Kontakt Programmet - 1960 11

Magazine Overview

Title: Kontakt Programmet
Issue Date: November 1960
Publisher: S.U.F.O.I.
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of Kontakt Programmet, dated November 1960, features a prominent article titled 'Radicals of the Ridiculous' by Dr. Arthur Constance, exploring a range of philosophical, scientific, and societal topics through the lens of UFO phenomena.

Radicals of the Ridiculous by Dr. Arthur Constance

The article begins by questioning the adequacy of philosophical concepts like Plato's allegory of the cave in understanding human existence, suggesting that humanity lives within a very limited sphere of activity, both vertically and horizontally. Constance argues that our understanding of the universe is minuscule, comparing our achievements in space exploration to a flea's understanding of the human world.

He critically examines the claims of space exploration, particularly the 'conquest of space,' labeling it as wishful thinking. Constance details the immense cost and logistical challenges of building a spacecraft capable of traveling to the Moon and back, estimating it would cost hundreds of millions of kroner and require a vessel as large as an ocean liner. He expresses skepticism about the ability of humans to land on the Moon, survive its extreme temperatures, and return safely, suggesting that only a powerful explosion could propel a thousand-ton vessel into space.

Constance contrasts the public's fascination with space achievements, as reported by newspapers like the Daily Express, with the scientific community's rigorous demands for evidence when dealing with unexplained phenomena. He highlights the discrepancy in how the public and scientists approach different subjects, particularly UFOs.

The 'Planet' Controversy

The article dissects a Daily Express headline proclaiming 'England calls the sun,' referring to the launch of a 'baby-planet' into space. Constance argues that this object, weighing only 90 pounds and roughly the size of a beach ball, could not realistically be called a 'planet' when compared to celestial bodies weighing millions of tons. He points out the discrepancies in reporting, citing the Daily Telegraph's report that the Pioneer V probe had lost most of its initial velocity and was already far from Earth, questioning the 'planet' designation and its orbital status.

The Space Race and Militarism

Constance criticizes the 'space race' between the US and the Soviet Union, viewing it as a cover for a more dangerous militaristic arms race. He identifies 'Militarism' as the 'troll in the box,' a force that constantly builds up weaponry, potentially leading to the destruction of humanity. He notes the vast sums of money spent on armaments, with defense contractors profiting immensely, while the true cost and risk remain poorly understood.

He references a Daily Telegraph report from March 1960, detailing how UK taxpayers had to pay over 100 million pounds sterling more than initially estimated for their defense program, with one project's cost escalating by 1000 percent. The explanation provided was a lack of experience in producing guided missiles, a justification Constance finds inadequate.

Philosophical and Existential Reflections

Constance delves into broader philosophical and existential questions. He suggests that humanity's focus on material progress and scientific exploration has led to a loss of wonder and a disconnect from deeper truths. He posits that the universe, with its vastness and complexity, is inherently illogical and fantastical, and that true understanding lies in embracing paradox and self-contradiction.

He argues that many of humanity's pressing problems, such as overpopulation, crime, and traffic, are insoluble within the current materialistic framework. He suggests that even advancements in medical science will not overcome the fundamental reality of death.

UFOs and Religious Interpretation

A significant portion of the article explores the possibility that UFOs are piloted by beings that could be interpreted as angels. Constance suggests that a deeper understanding of the Bible and religious texts would be possible if UFOlogy were integrated into their interpretation. He points to numerous biblical references to intelligences far beyond human comprehension, arguing that these cannot be explained without considering the hypothesis of extraterrestrial or extradimensional visitors.

He challenges the reader to consider the implications if Christ's teachings about his return are not true, suggesting that such a view would necessitate seeing him as a deceiver. He implies that the visitors controlling UFOs might be the 'angels' mentioned in biblical prophecies about the end times.

Communism and Global Threats

Constance expresses concern about the threat of communism, viewing it as a greater danger than war itself. He quotes Khrushchev's statements about the unwavering commitment to Marxist-Leninist ideology and the goal of communist world domination. He criticizes the Soviet Union's own imperialistic expansion, listing several territories that have come under its influence.

He argues that the competition in space exploration between the US and the Soviet Union is a dangerous distraction from the true threat of militarism and the potential for a weapon capable of destroying cities using solar energy.

The Nature of Reality and Problem Solving

Constance concludes by emphasizing that humanity's current scientific approach, focused on three-dimensional logic and materialism, is insufficient to understand phenomena that may be ultra-dimensional. He believes that the key to solving all problems lies in accepting the paradoxical nature of truth and ultimately in recognizing God. He states that his own life's work has been dedicated to studying the fantastic, based on the conviction that truth is necessarily self-contradictory.

Call to Action

The issue includes a plea for readers to help spread knowledge about UFOs by distributing study booklets, books, and the UFO-NYT publication. It also encourages readers to solicit subscriptions, as increased interest and wider distribution contribute to economic balance.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the limitations of human knowledge and perception, the critique of unchecked militarism and political ideologies like communism, and the exploration of UFO phenomena through a philosophical and quasi-religious lens. The editorial stance, as presented by Dr. Arthur Constance, is one of profound skepticism towards conventional scientific and political narratives, advocating for a broader, more open-minded approach to understanding reality, including the possibility of non-human intelligences and the reinterpretation of religious concepts in light of modern phenomena.

This issue of UFO-NYT, dated January, is identified as Volume 1. The cover features a prominent "Obs!" headline, signaling important announcements within.

Editorial Announcements and Publication Changes

The main content of this issue focuses on significant changes to the publication's schedule and related publications. The editor, identified only as H. C., announces that the "Kontaktprogrammet" will conclude its 10-month run with this January issue. Furthermore, the publication "Kosmologi" will also cease to exist on April 1st, having been in circulation for one year. H. C. describes both "Kontaktprogrammet" and "Kosmologi" as experimental efforts that have provided a solid foundation for future endeavors.

A major change for UFO-NYT itself is announced: starting from January 1st, the magazine will be expanded by four pages. Additionally, the materials that were intended for the separate study booklets will now be incorporated into UFO-NYT. This consolidation aims to streamline content and reach a wider audience.

H. C. expresses deep gratitude to the readers for their interest and support. The editor concludes with a strong appeal for continued efforts to broaden the reach of UFO-NYT, emphasizing its importance with the statement, "It is very important—for you, for me, for all!"

Book Orders

The second page of the scanned document is dedicated to advertising available books for order. These include:

• Adamski's "Ombord i Rumskibene" (Onboard Spaceships) priced at 16.75 kr.
• Herman Hiemenz's "Jordiske flyvende tallerkener, Adamski og planeterne" (Earthly Flying Saucers, Adamski and the Planets), described as a "little masterpiece," priced at 3.80 kr.
• "TELEPATI" (Telepathy), priced at 7.00 kr.

The page also notes that reprints are forbidden, even in excerpts, and indicates that the printing was done by Rounborg Tryk-Skive.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the evolution and restructuring of UFO-related publications, specifically within the context of UFO-NYT and its associated projects. The editorial stance is one of gratitude towards the readership and a forward-looking approach, aiming to consolidate and expand the magazine's content and reach. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of disseminating information related to UFO phenomena and related topics, as highlighted by the concluding quote.