extraterrestrial activity. The analogy of an onion is used to describe how layers of secrecy are peeled back, but the article suggests that the US government prioritizes public knowledge over national security, though the line can be blurry.

UFO Observations and Scientific Explanations

One article examines UFO observations from the Canary Islands in the late 1970s, with Spanish UFO investigator Vincente-Juan Ballester Olmos reportedly proving that these phenomena were missile launches from submarines in the North Atlantic. Data shows a correlation between UFO sightings and Poseidon missile launches.

Another piece discusses Michael Persinger's controversial theory that electromagnetic stimulation of the brain can induce religious or paranormal experiences. However, Swedish researchers have questioned Persinger's results, suggesting that the effects observed might be due to individual suggestibility rather than electromagnetic fields.

Book Reviews

Several books are reviewed:

• "Kaptein Puma: Den gule planet" and "Kaptein Puma og den skrekkelige snødragen" by Tor Åge Bringsværd are children's books about an anthropomorphic cat named Kaptein Puma exploring space and encountering various creatures and challenges.
• "Konspirasjonsteorier" by Joel Levy is a brief overview of 50 conspiracy theories, including UFO myths, Nazi UFOs, Roswell, Area 51, and abductions. The review notes its superficial treatment of the topics.
• "How to photograph the paranormal" by Leonore Sweet, Ph.D., is critically reviewed as a naive and poorly researched book filled with amateurish photographs and unsubstantiated conclusions about orbs and spirits.
• "Abducted: How people came to believe they were kidnapped by aliens" by Susan A. Clancy is praised for its scientific yet empathetic approach to understanding why people believe they have been abducted by aliens, attributing it to psychological factors rather than actual extraterrestrial encounters.

Astronomy and Celestial Bodies

An article titled "Xena is larger than Pluto" discusses the discovery of a celestial object, provisionally named Xena, located beyond Pluto. New measurements suggest Xena is significantly larger than Pluto, sparking a debate within the International Astronomical Union (IAU) about whether it should be classified as the 10th planet or a Kuiper Belt object.

Academic Research on the UFO Movement

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to analyzing Jan Bertil Heilund's doctoral thesis on the Norwegian UFO movement. The thesis examines organizations like NETI and UFO-Norge. Heilund suggests that NETI exhibits characteristics of a New Age religious movement due to its members' focus on spiritual and existential questions. He also analyzes UFO-Norge, finding it to be more scientifically oriented but criticizing its magazine for sometimes blurring the lines between science, pseudoscience, and spirituality. The review of Heilund's thesis points out potential inaccuracies and generalizations, particularly regarding UFO-Norge's perceived lack of a clear distinction between its organizational work and its publication.

"Alien & UFO Reports" from Weekly World News

The magazine includes a section featuring sensational headlines from the Weekly World News, such as "Alien Skulls Found on Mars!" and "Alien Busted for DUI." These reports cover alleged discoveries of alien artifacts, encounters, and government cover-ups, presented in a sensationalist style.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO Magazine consistently explores themes of government secrecy, the nature of belief (particularly in UFOs and conspiracy theories), and the scientific versus pseudoscientific approaches to unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting various viewpoints and research while also acknowledging the sensationalist and speculative aspects of the UFO field. There's a clear interest in academic research related to UFOs, as evidenced by the detailed review of Heilund's thesis, and a critical engagement with popular culture representations of aliens and conspiracies.

This issue of UFO-Norge, volume 28, issue 1/2006, dated March 10, 2006, is published by UFO-Norge and focuses on space exploration and UFO-related activities. The cover headline, "Saturnmåne kan inneholde liv" (Saturn Moon Can Contain Life), highlights a significant scientific discovery.

Editorial Content

Stoff mottas! (Material Received!)

The editorial section calls for contributions from readers. UFO-Norge welcomes articles, letters to the editor, press clippings, and links, preferably via email or diskette. Articles should be around 1500 words (approximately three A4 pages with single spacing and normal font size), and authors are encouraged to submit photos and illustrations. While the editorial team will edit for language, authors are responsible for image captions. No honorariums are offered. For mailed submissions, unsolicited manuscripts and photos will only be returned if a self-addressed, stamped envelope is included. The publication is also seeking individuals with good knowledge of English, German, and French to translate articles from other languages into Norwegian.

Husk vår informasjonsfolder (Remember Our Information Folder)

This section encourages readers to help promote UFO-Norge by distributing informational folders. Folders can be requested by writing to the contact address or by downloading them from www.ufo.no. Readers who recruit five new subscribers receive a free subscription.

UFO-Norges Støttefond (UFO-Norge Support Fund)

UFO-Norge acknowledges that many tasks are postponed due to financial constraints. To address this, they have established a support fund. They appeal to interested subscribers and others to contribute financially, regardless of the amount, to help the organization.

Støtt Prosjekt Hessdalen (Support Project Hessdalen)

This section is a plea for support for the Hessdalen Project and the operation of its automatic monitoring station. The project requires more modern equipment and funding for its ongoing operations. Project leader Erling Strand expresses gratitude for past support from institutions and individuals but notes that the project's funds are depleted. Expenses include data transfer costs from the station to the Østfold University College, where Strand is a lecturer. Readers are urged to contribute financially to ensure the continued operation of this important project. Donation details are provided for Prosjekt Hessdalen via Erling P. Strand, including a postal address and a giro account number.

Saturnmåne kan inneholde liv (Saturn Moon Can Contain Life)

This article reports on astronomers' findings using the Cassini probe, which have detected signs of liquid water on Enceladus, a moon of Saturn. Images from Cassini reveal that the moon's southern polar region is geologically active, spewing large amounts of water vapor, and that snow falls on the small moon. Enceladus, with a diameter of 504 kilometers, is the sixth largest of Saturn's 35 moons. The discovery is described as an "enormous surprise" and a "holy grail for modern planet exploration" by Carolyn Porco, leader of Cassini's imaging team. The presence of simple organic compounds, excess heat, and traces of liquid water significantly increases the probability of life on other planets. The findings were published in the American scientific journal Science. The article notes that the Cassini probe has been orbiting Saturn since June 30, 2004, and was launched on October 15, 1997. An artist's rendition of the probe near Saturn's rings is shown, along with a close-up of Enceladus and images of its "ice geysers." The article attributes the geysers to cryovolcanism, with researchers theorizing that the jets originate from pockets of water near the moon's surface, containing too many particles to be simple condensation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are space exploration, the search for extraterrestrial life, and the importance of supporting scientific and investigative projects like Hessdalen. The editorial stance is one of encouraging reader participation, both through contributions of material and financial support for the organization and its affiliated projects. There is a clear interest in both mainstream scientific discoveries related to space and ongoing investigations into anomalous phenomena.