Deguforum - Issue 57 - 2008

Magazine Overview

DEGUFORUM, issue 57, Volume 15, dated March 2008, is the journal of the German-speaking Society for UFO Research (DEGUFO e.V.), focusing on philosophy, natural sciences, and fringe sciences. The cover prominently features the title 'DEGUFORUM' and highlights key themes including 'Perception Psychology: What We See,' 'Worldwide Sightings' from Germany, Mexico, Texas, and Australia, 'UFO Research: The UFO Drone Again,' 'Spaceflight: The Concerning Aspects of the Voyager Probes,' 'Ancient Astronautics: Transport of the Obelisks,' and previews of upcoming 'DEGUFO Tagung' (conferences) in Erfurt.

Editorial and Impressum

The issue opens with a letter from writer Walter Jörg Langbein, expressing appreciation for DEGUFORUM's informative articles and its role in providing comprehensive information on fringe topics. Editor Peter Hattwig acknowledges Langbein's words, stating they provide motivation. A second editorial, addressed to 'Colleagues, Friends,' by Walter-Jörg Langbein, praises DEGUFORUM for its in-depth coverage, citing articles on the 'Drone' phenomenon and 'Luxor with the Eyes of an Engineer' as examples of its value. Langbein emphasizes the importance of comprehensive information in the age of selective data, and the need for open-mindedness when approaching unusual phenomena. He also highlights the significance of the 'Public Press Statement from MUFON-CES, DEGUFO, and EXOPOLITIK,' advocating for respectful collaboration among groups, even with differing opinions, and focusing on the search for knowledge rather than sensationalism. He concludes by wishing DEGUFORUM and its readers a happy and healthy New Year.

The impressum details DEGUFO e.V. as the publisher, with Dr. Peter Hattwig, Dr. Jens Waldeck, and Alf Bodo Graf listed as editors. The editorial team includes Kurt Diedrich, Alf Bodo Graf, Peter Hattwig, Helmut Kopecky, Martin Kronwitter, Thomas Ritter, and Jens Waldeck. The publication schedule is quarterly, with a German subscription price of €20 annually and €5 per issue, and €30 abroad annually and €6.50 per issue. Membership in DEGUFO includes the magazine. The issue's closing date for submissions is four weeks before the end of each quarter. Reprints require written permission from DEGUFO e.V. The magazine does not necessarily reflect the views of DEGUFO e.V., and unsolicited manuscripts are not liable for. Advertising prices are available upon request. Contact information for DEGUFO e.V. is provided, including postal address, phone number, bank details, website, and email.

DEGUFO Intern: What is DEGUFO?

This section explains the origins and mission of DEGUFO, founded in 1993 by a group of interested individuals. It highlights the diverse backgrounds and motivations of its members, who approach the UFO phenomenon from various perspectives. DEGUFO acknowledges that while there is no definitive proof of extraterrestrial origin for UFOs, it is legitimate to consider this hypothesis given the lack of other explanations for certain non-trivial occurrences. The organization believes that UFOs are phenomena that point to the presence of an unknown intelligence and that this hypothesis cannot be excluded given our incomplete understanding of nature. Many members have personal experiences that support the existence of UFOs, and DEGUFO's work is based on the conviction that UFOs exist, regardless of their nature. The article emphasizes that encounters with the extraordinary often occur in everyday life and that understanding the UFO phenomenon requires viewing it within a broader societal context. DEGUFO sees itself as a facet of a larger complex of topics, including consciousness, space and time, and philosophical questions about human existence. Their approach is to handle the UFO topic without prejudice, factually, and critically.

DEGUFO serves as a point of contact for UFO sighting reports, receiving numerous accounts via hotline, mail, and the internet. Current reports are investigated promptly, with a questionnaire distributed to witnesses. If initial plausibility checks are met, further research is conducted. The article cites the 'Heidelberg Case' as an example where radar data confirmed a sighting that could not be attributed to known aircraft, and the object's unusual movement (a fraction of a second positional change) defied conventional explanation. The authors also mention their experiences with air traffic control, revealing how official bodies handle such phenomena. They also review older reports, comparing them with existing data. While many photographic or video submissions are explained as natural phenomena (e.g., illuminated airships) or hoaxes, the article stresses the importance of multiple witnesses and corroborating evidence. The authors note that the credibility of a witness is crucial for case assessment, and this relies on a trained judgment based on experience. The challenge in UFO research lies not only with witnesses but also with investigators assessing credibility. The article argues that the official explanation for the 1947 Roswell crash as a spy balloon is incorrect, based on their meticulous research. DEGUFO's role is to sift through the vast amount of daily information, to discern what is important, and to explore hypotheses about UFOs, including extraterrestrial visitors, visitors from parallel worlds or different times, and alien consciousness forms. The section concludes with the motto: "DEGUFO – We research for you."

Sightings and Experiences

Rescue Exercise Unintentionally Causes UFO Report

This section reports on an incident in Geislingen, Germany, where a bright, disc-shaped light observed by two people was initially reported as a UFO. The German news outlet grenzwissenschaft-aktuell.de published the story. The witnesses described a silent, hovering disc. The German Air Traffic Control initially suggested it was an aircraft with landing lights on, explaining the apparent stillness by the lights not directly facing the observers. However, the actual explanation was a night exercise by the Technical Relief Agency (THW) involving a mobile light mast with a 6,000-watt output, accompanied by two 1000-watt spotlights. The local police were informed of the exercise to prevent such misidentifications.

The UFO of Texas

Several dozen people, including a pilot and a police officer, reported seeing a large, silent object with bright lights in Texas in early January 2008, particularly around Stephenville. The lights, described as yellow, red, blue, and white, were intensely bright. A pilot, Steve Allen, reported seeing white lights forming a rectangular pattern approximately 1.6 kilometers long and 800 meters wide, moving at an estimated 4800 km/h towards Stephenville. The object reportedly split and then reappeared, pursued by what appeared to be F-16 fighter jets. Another witness described a tin-grey object with cone-shaped holes, about 12 meters deep, which he saw three times. He felt harassed by the military after reporting his sighting. The Air Force suggested ten F-16 jets were in the area, but witnesses insisted the objects were silent, faster, and flew lower than conventional aircraft. A MUFON-Texas researcher noted the high number of credible witnesses. A police officer described red lights that appeared like fiery balls, fading and reappearing further away, and when viewed through binoculars, appeared as lights without a distinct form, moving erratically before suddenly shooting off northeast at incredible speed. A sketch by witnesses, including pilot Steve Allen, is included.

"Silver Spheres" in Mexico

On January 25, 2008, around 80 round objects were observed in the sky in central Mexico. While some witnesses initially thought they were balloons, others identified them as unidentified objects (UFOs). The report is based on an interview with a witness in Mexico. The objects were described as silver spheres that seemed to shine in the sunlight. They moved with high precision, leading witnesses to believe they were not balloons. The objects disappeared gradually, leaving about 20. A 21-year-old student commented that they were too high to be balloons. The event began around 9:30 AM and lasted about 20 minutes, with no audible sounds. One witness expressed a newfound belief in UFOs after this sighting. A photo from a video shows the 'silver points' moving erratically, suggesting they were not balloons.

Science-Fiction Author Arthur C. Clarke Dies

This brief article announces the death of renowned science-fiction author Arthur C. Clarke at the age of 90. His fame was cemented by the film "2001: A Space Odyssey," based on his short story. Clarke, who studied mathematics and physics, was also a science writer. His novels, such as "The City and the Stars," were praised for their scientific accuracy and prophetic content. He collaborated with Stanley Kubrick on "2001: A Space Odyssey." In his later years, Clarke focused on humanity's future in space exploration, as depicted in his novel "3001: The Final Odyssey." He also worked at a technology center named after him in Sri Lanka, where he lived.

Again: The "Australian Triangle" (3)

This article revisits the "Australian Triangle" phenomenon, first reported in DEGUFORUM issue 54. It discusses a letter from an Australian reader to UFO researcher Linda Moulton Howe, providing clues to the object's identity. The reader, part of an astronomy group, investigated the Google Earth anomaly in a remote area known for its clear night skies. They identified the object as a large antenna, likely part of a wind park supplying power to Perth. The antenna is described as tall and narrow, secured by triangular guy-wire arrangements. The area around the antenna had vegetation removed, and access was restricted by fences and locked gates. The reader speculated that the antenna transmits sensor data and receives commands from a control center in Perth. However, questions remain about the lights described as 'like fire' and the dark color on the triangular surface. The reader also questioned the location of the wind farm on Google Earth and the certainty of the coordinates. Linda Moulton Howe responded that the 'fire' spots were areas where earth was excavated for the antenna. The article points out that such a large facility would typically have accessible service roads, which were not visible in the overview photos. The authors express skepticism, questioning how the sender knew about the cleared vegetation without being able to see the station itself, highlighting a lack of critical assessment in skeptical reports. They state they will continue to investigate until a clear result is presented.

Again: The UFO Drone (4)

This article, by Dr. Jens Waldeck and Dr. Peter Hattwig, continues the discussion on mysterious flying objects first reported by earthfiles.com in summer 2007, which they term 'UFO Drones' due to their unidentified nature. They reference an anonymous informant named Isaac, who claimed to have been involved in researching extraterrestrial flying devices resembling these drones in the 1980s and published excerpts from a CARET document detailing their characteristics.

#### Why the UFO Drone is Authentic in My Opinion

Dr. Peter Hattwig argues for the authenticity of the UFO drone, stating his 'pro-UFO stance.' He asserts that phenomena exist that cannot be easily dismissed and that unidentified objects observed in the past and present are not of earthly origin. He believes the UFO drone case fits this category. He notes that sightings of the UFO drone have become scarce since the previous summer, with only one mention from American author Whitley Strieber (detailed in a subsequent article). Hattwig dismisses the idea that the drone is a hoax or deception, arguing that the effort required to produce high-quality images, detailed texts, and a scientific-looking report (the CARET document) would be immense and without clear benefit to the creators, especially since the film company Kaptive Studios, which produced some related short films, explicitly stated the originals were not theirs. He also points out that the CARET document contains descriptions of antigravitation and cloaking technology, elements that are more advanced than typical science fiction. Hattwig believes the document exhibits stylistic elements of a genuine investigation report, noting that any inconsistencies are likely due to the authors' lack of understanding of extraterrestrial technology. He also highlights that the 'language' of the drone consists of unique script characters, and the global distribution of images suggests that if it were a hoax, someone would have come forward. Furthermore, no one has been able to identify the 'components' of the UFO drone as existing machine parts, suggesting a significant effort would be required to replicate them. He concludes by inviting readers to submit any further contributions to help clarify the matter.

The Strange Sighting by Whitley Strieber

This article recounts a sighting by American author Whitley Strieber, known for his UFO research. On December 7th, Strieber reported seeing an object resembling the 'UFO Drones' from Big Basin, California, while in Santa Monica. He described waking up in the early morning hours and seeing a drone-like object gliding at low altitude towards his house. He attempted to photograph it but could only see clouds. Later, he saw the object again, realizing that a specific angle allowed him to see it. When he tried to get his phone again, the object disappeared. Strieber noted a white circle on a rectangular object pointing directly at him, similar to a picture taken in Big Basin. He believes his report, like his previous accounts of contact with 'Greys,' is truthful. He speculates that if such a person reports seeing a UFO drone, it implies contact, possibly with 'Greys,' suggesting that these drones might belong to them.

Astronomy

Again: The "Black Holes" on Mars

This section, authored by Peter Hattwig, revisits the topic of 'black holes' on Mars, previously discussed in DEGUFORUM. The article references a report from the MUFON-CES, DEGUFO, and EXOPOLITIK, which suggests that these 'black holes' are not natural formations but rather artificial structures, possibly related to the 'UFO drone' phenomenon. The authors argue that the official explanation of these features as natural phenomena is insufficient and that they represent a significant puzzle.

The Concerning Aspects of the Voyager Probes

Authored by Alf Bodo Graf, this article discusses potentially concerning aspects of the Voyager probes. While the probes have provided valuable scientific data about the outer solar system, Graf hints at some 'concerning' or unexplained elements related to their mission or findings, without elaborating on what these might be. The article appears to be a brief commentary on the probes' broader implications.

Mars - Two Curiosities

This short piece mentions two curiosities related to Mars, without providing specific details. It is likely a brief note to pique reader interest.

Huge Amounts of Organic Matter on Titan

This article reports on the discovery of vast quantities of organic matter on Titan, Saturn's largest moon. It highlights the significance of this finding for astrobiology and the search for life beyond Earth.

Events

"Fantastic Phenomena" - The Anniversary Seminar of Writer Walter Jörg Langbein

This section announces an anniversary seminar dedicated to writer Walter Jörg Langbein, titled "Fantastic Phenomena." It is presented as a jubilee event, suggesting a celebration of Langbein's contributions to the field.

Event Announcements:

• Nebra Sky Disc: Information on an event related to the Nebra Sky Disc.
• Light Phenomenon Meeting in Hude: An announcement for a gathering focused on light phenomena.
• FGK Spring Meeting in Zierenberg: Details about the spring meeting of the FGK (Gesellschaft für Geowissenschaften).
• DEGUFO Spring Meeting in Erfurt: An announcement for the DEGUFO's spring meeting in Erfurt.

Books

Ernst Meckelburg: Time Experiments

This entry reviews Ernst Meckelburg's book "Time Experiments," likely discussing experiments or theories related to time.

Oliver Deberling: Secret Matter of Extraterrestrial Life

This entry reviews Oliver Deberling's book "Geheimsache außerirdisches Leben" (Secret Matter of Extraterrestrial Life), suggesting it delves into the topic of alien existence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout this issue, DEGUFORUM maintains its commitment to investigating unexplained phenomena with a critical yet open-minded approach. The recurring themes include the psychological aspects of perception in UFO sightings, detailed case studies of alleged UFO encounters from around the world, and the ongoing research into specific phenomena like the 'UFO drone.' The magazine actively promotes interdisciplinary work and encourages readers to submit their own accounts and insights. The editorial stance is clearly pro-UFO, advocating for the consideration of extraterrestrial hypotheses when conventional explanations fail, and emphasizing the need for thorough, unbiased research. The publication also serves as a platform for announcing and promoting events related to UFO research and related scientific and fringe topics.

DEGUFORUM, Issue 57, dated March 2008, is a German-language publication focusing on fringe science and alternative historical theories. This issue features articles on UFO sightings and the engineering challenges of ancient Egyptian monument transport, framed within the context of 'Präastronautik' (Pre-Astronautics).

Article: Weitere Zeugen der Ufo-Drohne (Further Witnesses of the UFO-Drone)

This section reports on a UFO sighting initially reported to journalist Linda Moulton Howe. A witness, Jane Smith from Hartshorne, Oklahoma, described seeing a silent, drone-like object in June 2003. She initially mistook it for a helicopter but noted its lack of noise. The object was described as wire-shaped, with a main body, arms, and legs, resembling a dragonfly. Smith's sister in neighboring Oklahoma also reported seeing the UFO-drone twice.

The object's color was described as 'zinngrau' (tin-gray), and it bore strange, possibly Egyptian or Jewish-like, black lettering. It hovered silently, with only its arms rotating. Unlike previously reported UFO-drones, this object was equipped with lights on its main body and arms, which flickered in intensity but never went out. The size was estimated to be a fingertip on the spirals and larger on the main body. The object emitted a humming, buzzing sound that rose and fell. The initial sighting lasted 45 minutes to an hour, after which it flew backward and faded away. A second sighting occurred within a week, with the object at a greater distance.

Smith explained her reluctance to report the sighting for fear of being considered crazy. The article also mentions a photograph submitted to MUFON (Mutual UFO Network) from July 26, 2002, showing an object hovering over a river for about 30 seconds before disappearing. The witness described a ring emerging from the object's center and stated they did not want to reveal the river's name.

The article notes the proximity of the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant (MCAAP) to the sighting location, suggesting it might be relevant. It also draws parallels to similar UFO-drone sightings reported in California and mentions a previous report of a UFO-drone photographed in Birmingham, Arkansas.

Article: Luxor mit den Augen eines Ingenieurs (3) - Teil II d: Wie die Obelisken (nicht) auf dem Nil transportiert wurden (Luxor Through the Eyes of an Engineer (3) - Part II d: How the Obelisks Were (Not) Transported on the Nile)

This section, authored by Dr.-Ing. Peter Hattwig, continues a series examining ancient Egyptian monuments from an engineering perspective. This part focuses on the logistical challenges of transporting massive obelisks and statues on the Nile River.

Hattwig questions the conventional archaeological assumption that obelisks and the 1200-ton Memnon statues were transported on ships. He highlights the limited capacity of known ancient Egyptian ships, based on four discovered shipwrecks and temple depictions. The water displacement of these ships suggests a carrying capacity of only 20-30 tons, with a realistic estimate of 20 tons.

He then discusses the theory developed by researcher and engineer A. Wirsching, which proposes a method for transporting monuments up to 80 tons using a double-double ship system. In this method, two pairs of barges are coupled, with a crossbeam supporting a load suspended by ropes beneath the water. The barges would be ballasted to sink, allowing the submerged obelisk to be positioned, then emptied to lift the obelisk. Hattwig expresses doubts about the practical feasibility of this method, particularly concerning the strength of the ropes and beams under such immense stress.

He calculates that a single crossbeam made of cedarwood, 13 meters long and 30 cm in diameter, could support a submerged weight of approximately 5.5 tons before bending by half a meter. To transport an 80-ton object, 15 such beams would be needed. He also calculates the weight of the crossbeam itself to be 1.3 tons, plus additional weight for coupling elements, totaling 2.6 tons of extra weight for the transport system. This significantly reduces the claimed weight savings from the underwater transport method.

Hattwig further argues that even Wirsching's method, with a double-double ship, could not realistically handle 80 tons, perhaps only 40 tons. This is vastly insufficient for the 1200-ton Memnon statues. He concludes that the known methods of ancient Egyptian shipbuilding are inadequate to explain the transport of these massive monuments by water.

He references a modern-day transport of the Aksum obelisk (24 meters high, 160 tons) from Italy to Ethiopia, which required cutting it into three pieces. This highlights the immense difficulty of transporting such objects even with modern technology and reinforces his argument that the ancient Egyptians must have possessed a far superior transport method.

Article: Wahrnehmungspsychologie (Perception Psychology) - Was wir sehen (What We See) by Alf Bodo Graf

This multi-part article explores the psychological aspects of human perception, focusing on how we see and interpret the world.

The Nature of Seeing

The author posits that seeing is not merely a passive registration of impressions but an active process involving comparison with the environment and the retrieval of memories. Differences are noted, and specific features are identified as 'peculiarities' or 'specialties.' These peculiarities are then compared with past experiences and associated linguistic labels, leading to recognition and categorization.

Perceived Peculiarities

Peculiarities stand out from their surroundings, creating a sense of distinction. The author suggests that natural laws arise from the tendency of these peculiarities to behave similarly under comparable conditions. This principle extends to models and mental representations.

City Perspective

Even though the eye inverts images, the brain corrects this, creating a 3D perception. In urban environments, straight lines and converging perspectives help establish a sense of foreground and background. This perspective is crucial for understanding spatial relationships.

Foreground and Background

The article explains that the distinction between foreground and background is not limited to individual objects but extends to the overall scene. The relative prominence of objects is influenced by distance; distant objects appear smaller and less detailed, contributing to a sense of stillness in the background compared to the dynamic foreground.

The Collective View

Modern society relies on a 'collective view,' where knowledge is built upon the contributions of many specialists. This allows for a more nuanced understanding than an individual could achieve alone. However, it also means that our understanding is shaped by the 'prevailing doctrines' of various fields, which may not always be directly verifiable by the individual.

The Dangers of a One-Sided View

The author warns against a one-sided perspective, where the focus is solely on individual details or specific fields of expertise. This can lead to a fragmented understanding of reality and a loss of holistic perspective. He emphasizes the importance of a balanced, interdisciplinary approach to knowledge.

The Material View

The article discusses the shift in perception of what constitutes 'material.' In modern society, abstract concepts like bank accounts and tax statements are considered material, unlike the direct, tactile experience of material objects in the past. This is partly due to the nature of modern work, which often involves indirect control over remote processes rather than direct physical manipulation.

The Personal View

While the mind can adopt different viewpoints, the personal view is influenced by both immediate sensory input and pre-existing knowledge. Familiar objects or concepts in the foreground are perceived with greater detail, while less familiar elements in the background remain less distinct. This can lead to a distortion of perception, where what is known is perceived more vividly than what is not.

Movement Perception

This section delves into how we perceive movement. It explains that our perception of movement is influenced by our knowledge, experience, and the context of the situation. For example, a lawyer, engineer, and cook will perceive the same street scene differently based on their professional backgrounds and interests.

The View of the Whole World

The article touches upon the modern tendency to view the world through the lens of physics, often starting with concepts like the Big Bang. It questions the limitations of such perspectives and suggests that a more comprehensive understanding is needed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The DEGUFORUM publication consistently explores topics that challenge conventional scientific and historical narratives. The articles in this issue, particularly those on UFOs and ancient engineering, reflect a critical stance towards mainstream explanations, favoring alternative theories that suggest advanced or unknown technologies and phenomena. The 'Präastronautik' section explicitly questions established archaeological interpretations, while the 'Wahrnehmungspsychologie' section delves into the subjective nature of perception, implying that our understanding of reality is not always objective and can be influenced by psychological factors and societal conditioning. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena and alternative interpretations of history and science.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, number 57, dated March 2008, delves into a diverse range of topics, blending scientific inquiry with mythological and psychological perspectives. The magazine features articles on perception psychology, ancient civilizations, astronomy, and space exploration, with a particular focus on phenomena that challenge conventional understanding.

Articles

Wahrnehmungspsychologie: "Das nur Mittelbare allen Sehens" and "Das Deuten des Fremdartigen"

These articles explore how humans perceive reality, emphasizing that our understanding is often indirect and based on interpretation rather than direct observation. The first piece discusses how collective scientific understanding, rather than individual sensory experience, forms the basis of our knowledge about the universe, citing examples like the redshift of distant stars and the nature of light. It highlights that even seemingly direct observations, like looking at the sun, are interpretations of light effects. The second article delves into how the human mind tends to interpret the unknown by projecting familiar forms onto it, using the Rorschach test as an analogy. This tendency is applied to the interpretation of unidentified flying objects (UFOs), where unfamiliar shapes are often equated with known objects like saucers or triangles. The article suggests that our perception of the universe itself can be seen as a form of this projection, where we primarily recognize what aligns with our existing understanding of reality.

Von Außerirdischen entführt: Ein Psychologe erklärt das Phänomen

This article features an interview with Dr. Hans Zöllner, a psychologist from the University of Zurich, who discusses his research into UFO abduction experiences. Zöllner explains that he does not dismiss all claims of seeing extraterrestrials as mere madness. He recounts how, about ten years prior, a group of individuals who claimed to have been abducted by aliens approached him. Their accounts were remarkably consistent, describing being taken from their beds, experiencing examinations in a cave-like setting, and encountering insect-like beings. Notably, the alleged extraterrestrials reacted with surprise when the abductees protested their painful procedures. Zöllner emphasizes that these individuals did not exhibit signs of schizophrenia or other mental illnesses, distinguishing their experiences from those of delusional patients. He notes that the abductees' descriptions lacked the typical science-fiction tropes of spaceships and glitter, and that the beings sometimes offered explanations. Zöllner treated these individuals for trauma symptoms, similar to those experienced after torture, and found that some, with increased self-determination, could influence the extraterrestrials' actions. Despite facing criticism, Zöllner hopes his work encourages people to listen to these accounts, potentially preventing misdiagnoses.

Das verlorene Paradies der Götter: Geheimnisvolles Bahrain

This extensive article by Thomas Ritter explores the history and mythology of Bahrain, an island state in the Persian Gulf. It highlights Bahrain's strategic importance as a historical trade hub and its role in the development of the highly civilized Dilmun culture around 2500-1800 BC. Dilmun was often depicted in Sumerian literature as a paradise, a land of eternal life where gods sent immortal heroes. The article traces Bahrain's history through various conquests and periods of rule, including Alexander the Great, the Portuguese, the Persians, and eventually British protectorate, leading to its independence in 1971. Archaeologically, Bahrain is known for its vast Bronze Age burial grounds. The article connects the myths of Dilmun to the Epic of Gilgamesh, identifying Ziusudra (a figure akin to Noah) as a resident of this paradise. It also draws parallels to the biblical story of Adam and Eve's fall from grace. The development of monumental architecture, including temples and palaces, is discussed, along with the planned urban layouts of Dilmun settlements. The article notes a decline in Bahrain's importance around 1800 BC but its resurgence around 1550 BC under Kassite rule. It identifies Enki, the Sumerian god of water, as a significant deity associated with Dilmun and the land of Melucha, potentially located in Northwest India or the highlands of Iran. The article posits that Dilmun may have served as a protected haven for the development of Sumerian culture under 'divine' or extraterrestrial guidance, possibly recovering from catastrophic events like floods attributed to meteorite impacts.

Volkstum: "Melucha" and "Dilmun"

These sections further elaborate on the connection between Dilmun and the Sumerian civilization. The land of Melucha, associated with Enki, is suggested to be in Northwest India, with links to the land of Aratta in the Iranian highlands. It is proposed that Sumerians migrated from this region through Afghanistan and Northwest India, becoming co-founders of the Indus culture. Dilmun is presented as a place where the Sumerian culture, possibly influenced by extraterrestrial oversight, developed or recovered before moving to Mesopotamia. The article emphasizes the advanced nature of Sumerian achievements, including the invention of writing and sophisticated irrigation systems, suggesting a 'divine' or extraterrestrial inspiration for their high culture.

Volkstum: "Das nur Mittelbare allen Sehens" and "Das Deuten des Fremdartigen"

These sections, appearing again on page 2, reiterate the theme of indirect perception and interpretation. The article on perception discusses how our understanding of the world is built upon a cumulative, collective view, comparing it to a film reel where individual frames are less important than the overall sequence. It touches upon quantum physics, such as Schrödinger's cat and the double-slit experiment, to illustrate how observation and measurement influence reality. The concept of 'spooky action at a distance' is mentioned in relation to Einstein's theories. The article on interpreting the foreign suggests that we often project familiar forms onto the unknown, and that even our understanding of the universe is shaped by our ingrained perceptions. It touches upon the idea of multiple dimensions and other possible realities.

"Der weltweite Augenblick des Jetzt"

This section discusses the concept of a universal 'now' or present moment. It uses the analogy of falling drinking glasses to illustrate how individual events are transient, but the collective state of many glasses remains constant. It suggests that our perception of time and personal identity is a construct within this universal present, where past and future are integrated into a continuous, evolving 'standbild' (still image) of our universe. This perspective is linked to the idea of natural constants, like Planck's quantum of action, which govern the flow of information and the structure of reality.

"Raum und Zeit erscheinen jeweils vor dem Hintergrund übergeordneterer Ordnungszusammenhänge"

This short piece posits that space and time are relative and depend on higher-order organizational frameworks. It suggests that individual rules and regulations are interpreted within the context of a larger, overarching legal or societal framework, drawing a parallel to ancient cities and the concept of serving the greater good.

"Entführungsforschung"

This section, likely a continuation or related piece to the interview with Dr. Zöllner, reiterates the psychological aspects of abduction experiences, focusing on the trauma and the potential for individuals to assert some control over their encounters.

Erlebnis-Reisen 2008 mit dem Schriftsteller Thomas Ritter

This section advertises several themed travel packages organized by Thomas Ritter Reiseservice, including trips to Ireland (exploring Celtic history and megalithic sites), India (focusing on palm leaf libraries), France (visiting Templar sites), and Iran (exploring historical cities and cultural heritage).

Astronomie: "Noch einmal: die „Schwarzen Löcher“ auf dem Mars"

Dr. Peter Hattwig discusses new images released by NASA of features on Mars, initially dubbed "Black Holes," which are now believed to be lava tubes. He revisits his earlier speculation that these might be artificial in origin, citing their uniform appearance and the lack of intermediate crater forms. However, the new images, showing depth and internal structure, lead him to reconsider this hypothesis. He questions NASA's release strategy, noting the delay in publishing images that could resolve the mystery. The article highlights lingering questions about the depth of the main 'black hole' and the differing illumination in the images, which affects the visibility of the lava tube's interior.

Astronomie: "Das Bedenkliche an den Voyager-Sonden"

Alf Bodo Graf reflects on the Voyager probes, launched 30 years prior, and their mission to explore the outer solar system. He details the extensive photographic data collected from Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. The article focuses on Voyager 1's exploration of Saturn's moon Titan, noting its dense atmosphere and unique hydrocarbon lakes. It mentions a lander probe that was deployed on Titan. Graf discusses Voyager 1's ongoing journey towards the star Sirius and the probes' message to potential extraterrestrial civilizations, including a golden record with sounds and images. He expresses concern about the naive confidence with which humanity has sent these probes and their messages into space, especially in light of potential threats from alien monsters depicted in science fiction, suggesting a need for caution and secrecy regarding Earth's location.

Astronomie: "Q'Phaze - Realität... anders!"

This is an advertisement for a magazine called "Q'Phaze," which covers topics such as Paleo-SETI, exobiology, astronomy, archaeology, mythology, and fringe science. It is presented as a large-format magazine offering various subscription options.

Astronomie: "Der Mars - zwei Kuriositäten"

This brief section highlights two recent discoveries on Mars. The first is the "Happy Face" crater, photographed by the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, which resembles a smiling face. The second is a rock formation discovered by the Mars rover Spirit that bears a striking resemblance to a human figure. The article dismisses speculative theories about these formations being artificial, attributing them to natural geological processes.

Astronomie: "Riesige Mengen organischer Stoffe auf Titan"

This article reports on findings from the Cassini-Huygens mission regarding Saturn's moon Titan. It states that Titan possesses hundreds of times more liquid hydrocarbons than all the Earth's oil and gas reserves combined. These hydrocarbons, primarily methane and ethane, rain down from the atmosphere to form vast lakes and dunes. The article explains that these substances are a result of organic chemistry and are crucial for understanding Titan's geology and climate history. The lakes are described as being over 10 meters deep and appearing black in radar images. The role of methane as a greenhouse gas on Titan is discussed, along with theories about its volcanic origin and the moon's past temperature fluctuations. The research is a collaborative effort between ESA, NASA, and the Italian Space Agency.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The DEGUFORUM consistently explores topics that lie at the intersection of science, mythology, and the unexplained. There is a clear interest in challenging conventional scientific paradigms, particularly in the realms of cosmology, astronomy, and the possibility of extraterrestrial life and intelligence. The magazine presents psychological interpretations of phenomena like UFO abductions, suggesting that these experiences, while often traumatic, may not always be indicative of mental illness. The historical and mythological significance of ancient civilizations, such as Sumer and Dilmun, is explored, often with an implication of advanced or non-human influence. The articles on astronomy, particularly those concerning Mars and the Voyager probes, highlight ongoing scientific discoveries while also raising questions and speculative possibilities. The overall stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations and to question established narratives, while still grounding discussions in scientific data and research where available. There is a recurring theme of humanity's place in the cosmos and the potential for contact with other intelligences.

DEGUFORUM, Issue 57, dated March 2008, is a German-language publication focusing on ufology and related fringe science topics. This issue prominently features a report on the "Phantastische Phänomene" seminar held in Bremen-Vegesack, organized by Walter Jörg Langbein. The magazine also includes several book reviews and announcements of upcoming events.

Seminar Report: "Phantastische Phänomene" in Bremen

The issue details the 10th "Phantastische Phänomene" seminar in Bremen, highlighting its status as a tradition with many returning attendees. The event featured a variety of speakers and topics:

• Stefan Eggers, an Egyptology student, presented two lectures: "The Lost Pyramid of Sakkara," detailing its discovery via aerial photography and the empty sarcophagus found in King Djoser's tomb (circa 2650 BC), and "Enigmatic Egypt," discussing the tomb complexes of Senenmut in Thebes, who was a prominent figure under Pharaoh Hatshepsut.
• Dieter Bremer offered two talks: "New Insights on the Manna Machine," suggesting connections to texts by Christian Rosenkreuz, though the lecture was difficult to understand without prior knowledge of the Manna Machine; and "Paleo-Seti Clues in the Book of Daniel," attempting to link ancient texts with winged sun symbols.
• Walter Jörg Langbein focused on theological themes, particularly "Holy Women and the Goddess." He posited that before the patriarchal God Yahweh, a Goddess dominated the spiritual world. His lecture "God, the Devil, and Evil in the Bible" traced the evolution of the concept of the devil in biblical narratives, suggesting that initially God was seen as both good and evil, with negative aspects later attributed to a subordinate figure. He also contrasted the biblical concept of sin with Buddhist and Hindu notions of karma and reincarnation.
• André Kramer presented "Spanuth's Atlantis Theory," discussing Jürgen Spanuth's idea that Atlantis was located in the North Sea near Helgoland and was a center of the Nordic Bronze Age, though Kramer noted that archaeological evidence does not fully support this thesis.
• Lars Fischinger gave a presentation on "The Miracle of Guadalupe," detailing the 1531 apparition of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego. Fischinger highlighted the miraculous preservation of the image on Juan Diego's tilma, which should have degraded much sooner, and the unusual properties of its colors and fabric.
• Alexander Knörr spoke about his excursions to Malta, focusing on the mysterious "chariot tracks" found there.

Book Reviews

The magazine includes several in-depth reviews of books related to ufology and fringe science:

• "Zeit-Experimente" (Time Experiments) by Ernst Meckelburg, reviewed by Dr. Jens Waldeck. The book explores theories of time, time travel, and time anomalies, discussing concepts like circular causality and alternative universes. Meckelburg examines the works of prominent physicists and scientists, suggesting that time travel might be possible and that UFOs could be a manifestation of time machines. The review praises Meckelburg's ability to explain complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner.
• "Geheimsache außerirdisches Leben" (Secret: Extraterrestrial Life) by Oliver Deberling, reviewed by Helmut Kopecky. This book argues that governments and scientists are withholding evidence of extraterrestrial life. Kopecky notes Deberling's clear writing style and his focus on facts and sources. The review highlights chapters on the "Moon Riddle" and the Mars meteorite ALH84001, and discusses Deberling's cautious approach to "conspiracy theory" labels. It also touches upon the possibility of UFOs being time machines and discusses ancient myths and religions, drawing parallels between concepts of good and evil, eternal life, and divine judgment across cultures.
• A reader's letter regarding Steven M. Greer's book "Verborgene Wahrheit – Verbotenes Wissen" (Hidden Truth – Forbidden Knowledge), written by Wolfgang Szarafinski. Szarafinski defends Greer's courage in confronting powerful forces and highlights chapters 33-46 as particularly valuable for providing hope and a path toward positive change.

Other Content

• News Section: A brief report on Elizabeth Kucinich, wife of former US Presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich, speaking about her husband's UFO experience and her concerns about the potential risks of officially acknowledging extraterrestrial life.
• Announcements: Details of upcoming DEGUFO events, including a visit to the Nebra Sky Disk, a "Light Phenomenon Meeting" in Hude, and the "Forum Grenzwissenschaften und Kornkreise" (FGK) event. The DEGUFO Spring Conference in Erfurt (April 12-13, 2008) is extensively detailed with its program, featuring talks on UFO research, the Roswell incident, abduction phenomena, and ancient civilizations.
• "Akte DEGUFORUM" (File DEGUFORUM): An introduction to the DEGUFO's anthology of UFO research, compiled from their magazine and contributions from guest authors, covering topics like the Roswell incident, Billy Meier, human-animal mutilations, and the possibility of extraterrestrial life.
• Cover Art: The cover image is identified as "Macroscope" by Tim White, an English artist known for science fiction and fantasy art.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

DEGUFORUM consistently explores topics at the intersection of ufology, ancient mysteries, alternative history, and theology. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that is open to unconventional ideas and critical of mainstream scientific and governmental narratives, particularly concerning UFOs and potential cover-ups. The reviews and seminar reports suggest a focus on presenting detailed research, historical accounts, and theoretical discussions, often drawing connections between ancient myths, religious texts, and modern phenomena. The editorial stance seems to be one of encouraging open inquiry into these subjects, even when they challenge established paradigms. The emphasis on detailed sourcing in book reviews and the comprehensive program for the DEGUFO events indicate a commitment to thorough investigation and community engagement within the field of fringe science research. The magazine also promotes a sense of community among enthusiasts, evident in the event announcements and the collaborative nature of the "Akte DEGUFORUM" anthology.