Svsvaren - 1980 No 4

Magazine Overview

Title: SVÄVAREN
Issue: 4/80
Date: August 25, 1980
Publisher: UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA
Type: Magazine

This issue of SVÄVAREN, the organ of UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA, is dated August 25, 1980. The cover features an illustration by Wolfgang Lewitzki depicting a hot air balloon above a circular object, with the magazine's title and the organization's name prominently displayed. The issue number is 4/80, and it includes a table of contents listing various articles and topics.

Table of Contents Highlights

The table of contents indicates a diverse range of articles, including:

• Ledare (Editorial): A general introduction.
• UFO ÖVER UPPLAND: A UFO sighting report from Uppland.
• FALL NR 12: The twelfth case in a series, likely detailing UFO incidents.
• FLYGANDE TEFAT MADE IN ENGLAND: An article about flying saucers originating from England.
• LIV PÅ MARS: Discussion about the possibility of life on Mars.
• ASTROPLANE: An article about a potential Mars exploration aircraft.
• THE FRENCH CONNECTION: An article related to France and UFOs.
• JAKTSATELLITER: About hunting satellites.
• ASTRONAUT BERÄTTAR OM UFO: An astronaut's account of UFOs.
• KEOPSPYRAMIDENS MATEMATIK: Mathematics of the Keops pyramid.
• PHILADELPHIA EXPERIMENTET: The Philadelphia Experiment.
• BARNEY & BETTY HILL Del 1: The first part of a report on the Barney and Betty Hill encounter.
• SF INFORMATION: Science fiction information.
• KLIPPT&SKURET: Clippings and cuts.

The cover image is described as a 'LIGHT PHENOMEN, OBSERVED DURING A BALLOON FLIGHT IN 1878,' noting that it was originally intended for the next issue's title image and that a series on 'UNUSUAL NATURAL PHENOMENA' would begin.

Editorial and Organizational Updates

Page 2 begins with a personal greeting to UFO fans, reflecting on the short summer and looking forward to autumn observation evenings. The UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA board has decided to schedule observation nights spontaneously based on good weather, rather than pre-planned events, due to past bad luck with weather. Upcoming activities include a meeting on September 3, 1980, featuring a NASA space film about a Jupiter passage and two science fiction sound films.

The section "UFO-SVERIGE NYTT" reports positively on the development within UFO-Sweden. A previous motion regarding mandate distribution had caused a critical situation, but it has since improved. Many prominent figures and former active UFO groups have rejoined the organization, strengthening its spirit. The article mentions that the previous crisis, caused by certain individuals' statements, is now over. The new magazine "UFO SVERIGE AKTUELLT" has been launched with an initial print run of 9,000 copies and is nearing its first thousand subscribers. It is praised for including critical articles and fostering dialogue.

However, the report also notes a negative development: UFO-SYD, which had previously rejoined the national organization, has now dissolved due to disagreements and no longer exists. The editorial expresses surprise at the reactions to a motion advocating democratic rules within the organization, questioning the democratic spirit among UFO groups. Despite the setback, there is satisfaction that those who opposed democracy have left the organization.

Page 3 continues the organizational update, stating that the matter is considered settled, and the focus is now on building the 'new' Riksorganisationen UFO- Sverige. The autumn program for UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA is being sent out with this issue, encouraging members to note the dates for meetings, which will occur every 14 days starting September 3rd at 7:00 PM. In addition to regular meetings, there will be 'building sessions' for the 'star follower project' and the 'pyramid project' on alternating Wednesdays.

The article encourages interested individuals to get in touch for more information and to bring friends and acquaintances to the meetings to attract new members.

UFO Sightings and Reports

Page 4 features an article titled "UFO ÖVER UPPLAND" (UFO Over Uppland). It details a UFO observation by Robert Eriksson on the night of May 23, 1980, while driving home to Östhammar from Uppsala. He observed a luminous object moving silently about 250 meters ahead, at an altitude of 35 degrees above the horizon. The object moved at an estimated speed of 20 km/h to the right. Eriksson stopped his car to observe the object for about 35-40 seconds. As it disappeared behind trees, another identical object appeared. He managed to take five pictures (though they were unsuccessful upon development). He also used his car's headlights to see if the object reacted, noting two strong increases in its light intensity. He estimated the objects to be about 20 meters in diameter, describing them as round light spheres with an intensity comparable to a 60W lamp, bright enough to illuminate the forest behind them. A map sketch illustrates the location of the sighting.

Page 5 presents "FALL NUMMER 12" (Case Number 12), an excerpt from a document by the Spanish Government detailing unexplained UFO observations, with the first part published in SVÄVAREN issue 3/1979. This section details two reports from June 22, 1976:

• REPORT NR 1: Observed from the corvette "Atrevida" of the Spanish Navy, 3 nautical miles off the coast of Fuerteventura. Two observers (a commander and a lieutenant) saw a conical light source with an intense yellow-azure color lift from the ground. It stopped at an altitude of 15-18 degrees, rotated with a luminous beam, and formed a large 'aura' (solar ring) with an intense yellow-azure glow that lasted for 40 minutes even after the light source disappeared. The light then dispersed, leaving a smaller part that formed an azure cloud and disappeared in an irregular spiral upwards. The aura remained unchanged, illuminating the ground and sea.
• REPORT NR 2: Observed on the Canary Islands (Las Rosas and Agaete-villa) by a doctor, two taxi drivers, two newspaper vendors, a couple, a teacher, a police officer, a housewife, and a farmer. The doctor recounts being called to see an elderly patient when Mr. X and a taxi driver arrived. While driving to the location, they saw a faintly luminous sphere, stationary near the ground, made of completely transparent material, allowing stars to be seen through it. It had an electric azure-blue color and an estimated circumference of about 30 meters. In the front third of the sphere, a platform with three large figures dressed in red was visible. These figures were described as being 2.50-3 meters tall, with disproportionate bodies (one slightly longer, with a larger chest than legs) and hands like arrowheads. They were dressed in a non-creased, red diving or flying suit. A half-transparent tube inside the sphere emitted an azure smoke that rose towards the periphery. The sphere expanded significantly, and the platform and figures remained the same size. It then lifted majestically, emitting a faint whistling sound. The doctor, excited, entered the house and later told the villagers. They went out and saw the sphere high up, traveling slowly towards Tenerife. Suddenly, it accelerated to an incredible speed, changed shape to a spindle, and turned azure-blue with red at the back, surrounded by a luminous aura that gradually formed a more luminous azure ring before disappearing towards Tenerife.

Page 6 continues the report from the Canary Islands. The doctor, highly agitated, described the event to the villagers. The sphere then ascended, and they saw it moving slowly towards Tenerife. It suddenly accelerated to an incredible speed, changed to a spindle shape with an azure-blue color and red at the rear, surrounded by a luminous aura that evolved into a more luminous azure ring before disappearing towards Tenerife. The article notes that this UFO case is considered significant within the Spanish documentation and is supported by photographic evidence, with its existence acknowledged by the Spanish Government and other countries like France.

Other Articles

Page 7 contains two articles:

• FLYGANDE TEFAT MADE IN ENGLAND (Flying Saucers Made in England): This article discusses the potential for future personal transport vehicles to resemble flying saucers, developed by the British company Thermo-Skyship Itd. These airships, powered by helium and turboprop engines, would have a top speed of 90 knots and be capable of vertical take-off and landing, allowing them to land in urban areas. The Thermo-Luftskepp 100 would carry approximately 100 passengers.
• LIV PÅ MARS (Life on Mars): This article explores the ongoing debate about life on Mars. It references observations of Viking probe images showing 'flocks' on Martian rocks that appear to change color. Gilbert Levin of Biospherics Inc. suggests that a biological process could explain these color changes, although other factors like camera defects, Martian winds, or sunlight are considered counterarguments. Levin notes that early organisms on Earth, like algae and mosses, change color in harsh environments. The article concludes by quoting a scientist who believes the question of life on Mars should remain open, and includes a quote about Jupiter's moons being insignificant.

Page 8 introduces the "Astroplane" project, a concept being investigated by NASA for exploring Mars using an aircraft. The article explains that scientists at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory have been working on this project for two years. The Astroplane would be capable of flying at low altitudes over long distances, performing close-up observations, and potentially collecting soil samples. Its functions would include photographic surveys, gamma-ray spectroscopy, infrared spectrometry, gravity measurements, magnetic field measurements, and analysis of Mars's atmospheric composition. The design is based on the 'drone' Mini-Sniffer, which operates at altitudes of 30-40 km in Earth's atmosphere, experiencing conditions similar to those on Mars.

Page 9 continues the discussion on the Astroplane. It details three configurations studied: an 'and'-model, a twin-tail model with a rear propeller, and a conventional aircraft with a nose propeller. The conventional design showed the best characteristics. The Astroplane is envisioned as a motor glider with a wingspan of approximately 20 meters, a length of 6-7 meters, a flight weight of 300 kg, and a payload of 100 kg. It would be powered by a 15-20 horsepower engine, capable of reaching 360 km/h. Due to Mars's thin atmosphere, a conventional internal combustion engine would not be feasible; therefore, a hydrazine piston engine (already used in Earth's upper atmosphere) or an electric motor with rechargeable batteries and solar cells are being considered. The article also mentions the development of a new wing profile due to low Reynolds numbers and potential wing designs from Richard Eppler.

Page 10 illustrates the Astroplane's deployment and operation. It shows how the aircraft would be folded into a minimal 'package' for transport to Mars, posing a structural challenge for stability. Diagrams depict the Mini-RPV (Remotely Piloted Vehicle) being ejected from an aeroshell during parachute descent, unfolding its tail booms and wings, and then starting its engine for cruise mission. The article also details the hydrazine piston engine as an alternative to the electric motor, noting its use in Earth's extreme atmosphere.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of SVÄVAREN reflects a strong interest in UFO phenomena, space exploration, and scientific inquiry into unexplained events. The magazine actively reports on UFO sightings, drawing from both local Swedish accounts and international cases, including those documented by governments. There is a clear focus on presenting detailed witness testimonies and evidence, such as the Spanish case with photographic support. The inclusion of articles on Mars exploration (Astroplane, life on Mars) and historical phenomena (Philadelphia Experiment, Keops Pyramid) suggests a broad scope within the ufological and speculative science domain. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation and reporting, while also addressing organizational matters within the UFO community in Sweden. The publication aims to inform and engage its readership on a variety of topics related to the unexplained and the frontiers of science and technology.

Title: SVÄVAREN
Issue: 4/80
Publisher: UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA
Date: 1980

This issue of SVÄVAREN, published by UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA, covers a diverse range of topics from space exploration and UFO sightings to the mathematical mysteries of ancient structures.

Astroplane for Mars Exploration

The magazine introduces the concept of an 'Astroplane,' a hypothetical aircraft designed for exploring Mars. This craft would be transported to Mars in containers via the Space Shuttle. Upon reaching Mars orbit, the containers would be ejected, and the Astroplane would deploy its parachutes to slow its entry into the Martian atmosphere. It would then activate its engines for aerodynamic flight and exploration. The Astroplane is envisioned with vertically integrated rocket engines, allowing it to land and take off vertically on almost any surface of Mars, following a STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) principle. A 1:1 scale mock-up of the nose section has already been built for construction and integration studies, though the program's realization remains uncertain.

UFO Sighting Over Karlskoga

The issue reports on a mysterious luminous object observed over Karlskoga on the night of Tuesday, August 12th. Witness Alvar Granat described seeing a broad streak of light, much brighter than a meteor, which then exploded and turned into a round fireball. He estimated the object moved in a southwesterly direction, possibly over Värmland. The fireball was described as light red, intensely bright, and appeared to be very high in the atmosphere, with an impressive apparent size, 'almost as large as the moon.' Granat speculated it might be debris from Russian spacecraft burning up in the atmosphere. Another witness, Gudrun Karlsson, also saw a light orange sphere in the direction of Bråten, noting its large size and observing it briefly before it disappeared.

The French Connection: Interview with Maurice Chatelain

This section features an interview with Maurice Chatelain, a French astrophysicist formerly with NASA's Apollo Communications Data Processing, who is now based in the USA. Chatelain discusses his views on UFOs, stating that while he didn't believe in them 15 years prior, NASA now acknowledges the phenomenon and its unknown origins. He suggests the possibility of advanced extraterrestrial civilizations and the logical step of attempting contact through listening for and sending simple messages. Chatelain proposes that mathematical relationships are the best way to communicate, and he believes UFO landing patterns, particularly those reported in France, may contain such messages. He notes that France has experienced numerous UFO landings, with some sites separated by specific distances that could relate to a unit of measurement like the hydrogen wavelength. Chatelain also addresses the incredible speeds and maneuverability of UFOs, suggesting they are either optical illusions or extraterrestrial. He believes their propulsion systems might involve a combination of electric, magnetic, and gravitational forces, aligning with Einstein's United Field Theory.

Hunter Satellites and Space Warfare

An article titled 'Hunter Satellites in Space' discusses the capabilities of Soviet and American anti-satellite weapons. It mentions the Russian space station Salut 8 and the threat posed by an approaching object that disrupted radio traffic, leading to the destruction of the station and its crew. The article references a 1978 statement by US Secretary of Defense Harold Brown about the Soviet Union's anti-satellite weapon system and the potential for an arms race. It describes advanced 'hunter satellites' capable of tracking targets with infrared sensors and using nuclear-tipped rockets, lasers, or 'suction tactics' to disable or capture enemy satellites, likening it to 'kidnapping.'

Astronaut Cooper on UFOs

This section presents an excerpt from an interview with astronaut, test pilot, and scientist Gordon Cooper. Cooper expresses his belief that the UFO phenomenon warrants serious scientific research and that it's likely to be understood eventually. He dismisses many alleged UFO sightings by astronauts as hoaxes or deliberately falsified recordings, though he mentions Jim McDivitt as a possible exception who lacked sufficient photographic evidence. Cooper recounts his own experiences as an Air Force pilot in Germany in 1950, observing metallic, disk-shaped craft that could change direction rapidly. He firmly believes that unexplained UFOs originate from technologically advanced civilizations not from Earth. Cooper also addresses legal issues related to people misusing his name and claims about his involvement with government UFO investigations, clarifying that he never claimed to have forced the government to reveal UFO information.

The Pyramids and Their Mathematical Secrets

The issue features two articles dedicated to the Great Pyramid of Giza (Keops Pyramid). The first article, 'The Pyramid,' explores the 'mystical' mathematics of the pyramid, suggesting that its measurements and numbers align with astronomical data like the Earth's radius, orbit, and polar axis. It posits that the pyramid might be a vast cipher message intended for future cultures, capable of surviving catastrophic events. The second article, 'Keops Pyramid Mathematics,' delves into specific measurements and units of length used by the ancient Egyptians, such as the royal cubit (KO) and its relation to Earth's polar radius. It highlights the number 25.0265 British Tons (BT) appearing in several key locations within the pyramid. The article discusses the 'sacred cubit' (HC) and its potential connection to the number 25.0265 BT, suggesting it was used by Persians and Hebrews as well. It further explores the Egyptian unit of area, the 'aroura,' and its relationship to the pyramid's dimensions and the concept of a year. The text also references measurements by Rutherford and Cole, comparing their findings and noting discrepancies. The article concludes by quoting Lyall Watson, emphasizing the complexity of the human mind.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the potential for extraterrestrial life and technology, the exploration of space, and the enduring mysteries of ancient civilizations and their achievements. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded yet critical stance towards UFO phenomena, encouraging scientific investigation while cautioning against misinformation. There is a clear interest in the mathematical and scientific underpinnings of both modern technological advancements (like space travel and potential weapon systems) and ancient structures like the pyramids, suggesting a belief that these fields may hold interconnected secrets.

This issue of UFO-Center Karlskoga's "Svävaren" (issue 4/80) prominently features "THE PHILADELPHIA EXPERIMENT" on its cover, alongside a discussion of the Barney and Betty Hill UFO encounter. The magazine also includes sections on science fiction news, book reviews, and other UFO sightings.

The Philadelphia Experiment

The article begins by referencing Charles Berlitz's book "THE PHILADELPHIA EXPERIMENT" and its connection to an earlier work by UFO-logen Morris K. Jeesup, "THE CASE FOR THE UFO." It recounts a letter from Carlos Miguel Allende to Jeesup, detailing a military experiment in October 1943 where the US Navy allegedly used powerful magnetic fields to make a ship invisible. The experiment reportedly had disastrous consequences, with personnel disappearing, becoming mentally disturbed, or vanishing entirely. The article notes that the scientific basis for such an experiment might have involved Albert Einstein's United Field Theory, and mentions Einstein's past employment with the US Navy.

The Barney and Betty Hill Encounter (Part 1)

The magazine then shifts focus to the first part of a series on the Barney and Betty Hill case, described as a 'close encounter of the third kind.' This installment covers the events from their drive from the Canadian border to their home in Portsmouth on September 19, 1961. Barney, who was African American, was a university-educated governor of the New Hampshire Welfare Department with a high IQ. Betty, also university-educated in sociology, worked as a supervisor at the same department.

During their drive, they noticed a bright, star-like object that grew larger and brighter. Initially dismissed as a satellite or aircraft, the object began to behave unusually. Barney stopped the car, and Betty used binoculars to observe it more closely. She described it as a large craft with a double row of windows and multi-colored lights. Barney, initially skeptical and trying to rationalize it as a plane, eventually saw the object clearly. The craft descended and circled them, causing Barney to feel observed. He exited the car and approached the object, which he described as a large, luminous pancake. He saw figures inside, possibly wearing uniforms. Betty, in the car, became concerned when Barney disappeared into the darkness.

Barney reported hearing a strange, irregular electronic sound emanating from the car's trunk, which caused the car to vibrate and induced a feeling of drowsiness in both him and Betty. Upon regaining consciousness, they found themselves driving again, having lost approximately two hours and covering 35 miles less than expected. Their car clock and Betty's clock had stopped. They decided not to report the incident, fearing disbelief.

Interlude

The following day, Barney noticed his shoes were scuffed, and the car's trunk had strange shiny marks. Betty tested these marks with a compass, which spun erratically when held near them. She reported the incident to Pease Air Force Base, and a major from the base contacted them for more details but never followed up. Betty also wrote to NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena) about the event.

Betty began experiencing strange dreams, which lasted for five days and were later compared to her hypnotic regression memories. In October 1961, Walter Webb from the Hayden Planetarium interviewed the Hills for NICAP, suggesting they retrace their journey to gather more precise details.

Further Developments in the Hill Case

In November 1961, Robert Hohman and C.P. Jackson interviewed the Hills. The discrepancy in their travel time was further investigated, suggesting a two-hour gap and 35 miles unaccounted for. The idea of hypnosis was proposed, which Betty recalled in connection with her dreams.

In February 1962, the Hills attempted to recreate the lost portion of their journey under hypnosis but without success. In March 1962, Betty was referred to psychiatrist Dr. Patric J. Quirke, who advised patience. Barney sought treatment for general overexertion from Dr. Duncan Stephens, who later realized the UFO experience might be linked to Barney's condition. Dr. Benjamin Simon, a well-known psychiatrist, was consulted, and he concluded that the UFO experience was the direct cause of Barney's anxiety and Betty's dreams. Hypnotic treatment began in January 1964, focusing on recovering the lost memories.

Science Fiction Section

This section of the magazine shifts to science fiction. It announces that it's time to get acquainted with science fiction again after a summer break, focusing on Isaac Asimov's Foundation Trilogy. The article criticizes the Swedish Film Council's decision to ban "The Empire Strikes Back" for children under 15, noting that it is permitted for younger ages in other countries.

The Foundation Trilogy

The "Foundation Trilogy" by Isaac Asimov is highly recommended for science fiction fans. The plot is set in the distant future, where the Galactic Empire faces collapse. Psychohistorian Hari Seldon predicts the downfall and establishes a foundation to preserve knowledge and art during the ensuing dark ages, aiming to shorten the period of barbarism and eventually establish a new empire.

Author and Works

Isaac Asimov was born in Russia in 1920 and moved to the USA in 1923. His debut was in 1939 with "Marooned off Vesta." The "Foundation Trilogy" was originally published in Astounding magazine between May 1942 and November 1949. In 1966, it received a Hugo Award for 'best all-time series.' The trilogy consists of three books: "Foundation," "Foundation and Empire," and "Second Foundation" (translated titles).

Cosmic Buzz

This section provides brief news items:

• Dino De Laurentiis is working on a "Flash Gordon" film.
• The world's most expensive film, "The Space Movie," will feature space photography from the USA and Soviet Union.
• Askild & Kärnekull will publish a series of science fiction books.
• The film "The Black Hole" (Walt Disney Production) is coming soon.
• B. Wahlström's Publishing House is releasing a pocketbook series called "VARNING!" with science fiction stories, including "METEOR" and "FLYGANDE SKRÄCK."

Book Reviews

• "VARNING! nr 4 FLYGANDE SKRÄCK" by Arthur Herzog is presented as a book adaptation of a film success. It tells the story of a family attacked by giant, poisonous bees.
• "VARNING! nr 3 METEOR" by Edmund H. North & Franklin Coen is also presented as a book adaptation of a film. It describes a comet colliding with an asteroid belt, creating a meteor that threatens Earth.

Quote from Gordon Cooper

Gordon Cooper is quoted as saying, "I believe that Science Fiction stimulates progressive thinking. Children today are mentally sharper than in the past, and both they and their parents realize how much Science Fiction has preceded and even helped current innovations."

UFO Information

SerCon I - 1980 SF Congress

This section announces the first major Swedish science fiction congress, SerCon I, to be held in Stockholm from August 29-31, 1980. The event will include film screenings (including "Star Wars," "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," "2001: A Space Odyssey," and "Barbarella"), exhibitions, lectures, debates, and an auction. A congress dinner is also offered. The congress aims to be an informal festival for science fiction enthusiasts.

Program Highlights

• Film screenings of seven feature films.
• A congress dinner.
• An auction of books and statues.
• A lecture and debate by the "Feminac-gruppen" on the portrayal of women in science fiction.
• A presentation and debate by "Ufo-Sverige" on the existence of UFOs.
• Other lectures and debates.
• A Space Disco.
• A side program on fandom.
• An art exhibition featuring Swedish artists' science fiction and fantasy art.
• Sales of English and Swedish science fiction literature at reduced prices.

Economic Information

The participation fee for SerCon I is 75 SEK, with an additional 75 SEK for the congress dinner. Payment details are provided for postgiro account number 17 48 56-5.

Clipped & Scraped

This section presents various news snippets:

• Sky Phenomenon over Karlskoga: A Karlskoga resident reported seeing a bright light streak across the sky, described as a 'himlafenomen.' Other residents also reported seeing a similar light.
• Soviet Nuclear Test: A seismic signal of 5.5 on the Richter scale was registered, likely from an underground nuclear explosion in the Semipalatinsk region of the Soviet Union.
• Storsjöodjuret Sighting: Arne Källman and his family reported seeing a strange, hump-backed object swimming in Lake Storsjön near Östersund, adding to the yearly reports of the mythical creature.
• New UFO Magazine: A new Swedish UFO magazine, "UFO-Sverige-Aktuellt," is launched, featuring reports of unexplained flying phenomena and debunking stories about the Bermuda Triangle.
• UFO Sighting over Buenos Aires: An unidentified flying object was sighted over Buenos Aires airport and several Argentine provinces, described as a glowing, spherical craft.
• Light Phenomenon over Molkom: Elna and Sven Lagren reported seeing a bright light pass over the sky near Molkom, which they suspected might have been a flying saucer.
• Fire Caused by Lightning: A fire that burned approximately 150 square meters of forest near Kristinehamn was caused by a lightning strike.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers UFO sightings and related phenomena, often linking them to scientific inquiry, government secrecy, and the speculative nature of science fiction. There's a clear interest in exploring the boundaries between reality and fiction, as highlighted by the quote "reality often surpasses fiction." The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation into UFO phenomena, while also engaging with the broader science fiction community through news, reviews, and event coverage. The magazine encourages reader participation and the sharing of information within the UFO and science fiction communities.

Title: KLIPPT & SKURET
Issue: 4/80
Volume: 30
Date: April 1980
Publisher: UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: Krymper och växer: Solen uppför sig som en döende stjärna (Shrinks and grows: The sun behaves like a dying star)

Krymper och växer: Solen uppför sig som en döende stjärna

This article presents a study by American researchers John A. Eddy and Aram A. Boonazian, who analyzed solar diameter observations from the Royal Greenwich Observatory in England, dating back to 1750. Their findings suggest a significant trend: the sun's horizontal diameter appears to be shrinking by 0.1 percent per century, while the vertical diameter decreases at half that rate. This contraction, estimated at 2 meters per hour, could theoretically lead to the sun's complete disappearance in 200,000 years.

Investigating Potential Errors

This conclusion starkly contrasts with the prevailing scientific understanding of the sun as a stable star with a constant energy output for billions of years. The researchers meticulously sought potential sources of error. They ruled out instrumental aging by comparing their findings with data from the U.S. Naval Observatory in Washington D.C., which began its measurements in 1846 and yielded nearly identical results for the horizontal solar diameter contraction.

Alternative hypotheses, such as an increase in Earth's rotation speed or a gradual increase in the distance between the Earth and the sun, were also examined and found to be insufficient explanations.

Atmospheric Effects and Solar Eclipses

Another theory considered was that changes in Earth's atmosphere, such as increased dust and pollution, might affect the apparent size of the sun. If atmospheric absorption increased significantly, the sun would appear smaller. However, calculations showed that the atmosphere's transmission would need to decrease by 20 percent per century to explain the observations. This rate is comparable to the atmospheric effects observed after the Krakatoa volcanic eruption in 1882, which caused a noticeable dimming and redder sunsets, but such a drastic, sustained atmospheric change over centuries is deemed unlikely.

To further validate their findings, the researchers turned to historical data on solar eclipses. If the sun's diameter is indeed shrinking, then historical total solar eclipses (when the sun was larger) should have been shorter in duration, and some that were total might have appeared annular (ring-shaped).

The 1567 Solar Eclipse

While detailed descriptions of old solar eclipses are scarce, the researchers found a suitable case: an eclipse over Rome on April 9, 1567. According to current solar diameters, this eclipse would have been total and lasted 8 seconds. However, if the Eddy and Boonazian theory is correct, it would have been annular. The description of this eclipse by Jesuit astronomer Christopher Clavius (1537-1612) is crucial. Clavius, who had observed a long total solar eclipse in 1560, described the 1567 eclipse as follows: "Although the moon was again placed between me and the sun, it did not cover the entire sun as before, but a ring of the sun remained, surrounding the moon on all sides." This description strongly suggests an annular eclipse, supporting the researchers' hypothesis.

Solar Oscillations and Neutrino Flux

The article explores the implications of a shrinking sun. While a continuous contraction is unlikely due to the heat generated, it is conceivable that the sun oscillates, expanding and contracting. Martin Schwarzschild of Princeton suggests this might be linked to the sun's energy production. The sun generates energy through nuclear fusion, converting hydrogen into helium, a process that also releases neutrinos. Neutrinos are highly penetrating particles that can provide direct information about the sun's core.

However, experiments by Raymond Davies Jr. using sensitive detection equipment in a South Dakota gold mine have revealed a neutrino flux from the sun that is less than one-third of the expected amount. This discrepancy could be explained by Eddy and Boonazian's findings. A lower core temperature would result in a lower neutrino flux and reduced energy production. This, in turn, would lead to a decrease in radiation pressure, causing the sun to contract. The contraction process itself releases energy, which heats the sun, increasing fusion rates and leading to expansion, thus creating an oscillatory cycle.

Dying Stars and Earth's Climate

These types of oscillations are well-known in old, dying stars, such as Cepheids, which vary in brightness by a factor of ten over a week. It was previously assumed that younger stars like our sun were more stable. However, the sun is not entirely stable; sunspot numbers vary in an 11-year cycle, and there may be longer-term variations as well. Eddy points to the period between 1645 and 1775, known as the Maunder Minimum, when sunspot activity was very low. This period coincided with unusually cold winters in Europe, so cold that the Great and Little Belts (straits between Danish islands) froze over, allowing King Karl X Gustav of Sweden to invade Denmark in 1658.

Therefore, it is plausible that slow variations in the sun's size and energy production occur, and these variations might have a connection to Earth's climate. The article concludes with a speculative note: if these solar variations influence climate, the next ice age might arrive much sooner than anticipated.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine, published by UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA, focuses on unconventional astronomical phenomena and their potential implications. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into scientific anomalies, presenting research that challenges established paradigms, such as the stability of the sun. The article highlights the importance of historical data, observational astronomy, and the search for explanations that connect celestial events with terrestrial phenomena like climate change. The inclusion of topics like solar variations and their potential impact on ice ages suggests a broader interest in long-term planetary and cosmic cycles.