SAT-urnus - 1979 No 5

Magazine Overview

This issue of SAT-URNUS, volume 3, number 5, from 1979, is a journal for UFO-logy, Astronomy, and Parapsychology, published by the Sala Amateur Association for Interdisciplinary Science (S.A.T.). The cover features a stylized depiction of Saturn with radiating lines, and the main headline announces "UFO-logi Astronomi Parapsykologi m.m.".

Energy Alternatives: A Critical Look

The issue begins with an article by Håkan questioning the reliance on nuclear power and the existence of an energy crisis. He argues that energy is abundant but the technology to utilize it is lacking. The article criticizes the extensive discussions and resources spent on nuclear power debates, suggesting that these could have been directed towards developing alternative energy sources. It highlights the vast, free energy available from the sun, wind (4.4 billion kW), and water (7.5 billion kW, with only 2% utilized), as well as geothermal and tidal energy. The author dismisses the idea of switching to coal-fired power plants, citing alarming figures for emissions (3,300 tons of dust and 65,000 kg of sulfur dioxide annually from full operation), daily coal consumption (21,000 tons), and ash production (130 tons/hour). The infrastructure required for coal transport and storage, including a new port and a coal storage area of 350,000 m², is described as having a colossal scale and significant environmental impact. The article also touches upon the concept of a "low-energy society," suggesting it might disadvantage those without financial resources, while acknowledging the benefit of not needing to worry about fuel for heating.

Exploring the Universe: Distances and Galaxies

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to astronomy, exploring the vastness of the universe and the challenges of measuring cosmic distances. The article "MOT UNIVERSUMS GRÄNSER" (Towards the Limits of the Universe) explains how the concept of the cosmos has evolved from a celestial abode to a realm of immense distances. It details how early astronomical measurements focused on our solar system, using methods like triangulation to determine the relative distances of planets from the Sun. These distances are described in millions of miles, with Earth's distance from the Sun being approximately 15 million miles.

The article then delves into measuring distances to stars and galaxies. It explains that the nearest star, Proxima Centauri, is about 4 trillion miles away (over 4 light-years). Other stars like Sirius and Antares are tens to hundreds of light-years away. To measure distances within the Milky Way and beyond, astronomers use methods that rely on the apparent brightness of stars, assuming that dimmer stars are farther away. However, variations in stellar luminosity require more sophisticated techniques. The concept of a "light-year" is defined as the distance light travels in one year, approximately 9.46 trillion kilometers or 5.88 trillion miles. The article also introduces the parsec (3.26 light-years) as a unit of measurement used in professional astronomy.

Radio waves are presented as a means to penetrate the dust and gas clouds that obscure visible light in the Milky Way, allowing astronomers to study regions beyond our immediate view. These radio waves originate from cosmic particle radiation and hot gas clouds. The structure of the Milky Way is described as a spiral galaxy, similar to Andromeda, with stars, dust, and gas distributed in a disk rotating around the center. The Sun is located about 30,000 light-years from the galactic center, completing a rotation in approximately 250 million years.

The article further discusses different types of galaxies: elliptical, spiral, and irregular. It notes that distant galaxies exhibit redshift in their spectra, a phenomenon explained by Hubble's Law, which states that the recessional velocity of a galaxy is proportional to its distance. This redshift is crucial for estimating cosmic distances.

Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation and Time Travel

Another section explains the discovery of cosmic microwave background radiation in 1965. This radiation, detected at very short wavelengths (microwaves), appears to come uniformly from all directions and corresponds to a temperature of only 2.7 Kelvin (-270° C). It is theorized to be a remnant from the early, hot universe, offering a glimpse into its past.

The concept of "traveling back in time" is illustrated by observing distant objects. Since light takes time to travel, looking at an object 100 light-years away means seeing it as it was 100 years ago. Similarly, observing the galactic center, 30,000 light-years away, provides information about conditions there 30,000 years ago. The article posits that the universe formed approximately 15 billion years ago, and the most distant quasars observed, over 10 billion light-years away, represent the limits of our knowledge in both time and space.

UFO Sightings and Investigations

The magazine features two UFO reports. The first, from Närke, Sweden, on December 21, 1978, describes an electrician, Manne Karlsson, and his wife observing a rotating object for 10-15 minutes. They described it as two stacked plates, about 20 cm in apparent size, with lights of red, blue, green, and yellow that swept across the edge. They ruled out it being an airplane due to its stationary behavior.

The second report, from Sala, Sweden, on July 22, 1978, details an observation by three residents who saw an unusual, large, golden-yellow, elliptical light that interfered with their TV reception. Bo Sköllermark managed to take two color photographs of the phenomenon. The object was described as elliptical and large, moving backward and disappearing. The witnesses noted that the TV interference occurred simultaneously with the sighting. Investigations into known air traffic and the moon's position at the time yielded no explanation.

Historical Anecdote: John Lee's Survival

A historical account recounts the story of John Lee, who was sentenced to death in Exter, England, on February 23, 1893. The narrative describes how the gallows trapdoor failed to open on three separate occasions when John Lee stepped onto it. On the fourth attempt, the executioner took Lee's place, and the trapdoor opened. Lee was spared execution, and his death sentence was commuted to life imprisonment. The story is presented as a verifiable historical event.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of SAT-URNUS demonstrates a critical approach to established energy sources like nuclear power, advocating for the exploration and utilization of natural, renewable energy. It also exhibits a strong interest in astronomical phenomena, aiming to educate readers about the scale and nature of the universe. The inclusion of UFO reports and parapsychological topics aligns with the magazine's stated focus, suggesting an open-minded approach to unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific inquiry, encouraging readers to question conventional wisdom and explore alternative explanations for both terrestrial and cosmic events.

This issue of SAT magazine, dated 1974, features a diverse range of articles covering paranormal phenomena, scientific investigations, and biological processes. The cover story, "GAST HOS SAT." (Guest at SAT.), introduces Arne Groth, a researcher at FOA, who discusses his experiments with directed rays from bergkristall and yttrium, and the concept of energy bodies. The magazine also delves into the scientific detection of radioactivity, the photographic exploration of the human soul and aura, and international UFO observations.

Arne Groth: Energy Bodies and Directed Rays

Arne Groth, a fil. lic. working at FOA, shares his experimental work involving a directed ray from bergkristall. He found that this ray could penetrate lead shielding but was stopped by animal hide or leather. The effect could be amplified by yttrium, a rare metal also noted for its potential to weaken or eliminate pain perception. Groth posits that the Earth is divided into lines of force forming a grid, with intersections amplifying effects. Experiments involving a pyramid and individuals with high sensitivity confirmed the presence of this energy. Participants holding bergkristall and yttrium felt an added weight when a person applied pressure in the air above their hands, suggesting the presence of an 'energy body' or 'aura' that survives material existence.

The Geiger-Müller Tube: Detecting Radioactivity

The article "GM-röret varnar för radioaktivitet" (The GM Tube Warns of Radioactivity) explains the function of the Geiger-Müller tube, a key component of Geiger counters. It describes how the tube, consisting of a metal wire inside a gas-filled cylinder, detects radioactive particles. When a particle enters the tube, it ionizes the gas, creating a brief electrical current. This current is amplified and can be heard as a 'tick' sound, with the frequency of ticks indicating the level of radioactivity. The article highlights the practical uses of Geiger counters in finding uranium deposits and ensuring safety when handling radioactive materials.

Photography of the Soul and Aura

Page 3 and 4 explore historical attempts to visually capture the human soul and aura. "BILDER AV SJÄLEN" (Pictures of the Soul) recounts early 20th-century experiments by French researcher Albert de Rochas, who used hypnotized subjects to describe a radiant, shimmering light around them. It also details the work of French doctor Hyppolite Baraduc, who claimed to photograph the soul leaving the body, notably capturing images of his deceased son and wife with a white mass emanating from them. "Osynlig strålning" (Invisible Radiation) discusses further experiments, including those by Dr. Menager using an artificial hand, and the work of Dr. Walter J. Kilner. Kilner, in his book "The Human Atmosphere," described a new apparatus (a filter of two glass discs with a specific solution) that allowed observation of three distinct layers of 'aura' around the human body: the first layer about half to one centimeter from the body, the second extending up to eight centimeters, and the third up to thirty centimeters. The depth of the aura was found to be influenced by magnets, electrical impulses, and even psychological states, weakening significantly in hypnotized individuals and being affected by illness.

UFOs: Intelligent Control and International Perspectives

"UFO:S INTELLIGENT STYRDA" (UFOs: Intelligently Controlled) presents a discussion on UFOs, featuring correspondence from John W.R. Taylor and Charles Gibbs-Smith of the Victoria & Albert Museum. Both express belief that UFOs are real objects under intelligent control, possibly originating from extraterrestrial civilizations and visiting Earth for a long time. The article also includes a letter from Indonesian Air Marshal Robesmin Nurjadin, who acknowledges the existence of unidentified craft in Indonesian airspace and mentions that the Indonesian Air Force has had to open fire on them. He refers to research by Commander J. Salatun, who has written a book titled "THE MYSTERY OF FLYING SAUCERS REVEALED." The article "NÖDVÄNDIGT ATT STUDERA UFO-FRÅGAN" (Necessary to Study the UFO Question) by J. Salatun reiterates the importance of studying UFOs for sociological, technological, and security reasons, suggesting that understanding UFOs could lead to revolutionary discoveries in space technology and propulsion.

Biological Insights: Blood and Photosynthesis

Several articles focus on biological topics. "BLODET" (The Blood) is the third in a series on "Man as an Engineering Art." It explains the circulatory system, highlighting the role of hemoglobin in transporting oxygen and how red blood cells efficiently carry it. The article also touches upon the 'leaky' nature of blood vessels and the body's self-sealing mechanism. "RÖR FULLA AV LÄCKOR" (Pipes Full of Leaks) further elaborates on the blood vessel system, explaining how tissue fluid seeps out and is returned to circulation. "TVÅ SYSTEM" describes the two separate circulatory systems in the human body: the pulmonary system and the systemic system. "INEFFEKTIV PUMP" discusses the heart's function as a pump, noting its intermittent nature. "VENTILSYSTEM" explains how valves in the veins and muscle action help blood return to the heart. "KYLVÄTSKA" (Coolant) details blood's role in regulating body temperature due to its high specific heat and latent heat properties. "VÄRMEVÄXLARE" (Heat Exchanger) describes how the body utilizes a heat exchange system, similar to those in chemical industries, where blood flowing in adjacent arteries and veins transfers heat, conserving warmth. "STÄNDIG RÖRELSE" (Constant Motion) emphasizes the importance of blood's continuous movement and its self-sealing property upon contact with air. "TRASSLIGA FIBRER" (Tangled Fibers) explains the formation of blood clots through fibrin, a protein produced from fibrinogen.

"De gröna växterna - världens största industri" (Green Plants - The World's Largest Industry) explains the process of photosynthesis, where plants convert carbon dioxide and water into sugar and starch using sunlight, with chlorophyll playing a key role. It highlights the vital importance of plants as the base of the food chain and the source of energy for all life on Earth.

Unusual Phenomena: Moon Lights and Raining Bricks

"LJUS PÅ MÅNEN" (Light on the Moon) revisits historical observations of lights in a specific lunar crater, dating back to astronomer William Herchel in the late 18th century. Later observations by Rankin and William H. Pickering suggested the possibility of life on the moon. "REGN AV TEGELSTENAR" (Rain of Bricks) recounts a bizarre incident in Parsewakam, India, where bricks inexplicably rained down on a house, attributed by locals to a sorcerer. The phenomenon continued even with windows and doors closed, ceasing only after the family vacated the house.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of SAT magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, the unexplained, and the natural world. There's a clear interest in phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding, such as UFOs, auras, and unexplained lights. The magazine presents scientific explanations for biological and physical processes (Geiger counters, blood circulation, photosynthesis) alongside more speculative topics, often referencing historical research and anecdotal evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond established paradigms, while also grounding some discussions in scientific principles. The inclusion of letters and references to international research suggests a global perspective on these subjects.

This issue, identified as 'Kapitel 4' and bearing the volume number '24', is titled 'DAGBÅGAR OCH CIRKUMPOLÄRA STJÄRNOR' (Day Arcs and Circumpolar Stars). The cover headline is 'VAD HAR MAN SETT' (What Has Been Seen). The publication appears to be from Sweden, originally in Swedish, and is published by Berghs förlag. The content spans various topics, including plant biology, astronomy, and unexplained phenomena.

Plant Biology: Photosynthesis

The issue begins with a detailed explanation of photosynthesis, a vital process for plant life. It highlights that plants absorb carbon dioxide through small pores called stomata, primarily located on the underside of leaves. This carbon dioxide dissolves in a water film surrounding the leaf cells and then diffuses into the chloroplasts, where photosynthesis takes place, facilitated by chlorophyll. The process is summarized by the chemical formula: 6CO2 + 6H2O + energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2, representing carbon dioxide plus water and solar energy yielding glucose (sugar) and oxygen.

The article clarifies that chlorophyll is a catalyst, meaning it aids the reaction without being consumed. While the formula is a simplification, the process involves complex chemical reactions. It is noted that oxygen is released from water molecules, and this reaction requires light. The energy captured is then used to synthesize nutrients. The sugar produced is converted into starch for storage and later broken down for use.

Plants also require minerals for photosynthesis. The chlorophyll molecule itself contains magnesium; a deficiency in magnesium causes plants to turn yellow and cease chlorophyll production, leading to death. Iron is also crucial for chlorophyll formation, though not a component of the molecule itself, and its deficiency also causes yellowing. These minerals are absorbed from the soil through water. The rate of photosynthesis is influenced by factors such as carbon dioxide availability, light intensity, chlorophyll quantity, and temperature.

Experiments are described to demonstrate the necessity of light for photosynthesis. One experiment involves covering parts of a leaf with black paper for two days to deplete stored starch. A subsequent exposure to sunlight for four hours, followed by treatment with iodine, reveals that starch is only formed in the parts of the leaf that received light, indicated by a blue-black color change with iodine.

Another experiment focuses on the location of stomata. By applying vaseline to the upper and lower surfaces of leaves and then treating them with iodine after exposure to light, it is shown that starch formation (and thus CO2 uptake) primarily occurs on the underside of the leaf, indicating that stomata are mainly found there.

Unexplained Phenomena: Mount Shasta and Devil's Footprints

The issue presents two intriguing accounts of unexplained events.

The Mystery of Mount Shasta

Professor Edgar Lucin Larkin, from the Mount Lowe Observatory, reported observing marble buildings with golden domes on the slopes of Mount Shasta after aiming a new telescope. He claimed not to have heard of any colony from a lost continent before this. Local residents in the town of Weeds shared stories of white-clad figures seen at dusk, disappearing into the darkness, and an unexplained force preventing access to a specific area. An instance is recounted where an inexplicable fog bank halted a forest fire, saving the surrounding trees. Train personnel reported seeing blue lights, attributing them to survivors from the lost continent of Lemuria who sought refuge on Mount Shasta before the continent sank.

Professor Larkin organized an expedition to investigate, but difficult terrain and bad weather forced its return before reaching the location of the observed domes. Despite various explanations, none fully accounted for the facts. Public interest waned, but the legend persists in Northern California, fueled by sightings of blue lights and moss-covered ruins.

The Devil's Footprints

This section recounts an event from February 1855 in Southern Devon, England. Residents awoke to find the fresh snow covered with peculiar footprints resembling hoof marks, stretching over 160 km. The tracks were found on rooftops, meter-high walls, and in locked gardens, suggesting the creature could leap and balance with great agility. The distance between each footprint was consistently 21 centimeters. A peculiar characteristic was that the tracks followed a straight line, which is noted as unusual for any known creature. Various explanations were proposed, including extinct sea creatures, spirits, extraterrestrial messages, and ultimately, the Devil himself. However, the incident was eventually dismissed and forgotten.

Astronomy: Day Arcs and Circumpolar Stars

This chapter, 'Kapitel 4', focuses on celestial observations, specifically day arcs and circumpolar stars. Due to Earth's rotation, stars appear to move in arcs across the sky. In Sweden, Polaris (the North Star) is positioned slightly more than halfway up from the northern horizon to the zenith. Because it is near the North Celestial Pole, it traces a small circle daily and is always visible.

Stars further from the North Celestial Pole than its altitude above the horizon (polhöjd) are also always visible, forming circumpolar stars. These include constellations like Ursa Major, Ursa Minor, Cassiopeia, Cepheus, and Perseus. While they are always visible, their positions change throughout the night and year due to Earth's rotation. The visible part of a star's daily path above the horizon is called its day arc, and the unseen part below is its night arc.

The article explains that stars on the celestial equator rise directly east and set directly west, with equal day and night arcs. As stars move south of the celestial equator, their day arcs shrink in favor of their night arcs. Stars near the South Celestial Pole are not visible in Sweden. The time taken for a star to cross the meridian (culmination) is often provided in astronomical calendars, allowing calculation of rising and setting times.

An illustration (Bild 8) shows circumpolar stars at a 60° northern latitude, identifying Polaris, Ursa Minor, Ursa Major, Draco, Cygnus, Lyra, Hercules, Boötes, Canes Venatici, Gemini, Auriga, Perseus, Cassiopeia, Andromeda, Cepheus, and Lynx.

Parapsychology: Willpower as a Physical Force

Finally, the issue touches upon parapsychology with a section titled 'VILJAN - EN FYSISK KRAFT?' (Willpower - A Physical Force?). It describes experiments conducted by Philosopher Doctor Hereward Carrington in 1921, investigating whether human willpower could exert a physical influence. These experiments used an instrument designed by Professor Theodore Flournoy and described by Swedish Professor Alrutz. Professor Alrutz reported that human willpower could exert a pressure equivalent to 100 grams, while Carrington's findings were even lower. The experiments were conducted under strict control and have reportedly never been disproven.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to explore the intersection of science, mystery, and the unexplained. It presents scientific explanations for natural phenomena like photosynthesis and celestial movements, while also delving into historical accounts of UFO sightings, legendary mysteries, and parapsychological research. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting both scientific understanding and intriguing unexplained events without necessarily dismissing the latter. The inclusion of detailed scientific explanations alongside anecdotal evidence suggests an interest in a broad spectrum of knowledge, from the tangible to the speculative.