Deguforum - Issue 37 - 2003

Magazine Overview

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 37
Volume: 10. Jahrgang
Date: March 2003
Publisher: DEGUFO e.V. (Deutschsprachige Gesellschaft für UFO-Forschung)
Country: Germany
Language: German
Price: 5,00

This issue of DEGUFORUM, the journal of the German Society for UFO Research, focuses on the intriguing parallels between near-death experiences (NDEs) and UFO phenomena. The editorial, titled "What do Near-Death Experiences and UFOs have in Common?" by Jens Waldeck, sets the stage by suggesting that both fields explore the cosmos and the non-terrestrial, with NDEs delving into an 'inner universe' and UFO research examining the 'outer world'. Waldeck posits that the scientific exploration of both realms pushes the boundaries of conventional science, leading to a concept of 'border science' that is essential for understanding our reality.

Top-Thema: Near-Death Experiences

The main feature, "Near-Death Experiences: Clues to a Spiritual Existence in a Virtual State?" by Ernst Meckelburg, delves into the phenomenon of NDEs. It discusses Dr. Raymond Moody's pioneering work and subsequent research by scientists like Karlis Osis, Erlendur Haraldsson, Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, Michael Sabom, Sarah Kreutzinger, and Kenneth Ring. The article contrasts scientific explanations, such as pharmacological effects (e.g., Ketamine) and neurological factors (e.g., oxygen deprivation), with the consistent accounts of experiencers. Meckelburg highlights that many NDEs occur without any prior administration of anesthetics or sedatives. He also presents the arguments of critics who attribute NDEs to physiological anomalies like hypoxia or endorphin release, while also presenting counter-arguments from researchers like Dr. Michael Sabom, who found that patients' accounts of their experiences, including details observed during resuscitation, were highly accurate and beyond mere hallucination. The article details common NDE phenomena, including feelings of peace, out-of-body experiences, seeing a light, and a life review. Kenneth Ring's research is cited, indicating that NDEs are a cross-cultural phenomenon with a consistent pattern of positive emotions and transcendental imagery. The article concludes by suggesting that NDEs may be indicators of the survival of consciousness beyond physical death.

Sightings and Experiences

This section presents several eyewitness accounts of unusual aerial phenomena:

• "Mysterious Flying Movements, Trier 1982" by a witness who observed a light exhibiting erratic, triangular movements in the night sky.
• "Seven UFOs, Zurich October 2002" describes a formation of seven unidentified objects flying in uniform motion.
• "A Triangular Object, Stralsund Summer 02" recounts the sighting of a large, black, V-shaped object with lights, likened to a stealth bomber.
• "Transparent Object, Lübeck December 2000" details an observation of a spherical object near the moon that changed color and size.
• "A Luminous Star, Klingenberg/Main 2002" reports a bright, star-like object moving with significant speed across the sky.
• "Rotating Spheres, Hermannshagen 2002" describes luminous spheres that appeared to rotate and were photographed as inter-swirling rings.
• "The Liverpool UFO Video" discusses a video purportedly showing three disc-shaped UFOs chasing an airplane.
• "Scottish UFO Landing Site" reports on an investigation of an oval-shaped formation in a field in Scotland, with indentations suggesting a landing.

UFO Themes

• "UFO Research in Japan" features an interview with Junichi Kato of OUR-J, who discusses the connection between Japanese myths and UFO sightings, his telepathic abilities, and the current state of UFO research in Japan. He highlights the importance of systematic research and encourages looking towards the sky rather than solely relying on government disclosures.
• "UFO Sightings in Surveys" by Edgar Wunder and Rudolf Henke presents findings from surveys on UFO sightings.
• "News Briefs" offers short updates on UFO-related news.

Präastronautik

"Pushing Towards the Gods of Antiquity: Spaceflight, SETI, and Pre-Astronautics" by Roland Roth argues for the necessity of space exploration for humanity's survival and evolution. Roth suggests that spaceflight could provide solutions to Earth's resource and overpopulation problems, open up new energy reserves, and potentially lead to contact with extraterrestrial intelligences or the discovery of ancient alien artifacts. He emphasizes the human need to dream and explore new frontiers.

Science and Technology

• "Europe's First Steps Towards Mars" by Dr. Peter Hattwig discusses the initial stages of European Mars exploration.
• "News Briefs: Related Planetary System Suspected" covers topics such as 'spider bots' for exploring exoplanets, water ice on Mars, and the close proximity of Mars and Earth.
• "An Unknown Planet Beyond Neptune and Pluto" by Dr. Peter Hattwig and Gustav Skrivanek reports on the potential discovery of a new planet.

Book Reviews

This section features reviews of several books:

• "The Call of the Soul" by Josiane Antonette
• "The Greatest Secret of God" by Ilia Papa
• "Time Winner" and "Hunt for the Soul" by Christoph Konrad Kalka
• "Hyperworld" by Ernst Meckelburg
• "Time Winner. Rockin' Through the Time" by Christoph Konrad Kalka

Events

"10 Years DEGUFO e.V. Anniversary Congress: Program, Prices, Hotels, and Accommodation, Registration" provides details for the upcoming congress in Bad Kreuznach from September 13-14, 2003.

Entertainment

• "Crossword Puzzle"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the unknown, both in terms of the afterlife (NDEs) and extraterrestrial phenomena (UFOs). The editorial stance, as articulated by Jens Waldeck, is one of open inquiry and the pursuit of 'border science,' encouraging readers to engage with these complex topics. The magazine advocates for a proactive approach to research, pushing beyond conventional scientific limitations and embracing the possibility of realities beyond our current understanding. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of human curiosity, the drive to explore, and the potential for profound discoveries through dedicated investigation.

DEGUFORUM, Issue 37, dated March 2003, is a German-language magazine focused on fringe science, paranormal phenomena, and ufology. This issue prominently features articles on 'Sterbeforschung' (Death Research), exploring near-death experiences (NDEs) and their implications, alongside detailed reports on animal mutilations in Argentina and Uruguay, potentially linked to UFO activity. The magazine also announces an upcoming anniversary congress and includes interviews and research updates.

Sterbeforschung: Near-Death Experiences

The issue delves deeply into the phenomenon of near-death experiences (NDEs), citing research by Dr. Sabom and Sarah Kreutzinger, who aimed to refute conventional medical explanations like ketamine or hypoxia. They highlight that NDEs are distinct from phenomena like temporal lobe epilepsy, which can cause hallucinations but lack the profound sense of peace and clarity reported by NDE experiencers. The article emphasizes that NDEs cannot be interpreted through conventional medicine, suggesting a 'transpersonal' or 'paranormal' nature.

Dr. Fred Schoonmaker, a chief cardiologist, is featured for his extensive research on NDEs, having studied over 1000 cases of clinical death. He found that approximately 60% of individuals who experienced cardiac arrest reported NDEs. Schoonmaker's findings, gathered from patients monitored by medical technology, ruled out hallucinations as a cause, leading him to conclude that consciousness might persist beyond physical death. The research suggests that understanding death through NDEs can alleviate the fear of it, leading to a greater appreciation of life.

The article details various paranormal experiences associated with NDEs, including out-of-body experiences (OBEs), 'self-observation' (autoscopy), 'ghost effects' (perceiving deceased individuals), time anomalies, and precognition. It describes the 'tunnel effect' as a passage between dimensions and the encounter with a 'light being' or deceased relatives. A key aspect is the 'life review,' a rapid, comprehensive recollection of one's life, often experienced with absolute clarity, even by individuals previously suffering from confusion or mental illness. The sensory perceptions during NDEs are described as exceptionally brilliant and pure, beyond normal material experience.

These 'special perceptions of consciousness' are presented as evidence of a reality beyond our current scientific understanding, suggesting the continued existence of consciousness in a non-material 'hyperworld.' The research also notes that children experience NDE visions differently from adults, being less culturally programmed and more open to unusual experiences.

Further exploration into NDEs includes the concept of the 'consciousness body' or 'astral body,' which can separate from the physical form. The case of a severely injured US soldier in Vietnam is recounted, where his astral body attempted to prevent his own surgery. This highlights the perceived autonomy of consciousness from the physical body, which is viewed as a mere vessel.

The 'life panorama' or universal life review is discussed as a common NDE element, where individuals experience their entire life in a compressed timeframe, often from a higher, timeless perspective. This phenomenon is compared to a film being played back, with details perceived with remarkable clarity. Scientists studying this phenomenon note its varied manifestations, including chronological or simultaneous recall, and varying degrees of emotional involvement.

The article touches upon the 'holographic' nature of memory, suggesting that all recollections are stored in a complex consciousness field, explaining the rapid and simultaneous perception during a life review. It also mentions Dr. med. Heinrich Huber's observations on the continuous consciousness of humans, noting that dying individuals sometimes experience a clarity of thought and awareness that surpasses their state before illness, even engaging in simultaneous conversations with both the living and unseen entities.

Ernst Meckelburg: Time, Anomalies, and the Future

The magazine features an interview with Ernst Meckelburg, an author and journalist specializing in fringe science, time anomalies, and time travel. Meckelburg has authored several books on the subject, tracing the evolution of time travel theory from science fiction to scientific speculation. He believes that time manipulation and other advanced technologies will shape humanity's future and that significant global events are being 'managed' from the future.

The interview poses several questions to readers about their beliefs regarding UFO entities (extraterrestrial, time-traveling, or interdimensional), the nature of these entities (material or holographic), and the possibility of time travel through wormholes, quantum systems, or warp technology. Meckelburg also inquires about readers' experiences with time anomalies, belief in higher dimensions, and the potential psychological effects of time travel.

Meckelburg's latest book, 'Jenseits der Ewigkeit' (Beyond Eternity), explores realms beyond time and death. His work suggests that animals possess surprising psychic and physical abilities, intelligence, and even magical powers, advocating for a deeper respect for non-human beings and their right to life.

Animal Mutilations: A Growing Phenomenon

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the alarming increase in animal mutilations, particularly cattle mutilations, in Argentina and Uruguay. The phenomenon, previously prominent in the USA, involves the discovery of dead animals, primarily cattle, but also horses and sheep, exhibiting precise, surgical-like wounds. These injuries are described as clean-edged, with slight discoloration, unlike those inflicted by wild animals.

Reports from Argentina detail cases where animals are found with missing tongues, jaws, eyes, and other organs, often with complete bloodlessness. The precision of the cuts suggests the use of advanced technology, possibly laser-like instruments. The article notes that these incidents are occurring across vast rural areas, making investigation difficult.

Veterinarians and ranchers are actively monitoring the situation, with some suggesting an 'intelligent force' is responsible. The phenomenon is spreading, with documented cases in La Pampa, Rancul, and other regions of Argentina. The mutilations are described as 'fascinatingly parallel' to those found in the USA.

In Uruguay, the first documented case involved a cow with missing eyes and genitals, and no blood. The local authorities initially attempted to downplay the incident, urging the public not to jump to conclusions. However, subsequent findings of mutilated sheep in Salto, Uruguay, with similar characteristics, indicate the phenomenon is not confined by national borders.

Red light phenomena have been observed in the vicinity of some mutilation sites, with witnesses describing intense, laser-like lights moving rapidly across the landscape. The article speculates on a possible connection between these lights and the mutilations.

Government and private investigation groups are involved, with samples sent for analysis. However, no definitive explanations or perpetrators have been identified. The article highlights the difficulty in explaining these events, as the technology used appears to be beyond current medical capabilities.

DEGUFO Congress and Events

The magazine announces the upcoming 10th DEGUFO e.V. Anniversary Congress, scheduled for September 13-14, 2003, in Bad Kreuznach, Germany. The congress program includes presentations on UFO sightings, the state of UFO research, animal mutilations, electromagnetic phenomena, unusual sky phenomena over Azerbaijan, and a panel discussion on the future of UFO research. Speakers include Illobrand von Ludwiger, Hartwig Hausdorf, and Prof. Dr. Eltschin N. Khalilov.

Additionally, the congress features a 'Get-together-Party' and a sketch titled 'A UFO Researcher at Work.' The program also includes sessions on remote viewing, time-riders, crop circle research, and the relationship between archaeoastronautics and UFO research. The event aims to bring together researchers and enthusiasts to discuss current findings and future directions in these fields.

Information on registration fees, accommodation options in Bad Kreuznach, and contact details for DEGUFO e.V. are provided.

Other Content

The issue also includes a crossword puzzle related to UFO terminology and paranormal concepts. Advertisements feature books on 'The Secret Life of Animals' by Ernst Meckelburg, 'Epoch of the Gods' by Roland Roth, and 'Journeys in the Year 2002' with writer Thomas Ritter. There is also an advertisement for 'Philosophical and Spiritual Counseling' by Hans-Joachim Heyer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

DEGUFORUM consistently explores topics that lie outside mainstream scientific consensus, including UFOs, NDEs, time anomalies, and other paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting research and anecdotal evidence from various perspectives, while acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding. The magazine encourages reader participation through surveys and feedback, fostering a community of interest in these subjects. There is a clear emphasis on presenting information that challenges conventional paradigms and encourages critical thinking about the nature of reality, consciousness, and the universe.

DEGUFORUM, Issue 37, dated March 2003, is a German-language magazine focusing on ufology, paranormal phenomena, and related scientific and philosophical topics. This issue prominently features articles on cattle mutilations, the mysterious 'angel hair' phenomenon, and explores themes of time travel and the afterlife.

Cattle Mutilations in Argentina

The lead article, "Viehverstümmelungen" (Cattle Mutilations), details a series of disturbing events in Argentina. A particularly baffling incident occurred in Suco in June 2002, where 19 cattle were found dead or near death inside a steel water tank. The tank, of Australian type, had a conical lid, and the cattle would have had to overcome electric fences, a 1.5m high fence, and then jump into the tank. Authorities were unable to explain how the animals got there. The article also describes a mutilated cow found on an adjacent field, exhibiting injuries similar to other cases, while its calf remained unharmed. This suggests the injuries were not caused by predators, as a predator would likely target the calf first. Local veterinarians and specialists from the National University of Rio Cuarto were consulted but could not provide a satisfactory explanation. Some veterinarians suggested the possibility of "other life forms" or "UFO crews" using "teleportation" to create such scenarios.

The article further reports on a mutilated pig found in La Sileta, Salta Province, with injuries resembling those from a 'laser scalpel.' Another incident in Salliquelo involved a mutilated calf found near public facilities, causing widespread fear among farmers and the general population. The inability of authorities to explain or prevent these events has led some farmers to send their families to larger cities for safety. Various theories are presented, including toxic substances, drug overdoses, or mineral deficiencies, but the method of mutilation remains a mystery. The precise, almost surgical cuts suggest advanced technology, possibly high-powered lasers, which are currently not portable enough for such field operations.

The Mystery of 'Angel Hair'

Another significant section of the magazine is dedicated to the phenomenon of 'angel hair,' described as white, fibrous, sticky masses that fall from the sky, often disappearing quickly. The article, "Mysteriöses Engelshaar" (Mysterious Angel Hair) by Hans-Ulrich Neumann, compiles historical and contemporary reports. An 18th-century account from England describes a substance like spiderwebs falling over a large area. A 1952 report from Peru links a cigar-shaped UFO to a trail of 'angel hair.' A 1973 incident in Sudbury, Massachusetts, involved a child reporting a 'giant spider web' that turned out to be a silvery-white material falling from the sky along with a spherical object. In 1998, Australians reported webs falling after observing silver balls. The material is described as fine threads, sticky flakes, and cotton-like masses. While some believe it originates from UFOs or advanced government projects, others suggest it could be related to atmospheric processes or even biological agents like bacteria and fungi. Laboratory analyses of samples have shown varying chemical compositions and surface structures, suggesting an unnatural origin, but not necessarily extraterrestrial.

UFO Sightings and Research

The issue includes a study on UFO sightings based on surveys conducted in 1990/91 by UFO critics Rudolf Henke, Werner Walter, and Hans-Jürgen Köhler. The survey of 447 individuals revealed that a significant portion had seen unidentified flying objects. The study found no correlation between UFO sightings and factors like gender, age, education, or astronomical knowledge, but a strong correlation with the belief that UFOs are extraterrestrial spacecraft. The researchers suggest using the term 'object in the sky that you could not identify' in future surveys.

Book Reviews

The magazine features several book reviews, covering topics related to the paranormal and scientific speculation:

• "Der Ruf der Seele" (The Call of the Soul) by Josiane Antonette: This autobiographical book explores the author's experiences with the spiritual side of life, near-death experiences, and communication with the 'other side.' It discusses the nature of healing, unconditional love, and the understanding of life and death.

• "Das größte Geheimnis Gottes" (The Greatest Secret of God) Vol. 1 by Ilia Papa: This is the first volume of a trilogy that examines unusual phenomena and unconventional interpretations of life's mysteries. It touches upon topics like the nature of the USA, evolution, and the memory of water, suggesting a hidden power or conspiracy behind world events.

• "Time Winner" by Christoph Konrad Kalka: This science fiction novel is presented as a blend of physics and speculative fiction, exploring the possibility of time travel. The review highlights Kalka's theoretical approach, which builds upon advanced physics concepts to create a narrative involving 'time riders' and artifacts from advanced civilizations.

• "Hyperwelt - Erfahrungen mit dem Jenseits" (Hyperworld - Experiences with the Beyond) by Ernst Meckelburg: This book attempts to scientifically explain the phenomenon of ghosts and apparitions. Meckelburg explores the concept of a 'hyperworld' and the possibility of consciousness surviving death, drawing on case studies and modern consciousness research.

• "Time Winner. Rockin' Through the Time" by Christoph Konrad Kalka: A second review of a book by Kalka, this one focusing on his science fiction novel. It describes the plot involving time travelers, ancient high technology, and a struggle against an alien invasion.

Science and Technology

Several short articles in the "Wissenschaft und Technik" (Science and Technology) section cover recent developments:

• Suspected Planetary System: Scientists have discovered a Jupiter-like planet 100 light-years away, supporting the theory that planetary systems like our own are common.

• 'Spinnbots' for Planet Exploration: NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has developed spider-like robots ('spinnbots') designed to explore planets, comets, and asteroids. These robots can adapt to various terrains and share information, reducing the risk of mission failure due to individual robot malfunction.

• Water Ice on Mars Poles: Data from the Mars Odyssey probe indicates that the Martian south pole cap contains abundant water ice, with a thin layer of frozen carbon dioxide on top.

• Mars and Earth Alignment: The article notes that Mars will be at its closest point to Earth in 73,000 years on August 27th of the current year, due to the elliptical orbits of both planets.

• Europe's First Steps Towards Mars: The European Space Agency (ESA) is initiating its 'Aurora' program, which includes 'flagship' missions like the EXO-Mars mission (to explore the biological environment of Mars) and a Mars sample return mission. These are supported by smaller 'arrow' missions to develop necessary technologies, such as reentry vehicles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DEGUFORUM are the unexplained phenomena of cattle mutilations and 'angel hair,' often linked to UFOs and potential extraterrestrial or advanced technological influences. The magazine also explores speculative scientific concepts like time travel and the nature of consciousness and the afterlife, presenting both anecdotal evidence and theoretical discussions. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, encouraging readers to consider unconventional explanations and participate in further research, as evidenced by the call for information exchange and the discussion of scientific theories.

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: 37
Date: March 2003
Publisher: DEGUFO e. V. Deutschsprachige Gesellschaft für UFO-Forschung
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0946-1531
Cover Price: 3.75

Main Articles

An Unknown Planet Beyond Neptune and Pluto

This article, authored by Dr. Peter Hattwig and Gustav Skrivanek, delves into the persistent mystery of a potential tenth planet in our solar system. It begins by referencing a 1981 report about astronomers Robert S. Harrington and Thomas C. van Flandern conducting computer simulations to explain orbital peculiarities of the outer planets. Specifically, Pluto's highly eccentric orbit, which sometimes dips inside Neptune's, and its size and mass, comparable to large moons, are highlighted as unusual. The retrograde orbit of Neptune's moon Triton is also mentioned as a point of interest.

Harrington's hypothesis suggests that a tenth planet, long ago, passed close to Neptune, causing Pluto to be ejected as a moon and Triton to adopt its unusual orbital direction. Attempts to calculate the orbit of this hypothetical planet based on residual orbital deviations of Uranus and Neptune have been unsuccessful. Some astronomers propose that these deviations might be systematic measurement errors rather than gravitational influences. The theory gained renewed attention due to puzzling changes in the flight paths of the Pioneer 10 and 11 space probes, which had ventured beyond the outer planets.

#### Niburu

The article then touches upon Zecharia Sitchin's theory from his 1976 book, "Der zwölfte Planet" (The Twelfth Planet). Sitchin claimed evidence of ancient extraterrestrial visits to Earth by beings from a twelfth planet that orbits the sun in a highly elliptical path every 3,600 years. The article dismisses this theory as unrealistic, particularly the idea of life existing on a planet so far out in the solar system where temperatures would be near absolute zero and the atmosphere would freeze.

#### Peculiarities in the Kuiper Belt

A recent study reported in "Sterne und Weltraum" (1/2003) is discussed. Beyond Neptune lies the Kuiper Belt, a region populated by asteroids, extending from approximately 35 to 200 AU (Astronomical Units). Over 550 asteroids have been identified in this belt, and many astronomers classify Pluto as a Kuiper Belt object due to its typical orbital characteristics.

The article notes that while many asteroids in the Kuiper Belt have orbits with low eccentricity, there's a curious absence of such objects beyond 47 AU, as illustrated by a graph. Astronomers Brunini (La Plata) and Melita (London) conducted simulations involving a perturbing body of varying mass and inclination within the Kuiper Belt. Their findings suggest that a Mars-sized planet at an approximate distance of 56 AU could influence the observed asteroid orbits. This planet, through gravitational interactions, might have shifted to an orbit around 70 AU over a billion years. The likely reason it hasn't been detected is its dimness and difficulty in observation.

The authors conclude that searching for a tenth planet beyond Neptune and Pluto is a sensible endeavor and express hope for future discoveries.

Other Sections

Events and Announcements:

• DEGUFO Anniversary Congress: Scheduled for September 13-14, 2003, in Bad Kreuznach.
• Paleo-SETI World Congress: To be held on October 3-4, 2003, in Interlaken, Switzerland, organized by A.A.S. (Research Society for Archaeology, Astronautics, and SETI).
• Cröffelbach Conference 2003: Organized by GEP and CENAP, taking place on October 4-5, 2003.
• Seminar "Kryptozoolgie": The annual seminar of the Society for Anomalistics will be held on September 6, 2003, at the Archenhold Observatory in Berlin, focusing on topics like the Loch Ness Monster, alleged surviving dinosaur species in the Congo, and the history of cryptozoology.
• First Meeting of the Interest Group for Time Travel and Soul Research: Featuring author Christoph Konrad Kalka, on May 29, 2003 (Ascension Day) in Wilhelmsbad.
• UFO-Treff Bremen: Monthly meetings in Bremen-Nord covering fringe science, UFOs, ancient astronaut theories, crop circles, and abductions. Contact Peter Hattwig for details.

Last Report:

A humorous note states that the "Zeta Reticuli party" will no longer run for the Bundestag (German federal parliament), as announced by the "Party of the Greys" in Berlin.

Upcoming Issue:

The next issue (No. 38) will feature a cover story titled "The Indigo Generation - Hope Bearers of Our Future?" by Dr. Jens Waldeck, exploring the potential for human evolution and the role of the "Indigo children."

Impressum:

Details about the publisher (DEGUFO e. V.), editors (Dr. Peter Hattwig, Dr. Jens Waldeck), editorial staff, production, publication frequency (quarterly), subscription prices for Germany and abroad, and contact information are provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The DEGUFORUM consistently focuses on topics related to UFO research, anomalistics, fringe science, and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and research findings while maintaining a critical perspective, as seen in the dismissal of Sitchin's Niburu theory as unrealistic. The magazine also serves as a platform for announcing related conferences, seminars, and research groups, fostering a community around these subjects.