Chetvertoye Izmereniye - 2000 No 01

Magazine Overview

Title: ИЗМЕРЕНИЕ И НЛО (Measurement and UFO)
Issue: №1 (146)
Volume: 2000
Date: 2000
Publisher: Yaroslavl Public UFO Center
Country: Russia
Language: Russian

This issue of 'Measurement and UFO' delves into several intriguing topics, including alleged alien medical encounters, the burgeoning field of human cloning, the impact of solar activity, and the relationship between science and religion.

Mysterious Doctors

The lead article, 'Mysterious Doctors,' recounts the experience of Boris Alexandrovich Arkhipov, a cinema mechanic from the Kostroma region. In September 1992, Arkhipov reported being approached by a tall, shadow-like alien figure that offered him a 'medical examination.' The alien, described as pulsating and surrounded by a bluish-pink glow, claimed it could not correct Arkhipov's existing physical ailments (a heart condition and consequences of polio) but proceeded with an examination. Using an apparatus emitting a thin beam, the alien reportedly examined Arkhipov's heart, even holding it in its hands, and later worked on his spine and legs. The procedure involved incisions on the legs, which then closed without bleeding, and the application of a white powder. The initial encounter was interrupted by Arkhipov's wife, prompting the alien to state they would meet again at his home.

Later that evening, three beings, including the original 'doctor' and two others (a 'girl' and a 'guy' slightly shorter), appeared in Arkhipov's home. They continued the examination, working on his spine by inserting what felt like 'buttons' and then on his legs with incisions up to the thighs. Arkhipov reported no pain and a feeling of calm. The beings communicated telepathically but also spoke in Russian with a 'rustling' voice. After the procedures, they vanished as suddenly as they appeared. The author of the article, who interviewed Arkhipov, vouches for his honesty and sanity, stating he is not prone to pranks and has a healthy psyche.

Cloning Animals

A brief note mentions that an American billionaire paid $2.3 million to a group of scientists at Texas University's veterinary college to clone his favorite dog, Missy. The article suggests that cloning is becoming a commercial service, with a potential cost of at least $10,000 per animal.

Sunset on Mars

This section features a description of a Martian sunset based on images from an American interplanetary station. It notes that Martian sunsets differ significantly from Earth's, with the sky turning crimson and a bright solar glare slowly rising as the sun sets, eventually dissolving into the Martian night.

Ufologists Are Not To Blame!

Authored by Yu. Oransky, this article addresses the tendency to blame ufologists for negative weather phenomena, natural disasters, and even economic and political troubles. The author argues that these issues are more likely linked to natural cycles, specifically the approaching peak of the 23rd solar cycle (expected between January 1999 and June 2001). A graph illustrating solar activity is presented, supporting the claim that scientists' predictions about this cycle were accurate. The article posits that solar activity negatively affects not only geophysical factors but also human behavior and health, potentially contributing to wars and epidemics in vulnerable regions.

First Human Clone Almost Became Korean

This article discusses the ethical and scientific implications of human cloning. It reports on a South Korean experiment led by Professor Lee Po Yen of Kyung Hee University, which reportedly created a genetic double of a young woman. However, the experiment was halted at the prenatal stage due to the Korean Medical Society's regulations prohibiting the implantation of embryos into a surrogate mother. The article notes that while the science is feasible, the realization of human cloning depends on funding and legislative frameworks. It also touches upon the widespread protests from religious institutions against human cloning, citing a statement from Father Nikolai Balashov of the Moscow Patriarchate, who deems cloning immoral and unacceptable, emphasizing that human life begins at conception.

The piece contrasts the ethical concerns with the potential for scientific advancement, referencing the cloning of Dolly the sheep. It also mentions experiments in the US to clone body parts like knee joints and mammary glands, questioning their cost-effectiveness compared to organ donation. The article suggests that if a 'test-tube human' were to appear, it would challenge all religions and teachings. The Russian Orthodox Church's stance on cloning is expected to be clarified at a future Local Council in 2000.

Most Leading American Scientists Reject the Existence of God

This section presents findings from historical and contemporary studies on the religiosity of American scientists. It references research by psychologist James Leuba in 1914 and historian Edward Larson in 1996 and 1998. Leuba's 1914 study found that 58% of randomly selected scientists did not believe in God or had doubts, a figure rising to 70% among 'eminent' scientists. Larson's 1996 study, using similar methodology, showed that 60.7% of American researchers do not believe in God or have doubts. A follow-up in 1998, focusing on 'great' scientists (members of the National Academy of Sciences), revealed that only about seven percent of respondents expressed belief in God. The article quotes Oxford professor Peter Atkins, who suggests that a scientific mindset is incompatible with religious beliefs, as science seeks truth while religion claims to possess it.

Among the surveyed scientists in the National Academy of Sciences, atheism was prevalent: 65.2% rejected the existence of God, and 60% rejected the concept of an afterlife. Biologists and physicists showed particularly high rates of disbelief (69% and 79% respectively). Mathematicians, especially those of Russian origin, were found to be the most religious group, with 14.3% believing in God and 15% in life after death. The article concludes that most leading specialists in natural sciences deny the transcendent.

Video Films on Ufology and Magic

A promotional section lists various video films available for purchase on topics such as UFO sightings, parapsychology, magic, and ancient mysteries. These films can be ordered via mail order.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores phenomena that challenge conventional scientific and societal understanding, including UFOs, alleged alien encounters, and the potential for human cloning. There is a clear interest in the intersection of science and the unexplained, as well as a critical examination of scientific claims and religious beliefs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into paranormal and fringe topics, while also engaging with scientific developments and societal debates. The publication also seems to have a strong connection to its local readership in Yaroslavl, offering contact information and local event-related content.