Mir neizvedannogo - No 02 and 03 - 1991

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Mir neizvedannogo" (World of the Unknown), a science-popular publication from SibNIC AYa and the Center for Professional Development of Journalists, dated 1991, delves into a range of anomalous and unexplained phenomena. The cover features a stark black and white photograph of a lone figure in a snowy landscape, hinting at mystery and the unknown. The magazine's title, "Мир неизведанного," is prominently displayed, setting the tone for the content within.

Articles and Features

"On the Path to Unraveling Mysteries" by Yu. Pokholkov

Yu. Pokholkov, professor and rector of Tomsk Polytechnic Institute and scientific director of SibNIC AYa, introduces the issue by discussing phenomena that are often considered anomalous because they are at the early stages of scientific understanding. He notes that new ideas typically go through three stages: disbelief, partial acceptance, and eventual understanding. He highlights phenomena like extrasensory perception and cosmophysical interactions as examples that have lingered in the 'anomalous' category for a long time. Pokholkov also details the founding of SibNIC AYa in July 1990, stemming from a Tomsk research group established in 1983, and acknowledges the contributions of various scientists and academics in the field.

"The Great Russian Cosmologist" by A. Moskovchenko

This article focuses on Sergey Yesenin, not just as a poet but as a thinker who significantly contributed to Russian cosmism. It discusses his 1918 theoretical work "Keys to Maria," which explored the connection between humanity and the cosmos. Yesenin believed in universal symbolic systems and the ancient ancestors' quest for cosmic secrets. The article also touches upon his poem "Song of Bread," which critiques humanity's spiritual decline and its destructive relationship with nature. It links Yesenin's ideas to those of V.I. Vernadsky and K.E. Tsiolkovsky, particularly the concept of "autotrophic humanity" – a future where humans are independent of living matter and can directly access cosmic energy.

"Dowsing" by I. Lozovsky

I. Lozovsky, a senior researcher at Tomsk Polytechnic Institute, discusses dowsing (rabdomantia), an ancient practice of locating water and mineral deposits using a forked stick. The article traces the history of dowsing from ancient Rome through the Middle Ages, when practitioners were often persecuted, to the 19th century when it began to attract scientific interest. It mentions early studies in Germany and France, noting that while the practice was confirmed, a scientific explanation remained elusive. The article highlights the importance of the dowser's personal sensitivity and mentions ongoing research in this field at Tomsk Polytechnic Institute, led by Professor A.G. Bakirov.

"Attention: Geopathogenic Zones!"

This section addresses the issue of geopathogenic zones within homes that can be harmful to health. It mentions a public discussion on Tomsk television where a citizen inquired about where to seek help for identifying such zones. The article directs readers to SibNIC AYa, where certified specialists can perform this work for a fee, mentioning Professor A.G. Bakirov as a contact person.

"News of Medicine"

• This section presents several brief reports on medical innovations:
• "Method for Determining Hypnotizability": An invention from Ukraine that uses a thermochromic indicator on the palm to assess susceptibility to hypnosis.
• Original Test for Senile Dementia: A US-developed olfactory test that identifies the inability of individuals with dementia to perceive certain smells.
• "Stereophonic Music": A Romanian invention allowing doctors to listen to heart tones and lung sounds stereophonically for more precise diagnosis.
• Allergies and Headaches: Reports that electromagnetic radiation, even from electronic watches, can cause various health issues.
• "Tears Believe": A new high-sensitivity device developed in the US that measures alcohol content by analyzing alcohol vapor in tears, rather than breath.

"Not Mysticism, Not a Dream" by V. Loginov

This report covers a meeting of the Tomsk Association for Anomalous Phenomena (TGI AYa) on January 5th. The author focuses on a presentation by A.D. Serdtsev of the "Sozidanie" cooperative from Alma-Ata, who demonstrated "cosmodules." These modules, presented as simple black circles on white paper, reportedly induced physical sensations and interactions when users placed their hands over them. The article describes the experience of touching a cosmodul as causing a burning sensation and mentions the concept of "feedback" between the person, the module, and the cosmos. It also notes that a methodological guide on this topic by V.D. Shakaev is forthcoming.

"Knowing Yourself - Knowing the World" by V. Loginov

This article features interviews with individuals involved in researching anomalous phenomena. Participants discuss their motivations, ranging from curiosity and fear to a belief in the unexplained. M.I. Turkin expresses a desire to prepare for potential contact with extraterrestrial beings but doubts humanity's readiness. V.I. Savelyev, a student, has been attending meetings for months and believes in the existence of UFOs. N.M. Ryzhkov affirms his belief in UFOs and notes the recent public attention to bioenergetics, influenced by figures like Dzhuna and Kashpirovsky. V. Solovyev emphasizes the need for proof and understanding before accepting such phenomena. Colonel V. Tsygankov expresses both excitement and apprehension about witnessing UFOs. The report also mentions a presentation by Larisa Yurievna Gerikh about a conference on UFOs in Frunze, which discussed the hypothesis of "chrono-wells" (communication points between Earth and other worlds). The article concludes by mentioning a contactee who could diagnose illnesses in minutes and a seven-year-old boy with similar abilities.

"Magical Circles in the Zhiguli" by N. Novgorodov

N. Novgorodov, a senior researcher at SibNIC AYa, recounts an experience in the Zhiguli region where he and his family encountered numerous crop circles in a wheat field. He describes the circles' sizes, shapes, and the way the wheat was laid down, often in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction, with radial patterns at the edges. Some circles featured swirling centers, while others had standing wheat tufts or bare ground. He notes observations of animal tracks and deformed plants, including stalks bent in a sinusoidal pattern. The article also mentions the absence of compass deviations and stable radio reception within the circles. It touches upon the reactions of individuals, including one person experiencing heart palpitations and another feeling "energy" from the plants. The author explores possible explanations, including atmospheric vortices, UFO landings, and even supernatural causes, referencing similar incidents reported in UFO literature from France, Australia, and England.

"The Law of Global Impact?" by K. Chernoschekov

K. Chernoschekov, an assistant professor at TMI, discusses A.L. Chizhevsky's hypothesis from the 1930s linking the cyclical nature of infectious diseases to solar activity and sunspots. The article notes that over 50 years later, this connection remains unproven but that epidemiological observations suggest a link. It describes research in magnetobiology, particularly experiments involving microorganisms exposed to artificial magnetic fields. The author highlights a new methodology developed at Tomsk's Military Medical Faculty in 1983, which involves exposing microbes to conditions of "constant hunger" (using artesian water or saline solution) and varying geomagnetic fields to better study their responses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science and the unexplained, presenting research and anecdotal evidence on topics ranging from UFOs and crop circles to parapsychology and alternative medicine. There is a clear editorial stance favoring the scientific investigation of anomalous phenomena, even those that challenge conventional understanding. The publication aims to bridge the gap between popular interest and scientific inquiry, encouraging rigorous methodology while acknowledging the existence of phenomena that currently defy easy explanation. The recurring theme is the exploration of the unknown, both in the external world and within human consciousness, with a particular focus on research originating from or related to the Tomsk region and Siberia.

This issue of "Nauka i Tekhnika Molodezhi" (Science and Technology for Youth), dated October 1991, delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, scientific hypotheses, and anecdotal reports. The cover headline, "НЕИЗВЕСТНОЕ. ЗАГАДОЧНОЕ. ТАИНСТВЕННОЕ." (Unknown. Mysterious. Mysterious.), sets the tone for an exploration of topics ranging from the influence of geomagnetic fields on life to the nature of UFOs and the peculiar properties of crystals and ants.

Geomagnetic Fields and Microorganisms

The issue begins with an article by an unnamed author detailing experiments conducted daily or every other day since October 1983, monitoring the reactions of microorganisms to geomagnetic fields (GMF). The findings suggest that GMF directly influences the ecology of microorganisms and, consequently, the epidemiological process. Results showed that microbial populations in external environments (rivers, lakes, wells) are governed by GMF. During geomagnetic disturbances of 4-8 points, microbial populations were likely to perish within 1-3 days. Conversely, if experiments began on calm days or if not all populations perished during disturbances, reproduction stimulation and population increases occurred within 1-2 days. The article highlights that the lifespan of microorganisms is significantly affected by GMF, with calm periods favoring the death of cells, especially pathogenic bacteria. The author posits that GMF has a direct, not indirect, influence on microbial ecology and the spread of diseases. A surprising confirmation of A.L. Chizhevsky's ideas from 50 years prior is noted, specifically regarding changes in microbial virulence. The research suggests that during geomagnetic disturbances, a portion of microbial cells can transform into different ecological forms or even new species within the same family, a phenomenon described as a "mutational leap" or spontaneous mutation. Examples include the appearance of enteropathogenic E. coli and other bacteria during geomagnetic storms, linking this to the prevalence of waterborne diseases like typhoid fever, especially in rural areas with well water. The article also mentions that a geomagnetic storm in November 1989 transformed pathogenic typhoid and dysentery microbes into non-pathogenic E. coli, suggesting nature's role in improving the ecological situation. Geomagnetic disturbances in September 1990 also contributed to the transition of pathogenic bacteria to non-pathogenic alkali-producers. The transformation of microbes is accompanied by changes in biochemical traits, antigenic structure, and cultural properties, with new traits being heritable. The authors acknowledge that genetic engineering has not yet reached the sophistication of natural processes and that mutations, previously considered random errors, may have underlying causes. The article concludes by proposing a "Law of global influence of helio-geophysical factors on the ecology of microorganisms and the epidemic process."

Crystals and UFOs

An article by S. Rudnev, a senior researcher at the Tomsk Polytechnic Institute, titled "CRYSTAL AND UFO," explores the connection between ancient teachings about crystals and modern ideas about UFOs. Rudnev discusses how crystals have been associated with magical properties throughout history. He introduces the concept of "homology of crystals" developed by V.V. Mikheev, which posits that natural crystals are not perfectly symmetrical and can be described as "slightly asymmetric." K.I. Chepizhny further developed this by creating "dynamic models" of crystals that can be "turned inside out" without losing their form, a property previously observed only in mathematics and biology (like sea sponges). These dynamic models, based on the Fibonacci sequence and the golden ratio, are seen as bridging the gap between living and non-living matter. The author suggests that the remarkable shape-changing abilities of these crystal models resemble the transformations observed in UFOs. Rudnev argues that while UFOs are not crystals, the underlying structural principles governing both familiar objects and anomalous phenomena might be related to crystallographic symmetry groups. He emphasizes that understanding anomalous phenomena requires recognizing that their essence, like all natural phenomena, is interconnected with our familiar reality.

Ball Lightning: Who Are You?

An article by E. Protasevich, a leading researcher at SibNITS AY, titled "Ball Lightning, Who Are You?" examines the phenomenon of ball lightning (BL). The author notes that BL has been described as "unknown, mysterious, and enigmatic" even in modern scientific literature. Despite a large public interest, scientific efforts to explain BL are considered modest. The article cites numerous eyewitness accounts and material evidence (scorched objects, burns) that contradict skeptical explanations, such as optical illusions caused by retinal fatigue. Statistics suggest BL most often appears during thunderstorms, following linear lightning strikes (70-95% of cases). Its frequency varies with terrain, being higher in mountainous regions like the Gorny Altai compared to flat areas. The article also presents an account of BL appearing indoors during winter, attributed to electrical discharge from a high-voltage trolley antenna in a refrigerated train car, suggesting that conditions similar to thunderstorms (ionized air and high humidity) can lead to its formation. The author dismisses the idea that BL is a result of human activity or pollution, linking it to atmospheric electricity. The appearance of BL shows a cycle of approximately 15 years, exceeding the solar activity cycle, but aligning with longer climate cycles. The article then delves into the physical nature of BL, proposing that the initial condition for its appearance is the ionization of moist air. The author discusses experiments involving high-frequency fields that showed the concentration of water molecules and plasma density are key parameters. Chemical transformations are seen as a consequence, not a cause, of BL. The cooling effect of water vapor on plasma is highlighted, leading to a significant drop in temperature and increased plasma concentration. The article proposes a hypothesis that during the ionization of moist air, plasma cools, and energy is stored in water molecules. This cooling is uneven, leading to compression by surrounding air. When these processes occur under specific conditions (duration of processes shorter than plasma recombination time, high concentration), attractive forces prevent the plasma formation from disintegrating. The energy released upon BL explosion is attributed to energy stored on the Earth's surface from charged clouds. The article concludes that further research is needed to understand the properties of plasma in such a state.

Other Sightings

Several short accounts of unusual sightings are included:

• "They Saw It Too" by A. Inyuhin: Describes a spindle-shaped cloud that descended, stopped over a building, and then flew away at high speed, changing into a toroidal shape. Other witnesses also reported seeing the object.
• "Maybe It's a UFO?" by A. Petrov: An observer camping in August 1988 witnessed a bright object in the sky that grew to the size of the moon, then an enormous ball that filled half the sky, causing a rustling sound in the leaves and a sudden drop in temperature before disappearing. The next morning, the area was covered in frost.
• "It Calls Me" by A. Petrov: During a thunderstorm in August 1985, a pulsating light source appeared in the sky, growing in size and intensity before disappearing. The next day, the area where the phenomenon was observed was covered in frost.
• "Spot" by an unnamed author: In August 1976, a witness reported seeing an indistinct "spot" that caused a feeling of heaviness and seemed to pass through a wall. Another person in the same dwelling also experienced this.
• "Cigaroid" over Leningrad: In September 1979, a cigar-shaped object, estimated to be 40 meters long and 4 meters high, with illuminated windows, was observed hovering over a church. It moved rapidly and disappeared, coinciding with a power outage at a nearby substation.

Ants: Extra-Sensory

An article by F. Bakht, chairman of the Krasnoyarsk branch of SibNITS AY, titled "ANTS: EXTRA-SENSORY," discusses the magnetic properties of ant nests. Bakht notes that ant nest domes exhibit a noticeable magnetic susceptibility, which is unusual for organic matter. This magnetism is attributed to the ants' selective extraction and placement of magnetic minerals (magnetite, martite, etc.) from the soil into their nests. These minerals are not distributed randomly but form ordered patterns, like cellular and spiral structures, throughout the entire depth of the nest. The magnetic susceptibility increases from northwest to southeast. The author questions why ants would expend such effort to collect and arrange these minerals, suggesting it might be related to the specific properties of these minerals and the ants' ability to perceive and react to external stimuli. The article also references the work of entomologist Pavel Iustinovich Marikovsky, who noted the ants' ability to instantly react to changes in their environment. Bakht proposes that ant nests might function as a unique thermostat with specific physical fields (thermal, magnetic, possibly radioactive) and suggests that ants, like other highly organized animals, may possess a capacity for "field exchange of information." The author concludes that studying the physical characteristics and geometry of ant nests could provide insights into biomonitoring and ecology.

Living Water vs. Dead Water

An article titled "LIVING WATER AGAINST DEAD WATER" by V. Zhuravlev discusses the problem of alcoholism in the Soviet Union and the search for solutions. It references Ivan Efremov's science fiction novel "The Bay of Rainbow Streams," which touches upon a legendary "tree of life" that could produce a miraculous, healing drink. The article contrasts this concept of "living water" with "dead water" (alcohol), suggesting that while science has explored many substances, a dedicated field of study for tonics and health-promoting beverages is lacking. The author laments that the idea of "living water" has not received the same research attention as, for example, diamond extraction. The article also touches upon the role of media, like television and literature, in portraying alcohol consumption and its potential influence on youth. It questions whether a "dry law" is the solution or if it would merely compromise the idea of universal sobriety. The author notes that while science has explored various plants with medicinal properties (like ginseng), the understanding of "living water" remains largely in the realm of legend and folklore.

Entering the Poltergeist

This section features an article about E.E. Berezikov, who published accounts of unexplained phenomena in the journal "Zvezda Vostoka." Berezikov, a former party official, claims to have had experiences with "the other side" since childhood, including visions of a shamaness and a holy man. He describes receiving "unusual energy" that allowed him to perceive reality differently and reduce his need for food. Berezikov connects his experiences to the philosophy of Nicholas Roerich and believes in the immortality of the soul and the existence of a "substance" that is more highly organized than humans. He recounts an encounter with a figure he believes was Roerich, who seemingly materialized a painting. Berezikov also describes an experience in a hospital ward where a luminous, bluish entity watched over him for three days, seemingly fighting for his life. He believes this entity is a guardian of his soul. Berezikov's interest in the supernatural grows, and he claims to gain instant information about people he meets. The article suggests that these experiences, like UFO encounters, leave no tangible evidence, making them difficult to prove scientifically.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of science, unexplained phenomena, and anecdotal evidence. There's a recurring theme of seeking rational explanations for anomalous events, whether through scientific experimentation (geomagnetic fields, ball lightning) or by re-examining established scientific paradigms (crystal structures, ant behavior). The magazine presents a mix of scientific inquiry and eyewitness accounts, often highlighting the limitations of current scientific understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards the unexplained, encouraging further research and investigation into phenomena that challenge conventional scientific views. The inclusion of diverse topics like alcoholism and the legend of "living water" suggests a broader interest in human well-being and the potential for nature or unknown forces to provide solutions.

This issue of the magazine, identified by its issue number "21" and a cover headline that reads "And in all other respects a normal child," delves into various aspects of the paranormal, spirituality, and ufology. The content appears to be primarily in Russian, as indicated by the original language.

Article: E.E. Berezikov and Cosmic Consciousness

The main article discusses the experiences of E.E. Berezikov, who claims to have access to a universal 'computer' or 'memory bank of the Universe' through a channel of cosmic energy. He believes that to access this channel, one needs to possess the appropriate bio- or cosmic energy and be permitted by Higher Beings. Berezikov recounts visions and encounters with historical figures like Stalin, Lenin, and Brezhnev, as well as a mysterious stranger in the mountains. This stranger emphasized that the secrets of the universe are to be found on Earth and within oneself, stating that the human soul is a part of the 'Spirit of Nature.' The stranger also warned Berezikov about the dangers of spiritual emptiness and the importance of seeking knowledge through one's soul.

Berezikov also describes an encounter with a 'lady in a white shroud,' which he interpreted as a symbol of nature's tragic premonition regarding humanity's spiritual and physical division. He posits that humanity has disrupted the natural order by separating the spiritual from the material, leading to a disharmony that prevents individuals from fulfilling their true purpose. He likens humans to microcosms of nature, capable of both perfection and self-destruction.

Further elaborating on his theories, Berezikov discusses a 'cursed place' where accidents frequently occur. He attributes this to the residual cosmic energy of two individuals who committed suicide there, whose negative energy affects drivers. He distinguishes between 'white' energy (good) and 'black' energy (evil), suggesting that individuals can emit either. Berezikov also extends this concept to healers, asserting that they do not solely use their own energy but tap into a cosmic energy channel. The effectiveness and nature of this connection depend on the individual's organism, energy, and belief. He raises concerns about whether healers are channeling 'white' or 'black' energy and questions the entities acting through them.

Berezikov recounts a negative experience with a 'black' adept, which left him feeling spiritually empty. He argues that positive energy never harms, and the negative outcomes in some healing practices are undesirable. He suggests that in this era, where the 'World Substance' has transformed, a 'satanic force' can possess individuals, explaining the actions of figures like Stalin, Hitler, and Pol Pot, who he believes were influenced by lower-order forces.

He concludes that the key to understanding the universe lies within humans, who are cosmic beings with multiple bodies. The soul, he explains, is the cosmic channel and the 'Bank of Memory of the Universe.' Human evolution and understanding of the universe are achieved through moral self-improvement. The purer and more spiritual a person is, the deeper their connection to the cosmos. This connection is natural and cannot be achieved through artificial means.

Berezikov's life purpose shifted towards understanding the целесообразность (expediency/purposefulness) of social existence and evolution. He emphasizes the importance of doing good, as 'good-doing' is the sole path to understanding the universe and accumulating one's potential.

Finally, Berezikov describes a vision of Jesus Christ after the resurrection. Christ reportedly told his followers that the true war would be within themselves, against the 'opposite spirit' they had internalized. He predicted a long period of struggle and stated that humanity, like all beings, originates from and returns to distant worlds, with humans eventually becoming 'sons of another planet or universe' after all lower life forms have departed.

The article is accompanied by a commentary from G. Gorchakov, who views Berezikov's accounts as further evidence of our multidimensional world and its deep connections to the 'father-Cosmos.' Gorchakov suggests that Berezikov's writings can help readers expand their understanding of the universe, humanity, and our place within it, potentially inspiring spiritual self-improvement and a path of service to evolution.

Article: "Black Hole" (Dream Sequence)

This section features a narrative titled "Black Hole," written by Vladimir Shkalikov. It recounts a dream experienced by a child named Olya. After hearing a story about black holes from her grandfather, Olya dreams she is flying among stars. She attempts to reach a bright star, which grows larger and then extinguishes, leaving behind a black hole. Olya falls into this hole, finding herself in complete darkness and fear. Suddenly, music plays, and she sees a globe, similar to one belonging to a character named Evgeniy. A star flies around the globe, reminiscent of the TV program "Vremya." Olya realizes the star did not go out but fell from its place. She tries to catch it, but it flies beyond the globe, and she begins to fall again, this time towards Earth, waking up as she hits the floor.

Profile: Dmitry Lyashko

This section introduces Dmitry Lyashko, a 10-year-old boy who has been practicing diagnosing and healing with biofields for two years. He attributes his abilities to his mother, who also practices healing. Despite his unusual abilities, Dmitry is described as a normal child who attends a regular school and struggles with mathematics. He also attends an 'extrasensory school' on Saturdays. The profile highlights his unique gift while emphasizing his otherwise ordinary childhood.

Announcements and Sections

The issue also includes several announcements and dedicated sections:

• Regional Conference in Yaroslavl: An association called "Vera" and the "Fourth Dimension" ufology newspaper are organizing a regional conference on UFO problems from April 19-21, 1991. Topics include the development of ufology in the USSR and abroad, non-traditional methods of space-time travel, material traces of UFOs, contact problems, instrumentation, paleoastronautics, safety in ufology, and philosophical aspects of UFO research.
• Regional Conference in Rostov-on-Don: The Rostov regional branch of VNTORЭС named after A.S. Popov, in collaboration with the All-Union centers "Radzhas" and "ENIOMDON," is holding a conference on "Ufobioenergoinformation" from May 30 to June 1, 1991. The conference will cover philosophical and methodological issues of energy-information connections, physical fields of biological objects, methodological and instrumental support for research, the current state of research in anomalous phenomena and ufology, and the use of energy-information connections in medicine.
• Advertising Bureau "MN": This section announces a planned seminar in the second or third quarter of 1991 on "Objective Methods for Studying UFO Traces." The seminar will cover various types of sensors and detectors, including radio-technical, capacitive, resistive, optical, and combined devices, as well as methods for investigating soil anomalies, vegetation, and microorganisms. A methodology for studying UFO traces is also being published.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of the unknown, the nature of consciousness, the existence of cosmic energy, and the potential for human spiritual evolution. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded stance towards paranormal phenomena, UFOs, and alternative healing methods, encouraging readers to question materialistic and dogmatic views. The editorial stance seems to be one of promoting spiritual growth, self-discovery, and a broader understanding of humanity's place in the cosmos. The inclusion of a child's dream and a profile of a young healer suggests an interest in how these concepts manifest in younger generations.