JUFOF - Issue 033 - 1984 03

Magazine Overview

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), published by GEMEINSCHAFT ZUR ERFORSCHUNG UNBEKANNTER PHÄNOMENE e.V. (GEP), is the third issue of the fifth year, dated May/June 1984. It carries the ISSN 0723-7766 and is priced at DM 4.00. The cover prominently features the headline "SPURENSICHERUNG IN DER UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Trace Securing in UFO Research), accompanied by an image of a circular trace in a field.

Articles and Content

Spurensicherung in der UFO-Forschung (Trace Securing in UFO Research)

This main article, authored by Hans Werner Peiniger, delves into the critical aspect of investigating UFO traces. Peiniger emphasizes that traces can manifest as imprints on the ground, scorched vegetation, or bent branches. The primary task for field investigators is to secure these traces appropriately. The article aims to educate UFO researchers on the various types of traces and the correct procedures for their preservation. It clarifies that the article does not discuss the origin of UFO phenomena and that many examples are drawn from literature, not directly investigated by the author or GEP. The author defines traces as material objects and phenomena resulting from a UFO event that allow conclusions about the actual occurrence or the phenomenon itself, and/or provide clues about the credibility of witnesses. Objects bearing these traces are termed 'trace carriers'.

Peiniger categorizes traces into three types relevant to UFO research: Formspuren (Form Traces), Materialspuren (Material Traces), and Situationsspuren (Situational Traces). Form traces include imprints from landing gear or footprints. Material traces involve earth, stones, or fragments. Situational traces encompass bent tree branches, altered object positions, or measured radioactivity. The article stresses the importance of analyzing these traces using scientific methods and modern technical aids. It also details the crucial steps of securing the investigation site to prevent contamination or alteration of evidence, including advising witnesses not to disturb the area.

Moderne Bildverarbeitung entschleiert die 'Montana'- und 'Utah' - Filme - 2. Teil (Modern Image Processing Deciphers the 'Montana' and 'Utah' Films - Part 2)

Authored by W.H. Spaulding, this article continues the analysis of two UFO films, the 'Montana' and 'Utah' films, using advanced image processing techniques. The second method discussed is color enhancement and profiling. This technique aims to determine the exact density of objects and their surroundings, their average reflection, precise outlines, and the relationship between their true shape and perspective. The density of a photograph is measured using the Grauwertskala (grayscale). Color enhancement transforms a pale, detail-poor photo into a vibrant image, allowing for the analysis of photographic density in values of H&D Standard Units. The analysis of the 'Montana' and 'Utah' films revealed that the objects had a round shape with a disk-like side profile. Digital density measurement indicated a slight deviation from initial tests, attributed to the higher development of the digital method compared to traditional color analysis.

The article then explores how this technique can be used to identify objects. For instance, a cloud would have broken density profiles, an airplane a cylindrical shape with protruding wings, and a weather balloon would not exhibit the density of a solid metallic object. A hoax photo would likely consist of terrestrial items like frisbees or hubcaps, showing low reflectivity. A 'suspicious' UFO photo, however, would present a disk or elliptical shape with uniform density, brighter in the center than at the edges. The article includes comparative analyses using figures to demonstrate how terrestrial objects like birds and airplanes, when photographed under specific conditions, show different density profiles and characteristics compared to the UFO films.

Angeblliche Medizinische Verletzungen durch UFO's (Alleged Medical Injuries from UFOs)

Written by Richard C. Niemtzow, M.D., this article presents findings from the international study Project UFOMD, investigating medical injuries associated with alleged UFO encounters. Niemtzow highlights reports of intense lights accompanied by medical issues. He discusses the potential mechanisms, distinguishing between non-ionizing and ionizing radiation. The article touches upon the 'Cash-Landrum Fall' as an example. Niemtzow notes the confusion in UFO literature regarding medical injuries and radiation effects, aiming to categorize these effects within a biological system. He defines radiation as the emission of energy in the form of photons or particles, including electromagnetic radiation (microwaves, UV, gamma rays) and particle radiation (beta, protons, etc.). The RAD is introduced as a unit of radiation absorption in living tissue.

The article explores the possibility of microwave radiation causing auditory effects (the 'microwave auditory effect') and discusses the potential for paralytic problems. It also mentions other physiological events such as burns, diarrhea, vomiting, and conjunctivitis. Niemtzow lists various types of radiation, including ionizing (cosmic, gamma, X-rays), visible and ultraviolet light, infrared, microwaves, radar, and radio frequencies.

Other Content

The issue also includes advertisements for GEP publications, such as "UFO-Klassifikationen" and "Anatomie eines Extraterrestrier" by Lothar Richter, and "The UFO Encyclopedia" by Margaret Sachs. An 'Impressum' section details the publication's responsibilities, editorial staff (Hans-Werner Peiniger and Gerald Mosbleck), and subscription information. A 'Zum Titelbild' (About the Cover Picture) section explains that the cover image depicts a trace allegedly caused by a UFO on July 6, 1975, found near Mount Pleasant, Ontario, Canada. A notice about the "XXXIII. Raumfahrtkongreß" (XXXIII. Spaceflight Congress) of the Hermann-Oberth-Gesellschaft e.V. from June 21-25, 1984, in Salzburg is also present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around rigorous scientific investigation of UFO phenomena. The GEP, as the publisher, demonstrates a commitment to detailed analysis, whether it involves meticulously documenting physical traces, employing advanced photographic analysis techniques, or exploring the potential medical implications of UFO encounters. The editorial stance appears to favor empirical evidence and scientific methodology, aiming to distinguish credible data from speculation or misinterpretation. The emphasis on trace analysis and photographic evidence processing suggests a desire to move beyond anecdotal accounts towards more concrete, verifiable data in UFO research. The journal also serves as a platform for disseminating research findings and promoting related scientific and research events.

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), published by GEP, is a German-language magazine focusing on the UFO phenomenon. The issue date is indicated as August 11, 3114 BC, likely a symbolic date for the cover story, with the actual publication date likely being August 1984 based on other references. The magazine covers a range of topics, from the scientific and medical aspects of alleged UFO encounters to historical cases, personal testimonies, and the views of prominent figures in the field.

Physiological Effects of UFOs

The first article discusses the known effects of microwaves and radio frequencies on humans and animals. It details both thermal and non-thermal effects, including impacts on the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, hematological system, and eyes. The article mentions that direct contact with radio frequencies can cause thrombosis and that excessive UV radiation can lead to sunburn and fever. It highlights the Cash-Landrum case as an example where medical injuries could potentially be attributed to these types of radiation, emphasizing the importance of reporting such cases to the UFOMD for precise assessment.

The US Air Force and UFO Cover-ups

Another section addresses the persistent conspiracy theories surrounding the US Air Force's alleged cover-up of UFO information. It questions why the Air Force would engage in such secrecy for decades if an interplanetary visit were occurring. The article discusses the hysteria surrounding Orson Welles' 'War of the Worlds' broadcast as a potential reason for public panic, but dismisses it as illogical. It also touches upon the Air Force's classification of UFO programs and the issuance of sometimes contradictory explanations for sightings, which fuel the belief in a conspiracy.

The article references the Fitzgerald case, where UFO group members accused Air Force investigators of mishandling the investigation and confusing the witness. It also discusses the case of police officer Lonnie Zamora, who reported seeing an egg-shaped craft, and notes that Dr. Hynek, a scientific advisor to the Air Force, described Zamora as 'fundamentally honest, sincere, and credible.'

Hermann Oberth and UFO Research

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to Professor Hermann Oberth on his 90th birthday. The article provides a biographical overview of the renowned rocket scientist, highlighting his contributions to space travel and his later involvement in philosophy, politics, and religion. It details Oberth's public statements on UFOs since 1954, noting that his views have sometimes unsettled his colleagues. Oberth stated that he did not claim UFOs were spaceships from other worlds but also never denied it, considering it the only explanation not yet refuted for many reports. He believed science should remain open to possibilities and that UFO research was a legitimate area of inquiry.

Book Reviews and Case Studies

The magazine includes reviews of several books related to UFOs. One review covers "BORTFØRT" by Kim Møller Hansen, a summary of the Travis Walton abduction story, which presents data from various sources and leaves the reader to decide on the truthfulness of the account. Another review discusses Erich von Däniken's book "Der Tag an dem die Götter kamen" (The Day the Gods Came), focusing on his exploration of Maya and Aztec civilizations and his speculations about ancient alien visitors.

Other Content

Additional sections include a review of "PROJECT UFO 3" by Werner Walter, which compiles excerpts from a doctoral thesis on press coverage of UFOs and discusses various historical UFO incidents. Martin Gardner's "Kabarett der Täuschungen" (Cabaret of Deceptions) is also reviewed, criticizing his approach to parapsychology and UFOs. The magazine also features a section on "Intelligenzen im Kosmos?" (Intelligences in the Cosmos?) by Heinrich K. Erben, which explores the biological and evolutionary aspects of intelligence and argues against the likelihood of extraterrestrial intelligent life.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the potential medical and physiological effects of UFO-related phenomena, the skepticism and alleged cover-ups by official bodies like the US Air Force, and the contributions of prominent scientists and researchers to the field. The magazine appears to present a balanced view, including scientific analysis, eyewitness accounts, and critical reviews of both pro- and anti-UFO arguments. The editorial stance seems to encourage open-minded yet critical investigation of the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging the complexity and the need for further research, as exemplified by the tribute to Hermann Oberth.