Deguforum - Issue 04 - 1994

Magazine Overview

This issue of DEGUFORUM, the journal of the German-speaking Society for UFO Research (DEGUFO e.V.), is the fourth issue of its first year, dated December 1994. It features a cover story on alleged hoaxes by "Billy" Meier and Amaury Rivera, alongside articles examining the UFO phenomenon and pre-astronautics from psychoanalytic and parapsychological viewpoints. The issue also includes reports on UFO sightings in Germany, crop circles from 1994, book reviews, and personal accounts.

Editorial

The editorial discusses the growing public interest in UFOs, highlighted by an ARD television documentary that attracted millions of viewers. The author notes the mixed reactions, with the public largely positive but the established scientific community and media being critical and dismissive. The editorial argues for the importance of presenting the UFO topic from the perspective of UFO researchers, criticizing the ARD film for its lack of depth and omission of other UFO organizations like DEGUFO. It also touches upon the Amaury Rivera case, noting the controversy it has generated within UFO circles. The editor expresses a desire for more objective and less polemical discussions about UFOs, hoping that the ARD film was a step towards more serious coverage. The editorial also mentions the inclusion of a detailed photo analysis of the Amaury Rivera case by R.D. Klein from MUFON-CES, which led to this issue being expanded to 40 pages. The editorial concludes by wishing readers a happy new year.

Series: The UFO Phenomenon and Pre-Astronautics from a Psychoanalytic and Parapsychological Perspective – Part 2

This article delves into the theories of Sigmund Freud, starting with his development of psychoanalysis as a method for treating hysteria and understanding the unconscious mind. It traces Freud's work with Jean-Marie Charcot and Josef Breuer, highlighting key concepts like the unconscious, dreams as the 'royal road' to the unconscious, and the role of repressed memories and affects in causing hysterical symptoms. The article explains Freud's structural model of the psyche, comprising the Id (ES), Ego (ICH), and Superego (ÜBER-ICH), and illustrates these with an example of repressed aggressive impulses. It then extends these psychoanalytic concepts to mass psychology, suggesting that societal phenomena like the rise of Nazism or the influence of popular culture (e.g., The Beatles) can be understood through the lens of collective unconscious desires and the projection of idealized figures (like an 'Ich-Ideal' or a divine father figure).

The article further explores the connection between psychoanalysis and religious beliefs, citing Marx and Feuerbach's critiques of religion as an 'opium of the masses' and Freud's view of God as a projected father image. It suggests that religious narratives, with their concepts of divine beings, heavens, and moral codes, share similarities with how some UFO enthusiasts perceive extraterrestrials as advanced beings from other dimensions.

Parapsychology is then introduced as the study of phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding, such as telepathy, clairvoyance, and psychokinesis. The article clarifies that parapsychology is not solely focused on life after death or reincarnation, but also on the mind's ability to perceive information beyond normal sensory channels. It discusses the concept of 'Psi' phenomena, which are independent of space and time, and how altered states of consciousness, such as trance, can facilitate these perceptions. The article draws parallels between ancient oracles, shamans, and modern mediums who enter altered states to communicate with perceived higher entities. It suggests that the desire for contact with 'gods' or advanced beings might be a manifestation of a deep-seated human need, potentially explaining the persistent interest in UFOs and extraterrestrial contact.

Book Reviews & Book Showcase

This section features reviews and summaries of several books related to UFOs and related topics:

'Der Armstrong Report' by Virgil Armstrong

The reviewer critically examines Virgil Armstrong's book, which claims to detail his experiences as a CIA agent and air force officer involved with a landed UFO and its deceased alien occupants. The reviewer points out numerous contradictions and implausibilities in Armstrong's narrative, particularly regarding the alleged destruction of the alien craft and the conflicting explanations for the aliens' motives (e.g., genetic manipulation vs. regaining emotions). The reviewer questions Armstrong's assertion of encountering 'evil' extraterrestrials and contrasts this with the perceived greater human rights violations by governments. The review highlights Armstrong's reliance on 'intuition' and 'myth' as sources of knowledge, suggesting the book reflects the author's internal struggle to reconcile his past beliefs with new understandings of reality. Despite the criticisms, the reviewer acknowledges the book's potential value for those exploring complex universal systems and suggests it possesses more depth than mere compilations of information.

'Sternensaat - Das galaktische Erbe der Menschheit' by Lyssa Royal & Keith Priest

This book posits that humanity originated not on Earth but in the Lyra system, with colonists later spreading to Earth and other planets. It describes a history of environmental crises, genetic manipulation, and societal conflicts among these 'humanoids'. The review highlights the book's premise that aliens, referred to as Apexianer, developed cloning and genetic manipulation techniques after a catastrophic event. The authors suggest that these beings split into 'good' and 'evil' factions and that they now abduct humans to regain emotions or for genetic purposes. The review notes the authors' disclaimer that their ideas are not necessarily absolute truth and that their concept of reality is based on imagination and consciousness. The reviewer finds the book's exploration of consciousness levels interesting but not entirely novel, wishing for more insight into the aliens' perspective on human society.

'Mitbringsel' aus USA – einige Bücher, die man vielleicht lesen sollte:

This is a showcase of several English-language books on UFOs and related topics, presented as recommendations for readers:

• 'Abduction- Human Encounters with Aliens' by John E. Mack: Praised for its exploration of the ethical and moral aspects of abduction experiences by an established academic.
• 'Secret Life-First hand documented accounts of UFO-Abductions' by David M. Jacobs: Offers detailed accounts of typical abduction experiences, focusing on physical, mental, and reproductive procedures.
• 'The Omega-Projekt' by Kenneth Ring: Explores the connection between near-death experiences, consciousness expansion, and UFO abductions.
• 'UFO-Abductions a dangerous game' by Philip J. Klass: Presented as a book from the 'skeptical' perspective, offering counterarguments to abduction claims.
• 'UFO-Abductions in Gulf Breeze - the amazing true story of UFO and the REAL visitors from outer space' by Ed and Francis Walters: A narrative account of UFO events in Gulf Breeze.
• 'The UFO Cover-up. What the government won't say.' by Lawrence D. Fawcett and Barry J. Greenwood: Claims to reveal government and intelligence agency involvement in UFO matters using Freedom of Information Act documents.
• 'UFO Encounters & Beyond' (UFO - Begegnungen und darüberhinaus) by Jerome Clark: A collection of stories about alien abductions and visitors, recommended as an introduction to the topic.
• 'UFOs The Final Answer? Ufology for the 21st Century' by David & Therese Marie Barclay: Described as a fascinating and provocative book offering various perspectives on the UFO phenomenon.
• 'The UFO - Casebook' by Kevin D. Randle: Discusses the Roswell incident and alleged CIA cover-ups.
• 'The Truth about the UFO - Crash at Roswell' by Kevin D. Randle and Donald R. Schmitt: Presents recent research on the Roswell crash.
• 'The UFO Encyclopedia' by John Spencer: A reference work for UFO information.
• 'From Out of the Blue' by Jenny Randles: Documents the 'Bentwater Fall' incident.
• 'The Gods of Eden' by William Bramley: Proposes that ancient gods were extraterrestrials who influenced human development through secret societies.
• 'The Monuments of Mars' by Richard C. Hoagland: Explores the possibility of artificial structures on Mars.
• 'Stonehenge' by R.J.C. Atkinson: A general account of Stonehenge.
• 'The Fellowship' by Brad Steiger: Discusses spiritual contact with extraterrestrials.
• 'Flying Saucers Serious Business' by Frank Edwards: A classic work on flying saucers.
• 'Aliens Among Us' by Ruth Montgomery: A book on alien encounters.

The section concludes by promising a discussion of German-language UFO titles in the next issue.

Sightings

This section reports on several UFO sightings in Germany:

• A sighting in Liebenau Ostheim.
• A sighting of a UFO over Hamburg.
• A sighting over Hannover.
• A sighting over Dornheim bei Darmstadt.

Theme: Crop Circles

'Das Auge von Fatima' – English Crop Circle Forms 1994

This article discusses crop circle formations observed in England in 1994, referred to as 'The Eye of Fatima'.

Letters to the Editor, Press Review, Imprint

These sections are listed in the table of contents but not detailed in the provided pages.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DEGUFORUM include the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the exploration of psychoanalytic and parapsychological interpretations, the reporting of UFO sightings and related events in Germany, and a comprehensive review of UFO-related literature. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for a more serious and open discussion of UFO topics, challenging skepticism from mainstream science and media, and promoting research and information sharing among UFO enthusiasts. There is a clear emphasis on presenting different perspectives, including those of skeptics, and on critically analyzing claims, as seen in the review of the 'Armstrong Report'. The publication aims to inform its readership about current developments in the UFO field, both internationally and within Germany.

This issue of Deguforum, titled "Thema Neues Bewußtsein" (Theme New Consciousness), published in 1997, delves into a range of topics related to consciousness, UFO phenomena, and critical analysis of alleged extraterrestrial encounters. The magazine features book reviews, in-depth articles on theoretical concepts, and investigative pieces.

Book Reviews

"Kontakt-Ufo Entführungen" by Dr. Johannes Fiebag

Gerhard Cerven reviews Fiebag's book, which compiles eyewitness accounts of UFO abductions from German-speaking countries. Cerven notes the author's attempt to avoid simply rehashing his previous work and praises the direct, non-sensational presentation of cases. He highlights Fiebag's admission of lacking definitive explanations and his initiative to create a support group for abductees. The review concludes by recommending the book as interesting reading for those interested in the topic.

"Mondblitze - unterdrückte Entdeckungen in Raumfahrt und Wissenschaft" by Luc Bürgin

Cerven also reviews Bürgin's book, describing it as a collection of diverse, unrelated topics rather than a focused exploration of its title subject. It touches upon suppressed discoveries, UFO reports from German-speaking regions, and unexplained lunar phenomena, suggesting a possible cover-up. While acknowledging Bürgin's engaging writing style, Cerven categorizes it as a compilation for the "all-round interested reader."

"PSI-Agenten-Die Manipulation unseres Bewußtseins" by Ernst Meckelburg

This review is critical of Meckelburg's book on military and intelligence attempts to manipulate consciousness. The reviewer finds the book lacking in concrete information, relying heavily on speculation. While acknowledging Meckelburg's brave attempt to delve into disinformation, the reviewer notes the absence of discussion on materialistic manipulation methods like television and schooling, which are deemed more dangerous. The review also laments the degradation of philosophy and the suppression of critical thinking.

"Geheimsache U.F.O. - Die wahre Geschichte der unbekannten Flugobjekte" by Michael Hesemann

Gerhard Cerven reviews Hesemann's substantial book, initially skeptical due to its size and the use of the debunked Rivera UFO photo on the cover. However, he finds the book positively surprising with its numerous images and well-researched cases. Cerven notes Hesemann's differing interpretation of the Billy Meier case compared to his own previous work. He points out Hesemann's omission of certain details that might weaken the case for Adamski and questions the handling of the Roswell incident. Despite some minor errors and questionable UFO photos, Cerven finds the book engaging and valuable for its inclusion of government documents, concluding that it provides a rich collection of material.

Articles on Consciousness and Reality

"Thema Neues Bewußtsein: Schwindel/Fälschung - Die 'Billy' Meier-Story - Anatomie eines Schwindels"

This extensive article by Gerhard Cerven analyzes the Billy Meier UFO case, presenting evidence that it is a hoax. It details Meier's life story, his alleged contacts with Pleiadians (Semjase, Sfaath, Asket), and the development of his organization, FIGU. Cerven cites various sources, including the US distributor 'Paranet' and research by 'Ground Saucer Watch (GSW)', to support the claim of fabrication. The article highlights alleged photographic evidence manipulation, including the use of models and staged scenes, and points to inconsistencies and contradictions in Meier's claims. It concludes that the entire case is a deliberate deception.

"Thema Neues Bewußtsein: Schwindel/Fälschung - 'the it from bit' (nach einer Idee von John A. Wheeler)"

Authored by Andreas Haxel, this article explores the concept of consciousness within the framework of space and time. It posits that the universe, including matter, is fundamentally a construct of consciousness. Haxel discusses the limitations of the current scientific understanding of space and time, which are seen as products of human perception and conceptualization. He introduces the idea of "integral consciousness" and "resonance systems" as mechanisms for understanding reality and potential contact with extraterrestrial intelligences. The article argues that humans create their reality through shared consciousness and that true understanding requires moving beyond materialistic views.

"Thema Neues Bewußtsein: Schwindel/Fälschung - UFOs im neuen Weltbild"

This section delves into the shift from a materialistic, astronomically-based worldview to a more integrated understanding of consciousness. It argues that the modern "mental consciousness" is limited by its reliance on empirical observation and its exclusion of the subjective 'I'. The article proposes that to understand phenomena like UFOs and potential alien contact, humans must expand their consciousness to an "integral consciousness" capable of resonating with higher intelligences. It critiques the limitations of current scientific models, such as the vastness of space and the speed of light, which hinder interstellar communication.

"Thema Neues Bewußtsein: Schwindel/Fälschung - Bewegung als informativer Prozeß"

This article, also by Andreas Haxel, examines the relationship between space, time, and consciousness through the lens of movement and information. It suggests that space and time are not independent entities but are generated by the process of structures interacting and exchanging information. Movement is described as an informational process that creates 'locality' and 'duration'. The article posits that the universe is a manifestation of consciousness and that our perception of reality is a creative act of consciousness.

"Thema Neues Bewußtsein: Schwindel/Fälschung - Die Ganheit der Welt als kreativer Vollzug des Bewußtseins"

Andreas Haxel continues his exploration of consciousness, arguing that the present moment ('Jetzt') is a creative act of consciousness, not merely a point in time. He suggests that our consciousness shapes the world we experience and that the universe is a unified whole realized through this creative process. The article emphasizes the interconnectedness of all structures and the role of resonance in shared experience and consciousness expansion.

"Thema Neues Bewußtsein: Schwindel/Fälschung - Sich besinnen"

This piece discusses the difference between knowledge questions and wisdom questions, emphasizing that wisdom is gained through reflection. It introduces the concept of "spiritual resonance" as a means of consciousness expansion, likening it to ripples in a pond. The author suggests that by resonating with others, individuals can expand their own consciousness and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the universe. It also touches upon the development of various "senses," including emotional and spiritual ones.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Deguforum are the nature of consciousness, the analysis of UFO phenomena, and the critical examination of alleged extraterrestrial contact cases, particularly the Billy Meier story, which is presented as a hoax. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that questions mainstream scientific paradigms and explores alternative perspectives on reality, consciousness, and the universe, while also maintaining a critical approach to unsubstantiated claims within the UFO and parapsychology fields. There is a clear emphasis on the idea that consciousness plays a fundamental role in shaping reality and that expanding consciousness is key to understanding deeper truths.

This issue of Deguforum, identified as issue 23 of volume 3, published in 1994, focuses on themes of consciousness, UFO sightings, crop circles, and book reviews. The cover prominently features "Thema Neues Bewußtsein Buchbesprechung Erlebnisse" and a continuation of a book review on "Geheimsache U.F.O.". The magazine presents a mix of personal experiences, investigative reports, and reader contributions.

Consciousness and Personal Experience

The issue opens with an article by Hans-Joachim Heyer titled "Thema Neues Bewußtsein Buchbesprechung Erlebnisse," which discusses the development of self-awareness and cosmic consciousness through introspection and the transcendence of feelings. Heyer also contributes a poem, "An das Weisenkind," emphasizing intuitive understanding over mere thinking.

Another personal account, "Der EBE im Bunkersystem," details a vivid dream experienced by the author, involving an underground base, a plea for help from an alien being identified as a Reticulan, and a sense of disorientation and fatigue upon waking. The dream's intensity left a lasting impression, with recurring images.

UFO Sightings

Several UFO sightings are reported:

• UFO über Hamburg (February 2, 1990): A witness describes a large, unusual, silent, milky-gray, triangular object with rounded corners and pink rings observed in the night sky.
• Sichtung in Liebenau/Ostheim (Date unspecified): Witnesses observed a round, white-yellow light that moved slowly, divided into two parts, and disappeared. The witness notes that car and street lights appeared 'torn apart' and that observed lights were always round and of varying sizes.
• Sichtung über Hannover (August 6, 1994): A self-luminous, yellow-orange object with color changes to white was observed for 5 seconds. The object was estimated to be 60-80 meters in size and was seen flying from NNW to SSO.
• Sichtung über Dornheim b. Darmstadt (August 20, 1994): A self-luminous object that changed color and had a tail was observed for 5 seconds. It was described as spherical and estimated to be 1-2 meters in size.

Crop Circles

The section "Thema Kornkreise" explores crop circle phenomena:

• The Fatima Eye and Avebury: The issue draws a parallel between the 'Fatima Eye' seen in Portugal in 1917 and a crop circle formation in Avebury, England, in 1994.
• English Crop Circle Forms (1994): A group's trip to England to investigate crop circles is detailed. They observed formations including a 'lying eight' pictogram and later, near Avebury, a formation with a large circle and three semi-circular shapes, which the author speculates might relate to Middle East peace negotiations.
• Other Formations: Descriptions include formations resembling a bent tail of circles and another with a head and tongue, as well as a 'scorpion' formation compared to Nazca geoglyphs.
• Research and Authenticity: The section touches upon the ongoing debate about the authenticity of crop circles, with some acknowledging that many are genuine and that fakers are becoming more sophisticated. The article mentions the work of Robert Pargeter and the 'Sling' project involving measurements in crop circle fields.

Book Reviews and Discussions

• "Geheimsache U.F.O." Review: The review highlights the book's discussion of alleged UFO sightings and structures on the Moon and Mars, linking the Apollo missions to the investigation of these alien constructions. The book is recommended for UFO researchers.
• Amaury Rivera Case: This section delves into the controversy surrounding the Amaury Rivera case, with conflicting reports and expert opinions on the authenticity of the photographs. It features excerpts from letters by Michael Hesemann and R.-D. Klein, as well as an interview with J. Martin. The debate centers on whether the photos are genuine or faked, with accusations of a "smear campaign" and differing analytical methods.
• Reader Letters: A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to reader letters, covering a wide range of topics:
• Peter G. Schmitt defends the work of UFO researchers against accusations of opportunism and criticizes the dismissive attitude of some within the UFO community, advocating for open-mindedness and humility.
• Monika Dorfner discusses the concept of spiritual planes and the possibility of learning from advanced civilizations, referencing Sanat Kumara and Omnec Onec.
• Gisela Kersken expresses appreciation for the magazine's content, particularly the images.
• Gisela Bongart praises the Omnec Onec special issue and the overall quality of the magazine.
• Hansjörg Vogel finds the magazine interesting and informative.
• Hansjürgen Köhler criticizes Luc Bürgin's book "Mondblitze" for its writing style and lack of substance, contrasting it with the work of authors like Johannes Fiebag.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The magazine consistently promotes a stance of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs and crop circles. It aims to provide readers with diverse perspectives and detailed information, even when controversies exist, as seen in the extensive coverage of the Amaury Rivera case. The editorial team emphasizes the importance of thorough research and critical analysis while remaining open to the possibility of phenomena beyond current scientific understanding. Recurring themes include the nature of consciousness, the potential existence of extraterrestrial intelligence, and the ongoing debate about the authenticity of evidence presented within the UFO community. The magazine also highlights the work of various researchers and organizations in the field of ufology and fringe science.

This issue of "Schwindel/Fälschung" (Swindle/Falsification), published by DEGUFO e. V., focuses on a critical analysis of UFO photographic evidence, specifically the Amaury Rivera Falls case. The magazine presents a detailed photo analysis by Rolf-Dieter Klein, MUFON-CES, which strongly suggests that the images are fabricated. The issue also includes a press review section discussing media coverage of UFOs, the debate between believers and skeptics, and a brief exploration of theoretical physics related to faster-than-light travel.

Photo Analysis of the Amaury Rivera Falls

The central article, "Fotoanalyse des Amaury Rivera Falls" by Rolf-Dieter Klein, meticulously examines four photographs attributed to Amaury Rivera and one from Sosa. The analysis employs various techniques, including perspective tests, motion blur analysis, contour analysis, and 3D perspective analysis. Klein's findings indicate that the objects in the photos are likely models. Key points of the analysis include:

• Perspective and Parallax: The analysis of perspective shifts between photos #2 and #3 suggests that the objects did not move relative to the background elements (trees, branches) in a way consistent with a real aerial sighting. The unchanging position of highlights on the object, despite supposed camera movement, is cited as evidence against authenticity.
• Motion Blur: The absence of motion blur on the alleged UFOs and jets, especially when compared to simulations of real aircraft at high speeds, suggests they are static objects or models.
• Physical Evidence: The analysis of Amaury's photo #2, particularly when scanned with a Sony PHV-A7E and enhanced for contrast, revealed the presence of wires or threads, indicating the objects were suspended.
• Consistency with Sosa's Photo: The photo provided by Sosa (#1) is argued to be part of the same series, fitting seamlessly in terms of perspective and details like tree growth, despite Amaury's claim it was not his.
• Computer Simulation: A 3D reconstruction using computer simulation aligns with the observed perspective shifts, further supporting the model hypothesis.

The article concludes that the Amaury photos do not stand up to rigorous scientific scrutiny and are likely the result of deliberate falsification.

Press Review: Media Coverage and UFO Debate

The "Presseschau" section compiles various articles and opinions on UFOs, highlighting a polarized public and media discourse.

• Heinz Rohde's ARD Broadcast: A report on Heinz Rohde's ARD program "Ufos - und es gibt sie doch" (UFOs - and they do exist) notes its high viewership but also the strong criticism it received. Science journalist Jean Pütz called it a "scandal" that would set back serious science journalism by years. Critics accused Rohde of sensationalism and failing to critically examine evidence, focusing instead on anecdotal accounts and questionable photos.
• Skepticism vs. Belief: Articles from the Berliner Kurier and Frankfurter Rundschau express skepticism, labeling UFO sightings as "wishful thinking" or "speculation." They emphasize the need for scientific analysis of photographic tricks, military experiments, or natural phenomena, rather than accepting them as evidence of extraterrestrial visitors.
• Scientific Stance: The issue mentions that experts from the Max-Planck-Institut, when questioned, distanced themselves from the more speculative aspects of UFO research, while acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena. The German Ministry of Defense is quoted as stating there is "no conclusive evidence for the existence of UFOs."
• Media War: The ongoing "war of the channels" between NDR and WDR is noted, with both producing programs on the UFO topic, suggesting a competition for viewership rather than a serious scientific investigation.
• Illobrand von Ludwiger's Counterpoint: In contrast to the skepticism, physicist Illobrand von Ludwiger is cited as believing there is sufficient physical evidence for UFOs, listing various individuals like former presidents and military officials who have reported sightings.

Theoretical Physics: Faster-Than-Light Travel

A section briefly discusses theoretical physics, referencing the work of Göttingen physicist Gerhard Hegerfeldt. Hegerfeldt reportedly found a calculation error in Enrico Fermi's work from 1932 concerning the interaction of atoms and photons. Hegerfeldt's calculations suggest that a photon might arrive at a second atom instantaneously upon emission from the first, potentially challenging Einstein's theory of relativity and the cosmic speed limit (the speed of light).

However, the article clarifies that this theoretical possibility does not equate to practical time travel. It explains that the concept of empty space being filled with virtual photons, which constantly annihilate each other, complicates any simple interpretation of instantaneous travel. The author concludes that Hegerfeldt's findings, while theoretically interesting, do not offer a viable path to time travel and advises against investing in such projects.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of UFO evidence and the media's role in sensationalizing the topic. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, favoring rigorous scientific analysis over anecdotal accounts and speculative theories. The magazine aims to debunk claims of UFO authenticity, particularly through detailed photo analysis, and to expose what it perceives as journalistic irresponsibility in reporting on the subject. There is a strong emphasis on distinguishing between genuine scientific inquiry and pseudoscientific claims, as exemplified by the critique of Heinz Rohde's program and the detailed deconstruction of the Amaury Rivera photos. The inclusion of theoretical physics, while seemingly tangential, serves to contrast speculative UFO claims with established scientific principles and ongoing research, albeit with a cautionary note on over-interpretation.