Mysteria - Issue 39 - 1982 04

Magazine Overview

MYSTERIA, issue 39, dated 4/82, is a German-language magazine focused on UFO research and pre-astronautics. The cover prominently features the title "MYSTERIA" and a collage of black and white photographs. The main headline highlights that Erich von Däniken is a primary target of criticism from Walter Hain. The issue is priced at DM 3.50 and is in its 4th year of publication.

Contents and Editorial Notes

Page 2 provides the table of contents and editorial information. The issue includes a report on Erich von Däniken during his Turkey trip, who is described as a main target of Walter Hain. The "Impressum" section details the editorial team, including Editor-in-Chief Axel Ertelt and Redaktion Dortmund led by Hans-Werner Sachmann. MYSTERIA is published monthly by MYSTERIA-Verlag. Copyrights for contributions lie with the authors, unless otherwise agreed. Reprints require written permission and two sample copies. Unsolicited manuscripts are not liable for return unless sufficient return postage is included and publication is not intended. There is no obligation for reprinting. Editorial processing reserves the right to shorten contributions. Honoraria are not paid, operating on a cost-basis, with a book prize awarded annually to the best reader contribution. Subscription details are provided, including single issue price (3.50 DM) and annual subscription (38 DM), with payment options via Postcheck-Konto and Sparkasse.

MYSTERIA Privat (Reader Contributions and Announcements)

Page 3, under the heading "MYSTERIA Privat," features announcements and updates from Hans-Werner Sachmann. He reminds readers of updated prices for publications, including "RÄTSEL SEIT JAHRTAUSENDEN" (now 5 DM for subscribers, 8 DM for non-subscribers), "UFO-INVASION UBER WESTFALEN?" (2.50 DM), and "DIE KOSMISCHEN EINGEWEIHTEN" (14.80 DM). Previous offers are declared invalid. Sachmann also mentions having a few copies of his paperback "DIE EPOCHE DER 'ENGEL'" available for 18.90 DM, signed. He announces the hiring of new foreign correspondents: Josef Wanderka for UFO research in Austria and Reinhard Habeck for pre-astronautics in Austria. The magazine is also seeking a correspondent for Switzerland, introducing Herr Hansjörg Ruh for this role.

Page 4 continues the "MYSTERIA Privat" section, with Sachmann thanking Herr Ruh and mentioning the search for correspondents in other countries, offering a free subscription for active contributors. He also notes efforts to gain correspondents in East Germany (DDR) and China, though this is not yet finalized. Readers are reminded that they can earn a free quarterly subscription by recruiting new subscribers. The main content of this issue is then introduced, focusing on reader letters responding to Walter Hain's critical article "GÖTTER-ASTRONAUTEN UND ATLANTIS" from issue 7/81. Sachmann praises the readers for their constructive and largely objective responses, contrasting them with authors who he feels focus on personalities rather than the subject matter. He criticizes authors like Hain for fixating on minor details, such as whether Erich von Däniken visited certain locations, instead of addressing the core questions about ancient mysteries. Hain's shift from being a member of the AAS to a critic is noted with some bewilderment. The magazine will now reprint the most revealing letters and works countering Hain's arguments, after which this topic will be considered closed.

Documentation: Walter Hain's Response and Editorial Counter-Arguments

Page 5 presents a letter from Walter Hain, a private researcher in grenzwissenschaft (fringe science) and phenomena, addressed to Axel Ertelt. Hain thanks Ertelt for publishing his article "Götter-Astronauten und Atlantis" in MYSTERIA Nr. 7/81, calling it "objective reporting." However, he takes issue with the editorial's remarks. Hain clarifies that the Dogon people's accounts mention multiple stars in their Sirius system, but only one is described as the heaviest, and he did not contradict himself. He states that knowledge of Sirius B existed before the Dogon studies, with Bessel postulating it in 1840 and Clark discovering it in 1862. He questions the certainty of modern astronomy ruling out a third star, citing a letter from Dr. Ernst Göbel of the University of Vienna. Hain also disputes the identification of the "Hungerreisstern" (hunger-travel star) with Sirius B, stating it's not proof. He dismisses the idea that inaccuracies in prehistoric accounts prove their correctness and accuses Temple of making unsubstantiated claims about extraterrestrial contact. Hain asserts that he has thoroughly researched the literature and, after initially being an AAS supporter, has discovered many misinterpretations and falsifications, leading him to consider Erich von Däniken a fraud.

Page 6 contains the "Anmerkungen der Redaktion" (Editorial Remarks) in response to Hain's letter. The editors dispute Hain's claim that the Dogon do not know of planets, citing Robert K. G. Temple's book which mentions symbols for specific planets and even a "Frauenstern" (Women's Star) orbiting a third star in the Sirius system. They question Hain's assertion that Dogon knowledge couldn't have been obtained through normal means, yet he offers no alternative explanation. The editors highlight the Nommo legends, which Temple argues support the idea of beings from Sirius bringing knowledge to the Dogon. They express surprise that anyone would dismiss such claims without thorough investigation, especially given the Dogon's advanced astronomical knowledge. The editors also challenge Hain's absolute trust in conventional science, pointing to Dr. Göbel's statement, and note that even Temple acknowledges the ongoing debate about Sirius C, quoting that its non-existence is not "hundred percent proven." They argue that the Dogon term "Digitaria" for the "Hungerreisstern" is a strong indicator that it refers to Sirius B, the invisible companion of Sirius A, drawing a parallel to calling Earth's moon "Luna."

Page 7 continues the editorial response. The editors state that just as inaccuracies in ancient accounts don't prove their correctness, they also don't necessarily disprove them. They criticize Hain for using inaccuracies as proof against the claims. They also question Hain's assertion that he has debunked Erich von Däniken, warning him against defamatory statements. The editors then present a newspaper article from "ASTRO 1-2/82" titled "Wo sind Im Weltall vernunftbegabte Wesen?" (Where are intelligent beings in space?). The article discusses a symposium in Kaluga, USSR, on Ziolkowski's ideas about extraterrestrial civilizations. It mentions that W. Rubzow reported on the astonishing astronomical knowledge of the Dogon people, which is part of a secret worldview accessible only to a few initiates.

Page 8 continues the discussion on the Dogon. It reiterates that this people on the Bandiagara plateau in Mali possesses knowledge of an infinite, measurable universe with spiral star systems, including our own sun. The most important star for them is "Po Tolo," the companion of Sirius, whose description matches that of Sirius B, the white dwarf. The Dogon worldview also mentions a second Sirius companion, an object unknown to modern astronomy. The article questions the origin of this knowledge, noting that for many African peoples, celestial bodies are active entities. Some symposium participants suggested experimentally verifying the Dogon's astronomical knowledge, including searching for the second Sirius companion. Signals are also planned to be sent to nearby sun-like stars. The article concludes by quoting scientist G. Sutschkin, who believes the search for extraterrestrial civilizations is not dangerous.

Leserbrief Nr. 1 / Hain-Artikel (Reader Letter No. 1 / Hain Article)

Page 8 also features the first reader letter, from Walter Closs of Backnang, responding to Walter Hain's article. Closs argues that Hain's assertion that there is no real proof of extraterrestrials visiting Earth is based on ignorance. He cites "ANCIENT SKIES 4/81" mentioning a stone artifact as proof. Closs refers to Professor Schindler-Bellamy's 1956 book about the stone calendar on the "Sonnentor" in Tiahuanaco, which he claims proves the existence of a prehistoric moon and a highly developed culture capable of recording celestial data. He suggests that the sudden appearance of the Tiahuanaco culture, without prior earthly development, supports the myths of "sky dwellers" from various cultures (Chinese, Sumerian, Dogon, Bakairi) who brought knowledge. Closs believes "Himmel" (sky) in these myths refers to the prehistoric moon, a point he has elaborated on in his own writings.

Leserbrief Nr. 2 / Hain-Buch (Reader Letter No. 2 / Hain Book)

Page 9 begins with "LESERBRIEF Nr. 2 / Hain-Buch" from Carsten Hagemeier of Rheda. Hagemeier thanks Sachmann for initiating a discussion on Walter Hain's book "Irrwege der Geschichte" (Misguided Paths of History), acknowledging the wealth of material Hain has gathered. Hagemeier initially expected Hain's book, given his past association with the AAS and his support for Mars theories, to be an objective work on the ancient astronaut theory. However, he finds it difficult to achieve true objectivity in this field, where proponents and opponents are often entrenched. Hagemeier argues that when taking a critical stance, it is necessary to fully refute or expose the implausibility of every piece of evidence. He believes Hain fails to do this in many cases, such as his brief dismissal of Josef F. Blumrich's "KASSKARA UND DIE SIEBEN WELTEN" and Zecharia Sitchin's "DER ZWÖLFTE PLANET." Hagemeier notes that Hain dedicates only a few pages to these significant works. He also points out that Hain struggles with other evidence, such as the crystal skull of Lubaantun and the question of ancient electricity. Despite these criticisms, Hagemeier concedes that Hain does present a number of good counter-arguments.

Following this letter is a section titled "Betr.: WALTER HAINS BEHANDLUNG DER GRABPLATTE VON PALENQUE" (Re: Walter Hain's Treatment of the Palenque Sarcophagus Lid) by Carsten Hagemeier. Hagemeier begins by providing historical context for the Maya city of Palenque, discovered in 1746 and founded in 647 AD, and the "Temple of the Inscriptions," with dates deciphered from 633 AD to 692 AD. He mentions the priest-king buried there, likely Pacal, who lived from 603 to 683 AD.

Page 10 continues Hagemeier's analysis of interpretations of the Palenque sarcophagus lid. He questions the certainty with which Dr. Ian Graham, a specialist in Maya symbols, interpreted the lid, stating that the astronautical version is "simply ridiculous." Hagemeier wonders how Graham (and Hain) can be so sure of their interpretation, which they present as definitive. He notes that other researchers, including some of Graham's colleagues, hold different opinions. Hagemeier then presents several interpretations of the relief:

1. According to the relief, a man adorned with jewelry sits leaning back over a mask of the "earth monster" (death). This figure is identified as Yum Kax, the Maize God, whose cycle of rebirth symbolizes the plant's life cycle. This interpretation is compared to Osiris.
2. The central figure is a youth resting on the "earth monster" (our planet) and observing celestial signs. A symbolic maize plant grows before him. Symbols of the feathered serpent Kukulkan are on either side, and the relief is framed by the raven god. This entire depiction is said to represent humanity's ancient longing for life after death.
3. Archaeologist Paul Rivet interprets the relief as an "Indian sitting at the altar of sacrifice," depicting a sacrificial scene where a heart is removed according to religious custom.
4. Hans-Henning Pantel suggests the Maya ruler may have died in a "Föhn storm," and the depiction shows a "native ruler" or "high priest."
5. The figure stands before the symbol of the Maize God.
6. The figure is sitting on his throne, plucking the fruit of the Tree of Life.
7. The figure is falling into the jaws of a mythological monster at the moment of death.
8. The image is interpreted as a "young girl falling into the jaws of a mythical creature."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the debate surrounding ancient astronaut theories, particularly in response to Walter Hain's critical stance, and the exploration of ancient knowledge systems like those of the Dogon people. The magazine also delves into the interpretation of ancient artifacts, such as the Palenque sarcophagus lid. The editorial stance, as expressed in the "Anmerkungen der Redaktion," favors a continued exploration of these topics, encouraging objective debate and critical analysis while defending the validity of the ancient astronaut hypothesis against what it perceives as overly dismissive or polemical critiques. The magazine actively solicits and publishes reader feedback, positioning itself as a platform for discussion within the field of fringe science and pre-astronautics.

This document, titled "Dokumentation," appears to be a section from the magazine MYSTERIA, issue number 11, dated 7/81. It primarily consists of articles and letters to the editor discussing various topics related to ancient mysteries, particularly the ancient astronaut theory. The content is in German.

Article 1: Walter Hain's Interpretation of the Palenque Relief

The article begins by presenting Walter Hain's critique of the interpretation of the Palenque relief as a spacecraft. Hain, in his book "IRRWEGE DER GESCHICHTE," argues that the figure's posture and the depiction of equipment are inconsistent with space travel. He dismisses the idea of an "oxygen device" and criticizes the "driver's seat" and the way the "rocket exhaust" is shown. Hain believes the Maya artists depicted things realistically, which contradicts the spacecraft interpretation.

However, the author notes a contradiction in Hain's approach, as he also interprets other Maya artworks as depicting symbols, non-existent things, and abstractions. The article questions how Hain reconciles these seemingly opposing views. It suggests that the Maya, like other ancient peoples, used their familiar vocabulary to describe unfamiliar phenomena, such as spacecraft, and that their art reflected this.

Article 2: The Palenque Relief and Ancient Astronauts

This section delves deeper into the Palenque relief, questioning Hain's assertion that it could not be a spacecraft. The author argues that the relief, if created by ancient astronauts, might not be perfectly to scale, especially if it was based on oral or written instructions rather than direct supervision. The author also critiques Hain's interpretation of the relief as depicting an "earth monster" and a "tree of life" symbolizing the Milky Way, finding it lacking in imagination.

Instead, the author supports the ancient astronaut interpretation, suggesting the figure is a Maya prince looking towards the Milky Way. The article also discusses the Nazca lines, refuting Hain's claim that they are too short to be landing strips, arguing that they might have been created later or that ancient astronauts possessed technology allowing for short landings.

Article 3: Atlantis and Ancient Civilizations

This part of the document includes letters to the editor and discussions about Atlantis and other ancient mysteries.

Letter to the Editor No. 3 / Hain Article:

This letter defends the existence of Atlantis, challenging Walter Hain's assertion that it never existed. The writer points to Plato's accounts as evidence and discusses the possible location of Atlantis, refuting Hain's focus on the Atlantic Ocean. The letter suggests that Atlantis was destroyed by a catastrophe or possibly by "astronaut-gods" who intervened when the Atlanteans turned to evil. It also argues that the Earth is unlikely to be unique in harboring intelligent life, and that extraterrestrials might have visited Earth and influenced human development.

Letter to the Editor No. 4 / Hain Article:

This letter addresses the Easter Island statues (Moai). The writer disputes Hain's claims about the statues, particularly regarding their weight and the method of their creation and transport. The writer suggests that extraterrestrials were likely involved in the construction and placement of the Moai, given the scale of the undertaking and the unusual features like the red hats.

Letter to the Editor No. 5 / Hain Article:

This letter criticizes Walter Hain's approach to interpreting ancient mysteries, calling it superficial and lacking in objective analysis. Regarding Atlantis, the writer reiterates that Plato's account is supported by other historical sources, including those from the Library of Alexandria, which provide independent confirmation of Atlantis. The letter details the transmission of the Atlantis story from Solon to Plato through various intermediaries, emphasizing its historical basis.

It also discusses the geographical context of Atlantis, suggesting it existed during the last Ice Age when sea levels were lower. The writer references various books and authors who support the existence of Atlantis and its location in the Atlantic.

Article on the Cheops Pyramid:

This section discusses the Cheops Pyramid, referencing books by Peter Tomkins and Otto H. Muck. It mentions that the Greek historian Herodotus provided information about the pyramid's construction. The weight of the Cheops Pyramid is discussed, with an engineer named Max von Eyth calculating it to be 5.273 million tons. The article concludes by stating that the pyramid is a remarkable structure demonstrating advanced mathematics.

Letter to the Editor No. 6 / Hain Article:

This letter begins by addressing Walter Hain's article on ancient astronauts, specifically his "proofs" that extraterrestrials visited Earth in ancient times.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are the ancient astronaut theory, the interpretation of ancient artifacts and structures (like the Palenque relief, Nazca lines, Easter Island Moai, and Cheops Pyramid) as evidence of extraterrestrial contact, and the debate surrounding historical accounts of lost civilizations like Atlantis. The editorial stance appears to be one that is open to, and often supportive of, ancient astronaut theories, frequently challenging conventional explanations and highlighting perceived inconsistencies in the arguments of skeptics like Walter Hain. The document engages with various authors and historical sources to build its case for extraterrestrial influence in human history.

This issue of MYSTERIA magazine, dated 1983 and identified as issue 27, presents a collection of articles and reviews focused on ufology, ancient mysteries, and fringe science. The magazine, published in Germany, features a cover story on the acquittal of Italian contactee Eugenio Siragusa and includes discussions on Atlantis, archaeological enigmas, and book reviews.

Articles and Features

The Atlantis Debate

The issue opens with a critical examination of the Atlantis legend, featuring the perspective of Herr Hain, who dismisses it as Plato's fantasy, citing the geological age of the Atlantic Ocean floor. The author counters this by highlighting the widespread legends of a sunken island in the Atlantic across various cultures, noting the linguistic similarities in names like Aztlan, Aralu, and Aaru, and questioning the origin of the Bimini stone monuments. The article argues that the sheer volume of consistent evidence makes it difficult to dismiss Atlantis as mere myth.

Ancient Artifacts and Interpretations

Several ancient sites and artifacts are discussed. The Palenque tombstone is analyzed as a potential depiction of a spaceship, with the artist's limited technical understanding acknowledged. The Nazca lines are also addressed, with the author questioning their sole purpose as astronomical calendars, while also noting that they are not considered landing strips by serious pre-astronautics proponents. The enduring mystery of the Easter Island statues is explored, with explanations for their transport and their enigmatic features.

UFOs and Ancient Astronauts

The magazine touches upon the broader theme of ancient astronauts, mentioning an upcoming report on an excursion to Turkey led by Erich von Däniken. The 'Sirius Mystery' is also briefly referenced. A cartoon at the end of the issue humorously depicts aliens finding Earth visits pleasant but not ideal for permanent residence.

Book Reviews and Announcements

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to reviews of books related to science fiction, fantasy, and ufology, published by Bastei Lübbe and other publishers. These include "Planet der Verlorenen" by Larry Niven, "Das Nachtland" by William Hope Hodgson, "Der Horla" by Guy de Maupassant, "Das Reich der Zeitlosen" by S. U. Wiemer, "Schattenwelt" by Poul Anderson, "Höhenflüge" (edited by Kubiak), "Der Geisterseher" by Friedrich Schiller, "Aktion Gnadentod" by Gary K. Wolf, "Diamanten der Macht" by Edmond Hamilton, "Der Heiler" by 3. Paul Wilson, "Die Janus-Gleichung" by Steven Spruill, "Der Phönix im Obsidian" by Michael Moorcock, and "Fremde aus dem All" (a collection including H.G. Wells and Isaac Asimov). Other reviewed books include "Physiologische und psychosomatische Wirkungen der Strahlen Unbekannter Himmelserscheinungen" by Adolf Schneider, "Das Geheimnis der Osterinseln" by Jean Prachan, and "Der Geist der Materie" by Jean E. Charon. The "Condon-Report" is also summarized, with commentary on its controversial nature. "Wie das Weltall und die Menschen wirklich entstanden" by Ernst Wunder is recommended for its perspective on scientific versus extraterrestrial information.

Eugenio Siragusa Acquitted

A prominent article reports on the acquittal of Eugenio Siragusa, an Italian contactee who had faced charges of enrichment and fabricating stories. The article criticizes the Italian press for its extensive pre-trial coverage that favored the accusations, contrasting it with their silence following the acquittal. The author emphasizes the importance of objective reporting and notes Siragusa's desire to leave Italy.

Other Content

The issue also includes a note about MYSTERIA's upcoming plans for local groups and conferences, though the idea of regular local groups has been abandoned. It also mentions a historical discrepancy regarding Dortmund's anniversary, suggesting it should have celebrated a 1400th anniversary earlier. A brief mention of a crystal skull from Lubaantun is also present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently champions the investigation of phenomena that lie outside mainstream scientific consensus, particularly concerning ancient mysteries and UFOs. There is a clear skepticism towards established science, as exemplified by Ernst Wunder's quote about science being "stubborn" and "blinded." The editorial stance appears to favor open-minded inquiry and the presentation of alternative theories, even if they are controversial. The magazine aims to inform its readers about a wide range of topics within the realm of "grenzwissenschaft" (fringe science) and ufology, often providing detailed book reviews and summaries of significant events or figures in the field, such as Eugenio Siragusa.