JUFOF - Issue 003 - 1980 03

Magazine Overview

Title: JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: 3
Volume: 1980
Date: March 1980
Publisher: Gemeinschaft zur Erforschung unbekannter Phänomene -GEP-
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research) delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, combining eyewitness accounts, technical analysis, and critical scientific discourse.

UFO over Nachrodt-Wiblingwerde: First Results

The lead article details a significant UFO sighting that occurred on November 24, 1979, in Nachrodt-Wiblingwerde, Germany. The report, based on interviews conducted by Hans-Werner Peiniger and Gerald Mosbleck, describes an object observed by four witnesses (Christel Sch., Axel Sch., Diana Sch., and Jürgen B.) around 6:30 PM. The object, described as orange-yellow with a pulsating color change, hovered at an altitude of 14 degrees above the horizon for approximately three minutes. The witnesses noted a "brightness difference" on the ground where the object seemed to make contact. The object was silent and appeared to have a distinct core and an outer field with pulsating, "point-like formations." The apparent brightness was measured at 320 lux at a 30 cm distance using a 150 W lamp, with a TASCO 10x50 field scope used for observation. The object suddenly disappeared. The report includes a reliability index of 87.48% for the witnesses.

Technique All-Important: Monitoring for Radioactivity a Challenge

This section, authored by Tommy Roy Blann, Director of the Texas UFO Study Group, focuses on the technical aspects of monitoring radioactivity, particularly in relation to UFO investigations. It emphasizes the importance of knowing the Maximum Permissible Dose Equivalent (MPD) and defines safe levels of permissible dose, distinguishing between different types of radiation (Gamma, Beta, X-rays, thermal neutrons, fast neutrons, alpha particles) and their respective Quality Factors (QF). The article explains that the dose equivalent in rems is numerically equal to the absorbed dose in rads multiplied by the QF and other modifying factors. It also highlights the cumulative nature of radiation exposure.

Rumors about NASA's Space Undertakings

Written by Werner Walter of CENAP-Mannheim, this article addresses persistent rumors and alleged UFO sightings related to NASA's space missions, particularly the Apollo program. It debunks claims that NASA has officially confirmed UFO evidence, citing reports from sources like ESOTERA and UFO INVESTIGATOR. The author critically examines claims about Apollo 11 astronauts observing and photographing UFOs, and references a statement from John McLeaish of NASA's Public Relations Office denying such observations. The article suggests that many such claims are fabricated or misinterpreted, possibly due to a desire to create sensation. It also mentions the work of "Cosmic Brotherhood Association International" and the "UFO News" in propagating these rumors. The CENAP team reportedly reviewed NASA film material and concluded that alleged UFOs in Apollo footage were likely lens flares or reflections, not actual alien craft.

Practical Instructions for "Field Investigations" - Part 4: Azimuth Measurements

Authored by Hans-Werner Peiniger, this section provides practical guidance for UFO researchers. It focuses on azimuth measurements, explaining how to use a compass to determine the precise direction of an observed object relative to North (0°/360°). The article illustrates the concept with a schematic compass rose and explains the importance of proper compass calibration. It also discusses the use of more advanced instruments like prism compasses for accurate measurements, detailing their advantages over standard magnetic compasses and providing a source for purchasing such equipment.

Two Biologists Have Solved the Riddle of Flying Saucers

This newspaper report presents a scientific explanation for some UFO sightings, attributing them to swarms of insects. According to American scientists, these insects, when flying through electrically charged atmospheric fields, become charged themselves and emit a bluish light. The report specifically mentions a correlation between UFO sightings in Utah between 1965 and 1968 and large swarms of spruce moths. It is stated that a single insect can emit light visible from six meters, and that these swarms can extend for hundreds of kilometers, creating an appearance suggestive of UFOs.

The Critique of the Theory of Relativity

This multi-part article by Gerald Mosbleck begins a critical examination of Einstein's theory of relativity. The author acknowledges the controversial nature of questioning such a fundamental theory but finds the arguments compelling. The first part focuses on the Michelson-Morley experiment, which was conducted in 1887 to measure the hypothetical "aether wind." The article explains the experimental setup and the expected outcome if an aether existed. However, the experiment yielded a null result, meaning no shift in the interference pattern was observed, contradicting the aether theory. The author discusses how Einstein used this result to develop his theory of relativity, proposing that the speed of light is constant for all observers and that space and time are relative to the observer's motion. The article also touches upon the contributions of Hendrik A. Lorentz and his hypothesis of length contraction due to electromagnetic forces. The author suggests that Einstein's theory is constructed on axiomatic postulates rather than solely on empirical evidence, and that the Michelson-Morley experiment, when applied to the Earth, is not a valid inertial system.

Press Releases: UFOs over Neuenrade! Unexplained Light Phenomena Observed

This section reports on UFO sightings in Neuenrade, Germany, around New Year's night 1980. The Haucke family observed a large, pinkish-red, pulsating fireball with white dots moving slowly across the sky for about 10 minutes before disappearing. Other citizens also reported seeing the phenomenon, noting its speed was too fast for an aircraft. One observer suggested it might have been a military exercise. Another report from December 1979 describes a glowing fireball with a tail seen near Neuenrade, which did not sound like a burning aircraft and did not burn out like a shooting star, exhibiting similar flight characteristics to the New Year's Eve sighting.

GEP News

This section provides updates from the GEP, including a list of newly acquired books related to UFO research and astronomy, such as the MUFON UFO Symposium Proceedings and "How to Investigate UFOs." It also welcomes new members Harald Bischof and Dierk Schulte. Additionally, it lists astronomical data for April 1980, including moon phases and planetary positions (Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn), and mentions ongoing investigations by GEP into the Neuenrade sightings.

Offers

This section lists various items available for purchase, including a cassette tape titled "UFOs: The Credibility Factor" featuring interviews with UFO researchers and witnesses, meteorite samples (stone, iron, stony-iron), and tektites. It also lists several books for sale, such as "The Second Creation," "The Future Waits Not," and "The Riddle of the Stigmatized."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include detailed eyewitness accounts of UFO sightings, scientific analysis of potential explanations (such as insect swarms and radioactivity), and critical examination of established scientific theories like relativity. The GEP, as the publisher, appears to be actively involved in investigating UFO phenomena, acquiring relevant literature, and providing practical guidance to researchers. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, encouraging critical thinking and empirical investigation while also debunking sensationalist claims and misinformation. The critique of relativity theory suggests a willingness to challenge even fundamental scientific concepts if evidence warrants it.