Deguforum - Issue 29 - 2001

Magazine Overview

This issue of DEGUFORUM, the journal of the German Society for UFO Research (DEGUFO e.V.) for Philosophy, Nature, and Borderline Sciences, is the 29th issue of its 8th volume, dated March 2001. It features a cover story on "Technologies of the Future" with news from NASA and a piece titled "And They Fly Anyway," presenting reports of strange occurrences. Other prominent cover topics include "Encounter with a Demon" detailing experiences during an out-of-body experience, "Belief, Skepticism, and Taboos" discussing how to handle a sensitive topic, "UFOs in the GDR" with personal impressions, and "From Press and Internet" covering news from Mars and Phobos, and an obituary for Burkhard Heim.

Leserbriefe (Letters to the Editor)

The "Leserbriefe" section includes correspondence from readers. One letter discusses "Unheimliche Begegnungen mit den Grauen" (Uncanny Encounters with the Greys) from a previous issue, suggesting that dreams might be astral projections and recommending literature on the topic by authors like Muldoon Carrington, Robert A. Monroe, and others. Another letter addresses the topic "Abgrund zwischen den Sternen" (Abyss Between the Stars), criticizing a theory on interstellar space travel presented on the magazine's website. The author argues that current physics is in a dead end and that phenomena like faster-than-light measurements, UFO sightings, and alien abductions are ignored by mainstream physics, which remains fixated on theories like relativity. The author suggests that alternative explanations, such as those proposed by Billy Meier, could provide a more coherent picture and even challenge Darwinian evolution and our understanding of time and self.

Editorial: The Abused Venus – The Story of a Failure

This editorial by Dr. Peter Hattwig critically examines a news report about a UFO incident at the Barnaul airport in southern Siberia on January 27, 2001. The report, initially published by Interfax, claimed that an unidentified flying object (UFO) had grounded the airport for 1.5 hours, with flight crews refusing to take off due to a luminous object over the runway. The author expresses skepticism about the official explanation provided by the CENAP (Central Research Network for Extraordinary Celestial Phenomena), which identified the object as the planet Venus. Dr. Hattwig argues that experienced pilots would not mistake Venus for a hovering object over a runway and questions the simplicity of the explanation. He cites a subsequent report from MUFON-CES that provided more details, including witness descriptions of a shining cloud-like object with colored lights, which hovered over the runway and prevented two aircraft from taking off. The editorial concludes by criticizing CENAP's news service for not being thoroughly researched and for misinterpreting phenomena.

Fallberichte (Case Reports)

This extensive section presents numerous eyewitness accounts of alleged UFO sightings and other anomalous phenomena:

• "And They Fly Anyway" - Part 7 (Compiled by Reinhard Nühlen):
• Sighting in Summer 1975: A child describes seeing a red-and-white checkered object, similar in shape to spacecraft from "Mondbasis Alpha" (Space: 1999), flying low and slowly.
• A Huge Object, May 1985, over Wilnsdorf: A witness reports seeing a round object, approximately 600 meters in diameter, with about eight lamps shining from its underside, hovering about 1 km above a house.
• Three Reddish Lights: A witness describes seeing three bright, non-blinking red lights in a triangular formation flying uniformly across the sky during a total lunar eclipse, possibly in 1996 or 1997.
• Winter 1993, on the Way Home: A witness observed a pulsating light point that changed color rhythmically, followed by a triangular corona of red lights that appeared to be landing.
• Large, Triangular Object, St. Josef/Austria 1990: A witness describes a large, equilateral triangular object with a grid-like structure of green-blue glowing lines and white light spots, hovering silently and rotating.
• Remarkable Sighting in June 1999 - Similar in Summer 1981: A reader reports seeing an object moving in a zig-zag pattern at high speed in France in 1981, similar to a sighting from June 1999.
• Encounter with a Demon - Experiences During an Out-of-Body Experience (Compiled by Dr. Peter Hattwig): This is a detailed account of a young man's experiences, compiled from three emails. The first letter (Dec 3, 2000) describes a terrifying encounter in 1985 where a black figure shot towards him, causing him to levitate and experience intense pressure and a spinning sensation. He also recounts frequent occurrences of involuntary levitation and poltergeist phenomena, including magazines being thrown from shelves and unexplained lights. The second letter (Dec 5, 2000) details the author's medical examinations, which found no neurological abnormalities. He describes experiencing out-of-body experiences (AKEs) and a sense of paralysis, which he attributes to 'demons.' He also notes a peculiar form of vision in darkness, seeing surroundings as brightly lit and contoured.
• Metallic Shiny Spheres over Lake Constance - Summer 1995: A witness reports seeing more than 12 metallic, shiny spheres dancing on the water's surface over Lake Constance, flying at a high altitude and moving in an unusual, non-static manner.
• A Triangle That Constantly Changed Its Size: Three star-like points approached and then separated, forming a triangle that changed size, with each point disappearing in a different direction.
• Case Report: Observation on May 12, 1997: Three luminous points formed a triangle that changed size and moved erratically, disappearing by spreading apart. The witness initially suspected a laser show but ruled it out.
• Triangular UFO over Goch: Multiple witnesses sighted a triangular UFO flying slowly from northeast to southeast, pursued by two jets. The object was described as dark and larger than a jet fighter.
• Like an Oversized Dragon - Summer 1998 in France: A couple observed a large, triangular object flying silently overhead, which was only visible because it obscured the stars. Shortly after, two bright spheres ascended from the same direction.
• Like a Flattened Egg: A witness describes an orange, egg-shaped object that appeared under a plane, grew rapidly, then shrank and disappeared.
• Luminous Phenomenon over Vienna: A witness observed a strongly yellow, elongated luminous phenomenon flying relatively slowly at a low altitude over Vienna.
• Attempt at Deception: A reader submitted a photograph claiming it was a UFO, but it was later revealed to be a picture of damage to a car's windshield, demonstrating a potential attempt to mislead researchers.

Naturwissenschaft (Natural Science)

• The Evolution of Species - A Hypothesis on the Origin of Species Diversity by Dr. Horst Heyer: This article presents a hypothesis on the origin of species diversity.

Buchbesprechung (Book Review)

• Joseph Andreas Ebb: "Die Realität der Flugscheiben" (The Reality of Flying Disks) - Reviewed by Ralf Härtel: This is a review of a book about flying disks.

Aus Presse und Internet (From Press and Internet)

This section covers various news items:

• Events: Mentions Prä-Astronautik, Crop Circles, and Alternative History.
• Physicist Burkhard Heim Dies: Reports the death of physicist Burkhard Heim.
• Heim's Hypotheses: Discusses the hypotheses of Burkhard Heim.
• In Two Weeks to Mars: Discusses the possibility of reaching Mars in two weeks.
• Why Mars Has No Atmosphere: Explores reasons for the lack of atmosphere on Mars.
• Sensational Discovery on Mars Moon Phobos: Reports a significant discovery on Phobos.

Technik (Technology)

• Technologies of the Future - Spaceflight Research in the USA by Ralf Härtel: This article discusses advancements in spaceflight research in the United States.
• Sailing with the Sun by Ralf Härtel: This piece likely explores solar sailing or related technologies.

Impressum (Imprint)

Provides publication details for DEGUFORUM.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DEGUFORUM include UFO sightings and related phenomena, personal accounts of paranormal experiences (such as out-of-body travel and levitation), and alternative scientific perspectives that challenge mainstream physics and biology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, critical examination of official explanations, and a willingness to consider unconventional theories, particularly when they are supported by eyewitness testimony. There is a clear skepticism towards established scientific paradigms when they fail to account for observed anomalies, as exemplified by the editorial's critique of the Barnaul UFO incident explanation and the letter questioning the limitations of current physics.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, dated March 2001, features a collection of articles exploring various facets of the UFO phenomenon, personal experiences, skepticism, and future space technologies. The magazine includes personal accounts of unusual experiences, discussions on the societal and media handling of UFOs, and an overview of advanced aerospace concepts.

Fallberichte (Case Reports)

Personal Accounts of AKE Phenomena

The issue begins with personal narratives detailing 'AKE' (Außerkörperliche Erfahrung - Out-of-Body Experience) phenomena. One account from 1989 describes a disembodied state where the individual's consciousness entered a device, followed by a sensation of being propelled out of their body and witnessing the environment fragment. Another experience from May of the same year recounts a disembodied floating over a cemetery, feeling intense well-being, abruptly interrupted by a return to a disoriented physical state.

A third personal account details an encounter with a 'black entity' from 1986, which caused a feeling of extreme cold and attempted to enter the individual's body. The author questions whether this entity is a protective spirit or something malevolent.

Kurt Diedrich: Glaube, Skepsis und Tabus (Belief, Skepticism, and Taboos)

Kurt Diedrich's article discusses how UFO information is processed by the public, emphasizing the role of media, books, and personal accounts. He argues that skepticism towards UFOs is often rooted in societal and cultural mechanisms rather than purely logical or scientific reasoning. Diedrich criticizes the media's tendency to mock or dismiss UFO reports, contributing to a public perception that those who report sightings are mentally unstable. He also touches upon the polarization between 'believers' and 'skeptics' in the UFO research community, suggesting that the truth often lies in the middle. He identifies a third group of researchers who seek objective truth without pre-conceived notions.

UFO-Sekten (UFO Cults)

This section warns against 'UFO cults' that exploit the topic of UFOs and extraterrestrial contact, often promoting absurd theories and drawing vulnerable individuals into their fold. These groups are seen as contributing to the negative perception of the UFO phenomenon.

Verschwörungstheorie (Conspiracy Theory)

The article outlines the conspiracy theory that governments worldwide are aware of UFO visitations and actively suppress this knowledge through disinformation and intimidation. It mentions historical US government projects like Project Sign, Grudge, and Blue Book, and the persistent myth of 'Majestic 12'.

Skeptiker (Skeptics)

Diedrich addresses how to engage with skeptics, suggesting that questioning their knowledge of specific cases or theorists might prompt reflection. However, he notes that true skeptics, who are defined as those who actively seek to debunk UFOs, are often impervious to evidence. He points out that while skeptics have helped expose hoaxes, their insistence on finding a natural explanation for every phenomenon can sometimes backfire, inadvertently reinforcing the idea that something extraordinary is occurring.

Argumente (Arguments)

This section critiques common arguments against the existence of UFOs, such as the idea that there isn't enough material in the universe to build them. It also discusses the idea that advanced civilizations might not interact with less developed ones in a manner we would recognize, drawing parallels to historical colonial encounters.

Hochentwickelte Zivilisationen (Highly Developed Civilizations)

It is proposed that highly advanced civilizations might be thousands or even hundreds of thousands of years ahead of humanity. Their behavior, which may seem illogical to us, could be due to this vast difference in development. The article suggests that peaceful civilizations are more likely to survive and advance, and if UFOs exist, their advanced technology would have allowed them to conquer or destroy Earth long ago if they had hostile intentions.

Erste Direktive (First Directive)

This section challenges the argument that if UFOs existed, they would have made official contact. It posits that this line of reasoning is outdated, stemming from a colonial mindset. Modern ethical considerations would likely lead to non-interference with less developed cultures, similar to how anthropologists study isolated indigenous tribes.

UFOs kamen vor langer Zeit und nach langer Reise von sehr weit her...

This part of the article explores various theories about UFO origins, including extraterrestrial visitors from distant planets, beings from other dimensions, time travelers, and entities that manifest in different forms according to the epoch (as proposed by Jacques Vallée).

UFOs in der DDR (UFOs in the GDR)

Persönliche Eindrücke von Dr. Eberhard Förster

Dr. Eberhard Förster shares his experiences and observations regarding UFOs and esotericism in the former German Democratic Republic (DDR). He recalls E. v. Däniken's film 'Memories of the Future' being shown briefly before being banned, with no official reason given. Förster speculates that the ban might have been due to the film's perceived 'anti-communist' nature or pressure from the Soviet Union, which allegedly had knowledge of UFOs since the 1950s. He notes that UFO literature was virtually non-existent and forbidden in the DDR, and the concept of 'esotericism' was also unknown. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, he observed a greater interest in UFO topics in unified Germany compared to the West. He mentions a DDR-era UFO case described by Michael Hesemann, involving a contactee who was investigated by the Stasi and later released in exchange for his story.

Förster also reflects on his personal career crisis in 1993, which led him to explore world religions, UFOs, and esotericism, including Nostradamus's prophecies. He views the intellectual liberation from the DDR's rigid ideology as a significant benefit of reunification, acknowledging that both East and West Germans had illusions about each other's societies. He suggests that if accounts from figures like Billy Meier and Elizabeth Klarer are true, the societal shock of discovering our place in the universe could be greater than the fall of the DDR.

Technik (Technology)

TECHNOLOGIEN DER ZUKUNFT (Technologies of the Future)

This section, authored by Ralf Härtel, discusses NASA's ambitious plans for the 21st century, focusing on the 'Advanced Space Transportation Program' (ASTP). The goal is to make space travel more accessible and affordable, aiming to reduce payload costs significantly and increase safety. The article highlights the development of 'Reusable Launch Vehicles' (RLVs) as a key component of this program.

Wiederwendbare Raumfahrzeuge (Reusable Spacecraft)

The current high costs of space travel are a major hurdle. NASA's goal, as outlined by President Clinton's National Space Transportation Policy, is to reduce launch costs by a factor of ten within 10 years and by a factor of 100 within 25 years. This requires developing new technologies and reducing introduction costs. The article mentions that while the Space Shuttle represents the first generation of reusable principles, the next generation aims to be ten times cheaper and safer.

X-Projects

NASA is developing experimental aircraft under the 'X-Projects' initiative to make space travel more affordable. These technologies aim to drastically reduce the cost of manned flights into planetary space. The article mentions the X-33 VENTURE STAR, intended as a successor to the Space Shuttle, but notes its development was plagued by setbacks and high costs, leading to its cancellation. The Space Shuttle is expected to remain in service until at least 2015 or 2020.

The X-34, developed by Orbital Sciences, is described as a workhorse for RLVs, designed to be a 'truck' for future space missions. It is a 18-meter-long vehicle that can be launched from an aircraft and reach altitudes of 80 km.

The X-37, from Boeing, is presented as a 'Shuttle within a Shuttle,' with a length of 9 meters. It is intended for orbital missions and will be deployed from the Space Shuttle.

The X-38, developed by NASA, is a 'Crew Rescue Vehicle' for the International Space Station, designed to glide back to Earth using a steerable parafoil.

MICROWAVE LIGHTCRAFT and LASER LIGHTCRAFT

These are described as UFO-like vehicles with unconventional propulsion systems. The Microwave Lightcraft uses microwave energy to levitate, potentially creating a shockwave that ionizes and illuminates the surrounding air. NASA anticipates these vehicles will significantly reduce costs by eliminating the need for ground crews. The Laser Lightcraft uses a powerful laser beam to propel a probe, with the potential for interstellar travel to systems like Alpha Centauri.

Ionenantriebe und Sonnensegel (Ion Drives and Solar Sails)

Ion drives are discussed as a future propulsion system that uses electrically charged particles (ions) to accelerate spacecraft, offering high efficiency for long-duration missions and course corrections for satellites. Solar sails utilize the pressure of sunlight and solar wind to propel spacecraft, a concept dating back to Konstantin E. Ziolkovsky. However, the effectiveness of solar sails diminishes with distance from the sun.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained, the nature of belief versus skepticism, and the future of human exploration. The magazine appears to adopt a balanced approach, presenting personal accounts of anomalous phenomena alongside critical analysis and scientific perspectives. There is a clear interest in exploring the boundaries of current understanding, whether in the realm of unexplained aerial phenomena or the technological advancements required for future space travel. The editorial stance seems to encourage critical thinking and open-mindedness, acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the potential for future discoveries to reshape our understanding of the universe and our place within it. The inclusion of personal narratives alongside technical articles suggests an effort to bridge the gap between anecdotal evidence and scientific endeavor.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, dated March 2001 (Issue 29), focuses on technological advancements and scientific theories, particularly in the realms of aerospace, evolution, and physics.

Technology: Laser Lightcraft

The magazine features an article on the "Laser Lightcraft," a flying object powered by laser energy. It describes tests conducted at the High Energy Laser System Test Facility (HELSTF) in White Sands Missile Range, where a powerful carbon dioxide laser was used to propel a small, disc-shaped test object. The laser beam heats air into a bluish plasma, which is then explosively expelled, generating thrust. The article mentions successful laboratory and free-flight tests, including one where the LIGHTCRAFT reached an altitude of 15 meters. The technology is presented as a potential means to significantly reduce launch costs for smaller satellites, with concepts for laser launch facilities on the Moon and Mars being explored.

Another section discusses "Space Sailing," a concept where massive solar sails are propelled by photons from the sun. It mentions that if the distance from the sun becomes too great, lasers will be used to generate the necessary photons. A test flight was planned for April, with the first actual flight of a 600 m² solar sail in 850 km altitude scheduled for October.

Science: The Development of Species

Dr. Horst Heyer contributes an extensive article titled "Über die Entwicklung der Arten" (On the Development of Species). He begins by tracing the historical understanding of species development, noting early observations of the vast number of species and the fossil record suggesting change over time. The article discusses the concept of species evolving from simpler forms, likening the process to a branching bush, and mentions Archaeopteryx as a potential transitional form between reptiles and birds.

Heyer critically examines the idea of a linear evolutionary path, suggesting that the tree of life is more like a dense thicket with numerous branches, most of which have disappeared. He contrasts the "catastrophism" theory (life being destroyed and recreated) with the "evolutionary theory" (continuous development). The article highlights the role of mutations and natural selection in adaptation, drawing parallels with technological development processes.

It questions why significant genetic variability persists in many species, even when natural selection should favor a single best-adapted variant. The role of microorganisms in exchanging genetic material across species boundaries is emphasized, suggesting they form a vast reservoir of genetic information for Earth's biosphere.

Catastrophic events, such as asteroid or comet impacts, are presented as major drivers of extinction, leading to the near-total collapse of ecosystems. The article posits that microorganisms are the most resilient life forms, capable of repopulating the Earth after such events. It argues that the preservation of large animal species is less critical for genetic diversity than often assumed, as their genetic material is largely preserved within microorganisms.

The article also discusses the limitations of the fossil record, suggesting that fossils primarily document extinction events rather than continuous evolutionary processes. It proposes that the development of species is not a linear progression but rather a cyclical process of extinction and re-emergence, with new species arising from the genetic pool of microorganisms.

Metamorphosis and embryonic development are presented as evidence for the underlying genetic potential for various forms within a species. The article suggests that environmental factors, particularly during embryonic development, can influence the expression of genes, leading to variations in traits like sex determination or physical characteristics.

It explores the idea that species development is not always a gradual process but can involve rapid bursts of diversification following catastrophic events, where surviving microorganisms, carrying the genetic legacy of extinct higher life forms, rapidly give rise to new species that bear resemblances to their predecessors.

Charles Darwin's observations of the finches on the Galapagos Islands are cited as a prime example of adaptive radiation, where a single ancestral species diversified to exploit different ecological niches.

Book Review: "Die Realität der Flugscheiben" by Joseph Andreas Epp

The magazine includes a review of the book "Die Realität der Flugscheiben – ein Leben für eine Idee" (The Reality of Flying Saucers – A Life for an Idea) by Joseph Andreas Epp. The book chronicles Epp's life and his pursuit of designing and constructing flying saucer technology. It details his early interest in aerodynamics, his work on conventional aircraft, and his later secret development of flying saucer models, including the "Omega-Diskus." The review notes that Epp's innovative designs were largely ignored by the industry, and he passed away in 1997, taking his detailed plans with him.

Physics: Burkhard Heim's Hypotheses

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the work of physicist Burkhard Heim. The article "Die Hypothesen Heims – Kurzgefasst" (Heim's Hypotheses – In Brief) outlines his theoretical model, which posits six dimensions. Heim's model includes a four-dimensional space-time continuum, two imaginary dimensions, and two additional dimensions that govern organizational states and their control. A key implication for space travel is the concept of "spatial displacement without movement through space," suggesting that spacecraft could be projected into our solar system if their destinations possess similar qualitative characteristics.

The article also touches upon the role of "psychic distance" in Heim's theory, potentially explaining the similarities between alleged alien beings and humans, and its relevance to phenomena like telepathy and remote viewing. Heim's theory is presented as compatible with existing physics, bridging quantum theory and general relativity, and offering a potential framework for understanding unexplained UFO phenomena.

Events and Announcements

The magazine includes announcements for upcoming events, such as the "Prä-Astronautik" congress in Kamp-Lintfort and a symposium on "Kornkreise und mystische Stätten" (Crop Circles and Mystical Sites) in Saarland. It also lists the "Alternative Geschichte und Chronologiekritik" (Alternative History and Chronology Criticism) conference.

Obituary: Burkhard Heim

An obituary for the German physicist Burkhard Heim, who passed away on January 14, 2001, is included. It highlights his significant contributions to physics, particularly his work on a unified formula for elementary particle masses, and laments that his work was not widely recognized due to his reclusive nature.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DEGUFORUM revolve around cutting-edge technological concepts (Laser Lightcraft, solar sails), speculative scientific theories (evolution, extraterrestrial life, alternative physics), and historical perspectives on scientific discovery. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena and unconventional scientific ideas, encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations beyond mainstream scientific consensus. The magazine promotes a critical yet open-minded approach to topics like UFOs, evolution, and theoretical physics.

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: 29
Date: March 2001
Publisher: DEGUFO e.V. (Deutschsprachige Gesellschaft für UFO-Forschung)
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0946-1531
Price: DM 7.50 (Inland), DM 10.- (Abroad)

This issue of DEGUFORUM delves into two significant topics: the potential for rapid space travel to Mars and the scientific investigation into Mars' lost atmosphere and mysterious artifacts.

In Two Weeks to Mars: A Nuclear Revolution

The lead article, "In Two Weeks to Mars," explores a groundbreaking concept proposed by nuclear technicians from Israel's Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. They have identified a potential nuclear fuel, the rare isotope Americium 242m, that could drastically reduce travel time to the Red Planet. Yigal Ronen, a nuclear technician, suggests that this isotope, even in a thin film of one micrometer, can sustain nuclear fission. Crucially, Americium 242m reaches its critical mass at a significantly lower weight than conventional fuels like Uranium or Plutonium, making it ideal for a lighter, more efficient nuclear reactor for spacecraft.

Ronen's research indicates that an Americium reactor could enable a round trip to Mars in approximately two weeks, a stark contrast to the eight to ten months required by conventional drives. The proposed reactor could use the high-energy fission products to either propel the spacecraft directly or heat a gas for propulsion. It could also generate electricity via a special generator.

However, Ronen acknowledges significant hurdles. The production of Americium 242m from Plutonium 241 and Americium 241 is currently an expensive and complex process, yielding only small quantities. Furthermore, the precise design of the reactor, its cooling systems, and safety measures require extensive further investigation.

Why Mars Has No Atmosphere

Another major section addresses the question of Mars' lack of atmosphere, based on data from the Mars Global Surveyor. The findings suggest that Mars once possessed an atmosphere that was gradually stripped away by solar winds. The probe detected remnants of a magnetic field that dissolved long ago, leaving the atmosphere vulnerable. This destabilization is estimated to have begun about 500 million years after Mars' formation, likely preventing the evolution of complex life.

Planetary atmospheres are constantly bombarded by solar winds, streams of ions emanating from the sun. Planets with strong magnetic fields, like Earth, can deflect most of these ions, with only a fraction entering at the poles to create auroras. The sun ejects millions of tons of matter daily at high speeds. While the solar wind has low density, its continuous impact is significant. Planetary magnetic fields act as shields against this 'ionic wind.'

The exact reason for Mars' magnetic field loss remains unclear, but researchers, analyzing new data published in "New Scientist," are certain it occurred approximately four billion years ago. Evidence for this comes from two large meteor craters that, unlike other surface rocks, are not magnetized. If Mars' core had remained active, generating a magnetic field like a dynamo, the molten rock from impacts would have become magnetized upon cooling. The fact that this did not happen indicates the dynamo had ceased functioning.

The Mars Global Surveyor did find some localized remnants of magnetic fields in the southern hemisphere that offer some protection to their immediate surroundings from the solar wind. However, these are insufficient to maintain a breathable atmosphere. The scientific consensus is that the conditions necessary for life to develop would not exist on Mars today, as a global magnetic field is required.

Remains of a Lake on Mars

The solar wind likely carried away all the nitrogen, carbon, and water from Mars during its first two billion years. Despite this, water might still exist beneath the surface, potentially explaining past speculation about Martian seas and rivers. These bodies of water have likely simply evaporated.

There is no doubt that Mars once held large quantities of water, and in its early history, it may have been very similar to Earth. Erosion patterns on the surface clearly show the traces left by water, indicating large lakes, floods, and small river systems. All this water disappeared from the surface along with the atmosphere.

Today, both Martian poles are covered by ice caps composed of solid carbon dioxide (dry ice), containing varying concentrations of dark dust.

Sensational Discovery on the Mars Moon Phobos

Page two of the magazine features an article about a discovery on Phobos, one of Mars' moons. In 1998, the Mars Global Surveyor photographed an unusual object on Phobos. While initially dismissed by astronomers as a mere boulder, subsequent analysis, particularly a side-view (Image 3), suggests it is a monolith.

This discovery is linked to a similar monolith found on Earth's moon, which was unearthed and reportedly emitted signals towards Jupiter. A mission with a six-person crew was planned to investigate the source of these signals.

The object on Phobos was photographed at an angle of approximately 70 degrees. Based on shadow length and pixel count, its height was estimated at about 120 meters. Damage from cosmic bombardment suggests the monolith has been on Phobos for eons, awaiting discovery. The article speculates that the builders of this object are the same ones responsible for the 'Face on Mars.'

An extrapolation by Efrain Palermo is included, illustrating the monolith's angle to the surface and its shadow.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of DEGUFORUM strongly emphasizes the exploration of Mars and its moons, presenting both scientific findings and speculative theories about extraterrestrial intelligence and advanced technology. The magazine highlights cutting-edge research in space propulsion, suggesting that human travel to Mars could become significantly faster. Simultaneously, it explores the geological and atmospheric history of Mars, positing reasons for its current barren state. The discovery of a potential artifact on Phobos reinforces the magazine's focus on UFOs and the possibility of ancient alien civilizations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting scientific data alongside more speculative, yet intriguing, possibilities within the realm of ufology and space mysteries.