Deguforum - Issue 05 - 1995

Magazine Overview

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 5, 2. Jahrgang
Date: March 1995
Publisher: DEGUFO e.V. (Deutschsprachige Gesellschaft für UFO-Forschung)
Price: DM 7,50

Editorial

The editorial by Reinhard Nühlen reflects on the past year and looks forward to 1995. It addresses a contentious dispute within the UFO community, specifically involving an individual named M. Hesemann, who has allegedly made defamatory statements and threatened legal action regarding the use of A. Rivera's photographs. Nühlen asserts that DEGUFO is a non-profit organization and intends to publish documentation on the Rivera photos at a reasonable price for members. He criticizes Hesemann's tactics and insists on factual reporting, refusing to engage in personal attacks. Nühlen also clarifies his past professional interactions, refuting claims of seeking personal gain from founding DEGUFO. He announces a reduction in membership fees and an increase in the annual subscription price for DEGUFORUM due to rising costs.

Articles and Features

Hypothese: Theorie der unbekannten Flugobjekte

This section presents personal UFO experiences and reflections by the author, Hans Joachim Heyer. He recounts several sightings and unusual events, including a perceived spacecraft that transformed into his desk lamp, sightings of large disk-shaped objects, and a profound experience involving free fall and encounters with luminous beings. He also describes seeing projected images of alien landscapes during meditation and witnessing strange aerial phenomena. Heyer proposes a classification of UFOs based on their materialization degree, ranging from thought forms to fully materialized objects. He suggests that these experiences might be manifestations of consciousness or parapsychological phenomena, possibly influenced by collective belief systems.

Computerspiele: Das spielerische UFO

This article reviews the computer game "UFO: Enemy Unknown" (also known as "X-COM"). It describes the game's premise, where players must unite global forces to combat an alien threat. The review highlights the game's "Ufopedia," which provides detailed information on alien species and technology, and discusses the player's multifaceted role in managing the organization and engaging in combat. The article notes the game's availability on various platforms and its price range.

Serie: Die Betrachtung des UFO-Phänomens und der Prä-Astronautik aus psychoanalytischer und parapsychologischer Sicht - Teil 3

This installment continues the exploration of the UFO phenomenon through the lens of psychoanalysis and parapsychology. The author draws parallels between ancient myths of sky-gods and modern UFO sightings, suggesting that precognition and interpretation play a significant role. The Nazca lines are presented as potential messages to extraterrestrial visitors. The article discusses the concept of 'psychic travel' and the possibility of remote viewing, citing experiments by Russel Targ and Harold Puthoff. It questions whether modern UFOs are indeed advanced spacecraft or manifestations of human consciousness, influenced by collective beliefs and expectations. The author also touches upon the idea of a 'spiritual master' and the creation of a 'UFO myth' within humanity.

Serie: Die kleine Theorie außerirdischer Raumexpeditionen

This short piece, following the discussion on pre-astronautics, acknowledges the necessity of spacecraft for interstellar travel, even for beings with advanced parapsychological abilities. It speculates on the potential motivations and methods of extraterrestrial civilizations, particularly in observing and interacting with developing planets like Earth.

Hypothese: Alt und Neu

A short poem reflecting on the nature of new thinking and its reception, suggesting that new ideas often challenge established norms and provoke resistance from the scientific community.

Hypothese: Die Theorie

This section delves deeper into the theoretical framework presented earlier. It posits that our material reality is a collective dream, and individual experiences that deviate from this consensus can lead to unique perceptions, such as UFO sightings. The author suggests that these perceptions can, through a process akin to Sheldrake's theory of morphic resonance, become shared visions. The article emphasizes the mind's capacity to influence reality and explore different states of consciousness. It argues that extraterrestrials, if they exist, are as real as we are, being part of a larger, multidimensional reality. The author expresses concern that humanity's aggressive tendencies might be projected onto these beings, leading to negative perceptions. He advocates for a positive outlook and the pursuit of peace.

Hypothese: Vorschlag einer Klassifizierung der UFOs nach ihrem Materialisationsgrad

This section offers a proposed classification system for UFO phenomena based on their degree of materialization. The categories range from purely mental concepts like 'gedankliche Vorstellung' (thought form) and 'Tagtraum' (daydream) to more tangible forms like 'Traum' (dream), 'Klartraum' (lucid dream), 'Astralreise' (astral travel), 'Vision eines Einzelnen' (individual vision), 'Massenvision' (mass vision), and finally, 'Materiell mit einer oder mehreren fehlenden physikalischen Eigenschaften' (material with one or more missing physical properties) and 'Vollständig materiell' (fully material).

Hypothese: Die Theorie

This part of the 'Hypothese' section discusses the concept of psychic connections and their relevance to UFO phenomena. It references experiments by Helmut Schmidt involving the influence of consciousness on random number generators and the ability of psychic healers to affect biological enzymes. The author then compares these parapsychological findings with photographic evidence of UFOs, particularly the work of Ted Serios, suggesting that some unidentified lights in photographs might be psychokinetic manifestations.

Buchbesprechung

This issue includes reviews of several books by Jaques Vallee: "Enthüllungen" (Revelations), "Konfrontationen" (Confrontations), and "Dimensionen" (Dimensions). It also reviews "Signale von anderen Welten" (Signals from Other Worlds) by Prof. Frank Drake and "Fliegerkalender 1995" (Aviator Calendar 1995).

Sichtungen

This section details several UFO sightings, including a potential UFO hotspot over Lohbrügge, a sighting over Grünenplan/Niedersachsen, and objects observed over Groß Gerau-Dornheim.

Thermine/Veranstaltungen

Announcements for events, including "Freunde im Raum Köln-Aachen-Koblenz-Eifel" and a congress on "Parapsychologie in Rußland" (Parapsychology in Russia).

Bücherschau

A listing of a catalog for UFO literature and related topics: "Neue Wissenschaften und grenzwissenschaftliche Mysterien" (New Sciences and Borderland Mysteries).

Leserbriefe, Presseschau, Impressum

Standard sections for reader correspondence, press reviews, and the publication's imprint.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the multifaceted nature of the UFO phenomenon, exploring its potential connections to parapsychology, psychoanalysis, and even the concept of pre-astronautics. The magazine consistently presents personal accounts and theoretical discussions, encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations beyond conventional scientific understanding. The editorial stance, as evidenced by Nühlen's piece, is one of defending the organization against external criticism while maintaining a focus on factual reporting and the pursuit of knowledge within the UFO community. There is a clear emphasis on critical thinking, personal experience, and the exploration of consciousness as key elements in understanding these unexplained phenomena.

This issue of Deguforum, titled 'Serie', delves into the analysis of UFO phenomena, with a significant focus on the 1950 McMinnville photographs and their controversial treatment in the Condon Report. The magazine features articles by Frank Oschatz, Eberhard Schneider, and reviews of books by Jaques Vallee and Prof. Frank Drake.

Article: The 1950 McMinnville Photos and Their Treatment by Skeptics

This multi-part analysis by Eberhard Schneider critically examines the McMinnville photographs, taken by farmer Paul Trent in Oregon in 1950. The author argues that the Condon Report, particularly its summary, deliberately downplayed or omitted crucial findings from its own technical analysis that supported the authenticity of the photos.

Part I: Contradictions in the Condon Report

Edward U. Condon, the project leader, initially dismissed the photos as too blurry for analysis. However, Condon-report staff member William K. Hartmann conducted a detailed photographic analysis that concluded the photos were likely not faked and that the object depicted was a 'UFO' of unknown origin, possibly an extraterrestrial craft. Hartmann's findings indicated that the simplest interpretation of the photos confirmed the witnesses' accounts. Despite this, Condon's summary only vaguely mentioned that some photos were identified as ordinary objects, fakes, or misinterpretations, completely ignoring the positive assessment of the McMinnville photos.

The article points out that the Condon Report also downplayed other 'unexplained' cases, citing one where the object's behavior suggested a 'mechanical apparatus of unknown origin' and another where the report stated a 'high probability that at least one genuine UFO was involved.' Condon allegedly suppressed these findings.

Furthermore, the report's handling of radar analysis is questioned. Condon cited a radar analyst who claimed no case was found that couldn't be explained by atmospheric radar echoes. However, the article reveals that this same analyst had previously stated that 'there are a small but significant number of cases in the radar-visual files for which no plausible explanation exists as atmospherically induced false radar echoes and/or misidentified man-made objects.'

The author suggests that the Condon Report's suppression of key findings was systematic and potentially driven by a motive related to national security, as indicated by declassified documents about the military's serious interest in UFO phenomena and the need for secrecy.

Part II: Silence is Also a Form of Lying

This section focuses on how skeptics like Philip J. Klass and Robert Sheaffer attempted to discredit the McMinnville photos years after the Condon Report. They argued the photos were fakes, despite the Trents' reputation and their initial reluctance to publicize the images.

Klass and Sheaffer's arguments are dissected:

• No-win situation: They criticized the Trents for not seeking publicity, then later criticized them for not seeking publicity, creating a situation where any action would be suspect.
• Timing of the photos: Skeptics argued the photos were taken in the morning due to atmospheric haze and light conditions, contradicting the Trents' account of an evening sighting. However, the article explains that atmospheric haze can occur in the evening with clear air and that partial light can cause underexposure, making the sky appear brighter in the west (where the sun had set) than in the east.
• Asymmetrical shape: Skeptics argued that a manufactured object, especially one with an antenna, should be symmetrical. The article counters that reports from Project Sign (1948) described asymmetrical UFOs resembling turtle shells, suggesting this was not an argument against authenticity.
• Lack of suspension evidence: The McMinnville photos are noted for being original negatives, unlike other UFO photos where suspension threads are visible. The article argues that the absence of visible suspension in the Trent photos supports their authenticity, as a farmer would likely not be able to stage such a hoax.
• 'Repeaters': The claim that the Trents were suspicious because they had reported UFOs before is dismissed as an outdated prejudice, as UFO sightings can occur in clusters and some individuals may be more sensitive to them.
• Scintillation waves: Sheaffer's claim that scintillation waves on the photos indicated the object was close to the telephone mast is refuted by noting the difference in wave size between the object and the mast, suggesting the object was further away.

The author concludes that Klass and Sheaffer engaged in selective interpretation and omission of facts, even misrepresenting statements from the Condon Report itself, to support their predetermined negative conclusions.

Book Reviews

Jaques Vallee: ENTHÜLLUNGEN - Begegnungen mit Außerirdischen und menschlichen Manipulationen (Revelations - Encounters with Extraterrestrials and Human Manipulations)

This book review discusses Vallee's investigation into famous UFO cases like 'Hangar 18,' 'Majestic 12,' and 'Area 51.' Vallee reportedly argues that governments and intelligence agencies have orchestrated a massive disinformation campaign to discredit the UFO phenomenon and conduct sociological experiments to manipulate collective consciousness. The reviewer notes Vallee's assertion that many publicized 'whistleblower' accounts are fabrications designed to confuse the public and conceal the existence of a genuine UFO phenomenon and potentially extraterrestrial contact.

Jaques Vallee: KONFRONTATION - Begegnungen mit Außerirdischen und wissenschaftlichen Beweisen (Confrontation - Encounters with Extraterrestrials and Scientific Evidence)

This review of Vallee's second book in a trilogy focuses on UFO sightings and encounters. Vallee reportedly presents evidence for the existence of UFOs, arguing that they do not adhere to human-conceived laws of physics or behavior. He suggests that UFOs can heal or harm humans, appear and disappear, and sometimes manifest as material objects despite being composed of light. Vallee posits that UFO phenomena may be manifestations of a spiritual control system and that the human mind, through belief and imagination, plays a role in shaping these encounters.

Jaques Vallee: DIMENSIONEN - Begegnungen mit Außerirdischen von unserem eigenen Planeten (Dimensions - Encounters with Extraterrestrials from Our Own Planet)

Described as the most important UFO book the reviewer has read, this volume argues that UFOs are intelligences from other dimensions interacting with Earth. Vallee suggests that the scientific community's denial of UFOs stems from a lack of intelligence to comprehend such phenomena. He posits that advanced intelligences might use existing Earth structures to materialize and that the seemingly absurd behavior of UFOs is a clue to their advanced nature. The reviewer agrees with Vallee's assertion that the scientific world often ignores or destroys evidence that doesn't fit its paradigm.

Prof. Frank Drake: Signale von anderen Welten (Signals from Other Worlds)

This review discusses Drake's book on the scientific search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI), focusing on the use of radio telescopes to listen for modulated radio waves from space. The reviewer criticizes the scientific method employed, suggesting Drake's own book provides evidence of 'intelligent life on Earth' through the work of an amateur codebreaker, implying that professional scientists lack the necessary enthusiasm and imagination for such discoveries. Drake himself reportedly admits that enthusiastic amateurs might be better suited for deciphering alien signals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical stance towards official explanations and skeptical dismissals of UFO phenomena. It champions the idea that UFOs are real and that there is a concerted effort, possibly by governments, to conceal the truth or manipulate public perception. The articles emphasize the importance of rigorous analysis of evidence, even when it contradicts established scientific paradigms. The reviews of Jaques Vallee's books highlight his theories about disinformation campaigns, sociological experiments, and the potential for UFOs to be manifestations of higher consciousness or interdimensional beings. The overall tone suggests a belief in the profound implications of the UFO phenomenon for humanity's understanding of reality and its future.

This issue of Deguforum, titled "Thema Freie Energie" (Theme Free Energy), delves into the complex and often controversial topics of free energy generation, UFO sightings, and the underlying physics, particularly quantum mechanics and zero-point energy. The magazine presents a critical review of Frank Drake's book on SETI, questioning his scientific approach and highlighting his perceived limitations in understanding the truly 'alien'. It also features reviews of a "Fliegerkalender 1995" and discusses the challenges in energy supply, the limitations of current solutions like nuclear fusion, and the potential of regenerative energies.

Free Energy - Utopia or Reality?

The article "Freie Energie - Utopie oder Realität oder Warum fliegen UFOs" (Free Energy - Utopia or Reality? or Why do UFOs Fly?) forms the core of the issue. It begins by addressing the urgent need for new energy sources due to climate change and the drawbacks of existing technologies like nuclear power. While acknowledging the progress in regenerative energies like solar and wind, it points out their limitations and the ongoing research into fusion. The author questions the fundamental nature of energy itself, noting that despite its centrality to modern science, its essence remains elusive.

The concept of a "Perpetuum Mobile" is discussed in relation to the law of conservation of energy, with the article proposing thought experiments that challenge the conventional understanding. It introduces the idea that "nothingness" does not exist and that the vacuum is filled with fluctuating energy, a concept linked to the Zero-Point Field (ZPF).

Quantum Physics and Zero-Point Energy

The magazine explores how quantum physics, with its concepts of energy quantization and wave-particle duality, offers a new perspective on reality. It highlights the work of physicists like Planck, Einstein, and Heisenberg, particularly the uncertainty principle and Einstein's famous E=mc² equation, which suggests that energy and mass are interchangeable. The article explains that subatomic particles can spontaneously appear and disappear, and that the vacuum is not empty but teeming with "Zero-Point Energy." This energy, available even at absolute zero temperature, is proposed as a potential source for free energy devices.

Stochastic Electrodynamics and its Implications

Stochastic Electrodynamics (SED) is presented as a competing theory to quantum mechanics, suggesting that the Zero-Point Field is a real, pervasive entity. This theory, building on earlier work by Einstein and others, proposes that mass, inertia, and gravity are not fundamental properties but emerge from the interaction of charged particles with the ZPF. The article discusses the work of Haisch, Rueda, and Puthoff, who suggest that mass is an illusion created by the interaction with this field, and that gravity might also be an electromagnetic phenomenon.

Practical Applications and Devices

The issue then shifts to practical attempts to harness free energy. The Casimir effect is described as a phenomenon where two closely spaced metal plates are attracted due to vacuum energy fluctuations, though its practical application for energy generation is deemed limited. More promising avenues include the use of Casimir forces on ionized gases and electrons, and the exploitation of water-sonar luminescence.

The Testatika and the Searl Effect Generator

Two specific devices are highlighted: the "Testatika" from Switzerland, claimed to generate energy from an unknown source, and John R.R. Searl's "Searl Effect Generator" (SEG). The Testatika is described as a machine with a claimed efficiency of 1:106, capable of producing 3kW. The SEG, developed in the 1950s, involves rotating magnetic cylinders and is said to produce significant radial air movement, cause objects to become weightless, and even levitate. The article notes that the exact composition of the magnets and the manufacturing process are crucial secrets.

UFO Sightings in Lohbrügge

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to UFO sightings in the Lohbrügge area of Hamburg, Germany. Several eyewitness accounts from late 1989 to early 1995 are detailed, describing silent, disc-shaped objects with unusual lights, hovering, and rapid ascent. The reports mention phenomena like overexposed photographs, possibly due to microwave radiation, and a connection to a local research facility for wood biology and technology.

International Perspectives and Conclusion

The article contrasts the openness to new scientific ideas in Japan and the USA with a perceived conservatism in Germany. It quotes Einstein on the evolving nature of scientific theories and the conflict between reality and established ideas. The author, Frank Menhorn, concludes by emphasizing the importance of embracing new paradigms and the potential of free energy and UFO phenomena to revolutionize our understanding of the universe.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of unconventional physics, particularly quantum mechanics and zero-point energy, as potential explanations for free energy and UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the investigation of these topics despite mainstream skepticism. There is a clear critique of rigid scientific dogma and a call for a more holistic approach that integrates different perspectives, including those from Eastern philosophies and alternative theories. The magazine champions the pursuit of 'true' knowledge and freedom from intellectual censorship.

This issue of Deguforum, identified as issue 103 and published in 1995, is dedicated to the topic of UFO sightings, with a prominent focus on events in Grünenplan, Niedersachsen, Germany. The magazine is published by DEGUFO e. V. (German-speaking Society for UFO Research) and features a mix of witness reports, analytical articles, reader letters, and news from the UFO and paranormal research community.

UFO Sightings over Grünenplan/Niedersachsen

The lead article details several UFO sightings reported in the region of Grünenplan, Niedersachsen, Germany. On Friday, November 25, 1994, a 57-year-old man and his daughter reported seeing a round, brightly shining disc hovering motionlessly in the sky around 7:00 AM. The Alfelder Zeitung newspaper solicited further reports, and the article's author, Marco Strohmeier, spoke with several witnesses.

One witness, a factory worker from Dellingsen, reported seeing a boomerang-shaped object on Tuesday, November 21, 1994, around 9:00 PM. The object hovered silently, changed color from white to yellow to red, and was observed for five minutes before disappearing. The witness ruled out conventional explanations like balloons or laser shows, noting the object's size was estimated to be twice that of the full moon and that it did not move like a balloon.

Another report from the same period mentions an 84-year-old man from Alfeld/Leine who observed a bright white light around 3:00 AM. The article emphasizes the number of witnesses, suggesting the sightings were not easily dismissed as absurd.

UFO Sightings over Groß-Gerau-Dornheim

Another section details sightings over Groß-Gerau-Dornheim. On January 19, 1995, between 9:30 PM and 10:00 PM, a witness observed eight objects, two of which were brighter and alternated. They flew towards Frankfurt and disappeared behind a house. The estimated altitude was around 1 km, and the distance about 10 km, under cloudy skies.

A day later, January 20, 1995, the same witness reported seeing an object that appeared and disappeared, then shot upwards. Once it reached about 1 km high, eight more objects were seen below it. The witness could not observe further as they had to drive away. The first object reportedly glowed red and white, while the others were white. The observation lasted about 5-10 seconds, with the object taking on height and direction changes.

Reader Letters and Debates

Several reader letters address ongoing debates within the UFO community.

One letter from Udo Vöhringer, Hans-Dieter Mohr, and Matthias Jeschonnek proposes increased cooperation among UFO groups, suggesting joint actions and information sharing to avoid fragmentation and 'turf wars' within the scene. They offer themselves as mediators.

S. Auzins comments on a previous article about crop circles, suggesting that some 'black triangles' might be 'visitors from our own future' rather than extraterrestrial craft. They recall similar sightings in Nuremberg in the late 1980s.

A letter from an unnamed author (responding to an article by Julia Zimmermann) disputes claims about crop circles, stating that they did not enter any formations and only observed them from a distance or from a plane. They question the ability to judge the authenticity of crop circles without direct examination and criticize the article for potentially misrepresenting facts.

Another reader, Ute Weyer, also comments on crop circles and the 'Sling' project. She defends the authenticity of crop circles, stating that 'falsifiers' are the ones who know best about what happens in the fields. She clarifies that the 'Sling' project is not about measuring movement or sound but about recording electromagnetic phenomena. She also notes that the number of crop formations has not decreased but rather increased, with more found in counties like Oxfordshire, Sussex, and Devon.

Dr. Peter Bahn requests information about DEGUFO, its objectives, and a sample copy of its publication, expressing skepticism about the tone of a previous article by Herr Hesemann in 'Magazin 2000'.

Another reader, responding to Hesemann's 'Magazin 2000,' calls it a 'fighting paper' and criticizes Hesemann's stance as discrediting himself. This reader claims that Amaury Rivera's images are fakes, which they were able to prove by digitally analyzing a frame from Hesemann's own documentary 'UFOs: The Evidence.' They detail how image manipulation software revealed 'threads' used for suspension, which were not visible to the naked eye but became apparent through contrast enhancement and analysis of interference patterns.

Press Review

The press review section covers several topics:

• "Brennpunkt UFOs": An article by an UFO writer who, while not believing in conventional UFOs with rivets and seams, affirms the subjective reality of UFO-like phenomena. The writer criticizes the UFO community for being naive and accepting almost anything as a spacecraft. The article mentions the writer's hypothesis about worldwide cultural impacts from early 'Close Encounter' experiences.
• "THOSE ASTOUNDING STUPAS - AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE FANTASTIC": This section discusses the origin and spread of the stupa and double-serpent motif as a reflection of ancient UFO encounters. It draws parallels between modern UFO myths (glowing, dome-shaped craft, humanoid beings) and ancient religious analogies of the stupa as a 'vehicle of a god' that could transport the soul to higher spheres.
• High Activity in Space: Reports on the detection of red quasars, which indicate the presence of dust and distant celestial bodies, suggesting the universe is more populated than previously thought. Research using a large mirror telescope in Spain is mentioned.
• Mysterious Radio Signals from Space: The search for extraterrestrial intelligence is intensified by the detection of microwave emissions from four stars similar to our sun. While the signals are stronger than solar emissions, scientists lean towards a natural origin, though artificial sources are not entirely ruled out.

Other Sections

• Events and Meetings: An announcement for a meeting of UFO enthusiasts in the Cologne-Aachen-Koblenz-Eifel region, held monthly on the last Friday of the month.
• Congress "Parapsychology in Russia": Information about an upcoming congress in Neuss, featuring Russian sensitives and scientists demonstrating phenomena like clairvoyance and telekinesis. It also mentions discussions on UFOs in Russia.
• Fachkatalog für UFO-Literatur: An advertisement for a catalog of UFO literature and related topics.
• Verein „ARCHIV - Rätsel der Erdgeschichte": An announcement for a Berlin-based association studying earth's mysteries, including archaeology, extraterrestrial civilizations, UFO phenomena, and alternative healing methods.
• Beratung/Information/Einweihung: A section offering guidance for UFOlogists, meditators, system analysts, and others interested in new age religions, unity, and ethics, directing inquiries to DEGUFORUM and associated study groups.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Deguforum revolve around UFO sightings and the broader spectrum of paranormal and 'border science' topics. There's a clear emphasis on witness testimony and the investigation of unexplained phenomena. The magazine also highlights internal debates within the UFO community, particularly concerning the authenticity of evidence and the need for cooperation among researchers. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the exploration of these subjects while acknowledging skepticism and critical analysis, as evidenced by the inclusion of reader letters that challenge certain claims and methodologies. The magazine aims to provide a platform for diverse perspectives within the field of UFO research and related disciplines.