Argus - 1981 No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: ARGUS
Issue: 3
Volume: 5
Year: 1981
Publisher: GÄVLEBORGS UFO FÖRENING
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Argus, a member publication for UFO-GÄVLEBORG, focuses on a blend of space exploration news, astronomical data, and astrological predictions for the coming year, 1982.

Editorial and Organization Information

The editorial section, titled "REDAKTIONELLT," is represented by the chairman, Roland Östlund. The magazine is a member publication for UFO-GÄVLEBORG, which is itself a member of the national organization UFO-SVERIGE. Argus is published four times a year and is included in the membership fee. The publication details include the board members: Roland Östlund (Chairman), Thomas Dahl (Vice Chairman), and G-O Bratter (Treasurer). The address for UFO GÄVLEBORG is Box 282, 801 04 GÄVLE 1, with several contact phone numbers provided. Membership fees are listed as 75 SEK per year for families and individuals, and 40 SEK per year for military personnel, pensioners, and students under 18. Payment for membership is to be made to Postgiro nr. 21 45 89 - 4.

Space Exploration and Technology

The issue touches upon the rapid advancements in space travel, referencing the upcoming launch of the Space Shuttle and the ongoing Voyager missions. Voyager I and II have sent back images from Saturn, contributing to humanity's understanding of the solar system. The article "Rymdforskningen byggs ut i Kiruna" (Space Research is Expanded in Kiruna) highlights the strengthening of Kiruna as a European space research center. The inauguration of the advanced Eiscat research resource is mentioned, involving collaboration between six countries: Sweden, Norway, Finland, West Germany, France, and England. This facility utilizes a powerful radar system with transmitters in Tromsö and receivers in Kiruna and Sodankylä, Finland, for ionospheric research.

Furthermore, the magazine explores future space technology, particularly solar energy for spacecraft. An article details Lockheed's development of a solar collector designed to be deployed in space by the late 1980s. This system, part of the Solar Electric Propulsion (SEP) concept, aims to provide power for extended space missions, including those utilizing ion engines. The solar collector's design and efficiency improvements are discussed, noting its potential to generate 12.5 kW from 84 solar cell modules in its stationary position and its ability to gather scientific data after refueling spacecraft.

Another section, "PLANETEN VENUS SKA BOMBAS FRÅN RYMDEN-MED VÄXTFRÖN!" (Planet Venus to be Bombed from Space - With Plant Seeds!), discusses the planet Venus. It describes Venus as Earth's sister planet, often visible as the morning or evening star. Historically, Venus held significant importance in astrology. Modern scientific understanding, aided by Russian and American probes, reveals Venus as a desolate world with extreme surface temperatures (480 degrees Celsius) and immense atmospheric pressure (100 times that of Earth's sea level). Recent mapping efforts have revealed over 90% of Venus's surface, depicting a rocky desert landscape with towering mountain formations.

Astronomical Data

Several pages are dedicated to tables listing astronomical data for the moons of Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. These tables include the diameter of each moon in kilometers, their average distance from the parent planet in kilometers, and the time it takes for them to orbit their respective planets in days, hours, and minutes.

Astrological Predictions for 1982

A significant portion of the magazine is devoted to astrological predictions for 1982, presented under the dramatic headline "DÄRFÖR BLIR 1982 ETT ÖDESÅR" (This is Why 1982 Will Be a Fateful Year). Astrologer Anders Ekström forecasts a year of major global upheaval, including massive tidal waves, floods, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. He also warns of the risk of a third world war.

Ekström explains that these events are linked to a rare planetary alignment occurring in 1982. Specifically, on November 14, 1982, all ten planets in the solar system will be on the same side of the Earth and Sun, creating a powerful gravitational pull. He likens Earth to an egg being pulled by magnets in a funnel. While astronomers agree on the planetary positions, they differ on the interpretation of their effects.

Ekström elaborates on the potential impact, particularly on England, predicting significant tidal effects on the Thames River, leading to extensive flooding. He mentions that London is already preparing for such an event by constructing flood barriers. The predictions also include increased animal unrest, psychological effects on humans such as irritability and headaches, and changes in weather patterns due to solar activity.

He further states that the specific planetary configuration in 1982 is similar to that of 1914, the year World War I began, suggesting a high risk of a third world war, potentially starting in the Middle East and lasting about a year. The article also touches upon the concept of 'solar winds' and their influence on Earth's magnetic field and weather.

Other Content

The magazine also includes a section on ordering UFO-GÄVLEBORG's official emblems, available in two sizes: an 8.5 cm diameter badge and a 14.5 cm diameter sticker. Information is also provided about an upcoming club sweater featuring the organization's logo.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO phenomena, space exploration, and the intersection of astronomical events with astrological interpretations. The editorial stance appears to be one that acknowledges and investigates UFO reports while also engaging with broader scientific and speculative topics, including the potential impact of celestial events on Earth and humanity, as interpreted through astrology. There is a clear emphasis on the predictive power of astrology in foreseeing both natural disasters and geopolitical conflicts.

SAXONS NR 27, published on June 29 - July 7, 1981, is a Swedish magazine that explores a diverse range of topics, from space exploration and extraterrestrial encounters to the nature of time, longevity, and the concept of shrinking. The issue features articles on the planet Venus, time travel, genetics, and the scientific and fictional exploration of human size manipulation.

Venus: A Harsh Neighbor

The magazine begins with an article detailing the extreme conditions on Venus. It highlights the "Terra Afrodite" region, an area comparable in size to half of Africa, with peaks reaching up to 10,800 meters. Deep fissures and canyons, some three times deeper than Earth's ocean trenches, are also described. Despite these harsh realities, the article notes that NASA scientists are already contemplating "Planetary Engineering" – ambitious ideas to transform Venus into a habitable world. One proposed method involves bombarding the planet with spores that could alter the atmosphere, lower temperatures, and dissipate the thick cloud cover responsible for the intense greenhouse effect.

UFOs and Alien Encounters

A prominent article, "Rymdmän hjälpte bonde finna vatten" (Space men helped farmer find water), recounts the story of Pat McGuire, a farmer in Wyoming, USA. In 1970, McGuire claimed that extraterrestrials guided him to drill for water on his arid land. Not only did he find water, but seven years later, he discovered a large underground river, leading to a flourishing farm. McGuire insisted that aliens visited him frequently and showed him where to drill. Local media and TV reporters documented mysterious lights over his property. A psychology professor from the University of Laramie investigated McGuire's claims under hypnosis, during which he described tall, thin, black-clad beings with large eyes. The professor concluded that McGuire was credible, finding no evidence of deception and pointing to the successful well as proof.

Technological Advancements

Another section highlights "Svensk elektronik i rymdfärjan" (Swedish electronics in the space shuttle), detailing the Selspot system developed by Selcom in Gothenburg. This system is used by NASA to track astronaut movements in zero gravity and can also monitor the movements of the shuttle's solar panels and robotic arm.

A brief mention is made of a "Snabbtermometer" (Fast thermometer) developed by Bosch, capable of measuring temperatures from -40°C to +200°C with high speed and accuracy.

The Nature of Time and Time Travel

The article "TIDSMASKINEN" (The Time Machine) explores the human fascination with time travel. It discusses fictional narratives where characters travel to the past or future, emphasizing the paradox of altering history. The author notes that while direct travel to the past might be impossible, science has made strides in understanding it through fossils and ancient remains, allowing us to "read the past like an open book." The concept of traveling to the future is also explored, referencing H.G. Wells' "The Time Machine." The article posits that if time travel were possible, we might have already received visitors from the future.

Extending Life and the Biology of Aging

Another segment, "DÅ KLOCKAN SAKTAR IN" (When the Clock Slows Down), discusses the phenomenon of time dilation, predicted by Albert Einstein. It explains that as spacecraft approach the speed of light, time slows down for the occupants relative to observers on Earth. This effect has been experimentally verified with subatomic particles. The article also touches upon the scientific pursuit of longevity, referencing Professor Klaus Bayreuther's work on the genetics of aging. He suggests that human lifespan could be extended by combating age-related diseases and slowing down the aging process, potentially increasing average lifespans to around 100 years.

The Fantasy of Shrinking

The article "Kan människor krympas till lilleputtar?" (Can humans be shrunk to miniature size?) delves into the theme of miniaturization, a concept prevalent in fairy tales and science fiction. It references stories like "Nils Holgersson" and films such as "The Incredible Shrinking Man." The article explores the psychological impact of experiencing the world from a drastically reduced perspective, where everyday objects appear colossal. It discusses early cinematic attempts at depicting miniaturization, like "The Devil Doll" (1936), and the groundbreaking effects in "The Incredible Shrinking Man" (1957), which took the concept to microscopic levels. The narrative follows Scott Carey as he inexplicably shrinks, facing challenges from his own cat and the vastness of his basement, which becomes a dangerous wilderness.

Underwater Discoveries and Ancient Civilizations

"VÄRLDSHAVENS FÖRFLUTNA" (The Past of the World's Oceans) draws from Charles Berlitz's "The Bermuda Triangle" to discuss underwater discoveries. It mentions the 1967 discovery of a large, smooth, stone-like structure resembling a road or pavement off the coast of Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, found at a depth of 900 meters. The article also touches upon how vegetation patterns can reveal buried ancient structures, citing examples from England, Babylon, and Assyria, and the rediscovery of the Etruscan city of Spina in Italy. It suggests that similar underwater geometric patterns found in the Bahamas might be remnants of ancient civilizations, though often overlooked in favor of searching for sunken treasures.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, speculation, and human desire. There's a recurring theme of pushing the boundaries of what is known and possible, whether through space exploration, manipulating time, extending life, or altering physical form. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting both scientific theories and fictional concepts as subjects of interest, encouraging readers to ponder the possibilities of the future and the mysteries of the past and the universe. The articles blend factual reporting with imaginative storytelling, reflecting a broad interest in the unknown and the potential of human ingenuity.

This issue of HJ.NR, dated August 19, 1981, features a cover story titled "I KROPPENS LABYRINTER" (In the Labyrinths of the Body), exploring the concept of shrinking technology and its fictional applications. The magazine also dedicates significant space to the history and development of television, from its early theoretical concepts to its eventual realization and widespread adoption.

I Kroppens Labyrinter (In the Labyrinths of the Body)

The lead article, "I Kroppens Labyrinter," revisits the science fiction concept of shrinking humans, inspired by the 1966 film "Fantastic Voyage." It contrasts the fictional "shrinking" with real-world scientific advancements like space exploration and miniaturized electronics. The narrative follows a fictional scenario where a scientist named Benes, who has developed a method to control the shrinking process, flees from the East to the West. He is targeted by assassins, leading to a car crash that injures his brain. The only way to treat his injury is from within his body. A team of four men and one woman embarks on a mission in a miniaturized submarine called Proteus, entering Benes's bloodstream. Their journey through his circulatory system, including navigating the heart and lungs, is fraught with peril. They eventually reach the brain injury and perform surgery using laser beams. The mission is a race against time, as the Proteus and its crew must exit Benes's body before they return to normal size, which would be fatal. The article highlights the immense challenges and dangers of such an endeavor, including the potential for being attacked by white blood cells.

Televisionens Profet (The Prophet of Television)

This section delves into the history of television, crediting Albert Robida, a French artist and visionary, with early predictions of the technology in the late 19th century. Robida's drawings depicted large screens broadcasting live events from around the world, a concept he called the "Telephonoscope." While he envisioned transmitting images via telephone wires, he could not conceive of wireless transmission or the extent of future technological advancements.

The article then traces the development of television, mentioning Paul Nipkow's 1883 invention of the "electric telescope," a mechanical system that scanned images using a rotating disc. Although Nipkow's invention was ahead of its time and not immediately practical, it laid the groundwork for future developments. The first public television broadcast took place in Berlin in 1928, using a system based on Nipkow's principles. The transition from mechanical to electronic television occurred in the early 1930s with the introduction of the electron cannon, significantly improving image quality.

Färg-TV Redan 1902! (Color TV Already in 1902!)

This part of the magazine discusses the early history of color television, noting that a primitive system was patented as early as 1902. Discussions about color television intensified in the 1930s, with the basic principles being resolved by the mid-1940s. The first color broadcasts began in New York in 1951. Initially considered a luxury, color television eventually became the standard, surpassing black and white.

Space Exploration: Voyager II

A brief article reports on the American spacecraft Voyager II's flyby of the planet Saturn on August 19, 1981. The spacecraft, after a four-year journey covering 1.5 billion kilometers, transmitted images of Saturn's rings and moons. Voyager II passed Saturn at a distance of 101,000 km and Enceladus at 37,000 km. The mission's next target is Uranus, with an expected arrival in January 1986. The article also mentions that analysis of images from Enceladus suggests the possibility of water beneath its icy surface.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine showcases a blend of science fiction, historical technological development, and current scientific achievements. The editorial stance appears to be one of fascination with human ingenuity, both real and imagined, exploring the boundaries of science and technology. There's a clear interest in how future technologies were envisioned in the past and how current advancements fulfill or surpass those visions. The magazine celebrates scientific progress, from the theoretical possibilities of shrinking to the practical realities of space exploration and the evolution of mass communication like television.

Title: H.J.nr
Issue: 33
Date: August 12, 1981

This issue features an article discussing the technological advancement of communication satellites and their potential impact on global unity, drawing parallels to biblical prophecy.

Communication Satellites and Global Unity

The article begins by describing the current state of television satellites, noting they orbit at 36,000 kilometers above Earth, completing a full rotation in 24 hours. These satellites function as enormous TV towers, providing coverage across entire continents and following the Earth's rotation.

The central theme is Arthur C. Clarke's prediction that these communication satellites will ultimately unite a fragmented world. The author quotes a passage from the Bible, relating to the time when the Tower of Babel was built: "Behold, they are one people and have one language, and this is only the beginning of what they will do; and nothing that they propose to do will now be impossible for them." This biblical reference is used to illustrate the potential for humanity to achieve great things when unified by a common language and purpose, a state that Clarke suggests satellites could help foster.

The article concludes with a hopeful sentiment, expressing the wish that Clarke's optimistic prediction proves correct. The piece is attributed to H.J.nr, issue 33, dated December 8, 1981.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme is the optimistic view of technology, specifically communication satellites, as a force for global unification. The editorial stance appears to be one of hopeful anticipation regarding the positive societal impact of technological advancements, aligning with Clarke's forward-looking perspective. The use of a biblical analogy underscores a belief in the potential for human collective achievement when barriers like language are overcome.