Pursuit - No 08 - Vol 02 No 4 - 1969

Magazine Overview

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: Vol. 2, No. 4
Date: October, 1969
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained (S.I.T.U.)
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of PURSUIT, the quarterly journal of The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained, presents a diverse range of articles touching upon mathematics, physics, chemistry, astronomy, geology, and ufology. The publication aims to disseminate information on new discoveries and to synthesize knowledge across various fields, particularly those related to unexplained phenomena.

Organization and Participation

The Society is managed by a Board of Trustees and a Governing Board, with administrative matters handled by an Executive Board. A Scientific Advisory Board counsels the organization. Participation is open through various membership tiers, with contributions being tax-exempt. Memberships run annually, with special provisions for those joining late in the year. The Society publishes the quarterly journal PURSUIT and a newsletter for its members.

Editorial: A Matter of Semantics?

The editorial addresses a perceived semantic confusion where aspects of scientific inquiry, particularly those numbered I through VIII on a provided chart (covering mathematics, ontology, physics, chemistry, astronomy, geology, biology, and anthropology), are being incorrectly classified as 'occult' or 'mystical' (Segments IX and X). The editorial strongly refutes this, emphasizing that the Society is a registered scientific and literary organization and that such mischaracterizations are actionable. It stresses the importance of understanding the classification of facts versus beliefs for survival in the modern age, highlighting the Society's pragmatic approach and its membership of scientists, technologists, and professionals.

I. MATHEMATICS

This section details an interesting observation made by the executive secretary, M.L.F., regarding a chart created for counting characters in manuscripts. The chart revealed regular progressions and patterns when numbers were added successively. The article includes a response from Dr. Martin Kruskal, an adviser, who explains the mathematical principles behind these observed patterns, noting how adding numbers like 67, 33, or 43 can lead to predictable increases or decreases in digits based on the number of steps. The section also touches upon the historical development of mathematics and the potential for alternative number systems, like the duodecimal system.

II. ONTOLOGY

This brief section notes the ongoing debate between cosmologists regarding the 'big bang' versus 'continuous creation' hypotheses. It includes a quote from PUNCH magazine about the Apollo 10 mission, suggesting that complex electronics worked perfectly, implying a sense of cosmic order or predictability.

III. PHYSICS: RATS AGAIN

This article reports on a phenomenon observed in Lombok, Indonesia, where farmers claim that rats fell from the sky in bunches of seven, led by a large white rat. The rats reportedly ate the crops and spread out across the land. The report, published in the Wall Street Journal, is significant for its mention of 'ITF' (instantaneous teleportation) and 'FAFROMTSKY' (falls from the sky). The article discusses the biological aspects of the rats, questioning their species and size, and notes the mystical significance of the number seven in the context of the report. It suggests that the sudden appearance of swarms might be misinterpreted as falling from the sky, but the specific details, including the 'king rat', are considered unusual.

IV. CHEMISTRY: MUONIUM AND YOUTH

This section introduces the concept of 'Muonium Metal', a theoretical substance proposed by a young scientist, Paul McKenna, working with Dr. D. John Pastine. Muonium is formed by replacing the electron in a hydrogen atom with a Mu-Meson, which is significantly heavier. Calculations suggest that muonium could exist as a solid or liquid metal with an extremely high melting point, though it requires conditions not found on Earth. The article praises McKenna's work and highlights the importance of youth in scientific discovery, noting his co-authorship of a paper in the JOURNAL OF APPLIED PHYSICS.

V. ASTRONOMY

This section presents two quotes questioning the authenticity of the moon landing. One quote from NEWSWEEK suggests China is aware of the moon landing rumors, while another from SCIENCE DIGEST, by Richard Dempewolff, calls it a 'fake' and a 'government trick' staged on the Nevada flats to boost taxes. The author emphasizes that the 'age of belief' is over and that reality, informed by facts, is paramount. The article then discusses the ongoing exploration of Mars, noting the conflicting reports about its atmosphere, dust layers, and potential for life. It also touches upon the examination of moon rock samples, suggesting their composition differs significantly from Earth's rocks. The section explores three fundamental questions about the Moon's origin: whether it evolved from Earth, was formed simultaneously with Earth, or was captured by the Earth-Moon system. The captured rogue body theory is presented as a possibility that would challenge the 'big bang' theory.

VI. GEOLOGY: MUCH ABOUT MUCK

This article discusses the geological significance of 'muck' (frozen earth) found in the new oilfield in northern Alaska. It highlights a quote from an E. M. Benson of Atlantic Richfield Oil Company, who expressed surprise at finding an 18-inch tree trunk frozen in the earth at a depth of 1,000 feet, miles from any trees. The article explains that frozen soil is a mystery, covering a significant portion of the Earth's land surface, particularly around the Arctic. It notes that while a tree trunk in frozen earth might not be surprising in itself, its location in an area devoid of trees and far from forests makes it noteworthy. The section concludes by stating that frozen soil is a form of 'rock' with a mixed composition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the importance of rigorous scientific classification and accurate terminology (semantics), the exploration of unexplained phenomena through scientific inquiry, and the questioning of conventional explanations for events like the moon landing. The editorial stance is one of pragmatism, emphasizing the need for facts over beliefs and advocating for a clear distinction between scientific investigation and pseudoscience or the occult. The publication champions new discoveries and the contributions of young scientists, while also critically examining reports and theories related to the unexplained.

This issue of PURSUIT, dated June 1969, delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena and scientific curiosities, with a particular focus on geological anomalies, unusual natural occurrences, and cryptozoological reports. The magazine maintains its characteristic Fortean stance, questioning established narratives and exploring fringe theories.

Muck and Ancient Climates

The lead article discusses the geological phenomenon of 'muck' found in the Arctic regions. This frozen soil, sometimes thousands of feet deep, contains preserved organic matter, including entire trees and animal remains like mammoths. The presence of flora, such as plum trees with leaves and fruits, in areas now thousands of miles from where such trees can grow, suggests that the Arctic climate was once much warmer. The article questions how such deep deposits of surface-derived material could form, proposing either significant continental drift or a much higher sea level in the past. It dismisses simple erosion as an explanation for the depth and extent of the muck.

Vortices and Anomalies

The issue explores the concept of 'vortices' in nature, from atmospheric and oceanic phenomena to the possibility of planetary and cosmic vortices. It specifically addresses the 'Oregon Vortex,' a site known for alleged gravitational anomalies and optical illusions. The article critiques the sensationalist theories surrounding such places, referencing scientific papers that suggest light-bending effects as a potential explanation for optical distortions, rather than a lack of gravity. It also touches upon the 'Bermuda Triangle' and other 'vortiginous areas of anomaly' that girdle the earth.

Historical Weather Peculiarities

An article titled 'Nobody Does Anything' examines historical weather records from London, citing peculiar events such as 'a rain of blood' and the Thames drying up for two days in ancient times. It also notes the absence of recorded fogs before 1663, questioning whether coal pollution contributed to the famous 'peasoup fogs.' The piece highlights the complacency with which such events have often been treated.

Biology and Cryptozoology

Under the 'Biology' section, the magazine discusses several intriguing topics:

Blackfish and Giant Jellyfish

A report details the sighting of unusually large 'blackfish' (identified as bottlenose dolphins) and a jellyfish with 30-foot tentacles by the crew of the research submarine Ben Franklin. The article clarifies that blackfish are a species of dolphin, not porpoises, and can grow up to 30 feet long.

The Damned Bone

This section debunks the sensational news of a 'monster bone' found at Loch Ness. The article reveals that the bone was actually the lower jawbone of a large Blue Whale, and criticizes the media and 'experts' for promoting a false narrative, suggesting it might have been a deliberate attempt to discredit investigators of lake monsters.

Giant Snails in Florida

A terrifying account describes the infestation of fist-sized giant African snails (Achatina) in Miami, Florida. These snails consume everything, including paint, and pose a serious threat to agriculture. The article details their rapid proliferation and the difficulty in controlling them, even suggesting eating them as a solution.

The Giant Snail (Achatina) in Indonesia

Further discussion on the Achatina snail details its history of invasive spread from Africa to various islands, including Sumatra, where it caused significant ecological devastation. The article notes its edible nature, which has led to its containment in some regions, but warns of its potential to become a serious plague.

Archaeology and Ancient Technology

Ancient Egyptian TV?

This section examines a fresco from the Dendera Temple, which appears to depict figures holding objects resembling electric lamps or light bulbs, supported by high-tension insulators. The accompanying text suggests that the temple may have been a museum of advanced technology, with reliefs depicting enormous electric lamps.

Cumulative Index and Bibliography

The issue includes a cumulative index of articles published in PURSUIT from Volume 1 to Volume 2, covering topics ranging from mathematics and physics to biology, astronomy, geology, anthropology, ufology, and miscellaneous subjects. It also features a cumulative bibliography of books listed in PURSUIT and its preceding newsletters, arranged alphabetically by author, providing a rich resource for further research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the questioning of established scientific and media narratives, the exploration of anomalous phenomena (geological, biological, and historical), and a critical examination of evidence. The editorial stance is clearly Fortean, favoring the investigation of the unusual and unexplained, often challenging conventional explanations and highlighting the limitations of current scientific understanding or the misinterpretations by the press. There is a consistent effort to provide factual information while acknowledging the inherent mysteries of the topics discussed.

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: Vol. 2, No. 4
Date: October, 1969

This issue of PURSUIT delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena and historical enigmas, blending archaeological speculation with ufological reports and broader philosophical observations.

Engineering Interpretations of Ancient Depictions

The issue begins by presenting an engineer's assessment of an ancient depiction, possibly from the Temple of Dendera. The engineer analyzes the visual elements, such as cables and 'bulbs,' suggesting they might represent advanced engineering concepts rather than purely religious or symbolic imagery. The cables are described as multi-conductor, and the 'bulbs' are interpreted as identifying markings or codings. The depiction is compared to modern TV projection systems, and the figures are noted to be wearing mask-like devices and ear apparatus, resembling cameramen with communication equipment. A rider from engineers suggests that ancient priesthoods may have used such displays to impress locals, likening it to a 'show' to create a sense of magic. However, archaeologists and Egyptologists have been largely unresponsive or unable to translate the hieroglyphs, leading to difficulties in identifying the specific temple and its context. The article notes the chicanery in transliterating Egyptian names and points to the Temple of Dendur in New York as a common, albeit simplistic, reference point.

South American Circuitry? Designs on Chimu Pottery

This section revisits earlier mentions of Barney Nashold's collection of tracings from Chimu and other ancient South American pottery. While not yet ready for full publication due to the complexity of the designs, the article highlights Nashold's suggestion that these intricate patterns, including 'funny animals,' 'little people,' and 'squiggly lines,' could represent symbolic representations of circuitry, possibly akin to a 'combination solar-storage battery.' The author notes the difficulty archaeologists face in interpreting Amerindian art, often viewing it through a European lens. The article contrasts the European approach to designing a solar battery (blueprint with tools) with the Amerindian tendency to create realistic, two-dimensional representations, suggesting a different conceptual framework for understanding technology and representation.

A Modest Unpleasantness: "Mystery Hill", N. H.

The article introduces The New England Antiquities Research Association (N.E.A.R.A.) and its president, Robert Stone, who is also the proprietor of 'Mystery Hill' in North Salem, New Hampshire. This site is described as a remarkable megalithic monument featuring low, sunken chambers, drains, and sophisticated adjuncts. Despite years of excavation, much of the work was done by 'amateurs,' leading to findings being ignored. However, recent professional excavations, particularly by James P. Whittall Jr., have yielded radiocarbon datings of 1000 B.C. This dating has caused controversy among archaeologists, as it suggests a culture similar to those in the Mediterranean from 3000 B.C. to 500 B.C., potentially indicating Phoenician or other Bronze Age sea adventurers reaching North America long before previously accepted timelines. The article notes the orthodox resistance to such ideas, especially when they challenge established narratives about early American history and the role of indigenous peoples.

A Real Unpleasantness: Our La Brea Tarpit

This section critiques a newspaper report about 'saw-marks' found on 15,000-year-old animal bones from the La Brea Tar Pits. The article dismisses the report's claim that this is the oldest evidence of man in the Western Hemisphere, citing earlier discoveries of human artifacts and works in other parts of the world dating back much further. The primary focus is on the 'saw-marks,' questioning why the La Brea Tar Pits are uniquely filled with animal bones compared to other tarpits globally. The author proposes that the bones might not be from animals that naturally wandered into the tar, but rather from animals driven into the pits and slaughtered by human hunters. The 'saw-marks' could then be evidence of this hunting and butchering activity, offering a more plausible explanation for the site's contents.

XX. Chaos and Confusion

Frowsy Little Thing

This segment pays homage to Charles Fort's approach to seeking out anomalies and things that don't fit neat categories. It introduces a seemingly bizarre incident involving a 'monster' that banged on a door in Purley, England, and a report of a Swedish ship rescuing a Korean man who had clung to a giant turtle for 15 hours in the Pacific Ocean. These anecdotes, while presented with a touch of Fortean curiosity, highlight the magazine's interest in unusual and unexplained events.

Swedish Ship Finds Korean Riding Turtle

This is a brief report about the rescue of a Korean man from the Pacific Ocean after he had clung to the shell of a giant turtle for 15 hours. The incident, reported by the skipper of the Swedish motor ship Citadell, raises questions about marine biology and the behavior of sea turtles, particularly the Leathery Turtle (Luth), known for its large size and aquatic habits.

Five-Day Work-Week

This section shifts focus to a proposal for a standardized five-day work-week, which the authors find sensible, aligning with other advocated common-sense reforms like the duodecimal system and a 13-month year. The proposal suggests that with 365 days in a year, a five-day week would result in 73 weeks, allowing for 6 weeks per month and an extra day or week that could serve as a national holiday, adjustable by individual nations. The authors believe this would be widely welcomed by workers and businesses, with only accounting machine manufacturers facing significant disruption.

UFOLOGY: An Open Letter to All Parties

This section addresses the surge in interest in ufology following the Condon Committee's report and the book "UFOs? Yes!". The organization has been inundated with requests for interviews, handling numerous direct requests and referring many more to members nationwide. The extensive media coverage has reached a wide audience. The response from the public is described as 'exceedingly interesting,' indicating a clear division between 'buffs' (those focused on data collection) and the general public. The article suggests that the 'buffs,' particularly those claiming a 'scientific' approach, are often too focused on specific details ('What') rather than broader theories ('How' and 'Why'), leading to a lack of progress in the field. The authors advocate for a balance between data collection and speculation, emphasizing the need for theories to interpret the data. They suggest that the general public, weary of misinformation, has responded positively to the magazine's more common-sense approach, while the 'buffs' have reacted with antagonism.

Condon Committee and Astronaut Sightings

A report from the Spokane Daily Chronicle details statements from Dr. Franklin E. Roach, a consultant for the Condon Committee. Roach confirmed that three UFOs sighted by astronauts in space have never been explained. Specific examples include an object sighted by James McDivitt during the Gemini 4 flight with antenna-like extensions, and an object reported by Frank Borman in Gemini 7, described as spark-surrounded and traveling in a polar orbit.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around questioning established historical and scientific narratives, particularly concerning ancient civilizations and unexplained aerial phenomena. The magazine adopts a critical stance towards conventional archaeology and ufology, advocating for a more open-minded and interdisciplinary approach that integrates engineering perspectives and speculative theories alongside empirical data. There is a clear editorial preference for common sense and a willingness to challenge 'officialdom' and 'sciencedom.' The magazine positions itself as a source of 'common sense' information, contrasting its approach with the perceived narrowness of 'buffs' and the resistance of orthodox academia. The publication also demonstrates an interest in Fortean phenomena and unusual events, suggesting a broad scope for inquiry into the unexplained.