Mysteria - Issue 18 - 1980 06

Magazine Overview

MYSTERIA, issue 6/80, is the second volume of this German-language journal dedicated to UFO research and pre-astronautics. It was published in June 1980 and priced at DM 3.50. The cover features a split image with a historical carving and a photograph from a conference, alongside the prominent headline "TV-ANALYSE: EvD IN PRO UND CONTRA," indicating a focus on Erich von Däniken's work.

Table of Contents and Editorial Information

Page 2 provides the issue's table of contents, listing articles on topics such as the title image, MYSTERIA-privat, UFO landings, a trip with Erich von Däniken, an AAS meeting, an "Alarmstufe Rot" UFO incident in Austria, a MYSTERIA commentary, reader letters, a TV analysis of Erich von Däniken, and practical instructions for UFO field research. The editorial team includes Axel Ertelt as Editor-in-Chief and Hans-Werner Sachmann as the editor for the Dortmund section. Contact information and subscription details are also provided, noting that the magazine is published monthly and production relies on part-time work, which may lead to delivery delays.

MYSTERIA privat

This section addresses reader feedback, particularly regarding a crossword puzzle that some readers found to be "kitsch." The editors defend the puzzle as a way to offer interesting books as prizes and a means for researchers to relax. They also address criticism about reprinting newspaper reports without personal commentary, explaining that they aim to present a broad forum for various authors and that readers are encouraged to conduct their own investigations. The editors strongly condemn personal attacks and defamatory language used by some UFO clubs, emphasizing the importance of factual arguments and tolerance, and referencing Germany's Basic Law regarding freedom of belief and conscience.

Schlagzeilen (Headlines)

Jerusalem-UFO

The magazine revisits the reported UFO sighting over Jerusalem on April 5, 1980. While the BILD AM SONNTAG initially reported it, the UFO-Club CENAP's correspondence with the JERUSALEM POST revealed that the object was likely a balloon launched for a children's market. MYSTERIA acknowledges they cannot scientifically verify this without on-site investigation.

Cylinder aus unbekanntem Metall?

A report details the discovery of a mysterious metal cylinder in the Brazilian Amazon, approximately 2.80 meters deep. The object, 126 cm long and 48 cm in diameter, is described as hollow, made of a hard but light metal, with internal spiral fins. Speculation arises whether it is a meteorite fragment or a relic from prehistoric astronauts.

UFO-Landungen am Nordpol?

Large circular ground traces sighted at the North Pole raise questions about potential UFO landings. The article connects this to the high concentration of UFO sightings in polar regions and mentions previously sighted but vanished mysterious domes, as well as the experiences of Admiral Byrd.

Mit Erich von Däniken auf Schiffsreise

Erich von Däniken is scheduled to be on the HAPAG-LLOYD ship MS EUROPA from November 30 to December 21, 1980, in the Indian Ocean. He will participate in discussions and give two lectures. Information on this cruise is available through HAPAG-LLOYD or travel agencies.

AAS-Meeting in Fulda

The AAS meeting in Fulda on October 25 is mentioned, with MYSTERIA's editorial team attending. The event will feature speakers including Ing. Rudolf Kutzer, Johannes Fiebag, Reinhard Habeck, Walter Hain, Walter-Jörg Langbein, and Erich von Däniken. Peter Krassa will also be present. Tickets are available at Kolpinghaus.

ALARMSTUFE ROT (Red Alert)

This extensive article by Peter Krassa details an incident where the Austrian Air Force attempted to intercept a UFO on May 7, 1980. The event began with a report from a KLM pilot flying over the Dachstein mountains who observed a strange, round, black object. Two SAAB 105 OE reconnaissance aircraft were dispatched, and the pilots confirmed visual contact but were unable to catch the object, which maneuvered at extremely high speeds and altitudes. The incident triggered a high alert within Austrian military and government circles, including the Chancellor and the President, with strict secrecy ordered.

Despite official attempts to dismiss the event as a weather balloon, the article presents evidence suggesting a cover-up. The author claims to have received information from contacts within the aviation authorities. He highlights contradictions in statements made by officials, particularly Ministerialrat Johann Ellinger, who initially denied informing the President but was later contradicted by an officer on-site who confirmed the object's sighting. The article criticizes the official explanation and the subsequent media blackout, suggesting that authorities deliberately misled the public.

Further details emerge about the failed photographic attempts, with official explanations claiming the cameras were not suitable for identification. The article also mentions that days after the initial report, military and civilian personnel were sworn to secrecy, and the weather balloon explanation was reiterated. The author implies that Ministerialrat Ellinger faced reprimands for his earlier statements.

The article contrasts the official narrative with the author's findings, noting that the weather balloon explanation is not universally accepted, and that the possibility of a "physical or meteorological phenomenon" cannot be ruled out. It also points out the official denial of an "UFO-Alarm" and the claim that the SAAB 105 OE was already in the air for a training exercise, with two further missions flown as part of the training program. The author concludes by questioning the official narrative and suggesting that the incident was deliberately downplayed.

MYSTERIA-Kommentar (Commentary)

Axel Ertelt comments on Peter Krassa's report about the Dachstein UFO incident, emphasizing the confusion arising from dealing with official channels and the need for readers to critically assess official statements. He warns against accepting "natural" explanations for UFO incidents without verification, citing weather balloons as a common, often misused, explanation. Ertelt stresses the importance of "Trust is good - control is better," criticizing UFO clubs like CENAP for uncritically accepting such explanations and for engaging in polemics.

Leserbriefe (Reader Letters)

HOFFE AUF STELLUNGNAHMEN

Walter Closs thanks MYSTERIA for publishing his article "Sie kamen vom Mond" (They Came from the Moon) and expresses hope for factual responses. He refers to his previous letter and emphasizes the importance of discussing the impact of ancient catastrophic events, possibly related to a "prehistoric moon," and submits an article titled "Lucifer, vom Absturz eines Vorzeitmondes" (Lucifer, from the Fall of a Prehistoric Moon) for publication.

ANMERKUNG DER REDAKTION (Editorial Note)

The editors note that they hope for numerous responses to Mr. Closs's call for statements and have published his full address for this purpose. His article is scheduled for the next issue.

ACHOLSHAUSENER KULTWAGEN UND EZECHIEL RAUMSCHIFF

A reader expresses thanks for an interesting description and postcard, and plans to address related issues in the coming year.

NUR AUS DER GESAMTHEIT

Josef F. Elumrich thanks the magazine for a helpful publication and provides additional notes to his earlier letter, highlighting that some of the most important points were not included in the partial reprint.

ANMERKUNG DER REDAKTION

Regarding reader letters, the editorial note explains that the letters were extensive (6 and 3 pages respectively). To cover costs, photocopies are offered for 9 x 0.50 DM plus postage. Payment must be made via bank transfer, not by stamps. International postal coupons are accepted from abroad.

SCHÄBIGE GESINNUNG (Shabby Mentality)

Josef Wanderka comments on the Austrian UFO incident reported by KURIER. He criticizes a "shabby mentality" that influenced authorities, leading to a five-week delay in the news reaching the press. He implies that the official explanation was influenced by those who wished to suppress the information.

KANN DER DRUCK VERBESSERT WERDEN? (Can the Print Be Improved?)

A reader praises MYSTERIA as one of the best German-language magazines but suggests improvements in print quality, perhaps by using a carbon typewriter and offset printing, without increasing the price. The reader prioritizes information quality over layout and expresses skepticism about identifying UFOs with extraterrestrial spacecraft, including those from Mars.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of MYSTERIA strongly advocates for critical thinking and verification in UFO research, cautioning against blind acceptance of official explanations or the pronouncements of certain UFO clubs. The magazine positions itself as a platform for diverse viewpoints and encourages readers to conduct their own research. There is a clear emphasis on factual reporting and a rejection of sensationalism or unsubstantiated claims. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards official narratives when evidence suggests otherwise, and a commitment to presenting a comprehensive, albeit sometimes controversial, view of UFO phenomena and related topics like pre-astronautics.

This issue of MYSTERIA, dated July 14, 1980, features a critical analysis of the German television documentary "Hat EvD Recht?" (Does EvD Have a Right?), which examined the pre-astronautics theories of Erich von Däniken. The magazine aims to provide a platform for diverse reader opinions and scientific discussion within the realm of ufology and related fringe sciences.

Editor's Notes and Reader Letters

The editorial section addresses financial concerns, noting that subscription revenue does not cover printing and distribution costs. To address this, three alternatives are proposed for reader vote: improving print quality, increasing the magazine's scope, or reducing its price. The editor acknowledges the diverse readership and the challenge of catering to all interests, from pre-astronautics to pure ufology, and asks for understanding when articles may not align with every reader's perspective.

Several reader letters are featured:

• Axel Ertelt (Editor), writing from Halver on July 25, 1980, responds to reader feedback. He explains that the magazine's current layout is based on A4 format and cannot easily accommodate original submissions without creating chaos. He confirms that the deadline for the crossword puzzle has been extended to August 25, 1980. Regarding print quality suggestions, he notes that while some are considered, direct submission of print-ready articles is not feasible due to the need for a unified editorial schema. He also mentions that the suggestion for spacing after punctuation marks is being implemented.

• Axel Ertelt also comments on a letter from Walter Hains, stating that the part concerning Mars will be presented for discussion without further comment.

• Axel Ertelt responds to Werner Walter's letter, clarifying that the term "Astro-Archäologie" has been replaced by "Prä-Astronautik." He also inquires if Werner Walter might be referring to the newer field of "Archaeo-Astronomy" discussed by Alexander von Cube. He expresses surprise at the term "MYSTERIKER" (Mysterians) and speculates whether it refers to mystics or a new term for MYSTERIA readers, expressing pride if it signifies a long-term readership.

• Walter Hains (writing from Neuss on July 9, 1980) responds to an article by Walter Hains, finding it thought-provoking and a revision of established scientific views. He references supposed Martian radio messages received by Marconi and C. Allingham's claim of meeting a Martian. Hains speculates about a cosmic catastrophe destroying Mars, possibly linked to the explosion of the hypothetical fifth planet between Mars and Jupiter. He cites Eugenio Siragusa's alleged information from July 21, 1976, about Martians whose vital structures became non-dimensional after a planetary destruction, leading to a qualitative leap in their evolution and a shift to a plane of existence invisible to humans. He suggests that the "red spot" on Jupiter might be evidence of this planet's impact.

• Werner Walter (writing from Mannheim on July 9, 1980) expresses that the article "Gab es einst doch Marsbewohner?" (Were there once Mars inhabitants?) by Walter Hains is thought-provoking. He notes the recurring theme of Mars in ufology and pre-astronautics, mentioning G.H. Williamson, D. Miller, Marconi, and C. Allingham. He discusses the possibility of a cosmic catastrophe destroying Mars, possibly related to the explosion of the fifth planet. He quotes alleged information from Eugenio Siragusa about Martians whose civilization evolved beyond physical dimensions after a planetary cataclysm. Walter criticizes the speculative nature of pre-astronautics, calling it "overbred science for outsiders" and suggesting that only serious science will endure.

MYSTERIA Analysis: "Hat EvD Recht?" (Does EvD Have a Right?)

This section analyzes a German television report from April 5, 1979, based on an English documentary, which critically examined pre-astronautics, particularly the work of Erich von Däniken. The analysis, authored by Carsten Hagemeier, aims to address the film's points and provide a counter-argument for Däniken's proponents. The film presented arguments from scientists like Carl Sagan, who expressed skepticism about extraterrestrial intervention in human evolution, contrasting it with Däniken's views and those of Robert Temple.

The analysis breaks down the documentary's content into seven key points:

1. The Palenque Sarcophagus Lid: Dr. Juan Graham's interpretation of the Maya relief is presented, describing a figure with a helmet, spacecraft controls, and a seated posture. Hagemeier notes that the terms used by archaeologists to describe the relief (e.g., "life tree," "earth monster") are speculative and that Däniken offers an alternative interpretation, suggesting the figure represents the god Kukulkan, who came from the stars.
2. Nazca Lines: The analysis touches upon the geoglyphs in Nazca, Peru.
3. Easter Island: The enigmatic statues of Easter Island are mentioned.
4. Inca Buildings in Sacsayhuaman: The impressive stonework of Sacsayhuaman is referenced.
5. Pyramids of Giza: The pyramids of Egypt are included in the discussion.
6. Ica Stones: The controversial stones depicting humans and dinosaurs are mentioned.
7. The Sirius Mystery: The theory concerning the Dogon people's knowledge of Sirius is referenced.

Hagemeier critiques the documentary's presentation of Däniken's arguments, noting that some of Däniken's responses were distorted or omitted. He highlights that Däniken's theories are supported by numerous books and lectures, with significantly fewer counter-arguments published. The analysis points out common tactics used against Däniken, such as distorting facts, personal attacks, and ignoring contradictory evidence.

The analysis further details Däniken's perspective on the Palenque relief, interpreting it as a depiction of an astronaut operating a spacecraft. It also mentions the work of engineers like John Sanderson and Lazlo Toth, who have attempted to explain the technical aspects of the relief, suggesting it represents a spaceship.

UFO Research: Practical Field Investigations

This section, the fifth in a series on UFO research, focuses on practical methods for field investigations. It emphasizes the need for scientific approaches to document and analyze UFO sightings, moving beyond simple questionnaires. The article proposes two methods for measuring the angular size of observed objects in the sky:

• Hand Measurements: Using body parts like the thumb (approx. 2.5 degrees at arm's length), a spread hand (approx. 22 degrees), or a clenched fist (approx. 9 degrees) to estimate angular size.
• The "57-Centimeter-Test": Developed by Ernst Berger, this method uses a string with a knot at 57 centimeters from an object (like a button). By holding the knot at eye level and aligning the object with the perceived size of the UFO, one can estimate the angular size, as 1 centimeter at this distance equals 1 degree.

The article stresses that while many UFO sightings occur in the airspace, the focus here is on potential landings or near-landings. It also discusses the importance of detailed documentation for technical analysis.

Book Reviews and Announcements

• "ATLANTIS: Legende und Wirklichkeit" (Atlantis: Legend and Reality) by J.V. Luce is reviewed. The book, available in paperback, explores the "Thera-Hypothesis," suggesting that the mythical island of Atlantis was actually the island of Thera (Santorini) destroyed by a volcanic eruption. Luce's work is praised for its thoroughness, extensive illustrations, and clear text, contrasting it with other books on the subject.

• "NEUE WEGE DER PARAPSYCHOLOGIE" (New Paths in Parapsychology) edited by John Beloff is presented. This book, translated from English, offers a scientific approach to parapsychology, detailing experiments, devices, and findings, including evidence for an afterlife. It is noted as being accessible to both specialists and interested laypeople.

In Own Cause

The magazine announces a change in the color of its cover stock, explaining it as a measure to differentiate annual volumes for easier organization. They apologize for a temporary color discrepancy in the current issue due to an insufficient supply of the intended cardboard from the printer.

Advertisements and Archive Requests

The magazine requests specific back issues of "WELTRAUMBOTE" (a former Swiss UFO magazine) and "UFO-Nachrichten" (a German UFO magazine) to complete their archives. They also advertise the book "NEUE WEGE DER PARAPSYCHOLOGIE."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of MYSTERIA demonstrates a commitment to critically examining popular theories, particularly those related to pre-astronautics and UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader participation and debate while maintaining a degree of scientific rigor. The magazine seeks to bridge the gap between sensational claims and empirical investigation, as evidenced by the detailed analysis of the documentary and the practical guide to UFO field research. There is a clear effort to present diverse viewpoints and to engage with both proponents and skeptics of fringe science topics.

Title: UFO-Forschung
Issue: 1/80 and 2/80
Date: 1980
Publisher: GEP-Lüdenscheid
Language: German

This issue of UFO-Forschung delves into practical methods for observing and measuring unidentified flying objects (UFOs). It provides detailed instructions on how to determine both the angular velocity and the angular height of aerial phenomena.

Measuring Angular Velocity

The magazine explains that angular velocity is the path covered in the sky per unit of time. It uses an example where 9 degrees in the sky, observed over two seconds, equates to an angular velocity of 4.5 degrees per second. The text emphasizes the importance of measuring only straight, uniform flight paths. The method described involves the witness tracing the object's path with their finger while an investigator uses a stopwatch to record the time. The angular size of the path can be determined using the 'Winkelmessungen am Himmel' (Sky Measurement) data. If the object's altitude is known, its actual speed can be calculated based on its angular velocity.

Illustrations show how different segments of a flight path can be measured in degrees per second, such as 8 degrees in 1 second, 3 degrees in 2 seconds, and 10 degrees in 5 seconds, leading to calculated speeds of 8, 1.5, and 2 degrees per second, respectively. The diagram also defines point A as the point of appearance and point B as the point of disappearance.

Measuring Angular Height

Determining the angular height of an object is presented as a straightforward process, achievable with sky measurement data. However, for more precise measurements, the construction of a simple quadrant is recommended. The materials needed include a protractor (from geometry class), a small square wooden board, glue, a thread, and a small weight like a screw or nut. The protractor is cut to use only the 0 to 90-degree arc, which is then glued to the board. The radius line of the protractor should be parallel to the edge of the board. A nail is fixed at the center of the arc, and the thread with the weight is attached to it.

To use the device, the user holds the board from the back with their right hand and sights the object along the top edge. The plumb line will then indicate the height in degrees. If the sighting edge is horizontal, the plumb line points to 0 degrees (object on the horizon). If the edge is vertical, it points to 90 degrees (object directly overhead).

For measuring depression angles (e.g., observing an object from a mountain into a valley), the device is simply rotated 180 degrees horizontally. When the pendulum of the thread stops moving, the user holds the thread with their left thumb against the board and reads the degree measurement from the circular scale. The diagram on page 2 illustrates this setup, showing the protractor, nail, thread, weight (Schraube), and a diopter with a sight hole for aiming at the object.

Source and Future Articles

The information presented is taken from the "Journal für UFO-Forschung," issues 1/80 and 2/80, with permission from GEP-Lüdenscheid.

The section "In Planung für die nächsten Ausgaben" (In Planning for the Next Issues) outlines several upcoming articles:

• A continuation of an analysis by Carsten Hagemeier.
• "Astronomie ohne Fernrohr" (Astronomy Without a Telescope) and a "MYSTERIA" analysis of the TV series by Alexander von Cube, by Axel Ertelt.
• "Lucifer vom Absturz eines Vorzeitmondes" (Lucifer from the Crash of a Prehistoric Moon) by Walter Closs.
• "UFO-Forschung (6th Issue: Practical Instructions for Field Investigations)" by Hans Werner Peiniger.
• From the archive (New Series): "Die 50er Jahre" (The 50s) - an analysis of noteworthy UFO research events from that decade by Hans-Werner Sachmann.

Additionally, the magazine aims to publish an exclusive report on the 7th World Conference of the AAS in 'Heuseeland' by one of their authors who attended. The conference was reportedly well-attended, contrary to expectations.

The issue concludes by promising numerous short news items about recent events and discussions of UFO sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the practical, scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, focusing on measurement techniques and the construction of simple, accessible tools for observation. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious, methodical inquiry into UFO reports, encouraging readers to engage in precise observation and data collection. The preview of future articles suggests a broad scope, covering historical cases, scientific principles, and practical field work within the UFO research community.