Ad Astra - 1992 No 10

Magazine Overview

Title: adastra
Issue: Nr. 10
Date: Oktober/Nov/Des 1992 (October/November/December 1992)
Publisher: VIDYA-Drammen
Price: Nkr: 10,-
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of the magazine 'adastra', published by VIDYA-Drammen, is dated October-December 1992 and costs 10 Norwegian Kroner. It is free for members of VIDYA-Drammen. The cover features an illustration of birds on a branch and the festive greeting 'God Jul' (Merry Christmas).

Editor's Letter (Leder)

The editor, Ole Jonny Brenne, welcomes readers and acknowledges that this issue contains many 'cuts and paste' articles, but asks if readers will find an explanation. He urges readers to be critical, even if their critical sense is exhausted. He specifically highlights an article on page 5 as being 'too good to be true' and promises to investigate it, inviting others to contribute. Readers are reminded to tune into Radio Fakta on Friday nights from 24:00 to 02:00, described as 'where it happens!!'. The editor's motto for 1992 is quoted in Latin: "Omnium pestium pestilentissima est superstitio" (Superstition is the most pestilential of all plagues). He also mentions another radio program, 'Verdt å vite' (Worth Knowing) on NRK P1, every Saturday from 10:05 to 10:30.

VIDYA-Drammen Information

A section details VIDYA, described as a religious/political neutral and independent association. Its Sanskrit meaning is 'knowledge/wisdom'. Its activities include enlightenment, information, discussion, lectures, courses, research, and studies. Their meeting location is Røde Kors Huset, Tollbugt. 52, every Tuesday throughout the year. The 'EMNER' (Topics) covered include Parapsychology, Metaphysics, World Religions, Ancient Mysteries, Alternative Medicine, Alternative Diet, UFO Phenomena, and Pyramids. The association's address is VIDYA Drammen, Postboks 2425, 3003 Drammen.

Table of Contents (Innhold)

The table of contents lists a wide array of articles, indicating the diverse interests of the publication:

• Page 4: Buy & Sell.
• Page 5: Weight loss at the moment of death.
• Page 6: Experts' opinions.
• Page 7: The end of the world.
• Pages 8-11: Physicists and philosophers.
• Page 11: New encyclopedia on religion.
• Page 11: The Bible in book club.
• Pages 12-13: Death sentences and tolerance.
• Page 13: Norwegian Muslims regarding death sentences.
• Pages 14-15: Muslims are also different.
• Pages 15-17: Muslims and Rushdie.
• Pages 17-18: Who sentences to death.
• Page 18: Gandhi predicted his own death.
• Pages 19-20: Suggests more use of plastic cards.
• Page 20: Dinosaur with eight hearts.
• Page 20: God or not God?
• Page 20: Pioneer at the end of the road.
• Pages 21-23: 'Seeing' with hands.
• Pages 23-24: Eyes that find the lost.
• Pages 24-25: Freemason dispute in bishop election.
• Pages 25-26: Order of free men.
• Page 26: Record thin ozone layer.
• Page 26: Larger ozone hole.
• Pages 27-28: Criticism or religious persecution?
• Page 28: Doomsday did not come.
• Page 29: Doomsday is postponed.
• Page 30: Sent by God.
• Page 30: Holy child.
• Page 30: Beheaded for blasphemy.
• Page 30: Russia sells spy satellite images.
• Page 31: "Jesus is coming".
• Page 31: Fortune teller ads.
• Page 32: Brain-dead home from Mars?
• Page 33: Tommy & tiger'n.
• Page 33: Under the earth.
• Pages 34-38: Gaia theory: Is our earth a living organism?
• Page 38: Women can give birth to gorilla babies.
• Page 39: Catholic heretic forgiven after 359 years.
• Page 39: What shall we answer to the Romani people?
• Page 39: Icon-robbing.
• Page 39: Research.
• Page 40: Pathetic from Shirley MacLaine.

The table of contents indicates that it continues on the next page.

Article: Weight Loss at the Moment of Death? (Vekttap i Dødsøyeblikket?)

This article discusses rumors about measuring the weight of a 'soul' at the moment of death. It references a book, 'Visionaries, Mystics and Contactees' by Salvador Freixedo, a former Jesuit priest. Freixedo mentions a book by French author André Maurois, which in turn describes the work of an English doctor, Dr. James. Dr. James allegedly discovered that cadavers placed on a scale would slowly lose weight, which is natural due to evaporation. However, after about 1 hour and 35 minutes, a sudden weight loss occurred. When isolated under a glass container and illuminated with UV light, strange 'balls' or 'eggs' of light appeared, pulsating in intensity. When the container was opened, these light spheres disappeared into the air. Each cadaver produced a light sphere, which was stored in a glass flask. These lights dimmed over time but became bright again when exposed to UV light months later. These experiments were conducted without the knowledge of Dr. James' superiors, and he was reportedly fired when the results were published. The location is suggested to be England, possibly at St. Barnaby's Hospital. The editor is seeking the book by Maurois or any writings by the English doctor.

Article: Experts' Opinions (Ekspertene Uttaler)

This section compiles a series of quotes from notable figures expressing skepticism or incorrect predictions about future technologies and events:

• Charles H. Duell, Director of the U.S. Patent Office (1889): "Everything that can be invented has been invented."
• Erasmus Wilson, Professor at Oxford University (1878): "When the exhibition in Paris closes, the electric light will also close. We will hear no more about it."
• Rutherford B. Hayes, U.S. President (1876): "This is an amazing invention, but who would ever use it?" (Referring to a demonstration of a telephone conversation between Washington and Philadelphia. The patent holder, Bell, offered to sell the patent to Western Union for $100,000, but they were not interested).
• Thomas J. Watson, Chairman of IBM (1943): "I think there is a market for about five computers."
• Dr. Albert Einstein, Physicist (1932): "There is no indication that we will ever be able to harness atomic energy. This would involve splitting the atom at will."
• Sir William Herschel, English Royal Astronomer (1781): "We will readily admit that the sun is well supplied with inhabitants."
• Dr. Joseph Paul Goebbels, German Propaganda Minister (1936): "We rule with love and not with bayonets."
• Scientific American editors (1940), in a letter to Professor Goddard, rejecting his idea for a rocket-powered flying bomb.

The section concludes by recommending the book 'Eksperterne Udtaler...' (Experts Speak...) by Christopher Cerf & Victor Navasky.

Article: The End of the World! (Verdens Undergang!)

This section presents a collection of predictions about the end of the world that have not come to pass:

• Henry Adams, American historian (1903): "My calculations show that 1950 will be the year the world ends."
• Margaret Rowen, Leader of Church of Advanced Adventists (1925): "If Christ does not appear to meet his 144,000 believers shortly after midnight on February 6th or 7th, my calculations, based on the Bible, must be revised."
• Charles Taze Russel, Founder of Jehovah's Witnesses (1910): "The deliverance of the saints must take place at some point before 1914."
• Charles Taze Russel (1923): "The deliverance of the saints must take place at some point after 1914."
• Henry Luce, Publisher of Time, Life, and Fortune (1960): "I believe the world will go up in flames in seven years. People have the right to enjoy themselves during those seven years." (He explained this as the reason for publishing the less serious magazine 'Sports Illustrated'. The world did not end in 1967; Luce died on February 28th of that year).

This section also recommends the book 'Eksperterne Udtaler...' by Christopher Cerf & Victor Navasky.

Article: Physicists and Philosophers (Fysikere og Filosofer)

By Trond Bergene. This article discusses the relationship between modern scientific theories and philosophical/existential questions. It notes that while Norwegian physicists may seem passive in discussing these issues, this is not a uniquely Norwegian phenomenon. The author argues that physicists, like all people, reflect on existence, but few connect their physical theories to these deeper questions. The article outlines several barriers to this connection:

1. Study Focus: Physics studies prioritize technical skills over philosophical inquiry.
2. Career Concerns: Some physicists avoid discussing these topics for fear of being associated with 'New Age' movements.
3. Separation of Faith and Science: Most physicists sharply distinguish between theology and physics, viewing them as incompatible. While some, like John Polkinghorne, have attempted to bridge this gap, many physicists focus on 'how' questions rather than 'why' questions.
4. Desirability: It's questioned whether physicists should engage in these philosophical debates, as most focus on technological problems.

The article suggests that the barriers in Norway are not unique and that few physicists internationally engage publicly in such discussions. It presents this as a challenge rather than an excuse. The author also touches upon the 'anthropic principle' in physics, which places humanity at the center of its worldview, and discusses interpretations of quantum physics, including the Copenhagen interpretation and the 'Many-worlds' interpretation. The article mentions Erik Dammann's work, which suggests quantum mechanics allows for free will and a move away from a mechanistic view of the world. It concludes by stating that modern cosmology also raises philosophical questions and that the intersection of science and philosophy is vast and fascinating. Physicists are encouraged to be more self-critical and to popularize their theories to make them accessible.

Article: A Brief History of Time (Av Nils Chr. Stenseth)

This review discusses Stephen Hawking's book "A Brief History of Time," noting its unprecedented 200-week run on the Sunday Times bestseller list. The reviewer attributes the book's success to several factors:

1. Universal Questions: The book addresses fundamental questions about the Universe and its origins, which have long occupied religious thinkers, philosophers, and scientists.
2. Science and Religion: It explores the intersection of science and religion, framing religious creation narratives in a scientific context. This approach is popular today, as many people seek answers beyond traditional religion and science alone.
3. Author's Circumstances: Hawking's severe disability (he uses a wheelchair and communicates via a computer) garners significant media attention, aiding in marketing.
4. Scientific Authority: Hawking is presented as a direct successor to Isaac Newton, possessing deep knowledge in his field.
5. Accessibility: Despite complex topics, the book is written in a clear and accessible style, making difficult concepts understandable without relying solely on mathematical language.
6. Intellectual Status: The book is considered essential reading for anyone wishing to be part of an educated, intellectual circle.

The review concludes that this is excellent popular science writing, needed to help people navigate the world and distinguish it from occult pseudo-literature.

Book Sales (Til Salgs)

A section lists books for sale:

• "Nærkontakt" (Close Encounter) by Whitley Strieber, 1988, Kurer Forlag, 290 pages, hardcover, kr. 80,-
• "What you need to know" by John Paul Oswald, 1983, 59 pages, paperback, kr. 20,-
• "UFO-fenomenet" (UFO Phenomenon) by Leif Havik, 1987, Vision Forlag, 196 pages, hardcover, kr. 158,-
• "Skandinavisk UFO-litteratur" (Scandinavian UFO Literature) by Willy Wegner, 1982, Skeptica Forlag, paperback, kr. 40,-
• "Dansk UFO-litteratur 1971-1979 - En Bibliografi" (Danish UFO Literature 1971-1979 - A Bibliography) by Willy Wegner, 1981, Skeptica Forlag, 295 pages, paperback, kr. 150,-
• "Livets tidevann" (The Tides of Life) by Lyall Watson, 1982, Mortensens Forlag, 416 pages, hardcover, kr. 30,-

Readers interested in these books can contact the editor by phone at 02-619280 between 4 PM and 11 PM daily.

Advertisement Space

A note in the margin states: "(AND YOUR ADVERTISEMENT COULD HAVE BEEN HERE!!!!!)"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine 'adastra' appears to focus on topics that bridge the gap between mainstream science and more unconventional or fringe subjects, including UFO phenomena, parapsychology, alternative medicine, and philosophical questions related to existence and the universe. There is a clear encouragement for critical thinking among readers, as evidenced by the editor's letter. The publication also engages with religious and existential themes, contrasting them with scientific perspectives. The inclusion of book reviews and sales, as well as expert opinions and historical predictions, suggests an interest in exploring a wide spectrum of human knowledge and belief systems, from the scientific to the speculative.

This issue of Aktuelt, dated November 1993, delves into the complex and controversial topic of the death sentence against author Salman Rushdie, exploring its implications within Norway's multicultural society. The magazine features a prominent cover headline, "Muslimer for dødsdom" (Muslims for death sentence), and "toleranse" (tolerance), indicating a focus on the clash between religious dogma and freedom of expression.

Articles and Features

The Rushdie Controversy and Norwegian Muslims

The issue opens by contrasting the tradition of public intellectual engagement in England with a perceived skepticism towards popularizers of science in Norway. This sets a context for discussing the reactions of Norwegian Muslim communities to Salman Rushdie's visit and the fatwa issued against him.

Several articles and interviews explore the stance of Norwegian Muslims. One piece highlights that while some imams did not distance themselves from Ayatollah Khomeini's death sentence, instead stating they supported it "in principle," there are also Muslims in Norway who disagree with this position and are concerned about increased xenophobia. The article points out that the imams' reaction, based on claims that Rushdie's book "The Satanic Verses" was offensive, was perceived as strengthening Iran's position.

Khalid Salimi, in an interview, argues that the imams do not represent all Muslims in Norway and that there is significant diversity of opinion within the Muslim community. He suggests that the book has become a symbol in the political struggle and a way for some to affirm their identity in a foreign land. Salimi also notes that while some Muslims feel offended, others view the book as important for describing exile and cultural conflicts.

Trond Ali Linstad, a spokesperson for Norwegian Muslims, addresses questions posed by Bernt Hagtvet and Gunnar Skirbekk from Dagbladet. Linstad explains that a planned seminar on what Muslims think did not receive media coverage, attributing this to a "psychological phenomenon" or "cultural arrogance." He discusses the concept of freedom of the press and its limits, using the hypothetical example of a book depicting the royal family in a derogatory manner to illustrate potential Norwegian reactions. Linstad emphasizes that in non-Islamic countries, Muslims should follow the law of that land, implying that Norwegian Muslims should adhere to Norwegian law.

Bernt Hagtvet and Gunnar Skirbekk, in their piece "Hvem dømmer til døden?" (Who judges to death?), question whether Norwegian Muslims respect Norwegian law. They critique Hartvig Sætra's argument that Islam is a threat to Norwegian law, while also acknowledging Sætra's point about the "market economy" causing the death of millions of children. Hagtvet and Skirbekk argue that attributing all global injustice solely to the "market economy" is too simplistic and that factors like corruption, poor governance, and fundamentalist religions also play a role.

Other Topics

New Encyclopedia on Religion: The issue announces the release of a new Norwegian-language encyclopedia on religion, written by historians Per Kværne and Kari Vogt, covering major religions, belief systems, and contemporary religious movements.

The Bible in a Book Club: It is noted that Ekstrabokklubben is offering the Bible to its members, framing it as central reference literature and a logical choice for a book club.

Payment Systems in Norway: An article by Per Ivar Sandvik discusses proposals from a working group appointed by the Ministry of Trade and Industry to improve the efficiency of payment systems in Norway. The suggestions include integrating Posten (the postal service) and bank payment systems, allowing the use of Posten's plastic cards in bank ATMs and vice versa, and streamlining electronic payment methods to save billions of kroner annually.

Dinosaur with Eight Hearts?: A brief report mentions research suggesting that a 15-meter-long dinosaur from 200 million years ago might have had eight hearts to pump blood to its head.

God or Not God?: Frode Madsgård from Feios poses philosophical questions about the existence of God, the nature of religion, and the responsibility of humanity in addressing global problems. He questions whether belief in God is a crutch and suggests that humans have a duty to leave a better world for future generations.

Pioneer Space Probe: A short news item reports that the Pioneer space probe was nearing the end of its 14-year mission and was expected to burn up in Venus' atmosphere.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the tension between religious fundamentalism and secular values, particularly freedom of speech and legal systems. The magazine appears to advocate for a nuanced approach to multiculturalism, emphasizing the importance of respecting diverse viewpoints while upholding the rule of law and individual rights. There is a critical examination of how religious leaders' pronouncements can be perceived and how they impact public discourse. The editorial stance seems to favor open debate and a critical, rather than dogmatic, engagement with religious and cultural issues, while also acknowledging the complexities of global justice and economic inequalities.

This issue of the magazine, titled "«Ser» farver med hendene" (Sees colors with hands), features several articles covering art, parapsychology, religion, and environmental issues. The cover story highlights Magna Jenssen, a blind artist who experiences art and colors through tactile and emotional means. Other prominent articles discuss the psychic abilities of Lodvar Kårstad, a debate surrounding Freemasonry and its compatibility with Christian clergy, and alarming reports on the ozone layer's depletion over Antarctica.

Art and Perception: Magna Jenssen

The main article, "«Ser» farver med hendene," by Anne Lise Stafne and Erik Berglund, introduces Magna Jenssen, a blind artist who is exhibiting her work at the Høstutstillingen at Kunstnernes Hus. Jenssen's ability to perceive colors and experience art through senses other than sight challenges conventional understanding. She explains that colors have a 'radiation' or 'outflow' that can be felt, and that blind individuals must mobilize their hearing, smell, and touch to a greater extent. Her teacher, painter and graphic artist Jørgen Dukan, guides her by describing the visual elements of artworks. Jenssen has learned to identify 60 colors using a numbering system and has developed her own unique artistic expression, which is characterized by a lack of disharmony.

Psychic Abilities: Lodvar Kårstad

An article by Børre Aa. Lund and Rolf Chr. Ulrichsen profiles Lodvar Kårstad, an 85-year-old psychic from Lomen, Valdres, who is celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Norwegian Parapsychological Society. Kårstad is known for his ability to help people find lost items, animals, and even missing persons. The article details how he uses his clairvoyant abilities, often described as seeing a 'stream of images' or a 'vision' that allows him to pinpoint locations. Professor Georg Hygen of the Norwegian Parapsychological Society comments on Kårstad's abilities, noting that his visions sometimes offer insights into time itself.

Freemasonry and the Church

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the question of whether a bishop can be a Freemason, focusing on the nomination process for the bishopric of Sør-Hålogaland. The article by Gisle Hollekim highlights that two of the five candidates are Freemasons. It explores the historical context of Freemasonry, its Christian foundation in Norway, and the debate surrounding its secrecy. Dean Leif Ottersen, a high-ranking Freemason, argues that the order's ethical and religious values are compatible with Christianity and that its pedagogical system is kept secret to ensure personal development. The article also notes that several priests and bishops hold high degrees within the order.

Environmental Concerns: The Ozone Layer

Two short articles report on the state of the ozone layer. "Rekordtynt ozonlag" (Record thin ozone layer) states that ozone levels over Antarctica have decreased by more than 15 percent compared to the previous year, with Greenpeace calling for action on ozone-depleting substances. "Større ozonhull" (Larger ozone hole) from Washington confirms these findings, citing NASA satellite data that shows the ozone hole has grown to 23 million square kilometers, an area two and a half times the size of the USA.

Apocalypticism and Sects

Several short news items touch upon apocalyptic beliefs and religious sects. "Dommedag kom ikke" (Doomsday did not come) reports on a mass event in South Korea where 20,000 people gathered in churches, expecting the world to end at midnight, only to be disappointed. The leader of the sect, Lee Jan Rim, is facing fraud charges. Another item, "Aborterte" (Aborted), mentions a woman who reportedly aborted her child due to fears of not being able to ascend to heaven. "Sendt av Gud" (Sent by God) describes an incident in Zimbabwe where a man claimed to be divinely sent to take power. "Hellig guttunge" (Holy boy) announces the reincarnation of the 17th Tibetan Buddha.

Jehovah's Witnesses and Criticism

An article titled "Kritikk eller religionsforfølgelse?" (Criticism or religious persecution?) by Kurt-Johnny Olsen, a commentator for Aftenposten, examines the Jehovah's Witnesses' organization, the Watch Tower Society. Olsen questions whether the society, which is critical of other religious organizations, can accept similar scrutiny itself. The article discusses how the society's literature has been critical of other churches, particularly the Catholic Church, and how former members feel they have been treated harshly. It also touches upon the use of biblical verses to justify 'church discipline' against those who leave the organization.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the exploration of unconventional perceptions of reality (art through blindness, psychic abilities), the intersection of religious faith and societal structures (Freemasonry and the church, apocalyptic sects), and environmental awareness. The magazine appears to adopt a critical yet informative stance, presenting different viewpoints on controversial topics like religious criticism and the compatibility of various beliefs and practices with established institutions. The editorial stance seems to favor open discussion and investigation of phenomena that challenge conventional norms.

This issue of Dagbladet, dated December 1990, features a prominent cover story on Russia's sale of high-resolution spy satellite images to the open market, including sensitive US targets. Other articles delve into scientific theories about Earth's environment, space exploration, and a critical review of a celebrity's biography.

Russia Sells Spy Satellite Images

The lead story reveals that Russia, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, is selling top-secret satellite images of sensitive targets like the White House, the Pentagon, and Capitol Hill. These images, available through a Texas-based firm, are described as being of sensational quality, sharp, and detailed enough to identify objects down to two meters in diameter. The revenue generated is intended to help fund Boris Yeltsin's Russia. American experts acknowledge the high quality, noting that while the Soviet Union had sold satellite images since 1987, they were not of this caliber. The pricing is competitive, with images costing $3180 each, significantly less than comparable French and American offerings. This sale presents a challenge for the US regarding declassifying its own spy materials and competing commercially.

One of the publicly released images shows the Pentagon, with a nearly empty parking lot suggesting it was taken on a weekend or holiday.

"Jesus Is Coming"

A brief section reports on American beliefs, stating that a majority believe Jesus will return within the next century, that the US will have a female president, and that cures for AIDS and cancer will be found. This is attributed to NTB/Reuter.

"Top of Greed? 18.40 KR PER MINUTE!"

This section appears to be an advertisement for psychic services, listing various individuals and their phone numbers, with a per-minute charge of 18.40 Norwegian Kroner.

"Brain Dead From Mars?"

This article discusses the potential effects of space travel to Mars. Dr. John Joseph from the National Institute on Aging suggests that radiation in outer space accelerates brain aging in rats, which could pose significant problems for astronauts on a Mars mission. President George Bush has set a goal for a Mars expedition by 2019. The report is from NTB-AP.

"Under the Earth"

This piece reports on the discovery of a network of tunnels in Albania, believed to have been used by the communist elite. Some of these tunnels are estimated to be 30 years old and were known to only a few party leaders, including former president Ramis Alia.

"Religion is a Sensitive Topic!"

A Calvin and Hobbes comic strip where Calvin discusses the separation of church and state with his teacher, Mrs. Wormwood.

"What Should We Answer Romboers?"

This article addresses the question of how humanity should respond if intelligent extraterrestrial life makes contact. American scientists, including John Billingham from NASA, are seeking public input on this matter, as radio signals sent out by Earth are now reaching interstellar distances, making a response theoretically possible.

"Icon Robbery"

An article detailing the disappearance of approximately 90 percent of Russia's 30 million icons since 1980, with many being smuggled abroad. International gangs are involved in the theft and restoration of these religious artifacts, often targeting churches with weak security.

"Research"

Norway's Public Science Council (NAVF) is allocating funds for a research leadership position in alternative medicine. The focus will be on areas like chiropractic, homeopathy, and acupuncture, aiming to foster good research projects in these fields.

"They Wanted to Kill Satan"

This news report from Moss, Norway, describes a 34-year-old man who attacked a 44-year-old woman, believing her to be Satan, and attempted to kill her. He was apprehended before he could throw her into the sea.

"Pathetic from Shirley MacLaine"

This is a highly critical review of Shirley MacLaine's biography, "Dans mens du kan" (Dance While You Can). The reviewer finds the book to be self-absorbed, banal, and filled with monologues and pseudo-metaphysical reflections. The review highlights MacLaine's focus on trivial matters, such as a knee injury, and her philosophical musings, deeming the book a "guaranteed flop" and the "low point" of the book season.

GAIA THEORY: Is Our Earth a Living Organism?

This extensive article explores James Lovelock's Gaia theory. Lovelock, a scientist and inventor, proposes that Earth functions as a single, self-regulating living organism. The theory suggests that life on Earth has actively maintained a stable climate, preventing it from becoming a runaway greenhouse like Venus, despite the sun's increasing heat over billions of years. Early life forms, like bacteria and blue-green algae, consumed carbon dioxide and produced oxygen, regulating the atmosphere. The article discusses how changes in oxygen levels could drastically impact life and the environment. Lovelock's theory, named after the Greek goddess of Earth, has sparked considerable debate among scientists. While some criticize it for implying a conscious Earth, others see it as a valuable framework for interdisciplinary research. The article also touches on the potential for terraforming Mars using similar principles, involving the introduction of microorganisms and greenhouse gases.

"Women Can Give Birth to Gorilla Babies"

This report from London details a proposal by American researcher Professor Stephen Seagar to save the endangered mountain gorilla population. The suggestion is to use in-vitro fertilization, with women carrying gorilla fetuses to term. Seagar believes this is feasible due to the similar gestation periods and fetal sizes between gorillas and humans. The method aims to increase the gorilla population, which is critically low.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue exhibits a strong interest in scientific exploration, particularly in space and environmental science, with a focus on theories that challenge conventional thinking (Gaia theory, Mars terraforming). There's also a recurring theme of the unusual and the sensational, from Russian spy satellites to psychic services and controversial scientific proposals. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these diverse topics, with a particularly critical tone reserved for celebrity biographies, as seen in the review of Shirley MacLaine's book.