Space Review - vol 2 no 2

Magazine Overview

Title: SPACE REVIEW
Issue: Volume 2, No. 2
Date: 1963 August/Sept.
Publisher: Space Review
Country: England
Price: 2/6d (40¢)

This issue of Space Review, a non-political publication aimed at promoting interest in astronomy and allied sciences, faces publication delays due to financial difficulties. Despite these challenges, the editorial board assures subscribers that they will receive all paid issues, albeit at irregular intervals. The magazine features a mix of scientific articles, discussions on mysteries, correspondence, and book reviews.

Editorial

The editorial acknowledges the delay in publishing this issue, attributing it to financial constraints rather than editorial staff issues. The magazine is committed to maintaining a high standard of offset printing. Subscribers are assured that their paid subscriptions will be honored. The editorial also mentions the inclusion of a philosophical section within the 'Questions and Answer' column, which covers a wide range of topics. It touches upon astronomical events, including disturbances in Jupiter's atmosphere and the appearance of new comets. A theory concerning abnormally cold weather being linked to the sun's variable energy output is discussed, along with the potential impact of man-made radiation belts from H-bomb explosions and distortions in Earth's magnetic field.

Project Syncom

This article details Project Syncom, a series of communications satellites that will bring Arthur C. Clarke's 1945 prophecy of global communications coverage closer to reality. Syncom, derived from SYNchronous COMmunications, is an active, narrow-band satellite designed as a successor to NASA's Relay satellite. It is managed by the Goddard Space Flight Center and developed by the Hughes Aircraft Corporation. A synchronous satellite orbits Earth every 24 hours, appearing stationary. Syncom will be launched into an orbit inclined 33° to the Earth's equator. The satellite is cylindrical, measuring 25 inches high and 28 inches in diameter, weighing about 50 lbs. It is powered by 3960 solar cells providing 20 watts of electrical power and nickel-cadmium batteries. The communications antenna operates at 7500 mc/s, with signals retransmitted to ground stations at 1850 mc/s. Telemetry will be transmitted on 136 mc/s. The satellite uses nitrogen gas jets for attitude control and orientation. Future versions are planned, including one weighing up to 500 lbs to be launched in 1964-65.

The Titicaca Calender and Other Mysteries

This section, reported by May Morlet, presents several unexplained phenomena. It references an article in the Belgian magazine 'Auto Touring' about the 'Gates of the Sun' and the 'Titicaca Calender of Venusian days'. The report highlights an electric accumulator discovered in the Bagdad Museum, dated 4,500 years old, which still functions, questioning the technological capabilities of ancient oriental civilizations. It also mentions Russian archaeologist Alexander Kazantsev's investigation of polished steel pipes in an Austrian coal mine, dating back 30,000 years, and curious steel nails found in a limestone bed 80 million years old. The Athens Museum houses a sophisticated device, possibly a clock, recovered from the sea, dated 3,500 years B.C., which tracks celestial movements. The section poses the question of the origin of these advanced technologies from ancient civilizations.

Correspondence

The correspondence section includes letters from readers:

• C.D. Allan comments on the issue's discussion of Russia's 'lost cosmonauts', agreeing that the 1961 moon flight report was unreliable. He notes that according to the Guinness Book of Records, Russia had manned orbital failures, but U.S. intelligence suggests six Soviet satellite and space probe failures, none of which were manned. He concludes that the U.S. has had no man-in-space fatalities and assumes Russia has had none either.
• Geoff Cooper writes about dirigibles, suggesting their potential return with modern technology. He discusses the Goodyear Zeppelin Corp.'s successful operation of non-rigids and proposes designs for effective rigid airships capable of carrying 300 passengers at speeds of 100-120 m.p.h. He believes there is a strong case for the return of dirigibles for bulk transport.
• Alan W. Heath expresses a less pessimistic view on the Mariner 2 mission, suggesting more can be learned from the data. He cautions against drawing too many positive conclusions and criticizes astronomers for altering observations to fit theories.
• Johan H. Quanjer responds to comments on Mariner II, stating that conclusions were drawn by individuals with a 'simple' device that was off-target and relayed incorrect information. He reassures UFO researchers not to be disillusioned, emphasizing that earthly problems require full attention.

New Books

This section reviews two books:

• "Survey of the Moon" by Patrick Moore: Described as a comprehensive guide to the Moon, it expands on previous works, detailing lunar surface features and incorporating results from lunar probes, including Lunik III photographs. The book is well-illustrated with photographs and artistic drawings, though some improvements could be made with higher-resolution images. The style is praised for its lucidity and engaging anecdotes.
• "The Exploration of Outer Space" by Sir Bernard Lovell: This book, based on lectures, focuses on scientific techniques for investigating the universe using radio telescopes. It aims to appeal to the layman and discusses the philosophical significance of the physical universe. The final chapter addresses the grave dangers facing civilization.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the advancement of space technology (Syncom satellite), the exploration of astronomical phenomena, and the investigation of historical and archaeological mysteries that challenge conventional understanding of past civilizations. The editorial stance, as indicated by the content and the acknowledgment of financial difficulties, is one of perseverance in promoting scientific interest despite practical challenges. The magazine appears to maintain an open-minded approach to unexplained phenomena, as evidenced by the 'Mysteries' section and the inclusion of reader correspondence discussing UFOs and alleged Soviet space failures.

This issue of "Space Review" delves into a variety of topics, primarily focusing on astronomy, space exploration, and unexplained phenomena. The content spans book reviews, a detailed log of space activities, discussions on scientific advancements, and reports of unusual sightings.

Book Reviews

The issue features reviews of two books. The first, "Astronomy and Spaceflight" by G. A. Chisnall & Gilber Fielder, published by George G. Harrap & Co. Ltd. in 1962, is priced at 25/- nett. The reviewer, Susanne R. Stebbing FRAS, praises the book for its high standard and up-to-date information, noting that while it might be challenging for casual readers, those with a knowledge of physics and mathematics to A-level would follow it well. The book is divided into three parts: Gravitation, covering surveying the universe and mass determination; Rocketry, detailing artificial satellites and their orbits; and Radiation, discussing observation instruments and methods. The reviewer highlights that the book includes information on early experiments like Sputniks, Discoverer satellites, and Luniks, as well as astronomical photography, suggesting useful work for amateurs. The book is recommended for astronomical libraries.

The second book reviewed is "William Herschel" by Angus Armitage, published by Thomas Nelson & Sons Ltd. in 1962, priced at 15/- net. This book provides an outline of the life and work of Sir William Herschel, setting his scientific contributions within the historical context of his time and modern astronomy. The reviewer, also Susanne R. Stebbing FRAS, describes the book as well-written with an easy flowing style, appealing to laymen, and includes excellent photographs. It is recommended for libraries of scientific societies as a source of reference.

Space Log 1963

Compiled by Brian S. Dean, this section meticulously logs space-related events throughout 1963. Key entries include:

• January 4th: Soviet Union launched an unannounced satellite that broke into three pieces in orbit.
• January 7th & 16th: USAF launched secret satellites aboard Thor-Agena boosters from Vandenberg.
• February 1st: A secret space probe was launched by Blue Scout from Pt. Arguello.
• February 11th: NASA launched an Argo D8 Journeyman sounding rocket to investigate particles in the Van Allen belt.
• February 14th: NASA's Syncom active communications satellite was launched, but contact was lost during orbit boosting.
• February 19th: Another secret satellite was launched by USAF aboard a Blue Scout booster.
• February 28th: USAF destroyed a secret satellite (likely a Discoverer) launched from Vandenberg.
• March 13th: A secret space probe was launched by USAF aboard a Blue Scout booster.
• March 18th: USAF launched a secret satellite (likely a Discoverer) from Vandenberg.
• March 30th: NSAS launched the Saturn 1 space booster from Cape Canaveral.
• March 31st: Soviet Union launched Cosmos 13.
• April 2nd: Soviet Union launched lunar probe Lunik 4, and NASA launched Explorer 17th Satellite.
• April 15th: Soviet Union launched the Cosmos 15 satellite.
• April 26th: USAF launched two secret satellites, one from Vandenberg and another from Pt. Arguello.
• May 7th: Major Gordon Cooper was launched into orbit in a Mercury capsule, setting a new American record of 22 orbits in 34 hours.
• May 18th & 25th: Soviet Union conducted tests of their latest space booster.
• May 22nd & 24th: Soviet Union launched Cosmos 17 and 18.
• June 11th: Lt. Col. Valery Bykovsky launched in Vostok 5, setting an endurance record of 82 orbits and 119 hours.
• June 12th: USAF Atlas-Agena with a secret payload exploded shortly after take-off.
• June 14th: Lt. Valentina Tereshkova followed Bykovsky into orbit in Vostok 6.
• June 15th: USAF Blue Scout launched with a secret payload.
• June 19th: NASA launched the Tiros 7 weather satellite.

Questions & Answers

This section addresses reader queries:

1. UFO Sightings: C. B. Dunham of Newcastle-on-Tyne notes a decline in UFO reports, suggesting it might indicate acceptance of their existence. The response confirms that reports are still being received but interest has waned.
2. Animal Behavior: G. H. Fielding of Seattle, Washington, inquires about the cause of animal, fish, and bird life living against their instincts and dying prematurely. The answer suggests radiation as a potential cause, referencing the Bikini H-bomb.
3. Editor's Photograph: G. H. Triginnick of Hants asks why the editor doesn't publish a photograph and provide more details about her life related to 'outer space' work. The editor states no photographs are available but hopes to publish one later, offering general details about being young, selling astronomy books, and working for aircraft firms.
4. Venus Phenomena: C.W. Brown of Penzance questions how to account for the Ashen Light and polar ice caps on Venus, given its temperature and lack of oxygen and water vapor as reported by Mariner II. The response suggests either accepting Mariner II's data or acknowledging that ground astronomers are often in disagreement over observational data, with some radio astronomers asserting Venus has a very hot surface or intense radiation.

Recent Monster Stories

This section compiles anecdotal accounts of mysterious creatures:

• Cadborosaurus: Mrs. R.A. Stewart of Prospect Lake reports seeing a large, brown-headed animal with a huge head and wide-open jaws in Southern Vancouver Island waters, believing it to be Cadborosaurus, also known as 'Caddy'.
• Sierra Foothills Monster: U.S. planes searched for a 'monster' in the Sierra foothills of California. Leonard Strand and Alden Hoover reported seeing a gorilla-like creature about 10 feet tall, but photographic attempts were inconclusive.
• 'Hissed' Monster: A second sighting of a sea monster, named Klamahtosaurus by Campbell River residents, was reported. Mrs. J.C. Durrant of Shelter Point described a 25-foot-long, dragon-like creature with a hissing noise.

Other News and Clips

• Fossilized Egg: A fossilized egg, estimated to be 20,000,000 years old, was unearthed in Utsunomiya, Japan.
• Space Exploration Visions: Quotes from a space symposium envision the moon as an ideal base for interplanetary flights and mention the development of master-slave manipulators for space applications.
• Moon and Mars Targets: Dr. Armand N. Spitz predicts man might reach the moon in this decade and Mars about 10 years later.
• Mysterious Gas in Los Angeles: A mysterious gas spread over 30 sq miles of Eastern Los Angeles, forcing the evacuation of over 14,000 schoolchildren. The source remained unidentified, and the gas company assured it was not responsible.
• 'Sealed Box' Experiment: An experiment used in schools, where students infer contents of a box without opening it, is discussed.
• Cosmic Rays: Soviet explorations indicate that the intensity of cosmic ray bombardment from other galaxies has doubled in five years, while solar cosmic rays are decreasing. This is attributed to the sun approaching a period of minimum activity in its 11-year cycle.
• Bikini Eight Years After: Italian film-makers reported on animal life at Bikini eight years after a hydrogen bomb test. While sea birds and turtles appeared unaffected, closer inspection revealed that birds were nesting on accumulated eggs, and turtles were dying, suggesting radiation had scrambled their instincts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers advancements in space exploration, astronomy, and related scientific fields. There is a clear interest in the unexplained, as evidenced by the inclusion of UFO reports and 'monster' sightings, presented alongside scientific data and book reviews. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting information from various sources, including reader contributions and scientific reports, without necessarily endorsing all claims. The inclusion of the "Questions & Answers" section and the "Recent Monster Stories" highlights a commitment to engaging with reader interest and reporting on phenomena that fall outside conventional scientific understanding.

Title: ALTAIR
Issue: Vol. 12, Issue 6
Date: July 1963
Publisher: Croydon Junior Astronomical Society

This issue of ALTAIR magazine provides a collection of astronomical and space-related news briefs, covering recent discoveries, observations, and ongoing research from around the world.

Astronomical Highlights

Oldest Stars Discovered Studies from Pasadena, California, announced by the California Institute of Technology, reveal the existence of three ancient stars, approximately 10 billion years old. These stars are estimated to be 20 to 30 times the diameter of the sun and are located 500 to 1000 light years away. Analysis of their light indicates traces of heavier chemical elements, suggesting they formed within the first billion years, possibly even the first 100 million years, after the formation of the Milky Way galaxy. The study utilized the 200-inch telescope on Mount Wilson.

Frost on Saturn's Rings According to a report from Washington (Science Service), Russian astronomer Dr. V. I. Moroz of the State Astronomical Institute in Moscow has reported that Saturn's rings are coated with small frost crystals. These crystals are composed of cosmic material chunks ranging from four inches to over three feet in diameter. Dr. Moroz used the fifty-inch reflecting telescope at the Crimean Astrophysical Observatory and an infra-red spectrometer for his study.

'Pancake Ring' Around Earth? Moscow (UPI) reports that Soviet astronomer Pyotr Shcheglov believes the Earth has a pancake-shaped ring similar to Saturn's. Tass news agency stated that Shcheglov discovered a "flat cloud of hydrogen shaped like a pancake round the earth" at an altitude of 10,000 kilometers (6,200 miles). This cloud is described as being about 1,000 times denser than interplanetary gas and is apparently stationary.

Jupiter's Red Spot An observation from Jose Olivarez of Mission, Texas, indicates that Jupiter's Red Spot is more prominent than anticipated by the BAA Jupiter Section. While disturbances in Jupiter's cloud layers have been outstanding, they are now showing signs of diminishing. The Red Spot is considered a permanent feature, possibly related to Jupiter's gaseous composition.

Space News Briefs

Space Invader Crashes in New Mexico A tiny, super-powered invader from distant space, identified as a mere nucleus of an atom, crashed into Earth's atmosphere over New Mexico. Physicists believe its immense energy originated from a distant galaxy. The event triggered a cosmic ray shower of high-speed atomic particles, detected by John Linsley of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Radar Contact with Mars Scientists at the California Institute of Technology have achieved first radar contact with Mars. By transmitting a 25-billion-watt signal, they received a return signal strong enough to indicate that Mars has both rough and smooth surfaces, similar to Earth and the Moon.

Object from Outer Space in Wiltshire A farmer in Wiltshire reported an unidentified crater in his field with burned grass and potatoes. Investigators from London believe it was caused by an unidentified space object. A metallic object with powerful magnetic force was later unearthed from a potato field in Charlton, Wiltshire, possibly a meteorite or a spacecraft from Uranus, according to astrophysicist Robert Randall.

Venus Rotational Period Radar observations of Venus during 1961, combined with doppler spectral measurements, suggest its rotational period is slow or possibly retrograde. This finding is apparently confirmed by the Mariner II space probe.

Lunar Exploration Plans The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has selected the Ariadaeus cleft and Copernicus as lunar exploration areas. NASA is also preparing a chart of global radiation to provide information on the radiation environment.

Space Monkeys Scientists in the U.S.A. plan to send monkeys into space for 30-day periods to study the effects of space radiation bombardments on their bodies.

Radio Waves from Stars Sir Bernard Lovell, Director of Jodrell Bank Radio Observatory, discovered that certain types of stars emit radio waves under conditions similar to the Sun, particularly during violent flares, which appear more violent in stars than in the Sun.

Risk of Space Exploration Sir Bernard Lovell also commented on Russia's potential withdrawal from the "Moon face" program, citing risks such as solar flares and the challenge of returning to Earth without sufficient equipment. A conference between Russia, Britain, and the USA is proposed to discuss these risks.

Fear of Extraterrestrial Organisms Dr. Soloman W. Golomb of the California Institute of Technology expressed concern that returning space vehicles could carry microscopic organisms capable of destroying life on Earth.

Meteorite Collision Risk The vice president of a society voiced the grim opinion that a meteorite collision with Earth could trigger a nuclear war.

Mysterious Light in North Carolina The Smithsonian Institute has deployed cameras and a spectroscope near Maco, North Carolina, to investigate a mysterious flickering light seen for generations, which disappears upon approach.

Soviet Salamander Revival Claim Soviet scientists claim to have revived two 5,000-year-old salamanders, though one scientist later denied the story as "pure fantasy."

Telstar Satellite Findings The Telstar satellite detected high-intensity radiations from high-altitude nuclear explosions and indicated that the radiation nearly filled the gap between the Van Allen belts. It also discovered an unknown force clearing away artificially created electrons.

New Publications and Journals

"One World - One Truth" by Johan H. Quanjer This is a new book by Johan H. Quanjer, to be published in early October 1963. It discusses spiritual philosophy and mysteries of life, written in an understandable style. The book's doctrines are described as theosophical and aim to foster understanding between people.

CAPELLA Journal CAPELLA is a new journal issued by the Brighton Group of the Junior Astronomical Society, edited by Jennifer North. Subscriptions are available for 2/6d per annum.

Preston & District Astronomical Society Journal This society publishes a quarterly journal and holds monthly meetings.

ALTAIR Magazine (Croydon J.A.S.) The magazine ALTAIR is now edited by Ken Stocker and Peggy Mence, with six issues available for 4/6d.

SCOPE Magazine SCOPE magazine is now issued as a journal of the Federation of University Astronomical Societies, formerly of the University of London Astronomical Society. It is available for 2/- a copy.

The International Paranormal Bulletin This bulletin includes news on space-age subjects, with subscriptions available from A. F. Van Wieringen in Amsterdam.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently focuses on the frontiers of scientific discovery in astronomy and space exploration, often highlighting international efforts and findings. There is a recurring theme of the unknown and the mysterious, from ancient stars and cosmic phenomena to unidentified objects and unexplained lights. The magazine also touches upon the potential risks and implications of space exploration, including the possibility of extraterrestrial contamination and the broader geopolitical context of space race activities. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on a wide array of scientific and speculative topics within the realm of space and the paranormal, without explicit endorsement but with a clear interest in these subjects.