Magazin fur Grenzwissenschaften - No 15 - 1996

Magazine Overview

Title: MAGIZIN FÜR GRENZWISSENSCHAFTEN
Issue: 6/1996
Publisher: Verlag MG
Country: Germany
Price: DM 7,70

This issue of "Magazin für Grenzwissenschaften" (Magazine for Frontier Sciences) delves into a variety of paranormal and fringe topics, with a strong emphasis on UFOs, ancient mysteries, and consciousness studies. The cover prominently features the "VÄDDÖ: UFO-TRUMMERTEIL" (Väddö: UFO Wreckage) as a potential piece of evidence, alongside "CARNAC: Digitale Botschaften der Alignments" (Carnac: Digital Messages of the Alignments).

Editorial

The editorial, written by Walter L. Kelch, addresses the challenges faced by the magazine, including technical issues with the WIN95 software that led to data loss and necessitated re-inputting content. Kelch also touches upon the need for critical analysis within the fringe science community, lamenting the prevalence of "junk" and "schlock" that can deter genuine inquirers. He highlights the importance of exploring the "why" and "for what purpose" behind phenomena. The editorial also announces that the magazine will now be published every 8-10 weeks due to the demanding nature of investigative journalism in this field. A small EPAL info-leaflet is included as a bonus.

Key Articles and Features

Väddö: UFO Wreckage - The Proof?

This issue's main focus is the alleged UFO wreckage found in Väddö, Sweden. The article presents this find as a significant piece of evidence, with metallurgists and analysts attempting to determine its origin and purpose. The investigation into this "fragment" is highlighted as a key aspect of the magazine's coverage.

Carnac: Digital Messages of the Alignments

Lars Böck explores the ancient megalithic alignments in Carnac, Brittany. He discusses the mystery surrounding these stone structures, their age (estimated to be between 7000 and 8000 years old), and the theories about their construction and purpose. The article notes that the tallest standing stones are found in the west of the fields and that the alignments often conform to the "megalithic yard" of 82.9 cm, as identified by Professor Alexander Thom.

Karma and Reincarnation '96 Congress

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "International Mammoth Congress in Neuss" focusing on "Karma and Reincarnation '96." The event, held from May 24-27, 1996, at the Swissotel in Neuss, aimed to explore human consciousness and the concept of reincarnation. The congress featured numerous speakers, including Dr. Raymond Moody, Coral Polge (known for painting the deceased), Prof. Dr. Kenneth Ring, and various mediums, therapists, and religious representatives. The event sought common ground among different beliefs and emphasized personal development through love. The article includes a coupon for registration, detailing prices and payment options, as well as information on associated "reader trips" to spiritual sites.

Other Science and Mystery News

• Space: Discs in the Sky Discovered: A brief mention of UFOs being sighted in space.
• New Killer Found: The discovery of a new carnivorous dinosaur, "Carcharodontosaurus saharicus," from Morocco, with shark-like teeth capable of crushing bones, is reported.
• Life-Gene Research: Scientists are studying the nematode "Caenorhabditis elegans" to understand the secret to long life, finding that small genetic changes can extend its lifespan fivefold, suggesting a biological "clock."
• Archaeological Sensation: A Celt Was Dead! In Eicher Sattel, Germany, a mummified body dating back approximately 2500 years was discovered, providing new insights into the spread of Celtic culture.
• Dinosaur Extinction: New evidence from the Chicxulub crater in Mexico, specifically iridium traces, strongly suggests that a 10-kilometer asteroid impact caused a catastrophic climate change, leading to the extinction of dinosaurs and other species.
• 50,000 Species Die Annually: The World Wildlife Fund estimates that 50,000 species are lost each year, primarily due to intensive deforestation.
• Manatee Deaths: A rare virus is causing the death of manatees, baffling scientists.
• New Temples Discovered: German speleologists found several temples in limestone caves in Cambodia, believed to be relics from the 6th millennium BC.
• Visible from Space: The Great Barrier Reef in Australia is noted as the only animal-created structure on Earth visible from space with the naked eye.
• Bat Attacks: In El Salvador, vampire bats are attacking people at night, causing injuries and fear.
• Computer Simulation: Asteroid Triggered "Double-Impact Effect": Simulations suggest that the Yucatan asteroid impact not only caused mass extinction but also triggered a "double-impact effect," leading to widespread volcanic activity and further environmental devastation.
• Laser Weapon Tested: The US has successfully tested a laser weapon, destroying a short-range missile in flight, as part of the SDI program.
• UFO-Wahn I & II: Two brief reports touch on individuals claiming to be influenced by UFOs or alien commands, one involving a man who believed aliens ordered him to commit murder, and another where a woman was drawn into a UFO sect.
• Military Base Peenemünde Dissolved: The military base at Peenemünde, historically significant for V1 and V2 rocket development, is being closed and repurposed for tourism.
• What Happened to "BURAN"?: The former Soviet space shuttle "Buran" is now reportedly used as a restaurant in Gorky Park, Moscow, after its space program was canceled due to financial reasons and the availability of US space shuttle services.
• The Girl with X-Ray Eyes: A Ukrainian girl, Jelena Iwantschuk, is reported to have "X-ray eyes" that can diagnose illnesses.
• Hubble Sensation: Star Births: The Hubble Space Telescope's images suggest that most stars possess planetary systems, showing gas discs around newly forming stars.
• Galileo Findings: Jupiter People?: The Galileo probe's data indicates Jupiter is a dry planet with no evidence of human-like inhabitants, contrary to some speculative theories.
• Danish Researchers' New Theory on Tunguska: A new theory suggests the Tunguska event was caused by a non-metallic meteor composed of gas and ice, with no extraterrestrial involvement.
• PEG 51: Another Planet: Astronomers have discovered a new planet orbiting the star Pegasus 51, estimated to be very hot due to its close proximity to the star.
• Are ETs Here?: NASA researcher Mike Kaplan believes extraterrestrial life exists and will significantly impact human philosophy and religion.
• New Magazine: MUSEION 2000: A new German-language magazine focusing on archaeology and humanity's mysteries is launched.
• Short News: Brief items include Cleopatra's appearance, Asterix and Obelix's attire, the ancient use of poison gas by the Chinese, and the discovery of the oldest known flower, dating back 130 million years.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, mystery, and the unexplained. It features a blend of investigative reports, scientific updates (often from a fringe perspective), historical mysteries, and personal accounts of paranormal experiences. The editorial stance, as articulated by Walter L. Kelch, emphasizes a critical yet open-minded approach, encouraging readers to question and seek deeper understanding while cautioning against unsubstantiated claims. The magazine aims to inform its readership about the latest developments in ufology, parapsychology, archaeology, and astronomy, positioning itself as a key source for "frontier sciences."

This issue of MG (Magazine für Grenzwissenschaften), identified as MG15 and dated 1995, focuses on the enigmatic alignments at Carnac, astronomical discoveries, and a specific UFO incident.

Neue Theorien (New Theories) - Alignments at Carnac

The magazine presents several theories attempting to explain the purpose and construction of the megalithic alignments at Carnac, France. These theories are introduced by the statement that "More nonsense has been written about Carnac than there are menhirs there," attributed to Faubert.

a) Calendar Theory: This theory suggests that each alignment served as a pointer for specific days of the year, such as February 4th (the start of sowing). The word "alignment" itself is interpreted as "orientation." While some individuals have pointed to this orientation, the text notes significant contradictions in their statements. It is concluded that only a few isolated stones might indicate specific days, and the alignment of the entire complex is likely not significant.

b) Antenna Theory: According to engineer Rudolf Kuntzer, the menhirs amplify cosmic energies. This is considered plausible because granite largely consists of vibrating quartz.

c) Geometric Message: Dr. Bruno P. Kremer interprets the arrangement of the alignments and surrounding megalithic structures as a geometric/mathematical pattern of triangles, which the author believes is likely correct.

d) Geomancy: This theory posits that the stone rows are situated on energy or other ley lines, which are evidenced by dowsing. It suggests a connection between these lines and the unmentioned sightlines. Scientific investigations indicate that the location of the alignments was intentionally chosen with regard to gravity.

The article acknowledges that these four theories do not fully explain the mystery but highlight interconnections relevant to the design of the alignments. Unanswered questions include why so many stones were erected, why the long stones are spaced at particular intervals, and why the menhirs are larger in the west and smaller in the east.

Digital Technology Analogy: To address these questions, the author explores the concept of digital technology. The process of reading a CD involves a laser beam reflected off its surface. A smooth surface reflects the beam, while a pit scatters it, analogous to binary code (1 and 0). This binary system can represent complex messages. The author draws a parallel between this and the alignments, where tall menhirs could represent '1' and 'gaps' represent '0'. The spacing of menhirs, potentially measured in yards, could encode information. However, this theory faces two problems: it doesn't explain why stones at one end are taller than the other, and the binary code itself presents a challenge.

The Menhirs as a Signal: The menhirs in the rows are described as varying in height, generally becoming smaller towards the east. This is likened to an analog signal (wave). The author suggests that the menhirs in each row describe this analog signal, which becomes progressively lower. The question of why the long stones are not placed close together but at specific intervals, determined by the "megalithic yard," is raised.

Digital Explanation for Alignments: The article proposes that the menhirs represent an analog signal (wave) that becomes lower. The specific spacing, determined by the megalithic yard, is key. The author believes that digital technology offers a solution to the questions of why the stones were erected, why there are specific distances, and why the stones decrease in height. The challenge remains to decipher this "digital message." The author notes a lack of detailed measurements of menhir heights for each alignment and row, focusing instead on the distances between them. The final objective proof is still pending.

Key Megalithic Sites Mentioned:

1. Menec (Carnac): 1167 meters long, 12 parallel rows, 1099 menhirs, with cromlechs at each end.
2. Kermario (Carnac): 1029 long stones in 10 rows, 1120 meters long, no preserved cromlechs.
3. Kerlescan (Carnac): 13 rows connected to a large cromlech, 594 menhirs in total.
4. Petit Menec (Carnac): Approximately 100 menhirs remaining, with traces leading to the Crach river. Once connected to Kerlescan.
5. Kerzerho (Edeven): Large gaps in rows, 2105 meters long, 10 rows, 1129 menhirs.
6. Vieux Moulin (Plouharnel): Only remnants of a cromlech and 6 menhirs remain.
7. St. Barbe (Plouharnel): Only remnants of stone rows and a cromlech are visible.
8. St. Pierre (Quiberon Peninsula): 25 menhirs forming a cromlech, with 24 more in 5 rows.

Space-News - Hubble Telescope Discoveries

First Glimpses into Planet Nurseries

The American-European "Hubble" Space Telescope has, for the first time, observed disks of dust and gas orbiting young stars, where planets are believed to form. Dr. Mark McCaughrean of the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy suggests this is how our own solar system might have looked 4.5 billion years ago.

Orion Nebula Observations: Dr. McCaughrean and Dr. C. Robert O'Dell of Rice University have identified six dark "proto-planetary disks" around young stars in the Orion Nebula, observed between January 1994 and March 1995. These findings are being prepared for publication in the "Astronomical Journal."

The Orion Nebula is a "stellar nursery" containing over 700 young stars. The dark disks are visible against the bright background of the nebula. These disks are thought to be the precursors to planetary systems.

"Tadpole-like" Objects: Initial, less sharp images from Hubble in December 1992 revealed "a completely new class of objects" described as "tadpole-like" and of varying brightness. Some of these objects were thought to be formed by photoionization from the hot star "Theta 1C Orionis."

Improved Images Post-Repair: Following the successful repair of the Hubble telescope in December 1993, sharper images revealed small, dark objects with red stars at their centers. These were far enough from "Theta 1C Orionis" not to be overwhelmed by its radiation.

"Edge-on" Disks: Some of these proto-planetary disks are viewed from the side, appearing circular, while others are elongated. The most interesting are cigar-shaped, suggesting they are viewed "edge-on." The faint light from the young star within these disks is visible as scattered light above and below.

Composition and Significance: These disks are estimated to be 99% gas and 1% dust. The dust, heated by the young stars (3000-5000 degrees Celsius), radiates energy in the red and near-infrared spectrum. This "infrared excess" was previously the main evidence for proto-planetary disks. More than half of the 700 young stars in the Orion Nebula exhibit this excess.

Dr. O'Dell confirms that Hubble has found over 150 such objects, varying in appearance based on their distance from "Theta 1C Orionis." These disks are seen as part of a large family of objects with similar properties, making the Orion Nebula a crucial site for studying the formation of new planetary systems.

Beta Pictoris Disk: The disk around the star "Beta Pictoris," discovered in 1984, is considered relatively old and its disk is quite thin. If planets formed there, it was long ago, and only dust remnants remain.

ISO Observatory: The European Infrared Space Observatory (ISO) is designed to search for proto-planetary disks in star-forming regions. However, its sensitive detectors require significant distance from the Sun, Moon, and Earth's atmosphere to avoid interference, preventing it from observing the Orion Nebula.

Disk Sizes: The discovered proto-planetary disks range from two to 17 times the diameter of our solar system. The central stars are young, aged between one million and 4.5 billion years (like our Sun).

Challenges in Observation: Astrophysicists cannot yet determine the mass of dust within these disks, even with Hubble's resolution. Observing an object the size of our solar system from 1500 light-years away is extremely difficult. Future research will involve radio-wave observations, where the dust disks are transparent, using the IRAM millimeter interferometer in the French Alps.

Diverses (Miscellaneous)

Spiritism, Extraterrestrials, and Co.: The First Marriage Advertisement?

This section discusses petroglyphs found worldwide, including Val Camonica (Italy), Hoggar and Tassili (Algeria), and "newspaper rock" (Arizona, USA). These carvings depict humans, animals, and abstract geometric shapes. While some interpret them as spiritual, others suggest extraterrestrial visitors. A Munich psychologist proposes that a depiction on "newspaper rock," showing a man and a woman, is actually the first marriage advertisement, suggesting a man seeking a woman.

Apes and Language:

Schimpanzees, according to US psychologists Robert Provine and Kim Bard, are the closest living relatives to humans but cannot speak due to a lack of fine motor control over their vocal cords and breathing muscles. The development of the vocal apparatus is linked to the evolutionary progression from ape to human. While chimpanzees are intelligent and can laugh, they cannot speak.

UR-Glider:

A fossil found in the Westerwald region of Germany, dating back approximately 26 million years, resembles a glider. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the distribution of such ancient rodents.

Roswell Alien:

The magazine explains its lack of extensive coverage on the Roswell incident, stating the topic is "over-saturated" and that the ongoing search for the "Roswell Alien" film is akin to treating a human illness. The article suggests that the widely circulated image of the "alien" resembles a child suffering from hydrocephalus (water on the brain), a condition causing an abnormally enlarged skull.

"Monster Rats" Discovered:

A report about "monster rats" found in nuclear waste was dismissed by Russian authorities. The rats were not mutated in size but in number.

"Brown UFOlogy Themes":

The article warns readers about "brown UFOlogy themes" (right-wing extremist UFO topics) appearing in some UFO magazines. It claims these theories, originating from the far-right and linked to Paraquany, are fabricated and aim to influence public opinion for political purposes. The author strongly advises against engaging with these topics, dismissing concepts like Hanebu, Vril, and Merlin discs as fictional.

VÄDDÖ - The MG Tip!!!

The Väddö Object

This section details an investigation into a UFO sighting and a subsequent discovery of a metallic object on Väddö, Sweden, on November 11, 1956. The report is by Walter Stender.

#### Overview:

Boatsman Stig Ekberg and carpenter Harry Sjöberg were driving near Tomta, Väddö, when they observed a luminous, rocking flying object descend to the ground. They left behind an object that was later examined by experts.

#### Investigation:

Initial analysis of the object's material revealed it was similar to hard metals produced by Swedish companies at the time. No exotic origin could be proven based on the material alone. The investigation then focused on the object's form, technical application, manufacturing process, and signs of wear. No expert could provide a satisfactory explanation for its form, manufacturing, or wear. The long time since the event and potential changes to the object's condition were noted as complicating factors.

Despite these challenges, the investigation proceeded. Key questions included the credibility of the witnesses, whether the object was indeed found at the landing site, and if it was already there when the UFO landed.

#### Findings:

After discussing the material, form, manufacturing, wear, and application, along with witness testimonies and psychological circumstances, the witnesses' credibility was confirmed. The date of the event was definitively established as November 11, 1956.

However, the core question of whether the object originated from the UFO remained open, despite its terrestrial material composition. The circumstances of its appearance on the site and in a warm, unsoiled state were puzzling.

#### The Object's Description:

The luminous vehicle was described as a massive, elliptical, flat-pressed sphere with intense luminosity that illuminated the landscape for hundreds of meters. It approached rapidly, then made a sharp turn and descended slowly and rocking, landing about 70-100 meters in front of the witnesses. The object hovered about 1/2 to 1 meter above the ground, with no visible supports, possibly obscured by mist or smoke. There was a bright light from the underside, like fire or illumination. The elliptical outline shimmered indistinctly, and its surface appeared like an asphalt road in sunlight. The object rotated slowly around a vertical axis, completing a rotation in approximately 20 seconds. No sound was heard during flight or landing. An unpleasant atmospheric change was noted: the air felt oxygen-poor, requiring heavier breathing, and there was a smell of ozone and burnt plastic insulation.

#### Sources:

The investigation drew upon numerous written and oral accounts, including reports from J. Lindeberg, Lars-Olof Berglund, Anders Palm, Christer Nordin, Thorvald Berthelsen, and the Institutet för Metallobjekts. Personal recollections from Harry Sjöberg and telephone interviews with Ekberg and Sjöberg were also utilized.

Bibliography of Independent Literature on Extraterrestrial Life, UFOs, and Pseudo-Astronautics:

The issue also promotes an updated bibliography (4th edition, 1996) covering literature from 1703-1995. It includes over 800 entries, encompassing books, audio-visual materials (CD-ROMs, video cassettes), and various indices (abbreviations, systematic, chronological, pseudonyms, specialist journals, international bibliographies).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine MG appears to cover a wide range of topics related to unexplained phenomena, including ancient mysteries (Carnac), cutting-edge scientific discoveries (astronomy), and UFO reports. The editorial stance seems to be one of critical inquiry, presenting various theories and investigations while acknowledging unanswered questions and debunking sensationalist or politically motivated claims (e.g., "brown UFOlogy"). There is a clear interest in providing detailed accounts of specific cases, such as the Väddö object, and in cataloging relevant literature.

This issue of "Space-News" (MG15/834) focuses on a detailed investigation into a UFO sighting and the subsequent analysis of a recovered metallic object. The primary case involves two witnesses, Ekberg and Sjöberg, who reported an encounter in Väddö, Sweden, on November 11, 1956. The magazine delves into the witness testimonies, the dating of the event, and the physical characteristics of the object and the landing site. A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the scientific examination of a metallic fragment found by the witnesses, with reports from various laboratories and experts.

The Väddö Incident

The article begins by detailing the sighting on November 11, 1956, near Grisslehamn, Väddö. Ekberg and Sjöberg observed a luminous flying object. They estimated its size and noted its unusual behavior, including a rapid ascent and departure. Following the sighting, they discovered flattened grass segments and a peculiar metallic fragment at the apparent landing site. The fragment was described as triangular, unusually heavy for its size (about 42 mm), and warm to the touch.

Witness Discrepancies and Analysis

The witnesses had slight disagreements on the exact date and time, with Ekberg leaning towards October 1959 and Sjöberg recalling November 1956. The article meticulously analyzes these discrepancies, using astronomical data to support the November 1956 date, particularly concerning the moon's position, which Sjöberg used as a reference point. The size of the UFO was also re-evaluated based on the width of the road, suggesting it might have been smaller than initially perceived.

The Metallic Fragment: A Scientific Investigation

The core of the issue revolves around the analysis of the metallic fragment. Ekberg entrusted the fragment to various experts and institutions for examination. The investigations spanned several years and involved multiple laboratories:

• Höganäs AB, Hälsingborg: Tested hardness, strength, resistance to acids, and thermal resistance. It was found to break when subjected to ultrasound.
• Oxelösunds Järnverk AB: An attempt at a "wet analysis" failed when the grinding mill was destroyed, while the sample remained intact.
• Svenska Aeroplan AB (SAAB): Ing. Sven Schalin identified the material as likely containing tungsten, carbon, calcium, and cobalt, with significant ferromagnetism attributed to cobalt. Later analyses refined the specific gravity and confirmed tungsten carbide and cobalt as primary components.
• University of California, Berkely/College of Engineering: Professor Harder examined a piece sent in response to a $50,000 reward offer from the NATIONAL ENQUIRER. His findings were reportedly lost, but a later inquiry suggested he found no evidence of extraterrestrial origin.
• University of Kansas, Space Technology Center: Dr. Zeller investigated potential cosmic ray effects.
• Max-Planck-Institut für Metallforschung, Stuttgart: Professor Dr. Günter Petzow identified the material as a tungsten carbide-hard metal with a minimal cobalt content, indicating high hardness. He deemed its quality excellent for the early 1950s.
• Stanford University, Cal. Institute for Plasma Research: Prof. Peter A. Sturrock and colleagues analyzed a piece, finding 94.43% W, 5.19% Co, and 0.38% Fe. They concluded the material was likely not of extraterrestrial origin.
• Metallwerke Plansee, Reutte, Tirol: Dr. Wolfgang Schedler confirmed it was a standard tungsten carbide-cobalt sinter metal, common in the early 1950s, with high hardness and specific gravity.
• Schwedische Staatliche Forschungsanstalt (FOA) Sthl.: Electronic analysis revealed unusual levels of Zirconium.
• TU-München: A qualitative analysis was performed.

Material Characteristics and Manufacturing

The analyses consistently pointed towards a tungsten carbide-cobalt composite, a type of hard metal commonly manufactured in the mid-20th century. However, the specific properties, such as the precise dimensions, the nature of the surface finish (suggesting manual work rather than mass production), and the presence of certain trace elements like Zirconium, raised questions. The fragment's shape was reconstructed as a trapezoid, approximately 42 mm long. The manufacturing process was discussed, with indications of significant handwork, leading to the conclusion that it was likely not part of a mass-produced item.

Related Cases and Editorial Stance

The issue also briefly mentions other UFO-related phenomena, such as lights and apparitions in the "Dreiländereck" region (Eupen, Belgium, and surrounding areas), referencing a book by Willi Schilling. It also includes a brief note about a photograph identified as an F-15 aircraft, not a UFO, in Italy. The magazine concludes by emphasizing the ongoing nature of the investigation and the complexity of definitively identifying the origin of the Väddö fragment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the meticulous investigation of UFO sightings, the scientific analysis of physical evidence, and the critical examination of witness testimonies. The editorial stance appears to be one of thoroughness and scientific rigor, aiming to present factual data and expert opinions without jumping to definitive conclusions, especially regarding extraterrestrial origins. The magazine encourages critical thinking and acknowledges the possibility of misinterpretation or conventional explanations, while also leaving room for the unexplained. The detailed breakdown of laboratory results and expert opinions underscores a commitment to exploring all facets of the phenomenon.

VÄDDÖ, issue MG15, dated 1985, is a German-language magazine focusing on ufology, ancient astronauts, and related mysteries. This issue features a detailed investigation into a mysterious metal object, challenges historical accounts of Admiral Byrd's polar expeditions, and explores UFO theories concerning Antarctica.

The Väddö Object: A Metallurgical Enigma

The central piece of this issue is the in-depth analysis of a metal object found in Väddö, Sweden, in 1956, shortly after a reported UFO sighting. The object, described as having flat surfaces and rounded edges with unusual wear marks and indentations, was subjected to various tests by multiple institutions, including the TU-München and the Swedish State Research Institute (FOA).

Initial analyses by Olle Grinder and Leif Berglin, based on a report from September 1980, identified the main components as Tungsten (W) and Carbon (C), with smaller amounts of Molybdenum (Mo), Cobalt (Co), Iron (Fe), and Titanium (Ti). Further microprobe analysis revealed varying percentages of W, C, Co, Fe, and Nickel (Ni) depending on the surface treatment. The specific gravity was measured at 14.8 g/cm³, and the Vickers hardness at 1690 +/- 20. The grain size was noted as very fine for its time.

Dr. Meisel commented that the density was exceptionally good for an object over 10 mm thick from the 1950s, and the grain size was also considered fine. He suggested that the marks on the surface might be imprints from a press mold and speculated the object could be of Russian origin, given the USSR's advanced metallurgy at the end of WWII.

Dipl. Ing. Stadler from TU-München confirmed the specific gravity at 14.836.

Dr. Schedler from the Plansee-Werk noted that experiments with zirconium and niobium carbides were not uncommon in the 1950s to improve tungsten carbide/cobalt hard metals, citing a publication by Dr. R. Kieffer on the use of zirconium carbide and niobium carbide.

The Swedish State Research Institute (FOA) provided detailed quantitative analysis results for two samples (Nr. 05 and 06) and a third (Nr. 07), showing high percentages of Tungsten (around 95-98%), with varying amounts of Cobalt (0.66-4.09%) and smaller traces of other elements like Zirconium, Iron, and Titanium. The data suggests that the presence of Zirconium and Niobium was likely intentional, not accidental.

The article extensively discusses the wear patterns on the object, noting rounded profiles, deep indentations ('mulden'), and fine cracks. These were analyzed by Ekberg and Sjöberg, who concluded that the wear was not consistent with a cutting tool. They explored possibilities like use in grinding or polishing drums, or as a component in a spacecraft, possibly a V2 rocket or satellite. The possibility of it being a heat shield fragment from a UFO was also considered but deemed unlikely due to the lack of expected characteristics.

Walter Stender, in his concluding analysis, highlights the difficulty in definitively determining the object's origin and purpose. He notes that while the material is identified as a high-quality hard metal produced in the 1950s, its specific shape and wear patterns remain unexplained by conventional terrestrial technology. He suggests that only confirmation of its terrestrial production or a better understanding of UFO technology could resolve the mystery.

The Admiral Byrd Controversy

The issue also addresses the myth surrounding Admiral Richard E. Byrd's alleged flight over the North Pole and his supposed discovery of a subtropical land in Antarctica. Recent analysis of Byrd's diaries by archivists at Ohio State University suggests that he likely never reached the North Pole, casting doubt on his claims and the associated 'ancient astronaut' theories.

The article debunks the idea of a subtropical paradise in Antarctica, stating that while some ice-free areas exist, they are devoid of life and certainly not home to subtropical flora or fauna. This challenges theories linking Byrd's supposed discoveries to lost continents like Atlantis or hidden Nazi bases.

UFOs and Antarctica

Further speculation links UFOs to Antarctica, with theories suggesting that the continent might host a secret German Reich base or that UFOs are of German origin. The article also touches upon the mysterious 'Foo Fighters' reported during WWII and other unexplained aerial phenomena, suggesting a pattern of confusion and misinformation surrounding UFO events.

Unwanted Interest and Cover-ups

The magazine details alleged attempts to suppress information and retrieve evidence related to UFO phenomena. It recounts instances where pieces of the Väddö object were sought after by individuals connected to military and scientific institutions, raising suspicions of a cover-up. The article describes break-ins and suspicious inquiries directed at researchers like Ekberg, suggesting a concerted effort to control information about potentially extraterrestrial artifacts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

VÄDDÖ positions itself as an independent publication willing to publish diverse viewpoints, including dissenting opinions, on topics related to ufology and ancient mysteries. The editorial stance appears to favor critical examination of evidence and challenges conventional explanations, particularly when confronted with unexplained phenomena like the Väddö object or controversial historical accounts like Admiral Byrd's expeditions. The magazine encourages readers to question established narratives and explore alternative theories, while also warning against unsubstantiated claims and sensationalism. The publication emphasizes its commitment to presenting facts and allowing readers to form their own conclusions, even when dealing with subjects that push the boundaries of current scientific understanding.

Title: MYTHOS
Issue: 15
Volume: 854
Date: February/March 1996
Publisher: Verlag MG
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of MYTHOS magazine, identified by its volume and issue number 854/MG15, focuses on themes of myth and mystery, with a particular emphasis on Antarctica and the legend of Atlantis. The cover prominently features a headline about "UFO files of the Bundeswehr? Nobody wants to know about them!" and an image of a UFO.

Antarctica and the Atlantis Theory

The lead article, attributed to Axel Ertelt, explores the intriguing possibility that Antarctica might hold the key to the myth of Atlantis. Ertelt discusses the challenges of establishing a self-sufficient, independent base in Antarctica, noting that such an endeavor would have been difficult to keep secret, especially with modern satellite surveillance. He concludes that while the idea is fascinating, the Atlantis myth remains speculative and requires further investigation.

The article is accompanied by images of the Antarctic landscape, including ice-free areas and mountain peaks, specifically mentioning the Wohlthat massif. It is noted that this region was claimed by the German Neuschwabenland expedition in the 1930s. Captions highlight the expedition's act of claiming territory and planting the German Reich's flag, as well as the use of a seaplane from their ship.

About Axel Ertelt

A section provides background information on Axel Ertelt, mentioning that he previously published a specialized journal called MYSTERIA. He has since discontinued that series to focus on Thailand, for which he publishes a unique German-language brochure titled SIAM-JOURNAL. The text suggests that readers will hear more from Axel Ertelt in the future.

MG Subscription Service

Page 2 introduces the "MG-Abo-Service," a new service for readers to place free classified ads for private individuals. The service is not for commercial use, and commercial ads will be marked as such and charged accordingly. The magazine also offers a way to handle private ads via a P.O. Box number. New customers are advised to send checks directly to MG to avoid misuse and can request an invoice with bank details. Existing MG customers can order books and video articles related to fringe science topics postage-free.

Upcoming Issue

An announcement for the next issue of MYTHOS promises coverage of topics including Mayas, Carnac, UFOs, UFO abductions, evolution, and world space research.

Subscription Offers

Page 3 details subscription offers for "New Scientific Times." A special offer provides a free book by Walter-Jörg Langbein or Graham Hancock with a subscription placed between April 1 and December 31, 1996. Various subscription levels are available, including a trial issue and an annual subscription. The publisher is DISCOVER-VERLAG, located in Langenthal, Switzerland.

Advertisements and Related Publications

Page 4 features several advertisements and listings for related magazines and services:

• MAGAZIN 2000: This magazine, with issue number F 13345 F, 18th year, Feb/Mar 1996/2, priced at DM 12.80, covers topics like atom tests, extraterrestrials from Puerto Rico, and UFO photos. It is available in bookstores and kiosks, or directly from Gather Druck & Verlag.
• TALKY: Described as a specialist magazine for pre-astronautics, archaeology, and UFO research, TALKY offers a sample copy for DM 5 in stamps. Its editorial office is in Kassel.
• Independent Alien Network: This publication focuses on abduction reports, historical parallels, and background information, claiming to be the only German-language magazine with a focus on "abductions" by extraterrestrials. A sample copy costs DM 7.50 in stamps.
• DER ANTI-DÄNIKEN: Features an article by Gerhard Gadow titled "New 'Memories of Reality'."
• Redaktion UR: Located in Munich, this entity is mentioned in relation to the Verlag MG program.
• UFO-Hot-Line: A phone number (0180-5224174) is provided, active from March 29, 1996.
• UFO-Nachrichten: This long-standing German-language newspaper, founded in 1956 by Karl L. Veit, provides information on UFO sightings, contacts, space travel, archaeology, and research. A sample copy can be requested, and they also offer a book tip: "The Extraterrestrial in the Pentagon" by Dr. Franke E. Stranges for DM 19.80.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, ancient mysteries, and speculative theories, particularly concerning Antarctica and extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be one that explores these topics with an open mind, while also acknowledging the need for critical analysis and distinguishing between speculation and established fact, as suggested by Ertelt's comments on the Atlantis myth. The magazine actively promotes its subscription services and related publications, positioning itself as a hub for information on fringe science and paranormal topics.