SAT-urnus - 1979 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: SAT-URNUS
Issue: Nr. 1, Årgång 3
Date: 1979
Publisher: Sala Amatörförening för Tvärvetenskap (SAT)
Content Focus: UFOlogy, Astronomy, Parapsychology, and related interdisciplinary topics.

Editorial and Introduction

The issue opens with a message from 'Håkan,' wishing readers a good continuation of the new year and highlighting upcoming events. These include a UFO exhibition at the Technical Museum in Stockholm and the UFO-Sweden national meeting in April, where SAT's film 'Forntida Gåtor' (Ancient Riddles) will be shown. The editorial then delves into the philosophical underpinnings of scientific inquiry, posing the question 'What is the point?' which is often asked of those involved in UFO research, parapsychology, and ancient research. It draws a parallel to the 'pure science' pursued by natural scientists, citing Finnish geophysicist V.A. Heiskanen, who emphasizes the duty to explore nature and understand its forces and relationships. The text argues that even research without immediate practical application, like counting stars or studying distant galaxies, is driven by curiosity and can eventually yield unexpected benefits. It posits that understanding the macrocosm provides a better picture of the microcosm, and that expanding knowledge combats fear of the unknown, which is a source of unhappiness. The editorial questions why the same premises shouldn't apply to ufology and parapsychology, suggesting that many scientists are hesitant to challenge established natural laws to approach these subjects openly.

A note is included for passive members to rent the film 'Forntida Gåtor' for 50 SEK, covering insurance, administration, and postage. A new telephone number for SAT is also provided.

The Origin and Development of the Universe

This section explores fundamental questions about the universe's origin and evolution. It notes that historically, these questions were primarily in the realm of religion and mythology. The article introduces cosmogony, the study of the universe's origin, and questions whether the universe is undergoing development or is static. It suggests that observing the life cycles of stars implies a universal process of change.

Journey Through All Dimensions

The text explains that looking at the night sky is not just looking into space but also into the past. Our eyes perceive the universe across its known dimensions: three spatial dimensions (length, width, height) and the fourth dimension, time. It suggests that with a powerful telescope, we could see further back in time and space, potentially reaching the limits of observable light from galaxies formed 4-5 billion years ago. However, this does not imply the universe ends there, as radio astronomers detect signals from even further away.

Redshift

The concept of redshift is introduced as crucial for understanding the universe. Redshift describes the change in the color of light from a source moving away from an observer, caused by the Doppler effect. The Doppler effect is illustrated with the example of a siren's pitch changing as an ambulance passes. Similarly, light waves experience a frequency shift. Visible light ranges from violet (high frequency, short wavelength) to red (low frequency, long wavelength). A decrease in light frequency causes a shift towards the red end of the spectrum. Stars moving away from us exhibit redshift, with stars at the 'outskirts' of the known universe showing strong redshift, indicating they are moving away at very high speeds.

This redshift is used to estimate the distance to galaxies, based on the assumption that their speed away from us increases proportionally with distance. These speeds can be as high as 100,000 km/s. This forms a step towards a worldview, though some astronomers are beginning to doubt its absolute validity. The universe is described as a collection of hundreds of millions of galaxies, all moving away from each other. If observed from another galaxy, our own galaxy would appear to be moving away at the same speed as other distant galaxies. The universe is constantly expanding, likened to an inflating balloon with dots moving apart.

Another analogy compares the expansion of the universe to gas expanding explosively from a small chamber, with molecules moving away from each other. If these molecules were represented by small spheres, an observer on one sphere would see all others moving away, creating the illusion of being at the center, though in an infinite universe, no center exists. This model suggests that every point in the universe is essentially the same.

Astronomer E. P. Hubble's studies showed a correlation between redshift (and thus speed) and distance, a phenomenon that has become fundamental in cosmology. This expansion implies that the universe began from an extremely compressed state, a 'primeval atom,' which underwent an explosion about 5.04 billion years ago. This theory, however, does not explain the ultimate cause or origin of this compressed matter.

Einstein's Model of the Universe

The article then discusses Albert Einstein's model of the universe, contrasting it with Newton's view. Einstein found the idea of a finite universe as an 'island in an infinite ocean' philosophically unappealing, as such a universe would eventually die out. He also had scientific objections, noting that stars in a central cluster would move randomly, with some eventually gaining enough speed to escape, leading to the eventual dissipation of the cluster. Einstein's general theory of relativity, published in 1916, was applied to the entire universe. His 1917 model assumed the universe was isotropic (uniform in all directions) and homogeneous (uniformly distributed matter), treating it as a smooth, continuous mass. To prevent gravitational collapse and maintain a static state, Einstein introduced the 'cosmic constant,' a repulsive force. His model used Riemannian spherical geometry, where spacetime is a curved three-dimensional surface within a four-dimensional continuum. Time was considered linear and flowed at the same rate everywhere. This model is often visualized as a cylinder, where movement along the surface represents movement in curved space, and movement parallel to the axis represents movement in time.

Einstein's model, while influential, did not gain universal support due to its metaphysical and mathematical weaknesses, and a lack of observational evidence. The discovery in 1929 that the universe was expanding, contradicting the static nature of his equation, was a major blow.

Other Relativistic Cosmological Models

In 1917, Dutch astronomer Willem de Sitter proposed another solution to Einstein's equations, known as the de Sitter model. This model emphasized the existence of spacetime independently of matter. If matter were introduced, it would immediately gain a radial velocity away from an observer, increasing with distance. Unlike Einstein's model where time flowed uniformly, in de Sitter's model, time slowed down progressively with increasing distance from an observer, theoretically stopping at the observational limit. This difference is illustrated by comparing the cylindrical representation of Einstein's universe with a spherical representation for de Sitter's, where room-curvature is shown by a curved arrow and non-uniform time by a straight arrow.

Both Einstein's and de Sitter's models were considered static because the matter density in both remained constant over time. Many subsequent models were purely mathematical and difficult to visualize, though they came closer to reality than Einstein's original conception. The article notes that sources will be cited in the next issue.

Astronomer Confirms Argentinian UFO Observations

This section addresses the persistent, yet unfounded, claim that no astronomer has ever observed or photographed a UFO through a telescope. To counter this, the magazine presents excerpts from a letter by Sr. S. Reyna, chief of the Adhara Observatory in Argentina. Reyna states that his observatory, located in San Miguel, has frequently observed UFOs, sometimes photographing them and analyzing physical traces left on the ground. He notes that the Southern Hemisphere is a preferred area for UFOs, particularly the South Pole, due to its positive charge and the Van Allen belts, which create a large gravitational field. He claims these 'wise men' utilize this gravitational area and can easily receive radio waves. Reyna asserts that based on irrefutable experiments, there is no reason to question UFOs as a reality, citing frequent sightings in Argentina, including one instance where their path was tracked from 52 observation points. He also mentions instances where people have been addressed from within UFOs.

Analysis of ground samples revealed unusual chemical compositions, with high percentages of phosphorus, sulfur, manganese, and clay, described as extraordinary and non-terrestrial. Reyna also mentions that UFOs have taken objects, including a car left in Mexico, and animals. He notes that many Argentinians have had close encounters with these spacecraft, which have generally behaved in a friendly manner, although their radiation can be dangerous up to about 600 meters. The observatory has observed formations of up to 15 spacecraft maneuvering harmoniously. Sightings occur mostly at night but also during the day. Reyna holds monthly meetings to discuss historical, planetary, mechanical, physiological, philosophical, theological, and physical aspects of these phenomena, with witness testimonies being thoroughly investigated and sworn to.

The article concludes by acknowledging the difficulty in getting astronomers to publicly confirm the frequency of their UFO observations, though many admit in private conversations to seeing astonishing objects more often than the public realizes, despite the limitations of telescopic observation and focusing.

The Path to Atomic Physics

This section traces the historical development of atomic theory. It begins with ancient Greek philosophers like Democritus, who proposed that all matter was composed of tiny, indivisible particles called 'atoms' (from the Greek word 'atomos'). Isaac Newton also believed that all substances consisted of small, indivisible particles.

John Dalton (1766-1844) is credited as the first to base his atomic theory on practical experiments. He proposed that each element consists of identical atoms, unique to that element. Chemical compounds are formed when atoms of different elements combine in fixed weight proportions. Dalton developed symbolic representations for elements and chemical formulas.

Amadeo Avogadro (1776-1856) later proposed his famous hypothesis in 1811: equal volumes of gases at the same temperature and pressure contain equal numbers of particles. By comparing the weights of different gases, Avogadro's hypothesis allowed scientists to determine the relative weights of atoms and molecules. For example, it helped establish that a water molecule (H2O) consists of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. The concept of atoms combining in specific proportions forms the basis of modern chemistry.

The article briefly mentions the four classical elements (earth, air, fire, water) before transitioning to the 20th-century advancements in atomic research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of established science (astronomy, physics) with less conventional fields like ufology and parapsychology. There's a clear stance that these less conventional fields deserve serious investigation, challenging the skepticism often found in mainstream science. The editorial emphasizes the importance of curiosity-driven research and the value of expanding knowledge to overcome fear. The inclusion of detailed accounts from astronomers, like the letter from Sr. Reyna, lends credibility to UFO phenomena within the magazine's framework. The historical perspective on scientific theories, from ancient philosophy to modern physics, suggests a belief in the progressive nature of understanding, open to new discoveries and interpretations.

This issue of "UFO-Händelser" (UFO Events) from August 23, 1978, focuses on a military UFO sighting over Gotland, Sweden, and revisits the enigmatic 1908 Tunguska event. It also includes articles on fundamental physics, specifically atomic structure and the transmutation of elements, and a piece on the ecological importance of forests.

Gotland Military UFO Sighting

The main article details a UFO sighting by two conscript radar observers, Kenneth Kurkiaho and Kenneth Berg, at Tofta skjutfält on August 23, 1978. While on duty, they observed a large object with a steady white light, estimated to be at 1,500 meters altitude. The object descended slowly towards the water. They managed to get a strong radar echo, indicating its position approximately 35 nautical miles north of Ölands norra udde. The radar echo was unusually strong, comparable to a large ship at a much closer distance. Fanjunkare Lars Olowsson confirmed the strong radar echo. The object's echo gradually faded, as if disappearing below the sea surface, while maintaining its position. The report notes that the Swedish defense forces' internal report confirmed the radar data and stated the phenomenon was not related to ongoing naval exercises. A proposed explanation of 'parts of a broken satellite' was deemed unlikely due to the object's size and the instantaneous nature of satellite disintegration.

Thorvald Berthelsen of the Rapportcentralen consulted with an Air Force expert who suggested the radar echo might be explained by anomalous atmospheric conditions that extended the radar's range to Ölands norra udde. However, no satisfactory explanation was found for the visual observation of the light phenomenon by the time of publication.

The Tunguska Event: An Extraterrestrial Visitor?

This section, "ELD-FENOMENET I SIBIRIEN del 5" (Fire Phenomenon in Siberia Part 5), continues the investigation into the 1908 Tunguska event. It explores the growing belief among experts in the 1960s and 70s that the object was an artificial spacecraft, given the failure of natural explanations and advancements in space technology. Evidence cited includes the explosion's peculiar, non-symmetrical blast pattern, which suggested a directed force rather than a simple atmospheric shockwave. Professor Zigel and other experts, including Zolotov, proposed that the object was a 'container' holding an explosive substance, leading to an uneven distribution of the blast. The discovery of microscopic, spherical particles composed of silicate and magnetite near the impact site further fueled speculation that these were fragments of an extraterrestrial craft, possibly micrometeorite dust or comet debris.

Aerodynamic experts, like A.J. Manotskov, calculated the object's trajectory, noting its unusually slow speed compared to natural cosmic bodies and a significant decrease in speed as it approached Earth, similar to a high-altitude reconnaissance plane. The debate over the object's flight path (southwest vs. southeast vs. east-southeast) is discussed, with later analysis suggesting the object changed course, possibly correcting its trajectory westward before exploding. The heat wave from the explosion indicates a correction in flight direction.

Professor Zigel concluded that the object's wide, 600-kilometer arc through the atmosphere represented a maneuver impossible for natural objects. The article posits that an extraterrestrial spacecraft is the most plausible explanation, supported by modern astrophysics and the increasing understanding of life beyond Earth. The event's timing, prior to humanity's understanding of nuclear physics, adds to the mystery, suggesting an advanced civilization from another galaxy could be responsible. The narrative describes a hypothetical scenario of a massive, cylinder-shaped alien craft experiencing a critical failure in its nuclear fuel containment, leading to its explosion at high altitude over Siberia.

Physics Articles

How to Make Gold from Mercury

This article explains that modern nuclear physics has achieved what medieval alchemists could not: transmuting elements. It details the structure of atoms, composed of a nucleus with protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons. The number of protons defines the element. The article explains Rutherford's 1919 experiment where he bombarded nitrogen with alpha particles, creating oxygen and discovering the proton. It also mentions the discovery of the neutron by Sir James Chadwick. The process of creating artificial isotopes and transuranic elements is discussed, noting that while it's possible to turn mercury into gold, it's far more economical to buy gold.

What is an Isotope?

An isotope is defined as an atom of an element with the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons. For example, a common isotope of oxygen has 8 protons and 8 neutrons, while the oxygen isotope created by Rutherford from nitrogen had 8 protons and 9 neutrons.

Ammunition Against Atomic Nuclei

This section briefly defines key particles: protons (positively charged), neutrons (neutral), and alpha particles (two protons and two neutrons, equivalent to a helium nucleus). It explains that positively charged particles need high speeds to overcome the repulsion of atomic nuclei, achieved through accelerators like cyclotrons. Neutrons, being neutral, can penetrate nuclei more easily and are obtained from nuclear reactors.

Rutherford's Conversion (Nitrogen to Oxygen)

Diagrams illustrate Rutherford's experiment, showing an alpha particle hitting a nitrogen nucleus, resulting in an oxygen nucleus and a proton being ejected.

Conversion of Nitrogen to Carbon

Diagrams show the conversion of nitrogen to carbon, involving a neutron.

Conversion of Magnesium to Sodium

Diagrams show the conversion of magnesium to sodium, involving a deuteron (one proton, one neutron).

Conversion of Mercury to Gold

Diagrams illustrate the conversion of mercury to gold via neutron bombardment, where a mercury nucleus (80 protons) absorbs a neutron and ejects a proton, becoming gold (79 protons).

"Artificial Oxygen"

This section describes Rutherford's 1919 experiment using an apparatus with a cylinder filled with nitrogen gas. Alpha particles from polonium were directed through the cylinder, and flashes of light were observed on a screen, indicating the creation of particles with greater range than alpha particles – identified as protons. It was later understood that these protons were ejected from nitrogen atoms that had captured an alpha particle, thus converting nitrogen into oxygen.

Environmentalism

Forests: A Vital Resource

This article, sourced from FAO and "Fauna nr 88," emphasizes the immense ecological and landscape value of forests. It states that forests represent the greatest ecological development potential and the most sustainable landscape type. Approximately one-third of the Earth's land surface is suitable for forests, with over 3.7 billion hectares already forested. Forests are crucial for producing oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide. They also regulate the global water supply, prevent soil erosion, and protect the ground from solar radiation. The article criticizes the widespread deforestation for agriculture, particularly in tropical regions, leading to soil degradation, erosion, and desertification. It warns that current deforestation rates, especially in tropical and subtropical areas, pose a catastrophic threat to irreplaceable natural resources and future livelihoods. The FAO estimates that 5 to 10 million hectares of forest are cleared annually for cultivation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, and delves into scientific topics related to physics and the universe. There's a clear interest in presenting evidence and theories, even speculative ones, for extraordinary events like the Tunguska incident. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting different perspectives and scientific explanations while acknowledging the limits of current knowledge. The inclusion of articles on atomic physics and environmentalism suggests a broader interest in science and its impact on humanity and the planet. The "FRÅGOR OCH SVAR" (Questions and Answers) section indicates an engagement with reader inquiries, addressing topics like the Earth's increasing weight from cosmic dust.

FAQ

• Question: What was the Swedish military UFO sighting on August 23, 1978? Answer: Two radar observers at Tofta skjutfält detected a large, bright white object at 1,500 meters altitude. It descended slowly, produced a strong radar echo, and then seemed to disappear below the sea surface.
• Question: What is the current understanding of atomic structure? Answer: Atoms consist of a central nucleus containing protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons. The number of protons determines the element. Niels Bohr's model is still used for teaching, but quantum mechanics offers a more complex explanation.
• Question: What are the main theories about the 1908 Tunguska event? Answer: While initially considered a natural phenomenon, experts increasingly believe the Tunguska object was an artificial spacecraft due to its unusual flight path and the nature of the explosion.
• Question: How much does the Earth's weight increase due to cosmic dust? Answer: Russian scientists estimate that 2 to 5 million tons of cosmic dust fall on Earth annually, adding a negligible amount to its total mass.

Summary

This issue of "UFO-Händelser" presents a detailed account of a 1978 Swedish military radar sighting of an unidentified aerial object, exploring witness testimonies and radar data. It revisits the 1908 Tunguska event, analyzing evidence and theories that suggest an extraterrestrial spacecraft was responsible for the massive explosion. The magazine also provides accessible explanations of fundamental physics, including atomic structure, the discovery of subatomic particles like protons and neutrons, and the process of element transmutation, highlighting the work of pioneers like Rutherford and Bohr. A significant portion is dedicated to the ecological importance of forests and the detrimental effects of deforestation. The issue concludes with a Q&A section addressing reader questions on topics ranging from cosmic dust accumulation on Earth to the nature of UFO phenomena.

This issue of Ny Teknik, dated October 27, 1977 (Issue 38), features articles on human physiology, biomechanics, astronomy, and ancient mysteries. The cover headline teases the idea that humans could fly 10,000 years ago, supported by research into the Nazca lines.

Human Physiology and Biomechanics

The magazine begins with an in-depth look at human physiology, using the example of a runner to explain concepts like oxygen debt and lactic acid. It draws parallels between the human body and a motor, detailing the roles of muscles, blood circulation in supplying fuel (oxygen) and removing waste products, and heat regulation. The article highlights how muscles function as levers, noting that while the biceps' attachment point might seem inefficient for lifting, it allows for rapid arm movement.

It further explains the trade-off between strength and speed in limb design, using the example of the human forearm being shorter than the upper arm to achieve a compromise for precision and speed, contrasting this with an ape's longer arms suited for climbing. The mechanics of chewing are also discussed, illustrating how teeth and jaw muscles form lever systems that reduce the force needed for biting and chewing.

The heart is described as a highly efficient diaphragm pump, superior to many mechanical pumps. Its two-pump system (for lungs and the rest of the body) works in precise timing, with the left side doing significantly more work. The heart's efficiency is noted at approximately 40%, far exceeding that of a steam engine. The article also touches upon the varying energy demands on the heart, from rest (0.018 kW) to sprinting (0.7 kW) and endurance running (0.3-0.37 kW).

Muscles are compared to fuel cells rather than heat engines, with heat being a byproduct. Their efficiency is stated as 25%, better than a steam engine but less than a diesel engine. However, muscles excel in their ability to work at lower temperatures, start instantly, and adapt to varying loads without demanding specific fuel.

Ancient Flight and the Nazca Lines

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the theory that humans could fly 10,000 years ago. Two researchers, Bill Spohrer and Jim Woodman, plan a balloon flight over Peru's drylands to investigate this. They aim to decipher the mysterious figures on the Nazca plain, which many interpret as landing strips for ancient astronauts. Spohrer and Woodman, however, propose that these giant figures served as navigation aids for balloon travelers.

They present evidence suggesting Peruvians engaged in balloon flights centuries ago. The balloon they intend to use will be constructed based on Peruvian models. The Nazca figures, discovered in the 1930s, are described as large ditches forming patterns of animals and figures visible only from high altitudes. Legends of flying people in ancient Peru lead the researchers to believe these lines were landmarks for balloonists who reportedly pieced together large, four-sided triangles to form balloons.

Astronomical Discoveries and Professionals

The issue also includes a section detailing numerous Swedish and international astronomers and their contributions. This list covers individuals like Bertil Lindblad, known for his work on wintergate systems and galactic dynamics; Bernhard Lyot, inventor of the coronagraph; Otto Struve, who studied stellar rotation; Gustav Järnefelt, who worked on cosmology; Carl Schalen, researching interstellar matter; Yngve Öhman, who developed photometric and polarimetric methods; and Hannes Alfvén, a Nobel laureate in plasma physics with astronomical contributions.

Other notable figures mentioned include Wernher von Braun, a key figure in American satellite and space projects; Tord Elvius, who studied stellar distribution; Aina Elvius, who researched interstellar media; Gunnar Larsson-Leander, who studied variable stars; Bengt Westerlund, who investigated the Magellanic Clouds; and Bengt Strömgren, a prominent figure in theoretical astrophysics and optics.

Pluto's Moon Discovery

In a brief report, the discovery of a moon orbiting the planet Pluto is announced. American astronomers, specifically James Christy, identified the moon by comparing satellite photographs taken in April and May 1978 with older images from 1965 and 1970. The moon, described as a long, narrow spot that had changed position, is located approximately 19,000 kilometers from Pluto.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, technology, and speculative theories. There's a clear interest in pushing the boundaries of understanding, from the mechanics of the human body to the possibilities of ancient civilizations and astronomical discoveries. The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific inquiry, presenting research and theories, even those that are unconventional, with a focus on evidence and expert opinion. The inclusion of a wide range of astronomers and their work suggests an emphasis on the scientific community and its advancements.