Deguforum - Issue 01 - 1994

Magazine Overview

This is the first issue of DEGUFORUM, the official journal of the German-speaking Society for UFO Research (DEGUFO e.V.), dated January 1994. The cover features a dramatic image of a space shuttle launch and highlights key articles on a DEGUFO exhibition in Hamburg, UFO sightings in Germany, the founding of regional groups, and the debate over genuine versus fake crop circles.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Reinhard Nühlen, the Chairman of DEGUFO, welcomes readers to the inaugural issue. He expresses gratitude for the patience of those who have waited for the publication and acknowledges the challenges of launching such a project while balancing professional careers. Nühlen details the overcoming of technical and organizational hurdles, the establishment of the magazine's concept, and the logistics involved. He emphasizes that the current format is the most cost-effective solution and hints at a potential shift to a standard magazine format in the future if finances allow. The editorial also announces the official registration of DEGUFO as an association and mentions that donations and membership fees are tax-deductible. The central telephone hotline number for DEGUFO is provided, along with its fax number and a note about an answering machine for messages. Nühlen also highlights an upcoming exhibition titled 'UFOs yesterday - today - tomorrow,' initiated by DEGUFO, which he describes as a unique opportunity for the German UFO scene to present itself. He extends special thanks to Frank Menhorn for his contribution to this issue and wishes readers a happy new year, announcing that the second issue will be released in the second quarter.

DEGUFO Intern

This section provides detailed updates on the organization's activities:

Founding

The official founding of DEGUFO took place on June 5, 1993, in Frankfurt, with 33 voting members present. The statutes were unanimously approved, and the first board was elected: Reinhard Nühlen (Chairman), Gerhard Cerven (Deputy Chairman), Jens Birkenheuer (Secretary), and Anna Maria Ademes (Treasurer). Udo Beeker and Gertrud Brähmig were elected auditors. The regional structure was established with several individuals taking on leadership roles for different regions across Germany and Switzerland. An annual membership fee of DM 120 was set, with reduced rates for students, pensioners, and partners.

First Board Meeting

The first board meeting was held on September 4-5, 1993, in Moers-Repelen. Key topics discussed included the official registration of DEGUFO as a non-profit organization (valid until the end of 1994), making donations and membership fees tax-deductible. Plans were made to install a central nationwide telephone hotline with an answering machine, and regional hotlines were to be established subsequently. A new DEGUFO logo, designed by Frank Menhorn, was approved and will be used on membership cards. The creation of promotional buttons and a DEGUFO brochure outlining the organization's goals, statutes, and regional structure was discussed. The EDV (Electronic Data Processing) theme was touched upon, with plans for a nationwide mailbox and an archive/documentation system. The importance of regional work, member support, and recruitment was emphasized, with plans for regular regional meetings. The magazine itself was decided to be named 'DEGUFORUM' and would be published four times a year, with the first issue planned for late 1993 or early 1994. The need for hardware and software for production was noted, and cost-effective production methods, such as laser printing, were to be explored.

Regional Meetings

Region Nord 2: The first regional meeting for this area took place on October 11, 1993, in Cremlingen, near Braunschweig. Approximately a dozen participants met for an initial exchange. Dr. Peter Hattwig, the regional leader, provided an overview of planned activities to increase DEGUFO's visibility, including press releases and distributing information at lectures. A UFO sighting from the Goslar region in the summer of 1993 was discussed, involving two white, elliptical objects observed by Thomas St. The case is being further investigated. The topic of crop circles was also discussed, with Tim Schünemann reporting on his experiences in England, including observing a potentially genuine crop circle with electromagnetic phenomena. Future meetings were planned.

Region Südwest: The first regional meeting for this area was held on September 25, 1993, in Heppenheim. Participants discussed various aspects of the UFO phenomenon. Reinhard Nühlen provided an overview of DEGUFO's activities and future plans, emphasizing the regional aspect. After lunch, specific regional work strategies were discussed, including targeted measures in the Frankfurt area. Two new members joined DEGUFO as a result of this meeting.

UFO Exhibition: 'UFOs yesterday - today - tomorrow'

DEGUFO is organizing a significant exhibition in Hamburg from March 1-14, 1994, at the Hanseviertel shopping center. This exhibition aims to be the most comprehensive of its kind in German UFO history. The Hanseviertel is providing space and sponsoring the event. The exhibition offers the UFO scene a unique opportunity to reach a broad audience. Reinhard Nühlen was approached about the project, and Gerhard Cerven, the deputy chairman and head of regional organization, took the lead in its coordination. The exhibition's preliminary structure includes sections on historical UFOs (from Hesekiel to the 20th century), the UFO myth (post-1947), abductions, modern sightings (Puerto Rico, Gulf Breeze), extraterrestrials in science fiction, space travel and science, and crop circles. The exhibition will feature models, drawings, historical documents, and possibly electromagnetic measurement devices. A special focus will be on crop circles, with a quiz for children. The organizers are seeking interesting exhibits, such as UFO models and devices, old film posters related to UFOs and science fiction, and reproducible logos from UFO groups and magazines for a large-scale display. They are also exploring the possibility of allowing UFO groups to use the information booth on certain days. The exhibition aims to foster cooperation within the UFO community and improve public acceptance of the topic. Interested parties are encouraged to contact Gerhard Cerven or DEGUFO.

Other DEGUFO Intern News

• Contact Information: Updated contact details for regional leaders and hotlines are provided.
• USA Member Update: Carsten Brodbeck, a DEGUFO member, is studying in the USA and plans to continue his UFO research there, reporting back regularly. He has already made contact with an American organization interested in collaboration.
• International Cooperation: Efforts are underway to intensify contact with national and international UFO groups for information exchange.
• Software Evaluation: An English translation software is being evaluated for its potential use with the DEGUFORUM and the DEGUFO database and archive.

Termine / Veranstaltungen (Dates / Events)

Erich von Däniken on SAT1 - Deutschland Tour

Erich von Däniken presented a 100-minute multimedia lecture (slides and video) as part of his 'Deutschland Tour.' The lecture focused on his theories about ancient astronauts and advanced technology in human history. He discussed the alignment of ancient cult sites, the possibility of interstellar travel using advanced propulsion systems, and the concept of space stations. Von Däniken referenced ancient texts, including the Bible and the writings of Hesekiel, to support his claims about Vimanas (ancient flying machines) and large structures built by 'teachers.' He also touched upon the Nazca lines and the 'Face on Mars' as potential evidence of extraterrestrial visitation. The lecture explored the idea that ancient civilizations viewed these extraterrestrial visitors as gods, drawing parallels to modern indigenous cultures.

Thema Kornkreise (Topic: Crop Circles)

This section, though brief, indicates that the phenomenon of crop circles is still a subject of investigation and that the question of whether they are genuine or fake remains unresolved.

Thema Neues Bewußtsein (Topic: New Consciousness)

This section is a placeholder, indicating a theme of 'New Consciousness' will be explored, with a specific article titled 'Neues Bewußtsein' (New Consciousness).

Sichtungen (Sightings)

This section is dedicated to reports of UFO sightings:

• UFOs over Northern Germany: A general report of sightings in this region.
• Spherical Object in the Frankfurt Region: A specific sighting of a spherical object.
• New Federal States: A report from the newly unified eastern German states.
• UFO Incident in Hameln/Pyrmont District: A detailed report of an incident in this specific district.
• UFO Observation over Braunschweig: A sighting reported over the city of Braunschweig.

Presseschau (Press Review)

This section reviews media coverage related to UFOs:

• True Hallucinations: An article likely discussing the psychological aspects of UFO sightings.
• UFO Expert: Stasi also tracked extraterrestrials: This article suggests that the East German secret police (Stasi) investigated UFO phenomena and potential extraterrestrial contact.
• On the Topic of Mars-Observer: Likely related to observations or missions concerning Mars.
• Fiasko for NASA: An article detailing a failure or setback for NASA, possibly related to space exploration or UFO investigations.
• Did Observer Explode in Space?: A question regarding the fate of a space probe or mission named 'Observer.'

Impressum (Imprint)

This section contains the legal information and publisher details for the magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this inaugural issue of DEGUFORUM are the establishment and growth of the DEGUFO organization, the reporting of UFO sightings and related phenomena (such as crop circles), and the exploration of alternative theories about human history and extraterrestrial contact, exemplified by the coverage of Erich von Däniken's lecture. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and information dissemination within the UFO research community, aiming to foster communication and broaden public awareness. There is a clear emphasis on organizational development, regional outreach, and collaborative efforts within the UFO field.

Title: DEGUFO Forum
Issue: 11
Volume: 1
Date: 1993
Publisher: DEGUFO
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0943-0314
Price: DM 7,-

Major Hans G. Petersen Lecture in Soltau

The issue begins with a report on a lecture given by Major Hans G. Petersen, a retired Danish Air Force officer and follower of George Adamski, held in Soltau on September 14, 1993. The approximately four-hour lecture was divided into four parts, starting with an introduction to UFOs for those less familiar with the topic. Petersen discussed what UFOs and 'tele-discs' are, and why they have appeared more frequently since World War II. He also spoke about the life and work of contactee George Adamski, to whom Petersen felt a personal connection and dedicated himself to spreading Adamski's 'messages'.

The second part of the lecture featured a slide presentation showcasing UFO sightings from ancient times to the present. This included depictions of aircraft-like indigenous models from South America, rock and cave drawings of UFOs and astronauts, old paintings featuring UFOs, and numerous photographs of UFOs and 'tele-discs'.

A video presentation followed, showing well-known footage, including a Concorde aircraft being circled by a 'tele-disc' and how the UFO's gravitational field altered the shape of the aircraft. The segment concluded with the case of a Japanese Airlines cargo plane over Alaska, familiar from Rainer Holbe's SAT1 program.

The discussion period was unfortunately brief, leading to a suggestion that the lecture could have been more concise to allow for more in-depth discussion. The report also touches upon Petersen's views, agreeing with the idea of a possible global cover-up of the UFO phenomenon. However, statements about similar atmospheres on the Moon and Mars, and the alleged deception regarding the moon landings, raise doubts about the credibility of some of his claims. Petersen also highlighted upcoming major global changes starting in 1998, linking them to a 'magical secret weapon' of the Russians responsible for the Chernobyl disaster. The author concludes that while Petersen is a charming and nice person, a 'fossil' of the old UFO guard, his views are not necessarily to be shared by all.

The Crop Circle Phenomenon: Genuine or Hoax?

This section explores the enigmatic crop circle phenomenon, which has appeared globally since the late 1970s. Initially, little was known, but by 1989, sightings increased. Researchers like Dr. M. attempted scientific explanations, but without definitive results. English electro-specialists Pat Delgado and Colin Andrews gained recognition for their research, suggesting that the formations were created by unknown forces, leading to speculation about extraterrestrial involvement. A biologist's findings of changes in plant cells within the circles further fueled interest.

The Centre for Crop Circle Studies (CCCS) organized conferences in 1991 and 1992. However, voices questioning the authenticity of crop circles grew louder, especially after Doug Bower and Dave Chorley publicly admitted to creating them in 1991. This led to confusion, but also to doubts about the extent of their claims. The complexity and precision of many recent crop circles make it difficult to definitively label them as either genuine or fake.

Despite the prevalence of hoaxes, some formations remain unexplained. The article mentions the formation of groups like the FGK (Forschungsgesellschaft Kornkreise e.V.) in Germany, which aims to research crop circles. Investigations in 1993 focused on examining plant structures, with a biologist concluding that changes in cell structures were not a reliable indicator of authenticity. Attempts to replicate crop circles by FGK members revealed that large circles could be made quickly, but intricate designs were challenging. The report notes that some formations, particularly those with complex pathways or specific stalk arrangements, are difficult to replicate artificially.

FGK members conducted stakeouts in England, observing unusual compass needle behavior but no new crop circles appearing overnight. The section also lists several books and journals related to crop circles for interested readers.

New Consciousness

This section, written by Hans-Joachim Heyer, delves into the concept of 'New Consciousness'. It argues that accumulating knowledge about ecological issues, relativity, or UFOs does not automatically lead to a new consciousness. Instead, true new consciousness is about 'knowing differently' rather than 'knowing more'. It emphasizes a subjective transformation of one's internal program to process information in new ways, rather than ignoring data that doesn't fit the existing schema.

The author contrasts this with the old consciousness, which relies on empirical evidence and external validation. New consciousness, however, understands that the material world is a manifestation of one's inner spiritual structure. It recognizes that the visible world is a reflection of one's own mind, and that subjective experience is paramount. This perspective challenges materialistic causality, suggesting that inner states influence external reality.

The article posits that the material world is not objectively real but a construct of our minds. It highlights the subjective nature of reality, where our chosen 'optics' shape our perception. The concept of 'new consciousness' also embraces the significance of dreams as equally valid realities. It suggests that longer stays in other 'universes' or dream worlds will be possible once one detaches emotionally and intellectually from the Earth.

Creating a 'myth' is presented as a way to expand consciousness beyond its current limitations. A myth, unlike an ideal, can contain mysteries and allow for intuition. The author shares his personal myth of humanity being created by an invisible, unfathomable spirit to overcome limitations of consciousness and mortality.

Furthermore, the article introduces the idea that new consciousness possesses an additional dimension: indeterminate time, in addition to the three spatial dimensions. This means that true reality is eternal present. The author suggests that the Big Bang was not a singular event but a logical consequence of the present state of the universe. World catastrophes are seen as products of the old consciousness, while the new world and consciousness already exist for those who can shift their perception.

The author also discusses the difference between objective and subjective consciousness, criticizing the scientific method's tendency towards objectification, which he believes fragments our consciousness. He argues that photons and electrons are not objective entities but interactions with our consciousness. The concept of 'objectivation' leads to the formation of the 'ego', which is a product of self-deception and misidentifies itself with its perceived image.

Finally, the article touches upon the idea of extraterrestrial intelligences, suggesting they are beings from other universes who adopt human-like mental structures to interact with our reality. It also references scientific theories, such as those by Prof. Dr. H. Primas, which suggest that reality is subjective and influenced by consciousness.

UFO Sightings in Northern Germany and Beyond

This section presents a collection of UFO sighting reports from various regions:

• Fall 1 (March 1945): A zeppelin-shaped object observed near Mecklenburg-Vorpommern/Hamburg, described as silent, slow-moving, with a flame at the rear and illuminated windows.
• Fall 2 (Autumn 1955/1956): A Saturn-shaped object seen in Lübeck-Travemünde, described as making a singing sound and hovering briefly.
• Fall 3 (Summer 1968): A diamond-shaped object with colorful lamps observed over Hamburg-Großflottbek, noted for its silent flight and rapid acceleration.
• Fall 4 (September 1986): A video recording of light balls flying behind a civilian aircraft near Hamburg.
• Fall 5 (June 1989): Three orange-red discs seen moving silently and fast towards the south over Germany.
• Fall 6 (February 1990): A fast-moving, triangular object with pink corner lights observed over Hamburg.
• Frankfurt Area (July 1, 1987): A spherical object emitting red light and a humming sound, observed from Frankfurt.
• Hamelin Case (September 11, 1993): A 'spinning top-like' object emitting yellow, pulsating light was observed near Hamelin, causing radio interference and slowing down the car. Other sightings in the area that evening included a rectangular/square light phenomenon.
• Braunschweig (December 6, 1993): Three triangular objects were observed flying over Braunschweig, emitting diffuse white light and exhibiting complex maneuvers.

New Territories: UFO Reports

• Fall 1 (1985): A witness in Chemnitz reported a bright white light illuminating her room at night, accompanied by a humming sound. She later discovered a scar on her shin, which she tentatively linked to the experience.
• Fall 2 (July 18, 1993): A light beam was observed in a bedroom in the Dresden region, described as horizontal and weak, with the object rotating and emitting flames.

UFO Incident in the Hamelin-Pyrmont District

This report details a sighting on September 11, 1993, involving a Hamelin woman, her daughter, and a driving instructor. They observed a 'chain of stars' that resolved into a 'spinning top-like' object emitting yellow, pulsating light. The object caused radio interference and slowed down their car. The report notes that only the two women saw the lights, while the instructor primarily noticed the technical malfunctions. The German Federal Ministry of Defense and British armed forces are reportedly investigating the phenomenon. The report also mentions the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des Ufo-Phänomens) and its chairman, Hans Werner Peiniger, who offers explanations such as aircraft lights and weather balloons, which the author suggests may dismiss witnesses' experiences.

UFO Observation over Braunschweig

On December 6, 1993, between 22:50 and 23:50, a triangular object was observed over Braunschweig. Initially, a single object appeared in the west, growing larger and moving towards the observer. It hovered over Riddagshausen, emitting diffuse white light. After 15 minutes, three more objects appeared, flying higher and dimmer, engaging in complex maneuvers. The author dismisses natural explanations like the moon, clouds, zeppelins, balloons, or aircraft due to the object's precise triangular shape, lack of visible propulsion, and prolonged hovering.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings, crop circles, and the broader implications of consciousness and reality perception. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, while maintaining a critical perspective on claims, particularly those lacking robust evidence or relying on unsubstantiated theories. There is a clear interest in exploring alternative perspectives on reality, consciousness, and the potential for extraterrestrial contact, often juxtaposing scientific investigation with more speculative or philosophical viewpoints. The publication aims to document sightings, research findings, and theoretical discussions within the UFO and related fields.

Title: Deguforum
Issue: 22
Date: April 1994
Publisher: DEGUFO e.V. (German-speaking Society for UFO Research)
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of Deguforum, a quarterly publication, presents a collection of articles under the 'Presseschau' (Press Review) section, covering various topics related to UFOs, extraterrestrial phenomena, and related scientific and psychological inquiries. The magazine also includes an 'Impressum' detailing its editorial staff and publication information, and a notice about the next issue.

Articles and Features

"Wahre Halluzinationen" (True Hallucinations)

This article discusses a study conducted at the University of Ottawa concerning individuals who claim contact with extraterrestrials or have seen UFOs. The study subjected four groups, including self-proclaimed 'contactees,' UFO observers, and control groups, to psychological tests. The findings indicated that those reporting UFO experiences were not psychologically disturbed, nor did they differ significantly in imagination or fantasy skills from others, with the exception of a stronger tendency to believe in reincarnation and astrology among the contactee group. The author questions why certain 'hallucinations' are perceived as more 'true' than others, noting that historically, significant discoveries and inspirations, from Moses to Descartes, were often attributed to 'divine' or 'alien' insights rather than pure logic. The article also touches upon the idea of 'good' and 'evil' supernatural influences, drawing parallels to fairy tales, and criticizes some UFOlogists for not discerning between genuine phenomena and 'hallucinatory nonsense.' It references an announcement from a UFO Congress in Budapest about the planned landing of 1,217 extraterrestrials in February 1994, offering a 'membership offer' from a 'Planetary Federation,' which the author sarcastically questions.

Ufo-Experte: Stasi spürte auch Außerirdischen nach (UFO Expert: Stasi also tracked extraterrestrials)

This report, sourced from the Berliner Kurier, details claims by German UFO researcher Michael Hesemann at a UFO Congress in Budapest. Hesemann asserts that the East German secret police (Stasi) extensively investigated UFOs, creating numerous files and even commissioning a study. The Stasi reportedly attempted to understand these 'cosmic phenomena' and interviewed UFO 'victims' under hypnosis, using a special 'Questionnaire and Reporting Form for UFOs.' Hesemann believes that the Gauck Authority (which inherited Stasi files) may hold relevant documents, possibly classified under national security. The article highlights recent alleged encounters with 'third kind' beings and abductions, citing an incident in August 1990 where three witnesses independently filmed seven flying objects near Greifswald. The footage reportedly showed the East German Army firing upon these objects. The flying devices were described as approximately nine meters in diameter and hovered over the Baltic Sea for fifteen minutes.

Zum Thema Mars-Observer (On the Topic of Mars Observer)

This section, referencing the Allgemeine Zeitung, provides details about the NASA Mars Observer probe launched in September 1992. Its mission was to gather information on the surface and atmosphere of Mars, with plans to enter a 378 km orbit. The probe was equipped with scientific sensors, including a high-resolution camera, a laser system for altitude mapping, an infrared sensor for atmospheric analysis, and a magnetometer for measuring the planet's magnetic field. The probe weighed 2.5 tons and featured a 1.5-meter parabolic reflector for data transmission. The systematic study of Mars was intended to last at least one Martian year (approximately two Earth years).

Ist Observer im All explodiert? (Did Observer Explode in Space?)

This article, also from the Allgemeine Zeitung, raises questions about the fate of the Mars Observer probe. As a critical deadline approached for the probe to enter orbit, American scientists were uncertain if it had exploded or was orbiting Mars without establishing contact. A backup communication system was supposed to activate automatically if contact was lost. The probe's silence raised concerns that the mission, costing an estimated 1 billion dollars, might have failed. The article notes that the probe had experienced communication difficulties five times since its launch. The NASA team attempted to reorient the probe using a larger antenna, but it remained unresponsive. The probe was designed with an onboard system for autonomous commands, allowing it to enter orbit even without Earth-based instructions.

Fiasko für die NASA: Funkstille im All (Fiasco for NASA: Radio Silence in Space)

This piece, from the Allgemeine Zeitung, reiterates the communication breakdown with the Mars Observer probe. Shortly before the crucial maneuver to enter orbit around Mars, the US space agency NASA lost contact. A spokesperson for the ground station in Pasadena, California, stated there was 'no change' in the situation. All contact with the probe had been lost the previous Saturday. The mission was considered a failure if communication could not be re-established. The loss of contact reportedly occurred during a maneuver to reduce the probe's speed. The article mentions that the probe had experienced communication problems five times since its launch on September 25, 1992. Experts had been attempting every 20 minutes to reorient the probe towards Earth using a larger antenna. Although the probe had an autonomous control system, it remained silent.

Impressum (Imprint)

The 'Impressum' section provides details about the publication:

• Publisher: DEGUFO e.V. (German-speaking Society for UFO Research)
• Editor (Responsible for content): Reinhard Nühlen
• Editorial Staff: Thomas Bürvenich, Gerhard Cerven, Marcus Galle, Dr. Peter Hattwig, H.-J. Heyer, Frank Menhorn, Reinhard Nühlen, Julia Zimmermann
• Layout: Frank Menhorn
• Production: Pagemaker for Windows 5.0
• Frequency: Quarterly (four times a year)
• Subscription Price (Inland): DM 20.- per year, DM 7.- per issue. Included in DEGUFO membership.
• Subscription Renewal: Automatic one-year renewal unless canceled 3 months before expiration.
• Subscription Price (Abroad): Upon request.
• Reprint Policy: Reprints, even excerpts, require written permission from DEGUFO e.V. and submission of a copy.
• Disclaimer: Articles and statements do not necessarily reflect the views of DEGUFO e.V. The organization is not liable for unsolicited manuscripts and photos. Author honoraria are generally not paid.
• Advertising Prices: Upon request.
• Contact Information: DEGUFO e.V., Postfach 2831, 55516 Bad Kreuznach. Tel: 0671/75614 (24-hour hotline), Fax: 0671/69756. Postgirokonto: 25 17 37 - 670 Postbank Ludwigshafen.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the psychological aspects of UFO belief, the challenges and potential failures in space exploration (specifically NASA's Mars mission), and alleged government involvement in UFO investigations (Stasi). The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting findings from studies and news reports while also offering commentary and skepticism, particularly regarding sensational claims like the Budapest UFO Congress announcement. The magazine aims to inform its readers about UFO phenomena from various perspectives, including scientific, psychological, and historical, while maintaining a critical distance from unsubstantiated assertions.