JUFOF - Issue 021 - 1982 03

Magazine Overview

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Volume 3, Number 3, dated May/June 1982, is published by GEP (Gemeinschaft zur Erforschung unbekannter Phänomene B.V.) and costs DM 3.50. The cover prominently features the question "DEUTSCHE FLUGKREISEL GAB'S DIE ?" (Did German Flying Discs Exist?) and "UFO ÜBER WESTERHEVER?" (UFO Over Westerhever?), along with a bibliography for 1981 and other featured articles.

GEP: Community for the Research of Unknown Phenomena

The GEP, a young team established in 1972, aims to investigate UFO phenomena on a "pre-scientific" basis, focusing on collecting and statistically analyzing observational data. They specialize in "field investigations," which include on-site data gathering through witness interviews, trace analysis, and measurements using specialized equipment like compasses, Geiger counters, and magnetometers. Their findings are published in the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG." The GEP believes that UFO problems should be approached from a natural science perspective, with a particular interest in electromagnetic effects. They are skeptical of sensational "contactee" reports and consider the hypothesis of extraterrestrial spacecraft to be premature. The article invites interested individuals to contact them for membership or to share unpublished UFO sightings.

Rückblick (Retrospective)

This section reports on a UFO conference held in Syrgenstein, Germany, from September 19-20, organized by CENAP (Centrales Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Phänomene). The conference, initially planned internationally, was reduced to a national level due to unforeseen circumstances, including the Turkish UFO friends landing their vehicle in a ditch and the Austrian delegation's unexplained absence. The meeting primarily involved CENAP and the German GEP. The GEP's research approach is highlighted, emphasizing their use of sophisticated questionnaires to assess witnesses and their psychological backgrounds. They also possess a range of technical equipment for field investigations, including sensitive compasses, Geiger counters, Polaroid cameras, and devices for measuring electrostatic fields and ground temperature. The article notes that while they have specialized in acquiring equipment for field investigations, they lack resources for larger items like a van, and their equipment is currently transportable in a car trunk.

UFO ÜBER WESTERHEVER?

This article details a UFO sighting reported by Ingo Klar, a 38-year-old businessman from Dortmund, which occurred in February 1977 near Westerhever on the North Sea coast. Klar observed a bright, planet-sized object exhibiting rapid, erratic movements, including zig-zag patterns, stops, and starts, which he described as "dancing" across the sky. He estimated its angular velocity to be faster than a Starfighter. The observation lasted about 30 minutes. Klar reported feeling uneasy and experiencing heart palpitations and goosebumps. He also recounted a separate sighting by a fisherman's wife in Westerdeichstrich in December 1975, who saw a silent, red, football-sized object moving horizontally at roof height before making a sharp turn and disappearing. Contact attempts with the witness were unsuccessful.

Guido S. Sighting

Guido S., an 11-year-old from Lüdenscheid, reported seeing a star-shaped white object flying in a straight line on October 26, 1980, with his parents and younger sister. He meticulously documented the sighting details and concluded it could not be a comet, meteor, rocket, or satellite. The article acknowledges this as a typical satellite observation but commends the young witness for his objective reporting.

BÜCHER 50% BILLIGER! (Books 50% Cheaper!)

This is an advertisement for discounted books on UFOs, pre-astronautics, PSI, yoga, and health, offering a free catalog from Dipl.-Biologe Wolfgang Roller.

DEUTSCHE FLUGKREISEL GAB'S DIE ? (Did German Flying Discs Exist?)

This extensive article investigates the claims of German flying discs developed during World War II. It discusses reports from the post-war era (starting around 1950) about "flying saucers" or "flying discs" allegedly developed and tested by the Germans. Two main models are mentioned: one by Captain Schriever and another by Dr. Ing. Miethe, both credited with fantastic flight capabilities. The article traces the origins of Schriever's concept to 1941 or 1942, with alleged construction and testing phases in 1943-1945. However, it highlights numerous contradictions and inconsistencies in the accounts regarding dates, construction, and the alleged destruction or disappearance of the prototypes. The article critically examines the technical feasibility of such devices, particularly Schriever's design, concluding that it was "technically impossible" due to material shortages, the complexity of the propulsion systems, and the immense forces involved. It also notes the absence of any mention of these alleged flying discs in official German wartime documents, such as Speer's ministry records or war diaries, leading to the conclusion that these devices likely never existed or flew.

PROVISORISCHE BAUBESCHREIBUNG DES SCHRIEVERSCHEN FLUGKREISELS (Provisional Construction Description of the Schriever Flying Disc)

This section provides a technical description of Schriever's alleged flying disc, based on a manuscript by the inventor. It details a lens-shaped fuselage with a rotating disc system, powered by jet engines. The description includes specifications for the cabin, command center, navigation equipment, and propulsion systems, as well as landing gear alternatives. It also mentions the use of 21 blades on the disc for stabilization and drag reduction, and three jet engines for propulsion.

LEICHTGLÄUBIGKEIT KRITIKLOSER LESER (Credulity of Uncritical Readers)

This piece criticizes the uncritical acceptance of sensational stories in the post-war era, particularly regarding alleged secret weapons of the Third Reich. It uses the example of a "flying saucer" reported in the VFW-Fokker company's works magazine in 1972, which was intended as a joke but was taken seriously by many readers, leading to numerous inquiries. The article points out that the depicted object was a simple model made from everyday materials.

EXTRATERRESTRISCHE INTELLIGENZEN BIBLIOGRAPHIE 1981 (Extraterrestrial Intelligences Bibliography 1981)

This is a continuation of a bibliography on extraterrestrial intelligence, covering publications from 1981. It lists numerous books and articles, providing author, title, publisher, page count, and sometimes a brief description or reference to previous entries. The bibliography is organized numerically and includes works on topics such as space travel, alien civilizations, ancient astronauts, and UFO reports. Notable entries include works by George Adamski, Isaac Asimov, Illo Brand, Reinhard Breuer, and Erich von Däniken.

MARSHA LANE: NAHE BEGEGNUNG DER RADAR - VISUELLEN - ART (Marsha Lane: Close Encounter of the Radar-Visual Type)

This article details a significant UFO event that occurred on May 14, 1978, in the Ocala National Park, Florida, USA. The sighting involved both visual and radar detection by the US Navy. Hundreds of witnesses reportedly saw the object. The article emphasizes that this event is considered one of the most comprehensive UFO cases in recent years. The US Navy confirmed the detection of "flying objects" but maintained that this did not necessarily imply extraterrestrial spacecraft. The sighting involved an object with flashing lights observed within a large, subtropical, wilderness area. The Pinecastle Electronic Warfare Range, a Marine facility, was involved in the detection. The article also mentions reports from civilians in the Silver Glen Springs area, including a fisherman named Justin "Rocky" Morgan, who described an object approximately 50-60 feet in diameter with flashing lights. The local sheriff's office reportedly showed little interest in the report.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of UFO phenomena, the critical examination of historical claims (particularly regarding German flying discs), and the presentation of witness testimonies. The GEP's editorial stance appears to be one of scientific inquiry, skepticism towards sensationalism, and a focus on empirical data collection and analysis. They aim to approach the UFO problem from a natural science perspective, while acknowledging the complexity and the need for careful investigation. The issue also demonstrates a commitment to providing a comprehensive bibliography of relevant literature and exploring various facets of the UFO topic, from historical accounts to contemporary sightings.

This issue of JUFOF, dated September 1978, focuses on the significant Pinecastle UFO sighting and explores the political landscape surrounding the UFO phenomenon, particularly in Germany and the USA. It also includes reviews of several UFO-related books and a film.

The Pinecastle Sighting

The lead article details the Pinecastle sighting, where a radar technician, Timothy Collins, detected an unidentified object on radar. The object exhibited extraordinary speed and maneuverability, including a 180-degree turn in an instant, which was beyond the capabilities of known aircraft. Collins stated, "I have never seen anything like it and I don't want to see it again." The object was also visually observed by witnesses, described as being over 50 feet in diameter with a bright, pulsating light at its center. Marine representatives noted a two-hour period of visual and radar contact. Despite attempts, no radio contact was established. Public Affairs Officer Young explained that radio contact is usually only possible if the base frequency is known, which was not the case here. Reporters from the Ocala STARBANNER found an atmosphere of mystery among the personnel. Lt.Commander John Sullivan noted that the computer could not identify the object. TD-AA Carol Snyder described seeing "three very dim lights, red, white, and green," which appeared "lively." The incident is considered one of the most substantial sightings in American history.

Politicians and UFOs

Roland Gehardt's article, "Politiker Über UFOs" (Politicians on UFOs), investigates the public statements and stances of politicians regarding the UFO phenomenon. In the USA, former presidents like Jimmy Carter, Barry Goldwater, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, and Gerald Ford have made statements acknowledging or expressing interest in UFOs. Carter reportedly stated he had seen a UFO and was convinced of their existence. Goldwater expressed difficulty in believing Earth is the only planet with intelligent life and stated he would believe reports from experienced pilots and experts. Eisenhower doubted that flying saucers came from a single planet, and Kennedy believed we are visited by spacecraft from other worlds. Gerald Ford mentioned 646 UFO sightings for which no plausible explanation could be found by American scientists.

In contrast, the Eastern Bloc, specifically the Soviet Union, appears to have a more dismissive official stance. An article in the semi-official newspaper Pravda from January 9, 1961, stated that citizens reporting sightings of flying saucers were "mentally weak or lying." This approach aimed to discourage such reports.

In West Germany, the situation is similar to the Eastern Bloc, with scientists being more vocal than politicians. Gehardt's research found very few statements from German politicians. Chancellor Helmut Schmidt reportedly refused to comment. Defense Minister Hans Apel, through his information service, stated that there were no investigations into UFOs within the ministry due to a "lack of particular significance." Minister Apel saw no reason to form an opinion on the topic. However, Dr. Volker Hauff, then Federal Minister for Research and Technology, offered a more open stance, acknowledging American research (Condon Report) but admitting he did not believe in UFOs.

Gehardt sent letters to several prominent German politicians and officials, including Helmut Schmidt, Karl Carstens, Hans-Dietrich Genscher, Hans Apel, Herbert Wehner, Helmut Kohl, Franz Josef Strauß, Kurt Waldheim (UN Secretary-General), and R. von Wechmar (German Ambassador to the UN), asking five questions about their views on UFOs, contactee stories, extraterrestrial life, government involvement, and the value of private UFO organizations.

Most responses were vague and evasive. The Chancellor's office stated the federal government had not dealt with UFOs. Dr. Strauß claimed the questions were purely technical-scientific. Federal President Karl Carstens cited a US Air Force investigation finding no evidence of extraterrestrial spacecraft and declined to answer hypothetical questions. The Ministry for Research and Technology forwarded the query about government involvement. A response indicated no necessity for the Bundestag or federal government to address the UFO issue. UN Secretary-General Waldheim's office noted that the UN had not dealt with UFOs since Grenada's request in 1978. The German Ambassador to the UN, R. von Wechmar, was more open, suggesting that UFO appearances could indicate intelligent extraterrestrial life and that private organizations should investigate. He also confirmed that the UN had not officially dealt with UFOs, despite Grenada's attempt to raise the issue.

Ministers Apel and Wehner did not respond. Gehardt concludes that while German politicians may not be entirely uninterested, they are too cautious to give open and personal statements on the UFO phenomenon.

Book Reviews

"The UFO Guidebook" by Norman J. Briazack and Simon Mennick

This book is described as a lexicon of UFO-related terms, covering over 400 entries from 'ABDUCTEE' to 'ZOOLOGY', and also touching on pre-astronautics. It includes terms like "ADAM," "EDEN," and "DÂNIKEN," which are only peripherally related to UFOlogy, and "ASTROLOGY," which is considered out of place in a UFO encyclopedia. The authors have omitted any illustrations or photographs, making it suitable for children interested in UFOs and their related areas, but not for serious UFO researchers.

"CASEBOOK OF A UFO INVESTIGATOR" by Raymond E. Fowler

Raymond Fowler, author of "UFOs: Interplanetary Visitors" and "The Andreasson Affair," presents a comprehensive overview of UFOs and their investigation. The book covers contactees and critics, Fowler's first UFO case investigation, and detailed accounts of the "Exeter" and "Beverley" cases. It offers guidelines for investigators, including a questionnaire. Fowler also discusses natural phenomena often mistaken for UFOs, such as Venus, meteors, weather balloons, and aircraft. The book is praised for its depth and is recommended for both general readers and insiders.

"THE MEIER INCIDENT: THE MOST INFAMOUS HOAX IN UFOLOGY" by Kal K. Korff

This book by Kal K. Korff is a detailed study of the controversial Swiss contactee Eduard "Billy" Meier. Korff critically examines Meier's claims and photographic evidence, concluding that the UFO photos are models and the entire affair is a massive hoax. He states, "Of all the thousands of cases that I have read about describing alleged observations or contacts with Unidentified Flying Objects, the Meier case is by far the most absurd, preposterous, and ridiculous case that I have ever seen in my entire study of this phenomena."

"CENAP DOKUMENTATION: George Adamski" by Hansjürgen Köhler

This photocopied booklet by Hansjürgen Köhler analyzes George Adamski's contacts and photos, drawing on material from Klaus Webner and SUFOI/Denmark. It concludes that Adamski's contacts are a "big hoax." The content is considered good but the presentation is superficial.

"CENAP SONDERBAND 2"

This brochure from CENAP discusses the French group GEPAN and an interview with author Michel Monnerie. It includes an article by Werner Walter debunking the "Neuseeland-UFO-Film" as a hoax and a critique of the "BUNTE-UFO-Aufmacher." Walter also criticizes the DUIST group as a hindrance to serious UFO research, suggesting that most DUIST members and "UFO-Nachrichten" readers belong to a large UFO community.

Film Review: "Hangar 18"

The article reviews the US film "Hangar 18," which is claimed to be based on true events. The film depicts a satellite collision with an unknown object, resulting in a UFO crash-landing in the Arizona desert and a subsequent government cover-up. The review suggests parallels between the film's plot and alleged government secrecy policies by the US government, CIA, and FBI. It is compared favorably to other UFO-themed films like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."

GEP-Nachrichten

This section reports on contact with a Spanish UFO group through a ham radio operator. The Spanish situation is described as similar to Germany's, with a division between religious/sectarian ufologists and UFO researchers. The group, led by Mr. Bernabé Ma de Garay (EA 2 KF), is a radio community that exchanges news and information. Efforts are being made to distribute UFO detectors in Spain. New members of the GEP are welcomed.

Presse-Spiegel: "Für einen 'Ufo-Flug' würde er selbst seine Frau im Stich lassen"

This article from the "Westfälischer Anzeiger" reports on an encounter by amateur astronomers Detlef Siebenpfeifer and Lothar Spritulle, who photographed an unidentified flying object near the Gersteinwerk. They described a high-pitched whistling sound followed by an object approaching at high speed with pulsating orange-yellow tones. The object, described as an "upside-down soup tureen," performed a loop and was visible for about 20 seconds. Siebenpfeifer expressed a willingness to participate in experiments with such objects. The article notes that the GEP attempted to contact the witness but suspects it might have been an early April Fool's joke, given the description and the photograph.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed investigation of specific UFO sightings (Pinecastle, Bockum-Hövel), the political dimension of UFOs and government secrecy, and critical reviews of UFO-related literature and media. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that favors serious, evidence-based UFO research while being critical of hoaxes and unsubstantiated claims, as seen in the reviews of Adamski and Meier. The GEP's involvement in international contacts and the reporting of new members suggest an active research community.