1967 06 09 Science - Vol 156 No 3780 - Hughes

Magazine Overview

This issue of SCIENCE magazine, dated June 9, 1967, Volume 156, features a variety of scientific and observational topics, including physics, astronomy, and social issues. The cover is dominated by an advertisement for Bausch & Lomb microscopes, with a photograph of a man using one.

Weightlessness and the Space Program

An article by F. E. M. Lilley from the Department of Geodesy and Geophysics at the University of Cambridge addresses the principle of weightlessness. Lilley notes the public's interest in the space program and the potential for confusion regarding weightlessness. He explains that for Apollo crewmen, gravitational forces will be weak due to their remoteness from the Earth and Moon, leading to a state of weightlessness. Lilley suggests that science writers should clarify the distinction between weightlessness caused by orbital motion and that caused by gravitational remoteness.

A Trained Eye on UFO's

F. P. Hughes, from Hawkesbury, Ontario, Canada, writes about the "grievous lack of trained observers" for UFOs. He proposes a drill commonly used by meteor observers, emphasizing the need for first-class observations. The recommended procedure includes standing still, counting seconds, marking position, gauging angular size (using thumb and hand as references), noting brightness and changes, establishing the object's path with horizon marks, checking if it passes behind landmarks, and noting any touchdown points. Observers are advised to fix the position of touchdown if it occurs, make written notes of details, and listen critically for sounds. Hughes suggests practicing this drill with meteors and then observing Venus as a daylight object to gain experience.

A Poverty of Spirit in Underdeveloped Nations

This section responds to a previous letter by "Parsegian" concerning factors that spur underdeveloped nations toward productivity. The author argues that Parsegian fails to consider populations debilitated by chronic diseases such as malaria, vitamin deficiency, intestinal parasites, and semistarvation. Furthermore, a "poverty of the spirit," resulting from generations of living at an animal level, is identified as a significant issue. The article draws parallels to conditions in the United States, citing historical issues like malaria, vitamin deficiency, and trachoma in the South, and the derogatory term "red-neck" being associated with pellagra. It notes that in earlier years, these conditions led to a conclusion that the people were lazy and beyond help.

Advertisements and Equipment

The issue includes advertisements for scientific and laboratory equipment. Bausch & Lomb promotes its Academic 255 Flat Field Microscopes, highlighting their suitability for professional quality observation and their affordability for school and college budgets. They offer an optional double-viewing head with measuring pointers. L/I Instruments advertises its Automatic REPIPETS and Automatic Dilutors, claiming they can perform chemical tests faster and more accurately, saving significant time and reducing contamination. They also promote their Aquametry Apparatus for rapid water determination. Tech-tronics Nuclear Corp. advertises microcircuit scalers and timers, offering a collect call service for more information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around scientific observation, the challenges of space exploration, and socio-economic issues in developing regions. The magazine maintains a stance of promoting rigorous scientific methodology, as seen in the UFO observation guide, and addressing complex societal problems with a factual and analytical approach. The inclusion of advertisements for scientific instruments underscores the magazine's focus on the tools and advancements within the scientific community.