Ad Astra - 1990 No 5

Magazine Overview

Title: ad astra
Issue Date: June 1990
Publisher: Not explicitly stated, but associated with VIDYA-DRAMMEN.
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian
Price: kr.10-

This issue of *ad astra* delves into a variety of intriguing subjects, from reported UFO encounters to spiritual insights and historical accounts. The cover features a stark image of a human skull, setting a tone of contemplation.

Leder (Editorial)

The editorial section addresses the delay in publishing the club's newsletter, welcoming readers back with "thought-provoking contributions and stories." It highlights the mysterious nature of the world and the many unanswered questions, particularly in the spiritual realm. The editor encourages readers to engage with *ad astra*, deeming its content valuable. The section also announces a change in meeting location to Røde Kors Huset, Tollbugata 52, with new meeting days on Tuesdays at 7:00 PM, starting June 12th. Additionally, it appeals for contributions to the "utlodningene" (raffles) held during meetings, explaining that these funds are crucial for purchasing new books and supporting the organization's activities.

VIDYA - EN RELIGIØST OG POLITISK NØYTRAL OG UAVHENGIG FORENING

This section details the organization VIDYA, described as a religious and politically neutral association focused on knowledge and wisdom, and engaged in public enlightenment and research. Their areas of interest include parapsychology, spiritual science, ancient mysteries, alternative medicine, and diet. Contact information is provided, including a postgiro account number (0807 430 7419) and a postal address in Drammen. The meeting location at Røde Kors Huset, Tollbugata 52, is reiterated.

Innhold (Table of Contents)

• The table of contents lists the various articles featured in this issue:
• S.4: Lett blanding (A mix)
• 5: Bokormen (Bookworm)
• 7: U.F.O.-klipp (UFO clippings)
• 8: Acta Pilati
• 10: Ung olje (Young oil)
• 11: Fortidsgåter - Gamle fotavtrykk (Ancient mysteries - Old footprints)
• 12: Vedisk asrologi (Vedic astrology)
• 14: Krystallskallen (The crystal skull)
• 17: Kost og helse (Diet and health)
• 18: Fargespekteret (The color spectrum)
• 19: Kjemper på Grønland? (Giants in Greenland?)

Lett Blandt (A Mix)

This section contains two short pieces. The first, titled "Ny dag" (New Day), is a poetic reflection on the dawn and the lessons of forgiveness and letting go of negativity. The second, "Kongler" (Cones), muses on the idea that pine trees producing an abundance of cones might signify their awareness of approaching death and a final effort to ensure future generations through seed production. It questions our understanding of life and aging.

75 millioner år gamle egg (75 Million Year Old Eggs)

This article reports on the discovery of dinosaur nests in the USA, dating back 75 million years. These nests contained the remains of fossilized embryos of a 2.5-meter long, bipedal, plant-eating reptile. The discovery is considered sensational because fossilized embryos are fragile and easily destroyed. Such nests offer valuable information about the lives of these ancient creatures, including details about parental care and nesting habits.

Bokormen (Bookworm)

This section reviews "Morgendæmring en ny spiritualitet" (Dawn a New Spirituality) by Helge Hognestad. The reviewer praises the author's unique combination of theological and research background, which allows him to explore topics like religious and paranormal phenomena, dreams, and near-death experiences. The book draws on Hognestad's own experiences and accounts from others to seek answers about inner and spiritual forces. The reviewer highly recommends the book, noting that while books are generally becoming expensive, this one is considered a good and readable resource. Hognestad is also open to receiving personal accounts of experiences.

Biblioteket (The Library)

This short notice from the library section highlights a shortage of approximately 50 books and announces that the library has received funding of 2,000-3,000 kroner for new acquisitions. Readers are encouraged to suggest titles they believe should be added.

Tiende (Tithe)

This article discusses "Bratterud," an individual described as a "not entirely unknown person," who is allegedly seeking a sum of 10 million kroner for his "dream" of sending messages via heaven, using TV and satellite technology. The author questions the morality of demanding tithes from the sick and elderly, especially given the high cost of living in Norway.

TVILLINGER (Twins)

This piece recounts the story of John and Arthur Mowforth, 66-year-old identical twins who shared similar interests and lived parallel lives. They both died on the same night after experiencing simultaneous heart problems. Both were colonels in the Royal Air Force. John died in Bristol, England, and Arthur in Windsor, England. Their sister, Edith Taylor, describes their lifelong, uncanny connection, stating that whatever happened to one also happened to the other.

UFO-besøk i Sovjet-park (UFO Visit in Soviet Park)

This article, sourced from MOSKVA (NTB-AP) and reported by TASS, details a reported UFO landing in a park in Voronezh, Soviet Union. Eyewitnesses described a large, shining sphere or disc hovering over the city before landing. Three to four meter tall, human-like beings with small heads, along with a small robot, emerged from the craft. Soviet scientists reportedly confirmed the landing and investigated the site, finding a 20-meter imprint with four sharp depressions and two unknown stones that do not appear to be of terrestrial origin. The article notes that the Soviet press has widely discussed this event.

«UFO er engletransport» (“UFOs are Angel Transport”)

This article features an interview with Reverend Barry H. Downing, a Presbyterian minister who takes the existence of UFOs very seriously, believing they have significant religious implications. He argues that accepting UFOs strengthens faith in biblical narratives and makes the biblical account scientifically credible, bridging the gap between faith and science. Downing suggests that UFOs are transport vehicles for angels or other advanced beings from different dimensions. He draws parallels between UFO phenomena and biblical stories, from the Israelites' exodus from Egypt to the resurrection of Jesus. Downing acknowledges that he may face ridicule but is prepared to present his evidence.

Sakset fra DT & BB (Excerpted from DT & BB)

This is a brief note indicating that the preceding UFO article was excerpted from DT & BB.

AKTA PILATI (Acts of Pilate)

Presented as a letter to Emperor Tiberius Caesar, this text is a fictionalized account from the perspective of a Roman official in Jerusalem. The author expresses frustration with the local Jewish leadership, particularly the high priests, who failed to attend a banquet he hosted. He describes the city as difficult to govern due to its restless population and expresses concern about the potential for rebellion, noting a lack of support from the governor of Syria. The author also mentions hearing about a young man named Jesus from Nazareth, who preached a new doctrine in Galilee. The official, intrigued, sent his secretary, Maulius, to observe Jesus. Maulius reported on Jesus's wisdom and teachings, particularly his response to a question about paying taxes to Caesar. The official, impressed by Jesus's demeanor and teachings, decided not to arrest him, granting him freedom and protection, viewing him as neither a rebel nor a seducer.

Ung olje !!! (Young Oil !!!)

This article challenges the conventional understanding that organic materials take millions of years to transform into oil. It reports on the discovery of hot springs in the Gulf of California (Guaymas Basin) where organic sediments are converted into crude oil in under 5,000 years. This discovery was made by American oceanographers using the submarine "Alvin," and this crude oil is considered the world's youngest.

De eldste organismer som er funnet (The Oldest Organisms Found)

This piece reports on the discovery of living bacteria in Antarctica, estimated to be one million years old. These are described as the oldest known organisms, remarkably viable and capable of reproduction. The bacteria were found at a depth of 140-150 meters by drilling into the ice. Astrobiologists are particularly interested in these findings, considering the possibility of similar life forms on other planets like Mars, potentially existing in permafrost.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of *ad astra* consistently explores themes of the unexplained, the spiritual, and the ancient. There's a clear interest in phenomena that challenge conventional scientific or historical understanding, such as UFOs, ancient mysteries, and the nature of consciousness. The magazine seems to adopt an open-minded stance, presenting various theories and accounts without necessarily endorsing them, but rather encouraging readers to consider them. The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity and a desire to explore the fringes of knowledge, particularly in areas related to spirituality, parapsychology, and unexplained phenomena. The inclusion of the "Acta Pilati" suggests an interest in re-examining historical and religious narratives from alternative perspectives.

Title: FortidsgateR
Issue: 11/89
Date: November 1989

This issue of FortidsgateR delves into a variety of fringe and alternative topics, including ancient mysteries, unconventional scientific theories, and practical advice for personal well-being.

Ancient Footprints and Early Humans

The magazine opens with a discussion of ancient footprints. Footprints found in Africa, estimated to be around four million years old, suggest that early human ancestors walked upright much earlier than conventionally believed, even before significant brain development. A new theory proposes that bipedalism may have evolved as a cooling mechanism, as walking on two legs exposes less surface area to the hot ground.

Another section highlights purported 36-million-year-old footprints from Alaska, which are claimed to have been made by beings wearing shoes. The author expresses skepticism about conventional timelines for human evolution, questioning the origin of these prints given the estimated age of humanity.

Vedic Astronomy Critiqued

Pertti Suorsa from Lidingø, Sweden, contributes an article critically examining Vedic astronomy. He notes the growing respect for Vedic literature in the West but points out alleged flaws. Suorsa questions the infallibility of Vedic texts, particularly their astronomical descriptions. According to Veda, the Earth is geocentric, remaining stationary at the center of the solar system. The sun is described as half the size of the moon and orbiting the Earth at a distance of 1,280,000 km. The text details a complex planetary arrangement with specific distances between celestial bodies and introduces a 'planet-demon' named Rahu as the cause of solar and lunar eclipses. Suorsa argues that these descriptions are demonstrably false and that the Vedic knowledge likely stems from speculative human thought rather than divine revelation.

The Enigmatic Crystal Skull

An article explores the phenomenon of crystals, focusing on a famous crystal skull found in Belize in 1924 by archaeologist F.A. Mitchel-Hedges. The skull's age is debated, with indigenous accounts suggesting it is 3,600 years old and that Mayan generations worked on it for over 150 years. Advanced technology at Hewlett Packard failed to replicate it, with one scientist deeming it an 'impossibility.' Parapsychological researchers have reported hearing strange sounds emanating from it, and detailed images of ancient Mayan temples and faces are said to be visible on its surface. Carole Davis suggests the skull functions like a computer, storing vast amounts of information accessible to sensitive individuals. Theories propose that highly evolved beings from other planets may have brought the skull to Earth or taught the Maya how to create it. F. R. Nocerino, a crystal healer, and his assistant Sandra Bovden studied the skull, finding it could provide healing, love, insight, and wisdom by interacting with a person's aura. The article concludes by acknowledging the vital role of crystals in modern technology while asserting that their paranormal aspects remain unexplained but undeniable.

The Power of Colors

This section, 'Fargespekteret' (The Color Spectrum), discusses the influence of colors on human well-being. It suggests that natural elements like stones and crystals possess positive energy when used correctly. Colors are said to have a significant impact, with examples like a bull reacting to a red cloth (despite claims of color blindness) and insects avoiding green. The article posits that colors can have both healing and destructive effects, with many people unknowingly benefiting from or being negatively affected by the colors surrounding them. It specifically warns about green colors in artificial dyes, which may contain arsenic, and highlights concerns about chemical additives in paints and dyes that can cause harm.

Breaking Bad Habits for Weight Loss

Eva Helgesen provides practical advice on breaking bad habits related to eating and weight management. She emphasizes the importance of planning a diet and stocking healthy options. Key habits addressed include:

• Shopping Routines: Avoiding shopping when hungry to prevent impulse buys.
• Cooking: Not tasting food excessively while cooking if not genuinely hungry.
• Mealtimes: Leaving the table once full, even if the food is enjoyable or the company is pleasant.
• Snacking: Allowing 3-4 hours between meals to prevent constant grazing.
• Social Events: Deciding in advance how much to eat at parties to maintain control.

The advice encourages moderation ('take a little of the good') rather than complete abstinence, suggesting that breaking a diet once shouldn't lead to abandoning it entirely.

Other Mentions

• Health and Wellness: A section on 'KOST OG HELSE' (Diet and Health) includes advice on treating warts using Verucid and DuoDerm plasters, and a tip on eating slowly to allow the body to register fullness.
• Greenland Giant: A striking image and caption present a stone found in Greenland with a giant handprint, suggesting it belonged to a being approximately 4-5 meters tall.
• Illustration: A drawing of a tree with a caption 'Her blir det for bløtt' (It gets too wet here) appears on page 10.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of FortidsgateR consistently explores topics outside mainstream science and conventional understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into alternative theories, ancient mysteries, and esoteric knowledge, while also offering practical advice for personal improvement. There is a clear skepticism towards established scientific timelines and a willingness to consider evidence and theories that challenge the status quo. The magazine encourages reader participation, as indicated by the 'MERE STOFF' (More Content) request.