Deguforum - Issue 15 - 1997

Magazine Overview

This issue of DEGUFORUM, Volume 4, Number 15, dated December 1997, is the journal of the German-speaking Society for UFO Research (DEGUFO e.V.). It features a prominent cover image of a tree silhouetted against a dark sky with a flying saucer hovering above it, accompanied by the main headline "DEGUFORUM". The issue is priced at DM 7.50.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Hans-Joachim Heyer, discusses the challenges of understanding the UFO phenomenon with conventional methods, emphasizing the need for new approaches. Heyer notes that pursuing new paths in UFO research has garnered both friends and critics, citing Werner Walter and Prof. Lambeck as figures with opposing viewpoints. He expresses gratitude for these critical perspectives, as they aid in self-discovery. The editorial also touches upon the idea of the outer world reflecting one's inner state, referencing Ernst Jünger's "The Glass Bees" and the concept of materialism leading to catastrophe. Heyer posits that the attraction of like vibrations is the true answer to the UFO question, questioning why such fundamental insights are not taught in schools and universities. He reflects on his own university studies in philosophy, political science, and sociology, noting the perceived decline of philosophy in favor of scientific knowledge. The editorial concludes by introducing the new UFO sighting cases presented in the issue, urging readers to find connections between them and to approach the process of categorization with caution.

Book Reviews

"The Day After Roswell" by Col. Philip J. Corso (Ret.) and William J. Birnes

This review details Corso's claims about his time in the Pentagon, where he allegedly worked with "Roswell technology." The book has caused a stir in the UFO community, with some finding Corso's account credible and others dismissing it as the ramblings of an elderly man. Corso's military career is presented as highly reputable, spanning 21 years with extensive training in intelligence and artillery. His role involved examining materials from a UFO crash near New Mexico. The review highlights Corso's assertion that technologies like lasers, integrated circuits, and Kevlar originated from recovered UFO debris. He claims that this "alien technology" was subtly introduced into defense contracts, leading to significant technological advancements in the US. The review also addresses questions about Corso's motivation for revealing this information now, 50 years after the Roswell incident, and the lack of concrete proof in his book, noting it lacks scientific methodology. Birnes, the co-author, clarifies that Corso did not claim the army invented these technologies but rather showed foreign technology to scientists, presenting it as Soviet or Nazi tech to conceal its extraterrestrial origin. Birnes also states that the government's response has been silence, with some military officers expressing support for Corso's revelations. The review points out inconsistencies in Corso's account, such as his mention of John von Neumann being alive in 1961 when he actually died in 1957, raising questions about the reliability of his memory.

"Parapsychological Phenomena: Experiencing Your Own Supernatural Potential in Experiments" by Walter-Jörg Langbein

This book review introduces Walter-Jörg Langbein as an established author known for works on topics like "Astronaut Gods" and "The Great Mysteries of the Last 2500 Years." His latest book shifts focus to parapsychology, exploring the paranormal and supernatural. The review praises Langbein's ability to present complex subjects clearly and includes practical experiments that readers can perform. The book covers a wide range of topics, including the secrets of plants and animals, levitation, astral travel, life after death, and reincarnation. The reviewer commends the book for its informative content, abundant illustrations, and engaging writing style, recommending it for those interested in the mysteries of mind and matter.

"Mysterious Worlds" (10 Volumes) by Moewig-Verlag

This entry briefly mentions a successful series from Moewig-Verlag titled "The World of the Unexplained," followed by a continuation series, "Mysterious Worlds." It notes that author Walter-Jörg Langbein wrote six of the ten titles in this new series, covering topics such as "The Realm of Magic," "Prophets and Gods," and "Secret Societies."

"Signs of Eternity - The Message of Nazca" by Erich von Däniken

This review discusses Erich von Däniken's new book, which focuses exclusively on the Nazca mystery. Däniken challenges existing theories and presents his findings from extensive research in Peru, including aerial photography of previously undocumented formations. The book covers the history of Nazca research, from Maria Reiche to Dr. Cabrera's Ica stones. Däniken's new discoveries, such as the "Mandala" and the "Chessboard" formation, suggest that the Nazca enigma is far from solved. The reviewer recommends the book as a "must" for Däniken fans and anyone interested in the subject, praising its clear writing and attractive color photographs.

"Divine Signs - The Past Future of Earth" by Lars A. Fischinger

This review highlights Lars A. Fischinger's extensive work, noting his deep engagement with various Earth mysteries. The reviewer mentions that Fischinger is working on his second book and that his first work presents bold theses. Dr. Johannes Fiebag is quoted as saying that Fischinger consistently adds new, previously unknown details, making the book valuable even for those with existing knowledge of the paleo-SETI sector. The book is described as comprehensive and essential for understanding the overall topic.

"Diary of an Abductee" by Katharina Wilson

This review introduces Katharina Wilson's book, which details her experiences with alien abduction. The book, along with a supplementary volume, presents her personal encounters with the phenomenon. A key aspect highlighted is Wilson's ability to recall events without hypnosis, contrasting with many other abduction accounts that rely on regression. She also expresses skepticism towards hypnosis for memory retrieval. The review notes that Wilson experienced not only typical CE-IV aspects like gynecological manipulation and medical examinations but also other phenomena. Her report is distinguished by its "alien typology" of observed humanoids.

Science

"Science and Language" by H.-J. Heyer

This section presents an article by H.-J. Heyer titled "Science and Language," which explores the relationship between scientific discourse and linguistic expression.

Commentary on "Can Paranormal Phenomena Be Physically Explained?" by Prof. Dr. Martin Lambeck

Another contribution by H.-J. Heyer is a commentary on an article by Prof. Dr. Martin Lambeck, addressing the question of whether paranormal phenomena can be explained physically.

Discussion

Commentary on the CENAP Report Nr. 242 (5/97) by H.-J. Heyer

H.-J. Heyer provides commentary on the CENAP Report Nr. 242, dated May 1997, likely discussing its findings related to UFO phenomena.

"On World Conspiracy Theories" by H.-J. Heyer

This section features an article by H.-J. Heyer titled "On World Conspiracy Theories," delving into the subject of global conspiracy narratives.

Case Analyses / Sightings

"The Phantom" by W. Raab

This entry refers to a case analysis titled "The Phantom" by W. Raab.

"Interesting Sighting over Heidelberg" by R. Nühlen

This section details an "Interesting Sighting over Heidelberg" reported by R. Nühlen.

"Further Sighting Reports" by R. Nühlen

Another contribution by R. Nühlen presents "Further Sighting Reports."

Press Review

This section is titled "Press Review" and covers pages 27-30.

Scene Info / International / Events

This section, covering pages 21, 30, and 32, provides information on the UFO scene, international news, and upcoming events.

Imprint

The imprint information is on page 32, and the cover image is credited to Gabriele L. Berndt, titled "Abendsegler."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DEGUFORUM revolve around UFO phenomena, extraterrestrial encounters, and the scientific and parapsychological investigation of these subjects. There is a strong emphasis on critical analysis, with book reviews dissecting controversial claims and scientific articles exploring potential explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging new methodologies for understanding the unexplained while acknowledging the existence of differing viewpoints within the field. The issue also touches upon broader philosophical and societal questions, such as the nature of reality, the limitations of conventional science, and the prevalence of conspiracy theories.

DEGUFORUM, Issue 15, September 1997, is a German-language magazine focusing on ufology, paranormal phenomena, science, philosophy, and critical analysis of societal and media trends. This issue features several in-depth articles and reviews, including a critical examination of a prominent UFO abduction book, philosophical discussions on science and language, and an analysis of conspiracy theories.

Book Review: 'Entführt ins All' by Budd Hopkins

Wladislaw Raab provides a scathing review of Budd Hopkins' book "Entführt ins All" (Abducted into All), which details the case of Linda Cortile (Napolitano). Raab dismisses the book as a "completely detached, convoluted, and second-rate agent story" that is less believable than the existence of the Easter Bunny. He highlights numerous points in the book that defy common sense, such as the alleged mass abduction from the Brooklyn Bridge on November 30, 1989, involving Linda, two agents named Dan and Richard, and dozens of others. Raab finds it suspicious that all witnesses, including Napolitano, Dan, and Richard, contacted Hopkins directly, despite the existence of many UFO investigators in New York. He also questions Napolitano's claim of descending from Joan of Arc, pointing out historical inaccuracies. Raab concludes that the book is full of inconsistencies and bizarre illogicalities, resembling a cheap crime novel rather than a CE-IV incident, and feels "fooled" by Hopkins. He suggests Hopkins should withdraw from research to avoid causing further damage.

The editor's note (Anm. d. Red.) offers a counterpoint, acknowledging that the German translation might differ from the original English version. The editor notes that Linda Cortile had been in contact with Hopkins since April 1989 and that the witnesses contacting Hopkins might be explained by his prominence in New York. The editor finds the idea of a conspiracy to be "not suspicious at all."

Book Review: 'Budd Hopkins: Entführt ins All - Die UFO-Kidnapper an der Brooklyn - Bridge'

This section continues the review of Budd Hopkins' book, with Wladislaw Raab offering further critique. Raab quotes passages from the book, including Linda's description of encountering deceased friends on a UFO and her feelings of being in another dimension. He also references Katharina Wilson's book "Tagebuch einer Entführten" (Diary of an Abductee) as important for understanding abduction scenarios, noting that abductions can be remembered without regression and that UFO phenomena may involve more than initially assumed.

Raab then presents a detailed account of the "Linda Cortile" case as described by Hopkins. He highlights the alleged abduction by "security agents" Dan and Richard, the bizarre reason for the abduction (wanting to see her feet), and the subsequent romantic entanglement between the agents and Linda. He also mentions Linda's claim of being descended from Joan of Arc, which Raab finds historically problematic.

Raab criticizes Hopkins for conducting regressions with Napolitano without seeking psychological evaluations. He expresses strong disappointment with the book's title and content, calling it a "cheap crime story" and a "ridiculous pistol story." He concludes that Hopkins should retire from research.

The editor's note (Anm. d. Red.) defends Hopkins, stating that Linda Cortile had been in contact with him since April 1989 and that his prominence in New York might explain why witnesses contacted him. The editor finds the idea of a conspiracy "not suspicious at all."

Wissenschaft und Sprache (Science and Language)

Reinhard Nühlen explores the relationship between language and scientific understanding. He begins by analyzing two sentences: one describing a near-death experience, which is only understandable to someone who has had a similar experience, and another, a mathematical formula ((a+b)^2 = a^2 + 2ab + b^2), which requires shared axioms to be understood. Nühlen argues that true information transfer is difficult when dealing with subjective experiences or complex systems like mathematics and physics, where understanding relies on pre-existing frameworks.

He questions whether physics, despite its focus on the external world, also faces a similar challenge where the subject-object separation dissolves, leaving only language. Nühlen uses the example of a child's understanding of the Earth as a disc versus the scientific understanding of it as a sphere, illustrating how scientific knowledge can replace direct perception. He posits that science progressively abstracts from lived experience, leading to a focus on knowledge itself rather than the world it describes. He concludes that science and philosophy ultimately aim to overcome the subject-object dualism, with the physical world being an "image" or "model" of a greater reality.

Wissenschaft (Science)

Hans-Joachim Heyer discusses the limitations of scientific explanation, particularly in relation to paranormal phenomena. He references an article by Prof. Dr. Martin Lambeck in "Skeptiker" (2/97), which argues that if a phenomenon exists, it must be physical and thus explainable by physics. Heyer disagrees, stating that paranormal phenomena, by definition, are not physical, and therefore do not contradict established physics. He suggests that if such phenomena were physical, they would simply be unexplored physical phenomena.

Heyer argues that the physical world is a model of a larger reality, and that paranormal experiences are real within that larger reality, manifesting as normal physical events within the model. He cites Erwin Schrödinger, who noted that conscious experience, when described, takes the form of a scientific statement. Heyer believes that physics explains the "how" but not the "why," and that the true causes of events lie beyond empirical explanation.

He further elaborates on his personal worldview, describing an "inner map" or "mythological world" that shapes his perception. He believes this inner world influences the physical world, leading to events that would not otherwise occur. Heyer contrasts the scientific approach of answering "how" questions with his own pursuit of "why" questions, suggesting that science, by its nature, cannot address the fundamental reasons behind phenomena.

Diskussion (Discussion)

This section features a debate between Hans-Joachim Heyer and Werner Walter, a UFO researcher. Heyer criticizes Walter's methodology and conclusions, particularly his tendency to dismiss UFO sightings as mundane objects like balloons or weather balloons. Heyer accuses Walter of oversimplification and of ignoring evidence that contradicts his explanations. He argues that Walter's approach is not scientific and that he unfairly dismisses witness testimony.

Heyer also criticizes Walter's use of terms like "media whores" and "esoterics" to discredit those who hold different views. He questions Walter's expertise in judging paranormal phenomena, given Walter's admission of not understanding esotericism. Heyer challenges Walter's assertion that there are no unexplained UFOs, suggesting that Walter's insistence on identifying every case as a mundane object is a form of "world conspiracy" against the unknown.

Walter, in turn, is presented as viewing UFO skeptics as mentally ill and needing to be excluded from public discourse. He accuses them of constructing a "paranoia atmosphere" and being "crusaders for a truth they wish for themselves." He suggests that the search for "mystery" blinds rational thought and leads to an "uprising against the establishment."

Hypothese (Hypothesis)

Hans-Joachim Heyer presents his hypothesis about "Weltverschwörung" (World Conspiracy). He argues that a small elite controls the narrative of reality, manipulating public perception through media and politics. Heyer believes that politicians and media outlets are not genuinely democratic but rather serve to distract the public from the "true politics" and the "brutal world" behind the scenes. He contends that the public is deliberately kept uninformed to prevent them from questioning the established order.

He criticizes the education system and media for propagating a specific worldview and making criticism taboo. Heyer suggests that natural science is misused to reinforce this worldview, leading people to dismiss anything that contradicts empirical evidence, such as dreams, souls, or gods. He concludes that individuals who conform to this system lose their individuality and dreams, becoming "adapted" to a prescribed reality.

Fallanalyse (Case Analysis)

This section details a case analysis by Wladislaw Raab concerning a witness, Herr T., who reported a paranormal encounter. Herr T. described seeing a large, indistinct figure in his hallway at night. Initially, the case was reported to Herr T.'s colleagues as a UFO sighting. However, upon further investigation by Bernd Oberacker, Herr T. was found to have significant neurological issues, including involuntary movements and vocalizations, leading to a diagnosis of a possible neurological disorder like Tourette's syndrome or multiple sclerosis.

Raab concludes that the phenomenon was likely a visual misinterpretation due to Herr T.'s condition, rather than a paranormal event or UFO sighting. The editor's note, however, critiques this conclusion, arguing that labeling the case as a "illness" does not explain the underlying causes of such conditions and that the witness's subjective reality, shaped by his "inner map," should be considered.

Weltverschwörungstheorien (World Conspiracy Theories)

Hans-Joachim Heyer discusses his personal understanding of "Weltverschwörung." He states that he does not deny the existence of people who believe in conspiracies but views his own understanding as evolving from a personal experience of the world. For Heyer, "Weltverschwörung" is not necessarily negative but ambivalent, representing a tragic, painful, yet adventurous and exciting creation of the world. He sees the world as a duality of good and evil, reflected in its creators. He questions the nature of lies when they create realities and wonders if one must embrace deception to enter these worlds.

He recounts his youth as a leftist, listening to communist radio stations and being influenced by their propaganda. Heyer contrasts this with his later realization that Western media also engage in sophisticated deception. He believes that the public is deliberately kept ignorant of the "true politics" and that democracy is a facade. He argues that politicians lie to get elected and that the media collaborates with them, never revealing the underlying truths. Heyer concludes that the natural scientific method is used to make people accept a constructed reality and to dismiss anything that contradicts it, leading individuals to lose their sense of self.

Hypothese (Hypothesis)

Hans-Joachim Heyer continues his exploration of "Hypothese," focusing on the concept of "Weltverschwörung" (World Conspiracy). He posits that a small elite controls the narrative of reality, manipulating public perception through media and politics. Heyer argues that politicians and media outlets are not genuinely democratic but rather serve to distract the public from the "true politics" and the "brutal world" behind the scenes. He contends that the public is deliberately kept uninformed to prevent them from questioning the established order.

He criticizes the education system and media for propagating a specific worldview and making criticism taboo. Heyer suggests that natural science is misused to reinforce this worldview, leading people to dismiss anything that contradicts empirical evidence, such as dreams, souls, or gods. He concludes that individuals who conform to this system lose their individuality and dreams, becoming "adapted" to a prescribed reality.

Fallanalyse (Case Analysis)

This section details a case analysis by Wladislaw Raab concerning a witness, Herr T., who reported a paranormal encounter. Herr T. described seeing a large, indistinct figure in his hallway at night. Initially, the case was reported to Herr T.'s colleagues as a UFO sighting. However, upon further investigation by Bernd Oberacker, Herr T. was found to have significant neurological issues, including involuntary movements and vocalizations, leading to a diagnosis of a possible neurological disorder like Tourette's syndrome or multiple sclerosis.

Raab concludes that the phenomenon was likely a visual misinterpretation due to Herr T.'s condition, rather than a paranormal event or UFO sighting. The editor's note, however, critiques this conclusion, arguing that labeling the case as a "illness" does not explain the underlying causes of such conditions and that the witness's subjective reality, shaped by his "inner map," should be considered.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DEGUFORUM include skepticism towards sensationalized UFO accounts, critical analysis of scientific and philosophical claims, and a deep dive into the nature of reality, perception, and societal control. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that questions mainstream narratives, whether they come from scientific institutions, media outlets, or popular ufology. There is a strong emphasis on critical thinking, the limitations of empirical science, and the potential for hidden agendas or "world conspiracies" influencing public understanding. The editorial stance is one of rigorous examination, often challenging established beliefs and encouraging readers to question what they are told. The magazine also highlights the importance of individual subjective experience and the limitations of purely objective or scientific explanations for complex phenomena.

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue Date: September 1997 (Issue 15)
Publisher: DEGUFORUM
Country of Publication: Germany
Language: German

This issue of DEGUFORUM delves into various UFO (Unidentified Flying Object) and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings and related analyses, with a focus on reports from the 1990s. It features a collection of witness accounts, official statements, and investigative articles.

Szene-Info/International Sichtungen

This section presents a compilation of recent UFO sightings from various locations.

UFOs Freigegeben (UFOs Released)

The Spanish Air Force has released numerous secret documents from the 1970s and 1980s concerning UFO sightings. Among these are 20 'X-Files' on unexplained phenomena. One notable incident mentioned is that of former Spanish Prime Minister Adolfo Suarez, who in February 1980 witnessed a strange multi-colored light ball during a flight from Germany, accompanied by radar signals detected by pilots and a support aircraft. The article notes that the German Ministry of Defence (BMVG) had no record of such an event within its jurisdiction, despite inquiries.

Sichtung über Puchheim (Sighting over Puchheim)

On July 25, 1997, a witness and her daughters observed a red object estimated to be 10-15 meters above the ground. Initially mistaken for a helicopter, it was later described as a round, red-orange fire-like object with no discernible outlines, hovering and performing a 'rocking motion' with sparks. The object then appeared larger, resembling the moon, before shrinking to star size and disappearing. The next day, the witness found flattened grain in a nearby field, suggesting a possible crop circle.

Seltsamer Lichtpunkt über Mexiko (Strange Light Point over Mexico)

A woman recounts an experience in Cancun, Mexico, in 1992, where she saw a point of light descend vertically, stop, and then move away at a 45-degree angle. She dismisses possibilities of it being a meteor or an airplane. She also hints at a more recent, personal experience that she is hesitant to discuss due to her professional situation.

Kugelwesen (Sphere Beings)

In early 1996, in Kenz, Germany, a witness heard strange noises and observed three 'sphere beings' feeding on a pig. The beings were described as light spheres that flew into the night. The pig was partially eaten from the rear.

Das leuchtende Objekt (The Luminous Object)

In December 1996, two brothers in Barth, Germany, observed a bright object on a frozen lake. The object was described as being smaller than the moon and was seen to follow them as they headed home, causing them fear.

Lichtphänomen (Light Phenomenon)

A 38-year-old man describes observing a light on the horizon that disappeared and reappeared. The phenomenon consisted of 6-9 white light points arranged in a circle, with beams connecting them, forming a circle approximately 50-100 meters in diameter. The entire formation rotated at an estimated 30 RPM.

UFO über Gran Canaria (UFO over Gran Canaria)

A witness reports seeing a UFO in Gran Canaria in 1987. The object was round, saucer-shaped, silver, with colored lights. It emitted a red beam towards a house before turning west. The witness asks if anyone else saw this.

UFO an der Deutsch-Holländischen Grenze (UFO at the German-Dutch Border)

On January 24, 1997, two people observed a large, square object, approximately 100 meters in diameter, hovering at an altitude of 80 meters. It had several lights and then ascended rapidly towards Borken.

UFO über Darmstadt (UFO over Darmstadt)

On January 13, 1997, two individuals in Darmstadt, Germany, witnessed a self-luminous, orange-yellow object, larger than a star, hovering at an altitude of about 100 meters over a forest. The object disappeared abruptly.

UFO über Kempen a. Ndrh. (UFO over Kempen)

On July 7, 1997, a couple and their son observed a rectangular object with three spheres on its sides. The object moved silently from north to south at an estimated 1-1.5 km distance and an altitude of 100-300 meters.

Sichtung über Bergisch-Gladbach (Sighting over Bergisch-Gladbach)

On August 15, 1997, a witness in Bergisch-Gladbach observed a 'drop- or disk-shaped object' that glowed orange-red with white spots. The object hovered and moved erratically before abruptly changing position and hovering directly over the witness's house. It then disappeared into the sky. A nearby MD 80 aircraft was also observed.

Fallanalyse (Case Analysis)

Kornkreis in Bretzfeld (b. Heilbronn) (Crop Circle in Bretzfeld)

Klaus-Peter Bachstein provides a report and photo of four crop circles that appeared on the night of July 13-14, 1997. The circles were precisely formed, with stalks lying clockwise and not falling. The center of the larger circles showed no traces, suggesting a non-human origin.

Interessante Sichtung über Heidelberg (Interesting Sighting over Heidelberg)

A witness in Heidelberg reported seeing a strongly luminous point of light on June 28, 1997, during a barbecue. Using binoculars, the witness observed the object hovering and moving before abruptly changing position directly overhead. The object was described as a bright, round light point. A nearby MD 80 aircraft was also observed. A check with the Heidelberg Air Traffic Control Center yielded no unusual findings, though they noted that their radar might not detect certain phenomena.

Presseschau (Press Review)

Fallanalyse: Frankfurt Südsektor 1

An inquiry to Frankfurt Air Traffic Control regarding an MD 80 sighting in Heidelberg revealed that no MD 80 was recorded in that area at the time. However, the Air Force confirmed a sighting of an MD 80 at flight level 3.10 (10 km altitude) flying south to north, identified as a Spanair (SPP) machine. A smaller civilian aircraft was also detected. The analysis of radar data indicated a 'primary target' at the time of the sighting, which could not be identified and was not considered a standard aircraft. The witness's ability to identify the MD 80 suggests a hobbyist interest in aviation. The article notes that 'primary targets' are objects that cannot be identified by radar and may not be aircraft.

Feurige Blitze (Fiery Flashes)

This article discusses a CIA documentation that suggests the US government deliberately fueled UFO beliefs to conceal the existence of U-2 and SR-71 spy planes. These high-altitude aircraft, developed in the mid-1950s, were difficult to detect. However, their silvery surfaces sometimes reflected sunlight, leading pilots of lower-flying commercial aircraft to report 'fiery flashes' and radar operators to detect unexplained 'blips.' The CIA allegedly used the public's fascination with UFOs to mask these flights, attributing sightings to natural phenomena or mass hysteria.

Die Geheimnisse des Mars (The Secrets of Mars)

A brief note referencing a Time Magazine article from August 4, 1997, suggesting that the Martian 'Pathfinder' might be mistaken for a weather balloon that fell from the sky.

Gibt Santilli Filmmaterial zur Prüfung frei? (Will Santilli Release Film Material for Examination?)

This section discusses the controversial 'Roswell Film' and reports that Ray Santilli, the video publisher, may release film sequences for scientific analysis. Dr. Roger K. Leir and Derrel Sims claim to have received four images from the original film. However, Bob Shell later refutes these claims, stating that Santilli only provided copies, not originals, and that the material is worthless for analysis. The article concludes that Santilli remains unwilling to provide the original material for serious verification.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DEGUFORUM are UFO sightings, the analysis of these phenomena, and the role of government agencies in potentially concealing information or influencing public perception. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to be skeptical of sensational claims and to seek verifiable evidence, while also providing a platform for reporting and discussing unexplained aerial phenomena. The magazine aims to keep its readers well-informed on the UFO topic.

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 15
Date: September 1997
Publisher: DEGUFO e.V. Deutschsprachige Gesellschaft für Ufo-Forschung
ISSN: 0946-1531
Language: German

This issue of DEGUFORUM, a publication of the German-speaking UFO Research Society (DEGUFO e.V.), focuses on "Riddles and Mysteries of Our World." The cover prominently features a stylized image of a UFO and the main headline.

Seminars and Events

The primary announcement in this issue is for a new seminar titled "Riddles and Mysteries of Our World," to be held in Berlin on Saturday, October 11, 1997. This seminar is organized by the author team Walter-Jörg Langbein and Gerd W. Höchsmann, following the success of their previous seminars, "Cosmic Contacts" and "We Are Not Alone." The seminar promises scientific results enriched with unique 3D slides, presenting astonishing research findings from 120 individuals who claim to have experienced alien abductions.

The seminar program is detailed, covering eight distinct topics:

1. Alien Beings: Reports from people who have been in contact with extraterrestrial beings, with accompanying images, presented by Gerd W. Höchsmann.
2. The Mystery of the Michigan Bible: An examination of puzzling artifacts from burial mounds and earth pyramids in North America, with slides, by Walter-Jörg Langbein.
3. Results of Long-Term Research on Abductees: Findings from research into individuals abducted by aliens, with images, by Höchsmann.
4. The Millennium Phenomenon: Marian apparitions viewed through the lens of UFO and ancient astronaut research, by Walter-Jörg Langbein.

A lunch break is scheduled.

5. Riddles and Curiosities in South America: Featuring unique 3D UFO slides, presented by Gerd W. Höchsmann.
6. UFOs - A Century Phenomenon: A look at UFO sighting waves from 100 years ago in America, by Walter-Jörg Langbein.

A coffee break is scheduled.

7. Riddles and Mysteries of Freemason Lodges: Exploring whether they are secret societies or societies with secrets, by Gerd W. Höchsmann.
8. Vijayanagara - An Ezekiel Temple in India?: Discussing prehistoric space travel and atomic superweapons of the gods, with slides, by Gerd W. Höchsmann.

The seminar concludes with dinner and a final discussion with both authors.

• Seminar Details:
• Date: Saturday, October 11, 1997
• Time: 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM
• Location: Berlin (specific hotel to be provided upon registration)
• Registration: Contact Gerd W. Höchsmann (address and fax provided) or Walter-J. Langbein (fax provided).
• Seminar Fee: 150 DM

Publication Information and Editorial Details

The "Impressum" section provides comprehensive details about the publication:

• Publisher and Responsible Editor (v.i.S.d.P.): DEGUFO e.V. Deutschsprachige Gesellschaft für Ufo-Forschung.
• Editor-in-Chief: Hans-Joachim Heyer.
• Editorial Staff for this Issue: H.-J. Heyer, R. Nühlen, W. Raab, M. Ringmann.
• Layout: Frank Menhorn.
• Production: Pagemaker for Windows 5.0.
• Frequency: Published quarterly, at the end of each quarter.
• Subscription Prices:
• Inland (Germany): DM 30.- per year, DM 7.50 per single issue.
• International: DM 40.- per year, DM 10.- per single issue.
• Membership in DEGUFO e.V. includes a subscription.
• Renewal: Subscriptions automatically renew for one year unless canceled in writing three months before the end of the calendar year.
• Reprint Policy: Reprints, even partial, require written permission from DEGUFO e.V. and submission of a copy of the publication.
• Disclaimer: Articles and statements marked with a name do not necessarily reflect the views of DEGUFO e.V. Unsolicited manuscripts and photos are not liable.
• Author Honoraria: Generally not paid.
• Advertising Prices: Available upon request.

• Contact Information for DEGUFO e.V.:
• Address: Postfach 2831, 55516 Bad Kreuznach, Germany.
• Telephone: 0671/75614 (24-hour hotline).
• Fax: 0671/69756.
• Bank Account: Postgirokonto 25 17 37-670, Postbank Ludwigshafen, BLZ 545 10 0 670.
• Printer: Druck: Splitek & Kubeneck, Lauterstraße 29, D-46539 Dinslaken.
• Online Presence:
• Website: http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/FMenhorn/ufo.htm
• Email/Internet: [email protected]
• Compuserve: 101566,3527

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs and alleged extraterrestrial contact, as well as historical mysteries and ancient civilizations. The editorial stance, as indicated by the publication's focus and the disclaimer regarding author contributions, is to explore these topics from a research perspective, presenting findings and encouraging discussion. The emphasis on seminars and detailed contact information suggests an active community engagement approach by DEGUFO e.V.