Cosmology News - No 48

Magazine Overview

Title: COSMOLOGY NEWS
Issue: 48
Date: Winter 1993
Type: International Magazine of the Cosmos, formerly COSMOLOGY NEWSLINK.

Editorial Stance and Content Shift

The editorial in this issue announces a significant shift in the magazine's direction. Following reader feedback and a democratic vote, COSMOLOGY NEWS will continue publication. However, its focus will move away from UFO information towards astronomy, space travel, the possibility of extraterrestrial life, cosmology, and environmental issues. To facilitate this, the editor is re-introducing 'INTERPLANETARY NEWS,' a magazine from the 1950s, which will be incorporated into COSMOLOGY NEWS. UFO news will now be primarily covered by the sister journal, WORLD UFO JOURNAL, except for extreme breaking news.

The editor also reflects on previous topics, including dinosaurs and the Yeti, pondering if scientific understanding of dinosaurs might be flawed, suggesting they could have been timid rather than ferocious. The editor wishes readers a Merry Christmas and looks forward to the next year.

Creation Theories and the Universe

"Creation theories" by Trevor Griffith examines the possibility of the universe's origin. Griffith speculates that another universe might exist in a different dimension. He proposes a theory where a black hole, after consuming vast amounts of matter, could undergo a gigantic implosion, pushing all that matter out to form a new universe in another dimension. This process could also involve collective intelligences from a previous universe being reborn in a new form.

The article delves into the mechanics of black holes, describing them as consuming matter and increasing in mass and gravity. It discusses the theoretical possibility of using black holes for interstellar travel, likening it to science fiction hyper drives. The concept of an Einstein-Rosen bridge or wormhole is introduced as a potential gateway through event horizons, allowing instantaneous travel to distant parts of space. However, the challenge of returning is addressed, with the idea of a white hole (an explosion) being the counterpart to a black hole (an implosion).

Adrian Berry is cited as a writer who views time travel and distance-abolishing machines as describing the same phenomenon. The article notes that while current technology cannot achieve this, past advancements like television were once considered impossible.

Books Reviewed:

• "In The Beginning" by John Gribbin, influenced by the COBE satellite's discovery of "ripples" in space, is presented as confirming earlier thinking about the universe's creation. Gribbin suggests these ripples are remnants of the Big Bang and discusses the potential for life's complexity, stating that the Earth's biosphere is the only known genuinely living system.
• "Our Place In The Universe" by Fred Hoyle and Chandra Wickramasinghe proposes that the universe has a large population of bacterial life, with particles of dust in space potentially being living material. Hoyle suggests that this dry dust material could be the origin of bacteriological life on Earth, noting its resilience and properties necessary for survival in space.

Hoyle also theorizes that life on Earth may not have originated on our planet but elsewhere, with comets playing a role in its creation. He suggests comets store "residues of intense biological activity" that could replicate, potentially explaining strange diseases and the possibility that human life stemmed from contact with a comet particle.

Mars and the Search for Life

"MAN on MARS BY 2002?" by Edward Harris compares the current Mars program to the early Moon landing efforts. Harris recalls reporting on the vision of landing on Mars by 2002 in 1987, similar to his 1957 reports on moon landings. He notes that while NASA achieved the moon landing in 1969, the Mars program faces significant technical challenges.

"Is There Life on Mars?" by Edward Harris explores the possibility of life on Mars, contrasting science fiction with scientific fact. He references Ray Bradbury's "The Martian Chronicles" and the Viking Lander's 1976 mission, which found no life. However, the article raises the possibility of undiscovered Martian settlements.

A significant controversy is detailed from a DAILY EXPRESS article titled "NASA accused of wrecking £650m space probe in cover-up plot". This article reports on a group called Mars Mission, led by Richard Hoagland, who claim that the Mars Observer spacecraft was deliberately disabled. They allege this was to prevent it from photographing an abandoned city on Mars, which they believe was built by intelligent beings who also constructed pyramids in a mathematical pattern. Hoagland claims NASA scientists sabotaged the mission to hide this discovery, while NASA dismisses the claims, stating they have other priorities.

An editor's letter from Elaine Ibiricu of Sheffield questions the government's role in covering up potential discoveries about life on Mars.

Other Features and Advertisements

The magazine includes advertisements for other publications and books related to ufology and strange phenomena, such as:

• POPESIGHT MAGAZINE
• ENIGMAS
• SKYLINK
• THE WILD PLACES
• ALIEN SCRIPTURE
• DELVE
• SPACELINK BOOKS

There is also a section for letters to the editor and acknowledgments to contributors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the origins of the universe (Big Bang, creation theories), the nature of space and time (black holes, wormholes, time travel), and the potential for extraterrestrial life (Mars, ancient civilizations). The editorial stance indicates a shift towards a more science-oriented approach, incorporating astronomy and space exploration while moving away from UFO-centric content, reflecting a broader interest in the cosmos and humanity's place within it. The magazine aims to provide a platform for speculative yet scientifically grounded discussions on these profound topics.

Cosmology News, Issue 48, published in 1993, is a magazine dedicated to exploring mysterious places, paranormal phenomena, and unexplained events. This issue features a cover story on the enigmatic Glastonbury Tor in England, alongside articles on astronomy, life after death, ghosts, psychic children, and UFO sightings.

Glastonbury Tor: A Mysterious Place

The issue opens with a feature on Glastonbury Tor, described as a mysterious place in England. The name 'Tor' means 'gate' in German, and the article hints at numerous folklore tales associated with it, suggesting further coverage in a future issue. A comparison is made to a mound in Bishop's Stortford.

Astronomy and the Vast Universe

An article titled "What on Earth?" discusses a significant astronomical discovery: two enormous arcs in the far-off heavens, composed of hundreds of millions of stars. Scientists expressed wonder and bafflement at their sheer size and symmetry, with one physicist likening them to a "long rope" created by God. The article emphasizes the vastness of the universe, placing our galaxy and solar system as mere specks within it. It also touches upon Trevor Griffith's hypothesis about Black Holes acting as vacuum cleaners and the concept of 'White Holes' as points where matter re-appears, suggesting these cosmic arcs could be related to time-bending tunnels.

A brief news item from 1987 mentions the explosion of the space shuttle Challenger and the subsequent efforts by the European Space Agency and the USSR to develop alternative rocket launches. Japan's space program is also noted for its plans to create a completely Japanese rocket, while Australia offered Cape York as a site for an international spaceport.

I.P.P. Thesis of Life After Death

Part 4 of a thesis by Stephanie Wales explores the concept of life after death and reincarnation. It posits that after understanding life's lessons, individuals can choose their next life, potentially experiencing a 'sangsara reward' before rebirth. The spirit realm is described as a place where past lives are reviewed and future lives are molded. The author recounts an experience of traveling to a spiritual level to witness the Zebrugger disaster. The thesis suggests that some spirits may not be destined for rebirth if they have learned all there is to learn. It also addresses the idea that organ donation does not affect one's destination after death. The process of choosing a new body and family is detailed, with the understanding that vague memories of past lives can persist. The author concludes by emphasizing that thoughts shape our reality and that we become what we mentally believe.

Odds and Ends Etc.

This section includes various short pieces. An editor's note acknowledges the time and effort involved in producing a magazine and encourages readers to submit strange and weird stories to make "Cosmology" a good "Fortean-Type" magazine. Several anecdotal accounts are presented: the disappearance of Oliver Lodge, who was last seen walking towards a well; a man who vanished from beside a carriage; and another man who faded away in a wheat field, leaving a strange colored spot. The term "Fortean Phenomena" is explained as stories collected by Charles Fort. A classified report about two men working on an experiment, possibly related to the Philadelphia Experiment, where one vanished, is also mentioned. Finally, a scientific claim about discovering the 'AGE GENE' to extend human life to 400 years is noted.

Letters

Several letters are featured. One reader, Hugh Emil de Cruz, thanks the editor for the magazine and discusses his work in spreading "Inner Light." He shares observations about unusual weather patterns and the potential dangers of radio scanning pregnant women. He also corrects an article about faeries, stating his belief that "YE ARE GODS" and all emanates from divine minds. Another letter from Dan Goring praises the magazine and mentions David Prockter's work. Jim Wales shares a personal memory of feeling like he was being stared at as a child, possibly related to past life memories, and asks about fingerprint proof of rebirth. Lionel Beer sends a press notice about "BIG CAT SIGHTINGS" investigated by TEMS, a group studying paranormal and earth mysteries. A letter from Ted thanks the editor for the magazines and notes improvement.

Extracts from New Age Universal Newsletter

This section contains excerpts from a New Age Universal Newsletter, questioning the biblical notion of God creating man in His own image and asserting that God is an unimaginable light source. It suggests that humans create their own reality and focused "world" based on their desires and past karma, allowing freedom to create their human body and select their family for future incarnations. It emphasizes living in "inner timelessness" and criticizes greed.

Weird Phenomena in the Newspapers

This section compiles newspaper clippings about unusual events:

• Ghost at the Party: A photo from The Sun shows a partygoer unaware of a mischievous ghost flitting in the background. The ghost has been haunting a Cairo Jax club in Sheffield for years, scaring staff and smashing glasses.
• Perhaps the UFO folk feel lucky: An article from The Toronto Sun reports on U-shaped crop circles found in St. Adolphe, Manitoba, Canada. A UFO researcher suggests that while not man-made, the U-shape might indicate something specific.

The Flying Baby's Bottle

This story recounts how Angela Foot's toddler son, Duane, experienced mysterious accidents and claimed a man was watching him. A "GHOSTBUSTERS" expert advises that children up to age 12 are aware of the supernatural and suggests scolding the spirit to stop its silliness.

The Floating Cup of Tea

Tom Lucas of Preston was terrified when his teacup lifted itself, a ghostly hand tugged his covers, and the lights flickered. He sought help from a priest for exorcism and is suffering from worry and ill health. "GHOSTBUSTERS" suggest researching the house's history and communicating with the spirit.

Furry alien drops into the garden

Sharon Walker of Willows Green found a strange, unidentified furry object, described as a caterpillar, in her garden. The insect, measuring two inches long, has eight legs and suckers. The couple are feeding it and trying to find it a home.

Amazing Secrets of the Psychic Kids

This feature by Roy Stockdill presents several cases of children with psychic abilities:

• Little Jack Eason: Knew his father was in danger before a motorcycle crash. He later predicted another motorcycle accident for his father before it happened.
• The Case of Damien: Sent a telepathic message to his mother, Janette, after an accident at the swimming baths.
• The Case of James: Had a terrifying dream about a boat sinking two days before the Zeebrugge tragedy.
• The Case of Bill: Jack Eason's younger brother, Bill, had a premonition of a fire in the sky, which later occurred at a local bakery.

Cassandra Eason, the mother of Jack and Bill, has compiled these stories in a book and is setting up a bureau for children's psychic accounts.

The Mystery Mishaps

An old man who died in grief is reportedly haunting a couple's new home in Pyrford, Surrey, by turning on the gas cooker. The couple have also experienced objects moving and a cold shiver. "GHOSTBUSTERS" suggest the spirit is trying to communicate and advises talking to it.

Blind Ben cured by spray polish

Pensioner Ben Sturnham, 85, miraculously regained his sight after accidentally spraying furniture polish into his eyes. Doctors are unable to explain this recovery.

Lights Won't Go Off

Graham Wyley of GHOSTBUSTERS shares cases they have tackled, including a house smelling of booze, a nagging mother-in-law ghost, screams in an old cottage, a ghost leaving hyacinth perfume, a mysterious light that won't switch off, and a grandfather ghost that stops clocks.

Star spooks Engelbert

Singer Engelbert Humperdinck claims his house is haunted by the ghost of actress Jayne Mansfield, evidenced by an overpowering smell of perfume and a fleeting figure. The house was previously owned by Jayne Mansfield, who died in a car crash.

Does the Spirit World Really Exist?

In an editorial, Edward Harris discusses the debatable question of the spirit world's existence. He argues that the sheer number of ghost sightings worldwide proves their existence. Having studied psychic subjects since 1957 and made "contact" with spirits, he aims to explain everything he knows about the spirit world, its formation, and the role of religion in his new magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Cosmology News consistently explores the unexplained, with a strong focus on paranormal phenomena such as ghosts, psychic abilities, and UFOs. The magazine presents anecdotal evidence, expert opinions (including those from "GHOSTBUSTERS"), and scientific theories, often drawing from newspaper clippings and reader submissions. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into these subjects, encouraging reader participation and aiming to provide a platform for "Fortean" and unusual information. There is a recurring theme of life after death and the nature of consciousness, as well as a fascination with cosmic mysteries and the vastness of the universe. The magazine seems to bridge the gap between sensational news reports and more in-depth explorations of spiritual and paranormal topics.

This issue of The Sun, dated Thursday, June 28, 1990, features a sensational cover story about a family being haunted by the ghost of their deceased grandmother. The magazine also includes articles on new archeological discoveries regarding early human presence in North America, the naming of a new dinosaur species, and a scientific theory on the evolution of human intelligence.

Haunted House in Hartlepool

The lead story, "OLD GRANNY HAS GOT US SPOOKED!", details the terrifying experiences of Glynis and Ian Ellison from Hartlepool, Cleveland. After their 69-year-old, alcoholic mother-in-law, Vera Kinnery, died in September, she allegedly began to haunt their home. The couple reported seeing her apparition about a dozen times over the next four months. Ian described her as looking "slightly blurred at the edges-as if she was made of mist." Glynis recounted an incident where she felt Vera's hand on her shoulder and dug her nails into her back, leading Glynis to scream at the apparition to leave. Their two youngest children, Natalie (four) and Amy (six), were also reportedly terrorized, waking up in tears claiming their granny was sitting at the end of their beds, scowling.

The article includes advice from "GHOSTBUSTERS" who suggest confronting the ghost by talking to it.

Thousands Seek Answers from "Sun Ghostbusters"

A brief section highlights the overwhelming response to The Sun's "Ghostbusters" hotline, which was swamped with calls from people experiencing paranormal phenomena. The newspaper is working with top spook spotter Graham Wyley and his team of experts to address these terrifying tales and offer advice.

Searching for Proof of Life After Death

This segment discusses the ongoing search for proof of life after death, focusing on "Out of Body Experiences" (OBEs). It notes that many television programs have been devoted to this topic over the last five years. The article suggests that while OBEs involve vivid scenes of being in another world and meeting deceased relatives, scientists are still working to develop concrete proof. It also mentions that investigations into communication via radio will be covered soon.

New Clues Put Humans in New World: 28,000 Years Ago

This article, published in The Los Angeles Times on February 10, 1992, and reported by Boyce Rensberger of The Washington Post, details a significant archeological discovery in New Mexico. Richard S. MacNeish of the Andover Foundation for Archeological Research presented evidence suggesting humans arrived in North America at least 28,000 years ago, potentially as early as 38,000 years ago. This is twice the previously accepted timeframe of 11,500 years ago. The findings were made in a cave on the grounds of Ft. Bliss, New Mexico. The evidence includes human palm and finger prints on clay found in a 28,000-year-old layer, and hearths dating back possibly 38,000 years, some containing charred logs up to eight inches thick. These prints were verified as human by police forensic scientists. The cave, called Pendejo, has 25 distinct layers, dated using radiocarbon and thermoluminescence methods. Scattered bones of extinct animals like tapirs, horses, llamas, giant bison, and other species were also found, primarily limbs, suggesting they were cut off in the field and brought to the cave for cooking and eating.

Dinosaur Named After Movie

This Denver Post article from December 11, 1992, reports on a new species of dinosaur being named "jurassosaurus nedegoapeferkimorum." The oldest armored dinosaur ever discovered, it was found in the mountains of northwestern China. The naming is a recognition of a $25,000 grant for dinosaur research made by Steven Spielberg, director of the movie "Jurassic Park." The dinosaur was unearthed in 1980, and scientists are still extracting its bones. Dong Zhiming, curator of paleontology at the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology in Beijing, identified it as a new species. The dinosaur dates back about 170 million years to the middle of the Jurassic era. The second part of its name is derived from the last names of the film's cast. The discovery is expected to help scientists understand the evolution of this dinosaur family, as the specimen is well-preserved.

Tyrannic Forefather of T. Rex Found

This science section article, likely from late 1992 (indicated by a Toronto Star date stamp), discusses the discovery of a 230-million-year-old carnivore in Argentina, named Herrerasaurus. Paul Sereno, a paleontologist from the University of Chicago, identified it as the earliest known meat-eater in the dinosaur family and the most primitive early phase of the carnivorous line of dinosaurs. The Herrerasaurus was first identified 30 years prior, but the recent discovery of an almost complete skeleton has provided a clearer picture. The animal weighed 180 kg, ran on its hind legs, and had powerful jaws and claws. It is considered a potential ancestor of Tyrannosaurus Rex. The discovery shows that dinosaurs had already branched into specialized groups early in their reign, even though they did not yet dominate numerically.

Gossip Made Humans Great, Theory Holds

This article by Robin McKie, published in The Star, presents a theory by Robin Dunbar, professor of biological anthropology at University College, London. Dunbar suggests that humans developed large brains to engage in the complex business of social interaction and gossip. He argues that the human social group size is optimally around 150 individuals, a number that requires sophisticated social bonding and knowledge exchange. Language, according to Dunbar, evolved not just for cooperation in hunting but primarily to integrate a larger number of individuals into social groups. By talking to one person, individuals can learn about the behavior and relationships of others, allowing for more effective social coordination. Dunbar's research, including monitoring conversations in a university dining hall, indicated that about 70% of conversation time was spent on social relationships and personal experiences, with a significant portion focused on third parties. He posits that language may have first evolved among women, as they tended to talk more about other people's relationships and experiences.

Almanac of UFO Organizations & Publications

This section is an advertisement for the "THIRD EDITION" of the "ALMANAC OF UFO ORGANIZATIONS & PUBLICATIONS," compiled by David Blevins and edited by Dana F. Westphal. It is described as a comprehensive guide featuring world-wide contacts, addresses, and telephone numbers of UFO and related groups. The price is $19.95 (US Funds or Money). It also mentions that "COSMOLOGY NEWS" is a non-profit magazine produced for world-wide information exchange, with an address in England.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine touches upon themes of the paranormal and unexplained, with the cover story focusing on a ghost haunting, and a section dedicated to the search for proof of life after death. It also delves into scientific discoveries related to human origins and paleontology, presenting new evidence and theories. The inclusion of an advertisement for a UFO organizations almanac suggests an interest in extraterrestrial phenomena as well. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on sensational and intriguing stories, while also engaging with scientific and pseudoscientific topics, aiming to capture reader interest through a mix of the spooky, the historical, and the speculative.