Chetvertoye Izmereniye - 2000 No 04

Magazine Overview

This issue of the newspaper "ЧЕТВЕРТОЕ ИЗМЕРЕНИЕ И НЛО" (Measurement and UFO), published by the Yaroslavl Public UFO Center, dated 2000, features a prominent article on the "First Breakthrough" in understanding the human genome, alongside discussions on UFO phenomena, cloning, and space exploration.

Human Genome: The First Breakthrough

The lead article details the significant achievement of Celera Genomics, a private biotechnology company, in sequencing nearly the entire human genome. While acknowledging that the complete sequence will take a few more weeks, the article highlights the company's advanced technology that allowed them to rapidly assemble the vast molecular puzzle of DNA. This breakthrough is presented as a monumental step for civilization, paving the way for revolutionary advancements in medicine, drug development, and diagnostic technologies. The article notes the competitive nature of the project, with Celera Genomics entering late but surpassing the publicly funded 'Human Genome Project' in speed and cost-effectiveness. The company's plans to make the data accessible online, albeit for a fee, are also discussed, with varying costs for pharmaceutical giants and academic institutions.

The Mystery of 'Men in Black'

Another section delves into the phenomenon of 'Men in Black' (MIB), individuals described as always dressed in black, with dark complexions and Asian features, who visit UFO witnesses. The article traces the history of such encounters back to ancient legends and folklore, suggesting a long-standing presence of these enigmatic figures. It recounts the experience of Albert Bender, who claimed MIB agents warned him to cease his UFO investigations. The MIB's alleged tactics include intimidation, threats, and demands for evidence of UFO sightings. The article questions their origins and the source of their uncanny knowledge about witnesses' lives.

Cloning: Possibilities and Concerns

The issue explores the rapidly advancing field of cloning. It highlights the first successful cloning of a primate, a rhesus monkey named Tetra, by American scientists, noting that this brings human cloning a step closer, despite prohibitions in many countries. The article discusses the scientific possibility of cloning individuals from deceased tissue, including preserved DNA from historical figures like Isaac Newton, Albert Einstein, and political leaders. It raises thought-provoking scenarios, such as the potential for historical figures to collaborate in scientific endeavors or political careers. The ethical implications are touched upon, with a mention of Japan's proposal to introduce prison sentences or heavy fines for human cloning. The article also touches upon the potential for cloning to 'partially correct past injustices,' such as cloning victims of atrocities or historical figures whose lives were cut short.

Space Exploration and Celestial Mysteries

Space exploration is featured with an article about NASA's Mars exploration program, which includes plans for a crewed mission. The development of a new, giant rocket called 'Madpit' is discussed, designed to launch a significantly heavier payload than current shuttles. Separately, a British astronomer, Dr. John Murray, proposes the existence of a tenth planet in the solar system, far beyond Pluto, based on his analysis of comet trajectories. This hypothetical giant planet, possibly larger than Jupiter, is theorized to orbit the Sun in a retrograde direction, suggesting it might be an interstellar visitor or a rogue star.

Mysterious Crash Near Clovis, New Mexico

A personal account details a mysterious crash witnessed by a former US Air Force sergeant named Jake (or Hank) in the late 1950s near Clovis, New Mexico. Jake and his companions stumbled upon a military cordon around a crash site. They described an object, possibly an experimental craft, that was charcoal-colored, whale-shaped, and approximately thirty feet long. The military personnel present were evasive and ordered them to leave and forget what they saw. The article notes the lack of confirmation from independent sources but presents Jake's testimony, including a military certificate, as a significant account of a potential UFO-related incident.

Other News and Features

The newspaper also includes a poem about cloning by Yuri Vladimirovich Kukushkin, a veteran and academic. There is a report on the death of FSB Lieutenant Colonel Vladimir Nikolaevich Latatuev in Chechnya and "Slavneft" company's support for his family. Additionally, a section on the secretive storage of preserved heads and brains of notable historical figures by Russian special services is presented, along with a brief report on the successful test flight of an experimental reusable spacecraft, the X-38.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of cutting-edge science (genetics, cloning, space exploration) and unexplained phenomena (UFOs, mysterious encounters). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting both scientific advancements and anecdotal evidence of the unexplained. There is a clear interest in the potential societal and ethical implications of new technologies like cloning, as well as a fascination with UFO sightings and related mysteries. The publication also demonstrates a commitment to reporting on local news and honoring veterans.