Deguforum - Issue 13 - 1997

Magazine Overview

This issue of DEGUFORUM, the journal of the German-speaking UFO research society DEGUFO e.V., is the 13th issue of its 4th year, dated March 1997. It features a cover story on Comet Hale-Bopp and includes articles on UFO sightings, disinformation, book reviews, and a new physics theory.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Reinhard Nühlen, wishes readers a happy new year and introduces the diverse topics covered in this issue. It highlights the article on Comet Hale-Bopp, noting its close approach to Earth and its visibility. The editorial also addresses the mysterious objects reported near the MIR space station, stating that initial explanations like 'trash bags' have been dismissed and that the object was not MIR itself. A significant portion of the editorial is dedicated to the theme of 'Desinformation', referencing an article by H.-J. Heyer and criticizing the media's role in manipulating societal values. Nühlen also discusses an attempt by CENAP to 'dissect' DEGUFO in a special report, which he deems unsuccessful. He then delves into a critique of CSICOP (Committee for Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), citing passages from Robert Anton Wilson's book 'The New Inquisition'. The critique focuses on CSICOP's alleged 'smear campaigns' against researchers and highlights a controversy surrounding physicist Dennis Rawlins's critique of CSICOP's analysis of the 'Mars Effect' and Michel Gauquelin's statistical studies on astrology. The editorial concludes by thanking readers for their feedback and engagement.

Hale Bopp: A Cosmic Mystery

Frank Menhorn's article, "Welches Geheimnis umgibt Haie Bopp?" (What Mystery Surrounds Hale Bopp?), explores the unusual characteristics of Comet Hale-Bopp. Discovered on July 23, 1995, it was visible 20 months before its closest approach to the sun, significantly earlier than typical comets. The article notes parallels to Zecharia Sitchin's 'Nibiru' and mentions the decreasing quality of Hubble Space Telescope images. A key event was the discovery of a strange object accompanying the comet by amateur astronomer Chuck Shramek in November 1996. Shramek's findings gained widespread attention after an interview on the Art Bell Show, leading to intense discussion and further investigation by the Farsight Institute, which specializes in remote viewing. The article details how an anonymous astronomer provided Shramek with information and images, suggesting the object was artificial and under intelligent control, even claiming it emitted radio signals. However, this astronomer also provided film rolls to the Farsight Institute, which, after development, contained images of the comet and its companion. This astronomer requested anonymity until a press conference. The article also touches upon the Vatican's alleged interest in Hale-Bopp, with a source claiming a secret observatory was tracking the comet and sending data to the Pope. The article questions the authenticity of a digital alteration of an image, contrasting it with the Farsight Institute's claim of a film origin. It also discusses the unusual orbital path of Hale-Bopp and its alignment with the Orion's Belt stars, a connection previously explored by Robert Bauval regarding the Egyptian pyramids.

Object Characteristics and Theories

The article "Welches Geheimnis umgibt Haie Bopp?" further investigates the nature of the object accompanying the comet. While JPL suggested it might be a star with a magnitude of +8 to +9, Shramek's observation was of an object so bright it caused him fear, unlike any star he had encountered in 40 years of amateur astronomy. The article discusses the possibility of CCD artifacts, where long exposures can amplify light, especially red light from red giant stars. However, Shramek used filters to mitigate this and maintained consistent object size over short exposures. The article presents an image from the Observatorio del Teide, Tenerife, showing the object with sharp outlines, seemingly unaffected by the comet's jets, suggesting it is a physical object. The article considers theories such as the object being hollow due to its lack of gravitational influence on the comet's path. It also mentions that Japanese astronomers, after initially declaring the object unknown, later aligned with the star theory to explain away their findings. Two less fantastic theories are presented: one suggesting stars behind the comet's tail appear larger due to light amplification, and another proposing that the comet's immense material output might create a plasma that forms such objects. Ultimately, the article concludes that all presented theories have weaknesses, and the hypothesis of an artificial, intelligently controlled object remains a possibility, especially given its alignment with Sitchin's 'Nibiru' and the unusual interest from institutions like the Vatican.

Book Reviews

This issue includes several book reviews:

• Gerd Duering - Weltformel (World Formula): This review discusses Gerd Duering's 'Kormin Theory', which posits that all matter is composed of a fundamental substance called 'Kormin'. Duering, a computer specialist, claims this theory can explain various physical phenomena, including the 'hole' in the universe discovered shortly after his book's publication. The theory suggests Kormin is the carrier of gravity and a medium for all energies and electromagnetic waves. A particularly interesting aspect for ufology is the 'Kormin drive' for spacecraft, which could enable unlimited acceleration without inertial effects on passengers. The review notes the book's dense information despite its brevity and high price.
• CENAP-REPORT-EXTRA - „Das esoterische Mischwesen namens DEGUFO“: This report is mentioned in the editorial as an attempt by CENAP to critique DEGUFO, which the editorial dismisses as unsuccessful.
• Werner Walter - UFOs - Die Wahrheit (UFOs - The Truth): This book is listed in the table of contents, suggesting it is reviewed or discussed within the issue.
• M. Hesemann - UFOs über Deutschland (UFOs over Germany): Also listed in the table of contents, indicating its presence in the issue.

Case Analysis: UFO or Helicopter?

The article "UFO oder Hubschrauber?" (UFO or Helicopter?) by R. Nühlen details a sighting on February 2, 1996, near Winningen, Germany. The witness and his aunt observed three red lights in a triangle formation, followed by a white, pulsating light. The object was silent, hovered motionless, and then moved slowly and diagonally across a field. Their inquiry at the Winningen airport tower yielded no information about unusual air traffic at that time, though it was noted that the tower was not staffed around 7 PM. The article also mentions a report of a UFO sighting by a British Airways pilot on SWF 3 Radio. Investigations into military exercises in the nearby 'Rübenacher Wald' revealed no scheduled 'signals shooting exercises' during that period. The witness ruled out a helicopter due to its silence and lack of positional lights, contrasting it with the 20 helicopters they see daily.

Mysterious Objects and MIR Space Station

Another case analysis, "Mysteriöse Flugobjekte begleiten Raumstation MIR" (Mysterious Flying Objects Accompany MIR Space Station) by R. Nühlen and A. Haxel, revisits the phenomenon of unidentified objects near the MIR space station. The article notes that initial explanations have been insufficient and that the observed phenomena were not related to MIR itself. The investigation involved extensive research, and the 'trash bag' theory was quickly dismissed.

Disinformation in Focus

H.-J. Heyer's article, "Desinformation in Focus," on pages 16-19, addresses the pervasive issue of disinformation in the media. The article, as referenced in the editorial, highlights how a large portion of the media attempts to manipulate and alter societal values. The editorial uses the CENAP's critique of DEGUFO as an example of this disinformation tactic.

Poetry

The issue includes a section of poems by H.-J. Heyer: "Innenwelt" (Inner World), "Auftauchen" (Emergence), and "Wachtraum" (Waking Dream).

Letters to the Editor

There is a "Leserbrief" (Letter to the Editor) from A. Risi, followed by a response titled "Antwort an Herrn Risi" (Response to Mr. Risi).

Impressum

The "Impressum" (Imprint) section is on page 32.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of DEGUFORUM consistently emphasizes critical examination of phenomena, particularly UFO sightings and their potential explanations. There is a strong undercurrent of skepticism towards official explanations and a focus on uncovering what is perceived as suppressed information or disinformation. The critique of CSICOP and the detailed analysis of the Hale-Bopp object suggest a leaning towards the possibility of artificial, non-human technology. The magazine also engages with fringe scientific theories, as evidenced by the review of the 'Kormin Theory', indicating an open-minded but analytical approach to unconventional subjects. The editorial stance appears to be one of challenging established narratives and encouraging readers to question official accounts, especially concerning UFOs and related mysteries.

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 13
Date: March 1997

This issue of DEGUFORUM, a German publication focused on UFO phenomena and related topics, features a prominent article titled "Mysterious Objects Accompanying the MIR Space Station?" It also includes critical analyses of scientific theories and the media's portrayal of science.

Mysterious Objects Accompanying the MIR Space Station?

The main article by Reinhard Nühlen and Andreas Haxel investigates a series of sightings from June 6-7, 1996, where witnesses reported observing a chain of lights in the sky. Initially, these sightings were speculated to be related to the MIR space station. The authors recount the initial report of D.H. from Aschaffenburg and R.N. from Bad Kreuznach, who observed a chain of 11 objects, with one brighter object (possibly MIR) leading the formation.

Reactions to the initial report were varied, with some suggesting the objects were satellites, while others, including the CENAP organization, attempted to 'explain' the phenomenon. The article notes that the English UFO magazine "Flying Saucer Review" also published the report.

To clarify the situation, the authors delve into the possibility of the objects being space debris. They reference a report from the spaceflight journal about the MIR station's financial difficulties and its reliance on the Space Shuttle for supplies and waste disposal, as the Progress spacecraft were not always available. This leads to the hypothesis that the observed lights might have been waste ejected from the MIR.

However, the article proceeds to rigorously examine the orbital data of the MIR space station for the night of June 6-7, 1996. Using professional software and cross-referencing with data from organizations like US SPACECOM, they conclude that none of the observed objects matched the trajectory of the MIR or any other known satellites. Furthermore, no re-entries of satellites into the Earth's atmosphere were recorded for that night, ruling out fragmented debris.

The authors also address other proposed explanations, such as aircraft or balloon tests, and dismiss them based on the witness testimonies and the nature of the sightings. A specific incident on February 1, 1996, near the Winningen airfield, initially reported as an unidentified object, was later identified as a police helicopter testing a new spotlight.

Crucially, the article highlights that the observed objects did not exhibit the typical behavior of satellites in low Earth orbit, which are only visible during twilight periods. The chain-like formation and the consistent spacing between objects, along with their movement, did not align with known satellite behavior.

The investigation also touches upon a sighting in Salzburg, Austria, on the same night, where observers at a star observatory reported a similar chain of light points. Despite attempts to find natural explanations, the authors conclude that the phenomenon remains unidentified.

They state that their analysis, which included checking over 1063 satellites, found no match for the observed objects. The possibility of fragments from MIR was also ruled out, as any debris would not maintain such a coordinated formation. The article concludes that the observed objects represent a phenomenon that cannot be explained by current known factors, and all previous explanations are considered invalidated.

Desinformation in FOCUS

This section critically examines an article from FOCUS magazine (issue 52/96) titled "God and Science." The author argues that FOCUS promotes a new 'myth' by replacing traditional religious concepts with scientific ones, citing the footballer Mehmet Scholl and the field of research and technology as new 'gods'. The article criticizes the magazine for presenting scientific findings, particularly regarding evolution, as absolute truth while dismissing religious beliefs.

The author highlights the perceived shift from a God-centered worldview to a science-centered one, noting that the church has seemingly accepted Darwin's theory of evolution. The piece quotes neurobiologist Wolf Singer, suggesting that personality might be based on brain architecture, a materialist perspective.

A key point of contention is the article's interpretation of physicist Hans Peter Dürr's statement about understanding the 'symphony' of a record without understanding its 'producer.' The author argues that FOCUS misinterprets this to imply that science can explain everything, thereby negating the need for a divine creator. The author contrasts this with Dürr's position, which is seen as offering a more nuanced perspective outside the 'science myth.'

The article further criticizes the FOCUS piece for embedding Dürr's statement within a network of misinterpretations, suggesting that modern natural science, particularly quantum mechanics, is presented as making God 'possible' but not provable, and that God, if he exists, is abstract and not a personal deity.

The author contends that empirical natural science is actually a violation of the fourth commandment ('You shall not make for yourself an image') because it creates models and theories of reality. The article posits that quantum mechanics, by introducing consciousness and free will as factors in experiments, could allow for a personal God, but this aspect is often suppressed in favor of a materialist interpretation.

Empirical Science - Incorrect Application of Causality

This section delves into a critique of the empirical scientific method, particularly its application of causality. The author argues that science incorrectly seeks the causes of phenomena within other phenomena, failing to consider non-materialistic origins. An analogy of a film projector creating a light spot on a wall is used to illustrate that the immediate cause (sunlight) is not the ultimate cause (the projector).

The author asserts that science cannot discover the existence of consciousness, spirit, or God because it is limited to observable phenomena. This limitation, according to the author, leads to a materialistic worldview that has 'banished humanity from paradise.'

The article suggests that all perceived matter is merely an image or representation created by our minds, and that the brain itself is an 'image' of the immaterial mind or soul. Space and time are also described as mental constructs, with only the present moment being real. This leads to the conclusion that humans are eternal, non-spatial, non-temporal, and immortal beings who contain material universes.

Evolution as a Consequence of Doubtful Research Methods

This part of the article challenges the theory of evolution, labeling it as a flawed model based on a reductionist research method. The author argues that reductionism, which seeks to explain complex phenomena by reducing them to simpler causes, leads to theories like evolution and the Big Bang, which are deemed incorrect.

The article posits that the universe is not a product of random evolution but rather a creation. It suggests that the 'Devolution Theory' or 'Creationism' is the true explanation, where the lower is created from the higher, contrasting with the evolutionary idea of development from simpler to more complex forms.

The author criticizes the notion that the universe is determined from above, stating that higher developed beings manipulate the less developed. This is linked to the idea that people believe in evolution because they see their own lives as subject to blind forces.

No Application of Epistemology

This section further criticizes the evolutionary theory by arguing that it is derived from observations of the 'phenomenal world' and is therefore materialistic. The author claims that all materialistic models violate the principles of epistemology, which states that our perception of an object is not the object itself but an 'image' or 'appearance.'

The article argues that while the evolutionary theory suggests that these images have become increasingly accurate over time, this is a false conclusion. It asserts that an image can never be identical to the original, and that there is always a fundamental difference, thus invalidating materialism as a basis for understanding reality.

No External Forces!

This part questions the idea of external forces driving evolution. The author argues that the system of mutation and selection is internal to life itself and that there are no external conditions to which life must adapt. The article suggests that life on Earth is intrinsically connected to the rest of the universe and that life changes without external triggers. The search for external causes is seen as a product of the reductionist scientific method, which aims to maintain a materialistic model.

The author proposes that if a system generates its own mutations and selection, it is its own creator. This leads to the question of whether this creator is conscious (implying creationism) or unconscious (implying evolution). This is linked to whether the universe is holistic or not.

Is the Universe Holistic?

The article defines a non-holistic universe as one where information travels slowly, leading to isolated information and potentially an unconscious environment. This is contrasted with a holistic universe where everything is interconnected. The author suggests that a non-holistic universe would make it impossible for conscious beings to exist within an unconscious, dead universe.

Will vs. Reason

This section discusses why natural science is susceptible to easily refutable speculations. The author attributes this to the lack of free will among natural scientists, who are bound by a system of reason that excludes personal will. This leads to a focus on observable phenomena and a denial of any 'will' in the universe, resulting in the perception of blind evolution.

Information within such rational systems is described as locally limited, leading to a fragmented understanding of truth and a focus on the 'world of appearances.' The article notes that while some scientific theories, like wave aspects of light and quantum mechanics, appear holistic, they are often misinterpreted or applied in a way that upholds a materialistic worldview.

Response to Hans-Jörg Köhler (CENAP-REPORT EXTRA 1/1996)

This final section is a response to an article by Hans-Jörg Köhler, who is critical of DEGUFO and its methods. The author defends DEGUFO's approach, arguing that Köhler misunderstands their research and that communication between them has been monological rather than dialogical. Köhler's critique of DEGUFO's founding and methods is addressed, with the author asserting that their approach is based on empirical science and the analysis of available data, rather than speculative interpretations.

The author refutes Köhler's claim that DEGUFO is redundant, arguing that it fills a niche in UFO research. They also challenge Köhler's interpretations of specific UFO sightings, accusing him of forcing evidence to fit his preconceived notions (e.g., identifying objects as balloons without sufficient justification).

The article concludes by stating that while Köhler's critique of DEGUFO's early publications is noted, the author stands by their methods and the integrity of their research, emphasizing the importance of analyzing facts without distortion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DEGUFORUM include the critical examination of UFO sightings, the debunking of purported explanations, and a deep skepticism towards mainstream scientific paradigms, particularly evolution and materialism. The editorial stance is one of advocating for a more holistic and conscious understanding of reality, often contrasting it with what the authors perceive as the limitations and 'desinformation' propagated by empirical science and popular media. There is a strong undercurrent of philosophical and spiritual inquiry, questioning the purely materialist worldview and suggesting the existence of a higher, conscious force behind creation.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, number 13, dated March 1997, is a German-language publication that delves into the complex and often controversial world of UFO research, philosophy, and esotericism. The magazine presents a critical perspective on conventional UFO debunking methods and advocates for a more open-minded, spiritual, and philosophical approach to understanding unexplained phenomena.

Editorial Stance and Key Articles

The central theme of this issue appears to be a critique of certain UFO researchers and their methodologies, particularly focusing on the work of Werner Walter and Hans-Jörg Köhler. The author of several articles, likely Hans-Joachim Heyer, engages in a detailed refutation of Köhler's criticisms of DEGUFO's publications and its contributors.

Critique of Hans-Jörg Köhler and Werner Walter

The issue opens with a strong rebuttal to Hans-Jörg Köhler's critique of DEGUFO's approach. The author defends DEGUFO's logical framework, which they claim is understandable to scientists, and highlights positive reader feedback. Köhler's criticisms of DEGUFO's handling of Omnec Onec's work and his dismissal of UFOlogists are addressed, with the author arguing that Köhler misunderstands the nuances of their research and unfairly labels them as 'deluded UFOlogists'.

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to dissecting Werner Walter's book, "UFOs - Die Wahrheit". The author meticulously compares Walter's account of a specific UFO sighting (reported by Lohre) with that of Dr. Peter Hattwig, highlighting alleged discrepancies and manipulations in Walter's analysis. Walter is accused of distorting facts, shortening observation times, and misrepresenting witness testimonies to fit his agenda of debunking UFOs as mundane objects like balloons or aircraft.

The author contends that Walter's method involves a pre-determined outcome, where every case must be explained as an IFO (Identified Flying Object), leaving no room for genuinely unexplained phenomena. This approach is contrasted with the scientific tradition of acknowledging the unknown. The critique extends to Walter's alleged association with authorities and his role in what the author perceives as a disinformation campaign.

Philosophical and Esoteric Explorations

Beyond the direct critiques, the magazine engages in deeper philosophical discussions. Armin Risi contributes a letter that praises DEGUFORUM for its quality and its focus on bridging the gap between materialism and spirituality. Risi highlights the magazine's role in challenging a simplistic, materialistic worldview and promoting a more holistic understanding of the universe, drawing parallels with ancient Vedic philosophy.

Hans-Joachim Heyer, in his response to Risi, further elaborates on these themes. He argues that our perception of reality, including space, time, and matter, is shaped by our consciousness and our 'mindset'. He posits that while we don't 'create' reality in an absolute sense, we do 'select' from what is available, influenced by our individual and collective consciousness. This perspective is contrasted with a purely materialistic view, which Heyer believes leads to a limited understanding of the universe.

Heyer also discusses the concept of 'maya' from Vedic philosophy, suggesting that the material world, while appearing real, is ultimately an illusion or a projection. He emphasizes that true understanding comes from recognizing our spiritual nature and aligning with a higher truth or 'God'. This perspective is presented as a necessary counterpoint to the prevailing materialistic influences that, according to the authors, contribute to societal problems like the ecological crisis.

Book Reviews and Other Content

The issue includes a review of Michael Hesemann's book, "UFOs über Deutschland - Ein praktisches Handbuch." While generally positive, noting its suitability for younger readers and its balanced approach, the reviewer expresses disappointment with Hesemann's critical remarks about DEGUFO in one chapter, accusing him of unfair defamation and suggesting it was unnecessary.

Poetry is also featured, with two poems by Hans-Joachim Heyer: "Wach Traum" (Awake Dream) and "Auf Tauchen" (On Diving), which touch upon themes of inner worlds, deep truths, and philosophical inquiry.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the philosophical underpinnings of reality and consciousness, and the exploration of spiritual or esoteric perspectives as valid avenues of inquiry. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of a more open-minded, critical, yet spiritually informed approach to UFO research, challenging established scientific paradigms and perceived disinformation campaigns. The magazine positions itself as a platform for in-depth discussion that bridges the gap between empirical investigation and philosophical/spiritual understanding, advocating for a move beyond purely materialistic explanations of the universe.

DEGUFORUM, Issue 13, March 1997.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, identified as Nr. 13 and dated March 1997, is a publication from the DEGU organization. The magazine appears to focus on the topic of UFOs and UAPs, as suggested by the cover graphic which includes a stylized depiction of a flying saucer. The publication details are visible on both pages, with 'DEGUFORUM' and 'Nr. 13, März 1997' printed at the bottom. Page 31 and 32 are presented, indicating a continuation of content across these pages. The overall confidence score for legibility is low due to the limited visible text and the nature of the scan, which primarily shows page numbers and publication details.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Based on the limited visible information, the recurring theme is undoubtedly UFOs and UAPs. The editorial stance, inferred from the publication's focus and the cover imagery, likely aligns with an interest in investigating and discussing unexplained aerial phenomena. The organization behind the publication is DEGU.