Case file · Close encounter
Imjärvi skiers' encounter
On 7 January 1970, skiers Aarno Heinonen and Esko Viljo near Imjärvi, Heinola, said a glowing saucer released fog and light, and a small being in a light-green suit appeared beside them for a few seconds.
1970 CE · 61.29, 25.88 · status: account
The account
Both men felt very ill afterwards and saw a doctor; Heinonen could not work for months. Years later he claimed many further contacts and paranormal powers. It is Finland's best-known close-encounter case.
The sceptical view
The event lasted about ten seconds, with no independent witnesses; Heinonen's later contact claims weakened its credibility.