Mysteria - Issue 01 - 1979 01

Magazine Overview

MYSTERIA, Fachzeitschrift für UFO-Forschung und Prä-Astronautik (Journal for UFO Research and Pre-Astronautics), Issue Nr. 1/79, 1st Year, priced at DM 3.50. The cover features a striking, surreal illustration depicting a flying saucer, a mythical creature, and a landscape, hinting at the magazine's thematic focus.

Contents and Editorial Information

The issue begins with a table of contents, listing articles on various topics including UFOs, pre-astronautics, archaeological findings, and historical mysteries. The editorial team includes Chief Editor Axel Ertelt, and editors Herbert Mohren and Hans-Werner Sachmann. The magazine is published monthly. The copyright for all publications lies with the editorial office, and unsolicited manuscripts are not returned or compensated, though an annual book prize is awarded for the best submission.

Featured Articles and Reports

Seminars and Conferences

• Prof. Dr. Hans Holzer Seminar in Düsseldorf: From March 16-19, 1979, Prof. Dr. Hans Holzer from New York held a seminar in Düsseldorf covering topics such as ghost hunting, parapsychology, reincarnation, UFOs (with a slide lecture), modern paganism, and evidence for life after death. The seminar cost DM 80 for the full program or DM 15 per individual lecture.
• 6th World Conference of the Ancient Astronauts Society (AAS): Held from June 13-17, 1979, at the Hotel SHERATON in Munich. The conference fee was DM 60 for members and DM 90 for non-members. A banquet was also scheduled.

UFOs over Hiroshima

A report details a claim by a 66-year-old Japanese woman who allegedly had contact with extraterrestrials and predicted increased UFO activity. This was followed by press reports on December 11, 1973 (note: the year seems to be a typo in the OCR, likely intended to be 1978, aligning with the rallye date), of two UFOs being sighted and photographed over Hiroshima. One object reportedly changed color (red and blue), and the other exhibited evasive maneuvers. Air force experts concluded it was not an aircraft.

UFO Sighting during the South America Rallye?

This article by Axel Ertelt investigates a spectacular UFO incident reported by Argentinian rally participants Ignazio Sundblad and Esteban Semmartin during the 1978 South America Rallye. They claimed that a gaseous object lifted their Citroen Ami 8 about four meters high and transported them rapidly for approximately 70 kilometers towards Bahia Blanca in just one minute. The UFO, described as egg-shaped, then disappeared. The incident was accompanied by the car running out of fuel and the ignition key vanishing. While other rally participants, like Andres Cowan and Colin Malkin, were skeptical, the Argentinian team's account was considered one of the most spectacular incidents of the rally.

Stamps and Pre-Astronautics

This section, drawn from the former magazine DER HEROLD (Nr. 1/78), discusses the connection between postage stamps and pre-astronautics. It highlights a 1976 German Federal Post stamp featuring the 'Golden Cult Wagon' from a late Bronze Age princely grave in Acholshausen, Bavaria. This artifact, when seen by pre-astronautics enthusiasts, was linked to Joseph F. Blumrich's reconstruction of the 'Ezekiel's Chariot' from the Bible.

Another stamp series from August 16, 1977, titled 'Archaeological Cultural Heritage,' included a 0.30 DM stamp depicting a 'cultic gold cone' from Schifferstadt. This 'Golden Hat' from Schifferstadt, found near Speyer and dating back to 1835, is described as a precious artifact made of gold foil, approximately 29 cm high, with intricate ornamentation. Karl Kohlenberg's book 'Enträtselte Vorzeit' interpreted similar gold objects, like the one from Etzelsdorf, as models of spaceships or rockets.

Further research by DER HEROLD identified a second, larger gold cone (95 cm high) found in Etzelsdorf in 1953. The function of these gold cones remains debated, with theories ranging from ritual vessels to ceremonial pole adornments. The article notes that while conventional archaeology struggles to explain these artifacts, pre-astronautics researchers see them as evidence of advanced ancient technology.

An Israeli stamp from 1977 featuring an 'Ancient Israel Trumpet' is also mentioned, with the editorial note suggesting a striking similarity to the German gold cones.

300 Years - Time Shift in the Siebengebirge

This article by Eller explores the concept of time shifts in prehistoric times, drawing from legends of the Rhineland. It recounts the story of Brother Maurus, a monk at the Heisterbach monastery (near Königswinter), who pondered the biblical phrase "One day is like a thousand years." During a period of deep contemplation in the forest, he encountered a stranger and, upon returning to the monastery, found that 300 years had passed, and he was no longer recognized. When shown a mirror, he saw his aged face and died. The story concludes that the name Maurus was no longer used in the monastery thereafter.

The Batteries of Baghdad - Recognized by Science!

Authored by Axel Ertelt, this article revisits the famous Baghdad Batteries. Discovered in 1936 by German engineer Wilhelm Koenig in the Baghdad Museum, these artifacts consist of clay jars containing metal rods and asphalt, functioning as electrochemical cells. Archaeological investigations in Khouyout Rabbou'a in 1936 revealed their origin. The batteries, approximately 15 cm high with a 9.5 cm diameter, are lined with asphalt and contain a copper cylinder with an iron rod. It is speculated that an acidic electrolyte, like vinegar, was used. Similar batteries were found in Ctesiphon, dating back to the Parthian era (248 BCE - 226 CE), suggesting an age of at least 2,000 years. The article credits Louis Galvani and Alexander Volta with rediscovering the principles of batteries centuries later. The Baghdad Batteries have been successfully replicated, producing around 0.550 volts, with Patrick Ferryn, editor of the Belgian magazine KADATH, being one of those who recreated them. The article criticizes 'modern' archaeology for its reluctance to accept these findings, which challenge established historical timelines. A 1978 newspaper report from Hessen is cited, suggesting that the history of electricity may need rewriting. The article mentions research conducted at the Römer-Pelizäus-Museum in Hildesheim, involving experts who confirmed the batteries' functionality and their use by the Parthians for electroplating, such as gilding a small silver figure. The author expresses doubt that this was their sole purpose. Johannes Fiebag, an amateur pre-astronautics researcher, is quoted in a letter to the editor, criticizing the mainstream scientific community for overlooking earlier mentions of these batteries in Erich von Däniken's book 'Chariots of the Gods?' (published in 1968). The Hildesheim findings were also presented on German television.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the field of pre-astronautics, presenting evidence and theories that challenge conventional archaeological and historical narratives. There is a clear stance of advocating for the acceptance of ancient technologies and extraterrestrial influences, often criticizing mainstream science for its resistance to these ideas. The articles frequently highlight artifacts and accounts that suggest a more advanced past than traditionally accepted. The editorial tone is investigative and aims to inform readers about ongoing research and debates within the UFO and pre-astronautics communities.

This issue of Prä-Astronautik, volume 12, issue 11, dated December 1978, focuses on pre-astronautic theories and unexplained phenomena. The cover story, "The World Traveler from Val Camonica on a Celtic Coin," by Herbert Mohren, explores the alleged connection between ancient rock carvings and historical artifacts.

The World Traveler from Val Camonica on a Celtic Coin

The article by Herbert Mohren delves into the approximately 120,000 rock drawings found in Val Camonica, Italy. It highlights a specific drawing of a 'world traveler' depicted in a weightless state, holding a staff-like object in one hand and something resembling a bow in the other. This figure is described as wearing a helmet. A second Val Camonica depiction shows a helmeted figure pouring liquid onto a tree, possibly the 'tree of life.' The author notes the surprising existence of similar finds in disparate locations. The central thesis is that the Val Camonica 'world traveler' is also depicted on a Celtic coin, a fact he discovered in Lancelot Lengyel's book, "DAS GEHEIME WISSEN DER KELTE." Lengyel describes the figure on the coin as a being with an egg-shaped head and a pig-like snout, watering a plant and having one arm resembling a grain ear. Mohren compares this to the Val Camonica rock drawing, finding a near-perfect match, with minor differences. He points out that the figure on the coin has a helmet and holds an object similar to the one in the rock drawing's left hand, and an object resembling a staff in the right. Above the figure on the coin is an elliptical symbol with a cross, which the author speculates might represent a spaceship. The article questions whether the Val Camonica drawings and the Celtic coin were created by the same artist, or if they are indeed of Celtic origin, or if they were made by an 'Ancient Astronaut.'

Archaeological Briefs

This section includes brief reports on archaeological findings: a 6,000-year-old cosmetic set found in Nordhessen, Germany; the endangered Sphinx of Gizeh, threatened by weathering; and the discovery of Maya settlement ruins in a Guatemalan lake.

UFO Research / Bermuda Triangle

Australian Pilot Abducted by a UFO?

This report details the disappearance of Australian pilot Frederick Valentich on October 21, 1978. While flying his Cessna 182 from Melbourne to King Island, Valentich reported that a UFO was following him. His last transmissions, partially received by the control tower, described the object as "not an airplane" and engaging in evasive maneuvers. Valentich's father speculated that his son, who was interested in UFO research, might have been abducted for a prolonged space journey. The article notes that initially, some within the MYSTERIA editorial team were skeptical, fearing a hoax, but as time passed without any news of Valentich, the possibility of his permanent disappearance became more likely.

December 1978 - Six Ships Already Lost!

This section reports on a series of maritime disappearances in the Atlantic Ocean. In December 1978, six ships vanished in the Bermuda Triangle and around the Azores. Four ships from the Transatlantic Regatta, including one carrying the famous French solo sailor Alain Colas, disappeared. Shortly after, a fishing boat with four crew members also vanished. Additionally, the German freighter MÜNCHEN went missing near the Azores after sending weak SOS signals. While the official explanation for the MÜNCHEN incident is an 'orkan' (hurricane), the article suggests that the Bermuda Triangle might be involved, though it acknowledges that the MÜNCHEN's disappearance might have natural causes.

Secrets of a Rock Painting

This extensive article by Hans-Werner Sachmann investigates a controversial rock painting from Fergana, Uzbekistan. The article begins by referencing a Sputnik magazine publication from 1968, which presented a drawing of this rock art, labeled as a 'rock drawing in Fergana' and described as a 'cosmonaut cave drawing.' The author notes that similar illustrations appear in books by Erich von Däniken. However, the authenticity of the Fergana rock art is questioned. Hubert Malthaner, co-author of "DAS GEHEIMNIS DER UNBEKANNTEN FLUGOBJEKTE," informed Sachmann that the original drawing in Sputnik was not a direct depiction of a Fergana fresco but a fictional drawing created by a painter named Brussilov, commissioned by the Sputnik editorial team. This contradicts earlier statements made by Professor Wjatscheslav Saizew, a philologist, who had initially described the Fergana image as genuine to a film crew. Sachmann recounts his correspondence with Malthaner and Peter Krassa, a Soviet philologist, who also received conflicting information from Saizew. Krassa stated in a letter that the Sputnik drawing was not a Fergana fresco but 'art from our time,' a statement that contradicted Saizew's earlier claims to the film team. Sachmann speculates that political factors might have influenced Saizew's later statements. He also notes that attempts to obtain permission to visit Fergana were denied, both for himself and for film director Harald Reinl, suggesting a possible cover-up. The article further discusses how Däniken's books and the film "ERINNERUNGEN AN DIE ZUKUNFT" used images derived from a book by Professor Kasanzew, who considered the Fergana rock art authentic. Sachmann questions why Sputnik didn't use the Kasanzew images and why a new drawing was made, potentially leading to confusion. He suggests that the use of the word 'nach' (after/according to) under the Sputnik sketch might have been intentional to create ambiguity. The article concludes by stating that a visit to Uzbekistan would be necessary to definitively clarify the issue, but such a visit is difficult due to political and ideological barriers.

New UFO Books

This section reviews several recently published books on UFOs and related topics:

• RÄTSEL SEIT JAHRTAUSENDEN (Riddles Since Millennia) by Ertelt, Fiebag, Fiebag, and Sachmann. This book covers the Rainer H. case, Bermuda Triangle events, and pre-astronautics. It is available from Hans-Werner Sachmann.
• STRAHLENEINWIRKUNGEN IN DER UMGEBUNG VON UFOS (Radiation Effects in the Vicinity of UFOs), published by MUFON-CES. This report from a 1977 conference contains 370 pages, 90 drawings and photos, and a code list of 600 UFO cases with electromagnetic and gravitational interactions. It is available from Adolf Schneider.
• ERGÄNZUNGSBAND ZUM TAGUNGSBAND 1977 (Supplement to the 1977 Conference Proceedings) by MUFON-CES (L.Gentes). This book offers a new approach to evidence through comparative psychology of sudden contacts and ancient Indian texts on aerospace. It costs 9.50 DM and is available from Adolf Schneider.
• UFO-REPORT by Prof. Dr. J. Allen Hynek. This research report primarily relies on the "Blue Book" project and official statements from US authorities. It is described as an insightful report by the 'Galilei of ufology.' It is available as a paperback from Goldmann for 7.80 DM.
• DAS UFO-PHÄNOMEN (The UFO Phenomenon) by Johannes von Buttlar. This book, launched with a premiere event at a castle, is by Johannes Freiherr Treusch von Buttlar-Brandenfels. It was published by Bertelsmann and costs 29.80 DM.
• MEINE KONTAKTE MIT AUSSERIRDISCHEN (BAND III) (My Contacts with Extraterrestrials, Vol. III) by Bob Renaud. This third volume claims Bob was the first person in space before Russian and US cosmonauts. It is published by Ventla-Verlag and costs 14.70 DM.
• FLIEGENDE UNTERTASSEN - RÄTSEL IM ALL (Flying Saucers - Riddles in Space) by Roy Stemman. This is part of the "GROSSE MYSTERIEN" series from Lekturama Verlagsgesellschaft. Each volume costs 29.95 DM plus shipping. The series covers various topics, including historical mysteries, the human mind, future visions, and the Bermuda Triangle.

Older, but recommended UFO literature is also listed, including works by Jean-Claude Bourret, Rho Sigma, Adolf Geigenthaler, Frank Edwards, Walter K. Bühler, Adolf Schneider, and K. Gösta Rehn.

New UFO Wave in Italy

A UFO was sighted over the Strait of Messina on December 12, 1978. A police patrol observed a gold-glowing disc at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters. A photograph of the UFO was taken.

Meteor with Colorful Lights

A meteor weighing about two hundredweight fell over Indiana, USA. It changed color from blue to green, orange, and yellow upon entering the atmosphere and broke apart, creating a spectacular light show visible in twelve US states.

Addendum to the Bermuda Topic

As of December 26, 1978, there were no new developments regarding the disaster of the German freighter MÜNCHEN. Search and rescue operations were suspended shortly before Christmas, with Hapag-Lloyd stating there was little hope. Another maritime incident occurred near the Canary Islands, resulting in many fatalities, but it is not believed to be related to the Bermuda Triangle. The article concludes by noting that at least 13 ships and aircraft disappeared in the Bermuda Triangle in 1978.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of ancient mysteries through the lens of pre-astronautics, the investigation of UFO sightings and alleged encounters, and the analysis of unexplained disappearances and archaeological anomalies. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these phenomena, presenting various theories and evidence while also critically examining the sources and potential for hoaxes or political manipulation, particularly in the case of the Fergana rock art. The magazine actively promotes books and research related to these subjects, encouraging readers to engage with the ongoing debates and mysteries.

This document is page 21 of the magazine MYSTERIA, focusing on advertisements and reader services. The issue date and volume are not explicitly stated, but the content refers to books published in the 1950s and an advertisement with reference number 1/79, suggesting a publication date around the late 1970s or early 1980s. The magazine is published by the MYSTERIA-Redaktion in Germany and is in German.

Advertisements and Reader Services

The page details the policy for accepting advertisements from the MYSTERIA reader circle. Only ads related to fringe science are permitted; private sales of items like cars are not accepted. The advertisements appear in a two-column format. The pricing is based on a per-millimeter rate, with a minimum donation of 0.25 DM per millimeter, equating to 1 DM per line. Ads are published only after payment is received and a proofread copy is signed and returned. The editorial deadline for submissions is the 10th of each month. Payment for ads is on a donation basis, and unused column space is fully accounted for.

Inquiries regarding advertisements should be directed to the MYSTERIA-Redaktion, specifically to Mr. Axel Ertelt, at Postfach 1227, 5884 Halver 1.

Sought-After UFO Literature

A significant portion of the page is dedicated to a request for specific UFO literature. Readers are seeking the following books:

• "Fliegende Untertassen: UFOs. Greifen außerirdische Mächte in unsere Verhältnisse ein? Woher kommen sie ?" by Richard Feryer, published in Boniswil, Switzerland, by an unnamed publisher in 1954 (32 pages).
• "Fliegende Untertassen - ja oder nein?" by Siegfried Schöpfer, published in Stuttgart/Weil der Stadt, Germany, by Hädecke-Verlag in 1955 (32 pages).
• "Flying Saucers über Südafrika" by Edgar Sievers, published in Pretoria, South Africa, by Sagittarius-Verlag in 1955 (415 pages).
• "Schaut empor" by Ray Stanford and Rex, published in Wiesbaden, Germany, by Ventla-Verlag in 1966 (77 pages with illustrations).

Interested parties are asked to contact the MYSTERIA-Redaktion under reference number 1/79.

Financial Policy and Reader Benefits

The section titled "MYSTERIA-Anzeigen" explains the financial model of the magazine. It states that if the advertisement section is well-utilized, the price for future issues of MYSTERIA could be reduced. The revenue generated from advertisements is intended to help cover the printing costs. The current cover price of 3.50 DM only covers the printing costs, with shipping expenses largely borne by the editorial team. The magazine aims to make no financial profit, and any surplus funds from advertisements would be used to offset costs, thereby allowing for a potential decrease in the subscription price for readers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance, as inferred from this page, is focused on promoting and discussing fringe science topics, particularly UFOs and related literature. The magazine actively engages its reader circle by providing a platform for advertisements and seeking specific literature, fostering a sense of community. The financial transparency regarding printing costs and the potential for reduced subscription prices indicate a reader-centric approach, aiming to make the publication accessible and sustainable through reader support and participation.