Deguforum - Issue 56 - 2007

Magazine Overview

This is the December 2007 issue (Nr. 56, 14th Year) of DEGUFORUM, the journal of the German-speaking Society for UFO Research (DEGUFO e.V.), dedicated to philosophy, nature, and fringe sciences. The cover price is Euro 5.00.

Cover Features

The cover prominently features the main topic: "The Drone" and the CARET Document. Other highlighted articles include "Red Rain in India," "Luxor through the Eyes of an Engineer," "Fire Phenomena in Sicily," "The Weeping Madonna of Syracuse," "The Disclosure Project" by Steven Greer, and reports from the FGK, AAS, and MUFON-CES conferences.

Editorial and Letters

The editorial section includes a letter from Danny Ammon, editor of the GEP magazine Jufof, who praises DEGUFORUM for its consistent efforts to produce a current and entertaining magazine and for encouraging reader discussion and dissent. Editor Peter Hattwig acknowledges this feedback and discusses his own series on Luxor's obelisks, which argues for non-conventional construction methods. He also mentions his upcoming trip to Mexico, hoping to bring new insights into the Maya calendar and other ancient mysteries. The editorial team wishes readers a happy new year 2008, hoping it will be an interesting 'UFO year.'

Impressum and Publication Details

The journal is published by DEGUFO e.V. (German-speaking Society for UFO Research), with Peter Hattwig, Jens Waldeck, and Alf Bodo Graf serving as editors for this issue. The editorial deadline is four weeks before the end of each quarter, and the publication is quarterly. The annual subscription price within Germany is Euro 20, with single issues costing Euro 5. Abroad, the annual subscription is Euro 30, and single issues are Euro 6.50. Membership in DEGUFO includes the subscription. The publication emphasizes that contributions marked with names do not necessarily reflect the views of DEGUFO e.V., and unsolicited manuscripts are not liable for. Reprinting is only allowed with written permission.

Table of Contents

UFO Research

• "The Mysterious Drone (3)" by Jens Waldeck and Peter Hattwig
• "The Isaac Case - the first insider email"
• "The CARET Document"
• "Isaac's second email"
• "Comments on the original text and outlook"
• "Letter to the editor about the drone"
• "'Alienware' only used drone UFOs"

Sightings and Experiences DEGUFO

• "Three hovering spheres"
• "Flight path with a kink"
• "The fading light"
• "Two sightings without explanation"

International Sightings

• "The Cosford UFO - Pro7 re-examined the case" by Norman Depa

Events

• "The FGK Spring Conference 2007 in Zierenberg"
• "Peter Hattwig: Impressions from the conference"
• "Ed Vos: Sand circle projects in Drenthe/Holland and Lemwerder near Bremen"
• "Robert Tapken & Christian Pfeffer: The little helpers against electrosmog"
• "Horst Grünfelder: Interpretations of light phenomena"
• "Frank Peters: The German crop circles 2007"
• "Ed Vos: The light phenomenon meeting in Hude 2007"
• "Alexander Knörr: The One-Day-Meeting of AAS 2007"
• "Alexander Knörr: Annual General Meeting of MUFON-CES"

Rubrics

• Title image by Dr. Jens Waldeck
• Impressum
• Editorial
• Event notices

Archaeostronomy

• "Luxor through the eyes of an engineer (2)" by Dr.-Ing. Peter Hattwig
• "Part II c: How the obelisks (were not) transported overland"

Phenomena

• "The Weeping Madonna of Syracuse" by Alexander Knörr
• "Fire phenomena in Sicily have no natural cause" by Andreas Müller
• "Red Rain in India - Increase at 300°C" by Peter Hattwig

Crop Circles

• "A viewer's letter to Pro7" by Norman Depa

Astronomy

• "Black spots on Saturn's moon Iapetus" by Dr. Peter Hattwig
• "Building blocks of life discovered on Saturn's moon Hyperion"

Books - Films - Art

• "Steven M. Greer: Hidden Truth - Forbidden Knowledge"
• "Roland Roth (Editor): Limits of Infinity"
• "Gerneot L. Geise: Flying saucers: Reality or Myth?"

Sightings and Experiences DEGUFO

"And they do fly..."

This section compiles reports of strange occurrences from people who could not explain what they experienced.

• Three hovering spheres (Hannover, October 2007): A witness reported seeing three orange-red spheres hovering silently over their house. Initially, two appeared, followed by a third. They were described as being the size of a quarter of the moon and completely silent. The direction was from southeast to northwest. The witness later suggested they were likely Chinese party balloons released from a nearby festival.
• DEGUFO Statement: None of the known explanation patterns fit this sighting.

• Flight path with a kink (Bremen, October 2007): A witness observed a triangular formation of red-orange lights moving very fast across the sky. The most striking feature was a spontaneous 'nick' or change in direction of about 20-30 degrees. The witness, who claims to be sober and not a drug user, found the sighting inexplicable, noting the speed was estimated at thousands of km/h and the formation's size was comparable to the moon. The witness ruled out skybeamers due to the clear sky.
• DEGUFO Statement: None of the known explanation patterns fit this sighting.

• The fading light (Hude, October 2007): A witness reported seeing a bright object, brighter than the stars, moving silently and faster than an airplane or satellite across the clear night sky. The object's light suddenly went out after about 15 seconds. The witness had seen a passenger jet moments earlier on a similar trajectory but about 1 km apart. The moon was rising in the east, possibly indicating the object's direction.
• DEGUFO Statement: This is most likely a satellite. Its identity could not be determined.

Two sightings without explanation

• Sighting 1 (Rural Brandenburg, early 1980s): The witness saw a round, luminous object hovering silently in the air over a field at night. It was initially mistaken for the moon due to its brightness, but the actual moon was elsewhere. The object remained stationary for about 5-10 minutes before rapidly ascending and disappearing without a trace, leading the witness to believe it reacted to their thought of getting a camera.
• Color: White/gray, like a full moon.
• Size: Estimated to be a few meters above a treetop.

• Sighting 2 (In-flight, over the Baltic Sea, early 1990s): While flying over the clouds, the witness observed a round, white/silvery object, possibly a mix of plastic and metal, flying parallel to the aircraft at a distance of 5-15 meters. The object maintained a constant position and speed, appearing to be a 'co-pilot.' The witness found it remarkable how close it flew. This sighting was described as different from the first, but the memory of the first sighting was triggered. The witness noted the absence of contrails or exhaust.
• DEGUFO Statement: The first sighting is too old to be explained. The second sighting does not fit any conventional patterns.

International Sightings

The Cosford UFO - Pro7 re-examined the case by Norman Depa

This article critiques a Pro7 Galileo Mystery broadcast that analyzed the "Cosford UFO" case. The broadcast concluded that the object was the Aurora prototype, a theory the authors find weak. The Cosford UFO is noted as the only case in British defense ministry records for which common explanations failed. Nick Pope, a former investigator for the British Ministry of Defence, is mentioned.

• March 30 and 31, 1993: A UFO flew over two Royal Air Force bases, with over 100 witnesses. Sightings occurred in Somerset and over the Quantock Hills. One witness described the object as looking like two Concordes joined together. Another witness described a UFO approximately 200m in diameter.
• Night of March 31: A weather service officer observed a UFO moving at high speed (19-25 km/h) at an altitude of about 350m, emitting a scanning beam and a low hum. A military police patrol described a silent UFO with two white lights and a faint red glow at the rear.

The article discusses the theory of secret prototypes like the Aurora or UAVs. It notes that US authorities stated they had their own sightings of triangular UFOs and inquired if the British possessed similar aircraft. The Pro7 broadcast concluded it was the Aurora project. The authors question this conclusion, pointing out that witness descriptions of flight characteristics and noise do not align with the Aurora's known capabilities, even if it's a secret prototype. They also emphasize that military personnel, familiar with jet aircraft, would likely recognize one.

The article concludes by expressing astonishment that a UFO case was "solved" by omitting relevant facts.

Events

The FGK Spring Conference 2007 in Zierenberg

The conference, held on October 6-7, 2007, was deemed a success despite previous turbulence for FGK. Over 50 people attended. The success is attributed to the work of managing director Frank Peters. A brief summary of most presentations is promised for later pages. It was announced that the old FGK ("Forschungsgesellschaft Kornkreise e.V.") has been dissolved, and the new FGK ("Forum Grenzwissen und Kornkreise") is no longer a registered association. The FGK-Report will cease publication, with the internet becoming the primary information medium. The annual membership fee will be 20 Euros to finance the website and events.

Ed Vos: Sand circle projects in Drenthe/Holland and Lemwerder near Bremen

On June 3, 2007, a sand circle was created in Drenthe, Holland, led by Richard van Rijswijk. The project involved members of FGK, DEGUFO, and the Bremen Fringe Science Meetup. The creation of the sand picture took most of the day due to its complex form. The sand circle was activated by meditation, aiming to prove that circles constructed according to the Golden Ratio emit measurable energies. Previous projects, including an FGK meditation in 2005, had shown this. Anomalies like unusual light phenomena, dizziness, and camera malfunctions were reported in past projects. A second project took place in Lemwerder, Germany, featuring a sand circle based on a design by Nel de Boer, representing the "Eye of the Falcon God Horus." FGK member Horst Grünberg participated, using radiesthesia to measure energies. The article notes that Richard van Rijswijk had reported receiving the design from an Arcturian.

Robert Tapken & Christian Pfeffer: The little helpers against electrosmog

Robert Tapken presented on electrosmog, a form of energy that surrounds modern life. He explained that Wilhelm Reich discovered that alternating layers of organic and inorganic matter absorb and concentrate life energy, which he called Orgon (POR). POR promotes faster plant growth and faster healing. Its opposite is DOR (deadly energy), generated by technical radiation, atomic decay, and combustion, which leads to the standstill or collapse of life processes. Increased technification leads to more DOR. Subjective symptoms of DOR include headaches, sleep disorders, concentration difficulties, fatigue, irritability, hyperactivity, aggression, learning disorders, heart rhythm disturbances, high blood pressure, tinnitus, dizziness, eye irritation, and fertility issues.

• To mitigate DOR, the presenters recommended:
• Removing all electrical devices from the bedroom.
• Using network switches in the bedroom.
• Avoiding fluorescent lamps and spring mattresses.
• Eliminating unnecessary radiation sources like cordless phones and Wi-Fi.

As a cost-effective alternative to expensive shielding materials, they introduced "Towerbusters," developed by Don Croft. These devices are said to convert DOR into POR by generating a structured information field. Towerbusters are made of metal shavings, synthetic resin, and crystals. They are claimed to improve sleep quality, reduce electrosmog complaints, enhance quality of life, and strengthen living beings. The optimal placement is four Towerbusters around the bed, with further placement in room corners. Experiments with plants exposed to electrosmog and protected by Towerbusters reportedly showed a positive effect.

Horst Grünfelder: Interpretations of light phenomena

Horst Grünfelder analyzed orb photos using radiesthesia, a form of radiation that is also present in human auras. He used a semi-physical Lercher antenna to study these radiations, which have different frequencies and can be transmitted and received. His results are described as highly interesting and will be further detailed in a later article.

Frank Peters: The German crop circles 2007

In 2007, 46 crop circle formations were discovered in Germany, with a focus on southern Lower Saxony. Frank Peters presented these formations, promising a more in-depth discussion at the next spring conference, particularly regarding whether they are man-made. Five formations were highlighted:

• Dankelshausen and Hägerhof: These formations are noted for being inverted (one with crops standing, the other flattened). They appeared on June 16-17 and June 23-24 near Rischenkrug. The six-part flower pattern had a diameter of 41 meters. Klaus Listmann, an experienced crop circle researcher who has created crop circles himself, confirmed that his investigations found no evidence of human creation. The precision of these crop circles is described as a new quality for the region.
• Geismar: This formation, discovered on July 25, showed signs of growth, suggesting it was older. Experts noted its geometric perfection and lack of underlying paths. It was visible from a distance, including the autobahn.
• Dankelshausen (second formation): Discovered on July 21, this 8-part flower formation (a "Flower of Life" pattern) measured about 60 meters in diameter. It was the 12th crop/rapeseed circle reported in southern Lower Saxony and the 7th "Flower of Life" pattern.
• Hägerhof: Discovered on June 7, this complex formation featured three inner rings and an outer circle with eight sickle elements. It was described as having a round, rosette-like appearance. The article notes that replicating such a formation in the field is difficult due to the lack of visible transitions and construction lines, leading the author to believe it may not be man-made.

Events (Continued)

Ed Vos: The light phenomenon meeting in Hude 2007

On June 30, 2007, the third traditional light phenomenon meeting took place in Hude, attracting 27 visitors. Frank and Anke Peters hosted the event, which included a barbecue and a meditation in the woods. The meditation reportedly resulted in remarkable images, with participants forming a circle. Photographs taken by Frank Peters showed alternating images with and without orbs, with timestamps indicating rapid changes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects DEGUFO's commitment to exploring unexplained phenomena, including UFOs, crop circles, and ancient mysteries, from a scientific and philosophical perspective. There is a clear encouragement of critical thinking and open discussion, as evidenced by the positive feedback on reader engagement and the critical review of the Cosford-UFO case. The magazine also addresses contemporary concerns like electrosmog, offering potential solutions. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, seeking evidence-based explanations while acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the possibility of unconventional phenomena.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, dated December 2007 (Issue No. 56), features a cover headline "Von alten Spuren zu neuen Wegen – Feuer frei für die Forschung!" and reports on the A.A.S. (Forschungsgesellschaft für Archäologie, Astronautik und SETI) One-Day-Meeting held in Munich. The event, attended by approximately 400 people, included presentations by well-known authors and researchers in the field of pre-astronautics.

A.A.S. One-Day-Meeting 2007

The meeting, which took place after a 28-year interval in Munich, aimed to foster discussion and research in pre-astronautics. Peter Fiebag opened the event with a talk on the phenomenon of language, suggesting that human language development might be evidence of extraterrestrial intervention in human creation through cloning.

Several other speakers presented on diverse topics:

• Franz Bätz discussed "cart ruts" (Karrenspuren) found in India, drawing parallels to similar findings in Malta and Europe.
• Carl Niemann spoke about the Egyptian Djed pillar.
• Marianne Schartner and Roland Kernstock presented ancient legends that bear resemblance to modern UFO phenomena.
• Horst Dunkel explored the "Sky Chambers of the Gods."
• Armin Risi shared high-quality images from the Osiris crypt beneath the ascent to the Great Pyramid of Gizeh.
• Dr. Algund Eenboom surprisingly focused on David Copperfield, questioning if he was a student of the magician.
• Prof. Wilhelm Kaltenstadler presented on the Elamite people and their deities.
• Gisela Ermel discussed the Moundbuilders in the USA.
• Reinhard Habeck revisited the Mimikry-Hypothesis, suggesting that Marian apparitions could be manifestations of extraterrestrial powers.
• Luc Bürgin was highlighted as a star of the day, presenting new archaeological findings, including a human footprint dated to 1.5 million years, a significant revision from earlier datings.

Erich von Däniken concluded the day by introducing new, forward-looking ideas for the A.A.S., including a plan to support new, unfunded researchers through a special "Platinum Membership" donation scheme.

The Mysterious Drone (3) & The Case of Isaac (1)

This section delves into the "mysterious drone" phenomenon, focusing on the testimony of a witness using the pseudonym "Isaac." Isaac claims to have been involved in the CARET program during the 1980s, which dealt with extraterrestrial technology. He came forward after the publication of "drone" photos on earthfiles.com in July 2007.

Isaac's account begins with a translation of a CARET document's accompanying text. He explains that he worked on a technology related to the "language" and diagrams seen on the underside of the drones. He decided to release photos and documents he had possessed for 20 years, provided they were not altered and were published with his text. He also sought to connect with other witnesses like Chad, Rajman, Jenna, and Ty.

Isaac's Experience with the CARET Program and Extraterrestrial Technology

Isaac, using his pseudonym for protection, describes his involvement in the CARET program, which he deems highly sensitive. He states that his government had reasons for secrecy, but he believes a partial disclosure of this knowledge could benefit humanity. He assures that he will not reveal personal information that could identify him.

He explains that his work involved understanding and reverse-engineering extraterrestrial technology. The program's goal was to develop patentable technologies for commercial applications, rather than military use. The CARET program, based in Palo Alto, California, was modeled after institutions like Xerox-PARC. Isaac, a civilian with a background in the DoD, found himself working with highly classified alien technology. He describes the profound impact of realizing the existence of extraterrestrial technology, comparing it to a child's reaction to parental divorce.

CARET focused on converting alien artifacts into usable technology. This process, termed "extraction," involved understanding the artifact theoretically and operationally, then developing principles for practical application. The results were documented as "extraction packages" (EPs), which included theoretical overviews, material assessments, and functional prototypes.

Key findings from the Q4-86 research phase included:

1. A user-oriented antigravity generator.
2. A three-dimensional image recorder/projector.
3. A complex system of symbols and geometric constructs functioning as a programming language for alien artifacts.
4. (Content is redacted).

The CARET Document

This section presents an excerpt from a CARET document, specifically the Q4-86 Research Report from December 1986, authored by Dr. Jens Waldeck. The document outlines the program's objective: to gain a better understanding of extraterrestrial technology for commercial applications in areas like transport, medicine, mechanics, energy, computing, and communication, with the ultimate goal of patenting advanced technologies.

The extraction process involves two phases: theoretical understanding and practical application. Successful extractions result in "extraction packages" (EPs) containing theoretical overviews, material analyses, and functional prototypes.

Among the key findings were:

• User-Antigravity Generator (A1): A compact device (under 2.2 kg, under 60 cm diameter) capable of generating antigravity effects.
• Secondary Artifacts (A2, A3): I-beam shaped segments that, when positioned near the generator, seem to define specific spatial relationships.
• Rigid Spatial Relationships (RSR): The ability of the antigravity generator to focus its effects on individual objects with high precision.

The document highlights that antigravity technology is fundamental to extraterrestrial spacecraft, used for propulsion, shielding from environmental factors, and even for fixing internal components without traditional fasteners.

PACL's strategy was to release simplified versions of this technology gradually to mitigate negative impacts on existing infrastructures.

The "Language"

Isaac describes the alien "language" not as a conventional programming language but as a system of symbols and geometric patterns that are inherently functional. This system is context-sensitive, meaning a single symbol can represent vast amounts of data. He notes the extreme complexity, where even simple diagrams become exponentially difficult to manage with more people involved. He contrasts this with human programming, where symbols are assigned meanings, while in the alien technology, the symbol and meaning are intrinsically linked.

He explains that the alien hardware is a solid, unified substrate, unlike human technology with separate components. This substrate can perform calculations non-linearly, with elements working together to enhance processing power. The shapes of these substrate elements influence functionality.

He recounts his work at PACL from 1984 to 1987, a period he found exhausting due to the sheer volume of information and the military's reluctance to share necessary data. He eventually left, along with many colleagues, due to frustration with the bureaucracy and the military's approach to extraterrestrial matters.

During his tenure, Isaac began copying documents and reports, smuggling them out to preserve the information. He has since compiled a collection of these materials, including original photos and research reports, which he is now releasing.

He has attached several high-resolution scans to his first letter, including a parts list with photos, the first nine pages of a quarterly research report, original photos from the report, and five pages of a report on the analysis of the alien "language."

Isaac emphasizes that he is not seeking to profit from this information and that his releases are intended to be freely available, provided they remain unaltered and include his letter. He expresses caution about potential risks if his identity is revealed.

Outlook

Isaac states that the information he has shared is only a small fraction of what he possesses. He notes that within CARET, discussions never touched upon invasions or abductions, suggesting a more positive, albeit still classified, view of the extraterrestrial situation. He believes humanity is a less advanced race compared to extraterrestrials, but this does not imply hostility.

He speculates that recent sightings of "drones" might be due to experiments with cloaking technology, causing temporary visibility. He asserts that these craft have been present for a long time and are only now becoming inadvertently visible.

Isaac reiterates that he is not selling anything and that his releases are for the public domain. He expresses skepticism towards others who profit from such information.

Future releases, if any, will be communicated through the same channels as his contact with "Coast to Coast AM." He is currently waiting to see how the situation develops before deciding on further actions, acknowledging the potential risks involved.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly focuses on the intersection of ancient mysteries and advanced technology, particularly extraterrestrial in origin. The A.A.S. meeting serves as a platform for exploring these connections, from linguistic origins to archaeological anomalies. The detailed account of the CARET program and Isaac's testimony highlights a perceived government cover-up and the potential for reverse-engineering alien technology for civilian use. The magazine's stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, encouraging research and the dissemination of information, while also acknowledging the complexities and potential risks involved. The recurring theme is the search for truth behind unexplained phenomena, whether ancient or modern, and the potential for groundbreaking discoveries if research is unfettered.

This issue of UFO-Forschung (Issue No. 56, December 2007) is a German-language publication from DEGUFORUM, focusing on unexplained phenomena, advanced technology, and historical mysteries. The cover story, "Die weinende Madonna von Syrakus" by Alexander Knörr, details a reported miracle in Sicily. Other significant articles include an analysis of UAP technology and antigravitation concepts, a critique of conventional explanations for ancient engineering feats, and an investigation into mysterious fire phenomena.

Antigravitation and the CARET Report

The issue delves into the theoretical aspects of antigravitation, referencing the "RSR-Effekt" as described in the CARET report. This effect posits that separated components of an object can behave as if physically linked, maintaining their relative positions and orientations. The article discusses different operational modes of an "Antigravitationsgenerator" (Al), including a "Betriebsmodus" (Operating Mode) that can adjust gravitational fields, and a "Komponentenmodus" (Component Mode) that can specifically influence objects' positions and orientations, crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of a craft. The "Multimodus" combines these functionalities. The text also touches upon the complexity of the components, suggesting they might contain information dictating their position and orientation.

Ancient Engineering Mysteries: The Obelisks

Peter Hattwig, in "Luxor mit den Augen eines Ingenieurs (2)", critically examines the feasibility of transporting ancient Egyptian obelisks using conventional methods. He argues that the known methods of stone processing and lifting were insufficient for their creation and placement. The article focuses on the overland transport of these massive objects, estimating the weight of an unfinished Assuan obelisk or the Memnon Colossi at 1200 tons. Hattwig calculates that moving such a weight on logs would require a traction force of 6 million Newtons. He further calculates that a 20° incline would add another 3 million Newtons, necessitating a total of 9 million Newtons of force. He contrasts this with the estimated pulling capacity of an ox (1500 Newtons), concluding that approximately 6000 oxen would be needed. He dismisses this as logistically impossible, citing issues with directing and harnessing such a large number of animals, and the lack of suitable towing gear. Hattwig also notes that even lighter monuments, weighing around 10-15 tons, would be at the limit of ancient capabilities, referencing Stonehenge's 28-ton blocks. He contrasts this with the 1823 transport of a 230-ton obelisk from Luxor to Paris by the French, which involved a shorter, level distance, wheeled carts with steel axles, and an estimated 100 horses, making it a more feasible, though still remarkable, feat.

Modern comparisons are drawn, such as the transport of an 81-ton statue of Ramses II from Cairo to Gizeh, highlighting the extensive modern engineering required. Another example is the transport of an 800-ton medieval church in Saxony, which involved a specialized transporter with 540 HP engines and the temporary removal of obstacles like trees and river crossings. Hattwig emphasizes that for such heavy transports, tractive force, not just engine power, is critical, achievable through gear reduction systems not available to ancient Egyptians.

The Weeping Madonna of Syracuse

Alexander Knörr recounts the 1953 event in Syracuse, Sicily, where a Madonna statue reportedly wept tears. The event, which occurred from August 29 to September 1, 1953, was investigated by a medical team. Tears were collected and analyzed, with the conclusion that they were indeed real human tears. This event led to the construction of the Santuario Madonna delle Lacrime, a large pilgrimage site dedicated to the "Madonna of Tears." The article details the construction of this monumental building, its capacity, and its architectural features, including a bronze statue of the Madonna.

Fire Phenomena in Sicily

Andreas Müller reports on the mysterious fire phenomena that occurred in the Sicilian village of Canneto di Caronia in 2004. Electrical appliances spontaneously caught fire, leading to dangerous blazes. An official investigation by the Italian government, involving NASA scientists, concluded that the fires were caused by "extremely high electromagnetic emissions" of non-human origin, reaching strengths between 12 and 15 Gigawatts. The report also mentions the possibility of a UFO landing near Caronia, where unexplained burnt imprints were found. While one theory suggested electrostatic discharge from volcanic activity, the official commission considered "unnatural forces" as a potential explanation, alongside the possibility of secret weapon systems.

Reader's Letter and Editorial Notes

A reader's letter from Danny Ammon critiques earlier articles about a "mysterious drone," questioning the authenticity of witness accounts and videos. Ammon suggests that some videos might be CGI creations and that the evidence presented is not sufficiently robust to conclude an extraterrestrial origin. He argues that many witnesses have reported anonymously, and the "too good" quality of photos is not adequately defined. He points out that the creator of the videos in question, Kris Avery, works for a 3D animation company.

Dr. Jens Waldeck addresses misunderstandings regarding the CARET report, clarifying his role and the process of reproducing documents. He explains that the documents were already censored before he received them and that his intention was to share information. He discusses the technical challenges of reproducing diagrams from curved surfaces, emphasizing the primitive software used at the time and the effort involved in creating accurate reproductions. He also touches upon the advanced state of technology in the mid-20th century, suggesting that much of today's technology has roots in earlier decades.

Another section discusses the marketing of the "Alienware" computer series, which used hieroglyphic-like symbols associated with alleged drone-UFOs. The company stated that these symbols and the associated language were not invented by them but were found on the internet, and they were used as a marketing tool.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unexplained phenomena, the critical examination of historical and technological claims, and the exploration of advanced or unconventional technologies. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging critical analysis of evidence while not dismissing extraordinary claims outright. The magazine presents scientific investigations alongside accounts of alleged miracles and mysterious events, inviting readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional explanations. There is a clear emphasis on questioning established narratives and seeking deeper understanding of phenomena that challenge current scientific paradigms.

Title: Phänomene
Issue Date: December 2007
Publisher: DEGUFORUM
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of Phänomene delves into several intriguing topics, with a prominent focus on the mysterious red rain that fell in Kerala, India. It also features discussions on crop circles and a critical review of a book by UFO researcher Steven Greer.

The Red Rain Phenomenon in Kerala

The cover story investigates the "Red Rain in India – Extraterrestrial Origin?" phenomenon, authored by Peter Hattwig and based on reporting by Linda Moulton Howe. The article details the red rain events that occurred in Kerala, India, in July-September 2001, and again in 2006 and 2007. Residents reported a loud bang preceding the 2001 event, and the rain stained clothing red. Dr. Godfrey Louis, a Professor of Theoretical and Applied Physics at Mahatma Gandhi University, collected samples and examined the red rain cells under a microscope. He described the cells as having diameters of about 10 micrometers, slightly larger than human red blood cells. Louis conducted experiments at varying temperatures and pressures, noting that the cells survived and even thrived at 300°C and 0.13 Pa, conditions lethal to normal life. He observed that the cells produced smaller internal cells, which he termed 'daughter cells,' and that these cells eventually broke out of the 'mother cells.'

Crucially, Dr. Louis was unable to detect any DNA in these cells, a finding that challenged conventional biological understanding. He sent samples to Cornell University in the USA for isotopic analysis, which identified elements like hydrogen, silicon, oxygen, and aluminum, but notably not phosphorus, which is essential for DNA detection. Further analysis was conducted at the Centre for Astrobiology at Cardiff University, led by the now-retired Professor Chandra Wickramasinghe, but no DNA was confirmed. Dr. Louis expressed his astonishment that no organism known on Earth could grow and reproduce at 300°C, and that the 2007 red rain contained the same cells, posing a significant mystery.

Professors Louis and Wickramasinghe speculate that the red cells might originate from the interior of a comet, which could store heat in its core. The recurring nature of the red rain (2001, 2006, 2007) remains unexplained.

Crop Circles: A Viewer's Perspective

The issue includes a section on crop circles, featuring a letter from Norman Depa to the television program Focus-TV on Pro7. Depa criticizes the program for being superficial and biased, suggesting that it implied all crop circles are man-made. He argues that while many formations are indeed created by humans, the program failed to acknowledge the complexity and sophistication of some formations, particularly those in Wiltshire, England. Depa recounts an incident where cameras captured a formation appearing within a short timeframe (between 01:35 and 03:20) after a brief flash of light, noting that the stalks were bent, not broken. He emphasizes that such rapid and precise formations are difficult to dismiss as solely human work, especially without attracting attention.

Focus-TV's response, provided by Christina Theodoridou from the viewer relations department, acknowledges Depa's critique and states that his mail has been forwarded to the responsible editors.

Book Review: "Verborgene Wahrheit - Verbotenes Wissen" by Steven M. Greer

This section features a lengthy and critical review of Dr. Steven M. Greer's book "Verborgene Wahrheit - Verbotenes Wissen" (Hidden Truth - Forbidden Knowledge) by Illobrand von Ludwiger. The reviewer acknowledges Greer's contribution to UFO research by bringing former military and intelligence officials forward to testify about their experiences. Greer's 'CE-5 Protocol,' which involves attempting to make contact with UFO occupants through meditative techniques, is also mentioned.

However, the review expresses significant skepticism about Greer's claims and methodology. Ludwiger criticizes Greer for relying heavily on assertions rather than evidence, frequently using the term 'truth' without substantiation. He points out Greer's tendency to denigrate other researchers and groups, particularly those focusing on abduction phenomena, which Greer attributes to a 'shadow group' orchestrating a false alien threat. The reviewer disputes Greer's claims about secret government technologies, alleged assassinations (Marilyn Monroe, JFK), and his interpretations of events like the alleged UFO landing in Rich's Mountain.

Ludwiger also questions Greer's background and experiences, including claims of out-of-body experiences and levitation. He highlights Greer's dismissal of phenomena not directly related to his communication-focused agenda, such as cattle mutilations, which Greer attributes to staged events by the 'shadow group.' The review suggests that Greer's book lacks scientific rigor and is filled with unsubstantiated claims, conspiracy theories, and personal opinions, making it difficult to recommend despite its potentially interesting subject matter.

Book Review: "Grenzen der Unendlichkeit" (Borders of Infinity) by Roland Roth (Editor)

This review, by Peter Hattwig, discusses a compilation of articles edited by Roland Roth, titled "Grenzen der Unendlichkeit: Geheimnisse und Rätsel der Menschheit" (Borders of Infinity: Secrets and Riddles of Humanity). The book covers topics such as pre-astronautics, SETI research, and other fringe science subjects, featuring contributions from various authors.

Hattwig notes that the quality of the articles varies. The book begins with a science fiction short story about humanity's first official encounter with extraterrestrials, which Hattwig finds somewhat dated. Roland Roth himself contributes two articles: one on pyramids, supporting the idea of extraterrestrial involvement in their construction, and another on mysterious objects and traces found in Apollo moon images, suggesting archaeological evidence on the moon.

Other contributors include Alexander Knörr, who writes about 'cart ruts' and underground water reservoirs on Malta; Lars Fischinger on the mystery of Oak Island; and Martin Marheinecke on the secret 'Project Lunex,' a US Air Force lunar base program. The review mentions other authors like Thomas Ritter, Roland Horn, Milo Sediq, Gisela Ermel, and Hans-Joachim Zillmer. Hattwig concludes that the book offers entertaining reading for those new to fringe science but suggests that deeper exploration would require consulting the cited literature.

Book Review: "Flugscheiben: Realität oder Mythos?" (Flying Saucers: Reality or Myth?) by Gernot L. Geise

Reviewed by Ralf Härtel, this book is based on conversations with J. Andreas Epp, described as an inventor and constructor of flying saucers. The book explores the possibility that 'flying saucers' were developed by German engineers during World War II. Geise's research suggests that while plans and construction documents are scarce, possibly due to suppression, Epp's accounts and other evidence point to the existence of advanced German technology during that era.

Geise discusses exotic propulsion systems and addresses theories about a Nazi exodus to Antarctica with flying saucer technology. He concludes that while concrete proof remains elusive, the stories surrounding flying saucers are not mere fantasy, and that Germany possessed 'unbelievable' technological capabilities by the end of the war. The reviewer praises Geise for critically separating fiction from fact in his research.

Book Announcement: "Hagar Qim" by Alexander Knörr

A brief announcement for Alexander Knörr's book "Hagar Qim," which explores the mysteries of Malta and Gozo, focusing on the unique 'cart ruts' found on the islands.

Book Announcement: "Zeitexperimente" (Time Experiments) by Ernst Meckelburg

Another brief announcement for Ernst Meckelburg's book "Zeitexperimente," which deals with scientists breaking the barrier of time. A full review is promised for the next issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding, particularly in the realms of UFOs, unexplained aerial phenomena, and ancient mysteries. There is a clear interest in extraterrestrial hypotheses and the possibility of suppressed knowledge. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, while also employing critical analysis, as seen in the review of Steven Greer's work. The magazine aims to present diverse perspectives, from scientific investigations into unusual natural phenomena like red rain to historical and technological enigmas, and the controversial claims within the UFO community.

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 56
Date: December 2007
Publisher: DEGUFORUM
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of DEGUFORUM, a German publication focused on astronomy, ufology, and fringe science, features several key articles and announcements.

Article: Schwarze Flecken auf Saturnmond Iapetus (Black Spots on Saturn's Moon Iapetus)

This article, authored by Dr. Peter Hattwig, discusses the intriguing discovery of dark patches within craters on Saturn's moon Iapetus. These findings were captured by the Cassini spacecraft during a flyby on September 10, 2007, from an altitude of approximately 6000 km. The Cassini-Huygens mission is a collaborative effort between NASA, ESA, and the Italian Space Agency.

Iapetus is described as a unique celestial body in the solar system, characterized by one hemisphere being as dark as coal and the other as bright as snow. It also features a ridge, over 20 kilometers high, running along its equator, spanning more than a third of its circumference. The images reveal a stark contrast between bright water ice and very dark material. The article highlights the presence of small, bright craters that appear to have penetrated the dark crust, ejecting lighter material from beneath. This suggests that the dark surface layer is quite thin, possibly only a few decimeters to a few meters thick.

Dipl.-Ing. Tilmann Denk from the Free University of Berlin, who was involved in the planning of the Cassini mission, expressed his astonishment at the images, noting the unique beauty of each new photograph, from vast mountain ranges to detailed close-ups. He described the experience of seeing seven years of planning materialize into concrete images.

Iapetus is the third-largest moon of Saturn, with a diameter of nearly 1500 kilometers. It is primarily composed of water ice. Its contrasting brightness gives it a superficial resemblance to an astronaut's helmet. The moon was discovered in 1671 by Jean-Dominique Cassini, the Italian astronomer and then-director of the Paris Observatory. Iapetus has a long orbital period of 79.3 days, resulting in extremely long days and nights, each lasting nearly 40 Earth days. The preparations for the flyby began in 2000, and it was a significant event due to Iapetus's great distance from Saturn (3.6 million kilometers) and its orbit inclined relative to Saturn's ring plane, making it difficult for Cassini to reach. This was Cassini's only flyby of Iapetus. Cassini has been orbiting Saturn since 2004 and is expected to continue sending data until at least 2010.

The article also mentions a 'ring bulge' on Iapetus, the origin of which puzzles scientists.

Article: Grundbausteine des Lebens auf Saturnmond Hyperion entdeckt (Building Blocks of Life Discovered on Saturn's Moon Hyperion)

This article reports on the discovery of hydrocarbon traces on the small Saturnian moon Hyperion by the NASA probe Cassini. The probe flew very close to Hyperion in September 2005, capturing highly detailed images that revealed a heavily cratered surface resembling a sponge with large dark pores.

In addition to frozen water and carbon dioxide, Cassini detected a dark material on the surface whose spectrum is similar to that of hydrocarbons. According to planetary researcher Dale Cruikshank from NASA's Ames Research Center, when hydrocarbons are irradiated with ultraviolet light, new molecules are formed that are of considerable biological significance. He clarified that this does not mean life has been found on Hyperion, but it serves as further evidence that the building blocks of life are widely distributed in the universe.

Hyperion, with a density significantly lower than water (0.54 g/cm³), is largely composed of water ice. The porous nature of the moon is evident not only on its surface but also likely extends throughout its interior. This porosity may contribute to the sharp edges of its craters, as suggested by researchers like Peter Thomas.

Public Statement: Öffentliche Presse-Erklärung der MUFON-CES, DEGUFO und EXOPOLITIK (Public Press Release from MUFON-CES, DEGUFO, and EXOPOLITIK)

This section contains a joint press release from three organizations: MUFON-CES (Mutual UFO Network - Central European Section), DEGUFO (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ufologie - German Society for Ufology), and EXOPOLITIK (German Initiative for Exopolitics). They address the ongoing debate surrounding unidentified flying objects (UFOs).

The organizations state that there is no consensus among experts regarding the occasional appearance of unidentified flying objects in airspace. They acknowledge that people in all countries claim to have seen objects they cannot identify.

Two main viewpoints are presented: one assumes that these phenomena do not exist as new occurrences and can be attributed to known causes (skeptics, represented by CENAP - Centrales Erfassungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene). The other viewpoint trusts the witnesses' accounts and believes the phenomena are novel and warrant scientific investigation, potentially requiring an expansion of current physical laws. MUFON-CES, DEGUFO, and EXOPOLITIK align with the latter group.

They emphasize the importance of constructive and respectful discourse on this complex topic. MUFON-CES aims to draw scientists' attention to the UFO phenomenon by publishing reports in scientific language (psychology, physics, radar technology), interviewing witnesses, and developing new theoretical approaches. DEGUFO focuses on informing the public about the existence of the UFO phenomenon, investigating witness accounts, and publishing sightings in a specialized journal. EXOPOLITIK aims to highlight government secrecy surrounding UFOs, particularly in the USA, by publishing accounts from former intelligence officers, military pilots, and employees of research institutions.

The press release criticizes CENAP, describing it as a skeptical organization that attributes most alleged UFO sightings to misidentifications of common aerial phenomena like airplanes, balloons, or satellites. The joint statement accuses CENAP of hindering the public debate through personal attacks, insults, and false claims against MUFON-CES, DEGUFO, and EXOPOLITIK. CENAP's characterization of MUFON-CES scientists as "idiots" and the German Initiative for Exopolitics as having "sect-like structures" is cited as an example of CENAP's hostile approach.

The organizations call upon CENAP to cease its denunciations and return to a constructive, respectful discussion. They argue that CENAP's dismissal of phenomena like UFO encounters, abductions, and paranormal occurrences is due to their belief that UFOs do not exist, thus preventing them from considering their origins or interactions with the environment.

The statement also touches upon the role of journalists, suggesting that due to time and resource constraints, they often turn to readily available explanations, such as those provided by CENAP, which is perceived as a loud advocate for its "UFO reporting center." The press release concludes by asserting that after 60 years of unpaid private scientific research, military and governments worldwide are increasingly acknowledging the presence of unknown intruders in airspace. They believe that publicly admitting this would prevent the stigma of unseriousness associated with investigating the UFO phenomenon, a stigma that is unfortunately reinforced by the work of skeptical groups like CENAP.

The press release is signed by representatives of the three organizations: Dipl.-Phys. Illobrand von Ludwiger (1. Vorsitzender, MUFON-CES e.V.), Alexander Knörr (1. Vorsitzender, DEGUFO e.V.), Björn Bossing (2. Vorsitzender, DEGUFO e.V.), and Dipl.-Dolm. Robert Fleischer (Koordinator Exopolitik, Deutsche Initiative für Exopolitik).

Events and Announcements

DEGUFO Spring Conference: The magazine announces the DEGUFO Spring Conference to be held on April 12th and 13th, 2008, at the Airport-Hotel Erfurt. The program includes sessions on welcoming participants, member meetings, discussions on sighting reports (Dr. Peter Hattwig), UFO interventions in human history (Hartwig Hausdorf), aggression against UFOs and reactions (Illobrand von Ludwiger), new findings from Malta (Alexander Knörr), insights from Mexico and the Maya calendar (Dr. Peter Hattwig), and the Roswell incident (Björn Bossing and Ingbert Jüdt).

Forum Grenzwissenschaften und Kornkreise (FGK) (Forum Fringe Sciences and Crop Circles): An announcement for the FGK event on May 17th/18th, 2008, in Zierenberg, Germany, is also included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of DEGUFORUM demonstrates a clear editorial stance in favor of investigating the UFO phenomenon as a genuine subject of scientific inquiry. The magazine actively promotes the work of organizations like MUFON-CES, DEGUFO, and EXOPOLITIK, which are dedicated to collecting evidence, informing the public, and advocating for open discussion. The strong criticism of CENAP highlights the publication's commitment to a more open-minded and evidence-based approach to UFO research, contrasting it with what they perceive as dismissive skepticism. The inclusion of articles on astronomical discoveries related to Saturn's moons also indicates a broader interest in space exploration and the potential for life beyond Earth.