AFU 19700000 Vimana no 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of Vimana, a Finnish magazine published quarterly by Interplanetistit ry - Interplanetisterna rf, is dated 1970 and identified as Issue 1. The magazine's stated purpose is to research 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.

70-LUVUN SELITYKSET (Explanations for the 70s)

This article discusses the closure of the USAF's Project Blue Book and the conclusions of the Condon Report. It notes that the US Air Force ended its official UFO investigation project, stating that after over 21 years, no concrete evidence of anything unusual was found, and UFOs had not advanced scientific knowledge. The article suggests that the Condon Report reached similar conclusions. The author acknowledges the possibility of a 'trick' but also proposes that differences in human interpretation might be at play rather than a deliberate deception. The article emphasizes that current science cannot definitively explain UFOs, and that while scientific methods can be applied to a certain extent, beyond that, conclusions must be based on belief. A major challenge in UFO research is the lack of a physical UFO for study. The article outlines three attitudes towards unidentified UFO cases: a conservative approach assuming they can be explained with more data, a radical approach suggesting something 'supernatural' is involved, and a liberal approach leaving the question open. It highlights that interpretations of UFO phenomena, like other complex events, depend on an individual's frame of reference. The author cautions against immediately accusing the Condon committee or the US Air Force of a 'trick' for their conservative stance, noting that UFOs are still largely a matter of 'faith'.

Extraterrestrials or Aliens?

The article notes that within the ufology community, there are various interpretations, though a general agreement exists that UFOs involve something new and 'supernatural'. The extraterrestrial theory has been popular, but its standing has weakened in recent years. Some ufologists now believe the unknown culture behind UFOs may not necessarily be from outer space, but perhaps from 'anti-worlds,' other dimensions, or be connected to parapsychological phenomena. The author predicts that the 1970s will not bring a definitive solution to the UFO question and that the problem may become even more complex.

UFO OULUN LÄHELLÄ (UFO Near Oulu)

This section details a UFO sighting that occurred on October 10, 1967, near Oulu, Finland. The witness, Mrs. N.N., was walking home when she felt atmospheric pressure changes and saw a bright light above power lines. The object emitted a beeping sound and stopped above the lines, touching one with a thin rod, causing a crackling sound. It then moved erratically before disappearing rapidly. Mrs. N.N. reported feeling a sense of dread and attempted to run but found her legs wouldn't obey. The sighting lasted approximately 10-30 seconds. The object was described as having nine yellow lights, a gray, porcelain-like color, about 1.5 meters high and 3 meters wide, with an elliptical shape and a black underside. The witness's dog also reacted to the object. The location was described as marshy terrain, about 150 meters from the nearest dwelling.

Witness's Condition and Researcher's Notes

Mrs. N.N. was reported to be in normal physical and mental condition, not under the influence of alcohol. She felt nauseous and fearful during the sighting. Researcher Pentti Nissilä found her to be balanced and reliable, though initially reserved. The report notes a similar case from 1965 in Massachusetts involving a cigar-shaped UFO and a detached disc touching power lines, suggesting a possible connection.

UFO NURMIJÄRVELLÄ (UFO in Nurmijärvi)

This article, written by Matias Päätalo, describes an event on January 11, 1970, near Nurmijärvi, Finland. Two young men saw a dimly lit, orange, pulsating, oval object flying low and slowly. The object turned and disappeared behind a forest. The object was described as being about 1.5 meters above the ground. The witness, Juhani Eronen, reported that the object followed him for a short distance. His parents confirmed his account. The article mentions other UFO sightings in Pudasjärvi and near the Kouva road, involving light phenomena and a 'fireball' or 'light pillar'.

'AVARUUSTAUTI' (Space Sickness) Hit Skiers

This report details an incident on a Wednesday evening in Imjärvi, Heinola rural municipality, where two young skiers, Esko Viljo and Arno Heinonen, experienced a strange phenomenon. They saw a bright light appear close above them, and a round reflection on the snow. One skier felt unwell and vomited, experiencing breathing difficulties, while the other experienced slight facial swelling. The phenomenon is speculated to be related to atmospheric electrical discharges. The incident occurred near a marshy area.

Outo valopallo seurasi poikaa Haapajärvellä (Strange Light Ball Followed a Boy in Haapajärvi)

This report from Haapajärvi describes an incident on Christmas Day where a young boy, Juhani Eronen, saw a strange, pulsating orange light ball on the ice. The object emitted a whining sound and followed him as he skated towards the shore. Upon reaching the shore, the object was no longer visible. The boy's parents confirmed his account. The light ball was described as being slightly above the ice surface and about the size of a basketball.

KIRJE ENGLANNISTA (Letter from England)

This section features a letter from Paul Gregory of England, who is researching 'space children' phenomena. He defines this as cases where children are directly or indirectly involved with alleged space beings. Gregory categorizes these cases into two types: indirect (children appearing mysteriously, often with unusual physical characteristics and ESP abilities) and direct (related to 'contactee myths', such as the case of Cynthia Appleton, whose birth was allegedly predicted by extraterrestrials).

Gregory requests any information on such cases from Vimana readers and offers to help translate Finnish accounts into English. The magazine's editorial team encourages readers to respond to Mr. Gregory directly or through the magazine.

KESÄN UFO-SEMINAARI (Summer UFO Seminar)

This announcement details a three-day UFO seminar organized by the Finnish UFO research committee, to be held from July 31 to August 2. The event will take place at the Kansanlähetys study center in Hausjärvi, near Riihimäki.

TÄHDENPAKOLAISIA VAI SANANSAATTAJIA (Star Refugees or Messengers?)

This article discusses a theory by P. F. Sharp, published in 'Flying Saucer Review', suggesting that UFO occupants are 'interstellar refugees' fleeing a dying solar system. The author of the Vimana article finds this theory anthropomorphic and questions its validity. The article then reviews several UFO-related books and reports, including the Condon Report and the NICAP documents, and discusses the ongoing efforts of UFO researchers to collect and document sightings, often without official funding. It touches upon the growing disconnect between official science and UFO research, and the potential for research to be hampered by the 'superstitious' nature of some in the field.

UFOjen esiintyminen Kuusamossa jatkuvasti uusia silminnäkijöitä (UFO Sightings in Kuusamo Constantly New Witnesses)

This report highlights the persistent occurrence of UFO sightings in the Kuusamo region of Finland, particularly in areas with mineral deposits. Sightings are often reported at night or in the early morning, with movement typically from north to south or east. The article recounts an incident from May 1, 1967, near Vuosselinjärvi, where three individuals observed a silent, luminous object that hovered briefly over the frozen lake before ascending rapidly towards the south. The object was described as about one meter in diameter and 60-70 cm thick, glowing brightly in the center, with three antennae. No sound or gas was emitted, and the ice beneath the object showed no signs of melting. The report also mentions other sightings in the Kuusamo area, including one near Rukajärvi involving Arvo and Viljo Keränen and Matti Aittokumpu, and another near Pudasjärvi. The article notes that many reports come from areas with mineral deposits.

Tummistamaton valoilmiö havaittiin Haapajärvellä (Unidentified Light Phenomenon Observed in Haapajärvi)

This brief report from Haapajärvi describes an unidentified light phenomenon observed on a Tuesday evening. Several residents saw a strange light, described as purple and round, which appeared to shrink and disappear. The phenomenon was observed about 2.5 kilometers from the town center.

Valoilmiö Kuortaneella (Light Phenomenon in Kuortane)

This report from Kuortane mentions that several people observed a strange light phenomenon on the previous day around 5:50 PM. A round, fiery object flew from east to west, sometimes dimming and then brightening, and appearing to spin on its axis. The phenomenon lasted about a minute, with no engine noise heard.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently reports on UFO sightings and related phenomena in Finland, often emphasizing witness accounts and the challenges of scientific investigation. There is a clear interest in exploring various theories, from extraterrestrial origins to more unconventional explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the collection and dissemination of information, while acknowledging the difficulties and subjective nature of the subject matter. The magazine also serves as a platform for communication among UFO enthusiasts, facilitating the sharing of information and research.

This issue of Vimana magazine, dated March 11, 1970, focuses on the intersection of advanced physics, extraterrestrial intelligence, and UFO phenomena. The cover story highlights the potential of anti-matter for achieving light-speed travel in spacecraft. The magazine explores various theories and reports related to UFO sightings, alien encounters, and the broader implications of intelligent life in the universe.

Key Articles and Themes

Anti-Matter and Light-Speed Travel

Professor Väinö Hovi of the University of Turku presents a lecture on modern physics, emphasizing that anti-matter could be the key to constructing spacecraft capable of traveling at nearly the speed of light. He notes that cosmic rays are crucial for studying fundamental particles and that research in this area is ongoing at the University of Turku. Hovi also touches upon the idea that the universe's energy might be largely composed of forms not yet recognized or understood, potentially far exceeding the energy contained within all known matter in the Milky Way.

Extraterrestrial Intelligence and Theories

The magazine delves into various speculative theories about extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI). One perspective, attributed to researchers like Keel, suggests that UFO phenomena, including 'MIB' (Men in Black), poltergeists, and strange occurrences, might be part of a psychological warfare or manipulation tactic by alien entities. The idea of a 'galactic culture' is discussed, with the possibility of ETI sending probes and scouts to Earth, possibly using Mars as a base. The article questions the motives of these entities, ranging from mere observation to potential intervention or even invasion.

Fred Hoyle's theories are mentioned, suggesting that while life might be common in the universe, highly developed intelligent civilizations might be rare and spread far apart. The article discusses the astronomical estimates of habitable planets and the conditions necessary for life, referencing the Condon Report. It also touches upon the potential for advanced civilizations to face existential threats, such as their stars evolving into red giants, leading to a cosmic 'crematorium'.

'Men in Black' (MIB)

The phenomenon of 'Men in Black' is explored, with references to researchers like John Keel, Ivan Sanderson, and Coral Lorenzen. MIB are described as mysterious individuals who often appear in connection with UFO sightings, showing an unusual interest in witnesses and UFO researchers. They are characterized by their strange behavior, often driving new Cadillacs or Lincolns, and sometimes displaying unusual license plates. Their motives remain unclear, but they are often associated with attempts to discourage people from investigating UFOs.

UFO Sightings and Incidents

Several UFO sightings and incidents are detailed:

• Haaga, Finland (March 1966): A witness reports seeing three round, red, slightly bluish objects hovering at an altitude of 60-70 meters. The objects then ascended vertically and flew southeast. Later that night, five similar objects were observed.
• Mohawk River, USA (April 1968): A UFO sighting is linked to the death of a 15-year-old boy. The incident involved a red, glowing UFO that hovered and then responded to a flashlight signal. The boy's body was found in the ice, with a circular mark indicating a possible landing or disturbance.
• General observations: The article mentions common UFO-related phenomena such as EM-effects (e.g., cars stopping) and reports of physical traces like burns and radiation.

Soviet Research and Extraterrestrial Communication

Professor Nikolai Petrowitsch from Moscow is featured, asserting that intelligent life exists on other stars and that these beings are sending signals. He believes that these 'neighbors' are within our galaxy and that communication is ongoing. Petrowitsch suggests that building a 'radio bridge' to exchange information about technology and culture with these extraterrestrials is more beneficial than manned space exploration. He states that Soviet 'space listening stations' have received specific radio signals on certain frequencies, and that Russian scientists are working to decipher them.

Cosmic Evolution and Existential Threats

The article touches upon the concept of cosmic evolution and the potential end-states of stars and planetary systems. The Sun is predicted to become a red giant, engulfing the inner planets. This leads to a discussion about the potential for highly developed civilizations to face similar existential threats, questioning whether they might be destined to perish as their star systems evolve.

Book and Article References

The magazine includes an extensive list of references to books and articles on UFOs, humanoids, and related topics, indicating a thorough engagement with the existing literature on the subject. Notable authors and publications cited include Charles Bowen, Ivan Sanderson, John Keel, Coral and Jim Lorenzen, and various issues of FSR (Flying Saucer Review) and VIMANA.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific and speculative aspects of UFO phenomena, the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence, and the potential for advanced propulsion systems like anti-matter drives. The magazine adopts a stance that is open to exploring these possibilities, presenting various theories and witness accounts while also referencing scientific research and astronomical data. There is a clear interest in bridging the gap between the unexplained aspects of UFO sightings and established scientific principles, while also acknowledging the more fringe elements of the subject, such as the 'Men in Black'. The editorial approach seems to be one of critical inquiry, presenting information and allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also highlighting the more sensational and mysterious elements of the UFO field.