Galax - 1964 02 Vol 4 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: Galax
Issue: Årgång 4, Nr 2
Date: Februari 1964
Publisher: M. I. S.
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Galax magazine, published in February 1964, focuses on astronomical discoveries, unexplained phenomena, and extraterrestrial possibilities. It features a cover image of a spiral galaxy and includes articles on lunar observations, newly discovered giant stars, radio signals from Jupiter, and UFO reports.

Articles

"Vad bidar på månen?" (What Awaits on the Moon?) by Denis Lindbohm

This article revisits historical observations of unusual phenomena on the Moon, particularly in the Mare Crisium region. It begins with reports from 1869 of light phenomena like streaks, triangles, and rectangles observed by astronomers of the Royal Astronomical Society. In 1921, American astronomer F. B. Harris observed an 80 km diameter object passing close to the lunar surface, casting a shadow, which did not behave like a natural asteroid due to its lack of gravitational influence. In 1950, British astronomer P. Wilkins reported a luminous oval hovering over the Aristarchus crater, a sighting later confirmed by J. Bartlett Jr. More astonishingly, in 1953, editor J. O'Neil observed a 20 km long, geometrically straight bridge across Mare Crisium, a phenomenon also confirmed by astronomers H. P. Wilkins and P. Moore. The article notes that these observations were met with skepticism until corroborated. More recently, over 200 reports of white objects, described as domes or cupolas, appearing and disappearing in the Mare Crisium region have been recorded. The article concludes by posing the question of what might be awaiting discovery on the Moon.

"Nya Astronomiska Upptäckter" (New Astronomical Discoveries) by Yngve Freij

This section highlights recent breakthroughs in astronomical research. It details the discovery of a new type of giant star, previously unknown, located at immense distances from our own galaxy, the Milky Way, between 3.5 and 6 billion light-years away. These stars are described as emitting an energy output 10,000 billion times greater than our Sun and possessing masses 100 million billion times that of the Sun. The article explains that due to the expansion of the universe and redshift, these distant objects become fainter and harder to detect. The most distant galaxy studied at that time was 3c-295, approximately 5 billion light-years away, moving at 150,000 km/sec, half the speed of light. The article discusses the immense size of these new stars, with diameters up to 10 light-years, leading to the term "miniature galaxies." Theories about their origin include chain reactions involving giant supernovas. These stars have been observed in the USA, Great Britain, and Australia, with international collaboration underway to find more. Their luminosity is hundreds of times greater than the entire Milky Way. The article also touches upon the possibility that these stars might be located at the edge of the visible universe, and as they recede at increasing speeds, their light may never reach us.

"Den exploderande galaxen" (The Exploding Galaxy)

This article discusses the phenomenon of galaxy M 82, which had been reported in the news as exploding. It clarifies that the entire Milky Way did not explode, but rather a small fraction of M 82's mass is involved in an explosion comparable to a million supernovas. A supernova explosion itself is a massive event, where a star suddenly increases its radiation output by hundreds of millions of times before being destroyed. The article notes that while "ordinary novae" increase their brightness by only a few hundred thousand times, the M 82 event is far more significant. It explores theories suggesting that a massive "superstar" might temporarily form in the center of a galaxy, becoming unstable and collapsing, leading to an explosion. This theory could also explain the discovery of the giant stars mentioned previously. Despite numerous investigations into M 82, much remains unknown, as various facts can be interpreted in multiple ways, leading to conflicting conclusions.

"HELTIDSJOBB ATT LYSSNA PÅ JUPITER" (Full-time Job Listening to Jupiter)

This piece reports on Frank Hyde, an Englishman whose full-time job is to listen to radio signals from Jupiter. The American Institute for Space Research has allocated $15,000 to fund his "listening post" for the year. Hyde operates a radio telescope from an old watchtower, receiving signals described as "gritty" and not originating from any human-like beings. Scientists are analyzing these signals, which appear as spirals, to understand their origin. Hyde's most likely theory is that the signals do not originate from Jupiter itself but from the Sun. The Sun's radiation reaches Jupiter (1.13 billion km away) and then bounces back to Earth (an additional 500 million km journey), triggering reactions in Jupiter's atmosphere that release energy, thus producing the signals. Comparative observations are being conducted at a radio telescope in Florida. Hyde explains the importance of this research: "If a spacecraft is ever to be sent to Jupiter, we need to know a little about what to expect."

"RYSSARNA KLARAR AV MARSSPRÅKET" (The Russians Master Martian Language)

According to a Tass report, a scientist in Leningrad, Nikolaj Andrejev, claims to have developed a "language key" that can decipher any unknown text, including potential Martian language. This key, using an electronic computer, can mathematically analyze any language and make it understandable.

"DETEKTORVARNINGAR FÖR FLYGANDE TEFAT?" (Detector Warnings for Flying Saucers?)

This section details UFO detector readings registered by Willy Schmidt in Malmö, Sweden, during December 1963 and January 1964. He recorded several "outbursts" from his detector, with the last one on January 1, 1964, being unusually strong. The magazine appeals for more reports from anyone who has registered similar signals.

"PRAKTFULLT HIMLASPEL" (Magnificent Sky Play)

This report describes a spectacular atmospheric phenomenon observed in Kiruna, Sweden, on December 29, 1963. Between 11 AM and 12 PM, a large portion of the sky was covered by a band of nacreous clouds, described as "mother-of-pearl clouds," shining in all the colors of the rainbow. The display stretched from southwest to north. Similar, though less intense, halo phenomena were observed later in the day. These clouds are noted to be at a very high altitude and relatively stationary compared to lower-moving clouds.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the frontiers of scientific knowledge, particularly in astronomy and space exploration, while also maintaining a strong interest in unexplained phenomena and potential extraterrestrial intelligence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and observations without definitive conclusions, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional understanding. There is a clear fascination with the unknown, whether it be on the Moon, in distant galaxies, or in the signals from Jupiter. The inclusion of UFO reports and the speculative article on deciphering Martian language indicate a broad interest in ufology and the search for life beyond Earth. The magazine also highlights scientific progress and the potential of human knowledge, as exemplified by the quote from Alexis Carrell, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with scientific power.

Title: Galax
Issue: 1
Volume: 1964
Date: January 1964
Publisher: Galax
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: HAR UFO-BESÄTTNINGARNA "HUSDJUR"? (Do UFO Crews Have "Pets"?)

Article: UFO Encounters and 'Dwarfs'

The issue opens with a discussion on UFO research, specifically focusing on descriptions of small, hairy dwarfs encountered near landed UFOs. These beings are contrasted with the taller, blonde individuals often described. Coral Lorenzen, chairperson of APRO, suggests that the blonde, tall beings are the intelligent entities, while the hairy dwarfs are of lesser intelligence, comparable to apes. This hypothesis is presented as plausible, explaining the dwarfs' potentially hostile behavior when surprised and their engagement in simple tasks like collecting plant and soil samples.

A detailed account is given by Olmiro da Costa e Rosa, an uneducated Brazilian farmer from Rio Grande do Sul. On December 9, 1954, at 5 PM, while working in his cornfield, he heard a sound like a sewing machine and saw animals fleeing. He then observed a "stranger" and a craft resembling a hat, cream-colored and surrounded by a transparent smoke, hovering about 1.5 meters above the ground. The craft emitted a strong smell similar to a coal-fired steam engine. He noticed two other beings, one inside the craft and another examining a fence wire. The craft had three holes, but he didn't see how the beings exited or entered. He was too frightened to call for help or move. The being inside the craft made a greeting gesture and smiled sadly before examining his hoe, then returning it. The beings then took some green beans and corn plants and re-entered the craft.

Costa e Rosa approached the craft, noting that his movements were observed by the being inside. The other being, by the fence, made a negative gesture, indicating he should not come closer. This being was meticulously examining the fence wire. When some sheep approached, the beings showed interest. Costa e Rosa attempted to ask for something as a gift, but received a negative response.

Shortly after, the beings returned to the craft and disappeared inside. The craft then ascended vertically from 100 meters, accelerated rapidly, and flew west. The three beings are described as medium height, broad-shouldered, blonde, with long, wavy hair. Their faces were so similar they could be triplets, with unusual "windy" eyes and pale complexions, appearing almost like corpses but seeming strong. They wore light brown, one-piece overalls or uniforms that merged with their shoes, which had no heels. The entire encounter lasted about five minutes. The craft was estimated to be 15 meters in diameter and made of a bright, yellow, shiny metal. After it left, Costa e Rosa found nothing unusual on the ground, though the smell of burning coal lingered.

The government investigation committee was impressed by Costa e Rosa's straightforward and sincere account, noting his lack of familiarity with science fiction or UFO terminology. He initially believed the visitors were pilots from another country.

Another incident occurred two days later, on December 11, 1954, at 5 PM, on a farm belonging to Pedro Morais, 1.5 km from Costa's farm. Morais was about to drive to town when he heard his chickens agitated. He saw a UFO emitting a sound like a sewing machine, similar to Costa's experience. He then saw two small figures, about 120 cm tall, standing in the field. Morais approached them angrily, but one figure held up a hand, signaling him to stop. The figures then ran towards their ship. Just before boarding, one of them picked up a tobacco plant. Morais described the figures as human-like in head and body but lacking visible facial features like eyes, nose, or mouth. He felt they were enclosed in "yellowish sacks" that completely covered them.

Neither account is considered definitive proof, but their striking similarity is noted. The two farmers had never met and lived far apart, and neither had heard of UFOs. They interpreted the events differently (Morais thought they were "devils"). The government investigation found no solution, labeling the report "unsolved."

Article: Statistics and Natural Disasters

Engineer Ivan Troëng of Garpenberg comments on an article by Rune S Persson regarding engineer Svantesson's statistics. Troëng argues that Persson's analysis in Galax No. 1, 1964, was based on insufficient knowledge. He emphasizes that Svantesson's work, spanning from June 25, 1955, is a continuous effort to generate interest. A diagram published in the industry magazine Norden (No. 13, 1956) showed a lower curve representing sunspot activity (Wolftal) and an upper curve showing atmospheric pressure in Stockholm. The diagram indicated that strong solar activity was followed by a drop in barometric pressure about 100 days later.

Troëng also includes a list of disasters attributed to the first hydrogen bomb. He personally tracks extreme solar activity and predicts "catastrophe days" 100 days in advance. He had predicted three such days recently, two of which had occurred, with the third expected in late January. A significant sunspot was reported on August 2nd, predicting a catastrophe day around November 11th. He notes a record sunspot on August 2nd, predicting a catastrophe day 100 days later, around November 11th.

Article: Global Events and Solar Activity

The magazine reports on a period of high solar activity in October, predicting "catastrophe days" from January 21-31, 1964. The current period is described as one where solar spots should be absent. Despite 1964 being declared the "silent year of the sun" by global geophysical research, the author anticipates repercussions from 1963's bomb tests disrupting nature's rhythm.

Further events are detailed: On November 9, Japan experienced a severe mine accident, possibly due to flammable gas escaping. On November 10, a train accident occurred in Japan due to unexplained rail displacement. Notably, a volcano formed off Iceland, building a pyramid of lava and ash about 200 meters high, which was still active in late January 1964. On September 17, a strong solar maximum was reported, predicting a catastrophe day on Boxing Day. While no immediate dramatic effect was observed, a new volcano near Iceland was reported on the third day. On December 27-28, abnormal snowstorms in Iran caused about 50 deaths.

Troëng had shared his predictions with lic Furenlid at the Saltsjöbaden Observatory, who agreed that October 15th could be a significant "catastrophe day." However, Furenlid also noted that disasters occur almost daily.

Article: UFO Sighting in Denmark

An interesting note from Ole Hansen in Copenhagen describes an event in Kolding, Denmark. On January 16th, people in Vonsild observed a cigar-shaped object moving silently and rapidly from northwest to southwest. Suddenly, the object "gave birth" to four smaller craft, which then disappeared or turned black. A few hours later, in Odis-Bramrup, a bright flash, like a giant lightning bolt, illuminated the landscape before disappearing with a trail of sparks. Witnesses dismissed the possibility of it being a comet or meteor.

Article: Science Fiction and Public Perception

In Copenhagen, a Danish radio science fiction program based on H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds" frightened many listeners on January 1, 1964. Despite explanations that it was fiction, listeners called in with anxious inquiries. The program depicted an alien invasion averted by a joint US-Soviet rocket effort. The article draws a parallel to Orson Welles' 1938 radio drama, which caused widespread panic in the US, with people believing it was a real Martian invasion.

Article: Space Debris

The magazine reports that over 400 man-made objects are orbiting the Earth, some of which are classified as scrap. These objects, originating from Sputnik in 1957 to the present, include rocket stages and metal fragments. The majority of these objects are of American origin.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena (UFOs, unusual natural events) with scientific inquiry and statistical analysis. There's a clear interest in correlating seemingly disparate events, such as solar activity and terrestrial disasters, and in documenting eyewitness accounts of UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation into these topics, presenting both anecdotal evidence and scientific attempts at explanation, while also acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the potential for misinterpretation or sensationalism (as seen with the science fiction program). The magazine aims to inform its readers about ongoing research and notable incidents in the fields of ufology and atmospheric/geophysical phenomena.

This issue of "Forskning och Framsteg" (Research and Progress), dated 1965, issue number 10, delves into a diverse range of topics, from the practicalities of space debris and rocket propulsion to the more speculative realms of ancient mysteries, interspecies communication, and paranormal phenomena.

Space Debris and Orbital Objects

The issue begins by discussing the growing problem of space debris orbiting Earth. It notes that most of the approximately 750 objects are remnants of rocket launches, including the American Transit 4A rocket from 1961 and Soviet spacecraft. Some satellites have burned up due to atmospheric drag. The article speculates that future missions might need to account for the risk of collisions with long-abandoned human-made space junk.

Ancient Inscription from the Caucasus

A fascinating discovery from the North Caucasian city of Majkop is detailed: an ancient stone tablet bearing a cryptic inscription. After considerable effort, the inscription was deciphered. Although written in ancient Phoenician script, it could only be understood when read in Abkhazian, a Caucasian language. This find highlights the historical connections between the Caucasian peoples and ancient Phoenicia, marking the tablet as one of the oldest artifacts discovered in the Soviet Union.

Understanding Dolphin Language

An article explores the efforts of two US engineers attempting to decipher and learn the language of dolphins. They are using a miniature electronic brain to make precise comparisons and catalog the dolphins' "vocabulary." The piece references previous experiments where dolphins were taught to mimic human speech sounds. The potential success of this research could lead to dolphins being used for underwater reconnaissance, similar to how dogs are used on land.

A Peculiar "Wax Cake" from Space

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a personal account by Faustin Gallegos, who witnessed a strange event on February 28, 1958, in Miami. While discussing finances with his wife Dorothy and mother Thelma, a white, ball-like object descended into their backyard. Gallegos described it as a transparent, pulsating object, roughly the size of a baseball (50 cm wide, 25 cm high), composed of thousands of tiny cells resembling a honeycomb. He touched the object, finding it had no temperature and that his finger passed through it, leaving a hole that then resealed. His wife and neighbor, Mrs. Peggy Townsend, also touched it with similar results. The object then began to shrink and completely disintegrated, leaving no trace, not even moisture or an imprint. Gallegos contacted the US Weather Bureau, but they had no explanation for such a phenomenon. He also reported the incident to the Miami Police Department. This event gained publicity, leading to others reporting similar sightings, including a woman from Arkansas who saw a similar object in 1955. A detective captain mentioned that an unknown substance had also landed on his property the same day, several kilometers away.

Radio Contact with the Other World

Reporter Ivan Troeng details his visit to Friedrich Jürgenson and his wife Monika in Mölnbo, Sweden. Jürgenson claims to have made extensive tape recordings of voices, songs, and music from "another world." The recordings, which Jürgenson learned to interpret through painstaking effort, are presented as evidence of communication from the deceased. The article draws parallels to the work of David Wilson in London during World War I, who also received messages from the "world of the deceased." However, Jürgenson's method differs significantly from Wilson's; Jürgenson uses a standard commercial radio and tape recorder, receiving audio transmissions, while Wilson used a specialized apparatus and received messages via Morse telegraphy. A notable aspect is that Jürgenson's recordings have been audibly received by others, including a friend in Eskilstuna.

The issue references a book, "Efter 3000 år" (After 3000 years) by Nona, channeled through medium Rosemary. This book suggests an intensive campaign from the spirit world to break through to the living, aiming to make their existence a reality and to help and share knowledge with those on Earth. Jürgenson's contact is seen as part of this effort, with a "research institute" on the other side dedicated to these problems.

Space Exploration Records

An article reports on a significant achievement in space exploration: on January 29, 1964, the USA successfully launched the massive 562-ton Saturn I rocket, carrying a 19-ton sand-filled satellite. This launch was a step towards a manned moon mission. The Saturn rocket reached an altitude of 751 km, with a minimum distance of 260 km, and a period of 94.8 minutes.

Advanced Propulsion Concepts

Denis Lindbohm's article, "UR JORDJÄTTENS BOJOR" (From Earth's Fetters), explores theoretical concepts for future space propulsion. It dismisses chemical rockets as economically unfeasible for interstellar travel and discusses the potential of nuclear propulsion, noting its current limitations due to reliance on fissionable material. The article touches upon hypothetical "solar motors" and the idea of using light itself as a source of propulsion. It also delves into the nature of gravitation, acknowledging the fragmented understanding of this force. The author discusses the inverse square law related to distance and the concept of atomic nuclei attracting electron shells. The article briefly mentions "sub-dimensional travel" or teleportation as a hypothetical transport method that bypasses spacetime, making vast distances instantly traversable.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a strong interest in the unexplained, the frontiers of science, and the potential for contact with non-human intelligence, whether extraterrestrial or from other dimensions. There is a clear editorial stance favoring the exploration of these topics, presenting both personal accounts and scientific research. The magazine aims to inform its readers about cutting-edge scientific developments while also engaging with more speculative and paranormal subjects, encouraging critical thinking and open-mindedness.