Orion 1965 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: ORION
Issue: Nr 2
Volume: Årgång 1
Date: Mars-April 1965
Publisher: Malmö Interplanetariska Sällskap
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Price: Lösnummer 2:10 (inkl oms)

This issue of ORION, a Swedish journal for research in new eras, is dedicated to exploring the fascinating realm of quasars and radio astronomy. The cover features a stunning image of a nebula, likely the Orion Nebula, setting the tone for the astronomical themes within. The editorial emphasizes the journal's aim to inform readers about astronomy, space research, human existence in the universe, parapsychology, life philosophies, archaeology, and ancient cultures. It highlights the importance of presenting both established scientific facts and emerging fields, encouraging a debate forum for readers.

Articles and Content

Kvasi-stellära radiokällor (Quasi-Stellar Radio Sources)

By Ulf R Johansson, this article delves into the groundbreaking discoveries in modern astronomy, particularly the emergence of quasi-stellar radio sources, or quasars. Johansson explains how radio and radar technology, adopted by astronomy in the 1940s, has led to an explosive development in the field. He traces the historical understanding of the Milky Way as the entire cosmos, a notion overturned by astronomers like Edwin Hubble and Max Wolf in the early 20th century, who proved it to be just one of many galaxies. The article discusses how galaxies often appear in clusters and how our own Milky Way is part of the Local Group. The discovery of matter bridges between galaxies, suggesting gravitational forces at play, is also mentioned. However, the focus shifts to the enigmatic quasars, which emit incredibly powerful radio signals, challenging existing astronomical models. These objects, initially thought to be within our galaxy, are now understood to be extremely distant and energetic. The article notes that their small apparent size, coupled with their immense luminosity, makes them some of the most astonishing objects known.

Johansson details the work of astronomers like Maarten Schmidt, who in 1960 identified spectral lines in quasars shifted significantly towards the red end of the spectrum. This redshift, quantified by the formula Δλ/λ, is directly related to an object's radial velocity and distance, as established by Edwin Hubble's work on cosmic expansion. The redshift values for quasars, ranging from 0.1 to 0.6, suggest distances of 2-6 billion light-years, placing them at the very edge of observable space. Their speeds can exceed half the speed of light, leading to radical conclusions about the universe.

The article presents tables of observed quasars (Table 1) with their coordinates and apparent magnitudes, and their calculated distances and radial velocities (Table 2). It acknowledges that while redshift is generally interpreted as evidence of cosmic expansion, alternative explanations like relativistic redshift (implying immense mass) or rapid rotation are considered but largely dismissed due to observational evidence.

Radioastronomiska Mätningar (Radio Astronomical Measurements)

This section discusses the work done at the Mullard Radio Astronomy Observatory in England, led by Professor Martin Ryle. The observatory has meticulously cataloged radio sources in the sky. The "Third Cambridge Catalogue of Radio Sources" lists 450 objects, including several quasars. Most of these are faint radio sources, and their small apparent diameters, previously leading to their classification as galactic objects, are now being re-evaluated. The article mentions measurements by C Hazard in Australia that resolved some objects to a mere 0.3 arcseconds, suggesting they are not point-like.

Spektrum och Rödförskjutning (Spectrum and Redshift)

This part elaborates on the spectral analysis of quasars, particularly the work of Maarten Schmidt. He identified spectral lines that were shifted far into the red, indicating high recession velocities. The article explains the formula for redshift (Δλ/λ) and its relation to velocity (v) and distance (d) through Hubble's constant (k). The immense distances calculated for quasars, up to several billion light-years, are emphasized. The article also touches upon the concept of the universe's expansion and the Hubble constant's value, which has been revised over time.

Dimensioner och Utstrålning (Dimensions and Radiation)

The article highlights the paradox of quasars: their seemingly small physical dimensions (around 10,000-25,000 light-years, much smaller than the Milky Way) but their extraordinary energy output, which can be 10 to 100 times that of the entire Milky Way. The formula for calculating luminosity (Lk) based on solar luminosity (Ls) and magnitudes (Ms, Mk) reveals an astonishing power output of 10^46 erg/sec for quasars. This is further contextualized by the formula relating apparent magnitude (m), absolute magnitude (M), and distance (d).

The variability in the brightness of quasars, particularly 3C-273, is discussed. Observations dating back to 1890 show periodic brightness fluctuations over approximately 13 years. Faster variations, over days or weeks, have also been noted. The article poses the question, famously asked by Thornton Page, of how such rapid changes in luminosity can occur if light itself takes a significant time to traverse the object.

Möjliga Förklaringar (Possible Explanations)

The article explores potential explanations for the intense radiation from quasars, ranging from the complete annihilation of the Milky Way's stellar and nebular matter to more speculative theories like gravitational collapses, reactions between matter and antimatter, or chain reactions of supernovae. However, it concludes that the problem remains largely unsolved and may take decades to unravel.

EN SLUTKOMMENTAR (A Final Comment)

This concluding section reflects on humanity's historical view of the cosmos as stable and unchanging. It suggests that the discovery of variable stars and novae, and now quasars, forces a continuous revision of our understanding. The author posits that perhaps modern humans, like their predecessors, are making assumptions about the universe's inherent regularity that future discoveries, particularly concerning quasars, might challenge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the cutting edge of astronomical discovery, particularly the enigmatic nature of quasars and the advancements in radio astronomy. The editorial stance is one of scientific curiosity, openness to new and unconventional ideas, and a commitment to informing the public about complex scientific topics. The journal actively encourages reader participation and debate, positioning itself as a platform for disseminating knowledge and fostering a deeper understanding of the universe and humanity's place within it. The emphasis is on the

This issue of "Outforskade krafter" (Unexplored Forces) features a cover story by George Killick, exploring the complexities and challenges of his own psychic abilities. The magazine also delves into the enigmatic nature of prime numbers, groundbreaking neuroscience experiments, and intriguing archaeological discoveries.

George Killick: The Burden of Unexplored Forces

George Killick begins by discussing the public's perception of his abilities, likening himself at times to a circus performer. He highlights the more serious difficulties associated with his "extra sensitive talent," particularly the challenge of interpreting the complex and often ambiguous visions he receives. He recounts an instance where he spontaneously felt the number seven in relation to the Queen's health, later realizing it corresponded to the date of her passing (March 7th). Killick emphasizes that his visions are not always clear-cut and can manifest as mirror images or scrambled information, making accurate interpretation difficult. He expresses a cautious approach to providing advice, preferring to err on the side of not speaking rather than risking misguiding someone. Over time, he has gained better control and certainty in interpreting his inner experiences but has also become more circumspect.

Killick also addresses the "language difficulties" in articulating these inner experiences, noting that everyday language is often inadequate for describing abstract and emotional phenomena. He finds that he can easily understand the emotional content of people regardless of their language, but conveying his own perceptions is a significant challenge.

He then details his "X-ray vision" ability, which manifested around age 18. While at a café, he found he could see through people's clothing, skin, and organs, perceiving blood vessels and internal organs in color. He learned to control this ability, which he calls "röntgenartat" (X-ray-like), and found it useful for identifying potential health issues, prompting individuals to seek specialist medical advice.

Killick also describes the phenomenon of "transfer" or "overföring," where he can experience the physical or psychological suffering of others. He recounts an incident where he felt pains in his stomach, which later turned out to be related to a friend's fiancée who was about to undergo an appendectomy. He speculates on how such empathy or premonition might occur, suggesting a direct contact or an object belonging to the person might be involved.

He further explores the concept of "things' memory" or "tingens minne," where objects seem to retain impressions of their owners and their experiences. He shares an anecdote about a ring with a green stone, where he could perceive information about both the ring and the stone, which had different origins and owners. He questions how memories and environments become imprinted on objects and how they can transfer this history.

Killick concludes his section by mentioning that while his abilities have provided interesting results, they have also brought serious and sad information, promising to share more in a future article.

The Mystery of Numbers: Prime Numbers and Mathematical Spirals

Yngve Freij contributes an article on the "mysticism of numbers," focusing on prime numbers. He explains that prime numbers are whole numbers divisible only by themselves and 1, providing examples like 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, etc. He notes that while mathematicians have computed millions of primes, finding a predictable pattern for their occurrence remains elusive.

The article highlights the work of Stanislaw M. Ulam, a theoretician at Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory, who, during a tedious lecture in 1963, began drawing a grid and numbering squares in a spiral pattern. To his surprise, he observed that prime numbers tended to arrange themselves in distinct diagonal lines within this spiral. This discovery was further explored using a computer to map primes up to 65,000, confirming the tendency for primes to form diagonal lines, and to a lesser extent, horizontal and vertical ones.

Freij explains that prime numbers greater than 3 can be expressed as either 1 less or 1 more than a multiple of 6, and they appear in two specific columns of a grid. He presents tables illustrating prime numbers and a grid showing their arrangement in a spiral, noting a recurring sequence (3-1-7-1-3) in the diagonal lines.

The article invites readers to experiment with these patterns, suggesting that the exploration of number sequences and their potential underlying order is vast.

Neuroscience and Bio-Control: The Dictator's Robot?

Alarik Degerman, an industrial psychologist, writes about the potential for controlling human behavior through medical research, contrasting it with behaviorism. He discusses how medical science is exploring the possibility of "feeding" the brain with electrical impulses to elicit predictable reactions, a field known as bio-control. While behaviorists viewed humans as mere conditioned reflexes, medical research suggests that by stimulating specific brain areas, it might be possible to control physical movements, thought processes, emotions, and sensations.

Degerman cites experiments by Nobel laureate W. R. Hess, who used electrical stimulation to induce anger and fear in cats. James Olds' experiments showed that cats could be made to prefer electrical stimulation over food, or to eat even when full, by stimulating different brain regions.

More controversially, experiments on humans are also mentioned. Canadian neurosurgeon Wilder Penfield discovered that certain brain areas could record and preserve images and sounds for decades, leading to detailed recollections of past events when stimulated. Naval Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland, has conducted experiments aiming to "smuggle" optical impressions directly into the brain using electrical signals, with the goal of creating synthetic vision for the blind. Some success has been reported.

However, the article raises significant ethical concerns. Critics warn that these findings could be exploited by a dictator to control and enslave entire populations. German physician Dr. Georg Genster is quoted as stating that these discoveries are more frightening than atomic bombs, highlighting the potential for misuse of bio-control technology.

Archaeological News: Ancient Finds Threatened and Explored

This section reports on archaeological discoveries.

Roman Monuments Threatened by Flooding: Yugoslavian archaeologists are working to save ancient Roman monuments threatened by a dam project at the Iron Gates. A significant find is the Trajanus Plaque, a large stone slab commissioned by Emperor Trajan to commemorate his conquest of Dacia. Experts hope to rescue the plaque by cutting it out and moving it. Another proposal is to build a glass enclosure around it as a tourist attraction. Additionally, excavations are underway near the village of Sip to recover artifacts before the area is evacuated due to the dam.

Underground Labyrinth Near Rome: Italian archaeologists have reopened a project from 1816 to explore an intricate underground labyrinth near Rome, believed to lead from an Etruscan tomb from the 4th century BC. Discovered in Tuscania, the find is considered highly valuable for studying the enigmatic Etruscan civilization. The labyrinth's passages were previously inaccessible due to water and the risk of collapse, but efforts are now being made to force them open.

Between Heaven and Earth: The Mystery of the Preserved Body

This article recounts the story of Prost Nicolaus Rungius, a strict clergyman who lived in the late 16th and early 17th centuries in Finland. Before his death in 1629, he prophesied that his body would remain uncorrupted if he had spoken the truth in his sermons. His body was buried in the church, and for 200 years, his prophecy was largely forgotten. During a church restoration, his remarkably preserved body was discovered, fulfilling his prediction and presenting a mystery that science cannot fully explain.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the unknown and the unexplained, from psychic phenomena and mathematical enigmas to the frontiers of neuroscience and the mysteries of the past. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting fascinating discoveries and theories while also acknowledging the limitations of current understanding and the ethical implications of scientific advancements. There's a clear interest in phenomena that challenge conventional scientific paradigms, whether they be psychic abilities, the inherent order in numbers, or the enduring mysteries of human biology and history.

Title: Forskning och Framsteg
Issue: April 1965
Volume: 100
Publisher: Svenska Vetenskapsförlaget
Country: Sweden
Price: 3.50 kr
ISSN: 0015-7972

This issue of Forskning och Framsteg delves into a variety of intriguing topics, from the enduring mystery of a miraculously preserved body to the scientific exploration of subterranean worlds and speculative theories about human origins and extraterrestrial life.

The Enduring Mystery of Pastor Rungius

The issue opens with a detailed account of the remarkable preservation of the body of Pastor Nicolaus Rungius. His body, first discovered in the 18th century, has defied decomposition and remained remarkably intact over centuries. Despite numerous investigations by researchers from Finland, Sweden, and Germany, no scientific explanation has been found for its preservation. In the early 1930s, German researchers even took the drastic step of cutting off a toe, only to find that its cells were perfectly preserved. This phenomenon has led to widespread belief in a miracle, with Rungius's body continuing to be a subject of fascination and study.

The article also recounts a disturbing incident during World War II when soldiers broke into the church where Rungius's body was interred. They desecrated the body, using it as a table for a drinking party and even placing a candle between its teeth. This act resulted in the loss of the pastor's right arm, the whereabouts of which remain unknown, though rumors suggest it may be preserved elsewhere in Southern Finland.

Despite the desecration and the passage of time, the body of Pastor Rungius remains largely intact, with only the hair gone and the skin having taken on a slightly brownish hue. The article notes that the town of Kemi, where the church is located, does not actively promote this phenomenon, perhaps to allow the pastor to rest in peace. However, a local guide named Juho Kesti reportedly offers to show the preserved body to tourists for a small fee, continuing to fuel the mystery surrounding this unique case.

Caves and Cave Research: An Exploration of the Subterranean World

Leander Tell contributes an extensive article titled "Grottor och grottforskning" (Caves and cave research), which explores the field of speleology. Tell argues that while humanity is rapidly advancing in space exploration, our understanding of our own planet's interior remains remarkably limited. He highlights the lack of funding for speleological research compared to space projects, despite the vast, unknown regions within the Earth's crust.

Speleology, derived from the Greek word 'spelaion' (cave), is presented as a scientific discipline that studies natural cavities in the Earth's crust. It draws upon geology, mineralogy, and physical geography to understand cave formation and the processes involved. Tell explains how water, enriched with carbon dioxide and acids, erodes rock formations like limestone, creating caves. This process involves the dissolution of rock, leading to collapses and the formation of underground watercourses that carve out passages, potholes, and galleries through mechanical erosion.

The article details the various formations found within caves, such as stalactites and stalagmites, which are formed by the slow deposition of minerals from dripping water. It also describes cave formations like draperies and cave milk, and the process of sinter formation. Tell emphasizes that cave environments possess unique climates, often with lower and more stable temperatures than the outside world.

He discusses the rarity of limestone caves in Sweden due to glacial erosion and explains how caves can also form in other types of rock through tectonic activity, such as faulting and fracturing. Examples are given of caves formed by frost weathering and abrasion from wind and water.

Tell also touches upon the unique flora and fauna found in caves, including blind fish, lizards, and crustaceans that have adapted to perpetual darkness. He notes the ongoing international research in this area, with specialized laboratories dedicated to studying subterranean life.

Furthermore, the article highlights the significance of caves in archaeology, as they often contain evidence of ancient human races and their art, such as realistic sculptures and wall paintings. Findings from caves worldwide have helped scientists date and distinguish ancient human races, providing profound insights into history and biology.

Balsbergsgrottan: A New Expedition

A section of the magazine is dedicated to recent explorations of the Balsbergsgrottan cave system in Sweden. The article, written by Yngve Freij, details expeditions undertaken in late 1964 and early 1965. Despite previous efforts, the western channel 'G' had remained inaccessible due to high water levels. Subsequent expeditions in February and March 1965 revealed that the water level had receded slightly, allowing for further exploration.

The team used a telephone connection for communication between the base and the explorers, with a safety line marked every meter. The passages were found to be narrow and winding, with soft clay and chalk acting as sound absorbers, making communication difficult. The explored passages were approximately 40x40 cm in dimensions, presenting significant challenges.

Several points of interest within the cave system are described, including water pools at points 19, 24, and 25. The explorers encountered difficult passages, some described as "impossible" due to their narrowness, posing a risk of getting stuck. The article suggests that clearing out sediment might be necessary for further progress.

Freij notes that the known length of the explored system is about 30 meters, but it is evident that the Balsbergsgrottan holds many more surprises. The article includes a preliminary sketch of the cave system, illustrating its complexity.

Human Origins and Extraterrestrial Theories

Another significant article in the issue explores theories surrounding human origins and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. It references a recent astronomical congress where the possibility of life beyond Earth was discussed. The article questions whether human development is solely a product of Earth's conditions, citing the work of Professor Curtis Hemmenway, who suggested that other civilizations might exist in the Milky Way.

The text delves into the concept of a 'cosmic intelligence' or 'God' as the origin of all matter, drawing parallels between the microcosm and the macrocosm. It then explores the idea that humans might have originated from elsewhere in the universe, a theory that has roots in biblical and esoteric traditions.

One theory presented suggests that an advanced civilization in the distant past, capable of space travel, may have placed its 'unsuitable elements' on Earth, a young planet in the solar system. This theory is supported by various historical and religious sources that speak of 'sons of God' descending from heaven and the concept of a divine presence in the heavens.

The article also touches upon the persistent search for the 'missing link' in human evolution, referencing Darwin's theory of natural selection. It posits that if evolution is possible, then the origins of humanity might lie beyond Earth.

Furthermore, the issue discusses the concept of 'flying saucers' and suggests that they could be evidence of beings from other parts of the cosmos who are far more advanced in spiritual and technological development than humans. The consistent geographical placement of different human races is also presented as a puzzle that might be explained by extraterrestrial influence.

The Human as a Dictator's Robot

A brief section discusses the controversial ideas of a Dr. Genster, who posits that humans could be controlled by external signals, likening them to robots. Genster suggests that it would be technologically simple to implant a receiver and antenna in a child's brain, allowing for the control of their thoughts and movements via radio signals. He controversially states that a human child, raised and educated, would be a cheaper 'machine' than any robot.

This view is echoed by Swiss biologist Adolf Portman, who expresses concern that scientific discoveries should only be used to enhance humanity, not to fundamentally alter its nature, comparing it to cosmetic surgery that merely beautifies without changing the essence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, mystery, and speculative thought. It presents scientific findings alongside unexplained phenomena, encouraging readers to question established paradigms and consider alternative explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and evidence without necessarily endorsing any single one. There is a clear interest in the unknown, whether it be the preservation of bodies, the exploration of hidden geological formations, or the potential for life and intelligence beyond Earth. The magazine aims to foster a lively debate, as indicated by the "MED SPETSAD PENNA!" (With a Sharpened Pen!) section, which invites reader contributions and diverse viewpoints.

This issue of MIS, dated 1965, is a Swedish publication from the Malmö Interplanetariska Sällskap. It features a mix of philosophical reflections, scientific news, and advertisements for health-related services.

Articles

"Affectator" Column

The "Affectator" column discusses humanity's inherent aggression compared to hypothetical extraterrestrial beings. It raises the question of whether humans might have originated from outer space and speculates that advanced civilizations may have intentionally removed our ancestors due to concerns about our destructive tendencies. The author suggests that future research might shed light on our ancient past and the reasons behind such an action.

"LIV - VÄXANDE" (Life - Growing)

This section delves into existential questions prompted by a suicidal individual's perspective. The author explores the meaning of life, the nature of self-love versus egoism, and the concept of universal interconnectedness. It posits that all life is a continuous transformation, with individual cells and organisms contributing to a larger whole. The text emphasizes the importance of "I and Thou" harmony and the idea that true self-love is the foundation for loving one's neighbor, leading to true democracy and societal cohesion. The author concludes that embracing a collective "WE" is the only way out of the current societal darkness.

"NYTT FRÅN FORSKNINGENS FÄLT - OSYMMETRISKA KRAFTLINJER OMGER JORDEN" (News from the Field of Research - Asymmetrical Field Lines Surround the Earth)

This article reports on a discovery by American scientists using the IMP-1 satellite. They identified a "magnetic vacuum" on the side of Earth facing away from the sun, which is believed to be the cause of auroras. Dr. Norman Ness of NASA's Goddard Center explained that Earth acts like a "magnetic comet," with invisible magnetic field lines extending far beyond the moon. This finding challenges the traditional view of a symmetrical magnetic field. The solar wind interacts with Earth's magnetosphere, creating a shock wave on the sun-facing side and causing the field lines to become significantly distorted on the night side. These distorted lines are thought to be responsible for polar lights and faint, contourless veils observed in the sky for centuries.

"LJUSSTARK SPEGEL!" (Bright Mirror!)

This piece describes a giant concave mirror, made of film and foam rubber, developed by Goodyear Aerospace Corporation for Sundstrand Aviation. The mirror has a high heat-radiation effect, necessitating its handling and transport at night to prevent blinding personnel or causing fires. It is intended for future manned spacecraft and space projects to generate necessary electrical power from solar energy.

Advertisements

HÄLSOBODEN (Health Shop)

An advertisement for Stig Persson's "HÄLSOBODEN" in Malmö, a specialized store for health products and herbs, offering biological preparations.

BATTERITJÄNST (Battery Service)

An advertisement for "BATTERITJÄNST," offering battery services with radio-controlled service vehicles and quick service hours from Monday to Saturday, and Sundays.

VITA NOVA KURHOTELLET

An advertisement for the "VITA NOVA" kurhotel in Mölle, located by Öresund, offering healthy living and biological methods, open year-round. Dr. Lars-Erik Essén is listed as the director, and room bookings can be made via Helsingborg.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to promote a blend of philosophical inquiry into the human condition and the universe, alongside an interest in scientific advancements and alternative health practices. There's a recurring theme of questioning established norms, whether in science or societal structures, and exploring possibilities beyond the conventional. The editorial stance seems to lean towards a holistic view of life, encompassing both the cosmic and the personal, with an underlying optimism for growth and understanding. The presence of advertisements for health-focused businesses reinforces this theme.