JOURNAL für UFO-FORSCHUNG

Magazine Overview

This issue of the German magazine 'JOURNAL für UFO-FORSCHUNG' (Journal for UFO Research), dated October 1980, is the 10th issue of its 1st volume. It is published by GEP (Gemeinschaft zur Erforschung unbekannter Phänomene) and costs DM 2.00. The cover prominently features an article on 'RADIOAKTIVE MESSUNGEN IN DER UFO-FORSCHUNG' (Radioactive Measurements in UFO Research) and an interview with Karl L. Veit, President of DUIST.

Articles and Features

Radioactive Measurements in UFO Research

This practical guide by Hans-Werner Peiniger explains two key terms for Geiger counters: 'Nulleffekt' (null effect) and 'Totzeit' (dead time). The null effect is the background radiation, and for the 'GEP-Geigerzähler', it is no more than 160 Imp/min. A UFO landing site must show readings higher than this to be considered significant. Dead time is the period after ionization when the counter cannot register further radiation. The article advises measuring potential UFO landing sites for dangerous radiation (over 1 mR/h) before proceeding with detailed measurements, suggesting a grid system for mapping and analysis, and recommending that a competent scientist interpret the results. A photo shows GEP leader Gerald Mosbleck and Hans-Werner Peiniger conducting a simulated measurement of a fictional weak radiation source, which turned out to be a 1963 smoke grenade.

GEP Interview: Karl L. Veit

In an interview, Karl L. Veit, President of DUIST (Deutsche UFO-Studiengesellschaft), addresses criticism from younger UFO research groups, attributing it to "lack of discipline and frightening ignorance of essential areas of knowledge." He asserts that UFO research spans both scientific and religious domains, citing his own essay "The Significance of Ufology in the Cosmic Aspect and Culmination in the Divine." Veit dismisses organizations like MUFON, CENAP, and PEGAP as not posing a "competition" to DUIST, viewing MUFON as a partial complement and the others as lacking the necessary experience and qualifications, even accusing some of them of fraud to gain attention. He defends prioritizing 'contactee' reports, arguing that they are crucial for understanding the universe and offer solutions to humanity's self-destructive path in technology, environmental pollution, and war politics. He believes that dismissing contactees stems from ignorance of supraphysics and vibrational theory, creating a divide between materialist skeptics and true scientists. Veit also confirms DUIST's long-standing research into pre-astronautics, considering extraterrestrial landings in ancient times not just possible but evident, supported by artifacts and current extraterrestrial visitations. He highlights DUIST's 30-year history as a pioneer in UFO research with global publications and lectures.

Canadian Sighting

This section details a sighting by Donat Gallant, an observer from New Annan, Prince Edward Island, Canada, on January 25, 1980. Gallant reported observing a low-flying UFO for 25 minutes while driving home. The object, described as two stacked saucers with a red color and an estimated diameter of 40 feet, hovered at altitudes between 150-200 feet and 600 feet. No interference was noted with his car's engine or radio. The Canadian Forces Base in Summerside reported no radar contact or aircraft in the area at the time. An investigation by NICAP's Wayne Wright found no discrepancies in Gallant's report.

Ausgegraben - Older Books on the Possibility of Extraterrestrial Life (Part I)

This section reviews books related to extraterrestrial life. It discusses Hans K. Kaiser's "Physical Conditions and Life Conditions on Other Planets," originally published in 1952 and reissued in 1957. Kaiser's work, based on pre-WWII research and post-war efforts, explored the conditions necessary for organic life on planets within and outside our solar system. He concluded that human-like life is unlikely elsewhere, with Mars being a potential home for primitive vegetation. He also considered the possibility of silicon-based life forms. The review notes that Kaiser's core message remains relevant despite new discoveries.

Other Brief Reports

• UFOs over Bergkamen: Two witnesses reported seeing a bright, silent object moving at high speed over Bergkamen, Germany, on September 5, 1980.
• UFO over Frankenpot: A UFO was sighted in Frankenpot, Germany, on August 5, 1980, described as a bright object hovering for 30 seconds at an altitude of 150 feet.

Meteorites and Tektites

A small advertisement offers meteorites and tektites for sale, with prices starting from DM 30,-.

Book Review: Ernst Wunder - 'Wir das Weltall und die Menschen wirklich entstanden?'

This is a review of Ernst Wunder's book, which explores the origins of the universe and humanity. The review highlights that the book is based on empirical data and scientific findings, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of cosmic and human evolution. It mentions that the book is available in a 250-page format.

Extraterrestrial Intelligence

A brief mention of 'Extraterrestrial Intelligence' as a topic within the context of UFO research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on empirical UFO research, scientific investigation methods (like radioactive measurements), and the analysis of sightings. There is a strong emphasis on the scientific credibility of UFO research, as evidenced by the interview with Karl L. Veit, who advocates for a rigorous, scientific approach while also acknowledging the potential for broader, even spiritual, implications. The publication also engages with historical aspects of the field, including book reviews and discussions of early research. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, aiming to provide detailed reports and analyses of UFO phenomena, while also being critical of unsubstantiated claims or less rigorous approaches within the UFO community.