AFU 19680000 Vimana no 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of VIMANA, a Finnish-language member magazine published quarterly by Interplanetistit ry (Interplanetisterna rf), is dated 1968. The magazine's stated purpose is to study and disseminate information about 'flying saucers.' The editor-in-chief is Aili Nurmiaho, and the editorial secretary is P. Teerikorpi. The annual membership fee is 10 Finnish marks, and the organization has local clubs in Jyväskylä, Kotka, Lappeenranta, Pori, and Seinäjoki.

UFO Research and International Cooperation

The magazine emphasizes the serious approach taken by the Colorado Project at the University of Colorado towards the UFO question, as highlighted in a TV program. It mentions interviews with key figures like Dr. Edward U. Condon, Dr. J. Allen Hynek, and Dr. James McDonald, all of whom acknowledged the reality of the UFO enigma. The article notes that the Colorado Project's funding had been doubled, extending its research beyond the initial timeframe. The issue also promises to cover UFO news from the Soviet Union.

Finnish Contribution to UFO Research

The article poses the question of how individuals and organizations in Finland can contribute to international UFO research. It suggests that while definitive analysis requires specialized research centers, Finnish organizations can play a crucial role in collecting and archiving UFO reports, and relaying reliable information to international bodies. The focus for Finnish researchers should be on collecting detailed reports of close encounters and 'UFO-flaps' (sudden increases in sightings). The magazine appeals for volunteers to assist in documenting and investigating local UFO sightings.

Soviet UFO Activity

This section details the Soviet Union's engagement with UFO research. It reports that in November 1965, The Times noted the USSR's initiation of UFO studies, with a leading article suggesting that the Soviets would not have formed a committee to investigate them without a rational explanation. The Soviet UFO research committee is reportedly headed by Air Force General Anatoli Stolyerov and includes scientists, a cosmonaut, and 18 astronomers. The committee aims to recruit 200 skilled observers across the country, with particular interest in reports from the Caucasus, Urals, and Central Asia. The article references articles published in Soviet magazines like Smena and Sputnik, which have discussed UFO phenomena. It cites specific cases reported by Soviet scientists:

• L. Tsekhanovich, an astronomer and geodesist, reported a disk-shaped object making a lightning-fast dash near Novy Afon in Abkhazia on September 24, 1965.
• V. Krylov, a geophysicist, observed a similar object with a complex flight path over Elista in the North Caucasus in June 1966.
• V. Akkuratov, an experienced pilot in Arctic regions, has reported multiple UFO sightings.
• In 1967, reports of flying saucers came from Soviet Baltic republics, Gorki, Kharkov, and Murmansk.

Tri Zigel's writings are presented as reflecting an open-minded approach to UFOs and emphasizing the importance of international cooperation. The article also references a Sputnik article that included observations from astronomers at the Ogren observatory in Latvia on August 26, 1965. They described a bright, lens-shaped object approximately 100 meters in diameter, with a central bulge and three smaller spheres rotating around it. The entire system appeared to move away from Earth.

International UFO Cases and Physiological Effects

This section delves into specific UFO incidents from outside the Soviet Union, with a particular focus on potential physiological effects on witnesses.

Brazilian Sightings

• Montes Claros, Brazil (August 17, 1965): A 32-year-old bank clerk, Filomeno Bida de Oliveira, reported observing a hovering disk-shaped object near his fishing location. The object emitted a humming sound and exhibited unusual movements, including descending and ascending. Oliveira experienced a rapid heartbeat and involuntary urination. Dr. W. Buhler, who investigated the case, noted that Oliveira appeared calm and curious, suggesting the physiological reactions were likely due to an unknown electromagnetic or ultrasonic effect rather than fear.
• Rio Pardo, Brazil (June 1959): Two hunters observed a large, orange, flying saucer, estimated to be 60 meters in diameter, hovering over a river. They described a metallic surface, lights, and a cylindrical underside. The object's proximity caused a sudden and unnatural silence in the surrounding jungle, which the hunters found deeply unsettling.

Other International Cases

• Onnaing, France (September 10, 1954): The case of Marius Dewilde is mentioned, who reported seeing a disk and small beings and experienced a similar involuntary bladder emptying, suggesting a common factor with the Oliveira case.
• Kelly-Hopkinsville 'Peck' case: This case is referenced in relation to physiological effects, with a medical expert noting a witness's heart rate of 140 beats per minute.

UFOs and Their Effects

Gordon Creighton's article, "Mysterious Physiological Effects Caused by Flying Saucers," is summarized. It discusses the case of Oliveira and the potential physiological impacts of UFO encounters, including heart palpitations and involuntary bodily functions. The article also touches upon the silence observed in nature during the Rio Pardo sighting, suggesting it might be related to electromagnetic radiation.

Finnish Public Opinion on Flying Saucers

This section presents the results of a survey conducted in Finland regarding beliefs in flying saucers and extraterrestrial life. A Gallup poll in the USA in 1966 indicated that 46% of Americans believed in flying saucers, with about 6 million being sure they came from other planets, and over 5 million claiming to have seen one.

In Finland, several small-scale surveys were conducted in Lappeenranta, Luumäki, and Jyväskylä among telephone subscribers. Although this sample is not fully representative of the entire population, it provides some insights.

Key findings from the Finnish survey include:

• Belief in Extraterrestrial Life: Question 10 revealed that 16% of respondents were sure of human-like life elsewhere in the universe, and 58% considered it highly probable.
• Nature of UFOs: When asked about the nature of UFOs (Question 14), 14% believed they were purely imagination, 25% attributed them to natural phenomena like weather balloons or meteorites, 8% suggested they were secret military devices, and 35% considered them to be unknown natural phenomena or potentially extraterrestrial craft.
• Personal Sightings: Regarding personal sightings (Question 15), 10% of respondents claimed to have seen a UFO or unexplained aerial phenomenon.
• Belief in Origin: A significant finding was from Question 14, where 35% of respondents believed that flying saucers originated from other planets. This implies that at least one in five Finns surveyed believed that Earth is visited by craft from other worlds.
• Demographics: The survey suggested that beliefs about flying saucers were not significantly influenced by factors such as gender, profession, education, political opinion, or wealth, indicating a unifying aspect of this belief across different demographics.
• Interest in Space: Question 8 showed a high level of interest in space-related topics, with 13% being "very interested" and 67% being "somewhat interested."

The article concludes by emphasizing the need for more extensive and scientifically rigorous studies across Finland to gain a more accurate understanding of public attitudes towards flying saucers. It invites interested individuals to contact the author for further research collaboration.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the serious study of UFO phenomena, encouraging both individual and collective efforts in data collection and analysis. It highlights international research initiatives and presents a range of eyewitness accounts and scientific perspectives. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the possibility of extraterrestrial origins for some phenomena. The magazine also aims to gauge and inform the Finnish public about UFOs and related topics, fostering a sense of shared interest and potential for international cooperation in this field.

This issue of the magazine, titled "UFO-ILMION TUTKIMUKSESTA" (On the Investigation of the UFO Phenomenon), presents a multifaceted exploration of unidentified flying objects. It features an excerpt from tri Olavo T. Fontes's article "A suggested scientific investigation of the UFO phenomenon" from Flying Saucer Review 6/67, alongside other articles and discussions.

Analysis of UFO Sightings: Subjective vs. Objective Phenomena

The lead article, "UFO-ILMION TUTKIMUKSESTA," begins by noting the increase in UFO reports, particularly those involving low-altitude sightings and landings. It posits that conventional explanations like misinterpretations of atmospheric phenomena or celestial events are insufficient for such cases. The author presents two primary possibilities: a subjective, psychological phenomenon or a physical, material object with unknown characteristics. The reliability of witness testimonies is asserted, leaving little room for doubt about the reports themselves.

Psychological Explanations: Hallucinations and Stress Reactions

The article delves into the psychological aspect, considering the possibility of UFOs being a rare form of hallucination. It outlines four characteristics of "transient situational personality disorders" that could manifest as such reactions: occurring in stressful situations independent of personality, being acute and rapid, being temporary, and not being linked to prior personality disorders. These are framed as stress and adaptation reactions to overwhelming situations, where individuals have a "breaking point."

However, the author, as a psychologist, finds it difficult to conceive of a stress situation that would induce a "UFO hallucination" unless the stimulus itself, the UFO, is the cause. This leads back to the acceptance of a physical object causing the stress. The article dismisses the idea of "collective UFO hallucinations" as unscientific, arguing that different individuals react differently to stress, making a shared hallucination improbable unless it's a case of mass suggestion or self-hypnosis, which is deemed unlikely in spontaneous UFO sightings.

The Case for Physical Objects

The text strongly suggests that the existence of a physical object is the more plausible explanation. It points out that phenomena like electromagnetic effects, physical traces on the ground, or radar and photographic evidence cannot be explained by hallucinations, as these leave tangible evidence.

A Specific Case: The Cordoba Incident

A detailed account from the Diario de Cordoba (May 1, 1957) describes an encounter by a man near Cordoba, Argentina. His motorcycle stalled, and he observed a large disk-shaped object hovering nearby. The object descended, and a being emerged, inviting the terrified man aboard. The alien, described as about 5'8" with a diver-like suit, gently guided the man into a lift and then into a cabin within the craft. Inside, he saw several screens and beings dressed similarly to his guide. The cabin was lit by a soft, phosphorescent glow. After a brief tour, he was returned to the ground. The article notes that the UFO was later sighted in several other locations around Cordoba that same morning.

UFOs and Mythology: Ancient Parallels

Another section explores the connection between UFOs and ancient myths and legends. Lucius Farish's article, originally published in Flying Saucer Review 6/65, suggests that many myths from indigenous cultures contain elements that could be interpreted as references to flying objects. Examples include the "sky spirit" Aisemid from Native American lore, who carried a small, mysterious object and could appear or disappear at will. The author also references M. K. Jessup's theories about "little people" and mentions legends of beings from the sky, such as the Puluga god of the Andaman Islanders and the "Storm Child" of the Crows, whose arrival was heralded by dark clouds and who descended with two long arms. The text also touches upon the concept of virgin births in various mythologies, suggesting a potential link to extraterrestrial origins.

Further mythological parallels are drawn from Native American traditions, including the concept of sky beings, the story of Hiawatha and his "magic canoe" that moved without visible propulsion and ascended into the sky, and the Nootka tribe's legends of beings arriving from the sky. The article highlights how many creation myths involve beings descending from the heavens and returning, often associated with advanced knowledge or abilities.

Scientific Perspectives and Challenges

Professor J. Allen Hynek, Chairman of Astronomy at Dearborn Observatory, contributes an excerpt from the preface of "Challenge to Science: The UFO Enigma." He acknowledges that while much UFO reporting is noise and misinterpretation, there is a "signal" within the "chaff" that warrants scientific investigation. He likens it to Madame Curie isolating radium from tons of pitchblende, emphasizing that even a small amount of significant data can be world-changing. Hynek notes that many scientists, despite their initial skepticism, become convinced of the phenomenon's reality after examining the evidence. He argues that the UFO phenomenon presents a scientific challenge, whether its explanation is physical or psychological.

The article also discusses the difficulty of getting scientists to seriously investigate UFO reports, citing their reluctance to be associated with what is often perceived as fringe science. It suggests that the global nature of UFO sightings might warrant investigation under the auspices of the United Nations.

Flying Saucer Review Highlights

Brief summaries of articles from Flying Saucer Review are included. One discusses the widespread belief in UFO sightings in the USA, mentioning studies by the Air Force and Colorado. Another article, "A Visit to Valensole," recounts the experience of editors Charles Bowen and Aimé Michel visiting Maurice Masse, a witness to a significant UFO event in 1965. Masse reportedly withheld some details, stating that he could not explain certain aspects and that others would need to experience it themselves to understand. The article notes Masse's assertion that the beings he encountered were not "evil" and did not force him, contrasting this with the Barney and Betty Hill case.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the dichotomy between psychological and physical explanations for UFO phenomena, the search for scientific validation, and the exploration of historical and mythological connections. The editorial stance appears to favor a serious, scientific approach to the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging the validity of witness testimony while critically examining potential explanations. There is a clear indication that the magazine believes the phenomenon warrants rigorous investigation and cannot be dismissed outright as mere fantasy or delusion.

Title: VIMANA
Issue: 6/67
Publisher: The Finnish Interplanetist Society
Country: Finland
Language: Finnish

This issue of VIMANA magazine, dated 6/67, delves into various aspects of UFO research, with a particular focus on distinguishing potential UFO sightings from known aerial phenomena like satellites. It also explores forward-thinking concepts in artificial intelligence and exobiology.

Identifying Satellites vs. UFOs

The article "SATELLIITIT JA UFOt" (Satellites and UFOs) by R. A. Jahn addresses the challenge UFO researchers face in eliminating artificial satellites as explanations for sightings. Since October 1957, with the launch of Sputnik, numerous satellites have been launched, making identification complex. Jahn provides criteria to help differentiate satellites from potential UFOs:

• Appearance: Satellites appear as points of light, reflecting sunlight. They are typically white, though atmospheric refraction can cause a reddish hue near the horizon. They are not visible in daylight and only become apparent after sunset or before sunrise, at least half an hour before or after.
• Movement: Satellites move in a specific direction, following a predictable arc across the sky. They do not dart, hover erratically, or make sudden sharp turns. They usually rise from one horizon, reach their apex, and descend to the opposite horizon. They can suddenly appear or disappear if they pass through Earth's shadow.
• Duration: The time a satellite takes to cross the sky can vary significantly, from 30 minutes to 30 seconds. Most are launched in a west-to-east trajectory, but those on retrograde orbits take at least 10 minutes.
• Information Sources: In England, information on satellites is available from Slough's Radio and Space Research Station, which provides forecasts for skilled observers. Daily newspapers also publish satellite observation times for specific satellites like Echo I, Echo II, and Pageos A.
• Destruction: Information on satellite re-entry and destruction is rare and usually reported by newspapers. If unsure, one should contact radio and space research stations.

UFO Cases and Observations

The magazine reviews several UFO-related cases and observations:

• Winterfold Sighting: This case, occurring on the night of November 13, 1967, is noted for a strong, unpleasant odor, described as similar to rotten eggs (hydrogen sulfide). This odor is a recurring feature in some UFO reports, such as the Flatwoods incident in the USA on September 12, 1952.
• Finnish Farmhouse Encounter: In January 1967, five local residents in Finland discovered a small, bearded man in an empty farmhouse. He resembled the description from the Maurice Masse case but had a beard. Attempts to capture him were thwarted by an unseen force, and he escaped through a window.
• Ohio Contact: John A. Keel reports on an unusual encounter on July 18, 1967, in Boardman, Ohio, where Reverend Anthony De Polo witnessed a glowing entity dressed in a 'spacesuit.' Keel's article, "An Unusual Contact From Ohio," is mentioned.
• Alex Birch Photograph: A photograph taken by 14-year-old Alex Birch in Mosborough, England, in February-March 1962, shows flying objects above his garden. This photograph is used to illustrate the book "Lentävät lautaset" (Flying Saucers, Fact and Theory) by K. Gösta Rehn.

Exobiology and Artificial Intelligence

Maxwell Cade, a scientific advisor to Flying Saucer Review, is featured for his book "Other Worlds Than Ours." The review highlights Cade's exploration of exobiology – the study of life beyond Earth. A significant aspect of his work, as presented in the magazine, is the concept of mechanical life or machine communities existing alongside or in place of biological life.

Cade suggests that mechanical evolution is a possibility, and that machines could potentially develop intelligence and consciousness. He discusses the potential for machines to think, learn, and even create, challenging the notion that only biological entities can possess these qualities. He outlines three key abilities for future intelligent machines:

1. Breaking Tradition: The ability to discard existing programming and seek new, original ways of using information and learning from experience.
2. Flexibility in Data Acquisition: Machines should be able to process information more like biological senses, rather than relying solely on rigid data input methods.
3. Performance Recognition: An intelligent machine must be able to discern when its output is truly excellent, distinguishing high-quality work from mediocrity.

The article posits that within 15-20 years, mechanical brains comparable in size to human brains could be developed. It also touches upon the idea that machines could be programmed to design and build even more advanced versions of themselves, leading to a rapid cycle of mechanical evolution.

Publications and Organizations

The magazine mentions several publications and organizations:

• Flying Saucer Review: A key source for translated articles and information.
• VIMANA: The magazine itself, which aims to provide information on UFO activities in Finland and exchange publications with international organizations.
• "Lentävät lautaset" (Flying Saucers, Fact and Theory) by K.G. Rehn (published in Sweden, reviewed in Finnish by Tammi in 1968).
• "The Flying Saucer Vision" by John Michell (Sidgwick and Jackson Ltd.).
• "Uninvited Visitors" by Ivan T. Sanderson (The Cowles Education Corporation).
• UFO-66: A UFO club in Lappeenranta, Finland, holding regular meetings.

Editorial Stance and Future Outlook

The editorial in this issue emphasizes the importance of establishing a systematic network of UFO researchers in Finland. While active members exist, a coordinated network is deemed crucial for a comprehensive understanding of UFO activities in the country. The magazine pledges to provide more information on Finnish UFO activities in its upcoming issues and offers an English summary in every edition. The Finnish Interplanetist Society's address is provided for publication exchanges.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the critical distinction between misidentified conventional objects (like satellites) and genuine unexplained aerial phenomena, and speculative explorations into advanced concepts like artificial intelligence and extraterrestrial life (exobiology). The editorial stance is one of encouraging systematic research, open-minded inquiry, and international cooperation within the UFO community. There is a clear effort to bridge the gap between anecdotal reports and scientific analysis, while also engaging with more theoretical and futuristic possibilities.