IUSI - No 40 1982

Magazine Overview

This issue of INTERN UFO-SVERIGE INFORMATION, numbered 40, was published in 1968 by RIKSORGANISATINEN UFO - SVERIGE. The cover prominently features the headline "NY SIGNAL FRÅN RYMDEN!" (New Signal From Space!) and a stylized UFO logo. The magazine is published 8 times a year for 40 Kronor, with its editorial address listed as Bo Roslind, Västmannavägen 2A, 734 00 Hallstahammar, and a contact telephone number of 0220 - 11578. The issue also includes details for the Hallstahammar UFO Association's postgiro account.

Semestertider!

The editorial section, titled "SEMESTERTIDER!" (Semester Time!), acknowledges that the current issue is slightly delayed due to the editorial staff taking a summer break. It extends wishes for a pleasant summer and suggests visiting a UFO exhibition in Köping, which is open daily from 12 to 17 during June, July, and August.

Levande Mätare av Förorening

This short article, attributed to "Bosse," discusses the use of Nilgala fish as living sensors for water pollution. These fish emit electrical impulses when healthy, and a decrease in these impulses signals illness. Experiments in Göppingen, Germany, are using these fish to monitor the city's water supply. Electrodes in tanks containing the fish register their impulses, triggering an alarm if they drop below a critical point, potentially stopping the water supply until the cause of pollution is addressed. The Nilgala fish are noted for requiring less daily maintenance than freshwater fish previously used for this purpose.

Ny Signal Frånrymden!

The main article, "NY SIGNAL FRÅN RYMDEN!" (New Signal From Space!), details the work of civilingenjör Werner Donne. For three years, Donne has been using specialized photocells to detect rhythmic variations possibly caused by an unknown natural force, with peaks observed in spring and autumn. The article poses several questions that this force might explain, including why potatoes sprout in the dark, why blood clots are more common in certain months, why people feel uneasy during low-pressure systems, the cause of ice ages, and the phenomenon of telepathy.

Donne's apparatus, initially a failed photocell from an instrument company in Stockholm, was designed for a light-measuring instrument. This photocell, with platinum electrodes, is light-sensitive and was intended for devices like automatic doors. Donne began by measuring at the edge of the ultraviolet spectrum, where the photocell was unstable. He observed peculiar, rhythmic curves from the photocell, which he initially dismissed as "ghosts."

He compared his readings to weather maps, finding a correlation with deep low-pressure systems passing near Stockholm, particularly in August. This observation made the photocell more interesting. Donne, born in Russia to Estonian parents, was educated in Leningrad and came to Sweden during the war. He has collaborated with Swedish doctors on medical imaging technology and worked with photographer Lennart Nilsson.

Smuts på Rätt Plats (Dirt in the Right Place)

The article discusses how Donne continued his experiments despite the photocell's initial instability, which he attributed to "dirt in the tube" or, more accurately, particles in the vacuum tube. He found that the "dirt" seemed to be in the "right place" for his research. His interest was piqued by a book by Giorgio Piccardi, an Italian professor, on chemical precipitation and its relation to natural forces. Piccardi's research showed that the precipitation of inorganic substances in solutions exhibited annual and eleven-year cycles, correlating with solar activity.

Donne discovered that his photocell showed its strongest signals in February, aligning with Piccardi's findings. This connection led to further investigation into how natural forces affect living organisms. Research in Holland by SW Tromp suggested that Piccardi's observations could help explain annual variations in the physical and chemical properties of blood in large populations. Studies on blood clot mortality showed a peak in January-February, correlating with cold weather and low blood sedimentation rates. Other research indicated that blood coagulation time is shorter during cold and warm front passages, leading to increased deaths from blood clots during rapid weather changes.

Sjuk av Lågtryck (Sick from Low Pressure)

The article criticizes the lack of interest in Sweden regarding the connection between natural forces and health, noting that only rheumatologists and burn clinic doctors seem to acknowledge such links. It points out that Germans, Dutch, and Italians are more engaged in researching the deeper connections between climate factors and physiological reactions, despite Sweden's position under prevailing low-pressure systems.

In Germany, research has led surgeons to avoid operations during Föhn winds (warm, dry winds from the Alps), as these winds increase the risk of death. Donne's photocell curves align with the Piccardi phenomenon. He expanded his experiments, creating new photocells and placing one in his home in Örby to increase geographical coverage. He focused on adsorption studies, using glass flasks with charcoal and carbon tetrachloride. When adsorption decreased, the gas moved, and the flask weighed down; when adsorption improved, the gas was absorbed, and the flask lightened. This allowed him to track variations in adsorption capacity.

For two years, the photocells and flasks have been recording data. Donne suspects that the Earth is passing through an invisible dust cloud from space that affects the photocells. He hypothesizes that this could be related to cometary tails or interstellar gas and dust clouds. He observed sudden jumps in the photocell's curve, indicating a sudden increase in sensitivity, possibly due to passing through a sharply defined cloud in space. He notes that this new natural force is not yet fully understood.

Det Behövdes Ett Fel....

This section reflects on why such a natural force remained undiscovered for so long, suggesting that scientific research often focuses on what it expects to find. The 19th century was dominated by steam power, and the current century by nuclear physics. While advanced instruments exist, they are designed to measure specific phenomena. The article posits that an instrument malfunction, like Donne's photocell, and an open-minded observer are sometimes necessary to uncover new phenomena.

Donne avoids speculation about the exact nature of the force, preferring to let the data speak. He notes that his photocells show varying sensitivity at different times, linked to seasons and low-pressure systems. The chemical reaction in the photocell and flasks is triggered by a signal from space. He wonders if a layer forms on the photocell's electrodes when adsorption increases, thinning and disappearing when it decreases. He plans to study animal activity variations in controlled laboratory settings against the photocell's curves.

His working hypothesis, developed after a series of sudden readings, is that the Earth is passing through an invisible dust cloud in space. This cloud might be composed of matter or antimatter. The periodicity of the photocell's reactions suggests a connection to the Earth's axial tilt during spring and autumn, when the Northern Hemisphere might be more exposed to such dust clouds. The increased frequency of meteor showers in August-October is also noted as potentially relevant. If such a cloud is within the solar system, it would rotate in orbit around the sun; if it's galactic, it follows different laws.

Telepati, "Sjätte Sinnet" (Telepathy, "Sixth Sense")

This section connects the observed changes in adsorption capacity to potential explanations for phenomena like seeds sprouting or bears emerging from hibernation. It suggests that these changes might influence sedimentation and precipitation processes, blood coagulation, and industrial processes like polymerization and flotation. The article links low-pressure systems to increased rainfall and colder temperatures, potentially leading to ice ages if such low-pressure patterns persist for extended periods.

Regarding telepathy, the article proposes that individuals might simultaneously be exposed to the same signal from space. The rhythmic changes in blood coagulation, influenced by environmental factors, could lead to one person experiencing a negative sensation (like unease) while another, perhaps a relative, dies. When the first person learns of the death, they might interpret their feeling as telepathy.

The article mentions that Donne was advised by colleagues in Paris to break open his photocell and analyze its contents using gas chromatography. However, Donne chose not to, valuing his original, unique photocell created by chance. He has managed to create new photocells with similar properties, but the original remains the best.

Källa: Vecko Journalen Nr 28. 12 juli 1968.

This indicates the source of the main article.

Organismer Mot Koloxid (Organisms Against Carbon Monoxide)

This brief note, sourced from "Ny Teknik nr 1/78," reports on the isolation of microorganisms by Soviet scientists that can combat air pollution. These organisms absorb carbon monoxide as part of their life functions, and researchers are working on methods to intensify this process artificially.

Hur Man Identifierar UFOs (How to Identify UFOs)

This section provides a guide to identifying various UFO phenomena, compiled without the involvement of the air force or FOA (Swedish Defence Research Agency). It describes several types of sightings:

• Hallucination: Characterized by color shifts and a mysterious buzzing sound. The ground may be scorched after the phenomenon leaves.
• Hägring (Mirage): Often described as exploding with a terrible noise and shattering windows.
• Jetplan (Jet Plane): Generally recognizable but can reportedly change form, become transparent, materialize, or dematerialize, varying in size from two feet to that of an ocean liner.
• Planeten Venus (Planet Venus): Often mistaken for rockets or flying saucers. Jet planes are said to be unable to catch these phenomena.
• Skyhook Ballong: Approximately 300-500 feet wide, traveling at high speeds and often seen with other balloons. It is said to release smaller balloons. Researchers reportedly deny that such balloons have been launched.
• Spindelnät (Spiderweb): Appears on radar as fast-moving discs. These are described as causing trouble for air force pilots sent to intercept them, sometimes diving towards the planet or changing course just before a collision.
• Såpbubbla (Soap Bubble): Objects described as foil, paper, or large ice blocks are released. These objects dissolve before examination. Human-like figures have been observed inside these "soap bubbles."
• Temperaturinversion (Temperature Inversion): Caused by the meeting of warm and cold air, characterized by its solidity when aircraft attempt to fly through it. Little is known about these phenomena, as pilots often perish before they can report them.

Source: Brevcirkelns medlemsblad nr. 93/1973.

Brrr Så Kallt - Minus 10 Nilsson-Grader!

This section presents a table illustrating the difference between perceived temperature (wind chill) and actual Celsius temperature. It highlights that a wind speed of 10 m/s at 0°C can feel like -15°C due to wind and humidity. The article credits Bruno Nilsson, a technology doctor and head of the geotechnical department at Boliden, with developing an electronic thermometer that accounts for wind and humidity. Nilsson's thermometer heats a sensor to 37°C and measures the power needed to maintain this temperature, thus reflecting the perceived temperature more accurately than a standard Celsius thermometer. The article notes that Nilsson's invention is patented worldwide and that there is significant interest in its manufacturing rights.

En Lustig(?) Berättelse om Språkproblem (A Funny(?) Story About Language Problems)

This humorous anecdote recounts an exchange between an English lady and a Swedish priest regarding a "W.C." (water closet). The priest, unfamiliar with the term, mistakenly interprets it as "Wood-Chappel" (a church) and provides directions to a church located 10 km away, describing it as a beautiful spot with 80 seats, often visited by people bringing packed lunches. The story concludes with a humorous postscript from the priest and his wife about missing their visits to the "W.C."

Verksamhetsberättelse för UFO SUNDSVALL 1981 (Activity Report for UFO SUNDSVALL 1981)

This report details the activities of the UFO Sundsvall association for the period 1981-1982. The membership decreased from 85 paying members plus one honorary member in 1980-1981 to 63 paying members plus one honorary member in 1981-1982. The association received numerous reports of UFO phenomena, with about 15 initially explained as aircraft or celestial bodies. Five reports were investigated, documented, and one remains classified as a UFO phenomenon. The association held 16 "drop-in" evenings and 5 member meetings, with fewer meetings than usual attributed to a change in venue. They moved to a new, better location, though it is not their own. Information about UFOs was shared with a small group in Ange. The UFO RADEN (newsletter) was published 4 times, facing difficulties with printing due to the municipality ceasing support for small associations' newsletters. Members are now helping with printing elsewhere. New books were donated to the library, and one member attended a training course in Köping. UFO Sundsvall hosted a planning conference on October 24th, attended by 34 people from various groups, which was described as a very positive event for the northern region of Sweden. The association finally produced its own decal, and the year concluded with a gathering at the new location. The report lists the board members for the year: Loy Solli (Chairman), Crister Byström (Treasurer), Lennart Viksten (Secretary), Stanley Skoglund (Vice Chairman), Carin Solli (Vice Secretary), and Suppleants Bo Lennart Färnström, Magnus Lundström, and Jan Svanström. The board thanks members for their trust. The report is dated Sundsvall, January 3, 1982.

Protokoll fört vid UFO Sundsvalls årsmöte den 25/3 1982 (Minutes of the UFO Sundsvall Annual Meeting on March 25, 1982)

This document details the proceedings of the UFO Sundsvall annual meeting held at Holmgatan 2. Key decisions included the election of Loy Solli as chairman and Elvy Peterson as secretary. Jan Svanström and Magnus Lundström were appointed as auditors. The activity report was approved, and the board was granted discharge for the past year. The board for the upcoming year was elected, with Loy Solli and Christer Byström re-elected for two-year terms. Other board members continuing their terms were Carin Solli, Stanley Skoglund, and Lennart Viksten. New substitutes elected were Eva Backlund, Stefan Näslund, Magnus Lundström, and Jan Svanström. The auditors for the year were Lars Karlberg and Margareta Öhlin. No proposals from the board were presented. The decision was made to continue membership in UFO Sverige. Membership fees were kept unchanged (50 SEK for regular members, 25 SEK for pensioners). A motion to amend section 10 of the statutes led to a decision for a complete review of the statutes. Three honorary members were appointed: Tommy Jonsson, Loy Solli, and Christer Byström, who then formed UFO Sundsvall. The meeting concluded with an auction of donated items. The minutes were signed by Elvy Peterson, Jan Svanström, and Magnus Lundström.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding, particularly concerning unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and potential extraterrestrial or unknown natural forces. There's a strong emphasis on empirical observation, even when the instruments or phenomena are unusual or initially considered failures (like Donne's photocell). The editorial stance appears open-minded and investigative, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond established scientific paradigms. The inclusion of humorous anecdotes and practical advice (like identifying UFOs) suggests an aim to engage a broad audience interested in the unexplained. The publication also highlights the activities of local UFO organizations, fostering a sense of community among enthusiasts.

This document is the minutes from the annual meeting of the Stockholm UFO Association, held on February 24, 1982. It is supplemented by articles on cryptozoology and ancient mysteries.

Annual Meeting Minutes (ARSMÖTESPROTOKOLL)

§1 Opening of the Annual Meeting

Christer Nordin welcomed the attendees and opened the meeting.

§2 Approval of the Agenda

The proposed agenda was read and approved.

§3 Election of Chairman and Secretary for the Meeting

Christer Nordin was elected chairman for the meeting, and Göran Norlén was elected secretary.

§4 Election of Two Auditors

Lotta Spångberg and Lennart Löfgren were appointed as auditors.

§5 Board's Activity Report and Cash Report

The activity report for 1981 and the cash report were read and reviewed. The auditors' report was distributed and read.

§6 Decision on Board's Exemption from Liability

The meeting decided to grant the outgoing board exemption from liability for the past fiscal year.

§7 Election of Chairman for 1982

Göran Norlén was elected chairman for 1982 (newly elected).

§8 Election of Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, and Board Member for 1982

Peter Andersson was elected vice chairman (re-elected).
Eva Gustavsson was elected secretary (newly elected).
Christer Lindh was elected treasurer (re-elected).
Heikki Virtanen was elected board member (newly elected).

§9 Election of Two Substitutes for the Board

Sten Dramstad was elected as a substitute (re-elected).
Christer Nordin was elected as a substitute (newly elected).

§10 Election of Two Auditors

Pia Eweman and Folke Löfgren were elected as auditors (re-elected).

§11 Election of Two Members for the Election Committee

Folke and Lennart Löfgren were elected to the election committee (re-elected).

§12 Election of One Delegate and Substitute to UFO-Sweden's National Meeting

The meeting decided to appoint two substitutes. Göran Norlén was elected as the delegate. Peter Andersson and Christer Nordin were elected as substitutes.

§13 Motions and Submitted Letters

No motions were presented. Submitted letters included the notice and motions for the national meeting from UFO-Sweden's central group. The meeting decided to discuss and decide on these matters at the next board meeting and next members' meeting.

§14 Submitted Proposals for Statute Amendments

No proposals for statute amendments were presented.

§15 Decision on Membership Fee

The meeting decided to increase the membership fee for those gainfully employed (including part-time) to 50 SEK per year. This also means the fee for those not gainfully employed will be raised to 25 SEK per year. The fee increase takes effect from 1983.

§16 Other Matters

Radio Operations: Sten requested copies of the application to the Televerket (Swedish Telecommunications Administration) and the minutes of the annual meeting to send to Televerket.

Local Issue: The meeting emphasized that finding a club local is the association's most important issue. It was noted that the association's activities are severely hampered by the lack of a dedicated space or a shared local. The possibility of renting a basement premises in Fruängen for 400 SEK/month was discussed, but concerns were raised about accessibility for members living further from the city center and the association's ability to provide guarantees for such a rental. It was suggested that sharing a local with another organization would be ideal. A suggestion was made to inquire with Evert Kring at Hälsans Hus on Södermalm.

§17 Closing of the Annual Meeting

The chairman thanked the attendees and closed the meeting. There were 12 members present.

Justification: The minutes were signed by Christer Nordin (chairman), Göran Norlén (secretary), Lotta Spångberg (auditor), and Lennart Löfgren (auditor).

Articles

The Space Telescope is Ready

This short piece reports that the Perkin-Elmer company has completed the mirror for the world's first space telescope, which is scheduled for launch in 1985. The mirror measures 96 inches in diameter and is protected by layers of aluminum and magnesium fluoride.

OBS ADDRESS CHANGE

This section announces a new telephone number for the Stockholm UFO Association: 0753-85857. It also notes that UFO-Sundsvall has changed its P.O. Box address to Box 4049, 850 04 Sundsvall.

Regarding the Mälarträffen (Lake Meeting)

This section discusses the cancellation of the Mälarträffen event scheduled for June 5th in Enköping due to a lack of interest, with only the board of the Enköping UFO Association registering. The author expresses disappointment with UFO-Sweden's actions, particularly their scheduling of a board meeting on the same day. Despite UFO-Sweden's encouragement to hold the event, written invitations with programs were sent to local groups, but the event is now considered "buried."

The Loch Ness Monster and Other Lake Monsters

This extensive article delves into the history and various accounts of the Loch Ness Monster. It begins by referencing ancient stone carvings possibly depicting the creature and the 565 AD account of St. Columba encountering a "roaring beast."

Early Sightings and Media Frenzy: The article notes that while observations were made throughout the centuries, public interest surged in 1933 following an article in the Inverness Courier by Alexander Campbell. This led to further reports and media attention, with newspapers like The Scotsman and the Daily Mail sending reporters to investigate. The name "Loch Ness Monster" became widely adopted.

• Photographic Evidence: The article details several key photographic events:
• Hugh Gray's Photo (1933): Gray, a local resident, photographed a large, dark gray, glistening creature with no visible head rising from the water.
• London Surgeon's Photo (1934): A surgeon on holiday took a clearer photograph showing the creature's head and neck.

Skepticism and Explanations: Skeptics propose explanations such as decaying vegetation, gases from the lakebed, or a magnified image of a diving otter. However, proponents point to the consistency of descriptions from various credible witnesses, including teachers, naval officers, and academics.

The "Surprised Forest Worker" Account (1951): Lachlan Stuart, a forest worker, and his friend Taylor Hay observed and photographed a creature with three humps and a long neck, resembling a "sheep's head" without ears. The photographs were later analyzed by C.E. Palmer, director of the Glasgow Museum of Natural History, who noted the creature's size and unusual characteristics, suggesting it might be a deep-sea animal or a large seal.

• Expeditions and Investigations: The article mentions various expeditions and investigations:
• Sir Edward Mountain's Expedition (1934): Twenty men were stationed around the loch for a month, capturing 21 photographs, four of which were deemed usable. Despite poor visibility later, the search continued.
• Film Evidence (1930s): Two men stationed for the summer managed to capture a short film of the creature, which experts later identified as a large seal.
• Commander R.T. Gould's Opinion: Gould, author of "The Loch Ness Monster and Others," suggested that some scientists underestimated the observational capabilities of people in the north.
• TV Investigations (1958): TV cameras and sonar were used, detecting an unexplained object moving underwater.
• Society for the Exploration of Phenomena in Loch Ness (1961): Founded by biologists and a Member of Parliament, this society organized student volunteers to monitor the loch with cameras.
• Vickers Expedition (1969): The submersible 'Pisces' was used, equipped with underwater cameras, along with an American submersible 'Viperfish' and sonar experts. An "unpleasantness machine" and a 25 kg bait of "dried animal blood, hormone, and other gruesome ingredients" were deployed, but yielded no results.

Theories on the Creature's Identity: The article outlines five main theories:
1. A long-necked seal (mammal).
2. A giant salamander (amphibian).
3. A large eel (fish).
4. A mollusk (like a giant sea snail).
5. A Plesiosaurus (an extinct marine reptile).

Plesiosaurus Theory: The Plesiosaurus theory suggests that these creatures might have become trapped in Loch Ness when it formed after the last Ice Age, 10,000-15,000 years ago. The article draws a parallel to the discovery of the living coelacanth, a fish thought to be extinct.

Other Lake Monsters: The article notes that similar reports of lake monsters exist in other bodies of water worldwide, including Gairloch and Loch Morar in Scotland, and mentions the "Mhorag" of Loch Morar. Reports from Ireland, Iceland, and British Columbia are also cited. A "monster belt" is suggested to exist between the 52nd and 70th parallels of latitude.

The Swedish Storsjöodjuret: The article details the legend of the Storsjöodjuret (Great Lake Monster) in Sweden's Storsjön. Historical accounts from 1635 by Mårten Pedersson describe a large lake serpent. A runestone, the "Frösöstenen," is said to have bound the creature. The article references a 19th-century investigation by Peter Olsson, who compiled numerous witness testimonies. Descriptions vary, with the creature being estimated between three and fourteen meters long, with a broad, boat-like or log-like shape. Its skin is described as smooth and slimy, and its color ranges from gray to dark brown, green, or reddish-gray. It is said to be sensitive to wind and more visible in fair weather, and curious about boats.

Pyramids

Egyptian Pyramid Construction Theory: This section presents a theory by Boston engineer John Bush regarding the construction of the Egyptian pyramids. Bush suggests that the massive stone blocks were not dragged up inclined ramps as commonly believed, but rather rolled. He proposes that the stones were fitted with cylindrical wooden blocks, creating a wheel-like base that allowed them to be rolled up wooden structures. Evidence for this theory includes the discovery of such wooden blocks near pyramids. Bush conducted a practical test, successfully rolling a two-ton stone block up a steep incline with the help of seven other men.

Sensational Dinosaur Footprints

This article reports on the discovery of numerous dinosaur footprints in Swanage Bay, on the south coast of England. The footprints, found in limestone, led south towards the bay, suggesting a migration route. Experts believe these tracks date back 65 million years. The article notes that fossilized footprints have been found in the area for centuries and were even sold to tourists for a small price. The new discovery indicates that dinosaurs may have been migrating south, possibly seeking refuge or heading to a "graveyard" to die. Some experts suggest the slow movement of the dinosaurs indicated illness or weakness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to focus on unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs and cryptozoology, alongside historical mysteries like the construction of the pyramids. The tone is generally investigative, presenting various accounts, theories, and scientific attempts to explain these phenomena. There is a clear interest in historical evidence and witness testimonies, while also acknowledging skeptical viewpoints and scientific explanations. The inclusion of minutes from the UFO association's meeting grounds the publication in a specific community interest group.

This issue of EXPRESSEN, dated Tuesday, May 26, 1981, presents a diverse range of topics, from the mysteries of deep space to practical, yet unexplained, phenomena on Earth, and significant environmental concerns.

Astronomy: The Enigma of Carbon Stars

The lead science article, "Giant Stars Still a Mystery," focuses on a group of stars known as cool giant stars, specifically 'carbon stars.' These stars are characterized by their surfaces being covered with simple carbon compounds, a fact revealed through spectral analysis. Astronomers are still uncertain about their place in the life cycle of stars and their role in the universe's creation of elements. Nils Olander, in his doctoral thesis from Uppsala, presents theories and methods for further investigation. The spectral appearance of a star as a carbon star, rather than a more common oxygen star, depends on the ratio of oxygen to carbon in its outer layers. Olander's work includes a catalog of carbon stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a neighboring galaxy, which aids in comparing theories with observations due to its known distance. The article suggests that the carbon star phase, often marked by strong material ejection from the star's surface, might contribute to the cosmic recycling of elements, potentially seeding future star formations. This process could mean that atoms in the magazine itself might have originated from long-dead carbon stars. Determining the abundance of elements in their atmospheres is crucial for understanding them, but this requires knowledge of gas pressure and temperature at various depths, which can only be estimated using theoretical models. Olander's thesis explores these models and their uncertainties.

Environmental Concerns: The Risks of Turning Rivers

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the ambitious and controversial Soviet project to divert the flow of the Ob and Yenisei rivers from north to south. This massive irrigation project aims to channel water from the Arctic Ocean into the arid regions of Soviet Central Asia, potentially doubling the arable land in the area between the Aral and Caspian Seas by 2010. The first phase involves constructing a dam on the Ob river. The diverted water would be channeled to Tobolsk, creating a reservoir for the surrounding agricultural region. However, the project carries immense ecological risks. Ecologists warn that this intervention could lower temperatures in the Arctic, potentially triggering a new ice age. There are also concerns about the possible use of nuclear charges in the construction of canals and tunnels.

Dowsing: An Unexplained Practice

The magazine features an in-depth exploration of dowsing, the practice of using a divining rod to locate underground water. The article highlights the experiences of Lennart Jönsson, a municipal works manager in Östra Göinge, Sweden, who successfully used a dowsing rod to pinpoint a water pipe leak. He describes dowsing as a form of 'magic' that science has yet to fully explain, yet its effectiveness is undeniable. Jönsson shares anecdotes of finding water sources with remarkable accuracy, often relying on his own unique geological terminology and observations of natural signs. The article also introduces Harry Hasslinger, a cattle breeder who uses a steel wire dowsing rod not only to find water but also to determine if cows are pregnant and even the sex of the calf. While some dismiss dowsing as folklore, others, like veterinarian Jan Hallander, attest to its accuracy, noting that Hasslinger's findings often align with established methods. The article touches upon the historical context of dowsing, referencing the 'golden branch' and its association with ancient beliefs. While Swedish institutions show little interest in researching dowsing, the practice is experiencing a resurgence in the USA and the Soviet Union, where scientists are reportedly focused on understanding the underlying laws governing this phenomenon. Russian experiments suggest that dowsing sensitivity might be influenced by geographical location, with stronger effects further north and during winter. It's also noted that a significant percentage of men and women possess this ability, with varying degrees of sensitivity.

Scientific Skepticism and Dowsing Research

Kaj Nilsson, head of the geology and water department at VIAK engineering firm in Malmö, expresses skepticism about dowsing, suggesting that practitioners might be subconsciously reacting to geological and vegetation cues. He cites a study by state geologist Gunnar Ekström from the 1930s in the Svalöv area, where five prominent dowsers' findings, both with and without blindfolds, did not consistently match each other or Ekström's measurements. Nilsson posits that the perceived accuracy might stem from the high probability of finding water in randomly selected spots. Despite this skepticism, the article acknowledges that much remains to be discovered about the Earth and its hidden resources.

Heat Yoga: The Power of Meditation

Another section explores the practice of 'heat yoga' (Tum-Mo) by Tibetan monks, scientifically investigated by researchers led by Herbert Benson at Harvard Medical School. The study, conducted in Upper Dharamsala, India, involved monks using thermistors to measure their body temperature during meditation. The findings, published in Nature, revealed that the monks could significantly raise their body temperature, with one individual, L.T. Ven, increasing the temperature in his big toe's nail bed by 8.3 degrees Celsius. This practice, which the monks reportedly used for drying wet clothes in freezing conditions, demonstrates a remarkable ability to control body temperature through meditation, without affecting heart rate or pulse.

Ghost Carriage in Aneby

A brief, anecdotal report describes a 'The Ghost Carriage' in Aneby, Småland, a vintage carriage that reportedly frightens horses, making them wild and unmanageable. The owner, Ragnar Fasth, initially dismissed supernatural explanations but is now convinced of the carriage's unsettling influence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features a blend of scientific inquiry, unexplained phenomena, and practical applications. There's a clear interest in topics that challenge conventional understanding, such as carbon stars and dowsing. The editorial stance appears open to exploring these phenomena, even if they lack definitive scientific explanations, as evidenced by the detailed accounts of dowsing and the acknowledgment of the unknown in astronomy. The inclusion of environmental warnings regarding the Soviet river diversion project highlights a concern for ecological impact. The magazine seems to aim at informing its readers about cutting-edge scientific research, historical practices, and potential future challenges.