Mysteria - Issue 13 - 1980 01

Magazine Overview

MYSTERIA, a German-language magazine for UFO research and pre-astronautics, presents its first issue of 1980 (Nr. 1/80, 2nd year) with a cover price of DM 3.50. The issue features a prominent article on the decoding of Maya hieroglyphs, offering a key to understand symbols related to flying objects, the cosmos, and ancient concepts. The magazine also includes reports on UFO sightings, discussions on pre-astronautics, and linguistic analyses.

Content Breakdown

Maya Hieroglyphs Decoded

The cover and page 1 highlight an article titled "MAYA-HYROGLYPHEN ENTSCHLÜSSELТ!" (Maya Hieroglyphs Decoded!) by MICHAEL HESEMANN. A grid of 18 numbered symbols with their corresponding meanings is provided. These meanings range from 'Kraft, Energie' (Power, Energy) and 'Himmelsschlange/fliegende Schlange' (Sky Serpent/Flying Serpent) to 'fliegendes Schiff' (Flying Ship), 'Sterne, Weltall' (Stars, Universe), and 'Planet Venus'. A list of 'recognized symbols in meaning' (1,2,4,5,6,7,10,14,15,16,18) is also presented.

Editorial and Redaction Information (Page 2)

The 'Inhalt / Redaktion / Impressum' section on page 2 details the magazine's contents and editorial structure. It lists articles on the title image, editorial, private reader section, UFOs in East German television, UFOs in Asparn, a look into another world, a 'Schwachkopf' (idiot) comment, 'Schlecht und recht' (Bad and good), the Maya hieroglyph article, corrections, a 'floating warehouse', functional theory, UFOs over Bremen, an AAS meeting, and previews. It also lists numerous book reviews on topics like aliens, pre-astronautics, legends, and UFOs. The editorial team includes Axel Ertelt (Editor-in-Chief) in Halver and Hans-Werner Sachmann in Dortmund. The magazine is published monthly, with production being a side activity, potentially causing delivery delays. Copyright for signed articles belongs to the authors, while unsigned contributions are under the editorial copyright. Reprints require written permission and two copies. Unsolicited manuscripts are not liable for, and return requires sufficient postage. The magazine is privately funded and operates on a cost-basis, with no author honoraria. A book prize of approximately DM 40 is awarded annually for the best reader contribution. Subscription prices are listed: DM 3.50 for single issues, DM 38 for annual subscriptions, DM 20 for half-year, and DM 10.50 for quarterly. Overseas postage is available upon request. Issues 1/79 to 6/79 and 9/79 are sold out.

MYSTERIA privat (Page 3)

This section introduces changes to the magazine, including new typography for headings and author names to enhance attractiveness. The 'LIEBE LESER' (Dear Readers) column is replaced by 'MYSTERIA PRIVAT', which may extend to two pages. This new section aims to bring readers closer to the magazine by featuring editorial staff, documentation on the magazine's creation, and its challenges. The magazine's overall length is increased from 20 to 22 informative pages, with additional pages for book reviews, bringing the total to 22-30 pages. The magazine's cover color changes annually for archival purposes. The editorial team is committed to maintaining public contact through publications and interviews, with two examples from late 1979 being reproduced. A special issue is in preparation, with subscriptions extended to March 31, 1980, priced at DM 3.50, with a later retail price of DM 4.50 for approximately 40-50 pages.

UFOs 1977 über Lüdenscheid? (Page 4)

This article, reprinted from the 'Allgemeiner Anzeiger' (Halver) dated October 8, 1979, reports on UFO sightings over Lüdenscheid on March 15, 1977. Amateur researcher Axel Ertelt is convinced these were UFOs, based on witness accounts from a truck driver and his wife. Ertelt, who runs a 'Private Research Group for UFOlogy and Astro-Archaeology', is critical of skeptics like Hoimar von Ditfurth. The article mentions Ertelt's self-published book 'Rätsel seit Jahrtausenden' (Riddles for Millennia), co-authored with others, which also discusses evolutionary theory and the Bermuda Triangle. Ertelt suggests possible reasons for the UFO sightings, including observation of the accident-prone A45 highway, interest in power supply at an Elektromark substation, or proximity to Belgian NATO forces stationed in Lüdenscheid. The book is available for DM 9.50.

"Ungewöhnliche Flugobjekte" rufen Hobby-Forscher auf den Plan (Page 5)

This article, reprinted from the 'Westfälische Rundschau' dated December 14, 1979, focuses on UFO sightings over Halver and Lüdenscheid on December 4, 1979. Axel Ertelt, a hobby UFO researcher, is seeking witnesses. He has collected 17 testimonies and estimates 40-50 people may have seen the objects. Ertelt clarifies that 'UFO' simply means 'unidentified flying object'. He collaborates with other hobby researchers and scientists, contributing to the magazine 'Mysteria' and the book 'Rätsel seit Jahrtausenden'. Ertelt himself has not seen a UFO but describes witness accounts of objects resembling the full moon but smaller, or like a suitcase, with a jagged edge and blue-gray luminescence.

The section also includes a notice from the MYSTERIA editorial team seeking reader suggestions for improvement and announcing new advertising rates for reader ads, which will now appear after the book reviews. Rates are provided for half-page and full-page ads, with options for additional lines and exchange ads.

UFOs im DDR-Fernsehen (Page 6)

This short report discusses a program on East German television (DDR I) titled "HALLO NACHBARN IM ALL" (Hello Neighbors in All) aired on December 12, 1979. The report states that UFOs were addressed, but primarily as sensational news from the Western press, with actual sightings (like those in Poland) being dismissed as 'air turbulence'. The article notes that censorship regarding UFOs is even stricter in the Eastern Bloc than in the West, where they are often explained away as atmospheric dust.

UFO in Asparn (Page 6)

This report details a sighting in Asparn an der Zaya, Austria, on November 29, 1979. Alfred Fleischmann and his daughter observed a luminous sphere that ascended rapidly and disappeared within half a minute.

Der Blick in eine andere Welt (Page 6-7)

Authored by JOHANNES FIEBAG, this article explores the theory of parallel worlds and dimensional rifts. It suggests that phenomena, particularly in areas like the Bermuda Triangle, might be evidence of these rifts. The article recounts a story from "Die Sagen des Elsaß" (The Legends of Alsace) about a 14-year-old boy who, while fetching firewood, looked through a window into a brightly lit, spacious room with peculiar furniture and occupants dressed in old-fashioned attire. He saw an old woman reading and a man pacing. When he threw his cap, the woman looked at him blankly. More figures entered, and the boy, overcome by fear, fled. Upon returning with his family, the room was dark and empty, and the window was gone. The boy's description remained consistent. The article also references a similar experience described by writer Johannes von Buttlar.

"Schwachkopf" (Page 7)

This section critiques an article by Hoimar von Ditfurth in the STERN special edition GEO 1979 Nr. 7, which discusses astronomers in the Andes. Von Ditfurth interviews Dutch astronomer Dr. Willem Wamsteker, who expresses certainty about the existence of extraterrestrial intelligence but skepticism about direct contact due to vast cosmic distances. Von Ditfurth then dismisses Erich von Däniken as a "Schwachkopf" (idiot). The MYSTERIA editorial team sarcastically comments on this, suggesting it's a way to dismiss pre-astronautic research.

Schlecht und recht (Page 7-10)

This is the second part of a series by WALTER CLOSS, continuing from MYSTERIA 12/79. Closs investigates the etymology and meaning of words, particularly focusing on the German words "schlecht" (bad) and "recht" (right/good). He proposes a connection between ancient Egyptian language and German, specifically linking the sun god concepts of Echn-Aton to these words. He analyzes the Egyptian dogma of Echn-Aton, which refers to sun gods like Re-Harachte, Schu, and Aton. Closs suggests that "Schu" might be related to the German word "Schummern" (twilight) and "morn" (used in Norwegian greetings), implying a connection to dusk or dimness. He further explores the potential link between "Re" (sun god) and the concept of "regieren" (to rule), drawing parallels with the Indian "Rig-Veda" and the Norse god Odin (also known as Rig). He posits that "Rig" might be an ancient term for ruler or god. The article delves into the interpretation of ancient symbols, including a Swedish rock carving, and discusses the idea of Aton as the 'father of Re', implying Aton as the creator of the sun. Closs argues for a return to a more symbolic understanding of ancient texts, moving away from purely realistic 19th-century interpretations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of MYSTERIA strongly supports the exploration of UFO phenomena and pre-astronautics, often presenting alternative interpretations to mainstream scientific skepticism. The magazine actively engages with its readers, seeking their input and encouraging them to share their experiences. There is a clear critical stance towards those who dismiss UFO research or pre-astronautic theories, as exemplified by the commentary on Hoimar von Ditfurth. The magazine also shows an interest in ancient civilizations, particularly the Maya and ancient Egypt, seeking to connect their myths and symbols with modern concepts and linguistic roots. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to question established narratives and explore unconventional ideas.

This issue of Prä-Astronautik, dated November 1979, delves into ancient mysteries and theoretical physics. The cover story, "DER GOTT VON PALENQUE" by Michael Hesemann, examines the famous Palenque sarcophagus lid and its Maya hieroglyphs, proposing an extraterrestrial origin for the figure depicted. The magazine also features a theoretical article on "Die Funktionstheorie" by Udo Wöstendiek, which re-examines Einstein's theory of relativity and proposes new concepts about space-time, energy, and the universe. Additionally, an article by Herbert Mohren discusses unusual incidents, including a mysterious warehouse collapse in Düsseldorf.

Der Gott von Palenque

Michael Hesemann's article, "DER GOTT VON PALENQUE," presents a re-interpretation of the sarcophagus lid discovered in the "Temple of the Inscriptions" in Palenque, Mexico, by archaeologist Alberto Ruz Lhuillier in 1952. The tomb contained the skeleton of a man who was unusually tall (approx. 2 meters) and whose physical characteristics, such as an un-deformed skull and natural teeth, differed from typical Maya nobility. Soviet scientists analyzed a jade mask and stucco heads from the tomb and concluded that the individual did not belong to any known Earth race, noting a distinctively shaped nose.

The sarcophagus lid itself is described as depicting a figure in a rocket-shaped spacecraft. The accompanying Maya hieroglyphs, though not fully deciphered, are speculatively interpreted by the authors to tell a story of a "sky serpent," a flying ship powered by energy, arriving from the stars. This entity, referred to as "Vier Akbal" (Four Akbal), and its companions are said to have colonized Earth, possessing the ability to fly. They then departed, colonizing the Moon and traveling to the planet Venus via their energy-driven flying ship.

The article highlights that "Vier Akbal" was revered as a god by the Maya and was buried in the "Temple of the Inscriptions." The Maya priests, to maintain control, perpetuated the myth that "Vier Akbal" had returned to his home but promised to come back, thus ensuring the populace's obedience. The author draws a parallel to modern religious beliefs regarding divine return.

Die schwebende Lagerhalle (The Floating Warehouse)

Herbert Mohren's article recounts a series of puzzling events, starting with unusual thefts reported by an English newspaper, including a prefabricated house, a beach, and an entire train station. The author then focuses on an incident that occurred on February 19, 1977, at 2:56 AM in Düsseldorf, Germany. A security guard at the Bilk freight yard witnessed a 60-meter long warehouse silently lift off the ground and then crash down with a loud noise.

Police and firefighters were baffled. Experts, including natural scientists from the Technical University of Aachen and a explosives engineer, investigated the scene. Despite initial speculation of an explosion, they unanimously concluded that an explosion was not the cause, estimating the damage to be in the millions. The prevailing theory became a "wind-roller" (Luftwalze), a rare atmospheric phenomenon akin to a dust devil or small tornado.

However, Mohren raises doubts about the wind-roller explanation. He points out that the warehouse's rear facade remained intact, with all window panes unbroken. Furthermore, debris from a windstorm typically scatters in all directions, whereas the debris from the warehouse was found predominantly in a northeast direction. The guard's testimony of the warehouse lifting off the ground also contradicts a simple wind event. The article also mentions another incident in Düsseldorf where a large shop window shattered, with glass fragments flying outwards, which was also attributed to wind, but again, the author expresses skepticism.

Die Funktionstheorie (The Function Theory)

Udo Wöstendiek presents "Die Funktionstheorie," an attempt to build upon and logically explain Albert Einstein's theory of relativity and the unified field theory. Wöstendiek asserts that his findings are not based on calculations but on philosophical interpretations of natural phenomena and the functioning of the universe.

He argues against the idea that the universe operates under different laws than Earth and proposes that space and time are not separate but a single entity: space-time. Matter and energy are seen as two manifestations of the same fundamental essence, dependent on physical conditions. He outlines three conditions: space-time with matter, pure energy beyond space-time, and an intermediate state called "Energma" (a transitional substance).

Wöstendiek posits that space-time maintains its dimensionality and is in constant motion, flowing. He controversially suggests that space-time must move faster than light, otherwise, light would outrun it, leading to darkness. He challenges Einstein's assertion that the speed of light is the ultimate speed limit, using Iain Nicolson's time dilation example to argue that if space-time is identical, then an astronaut traveling at 99% light speed for 10 years would only age 10 years, not 70, implying a speed 7 times that of light.

The theory introduces the concept of a "Superraum" (Super Space) or "Hyperraum," which is described as existing beyond our four-dimensional space-time. This Superraum has no matter, only pure energy, and no distances, past, present, or future. Access to this Superraum is theorized to be possible by accelerating to the speed of space-time, at which point one would become pure energy. The journey to the Superraum involves traversing a "Zwischenraum" (intermediate space) with numerous "PYRAMIDAL" gradations of space-time continua.

Wöstendiek suggests that phenomena in the Bermuda Triangle might be related to space-time manipulation and the creation of "wormholes" or "black/white holes." He posits that beings in the Superraum, who are pure energy, do not age, and this is what mystics refer to as the "energy body" or the immortal cosmic human being. He believes that Kirlian photography might offer glimpses of this energy body.

He also discusses the concept of gravity, suggesting it might be a pushing force rather than an attraction force, triggered by particles without mass or charge. He touches upon the mass increase phenomenon described by Einstein's theory, arguing that as space-time shrinks, gravity decreases, thus the resistance to motion (mass) should not increase, contradicting Einstein's formula E=mc² in his view, especially concerning atomic bombs.

Finally, Wöstendiek states that light speed plays a minor role in physics, lying somewhere between zero speed and time speed, with time being the ultimate speed limit. He mentions that he has written a nearly 300-page book on this complex topic and that a future article will explore "RELATIVITÄTSTHEORIE UND PHILOSOPHIE."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of ancient mysteries, extraterrestrial contact, and alternative scientific theories that challenge mainstream understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into phenomena that are often dismissed or unexplained by conventional science, encouraging readers to consider unconventional explanations for historical artifacts, unexplained events, and the fundamental nature of the universe. There is a clear interest in ancient civilizations, particularly the Maya, and their potential connection to advanced technology or extraterrestrial knowledge. The articles also reflect a critical view of established scientific dogma, particularly in physics, advocating for new theoretical frameworks that attempt to reconcile seemingly disparate observations.

Title: UFO-Forschung
Issue Date: January 1980
Content Focus: This issue delves into UFO phenomena, with a primary focus on sightings reported in the Bremen and Bremerhaven regions of Germany in January 1980. It also features a significant section dedicated to book reviews covering pre-astronautics, ancient mysteries, and related scientific and historical topics.

UFOs über Bremen?

The lead article, "UFOs über Bremen?" by Luc Shavelli, details a series of UFO sightings that began in January 1980, extending from the Bremen area to the coast of Bremerhaven. Shavelli, stationed in Bremerhaven with the German armed forces ('Bund'), became interested in the case and gathered material from local newspapers. The article recounts a specific incident on January 6th, where two police officers and several bystanders reported seeing a UFO described as white with blue-green flashing lights, which moved rapidly from left to right before disappearing. The report mentions that scientists, including Professor Kaminski, suggested the object was the star Sirius, but Shavelli questions if Sirius could move so quickly. The sightings continued over the following days.

A significant development reported is the discovery of metal parts by a boy in a field near Bremen on January 14th. The BILD-Zeitung reported that these parts were made of an unknown alloy and had small holes. Initial analysis suggested they might have been in a melting crucible, and further tests were planned. A photograph of the boy with the metal parts was published in BILD. Shavelli notes the lack of media coverage on television or radio regarding this seemingly interesting case, although a later note from the MYSTERIA editorial team suggests a 20-minute radio broadcast did occur, and that German, Dutch, and American fighter jets were reportedly scrambled to intercept the UFO.

Shavelli speculates that the metal fragments could be detached parts of the UFO that melted due to high speed. He appeals to readers of MYSTERIA to submit any available data and facts related to this case, requesting source information or detailed accounts from witnesses, with assurances of confidentiality. Contact information for Luc Shavelli and Gerhard Dressler is provided for submissions.

AAS-Meeting in Fulda

This section announces an upcoming AAS (Ancient Astronaut Society) meeting in Fulda, Germany, scheduled for October 25th, 1980. The proposal for an annual separate meeting for German-speaking AAS members originated from the previous AAS World Congress in Munich, acknowledging that many members may not speak foreign languages or find international travel financially prohibitive. The meeting will take place at the KOLPINGHAUS in Fulda. Information on accommodation costs and the contribution fee (DM 15, with a reduced rate for youth) is provided. Potential speakers are asked to register with a brief description of their presentation. Inquiries and registrations should be directed to the German-speaking section of the ANCIENT ASTRONAUT SOCIETY, c/o Erich von Däniken.

Preview of the Next Issue

The next issue will feature several articles, including "Schlecht und recht" (Part 3 and conclusion) by Walter Closs, "Relativity Theory and Philosophy" by Udo Wöstendiek, "UFO-Sonde im Kreml?" by V.I.Sanarow, and "The Segmented Light Rays" by Jean Bastide. It will also include book reviews and current news from UFO research and pre-astronautics. A future report by Walter Closs titled "They Came From The Moon" is also in preparation.

The editorial team is planning a series titled "UFO-Research and How to Conduct It," which will cover essential knowledge, methods, and equipment for active UFO researchers. They are soliciting manuscripts for this series. Following this, a series on "The Pre-Astronaut" will explore how to research our past.

Book Reviews

The magazine includes extensive reviews of several books:

• "DIE AUSSERIRDISCHEN SIND DA" (The Extraterrestrials Are Here) by Matthes and Seitz: This book is a survey of public opinion on encounters with extraterrestrials. The reviewers note that while it's not a technical guide for UFO researchers, it effectively illustrates the general public's attitude and misconceptions about UFOs, highlighting the vast amount of classified information held by intelligence agencies.

• "LEXIKON DER PRÄ-ASTRONAUTIK" (Lexicon of Pre-Astronautics) by Ulrich Dopatka: This comprehensive lexicon covers extraterrestrial phenomena in archaeology, astronomy, and mythology. Dopatka, a librarian, has compiled information from various sources, including Erich von Däniken's work, to provide an overview of pre-astronautic research, offering new perspectives and synthesizing existing theories and interpretations.

• "DAS GROSSE HAUSBUCH DER SAGEN UND LEGENDEN" (The Great Handbook of Sagas and Legends) edited by Walter Hansen: This anthology serves as a valuable resource for pre-astronautic research, reinterpreting ancient myths, sagas, and legends in the context of the space age. It includes classic folk tales, with explanations of their sources and history, making it relevant for researchers.

• "CASANOVA: Die große Biographie" (Casanova: The Great Biography) by J.Rives Childs: This biography of Casanova is highlighted for its connection to figures like Count of Saint Germain and Cagliostro, suggesting that Casanova himself may have been involved in alchemy and had encounters with time travelers. The book is presented as a valuable resource for researching historical enigmas.

• "DIE WELT STECKT VOLLER WUNDER" (The World is Full of Wonders) by John Michell and Robert J.M.Rickard: This book, inspired by Charles Fort, explores numerous unexplained phenomena and "repeated wonders" that defy rational explanation. It covers a wide range of topics, including strange weather events, mysterious lights, and anomalous historical occurrences, presenting them as real phenomena that influence human experience.

• "UNSERE HEIMAT IM ALL: Als die Erde aus dem Weltraum kam - Das Geheimnis der UFOs" (Our Home in Space: When the Earth Came from Space - The Secret of UFOs) by Gerhard R. Steinhäuser: This book proposes a bold theory that Earth may have originated as a "giant spaceship" that traveled through the cosmos before settling in its current orbit. It draws on ancient myths and legends to suggest that Earth has had multiple suns and a different sky in the past, presenting a "cosmic odyssey" of the "Ark Earth."

• "WELTEN, STERNE UND PLANETEN" (Worlds, Stars and Planets) by Antonin Rükl: This book is recommended as an essential astronomical atlas for UFO researchers, enabling them to distinguish genuine astronomical objects from potential UFO sightings. Rükl, an expert in astronomy, developed a special technique for mapping the Moon's surface.

• "DER SUPERMENSCH: Die konkite Vision unserer Zukunft" (The Superhuman: The Concrete Vision of Our Future) by Johannes von Buttlar: This book explores the concept of the "superhuman" as humanity's potential future, discussing scientific projects and theories in space exploration, pharmacology, biochemistry, memory research, and holographic technology that could lead to human evolution beyond current limitations. It also touches on the potential for communication with extraterrestrial civilizations and the emergence of a cosmic consciousness.

• "DER GEIST DER MATERIE" (The Spirit of Matter) by Jean E. Charon: Charon, a theoretical physicist, investigates the relationship between spirit and matter, proposing that a spiritual principle underlies evolution. The discovery of black holes in astrophysics is presented as evidence supporting his theory that spirit is a fundamental force in the universe, connecting matter and spirit like two sides of a coin.

• "ADAM ZEUGTE ADAM" (Adam Begat Adam) by Theodor Dolezol: This book examines human origins and ancient mysteries by integrating myths and legends with scientific research. Dolezol traces the path of paleoanthropology from early mythical concepts to modern findings, noting the frequent parallels between ancient myths and scientific discoveries about human history and evolution.

• "HALTET DIE PYRAMIDEN FEST! 5000 Jahre Grabraub in Ägypten" (Hold Fast to the Pyramids! 5000 Years of Grave Robbery in Egypt) by Peter Ehlebracht: This book exposes the long history of grave robbing in Egypt, detailing how artifacts have been plundered and sold. Ehlebracht, who lived among grave robbers and filmed for German television, provides an inside look at the illicit trade and its impact on cultural heritage, urging readers to recognize the tragedy behind the glittering facade of Egyptian antiquities.

• "DAS UFO-PHÄNOMEN" (The UFO Phenomenon) by Johannes von Buttlar: This book presents evidence for UFO encounters of the first, second, and third kind. Buttlar, who had access to classified material from Soviet and American intelligence agencies, argues that the UFO phenomenon is more than just a matter of misidentification or fantasy. He discusses the political implications and the vast amount of material still held in secret archives, suggesting that much more is known about UFOs than is publicly revealed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, and their potential connections to ancient history, mythology, and extraterrestrial intelligence. The magazine promotes a spirit of open inquiry, encouraging readers to submit their own findings and participate in research. There is a strong emphasis on pre-astronautics, exploring theories about ancient alien contact and its implications for human history. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into these topics, challenging conventional explanations and seeking to uncover hidden truths, often by drawing parallels between ancient wisdom and modern scientific discoveries. The publication also serves as a platform for disseminating information about relevant books and upcoming events in the field of UFO research and pre-astronautics.