ArGe Phantopia
The lecture is on Sunday, 18.01.2026 in the Cafe Böcklein Ilmenaufrom 15:00 hrs.
Free admission
(donations welcome)
It pays to arrive early – places may be limited.
Supported by
Introduction to paracryptozoology – with Dr. W. Astersen
Phantopia & the Paracryptozoological Society present
Immerse yourself in the fascinating (semi-)scientific world of paracryptozoology – the discipline that deals with creatures that are so thoroughly extinct that they may never have existed.
In this introduction “Dr.” W. Astersen (Paracryptozoological Society) through the basics, ways of thinking and typical pitfalls of paracryptozoological research: How do you recognize serious trace evidence? What role do eyewitness reports, artifacts, illustrative traditions play – and why is methodological curiosity often more important than definitive answers?
Behind the figure of Dr. W. Astersen is the author and director Christian von Aster, who has been addressing the topic in lectures and stage formats for years.
Date & time: Sunday, 18.01.2026 – 15:00
Location: Café Böcklein, Straße des Friedens 32, 98693 Ilmenau
Admission: free (donations welcome)
Organizer: Phantopia – Paracryptozoological Society
Note: It pays to arrive early – places may be limited.
About the speaker: Christian von Aster
Christian von Aster is a German writer, director and stage artist who has been active in German-language fantasy for many years. In his texts, readings and performances, he combines fantasy, mythology and humor with narrative precision.
As “Dr. W. Astersen”, he performs for the Paracryptozoological Society and leads his audience with tongue-in-cheek seriousness into the world of creatures that are so thoroughly extinct that they may never have existed. His lectures are as entertaining as they are witty.
