Svsvaren - 1981 No 4-5

Magazine Overview

Title: SVAVAREN
Issue: 4-5/81
Date: December 31, 1981
Publisher: UFO-CENTER, Karlskoga
Language: Swedish

This issue of SVAVAREN, the organ of UFO-CENTER, Karlskoga, presents a diverse range of topics centered around UFO phenomena, extraterrestrial possibilities, and advanced aerospace technology. The cover features a striking image of a comet, hinting at celestial wonders, and the main headline poses the question, "Does the flying saucer exist?"

Editorial: The Chairman's Word

The editorial, "The Chairman's Word," reflects on the ongoing mystery of UFOs as the year 1981 ends and 1982 begins. The editor ponders whether a special kind of perception or extra senses are required to be convinced of UFOs' existence, particularly if they are interpreted as craft from parallel universes, other times, or dimensions. The article questions the nature of these craft, noting their often 'earthly' characteristics despite their advanced capabilities. It speculates on whether such craft require beings of flesh and blood or more evolved, spiritual entities. The editor acknowledges that a significant percentage (10-15%) of UFO observations remain unexplained by known terrestrial phenomena, especially contact cases where communication with UFO occupants is reported. The piece also touches upon ancient myths, such as those of the Dogon people and the Sumerians, which describe beings from Sirius and the planet Nibiru, suggesting a long history of potential extraterrestrial interaction. The editor contrasts these with more sensationalized stories from the 1940s and 50s about human-like beings from Mars and Venus.

Project X-15

This section provides a detailed account of the experimental X-15 aircraft. It describes the aircraft's dimensions (48 meters long, 56.4 meters wide), its powerful engines, and its flight capabilities, including reaching speeds of 6,500 km/h and an altitude of 75,000 meters, entering the edge of space. The article highlights the rigorous testing and development process, involving NACA (later NASA), and the challenges faced, such as aerodynamic heating during re-entry, stability issues, and panel flutter. It mentions test pilot Joe Walker and his experiences. The X-15's role in advancing aeronautics and astronautics is emphasized, providing valuable data on high-speed flight, atmospheric re-entry, and pilot physiology.

UFO Over Cyprus

This article reports on an official communiqué from the government of Cyprus, dated December 13, 1979, confirming an unidentified flying object over the island on December 12, 1979. The report is based on credible witness testimonies from pilots of three foreign aircraft and one FN aircraft, who observed an object approximately 50 meters in size, moving slowly at an altitude of about 13,000 meters. The object was also detected by radar at Nicosia airport. The article notes that the Cypriot military has withheld specific data. It also mentions similar sightings in northeastern Greece and a detailed account of five luminous, saucer-shaped objects landing near hills in Catarachi, Greece, emitting intense pulsating light.

Night Watchman Kidnapped by UFO

This is a detailed report of an alleged close encounter and abduction case involving Fortunato Zanfretta, a night watchman in Marzano, Italy, on the night of December 6-7, 1978. Zanfretta reported seeing four white lights, which he initially mistook for burglars. His car's radio and lights suddenly failed. He then encountered a large, dark green head with luminous eyes and triangular pupils, described as being about 60 centimeters wide. Following this, he saw a large, triangular object resembling a "Chinese hat" ascend rapidly into the sky. Zanfretta was then physically pushed, lost consciousness, and was found by colleagues later. The incident is presented as a significant case of a third-degree encounter.

Other Content

• Cover Image Description: The cover features a photograph of Comet West, taken on March 6, 1976, outside Karlskoga, described as a large object majestically rising above the horizon.
• Inside Cover Content: A list of articles includes "Does the flying saucer exist?", "Project X-15", "UFO Over Cyprus", "Night Watchman Kidnapped by UFO", "Slagrutan Del 3", "More on Atlantis", "The Shadowy Snowman", "Alien Guide", "Life Force from Space", "Vigilant Eyes in Space", and "Cut & Paste".
• Advertisements: There are advertisements for CEDE-FOTO, offering slides, decals, emblems, films, photos, posters, and maps, particularly related to the Voyager 1+2 Saturn Encounter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of UFOs, the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation, and the exploration of advanced technology, both terrestrial (like the X-15) and potentially alien. The magazine adopts a stance of serious inquiry into these phenomena, presenting official reports, witness testimonies, and historical accounts. There is a clear interest in connecting modern UFO sightings with ancient myths and legends, suggesting a long-standing interaction between humanity and unknown intelligences. The editorial tone is one of open-minded investigation, acknowledging the unexplained aspects of UFO reports while also grounding some discussions in scientific and technological achievements. The magazine seems to aim at informing its readers about significant UFO cases and related scientific endeavors, encouraging critical thought and further research into these complex subjects. The inclusion of detailed technical articles like the one on the X-15 suggests an appreciation for human ingenuity alongside the fascination with the unknown.

This issue of "SVÄVAREN" (UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA) from April/May 1981 (Issue 4+5/81) features a prominent article on the Fortunato Zanfretta UFO case, alongside an in-depth exploration of dowsing and a discussion on the lost civilization of Atlantis.

The Fortunato Zanfretta Case

The issue begins by recounting the bewildering experience of Fortunato Zanfretta, who reported a 50-minute gap in his memory between 00:16 and 01:16 on the night of December 7, 1978. He had difficulty recalling how he got to a field and back to his house, a distance of 100 meters. While his car's lights and interior lights were on, the house door and garden gate were closed, contrary to his recollection. Unlike a previous break-in the year before, nothing was stolen from the house this time.

Investigators found large, horseshoe-shaped imprints on a field southeast of Zanfretta's villa. These imprints, measuring 15 centimeters wide and with diameters ranging from 2.5 to 8 meters, were photographed by Luciano Zeggio for "La Gazzetta del Lunedì" on December 9, 1978. A police investigation on December 7 also found a "horseshoe mark" on a small field northwest of the villa, with a circumference of about 2 meters. This imprint, not visible during the day, was reportedly still visible at night when illuminated, according to Carabinieri and Lieutenant Cassiba.

A light rain fell on Friday afternoon, December 8, and the imprint was photographed using infrared film. On the same afternoon, a pile of earth, seemingly newly made, was discovered in the kitchen garden south of the villa's corner where Zanfretta had his experience. The earth appeared to have been hastily dug. Notably, on the same Friday, an average radioactivity of 0.25 mR/h was detected between 15:30 and 16:45 in the western part of the property, near where Zanfretta claimed to have seen a large luminous triangle ascend to the zenith.

Interview with Fortunato Zanfretta

In an interview with FSR (Flying Saucer Review), Zanfretta, suffering from a headache and lack of sleep, struggled to describe the entity. He recalled a "shape" and a "large, spiky face" seen on four or five occasions when he woke up in fright. He mentioned a whistling sound as the object departed and denied hearing any "sand" sound when walking on it, only hearing it when it was already behind him.

When asked about physical contact, Zanfretta described hitting the entity with his head, a brief impact. He couldn't recall any smell. Despite the headache, which he attributed to stress, he reported experiencing other physical disturbances, particularly when trying to sleep, reliving the same scene repeatedly. He stated he preferred working to staying at home.

Two other individuals reportedly saw a "sort of triangle" around 9 PM, originating from a location several kilometers away towards Marzano.

Results of Hypnotic Regression

Under hypnosis, facilitated by psychoanalyst A. Massa and hypnotherapist G. Cesari, with the presence of physicist Dr. Ferraro, journalist R. Di Stefano, Lt. G. Cassiba, and Luciano Boccone, Zanfretta's account was largely confirmed. He described his experiences with significant emotional engagement, manifesting physical reactions during the trance, including gasping and head movements. His narrative under hypnosis filled in a 50-minute gap in his memory, detailing his abduction and examination by "kidnappers."

Zanfretta expressed intense fear of the "monster" and resisted being taken, but ultimately submitted to the beings' will. He described a feeling of being held in a form of "captivity" that prevented him from moving or seeing clearly, and that allowed for the transmission of thoughts or messages. He pleaded to go home and described the torture of the "thing on his head," the blinding light, and the intense heat.

The regression revealed his complete submission to the beings' will, a dependency he did not admit to while awake. The regression also suggested he was subjected to some form of communication. The description of the entity included a "large, thick, dark grey mass" and a face that caused him to panic. He described it as "like car tires," resembling the torso of a thick person bending and straightening, like waves. He compared it to the "Michelin Man," dark grey.

Scientific Perspectives and Dowsing

The magazine then shifts focus to the phenomenon of dowsing (slagruta). It notes that while many scientists have dismissed it, there are those who believe it works with high reliability. Early explanations in the 18th century attributed dowsing to involuntary muscle movements or mystical forces. Jesuit priest Athanarius Kircher suggested involuntary muscle movements, a concept that bears some resemblance to modern scientific ideas.

In the 19th century, two main lines of explanation emerged: spiritual and materialistic. The spiritual explanation aligned with phenomena like spiritualism and telepathy, while the materialistic approach was influenced by rapid technological advancements. Technician Reichenbach proposed the theory of "od" or "odkraften," suggesting the human nervous system emitted a weak light that could affect magnets, and this was applied to dowsing. However, this theory was short-lived.

In 1857, a French scientific committee concluded that dowsing movements were not due to physical forces but to psychic influences from the dowser. The article mentions the work of Mager, who proposed that every object has a characteristic "atomic energy" that causes dowsing rod movements. He believed these movements were caused by "antagonistic vortex movements."

Swedish mineralogist Wallerius suggested in the late 18th century that dowsing was either electrical or due to a "metallic vapor." In the early 20th century, experiments by professors like Svante Arrhenius failed to establish a link between dowsing and known water systems. Geologist Dr. B. Häggbom's attempts to locate minerals using dowsers also yielded poor results.

In 1921, an international dowsing conference concluded that dowsing had no practical value or reliability. However, modern researchers like Leif Engh believe dowsing works for finding water and metals, though he doesn't explain how. The magazine cites a 1980 experiment by the newspaper "Expressen" in collaboration with experts, which aimed to register medical changes in dowsers using EKG and EEG equipment. While no significant medical changes were observed, the dowsers' reactions to the dowsing rod were noted.

Gösta Persson of the Geological Survey of Sweden suggested that water-bearing zones, ores, and other geological features might create electrical and magnetic fields that influence dowsers, similar to how humans might possess a magnetic sense. Arne Groth and Inger Bonsdorff, who use dowsing, noted that headaches and sleep disturbances are common in people working or living over "störzoner" (disturbing zones).

The concept of "jordstrålning" (earth radiation) is introduced, with theories about "Hartmann squares" and "Curry squares" affecting human well-being negatively. It's suggested that proximity to these grid points, especially in conjunction with underground water sources, can increase the risk of diseases like cancer and rheumatism. A specific "rut system" with squares of 185 cm is also mentioned, where sensitive individuals might react physically.

The article also notes that a cone-shaped area in front of a TV screen can create a dowsing zone, indicating a disturbing influence. The fundamental question of why dowsing rods move remains largely unanswered, with current theories suggesting that passing over water veins, mineral deposits, or even a TV screen can trigger a "retzon" (trigger zone) that causes muscle and nerve reactions in sensitive individuals.

The Mystery of Atlantis

The final section of the magazine discusses the enduring mystery of Atlantis. It references previous articles in "SVÄVAREN" and acknowledges the vast amount of literature on the subject. A prominent theory presented is that the volcanic eruption of Santorini might have been a consequence of the major upheavals in the Atlantic during the catastrophe that sunk Atlantis. The article questions whether the island group of Santorini represents the remains of the mythical island of Atlantis, which is said to have sunk in a catastrophic event.

While Plato's writings have inspired much speculation, many researchers believe Atlantis was a real historical event. The location of Atlantis has been a subject of debate, with many initially considering the Atlantic Ocean. However, geological and geophysical research conducted in the mid-1980s suggests that the oldest sediment layers on the Atlantic seabed are tens of thousands of years old, making it unlikely for Atlantis to have existed there as described.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "SVÄVAREN" demonstrates a continued interest in unexplained phenomena, particularly UFO encounters and the Zanfretta case, which is presented with detailed accounts and investigative findings. The magazine also dedicates significant space to exploring fringe science and historical mysteries, such as dowsing and the legend of Atlantis. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and research findings, even those that challenge conventional scientific views, while acknowledging the ongoing debate and the need for further investigation. The inclusion of historical context and scientific perspectives, even on controversial topics, suggests an aim to inform and engage readers interested in the unexplained.

Title: UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA, SVÄVAREN 4+5/81
Issue Date: 1981
Publisher: UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Sväljaren, published by UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA, delves into several intriguing topics, primarily focusing on the potential location of Atlantis and the enduring mystery of the Yeti, alongside brief mentions of UFO phenomena.

The Atlantis-Santorini Connection

The magazine presents a compelling argument that the legendary lost continent of Atlantis was not located in the Atlantic Ocean, but rather in the Aegean Sea, specifically on the island of Santorini. The article begins by debunking the notion of Atlantis sinking 11,500 years ago, citing a lack of geological evidence for such an ancient, catastrophic volcanic eruption in the Atlantic.

It credits Alexander von Humboldt with first suggesting that Atlantis might be closer to the Greek mainland. The key evidence presented comes from the work of Greek archaeologist Spyridon Marinatos, who in 1939 excavated at Amnessos on Crete. He discovered ruins of a Bronze Age settlement, including villas, that were covered by a thick layer of pumice and ash. The puzzle was that Crete itself has no volcanoes. The article points to the volcanic island group of Santorini, located about 100 kilometers north of Crete, as the likely source.

Santorini, before a catastrophic eruption around 1500 BC, was a large volcano that erupted violently, causing it to collapse into the sea, forming a massive caldera. This event, comparable in its destructive power to the Krakatau eruption of 1883, is theorized to have caused immense tsunamis that devastated Crete and other nearby islands, destroying Minoan ports like Amnessos and its fleet.

The article further explores the connection through the writings of Platon, who based his account of Atlantis on the travels of Solon. It suggests that Solon may have misinterpreted Egyptian texts, mistaking 900 years for 9000 years, thus placing Atlantis's destruction much earlier than the Santorini event. The theory posits that Atlantis was composed of two parts, a larger and a smaller circular island, which aligns with the geographical relationship between Crete and Santorini.

The Mystery of the Yeti

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the phenomenon of the Yeti, or 'Abominable Snowman', featuring an article by Lord John Hunt, a renowned mountaineer. Hunt recounts his own experiences and observations, lending credence to the existence of this elusive creature.

Hunt describes the eerie atmosphere of the high mountains, where the presence of unknown beings seems plausible. He states that evidence from numerous observers is now 'irrefutable' and that belief in the Yeti is widespread. Reports of a human-like primate have been documented in the mountain ranges of China, the Soviet Union, the Himalayas, and even in Oregon and British Columbia, with striking similarities in descriptions despite geographical separation.

Hunt details his own encounters, including seeing large, oval footprints in the snow in Nepal in November, which he believes were not made by a bear or snow leopard, but by a bipedal creature. He also recounts hearing a Yeti-like cry, corroborated by his sherpa guides.

The article includes accounts from other mountaineers and researchers, such as Eric Shipton, John Jackson, and N.A. Tomba zi, who have also reported sightings and found footprints. The lama of Tengboche monastery is quoted describing an encounter with a Yeti. The article notes that while no definitive proof, such as a body or clear photograph, exists, the consistent reports and the conviction of local populations cannot be easily dismissed.

Other Content

The magazine also includes a section on book reviews, featuring "Planeten Sirius' Experiment" by Doris Lessing, "Pompeji - Livet och döden i en romersk stad" by Hans Furuhagen, and "I luften - Flygets årsbok 82".

Additionally, there is a brief report about Soviet scientists creating a cast of a large footprint in Central Asia, attributed to the 'terrible snowman'.

Finally, the issue includes a call to action for readers to renew their membership with UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA, emphasizing its importance and the value of receiving the publication.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores phenomena that lie on the fringes of conventional science and history, such as ancient civilizations (Atlantis), unexplained creatures (Yeti), and unidentified flying objects (implied by the publisher's name and the general theme of the publication). The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting theories and evidence that challenge mainstream explanations, while also encouraging reader engagement through membership and subscription.

The articles on Atlantis and the Yeti suggest a belief in the possibility of extraordinary events and beings that have shaped our past and continue to elude definitive scientific understanding. The inclusion of book reviews and the call for membership indicate an effort to foster a community of like-minded individuals interested in these subjects.

Title: ALIEN guide
Issue: 4+5/81
Date: Winter 1982 (VINTERDAG)
Publisher: UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA
Country: Sweden

Content Summary

This issue of ALIEN guide, dated Winter 1982, offers a diverse range of articles touching upon science fiction, extraterrestrial phenomena, and related cultural aspects. The magazine opens with a New Year's greeting and a humorous observation about human appearance from an alien perspective.

Science Fiction and Alien Sexuality

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to exploring sexuality within science fiction. The article "SEX INSTRUKTIONER FOR ICKETERRANER" (Sex Instructions for Non-Terrestrials) delves into the varied and often bizarre sexual behaviors depicted in science fiction worlds. It references works by authors like Kilgore Trout, specifically his book "Stjärnsnäckan" (Star Snail), and highlights fictional planets with unique inhabitants and mating rituals. The text satirically contrasts human societal structures with alien ones, using examples like the "Shalton" planet where inhabitants resemble cats and engage in constant sexual activity, and the "rökförbudsplaneten" (smoke-ban planet) with pyramid-shaped beings. Another planet, "Lalorlong," features inhabitants resembling tires with complex internal systems. The article also touches upon how science fiction themes, including sexuality, have been explored in publications like Playboy, referencing an Isaac Asimov story.

Film Reviews and Space Exploration

The magazine features reviews and discussions of science fiction films and related media. "Outland-Rymdstation Jupiter" (Outland-Space Station Jupiter) reviews the film starring Sean Connery, describing its plot as a space-western about a sheriff investigating deaths on a mining base on Jupiter's moon Io. The review praises the film's suspense, cinematography, and performances.

Another section, "Hallå Jorden" (Hello Earth), discusses the "Battlestar Galactica" franchise, mentioning the upcoming third part of the series. It notes that while the US has a TV series, Europe has adapted it into films.

The "Filmbitten" section highlights the film "Outland" again, detailing its plot and Sean Connery's performance.

Space Phenomena and Origins of Life

"Livsfrö frånrymden" (Life's Seed from Space) explores the theory that life may have originated in comet cores. It discusses research from the University of Massachusetts that supports the idea that complex organic molecules could form in cometary ice, and that life on Earth might have been seeded by comets billions of years ago. The article also touches upon the role of supernova explosions in the early solar system and the Oort Cloud's cometary population.

Satellite Surveillance and Geopolitics

"Vakande ögon i rymden" (Watching Eyes in Space) discusses the use of satellites for surveillance of crisis areas. It provides examples from South Africa (1977), Cyprus (1974), and Poland (1981), highlighting the roles of American Big Bird and Russian Cosmos satellites, as well as the KH-11 (Key Hole) satellite with its real-time imaging capabilities. The article contrasts the quality and quantity of satellites used by the USA and the Soviet Union.

Cryptids and Unexplained Phenomena

"Klippt & Skuret" (Cut & Paste) is a section featuring various short news items. One article, "Snömannen rövade bort 19-åring" (Snowman Abducted 19-year-old), discusses the possibility of Yetis abducting people in Kashmir, citing an expert named Brian Samelovich Askhenazi. Another item, "Rymdskrotet växande hot" (Space Debris Growing Threat), reports on the increasing problem of space debris and its potential impact on projects like the space shuttle.

Miscellaneous Articles

"Flygande tefat över Landvetter" (Flying Saucer over Landvetter) reports a sighting of a UFO at Landvetter airport. "Missnöjd med robot" (Dissatisfied with Robot) tells of Peter Gabriel suing an electronics firm over a malfunctioning robot. "Mink dök upp ur toaletten" (Mink Appeared in the Toilet) is a humorous anecdote about a mink found in a toilet. "Spåintresset ökar under svåra tider" (Interest in Fortune-Telling Increases During Difficult Times) discusses the rise in popularity of astrology and fortune-telling, mentioning a product called "astrologen Vesas spålek" (Astrologer Vesa's Fortune-Telling Game). "Då månen blev ett rött lock" (When the Moon Became a Red Lid) describes a lunar eclipse. "DNA-struktur låter datorn laga sig själv" (DNA Structure Lets Computer Repair Itself) discusses the development of biological computers using synthetic proteins. Finally, "Den ödlan går det inte att springa ifrån..." (That Lizard, You Can't Run Away From It...) reports on the discovery of fossilized footprints in Texas suggesting that some dinosaurs could run at speeds up to 42.8 km/h.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unknown, science fiction, and the potential for extraterrestrial life and phenomena. There is a clear interest in speculative fiction, film, and scientific theories related to space and origins of life. The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity and open-mindedness, often presenting information with a blend of serious reporting, satire, and a touch of sensationalism, particularly in the "Klippt & Skuret" section. The magazine aims to inform and entertain its readers about the frontiers of science, imagination, and unexplained events.

This issue, dated December 13, 1981, from UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA, titled 'Världens' (The World's), focuses on a variety of intriguing topics ranging from paleontology and cryptozoology to astronomy and scientific controversies.

Ancient Mysteries and Discoveries

Dinosaur Fossils in England The magazine reports on enormous dinosaur fossils found in the sandstone near Swanage, on England's south coast. Some scientists interpret these findings as evidence that giant lizards, similar to how elephants behave today, were drawn to the same location when they were near death. The footprints, found in multiple layers, suggest this 'death march' occurred over millions of years. The location, likely a bay now, is speculated to be where these creatures met their end, as no bone remains have been found. Understanding why they died could shed light on how these dominant creatures vanished 60 million years ago. Fossilized bones have also been found under Trafalgar Square in London.

The Kongo Brontosaurus Sighting A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to an American expedition to the People's Republic of Kongo in Central Africa. Expedition leader Herman Regusters and his team claim to have sighted a brontosaurus-like creature on three separate occasions. The sightings occurred at Telesjön in the interior of Kongo. The creature reportedly raised its snake-like head and long neck from the water early in the morning, moved a hundred meters into the lake, and then submerged. The animal was described as smaller than an elephant but larger than a hippopotamus, with dark brown, oily skin. A photograph was promised, though noted to be of poor quality due to dim lighting conditions on October 29th. The report notes skepticism from scientists, as dinosaurs are believed to have been extinct for 65 million years, and the survival of such a large creature undetected would be highly improbable. The article also mentions persistent reports of such a creature in Central Africa since the 1700s, with local populations giving it a name meaning 'the creature that eats palm crowns'. Other comparisons are made to the Loch Ness Monster and the Yeti.

Scientific Advancements and Controversies

USA's Giant Radiotelescope Project American astronomers propose a project to turn the entire USA into a giant radiotelescope. By deploying ten identical parabolic antennas at regular intervals, astronomers could distinguish much smaller radio sources in the sky than currently possible. The principle relies on the varying time it takes for radio waves from a galactic source to reach different antennas, creating interference patterns that reveal the source's angular position. While the method is old, the novelty lies in using identical antennas for direct comparison, avoiding the complex data processing of previous systems.

Wind Power Noise Pollution The world's largest wind turbine in Boone, North Carolina, is causing significant noise pollution. The turbine is restricted from operating during mornings, evenings, and weekends until the noise issues are resolved. The low-frequency sound generated is inaudible, but it causes vibrations in windows, coffee cups, and other objects. Efforts are underway by the US Department of Energy, General Electric, and NASA to find solutions, including replacing the steel propeller with a fiberglass one and reducing the rotation speed.

No Life on Mars American and Chinese researchers have concluded that searching for life on Mars is futile. After recreating Mars' polar environment in laboratories, they found that all forms of organic chemical compounds are destroyed by the intense solar radiation, which is rich in ultraviolet rays, and the presence of oxygen and sand. The sand acts as a catalyst in this destructive process, which occurs across the entire Martian surface. Previous findings from the Viking I and II missions in 1976 had not detected life, but speculation continued about potential life in polar regions or deep underground.

Turin Shroud Forgery Claim American scientist Walter McCrone claims that the Turin Shroud, which bears an imprint of a crucified man, is a forgery. He asserts that the imprint consists of iron oxide, or rust, rather than blood. McCrone, a chemist, demands scientific dating of the relic, which is housed above the altar in Turin Cathedral. He estimates the shroud to have been created around 1365 AD. McCrone previously gained recognition for proving that a pre-Columbian map of Vinland was a forgery due to the presence of titanium oxide, a compound not used until 1920.

Other Items

Antarctic Ice-Free Lake Exploration American and Soviet scientists are set to jointly explore a mysterious ice-free lake discovered in the Antarctic pack ice, identified via satellite imagery. The expedition, using a Soviet icebreaker, is expected to last two months and aims to understand how such a large body of water can form within the unbroken Antarctic ice sheet, with the likely cause being upwelling of warm water from the depths. The polynya's impact on climate and wildlife is of significant interest.

Satellite Distress Signals Sweden has expressed interest in a French-Canadian-American project called Sarsat (Search And Rescue Satellite-Aided Tracking). This initiative will equip Tiros-N type satellites to receive distress signals from traditional emergency beacons operating on 121.5 and 245 MHz, as well as a new type on 406 MHz. The system automatically determines the transmitter's position and alerts the relevant rescue organization. Rymdbolaget (the Swedish Space Corporation) is involved in monitoring the project's development and identifying potential Swedish experimental needs.

New Year's Greetings The issue includes a section of New Year's greetings, featuring humorous cards from UFO enthusiasts. One card humorously addresses military personnel for their ability to ignore UFO phenomena, and another is directed at FOA (Swedish Defence Research Agency) for their consistent explanations of UFO sightings. Other greetings touch on the desire for surprises in the coming year, a playful suggestion to upgrade to a push-button telephone, and a humorous take on 'gadget mania'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, scientific mysteries, and technological advancements. There's a clear interest in UFOs and related topics, as evidenced by the publisher and the inclusion of UFO-themed New Year's cards. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the unknown, balanced with reporting on scientific findings and controversies. The inclusion of diverse topics like dinosaurs, space exploration, and historical artifact analysis suggests a broad scope of interest within the paranormal and scientific communities.