JUFOF - Issue 035 - 1984 05

Magazine Overview

Title: JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: NUMMER 5, JAHRGANG 5
Date: SEPT. - OKT. 1984
Publisher: GEP (GEMEINSCHAFT ZUR ERFORSCHUNG UNBEKANNTER PHÄNOMENE e.V.)
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0723-7766
Price: DM 4,00

This issue of the German UFO research journal features a prominent cover headline focusing on 'UFO-BEOBACHTUNGEN' (UFO Observations). The cover includes a photograph of a UFO sighting and portraits of key figures associated with the journal and its contributors.

Articles and Features

UFO-KLASSIFIKATIONEN (UFO Classifications) by Lothar Richter This article introduces various classification systems for UFOs, emphasizing the need to categorize the wide range of shapes, formations, flight maneuvers, and effects observed. It highlights a 40-page brochure with over 100 illustrations, available for DM 8 (DM 6.40 for GEP members), as a helpful tool for hobby UFO researchers.

ANATOMIE EINES EXTRATERRESTRIER (Anatomy of an Extraterrestrial) by Lothar Richter This section explores questions about intelligent life in the universe, the physical characteristics of extraterrestrials, and the possibility of contact. It references a 44-page brochure with 24 illustrations that attempts to answer these questions, priced at DM 10 (DM 8 for GEP members).

UFO-BEOBACHTUNGEN (UFO Observations) This section presents several case studies of UFO sightings:

• Germany (Lüdenscheid): Reports include a sighting by a 16-year-old and his father of a silent, orange-yellow disk-shaped object. Another case involves an older woman reporting a similar observation. Initial speculation suggested a weather balloon or satellite re-entry, but the object was later considered a meteor.
• Spain (Aluche, near Madrid): Multiple witnesses observed a round, dimly lit object, approximately 12 meters in diameter, land briefly on a property. A door opened and closed before the object ascended. The landing left rectangular impressions in the ground.
• USA (Donnybrook, 19.08.1966): A border police officer reported observing several indentations left by a UFO with a dome-shaped structure.
• USA (South Hill, Virginia, 21.04.1967): Witness C.N. Crowder reported a large object blocking a street, which then emitted a bright light and shot into the sky. The incident left a scorch mark and later, four small holes in the gravel road.
• France (Quarouble, 10.09.1954): Marius Dewilde witnessed a large, dark mass on railway tracks. Examination revealed five indentations in the wooden sleepers, suggesting immense pressure.
• Mexico (Socorro, 24.04.1964): Police officer Lonnie Zamora observed a white, egg-shaped object on a four-legged landing gear in a ravine, accompanied by two figures. The object ascended silently.
• England (Near Frome): A detailed account of a UFO chase involving Steven Dayman-Johns describes a silent object moving at high speed, exhibiting unusual lights and emitting a light beam. The case was investigated by the SCUFORI group and classified as 'Unidentified' due to insufficient data.

SPURENSICHERUNG IN DER UFO-FORSCHUNG (Trace Evidence in UFO Research) by Hans Werner Peiniger, GEP This multi-part article details methods for investigating physical evidence left by suspected UFO landings:

• 1.2.1 Flugkörperspuren (Aircraft Traces): Discusses how landing aircraft can leave impressions on soft ground or snow, and marks on hard surfaces. It emphasizes the importance of searching the immediate vicinity, using lighting effects, and protecting traces.
• 1.2.2 Schartenspuren (Scoring Marks): Explains how scoring or scratch marks can be created and how to identify them using a magnifying glass and oblique light. It advises securing original traces or using molding compounds.
• 1.3. Spuren am Glas (Traces on Glass): Addresses glass damage observed during UFO events, which can result from direct impact or heat. It describes how to analyze radial and concentric fractures to determine the direction of force and impact point.

UFO-FOTO GEFÄLSCHT (UFO Photo Forged) by Paul C. Cerny, MUFON This article discusses a famous UFO photograph taken in San Francisco in 1956. Paul Cerny demonstrates how easily such photos can be faked using a simple model, revealing that the well-known image was created with a painted balsa wood model.

GIBT ES WIRKLICH FLIEGENDE UNTERTASSEN? (Are There Really Flying Saucers?) by Daniel Cohen This piece revisits the 'Lubbock Lights' incident from 1951 in Texas. Initially reported as a UFO sighting by three professors and later by an amateur photographer, the lights were eventually identified as migrating plovers (Regenpfeifer). The article notes the controversy surrounding the explanation and the lingering belief in UFOs due to the initial classification and subsequent confusion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently emphasizes rigorous investigation, evidence collection, and analysis in UFO research. It presents a range of cases, from those with potential natural explanations (meteors, birds, atmospheric phenomena) to those that remain unexplained. The articles advocate for systematic approaches to documenting and securing physical evidence, such as landing traces and damage to objects like glass. There is a clear stance against sensationalism, favoring factual reporting and critical examination of evidence, including the possibility of hoaxes and misidentifications. The journal aims to provide a platform for serious UFO research and discussion within the German-speaking community.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), dated October 1984, delves into the persistent fascination with UFOs and the popular concept of "little green men" from outer space. The magazine, published by GEP, presents a critical yet comprehensive look at various UFO phenomena, historical cases, and the people involved in their study and reporting.

Key Articles and Features

The Oklahoma 'Journal' Photo and Other Sightings The issue begins by examining a widely circulated photograph of a flying saucer from Oklahoma, originally published in October 1965. The article notes how the photo was often cropped in subsequent publications, making the object appear larger than in the original. It highlights discrepancies between the photo and witness descriptions, particularly the lack of stars in the background despite claims of clear night conditions.

Another significant case discussed is the 1952 Tremonton, Utah, film, which captured a group of brightly glowing objects. Initially presented as evidence of UFOs, the film was later identified by the Air Force as seagulls. The article also references the well-known 1959 New Guinea sighting, described as a classic case involving a flying saucer and its occupants.

The 'Little Green Men' Phenomenon A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to the enduring idea of "little green men" piloting UFOs. The article traces the origins of this concept, referencing early writings and books like Frank Skully's "Behind the Flying Saucers." It critically examines Scully's claims and the skepticism surrounding them, noting that even publications like "True" debunked the book as a fabrication. Despite such critiques, the idea of small extraterrestrial beings has persisted, often depicted in photographs, such as one showing figures in trench coats with a small creature.

The magazine also touches upon the idea of alien visitors from Venus and other planets, as well as the government's alleged cover-up of these encounters. The case of the alleged crash of a UFO in Aztec, Mexico, and the subsequent handling of alien bodies is mentioned.

Contactees and UFO Groups The issue explores the phenomenon of "contactees" – individuals who claim direct communication with extraterrestrials. It highlights groups like "The Star Light Fellowship of New York City" and discusses their beliefs, which often involve messages from space beings and a blend of mysticism and religious themes. The article presents a critical sociological analysis by H. Taylor Buckner, who describes contactee members as often elderly, widowed, poor, and uneducated, with a tendency towards hallucinations and a poor grasp of reality. Buckner notes that UFO clubs can attract individuals with various occult interests and that their political views can range widely.

George Adamski, a prominent contactee, is mentioned for his claims of meeting Venusians and traveling to the Moon. His book "Inside the Space Ships" gained considerable attention. The article also discusses the more grounded account of Barny and Betty Hill, whose 1961 experience of being abducted and examined by UFO occupants was revealed through hypnosis. Their case is presented as more credible due to the apparent sincerity of the individuals involved.

The magazine also profiles UFO research organizations, including the "Saucer News" publication and the more aggressive "National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena" (NICAP). NICAP's core beliefs – that UFOs are alien spacecraft, that the government is covering up the truth, and that a Congressional investigation is needed – are outlined. The article notes NICAP's efforts to pressure the government for investigations.

Optical Phenomena and Scientific Catalogs Beyond direct sightings and alien encounters, the journal features a section on "Rare Halos, Mirages, Anomalous Rainbows and Related Optical Phenomena" by William R. Corliss. This section, based on Corliss's catalog, explores various atmospheric and optical events that can be mistaken for UFOs or are associated with them. Examples include mock suns (false suns), unusual halo formations, and phenomena related to the planet Venus, such as green flashes. The article emphasizes the importance of scientific cataloging and analysis of such events.

GEP Activities and Book Reviews The "GEP-NACHRICHTEN" (GEP News) section provides updates on the organization's activities. It introduces Dieter von Reeken, an Oberregierungsrat and UFO researcher, who is profiled for his meticulous approach to the subject. Von Reeken's book "Ufologie" is mentioned, and his goal of debunking sensationalism and providing factual information is highlighted. The section also includes a correction to a previous financial report and notes on an article from "Ground Saucer Watch."

Two book reviews are included: one for Antonio Ribera's "Las máquinas del cosmos," which examines UFO phenomena from an extraterrestrial perspective, and another for Werner Walter's "PROJECT UFO 3," which compiles information from a 1949 US Air Force technical report and other documents, aiming to present a critical perspective on UFO reporting.

Reader Contributions and Events The issue concludes with a section for reader feedback and order information. Wolfgang Schröder praises the magazine's content, particularly an article on a "Close Encounter in Scotland." Ahmad Jamaludin expresses his regret at having to discontinue his subscription due to personal reasons but wishes the journal well. The "GEP fragt" (GEP asks) section poses a question about a UFO sighting in Lüdenscheid, seeking information about a possible party balloon. A notice for a lecture by Werner Walter on his extraterrestrial contact experience in the Dolomites is also included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" consistently adopts a critical and analytical approach to the UFO phenomenon. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained sightings and phenomena, the magazine strives to separate fact from fiction, sensationalism, and outright fabrication. There is a clear emphasis on scientific investigation, meticulous research, and the debunking of hoaxes and pseudoscientific claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism, encouraging readers to approach UFO reports with a discerning mind, while also recognizing the potential for genuine mysteries within the subject. The magazine aims to provide well-researched information and counter the more outlandish theories that often dominate UFO discourse. The recurring theme is the need for rigorous investigation and a balanced perspective, distinguishing between credible evidence and pure speculation or wishful thinking.