Anomalous Phenomena - No 3 - 1993

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Anomalous Phenomena" (Аномальные Явления), published as a special electronic edition in May 1993, is dedicated to exploring the topic of extraterrestrial civilizations and their potential presence in Ukraine. The bulletin, issued by the Kharkov Coordination Council of UFOlogy (УКУФАС), features articles, reports, and discussions on ufology, SETI research, and related societal and legal aspects.

Extraterrestrial Civilizations and Ukraine

The lead article, "Extraterrestrial Civilizations and Ukraine" by A.V. Arkhipov, continues a discussion from a previous issue. It touches upon the possibility of alien scout ships near Earth, citing research by American scientists. The article mentions the ongoing debate about unidentified objects in near-Earth space and the hypothetical 'micro-creatures' or 'scout ships.' It also references the work of D.P. Beджби on mysterious Earth satellites and the expert calculations by A.L. Fredlander and J.K. Oolander that made such satellites seem improbable. The article then shifts to the search for traces of alien civilizations on other planets, referencing the "Face of Mars" anomaly and other unusual formations photographed on the Martian surface. It highlights the work of M.J. Carlotto and M.S. Stein in developing computer methods for searching for anomalous objects on planets. The author notes a surge in interest in SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) abroad, contrasting it with the perceived lack of serious attention from the Ukrainian scientific community, which is seen as paradoxically more interested in distant radio sources than in the fundamental question of alien life. The article laments the lack of academic funding and support for SETI research in Ukraine, while acknowledging the country's past astronomical traditions, such as the work of N.P. Valabaine on potential plant life on Mars. It also mentions attempts in Crimea in the 1970s to receive extraterrestrial signals and subsequent research in radioastronomy.

Ufological Association of Ukraine (UКУФАС) Conference

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the protocol of the founding conference of the Ukrainian Ufological Association (UКУФАС), held in Kharkov on February 15-16, 1991. Several individuals presented their views on the proposed charter and the future direction of the association. V.N. Kirichenko, head of the anomalous phenomena section in Zaporozhye, emphasized the need for a business-oriented executive director and suggested exploring partnerships with larger structures like the Moscow-based "Zodiak" firm, which reportedly includes the Institute of Space Research.

B.B. Bobok, director of the "Zodiak" publishing house, offered several specific suggestions for improving the charter, focusing on clear definitions of goals, rights, and membership. He also proposed including the concept of a "trademark" for the association.

V-I. Rusanov, a member of the anomalous phenomena section, supported changing the name to something more "zodiacal" and attractive.

V.S. Pokanevich, deputy director of the UFO Center "KONTAKT," also backed the inclusion of a "trademark" for its protective functions and stressed the importance of the association being perceived as a large, reputable scientific structure.

G.U. Dubay, coordinator of IGRA in Odesa, expressed concern that politics and commercial interests might overshadow the scientific goals of ufology. He advocated for a clear focus on uniting efforts, exchanging information, and advancing ufological research, suggesting Kyiv as a potential location for a central coordinating body.

S.V. Boltenok, head of the Dneprodzerzhinsk Association for Anomalous Phenomena, found the project's combination of research and economic activity appealing and suggested "Association for the Study of Anomalous Phenomena" as a suitable name.

V.D. Dudnik, also from the Dnepropetrovsk association, supported the name "Ukrainian Ufological Association" and emphasized the importance of the association acting for the benefit of Ukraine's citizens and environment.

I.Ya. Turik, a member of the anomalous phenomena section, supported the idea of self-financing and commercial activities for the association's sustainability and suggested setting deadlines for developing a trademark and emblem.

A.F. Orayubomirsky, head of the Creative Laboratory of the International Center for Human Development, shared his experiences in Dalnegorsk, where ufologists successfully secured funding from military and state authorities and collaborated internationally. He stressed the need to find financial resources for the association.

V.V. Kanika, a member of the UFO Club in Zaporozhye, mentioned contacts with ufologists in the USA who possess currency and are interested in researching anomalous phenomena in Ukraine.

N.A. Zhuk, chairman of the anomalous phenomena section, highlighted the association's goal of advancing research and knowledge that can significantly impact society. He proposed a clause stating that research results should be used exclusively for peaceful purposes.

The conference concluded with the formation of a editorial commission to finalize the charter. The commission members included A.F. Pugach, A.V. Beletsky, S.V. Bobok, V.N. Kirichenko, and V.S. Mantulin.

UFO-Fact

This section reports on UFO sightings in Torez, Donetsk Oblast, in November 1989. Several eyewitness accounts are detailed, describing fiery balls and ellipsoid-shaped objects with spotlights and lights, observed over quarries, industrial facilities, and residential areas. The trajectory of the observed UFOs is noted, suggesting a pattern of movement in the Torez region.

Law of Ukraine "On Citizen Associations"

Excerpts from the Law of Ukraine "On Citizen Associations" are published, covering articles related to the legalization of associations through registration or notification. It details the requirements for registration, including applications, charters, and leadership information. The law also outlines grounds for refusal of registration and the process for reporting changes to the charter. Articles on the symbolism of citizen associations and the termination of their activities (reorganization or liquidation) are also included.

"UFO" Stories (Plagiarism Alert)

This section critically analyzes a publication titled "Ah, Aliens!" (Ач, пришельцы!), presented as a supplement to the Dnepropetrovsk newspaper "Sobor." The author, N.U. Derzhyvora, accuses the publication of being a compilation of unverified information, particularly regarding paleocontact theories. The article specifically refutes claims about Sumerian civilization's understanding of the solar system and the interpretation of ancient texts by authors like Zecharia Sitchin. It also debunks claims about the Gonzaga vase and the alleged discovery of a planetary system near Sirius. The author concludes that the publication is a case of plagiarism, with the author, G.N. Krikchnov, a doctor of geological and mineralogical sciences, having uncritically borrowed and rephrased information from popular press sources without proper attribution.

Directory of Ufological Organizations in CIS Countries

A directory lists ufological organizations in Russia and other CIS countries, including their names, leaders, and addresses.

Peaks of the Spirit

This section features an excerpt from "Ascension" (Восхождение), a bulletin of the "Peace Through Culture" Association, which discusses the book "Guidance for the Leader" (Напутствие Вождю). It describes the book as being closely related to the Living Ethics teachings and emphasizes the concept of a "Leader" as someone who selflessly serves humanity. The excerpt highlights the book's relevance for modern ufologists, particularly in addressing the moral choices and organizational principles within the ufological community. It suggests that the book's teachings can help individuals find answers to contemporary challenges and contribute to building a new world based on cosmic beauty and harmony.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor in ufological research, contrasting it with sensationalism and commercial exploitation of the topic. There is a clear call for greater academic and governmental support for SETI and anomalous phenomena research in Ukraine. The legal framework for citizen associations is presented as a means to organize and legitimize such efforts. The editorial stance appears to be in favor of serious, evidence-based investigation into UFOs and extraterrestrial life, while also acknowledging the spiritual and philosophical dimensions explored in texts like "Guidance for the Leader."