Pursuit - No 09 - Vol 03 No 1 - 1970

Magazine Overview

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: Vol. 3, No. 1
Date: January, 1970
Publisher: S. I. T. U.
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of PURSUIT, the quarterly journal of the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained, presents a diverse range of articles touching upon scientific inquiry, theoretical physics, and phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. The editorial, "Instant Everything, Plus," by Ivan T. Sanderson, reflects on the accelerating pace of scientific discovery and technological development, drawing parallels to historical advancements and posing questions about the future of prediction and precognition. It highlights the growing confrontation between pragmatists and mystics, emphasizing the increasing availability of concrete proof for previously intangible concepts.

Organization and Participation

The journal details the organizational structure of the Society, managed by a Board of Trustees and a Governing Board, with an Executive Board overseeing implementation. It outlines various means of participation, including honorary, sponsor, contributing, corresponding, contracting, and reciprocating memberships, all of which are tax-exempt. The Society's publications, including the quarterly journal PURSUIT and a newsletter, are mentioned, with a subscription cost of $5 per annum for the journal.

Editorial: Instant Everything, Plus.

Ivan T. Sanderson's editorial contrasts the rapid advancements in science and technology with the slow evolution of early human industry. He notes that discoveries and developments are becoming progressively shorter in duration, suggesting a trend towards near-instantaneous progress. This leads to speculation about what comes next: does enquiry stop, or do we begin to develop things before they are conceived, potentially breaking the time barrier and entering the realm of prediction and precognition? Sanderson posits that the current dialogue is primarily between pragmatists, driven by the need for concrete, reproducible proof of phenomena that were once considered intangible. He emphasizes that new physical machinery is enabling the obtainment of such proof, leading to a re-evaluation of concepts like ESP, which he suggests should be understood as 'super' or 'supra' sensory capabilities rather than mystical ones. He also points out that the electromagnetic spectrum is not the only energy band in the cosmos, hinting at other 'mental bands' that are not yet understood or detectable by current technology.

I. Mathematics: Trisetcing the Angle

This section explores the age-old mathematical problem of trisecting an angle. The author notes that a member (No. 328) presented a complex mathematical argument, which, surprisingly, was deemed valid by professional mathematicians, though it did not conform to established mathematical principles. The problem is passed on to Dr. Kruskal for further consideration, with interested readers invited to contact the member directly.

Hair-raising Semantics

A brief but important note on the semantic difference in the use of the word "Billion" between the United States (one thousand million) and the rest of the world (a million-millions). This discrepancy is highlighted as a source of misstatements in technical and popular literature.

II. Ontology: Did They Come Home in Reverse?

This article delves into the concept of antimatter and its implications for cosmology. It references an article in Science News by Dietrick E. Thomsen, which discusses the dilemma faced by cosmologists who struggle to reconcile the observed universe with theories that predict an equal balance of matter and antimatter. The author suggests that matter and antimatter might be continuously created, with their creation occurring at opposite time angles, drawing an analogy to busted particles in a cloud chamber. The concept is further linked to Johnny Standley's comedic observations about things coming 'home in reverse,' raising the question of whether antiparticles might behave similarly.

III. Physics: Those Damned Quarks Again!

This section discusses the elusive subatomic particles known as 'Quarks,' which are theoretical constructs in nucleonic physics. It mentions the work of Dr. Brian McCusker, an Australian scientist who claimed to have found evidence of quarks in cosmic rays. The article notes that other scientists, Drs. Adair and Kasha, have not found quarks in their searches and suggest that McCusker's findings might be high-energy electrons or mu mesons. The author muses that the answer to these fundamental questions might lie in mathematics, referencing the Society's 'wheel of knowledge' that places measurement between ontology and mysticism.

IV. Chemistry: "Polly": Where's the Water?

This article examines the phenomenon of 'Polywater,' a substance with properties distinct from ordinary water. It references an article by Curt Fuller in Fate Magazine, which describes polywater's unusual characteristics, including its higher density and stability at higher temperatures. The article notes that polywater has not yet been found in nature but suggests it might be related to the unexplained phenomenon of ponds and lakes that never freeze, potentially due to its stronger chemical bond. It also includes a helpful guide for converting Fahrenheit to Centigrade temperatures.

V. Astronomy: A Look at the Past

This section discusses Quasars, also known as quasi-stellar radio sources. These objects are billions of light-years away, offering a glimpse into the early universe. The article questions the reliability of current methods for measuring inter-stellar distances, particularly the reliance on the speed of photons and the Doppler Effect. It suggests that other subparticles might move faster than photons and that the Doppler Effect might be influenced by matter density in space, potentially indicating a static universe rather than an expanding one driven by a 'big bang.'

Ringing Rocks

This piece reports on the seismic resonance observed after the impact of the lunar landing device Intrepid on the moon, which lasted for an unusually long 55 minutes. The article connects this to the Society's ongoing research into 'Ringing Rocks' found in various locations on Earth, suggesting a potential link between these phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the boundaries of scientific understanding, the nature of reality, and the investigation of phenomena that defy conventional explanation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the exploration of both established scientific principles and unexplained anomalies. There is a clear emphasis on empirical evidence and logical reasoning, even when applied to subjects traditionally considered mystical or paranormal. The Society positions itself as a platform for discussing these complex topics, fostering dialogue between different scientific disciplines and encouraging members to contribute to the ongoing pursuit of knowledge.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, Volume 2, Number 4, dated November 1969, delves into a variety of scientific and anomalous topics, including space exploration, geology, biology, and unexplained phenomena. The publication appears to be from the USA and is written in English.

Space and Planetary Studies

The issue begins by discussing communications with Dr. William Hartmann regarding lunar rock resonance, lamenting the lack of further investigation into terrestrial rock fields that exhibit similar ringing properties. It questions the scientific community's focus on theoretical explanations over empirical investigation.

Mars and the Moon

The article critiques the anthropocentric view of thinkers, noting how Mars probes have revealed a surface strikingly similar to the Moon, with extensive cratering and confused terrain. The Mariner photos of Mars showed a region west of Sinus Meridiani with precipitous hills and valleys, two degrees warmer than its surroundings, challenging expectations. The author posits that other planets may not share Earth's unique environmental conditions, such as a hydrosphere, which leads to dynamic forces like erosion and constant adjustment. The Moon and Mars are presented as examples of bodies lacking such conditions, potentially remaining passive for billions of years, subject only to meteorite impacts.

Natural Satellites of Earth

Challenging the conventional understanding of the Moon as Earth's sole satellite, the article references Dr. John Bagby's work, suggesting Earth possesses at least ten natural satellites or 'moonlets.' Evidence points to a larger satellite that broke up in late 1955, with orbital data from artificial satellites showing anomalies that converge to a specific point in time. The implications of these findings, including potential UFO reports and other anomalies, are highlighted.

Geology and Earth Sciences

The issue examines recent shifts in geological thought, noting how once-ridiculed hypotheses like continental drift (Wegener) and crustal shifts (Hapgood) are now gaining acceptance. Dr. Patrick Hurley's theory of Laurasia, a single original landmass that cracked and drifted apart, is presented. The author raises questions about the initial formation of Earth's crust and potential imbalances.

The Great Saharan Lakes

A report from The ETM Log details the discovery of a massive Ice Age reservoir beneath the Sahara Desert in Libya, estimated to hold as much water as the Great Lakes. This water is being used to revitalize the Libyan Desert, and the article connects this to the concept of a 'Pluvial Period' in North Africa, suggesting that past climatic conditions and geological shifts have shaped the region.

London Weather and Smog

The disappearance of London's notorious 'pea-souper' fogs, now termed 'smog,' is attributed to the shift from soft coal to cleaner fuels during the industrial age. The article contrasts historical fog conditions with modern smog, noting that 'fog' is distinct from 'mist' and that the former was unknown before 1665.

Polyponds

This section introduces the phenomenon of 'Polyponds,' bodies of water that do not freeze under normal conditions. Three examples are given: a pond on Long Island, New York; Lake Seton in British Columbia; and the Bunger Oasis in Antarctica. The author speculates whether the substance 'polywater,' which has a low freezing point, might be responsible for these anomalies.

Biology and Unexplained Creatures

The article touches upon unusual biological reports, including a mention of a nine-nostriled water monster allegedly loose in the Mekong River, reported by the Wall Street Journal. It also discusses the possibility of extinct creatures like the Iguanodon and Brontosaurus existing in more recent times, citing ancient artwork and cave paintings from Africa and South America as evidence.

African Neodinosaur Discoveries

Reports from Africa suggest encounters with large, reptilian creatures resembling dinosaurs. Cave paintings in Rhodesia depict a brontosaurus, with experts agreeing that the bushmen painted from life. Similar depictions of extinct animals are found in other ancient art forms globally, leading the author to question how primitive artists could accurately represent creatures only recently reconstructed by modern science.

The "M'Bemba" and "Moké" Nbè"

The issue presents a detailed account of a creature described by an African native as the "M'Bemba," and later by a scientist as "Moké" Nbè." This creature is described as a large, swamp-dwelling reptilian with unusual physical characteristics, including a head at the end of its neck and paddle-like feet. The description is compared to reconstructions of an Iguanodon.

Mammoth Preservation

A new theory from Russian scientists explains the preservation of mammoths not in ice, but in 'baidzharakh terrain.' This involves mammoths falling through a frozen crust into deep ice channels, where the sub-zero temperatures preserved their carcasses. The article also notes that mammoths, like other animals found preserved in permafrost, are found in 'muck' or frozen soil, not ice.

Other Biological Notes

Brief notes include reports on bears in Massachusetts being too drunk from fermented wild apples to hunt and tiny nematodes manufacturing alcohol. A peculiar incident involving a girl becoming pregnant after swimming in a Sydney, Australia, pool is also mentioned.

Anthropology and Archaeology

Giant Skeletons on Lundy Island

A report from the National Geographic Society mentions the discovery of two eight-foot skeletons and remains of sacrificed slaves in ancient stone coffins on Lundy Island. The article questions the designation of 'stone coffins' and whether the skeletons show signs of pituitary disease or acromegaly, as is common in unusually tall individuals.

Atlantis

The issue briefly touches upon claims of discovering "ruins" under a shallow sea off the coast of the Bahamas, suggesting a connection to the lost continent of Atlantis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Pursuit magazine revolve around questioning established scientific dogma, highlighting anomalies and unexplained phenomena, and advocating for empirical investigation over purely theoretical approaches. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards conventional explanations and an openness to exploring unconventional hypotheses, particularly in the fields of ufology, paleontology, and geology. There is a consistent emphasis on the idea that many phenomena are not fully understood and that conventional science may be overlooking significant evidence. The magazine encourages readers to consider alternative explanations and to critically examine accepted scientific narratives.

This issue of PURSUIT magazine, dated January 1970, delves into a variety of intriguing topics, including underwater discoveries, ancient mysteries, historical figures, and the burgeoning field of ufology. The magazine presents itself as a platform for exploring subjects that challenge conventional understanding, often drawing on reports and investigations from various sources.

Underwater Discoveries and Ancient Mysteries

The issue opens with a report on an underwater structure discovered in August 1968, through clear water, near the Bahamas. A team of scientists from Palm Beach Atlantic College, led by Drs. Dimitri Rebikoff, J. Manson Valentine, and Richard Evans, investigated a main wall structure measuring approximately 90' by 50'. The structure was oriented east-west, with a partition at the east end and a rounded southwest corner. Only 2 feet of the wall protruded from the ocean floor, but a hole in a thicker section revealed uninterrupted stonework extending at least 2 or more feet deeper. Photos showed large stones, estimated to be 15' by 15' and weighing 20-25 tons each. The scientists concluded the ruin was pre-Columbian and speculated it might be as ancient as Atlantis, which was supposedly destroyed over 11,500 years ago. The article notes that while the facts are confirmed, the speculation about Atlantis is troublesome, as previous claims about its location have varied widely.

The article then discusses the stones themselves, noting their precise dressing and fitting, drawing parallels to the construction of the pyramids of Egypt and suggesting possible methods of levitation. It references Thor Heyerdahl's book 'Aku-Aku' to illustrate how large blocks could be moved and erected with primitive tools and simple levers, implying that such feats were possible for ancient peoples.

Ancient Glass

The magazine also explores the mystery of glass, describing it as a relatively rare transparent solid. It explains that glass is manufactured by melting sand (silica) with soda, with its origins believed to be in Mesopotamia. Green glazes date back to about 12,000 B.C., with the first pure glass known from around 7000 B.C. The Egyptians and Romans were noted for their glasswork. A particularly large piece of glass, a slab 11 feet long, 6 feet wide, and about 20 inches thick, was found about 12 miles southeast of Haifa, Israel, in 1956. This slab, not recognized as glass until 1963, is believed to date from A.D. 400-700, though it may be older. It contains unusual ingredients like wollastonite and required heating approximately 11 tons of material to about 1050° C for 5 to 10 days, a feat considered remarkable for ancient peoples lacking modern industrial machinery. Only two larger pieces of glass exist today, both recent telescope mirrors.

Fused Glass and Ancient Technology

A more alarming business is brought to attention via a clipping from the New York Herald Tribune dated February 16, 1947. It states that when the first atomic bomb exploded in New Mexico, the desert sand turned to fused green glass. This fact has reportedly caused archaeologists to dig in the ancient Euphrates Valley, uncovering layers of agrarian and herdsman cultures, and eventually a layer of fused green glass. The article questions what produced this fused glass, noting that while lightning can fuse sand in a root-like pattern, it does not explain a whole stratum of fused green glass in Mesopotamia or fused forts in Scotland where only one side is fused, suggesting intense heat from above.

History and Mythology

No-Count Dracula

A story from The National Observer discusses the possibility that Count Dracula, the subject of Bram Stoker's novel, may have been a real person. Professors Radu Florescu and Raymond McNally of Boston College investigated Stoker's biographical details and found historical references that led them to identify Dracula as Vlad Tepes, a Romanian prince who ruled in Walachia from 1456 to 1462 and again in 1476. Vlad Tepes may have derived his name from his father, Vlad Drakul. The professors suggest that the vampire myths might have originated from bats living in the castle, some of which may have been rabid, flying out and biting people, leading peasants to believe it was the work of a demon.

Rabies and Vampire Myths

Further exploring the Dracula connection, the article discusses research conducted in Trinidad and British Guiana on the natural food of blood-lapping bats (Desmodus). These bats carry rabies and other diseases. The article notes that Central American Indians reported that horses had been exterminated by bats. It also states that Desmodus bats bite other bats, transferring rabies. The authors contend that 'vampires' might be humans infected with the negri-bodies of rabies who developed a furious form, going around biting people and animals and sucking or lapping fresh blood. This is presented as a suggestion.

UFOLOGY

AAAS Symposium on UFOs

The issue reports on a significant event at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) in Boston, which included a special symposium on UFOs. Organized by Dr. Thornton Page, the symposium featured fourteen papers read by leading scientists. SITU's Administrative Director, Ivan T. Sanderson, and Assistant Director, Michael R. Freedman, covered the event, taping the press conference and three open sessions, and conducting private interviews with several scientists, including Drs. Page, Roach, Hynek, and Sagan. They note that the AAAS's own recordings were incomplete and that only two speakers prepared full texts. The press relations were described as exceedingly bad, with ambiguities regarding copyright. SITU plans to publish a special report on the symposium, potentially in collaboration with the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO), to make the material accessible to their members.

The Significance of the AAAS Meeting

The article emphasizes the historical importance of this AAAS meeting, stating it is the first time the scientific establishment has acknowledged the mystery of UFOs and openly discussed it. The authors express their surprise at witnessing such a meeting after 40 years of involvement in the field. They highlight the contributions of scientists like Dr. Franklin Roach, who devoted significant time to the Condon Committee. The article notes the government's withdrawal from UFO investigations following the Condon report and the Colorado Project's findings.

NICAP's Reorganization

Rumors about the ufological organization NICAP (National Investigations Committee On Aerial Phenomena) are addressed. Stuart Nixon, the new acting secretary-treasurer, confirms that NICAP's membership is closed indefinitely due to a decision to reorganize. The new Board of Directors, including Chairman Col. Joseph Bryan, III, Ex-Congressman Edward Rausch, and Major Donald Keyhoe, aims to investigate finances and promulgate a new approach to ufology. Nixon frankly admits that NICAP's finances are snarled, likely due to a lack of initial legal counsel. The organization is not being disbanded, and the magazine expresses support for its future endeavors, emphasizing that UFOs will not disappear despite official disinterest.

Department of Chaos and Confusion

Underwater Sounds off Cornwall

This section presents a report from the News of the World (dated December 21, 1969) by Simon Regan, detailing a frightening experience off the coast of Cornwall, England. Divers investigating dying seals and fish with mysterious burn marks reported hearing loud voices speaking in French, English, and Russian, as well as classical music, including Rachmaninoff's 2nd Piano Concerto and a violin concerto by Brahms, at depths of around 100 feet. The sounds were described as pulsating and vibrating. The 'search area' was near a top-secret Ministry of Defence chemical warfare establishment. A Ministry of Defence spokesman stated they could not explain the sounds or a yellow substance found.

Possible Explanations for Underwater Sounds

The magazine offers a speculative explanation for the underwater sounds, suggesting that American, Russian, and French nuclear submarines, which regularly operate in the area, might be the source. These submarines play cat and mouse games and rest on the bottom, using minimal machinery to reduce detection. The article posits that weak sonic disseminations from their 'light' EM devices for intercom and 'musac' could leak through hulls and be amplified in specific strata of the sea, especially where ion concentrations exist. It humorously speculates on the types of music and arguments heard, wondering if the Americans kept their mouths shut for once.

Notes on the Cornwall Incident

The magazine adds notes regarding the Cornwall incident, acknowledging the News of the World's reputation for sensationalism but taking the report seriously due to named sources. It also notes the unpleasant connotations of the incident and the official caginess surrounding it, suggesting human activity as a cause. The presence of sulphur and unexplained burns on animals are noted, as is the mention of a 'mess of thick black sludge' and a secret chemical warfare plant on the adjacent coast.

Cumulative Bibliography and Notices

The issue includes a cumulative bibliography with reviews of several books, including Erich von Daniken's 'Chariots of the Gods,' which is recommended but cautioned against taking at face value. 'Psychic Discoveries Behind the Iron Curtain' by Lynne Schroeder and Sheila Ostrander is also reviewed, described as a hard-boiled document on Eastern European mind sciences. 'The Adam and Eve Story' by Chan Thomas is presented as a slim volume that should be read by forteans but not taken at face value, though it is better documented than von Daniken's work. Further recommended reading lists include titles on mysterious places, UFOs, and sensitive chaos.

Notices are included, requesting prompt notification of address changes and assuring members that their mailing list is available only to resident staff.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around challenging established historical and scientific narratives, exploring unexplained phenomena, and investigating mysteries that lie beyond conventional understanding. The magazine demonstrates a strong interest in ancient civilizations, unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs), and potentially anomalous natural occurrences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations and to critically examine evidence, even when it comes from less conventional sources. There is a clear skepticism towards purely materialistic explanations and a willingness to entertain more speculative hypotheses, particularly when supported by anecdotal evidence or reports from various investigations. The magazine also shows a commitment to documenting and disseminating information on these subjects, as evidenced by its efforts to record and publish the AAAS UFO symposium.