SAT-urnus - 1978 No 4

Magazine Overview

Title: SAT-URNUS
Issue: 4
Volume: 2
Year: 1978
Publisher: Sala Amatörförening för Tvärvetenskap (SAT)
Content: The magazine is a journal for UFOlogy, Astronomy, and Parapsychology, published by the Sala Amateur Association for Transdisciplinary Science.

Articles and Content

Editorial and Autumn Program

The editorial welcomes readers back after the summer and highlights that Autumn 1978 is set to be one of the most interesting in SAT's history, with three contracted speakers and the premiere of SAT's own film.

"FORNTIDA GÅTOR" (Ancient Riddles) Film

SAT has completed a film titled "FORNTIDA GÅTOR" after a year of work. The film explores ancient mysteries such as the pyramids and South American high cultures. Its aim is to encourage viewers to question explanations provided by established science, which can sometimes be dogmatic. The article recalls historical scientific errors, like the belief that humans could not survive speeds over 32 km/h or the flat Earth theory, to illustrate how scientific understanding evolves.

The film will be shown in the local district, with Q&A sessions to follow. A preview was held during UFO-78 in Nyköping on July 12th.

UFO-78 Event in Nyköping

The magazine reports on UFO-78, a week-long event held in Nyköping from July 9th to 14th, featuring lectures, films, and discussions with knowledgeable people.

UFO Activity in 1978

Despite expectations of increased "close encounters," 1978 has been a slow year for UFO reports. However, many older observations are now coming forward from individuals who were previously afraid of ridicule. The investigation of these fresh reports is ongoing.

"SVARTA RINGAR RUNT URANUS" (Black Rings Around Uranus)

Astronomers were surprised by the discovery of rings around Uranus. Observations are difficult, and initial attempts to photograph them yielded only a faint suggestion of rings. Unlike Saturn's icy rings, Uranus's rings are believed to be dark and composed of particles similar to those found on its moons.

"TUTANCHAMONS FÖRBANNELSE" (The Curse of Tutankhamun)

This article revisits the legend of Tutankhamun's curse, reporting a recent death of a member of an archaeological expedition in Egypt, which occurred shortly after the tomb's opening. Professor George Harrison of Liverpool University, leading the expedition, commented on the event. The article details the history of the curse, starting with the tomb's opening in 1923 by Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon, and the subsequent deaths of individuals associated with it. Tutankhamun himself was a minor pharaoh, but his tomb's preservation made it a significant archaeological find. The article also raises the question of whether the recent death was murder, with Professor Harrison leading a team to investigate the mummy using X-ray photography.

"Ljushåriga och blåögda indianer" (Blond and Blue-eyed Indians)

Reports from the Brazilian Indian foundation Funai describe the discovery of blond and blue-eyed indigenous people in a jungle area of the Amazon. These individuals were difficult to communicate with, even by other indigenous tribes. Funai plans a new expedition to learn more about them.

Weather Forecast Predicts Cyclones Before Formation

Australian scientists are developing a weather prediction system that can issue cyclone warnings before they form. Dr. Angnus McEwan has created a simulator that models the conditions under which tropical storms develop, helping to understand cyclone formation.

Stuttgart Builds Planetarium

Stuttgart, West Germany, is constructing a state-of-the-art planetarium, donated by the firm Zeiss. This facility will allow for the observation of satellite and comet paths, and even the simulation of solar eclipses from years past.

"VIKING PÅ MARS" (Viking on Mars)

This section details the Viking missions to Mars. Viking 1 landed on July 20, 1976, after a two-week delay to find a suitable landing site. The project is described as an impressive technical achievement, overcoming Mars's harsh conditions. The article contrasts this success with earlier Soviet failures. Viking 2 was en route at the time of writing. The missions are part of a long-term project to explore the solar system. Different types of probes are discussed: flyby probes, orbiters (like Mariner-9), and landers. The Viking probes included both orbiters and landers. The scientific program aimed to detect organic life, image the surface, analyze the atmosphere and composition, and conduct seismic measurements. The article highlights experiments designed to use imaging technology in novel ways to search for life.

#### Images for Navigation, Reconnaissance, and Reporting

The Viking probes utilized advanced imaging technology for documentation, reporting, and guiding the spacecraft to landing sites. Stereo images were used to study topography, with a resolution of about 40 meters. The landers were equipped with advanced imaging systems, including TV cameras capable of capturing stereo images and color photographs. High-resolution systems could distinguish sand grains from about 3 meters away and larger objects up to 2 kilometers. Infrared imaging was also employed.

#### "FINNS DET LIV PÅ MARS?" (Is There Life on Mars?)

This section addresses the long-standing question of life on Mars. Despite numerous observations, no clear evidence has been found. The planet's harsh conditions, including extreme temperatures, a thin atmosphere with minimal water vapor, and low atmospheric pressure, make it an unlikely habitat. However, the question remains significant, as the discovery of life on Mars would have profound biological and social implications, increasing the probability of life elsewhere in the galaxy.

#### Experiments to Detect Life on Mars

Three advanced experiments were conducted by the Viking probes to search for life on Mars:

1. Experiment 1: Detects if organic material utilizes carbon from the atmosphere. Soil samples are exposed to an artificial Martian atmosphere and heated to gasify any organic material, with radioactive carbon-14 used for detection.
2. Experiment 2: Studies potential metabolism in organisms. Soil samples are moistened with a nutrient solution labeled with carbon-14. The samples are monitored for consumption of nutrients and release of byproducts like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and methane.
3. Experiment 3: Detects signs of both plant and animal life. Soil samples are mixed with a nutrient solution and exposed to an artificial Martian atmosphere. Gases released by potential life forms are analyzed using a gas chromatograph.

These experiments were carefully planned, with controls in place. Final results were not expected until 1977.

"OKÄND FORM AV LIV" (Unknown Form of Life)

Researchers at the University of Illinois have proposed a theory about a third form of life that may have existed during Earth's early evolution. This new category is distinct from higher plants/animals and bacteria. The research, led by Dr. Carl Woese, suggests that organisms previously classified as "methane bacteria" represent a completely new category of life.

"UFO-HÄNDELSER" (UFO Incidents)

This section details several UFO reports from the summer of 1978 in Sweden. Many reported phenomena were explained as natural occurrences. However, a notable case occurred on the night of July 9-10, involving a silent, lilac-colored fireball seen by a fisherman near Nävekvarn. Other reports include a bright object seen by boys on a motorcycle in Malmköping, a fireball observed at low altitude near Härad, a large blue-white-green object seen by an ambulance crew between Uppsala and Enköping, an object described as a "welding flame" in Stockholm, and two fireballs reported by a mother and son in Sala, one of which reportedly landed outside the town. The author investigated the Sala incident after returning from UFO-78 in Nyköping. The reports from Sala described a large, bright object that split into two, with one disappearing and the other descending behind a forest. The article also touches upon the possibility of the object being space debris, given its straight trajectory, contrasting it with the likely trajectory of a meteorite.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, unexplained phenomena, and ancient mysteries. There is a clear interest in challenging conventional scientific explanations and encouraging critical thinking, as evidenced by the article on "FORNTIDA GÅTOR." The publication also demonstrates a commitment to documenting and investigating UFO sightings, providing detailed accounts and witness testimonies. The exploration of space, particularly Mars, and the search for extraterrestrial life are recurring themes, reflecting a broader interest in the unknown and the potential for discoveries beyond Earth. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting information and encouraging readers to form their own conclusions.

This issue of UFO-Sverige, dated 1/78, delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, ranging from terrestrial UFO sightings and the enigmatic Tunguska event to scientific investigations into dowsing and astronomical anomalies.

Eyewitness Accounts and Investigations

Swedish Sightings

The issue begins with a personal account from 'Mats' detailing his contact with the Rapportcentralen, which confirmed a 'space debris' theory for a reported phenomenon. This is followed by a flashback to June 27, 1967, in Västmanland, Sweden, where G. Rosqvist reported an object landing on the road. While driving near Sala, his car was forced to brake heavily to avoid a blinding white object that then rapidly ascended, leaving significant tire marks and a displaced engine part. Rosqvist was unharmed. The report notes that many other UFO reports came from the Sala area that week. Another sighting from August 4, 1970, near Uppsala-Enköping, describes a dragon-shaped object seen hovering high in the sky, which disappeared after about half a minute.

The Tunguska Event

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the 'Fire Phenomenon in Siberia' (Eld-fenomenet i Sibirien), specifically the 1908 Tunguska event. The article recounts the extensive investigations led by Kulik and other scientists. It highlights how eyewitness accounts and scientific data gathered over several years painted a picture of an explosion far more powerful than initially imagined. Geologists and ethnographers documented local beliefs and the profound impact of the event on the taiga, with inhabitants considering the meteor 'holy' and concealing its impact site. The article details Kulik's expeditions, including his journey to the remote Vanavara and the arduous trek through the devastated forest. He describes the landscape as being covered in uprooted trees, many burned and oriented towards the south or southeast, indicating the direction of the blast. The phenomenon was estimated to have affected an area larger than France and Germany combined. Kulik's findings suggested the explosion was not caused by a single meteorite but possibly a collection of them. The article also mentions the discovery of a large, swampy depression, 'Södra träsket' (Southern Marsh), which Kulik identified as the center of the event, though no distinct crater was found. The descriptions emphasize the intense heat and the peculiar way trees were felled and burned, suggesting a powerful wave of hot, compressed air.

Humanoid Encounters in Belgium

The issue presents two detailed accounts of encounters with humanoids in Belgium in 1972. The first occurred on January 27, 1972, when a 31-year-old Frenchman driving near Warneton experienced his car's headlights, engine, and radio suddenly failing. He then observed a three-legged craft and two beings approximately 30 meters away. These beings approached his car, one wearing a round helmet with a transparent visor and holding a peculiar instrument, the other a cylinder-shaped helmet. The beings were described as having pear-shaped heads, round eyes, and athletic builds. The encounter involved a sensation of a 'jolt' to the head and a low humming sound. The craft then ascended and disappeared. The second encounter happened on June 6, 1972, at the same location and time, involving the same witness and two humanoids, again accompanied by car malfunctions. This time, the beings vanished suddenly after a brief interaction.

Scientific Explorations

Dowsing (Slagruta)

Another section explores the phenomenon of dowsing, or 'slagruta'. It traces its history from the 15th to the 18th centuries, noting its use in discovering mineral deposits and the accusations of witchcraft faced by some dowsers, like Baron de Beausolei. The article discusses various theories, from magnetism and animal electricity to universal magnetism and even demonic influence. Modern interpretations, presented by engineers like Nikolai Kashkarov, Boris Tareyev, and Yvegeni Simonov, suggest that dowsing is a highly sensitive electrophysical instrument reacting to changes in atmospheric ionization and underground water or mineral veins. The effectiveness of dowsing is linked to the freshness of the twig used and the sensitivity of the operator. The article also touches upon the creation of a modern, metallic dowsing rod and experiments with hypnotized dowsers, concluding that dowsing is a complex system involving a living organism and a living body, potentially aiding in solving problems beyond current geophysical methods.

Astronomical Phenomena

The issue also touches upon astronomical topics. One article discusses the possibility that electromagnetic fields in the Crab Nebula travel faster than light, potentially challenging Einstein's theories. It details the immense energy output and density of the nebula's core, a remnant of a supernova. Another brief report mentions that rain in the upper atmosphere can be formed by cosmic forces, specifically proton streams from the sun interacting with free electrons to create 'space water'. Finally, the magazine provides brief biographical sketches of influential astronomers: Hipparchos (credited with discovering the precession of the equinoxes), Ptolemy (author of the Almagest), Copernicus (proponent of the heliocentric model), Tycho Brahe (known for his precise observations and discovery of a 'new star'), and Galileo Galilei (pioneer of observational astronomy and proponent of the Copernican system).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO-Sverige consistently explores phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding. It highlights eyewitness accounts of unexplained aerial objects and encounters with non-human entities, presenting them with a degree of seriousness and detail. The magazine also engages with scientific investigations, both historical and contemporary, into these phenomena, as well as related scientific fields like dowsing and astronomy. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting evidence and theories from various perspectives, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond mainstream explanations. The inclusion of historical figures and events, alongside modern reports, suggests a long-term interest in the study of the unexplained.

This document is the autumn program for the Sala Amateur Association for Interdisciplinary Science (SALA AMATÖRFÖRENING FÖR TVÄRVETENSKAP) for the year 1979. It lists a series of meetings and events scheduled from August to December.

Program Details The program begins on August 21st with a 'Höststart' (Autumn Start) meeting, featuring a screening of SAT's still-image film 'FORNTIDA GÅTOR' (Ancient Riddles).

On September 4th, an outdoor evening ('Ute-kväll') is planned, with the alternative of meeting in the association's premises if the weather is poor.

September 18th features a lecture evening ('Föredragsafton') with C.A. Mattsson from Nyköping. He will present images and talk about his travels in India and South America, where he will also discuss Däniken's theories.

October 2nd involves a visit from the Väster-Bergslagen UFO Association.

Another outdoor evening is scheduled for October 16th, again with an indoor alternative.

October 30th is a planning meeting ('Planeringsträff') for expanded cooperation between various UFO associations, with participants expected from Sala, Köping, Enköping, and Västerås.

November 13th is another lecture evening, where Jan Fjällander will speak about Kirlian photography, the 'Backstereffekt', parapsychology, and more.

On November 27th, a lecture evening will feature the medium Isse Lönnhammar, who will conduct a séance and discuss spiritism.

The program concludes on December 11th with a theme evening ('Tema-kväll'), the subject of which is to be determined later.

Additional Activities and Information Beyond the scheduled program, there have been requests for museum trips to Stockholm. These will be discussed at a regular meeting.

The program is signed by 'Håkan', who extends a warm welcome to all who wish to participate. He requests that interested individuals call 12182 about a week before the intended meeting to reserve a spot, ensuring that space can be prepared.

Historical Context (Page 1) Page 1 of the scanned document provides biographical sketches of prominent astronomers and scientists, primarily from the 17th and 18th centuries, with a few earlier figures. These include:

• JOHANNES KEPLER (1571-1630): German astronomer and student of Tycho Brahe, known for deriving the three laws of planetary motion from Brahe's observations of Mars. He also made significant contributions to optics.
• ANDERS SPOLE (1630–1699): Swedish astronomer, first professor in Lund (1668), where he established what was likely Sweden's first observatory. He later became professor in Uppsala and was a popular lecturer and almanac publisher.
• ISAAC NEWTON (1642-1727): English physicist and astronomer, credited with the law of universal gravitation in his work 'Philosophiae naturalis principia mathematica' (1687). He also conducted optical research and invented the reflecting telescope.
• OLE RÖMER (1644-1710): Danish astronomer, famous for calculating the speed of light based on observations of Jupiter's moons. He also invented the meridian circle.
• EDMUND HALLEY (1652–1742): English astronomer and superintendent of the Greenwich Observatory. His research led to the identification of periodic comets, including the one named after him with a 76-year orbital period. He also discovered stellar proper motion.
• BIRGER VASSENIUS (1693–1762): Swedish astronomer and mathematics lecturer in Gothenburg, who was the first to describe solar protuberances, observed during a total solar eclipse in 1733.
• JAMES BRADLEY (1693–1762): English astronomer, noted for discovering stellar aberration, a phenomenon caused by the finite speed of light.
• SAMUEL KLINGENSTIERNA (1698–1765): Physicist and mathematician, professor in Uppsala, known for demonstrating the possibility of creating achromatic lenses. He also wrote on astronomy and developed a method for calculating solar eclipses.
• ANDERS CELSIUS (1701–1744): Astronomer and professor in Uppsala, who established an observatory there. He introduced the centigrade temperature scale (with water's boiling point at 100 degrees). He participated in a French geodetic expedition to Tornedalen (1736-37) to determine the Earth's flattening and was the first to use photometric methods to determine stellar magnitudes.
• PEHR WILHELM WARGENTIN (1717-1783): Astronomer and statistician, a pioneer in population statistics and instrumental in establishing the 'Kommissionen över tabellverket' (Commission on Tabulation) in 1756. Under his tenure, the Stockholm Observatory was built (1753), and he organized international collaboration for determining solar parallax, notably during the 1761 Venus transit. His most significant work involved theoretical studies of Jupiter's moons' movements.
• CHARLES MESSIER (1730–1817): French astronomer, renowned for his 1781 catalog of star clusters and nebulae, which are still designated by his catalog numbers (e.g., Orion Nebula M 42). The catalog contains 103 objects.
• JOSEPH LOUIS LAGRANGE (1736-1813): Italian-French mathematician, who made significant contributions to mathematics (including differential calculus), mechanics, and astronomy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The program of the Sala Amateur Association for Interdisciplinary Science reflects a broad interest in scientific inquiry, with a particular focus on astronomy and, notably, ufology and parapsychology. The inclusion of historical figures in astronomy suggests an appreciation for the foundations of scientific knowledge. The blend of established scientific disciplines with more speculative or fringe topics like UFOs and spiritism indicates an open-minded and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the world. The association actively seeks to engage its members through diverse events, including lectures, film screenings, and practical activities like planning meetings and potential museum visits. The emphasis on pre-registration highlights a desire for organized and well-attended events.