Space Review - vol 2 no 1

Magazine Overview

Title: SPACE REVIEW
Issue: Volume 2, No. 1
Date: February 1963
Publisher: SPACE REVIEW
Country: England
Price: 2/6d (40)

This issue of SPACE REVIEW is a non-political publication aimed at promoting interest in astronomy and allied sciences. The views expressed in signed articles do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board.

Editorial

The editorial announces the beginning of a new volume and states that the magazine will be issued at irregular intervals based on funding and material availability. It notes a positive response to the previous issue, with copies in the hands of professional astronomers. Unsolicited material is welcomed, but book reviews are sent in by request. The publication will expand to include a philosophical section and a 'question and answer' column. Subscription rates are printed on the inside cover.

Articles

The Dichotomy of Venus During 1962 by C. M. Pither

This article explains the concept of Venus's dichotomy, the phase where it appears as a half-phase from Earth, occurring twice per sidereal period. It distinguishes between theoretical dichotomy (predicted time) and observed dichotomy (actual time seen), noting a potential difference of up to 4 days, known as the 'Schröter Effect,' which is thought to be due to Venus's dense atmosphere. The author discusses the eastern elongation of 1962, where theoretical dichotomy was predicted for September 3rd, but observed dichotomy occurred earlier, in August, a phenomenon not previously recorded. The writer was unable to observe this personally due to weather but noted a phase less than predicted on July 31st, 1962. The cause for this early dichotomy remains unknown but is expected to be understood with further study.

Investigations Made of the Other Side of the Moon by Peter Hedervari, F.I.L.S.

This article analyzes photos and charts of the Moon's far side, primarily from the Soviet cosmic rocket Lunik III. A key difference noted is the absence of large 'basins,' Maria, 'seas,' and 'oceans' on the hidden side, unlike the Earth-facing side. While a darker territory exists near the Moscow Sea, Soviet scientists do not classify it as a basin. The article references Soviet charts and maps, including those by Y.N. Lipsky and Dr. A. Fresa, and compares them with the work of Dr. H.P. Wilkins. It discusses the identification of ray-systems, potentially corresponding to features like the Astronauts' Bay, Sovietici Montes, and craters such as Edison, Lomonosow, Lobachewsky, and Pasteur. The comparison of Wilkins' maps with photographs suggests that while some basins were identified, their actual size was smaller than depicted by Wilkins. The article also mentions that Soviet observers identified 251 features on the hidden side from at least three photos, with an additional 190 features from two photos, and 57 from a single photo, likely craters and ring mountains. The author regrets that the initial photographs were taken with the Sun high, resulting in indistinct details due to a lack of shading.

Recent Highlights

Mariner II Suggests Life on the Planet Venus.

On December 14th, 1962, the Mariner II spacecraft approached Venus, transmitting atmospheric and temperature data. The findings indicated a weak magnetic field, a slow axial rotation, and cooler surface temperatures than previously thought. Scientists now speculate that conditions on Venus might be favorable enough for human landing.

Space Men may have Visited Earth says Scientist

Dr. C. Sagan of Harvard University stated that it is mathematically probable that intelligent extraterrestrial life exists and may have visited Earth. He suggested that artifacts from these visits might remain, and that a base, possibly automated, could be maintained within the Solar System for future expeditions. He proposed that a base on the Moon would be preferable to Earth due to weathering and the risk of detection.

Men on Mars

Dr. Glenn Seaborg of the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission announced that the United States plans to send a manned nuclear-driven spaceship to Mars in the 1970s, with a crew of a few men staying for about a month.

Russian Satellites to Gather Solar Data

As part of the 'International Year of the Quiet Sun' (April 1964 - December 1965), the Soviet Union will launch instrumented satellites and rockets to gather data about the Sun.

The Moon 'White Hot Inside'

Professor Zdenek Kopal theorizes that Earth's gravitational pull may have heated the Moon's interior to extremely high temperatures, more powerful than radioactive materials. He also stated that Earth's gravitational pull on the Moon is 100 times greater than the Moon's own tidal force. Furthermore, Kopal suggested that the Moon could have a significant water supply, potentially covering its surface to a depth of 984 feet, forming glaciers beneath dust and debris.

Book Reviews

'Solar Research' by Giorgio Abetti

Reviewed by Carole Jordan B.Sc., this book is the fourth in the 'A Survey of Astronomy' series. It aims to bridge elementary and specialized astronomy knowledge. The review notes its minimal mathematical formulae, useful glossary, and adequate index, though some plates could be improved. Chapter V, titled 'Total Eclipses of the Sun,' is noted to cover 'Solar Activity' extensively. The book is considered a valuable addition for those seriously interested in solar astronomy.

'Life in the Universe' by Dr F.L. Jackson and P. Moore

Reviewed by V.A. Firsoff M.A., F.R.A.S., this book discusses topics ranging from the changing view of the Universe to the nature and origin of life, conditions on solar planets, and the probability of other inhabited planets. The reviewer's main criticism is that the book is too short (128 pages), but acknowledges this is beneficial for readers seeking a quick overview. The book touches upon the possibility of life developing on a chemical basis different from Earth's, using ammonia or silicon. The reviewer expresses some dissent regarding the certainty of information on other planets but agrees that Earth is unlikely to be the sole planet with intelligent life. The book is recommended as an introduction to the problems of life in the universe.

'Men Among Mankind' by The Hon. Brinsley le Poer French

This book is described as a comprehensive presentation of the history of mankind over the past 10,000 years.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on space exploration, astronomy, and related scientific discoveries. It presents findings from space missions, theoretical discussions on celestial bodies, and speculative ideas about extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting scientific curiosity and disseminating current astronomical knowledge to a broad audience, including amateurs and students.

This issue of 'Space Review' presents a diverse collection of articles, book reviews, and correspondence, primarily focusing on astronomy, space exploration, and related phenomena. The content ranges from scholarly examinations of historical records to reports of unusual events and scientific advancements.

Book Reviews

'Men Among Mankind'

Susanne Stebbing reviews a book that examines historical records, legends, ancient manuscripts, and rock carvings through the lens of modern scientific fact. The conclusions are controversial, but the book is noted for its scholarly approach and archaeological research in England. A key theme is the impact of talented individuals on civilizations, and the suppression of great scientific achievements that are non-commercial or affect national security, citing Nikola Tesla as an example. Stebbing found the book enjoyable, particularly for its exploration of 'breakthroughs' against orthodoxy.

'The Way Out World' by Long John Nebel

This book is described as not being about serious space research, despite its title. It includes space activities but is presented as entertainment. The content covers trips to Venus, Mars, the Moon, and beyond, as well as telepathy and E.S.P., featuring claims made by participants of the 'Off Beat' broadcast by WOR, New York. The host, Long John Nebel, invites individuals with interesting, often unbelievable, stories. The reviewer suggests readers might enjoy it, but many claims will appear absurd.

'The Planets' by Patrick Moore

Patrick Moore is praised for his talent in presenting complex astronomy and astronautics subjects in layman's terms. 'The Planets' is noted for capturing interest in the Solar System, with each chapter dedicated to a planet. New discoveries since 1954 have led to revisions of old theories. A chapter on 'Life on the Planets' details research by Dr. F.L. Jackson of King's College Hospital, who simulated Martian conditions in a laboratory. The book also includes a list of astronomical societies and publications for aspiring astronomers.

Correspondence

The correspondence section features several letters from readers offering feedback and opinions on articles published in 'Space Review'.

Letter from a Scientist

This reader expresses skepticism regarding Dr. Browne's article, finding it a summary of a previous piece in 'Nature' that was unimpressive. The claims made by Browne are found to be unsubstantiated upon closer examination. The writer also attended a seminar where they demonstrated fundamental fallacies in Browne's theory. The letter concludes by wishing 'Space Review' success.

Letter from another Scientist

This correspondent agrees with Colin Pither's article, finding it a good general summary despite some 'filter bias'. The drawings are praised, though the shadings on Venus are noted as exaggerated. The article by Dr. Browne, 'The Universe as a Finite Isolated System', is singled out for special mention. The writer welcomes accurate, reliable observations but remains skeptical of UFO reports, appreciating that the Editorial Board does not necessarily share all contributors' views and that sources are cited.

Letter from Alan W. Heath

Alan W. Heath F.R.A.S. finds 'Space Review' improving with each issue and praises the quality of the halftone illustrations. His criticisms include a warning against overly technical articles, suggesting Dr. Browne's article might be 'heavy going' for some readers, and noting indistinct mathematical symbols. He believes such work is better suited for specialized journals like those of the R.A.S. He commends articles of more practical or unusual interest, such as those on Project West Ford and 'Anomalies in Nature?'. He also advises avoiding overly up-to-date items due to potential production delays.

Letter from David A. Hardy

David A. Hardy F.R.A.S. found the edition interesting and informative, noting the need for a magazine to keep track of space probes and their results, and hoping for reviews of technical literature.

Letter from Peter F. Browne

Peter F. Browne Ph.D. also expresses interest in the edition and the need for a magazine to document space probe progress. He suggests reviewing technical journals.

'FANTASTIC' TELESCOPE DEVELOPED

This news item reports on a missile and satellite tracking television telescope developed by U.S. Air Force scientists at Cape Canaveral, Florida. This telescope is described as more precise than radar and has significant military potential for tracking and surveillance. It has successfully photographed orbiting satellites at 150 miles and objects as small as a bowling ball at 100 miles, even in darkness. It has also photographed lunar craters with high precision. The camera was used to track astronaut Walter M. Schirra Jr. and was developed by Walter H. Manning Jr.

Frank Edwards Reports Lost Cosmonauts

This section details reports by TV commentator Frank Edwards regarding the deaths of at least five Soviet cosmonauts. Two were part of a man-and-woman Moon exploration team that disappeared in 1961. Their rocket was launched on May 17th and tracked for a week before vanishing. The last broadcast reportedly included the male astronaut's words: "Here there is something it is difficult.... if we do not get out, the world will never learn about it.." The report cites 'The UFO Investigator' as a source. An editor's comment notes that Jodrell Bank had tracked the rocket, but a reply from R.G. Lascelles of Jodrell Bank officially denies any such tracking, stating they were focused on locating the Russian Venus probe at the time.

MISCELLANEOUS NEWS BRIEFS

This section compiles various brief news items:

• Bernard John Byron: Possesses the ability to speak in foreign and interplanetary tongues and has occult gifts.
• Sticky Material Fall: Globs of white sticky material, resembling a tattered parachute, fell from the sky over Utah on October 18th, 1962. Its origin and nature were unknown.
• Ice Age Prediction: I.G.Y. findings suggest the ice wall in the far north will disappear by 1975, potentially bringing back the ice age to Europe and the USA. High-altitude H Bomb tests by the USA and Soviet Union are believed to be an attempt to alter Van Allen radiation belts and slow thawing.
• Magnetic Anomalies: These are cited as causes for mystery plane crashes, explosions, and fires worldwide. Earthquakes have also increased since 1956.
• Lake Erie Creatures: Gray, spongy, doughnut-like creatures have been observed floating in Lake Erie, with sizes ranging from inches to that of a tyre tube.
• Jupiter Observations: Mr. W.E. Fox of the British Astronomical Association reported disturbances on Jupiter, with fuzzy appearances and clearer equatorial belts and a red spot.
• Blue Rain: Blue rain fell in Surrey on September 9th, attributed to aircraft from the Farnborough Air Show.
• Black Rain: Black raindrops fell in Jemaluang, Malaya on June 26th, 1962, turning streams black.
• Black Snow: Black snow covered fields and woods in Juga, Finland on December 15th, 1962, possibly due to London's smog.
• Mystery Explosions: Reported in Wrexham and Sandhurst, with one in Sandhurst being very loud and initially mistaken for an atom bomb.
• Mysterious Fog: A radio broadcast from Bangkok disclosed a witnessed 'fog' that broke into pea-sized pieces.

Interstellar Matter

This section discusses the assumption that interstellar matter is absent between stars in elliptical extra-galactical systems. However, spectral investigations at Mount Wilson and Lick observatories have shown interstellar lines (ionized oxygen) in some nebulae, while others show no indication, leaving the presence or absence of interstellar matter uncertain.

Comet Behaviour Puzzles Experts

Comet Humason, observed on August 21st, 1962, is exhibiting unexplained disturbances and a distorted form. Harvard College Observatory has requested observations from the Southern Hemisphere. It is suggested that an active interaction with solar plasma might be occurring.

Master Clocks Synchronized via Telstar

Telstar is being used to synchronize master time clocks in England and the USA with high accuracy (10 microseconds). This is significantly faster and more accurate than conventional radio communication. The master clocks are located at the Royal Greenwich Observatory and the Naval Observatory in Washington. They require correction due to the Earth's unpredictable rotation.

PANORAMA AND LATE NEWS

ORBIT Magazine

'ORBIT' is a quarterly magazine produced by the Tyneside UFO Society, now in its fifth year. It is described as a fine UFO magazine covering theories, facts, recent sightings, historical evidence, and articles by prominent ufologists. It is also the only British magazine featuring news and teachings from George Adamski. Subscription is 8/- for four post-free issues.

Preston and District Astronomical Society

This society publishes a quarterly journal and holds monthly meetings. Details are available from Mr. C. Lynch.

Croydon Group of the Junior Astronomical Society

This group is constructing a 16.5" reflector telescope and publishes a bi-monthly magazine called 'Altair'. Subscriptions are 4/6d. per year, available from Mr. Ken Stocker.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers topics related to astronomy, space exploration, and the unexplained, including UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be open to a wide range of subjects, from rigorous scientific observation to more speculative and paranormal reports, while also encouraging critical evaluation and the citation of sources, as seen in the correspondence section. There is a clear interest in both established scientific findings and fringe or unusual occurrences.

This issue of Space Review, Volume 2, Number 2, published in 1963, covers a variety of intriguing topics related to space, archaeology, and unexplained phenomena. The magazine's publication was delayed, leading to the omission of the 'Space Log' section, which will be included in the next issue along with a list of recent satellite launchings. Upcoming reports will detail an electric accumulator from 4,500 years ago found in the Bagdad Museum and a 3,500 B.C. device capable of accurate planetary motion measurements, currently housed in the Athens Museum.

The Universe

A public event is announced: a film program on man's knowledge of the Solar System to be held on Sunday, February 3rd, at 7 p.m. at 53 Marloes Road, Kensington, London. W.8, with an admission fee of 2/6 including refreshments.

New Book: "Terra Una"

"Terra Una" is introduced as a new book focusing on space-age subjects and future civilizations united in spiritual and scientific knowledge. The author, Johan H. Quanjer, is currently working on the manuscript and is slated to become a book reviewer for Space Review.

10,000 Year Old Astronaut

An extraordinary discovery in the Tassili region of the Sahara Desert by Henri Lhote is reported: a depiction of an astronaut from 10,000 years ago. The area is inhabited by shepherds and peasants who created approximately 25,000 living paintings on their rocky walls, depicting animals and dancers. Among these, a strange effigy was found, dubbed 'THE GREAT MARTIAN GOD' by the French archaeologist. This figure stands six meters (19 feet) high, wearing a strange helmet and a large suit, and its drawing is noted for its unusual style, reminiscent of cave friezes from Lahaux or Altamira.

Warm Water from Well

In Astley, near Shrewsbury, Mr. and Mrs. Parton have experienced a peculiar phenomenon where their well, which has always supplied cold water, suddenly began producing warm water despite freezing night ground temperatures. Mr. Dennis Corfield, the chief public health inspector, described it as a mystery, with investigations yielding no solution. Other wells in the district have not reported similar occurrences.

Radioactive Cloud

A Paris radio commentator reported on September 13, 1962, that a radioactive cloud, over 2400 miles deep, was floating over the Southern part of South America. The cloud's origin is not attributed to recent U.S.A. nuclear tests but to terrestrial explosions dating back at least 4,500 years.

The Luminous Cloud

The French paper 'SOIR' reported on October 10, 1962, about mysterious luminous clouds observed over North Sweden. These clouds are weakly visible, move rapidly at high altitudes, and are seen only at twilight during late summer. The Swedish Government has initiated a study, firing rockets in August 1962 near the Arctic Circle to collect samples. The samples contained a high number of particles, and their origin—terrestrial or extra-terrestrial—is under analysis, which may take up to a year.

Continuous Record of Lunar Shadows

Universities in Manchester, Kyoto (Japan), and observatories in Hyderabad and California are collaborating to take motion pictures and photographs of Oceanus Procellarum, the largest lunar 'sea'. The goal is to create a 16-hour continuous, round-the-world record of the terminator's movement across the mare, enabling astronomers to map its hills and ridges. The Manchester and Kyota team are using the Pic-du-Midi Observatory in the French Pyrenees, with the California and Hyderabad observatories joining later. This program is sponsored by NASA as part of Project Apollo, aiming to land two men on the Moon in spring 1969.

Sunburn Kills 122 people

According to the Tokio newspaper 'Mainichi Shimbun', the sun appeared as a glowing, unprotected sphere for three days. In the town of Matsumoto and its district, temperatures fluctuated rapidly, causing people in the streets to collapse with severe burns. Emergency air brigades rescued 1289 people in Matsumoto alone, and 122 individuals died from heat strokes, even through their clothing. Geologists and physicists are unable to provide an immediate explanation for this sudden and frightening phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently highlights the intersection of ancient history, unexplained phenomena, and future space exploration. There's a clear interest in archaeological discoveries that challenge conventional timelines, such as the '10,000 year old Astronaut,' and in atmospheric or geological anomalies like the radioactive and luminous clouds, and the warm well. The magazine also covers scientific endeavors, particularly NASA's lunar ambitions. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting these unusual events and discoveries for the reader's consideration, often citing other publications and scientific bodies as sources, while acknowledging the mysterious nature of many of the reported phenomena.