Mysteria - Issue 35 - 1981 12

Magazine Overview

This issue of MYSTERIA, titled "MYSTERIA", is the 12th issue of its 3rd year, dated 12/81, and was published by MYSTERIA-Verlag in Germany. The cover features a striking image of the Space Shuttle flying over what is described as an ancient site, with the headline "SPACE SHUTTLE über einem Zeugen der Vergangenheit" (SPACE SHUTTLE over a witness of the past). The price was DM 3.50.

Table of Contents and Editorial Information

Page 2 provides the table of contents and editorial details. The issue includes a cover story on the Space Shuttle and its connection to ancient history, as well as articles on UFOs, ancient civilizations, and mythology. Key articles include:

• Page 1: Cover image: The American Space Shuttle over a witness of the past, a photomontage by Frank Bruns/Herbert Mohren.
• Page 2: Contents/Editorial/Imprint.
• Page 3: MYSTERIA-Privat (Axel Ertelt & Hans-Werner Sachmann).
• Page 4: SPACE SHUTTLE - An Erinnerung an die Vergangenheit (An echo of the past) - Spaceflight in ancient times by Herbert Mohren and Frank Bruns.
• Page 5: DIE SCHLANGE ALS LICHTTRÄGER (The Serpent as Light Carrier) by Reinhard Habeck.
• Page 11: UFO WAR STRASSENLATERNE (UFO was a Street Lamp) by Axel Ertelt.
• Page 13: Headline: THE NORTH POLE WAS AT THE SOUTH POLE - Borings determine changes in the Earth's magnetic field.
• Page 14: PALENQUE - LANDING SITE OF THE GODS by Klaus Ruttnauer.
• Page 16: Foreign correspondents report: INTERVIEW with Erich von Däniken.
• Page 18: RETURN OF THE GODS TO OLYMPUS - UFO sighting in Greece by Peter Fiebag.
• Page 19: GIANT SNAKES IN SOUTH AMERICA: Mutated remnants of the "War of the Gods" 12,000 years ago by Michael Appel.
• Page 20: THE DOOMED VOYAGE OF THE "GLUCKSDRACHEN" by Wilhelm Lechler.
• Page 22: Prize draw.
• Page 23: ANNUAL TABLE OF CONTENTS for the year 1981.
• Page 27: Author Index 1981.
• Page 28: THE WONDROUS LECTORATE by Hans-Werner Sachmann.
• Page 29: MYSTERIA Library No. 5.

The editorial team includes Chief Editor Axel Ertelt (Postfach 1227, D 5884 HALVER 1, Tel: 02353/10276) and the editorial department in Dortmund, with Hans-Werner Sachmann (Emsinghofstr. 35, D 4600 Dortmund 15, Tel: 0231/339438). MYSTERIA is published monthly by MYSTERIA-Verlag. The magazine notes that unsolicited manuscripts are not returned unless sufficient return postage is included and publication is not intended. Payment for contributions is on a cost-reimbursement basis, with an annual book prize for the best reader contribution.

MYSTERIA Privat (Page 3)

Axel Ertelt addresses the readers, discussing planned changes for MYSTERIA in 1983 and assuring subscribers that these will not affect their subscriptions. He urges timely renewal of subscriptions, noting that many will expire with the 1/82 issue. Ertelt then introduces the cover story on the Space Shuttle, highlighting comparisons between modern NASA technology and ancient spaceflight. He also points out the growing influence of China as a space power, questioning the nature of its satellite programs. The article promises future reports on China's space program. Ertelt also announces that MYSTERIA will cover the 8th World Congress of the ANCIENT ASTRONAUT SOCIETY in November 1982 and planned trips to Turkey and Peru in April and September, with MYSTERIA editors present. He concludes by wishing readers a happy new year 1982 and encourages participation in the "Best Reader Contribution" election.

SPACE SHUTTLE - An Echo of the Past (Page 4)

This article by Herbert Mohren and Frank Bruns draws parallels between the landing of the Space Shuttle "Columbia" in the Mojave Desert in April 1981 and the ancient landing strips at Nazca, Peru. The authors question who created the Nazca lines, which have existed for thousands of years. They suggest that the comparison between the Mojave landing strips and Nazca, especially in light of Erich von Däniken's "Astronaut-Gods" theory, leads to the question of whether ancient gods were astronauts. The article posits that if extraterrestrial beings visited Earth in prehistoric times, they would have known interstellar travel, and a craft like the Space Shuttle, capable of gliding onto provisional runways, could be a modern equivalent of ancient flying machines. The article also mentions a golden flying model from prehistoric times, exhibited at the State Bank of Bogota, which was tested and found to be flight-worthy, suggesting it could be a precursor to the "Columbia."

The Serpent as Light Carrier (Pages 5-10)

This multi-part article by Reinhard Habeck explores the symbolic and potential technological significance of the serpent in various ancient mythologies, linking it to concepts of energy, light, and electricity.

• Page 5: The article begins by describing the mysterious nature of the serpent in Egyptian culture and its broader mythological significance. It references the Babylonian dragon Tiamat, the Mayan serpent god Quetzalcoatl (born from a swallowed emerald), and the Phoenician "serpent energy" described by Sanchuniathon, which was said to be unsurpassable and related to speed and brilliance, possibly alluding to electricity. It also recounts a Brazilian legend of Elipas who, with a serpent, healed the sick and then ascended to heaven on his serpent, and the Roman thunder god Sammanus, depicted with wings and lightning, also riding a fiery serpent.

• Page 6: The article continues by discussing the serpent as a lightning symbol among the Navajo and the Walbiri of Australia, where the serpent Yarapi is associated with a rainbow and energy. It mentions African Dinka tribes who describe a divine serpent ascending to heaven with fire and smoke, forming a rainbow, and who believe serpents are guardians of sacred fire. In India, the Nagas are described as "sons of serpents" who guard divine treasures and possessed magic lamps. Chinese mythology features dragons guarding a pearl-like treasure in underwater palaces. The Greek myth of Medusa, with her snake hair and ability to turn beings to stone with a gaze, is also mentioned, as is the Hindu god Shiva, who is depicted with serpents and possesses a third eye with destructive powers.

• Page 7: The article delves into Egyptian mythology, specifically the sun god Ra's journey through the underworld accompanied by the demon serpent Apophis. It introduces the theory of Viennese electrical engineer Walter Garn, who suggests that the atmospheric electrical discharges visible during thunderstorms, known as "St. Elmo's Fire," might explain the Apophis serpent. Garn proposes that Ra's boat, possibly a papyrus boat with a metal lotus-like structure, could have acted as an electrical conductor, leading to lightning strikes.

• Page 8: Garn's theory is further explored, with Dr. Helmuth Satzinger from the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna confirming that ancient Egyptians used a stylized serpent symbol to represent fire energy. The article then discusses the work of Peter Krassa, who investigated whether the lightning rod was an ancient invention. Krassa found inscriptions in the Ptolemaic temple of Edfu describing portal structures with copper-capped masts and pyramidion tips designed to break "unwetter" (bad weather), suggesting a form of lightning protection.

• Page 9: The article continues to cite ancient Egyptian texts, including an inscription from the Hathor temple in Dendera and a description of a temple from the time of Ramses III at Medinet Abu, which also mentions structures with copper-tipped masts, possibly serving as lightning rods. The "Djed Pillar" is introduced as another enigmatic Egyptian artifact, with some Egyptologists interpreting it as a symbol of stability or eternity, while others suggest it represents a device related to energy. The article notes that the "Djed Pillar" is associated with the mystical force of Kundalini.

• Page 10: The article further elaborates on the "Djed Pillar," citing Karl Weinfurter's interpretation that it represents the spine and spinal cord, where the vital force of Kundalini resides. Weinfurter describes Kundalini as "serpent power" and "Shabdabrahman," the divine cosmic energy within the body. The article suggests that when this serpent power awakens, it manifests as brief flashes of light, buzzing sounds, and thunder, akin to electrical phenomena. It also references Peter Krassa's and the author's own experiences in Egypt, where they observed wall reliefs depicting bulb-like structures with serpents coiled around them, connected to a socket-like box, and supported by priests or "Djed Pillars," suggesting an ancient energy system.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of MYSTERIA revolve around the intersection of modern technology (specifically spaceflight) with ancient myths and theories of pre-astronautics. The magazine consistently explores the idea that ancient civilizations possessed advanced knowledge or technology, possibly of extraterrestrial origin, and that many myths and symbols can be reinterpreted through this lens. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these unconventional theories, encouraging readers to question established historical and scientific narratives and to consider alternative explanations for ancient artifacts and legends. The emphasis on reader participation, such as the "Best Reader Contribution" election, highlights a community-driven approach to exploring these mysteries.

This issue of "Prä-Astronautik O-Forschung" from 1981, titled "UFO war Straßenlaterne" (UFO was a Streetlamp), explores a range of topics related to ancient mysteries, UFO sightings, and alternative scientific theories. The magazine features articles by Reinhard Habeck, Axel Ertelt, Klaus Ruttnauer, Erich von Däniken, Michael Appel, and Wilhelm Lechler, among others.

DAS GEHEIMNIS DER SCHLANGENSTEINE - ELEKTRIZITÄT VOR 2000 JAHREN?

This section, attributed to Reinhard Habeck, discusses ancient Egyptian wall reliefs, specifically from Dendera, that are interpreted as depicting electrical phenomena. Electro-engineer Walter Garn suggests that the 'serpents' in the reliefs resemble modern high-voltage insulators and that the depictions show an understanding of electricity, implying that ancient cultures may have utilized such energy sources.

UFO war Straßenlaterne

Authored by Axel Ertelt, this article debunks a widely reported UFO sighting from Düsseldorf in 1977. A Japanese tourist filmed what was believed to be an Adamski-type UFO. However, upon investigation and comparison with a photograph taken by MYSTERIA contributor Herbert Mohren, it was revealed that the 'UFO' was actually a simple streetlamp hanging from a power cable. The article highlights the importance of thorough research in UFO investigations.

UFOs in color

This section includes a comparison of the original Japanese film footage of the Düsseldorf 'UFO' and a comparative photograph taken by Herbert Mohren. The images are presented to visually support the claim that the object was a streetlamp.

Der Nordpol lag am Südpol

This article discusses geological findings about the Earth's magnetic field. Dr. Klaus Krumsiek from the University of Bonn explains that the magnetic North Pole has reversed its polarity approximately every million years. The article notes that if this were to happen again, human life would not be directly threatened, but magnetic devices would need recalibration. It also touches upon the significance of these findings for understanding continental drift and resource exploration.

PALENQUE - LANDEPLATZ DER GÖTTER

Written by Klaus Ruttnauer, this article explores the ancient Mayan site of Palenque, suggesting it might have been a landing site for extraterrestrial visitors, referred to as 'Götter' (Gods). The author analyzes a relief depicting a figure that resembles a scientist with a microphone and headphones, connected to a computer-like device. The article speculates that this figure could be an astronaut and that the skeleton found in the pyramid, with its unusual facial features, might be that of an extraterrestrial commander.

Interview with Erich von Däniken

This interview with Erich von Däniken, conducted by Reinhard Habeck, delves into his 'ancient astronaut' theory. Däniken asserts that humans were intelligently created through a deliberate, artificial mutation by extraterrestrial beings. He discusses the evolution of these 'gods' and their potential visits to Earth, suggesting that modern UFOs might be craft from later generations of these beings. He also notes that descriptions of ancient 'gods' in texts do not align with modern UFO sightings, which are often described as 'flying saucers'.

Riesenschlangen in Südamerika: MUTIERTE ÜBERBLEIBSEL DES "GÖTTER-KRIEGES" VOR 12 000 JAHREN

Authored by Michael Appel, this article connects the film "Formicula" (about mutated insects) to potential explanations for giant snake sightings in South America. The author suggests that these creatures might be mutated remnants from a prehistoric 'Gods' War' 12,000 years ago, possibly caused by radioactive weapons used by the 'gods'. The article references the "Chronik von Akakor" which describes the Earth being burned by 'sun-hot weapons' used by the gods, leading to radiation damage and mutations in the surviving population and wildlife.

Rückkehr der Götter zum Olymp

This report by Peter Fiebag details UFO sightings in Greece around November 1981. Reports from Athens newspapers described unidentified flying objects as yellow or red burning spheres. Police officers in central Greece also reported sightings. Near Elasson, an object described as 7-10 meters in diameter was observed for about twenty minutes. The article notes the proximity of Mount Olympus, the traditional seat of the Greek gods, and questions whether the 'gods' were returning.

Die Schicksalsfahrt der "Glücksdrachen"

This section introduces a book review by Wilhelm Lechler of Peter Krassa's work, "Feuer fiel vom Himmel" (Fire Fell from the Sky), which deals with the mysterious Tunguska event of 1908. The review praises Krassa's book for its depth and research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the concept of ancient astronauts, the interpretation of ancient artifacts and myths as evidence of extraterrestrial contact, and the investigation of modern UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, while also emphasizing the need for rigorous research and debunking hoaxes, as demonstrated by the Düsseldorf streetlamp case. The magazine also touches upon geological and historical mysteries, suggesting a broader interest in unexplained phenomena beyond just UFOs.

This issue of MYSTERIA, dated 8/1958, delves into the mysterious Tunguska event and its potential causes, drawing parallels with atomic bomb explosions. It also features a detailed index of articles published in 1981, covering a broad spectrum of unexplained phenomena.

The Tunguska Event and Radioactive Explosions

The lead article explores various theories surrounding the Tunguska catastrophe, with the author positing that a radioactive explosion, possibly caused by an artificial flying object, an atomic bomb, or a spacecraft from another world, is the most plausible explanation. The author compares the destructive forces to those of the atomic bombs used in Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.

The "Glücksdrachen" Incident

The magazine recounts the harrowing experience of the Japanese tuna fishing boat "Glücksdrachen" on March 1, 1954. The crew witnessed a sudden, brilliant flash in the western sky, followed by a white-yellow light that turned into an orange-red fireball. This spectacle was accompanied by a thunderous roar, causing the ship to tremble. The crew experienced symptoms such as loss of appetite, fatigue, dizziness, vomiting, severe itching, and eye inflammation with reduced vision. Their skin turned a dirty brown, and some experienced hair loss, reminiscent of the "atomic bomb sickness" observed in Hiroshima survivors. Investigations revealed that the ship and its crew were exposed to radiation, leading to strict controls on fish sales in the region.

The article details the Bikini Atoll atomic bomb test of March 1, 1954, describing it as a super-nuclear weapon with a destructive force equivalent to 12 million tons of TNT, significantly more powerful than the Hiroshima bomb. The explosion's effects were unexpectedly widespread due to high-altitude winds.

Pre-Astronautics and UFO Research

The latter part of the magazine is dedicated to a comprehensive index of articles published in MYSTERIA throughout 1981. This index categorizes articles under various headings, including UFO Research, UFO Sightings, Pre-Astronautics, Archaeology, and Miscellaneous. It lists authors and the specific issues and page numbers where their contributions can be found.

• Notable articles within the index cover a wide array of topics such as:
• The possibility of UFO bases on Saturn's moons.
• Investigations into UFO photographs using computers.
• Encounters with Eugenio Siragusa.
• UFO studies in the Soviet Union.
• The Adamski controversy.
• UFO sightings across the globe, including incidents in Düsseldorf, the Black Forest, Warsaw, and Moscow.
• The concept of extraterrestrial amphibious vehicles.
• The history of UFOs and ancient astronaut theories, including discussions on "under-saucers" and their connection to the Bible.
• Theories about the origins of humanity and ancient gods.
• The possibility of Stonehenge being a power plant.
• The "Mag Mor" civilization and the "Vorzeitmond" (prehistoric moon).
• Soviet research challenging Erich von Däniken's theories.
• The "Bermuda Triangle" and unexplained phenomena.
• Discussions on the "Nessie" creature and its potential relatives.
• The mystery of the "Bleikeller" corpses in Bremen.
• The Sannikov Land and ghost ships.
• Archaeological discoveries, including ancient Chinese tombs, Jewish temples, and Chinese mummies.
• Research into cell division, cloning, and the origin of life.
• The possibility of extraterrestrial resources and space travel.

The index also includes an "Author Index 1981," listing all authors who contributed to the magazine during that year and the pages they appeared on. A review of the book "DER WUNDERBARE GARTENZWERG" by Dieter Hanitzsch and Rolf Cyriax is also featured, which humorously suggests that garden gnomes are descendants of extraterrestrial "gods."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, extraterrestrial phenomena, and alternative historical theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting various theories and accounts from researchers and eyewitnesses, while also critically examining some claims, as seen in the review of "DER WUNDERBARE GARTENZWERG."

This issue of MYSTERIA, dated August 1981, is a German-language publication focusing on esoteric, historical, and fringe science topics. It features a collection of book reviews and short articles, offering insights into various subjects from ancient myths to modern scientific theories and prophecies.

Book Reviews and Articles

Celtic Sagas from Ireland

This section reviews "Keltische Sagen aus Irland" (Celtic Sagas from Ireland), edited and translated by Martin Löpelmann. The book, published by Eugen Diederichs Verlag, contains 523 pages and costs DM 36. It is described as a collection of the most important epics from Irish mythology, including the Ulster saga, the book of the dark cow, and the book of Leinster. The review highlights that the work delves into the world of myths and fantastic adventures, drawing parallels to the works of Joyce and Yeats. Löpelmann's 6-year effort in translating these epics is praised, noting his use of old manuscripts and the spoken word, as well as his inclusion of cultural historical explanations, ancient Irish folk songs with musical notation, and name registers. The review mentions key figures like Macha Fothaar, Cuchulinn, and Diarmait, and emphasizes the book's value for those wanting to understand the "green island" and its culture.

The Viking Empire of Tiahuanacu

This review covers "Das Wikingerreich von Tiahuanacu" (The Viking Empire of Tiahuanacu) by Professor Dr. Jacques de Mahieu, published by Grabert-Verlag. The book has 316 pages, 16 image plates, and 21 illustrations, costing DM 32. It posits the existence of a well-organized, European-origin empire in South America during the early Middle Ages, centered in the highlands of Peru and extending across the continent. The review notes that the book challenges conventional historical understanding, citing Spanish chroniclers who described the empire as being led by fair-skinned, blue-eyed people. De Mahieu, who founded the "Institut für Menschheitswissenschaft," spent 30 years researching this topic, publishing six books on the subject.

Creation from Nothing

"Schöpfung aus den Nichts" (Creation from Nothing) by Peter von der Osten-Sacken is reviewed. Published by Econ-Verlag, it has 316 pages, 96 black-and-white illustrations, and costs DM 33. The book explores the mystery of the universe's origin, particularly the concept of creation from nothing before the Big Bang. The author, an astronomer, investigates whether the creation of matter and energy could occur at other times, possibly even in the present. The review suggests that the book presents material supporting the idea of supernatural parallels to the creation of the universe, covering topics from element formation to black holes. It is presented as a work of scientific research that uncovers surprising connections and the 'spirit behind matter.'

Chirology and Profession

This section reviews "Chirologie und Beruf" (Chirology and Profession) by René Butler, published by Econ-Verlag. The book, with 184 pages and 63 illustrations, costs DM 24. It distinguishes chirology (character analysis through hand features) from chiromancy (fortune-telling). Butler's work, based on scientific methods, aims to show how hand analysis can accurately predict a person's suitability for various professions, covering outdoor, consulting, healing, artistic, and administrative fields. The review notes that Butler, a former professor of economics and diplomat, presents over 100 professional profiles to support his claims.

The Illuminati Papers

"Die Illuminati-Papiere" (The Illuminati Papers) by Robert Anton Wilson is reviewed. Published by Sphinx-Verlag, it has approximately 160 pages with illustrations and costs DM 28. The book is described as being of similar quality to Wilson's previous works like "Cosmic Trigger" and the "Illuminatus" trilogy. It explores the idea of a global conspiracy or a cosmic joke, examining contradictions in human thought and societal evolution. The review highlights Wilson's ability to both confuse and enlighten, offering insights into the potential of the human mind and a more optimistic future. The book covers a wide range of topics, including quantum mechanics, neurobiology, tarot, and the nature of consciousness.

The Samurai

"Die Samurai" (The Samurai) by Kuno Mauer is reviewed. Published by Econ-Verlag, this 376-page book with 14 black-and-white and 4 color illustrations costs DM 36. It details the history and influence of the Samurai on modern Japan, attributing Japan's economic and cultural success to their characteristics like diligence, discipline, and commitment. The review notes that while filmmakers like Kurosawa have depicted the Samurai, this book provides a comprehensive historical account. It traces their evolution from noble's retainers to the ruling elite, their code of honor, and their significant political power throughout Japanese history.

From a Cosmic Perspective

"Aus kosmischer Sicht" (From a Cosmic Perspective) by Willy G. Fügner is reviewed. Published by the author, this 206-page book costs DM 22.50. It is recommended for those interested in the origin of humanity and the meaning of existence. The author integrates esotericism, philosophy, mythology, astrology, and other sciences to provide a new perspective on world history and humanity's current state. The book aims to offer a new framework for understanding, suggesting that the current world order is a result of the loss of ancient wisdom.

Weltuntergang 1999

"Weltuntergang 1999" (World End 1999) by Charles Berlitz is reviewed. Published by Paul Zsolnay-Verlag, the 268-page book with illustrations costs DM 29.80. Berlitz compares various prophecies from the Bible, Eastern wisdom traditions, and indigenous myths with modern scientific events. The book highlights an increase in earthquakes since 1974 and notes the planetary alignment in 1982 as potentially marking the beginning of two decades of natural catastrophes. It discusses the possibility of various end-of-world scenarios, including earthquakes, ice ages, pole shifts, and environmental destruction, but emphasizes a surprising consensus on the timing: the end of the 2nd millennium.

Die Amazonen

"Die Amazonen" (The Amazons) by Manfred Hammes is reviewed. Published by Fischer Taschenbuch-Verlag, this 162-page paperback costs DM 7.80. The book explores the historical and mythological aspects of the Amazons, legendary warrior women. It discusses their origins, their role in various myths and historical accounts, and their potential connection to matriarchal societies. The review notes that the book aims to provide a comprehensive overview, covering their birth, presence in Asia Minor, encounters with heroes like Heracles and Theseus, and their role in the Trojan War, as well as North African Amazons. Hammes concludes that the militancy of the Amazons represents a final, desperate attempt to reverse the course of history.

Other Items

The issue also includes a notice seeking photos for a MYSTERIA documentation project on the ANCIENT ASTFONAUT SOCIETY, offering a free subscription for contributions. Additionally, there are classified ads for books like "PLANDOR - Planet des Friedens" and a request for the book "DAS WELTREICH DER MAGIE" by Kurt Seligmann.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of MYSTERIA revolve around alternative history, mythology, ancient civilizations, cosmology, esotericism, and prophecies. The editorial stance appears to be one of exploring unconventional ideas and challenging mainstream scientific and historical narratives, presenting a wide range of speculative and historical research from various authors and perspectives. The magazine acts as a platform for disseminating information on topics often considered on the fringes of established knowledge.