Mysteria - Issue 31 - 1981 08

Magazine Overview

MYSTERIA, Issue 8/81, 3rd Year, published monthly by MYSTERIA-Verlag, priced at DM 3.50. The cover prominently features "COMPUTER-Analysen" (Computer Analyses) with two images, likely related to UFO photography analysis.

Table of Contents and Editorial Information

The issue includes a detailed table of contents, listing articles on computer analysis of UFO photos, the first UFO photo, television in antiquity, biographical notes on contactee Eugenio Siragusa, and UFO studies in the Soviet Union. The editorial and imprint information reveals the editors are Axel Ertelt (Halver) and Hans-Werner Sachmann (Dortmund). The magazine is printed by Sperl in Forchheim. It is noted that the publication is a non-profit endeavor, with editors working in their free time and reinvesting funds into the magazine.

MYSTERIA-PRIVAT (Editor's Column)

Hans-Werner Sachmann addresses reader concerns about the magazine's punctuality, explaining that delays are due to the non-professional nature of the publication and the time required for production. He assures readers that their subscriptions will be honored and that renewal reminders are sent. Sachmann also touches upon the significant volume of correspondence received due to his and Axel Ertelt's extensive work in the field, emphasizing their commitment to answering all letters, though it may take time.

COMPUTER-Analysen UFO-FOTOS (Computer Analysis of UFO Photos)

By Michael Hesemann, this article details how the American group GROUND SAUCER WATCH (GSW) in Phoenix, Arizona, uses advanced computer technology, databases, and field investigations to analyze UFO reports and photos. GSW, founded in 1957, aims to separate factual sightings from misidentifications (like weather balloons or aircraft) and hoaxes. Spaulding, GSW's director, estimates that 60-65% of reports are misidentifications, but about 20% remain unexplained, requiring serious scientific research. GSW utilizes modern scientific and technical labs for its investigations, including X-ray, ultrasonic, and chemical tests. A key tool is a computer for photo analysis, capable of extracting useful information even from poor-quality photos. The article notes that the average UFO witness is an amateur photographer whose photos might be shaky or improperly exposed.

Das erste UFO-Foto (The First UFO Photo)

Also by Michael Hesemann, this piece recounts the story of the first known photograph of an "unknown flying object" published in the Parisian journal "l'Astronomie" in October 1885. The photo was taken by Mexican astronomer José A. y Bonilla from the Zacatecas Observatory on August 12, 1883. While observing sunspots, Bonilla noticed small, shiny objects crossing the sun's disk, casting an oval shadow. Over two hours, he counted 283 such objects, and later, 48 more. He described them as round or elongated and shining in the darkness. The article notes that a similar observation was confirmed by Signor Ricco in Palermo on November 30, 1880. The explanation of these objects as birds or insects is dismissed due to their clear visibility and movement patterns. The article suggests the only plausible explanation is that they were alien spacecraft.

Fernsehgeräte in der Vorzeit? (Television Sets in Antiquity?)

Ferdinand Heller explores the idea of advanced technology in ancient times, referencing biblical texts. He interprets passages from the Book of Daniel (5:5) describing fingers writing on a white wall as a possible form of ancient 'television'. Heller also discusses 'Theraphim,' objects mentioned in the Old Testament, which were sometimes used for divination and were described as having faces and speaking, suggesting they might have been portable 'tele-devices'. Examples include Michal's use of a Theraphim to deceive pursuers and King Josiah's use of them for divination.

Der "Kontaktler" (The "Contactee")

This section introduces Eugenio Siragusa, described as a controversial figure in the contactee scene. The article presents biographical information and a personal account without editorial commentary, inviting readers to form their own opinions.

BIOGRAPHISCHE ANMERKUNGEN ÜBER EUGENIO SIRAGUSA (Biographical Notes on Eugenio Siragusa)

By Maria Antonietta de Muro, this article details Siragusa's life. Born in Sicily in 1919, he had a modest upbringing and served in the navy during WWII, receiving commendations. He later worked for customs in Catania until his retirement in 1972. In 1952, he experienced an "enlightenment" that led him to reject worldly compromises and dedicate himself to a mission he was entrusted with. He coordinated and disseminated the work of the "Centro Studi Fratellanza Cosmica" (Cosmic Brotherhood Study Center), whose mission ended in 1978 but whose message continues. Siragusa faced opposition and slander, even spending time in prison, during which he reportedly received support from celestial messengers. Despite the bitterness of betrayal by some associates, his integrity was ultimately recognized.

MEINE BEGEGNUNG MIT EUGENIO SIRAGUSA (My Encounter with Eugenio Siragusa)

Also by Maria Antonietta de Muro, this is a personal account of her meeting with Eugenio Siragusa on August 12, 1969, in Rome. Intrigued by an article in the magazine "GENTE" about a man claiming contact with extraterrestrials and a city on the moon's surface, she felt compelled to seek him out. She describes an immediate sense of recognition and trust upon meeting him, feeling that he possessed a profound wisdom. This encounter inspired her to become a dedicated collaborator of Siragusa and his mission, learning about life's essential values, the human soul, forgiveness, and self-liberation from complexes.

Other Articles

The issue also includes "UFO-Studien in der Sowjetunion" (UFO Studies in the Soviet Union) with subsequent commentary, and reports from the magazine's correspondents, including Reinhard Habeck from Austria.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, ancient mysteries, and pre-astronautics, presenting information from various perspectives, including scientific analysis, historical accounts, and personal testimonies of alleged contactees. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to critically evaluate the presented material and form their own conclusions, as exemplified by the presentation of Eugenio Siragusa's story without direct commentary.

This issue of UFO-Forschung / Pro-Astronautik, identified as issue 11, delves into the mysteries of the Sumerian civilization and its potential connections to extraterrestrial visitors, alongside contemporary UFO research and historical unexplained phenomena.

The Enigma of Sumer: Visitors from the Sky

The article "ALS DAS KÖNIGREICH VOM HIMMEL KAM - DAS RÄTSEL SUMER" by Bernd Brasser explores the hypothesis that the Sumerians were influenced by visitors from outer space. It suggests that if extraterrestrial life is common, direct contact in the past is plausible. The author encourages historical research into mythological sources to find evidence of such events. The Sumerians, who settled the Euphrates Valley in the 4th millennium BC, are described as a mysterious people whose origins are unknown, with theories pointing to the Caucasus, Indus Valley, or Tibet. Their name is considered a convenient philological label.

Ancient Knowledge and Technology

The issue highlights the advanced knowledge of the Sumerians. Archaeologists discovered crystal lenses in the ruins of Nineveh, ground with a precision beyond the capabilities of the time. Mathematical achievements are also noted, with a cuneiform text from Kujundschik containing a mathematical series whose sum is an astronomical 195,955,200,000, far exceeding the understanding of the Greeks. Babylonian astronomers are credited with calculating the moon's orbit with remarkable accuracy, differing by only 0.4 seconds from modern results. Evidence also suggests that Sumerians and Babylonians may have performed skull surgeries, supported by the discovery of surgical instruments like scalpels, saws, and trepans in Nineveh.

Oannes and the 'Kulturbringer'

The legend of Oannes, as recounted by the Babylonian priest Berossus, is central to the extraterrestrial hypothesis. Oannes is described as a being with a fish-like body, a human head, and human feet, who emerged from the sea and taught humanity essential skills such as building, agriculture, law, writing, geometry, and sciences. Berossus's account, corroborated by archaeological finds in Nimrud, suggests that Oannes and similar beings, known as Annedoti, were instrumental in bringing civilization to early humans. The article posits that these beings may have originated from a different solar system, possibly linked to the star Sirius.

Astronomical Insights and Sirius B

Sumerian seals are said to depict stars with their associated planets, indicating a sophisticated understanding of astronomy. The Dogon tribe's myths are also referenced, as they reportedly worshipped a star known to modern astronomy as Sirius B. The Dogon possessed detailed knowledge of Sirius B's elliptical orbit and its composition, information that predates modern astronomical discovery. This knowledge is attributed to their contact with amphibious beings called Nommos.

The Twelve Planet Theory and Nefilim Years

Drawing from Z. Sitchin's work, the issue discusses the theory of a 'Twelfth Planet' in our solar system, from which the Sumerian gods, or Nefilim, originated. Sitchin's calculations suggest that the long reigns of these ancient rulers could be explained by their different planetary orbital periods, where one 'Nefilim year' might equate to thousands of Earth years. This reinterprets their reigns not as fantastical but as biologically and astronomically determined lifespans.

Soviet UFO Research

In contrast to private clubs, the Soviet Union has a group within the Academy of Sciences dedicated to studying atmospheric anomalies, including UFOs. This group emphasizes a scientific and unbiased approach, defining UFOs as unidentified flying objects whose physical nature is not yet understood. They collect information from official sources and private individuals, though scientifically valuable data is rare. Phenomena are categorized based on whether their origin is identifiable (e.g., balloons, aircraft) or unknown (e.g., ball lightning).

Petrosavodsk Incident

A TASS report from September 20, 1977, describes a giant, pulsating 'star' over Petrosavodsk that emitted light beams to Earth, resembling a jellyfish. Witnesses, including a rescue vehicle driver and a doctor, described a luminous oval with a pink upper part and a bright lower part. The phenomenon descended vertically and then disappeared, leaving a nebulous trail. Astronomers at the Pulkovo Observatory observed the event, with theories ranging from meteors to auroras or chemical reactions in the atmosphere.

'Springheel Jack' - A Victorian Enigma

The issue revisits the historical case of 'Springheel Jack,' a mysterious figure who terrorized parts of England in the late 1830s. Described as tall, thin, and strong, with claw-like fingers, a metallic helmet, a glittering suit, and a lamp on his chest, he possessed extraordinary leaping abilities. Despite extensive searches and media suppression, he evaded capture. Accounts suggest he emitted a strange blue light and had an aggressive demeanor. The article speculates that his abilities might be explained by advanced technology, such as a portable flight apparatus or a device to counteract gravity, drawing parallels to modern UFO reports and potential extraterrestrial visitors.

Interstellar Exploration and Potential Relics

The possibility of interstellar expeditions exploring our solar system is discussed, with the Moon, Mercury, Mars, and Jupiter's moons being potential locations for finding preserved artifacts due to their erosive-free environments. The idea that such expeditions might intentionally leave behind scientific instruments, such as an active radio transmitter, is also raised. The case of Duncan Lunan, who claimed to have deciphered signals suggesting an extraterrestrial probe orbiting Earth for 13,000 years, is mentioned.

Extraterrestrial Crash in the Soviet Union?

Russian astrophysicist Dr. Sergej Petrowitsch Bositsch believes the wreckage of an extraterrestrial spacecraft may exist at an altitude of 1240 miles. Discovered in the early 1960s but revealed in 1979, computer simulations suggest a crash occurred on December 18, 1955, tearing the craft into ten pieces. It is speculated that the alien crew may still be aboard, with NASA and the Soviet Union reportedly agreeing to a recovery mission.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ancient astronaut hypothesis, the advanced knowledge of early civilizations like the Sumerians, and the ongoing mystery of UFOs and potential extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging scientific investigation into unexplained phenomena, both ancient and modern, while acknowledging the speculative nature of many theories. The magazine aims to present evidence and theories that challenge conventional understanding of history and our place in the universe.

This issue of MYSTERIA, dated April 1981, focuses on UFO research and other unexplained phenomena, presenting a blend of scientific inquiry and speculative exploration. The magazine aims to provide detailed reporting on known and lesser-known discoveries, while also encouraging reasoned speculation.

Articles and Reports

The Soviet Approach to UFOs

The issue opens with a piece that commends the objective and interested approach of a Soviet magazine towards UFO phenomena, contrasting it with what is sometimes perceived as Western journalistic sensationalism. The article emphasizes that while theories and speculation are encouraged, definitive conclusions about the origin of UFOs are premature due to insufficient evidence. It distinguishes between accepting the possibility of extraterrestrial origins and asserting that UFOs are definitively alien spacecraft, suggesting the latter is merely tolerable rather than fully acceptable.

The Mystery of the Bremen Bleikeller Mummies

Following up on a previous article, this section details the enigma of the mummified bodies found in the crypt of the Bremen Cathedral. These bodies, housed in simple wooden coffins, have not decomposed as expected. Professor Precht from the Technical University of Hannover suggests radioactivity, specifically radon emanations, as a potential cause for this unusual preservation, noting higher radon levels in the area. The article highlights that while scientists are cautiously investigating, the exact cause remains unsolved.

Atlantis Found?

A report from a diving expedition off the coast of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands describes the discovery of massive ruins of an ancient city. The structures, made of basalt blocks, bear resemblance to findings in the Bahamas and feature inscriptions on stone tablets, leading to speculation that this might be the legendary lost continent of Atlantis. The discovery was accidental, occurring when the expedition ship was forced to take shelter on Lanzarote due to a hurricane.

Bigfoot on the Trail

Adventurer Bon Jones is preparing an expedition to track the elusive American wild man, Bigfoot. Despite the lack of photographic evidence, Jones, president of a society for extraordinary phenomena, is convinced of his success. The accompanying photo shows him with a cast of a large footprint attributed to Bigfoot.

Ghost Flight over the Pacific

Technicians in Honolulu are puzzled by an incident involving a United Airlines jumbo jet. All four engines failed simultaneously at an altitude of 12,000 meters over the Pacific. After five minutes, the engines restarted when the pilot descended to 8,000 meters. A thorough inspection of the aircraft revealed no mechanical defects, drawing parallels to incidents reported in the Bermuda Triangle.

The Star Giant of the Universe

Astronomers have measured the star "R 136a," described as vastly larger and brighter than our sun. Its surface temperature is an astonishing 60,000 degrees Celsius, compared to the sun's 5,000 degrees. The star is 2500 times larger than the sun and emits 100 million times more light.

A Future Without Hair and Toes

Scientist David Marshall predicts a future where humans may lack hair and toes, potentially leading to a different physical appearance. He also foresees humans shrinking but developing more pronounced noses and chins for enhanced facial expressiveness.

Chinese UFO Invasion

China is reportedly experiencing a surge in reports of parapsychological phenomena, UFOs, and the Yeti. This interest is partly driven by a desire to gain military advantages, similar to the Soviet Union's approach. The article mentions instances of individuals with extraordinary abilities, such as reading with closed eyes or possessing 'compass needle' like directional sense. A "Chinese Society for UFO Research" was founded in May 1980 to collect and computerize UFO data.

USSR Halts All Flights

Western experts are questioning the health of the cosmonauts aboard the Salyut 6 space station following the unexpected early return of the Soyuz T-4 crew after only eight weeks. This is particularly surprising given that Cosmonaut Vladimir Kovaljonok had been training for a 200-day mission. While technical issues with the station are ruled out, medical problems are suspected, possibly an organic illness affecting one of the crew members, with Viktor Sawinych being a potential candidate due to his previous long-duration flight.

Explaining Arctic Ice Drift

Soviet scientists have proposed an explanation for the circular ice drift in the Arctic Ocean. They suggest that the Earth's geographic North Pole's movement creates a cyclical atmospheric phenomenon called 'Polflut' (polar tide), which, through air pressure, causes the ice fields to move in a circular pattern. This theory also aids in predicting ice movement for the Northern Sea Route.

Controlled Nuclear Fusion

Soviet physicists anticipate significant breakthroughs in controlled nuclear fusion research within the current five-year plan (1981-1985). They are developing new tokamak fusion reactors, similar to those being worked on in the USA, France, Great Britain, the Federal Republic of Germany, and Japan. The successful control of fusion promises virtually unlimited energy resources.

Did the Aral Sea Originate from an Explosion?

Professor G. Borissow hypothesizes that the Aral Sea was formed by the explosion of a giant meteorite or asteroid. His theory is based on the sea's crater-like shape and the presence of granite fragments, similar to those found around impact sites. He suggests that the cosmic body exploded in the atmosphere, scattering debris and forming the sea basin.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, the mysterious, and the potentially extraterrestrial. It advocates for a balanced approach, encouraging scientific investigation and reasoned speculation while cautioning against unsubstantiated claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards unconventional ideas, coupled with a commitment to presenting new material and detailed analyses that go beyond mainstream reporting. The magazine also actively engages its readership by soliciting feedback and contributions for future issues.