JUFOF - Issue 008 - 1980 08

Magazine Overview

Title: JOURNAL für UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: 8
Volume: 1. JAHRGANG
Date: 1980 (August)
Publisher: GEP (Gemeinschaft zur Erforschung unbekannter Phänomene)
Country: Germany
Price: DM 2,00

This issue of the German-language magazine "JOURNAL für UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research) delves into several key areas of ufology, with a strong emphasis on scientific investigation and practical application. The cover prominently features articles on "Radioactive Measurements in UFO Research" and the question "Are UFOs an Atmospheric Phenomenon?", alongside a critique of the theory of relativity.

Articles and Content

Are UFOs an Atmospheric Phenomenon?

This article, authored by Stuart Campbell and translated by G. Mosbleck, explores the hypothesis that UFOs might be natural atmospheric phenomena, possibly related to "Ball Lightings." The author suggests that rapidly rotating air masses could induce electromagnetic processes, leading to the formation of ionized plasma similar to "Ball Lightings." The article posits that UFO sightings might increase during calm, cold weather, a hypothesis that could be tested by analyzing existing UFO data. It references studies by Poher and Vallèe, and BUFORA publications.

Practical Instructions for Field Investigations: Radioactive Measurements in UFO Research

Authored by Hans-Werner Peiniger, this section provides practical guidance on using measurement techniques and equipment for UFO research, specifically focusing on radioactivity. It begins by explaining the nature of radioactivity, detailing alpha, beta, and gamma rays, and their properties. The article distinguishes between natural radioactivity (cosmic and terrestrial) and artificial radioactivity (from medical X-rays, nuclear tests, and nuclear energy). It notes that some UFO landing sites have shown localized radioactivity. The text then introduces measurement units like "Röntgen" (r), "rad," and "rem," emphasizing that there is no truly safe dose of radiation. For practical field work, the article recommends using a Geiger counter, especially a portable, mains-independent model, for assessing ambient radioactivity at suspected UFO sites. It also briefly mentions the "Stabdosimeter" as a personal radiation measurement device.

Critique of the Theory of Relativity

Gerald Mosbleck's article, "Critique of the Theory of Relativity," continues its examination, focusing on "The 'Long-Lived Meson'" (Part VI). Mosbleck questions the standard explanation for the extended lifespan of muons, which is often cited as proof of Einstein's time dilation. He argues that this is a circular argument and points out contradictions within the theory, suggesting that the Lorentz transformation might imply a time contraction rather than dilation for the meson. He also references other investigations that challenge the established model of meson creation altitude.

Reader Letters (Leserbriefe)

The "Leserbriefe" section features several reader contributions:

• Rolf Strasser from Winterthur, Switzerland, praises the journal's seriousness but strongly criticizes its coverage of Billy Meier, calling him a "spinner" and detailing his group's ongoing investigation into Meier's claims.
• Dieter von Reeken from Lüneburg, Germany, congratulates the journal on its "new look" and expresses satisfaction with the editorial choices.
• K.S. from Essen, Germany, questions the journal's direction, suggesting it's too similar to the "MUFON-Info" and that the editorial team should collaborate with MUFON-CES instead of creating a new publication.

The section also includes a general invitation for readers to submit their opinions.

GEP Activities and Information

• GEP Takes Over Distribution for Carola von Reeken Verlag: The GEP has assumed the distribution of books previously published by the Carola von Reeken Verlag, as the latter has ceased operations. All orders should now be directed to GEP. The magazine thanks the von Reeken family for their publishing efforts.
• GEP Intern: The journal's layout has been slightly modified based on a suggestion from Dieter von Reeken, with a focus on including more reader letters and advertisements on the cover.
• New Member: Hermann Franz-Josef Loczinski is welcomed as a new member.
• Discount: A "GEP-M.20%" marking indicates a 20% discount for GEP members.
• UFO Researcher Meeting in Syrgenstein: The article reports on a UFO researcher meeting organized by CENAP in Syrgenstein, Bavaria. GEP representatives Hans-Werner Peiniger and Gerald Mosbleck attended. Joe Johnson of MUFOIT presented on his group's activities. Films from the Blue Book project were shown, and GEP leaders presented films and investigative equipment. Frau Ilse von Jacobi's contactee reports and a Billy Meier film were met with skepticism, with the film being identified as a forgery. The meeting highlighted the need for more intensive investigation into UFO phenomena, particularly regarding misinterpretations of aerial phenomena as UFOs.
• Donations: Christel Schiemenz's donation of DM 12.90 is acknowledged. The journal plans to mention donations over DM 5,- by name.

Advertisements and Book Listings

• Maya Grabplatte: An advertisement features a Maya relief depicting a figure in a spacecraft-like object, questioning if Erich von Däniken was right.
• UFO ETI WORLD MASTER PLAN: An advertisement for a book by Allen Michael, detailing a plan for humanity to eliminate war, crime, disease, and poverty.
• Carola von Reeken Verlag: A listing for "Fliegende Untertassen" (Flying Saucers) by Rolf Strehl, a reprinted album with numerous illustrations.
• The Journal of UFO Studies: An announcement for a new refereed scientific journal published by the Center for UFO Studies, aiming to provide a more formal and thematic approach to UFO research, with contributions from over sixty researchers, many with Ph.D.s.
• X-RAY TESTER TYP A 1: An advertisement for a handheld Geiger-Müller counter for detecting radioactive radiation, suitable for mineral collectors, hobby geologists, and environmental monitoring.
• SPHINX MAGAZIN: Advertisements for issues of the magazine "SPHINX," listing articles on topics ranging from Buckminster Fuller and the Third Industrial Revolution to Micky Unendlich and the Datura Dossier.
• UFO DETECTOR: An advertisement for a UFO detector by Shields Enterprises, capable of detecting electromagnetic fields.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a scientific and investigative approach to UFO research. It encourages critical analysis, as seen in the critique of relativity and the skepticism towards certain contactee claims. The GEP, as the publisher, actively participates in organizing events, distributing relevant literature, and seeking collaborations. There is a clear emphasis on practical fieldwork, including the use of scientific instruments for measurement. The magazine also serves as a platform for reader engagement, fostering a community of researchers who share their findings and opinions. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational, evidence-based approach, while remaining open to exploring the UFO phenomenon from multiple perspectives, including atmospheric and physical explanations.