Deguforum - Issue 76 - 2013

Magazine Overview

DEGUFORUM, Issue 76, Spring 2013, is the 20th year of publication for this German-language journal dedicated to UFO research. Published by DEGUFO e.V. (Deutschsprachige Gesellschaft für UFO-Forschung), it features a cover price of 5.00 EUR in Germany and 7.50 EUR in the EU. The issue's main cover headline highlights an "Interview mit Erich von Däniken", alongside other prominent articles such as "Roswell Alien Autopsy Film", "DEGUFO-Archiv", "Abduktionsforschung", and "Das Superspektrum von John A. Keel".

Editorial and Letters

The editorial section, written by Marius Kettmann, welcomes readers to the second issue of the "new" DEGUFORUM, acknowledging feedback and improvements made since the previous edition. It highlights the importance of controversial topics in research and introduces Klaus Deistung's article on UFO sightings and his perspective on established science. The editorial also mentions the departure of Mario Ringmann from the editorial team and thanks him for his contributions. Kettmann emphasizes the readers' desire for more background information, sighting reports, and investigative analyses from DEGUFO, a direction the magazine aims to continue.

UFO Sightings Reports (Q4 2012)

Christian Czech presents a compilation of UFO sightings reported to DEGUFO in the fourth quarter of 2012. The reports cover various locations in Germany and one from Istanbul, Turkey. Many sightings involve lights, round objects, or unexplained aerial phenomena. Several cases are analyzed, with potential explanations ranging from LED balloons, stratospheric balloons, and the International Space Station (ISS) to more ambiguous phenomena. Some reports lack sufficient detail or follow-up from witnesses, leading to inconclusive classifications.

• Notable incidents include:
• A sighting in Istanbul of an object photographed from the Bosphorus Bridge, suspected to be a contrail due to lighting conditions.
• A bright, grelling, and orange-red light observed near Vilgertshofen-Stadl, Germany, exhibiting erratic movements and high speed.
• Approximately 10 lights seen moving rapidly across the sky in Rheinhausen, Germany, possibly LED balloons.
• An object in Jena, Germany, described as flying upwards, then steeply downwards, and exploding.
• A blinking object observed in Chemnitz-Borna, Germany, reflecting the sun, possibly a stratospheric balloon.
• A hovering helicopter followed by another light in Saerbeck, Germany.
• Reflections on water in Wilhelmshaven, Germany, followed by ascending position lights and a luminous sphere.
• A glowing object photographed near Germany, identified as a Qatar Airways flight.
• A large, round light observed in Wessendorf, Germany, moving in a zig-zag pattern.
• An object in Birmensdorf, Switzerland, initially mistaken for a burning airplane, possibly a sky lantern.
• A fiery trail observed over Aue, Germany, later identified as a contrail from a German Wings or Qatar Airways flight.

Case Studies and Investigations

Several detailed case studies are presented:

"Knall und sternförmiges Objekt" (Bang and Star-Shaped Object)

Natale Guido Cincinnati investigates a case from Regensburg, Germany, where two witnesses reported hearing a bang and seeing a star-shaped object that "dissolved." Due to insufficient data, the classification remains "insufficient data." The report discusses the possibility of a detonating meteor or fireworks but notes discrepancies.

"Exklusiv: Unbekanntes Flugobjekt über Aue (Sachsen)" (Exclusive: Unknown Flying Object over Aue, Saxony)

Christian Czech analyzes a case from Aue, Germany, involving a witness's photos of a fiery trail. While initial media reports and some experts suggested a contrail from a German Wings or Qatar Airways flight, Czech's investigation, including radar data and flight path analysis, suggests the object's trajectory was not consistent with a standard airplane maneuver, leaning towards a military aircraft or an unidentified phenomenon.

"Objekt mit mehreren Lichtquellen dicht über Augenzeugen" (Object with Multiple Light Sources Directly Above Eyewitnesses)

Natale Guido Cincinnati documents a sighting from Hallenberg, Germany, from the year 2000. Two witnesses, including a child, described a large, disc-shaped object with multiple glowing lights hovering directly above them. The object emitted a low humming sound and moved sideways before disappearing. The case is classified as "GOOD UFO" due to the lack of conventional explanations and the detailed witness accounts.

"Objekt mit vier Scheinwerfern über Nachbarhaus" (Object with Four Headlights Over Neighboring House)

Natale Guido Cincinnati reports on a sighting in Höhr-Grenzhausen, Germany. Two witnesses observed a meter-sized object with four headlights that did not illuminate the surroundings. The object changed shape and moved erratically before disappearing at high speed. Due to missing information, the case is classified as "insufficient data," with a remote-controlled model being a possible explanation.

"Blauweiße Kugel verschwindet hinter Wald" (Blue-White Sphere Disappears Behind Forest)

Natale Guido Cincinnati details a sighting in Buxtehude, Germany, where two witnesses observed a bright, blue-white sphere descending vertically and disappearing behind a forest. The object blinked rhythmically. While sky lanterns or small balloons are considered possible explanations, the blue-white color and blinking pattern are noted as unusual. The case is classified as "insufficient data."

"Das Superspektrum des John A. Keel und die UFOs" (The Superspectrum of John A. Keel and UFOs)

Roland M. Horn discusses John A. Keel's theory that UFO phenomena are primarily electromagnetic in origin, involving "Ultra-terrestrial" intelligences. Keel believed that these intelligences exist in a different spectrum of energy and can interact with our reality under specific conditions, often linked to ultraviolet light and infrasound. The article explains Keel's concept of the "Superspectrum" and its relation to visible light, infrared, and sound waves, suggesting that some UFO sightings might be related to these energies.

"Orange Kugel wiederholt über Wismar gesichtet" (Orange Sphere Sighted Repeatedly Over Wismar)

Stefan Hennings and Klaus Deistung report on multiple sightings of an orange sphere over Wismar, Germany. The object exhibited color changes (red-orange, yellow, yellow-white) and speed variations, moving at speeds comparable to helicopters and then suddenly accelerating. The authors differentiate these sightings from model hot-air balloons (MHBs), noting the object's ability to change color and speed, and its behavior at higher altitudes. They suggest a possible connection to plasma physics and energy radiation.

"Meine UFO-Sichtungen und die Anderer - Wie sieht die etablierte Wissenschaft das?" (My UFO Sightings and Others - How Does Established Science See It?)

Klaus Deistung explores the scientific community's perspective on UFOs, highlighting the skepticism often encountered. He discusses how phenomena like sky lanterns and model hot-air balloons are frequently mistaken for UFOs, contributing to a high rate of explained sightings. Deistung also touches upon the challenges of investigating UFO reports and the tendency for some witnesses to resist conventional explanations. He contrasts the scientific approach with the perceived biases of some UFO researchers.

"Roswell Alien Autopsy: Die Wahrheit über den Film der die Welt schockierte - Die Spyros Melaris Geschichte (Teil 1)" (Roswell Alien Autopsy: The Truth About the Film That Shocked the World - The Spyros Melaris Story (Part 1))

This article, by Philip Mantle, begins an investigation into the controversial Roswell Alien Autopsy film, presenting the story from the perspective of UFO researcher Spyros Melaris. It aims to uncover the truth behind the film, which has been a subject of intense debate within the UFO community.

"Abduktionsforschung - Entführungserfahrungen/ Teil 3: Affektives Wissen: Hirnmodelle" (Abduction Research - Abduction Experiences/ Part 3: Affective Knowledge: Brain Models)

Jens Waldeck continues his series on abduction experiences, focusing on affective knowledge and brain models related to these phenomena.

DEGUFO Archive and Conference

Alexander Knörr provides an overview of the DEGUFO Archive, detailing its content, direction, and future vision, and inviting contributions. The magazine also announces the upcoming DEGUFO conference in Frechen, near Cologne, celebrating the organization's 20th anniversary, with a list of international speakers.

Reviews and News

The issue includes reviews of books on fringe science and international UFO news compiled by Marius Kettmann and Martina Riemer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes detailed case analysis, attempting to identify conventional explanations for sightings while acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena. There is a clear effort to engage with scientific skepticism and to provide a platform for researchers like Klaus Deistung and authors like John A. Keel to present their theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, encouraging rigorous research and critical thinking, while also valuing the contributions of witnesses and researchers within the UFO community. The recurring theme of differentiating between UFOs and known aerial phenomena like sky lanterns is prominent, as is the discussion of the scientific community's general dismissal of UFOs as a serious area of study.

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 76
Issue Date: November 16-17, 2013 (implied by conference date)
Publisher: DEGUFO E.V.
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of DEGUFORUM, Nr. 76, prominently features the 20th-anniversary international conference of the German-speaking Society for UFO Research (DEGUFO E.V.) held in Frechen, Germany, on November 16-17, 2013. The magazine includes details about the conference, including ticket prices, a schedule of events, and a list of confirmed speakers. It also delves into various topics related to UFO research, pre-astronautics, and the broader implications of these fields.

Conference Announcement and Registration

The cover and initial pages announce the "Internationale Fachtagung zum 20jährigen Bestehen der Deutschsprachigen Gesellschaft für UFO-Forschung DEGUFO E.V." (International Conference on the 20th Anniversary of the German-Speaking Society for UFO Research DEGUFO E.V.). The event took place in Frechen, Germany, on November 16 and 17, 2013. The announcement details admission prices for members and non-members, with early bird discounts available until October 31, 2013. A special "Jubiläumsparty" (Anniversary Party) was also scheduled for the evening of November 16th. A registration form is provided for attendees to sign up for the conference and the party.

Featured Articles and Interviews

Erich von Däniken Interview:

Alexander Knörr interviews Erich von Däniken, the renowned pre-astronautics author, who at 77 years old remains active with new books and lectures. Von Däniken discusses his continued work, the resilience of his theories, and the ongoing debate surrounding ancient alien influences. He touches upon his latest book, "Der Mittelmeerraum und seine mysteriöse Vorzeit" (The Mediterranean Region and its Mysterious Prehistory), where he emphasizes the value of repetition in conveying information to new readers. He also addresses criticisms of his work and the scientific community's resistance to his ideas. Von Däniken expresses his belief that extraterrestrial life exists and that humanity is being observed, a shift from his earlier skepticism.

The 'Alien Autopsy' Film Controversy:

Philip Mantle details the story behind the controversial "Alien Autopsy" film, which gained international attention in 1995. Mantle recounts his involvement with the film and interviews with Spyros Melaris, who claims to have been part of the team that faked the footage. Melaris explains the process of creating the hoax, including building alien props and staging the autopsy. The article also touches upon the creation of a second, supposedly more authentic, autopsy film and the efforts to find the supposed cameraman. Mantle's website, www.philipmantle.com, is cited for the full interview.

Neuroscience and Intuition:

This section explores the intersection of neuroscience and intuition, particularly in the context of abduction research. It discusses how the brain processes information, distinguishing between explicit (rational) and implicit (affective) knowledge. The article references the Iowa Gambling Task as a method to study decision-making based on intuition and emotional cues. It highlights that individuals with certain brain injuries may struggle to interpret these emotional signals, impacting their decision-making abilities. The concept of "affective knowledge" is presented as a key area of study, suggesting that intuition plays a crucial role in learning and problem-solving, even when explicit knowledge is lacking.

DEGUFO Archive:

The magazine introduces the DEGUFO Archive, an initiative to collect and catalog UFO research materials from national and international sources. The archive aims to preserve documents, publications, and other media related to UFO phenomena and other fringe science topics. It highlights the contributions of individuals like Christian Czech and Alexander Knörr, who have donated significant portions of their personal archives. The archive is accessible to DEGUFO members and researchers, with plans for digitization and online access.

Book Reviews:

• "Unsere 6 Dimensionale Welt" by Illobrand von Ludwiger: This review discusses von Ludwiger's book, which explores magic, mysticism, and alchemy through a scientific lens, drawing on his extensive research. While not strictly a UFO book, it offers a framework for understanding phenomena that could be related to UFOs and pre-astronautics, referencing Burkhard Heim's theories.
• "Götterbotschaft in den Genen" by Hartwig Hausdorf: This review covers Hausdorf's book, which posits that extraterrestrial beings may have influenced human DNA. The book examines genetic anomalies, such as rapid aging syndromes, and links them to potential alien genetic experiments. It also connects these ideas to modern abduction phenomena.

News Items:

The issue includes several short news items on UFO-related topics:

• Russian Prime Minister's Statement: A report on Russian Prime Minister Medvedev's alleged statement about extraterrestrials living among us.
• Sri Lankan Air Force Monitoring UFOs: The Sri Lankan Air Force is reportedly investigating increased UFO sightings.
• Planned London UFO Museum: A project to establish a UFO museum in London is underway.
• Italian Footballers Recall UFO Sighting: Former footballers and fans recall a mass UFO sighting in Florence in 1954.
• Military Radar Operators Report UFOs: Two former military radar operators share their experiences of observing unidentified objects.
• Review of John B. Alexander's Book: A commentary on the German edition of John B. Alexander's book on UFOs.
• DEGUFO Statement on 'Reichsflugscheibe': A statement from DEGUFO E.V. distancing itself from any association with Nazi-era UFO theories.

Other Sections:

• "Meine UFOs existierten vor Jahrtausenden" - Interview with Erich von Däniken: A continuation of the interview, discussing his views on ancient astronauts and the persistence of his theories.
• Abduction Research - Affective Knowledge: Brain Models: A detailed exploration of abduction research, linking it to neuroscience and the concept of affective knowledge.
• The Crash Site: A brief mention of the crash site related to the alien autopsy film.
• The DEGUFO Archive: An explanation of the archive's purpose and how it is being built.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of DEGUFORUM strongly promotes the DEGUFO E.V. organization and its activities, particularly the 20th-anniversary conference. There is a clear emphasis on scientific inquiry into UFO phenomena and related subjects, as evidenced by the interviews with researchers like Erich von Däniken and the discussions on neuroscience. The magazine also addresses skepticism and criticism, often defending the validity of UFO research and pre-astronautics theories. The DEGUFO E.V. positions itself as a serious, scientific society dedicated to investigating these topics, aiming to inform the public and preserve research data through its archive. The editorial stance is one of open-minded investigation, encouraging readers to question conventional explanations and explore alternative perspectives on history, science, and the universe.

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 75
Issue Date: End of June 2013

This issue of DEGUFORUM previews upcoming content, focusing on an in-depth interview with Italian-American investigative journalist and photo reporter Paola Leopizzi Harris. Harris is recognized for her extensive work in the field of exopolitics, including her time as an assistant to J. Allan Hynek, founder of CUFOS, from 1980 to 1986. Her past interviews with notable figures like Philip J. Corso and her connections with other international UFO researchers such as Dr. Steven Greer, Linda Moulton Howe, Nick Pope, and Dr. John E. Mack have established her as a significant presence in the phenomenon's media coverage. The interview promises to delve into Hynek's later views on the UFO topic, her perspective on Alexander's book, and her outlook on the future of exopolitics.

Featured Article: Gerhard Gröschel and Technical UFO Research

The magazine also highlights the work of Gerhard Gröschel, described as one of the most neutral German UFO researchers, actively involved as a case investigator for DEGUFO, GEP, and MUFON-CES. Gröschel is a proponent of instrumentalized UFO research and has developed "UFO detectors" that acoustically indicate magnetic field changes often associated with UFO sightings. He is also involved in creating automated surveillance systems with movable cameras and computer-assisted recording capabilities. These systems are designed for deployment at "UFO hot-spots" where sightings are frequent. Readers can find a practical example of such surveillance in Gröschel's Kindle book, "UFOs über dem KKW Neckarwestheim." Furthermore, Gröschel has founded the "Institut für technische UFO-Forschung" (Institute for Technical UFO Research) to expand on his experiences and knowledge. His article, "Grundlagen eines funktionierenden technischen UFO-Überwachungssystems" (Fundamentals of a functioning technical UFO surveillance system), will be featured in the upcoming DEGUFORUM, detailing the technical standards and future possibilities in this area.

Upcoming Issue and DEGUFO Information

The next issue of DEGUFORUM is announced to be released at the end of June 2013. The magazine also provides information on how readers can engage with DEGUFO, including accessing the DEGUFORUM archive, attending conferences, reporting UFO sightings, providing feedback, and supporting active research through donations or by becoming a member. It also offers opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals in their region, stay updated with the latest news, and purchase specialized literature via the website www.degufo.de. The DEGUFO e.V. and the DEGUFORUM are sponsored by SLIGHTLYMAD STUDIOS.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance of DEGUFORUM appears to be one of serious, investigative journalism within the UFO and exopolitics fields. There is a clear emphasis on empirical research, technological approaches to UFO detection and surveillance, and interviews with key figures in the global UFO community. The magazine aims to provide a platform for neutral investigation and informed discussion, encouraging reader engagement and support for ongoing research. The focus on both historical figures like J. Allan Hynek and contemporary researchers like Paola Leopizzi Harris and Gerhard Gröschel suggests a commitment to covering the breadth of the UFO phenomenon's history and its current developments.