Anomalija - No 04

Magazine Overview

Title: Аномалия (Anomaliya)
Issue: No. 3
Date: March 1991
Publisher: Scientific-Informational Bulletin of TASS and the Association "Ecology of the Unknown"
Country: Russia
Language: Russian

This issue of "Anomaliya" magazine delves into a variety of topics, ranging from purported celestial encounters and speculative historical connections to advanced physics hypotheses and the practice of Hatha Yoga. The cover prominently features the headline "Celestial Journeys of a Peasant from the Orlov Region" and poses a question about Nostradamus's knowledge of Saddam Hussein.

Contents

Club "Crazy Idea": Universes Are Born Continuously (Hypothesis of the Space-Time Quantum)

This section presents a scientific discussion centered around Oleg Spiridonov's hypothesis concerning the existence of a "space-time quantum" (st-квант). The article explores the concept of discrete changes in physical quantities, building upon Max Planck's work on the quantum of action. Spiridonov proposes that the st-квант, derived from fundamental physical constants (Planck's constant h, gravitational constant G, and the speed of light c), plays a fundamental role in the four-dimensional space-time continuum. The hypothesis suggests that within an st-квант, spatial and temporal characteristics of an event cannot be precisely determined simultaneously, implying that all events within this quantum occur simultaneously. This concept is presented as a challenge to the indivisible nature of space-time proposed by Einstein's theory of general relativity.

The article includes commentary from other scientists. Professor Lev Tarasov offers a perspective on the hypothesis, acknowledging that original ideas often face skepticism but expressing confidence that future research will clarify its validity. He notes his familiarity with Spiridonov's work on fundamental physical constants. The text also includes a critique from R. Avramenko and V. Nikolaeva, who argue that attempts to find "signals" from anomalous phenomena are often doomed by the axiomatic foundations of modern science, suggesting that these axioms might be convenient agreements rather than absolute truths.

Correspondence Courses in Hatha Yoga: Discipline of Mind and Body

This significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to introducing the practice of Hatha Yoga, featuring Indian yoga master Dhirendra Brahmachari as the instructor for a correspondence course. The article highlights Brahmachari's extensive journey in India to find a guru and his subsequent dedication to teaching yoga. It describes his age as "over 50" and mentions his authorship of several yoga treatises and his role as the head of a yoga study center in Delhi.

The magazine emphasizes the practical benefits of yoga, stating that it allows for "unprecedented, 'anomalous' results in controlling the body"—including regulating internal organs, suppressing diseases at their onset, and developing resistance to extreme temperatures. It is presented as a valuable skill for navigating a stressful modern life.

Tips for Beginners:

The magazine provides practical advice for those starting with yoga. It recommends practicing asanas at dawn in fresh air, or near an open window. It advises on pre-practice hygiene, such as cleansing the stomach and avoiding showers for 2-3 hours after practice. It also suggests avoiding food or drinks for four hours before sessions and practicing barefoot on a carpet or mat on a firm surface, wearing light, loose clothing.

Padmasana (Lotus Pose):

Detailed instructions are given for performing the Lotus Pose, emphasizing the importance of a straight spine and knees touching the floor. The pose is described as beneficial for digestion, strengthening the thighs and calves, and particularly advantageous for women's reproductive health. It is considered mastered when one can maintain the pose for 3 hours and 48 minutes.

Urdhvasarvangasana (Shoulder Stand):

This pose is recommended for improving vision, treating skin conditions like eczema, and addressing various brain disorders, mental health issues, and digestive problems. It is also suggested for reducing waist size and is believed to prevent premature aging. The article notes that this pose is similar in effect to Sirsasana (Headstand) and is beneficial for the heart and brain, but should be avoided by individuals with cardiovascular issues. It is also recommended for chronic tonsillitis and for singers.

Other Sections

• "Today in the Issue": This section lists other articles, including "Club 'Crazy Idea': Universes Are Born Continuously," "Correspondence Courses in Hatha Yoga: Discipline of Mind and Body," "UFOs: Observations and Comments," "Introducing American UFOlogists," "We Are Looking for a Sponsor," "Futurism: 'A Heavenly Paradise Will Arise'," and "Nostradamus and ... Saddam Hussein."
• Archive: An article titled "The Flame Did Not Go Out from the Waves."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine "Anomaliya" positions itself as a platform for exploring phenomena that lie beyond conventional scientific understanding. It embraces speculative theories in physics, such as the space-time quantum hypothesis, and presents alternative perspectives on reality. Simultaneously, it promotes practices like Hatha Yoga, highlighting their potential for achieving extraordinary physical and mental control, aligning with the magazine's theme of "anomalous" results. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded, encouraging discussion and the exploration of unconventional ideas, while also providing practical guidance on subjects like yoga. The inclusion of TASS as a publisher suggests a connection to a more official, yet still information-disseminating, body, lending a degree of credibility to the diverse content.

This issue of "Anomalies" magazine, dated 03.91, focuses on UFO phenomena, featuring reports from Hungary and the United States, alongside theoretical discussions on extraterrestrial intelligence and personal accounts of alleged encounters.

UFO Sighting in Hungary

The lead article details a significant UFO sighting in Hungary during the night of January 18-19, 1991. The event, observed in towns like Bekescsaba and Kecskemet, garnered widespread attention due to its observation by both civilians and military personnel. The Hungarian Ministry of Defense confirmed that radar at the Kecskemet airbase detected the object at 23:18 on January 18th. However, Hungarian army radio-technical means did not register its presence. Lieutenant Peter Sabo, a duty meteorologist at the Kecskemet airfield, described the object as unidentifiable by meteorological standards, noting an orange flame-like stream 50-60 meters long. The object itself moved silently along the runway at an altitude of approximately 300 meters. Flight control supervisor Senior Lieutenant Gabor Tot estimated the object's length at 15-25 meters, with the flame stream extending 80-100 meters behind it. He ruled out the possibility of it being an aircraft. A correspondent for the newspaper "Nepszabadsag" described a strange luminous phenomenon that resembled a silent jet fighter. Despite initial speculation about it being a meteorite or a falling satellite (possibly from the Soviet "Salyut-7" space station), the magazine's editorial board questions these explanations, emphasizing the professional eyewitness accounts of horizontal flight at 300 meters, which contradicts the altitude estimates for burning meteorites or satellites.

Personal Account: Alexander Kuzmich Skrebkov

The issue features an extensive account from Alexander Kuzmich Skrebkov, a pensioner from Krivolozhka village, Russia, who claims to have had multiple encounters with aliens and traveled on their spacecraft. He describes his first encounter in the spring of 1990, where he was invited aboard a "spherical object" approximately sixty meters in diameter, which hovered half a meter above the ground. During his time on board, he was told about the nature of life and death, the concept of reincarnation, and the possibility of living for 800-1000 years in a parallel existence. He recounts a poignant reunion with his son, who had died 12 years prior, facilitated by the aliens. Skrebkov also describes seeing a vision of a lush green meadow with grazing horses and girls in white dresses. He made several subsequent visits, with the aliens offering him the ability to heal and showing him maps of places on Earth that would prosper. They also explained their advanced technology, including how they synthesize food and travel through time and space. Skrebkov, who had only completed six grades of schooling, expressed regret for not pursuing education earlier in life, contrasting his past life of hard, unfulfilling labor with the profound revelations provided by the aliens.

Theoretical Discussion: Other Universes and Contact

An article by Academician Vlail Kaznacheev of the USSR Academy of Medical Sciences, titled "Are Other Universes Accessible to Our Understanding?", explores the theoretical possibilities of contact with extraterrestrial intelligences. Kaznacheev posits that life and intelligence on Earth evolved within a specific material-energy framework, limiting our ability to comprehend realities beyond our own universe. He suggests that while other universes might host civilizations based on different material-energy principles, communication between them and us, if based on secondary, adapted informational algorithms (like language), would be impossible or highly unpromising. He proposes that contact is only feasible through a universal, field-based foundation.

UFO Investigations in the USA

The magazine provides a historical overview of UFO investigations in the United States. It highlights the public's strong belief in UFOs, citing a Gallup poll where 49% of Americans firmly believed in them. The article traces the history of UFO reporting in the US, starting with a mass sighting in Sacramento, California, in 1896. It then moves to the post-World War II era, discussing the "foo fighters" observed by pilots and the subsequent US Air Force investigations, most notably Project Sign (later Project Blue Book), which ran from 1947 to 1969. The project, led by astrophysicist Allen Hynek, collected a vast amount of data. Despite initial skepticism, Hynek's views evolved, acknowledging the credible testimonies of witnesses. However, the official conclusion of the Condon Report, which analyzed 91 documented cases, was that UFO studies had not contributed to scientific progress, leading to the project's closure. The article notes that the official US government stance remains one of denial regarding UFO involvement, even with observations by NASA astronauts.

It also introduces the field of ufology, mentioning key figures like Antonio Huneeus and organizations such as MUFON and CUFOS. Allen Hynek's classification system for UFO sightings is explained, categorizing them based on proximity, physical effects, and the presence of occupants. The article touches upon the distinction between scientific ufology and 'contactee' claims, with organizations like the "Fund for the Study of Invasions" focusing on the latter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the tension between scientific skepticism and the growing public belief in UFOs and extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance, particularly regarding the Hungarian UFO case, leans towards questioning official explanations when they contradict eyewitness testimony from credible sources. The magazine appears to champion the idea that phenomena like UFOs warrant further investigation, even if they challenge conventional scientific understanding. The personal account of Alexander Kuzmich Skrebkov, while extraordinary, is presented as a significant testimony within the context of the magazine's exploration of the unknown.

This issue of "Anomaly" magazine, dated March 1991, focuses on "Introducing American Ufologists." It delves into the world of UFO research in the United States, exploring the organizations, key figures, and challenges within the field. The magazine also features articles on futurism, examining past predictions about the future, and a speculative piece connecting Nostradamus's prophecies to contemporary events, specifically the Gulf War and Saddam Hussein. Additionally, there is a story about treasure hunting.

American Ufology: Organizations and Challenges

The article highlights prominent figures in American ufology, such as artist and sculptor Budd Hopkins, who has authored books on UFO cases. The organization "Citizens Against Secrecy on UFOs" is mentioned for its efforts to obtain declassified government documents related to UFOs, a process complicated by the US government's invocation of "national security" interests, despite the Freedom of Information Act.

Another significant organization is MUFON (Mutual UFO Network), led by Walter Andrus. MUFON offers training courses for enthusiasts on UFO data collection and analysis. The article notes that while many Americans are drawn to ufology by its mysterious aura, only about 10,000 out of 70-100 thousand members are actively involved in research. These researchers engage in "fieldwork," collecting reports, interviewing witnesses, and investigating alleged UFO landing sites.

American ufologists express envy towards their European and Japanese counterparts, who receive more governmental support. While a private "Fund for the Study of UFOs" exists in the US to finance research, it struggles to raise significant funds, typically collecting less than 50 thousand dollars annually. The combined annual budget of the three largest ufological organizations is estimated to be under 100 thousand dollars, primarily sustained by membership dues and subscription fees for their journals and bulletins.

Despite financial constraints, American ufologists are convinced that their observations will eventually revolutionize scientific understanding. They are encouraged by the call from Professor J. Allen Hynek to focus on studying the UFO phenomenon without making premature conclusions, hoping for a "qualitative leap" in scientific knowledge.

Walter Andrus, Director of MUFON, reports that approximately 8,000 UFO sightings were recorded over the US in the past year. While most have mundane explanations, a significant number remain unexplained, fueling bold hypotheses. Andrus also notes that American ufologists closely follow UFO reports from abroad, including from the Soviet Union. He acknowledges the difficulty in accessing information from the USSR due to past government control over media but mentions the interest in the works of the late Soviet scientist Felix Siegel.

International Cooperation and Soviet Ufology

"Perestroika and Glasnost" have opened doors for cooperation between Soviet and American ufologists. Walter Andrus expresses optimism about regular meetings at international congresses and conferences, noting the increased flow of interesting UFO observations from the Soviet Union. However, communication challenges persist, particularly with cities outside Moscow, Leningrad, and Kiev. The lack of fax machines among Soviet ufologists and the slow, sometimes lost, postal service are significant obstacles.

Andrus believes that increased cooperation will benefit science as a whole and ufology in particular.

Visual Evidence and Skepticism

The magazine includes photographs of alleged UFOs. One image shows a UFO chased by an American fighter pilot during the Korean War. Another depicts a UFO observed at noon by a police officer in Painted Lake, Wisconsin. These photos, provided by Antonio Huneeus, are considered authentic by many American ufologists.

Skeptical organizations, such as the "Committee for Scientific Investigation of Anomalous Phenomena" led by Philip Klass, are also mentioned. Klass, author of four books debunking UFO claims, and his associated organizations conduct conferences and publish a journal.

Futurism: Past Predictions for the Future

This section explores past predictions about the future, drawing from Bernard Caisses's book "History of the Future." Early 20th-century futurists made various predictions, some accurate (like the atomic bomb) and others less so. Predictions included:

• Food: Meals in 1991 would consist of a single pill containing all necessary nutrients, replacing meat, milk, and eggs, significantly speeding up eating.
• Technology: Some futurists dismissed the future of aviation and automobiles, considering them impractical or dangerous.
• Communication: The invention of the "telephonoscope" (television) was predicted.
• Global Trends: Predictions included the rise of Asian economic influence, with China becoming a major global trading center. The idea of a "new earthly paradise" free from borders, customs, and wars by the turn of the millennium was also envisioned.
• Politics: Predictions suggested a shift towards personalized leadership and the eventual disappearance of war.

Professor Vladimir Grinev offers a more contemporary perspective, emphasizing the importance of human connection and communication over technological advancements. He believes that the future lies in the unity of individual psychic energies, enabling effortless connection with loved ones regardless of physical distance.

Nostradamus and the Gulf War

This article examines the prophecies of Nostradamus, particularly in relation to the Persian Gulf War. Professor Ibin Meiring of Stellenbosch University suggests that Nostradamus predicted the outbreak of the war and described key details. Meiring interprets certain quatrains to refer to a "new antichrist" or "king of terror from the East," potentially linking the name "Mabus" or "Abus" to Saddam Hussein. The prophecy speaks of this figure emerging "between two rivers" (Tigris and Euphrates) and meeting his end through "madness," causing widespread destruction. The article also touches upon Nostradamus's predictions about a "holy war" and the "bombing of Baghdad," describing it as the fall of the "eastern antichrist" marked by "fire tearing through the heavens."

Skeptics are challenged by the apparent accuracy of Nostradamus's predictions, with the article questioning whether historical fantasies could be so prophetic. It raises the possibility that information about future events might exist in a form accessible only to a select few.

The article also mentions Nostradamus's predictions concerning Napoleon and the assassination of John F. Kennedy, while acknowledging the lack of evidence for a bloody trail in his prophecies, which might cast doubt on some interpretations.

Treasure Hunting: Pugachev's and Tamerlane's Hoards

Geologist Boris Bondarev claims to be able to locate the hidden treasures of Emelian Pugachev and Tamerlane. Bondarev, a veteran and engineer-geologist from Tashkent, uses a self-invented gamma-ray frame for dowsing and has conducted experiments in the Central Kyzylkum region. He believes his abilities can help uncover historical hoards.

Bondarev was inspired by accounts of Pugachev's treasure, supposedly hidden with the help of a malachite tile depicting various scenes from Pugachev's life. Despite efforts, including an expedition to the Chusovaya River in 1988, the treasure has not been found due to lack of funds and resources. He has also investigated materials related to Tamerlane's treasure, believing it to be located in Samarkand, and has identified a potential burial site.

He has sought official assistance for treasure recovery but has been largely dismissed. Bondarev is confident in his abilities and mentions the development of a quantum magnetometer at Tashkent University that could aid in detecting precious metals deep underground. He believes that if a treasure is found, he would receive 25 percent, which he intends to use to fund expeditions aimed at establishing contact with extraterrestrial civilizations, believing this could help solve global problems like disease.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are ufology, futurism, and the intersection of prophecy with current events. The magazine appears to present a platform for exploring anomalous phenomena, speculative theories, and historical mysteries, while also engaging with scientific and skeptical viewpoints. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting various perspectives and allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, particularly in the realms of UFO sightings, future predictions, and historical interpretations of prophecies. The inclusion of both ufological research and treasure hunting suggests an interest in uncovering hidden truths and unexplained phenomena.

Title: Футурология (Futurology)
Issue: 03.91
Date: March 1991
Publisher: TASS
Country: Russia
Language: Russian
Cover Headline: ПРАВО ТВОРИТЬ БУДУЩЕЕ (The Right to Create the Future)

This issue of 'Футурология' invites readers to contemplate the nature of prophecy, free will, and the potential for humanity to shape its own destiny. It delves into the interpretations of Nostradamus's quatrains and the prophecies attributed to the 'Virgin Mary' in Fatima, questioning whether future events are predetermined or subject to human choice.

The Right to Create the Future

The lead article, "ПРАВО ТВОРИТЬ БУДУЩЕЕ," directly addresses the question of whether to believe in the predictions of Nostradamus and other interpreters. It posits that while accurate predictions might suggest clairvoyance, the possibility of random coincidence, however improbable, cannot be entirely dismissed. However, the article argues against relying on such improbable coincidences to explain Nostradamus's seemingly accurate forecasts.

It draws a parallel to a monkey typing randomly, suggesting that while a coherent text might be produced by chance, the probability is infinitesimally small. The author suggests that the prophecies of Nostradamus, like such random typing, should be considered improbable as mere chance.

The article then shifts focus from specific prophecies to broader philosophical considerations. It references the "miracle in Fatima" in 1917, where children reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary who delivered prophecies. The author notes that while the prophecies are kept in the Vatican, he has learned from American sources that they warn of humanity's self-destruction if it turns away from Christ. A future leader will emerge, promising peace but leading people to false religions by 1992, with a realization of this deception by 1995.

The issue also touches upon predictions of a "man-made" antichrist and the outbreak of World War III in 1999, potentially involving nuclear weapons, leading to the demise of most life on Earth by 2003. Despite the grim outlook, the article argues that these are not necessarily inevitable outcomes but rather warnings of the worst-case scenarios.

Using the metaphor of a boat on a river with rapids, islands, and future destinations, the author suggests that past, present, and future coexist. Humanity, like the boat's crew, has the free will to navigate around dangerous 'shores' and choose its path. The article emphasizes that the river of life flows through various landscapes of human experience, including war, peace, creation, and destruction.

It is suggested that seers like Nostradamus can see different potential futures, explaining why some predictions fail to materialize or why certain significant events, like Stalin's tyranny, might have been overlooked in favor of other perceived futures. The author concludes that the key takeaway from fulfilled prophecies is the affirmation of human free will and the right to shape one's future. The dire prophecies should be interpreted as cautionary tales, urging humanity to steer clear of destructive paths.

Flame Not Extinguished by Waves

This section details an unexplained phenomenon that occurred on August 9, 1845, near the Baltic island of Bornholm. Russian naval charts indicated depths of at least 37 feet, yet Swedish and English sources mentioned a shoal and a sighting by a ship's captain. To investigate, the brig "Agamemnon" was dispatched.

The commander of the "Agamemnon," Captain-Lieutenant Borisov, reported observing a strong flame with numerous sparks erupting from the water at midnight during a fresh wind. The flame, described as having an irregular shape, rising 2 to 3 feet high, and being reddish in color, did not extinguish despite the waves. The wind's direction prevented any smell from being detected, ruling out a burning vessel.

Captain Borisov initially suspected an underwater volcano. Vice-Admiral Lazarev-2, who initiated the voyage, considered linking this event with a meteor observed on August 13th near the Dagestan coast, as well as the hurricanes in Europe and the aurora borealis in Stockholm, and the Baltic Sea's flooding near Libava.

The article dismisses the underwater volcano theory, stating that such eruptions were not known to have occurred in the Baltic Sea in the past or present. Specialists from the Kamchatka Institute of Volcanology reportedly confirmed this. The author also questions the 'meteor' explanation for the fire, noting that it must have been a spectacular event to be included in such a list of unusual occurrences.

Reader Feedback and Editorial Stance

The "Letters to the Editor" section includes a positive review from a reader, Valentina Vasilievna Agafonova, who praises "Аномалия" for presenting diverse opinions without categorical denials, calling the "fact-opinion" style effective. She finds the publication dynamic and informative.

The editorial board expresses gratitude for the feedback and continues to solicit letters from readers regarding the content, design, and any unusual observations or "crazy" hypotheses they may have for potential publication. The contact address for TASS Press Bureau in Moscow is provided.

Advertisement

A section titled "ATTENTION BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURIAL PEOPLE" advertises a business club training program organized by the "Intellect and Survival" Fund. The program, focusing on foreign economic activity, intellectual property protection, and marketing, was to be held in late May at the "Cheget" complex in Prielbrusye. Participants were expected to pay 3400 rubles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the interpretation of prophecies, the potential for future catastrophes (such as World War III), and the philosophical debate between determinism and free will. The editorial stance strongly supports the idea that humanity possesses free will and that prophecies should be viewed as warnings rather than inescapable destinies. The magazine encourages critical thinking and the exploration of anomalous phenomena, inviting reader participation and diverse viewpoints. The inclusion of an unexplained natural phenomenon (the flame from the sea) alongside discussions of future predictions highlights the publication's focus on the unusual and the unknown.