IUSI - No 43 1982

Magazine Overview

This issue, NR:43, of "INTERN UFO - SVERIGE INFORMATION" announces the discontinuation of the publication IUSI, effective at the end of the 1982-1983 year, due to a lack of interest from local groups in continuing its publication. The magazine explores various phenomena related to UFOs and the paranormal, with a significant focus on photography.

End of IUSI and Future Information Dissemination

In the editorial section, 'Bosse: Gunvor' announces that this is the final issue of IUSI. The decision to cease publication was made by the UFO-Sverige board. The author expresses a personal opinion that IUSI, in its current form, is no longer necessary. Instead, they suggest a model of 'quick mailings' using stenciled materials, sent out with short notice. This would avoid the need to produce a magazine solely for the sake of having a publication. The author also questions where official UFO-Sverige board meeting minutes, motions, and similar documents will be presented, suggesting that 'UFO Sverige Aktuellt' might not be the appropriate venue. To cover the costs of these mailings, a subscription fee of 25 SEK per year is proposed, with any remaining funds potentially going to a support fund. The author also reminds readers that it is time to start thinking about submitting motions for the upcoming annual meeting ('riksstämma'). The editorial concludes with thanks to all contributors for their interest and participation.

Annual Meeting Announcement

A separate announcement details the "RIKSSTÄMMAN - 83 i VETLANDA" (Annual Meeting - 83 in Vetlanda), scheduled for Saturday, March 26th. The location is the NTO premises at Källgatan 8. Registration details are provided, with contact information for 'Irre' Lindström and the central group.

Paranormal Photography: Spirits and UFOs

The magazine delves into the history and nature of "MATERIALISATIONSFENOMEN - FOTOGRAFERING AV ANDAR" (Materialization Phenomena - Photographing Spirits). This section discusses the questionable nature of materialization phenomena, which occurred between the 1870s and 1920s, where deceased individuals were supposedly photographed during séances. These phenomena often involved mediums who claimed to channel spirits, producing images of luminous or shadowy forms. The article mentions prominent figures like physicist Sir William Crookes and his involvement with the medium Florence Cook and the alleged materialization of 'Katie King'. The text notes that such phenomena faced significant criticism, particularly after the "Confessions of a Medium" in 1882, which exposed trickery. Despite this, some spiritualists continued to hold séances and produce photographs into the 1920s. The article references works by Schrenk-Notzing and H. Carrington on Eusapia Paladino.

August Strindberg's Photographic Experiments

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the photographic experiments of Swedish author August Strindberg. During the 1890s, Strindberg explored the metaphysical and occult aspects of photography, believing that cameras could capture more than just the visible reality, potentially revealing inner states and subjective experiences. He conducted experiments where he attempted to photograph celestial bodies and other phenomena without a camera or lenses, using photographic plates directly. His results included images of luminous clouds and circular patterns, which he interpreted as evidence of phenomena beyond normal perception. The article also touches upon Strindberg's belief in the magical powers of photographs and his manipulation of his daughter Kerstin's portrait.

Ted Serios and "Thoughtography"

The article "MYSTERIET TED SERIOS - TANKEFOTOGRAFEN" (The Mystery of Ted Serios - The Thoughtographer) details the claims of Ted Serios, an American who, from the 1950s to 1960s, allegedly produced images on film merely by thinking. His abilities were investigated by scientists, including psychiatrist Dr. Jule Eisenbud, who authored the book "The World of Ted Serios." The experiments involved Serios holding a camera (often a Polaroid) and focusing his thoughts, resulting in images of objects or places he was contemplating, rather than his own face. Despite rigorous controls, including the use of independent witnesses and carefully inspected equipment, Serios's phenomenon remained controversial. The article mentions a challenge from magician Randi and a response from Eisenbud, who offered to abandon his work if Serios's abilities could be demonstrably replicated. The text notes that while rational explanations are sought, the phenomenon of Ted Serios's "thoughtography" remains a mystery, with some research facilities like Ingersoll Research Laboratories developing apparatus that can replicate the effects, though not necessarily the method.

Photographs of Flying Saucers

The section "FOTOGRAFIER AV FLYGANDE TEFAT" (Photographs of Flying Saucers) discusses the Condon Report (1969), which concluded that UFO investigations were unproductive and that UFOs were likely misinterpretations of known phenomena, not extraterrestrial craft. The report faced criticism from scientists like J. McDonald. The article states that while there are numerous UFO observations registered, few photographic or video records exist, and those that do are often of poor technical quality. It also touches upon common methods of faking UFO photographs, such as using models, light effects, or manipulated images. The article mentions that while many UFO photos are fakes, some have been examined by experts and deemed authentic, despite circumstantial doubts.

Kirliang Photography

"'FATOMBLADET' OCH KIRILANFOTOGRAFIN" ('Fatombladet' and Kirliang Photography) introduces Kirliang photography, a method that uses high-frequency electrical fields to capture images, often referred to as 'aura' or 'bioplasma' images, without a camera. The most famous example is the "fatombladet" (phantom leaf) image, which appeared to show a complete leaf despite a portion having been cut off before exposure. The article notes that this phenomenon is interpreted differently, with some seeing it as evidence of an 'etheric body' and others expressing skepticism. The work of psychologist Thelma Moss at UCLA and technician Kendall Johnson in developing Kirliang apparatus is mentioned.

The Nature of Lightning

The article "HUR UPPSTÅR BLIXTEN?" (How Does Lightning Occur?) addresses the scientific understanding of lightning. It acknowledges that while research has been conducted in Sweden and elsewhere, the exact mechanisms are not fully understood. The atmosphere is described as being electrically charged, with a normal voltage between the Earth's negative surface charge and the positive charge in the upper atmosphere. Lightning occurs when disturbances in this charge distribution lead to massive discharges, either between clouds or between clouds and the ground. The process involves the uneven distribution of positive and negative charges within clouds, driven by factors like water droplet movement and air currents. The article mentions that lightning strikes can involve thousands of volts and tens of thousands of amperes, but their brief duration usually prevents catastrophic damage, though repeated strikes can cause fires. It also notes that the electrical conductivity of air is reduced in the vicinity of thunderstorms, facilitating the formation of discharge channels.

Pyramid Power and Dowsing

"DET FINNS NATURFENOMEN SOM VETENSKAPEN ÄNNU INTE KUNNAT FÖRKLARA. DET MYSTISKA MED PYRAMIDERNA, t ex..." (There are Natural Phenomena That Science Has Not Yet Been Able to Explain. The Mystery of Pyramids, e.g....) explores phenomena that science has not fully explained. The article recounts the story of Pieter van Jaarsveld, a 12-year-old South African who claimed to be able to see hidden underground water sources without a dowsing rod. This phenomenon, known as dowsing, is now accepted and utilized by water and pipeline companies, with government agencies and even military units employing dowsers. The article posits that resonance between similar structures in the Earth's water sources and mammals (whose brains are largely water) might explain this ability. It also touches upon the concept of magnetic fields and their potential influence on living organisms, citing experiments with mice and the impact on plant growth. The article mentions that some Russian researchers believe women are more sensitive to dowsing than men. Finally, it discusses the concept of "magnetic zones" and "harmful rays," suggesting that these can be detected by instruments like EKGs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores phenomena that lie at the fringes of scientific understanding, particularly those involving photography, psychic abilities, and unexplained natural events. There is a clear interest in documenting and investigating these phenomena, even if definitive explanations are lacking. The editorial stance, as expressed in the final section, acknowledges that science has not yet explained all natural phenomena, and the magazine seems to embrace the exploration of these mysteries, particularly those related to UFOs and the paranormal. The tone is generally informative, presenting various theories and anecdotal evidence, while also acknowledging skepticism and the possibility of hoaxes.

This issue of the magazine, identified as volume 2, number 4, with the cover date of '10' (likely referring to the page number or a specific issue identifier), delves into a variety of intriguing and sometimes alarming scientific phenomena. The content spans topics from the potentially dangerous effects of infrasound and the mysterious properties of pyramid shapes to futuristic concepts like space-based solar power and the geological history of Antarctica.

Tragic Experiment: The Dangers of Infrasound

The lead article, "Tragiskt Experiment" (Tragic Experiment), details the work of physicist Professor Gavraud. He discovered that low-frequency vibrations, specifically around 7 Hz, emanating from an air conditioning unit in his Marseille office caused him severe nausea. His research into these infrasonic vibrations led him to develop powerful infrasound-generating machines. One such machine, a giant whistle, proved fatal during a test, killing a technician and causing windows within a kilometer to shatter. The article highlights the potential of infrasound as a weapon, capable of causing resonance strong enough to collapse buildings at a distance.

Further discussion on infrasound connects it to unexplained phenomena like earthquakes and animal behavior. It is suggested that the vibrations from motor vehicles might explain some traffic accidents by inducing euphoria, impaired attention, and dizziness. Animals and humans are believed to sense these low-frequency vibrations, often exhibiting premonitions of earthquakes. The author recounts a personal experience during a minor earthquake on Crete, where an irrational fear persisted for days.

The article also links infrasound to places that evoke feelings of dread, such as the Greek island of Santorini, a site associated with the ancient Atlantis and known for a devastating volcanic eruption in 1450 BC and an earthquake in 1956. Constant, low-frequency sounds have been reported from this area.

Pyramid Power: Ancient Mysteries and Modern Applications

Another significant section explores the theory of 'pyramid power,' initiated by the Frenchman Bovis. He observed that a cat that died inside a model of the Great Pyramid of Giza was perfectly mummified, not decomposed, despite the humidity. This led to the idea that the pyramid's shape possessed a preservative quality. Czech radio technician Karel Drbal expanded on this, discovering that a pyramid shape could not only preserve but also re-sharpen a dull razor blade. The article explains that this effect is believed to be related to the pyramid's ability to focus energy or act as a resonator, promoting the growth of crystal structures, such as those forming the edge of a razor blade.

Further research into the Great Pyramid involved an IBM 1130 computer analyzing cosmic ray penetration, revealing inexplicable variations in readings over time, leading researchers to conclude that a powerful, unknown force operates within the pyramid that defies scientific laws.

Space-Based Solar Power: The Future of Energy

The magazine looks towards the future of energy with an article on "Rymdkraftverk ger oss solenergi" (Space Power Plants Give Us Solar Energy). It addresses the impending depletion of Earth's fossil fuels and presents space-based solar power as a viable solution. The concept involves constructing massive solar power stations in orbit, which would collect solar energy and transmit it wirelessly to Earth via microwave beams. These stations, potentially operational by 1990, would be significantly more efficient than ground-based solar systems due to the constant, intense sunlight in space and the absence of atmospheric interference.

The article details the technological challenges and advancements, including the development of large transport spacecraft like the US space shuttle and specialized 'heavy lifters' for assembling these orbital power plants. It highlights the efforts of NASA and scientists like Professor Ernst Stuhlinger, who believe space-based solar power will provide abundant, clean energy and help restore the environment. The transmission of energy via microwaves is discussed as a safe and efficient method, with safety measures comparable to those used in microwave ovens.

Antarctica: A Continent of Secrets

A section titled "En Gång Blommade Antarktis" (Once Antarctica Bloomed) presents evidence from an Australian expedition led by Dr. Alex Ritchie. Thousands of fish fossils found in Antarctica suggest that the continent was once a fertile landmass connected to Australia, situated in a temperate zone. The article touches upon the ongoing territorial claims over Antarctica by various nations and the potential mineral wealth beneath its ice.

The Leidenfrost Phenomenon

Finally, the issue explains the "Leidenfrost-Fenomenet" (Leidenfrost Phenomenon). This everyday occurrence, observable when water droplets hover on a very hot surface, is explained as a result of a vapor layer insulating the droplet from the hot surface. The article draws a cosmological parallel, suggesting that a similar Leidenfrost-like effect, involving a layer of superheated elementary particles, might prevent matter and antimatter from annihilating each other in the universe, as proposed by physicists Oskar Klein and Hannes Alfvén.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores fringe science, unexplained phenomena, and futuristic technological concepts. There's a clear fascination with forces and effects not fully understood by conventional science, such as infrasound, pyramid energy, and the potential of space-based technologies. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into these subjects, presenting them as credible areas of research and speculation, even when they challenge established scientific paradigms. The use of terms like 'tragic experiment' and 'mysteries' suggests an editorial tone that emphasizes the intriguing and sometimes sensational aspects of these topics.

This issue of *Året Runt*, dated 1976 and identified as issue number 33, focuses on the enduring mysteries of the Bermuda Triangle, presenting a collection of firsthand accounts from survivors and witnesses. The cover boldly asks if a large tanker plowed through a sailboat, setting the tone for the sensational and unexplained phenomena explored within.

The Bermuda Triangle: A Zone of Mystery

The magazine opens by acknowledging the numerous unsolved mysteries in the world, with the Bermuda Triangle, or 'Death Triangle,' being one of the most significant. This area off the eastern coast of the United States in the Atlantic has been the site of disappearances of people and vessels for centuries. The article notes that many books have been written on the subject, including the author's own book, "Bermudatriangeln," which was among the first to critically examine the mystery. The author also mentions a recent book, "Skräckens triangel och andra farliga zoner," about another mysterious area in the Indian Ocean.

The author expresses conviction that publishing these true stories will further increase interest in the phenomenon. This collection includes not only accounts of those who vanished but also those who experienced the terror and survived to tell their tales. The narratives are presented as firsthand accounts, allowing readers to understand the harrowing experiences of those who ventured into the Triangle. The article urges readers not to dismiss these accounts with skepticism but to listen openly, suggesting that 'reason' alone might not explain everything and that embracing the unknown can be thrilling.

Scientific Scrutiny and Speculation

Despite some intellectual circles attempting to dismiss the Bermuda Triangle as mere fantasy, the article points out that science is now seriously investigating other mysteries like the Loch Ness Monster and Bigfoot. It questions when the Bermuda Triangle will receive similar scientific attention. Geographically, the Bermuda Triangle is defined as a triangle with Bermuda at its apex and Puerto Rico and Norfolk, Virginia, forming the base angles. While disappearances have been reported in oceans worldwide, the concentration and regularity in this specific area are highlighted as particularly eerie.

The typical pattern of these disappearances involves no reported technical failures, no distress signals, and favorable weather conditions, leading to the question of what truly happens within the Triangle. Speculation is rife, and the article introduces Robert de la Parra, a 34-year-old sailor from New Jersey, who aims to find explanations by repeatedly sailing in these dangerous waters. De la Parra, an engineer and portrait painter, has spent considerable time researching the Triangle and believes he has a theory he wants to test, emphasizing his desire to survive and share his findings.

He points out that the Bermuda Triangle contains some of the deepest parts of the Atlantic Ocean, noting that a similarly deep and triangular area exists off the coast of Japan, though with fewer disappearances.

Theories of Underwater Vortices and Phantom Vessels

Robert de la Parra's theory suggests the existence of extremely strong underwater currents that create massive whirlpools on the surface, similar to the effect of draining a bathtub. He believes these powerful maelstroms are responsible for drawing ships and planes into a "great void." He speculates that the five planes that vanished during a 1945 exercise may have flown directly into such a vortex.

De la Parra recounts a personal, chilling experience from April 1972. While sailing with friends Bill Heinly and John de Cou off the coast of North Carolina, they encountered a large tanker that appeared to be heading directly towards their 36-foot sloop, "Spielkamrad." Despite their desperate attempts to avoid collision, the tanker seemed to pass right through them, vanishing silently without leaving any wake. De la Parra describes the lingering terror of this event and his determination to solve the Triangle's enigma.

The article also touches upon the "Blue Holes" around the Bahamas, described by divers as mysterious and dangerous underwater caves. These areas are linked to legends of monsters and devils, believed to be the cause of disappearances. The formation of these caves is attributed to the geological history of the region, with limestone cliffs rising from the sea and being shaped by ice ages and subsequent sea-level changes.

Encounters with Unidentified Objects and Phenomena

Louis Lento, a Florida resident, shares his experiences of seeing dark objects emerge from the water, making splashing sounds, and being too large to be identified as marine life. Andie Gorman, another diver, also speaks of seeing something repeatedly, hinting at a future explanation.

Lloyd Frederick recounts a bizarre experience in 1954 while serving on the destroyer "USS Murray." He witnessed a large object emitting a strong light hovering over the ship for several seconds before disappearing mysteriously. The crew was left stunned.

Jean Wingfield, described as a very factual woman, recounts an incident in October 1973 with her husband Lloyd. While sailing, they observed a smoke plume rising directly from the sea, about six nautical miles offshore. Upon investigation, they found a chimney-like structure emitting yellowish-red smoke rising from the water. Shortly after, they saw a helicopter crash, and the boat that had been near the structure vanished. They were hesitant to report it for fear of being considered crazy.

Lights, UFOs, and the 'Spinning Wheel'

Reports from three weather stations in the Soviet Union mentioned mysterious objects in space without explanation. Similarly, weather satellites over the Bermuda Triangle detected peculiar phenomena, with NASA employee Locke M Stuart initially mistaking white spots on his images for clouds. Wayne Meshejian, another expert, believes these are electromagnetic disturbances so powerful they affect satellites over 100 miles above Earth.

The article discusses the phenomenon of a "huge spinning wheel" observed on the seabed, first recorded in the logbook of the Danish steamship "Bintang" in 1909. The captain described a massive, spinning wheel with visible hub and spokes rising from the sea, accompanied by a bright light. Artist and philosopher Van Dercar recounts a similar experience with a Norwegian sailor, describing a giant wheel spinning on its axis with immense spokes. They felt exhausted afterward, and the sailor claimed to have experienced it before.

Ruby Yonge, a radio announcer, is convinced that UFOs are present in the Bermuda Triangle and are retrieving terrestrial beings out of curiosity, possibly from a sunken land like Atlantis, from which these craft launch.

Flying Submarines and the 'Witchcraft' Incident

The concept of "flying submarines" is introduced, suggesting that craft capable of operating in both air and water could explain the mysteries of the Bermuda Triangle. Researcher Ivan Sandersson theorizes that humanity may have originated underwater and that some individuals continue to live there.

The disappearance of the 23-foot cutter "Witchcraft" is detailed. The owner, Dan Burrack, called the Coast Guard after the boat sustained a minor hull impact, stating they were fine but requesting assistance. However, upon arrival, the "Witchcraft" had vanished without a trace, leaving no wreckage.

Conclusion and Recurring Themes

The issue concludes with a section titled "ETT ENORMT SNURRANDE HJUL" (A Huge Spinning Wheel) and "FLYGANDE UBÅTAR" (Flying Submarines), further exploring the strange phenomena. The article references Charles Berlitz's book "Bermudatriangeln" regarding light phenomena, where a pilot experienced his plane's instruments malfunctioning and wings emitting a blinding light.

The recurring themes throughout the issue are unexplained disappearances, mysterious lights, unidentified aerial and underwater objects, and the persistent human drive to understand the unknown. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards these phenomena, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional explanations and to acknowledge the existence of mysteries that defy current scientific understanding. The article emphasizes that the unknown is tangible and persistent, regardless of narrow-minded attitudes.