Mysteria - Issue 09 - 1979 09

Magazine Overview

MYSTERIA, issue 9/79, is a German-language magazine focused on UFO research and pre-astronautics. This issue, part of the 1st volume, was published in September 1979 and priced at DM 3.50. The cover features a collage of images including a spiral nebula, a stone cross, a gravestone, and a symbolic artifact, with the main headline highlighting the article "Steine reden: Der Stein von Farr (2.Teil)" (Stones Speak: The Stone of Farr, Part 2).

Table of Contents and Editorial Information

Page 2 provides the detailed table of contents, listing articles on various topics. It also includes the editorial and imprint information. The editor-in-chief is Axel Ertelt, based in Halver, Germany. The Dortmund editorial office is managed by Hans-Werner Sachmann. MYSTERIA is published monthly and holds copyright for all contributions, with reprints requiring written permission. Unsolicited manuscripts are accepted but not guaranteed to be returned without sufficient postage. The magazine is a private publication operating on a cost-recovery basis, with no honoraria paid. An annual book prize is awarded to the best reader contribution. Subscription details and bank account information for orders are also provided.

Liebe Leser! (Dear Readers!)

On page 3, Axel Ertelt addresses the readers, mentioning a planned extensive article on Egyptian "gods" and the "Nile key" for issue 12/79, necessitating an earlier deadline of November 25, 1979. He notes numerous reader contributions regarding these topics and encourages further input. Ertelt also addresses a perceived imbalance in the magazine's content, acknowledging that while titled "Fachzeitschrift für UFO-Forschung und Prä-Astronautik" (Journal for UFO Research and Pre-Astronautics), recent issues have focused more on pre-astronautics. He explains this is partly due to reader preference and a current lack of significant UFO news. However, he assures readers that UFO research is closely linked to pre-astronautics and promises to feature more UFO reports in upcoming issues, urging readers to submit such material.

Advertisement: "NEUER KOSMOS"

An advertisement on page 3 promotes "NEUER KOSMOS," a quarterly publication from Austria covering UFO research, paraphysics, and pre-astronautics. It is published by the Scientific Working Group for UFO Research and Paraphysics INTERKOSMOS. The ad highlights its focus on UFO experiences in Austria, professional precision, and support from official bodies. It lists upcoming articles, including "Men in Black," "The Mystery of Nazca," and interviews with Erich von Däniken.

Leitartikel: Steine reden: Der Stein von Farr (2.Teil) (Stones Speak: The Stone of Farr, Part 2)

This multi-part article by Walter Closs, continuing from issue 8/79, explores the "Stone of Farr" and its symbolic representation of a spiral nebula. The article posits that this ancient artifact reveals knowledge about the "Niflhel" (Niflheim) and the "Hwergelmir" well, which are identified as identical and representing the source of all being. The spiral nebula depiction is seen as a realistic representation of this primordial source. The author connects the term "Hwergelmir" to the German word "wergeln" (to roll around in the dirt) and notes the English term "whirlpool" for spiral nebulae. The article then discusses the evolution of cosmological theories, from Descartes' vortex theory to Kant-Laplace, arguing that the rotation of the sun and planets must originate from an external source, such as the rotation of our spiral galaxy (the Milky Way).

On page 5, Closs continues the analysis, linking the spiral nebula symbol to various cultures worldwide. Examples include a Maori house mark, a symbol from a Mexican ball game site (Ventanilla/Teotihuacan), and a symbol found on a Mochica pot from Peru. The article also examines a gravestone from Friedrichroda (Germany) dated 1739, which features a spiral nebula symbol within a depiction of the world's creation. The author concludes that the "Hwergelmir" symbol represents the primordial well and the source of all existence, and that this ancient knowledge was transmitted to Europe and China.

Page 6 presents a comparative table of European and Chinese traditions regarding the spiral nebula symbol. In Europe, it is linked to "Ewergelmir," celestial events, ancient lore, and the "Stone of Farr" depicting a whirlpool-like spiral nebula, from which the rotation of the solar system originates. In China, the "Yin-Yang" symbol, an older form, is described as a cosmic diagram originating from early astronomers, representing the whirlwind of the universe and the cause of perpetual motion. The article suggests that the recognition of spiral nebulae and their significance for the structure of the cosmos implies a highly advanced prehistoric scientific understanding, necessitating a re-evaluation of human history and cultural development.

On page 7, Closs further elaborates on the implications of this ancient knowledge, suggesting that either this civilization evolved on Earth or was brought by extraterrestrials. He cites an article by Ivan Verheyden in the journal BRES about the Dogon tribe, who possess detailed astronomical knowledge, including the existence of Sirius's invisible companion, which was only discovered by modern science much later. The Dogon cosmology describes the creator god Amma creating the universe by spinning, forming spiral worlds. The author emphasizes that the widespread presence of spiral nebula symbols and the knowledge of their significance for the cosmos indicate a highly developed prehistoric science.

Ein frühes Buch über Prä-Astronautik (An Early Book on Pre-Astronautics)

Authored by OSTR.a.D. Hubert Malthaner, this article on page 8 discusses Kurd Lasswitz's 1897 novel "Auf zwei Planeten" (On Two Planets) as an early work exploring extraterrestrial influence. The novel describes Martian "visitors" using a space station and their attempts to control Earth. Lasswitz's work is noted for its technical details and concepts that resonate with modern UFO phenomena, such as a "retrospective" device for viewing past events. The story culminates in the protagonists overthrowing alien rule.

Runter kommen sie immer ! ?? (They Always Come Down! ??)

Written by Bernd Brasser, this article on page 8 and continuing to page 9 revisits the tragic case of Captain Thomas Mantell, who died in 1948 while pursuing a UFO. It then focuses on the disappearance of U.S. Air Force pilot Lieutenant R. Wilson in 1953. Wilson was ordered to investigate an unidentified flying object during a night flight exercise in his Sabre F-86 jet. After approaching the object, all contact was lost, and neither Wilson nor his aircraft were ever found, despite extensive searches. The article draws a parallel to the recent disappearances of two U.S. Air Force F-5e fighter-bombers in New Mexico in April 1979, suggesting a possible connection to UFOs.

UFO auf alter Münze ? (UFO on an Old Coin?)

On page 9, an item discusses a silver coin from Himera (Sicily), dating shortly before its destruction in 409 BC. The coin depicts a nymph associated with healing springs. A reader, Klaus Trippel, questions whether the object above the nymph's outstretched arm could be a prehistoric UFO.

AMOR UND DIE SCHLEIFMASCHINE (Amor and the Grinding Machine)

This article by Hans-Werner Sachmann, starting on page 10, delves into the history of grinding machines and gemstone polishing, referencing F.M. Feldhaus's lexicon "DIE TECHNIK." It mentions Louis van Berken of Bruges as the purported "inventor" of gemstone polishing around 1456. However, Sachmann presents evidence of earlier grinding devices, including an illustration from the Hussite Wars (c. 1430) depicting a polishing machine. He cites historical records of grinding mills in Augsburg (c. 1389) and gemstone polishers in Nuremberg (c. 1375). The article also refers to Theophilus's description around 1100 AD of grinding hard gemstones on a copper plate. It further discusses the possibility of a simple grinding machine existing during the Roman imperial era and attributes the invention of grinding hard stones to Theodorus of Samos around 532 BC. The author questions whether only primitive grinding stones were used and suggests the possibility of precise, fine-mechanical apparatuses. The article then shifts to "sign stones" (Zeichensteine) and "bowl stones" (Schalensteine) found in Scandinavia and Africa, which feature engraved or ground symbols, suggesting they were worked with grinding stones from the older Bronze Age (c. 1800 BC), challenging conventional archaeological explanations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of MYSTERIA are the exploration of ancient mysteries through the lens of pre-astronautics and the investigation of UFO phenomena. The magazine consistently seeks to connect ancient artifacts, symbols, and myths with advanced prehistoric knowledge, often suggesting extraterrestrial influence or a lost high civilization. There is a clear editorial stance favoring the investigation of these topics, encouraging reader participation, and presenting a critical perspective on conventional scientific explanations when they conflict with the evidence presented in the articles. The magazine aims to bridge the gap between historical records, archaeological findings, and modern scientific understanding, particularly in the fields of astronomy and cosmology, while also keeping readers informed about contemporary UFO sightings and incidents.

This issue of Prä-Astronautik, spanning pages 11 through 20, delves into various aspects of ancient mysteries, extraterrestrial theories, and unexplained phenomena. The content includes articles on pre-astronautics, ancient technology, mythological interpretations, and book reviews related to UFO research and parapsychology.

Ancient Technology and Pre-Astronautics

The issue begins by exploring the concept of pre-astronautics, suggesting that ancient civilizations possessed technology far beyond what is commonly believed. On page 11, an article discusses the possibility of primitive grinding machines existing around 4000 BC, potentially precursors to modern saws. It references Greek myths where Daedalus and his nephew Talos are credited with inventing the spinning wheel and saw. The article highlights a gem depicting Cupid sharpening arrows on a grinding stone, which some researchers consider evidence of ancient grinding devices. The difficulty in producing gems without appropriate machinery is noted, with examples from ancient Egypt and Babylon suggesting advanced techniques.

Further on page 11, the article questions whether the grinding stone depicted with Cupid might symbolize a more complex machine. It proposes that the 'arrow' could be a symbol for 'weapon,' and the grinding stone with a treadle a symbol for a 'complicated apparatus,' possibly related to ancient extraterrestrial technology or even devices for grinding lenses for laser weapons.

Page 12 continues this theme, suggesting that ancient technology was more advanced than generally accepted. It mentions depictions of machines that were supposedly non-existent.

Mythology and Extraterrestrial Origins

Pages 13-16 focus on ancient Chinese legends and their potential connection to extraterrestrial visitors, referred to as the 'Sons of Heaven.' The article "DIE SÖHNE DES HIMMELS" by Peter Krassa explores the idea that ancient Chinese emperors, such as Huang-Ti (the Yellow Emperor) and Yao, might have had extraterrestrial origins. Huang-Ti is described as the son of Fu-pao, conceived after a lightning bolt. The text draws parallels to the birth of Jesus. The legend of Yao's mother, Ch'ing-tou, being surrounded by a yellow cloud and visited by a dragon, further supports the idea of divine or extraterrestrial intervention.

The text details the reign of Emperor Yao, his astronomers Hsi and Ho, and the observation of a star descending into a volcano. It mentions Yao's use of a 'vehicle from the past,' moved by 'buzzing ants,' which is interpreted as a mechanically operated flying device, possibly an 'heirloom' from the 'Sons of Heaven.' The description of 'golden days' with clear air and 'wondrous red herb' growing suggests an advanced, possibly engineered, environment.

The article also discusses the 'five planets' appearing as a string of pearls, which is reinterpreted as artificial flying devices. The prophecy concerning Yao and Shun, mentioning a 'table from the river' and a 'yellow Yao with double pupils,' is presented as evidence of cosmic origins.

Page 17 continues the discussion on ancient China, referencing the 'Bambus-Bücher' (Bamboo Books). It describes 'lucky clouds' that were not real clouds but transparent, shining, swirling objects, resembling UFOs. The description of these objects as 'all shining through each other, swirling and turning like discs or hovering like spirals' is compared to modern UFO sightings.

The Mysterious Island and Time Displacement

Page 12 features an article by Gerda Heller titled "DIE GEHEIMNISVOLLE INSEL" (The Mysterious Island). It recounts a legend from 15th-century Portugal about a young man who discovered the mythical 'Island of the Seven Cities.' Upon returning, he found that approximately 150 years had passed, suggesting a significant time displacement. The article explores possible explanations, including the influence of substances in drinks or encountering a 'time hole.' The 'Seven Cities' legend is linked to the 'Sea of the Seven Cities' on the Azores, which is speculated to be related to Atlantis.

Ancient Oracles and Parapsychology

Pages 18-19 feature a book review of "DAS GEHEIMNIS DER ORAKEL" (The Secret of the Oracles) by Philipp Vandenberg. The book investigates ancient oracle sites around the Mediterranean, focusing on the Oracle of Delphi. It discusses the use of hashish to induce trance states in oracles and examines whether visitors were experiencing paranormal phenomena or were victims of priestly manipulation. The review highlights the use of oracles for political and personal matters by figures like Croesus, Themistocles, and Alexander the Great.

Page 20 reviews the book "PSI ALS STAATSGEHEIMNIS" (PSI as State Secret) by William Dick and Henry Gris. This book explores the Soviet Union's research into parapsychology and UFOs, suggesting that the USSR is more advanced in these fields than commonly assumed. The review emphasizes that the book provides new insights and sensational UFO sighting reports from the USSR, highlighting the Soviet Union's determination to utilize psychic and natural forces, potentially for military purposes.

UFOs and Ancient Texts

Page 19 includes a review of the book "FLIEGENDE UNTERTASSEN" (Flying Saucers) by Rolf Strehl, originally published in 1953. The review notes that the book, a facsimile reprint, was a pioneering work in UFO research in Germany. It is praised for its objective approach and the author's ability to synthesize various accounts. Despite some outdated scientific data, the book's descriptions and drawings are considered relevant, and the author's open-mindedness is commended.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Prä-Astronautik revolve around the idea that ancient civilizations possessed advanced knowledge and technology, potentially influenced by extraterrestrial visitors. Mythology is reinterpreted through the lens of pre-astronautics, with ancient rulers and events seen as evidence of alien contact. The issue also explores unexplained phenomena like time displacement and the mysteries of ancient oracles, suggesting a hidden history that challenges conventional understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these unconventional theories, encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations for historical and unexplained events, particularly those related to UFOs and parapsychology.

Title: Das aktuelle Fuch
Issue: 21
Publisher: Molden-Verlag
Country: Austria
Language: German
Price: DM 24,80
Cover Headline: UFOS IM BERMUDA-DREIECK Die Atlantis-Geheimbasis

Article: UFOS IM BERMUDA-DREIECK Die Atlantis-Geheimbasis by Jean Prachan

This article, published by Molden-Verlag and translated from French by Patricia Dreyfuss-Kahane, presents a book review of "Le Triangle des Bermudes - Base secrète des O.V.N.I." by Jean Prachan. The book, with 206 pages and ISBN 3-217-00391-8, costs DM 24,80.

The mystery of the Bermuda Triangle, where ships and aircraft have disappeared with alarming regularity, remains unsolved. Despite attempts by American authorities to deny the existence of UFOs, it was admitted in January 1979 that in 1975, UFOs were sighted over major US military bases housing nuclear missiles or bombers. These objects were detected by radar and visual observation. Attempts to explain these phenomena as conventional aircraft have been unsuccessful.

Jean Prachan proposes a highly interesting thesis: the legendary Atlantis is located on the seabed, precisely in the area of the Bermuda Triangle. He suggests that a significant portion of humanity's ancient ancestors, thanks to their highly developed science and technology, have survived. Their base is situated nine thousand meters below sea level. The objects referred to as UFOs are, in Prachan's view, flying-diving objects that maintain the connection between the Atlanteans and the Earth's surface, and possibly with extraterrestrial realms.

The disappearances of ships and aircraft in the Bermuda Triangle are linked to the efforts of the underwater Atlanteans to avoid discovery and to prevent any military activity in their territory. The author also posits that large megalithic structures, such as Stonehenge, are merely signposts to uranium deposits, specifically to the uranium of the sunken continent Atlantis in the Bermuda Triangle. He believes that a nuclear explosion was the cause of Atlantis's downfall.

According to Prachan, the intense interest shown by UFOs in surface events in recent decades was triggered by the first atomic explosions in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. This interest is seen as an attempt to prevent any alteration of the nuclear balance between East and West.

Jean Prachan, born August 14, 1947, in Longueil, Canada, studied oceanography in Montreal and Paris, earning a diploma in Canada. He worked with the "Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained" and traveled to the Soviet Union in 1973 to collaborate with members of the "Public Institute for Energetic Inversion." His work was particularly interested in the Second Thermodynamic Principle, and he has published several well-regarded articles.

News Brief: Däniken-Villa in Flammen

Two independent daily newspapers reported a fire in the Villa Serndang, the home and archive of Swiss bestseller author Erich von Däniken. The fire, which occurred on a recent August night, was officially attributed to cracks in the chimney masonry. Fortunately, the library and archive remained unharmed.

Article: AAS-Kongreß im Fernsehen by Axel Ertelt

This article reviews a television broadcast by WDR about the 6th World Congress of the AAS in Munich. Contrary to initial statements from the WDR team, the film was not shown on the main German television channel (Erstes Programm) but only on the WDR regional program (Drittes Fernsehen).

The program was advertised as a report on the "Däniken community" and similar topics. It was scheduled from 22:30 to 0:00. The broadcast began with a science fiction scene that the author felt detracted from the seriousness of the pre-astronautic theme. This was followed by a discussion panel.

The panel consisted of a psychologist, Thomas von Randow (editor of ZEIT), Ulrich Dopatka (the sole representative of the pre-astronautic thesis), and two WDR specialists, Wolfgang Woywod and Robert Müller.

The author was particularly bothered by Thomas von Randow's statements. Randow proudly claimed to have been instrumental in Erich von Däniken's success by forwarding his story to the Econ publishing house, as ZEIT would not publish it, with the justification that people believe what they read in newspapers. The author expresses skepticism about this claim.

The psychologist's contribution was described as "psychologically stupid." Robert Müller's stance was unclear, appearing to be both for and against pre-astronautic theses at different times. Wolfgang Woywod seemed to lack an independent opinion, adapting to the flow of the conversation.

Ulrich Dopatka, despite facing a difficult position, managed to get his points across, although he was frequently interrupted by Thomas von Randow.

It was noted positively that the few speakers who had a chance to speak were allowed to express their views without sarcastic commentary. However, the audience members interviewed seemed out of place, discussing their personal UFO contacts, which somewhat exceeded the scope of a pre-astronautic congress, especially since Erich von Däniken had recently clarified that it was a pre-astronautic congress, not a UFO congress.

Viewers were surprised when the program ended at 23:30 instead of the announced 0:00, with the conclusion feeling abrupt. This led to speculation that the program might have been cut short for unspecified reasons.

The author concludes that despite some sarcastic remarks, the report showed a slight positive trend towards the pre-astronautic thesis. He suggests that some irony is still present, perhaps unavoidable as long as a psychologist is involved in such a documentation. He believes that much could be improved, concluding with the adage, "With age comes wisdom - even for filmmakers..."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Das aktuelle Fuch" delves into the realms of ufology and alternative history, with a strong focus on the Bermuda Triangle and the controversial theories surrounding Atlantis. The magazine appears to give a platform to authors like Jean Prachan who propose unconventional explanations for unexplained phenomena, linking them to ancient civilizations and advanced technology. The editorial stance seems to be one of presenting these theories, even if critically, as evidenced by the review of the television program discussing pre-astronautics. There's an apparent interest in exploring the intersection of science, mystery, and historical speculation, with a tendency to highlight intriguing, albeit unproven, hypotheses. The inclusion of a news brief about Erich von Däniken suggests an ongoing engagement with prominent figures in the field of unexplained mysteries.