Chetvertoye Izmereniye - 1998 No 03

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Chetvertoye Izmereniye i NLO" (Fourth Dimension and UFOs), dated 1998, No. 3, is published by the Yaroslavl Public UFO Center and is freely distributed. The cover headline focuses on "Small and Large Balls – Living and Intelligent...", suggesting a theme of unusual aerial phenomena.

Articles and Reports

"Small and Large Balls – Living and Intelligent..."

The lead article delves into the phenomenon of UFOs in the shape of balls, often described as simple but exhibiting signs of intelligence. It cites the well-known case of Frank Fontan in France (1979), who disappeared for 10 days after encountering a bright light and a ball near a power station. Upon his return, he recounted an experience in a laboratory-like setting with intelligent balls that communicated with him, warning against memory unlocking and stating that he was chosen for a specific purpose. The article also recounts an incident in Ashtarak, Armenia (1990), where three humanoid robots emerged from a lenticular object, transformed into balls to cross a fence, and communicated with children before departing.

A more recent case from Kostroma, Russia (1998), describes a carrot-colored ball observed outside a window, with smaller balls emerging and re-entering it. The object emitted a light beam that projected a square onto the wall, and photographic attempts were unsuccessful due to light interference.

The article concludes that larger balls might be technological craft of advanced civilizations, while smaller ones are likely living, intelligent entities capable of materialization and de-materialization, possibly for energy conservation, task completion, safety, or testing humans. It urges caution when encountering such phenomena.

"UFO Kaleidoscope"

This section presents several eyewitness accounts:

• Domna Airfield, Russia (1980): A colonel (then major) observed a red, pulsating ring-shaped UFO with light beams over the runway during night training flights. A fighter jet pilot investigated its altitude.
• Kyzyl-Arvat Airfield, Russia (1987): Several officers witnessed a silent, large construction of white lights flying across the starry sky, possibly a satellite.
• Danilov, Yaroslavl Oblast, Russia (1990): A couple observed a glowing ball with a white trail that transformed into a large, silver UFO with illuminated windows. The UFO emitted beams that affected a young couple before disappearing.
• Zimitsy village, Leningrad Oblast, Russia (1990): A luminous ball descended, turned into a cigar shape, and left a rectangular imprint with scorched grass.

"The Plight of Russian Ufology, Like the Economy as a Whole!"

This article paints a grim picture of the state of ufology in post-Soviet Russia, attributing its decline to the severe economic crisis. It highlights the reduction in staff and funding for ufological organizations, contrasting the past when such activities were state-supported with the present where they rely on voluntary efforts. The author laments the loss of ufological publications and research initiatives. The article criticizes the government's spending on officials and presidential amenities while scientific and cultural endeavors suffer. It also mentions the potential negative impact of a proposed new tax code that could eliminate VAT exemptions for media, further threatening independent publications.

"We Will Live to Be 200 Years Old!"

This piece discusses a scientific breakthrough: the discovery of the 'gene of youth' (telomerase) and the mechanism of aging. It explains how telomerase prevents DNA shortening, potentially leading to treatments for cancer and significant life extension. The article suggests that this discovery could allow humans to maintain their youth for over 200 years.

Other Short Reports

• "Snow Caps Discovered on the Moon": Reports the discovery of ice caps on the Moon's poles by American satellites, suggesting potential for future lunar bases.
• "Bigfoot Traces Found in Rivne Oblast": Mentions the discovery of enormous human-like footprints in a forest in Ukraine, sparking speculation about the existence of a 'Bigfoot' or giant creature.
• "Burials Will Be in Space!": Discusses a proposal by Russian rocket manufacturers to establish a cosmic funeral service, offering a more affordable alternative to Western services for sending ashes into space.

"The Mystery of the 'Soldier's Field'"

This report investigates a rumored plane crash in the Voronezh region, Russia, on March 4, 1998. Despite initial reports and media coverage, the existence of the crash was later denied, with suggestions that it might have been a false alarm or a test of emergency response systems. The article questions whether the crash truly occurred and if the mystery of the 'soldier's field' will be solved.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently highlights the challenges faced by ufology in Russia due to economic hardship and government neglect. It champions the pursuit of knowledge about UFOs and related phenomena, presenting eyewitness accounts and scientific theories with a tone of earnest inquiry. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for greater support and recognition of ufological research, while also informing readers about scientific advancements and societal issues. There's a clear emphasis on the potential for intelligent life beyond Earth and the need for a more rational approach to understanding these phenomena.