JUFOF - Issue 007 - 1980 07

Magazine Overview

This issue of the "JOURNAL für UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Volume 1, Issue 7, dated 1981-07, published by GEP (Gemeinschaft zur Erforschung unbekannter Phänomene) in Germany, delves into the nature of UFOs and related phenomena. The cover prominently features the question, "ARE UFOs AN ATMOSPHERIC PHENOMENON?" by Stuart Campbell, translated by G. Mosbleck, which forms the lead article.

Are UFOs an Atmospheric Phenomenon?

Stuart Campbell's article posits that UFOs are a real and consistent phenomenon, not random occurrences. He presents a diagram illustrating the diurnal cycle of UFO activity, showing a distinct peak between 2 and 3 AM. Campbell argues that this peak activity directly correlates with the lowest air temperatures of the night. He suggests that the cooling of the air, or a sudden onset of cold weather, might be the trigger for UFO activity, thus classifying them as an atmospheric phenomenon. He questions how cooling air could produce UFOs, drawing a parallel to other meteorological phenomena like tornadoes and whirlwinds, which involve the contraction and rotation of gases or liquids, possibly influenced by the Coriolis effect. He speculates that UFOs might be "miniature stars" due to similar mechanisms of air contraction and rotation.

Journal for UFO Research - Information

A section provides general information about the journal, stating that signed articles and statements in literature references and advertisements do not necessarily reflect the views of GEP. It also notes that unsolicited manuscripts and photos are not liable for, and that responsibility for plagiarized content is disclaimed. The journal is published on the 15th of each month on a non-commercial basis, with no honoraria paid. Subscription prices are listed as DM 18,- for one year and DM 10,- for half a year, with single issues costing DM 2,-. Advertising rates are also provided.

Analysis of UFO Activity and Temperature

A graph on page 2 illustrates the estimated number of UFO sightings (Type 1 observations) per hour compared to the average monthly temperature in Edinburgh for April. The graph shows a clear correlation: as the temperature drops, the number of reported UFO sightings increases, peaking during the coldest hours and decreasing as the temperature stabilizes or rises. The article suggests that cooling produces precipitation and contraction, and that either or both mechanisms could be responsible for UFO production. It reiterates G. Burrows' hypothesis that UFOs might be vortices, similar to tornadoes, caused by contracting fluids or gases, accelerated by concentration.

Securing Traces of UFO Landings

Another section discusses the GEP's acquisition of suitable barrier materials for securing potential UFO landing traces. This includes red-and-white striped barrier poles with polyethylene tape and warning signs (DIN 4818) stating "Unauthorized Access Forbidden." Additionally, warning signs for radiation safety (DIN 25430) have been obtained, indicating "Restricted Area - No Entry - Caution Radiation." The article promises to detail procedures for handling suspected landing sites in a future issue. A photograph demonstrates a cordoned-off area with the aforementioned signs.

Practical Instructions for Field Investigations: Cloud Forms

Part 7 of a series on practical field investigations, authored by Hans-Werner Peiniger, focuses on identifying cloud forms. It emphasizes the importance of noting the cloud cover at the time of a UFO sighting, as witnesses often recall this detail. The article lists and describes various cloud types, including Cumulus (Cu), Stratocumulus (Sc), Cumulonimbus (Cb), Cirrocumulus (Cc), Stratus (St), Nimbostratus (Ns), Altocumulus (Ac), Altostratus (As), and Cirrus (Ci), along with their typical altitudes. It notes that in winter, mid- and high-level clouds may appear at lower altitudes. The information is presented as crucial for detailed observation and calculation, particularly when an object is seen within or partially obscured by clouds.

Calculation Example for UFO Size

An example calculation is provided for determining the size of a UFO. Based on a sighting where the object was observed at 45 degrees above the horizon and had an apparent diameter of 1.5 cm in a 57 cm test, with an estimated distance of 1400 meters (derived from a 1 cm to 200 meter scale), the calculated size of the object is approximately 37.21 meters. The article acknowledges that this calculation is an approximation due to uncertainties in cloud height.

Critique of the Theory of Relativity

Gerald Mosbleck's article, "THE CRITIQUE OF THE THEORY OF RELATIVITY, Part V: The So-Called Proofs," challenges the experimental evidence supporting Einstein's theories. Mosbleck argues that physicists have sought to prove relativity by interpreting experimental results to fit the theory, often dismissing contradictory findings. He focuses on the transverse Doppler effect, as demonstrated by Ives and Stilwell's experiment with accelerated hydrogen ions. While this experiment showed a frequency shift consistent with the Lorentz transformation and time dilation, Mosbleck contends that this interpretation is flawed. He argues that the Doppler effect itself does not imply time dilation and that the observed phenomenon is not a direct consequence of time dilation but rather a physical process that slows down atomic vibrations. He also points out potential errors in the experimental setup, such as the measurement of side-emitted radiation.

Book Reviews and New Literature

The issue includes several book reviews and listings of new literature related to UFOs and space. These include:

• "THE OUTER SPACE CONNECTION" by Alan and Sally Landsburg
• "SOMEONE ELSE IS ON OUR MOON" by George H. Leonard
• "UFOS AND THEIR MISSION IMPOSSIBLE" by Dr. Clifford Wilson
• "THE UFONAUTS" by Prof. Hans Holzer
• "THE BIBLE AND FLYING SAUCERS" by Barry H. Downing
• "MIB - ALIENS AMONG US" by Timothy Green Beckley

A review of Rolf Strehl's 1953 book "FLIEGENDE UNTERTASSEN" (Flying Saucers) is featured. The review praises Strehl's work for its comprehensive and unbiased approach to the UFO phenomenon, despite some outdated data regarding planetary habitability. The book is presented as a reprint of the original, with 50 pages and 84 black-and-white illustrations, priced at DM 23.

Another review discusses Arthur Bray's "THE UFO CONNECTION," which examines UFOs from various perspectives, including government interest, potential links to parallel universes, and other mysterious phenomena like telepathy and astrology. The book concludes with a warning about humanity's future if self-destructive tendencies are not heeded.

Several other books are listed under "NEUE LITERATUR," including "AUF INS ALL" (Into All), a comprehensive work on future human existence in space, featuring contributions from numerous well-known authors.

Other Publications and Announcements

SSUS Publications is featured, offering titles like "OUTER SPACE HUMOR," "HIDDEN PLANETS," and "SUBTERRANEAN WORLDS OF PLANET EARTH." A special offer is made for Bernard O'Connor's "HOW TO INVESTIGATE UFOS - A STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO PROFESSIONAL RESEARCH TECHNIQUES."

A notice warns readers about "SAMISDAT PUBL. LTD." from Canada, stating that the company primarily distributes "neo-Nazi propaganda material" and advises against purchasing books like "UFOS - NAZI SECRET WEAPON?"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFOs, with a particular focus on atmospheric correlations. The journal appears to adopt a serious, research-oriented stance, encouraging detailed observation and analysis. There is a critical perspective on established scientific theories, as evidenced by the critique of relativity. The publication also engages with the broader UFO literature, reviewing books and offering practical guidance to enthusiasts. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, while also maintaining a critical and cautious approach to information, as seen in the warning about propaganda material. The journal also emphasizes the importance of accurate reporting and investigation techniques within the UFO community.