Mysteria - Issue 53

Magazine Overview

This issue of MYSTERIA, number 53, from the 6th year of publication, dated June 25, 1984, with a cover price of DM 3.50, is dedicated to the theme of space travel and pre-astronautics. The cover prominently features designs of rockets and the headline "Die Raumfahrt war sein Schicksal" (Space Travel was his Destiny), commemorating the 90th birthday of Professor Dr. Hermann Oberth.

Articles and Features

Die Raumfahrt war sein Schicksal (Space Travel was his Destiny)

This feature, written by Hellmuth Hoffmann, celebrates the 90th birthday of Professor Dr. Hermann Oberth, the "Father of Space Travel." It details Oberth's fascination with spaceflight, sparked by Jules Verne's novel, and his early theoretical work on large rockets. The article highlights Oberth's design for a 25-meter-long rocket in 1917 and his later involvement in space projects in the US. It also touches upon his philosophical ideas and his book "Wählerfibel für ein Weltparlament" (Voter's Guide for a World Parliament), advocating for global cooperation to solve humanity's problems. The article notes that Oberth's early work, including his book "Wege zur Raumschiffahrt" (Ways to Spaceflight), described concepts like using Jupiter's gravity for acceleration, which are now standard in planetary space probes. The text also mentions the historical context of rocket development, including the contributions of Conrad Haas, who designed multi-stage rockets in the 16th century in Hermannstadt (now Sibiu, Romania), Oberth's birthplace.

Eine haarsträubende Geschichte (A Hair-Raising Story)

Authored by Axel Ertelt, this article discusses a peculiar interpretation of the Palenque sarcophagus lid, suggesting the figure is not an astronaut but a "boatman" involved in a sexual act, based on an analysis of ancient Celtic coin depictions by Jürgen Hoffmann-Heyden. Ertelt finds this interpretation highly improbable and questions its scientific validity.

Kommen Killerviren aus dem All? (Are Killer Viruses Coming from Space?)

Wolfgang Schröder investigates the origins of diseases, particularly AIDS. The article details the symptoms of AIDS and the global efforts to combat it. It mentions the discovery of the virus (HTLV-III/LAV) and the development of a test for it. Schröder then delves into the hypothesis, proposed by astrophysicists Sir Fred Hoyle and Chandra Wickramasinghe, that comets may have brought "evolution-triggering organic material" and dangerous viruses to Earth, potentially explaining the emergence of devastating diseases throughout history. The article also briefly touches upon the NASA astronauts' quarantine after the Apollo 11 mission as a precautionary measure against potential extraterrestrial contamination.

UFOs - Tatsachen oder Phantasie? (UFOs - Facts or Fantasy?)

Colonel James B. Irwin, an Apollo-15 astronaut, shares his perspective on UFOs. He states that most UFO sightings (95%) can be explained as natural phenomena or known objects like balloons and aircraft. While acknowledging that some objects remain unidentified, he expresses skepticism about Earth being visited by extraterrestrial civilizations, believing that advanced civilizations would likely engage in more systematic exploration rather than brief, nocturnal visits. Irwin concludes by suggesting that the true hope for humanity lies in faith in Jesus Christ, interpreting UFO sightings as signs of the end times.

Kurz notiert... (Briefly Noted...)

• This section provides a collection of short news items:
• Cuzco vom Verfall bedroht: The ancient Inca city of Cuzco is threatened by erosion.
• UFO-"Witzbold" in Höxter: A prankster in Höxter used a balloon with a fire to simulate a UFO sighting.
• 1934 Was vor 50 Jahren Schlagzeilen machte: Two historical news snippets from 1934 are presented: one about the Loch Ness Monster being identified as a killer whale, and another about a mysterious red-haired man in Danish forests.
• Der älteste Mensch war ein alter Esel!: A report about skull fragments found in Spain, initially thought to be human, were later identified as belonging to a donkey.
• Brachten UFOs Silvestergrüße?: CENAP-Heilbronn warns that New Year's Eve "UFO" sightings are likely just mini hot-air balloons.
• Peter Kolosimo unerwartet verstorben: The death of Italian author Peter Kolosimo, a pioneer in pre-astronautics, is reported.
• Hopi-Resolution für die UNO: The Hopi Indian community has drafted a resolution for the UN, seeking to share a message of survival.
• Und sie bewegen sich doch!: Scientists have confirmed the Earth's crust is moving at about 1.5 cm per year, validating Alfred Wegener's continental drift theory and raising concerns about potential "geo-apocalypses."
• Die ganze Milchstraße mit Menschen bevölkert: Futurist Eric M. Jones predicts humans will colonize the Milky Way within millions of years.
• Die vorläufig letzte Sonnenfinsternis: The May solar eclipse was the last one visible from Europe for some time.

UFOs und DUIST-Kongresse auf Video (UFOs and DUIST Congresses on Video)

Klaus Webner is planning to release a 20-minute video cassette titled "UFO's in aller Munde" (UFOs in Everyone's Mouth), featuring historical UFO footage, including George Adamski, DUIST congresses, and an American UFO film from 1957. The video will be presented in a documentary style.

AAS-Reisen auf Video (AAS Travels on Video)

Axel Ertelt is producing a 3-hour video production, "AAS-Reisen mit Erich von Däniken" (AAS Travels with Erich von Däniken), covering AAS expeditions from 1982-1984. This video will be available on VHS.

Der MYSTERIA-Kommentar: Gedanken zur Prä-Astronautik (The MYSTERIA Commentary: Thoughts on Pre-Astronautics)

Sabine Merkelbach reflects on the challenges of presenting pre-astronautics theories. She notes that while the field is fascinating, it can appear confusing and contradictory to outsiders. Merkelbach emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and avoiding sensationalism, urging proponents of pre-astronautics to present their arguments coherently to gain wider acceptance.

Reiseziel: Carnac (Destination: Carnac)

This article by Hans-Werner Sachmann and Axel Ertelt, with photos by Thomas A. Conrads, details a study trip organized by the Ancient Astronaut Society (AAS) to Carnac, Brittany. The trip focused on the mysterious megalithic stone settings, exploring the achievements of ancient builders. The article mentions the collaboration with Erich von Däniken and local expert Rudolf Kutzer. It describes the impressive scale of the monoliths and the enchanting landscape of Brittany.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes research into UFO phenomena and pre-astronautics, often questioning conventional scientific explanations and exploring alternative theories. There's a strong emphasis on historical evidence, ancient civilizations, and the potential for extraterrestrial influence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to consider unconventional ideas while also promoting critical thinking and well-researched arguments. The magazine also fosters a sense of community among its readers through events like the MYSTERIA meetings and by providing platforms for discussion and information sharing.

This issue of MYSTERIA, identified as issue 51, focuses on the theme "They Come from Other Worlds" and explores "On the Trail of Cosmic Visitors." The cover features artwork suggesting ancient astronauts and extraterrestrial contact. The magazine delves into various aspects of unexplained phenomena, ancient mysteries, and reader contributions.

Megalithic Structures and Ancient Civilizations

The issue extensively covers megalithic sites, particularly in France, such as Carnac, Locmariaquer, Erdeven, and Quiberon. It describes various types of structures including menhirs (e.g., "Le Manio I," "Le Manio II," "Men er Hroec'h"), stone rows (alignments like "Le Menec," "Kermario," "Kerlescan"), cromlechs (stone circles), and dolmens (e.g., "Dolmen coude de pierres plattes," "Crucuno"). The authors express awe at these ancient constructions, noting that some may predate the Egyptian pyramids. The exact purpose of these sites remains a subject of debate, with theories ranging from astronomical observatories to religious cult sites. The limitations of dating methods like C-14 are also discussed in relation to determining the age of these structures.

Book Reviews and Articles

Several books are reviewed, including:

• "Cheops-Pyramide, Irdischer Schlüssel zum Mars-Mond-Rätsel" by Willy Kross, which investigates potential links between the Cheops Pyramid and Mars.
• "...und kamen auf feurigen Drachen" by Peter Krassa, exploring UFO sightings in China and their historical context.
• "Der Heilige Gral und seine Erben" by Lincoln/Baigent/Leigh, which examines biblical claims and suggests Jesus may have survived the crucifixion.
• "Deutsche und Polen: Ein Jahrtausend gemeinsamer Geschichte" by Alfred Schickel, a historical overview of German-Polish relations.
• "Wenn die Not am größten..." by Hermann Ilg, a short publication on critical world situations.
• "Projekt UFO (I)" by Werner Walter, the first volume of a series detailing early US government UFO investigations.
• "Die Epoche der 'Engel'" by Hans-Werner Sachmann, which analyzes biblical accounts of angels through a pre-astronautic lens.
• "Sie kommen von anderen Welten" by Herbert Mohren and Axel Ertelt, discussing UFOs and ancient astronauts.

Articles also touch upon the "Ugha Mongulala" controversy, the "Chronicle of Akakor," and the Bermuda Triangle, with reader contributions offering diverse perspectives.

Reader Mail and Editorial Stance

The "Leserbriefkasten" (Reader Mailbox) section features numerous letters from readers. Some express appreciation for the magazine's content and layout, while others raise criticisms or offer alternative explanations for reported phenomena. Topics include the perceived overvaluation of Dieter Brügmann's work, the authenticity of UFO photos, and debates surrounding the Bermuda Triangle. The editorial responses often clarify points, defend the magazine's editorial choices, and emphasize the right to free expression while maintaining a critical approach.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of ancient mysteries, the possibility of extraterrestrial influence on human history (pre-astronautics), and the ongoing investigation of UFO phenomena. The magazine appears to foster a critical yet open-minded approach, encouraging readers to question established narratives and consider alternative explanations. The editorial stance is to present diverse viewpoints and facilitate discussion within the realm of fringe science and unexplained phenomena, while also addressing reader feedback and correcting any factual errors.