Deguforum - Issue 90

Magazine Overview

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 90, Winter 2016
Volume: 23. Jahrgang
Publisher: DEGUFO e.V. (Deutschsprachige Gesellschaft für UFO-Forschung)
ISSN: 0946-1531

This issue marks a significant transition for DEGUFORUM, being the final print edition after 23 years and 90 issues. The magazine, a publication of the German-speaking UFO research society DEGUFO e.V., has served as a key platform for UFO research in the German-speaking world since its inception in June 1993. The editorial team, led by Chief Editor Marius Kettmann, has decided to conclude the magazine format due to the increasing demands of editorial work and the changing media landscape, where online information offers more immediate reporting.

Editorial and Transition

Marius Kettmann, in his editorial, reflects on the 23-year journey of DEGUFORUM. He expresses pride in the publication's history and announces the shift to an annual yearbook, to be published every December starting in 2017. This yearbook will continue the tradition of publishing case studies, expert articles, and book reviews. Kettmann thanks the readers for their loyalty and expresses hope that they will continue to follow DEGUFO's work through the new format.

DEGUFO Members' Meeting 2016

The issue includes a report on the DEGUFO members' meeting held in Leverkusen on November 19, 2016. This location has been a recurring venue for the society's gatherings. The meeting featured internal discussions, lectures, and presentations on UFO phenomena and research. Key topics included a crucial bylaw amendment aimed at securing the organization's assets and archives in the event of dissolution, drawing a parallel to the unfortunate fate of the 'Generationenbibliothek e.V.' archive, which DEGUFO had taken over. The transition of DEGUFORUM to a yearbook and future publications, such as a second part of 'Akte DEGUFORUM' and a research volume for DEGUFO's 25th anniversary in 2018, were also discussed. A joint conference with GEP and MUFON-DSR is planned for June 24, 2017, in Fulda, which will also include the DEGUFO 2017 members' meeting and a board election.

Cover Story: A Look Back and Forward

The cover story provides a retrospective on the history of DEGUFORUM, celebrating 90 issues and 23 years of publication. It highlights the magazine's role in filling a niche for UFO research in Germany, alongside other publications like the 'Journal für UFO-Forschung' and the GEP's journal. The story includes a visual review of past DEGUFORUM covers, showcasing the evolution of the magazine's design and themes over the years.

Featured Articles

The Great Greek UFO Wave of 1954

This article by Thanassis Vembos, translated by Marius Kettmann, delves into the significant UFO wave that occurred in Greece in the autumn of 1954. The author details numerous incidents reported in the local Greek press, which was the primary source of information at the time due to the country's post-war economic and infrastructural limitations. The report covers sightings from October 6th to November 20th, 1954, describing various objects, their shapes (cigar-shaped, round, disk-like), behaviors (maneuvering, splitting, exploding), and visual characteristics (glowing, emitting light, leaving trails). Notable incidents include sightings on Lesbos, in Thessaly, and near Didimoticho, with some reports mentioning humanoid occupants or unusual craft, such as a "flying man" and a "car-like object" that took off vertically.

20 Years of DEGUFO - A Look at the Best Cases

This is the fifth and final part of a series presenting notable cases from DEGUFO's archives over the past 20 years, compiled by Christian Czech. It highlights significant investigations and findings from the organization's history.

Abduction Research: Experiences / Part 17

Dr. Jens Waldeck continues his series on abduction research, presenting the 17th installment focused on research practices. His ongoing contributions will be featured in future yearbooks.

Reviews

Review: 'UFOs and Nuclear Weapons' by Robert L. Hastings

Marius Kettmann reviews Robert L. Hastings' book, which compiles cases of UFO incidents allegedly occurring near nuclear weapons facilities. The review notes Hastings' expertise in this specific area and highlights the book's collection of eyewitness accounts, investigations, and conclusions.

Review: 'Secret Dossier UFOs' by Luc Bürgin

Luc Bürgin, a well-known figure in German-language fringe science, is reviewed for his new book. This work is presented as a continuation of his previous book, "UFOs over Switzerland," and delves into UFO phenomena, particularly in the context of the Cold War.

Review: 'The Secret History of Mankind' by Jim Marrs

This review covers Jim Marrs' book, known for his investigations into John F. Kennedy's assassination. The book reportedly analyzes a secret elite controlling humanity's destiny and their alleged contact with extraterrestrials, questioning whether these claims are substantial.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects DEGUFO's long-standing commitment to UFO research, covering historical waves, contemporary cases, and theoretical discussions. The transition to a yearbook signifies a continuation of this mission, albeit in a different format. The editorial stance emphasizes rigorous investigation, detailed reporting, and a critical yet open-minded approach to the UFO phenomenon. The magazine has consistently featured a mix of case reports, scientific perspectives, historical analyses, and reviews of relevant literature, aiming to inform both dedicated researchers and the general public interested in the subject.

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 90, 23. Jahrgang, Winterausgabe 2016
Publisher: DEGUFO e.V.
Country: Germany
Language: German
Price: 5,00 EUR

This issue of DEGUFORUM, the journal of the German Society for UFO Research (DEGUFO e.V.), marks the organization's 20th anniversary with a special focus on "A Look at the Best Cases." The cover prominently features this theme, along with images and text related to UFO phenomena and the DEGUFO's history.

Key Articles and Features

The central theme of this issue is a retrospective on two decades of UFO research conducted by DEGUFO, presenting a curated selection of the most compelling cases and sightings. The issue is dedicated to "20 Jahre DEGUFO - Ein Blick auf die besten Fälle!" (20 Years of DEGUFO - A Look at the Best Cases!).

Case Studies and Sightings

The issue delves into numerous UFO sighting reports, providing detailed accounts and analysis. These include:

• "Himmelblaues Objekt über Polen, 2000": Describes a sky-blue object observed in Poland that exhibited unusual maneuvers.
• "Gelbliches Licht über Österreich, 2000": Reports a yellowish light seen near Vienna that flew slowly and became longer.
• "Klassische Fliegende Untertasse in Hallenberg, 2000": Details a classic saucer-shaped object with lights observed hovering over treetops.
• "Zigarre am Himmel von Hinnebeck-Schwanewede, 2000": A report of a cigar-shaped object seen flying at high speed.
• "Zick-Zack fliegender Stern über Böchingen, 2001": An account of a luminous star moving in a zig-zag pattern.
• "Radar-Visueller Fall über der Schweiz, 2001": A case where objects were detected by both radar and visual observation.
• "Objekt mit pulsierendem Licht über Grafschaft, 2002": Describes an object with pulsating light performing complex maneuvers.
• "Entführung im Wald bei Furtwangen, 2002": A witness account of being abducted in a forest and experiencing a strange room.
• "Bläulich leuchtender Stern über Klingenberg am Main, 2002": A report of a bluish star observed moving horizontally.
• "Schwarzes Dreieck über Weitnau, 2002": A black triangular object with lights was sighted.
• "Flugzeug verschwindet in einem Objekt über Recke, 2003": A peculiar incident where an aircraft appeared to enter and exit a light.
• "Zick-Zack fliegende Objekte über der Türkei, 2003": Multiple objects observed performing zig-zag maneuvers.
• "Geräuschlose Dreiecke überfliegen Familie, 2005": Reports of silent triangular craft with lights.
• "Säule aus Lichtern bei Braunschweig, 2006": An observation of a large, tree-like structure of lights.
• "Merkwürdiges Fluggerät über Sandhausen, 2007": A description of a fast-moving, zig-zagging craft.
• "Vier runde Lichtquellen über der Route 66, 2009": Four round lights observed in formation.
• "Feuerroter Strich beim Bodensee, 2009": A bright red object seen flying towards the lake.
• "Stern fliegt Manöver über Edemissen, 2009": A star-like object performing maneuvers.

Interviews and Special Features

The issue includes interviews with prominent figures in the UFO research community:

• Interview with Danny Ammon: The 2nd Chairman of GEP e.V. discusses UFO research.
• Interview with Dr. Dr. Walter von Lucadou: He shares his perspective on Fortean researchers, comparing them to botanists who document strange phenomena.
• Interview with Marius Kettmann: The 1st Chairman of DEGUFO e.V. provides insights into the organization's work.

Information and Resources

DEGUFORUM Nr. 90 also provides practical information for readers:

• Reporting UFO Sightings: Readers are encouraged to report their own sightings via the DEGUFO website.
• Investigator Profiles: Links are provided to access short profiles of DEGUFO investigators.
• UFO Database: Access to the DEGUFO's comprehensive UFO database is also highlighted.
• Shop Information: Details on how to order back issues of DEGUFORUM and special editions are included, with links to the DEGUFO shop.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue, consistent with DEGUFORUM's long-standing focus, include detailed case studies of UFO sightings, analysis of aerial phenomena, historical UFO events, and philosophical considerations surrounding the UFO topic. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious, evidence-based investigation, encouraging critical yet open-minded inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena. The anniversary issue emphasizes the importance of documenting and analyzing these cases over time, as reflected in the "20 Jahre DEGUFO" theme and the inclusion of significant historical cases.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, titled "Abduktionsforschung - Entführungserfahrungen Teil 17: Forschungspraxis #8" by Jens Waldeck, focuses on the intersection of abduction experiences, psychological trauma, and scientific research.

I. Zusammenfassung (Summary)

The article discusses the phenomenon of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in individuals who report close encounters with the 'maximal stranger' (aliens). These experiences can lead to dissociative episodes, described as a "Gedankensalat" (thought salad) due to a fragmented recall of events. The research aims to provide explanations and potential relief through consciousness research and neurotechnology, such as the BRAINtellect2 device.

II. Neues für Betroffene (News for Sufferers)

1. PTSD-Risiko

This section references an article by Michael Schetsche et al. on interspecies communication, noting how the concept of 'the stranger' can extend to unfamiliar objects or situations that cause behavioral uncertainty. It suggests that these unusual experiences might be precursors to a paradigm shift.

1.1 Einleitung (Introduction)

This part highlights the relevance of the topic for individuals who have experienced multiple encounters and are at risk of developing PTSD. It points out that the U.S. Army Research Office is a main sponsor, implying a focus on technological development where functionality is prioritized over cost.

The BRAINtellect2 Device

The BRAINtellect2 is described as a portable device, similar to stereo headphones, equipped with electrodes that measure brainwaves. After signal processing, it delivers an acoustic signal to the wearer's ears, allowing them to 'hear' their brain at work. This auditory feedback helps in recognizing the early signs of a developing PTSD episode.

1.2 Tragbares Gerät zur Risikominimierung bei PTSD (Portable Device for PTSD Risk Minimization)

An article from August 18, 2016, by Photonics.com (translated by Jens Hubertus Waldeck), discusses the potential of portable neurotechnology to improve sleep quality and regulate the circadian rhythm, thereby reducing the risk of PTSD. Brain State Technologies LLC developed this technology with funding from the U.S. Army Research Office. The BRAINtellect2 device, shaped like a visor, uses sensors to read brainwaves and transmit them for processing, generating a real-time acoustic image of brain activity.

Researchers from Brain State Technologies are collaborating with the Wake Forest School of Medicine to demonstrate how improved sleep quality can reduce new PTSD cases among military personnel. A 2013 study published in "SLEEP" indicated that combat trauma and pre-deployment insomnia were linked to higher risks of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after deployment.

1.3 Zur Qualität der zurzeit verkauften Geräte (On the Quality of Currently Sold Devices)

While similar devices can be found online for around 200 Euros, these are often fragile, uncomfortable, and unsuitable for use during sleep. The sensors in these cheaper headbands do not capture brainwave signals stably and are poorly shielded against interference.

1.4 Open Source Initiative - Selbstbau (Open Source Initiative - DIY)

This section is not detailed in the provided text.

2. Eine offene Forschungsfrage (An Open Research Question)

André Kramer's book "Leben in zwei Welten" (Living in Two Worlds) poses a question about the type of assistance professional helpers can provide and what concrete therapies can be developed to support those affected.

2.1 Der Serienbeitrag (The Series Contribution)

This series aims to be a modest entry point into the topic of abduction experiences, presenting excerpts from an ongoing work. It follows a process-oriented approach, similar to Ken Wilber's integral approach, where the journey is the goal.

III. Erfahrungen beispielhaft erläutert (Experiences Exemplified)

1. Dissoziative Beeinträchtigungen bei PTBS (Dissociative Impairments in PTSD)

This section addresses readers who have experienced disturbing dreams, possibly related to alien encounters. It describes how these experiences can be so fragmented that they are perceived as "Gedankensalat" (thought salad), making it difficult to distinguish between dreaming and reality. A psychiatric diagnosis might be "dissociative disorder with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)". The text suggests that modern psychology, drawing on consciousness research and structural phenomenology, offers methods with good prospects for treating abduction-related issues.

2. Progredienz (Progression)

This section describes how the fragmented nature of traumatic memories can worsen over time, leading to a sense of losing one's mind. It notes that psychiatric evaluations might diagnose dissociative episodes with PTSD, but this is seen as a symptom rather than a root cause. The text suggests that the dreams themselves might be the result of these underlying issues, a concept termed "resultative observation."

It emphasizes the importance of examining not just the content of the dream ("what") but also the process of dreaming ("how"), including the sequence of thoughts and feelings during recall. This introspective method allows the affected person to describe their experience from their own perspective.

3. Problemlage (Problem Statement)

This section summarizes the core issues: individuals may have had prior encounters with the 'maximal stranger' and are now experiencing distressing dreams. It questions whether these new experiences are linked to previous ones or represent something entirely new, leading to diagnostic uncertainty and the possibility of a PTSD diagnosis.

IV. Wahrnehmung und Bewusstsein (Perception and Consciousness)

4.1 Reine Wahrnehmlichkeit (Pure Perceptibility)

This section discusses the initial state of perception upon waking, where one might see a confusing array of colors and shapes without immediate comprehension. This is termed 'pure perception,' a state akin to 'half reality' where connections are not yet established. It draws a parallel to the experience of experimental physicists dealing with raw data before interpretation.

4.2 Zur Vollständigkeit der Wahrnehmlichkeit (On the Completeness of Perceptibility)

Our perception provides an incomplete picture of our reality; missing connections are often supplied by the observer. This is compared to the experience of individuals recovering from acquired blindness, who initially perceive a jumble of visual input. The text introduces the concept of "processual observation," where one actively observes and participates in a process, seeking to understand its dynamics and find a conceptual framework for it.

4.3 Wahrnehmung und Traumwelten (Perception and Dream Worlds)

Dream worlds are also considered a form of perception. When dream images are unusual and difficult to grasp conceptually, the lack of apparent connections can lead to fragmented impressions. The issue of whether these dream contents are related to previous experiences or represent something entirely new is raised.

V. Ausblick (Outlook)

This section encourages readers to deepen their understanding of scientific abduction research. It suggests that practical experience and empirical observation are key to grasping the subject matter. The author encourages colleagues to share their findings and to explore not just what is observed, but how it is observed.

VI. Literatur (Literature)

• This section lists several works, including:
• MERIJN FAGARD, "Praktische Einführung in die Beobachtung des Denkens."
• MICHAEL SCHETSCHE (2014): "Interspezies-Kommunikation."
• JOHANNES WAGEMANN (2010): "Gehirn und menschliches Bewusstsein."
• HERBERT WITZENMANN (1983): "Strukturphänomenologie."

It also mentions the magazine "Q'PHAZE" as a platform for exploring topics at the frontiers of science.

DEGUFO Vorstandsbericht (DEGUFO Board Report)

This report by Marius Kettmann details the activities and administrative efforts of the DEGUFO (German Society for UFO Research) during the 2015/16 period. Key points include:

• Administrative Cleanup: Christian Czech and Ingbert Jüdt undertook a rigorous review of DEGUFO's administration, finances, and accounting, uncovering past issues that had damaged trust.
• Non-profit Status: The organization's non-profit status was jeopardized due to a lack of proper documentation. Through discussions with the tax office in Leverkusen, the status was re-secured, ensuring the organization's continued existence.
• Archival Project: The "Archiv für Fachveröffentlichungen zu ungewöhnlichen Himmelsphänomenen und Grenzwissenschaften" (Archive for Professional Publications on Unusual Celestial Phenomena and Fringe Sciences) was established. This involved digitizing GEP case files and planning for MUFON-CES and DEGUFO files. The archive was consolidated in Holzminden after moving from three different locations.
• Cooperation Initiatives: The "Deutsche Kooperationsinitiative UFO-Forschung" (German Cooperation Initiative UFO Research), involving DEGUFO, GEP, and MUFON-CES, has been established, including a new website.
• Citizen Science: The initiative participated in the Citizen Science Strategy 2020.
• Digital Infrastructure: A common server was set up for DEGUFO, GEP, a UFO database, and the planned online archive.
• Media Relations: Efforts were made to improve press work, with a notable interview of spokesperson Karina Kettmann in Technology Review.
• Strategic Development: Marius Kettmann is developing a long-term program for DEGUFO, to be completed by its 25th anniversary in 2018, defining the organization's goals and future path.
• Website Relaunch: The DEGUFO website is planned for a redesign.
• Field Investigator Support: The departure of field investigator Thomas Beschorner due to health reasons left a gap. Karina Kettmann has taken over the UFO hotline, and efforts are underway to create a multimedia handbook for field investigators and conduct joint training with GEP.
• Membership: The report notes that DEGUFO currently has 97 members, maintaining its position as a leading German UFO research organization.

Rezension: „UFOs und Atomwaffen" von Robert L. Hastings (Review: "UFOs and Nuclear Weapons" by Robert L. Hastings)

This review discusses Robert L. Hastings' book, which explores the connection between UFOs and nuclear weapons. Hastings, born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1950, has a personal connection to nuclear facilities. The book details UFO incidents near sensitive military sites, including the Malmstrom Air Force Base where his father was stationed. It also covers the famous Roswell incident and the Big Sur UFO case. The reviewer praises Hastings' thorough research, use of numerous sources (including interviews, memos, and press articles), and his neutral approach in distinguishing between facts and speculation. The book is recommended for UFO researchers.

Rezension: „Geimdossier UFOs" von Luc Bürgin (Review: "UFO Dossier UFOs" by Luc Bürgin)

This review covers Luc Bürgin's book, which examines UFO files from the Swiss Air Force. Bürgin, a Swiss author known for his work on fringe science and UFOs, presents over 140 original documents, constituting the majority of the book. The review notes that while Switzerland did not conduct extensive, coordinated state investigations into UFOs, there was official interest, particularly during the Cold War. The book highlights UFO sightings, including radar traces, and discusses how authorities handled such phenomena. The reviewer commends Bürgin's journalistic approach and his ability to present cases compellingly, while also acknowledging that the Swiss Air Force likely possesses no more definitive answers than amateur researchers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the psychological impact of unusual experiences, particularly abduction phenomena, and the development of scientific and technological approaches to address related trauma (PTSD). It emphasizes the importance of rigorous research, drawing on consciousness studies, neurotechnology, and the analysis of official documents. The DEGUFO's administrative report highlights a commitment to transparency, archival preservation, and collaborative research within the ufology community. The reviews of books by Hastings and Bürgin underscore the ongoing interest in UFO phenomena, their potential links to military activities, and the historical documentation of sightings.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, number 90, features a review of Jim Marrs' book "Die geheime Geschichte der Menschheit" (The Secret History of Humanity). The magazine itself is transitioning from a regular publication to an annual yearbook starting in 2017, to be published by Ancient Mail Verlag.

Review: "Die geheime Geschichte der Menschheit" by Jim Marrs

The review, written by Marius Kettmann, introduces Jim Marrs as an investigative journalist known for his work on the JFK assassination ('Crossfire') and UFOs ('Alien Agenda'). Marrs' work is characterized as speculative and often controversial, yet it has garnered mainstream attention, even influencing Oliver Stone's film 'JFK'.

The book "Die geheime Geschichte der Menschheit" is not primarily about UFOs, which are only mentioned on pages 194 and 265. On page 194, a quote from Monseigneur Corrado Balducci of the Vatican is cited, stating that believing in UFOs and extraterrestrial beings is not a sin and that their existence is supported by eyewitness accounts and even scripture. Page 265 mentions Salla, the founder of the Exopolitics Institute, who reportedly lost his position at the American University in Washington due to his UFO research.

Instead, the book is described as being for readers inclined towards the Paläo-SETI (Paleo-SETI) theory, suggesting a grand, deliberate plan that extends beyond the landing of extraterrestrials on Earth centuries or millennia ago. It also appeals to those interested in alternative historical interpretations and conspiracy theories that involve secret societies and hidden elites operating across generations.

The book is structured into four parts:

• Part 1: "The Origin of the Solar System": Covers topics such as the mysterious Planet X, potential life on Mars, extraterrestrials on the Moon, and evolutionary criticism based on human development. It also touches upon "long skulls" and pyramids.
• Part 2: "The Forefathers": Discusses controversial terms like Atlantis, Sumer, Anunnaki, and Nefilim.
• Part 3: "The Middle Ages": Explores familiar concepts such as the Knights Templar and alchemy.
• Part 4: "The Modern Era": Addresses themes like Hitler, the "blue bloods" (nobility), and "Big Brother."

The reviewer categorizes the book as speculative literature that brings together many well-known and lesser-known themes from the world of conspiracy and Paleo-SETI. The reader's acceptance of these ideas depends on their threshold for what constitutes evidence and how much they value established scientific verification and falsification methods.

The book is presented as a compilation of information, including potentially controversial topics like Nazi UFOs, Admiral Byrd, and Billy Meier, without critical evaluation.

• Book Details:
• Title: Die geheime Geschichte der Menschheit. Wie Wesen von fremden Sternen unsere Geschicke bestimmen.
• Author: Jim Marrs
• Publisher: Kopp Verlag, Rottenburg 2015
• Format: Hardcover, 368 pages, 2 tables
• ISBN: 978-3-86445-263-5
• Price: 22,95 EUR (incl. VAT)

Further information and ordering details are available via a provided URL.

DEGUFO Yearbook 2017 Announcement

The second part of the document announces that DEGUFORUM will become an annual yearbook starting in 2017. This yearbook will feature longer and shorter articles on UFO topics, research reports, and reviews of UFO-related literature, presented in the style of scientific journals. Marius Kettmann will continue as editor-in-chief and contact person for authors. The publisher will be Ancient Mail Verlag.

The yearbook will be a paperback (softcover) of approximately 150 pages, including about 10 color pages, and will cost around 16,90 EUR including VAT. The first issue is scheduled for December 2017. The announcement also includes calls to action for readers to engage with DEGUFO through its archive, reporting UFO sightings, providing feedback, staying updated on news, supporting research through donations, attending conferences, meeting like-minded individuals, and purchasing literature, all accessible via the www.degufo.de website.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's focus is on UFO phenomena, conspiracy theories, and alternative history, as evidenced by the review of Jim Marrs' book and the announcement of the DEGUFO Yearbook. The editorial stance appears to be open to speculative and unconventional theories, particularly those related to extraterrestrial influence and hidden historical narratives, while also aiming to provide a platform for research and discussion within the field of fringe science and ufology.