ParaGalaXicon - No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: ParaGalaXicon
Issue: 2
Volume: 2
Date: December 17, 2011
Publisher: UFO klub Zlín

This issue of ParaGalaXicon, an e-zin from UFO klub Zlín, presents a diverse collection of articles exploring mysteries, paranormal phenomena, and ufological topics. The editorial, penned by editor-in-chief Petr Pika, acknowledges the modest reception of the first issue and outlines the content of the second, thanking the contributors for their efforts.

Featured Articles

Záhadný páter Pius (The Mysterious Father Pius)

This article by Karel Kýr details the life and phenomena associated with Father Pius (born Francesco Forgione), a Capuchin friar who received stigmata on September 20, 1918. The wounds, located on his hands, feet, and side, bled continuously for fifty years. Doctor Alois Romanelli, the chief physician at the hospital in Barletta, studied the wounds and concluded they were not ordinary surgical injuries, stating their origin was unknown to him. The article recounts Father Pius's experience of receiving the stigmata, describing it as a moment of profound peace and a mysterious encounter. It also highlights his alleged healing abilities and bilocation, including a notable incident where he is said to have appeared to General Luigi Cadorna during World War I to prevent his suicide. The article mentions that Pope John Paul II reportedly predicted his own future papacy to Father Pius. His funeral in 1968 was attended by 100,000 people.

Zázrak v Lurdech vytvořil nový loketní kloub (Miracle in Lourdes Created a New Elbow Joint)

Authored by Karel Kýr, this piece recounts the story of Francouz Jouhaud, a former drawing teacher from Paris who was an atheist. After a severe accident in March 1952, his elbow joint was permanently damaged and surgically removed. Despite this, Jouhaud maintained his disbelief in God. In the summer of 1954, he visited Lourdes, where he experienced a spiritual renewal. Upon his return, his elbow joint had miraculously regenerated, becoming fully functional. The article notes that X-rays taken before and after the operation are available as proof. Frank J. Jones, a British psychiatrist and writer, is cited in his book 'Miraculous Coincidences' regarding this case. Jouhaud reportedly used his new joint until his death in 1988 at the age of 85. His last words, written on a blackboard, were "There is no God other than the knowledge of oneself..."

Kartářka (Fortune Teller)

This article, written by the magazine's author, describes a visit to a fortune teller. The author recounts his long-standing curiosity and eventual decision to consult a fortune teller named Mrs. Č. He describes the fortune teller's home as cozy and old-fashioned, dispelling stereotypes of dark, mystical settings. During the reading, Mrs. Č. made several predictions, including that the author would live past ninety, was currently studying, and might receive financial assistance. She also warned him to be careful with his mobile phone and money, and advised caution regarding lending money. The author notes that some of her predictions, such as being careful about cycling at night without lights, were accurate. The article suggests that while skepticism towards fortune-telling exists, some individuals are respected for their perceived abilities.

Prehistorické sošky NOMOLI (Prehistoric NOMOLI Statues)

Michaela Volná contributes an article about the prehistoric NOMOLI statues, described as 'mysterious witnesses of the mythical past'.

Rozhovor s Michaelou Volnou (Interview with Michaela Volná)

Petr Pika conducts an interview with Michaela Volná.

Titanic se vrací do budoucnosti (Titanic Returns to the Future)

This article by Martin explores themes related to the Titanic and its connection to the future.

Existence života ve vesmíru (Existence of Life in the Universe)

Authored by Čičina, this piece discusses the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

Bitva radarových signálů (Battle of Radar Signals)

Karel Kýr writes about a phenomenon involving radar signals.

Pohled z druhé strany - PYRAMIDY (View from the Other Side - PYRAMIDS)

Robert Wankes offers a perspective on pyramids.

Ufologický minitest a ufologická křížovka (Ufological Mini-test and Ufological Crossword)

Petr Pika presents a mini-test and a crossword puzzle related to ufology.

Recenze DVD „Alien Invasion“ (2011) (DVD Review "Alien Invasion" (2011))

Robert Wankes reviews the DVD "Alien Invasion".

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, historical mysteries, and paranormal events, with a particular focus on ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting accounts of alleged miracles, unexplained occurrences, and speculative theories without overt skepticism, while also acknowledging the need for critical examination (as seen in the fortune-telling article). The inclusion of a DVD review and ufological puzzles suggests an aim to engage readers with various facets of the paranormal and mystery genre.

This issue of ParaGalaXicon, dated 2012, delves into themes of the paranormal, psychic phenomena, and ancient mysteries. The magazine features personal accounts, investigative reports, and discussions on unexplained events and artifacts.

Article 1: Psychic Reading

The issue begins with a personal narrative of a visit to a fortune teller, referred to as Paní Č. The author describes his experience with 'Gypsy cards' and tarot, receiving predictions about his future. The reading indicated travel, a new relationship with a girl who owns a house, and a warning about a potential thief, possibly encountered on public transport. The cards also suggested success in studies, specifically mentioning the possibility of passing exams and completing school, with the caveat that a job as a phone operator, while providing income, was not a long-term career aspiration. The fortune teller also interpreted cards related to a friend's potential partner, accurately describing characteristics and relationships based on photographs and phone numbers.

Paní Č. also engaged in a form of numerology, interpreting phone numbers to describe individuals. She accurately characterized people based on their numbers, even when presented with a recently stolen phone number alongside a new one for the same person, noting similarities in the descriptions despite not recognizing they belonged to the same individual. The reading concluded with predictions about attending a wedding as a witness by the end of the year or before Easter.

Article 2: The Mothman Legend

This section investigates the enduring legend of the Mothman, focusing on sightings in West Virginia during 1966 and 1967. The article recounts the initial sighting on November 12, 1966, near Clendenin, where five gravediggers observed a winged creature descending from a tree, described as a 'brown man with wings.' Subsequent reports emerged, including a six-foot-tall winged entity seen by a doctor's wife in Ohio. A more detailed encounter occurred on November 15, 1966, in the TNT area near Point Pleasant, where two couples were reportedly chased by a creature with red eyes and a three-meter wingspan. The article notes the creature's speed and its ability to keep pace with a car traveling over 150 km/h. The sheriff's investigation of the TNT area revealed no immediate clues, though his vehicle's radio emitted unusual sounds.

Another significant event described is the encounter of Marcella Bennetová and her infant daughter with a figure with glowing red eyes in the TNT area in December 1966, which caused Bennetová to faint and later seek psychiatric help. The article mentions that the Mothman sightings were followed by various official explanations, including a rare species of crane, and speculation about extraterrestrial origins. The physical description consistently included red eyes and a height exceeding the average human. The article also notes that the collapse of the Silver Bridge on December 15, 1967, which killed 46 people, was later interpreted by some as a foreboding event linked to the Mothman sightings. The phenomenon of UFO sightings and related articles in the local newspaper, the Messenger, also attracted attention from individuals in black cloaks.

Article 3: The Nomoli Statues

This article explores the mysterious Nomoli statues, ancient artifacts found in Sierra Leone, West Africa. These figures are linked to the mythology of the Mende people, who believe they are fallen angels transformed into stone by Allah. The Nomoli are described as clay figurines, some of which are housed in museums in Paris and London. They vary in size from ten to forty centimeters and are made from sandstone, soapstone, or granite. Their features often correspond to the Mende style, depicting human and animal figures, sometimes with fantastical beings. Many figures are described as standing or squatting, with a beard supported by hands, large mouths, and prominent eagle-like noses. The Mende people venerate these statues as protectors of their fields, offering sacrifices to them and ritually whipping them if the harvest is poor. The name 'Nomoli' is noted to be similar to 'Nommo,' a god of life in the Dogon pantheon.

The dating of these prehistoric finds is challenging, with scientific studies suggesting ages ranging from 2,500 to 17,000 years. One artifact, dated using C14 analysis, was found to be approximately 2,470 years old. The oldest discovered figurine, estimated at 17,000 years old, produced a rattling sound when moved, revealing a cavity containing a metal ball made of chrome and steel. The presence of such advanced metallurgy in prehistoric times is questioned, with skeptics suggesting the ball might be a later addition. However, the discoverers insist the sound was present upon finding the statue in a diamond mine 50 meters deep.

Recent analyses have detected traces of iridium in the Nomoli statues, an element rarely found on Earth except in meteorite impact craters, further fueling theories about their extraterrestrial or cosmic origins. The article concludes by posing questions about the true nature of these ancient figures, whether they are fallen angels or remnants of an unknown African culture, and what insights they hold about our own history.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of the unexplained, the intersection of mythology and physical evidence, and the enduring power of legends. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded yet critical stance, presenting accounts of psychic phenomena, cryptid sightings, and archaeological anomalies while also acknowledging the need for scientific analysis and questioning the origins of these mysteries. The editorial stance encourages readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional explanations and to ponder the deeper meanings behind these enigmatic occurrences.

Title: ParaGalaXicon
Issue: 2
Volume: 2012
Publisher: UFO klubu Zlín
Country: Czech Republic
Language: Czech

This issue of ParaGalaXicon, published in 2012, features a cover story that is an interview with Michaela Volná, exploring her fascination with mysteries. The magazine also includes articles on the Titanic disaster, the existence of life in the universe, and a historical account of a mysterious naval event during World War II.

Interview with Michaela Volná

Michaela Volná discusses her journey into the world of mysteries, which began about six years prior to the interview with books on UFOs and ancient astronauts. She found that the study of mysteries broadens horizons and encourages critical thinking, making ordinary phenomena seem extraordinary. Her primary interest lies in archeoastronautics, which she describes as a global adventure, exploring ancient sites like Tikal and Mohenjo-daro. While she previously explored ufology, she found it too saturated with disinformation. Volná dedicates significant time to her studies but stays updated on the field by reading relevant books and magazines, and contributes articles to online platforms and club publications.

She believes that the study of mysteries fills a void where mainstream science avoids difficult questions, encouraging the exploration of hypotheses that scientists might dismiss. She hopes for greater cooperation between mainstream experts and those in the field of mysteries. Her inspiration for writing comes spontaneously, but she also consults websites like world-mysteries.com when needed. Her goal is to continue writing and potentially give thematic lectures.

Titanic: Returning to the Future

This article explores the sinking of the Titanic, presenting it not just as a maritime disaster but as a series of uncanny coincidences and premonitions. It highlights the captain, Mr. Smith, having previously been involved in a collision with the Olympic, another ship in the same class. The article mentions a fire in the fifth compartment of the Titanic and doubts about the strength of its steel plates, even from the designer. The central mystery is the discovery, 50 years later, of a book published 14 years before the Titanic's maiden voyage that described a ship named 'Titan' sinking after hitting an iceberg, with remarkably similar details to the actual disaster.

Further investigation revealed that the 3rd-class passengers were effectively trapped due to barred exits. The article speculates on the possibility of a future ship named 'Meganic,' designed to be unsinkable, and contrasts this with the past, suggesting that the Titanic's sinking might have been influenced by a cosmic traveler or asteroid.

Existence of Life in the Universe

This article delves into the scientific and philosophical questions surrounding the existence of intelligent life beyond Earth. It acknowledges that the universe contains the necessary elements for organic life but notes that the probability of the spontaneous origin of even the simplest life forms is mathematically very low. The text references ancient philosophers like Epicurus and Lucretius, who proposed the existence of numerous inhabited worlds.

Astronomers have long studied planets in our solar system and beyond, seeking conditions similar to Earth. The article suggests that while the probability of life arising randomly is low, the sheer vastness of the universe makes its existence elsewhere highly probable. It discusses the search for extraterrestrial signals using radio telescopes and the challenges posed by interstellar distances. The author posits that if life exists on Earth, it is logical to assume its existence elsewhere, given the diverse conditions that can support life. The article concludes that despite scientific progress, no conclusive evidence of extraterrestrial life has yet been found.

The Battle of the Radar Signals

This piece recounts a mysterious naval event during World War II, known as 'The Battle of the Blips.' On July 25, 1943, near the Aleutian Islands, US Navy radars detected seven unidentified vessels approaching. The American fleet opened fire, expending significant ammunition, but the targets disappeared from radar screens. The next day, seven similar signals reappeared, and again the American forces fired, but the targets vanished once more. Post-war analysis revealed that the Japanese naval forces were not in that area at the time. The author, Ernst Mackelburg, dismisses the idea of a simple radar malfunction, as all ships detected the signals simultaneously. Mark Gardner proposed a hypothesis that the signals might have represented a fleet of 'ghost ships' from the past or future, whose radar signatures were distorted by temporal anomalies, making them appear on radar but rendering them invulnerable to attack.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of mystery, the unexplained, and alternative theories, particularly in the realms of archeoastronautics, ufology, and historical enigmas. The editorial stance appears to be open to investigating phenomena that lie outside conventional scientific understanding, encouraging critical thinking and the exploration of various hypotheses. The inclusion of historical accounts, interviews, and speculative articles suggests a commitment to engaging readers with intriguing and often controversial topics.

This issue of ParaGalaXicon, dated 2012, focuses on alternative perspectives regarding the Egyptian pyramids, exploring theories that link their construction to advanced ancient civilizations like Atlantis and extraterrestrial influences. The magazine questions the traditional narrative, proposing deeper reasons and unknown technologies behind these monumental structures.

The Pyramids: Beyond the 'How'

The lead article challenges the common question of 'how' the pyramids were built, shifting focus to 'why'. It argues that the immense resources required for such projects could not have been solely commanded by a pharaoh's whim. Instead, it suggests that powerful advisors, possibly priests holding ancient knowledge, played a crucial role. The author posits that the pharaoh might have been a figurehead, with real power residing with these advisors.

The article delves into speculative historical timelines, referencing the legend of Atlantis and its advanced, possibly extraterrestrial-influenced, society. It suggests that a cataclysm in Atlantis around 15,000 BC led to the migration of Atlanteans, some of whom may have settled in Egypt and influenced its development. This theory attempts to explain the advanced technology and knowledge seemingly possessed by the ancient Egyptians, citing the Sphinx and mythical creatures like the Sfinga (part lion, part eagle, part human, part lion) as potential evidence of Atlantean genetic experiments.

The Purpose of the Pyramids

Further speculation centers on the true purpose of the pyramids, particularly the Great Pyramid of Giza (Cheops' pyramid). While acknowledging its dimensions and astronomical alignment, the author suggests its primary function was not merely a tomb. Instead, it is proposed that the pyramid's unique properties—its mass, materials, and potential electromagnetic characteristics (especially if covered in gold plates as speculated)—were designed to facilitate a profound spiritual experience for initiates. Adepts, after proper preparation, might have achieved a 'divine consciousness' within the pyramid, undergoing a transformation into a 'superhuman' being. Another theory suggests that hidden within the pyramids are records containing the knowledge of extraterrestrials and Atlanteans, possibly even their cosmic address.

UFOlogický Minitest

Following the main articles, the magazine presents a lighthearted 'UFOlogický Minitest' (UFO Minitest). This section is divided into three parts: 'Easy Start', 'Medium Caliber', and 'Heavy Caliber', with a total of nine questions designed to test the reader's knowledge about UFO phenomena, historical sightings, and related projects.

Results of the Minitest

The 'Výsledek minitestu' (Minitest Results) section provides a scoring system based on how many questions the reader had to look up. It categorizes knowledge levels from 'average' to 'excellent' and encourages those with lower scores to study the UFO phenomenon further.

Soutěžní křížovka (Crossword Puzzle)

Another interactive element is the 'Soutěžní křížovka' (Competition Crossword). Readers are invited to find a 10-letter word related to 'zahadologie' (fringe science/mystery studies) within the puzzle. The winner will be chosen by lottery from those who submit the correct answer. The magazine hints at the possibility of a year-long competition if this format proves popular.

DVD Review: Alien Invasion (2011)

This section features a review of the documentary 'Invaze mimozemšťanů / Alien Invasion' (2011). The documentary is described as a speculative exploration of how humanity might react to an alien invasion. It combines documentary footage, dramatic reenactments, and expert opinions, including those from military and scientific circles, to present a scenario where the US government has contingency plans for such an event.

The review outlines the plot of the documentary: the detection of an alien vessel, failed communication attempts, the disabling of global communication, and the subsequent invasion by robotic soldiers and advanced aircraft. It details the overwhelming military defeat, the consideration of nuclear weapons, and the eventual retreat of the alien forces after suffering unexpected losses from a human resistance movement using primitive tactics and balloons. The documentary concludes with a grim outlook, estimating that only 20-30% of the human population might survive.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the mysteries of ancient civilizations, particularly the Egyptian pyramids, and the phenomenon of UFOs and extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to favor alternative, speculative theories over conventional explanations, encouraging readers to question established narratives and explore fringe science. The inclusion of interactive elements like quizzes and crosswords suggests an aim to engage the readership in these topics in a participatory manner. The magazine also acknowledges the importance of copyright, stating that all materials are protected by author's law.