Delve Report - 2006 10 - October

Magazine Overview

This issue of DELVE REPORT, dated October 2006, focuses on a blend of astronomical discoveries, the enduring mystery of Area 51, the ongoing search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI), and advancements in physics related to invisibility.

Heavy Hydrogen Discovery Could Reshape Galactic Theories

A groundbreaking discovery announced on Monday, detailed in the August 20 issue of The Astrophysical Journal, reveals a heavy form of hydrogen, known as deuterium, found in larger quantities than anticipated within the Milky Way. Researchers, including Jeffrey Linsky of the University of Colorado, utilized NASA's Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE) satellite to detect this hidden hydrogen. Deuterium, which contains a neutron in addition to a proton in its nucleus, produces a distinct spectral fingerprint. Scientists had previously assumed that a significant portion of primordial deuterium was destroyed over time within stars. However, FUSE data indicates that deuterium levels are less than 15 percent below original amounts and are not evenly distributed. Linsky notes that higher concentrations of interstellar dust correlate with lower levels of deuterium gas, and vice versa. This finding implies that either less material has been converted to helium and heavier elements in stars, or significantly more primordial gas has been added to the galaxy over its lifetime. These implications necessitate a revision of current models for the chemical evolution of the Milky Way.

The Mystery of Area 51 and Nevada's Extraterrestrial Highway

An article by Mitchell Smyth in the Toronto Sun (September 20, 2006) delves into the enigmatic Area 51 in Rachel, Nevada. Known to the U.S. government as a restricted area, Area 51 is a focal point for UFOlogists and conspiracy theorists. Stories abound regarding secret military testing, the reverse-engineering of alien spacecraft, and even the alleged storage of alien bodies recovered from the Roswell crash. Chuck Clark, author of "The Area 51 Handbook," suggests that while some sightings can be explained by flares or secret aircraft tests (like the U-2 or B-2), others defy rational explanation. The secrecy surrounding the base fuels these rumors. The town of Rachel, with a population of 98, has embraced its connection to the phenomenon, with State Route 375 officially designated the "Extraterrestrial Highway" to attract tourism.

The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) Continues

Kurt Kleiner's article in the Toronto Star (July 23, 2006) highlights the ongoing efforts in the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI). Despite official indifference and a lack of government funding, scientists worldwide continue to scan the skies for signals from alien civilizations. Projects like the Allen Telescope Array are expanding surveys, aiming to increase the likelihood of detecting transmissions. The article touches upon the historical context of SETI, referencing Frank Drake's pioneering work and Carl Sagan's optimistic view of the endeavor. The "giggle factor" associated with SETI is acknowledged, but the sheer scale of the universe, with its billions of stars and galaxies, fuels the belief that life, and potentially intelligent life, has developed elsewhere. The article also mentions the famous "Wow!" signal detected in 1977 and the ongoing efforts of projects like SERENDIP and optical SETI.

Invisibility Physics: Bending Light Around Objects

Jeffrey Hawkins reports in the National Post (August 1, 2006) on scientific progress towards creating invisibility. Researchers are exploring theoretical devices based on "metamaterials" that could bend light or radio waves around an object, rendering it invisible. Lead author Ulf Leonhardt explains that objects are visible because they reflect light, and by creating a "hole" where light can be guided around an object, it would become unseen. While metamaterials can already shield equipment from microwave radiation, achieving invisibility for visible light is considered a more distant goal, though "very possible."

Other Notable Content

The issue also includes a review of "The Canadian UFO Report" by Chris Rutkowski and Geoff Dittman, which examines alleged UFO sightings in Canada. A piece on the "Face on Mars" debunks the alien artifact theory, presenting new 3D images from the Mars Express Orbiter that show it as a natural rock formation. Astronomers have also discovered a new class of "ultra-short period planets" that orbit their stars in less than a day. The issue briefly mentions the discovery of the faintest stars ever seen by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope and the naming of the dwarf planet Eris. Additionally, there's a lighthearted mention of alien-themed auction items and a Futuro home designed to resemble a flying saucer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, mystery, and the unknown. There's a clear interest in astronomical discoveries, particularly those that challenge existing theories, and a fascination with unexplained phenomena like UFOs and the Area 51 mystery. The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific curiosity, presenting both established scientific findings and more speculative topics with a balanced approach, encouraging readers to consider the possibilities while grounding discussions in available evidence and ongoing research.