Deguforum - Issue 54 - 2007

Magazine Overview

This issue of DEGUFORUM, volume 14, number 54, dated June 2007, is published by the German-speaking Society for UFO Research (DEGUFO e.V.) and focuses on topics related to ufology, philosophy, and fringe sciences. The cover features a prominent image of the Colossi of Memnon in Luxor, Egypt, with the main headline "Luxor with the eyes of an engineer." Other cover stories include "The Black Hole from Mars - Not a Black Hole After All!" and "Mysterious Flying Object - Extraterrestrial, American, or a Hoax?"

Editorial: Pyramids and Obelisks

The editorial, written by Peter Hattwig, discusses the recent claims by French architect Jean-Pierre Houdin regarding the construction of the pyramids, using 3D software to propose a method of raising stone blocks via internal ramp tunnels. Hattwig expresses skepticism about this theory, highlighting the lack of tools for cutting stone and the logistical challenges of employing a massive workforce. He argues that conventional technology is insufficient to explain the construction of the pyramids and obelisks, drawing parallels to the work of Erich von Däniken. He contrasts the 'skeptical' German press, like Der Spiegel and Die Zeit, with his own willingness to explore unconventional hypotheses, particularly the possibility of extraterrestrial involvement. He then directs readers to his article on page 16 about the smaller obelisks in Luxor, which he believes also cannot be explained by conventional means and suggest ancient peoples had insights lost to modern times. He also mentions three other articles (pages 4-9) where he supports the extraterrestrial hypothesis and invites readers to share their counterarguments.

Table of Contents Highlights

The table of contents reveals a diverse range of articles. Under "Our Main Topic: Astronautics," Peter Hattwig explores Luxor with an engineer's perspective, detailing a trip and the construction of obelisks. "Sightings and Experiences" includes articles on a mysterious flying object, a triangular UFO over Australia, and reports of pulsating magnetic fields. "Events" covers the Spring Conference of FGK and DEGUFO in Zierenberg, including a personal report by Reinhard Nühlen and a joint conference of FGK and DEGUFO. "Astronomy" features articles on the 'black hole' on Mars, the Pioneer anomaly, the COROT exoplanet discovery, and a hexagon on Saturn. "Philosophy" discusses 'Ghosts and Spirits,' and "Cryptozoology" covers a seminar in Berlin. "News" includes reports on France releasing UFO documents and the death of crop circle researcher Hans-Jürgen Kyborg.

Mysterious Flying Object - Extraterrestrial, American, or a Hoax?

This article by Peter Hattwig investigates a mysterious flying object whose photos circulated online in April 2007. The object was described as moving silently and slowly, then suddenly changing direction, with a humming sound. Witnesses reported headaches after sightings. The article presents the facts: the object was photographed by Chad, an anonymous source, and later by others. The object's movement and appearance are described as unnatural. The author discusses the possibility of it being a hoax, an American secret project, or an extraterrestrial craft. He argues against it being a hoax due to the quality of the photos and independent witness accounts. He dismisses the idea of it being an American experiment, questioning why such a craft would be tested over populated areas. Hattwig concludes that it is likely an extraterrestrial craft, citing the lack of visible propulsion and its exotic appearance. He admits that he has long believed it to be an American experiment with antigravity but has been convinced otherwise by the evidence and the lack of conventional explanations.

The Black Hole from Mars - Not a Black Hole After All!

Dr. Peter Hattwig examines the discovery of a 'black hole' on Mars by European and American researchers in May 2007. The object, over 100 meters in diameter, was noted for its extreme darkness, with no details visible even with powerful cameras. While scientists theorized it was a deep cavity or cave, Hattwig questions this, pointing out the uniform thickness of the rim and the lack of intermediate stages between a normal crater and this phenomenon. He proposes an alternative theory: that the 'black hole' is actually an alien base on Mars, shielded by a 'time field' that renders it invisible, similar to a report from the moon Ganymed. He likens the appearance of the rim to a lake with a submerged reef, suggesting the shielding field behaves like water. He challenges astronomers to explain the uniform rim thickness and the 'islands' observed on its edge if it were a natural formation.

Triangular UFO over Australia

This article by Kurt Diedrich and Peter Hattwig discusses a triangular object photographed by Google Earth near Geraldton, Western Australia. The object, with sides approximately 110 meters long, is described as equilateral. The authors note that despite its coordinates being public, no terrestrial structure matching the description has been found. They highlight that a mast on the object casts a shadow that stops abruptly at the object's edge, suggesting it is airborne. They dismiss the idea of it being a communication facility due to the lack of visible infrastructure. The article draws a comparison to a 'Belgian UFO' photographed in 1991, noting similarities in the lights and potential propulsion systems. The authors lean towards the object being extraterrestrial, or at least an advanced terrestrial craft, and question why conventional explanations fail to account for its characteristics.

Events: Spring Conference of FGK and DEGUFO 2007 in Zierenberg

Reinhard Nühlen provides a personal report on the joint Spring Conference of FGK and DEGUFO held in Zierenberg. He notes Zierenberg's historical significance and its suitability as a meeting point. An internal meeting between FGK and DEGUFO members discussed cooperation possibilities. The conference then proceeded with lectures. Nühlen concludes that the event was successful and expresses hope for future collaboration. He also announces the upcoming DEGUFO member meeting in Bad Kreuznach and invites FGK members to attend.

"Mysterious, Pulsating Magnetic Fields from the Earth"

Kurt Diedrich presented his research on ELF signals (below 1 Hz) originating from the Earth. He discussed potential causes, including inspection signals for gas pipelines, magma flows, and local fluctuations of the Earth's magnetic field related to pole reversal. His multi-year data collection yielded interesting results but left many questions unanswered regarding natural or artificial sources. The discussion generated new avenues for research, and his findings will be published in a future issue.

"Facts about the UFO Phenomenon - What You Can Discover on the Internet and from Home"

This article by HJR recounts his personal UFO sightings, starting in 1982 and a more recent one in 2002. He describes his initial attempts to document his experiences and his subsequent contact with Peter Hattwig. The author discusses his efforts to prove the existence of UFOs by researching methods to detect the effects of antigravity drives. He experimented with measuring acceleration using a custom-built device, aiming to detect gravitational anomalies. The article suggests that while magnetic and electric field measurements showed irregularities, the acceleration sensor provided a more promising avenue for research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of DEGUFORUM consistently questions conventional scientific explanations for phenomena ranging from ancient constructions to modern aerial observations. The editorial stance, particularly from Peter Hattwig, is open to, and often advocates for, extraterrestrial hypotheses when mainstream science fails to provide satisfactory answers. There is a clear emphasis on exploring 'fringe sciences' and challenging established paradigms, encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations for unexplained events and artifacts. The magazine also serves as a platform for reporting on conferences and personal experiences within the UFO research community.

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 54
Date: June 2007
Publisher: DEGUFORUM
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of DEGUFORUM, a German publication focused on ufology and related phenomena, features a collection of articles and reports from various speakers and researchers, primarily from the FGK (Grenzwissenschaftliches Forum Köln) and DEGUFO organizations. The content spans a range of topics including unexplained phenomena, ancient mysteries, and personal accounts.

Presentations and Articles

Gravitational Anomaly and Sensor Data

The issue begins with a detailed account of a sensor experiment conducted by an individual who developed a system to record gravitational values. The system records data every second and stores it when a set threshold is exceeded, logging the time, minimum, and maximum values. The device's memory can store approximately 2.5 days of data. A blinking LED indicates when the threshold is exceeded by 10%. The experiment yielded unexpected results between January 18th and 24th, 2005, when the sensor recorded gravitational values dropping to around 95%. A specific event on January 24th, 2005, lasted 25 seconds, during which the Earth's acceleration reportedly decreased by about 4%. These anomalies have not been registered since, but research continues.

Eckhard Weber: "The Human Light Body" with Alex Grey's Art

Eckhard Weber, representing FGK, presented on the concept of the human light body, illustrated through the visionary art of Alex Grey. Grey, who worked in the anatomy department at Harvard Medical School for five years, uses his anatomical knowledge to create detailed and fantastical depictions.

Wolfgang Schöppe: "The Autumn Crop Circles 2006" between Göttingen and Kassel

Wolfgang Schöppe, also from FGK, discussed the crop circles that appeared in the autumn of 2006 near Meensen. He was assisted by Roy Däuble, an expert on the landscape between Göttingen and Hannoversch Münden. While most circles in the Meensen area were likely man-made, some anomalies were noted.

Dr. Jens Waldeck: "Crazy Views"

Jens Waldeck, a member of both DEGUFO and FGK, delivered a two-part presentation. The first part introduced the thinking of Burkhard Heim. The second part explored Heim's concept of 'transrational' levels of consciousness, which begins with aspect-oriented logic and posits a reality beyond known causality and linearity. Waldeck plans to publish a series on Heim's worldview in future issues.

Annette van den Wijngaard: "My Adventures with Phenomena"

Annette van den Wijngaard, partner of FGK member Ed Vos, shared personal accounts of phenomena. Her experiences began in early childhood and included encounters in England and Germany, such as seeing a coffin behind a glass wall in a cave and hearing inexplicable singing in a castle. She also described a near-death experience that preceded the death of a friend, and her recent practice of photographing orbs, which she considers energies.

Ed Vos: "Engraved Apples"

Ed Vos presented the phenomenon of 'engraved' apples, observed since 1994, particularly in Holland. These apples appear rotten or decayed on the outside, but their flesh is intact when peeled. The phenomenon gained attention through the medium Jomanda. While most reports come from the Netherlands, there are also accounts from Germany and other countries. The markings are not deep, unlike those caused by normal rot. The participants agreed that biochemical investigations are needed to understand this phenomenon.

Peter Hattwig: "A Trip Through Luxor with the Eyes of an Engineer"

Dr. Ing. Peter Hattwig presented on pre-astronautics, focusing on Luxor, Egypt. He highlighted the historical sites, including the temples of Luxor and Karnak, the Colossi of Memnon, and the Valley of the Kings and Queens. Hattwig argued that many of these ancient structures and monuments could not have been built or transported using conventional, known technology. He planned to detail his findings in a multi-part series, with this issue covering his initial observations and an overview of the tourist experience.

Creating a Crop Circle

This section details the FGK's 'Energy' project in 2007, which involved creating a crop circle formation in a wheat field near Zierenberg and Dörnberg on the night of May 19-20. The project required the agreement of the landowner, who was compensated for the crop loss.

Alf Bodo Graf: "UFOs and Crop Circles - Not Far-fetched"

Graf explored the connection between UFOs and crop circles, suggesting that the round shape of crop circles might be indicative of UFO activity. He proposed that alien spacecraft, seeking to gather information about Earth's cultures and environment without interference, might create these formations. He also discussed the possibility of UFOs collecting atmospheric or DNA samples from crop fields for analysis. The prevalence of crop circles in England is noted, possibly due to the island's proximity to unpopulated areas and advanced detection capabilities of UFOs.

Luxor with the Eyes of an Engineer (Continued)

This section continues Peter Hattwig's exploration of Luxor. It details the city's historical significance as the ancient capital of Thebes and describes the main attractions: the Karnak Temple and the Luxor Temple, connected by an avenue of sphinxes. The Colossi of Memnon, massive statues weighing 1100-1200 tons each, are discussed, with Hattwig questioning the feasibility of their transport using modern technology. The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut is also described, noting its architectural integration into the landscape and the tragic terrorist attack in 1997. The Valley of the Kings and Queens is presented as a burial site for pharaohs and royalty, with many tombs plundered over centuries. Hattwig emphasizes that the construction of these tombs and temples cannot be explained by conventional methods.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include unexplained phenomena (gravitational anomalies, UFOs, crop circles, 'engraved' apples), ancient mysteries (particularly ancient Egyptian constructions and their pre-astronautic implications), and the exploration of consciousness and alternative scientific paradigms (Burkhard Heim's theories). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into subjects that lie outside mainstream scientific consensus, encouraging critical thinking and the investigation of phenomena that challenge current understanding. The magazine provides a platform for researchers and enthusiasts to share their findings and theories, often questioning established historical and scientific narratives.

This issue of "Topthema Präastronautik" (Issue No. 54, June 2007) delves into the mysteries surrounding the creation and movement of ancient Egyptian obelisks, questioning conventional historical explanations and proposing pre-astronautic theories. The magazine is published by DEGUFORUM and is in German.

Part II a: How the Obelisks Were (Not) Made

The first section, "Teil II a: Wie die Obelisken (nicht) hergestellt wurden," focuses on the construction of obelisks. It highlights that obelisks found in Luxor and Karnak typically measure between 28 and 32 meters in height with a base width of approximately 1.5 meters, weighing between 230 and 320 tons. The unfinished obelisk in Assuan is presented as a prime example, measuring 4.2 x 4.2 meters at its base and 43 meters in height, with an estimated weight of 1267 tons.

A key point of contention is that all these obelisks are made of granite. The article notes the absence of granite monuments from the second century BCE to the 17th century CE, questioning this coincidence. It posits that manufacturing granite requires advanced tools that were supposedly unavailable during the time of the obelisks' creation, especially before the knowledge of iron.

The article critically examines the process described by Wikipedia for quarrying granite: driving trenches with tools, then using wooden wedges soaked in water to expand and split the block. The author, an engineer, uses a scaled drawing of the Assuan obelisk to illustrate the immense scale of the trenches and the impossibility of a single worker with a sledgehammer completing such a task within a reasonable timeframe. The author also questions the method of splitting the stone using hair cracks, arguing it would cause undefined fractures, not the precise shaping observed.

Further investigation into the tools used, such as dolerite hammers (mentioned by the University of Leipzig), is presented. The article cites Egyptologist Dieter Arnold, who states that granite was worked until Roman times, and quotes Franz Löhner, who challenges the conventional narrative. Löhner's experiments with copper tools (saws, chisels) and various abrasives, even with hardened steel chisels, yielded only minor scratches on granite, leading him to conclude that "Without steel, nothing works with granite!"

The conclusion of Part II a is that the known methods of stone working from antiquity are insufficient to explain the creation of Egyptian obelisks.

Part II b: The Obelisk Riddle: How the Obelisks Were (Not) Lifted

"Teil II b: Rätsel Obelisk: Wie die Obelisken (nicht) gehoben wurden" addresses the challenge of moving these massive structures. It begins by reiterating that the construction methods are questionable and then moves to the problem of lifting the obelisks from their quarry beds.

The author argues that lifting an obelisk, especially one weighing over 1200 tons, using conventional means is an impossibility. The article dismisses the idea of using large levers, as described by Wikipedia, which suggests placing levers under the block and using wooden supports. The author calculates the immense forces and materials required, including the need for vast amounts of granite to be removed to position the levers, and the strength of wooden levers (pine logs) which would likely break or bend excessively under such loads. Even with numerous levers, the bending of the wood would necessitate lifting counterweights to extreme heights, making the process impractical.

Calculations are presented to demonstrate the inadequacy of pine logs as levers. For a 1267-ton obelisk, even with 10 levers, each would need to lift approximately 60 tons. The tensile strength of pine wood is shown to be insufficient, and the bending of the lever would require lifting counterweights to impractical heights. The article concludes that even lighter obelisks, weighing around 10 tons, would be impossible to lift with these methods.

A second model, involving ropes and levers placed around the quarry pit, is also analyzed. The limited tensile strength of ancient hemp ropes (estimated at 100 kg per rope) means that thousands of ropes would be needed for a 1267-ton obelisk, rendering this method infeasible.

The author's conclusion is that the known lifting techniques of antiquity are inadequate to explain how obelisks were moved from their quarries. The article suggests that the problems would only multiply when considering transport over land and water, which will be discussed in subsequent issues.

Philosophical Sections: Geist und Geister (Mind and Ghosts) and related topics

The latter part of the magazine shifts to philosophical discussions, primarily authored by Alf Bodo Graf.

Geist und Geister (Mind and Ghosts)

This section explores the concept of 'Geist' (mind or spirit) and its relation to phenomena like ghosts and UFOs. It questions what constitutes reality and how we perceive it. The author suggests that our perception of reality is a reconstruction based on past events and influences, likening the starry sky to a "phantom image" because the light we see is from the past. The article touches upon the idea that what we perceive as reality is a mix of past influences and the present moment, and that our understanding of matter is relative to our perception and capabilities.

Die Relativität des Materiellen (The Relativity of the Material)

This part discusses how the perception of materiality is influenced by our beliefs and the context in which we experience things. It suggests that our modern, materialistic worldview, shaped by figures like Thomas Hobbes, tends to dismiss anything that cannot be empirically proven or measured. The article contrasts this with the idea that understanding and comprehensibility are becoming more important than mere materiality.

Das Tor zu anderen Welten (The Gate to Other Worlds)

This section explores the possibility of other dimensions and worlds. It acknowledges that modern science, while often dismissive of the unusual, does not entirely rule out phenomena beyond our current understanding. The author suggests that science is open to speculative ideas, even those from science fiction, when trying to explain complex phenomena. The concept of a "first mover" or an initial impulse for the universe is discussed, as is the idea that quantum physics suggests a degree of randomness or spontaneous behavior at the subatomic level.

Die erste Bewegung (The First Movement)

This part delves into the concept of the universe's origin and the role of quantum mechanics. It questions whether the initial state of the universe was a result of a deliberate act or a spontaneous quantum event. The article touches upon the Copenhagen Interpretation and the idea that statistical probabilities govern the behavior of quantum particles.

Die Idee von der Welt am Draht (The Idea of the World on a Wire)

This section uses the analogy of a billiard game to describe the universe, where particles interact according to set rules. It questions the origin of these rules and the 'player' behind the game. The author suggests that many people seek a player or programmer behind the apparent order of the universe, likening it to a computer game. The idea of parallel universes and influences from other dimensions is also explored, suggesting that our perception of reality is limited and that phenomena we cannot easily explain might exist beyond our current comprehension.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the limitations of conventional historical and scientific explanations when applied to ancient mysteries, particularly the Egyptian obelisks. The magazine strongly advocates for a "pre-astronautic" perspective, suggesting that advanced, unknown technologies or extraterrestrial intervention were likely involved in the construction and movement of these ancient monuments. The philosophical sections explore the nature of reality, perception, and the limitations of a purely materialistic worldview, opening the door to considering phenomena beyond the scope of current scientific understanding. The editorial stance is critical of mainstream archaeology and history, favoring alternative explanations that challenge established paradigms.

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 54, Juni 2007
Publisher: DEGUFORUM
Country: Germany
Language: German
Price: 5,00 EUR

This issue of DEGUFORUM, a German journal for philosophy, natural sciences, and fringe sciences, delves into a variety of intriguing topics, with a strong emphasis on cryptozoology, astronomy, and ufology.

Philosophy

The philosophy section explores the concept of the 'game of life' and how humans engage with virtual realities, comparing them to literature and theater. It discusses the idea of a higher order of consciousness and the human mind's ability to grasp complex interrelationships. The text touches upon the nature of 'spirit' and its relative existence, drawing parallels to Escher's art and the concept of quantum mechanics. It also contemplates the human mind's capacity for a broader perspective, seeing the universe as a unified whole, and the potential for telepathic communication.

The article "Das Leben als Mitte" (Life as the Center) discusses the spectrum between the ordered state of the universe and the chaotic state of matter, with humans existing in the middle. It highlights the interconnectedness of all life forms, tracing back to the origins of the universe and the elements. The human mind's ability to perceive and process information from across vast distances and time scales is also explored, suggesting a unified consciousness that transcends physical limitations.

Cryptozoology

The cover story, "Das Kryptozoologie-Seminar in Berlin am 31. März 2007" by Hans-Jörg Vogel, details the second cryptozoology seminar organized by the DEGUFO e.V. The event, held in Berlin, featured presentations by various scientists and authors. Key topics included "Cryptid Cats – Hidden Paws in Cryptozoology" by Markus Hemmler, "The Biology of the North American Bigfoot or Sasquatch" by Francois de Sarre, and "Image Analysis in Cryptozoology" by Tobias Möser, which discussed the challenges of verifying photographic evidence in the digital age. Dr. Hartmut Schmied presented on the "CRYPTONEUM Legends Museum Rostock." The seminar also included a book table and a cryptozoological exhibition.

Another article, "Der Bluträuber" (The Bloodsucker), references a previous issue (Heft 47) that focused on cryptozoology, specifically Ufos in Brazil, and mentions "Der Bluträuber" as an article within that issue, with a continuation in Heft 50.

Astronomy

The astronomy section features several articles. "Die PIONEER-Anomalie – eines der großen Rätsel der Astronomie" (The PIONEER Anomaly – One of the Great Mysteries of Astronomy) discusses the unexplained deceleration of the Pioneer 10 and 11 spacecraft. Despite extensive analysis, the cause remains unknown, leading to speculation about gaps in our understanding of physics or the possibility of new physics.

"COROT entdeckt ersten Exoplaneten" (COROT Discovers First Exoplanet) reports on the COROT mission's discovery of COROT-Exo-1 b, an exoplanet detected using the transit method. The planet is described as having 1.3 times Jupiter's mass and orbiting its star in just 1.5 days. The mission aims to find Earth-sized planets.

"Cassini fotografiert bizarres Hexagon auf Saturn" (Cassini Photographs Bizarre Hexagon on Saturn) describes a unique, six-sided cloud formation at Saturn's north pole, observed by the Cassini probe. This hexagon, similar in shape to a honeycomb, is significantly larger than Earth and appears to be a long-lasting atmospheric phenomenon.

"Wasserdampf in Planetenatmosphäre" (Water Vapor in Planetary Atmosphere) announces the first detection of water in the atmosphere of an extrasolar planet, HD209458b, using the Hubble Space Telescope. This discovery suggests that water vapor may be common in the atmospheres of other extrasolar planets.

Nachrichten (News)

"Frankreich stellt Ufo-Berichte ins Netz" (France Puts UFO Reports Online) details the French space research center CNES's decision to publish its UFO archives online. The archive includes 6,000 witness testimonies and 3,000 police reports related to unidentified aerial phenomena (PAN). The article highlights the thoroughness of the data collection and analysis process, noting that cases with physical evidence (Stage D) are of particular interest to scientists.

"Kornkreisforscher Hans-Jürgen Kyborg verstorben" (Crop Circle Researcher Hans-Jürgen Kyborg Passes Away) reports the death of Hans-Jürgen Kyborg, known for his books on crop circles and his research into intelligent life and UFOs. He was a co-founder of the Spandau School and Public Observatory "Bruno-H.-Bürgel" and a member of the MUFON-CES group.

"DNA-Analyse deutet auf die Existenz einer Hybridfrau hin" (DNA Analysis Suggests Existence of a Hybrid Woman) discusses the case of Milagros Garcia from Puerto Rico, whose DNA analysis reportedly shows a unique composition, possibly indicating a hybrid human-alien origin. Further studies are recommended.

Veranstaltungen (Events)

"Einladung zur Mitgliederversammlung der DEGUFO e.V. am 1./2. September 2007" (Invitation to the DEGUFO e.V. Members' Meeting on September 1st/2nd, 2007) announces the upcoming annual meeting in Bad Kreuznach, including board elections and public lectures. Speakers include Peter Hattwig on his "Crop Circle Journey to England" and Alexander Knörr on "Sicily's Mysterious Traces of the Past – Prehistoric Riddles in the Valley of the Temples in Agrigent."

Two book announcements are also featured: Alexander Knörr's "Auf den Spuren eines versunkenen Kontinents! – Rätsel um die Insel Malta!" (On the Trail of a Sunken Continent! – Riddles of the Island of Malta!) and "Die Akte Deguforum! – Die wahre Seite des UFO-Phänomens" (The DEGUFO File! – The True Side of the UFO Phenomenon), a compilation of articles from DEGUFO archives.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DEGUFORUM include the exploration of unexplained phenomena, the intersection of science and fringe topics, and the ongoing search for knowledge beyond conventional understanding. The journal consistently promotes in-depth research, encourages open discussion, and aims to bring attention to subjects that may be overlooked by mainstream science. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting evidence and theories from various perspectives, while also highlighting the need for rigorous scientific investigation, particularly in cases of unexplained phenomena like the Pioneer anomaly and UFO sightings.