Magazine Summary
OMNI
Ever wanted to host your own late-night paranormal radio show?
Across the Airwaves
You’re on the air. Callers bring Mothman, Fresno Nightcrawlers, UFO sightings, reptilian autopsies, and whispers about AATIP and Project Blue Book. Every reply shapes how the night goes.
Summary
This issue of OMNI magazine from November 1984 explores the concept of 'Electronic Soul' and the technical possibility of immortality. It also features 'Superwomen of the Future' and a sneak preview of 'Dune.' A notable article discusses Aliven drag, a phenomenon suggested by physicist Freeman Dyson as a potential method for starships to brake using electromagnetic interactions with plasma, leaving detectable 'skid marks' in space. Dyson believes that while no evidence of such marks has been found, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence should continue by devising new methods.
Magazine Overview
This issue of OMNI magazine, dated November 1984, features a vibrant cover with the OMNI logo and several prominent headlines. The main cover story is "ELECTRONIC SOUL: IMMORTALITY BECOMES TECHNICALLY POSSIBLE," suggesting a focus on futuristic concepts of consciousness and longevity. Other highlighted topics include "SUPERWOMEN OF THE FUTURE" and a "DUNE: SNEAK PREVIEW," indicating coverage of science fiction, speculative futures, and popular culture.
UFO Update: Aliven Drag and Extraterrestrial Travel
The article "UFO UPDATE" delves into a theoretical method for interstellar braking proposed by physicist Freeman Dyson. He discusses a phenomenon known as Aliven drag, accidentally discovered by Nobel laureate Hannes Aliven. This drag occurs due to electromagnetic interactions between a spacecraft and charged plasma in space, causing a slowdown.
Dyson explains that for a starship moving at near-light speeds, Aliven drag could be a viable braking mechanism. He proposes that the braking system need not be a solid mass but could consist of a network of long, thin wires, each about one micron in diameter, spaced ten meters apart. These wires would catch plasma energy to slow the craft.
A significant implication of this braking system is that it would leave behind "long, hot trails in space," described as skid marks. These trails, composed of hot plasma, could potentially be detected by radio telescopes on Earth, serving as a signal for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).
Dyson acknowledges that no such skid marks have been observed yet. He suggests that SETI researchers might not be actively searching for these specific signs. However, he remains optimistic about the possibility of other species exploring space, stating, "There's no evidence for it, but there's no evidence against it either." He emphasizes the importance of continuing to "keep devising ways of conducting the search."
The article also touches upon the accidental discovery of Aliven drag by Hannes Aliven when the Echo 1 satellite experienced an unexpected slowdown. The concept is presented as a problem that could be tackled by a graduate student.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of OMNI magazine appears to focus on speculative science, futurism, and the potential for technological advancements to alter fundamental aspects of human existence, such as mortality (Electronic Soul). It also engages with popular science fiction (Dune) and broader questions about extraterrestrial life and interstellar travel. The editorial stance, as reflected in Dyson's comments, is one of scientific curiosity, open-mindedness, and a proactive approach to investigation, particularly in the field of SETI.
"I think it's quite likely that there are other species exploring space. There's no evidence for it, but there's no evidence against it either. The most interesting thing is to keep devising ways of conducting the search."
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Aliven drag?
Aliven drag is a phenomenon discovered by Hannes Aliven, where an electromagnetic interaction between a spacecraft and magnetically charged plasma in space causes the spacecraft to slow down.
How could Aliven drag be used for starship braking?
Freeman Dyson suggests that a starship could use Aliven drag by employing a braking system composed of long, thin wires to catch plasma energy and slow the craft. This process would leave detectable trails of hot plasma.
Has evidence of Aliven drag skid marks been found?
No such skid marks have been reported, but Freeman Dyson suggests that radio astronomers involved in SETI might not be specifically looking for them.
What is the significance of Aliven drag for finding extraterrestrial life?
The 'skid marks' left by Aliven drag braking could potentially be detected by radio telescopes on Earth, providing a clue to the presence of extraterrestrial spacecraft.
In This Issue
People Mentioned
- Freeman Dysonphysicist
- Hannes AlivenNobel laureate
Organisations
- SETI