Cosmology Newslink - No 40

Magazine Overview

Title: New COSMOLOGY NEWSLINK
Issue: No. 40
Date: SPRING 1988
Publisher: CNK
Type: International Magazine of the Cosmos

This issue of New Cosmology Newslink, dated Spring 1988, delves into two major themes: the profound question of life after death and the critical environmental issue of ozone layer depletion. The cover boldly proclaims "INVESTIGATION INTO LIFE AFTER DEATH" and also highlights "DANGER IN THE SKY" and "UFO'S IN THE NEWS". The magazine aims to bridge inter-related subjects, offering insights from both scientific and spiritual perspectives.

Editorial and Introduction

The editorial section, penned by Editor E. Harris and Co-editor D. Prockter, introduces the magazine's purpose: to explore the science of the universe and interconnected subjects. The title "COSMOLOGY NEWSLINK" was chosen to encompass these diverse topics. The introduction also acknowledges potential copyright infringements and states that information is sourced from reliable origins. The editorial itself focuses on the legacy of Dr. Kit Pedlar, creator of the 'Cybermen' and the 'Doomwatch' series, highlighting his scientific background in pathology and his concerns about environmental issues and the direction of science. It draws a parallel between his fictional scenarios and the real-world threat of ozone layer depletion, urging immediate action.

Investigation: Life After Death

This section is a comprehensive exploration of the concept of life after death, compiled by the Editor. It addresses the common human experience of grief and the difficulty in accepting the finality of death. The article contrasts the views of psychics, who believe in an afterlife operating on the level of thought, with those who are skeptical, including some religious doctrines like the Jehovah's Witnesses. It references scientific advancements, such as those from atomic accelerators, suggesting that recent discoveries might be shedding light on the existence of an unseen world.

• Key points discussed include:
• Psychic Beliefs: Psychics suggest that thought is paramount in an afterlife, and disbelief could lead to self-erasure from existence.
• Religious Views: The Jehovah's Witnesses believe that communication with the dead is forbidden and attributed to demons, while awaiting a future resurrection.
• Scientific Inquiry: The article notes that scientists, initially skeptical, are now investigating phenomena that were once considered paranormal.
• Out-of-Body Experiences (OBEs): Several accounts are shared, including that of Mrs. Valerie Temple, who experienced an OBE while undergoing dental anesthesia. These experiences are described as vivid and lasting.
• The Spirit Body: It is theorized that humans possess an 'etheric body' intertwined with their physical form, which separates upon death.
• The 'War of Words': The debate about life after death is presented as ongoing, with figures like Professor Archie Roy of Glasgow University suggesting that the 'faith' of believers is independent of physical evidence.
• Scientific Proof: Michael Roll's work, "The Scientific Proof of Survival After Death of our Physical Bodies," is highlighted. Roll posits that an invisible etheric body, composed of finer sub-atomic particles, continues after physical death, allowing consciousness to persist in a substantial, though normally inaccessible, universe.
• Materialisation Mediums: The article mentions mediums who can facilitate the materialization of spirits, allowing physical interaction with the deceased.

Contributors to this section include David Prockter, Brenda Butler, and Elaine Ibiricu. Elaine Ibiricu, a Palmist, explores the parallels between science and mysticism, referencing Frit of Capra's "The Tao Of Physics" and Michael Roll's theories on the etheric body.

Danger in the Sky: Ozone Layer Depletion

This section focuses on the environmental crisis of ozone layer depletion. It explains the role of the ozone layer as Earth's protection from deadly solar radiation and details the discovery of a significant hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica.

• Key points include:
• The Ozone Layer: A thin layer of ozone, making up a fraction of the atmosphere, acts as a vital shield against ultraviolet (UV) rays.
• Discovery of the Hole: The phenomenon was first detected in Antarctica and later found to affect other regions, indicating a global atmospheric change caused by human activity.
• Causes: Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), commonly found in spray cans, refrigerants, and industrial solvents, are identified as the primary culprits. These chemicals are known to destroy ozone in the stratosphere.
• Effects: Ozone depletion is linked to increased incidents of skin cancer and cataracts, potential immune system compromise, climate alteration, and damage to plant growth and food chains.
• Scientific Investigation: The article cites the work of Mr. Joe Farman of the British Antarctic Survey, who reported a 50% drop in ozone levels over Antarctica in less than a decade. NASA computers also identified a hole the size of the USA centered over Antarctica.
• Atmospheric Chemistry: The process of ozone creation and destruction by UV light and molecular oxygen is explained, noting that CFCs disrupt this delicate balance.
• Global Impact: While CFCs are banned in America, they are still used globally, posing a continuing threat. The article notes that the issue is becoming a major concern, leading to activism for CFC restriction.

Images are included showing the expansion of the ozone hole over the South Pole from September to October 1986, generated by the Nimbus 7 satellite.

Other Mentions

• Astronomy News: Mentioned as a section, likely covering general astronomical updates.
• Amateur Radio in Space: A small graphic depicts a satellite, suggesting content related to amateur radio communications in space.
• UFOs in the News: A reference to page 12 indicates coverage of recent UFO news.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of the unknown, bridging the gap between scientific understanding and spiritual or paranormal beliefs, and raising awareness about critical environmental issues. The magazine adopts a stance of investigative journalism, presenting information from various sources, including scientific research, psychic accounts, and news reports. There is a clear editorial concern for the direction of human society, particularly regarding environmental stewardship and the potential for scientific discovery to illuminate fundamental questions about existence, consciousness, and the universe.

This issue of "UFO REPORTS" from February 1988, published by the YELLOW ADVERTISER, focuses on recent UFO sightings and related scientific and speculative topics. The cover story details an alleged alien abduction of a family in Australia, while other articles discuss a significant UFO incident involving Japan Air Lines Flight 1628 over Alaska, and the ongoing search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).

DANGER IN THE SKY

The lead article discusses the complex and scientific nature of the ozone hole and the 'greenhouse effect.' It explains how industrial activities, particularly the emission of carbon dioxide, are thickening the Earth's atmosphere, trapping heat and potentially leading to global temperature increases. The article draws a parallel to Venus, whose atmosphere is primarily carbon dioxide, resulting in extreme temperatures and sulfuric acid rain. It raises the question of whether Earth could suffer a similar fate if current trends continue. The piece also touches upon the issue of acid rain destroying forests, known as 'WALD STERBEN' in Germany. It concludes by suggesting that while some scientists believe Earth is heading towards another ice age, the immediate concern is the runaway greenhouse effect, and that humanity must act responsibly to avoid a catastrophic future.

Family car is plucked into the air by aliens

This report, by CHRIS ANDERSON, details an incident where a family, the Knowles, claims their car was abducted by a UFO on an Australian highway. Faye Knowles recounted how a glowing, egg-cup shaped spaceship pursued them, lifted their car into the air, shook it, and then dumped it back on the road. The family experienced slurred speech and their dogs cowered in fear. A truck driver, Graham Hewley, found the family in a state of shock and noted the car had dents and soot, suggesting it had been picked up by a magnet-like object. Hewley also mentioned that truckers have seen lights in the area for 30 years.

UFO Incident in Alaska Revives Old Question

Authored by J. Antonio Huneus, this article investigates a UFO incident involving Captain Kenju Terauchi of Japan Air Lines (JAL) Flight 1628 on November 17, 1986. The JAL Boeing 747 cargo jet, flying between Iceland and Tokyo, encountered two columns of light that approached the aircraft. Terauchi reported seeing a large object, described as approximately two times bigger than an aircraft carrier, pacing his plane for 400 miles. The co-pilot and flight engineer also witnessed unusual lights. The incident was initially acknowledged by the FAA and U.S. Air Force, with radar contacts detected, but was later dismissed as an 'artifact' or 'double image.' The article highlights that the case was not merely a radar event but also a radar/visual case, and mentions similar sightings reported by U.S. Navy personnel near Kodiak, Alaska, in 1950.

Evasive action

Captain Terauchi requested and was granted permission to take evasive action, dropping 4,000 feet and making several turns, but the unidentified lights continued to follow. Near Fairbanks, Terauchi glimpsed a huge round object, speculated to be a 'mothership.' The FAA stated the crew were normal, professional, and rational, with no drugs or alcohol involvement. Despite initial acknowledgments, the Air Force dismissed radar blips as 'electronic clutter,' and the FAA later referred to them as a 'double image.'

A solid case

This section features the opinion of Dr. Richard Haines, a NASA scientist and UFO investigator. Haines, who has extensively interviewed Captain Terauchi and others involved, termed the Alaska case a 'significant' and 'solid case,' indicative of a typical high-altitude encounter. He noted that while there were no onboard electromagnetic effects other than radar contacts, FAA ground records indicated radar contacts of the object for 32 minutes. Haines is investigating the case further and is writing a book on the subject.

Aircraft/UFO catalogue

The writer and Argentinian journalist Alejandro Agostinelli interviewed Dr. Richard Haines about why aircraft/UFO encounters are of particular interest. Haines explained that pilots are good observers and can perform maneuvers to study UFOs, and that aircraft instruments can potentially detect UFO effects. He also discussed his extensive database of over 3,400 UFO/aircraft incidents collected over years, with approximately 70 percent considered bona fide UFO reports. Haines also mentioned the disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich off the coast of Australia in 1978 as a significant event due to a recorded conversation with air authorities.

Cops see mystery UFO over the nick

This brief report from the DAILY MIRROR describes how police officers in Ecclesfield, Sheffield, reported seeing a V-shaped machine with flashing red lights. A check with RAF Finningley revealed no radar contacts, but police did hear a 'SOMETHING' pass overhead.

My UFO Encounter-By Shocked Nurse

This report from the YELLOW ADVERTISER details a sighting by Elda, a night nurse in Chelmsford, who saw a glowing object, described as big as a double-decker bus, soar across the sky and change from circular to cigar shape before vanishing. Police and defense officials were alerted.

Are flying saucers old hat?

By Stan Morrison, this article discusses the apparent decline in mass UFO sightings (flaps and waves) since the late 1970s. Jerome Clark, a UFO writer, suggests that UFOs have become 'old hat' and are no longer newsworthy. The article notes that while many UFOs can be explained by technological or mechanical phenomena, the phenomenon sometimes appears to be 'chameleon-like,' molding to people's frames of reference. It also points out that flying saucers were observed long before the term became popular, citing historical accounts.

Commentary

Jerome Clark, a longtime UFO writer-researcher, notes the decline in mass UFO sightings since 1979. He suggests that the phenomenon is 'chameleon-like,' adapting to people's beliefs. Clark also points out that 'flying saucers' were observed long before the term was coined, citing historical accounts. Dr. J. Allen Hynek believes the decline is due to UFOs becoming less newsworthy, as the same things are seen repeatedly. The article concludes by suggesting that the UFO phenomenon may not have died but has perhaps gone to sleep.

Amateur Radio in Space

By Jason Fagan, this article discusses the role of amateur radio satellites in global communication. It details the evolution of Oscar satellites and the upcoming Phase 3.D satellite, which aims to provide enhanced communication capabilities for amateur radio operators worldwide.

The Search for E.T.

This multi-page feature explores the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence. It begins by reflecting on humanity's long-standing fascination with the stars and the pioneers of space exploration. The article then shifts to the alternative method of searching for E.T. through radio astronomy, highlighting the dangers of space travel and the potential of radio telescopes. It discusses Project Ozma, initiated by Frank Drake, and the Drake Equation, which attempts to estimate the number of communicative civilizations in our galaxy. The article acknowledges the challenges in detecting alien signals, including the vast distances involved and the difficulty in distinguishing real signals from interference. It concludes by contemplating the vastness of the universe and the potential for contact, suggesting it could happen at any time.

Rare criticism from Soviet space chief

This short piece reports on comments made by ex-cosmonaut Vladimir Shatalov regarding the Soviet space program. Shatalov criticized a 'lack of purposeful-ness and consistency' in the program, suggesting that while space observations could yield benefits, the results often disappear without wider application. He also emphasized the need for better crew comfort and psychological support during long space missions.

Internal Ice Key to Miranda's Surface?

This article discusses a theory proposed by planetary physicist Steven Croft regarding the unusual surface of Uranus' moon Miranda. Croft believes that Miranda's volcanic and tectonic resurfacing was caused by a special form of ice formed from methane and water ice at extremely low temperatures. The article contrasts this with the expectation that Miranda, being small and geologically dead, should be heavily cratered. It describes the moon's bizarre surface features, including a network of canyons, and mentions theories about its breakup and reaccretion, as well as volcanism and tectonic activity.

Books

This section provides a compiled list of UFO-related books, with authors and publication years, compiled by David Prockter, Adam Blake, and Barbara Gordon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings and encounters, the scientific investigation of these phenomena, and the broader implications for humanity's place in the universe. There is a clear emphasis on presenting reported incidents alongside scientific analysis and expert opinions. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to consider the evidence and possibilities, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous research and the distinction between genuine UFOs and misidentifications. The issue also touches upon environmental concerns, linking industrial pollution to potential planetary catastrophes and the broader impact on Earth's climate.

Cosmology Newslink International, March-April 1988 issue, is a non-profit magazine focused on topics related to cosmology, extraterrestrial intelligence, and related phenomena. The issue features articles on the search for E.T., astrological predictions, and space exploration.

The Search for E.T.

This section, authored by David Prockter, explores the probability of extraterrestrial life using the Drake Equation. The author discusses the factors influencing the equation, such as the rate of star formation, the fraction of stars with planets, and the lifetime of technological civilizations. Prockter notes that current scientific findings provide no proof of E.T. existence but a strong suspicion. He contemplates the profound impact the discovery of alien neighbors would have on humanity, potentially leading to unity or xenophobia, and revolutionizing scientific fields. The article also touches upon the possibility of advanced civilizations communicating through means beyond radio signals and speculates on their intentions, ranging from benevolent interaction to exploitation.

NASA Craft Bears Message For Aliens

This segment details the message affixed to the first Earth-launched probe, Pioneer. The plaque was designed with the involvement of Dr. Frank Drake, Dr. Carl Sagan, Eric Burgess, and John Naugle. It includes technical data and line-drawings of a man and a woman, intended to convey information to any extraterrestrial finders. The Pioneer spacecraft is noted to travel over 18,000 trillion miles, with its journey to an unknown destination taking 100 million years.

Quaint Aliens Dept.

• This section presents speculative scenarios for alien life forms that might evolve in different environments. It includes artist conceptions of:
• Fish-like beings adapted to live on water-covered planets.
• Tall bipeds suited for planets with light gravity and thin atmospheres, possessing large nostrils and a huge chest cavity.
• Squat creatures adapted to the massive gravity and corrosive atmosphere of a giant planet, with thick skin for protection.

Perfection Written in the Stars

This article, from the Hartlepool Mail by Stanley Greenwood, reports on an astrological prediction by Peter and Lisha Simester. It highlights an extraordinary alignment of planetary forces occurring between February 14 and February 29, 1988. This event, involving Mars, Saturn, and Venus, was described as a rare 'Triple Grand Trine' on an axis leading to the center of our galaxy. The Simesters predicted that this conjunction would herald a time of "change, challenge and unexpected upheavals on the world stage." The article emphasizes the rarity of this event, noting it won't happen again for another 114,000,000 years.

Astronomy News

This section includes a brief mention of the "Perfection written in the stars" astrological event and provides contact information for Stanley Greenwood from the Hartlepool Mail.

Classified Advertisements

• The magazine includes several classified advertisements:
• AUROMA SCENTED INCENSE: Superior quality handmade incense.
• The Inglenook: Offering firegrates, firebaskets, cast-iron firebacks, and living flame gas fires.
• David Walls: Member of Guild of Essex Craftsmen, providing fireplace-related services.
• LAWN MOWER AND GARDEN MACHINERY REPAIRS: Services offered by 'Les Clements'.
• WANTED: A 43 size photocopier.
• FORESIGHT MAGAZINE: A magazine of spiritual awareness.
• TELESCOPE FOR SALE: A Fullerscope 6-inch Reflector with accessories.
• METTA - THE WORLD MISSION: A journal from Indonesia offering spiritual advice and news.

All ads on this page were donated by well-wishers to support the magazine's production costs.

Back Cover Information

The back cover features a striking image and notes about the next issue and the magazine's publication details.

Ozone Layer Warning

A brief statement warns that the Antarctic stratosphere loses half its ozone every September, and a similar decline above New York would make sunbathing a death-defying act.

Next Issue Preview

The next issue will feature "DENIZENS OF THE DEEP... Sea Monsters and things that lurk in Lochs... UFO'S IN PERSPECTIVE... International sighting catalogue."

Publication Details

Cosmology Newslink International is published as a non-profit magazine for information exchange. The contact address is 16, Newton Green, Great Dunmow, Essex, CM6 1DU. The magazine is printed in England.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unknown, the search for life beyond Earth, and speculative scientific and spiritual concepts. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and phenomena for reader consideration, while also acknowledging the need for scientific rigor and evidence. The inclusion of astrological predictions alongside discussions of space exploration suggests a broad interpretation of 'cosmology' that encompasses both scientific and more esoteric interests.