Tid och rum - 1963 No 08

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Tid och Rum" (Time and Space), identified as NR.8 and dated October 1963, is an "Ifologisk Tidskrift" (Ifological Journal), published by TOR. The cover features a prominent blue circular logo and the main title.

Editorial and Personal Reflections

The issue opens with a personal reflection titled "Mitt Sommarlov" (My Summer Holiday) by "js." (likely the editor). The author encourages readers to share their summer experiences and studies, emphasizing that a closer study of Nature can reveal truths relevant to their shared interests. The author recounts their own summer research on "SOLERUPTIONER" (solar eruptions), "SOLFLÄCKAR" (sunspots), and "TRÄDS AURA" (tree aura), noting that solar eruptions occur every eleven years, with 1963 being such a year. They observed that tree rings are wider during these periods and that tree structure is influenced by the sun's magnetic pressure, leading to a pear-like shape and harder wood on the sun-facing sides.

Featured Articles and Reports

"SNURRAR JORDEN BAKLÄNGES?" (Is the Earth Spinning Backwards?)

This extensive article introduces the controversial theories of Immanuel Velikovsky, a Russian-born researcher whose books "Worlds in Collision," "Ages in Chaos," "Earth in Upheaval," and "Oedipus and Aknaton Myth and History" have generated significant debate. Velikovsky posits that Earth's rotation has not only slowed down but may have reversed direction multiple times. He argues that ancient myths and historical records from various cultures (Egyptian, Mexican, Peruvian, Chinese, Biblical, Aztec, Finnish, Norse, Hawaiian) describe events like prolonged days or nights, and changes in celestial movements, which he attributes to planetary collisions. The last major collision, he suggests, occurred between Mars and Venus in the 8th century BC, altering their orbits and causing shifts in the sun and moon's movements between 747 and 687 BC. Evidence cited includes Biblical accounts of earthquakes, Chinese records of colliding suns, Roman writings from 747, Homer's depiction of a battle among gods (symbolizing planets), Seneca's play mentioning an early sunset, and changes in star positions. Velikovsky also points to the sequoia tree's growth rings, which show increased growth around 747-687 BC, attributing this to atmospheric carbon dioxide from planetary collisions stimulating plant growth.

The article further discusses Velikovsky's theory that a collision between Earth and Venus, possibly a comet at the time, caused the biblical flood and deposited petroleum, leading to fires. He suggests that iron particles and colored substances in cosmic dust could have turned waters red, as described in Mayan, Egyptian, and Biblical texts. The author notes that Albert Einstein discussed Velikovsky's theories with him. The article concludes by mentioning Carl Rådemyr's book "Den stora kometen" (The Great Comet), which summarizes Velikovsky's work, and quotes Dr. R.H. Pfeiffer, a Harvard expert, who believes Velikovsky's theories could necessitate a complete revision of history before Alexander the Great.

"2000 år gamla elektriska batterier funna." (2000-Year-Old Electric Batteries Found.)

This report details the discovery of ancient artifacts near Baghdad that are believed to be 2000-year-old electric batteries. These consist of clay jars containing a copper cylinder and an iron rod, insulated with bitumen. W.F.M. Gray of General Electric Company has reconstructed these artifacts and demonstrated their ability to produce electricity, likely using copper sulfate or citric acid as an electrolyte. It is speculated that these batteries were used for electroplating metals, such as gold and silver, as 4000-year-old gilded and silvered objects have been found in the same region. This implies a sophisticated knowledge of chemistry and electrochemistry in ancient civilizations.

"FRÅN ADAMSKI'S FRAMTRÄDANDE I FREDERICIA" (From Adamski's Appearance in Fredericia)

This article covers a speech given by George Adamski in Fredericia on May 5, 1963. Adamski, described as a mild-mannered, white-haired American, claimed that space beings from Venus and other planets are among us, influencing governments in Moscow and Washington. He stated that these beings are indistinguishable from humans and are training people for tasks in Earth's "grottkvarnen" (cave mill). Adamski asserted that other planets are more advanced and wish to help Earth, with some extraterrestrials involved in American and Soviet space research. He also claimed that governments are withholding evidence of UFOs and alien visits, and that these beings are concerned about humanity's potential for self-destruction through nuclear weapons, being prepared to neutralize any atomic bomb that threatens a catastrophe.

"UNIVERSUM KAN VARA MYCKET ÄLDRE ÄN MAN TIDIGARE TROTT" (The Universe May Be Much Older Than Previously Thought)

Reporting from Pasadena, California, this article quotes Dr. Fritz Zwicky of Caltech, who suggested that the universe might be "a million million years old" rather than the commonly accepted 10 million years. George Herbig of the University of California's Lick Observatory discussed a new method for dating stars based on lithium measurements, which could provide clues about stellar origins and formation rates.

"KAMERA BEKRÄFTAR MYSTISKT FÖREMÅL" (Camera Confirms Mysterious Object)

This brief report from New Zealand on February 14, 1963, states that a photograph taken at the Lauder South-sky Station confirms that Mr. C.B. Taylor saw a "mysterious object" in June 1962. A scientist at the station, Dr. M. Gadsen, confirmed that the photograph showed the object's trail, and it was not a meteor, nor was any satellite reported to have burned up in that area at the time. The scientists are "baffled."

"HIMLAFENOMEN FÖRBRYLLAR" (Celestial Phenomena Baffle)

This article discusses sightings of luminous triangles in Northern Finland, observed recently. These phenomena, moving at speeds of 15-30 km/h at altitudes of 10,000 meters, were also observed by a Finnish army plane. Despite investigations, no explanation was found. The article notes that while Russian Sputniks, much smaller, were visible from over 100 km, these triangles are large enough to be seen from 30 km. The Geophysical Institute in Kiruna suggests they might be weather balloons, but the observed behavior (hovering, rapid movement) and the size required (estimated at 80 meters for a balloon) challenge this explanation. The phenomena were seen moving eastwards.

"RYMD-FENOMEN ÄVEN I FLODA" (Space Phenomena Also in Floda)

This short report connects the luminous phenomena seen over Siljan (reported in another article) to a similar sighting in Floda, Sweden. Bertil Eriksson observed a bright red light for over four minutes, which he could not explain. He estimated its altitude to be five degrees above the horizon. The description aligns with the Siljan sighting.

"BORÅSARE SÅG RYMDLJUS" (Borås Residents Saw Space Light)

Several people in the Borås region reported observing a series of bright objects on the evening of June 15, 1963, which they believed to be satellites or Russian spacecraft. One object, described as a luminous object similar to a satellite, passed at high altitude from west-northwest to east-southeast. While this object was visible, a second, faster object appeared, followed by a third, even faster object. Observers were convinced these were not airplanes or meteors.

"CHOCKAD ATOMPILOT SKALL GÅ I KLOSTER" (Shocked Atom Pilot Will Become a Monk)

This article tells the story of Henry Bernal, the pilot who dropped the first experimental bomb in 1945. After the war, Bernal left the US Air Force, joined a monastery, and is now preparing to take vows as a monk in Spain. He states that he was shocked by the atomic explosions and vowed never to participate in the use of such destructive weapons. He mentions that his friend, Captain Robert Lewis, who dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima, also underwent a spiritual cleansing and joined a strict Trappist monastery.

"Att vara spiritualist" (Being a Spiritualist)

This section features Jan Fridegård, who discusses his belief in spiritualism. He highlights its value in providing believers with evidence of an afterlife and recounts his experiences at séances. Fridegård believes in reincarnation, stating that the soul continues consciously after death, preparing for a higher existence. He mentions his father, who he believes communicated through him to write the book "Torn-tuppen" in 1941.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, including UFOs, ancient mysteries, and alternative historical theories. The editorial stance appears to be open to unconventional ideas, presenting them for reader consideration and debate, as indicated by the statement "Artiklarna i denna tidning behöver nödvändigtvis inte spegla redaktionens åsikter. Som tidigar betonats är Tid och Rum en debattidning." (The articles in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the editorial opinion. As previously emphasized, Tid och Rum is a debate magazine.) The issue also touches upon spiritualism and the possibility of life beyond death.

This issue of the magazine 'ToR' (pages 160-169) appears to be from September and covers a diverse range of topics, including book reviews, astronomical phenomena, spiritualism, and scientific concerns about nuclear fallout and extraterrestrial life.

Book Review: 'Måste man tro på Kristus?'

The issue begins with a review of Anna-Lisa Helle's book, "Måste man tro på Kristus?" (Must one believe in Christ?). The reviewer, E.N., finds the book so compelling that it doesn't fit into a typical bookshelf slot, instead residing on a table for easy access. E.N. praises the book, stating it is "small but GREAT" and speaks to all seeking individuals. The book is recommended for those who are sincere truth-seekers, promising that it will deepen their questions while providing joy and a sense of finding, thus ending their search for a long time. The book is available from Litteraturförlaget for 6:50, and can also be ordered from Ifologiska Sällskapet or directly from the author, Fru Anna-Lisa Helle, at Glasmålarvägen 8, Enskede.

Astronomical Event: "HEL VINTERGATA EXPLODE RADE" (Entire Galaxy Exploded)

Scientists at the California Institute of Technology have captured a sensational photograph of the largest explosion ever observed by science: a galactic core explosion in the M-82 galaxy. This event began approximately one and a half million years ago and is still ongoing, affecting more than five million suns. Prior to this photograph, astronomers doubted the possibility of such massive explosions. The explosion is occurring in the M-82 galaxy, located about 10 million light-years from Earth. Previous photographs only hinted at chaotic activity, but this new image clarifies the immense scale of the explosion. A fantastic stream of matter is erupting from the galaxy's core, traveling at an estimated speed of 32 million kilometers per hour. The photograph was taken at the Mount Palomar Observatory using a 200-inch reflector telescope equipped with a filter that isolated light emitted from the heated hydrogen mass.

Spiritualism: "ATT VARA SPIRITUALIST" (To Be a Spiritualist)

This section summarizes a radio program from August 28, 1963, featuring Fru Astrid Gilmark, secretary of the Spiritualists' National Federation. Gilmark shares her experiences with "people from the other side," which have made her curious. She recounts an early experience at age 16 where her aunt, who was occultly gifted, saw a woman with a dog approaching their gate, an apparition only her aunt and later Gilmark herself perceived. Gilmark explains that spiritualists believe in the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal life, considering these to be living realities. She believes humans consist of body and soul, with the soul leaving the body upon death. She mentions that photographic evidence of this is expected from England, where a camera has been developed for such purposes. Gilmark personally claims to have experienced leaving her body and seeing herself sitting there. She also believes in reincarnation, viewing earthly life as a school where souls repeatedly incarnate to learn. She suggests that what seems harsh for the body might be beneficial for the soul, with souls eventually disappearing, possibly to another planet. Every person has a guardian spirit, with whom one can communicate during contemplation. Gilmark's own guardian spirit was incarnated in Egypt.

Jan Fridegård and the Occult

The article discusses Jan Fridegård's openness to phenomena often dismissed as superstition, such as dowsing, faith healing, and reading runes. Fridegård, author of "Trägudars land" (Land of Wooden Gods), has had an open mind to occult matters since childhood, attributing this to his "unspoiled nature." He contrasts the sensitivity of natural beings with the "sensually armored" city dweller, who might unknowingly build a house in a location with harmful radiation from underground sources. Natural beings and nomads, however, sense and avoid such dangers. Fridegård notes that while this might have been considered superstition in the past, it is now measurable.

Organizations and Publications

This section lists various UFO and esoteric organizations in Sweden, including their contact persons and addresses. These include:

• GKS: Gotlands Kosmologiska Studiegrupp, Visby.
• HIS: Halmstads Ifologiska Sällskap.
• IS: Ifologiska Sällskapet, Stockholm.
• LIO: Linköpings Ifologiska Organisation.
• MIS: Malmö Interplanetariska Sällskap.
• US: Ufologiska Sällskapet, Uppsala.

The magazine 'GALAX' is recommended, with its September issue featuring articles like "Det kosmiska ägget" (The Cosmic Egg) and observations. The address for GALAX is provided.

'TID OCH RUM' (Time and Space), the organ of the Ifologiska Sällskapet in Stockholm, is mentioned, with its next issue expected in December. The subscription price is 2:- SEK per issue, payable to postgiro 55 85 83.

An important announcement directs all correspondence, inquiries, and orders to the editorial office to avoid delays, with the address provided for Asklund, Skyllbergsgatan 18, Bandhagen. Payments should continue to be sent to IS postgiro 55 85 83, Box 607, Stockholm 1.

Message from the Cosmos to Earth

This section presents a message received by Eugenio Siragusa in Catania on February 14, 1963. The message, the third from his "space friends," warns of the serious situation caused by politicians' mutual distrust and atomic experiments. The message was sent to various world leaders and institutions, including the Pope, President Kennedy, Khrushchev, Queen Elisabeth, and others. The core of the message is a warning about the detrimental effects of irresponsible atomic experiments on Earth's magnetic field and the natural development of all life. It highlights the destructive role of radioactive energy created by nuclear fission and its impact on the formation and structure of elements. The message urges humanity to recognize their wrongdoing and correct their course to avoid catastrophic consequences and God's wrath. It emphasizes the need for peace, justice, love, and truth.

Nuclear Fallout Concerns

An article from Vancouver, Canada, dated June 5, 1963, reports that a Senate-House atomic energy committee is investigating radioactive fallout. They found that the fallout from previous year's tests would be two to three times greater than the previous year. They also noted that the amount of Strontium 90 in food was expected to quadruple the following year. Despite these findings, government officials testified that the increased fallout was insignificant.

A separate report, attributed to Drew Pearson and dated June 1963, discusses a secret U-2 plane report. This report, sent to assess the remaining radioactive radiation after Soviet and US test explosions, revealed that the radiation levels were three times higher than anticipated and were falling towards Earth. A request for a copy of the report was denied, and it remains top secret.

Life After Nuclear War

George Woodwell from Brookhaven Laboratories theorizes that in the event of a thermonuclear world war, bacteria, algae, and fungi would likely survive and dominate Earth. His research indicates that large plants, especially trees, are most vulnerable to radioactivity. While some plants are more resistant than others, all are affected. Notably, pine trees are the most sensitive. Bacteria, algae, and fungi, however, show greater resilience. Organisms with shorter life cycles are less likely to survive prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation. Woodwell suggests that these resilient organisms might become the highest life forms on Earth if humans, animals, and plants are wiped out.

Questions and Answers (FRÅGESPALTEN)

This section addresses reader questions:

• UFOs and Adamski: A reader, new to the UFO topic, asks for opinions on the books by Leslie and Adamski, specifically "Flying Saucers Have Landed" and "Inside the Spaceships." The reader finds Adamski's accounts sincere and notes D. Keyhoe's book also mentions Adamski, though dismissively. The question is whether Adamski is a hoaxer, as suggested by Professor Wallenqvist, or if his only honest contribution was being a hot dog vendor.
• Dimensional Holes: The reader asks if it's possible to have a "hole" in our dimension that leads to other dimensions, such as the fourth or fifth.
• Twin Solar System: The reader inquires about the possibility of a "twin solar system" 90 degrees from our own, likening it to a book on its edge next to another flat book.
• Earth as a Generator: The question is posed whether Earth could be used as a generator to produce electricity for free, utilizing its magnetic field and the space (stator) with suitable means.
• Galactic Movement and Universal Center: The reader notes that our galaxy, the Milky Way, is moving and "falling" towards the "center of the universe" and asks about the location of this central sun.
• Mathematical Incomprehensibility: The reader uses the example of dividing 10 by 3, noting that while it's mathematically possible, it cannot be expressed in simple numerical terms, and asks why.
• Telepathic Communication: The reader suggests that rapid visual perceptions and telepathic connections bypass the need for words and language, questioning if a universal written and spoken language could be created for all of humanity.

Radioactivity Levels

An update from page 164 states that no one knows the extent of dangerous radioactive fallout. The fallout this year is not expected to be harmful, but the certainty of this is questioned.

Insects as Dominant Life Forms

Following up on the nuclear war scenario, the article suggests that insects might become the highest life forms. This is supported by the observation that some parasitic insects prefer irradiated trees, indicating their resistance to radiation.

Venus and Mars Research

Oxygen Found on Venus: Russian scientists have confirmed the presence of oxygen in Venus's atmosphere, suggesting that atmospheric conditions there are similar to Earth's. This finding, reported by Moscow radio on August 30, 1963, implies that Venus might be inhabited by beings similar to humans. The planet is nearly identical in size to Earth and orbits the sun inside Earth's orbit. The atmosphere contains carbon dioxide and water vapor, which are sufficient for primitive organic life. The discovery of oxygen raises the possibility of Venus being a "twin" planet inhabited by human-like creatures.

Mars Atmosphere: Russian researcher Vladimir Prokofjev has also found evidence suggesting that Mars's atmosphere is significantly denser than previously thought, possibly as dense as Earth's.

Venus Atmosphere Composition: American researchers found water in Venus's atmosphere years ago, and more recently, the press reported that the methane content, previously considered a major component, was less than 2%.

Contrasting Views on Venus: Despite these findings, the general opinion is that Venus is a frozen planet. However, some scientists have different views, describing it as a boiling inferno. The article questions the conflicting scientific opinions and suggests a need for common sense.

Venus's Environment: Venus has a surface gravity of 91% of Earth's and a thicker atmosphere with an albedo of 59%. It receives about twice the solar energy per square meter compared to Earth. However, due to its higher albedo (43% for Earth), Venus receives only about 20% more solar energy than Earth. The thicker atmosphere facilitates heat transfer, moderating extreme temperatures between the equator and poles. The relatively high temperature in the polar regions, compared to Earth's conditions, might lead to increased radiation loss, compensating for the extra solar energy received.

Other Reports

• High-Altitude Balloons: Several luminous aerial phenomena, described as glowing spheres moving in various directions, were observed in Northern Finland. Georg Gustafsson from the Kiruna Geophysical Observatory suggests these are likely high-altitude balloons launched from Kiruna, though their appearance in distant locations is rare.
• British Scientists on Hydrogen Bomb Impact: A group of British scientists, including astronomer Sir Bernard Lovell, have concluded that a high-altitude hydrogen bomb test in 1962 has altered Earth's atmosphere, impacting outer space research.
• Mars Atlas: The Soviet Union has published an atlas of Mars containing 474 drawings made when the planet was closest to Earth in 1956. Observations from various locations noted unexplained phenomena, such as the disappearance of the planet's southern polar cap and the presence of yellow dust.
• Flat Areas on Mars: Radar soundings of Mars by Russian researchers revealed large flat areas, several kilometers in extent.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of 'ToR' include the exploration of the unknown, whether through spiritual experiences, astronomical discoveries, or the investigation of UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on scientific inquiry, but also an openness to phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. The magazine appears to be a platform for sharing information and fostering discussion within a community interested in these topics. The editorial stance seems to be one of encouraging critical thinking, seeking truth, and staying informed about both scientific advancements and potentially unexplained events. The inclusion of messages from "cosmos" and discussions on life beyond Earth suggest a leaning towards speculative and potentially ufological content, while also grounding these discussions in scientific reports and observations. The concern over nuclear fallout and its potential consequences also indicates a broader awareness of global issues and their impact on life.

Title: ToR
Issue: 171
Date: May 1962
Publisher: ToR
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of ToR delves into the potential for human habitability on other planets, analyzes statistical data related to unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), and discusses advancements in propulsion technology.

Planetary Habitability

The magazine begins by examining the conditions on Venus, Mars, and Jupiter. For Venus, it suggests that while equatorial regions might be too hot and polar regions too cold for human cultivation, subtropic zones could be more favorable. Mars, being further from the sun, receives less solar energy (about 65% of Earth's per square meter due to its low albedo of 15%). Its lower gravity (40% of Earth's) likely results in a thinner atmosphere, which hinders heat transport from the equator to the poles. Equatorial Mars might be pleasant but with thin air and little rain, while polar regions are deemed too cold for significant cultivation.

Jupiter, despite its extreme distance from the sun receiving only 1/25th of Earth's solar energy per square meter, presents a different scenario. Its incredibly thick atmosphere (10,000-13,000 km) acts like a lens, concentrating sunlight. Furthermore, the planet's large volume relative to its surface area means internal heat from radioactive decay is significant, potentially making its surface temperature more manageable, especially if the atmosphere provides good insulation.

Statistical Analysis of UAP Activity

The issue highlights the importance of robust statistics for UAP research, emphasizing the need for a large number of reports gathered under objective norms. The Ifologiska Sällskapet (Ufological Society) has created a card index to compile such data. The article presents four prognoses for UAP activity based on past data:

1. Late May: Predicted high activity, correlating with significant overflights reported in Argentina.
2. Summer: Predicted relative quiet, which largely matched global observations, though sporadic activity was noted in Argentina.
3. September: Predicted increased activity, aligning with observations that began in August. While September was quiet in Sweden with only one report, activity was significant in England.
4. Swedish Military Material: Predicted activity periods in Swedish military reports consistent with earlier analysis. This prognosis was about 95% accurate. Although the military data (600 reports over 11 years) is considered limited for statistical purposes, it strongly supports previous findings.

The article notes that the lack of significant UAP activity in Sweden during September was a positive sign, indicating that fears of the public and members being susceptible to 'hallucinatory' observations were greatly exaggerated.

Electric Flight and Propulsion

A section on "Elektrisk flygning" (Electric Flight) discusses a propulsion method based on accelerating charged particles (ions) in an electric field. This technology can achieve speeds thousands of times greater than thermal rockets. The process involves ions interacting with air to create a vacuum, allowing for supersonic flight without sonic booms. This method is presented as a path to significantly more economical flight, potentially 100 times cheaper than conventional aircraft.

In space, even a low acceleration of 1 G (10 m/s²) can yield impressive results. For instance, a round trip to the Moon could take six hours. A trip to Mars at its closest approach would take about 20 hours with 1 G acceleration, and to Venus, approximately 30 hours.

The article refutes the idea that observed UAP maneuvers cannot be explained by known natural laws. Instead, it suggests these phenomena demonstrate a technology far more advanced than our own. However, it cautions against resorting to speculative explanations like 'etheric force' or 'cosmic radiation,' which only add to the confusion surrounding the topic.

Scientific Findings and Atmospheric Changes

Another section reports on a British scientific investigation into the molecular conditions at high altitudes, commissioned by the British "Ministry of Science." The report states that the US hydrogen bomb explosion in July 1962 introduced a substantial number of charged particles into Earth's magnetic field, causing a significant alteration in the Earth's atmosphere. The report also notes that the absence of published data before and after the test, unlike typical US practices, suggests the test was conducted exclusively for military purposes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific exploration of space and the potential for extraterrestrial life or advanced technology. The magazine adopts a rational and evidence-based approach, emphasizing the need for rigorous statistical analysis and cautioning against unsubstantiated speculation. There is a clear stance against dismissing UAP observations as mere hallucinations, while simultaneously advocating for explanations grounded in known or extrapolated scientific principles rather than mystical or unproven forces. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded scientific inquiry, seeking to understand phenomena through data and logical deduction.