JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG

Magazine Overview

Title: JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: Number 6, 1982 (Volume 3, Issue 24)
Date: November/December 1982
Price: DM 3,50
Publisher: GEP (Gemeinschaft zur Erforschung unbekannter Phänomene e.V.)

This issue of the German-language magazine 'Journal für UFO-Forschung' (JUFOF) delves into various aspects of UFO research, investigations, and related phenomena. It highlights the work of the GEP, a German UFO research organization, and features articles on specific cases, classification systems, and the challenges of UFO research.

GEP: Community for the Exploration of Unknown Phenomena

The GEP describes itself as a young team established in 1972 with the goal of investigating UFO phenomena on a 'pre-scientific' basis. Their approach involves collecting and statistically analyzing observational data, conducting field investigations (witness interviews, trace evidence, measurements), and publishing findings in the JUFOF. The GEP emphasizes a scientific approach, particularly interested in the electromagnetic effects associated with UFOs, and dismisses sensational 'contactee' reports as fantasy. They invite interested individuals to join or contact them for information.

New Prices and Contact Information

Announced are new prices effective from 1983: single issues will cost DM 4.00, annual subscriptions will be DM 21.00 (domestic) and DM 25.00 (foreign), and membership fees will be DM 33.00 (DM 24.00 for students and pensioners). The GEP also provides contact information, including an automatic telephone answering service available 24/7 and a direct line for urgent matters to Herr Peiniger at (02351) 4 2888. The general GEP number is (02351) 2 33 77.

Cover Story: The Dierdorf Case (CE II)

The main cover story, "CE II FALL BEI DIERDORF ?", investigates a sighting reported in Dierdorf, Germany. The article details the experience of a witness, Frl. K, who reported her car's engine failing as a luminous, reddish object landed on the road. The object reportedly emitted a reddish light and, after departing, left behind a scorched circle on the ground. The witness also experienced an allergic reaction to a residue found on her car, which analysis suggested was a metal alloy.

The GEP investigation, conducted by Hans-Werner Peiniger and Gerald Mosbleck, visited the alleged landing site. They found no physical evidence supporting the witness's account, noting discrepancies in her descriptions and the actual terrain. The investigation concluded that there was no evidence of an actual landing and that the observation might not be a factual event, possibly stemming from psychological causes.

Other Articles and Features

• "DAS UFO-SICHTUNGSSPEKTRUM" by ILLO BRAND: This article discusses the quantity and quality of UFO data, introducing a 'credibility index' and 'strangeness scale' for evaluating reports. It presents several well-documented UFO cases from around the world, including sightings involving disk-shaped objects, spheres, and cigar-shaped craft, some of which reportedly caused physical effects.
• "PETROSAWODSK - PHÄNOMEN EIN SATELLITENSTART?" by Hans-Werner Peiniger: This piece examines the Petrosawodsk phenomenon, where residents observed a 'jellyfish-like' object emitting light beams. The article discusses the critical view that this was caused by a satellite launch (Cosmos 955) and presents counterarguments, suggesting the phenomenon was distinct from a satellite launch and remains unidentifiable.
• "UFO-KLASSIFIKATIONEN" by Hans-Werner Peiniger: An addendum to a previous article, this section explains a system for classifying UFO reports, including details like date, time, location, classification (Hynek), object characteristics, number of witnesses, and reliability index.
• "1.GEP-FACHTAGUNG 26.9.1982": This report covers the GEP's first official members' meeting and a public event held in Lüdenscheid. It details discussions on cooperation with other UFO groups (MUFON, CENAP, DUIST), decisions on membership fees, and presentations on various UFO topics, including misinterpretations, photo tricks, and specific case studies like the Dierdorf case.
• "BERICHTIGUNG": A correction to a previous article regarding 'UFO-Klassifikationen', changing the term from 'Unheimliche Begegnung' to 'Nahe Begegnung'.
• "Zum Titelbild": Explains that the cover photo shows participants of the first GEP meeting and assembly.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific and analytical approach to UFO research, emphasizing data collection, rigorous investigation, and the dismissal of sensationalism. The GEP's stance is that UFO phenomena should be studied from a natural science perspective. The articles highlight the challenges of UFO research, including the unreliability of witness testimony, the need for objective evidence, and the difficulties in establishing definitive explanations. The magazine also showcases international UFO cases and discussions within the UFO research community, indicating a commitment to a broad and thorough exploration of the subject.

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), published by the GEMEINSCHAFT ZUR ERFORSCHUNG UNBEKANNTER PHÄNOMENE e.V. (Community for the Research of Unknown Phenomena), is from the 3rd year of publication in 1982. The ISSN is 0723-7766. The magazine focuses on the scientific investigation and analysis of UFO phenomena, employing various classification systems and reviewing relevant literature.

UFO Classification Systems

The issue details several classification scales designed to categorize UFO sightings and their associated phenomena. The W-Scale (Wirkungen - Effects) categorizes the impact of UFOs on the environment and individuals, ranging from physical effects like temperature changes and burns to psychological impacts such as fear, telepathic communication, and altered perception. The F-Scale (Flug- und Leuchtverhalten - Flight and Light Behavior) describes the observed flight characteristics and luminosity of the objects. The G-Scale (Gestalt der Objekte - Shape of the Objects) classifies the physical form of the UFOs, from simple shapes like spheres and discs to more complex or irregular forms. The I-Scale (Aussehen der Insassen - Appearance of the Occupants) categorizes the perceived nature of any beings associated with the UFOs, including human-like, robotic, or unknown forms.

These scales are used to define different categories of UFO reports. Cases falling within specific ranges of the S-Scale (likely related to the W-Scale or a combined scale) and W-Scale are designated as 'physical UFOs' requiring scientific investigation. Reports primarily falling into higher ranges of these scales are termed 'bemannte UFOs' (manned UFOs), suggesting a connection to psychological or medical investigation, and 'PSI-UFOS', indicating a link to parapsychological phenomena.

Key Case Study: Loch Raven Reservoir Sighting

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed analysis of a UFO sighting that occurred on October 26, 1958, involving Phillips Small and Alvin Cohen near the Loch Raven Reservoir in Maryland, USA. The witnesses reported a large, egg-shaped object approximately 30 meters long and 20 meters high, hovering about 30 meters above a bridge. The object emitted a glow and seemed to radiate heat. During the encounter, their car's headlights and engine suddenly failed. After the object ascended rapidly with a bright flash and a loud explosion, the car's systems immediately returned to normal. The incident was investigated by police and later by NICAP, receiving a high credibility index.

The sighting is plotted on the S,W-Diagram with multiple data points, indicating various observed characteristics and effects.

Scientific Approach and Theoretical Frameworks

The magazine emphasizes the importance of a scientific approach to UFO research, arguing that any theory about UFOs must account for the core phenomena, not just peripheral or easily explained cases. It critiques approaches that dismiss sightings as mere misinterpretations or hallucinations, citing the work of figures like Menzel and Tacker who focused on less significant cases. The publication advocates for rigorous investigation of 'physical UFOs' by physicists.

The issue also touches upon the philosophical underpinnings of scientific inquiry, quoting E. Mach on the nature of knowledge and error, suggesting that even recognized errors can be valuable for advancing understanding. It highlights the ongoing efforts of the German-speaking MUFON-CES group to compile and analyze UFO reports from Germany.

Book Reviews and Related Publications

The journal features several book reviews and mentions of related publications:

• "Die Nagora Fotoserie" by Klaus Webner: This review critically examines Webner's analysis of the Nagora photographs, which he argues are not evidence of UFOs but rather misidentified objects like a VW hubcap. The review praises the photographic comparisons but criticizes the argumentation's structure and lack of scientific rigor in proving a hoax.
• "Strategie der Götter" by Erich von Däniken: This book is presented as exploring ancient mysteries, suggesting ancient astronauts and advanced civilizations. It discusses theories about the Salomo Temple and the prophet Ezekiel, linking them to extraterrestrial influence.
• "THE UFO VERDICT: EXAMINING THE EVIDENCE" by Robert Shaeffer: This book is reviewed as a critical analysis of UFO evidence, aiming to determine if sightings are truly extraterrestrial or can be explained by other means. It is noted for its objective approach to the subject.
• "PROJECT UFO" by Werner Walter: This publication is described as an in-depth look at the US government's stance on UFOs, utilizing declassified FBI, CIA, and US Air Force documents. It covers early UFO sightings, including Kenneth Arnold's, and the government's efforts to investigate and manage information about UFOs.
• "Licht für den Pharao" by Peter Krassa and Reinhard Habeck: This book investigates the possibility that ancient Egyptians possessed knowledge of electricity, potentially used in their temples.
• "Rätsel der Menschheit" by Johannes Fiebag: This work explores various historical and scientific mysteries, including ancient civilizations, Atlantis, and the possibility of extraterrestrial contact.
• "E.T. - Der Außerirdische" by William Kotzwinkle: Mentioned in the context of the popular film, this novel is described as a story about an extraterrestrial seeking refuge with a human child.
• "UFOLOGIE: Theorien und Tatsachen über Fliegende Unterlassen" by Dieter von Reeken: This book is presented as a comprehensive overview of UFO theories and facts.

GEP News and Activities

The "GEP-NACHRICHTEN" section provides updates on the organization's activities. This includes the donation of a Telefunken answering machine, the welcoming of new members, and an announcement of increased membership fees and subscription prices. It also reports on the attendance of GEP leaders at a MUFON-CES meeting in Stuttgart-Möhringen, where they engaged in discussions with other researchers and explored potential collaborations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the systematic classification and analysis of UFO phenomena, the importance of empirical evidence, and the critical examination of claims. The magazine advocates for a scientific approach, distinguishing between 'physical UFOs' requiring scientific investigation and other categories that may fall under psychological or parapsychological study. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing credible reports from misinterpretations or hoaxes. The editorial stance supports rigorous research and the open discussion of findings, even when they challenge conventional understanding. The inclusion of book reviews on related topics like alternative archaeology and historical mysteries suggests a broad interest in unexplained phenomena beyond just UFOs.