Deguforum - Issue 18 - 1998

Magazine Overview

This issue of DEGUFORUM, Volume 5, Number 18, dated June 1998, is a 48-page magazine priced at DM 7.50. The cover features a striking black and white image of pyramids and the main headline "Roswell: Die Diskussion geht weiter" (Roswell: The Discussion Continues). The magazine is published by the German-speaking Society for UFO Research (DEGUFO e.V.).

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Hans-Joachim Heyer, highlights the increased page count of this issue (16 pages beyond the usual) at no extra cost, emphasizing the quality of the content. Heyer introduces several key articles, including Frank Menhorn's work on the Mars face and time travel theories, and Andreas Haxel's exploration of individuals who claim to have transcended the space-time barrier. He also references previous DEGUFORUM articles that have discussed the reality behind such claims. The editorial connects these themes to the philosophy of Thomas Kuhn and the book "The Social Construction of Reality" by Berger and Luckmann, suggesting that our perception of reality is shaped by paradigms. Heyer poses profound questions about the extent of control "world order experts" might have over our consciousness and reality, questioning the freedom of our thoughts. He also mentions the cancellation of a planned "Crop Circle Summer in England" due to insufficient registrations and invites readers to the DEGUFO general meeting in Mainz in September 1998.

Articles and Content

Roswell: The Discussion Continues

This section features a debate between Uli Thieme and Reinhard Nühlen regarding the Roswell incident. Thieme, in his article "Schon wieder eine neue Legende um Roswell" (Yet Another New Legend About Roswell), critiques Nühlen's analysis of Thieme's Roswell documentation. Thieme argues that Nühlen misunderstood his work, particularly regarding the citation of witness testimonies and the interpretation of evidence. He defends his approach of presenting firsthand accounts and questions Nühlen's reliance on secondary sources and authors like Randle/Schmitt. Thieme also refutes Nühlen's claims about the MOGUL Project, specifically regarding the presence of radar reflectors and the dates of certain flights, citing evidence from his documentation and the USAF report.

Reinhard Nühlen responds in "Antwort auf den Leserbrief von Uli Thieme" (Response to the Letter to the Editor from Uli Thieme). Nühlen defends his research methods, stating he has good reason for his conclusions and that he aims to provide readers with comprehensive information. He clarifies that his reference to the "Weaver Report" was not about Thieme's documentation but about the report itself, and that his critique of certain authors' methods is based on identifying patterns of disinformation. Nühlen addresses Thieme's accusations of misinterpreting evidence regarding the MOGUL flights, asserting that his analysis is based on facts and that Thieme's own documentation contains contradictions. He also defends his use of information from authors like Randle/Schmitt, explaining that he cross-referenced information and provided sources. Nühlen also questions the verifiability of information obtained from Robert G. Todd.

Time Travel and Hyper-Space

"Reise durch den Hyperraum - Teil III" (Journey Through Hyperspace - Part III) by Frank Menhorn continues his series, exploring modern cosmological theories and the possibility of time travel through the technical exploitation of hyperspace. Andreas Haxel's contribution, "Zeitreisegeschichten - Erfahrungen an den Grenzen des Vorstellbaren" (Time Travel Stories - Experiences at the Limits of Imagination), presents accounts of individuals who claim to have crossed the space-time barrier, or who have had contact with such individuals. Haxel notes that these stories might have a real background, prompting reflection on the nature of reality versus fiction.

The Mysteries of Mars

Frank Menhorn also contributes "Die Geheimnisse des Mars" (The Secrets of Mars), building on previous discussions about the Mars face, and presenting new photos and interpretations. This article connects to a review of a Hoagland book on the Mars face from an earlier issue.

Perspectives and Philosophy

"Wiederverzauberung der Welt" (Re-enchantment of the World) by H.-J. Heyer offers a perspective piece. Heyer also provides a summary of the book "Die gesellschaftliche Konstruktion der Wirklichkeit" (The Social Construction of Reality) by Berger and Luckmann, exploring their theory of knowledge sociology. Additionally, Heyer discusses "Die Philosophie Thomas Kuhns" (The Philosophy of Thomas Kuhn), likely delving into Kuhn's concepts of scientific revolutions and paradigms.

Mythology and Computer Dialogues

Lars A. Fischinger's article, "Phantasie oder Realität? Rätsel und sonderbare Berichte in der Schöpfungsmythologie" (Fantasy or Reality? Riddles and Strange Reports in Creation Mythology), examines the nature of creation myths. Andreas Haxel presents "Ein Computerdialog durch die Zeit" (A Computer Dialogue Through Time), which, along with the time travel stories, is presented for the reader to interpret.

DEGUFO Intern and Impressum

The "DEGUFO Intern" section includes an invitation to the general members' meeting on September 26-27, 1998, in Mainz, promising interesting film screenings, lectures, and discussions. The "Impressum" section provides publication details.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of reality, the interpretation of evidence, and the exploration of phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. The magazine appears to foster critical inquiry, as evidenced by the detailed debate on the Roswell incident, where different interpretations of data and witness accounts are presented. The editorial stance, particularly from Hans-Joachim Heyer, leans towards questioning established narratives and exploring the possibility of hidden influences or constructed realities. There's a clear emphasis on analyzing evidence, scrutinizing sources, and encouraging readers to form their own informed opinions, while also acknowledging the profound philosophical implications of these topics.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, dated June 1998 (Nr. 18), features a cover story on 'Roswell' and delves into several complex topics including higher dimensions, time travel, and Martian anomalies.

Roswell Incident Re-examination

The issue begins with a re-examination of the Roswell incident, presenting the conclusion by Reinhard Nühlen that 'Flight 4' did not start as claimed, lacked radar reflectors, and thus could not be linked to the debris from the alleged crash. The editor notes that this discussion is being concluded, allowing both sides to present their viewpoints.

Illustrations on the page show a Sonabuoy AN/CRT-1 used for pressure wave measurement, a proposed balloon train from April 24th without radar reflectors, a depiction of 'Flight No 1' from April 3rd also without visible reflectors, and a sketch of a plastic balloon from April 24th.

Understanding Higher Dimensions and Time Travel

Part III of 'Journey Through Hyperspace' explores why we cannot perceive the fourth dimension. It explains that our brains are biologically wired to perceive three spatial dimensions, a result of evolutionary pressures. The article uses the analogy of 'Flatland,' a two-dimensional world, to illustrate how beings from higher dimensions could interact with or observe our universe. A higher-dimensional being could see our entire universe at once, perform operations without physical intervention, and perceive us as mere 'lumps of flesh.'

The article then discusses the possibility of time travel. It posits that while our brains struggle with higher dimensions, computers can handle them. The concept of time is presented as a river that flows at varying speeds around celestial bodies. The possibility of time travel was once dismissed but is now being revisited by theoretical physicists due to advances in quantum gravity. However, time travel is fraught with paradoxes, such as the 'man without parents' paradox, where one travels back in time and prevents their own birth.

Dr. Michio Kaku, a renowned theoretical physicist, is featured. He is described as an authority on theoretical physics, author of several books including the bestseller 'Hyperspace,' and a frequent media commentator. His academic background includes Harvard and Princeton Universities. He has published extensively on string theory and supergravity and was involved in a major peace demonstration in New York.

The article further explores the 'paradox of the man without a past' and the 'paradox of the man who is his own mother.' It explains that if one were to alter the past, it could create parallel universes or alternate timelines, branching off from the original. The concept of negative mass or negative energy is introduced as a potential key to stabilizing wormholes, which could serve as time machines. The Casimir effect is mentioned as experimental evidence for negative energy. However, the article notes that obtaining large quantities of negative energy is currently unfeasible, and the stability of wormholes remains a theoretical challenge, requiring a 'Theory of Everything' that unifies quantum mechanics and gravity.

Stephen Hawking's initial skepticism about time travel, based on the absence of future tourists, is contrasted with his later shift in opinion due to significant research advancements. The article suggests that while time travel might be theoretically possible, it is likely impractical, and humans may not be interesting enough for future tourists.

Classification of Civilizations

The issue also touches upon the classification of civilizations into types 0, I, II, and III, based on their energy sources (fossil fuels, planetary energy, stellar energy, and galactic energy, respectively). It suggests that advanced civilizations (Type II) might send self-replicating probes, like Von Neumann probes, to explore other star systems. The Moon is proposed as a potential base for such probes.

The Mysteries of Mars: The 'Face on Mars' and Cydonia

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the planet Mars, specifically the Cydonia region and the controversial 'Face on Mars.' The article details the history of the 'Face,' starting with the 1976 Viking images (035A72) and the subsequent discovery of another image (070A13) by engineers Vincent DiPietro and Gregory Molenaar, which showed the formation under different lighting conditions. Richard C. Hoagland is credited with popularizing the 'Face' and other alleged artificial structures in the Cydonia region through his book 'The Mars Connection.'

The article discusses the challenges and expectations surrounding the Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) mission, which was tasked with capturing higher-resolution images of the region. It notes the loss of the Mars Observer mission in 1993 and the subsequent conspiracy theories that emerged. The MGS mission, launched in November 1996, aimed to provide clearer images. Despite initial conflicting reports, NASA eventually agreed to photograph the Cydonia region, partly due to public pressure.

The analysis of the MGS images, particularly those processed by JPL and Mark Carlotto, is presented. The article highlights the image processing techniques used, including high-pass filtering, histogram stretching, and orthorectification. It explains how these processes can alter the appearance of the 'Face,' potentially creating the illusion of artificiality. The difference in lighting conditions between the Viking and MGS images is emphasized, with the MGS images showing the 'Face' illuminated from below, unlike the overhead lighting in the Viking images.

Dr. Tom Van Flandern, an astronomer, offers his perspective, suggesting that if the 'Face' were artificial, it likely wouldn't have been designed to be illuminated from the south as seen in the MGS image. He also points out that the 'Face' is part of a larger plateau structure, and its orientation suggests it was meant to be viewed from above, consistent with theories of Mars being a former moon.

Mark Carlotto's analysis, using Viking height data, also attempts to reconstruct the 'Face.' The article notes that while the MGS images reveal more detail, showing features like possible 'eyebrows' and 'nostrils,' the interpretation of these as artificial remains debated. The article concludes that while the MGS images provide more detail, further evidence is needed to confirm artificial origins, particularly regarding the symmetry of the eastern side of the 'Face.'

Images of other features in the Cydonia region, such as the 'Pyramid' and 'City Square,' are also discussed, with Carlotto's simulations suggesting they may not be as artificial as initially claimed. An anomaly in the 'City Square' area, showing a 90° rotation of a mound in the MGS image compared to the Viking image, is noted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unexplained phenomena, the intersection of science and speculation, and the critical analysis of evidence. The magazine appears to present a range of viewpoints, from the skeptical scientific perspective to more speculative theories, encouraging readers to consider different interpretations of evidence, particularly in the context of UFOs, time travel, and extraterrestrial intelligence.

The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting complex scientific and theoretical concepts while also critically examining controversial claims, such as those surrounding the Roswell incident and the 'Face on Mars.' The use of detailed technical explanations and expert opinions suggests a desire to ground the discussions in scientific principles, even when exploring fringe topics.

This issue of "Mars Zeit" (Mars Time) from June 1998, published by DEGUFORUM, delves into a variety of intriguing topics, primarily focusing on anomalies on Mars, the possibility of time travel, and philosophical explorations of consciousness and reality. The magazine presents a blend of scientific analysis, personal accounts, and speculative theories, aiming to challenge conventional perspectives.

Mars: The Face and the City

The articles "Mars" and "Die Stadt" (The City) examine the controversial images of Mars captured by the Viking and Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) missions. The "Face on Mars," a prominent feature in the Cydonia region, is discussed in relation to its potential artificial origin. The author notes that while the Viking images clearly showed a face-like structure, MGS images, taken under different lighting conditions, reveal it to be heavily eroded. The article also discusses the "City," located about 15 kilometers west of the "Face," characterized by geometric structures, including a central area formed by four mounds and surrounded by pyramid-like formations. A particular focus is placed on a structure referred to as the "Fortress," with its straight "walls" forming a triangular courtyard. The MGS images also revealed an oval structure west of the city, which some interpret as a second face. The article highlights discrepancies between Viking and MGS images, particularly concerning a rotated mound in the "City," and discusses the possibility that these structures are natural formations shaped by wind and ice, as suggested by a 3D animation by Mark Carlotto. The smaller, four-sided pyramid west of the city is also described, noting its impressive size compared to the Great Pyramid of Giza.

Tom Van Flandern

A profile of Tom Van Flandern, a Ph.D. in Astronomy from Yale University, is presented. He spent 20 years at the US Naval Observatory and founded Meta Research, an organization dedicated to exploring ideas not necessarily aligned with conventional astronomy. Van Flandern publishes the Meta Research Bulletin, focusing on anomalies and evidence that doesn't fit existing scientific theories. He is also a Research Associate at the University of Maryland, working on improving the Global Positioning System (GPS).

Time Travel: Experiences at the Limits of Imagination

The section "Zeitreisegeschichten - Erfahrungen an den Grenzen des Vorstellbaren" (Time Travel Stories - Experiences at the Limits of Imagination) explores the possibility of human time travel. It begins by discussing the theoretical underpinnings of time travel, referencing concepts like black holes and wormholes, and noting that Einstein's theory of general relativity does not preclude it. A more unconventional theory is proposed: that time travel might be a technology of consciousness rather than purely mechanical. The article suggests that understanding this technology could be sufficient to unlock the secrets of time, potentially making machines obsolete.

The Day Time Stood Still

This personal account describes an unusual encounter in Las Vegas in the early 1970s. The narrator meets a man in a doctor's waiting room who claims to be a time traveler. The man exhibits an uncanny knowledge and presence, and the narrator experiences a profound sense of connection and a distortion of time and senses during their brief interaction. The man hints at his work with sensitive equipment in the desert and mentions observing UFOs.

A Time Traveler's Account

This section presents a series of communications, primarily FAX messages, from a self-proclaimed time traveler to Art Bell, host of the "Coast To Coast AM" radio show. The time traveler, who claims to be a US citizen born in 1964 but appearing younger, describes being part of a group called "My Friends" who utilize a form of time travel referred to as "riding the wave." This group is implied to be involved in secret operations, including the transport of a crashed triangular UFO recovered by the RAF. The time traveler expresses fear for their safety, stating they have escaped from a group known as "The Club," which they believe to be the same as MJ 12. They intend to reveal information about "My Enemies" (or "My Friends") whom they accuse of being "slaughterers."

Further communications from the time traveler provide predictions about political events, including President Clinton's future and the rise of Al Gore. They also mention a package containing information and photographs being sent to specific individuals in case of their demise or disappearance. The time traveler also describes their method of time travel, which involves intense concentration and preparation, and mentions having undertaken 16 official and several unofficial missions.

Dream Journeys

This personal narrative recounts a vivid dream experience where the narrator meets their deceased grandfather. The dream is described as highly realistic, with the grandfather appearing younger. They walk through their old town, observing changes and discussing the past. The dream ends abruptly with a feeling of sadness.

Perspectives: Re-enchantment of the World

This section, written by Andreas Haxel, explores philosophical and scientific perspectives on knowledge, consciousness, and reality. Haxel critiques the prevailing scientific paradigm, which he argues has become subservient to technical and economic interests, leading to a "disenchantment of the world." He advocates for a more holistic approach that integrates subjective experience and philosophical inquiry with scientific investigation.

The Limits of Scientific Objectivity

Haxel discusses the "Bieri Trilemma," which posits that mental phenomena are not physical, mental phenomena are causally effective in the physical realm, and the physical realm is causally closed. He criticizes neuroscientist Wolf Singer for attempting to resolve this by denying the first premise, arguing that Singer fails to consider the possibility that the physical realm might not be causally closed. Haxel contends that science has shifted its focus from seeking truth to seeking success, driven by the need for empirically verifiable theories and the exclusion of metaphysical or subjective elements.

He argues that the scientific community's insistence on objectivity and empirical verifiability, while excluding metaphysical considerations, leads to a reductionist view of humanity and reality. Haxel suggests that the "disenchantment of the world" is a consequence of this approach, where the magical and holistic aspects of existence are ignored in favor of a mechanistic and rationalistic worldview. He believes that the pursuit of knowledge should not be limited by the confines of empirical science but should embrace the subjective and the unknown, as these aspects are crucial for a complete understanding of reality.

The Re-enchantment of the World

Haxel critiques the modern scientific approach, which he argues prioritizes technical and economic interests over the pursuit of truth. He suggests that science has become "operationalized," meaning that only knowledge with practical applications is considered valid. This, he contends, leads to a reductionist view of humanity and a loss of connection to the deeper, perhaps metaphysical, aspects of existence. Haxel advocates for a return to a more holistic understanding of the world, where subjective experience and philosophical inquiry are valued alongside empirical data. He believes that the "re-enchantment of the world" is necessary to overcome the alienation and fragmentation that have resulted from the purely materialistic worldview.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of the unknown, particularly concerning Mars and potential extraterrestrial or advanced human civilizations, and the questioning of established scientific and philosophical paradigms. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that is open to unconventional theories and personal experiences, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond mainstream scientific consensus. There is a strong emphasis on the limitations of current scientific understanding and a call for a broader, more inclusive approach to knowledge that incorporates consciousness and subjective experience. The editorial stance seems to favor critical thinking and the pursuit of alternative explanations for phenomena that defy conventional scientific interpretation.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, dated June 1998, presents a collection of articles exploring philosophical, sociological, and mythological themes. The issue is characterized by its in-depth analysis of complex ideas, often challenging conventional wisdom and offering alternative perspectives.

Perspectives: The 'False Self' and the Power Elite

The lead article, "Perspektiven," critiques the modern capitalist system and its impact on individual identity and societal structures. It argues that capitalism fosters a "false self" that seeks external validation through financial and social recognition, a concept Sloterdijk terms "enlightened false consciousness." The author challenges Max Weber's theory linking capitalism to Protestantism, citing the example of Japan as evidence that strong capitalist economies can emerge without a Protestant work ethic. The article posits that the current global trend towards a "world state" with free trade and Western values will lead to a homogenization of culture and a loss of individual identity, where people will forget what money is and cease to exist as distinct individuals. The author highlights the hidden nature of power, noting how money and power concentrate in few hands without public scrutiny. The article uses the example of Daimler-Benz's CEO prioritizing "profit, profit, profit" to illustrate how the pursuit of power, rather than genuine company advancement, drives corporate leaders. The concept of "democracy" is questioned as a tool for maintaining power, and the idea of "self-organization" is presented as a theory that denies conscious direction, attributing societal changes to natural laws or the "zeitgeist." The author refutes the notion that a fragmented media landscape indicates a lack of elite consensus, arguing instead for a unified message across all platforms. The article also touches upon the idea that economic gain is a stronger motivator than moral values, citing the abolition of slavery as an example driven by economic inefficiency rather than moral principles. It concludes by suggesting that to overcome the current economic system, one must "transcend" it rather than fight it within its own framework.

Book Review: 'The Social Construction of Reality'

This section features a review of Peter L. Berger and Thomas Luckmann's "The Social Construction of Reality: A Theory of Sociological Knowledge." The reviewer acknowledges the complexity of the work and the decision to present it in accessible language, emphasizing the importance of this knowledge. The book is framed as foundational research for understanding UFO phenomena, as it delves into the nature of reality itself. The review outlines key concepts from the book, including:

Institutionalization

• Organism and Activity: Humans are characterized by "world-openness" and unspecialized drives, allowing for a wide range of activities and the self-production of their own nature. Societal order is not natural but a product of human activity.
• Origins of Institutionalization: Human actions become habitual, saving energy and creating routines. This "habitualization" leads to the typification of actions by different actors, turning habit into law and sanctioning human behavior. Institutions gain a status of objective reality, becoming external and coercive facts. This process of "objectivation" leads to the reification of the world.
• Sedimentation and Tradition: Human experience is partially retained as "sediment," which solidifies into memory and becomes tradition, serving as a stabilizer for society.
• Roles: Actions and behavioral patterns are typified, and when they acquire an "objective meaning" assigned by society, they become "roles." These roles form the "social self."
• Limits and Forms of Institutionalization: The extent to which institutionalization occurs is limited by the human capacity for externalization. The authors note that work division and economic surplus tend to dissolve shared knowledge. Myths play a role in institutionalization, and their effectiveness depends on belief in their objective reality.

Legitimation

• Origins of Symbolic Worlds of Meaning: Legitimation is described as a "secondary" objectivation of meaning that integrates disparate institutions into a higher meaningfulness. It involves subjective construction of connections between objectively separated institutions, allowing individuals to construct a plausible life story.
• Levels of Legitimation: The article outlines four levels: pre-theoretical (e.g., "that's just how it is"), theoretical postulates in rudimentary form (folk wisdom, legends), explicit legitimation theories (complex and requiring specialized interpreters), and symbolic worlds that refer to realities beyond everyday experience, often involving a general theory of the cosmos and humanity.
• Theoretical Construction as Support for Worlds of Meaning: Symbolic worlds of meaning can be naively inhabited, but intellectual reflection can support them. However, any symbolic world is potentially threatened by alternative interpretations. The response to such deviations can be repression or therapy. The struggle between alternative worlds of meaning raises the question of power.
• Societal Organization as Support for Worlds of Meaning: Reality is socially determined, with concrete individuals and groups acting as determiners. Understanding societal organization is crucial to understanding historical conceptions of reality. "Experts" claim jurisdiction over the entire body of knowledge and are willing to enforce traditional conceptions of reality.

Institutionalization and Social Structure

• Internalization and Social Structure: Successful socialization results in a high degree of symmetry between objective and subjective reality. Failures can occur due to contradictory socialization processes. Individuals may feel compelled to betray one socialization to conform to another. "Individualism" is described as a societal type that constructs its own identity from available "material," leading to a "fantasy identity" that objectifies the "real" self.
• Theories of Identity: Identity is a phenomenon arising from the dialectic between the individual and society. Psychological theories of identity are powerful because they are actualized in emotional processes of identity formation.
• Organism and Identity: The organism is influenced by socialization, but its animal nature is not abolished. There is a dialectic between nature and society, where the organism sets limits to societal possibilities, and society shapes the organism.

Philosophy: Thomas Kuhn and the Nature of Scientific Revolutions

This section delves into the philosophy of Thomas Kuhn, contrasting his ideas with those of Karl Popper. Kuhn's critique of Popper's falsificationism suggests that scientific theories are not empirically disproven but are replaced by new theories when adherents of the old ones die out. Kuhn argues that observations are theory-dependent and that theories are not definitively verified or falsified. He proposes that scientific progress occurs through "paradigm shifts," which are revolutionary breaks from established scientific frameworks, rather than through a continuous, logical process. These shifts are described as metaphysical acts, akin to religious conversions, rather than purely rational events. The article highlights that Kuhn's theory suggests that adherents of different paradigms live in "different worlds." The author notes that Stegmüller attempts to reconcile Kuhn and Popper by introducing the concept of a "mathematical structural core" that remains constant across paradigm shifts, but the author questions whether this reconciliation is successful.

Geschichtsmythen: Creation Myths and Extraterrestrial Influence

This extensive section explores creation myths from various cultures, including the Bible, the Enuma Elish, Mesopotamian texts, Polynesian myths, and Mesoamerican traditions. The author highlights common themes, such as humanity being created by "gods" or "star gods" and often being fashioned from clay, blood, or other earthly substances. The article questions the literal interpretation of these myths in light of modern science and suggests the possibility of extraterrestrial influence. It examines the biblical account of creation, noting inconsistencies between the first and second creation narratives. The author also delves into the interpretation of the word "ti" in ancient texts, suggesting it could mean "life," "life force," or "rib," and exploring the possibility of mistranslation in the biblical account of Eve's creation from Adam's rib. The text discusses the concept of "Nephilim" in Genesis 6, which describes giants or fallen beings resulting from the union of "sons of God" and human women, suggesting a possible connection to extraterrestrial intervention. The article concludes by posing the question of whether these narratives are mere fiction or reflect a forgotten reality.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DEGUFORUM revolve around the nature of reality, the construction of knowledge, and the influence of power structures on society and science. The magazine consistently challenges established paradigms, whether in sociology, philosophy, or mythology, advocating for critical thinking and the exploration of unconventional ideas. The editorial stance appears to be one of intellectual curiosity and a willingness to question dominant narratives, particularly those related to power, control, and the origins of humanity.

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: 18
Date: June 1998
Publisher: DEGUFO e.V. Deutschsprachige Gesellschaft für Ufo-Forschung
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0946-1531
Cover Headline: Ein Computerdialog durch die Zeit (A Computer Dialogue Through Time)

Main Articles

A Computer Dialogue Through Time

This extensive article details a remarkable series of communications that occurred in 1984 between Ken Webster, a teacher living in Dodleston, England, and a purported individual from the past named Thomas Harden, who identified himself as Lukas Wainman. The dialogue began unexpectedly when Webster's computer, left on overnight, displayed a message from Wainman. Initially, the messages seemed to be from a former resident complaining about renovations. However, the communication evolved into a year-and-a-half-long dialogue, conducted in an archaic form of English, which required Webster to consult with a colleague, Peter Trinder, specializing in late medieval English.

The texts were dated to the 14th to 16th centuries, and the authenticity was supported by the fact that only a few people in 1984 would have possessed such linguistic knowledge, making manipulation unlikely. Gradually, Wainman's true identity was revealed as Thomas Harden, who had been expelled from Brasenose College, Oxford, for his adherence to Catholicism during the upheaval of Henry VIII's reign. The dialogue revealed Harden's difficulties, including being monitored by the sheriff of Chester.

Webster's attempts to help Harden fostered a trusting relationship. Harden also expressed admiration for Webster's girlfriend, Debbie Oakes, who, along with Webster, could meet him in dreams, which for Harden had a real character.

Further research by Webster, prompted by information from the dialogue, uncovered historical details about Harden's life. It was revealed that the name Lukas Wainman was a pseudonym used by Thomas Harden for protection.

The narrative then shifts to a 'time research group' identified as '2109', which contacted Ken Webster. This group stated that communication with Thomas Harden in 1546 could only continue if Webster cooperated with them. It appears that events in 1984 had an 'undesirable influence' on the experiment, possibly due to external interest, threatening the 'time continuum'.

To facilitate better communication, the SPR (Society for Psychical Research) brought in individuals with scientific expertise, including John Bucknall and Dave Welch. The dialogue with '2109' became more formal, and an entity calling itself 'One' began to exert increasing presence and influence, seemingly controlling the experiment.

The SPR posed questions to '2109' about prime numbers and Fermat's conjecture. '2109' responded that both questions could be answered, one directly, the other requiring a new conversion formula. This prediction is linked to the eventual proof of Fermat's Last Theorem by Andrew Wiles in 1994, using the Taniyama-Weil conjecture, a feat that took 330 years.

The article explores the mechanics of this time communication, describing a 'light messenger' materializing from a fireplace and presenting Harden with an optical monitor called a 'leems boyster'. This device, visible to others but seemingly intangible, allowed for communication, possibly through mental visualization or a holographic projection from the future.

'2109' explained their existence in a 'tachyon universe' where they move at such high speeds that they can be present at any point in time. They used an analogy of echoes and mountains to explain how their communication signals are transmitted and received, with the monitor acting as a 'control center for messages'.

Physicists David Deutsch and Michael Lockwood's work on quantum physics and time travel is referenced, suggesting that information can be transported through time loops using computer models where data packets act as time travelers. Their models resolve paradoxes by treating them as apparent problems of an outdated worldview.

'2109' also discussed the concept of 'multidimensionality' and the requirements for physical time travel, likening it to balancing scales. They emphasized that matter does not travel through time and that their control over the experiment is limited. They noted that Thomas Harden, living in the 16th century, was not entirely what he seemed, even to himself.

The article then returns to the SPR's involvement. When the SPR failed to gain the trust of '2109', the latter requested that a trusted individual be brought into confidence. This led to Gary M. Rowe, an ufologist, being contacted. Rowe began exchanging messages with '2109', leaving a sealed document on the computer which then disappeared. '2109' instructed Rowe to access a directory named "EDWORD/STAR" and assured him of secrecy regarding the contents of messages passed between them.

While Rowe gained access to significant information, Webster continued his dialogue with Thomas Harden. Harden, with Webster's advice, had transferred his property to a landowner named Grosvenor to escape pressure. Harden expressed a desire to return to Oxford, believing it to be safe due to the king's illness and the church's apparent calm. He intended to write a book about his experiences and his loved ones.

Following Harden's farewell, '2109' terminated the time communication, leaving a cryptic message about nightmares and the importance of self-belief, warning against the dangers of unchecked growth and the potential for burning fingers by getting too close to knowledge. They also alluded to a future helper and the importance of staying focused on primary goals, referencing a story about a cat and a mouse.

Thomas Harden completed his book and died shortly after, hiding it in a secure location, with a dedication hoping his friends would find it, bridging the distance between their lands.

Ancient Civilizations and Genetics

The first part of the magazine delves into ancient myths and their potential connection to extraterrestrial intervention and genetic manipulation. It discusses the term 'Nephilim', derived from the Hebrew word for 'fallen', and links it to the Anunnaki of Mesopotamian mythology, who are described as 'the fallen ones' in the Enuma Elish. These beings are accused of corrupting humanity and the Earth through their actions.

The text references the Book of Enoch, which speaks of 200 'Watchers' (Nephilim and Angels) descending from heaven. The Qumran text 4Q531, also known as the 'Book of Giants', is cited, mentioning the same number of angels descending to Earth and causing misfortune. According to the scholars Michael Wise, Martin Abegg Jr., and Edward Cook, these 200 angels engaged in 'perverse acts' with humans and animals, leading to 'miscegenation'.

The article questions whether 'miscegenation' refers to the creation of hybrid beings or the offspring of angels and human women. It interprets passages from the 'Book of Giants' as suggesting that the fallen angels fathered giants and monsters through the 'miscegenation' of selected animals. This is contrasted with Enoch's account, which focuses solely on giants.

The author suggests that these findings, particularly from recently published Qumran texts, could imply that the Nephilim conducted genetic experiments, a concept that can be interpreted within the framework of ancient astronaut theories and the UFO phenomenon.

DEGUFO Internal Information

Invitation to the Members' Meeting

The magazine includes an invitation to the DEGUFO e.V. (German-speaking Society for UFO Research) members' meeting, scheduled for September 26th and 27th, 1998, at the youth hostel in Mainz am Volkspark. The meeting aims to review past activities, set future goals, and foster personal exchange among members. The agenda includes reports from the chairman, treasurer, and press officer, as well as discussions on the society's internet presence, membership, and collaboration.

Registration and Accommodation

Details are provided for reaching the venue in Mainz and information on accommodation at the youth hostel, with 3 four-bed rooms and 1 twin room reserved for 14 people. The price per night is DM 36.80, excluding meals. Alternative hotel accommodations can be arranged through the Touristik Centrale Mainz.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes the intersection of ancient mythology, extraterrestrial theories (Paleo-SETI), and modern scientific concepts like time travel and quantum physics. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting interpretations of ancient texts and alleged modern phenomena as potentially linked. There is a clear interest in exploring the possibility of advanced civilizations or beings influencing human history and development, particularly through genetic manipulation and communication across time. The DEGUFO e.V. itself is presented as a platform for diverse individuals to collectively explore these extraordinary topics.