UFO - 2013 No 2

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO magazine, number 2/2013 and the 32nd volume, is published by UFO-NORGE, Norway's largest specialist publication on UFO phenomena. The magazine's cover features the headline "Romvesen i ørkenen" (Alien in the desert) and an image of "UFO over Kroatia" (UFO over Croatia), alongside a close-up of a small alien-like figure.

Editorial and Content

The editorial, "Fra redaksjonen" (From the editorial office) by Mentz Kaarbø, reflects on the dynamic nature of UFO research and the long-standing engagement with the phenomenon. Kaarbø expresses a slight frustration that despite decades of study, significant progress on the UFO case remains elusive, contrasting with the prediction of an aging skeptic that interest would wane. He notes that public interest has declined since the late 1990s but asserts that as long as people take UFO reports seriously, the topic will remain relevant.

The "Innhold" (Table of Contents) lists several key articles:

• Rapportnytt (Report News): Reports received during the bright season.
• UFO-observasjon over Trengereid (UFO Observation over Trengereid): A sighting and photograph of a strange phenomenon near Bergen.
• Norsk familie filmer UFO over Kroatia i 2002 (Norwegian family films UFO over Croatia in 2002): A family's encounter and filming of a UFO during a holiday.
• Slutt på offentliggjøringen av britiske X-files (End of the publication of British X-files): The final part of the British UFO archives has been released.
• Hendelsen på Byrkjefjell (The Byrkjefjell Incident): New information on a past case with strange findings.
• Hessdalen-utstillingen ved Inspiria science center (Hessdalen Exhibition at Inspiria Science Center): An exhibition dedicated to the Hessdalen phenomenon.
• Leserbrev (Letters to the Editor).
• Presseklipp (Press Clippings).
• Bokanmeldelser (Book Reviews).
• Clas Svahn trer tilbake som leder for UFO-Sverige (Clas Svahn steps down as head of UFO-Sweden): A generational shift after 22 years.
• Dokumentarfilm prøver å bevise at vi ikke er alene i Universet (Documentary film tries to prove we are not alone in the Universe): Steven M. Greer's new project.

UFO-NORGE Organization and Contacts

The magazine provides extensive contact information for UFO-NORGE, including its organization number, daily leadership (Ole Jonny Brænne and Stein Carlsen), and contact details for its various regional departments (Vest, Øst, Nord, Midt, Sør) and local groups across Norway. The website www.ufo.no is also highlighted.

Report News (Rapportnytt)

This section details several recent UFO sightings reported to UFO-NORGE between March 15 and June 15, 2013. The reports include:

• Sundebru, Gjerstad (February 17, 2012): A woman reported a white light object moving erratically and silently.
• Tofte, Hurum (April 1, 2013): An observer saw luminous spheres and managed to photograph one.
• Ellingsrudåsen, Oslo (April 9, 2013): A couple observed five yellow luminous spheres for about an hour.
• Borre, Horten (April 10, 2013): A man reported a bright yellow light object moving erratically, capturing photos and video.
• Kråkerøy, Fredrikstad (May 3, 2013): A man reported seeing three bird-like, luminous yellow-white objects.
• Høyenhall, Oslo (June 8, 2013): A man observed multiple orange and white lights appearing and disappearing.
• Røyneberg, Sola (June 15, 2013): A man filmed a red/pink, fast-moving object.

Each report is accompanied by a commentary from the reporting center, often noting the strengths and weaknesses of the report and providing context.

UFO-observasjon over Stanghelle

This article by Mentz Kaarbø details a sighting on May 11, 2013, near Bergen, where three people observed a strange light phenomenon in an overcast sky. The object was described as being larger than a street light and moved erratically before disappearing. The article includes analysis of the EXIF data from the photos taken and concludes that while it could be a plane, satellite, or hot air balloon, its size and behavior suggest it might be something unexplained.

Norsk familie filmer UFO i Kroatia i 2002

Written by Ole Jonny Brænne, this article recounts an event from July 2002 where a Norwegian family filmed a UFO in Croatia. The footage shows a spherical object appearing near a plane's condensation trail and moving at a similar speed before disappearing. The article discusses the technical aspects of the film, including potential 'blooming' and 'atmospheric scintillation effects' that might alter the appearance of the object on film.

Slutt på offentliggjøringen av britiske X-files

This piece reports on the final release of the British UFO archives by the National Archives in England. Since 2008, millions of visitors have accessed these files, which were previously kept secret for 30 years. The article highlights that this public release counters conspiracy theories about ongoing government cover-ups regarding UFO reality.

Hendelsen på Byrkjefjell

Mentz Kaarbø provides an update on the Byrkjefjell incident, which was previously mentioned in the magazine. New information, including a press clipping from VG in May 1976, suggests the event occurred in June 1974. The article invites UFO-Norge members and field researchers to participate in an expedition to Byrkjefjell to try and locate the site of the incident and any remaining evidence, such as a 'stone altar'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings, investigations, and the collection of reports from the public. UFO-NORGE positions itself as an independent organization dedicated to the study of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging detailed reporting and investigation while acknowledging the challenges and the decline in public interest over time. The magazine also covers related topics such as the release of government UFO files and exhibitions on specific UFO cases like Hessdalen.

Title: Hessdalen-utstillingen ved Inspiria science center

Issue: 2

Volume: 2013

Issue Date: 2013

Publisher: UFO-Norge

Country: Norway

Language: Norwegian

Cover Headline: The Hessdalen phenomenon has its own room at Inspiria science center in Sarpsborg. In May, Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide attended the official opening of the exhibition. Our correspondent visited the center shortly thereafter.

The Hessdalen Exhibition at Inspiria Science Center

The article details the opening of a new exhibition dedicated to the Hessdalen phenomenon at Inspiria Science Center in Sarpsborg, Norway. This popular science and technology park now features a 25-square-meter room focused on the unexplained lights and energy phenomena observed in Hessdalen. The exhibition was officially inaugurated on Friday, May 10th, by the Norwegian Foreign Minister, Espen Barth Eide. Key figures involved in the project, including Erling Strand and Bjørn Gitle Hauge, along with the mayor of Holtålen municipality, Jan Håvard Refsethås, and representatives from Visit Hessdalen and Blilyst, were present at the opening. The municipality of Holtålen contributed 150,000 Norwegian Kroner towards the construction of the room.

The exhibition space is designed to be immersive, with the walls painted black and lit by bare fluorescent tubes. Three monitors display live feeds from Hessdalen, mirroring those available on the Project Hessdalen website. Additionally, five interactive screens at table height provide information on various aspects of the phenomena and the instruments used for monitoring.

A prominent poster at the entrance explains the Hessdalen phenomenon as an "unexplained light and energy phenomenon" in Hessdalen, which has drawn researchers from around the world to monitor it. The article notes a subtle but important distinction between "unexplained" (uforklarlig) and "unsolved" (uforklart), suggesting that while the phenomenon may be currently unexplained, research aims to solve it.

The exhibition showcases posters from scientific conferences, including "Different states of the transient luminous phenomena in Hessdalen valley, Norway" from EGU2012 and "Transformation and birth processes of the transient luminous phenomena's in the low atmosphere of the Hessdalen valley, Norway" from EGU2013. The article points out numerous spelling errors in these posters.

One poster titled "Spectral image of the Hessdalen phenomenon" details an event from September 20, 2007. It describes a powerful light blink observed from the Rognfjellet base, appearing to be very close. Simultaneously, a base at Øyungen reported lights to the northwest. The light moved rapidly, blinking for 30 minutes without any audible sound. An elderly couple also reported seeing strong lights to the northeast around the same time.

Italian radar data confirmed that both bases and the couple had observed the same light. However, the light, which appeared to be only 500 meters away from Rognfjellet, was actually over 10 kilometers away, in the uninhabited Forolhøgna national park. The couple observed it from 55 kilometers away. More mysteriously, the radar continued to track the phenomenon for over two hours after the bases reported the light had extinguished, with echoes detected over Slettfjellet.

Scientific Interpretations and Debates

Another section discusses a poster from the EGU conference in April 2012, which was displayed at the exhibition. This poster, along with other materials, presents data and images related to the Hessdalen phenomena. The article highlights an interactive screen that allows visitors to explore the phenomenon, with options to view live feeds or real-time data from Hessdalen.

The article critically examines the interpretation of images, particularly a photograph presented as evidence. It contrasts a video showing spheres of light appearing and disappearing with a spectral camera image that suggests movement. The authors express disagreement with the idea that these represent the same event, arguing they depict different occurrences.

Reader's Letter: Jørgen Jentoft

A reader, Jørgen Jentoft from Bergen, writes a letter to the editor expressing his appreciation for the magazine and posing a question about potential Scandinavian collaboration. He shares his personal UFO sighting experiences, including an observation in 1955 of a large, cigar-shaped object near the moon, a light display over the Mediterranean in 1985, and a stationary black spot reflecting sunlight in 1990. Jentoft believes these experiences indicate that humanity is being monitored by other civilizations. He also touches upon the potential societal impact if extraterrestrial contact were to reveal that major religious texts are human-made. He speculates that governments might be concealing crashed UFOs and evidence to maintain public perception as described in the editorial.

Jentoft also inquires about the lack of updates regarding an object found at the bottom of the Baltic Sea, suggesting potential government suppression of information. He concludes by expressing his anticipation for future issues and commending the editorial team's work.

The magazine's editorial response to Jentoft's letter clarifies the discussion about Scandinavian collaboration. It states that while the idea was discussed, Danish publishers found that a continued paper publication, even with Norwegian and Swedish cooperation, would not be economically sustainable. Consequently, they declined to participate, and their magazine, UFO-Nyt, ceased publication. UFO-Norge now publishes content online.

Regarding the origin of the UFO phenomenon, UFO-Norge maintains a policy of neutrality, remaining open to all possibilities and not holding preconceived opinions.

Press Clippings: A Month of UFO Reports

The magazine includes a section of "Press Clippings" summarizing various media reports related to UFOs and unexplained aerial phenomena throughout March 2013. These reports cover a range of incidents and explanations:

• kjendis.no (March 7): Reports on Russell Crowe's "UFO video" from Sydney, which was later explained as images of a passing sailboat.
• firda.no (March 8): A report on a mysterious phenomenon observed by Kjetil Sundal, later explained as a contrail from an airplane.
• firda.no (March 9): Clarification that the phenomenon was a contrail from a plane.
• speiding.no (March 11): An "imprint" on the ice in Bunnefjorden, consisting of large circles, attributed to a group of scouts.
• Trønder-Avisa (March 13): Announcement of an alternative fair in Stiklestad, featuring a lecture on UFOs by Ann Kristin Normann, who notes many UFO sightings in Nord-Trøndelag.
• Dølen (March 14): A report about a potential UFO sighting over Lomoen, Vinstra, which was likely a weather balloon.
• firda.no (March 15): A report on high-flying passenger planes and their contrails, with advice on how to identify aircraft using flight tracking apps.
• Romerikes Blad Lørenskog (March 20): A mysterious photo taken in Kurland, with the photographer questioning if it was a plane, but the article suggests it might be a contrail.
• Innherreds Folkeblad (March 21): Mention of an alternative fair in Stiklestad and a participant, Øystein Visth, who lectures on mysteries including UFO bases on the Moon and crop circles.
• adressa.no (March 28): A report on Oddbjørn Stamnes observing a rare light phenomenon during a mountain trip, which he described as almost religious.
• holtalen.kommune.no (April 3): An article about the Hessdalen phenomenon being a "natural battery," based on research by Italian scientists.
• Agderposten (April 5): A photo of ice formations, described as a natural phenomenon.
• itromso.no (April 9): Reports on strange lights photographed over Tromsø, with initial speculation of UFOs, but later explanations pointing to meteors, Jupiter, or Iridium satellite flares.
• holtalen.kommune.no (April 13): An invitation to a press briefing about the Hessdalen phenomenon.
• nrk.no (April 19): Discussion of UFOs as energy bubbles and the ongoing mystery of the Hessdalen phenomenon.
• nrk.no (April 21): An explanation that the dots in some photos are lens flares, not UFOs.
• Illustrert Vitenskap (April 22): An article questioning the danger of the Bermuda Triangle.
• side3.no (April 25): An article discussing a purported alien skeleton, UFOs, and the probability of extraterrestrial life, with a skeptical viewpoint.
• Arbeidets Rett (April 26): A report on new life around the Hessdalen phenomenon, with a press conference presenting recent findings.
• vg.no (May 2): A report of an Airbus nearly crashing with a UFO near Glasgow.
• nettavisen.no (May 6): Claims by former pilot George Filer about UFOs.
• sa.no (May 8): Mention of the Inspiria Science Center in Sarpsborg having a room dedicated to the Hessdalen phenomenon.
• retten.no (May 10): The opening of the Hessdalen room at Inspiria by the Foreign Minister.
• sarpsborgarbeiderblad.no (May 11): Coverage of the Hessdalen room opening.
• seher.no (May 12): Actress Jannicke Øines reporting paranormal experiences.
• Arbeidets Rett (May 13): Coverage of the Hessdalen exhibition at Inspiria.
• stavangeravisen.no (May 21): UFOs following tornadoes in Oklahoma.
• nettavisen.no (May 29): A blogger claiming to have seen a lizard on Mars.
• Varden.no (May 31): An interview with Princess Märtha Louise regarding her appearance at a lifestyle festival.

Alternative Fair in Stiklestad

The article "Klart for ny alternativmesse på Stiklestad" (Ready for a new alternative fair in Stiklestad) announces the 12th annual alternative fair at the Stiklestad National Culture Center. Organizer Ann K. Normann states that half of the program is new and that she has personally selected many of the exhibitors and speakers. She notes that many people have reported observing flying objects in Nord-Trøndelag and that the fair often receives inquiries about UFOs. Normann herself has seen unusual things in Verdal.

The fair features various speakers, including Dr. Henning Hai Lee Yang, described as the world's leading psychic, and Torkil Kjelstrup, a hairdresser. Local historian Øystein Walberg will speak about ghosts and hauntings. Normann will also discuss UFOs.

Hessdalen Phenomenon: A "Natural Battery"?

An article titled "Hessdalsfenomenet - et perfekt 'naturlig batteri'" (The Hessdalen phenomenon - a perfect 'natural battery') reports on research by Italian scientists. After 12 years of study, they believe they have identified a key element in understanding the mysterious phenomenon. Recent findings from Hessdalen indicate electrical anomalies and unique geological and mineralogical properties. These factors have led Italian researchers to hypothesize that the phenomenon functions as a "natural battery," based on an electrochemical model. The full report is available in English and Norwegian online.

Other Sightings and Explanations

Several other reports are included:

• firda.no (March 15): Discusses high-flying passenger planes and their contrails, providing information on how to track aircraft using apps like flightradar24.com.
• Romerikes Blad Lørenskog (March 20): Features a mysterious photo taken in Kurland, with the photographer questioning its origin. The article suggests it might be a contrail.
• Innherreds Folkeblad (March 21): Mentions Øystein Visth, who will lecture at the Stiklestad alternative fair on topics including UFO bases on the Moon and crop circles.
• adressa.no (March 28): Describes Oddbjørn Stamnes' experience of a rare light phenomenon during a mountain trip, which he found profoundly moving.
• itromso.no (April 9): Reports on strange lights photographed over Tromsø. Initially speculated to be UFOs, explanations later included meteors, Jupiter, or Iridium satellite flares. The photographer, Truls Tiller, remained uncertain, noting the object appeared multiple times and moved in a way that didn't fit the meteor theory.
• nrk.no (April 19 & 21): Discusses the Hessdalen phenomenon as potentially being energy bubbles and addresses the issue of lens flares in photographs, stating that certain dots in images are common optical phenomena and not UFOs.

Expert Opinion: "Never Seen Anything Like It"

An article titled "Ekspert: - Har aldri sett lignende" (Expert: - Have never seen anything like it) features comments from Jan Moen of Visit Hessdalen, who notes a significant increase in observations during the winter of 2013. He highlights that some individuals experienced the Hessdalen phenomenon for the first time and invites the public to a briefing. The article also includes a skeptical perspective on a particular UFO enthusiast and his claims, noting that the term "physician" was mistakenly translated as "fysiker" (physicist) instead of "lege" (doctor).

UFOs as Energy Bubbles and Lens Flares

Another report from nrk.no (April 19) discusses the possibility of UFOs being energy bubbles, emphasizing that the Hessdalen phenomenon remains a mystery attracting both public and scientific interest. The article also addresses photographs showing a round, bright dot, explaining that these are likely lens flares, a common optical phenomenon, rather than evidence of UFOs. Several readers and a graphic designer from NRK confirm this explanation, stating that the "rainbow stripes" visible near the dots are typical signs of lens flare.

Jan Moen of Visit Hessdalen acknowledges the criticism and states that they are open to feedback, as it is difficult to dismiss people's experiences. He mentions that they chose to present these images among others because many people believe there has been a lot of light activity in Hessdalen.

Old Newspaper Clippings

A section titled "GAMLE AVISKLIPP" (Old Newspaper Clippings) presents a report from "Verdens Gang" dated January 27, 1891. It describes a strange aerial phenomenon observed near Gaarden Stensby in Eidsvold between 7 and 8 PM on January 5th. A ball of fire, described as large as a bright star with a yellow glow, was seen moving horizontally from northwest to south. It stopped, emitted a flickering light, and then moved back to its starting point before continuing its trajectory for at least 4 minutes. The observer, J. Moestue, called for a teacher, Lærer Johansen, and others to witness the event. They observed it for another 4 minutes before the cold forced them indoors, and the phenomenon disappeared.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, recurring themes include the Hessdalen phenomenon, the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, and the distinction between genuine sightings and misinterpretations (such as contrails or lens flares). The magazine presents a range of perspectives, from eyewitness accounts and enthusiast theories to scientific explanations and skeptical analyses. UFO-Norge maintains a neutral stance, open to all possibilities while emphasizing the need for extraordinary evidence for extraordinary claims. The issue highlights the ongoing public and scientific interest in UFOs and related phenomena, as well as the challenges in distinguishing between fact and fiction in media reports.

Title: UFO nr.
Issue: 2
Volume: 2013
Issue Date: 2013
Publisher: UFO-NORGE
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
ISSN: 0800-2877
Price: kr. 329,-

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated 2013, delves into various UFO and paranormal phenomena, with a strong focus on recent events and ongoing research. The cover story details a near-miss incident involving an Airbus and an unidentified flying object near Glasgow.

Airbus Near-Miss with 'UFO'

The lead article reports on an incident on December 2nd where an Airbus A320 passenger jet, while approaching Glasgow, Scotland, narrowly avoided colliding with a flying object described as a UFO. The object, appearing blue and yellow or silver, was approximately 1000 meters above ground and about 100 meters from the aircraft. Notably, it was not detected by radar at the time. Despite an investigation by the UK Airprox Board, no explanation for the object has been found, leading to its classification as an unidentified flying object (UFO).

Major George Filer III's Testimony

The magazine features the testimony of Major George Filer III, a former US Air Force pilot, who claims extraterrestrial beings have visited Earth for thousands of years. He recounted his own encounter in 1962 over England, where his aircraft was directed towards a radar contact identified as a UFO. Filer described the object as massive and much larger than any aircraft, with a shape resembling the Brooklyn Bridge or Forth Bridge. He noted that the object suddenly accelerated and disappeared after detecting his approach. Filer's testimony was given during the 'Citizen Hearing On Disclosure' in Washington D.C., where he was one of 39 witnesses.

Prince Philip's Interest in UFOs

Filer's testimony also revealed Prince Philip's interest in UFOs. The Prince reportedly invited Filer and six others to discuss UFOs, showing genuine interest. Filer mentioned that Prince Philip had been informed about UFOs by London Control and that the US Air Force seemed uninterested in the matter. Prince Philip's uncle, Earl Mountbatten, had also reportedly encountered UFOs during his naval career.

Hessdalen Phenomenon Exhibition

The issue highlights the opening of a new exhibition dedicated to the Hessdalen phenomenon at the Inspiria Science Center in Sarpsborg, Norway. The exhibition, which opened on May 10th, features research, measurements, and findings related to the mysterious lights and energy phenomena observed in Hessdalen. Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide officially opened the exhibition. The center also provides a live stream from Hessdalen, allowing visitors to potentially witness the phenomenon firsthand. The research at Hessdalen has been significantly driven by lecturers Erling Strand and Bjørn Gitle Hauge from Østfold University College. The exhibition was supported by the Holtålen municipality.

Jannecke Øinæs's Out-of-Body Experience

Actress Jannecke Øinæs shared her experience of being 'taken away from her own body' during meditation, which she interprets as proof of an afterlife or another dimension. She has created a website to share experiences with others who believe in phenomena beyond conventional science, including UFO researchers and those interested in healing. Øinæs holds a bachelor's degree in metaphysics.

The 'Ata' Skeleton and the 'Sirius' Documentary

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the documentary film 'Sirius' and its central piece of evidence: a small, approximately 15 cm long, humanoid skeleton allegedly found in the Atacama Desert, Chile, ten years prior. The documentary claims this 'Ata' skeleton, subjected to DNA testing, provides 'paradigmatic' evidence of an extraterrestrial being. However, the article presents a counterpoint from Garry Nolan, head of stem cell biology at Stanford University, who, after analyzing the DNA, concluded that the skeleton is of human origin, likely a fetus that died between six and eight months gestation. Nolan initially sought to disprove the extraterrestrial claims but found the DNA to be of indigenous Chilean ancestry. The documentary also touches upon conspiracy theories regarding suppressed alternative energy technologies.

Book Reviews

Several book reviews are featured:

• Fortean Studies Volume 1 (edited by Steve Moore): This yearbook covers various Fortean topics, including Charles Fort's writings, self-luminous owls in Norfolk, airship invasions, the 'devil's footprints' in Devon, medieval legends, giant squids, unusual bats, and phenomena around Lake Constance.
• Fortean Studies Volume 2 (edited by Steve Moore): This volume includes studies on strange luminous formations at sea, rain of fish, Charles Fort's 'super-chess', and media coverage of UFO phenomena.
• Roswell (by Kim Møller Hansen): This booklet examines the Roswell incident, presenting original press articles and tracing the evolution of the UFO myth surrounding it. It covers topics like the Aztec case, Project Mogul, MJ-12, and the alien autopsy film.
• Skepsis – Guide til kritisk tenkning (edited by Kjetil Hope & Mona Hide Klausen): This book is divided into two parts: one on critical thinking and scientific methodology, and another on evaluating paranormal claims, including parapsychology, UFOs, and crop circles. The review notes that the section on parapsychology is one-sided and dismisses research without thorough consideration.

Other News and Articles

• Hessdalen Exhibition: Further details on the Hessdalen exhibition at Inspiria, including its sponsors and collaborators.
• Return Of The Giants (by Barry Chamish): A review of a book linking UFO phenomena and giants to biblical prophecies, suggesting a potential return of giants.
• UFO Sightings: Brief mentions of UFO sightings, including alleged UFOs following tornadoes in Oklahoma and a blogger claiming to have seen a lizard on Mars.
• Clas Svahn Steps Down: Clas Svahn, a long-time leader and editor for UFO-Sverige, has stepped down from his leadership role but continues as international director and editor of the journal.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, with a particular emphasis on UFOs, the Hessdalen lights, and alleged encounters with extraterrestrial beings. There is a clear interest in presenting eyewitness accounts, research findings, and even controversial claims, such as the 'Ata' skeleton. However, the inclusion of book reviews like 'Skepsis' and the critical analysis of the 'Ata' evidence suggest an editorial stance that also values skepticism and critical examination of evidence, even while covering the more sensational aspects of the UFO field. The magazine aims to inform readers about ongoing investigations and public discourse surrounding these topics, bridging the gap between the unexplained and the scientific or skeptical perspectives.

This issue of UFO-NORGE, dated June 20, 2013, is a Norwegian publication focused on UFO phenomena and related scientific discoveries. It includes calls for submissions, information about supporting the organization, and a detailed report on an astronomical finding.

Submissions and Contributions

The editorial team welcomes articles, reader letters, press clippings, and links, preferably submitted via email or diskette. For articles, a length of approximately 1500 words (about three A4 pages) is recommended, while reader letters should not exceed approximately 300 words. The editors state they will edit submissions if necessary and that honorariums are not provided. For postal submissions, unsolicited manuscripts and unused images will only be returned if a pre-franked and addressed return envelope is included. The magazine is also seeking individuals with good knowledge of English, German, and French who are interested in translating articles from other languages into Norwegian.

UFO-NORGE Information Folder

The magazine encourages readers to help promote UFO-NORGE by distributing information folders. These can be obtained by contacting UFO-NORGE directly or by visiting their website (www.ufo.no), where folders can be requested or printed for distribution. A special incentive is offered: individuals who recruit five new subscribers receive a free subscription.

UFO-NORGE Support Fund

Recognizing that many tasks are limited by financial constraints, UFO-NORGE has established a Support Fund. The magazine appeals to interested subscribers and others to contribute financially to the fund, acknowledging that many supporters may not have the time to actively work for the organization but can still offer significant support through donations. Details for the fund include a reference ('Støttefondet'), a bank account number (2470 17 28854), and the organization's address.

Astronomical Discovery: Dusty Surprise Around Giant Black Hole

The lead article, "Støvete overraskelse omkring gigantisk sort hull" (Dusty Surprise Around Giant Black Hole), reports on a significant discovery made by the European Southern Observatory's (ESO) VLTI-interferometer. Observations of the supermassive black hole in galaxy NGC 3783, located in the constellation Centaurus about 130 million light-years away, revealed unexpected findings about the dust surrounding it.

Details of the Discovery

Astronomers have long known that most galaxies harbor a supermassive black hole at their center. In active galaxies, these black holes accrete material, creating energetic phenomena known as active galactic nuclei (AGN). These central regions are typically surrounded by a torus of cosmic dust, which was thought to be the primary source of the strong infrared radiation observed from AGN.

However, new observations of NGC 3783 have challenged this theory. While warm dust (700-1000 degrees Celsius) was found in the expected torus, astronomers also detected vast amounts of colder dust located both above and below this main region. This finding suggests that dust plays a more complex role in the evolution and interaction of supermassive black holes and their host galaxies than previously understood.

The VLTI-Interferometer

The observations were conducted using ESO's powerful VLTI-interferometer, located at the Paranal Observatory in Chile. The VLTI combines light from multiple VLT telescopes to achieve extremely high resolution, equivalent to that of a single telescope with a main mirror over 100 meters in diameter. This advanced technique allows astronomers to observe incredibly fine details of celestial objects. The resolution achieved is comparable to what would be obtained by a 130-meter telescope, providing an angular resolution of 0.001 arcseconds, which corresponds to a two-meter extent when viewed from the Moon.

Implications

These findings are considered a surprising development that challenges current theories and enhances our understanding of how supermassive black holes develop and interact with their surroundings. The dust's outward movement, described as a 'cold wind,' is a key aspect of this new understanding.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue reflects UFO-NORGE's dual focus: promoting the organization and its activities within Norway, and reporting on significant scientific findings that may relate to or inform the study of unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging active participation and financial support from its readership, while also engaging with cutting-edge astronomical research that broadens the context for understanding cosmic mysteries.