JUFOF - Issue 025 - 1983 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research) from January/February 1983, Volume 4, Issue 1 (Heft 25), published by GEMEINSCHAFT ZUR ERFORSCHUNG UNBEKANNTER PHANOMENE e.V., focuses on two main cases: a potential UFO landing in Dorla, Germany, and photographic evidence from Cradle Hill, Warminster.

CE2 in Dorla?

The lead article, "CE2 IN DORLA?" by Jochen Herzog, details an incident that occurred on October 20, 1982, in Dorla, Germany. Edeka retailer Heinrich Färber reported seeing two glowing spherical objects ascend from a forest, hover, and then rapidly move eastwards over the village. His wife, Auguste Färber, also witnessed two glowing spheres. The article also mentions that UFO researcher Johannes Freiherr von Buttlar investigated the case, suggesting the objects were likely unmanned. Further reports include Erika Mlitzke hearing a strange humming, hissing, and wailing sound at 2:15 AM, and discovering unusual white, semi-circular traces on her driveway pavement the next morning. Farmer Karl Ellenberg also found similar scorch marks in a nearby field. Von Buttlar's preliminary analysis of samples from the Mlitzke property indicated a shift in the magnetic field and a change in the polarization of the material, suggesting a strong, unknown radiation.

Investigation and Analysis of the Dorla Case

An investigation by GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des Unerklärlichen Phänomens - Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained Phenomenon) is detailed, with investigators H.-W. Peiniger and Gerald Mosbleck examining the case in three parts: the landing traces at the Mlitzke property, the sighting by Mr. Färber, and the burned spots in the field. Mr. Färber's sighting is described as two glowing objects moving at a constant speed. The GEP investigation found no increased radioactivity or magnetic field anomalies at the trace sites. However, analysis of the pavement traces revealed that the soil beneath them was water-repellent. The article notes that the press sensationalized the events, causing a stir in the village. GEP also mentions collaboration with CENAP (Center for UFO-Analyse und -Forschung - Center for UFO Analysis and Research).

Expert Opinion on Dorla

Johannes Freiherr von Buttlar, an astro-physicist and author, is quoted extensively. He believes the Dorla incident is not charlatanry and that the traces suggest physical impacts. He notes that similar circular patterns have been found elsewhere, and that the ground beneath them is water-repellent. He also discusses the possibility of electromagnetic radiation affecting the soil and mentions that UFO sightings are often associated with electrical disturbances.

Cradle Hill - Fotos

Another significant feature is "CRADLE HILL - FOTOS" by Ian Mrzyglod, detailing a series of three photographs taken by professional photographer James Rose in October 1978 near Warminster, United Kingdom. The photos allegedly capture a single light source exhibiting unusual behavior. Mr. Rose, a professional photographer with over 10 years of experience, used a Topcon 35mm SLR camera with a 135mm telephoto lens and Kodak 2475 film. The development process involved a longer exposure and a different developer than standard. The analysis of the photos, particularly Abb. 3, suggests a movement within the light source, and a comparison between the photos indicates different formations and characteristics, with some elements appearing distinct from others.

UFO Drawings: Eyewitnesses vs. Non-Eyewitnesses

Richard F. Haines contributes a multi-part article titled "WAS HABEN UFO-ZEICHNUNGEN VON ANGEBLICHEN AUGENZEUGEN UND NICHT-AUGENZEUGEN GEMEIN?" (What do UFO drawings by alleged eyewitnesses and non-eyewitnesses have in common?). This section, translated from his book "UFO Phenomena and the Behavioral Scientist," explores the psychological and perceptual factors influencing how people draw UFOs. Haines discusses the challenges of distinguishing between genuine UFO sightings and drawings influenced by prior exposure to UFO imagery in media. He proposes that the quality and characteristics of drawings can reveal differences in perception and memory, especially when comparing those who claim to have seen a UFO with those who have not.

Methodology and Findings

Haines' research involves analyzing drawings from various groups, including those who claim to have seen UFOs and those who have not. He examines features such as the shape, symmetry, and details of the depicted objects. Tables present statistical data on the frequency of different drawing characteristics across various test groups (A-E), correlating them with factors like age, gender, and handedness. The study aims to understand if there are discernible patterns that differentiate drawings based on actual UFO experiences versus those influenced by imagination or media.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" demonstrates a commitment to rigorous investigation and analysis of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, seeking to present evidence, witness testimony, and expert opinions without immediate dismissal. The magazine highlights the importance of detailed documentation, scientific analysis, and the challenges faced by UFO researchers in the face of media sensationalism and public skepticism. The cases presented, while intriguing, are approached with a degree of caution, acknowledging the need for further research and the potential for misidentification or psychological factors to influence perceptions.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), identified by the identifier "GEP", features a cover story on "UFO'S OVER PLYMOUTH" and "MOONGATE: Suppressed Findings of the U.S. Space Program". The issue date is listed as June 1981, and it is published by GEP in Germany, with the original language being German. The ISSN is 0723-7766.

Warminster Light Phenomena Analysis

The issue delves into the Warminster light phenomena, presenting photographs taken by Mr. Rose. The analysis, including a comparison with streetlights, concludes that the lights are not streetlamps and are of unknown origin, though Mr. Rose, a professional photographer, offered the photos for independent analysis. The article notes that while the lights are not definitively UFOs, the case highlights honest reports from Warminster.

Fund for UFO Research Report

A report details the activities of the "Fund for UFO Research" (Fond für UFO-Forschung), established in August 1979. The fund has supported projects such as legal actions to obtain UFO documents from the CIA and NSA, and initial investigations into declassified UFO documents. It also offers a $1000 prize for the best UFO article of the year and has provided financial aid for specific case investigations, including the Huffman case in Texas and the examination of alleged alien abductions. The fund also supports the "UFO International Annual Review" and the creation of comprehensive UFO studies.

Foreign UFO Journals

This section introduces interesting foreign UFO journals. The "International UFO Reporter (IUR)" and the "CUFOS ASSOCIATE NEWSLETTER (A/N)" from the "CENTER FOR UFO STUDIES (CUFOS)" are highlighted. CUFOS is described as a major and reputable UFO research organization in the USA. The IUR is a bi-monthly publication on art paper, covering UFO sightings and experiences, while the A/N provides news on conferences and less spectacular sightings.

Book Reviews

Several books are reviewed:

• "Dizionario enciclopedico di ufologia" Vol. 1 (A-I) and Vol. 2 (J-W) by Franco Ossola: This is described as the most comprehensive Italian encyclopedia on ufology, with 923 pages and 330 entries. It is recommended for UFO researchers fluent in Italian.
• "UNSER KOSMOS - Eine Reise durch das Weltall" by Carl Sagan: This book, based on a television series, explores the universe, the evolution of life, and the search for extraterrestrial life. It is noted that Carl Sagan is also known in UFO research.
• "Die letzten Rätsel unserer Welt" by Francis Hitching: This book covers mysteries of the world, including UFO phenomena, and is described as a comprehensive and engaging reference work.
• "WE DISCOVERED ALIEN BASES ON THE MOON" by Fred Steckling: This book uses 125 NASA photographs to argue that the moon may be a base for extraterrestrials, presenting alleged evidence of letters, pyramids, and vegetation.
• "UFOS - ...the hidden evidence": This is the 1981 MUFON UFO Symposium Proceedings, featuring contributions on ufology as a profession, government UFO documents, UFO abductions, and the Roswell incident.
• "UFO'S OVER PLYMOUTH": A brochure presenting eleven UFO sighting cases investigated by the Plymouth UFO Research Group, including a case where a witness was burned by a light beam.
• "MOONGATE: Suppressed Findings of the U.S. Space Program" by William L. Brian: This book claims the US space program is primarily for military purposes and that the moon has an atmosphere, suggesting a cover-up of the truth.
• "SIND WIR ALLEIN IM UNIVERSUM?" by Robert T. Rood and James S. Trefil: This book discusses the existence of extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI) and SETI, exploring the development of planetary atmospheres and life, and the possibility of advanced civilizations.
• "SIE WAREN NIE FORT" by Michael Appel: This book argues that human civilization has been culturally influenced by extraterrestrials and that current UFO phenomena represent alien spacecraft. The reviewer finds the arguments weak and lacking in evidence.

GEP-Nachrichten (GEP News)

This section provides updates from the "Gemeinschaft zur Erforschung Unbekannter Phänomene e.V." (Community for the Research of Unknown Phenomena). It welcomes new members, announces that journals from 1979, 1980, and 1982 are sold out, and provides ISSN and ISBN numbers for their publications. An advertising campaign for the journal through MUFON-CES was successful, generating many inquiries. Lothar Richter is welcomed as a new staff member.

Das meint der Leser (What the Reader Thinks)

This section features a letter from Roland Gehardt of CENAP, defending a book by Klaus (Webner) against a critical review in the journal. Gehardt argues that the review was unfair and that Klaus's work is more scientific than implied, questioning the reviewer's criteria for scientific validity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, investigations, and the analysis of evidence, particularly photographic evidence. There is a strong emphasis on reviewing UFO-related literature, including books and foreign journals, providing a critical perspective on various claims and theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging independent analysis and distinguishing between speculation and evidence-based research. The journal also highlights the efforts of UFO research organizations like CUFOS and the Fund for UFO Research.