JUFOF - Issue 039 - 1985 03

Magazine Overview

This issue of the 'JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG' (Volume 6, Issue 3, May-June 1985) is published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP) and features a cover headline focusing on 'UFO'S IM WESTERWALD'. The issue includes reports on UFO sightings, research articles, and a computer program listing.

Key Articles and Reports

UFO's im Westerwald

This section, authored by Hans-Werner Peiniger, details several UFO sightings in the Westerwald region of Germany. The reports span from March 1981 to November 1983:

• March 1981: A witness driving to work was startled by a bright, pulsing light that disappeared. The object was described as larger than the full moon and silent.
• October 26, 1983: A couple observed a bright, rectangular object with a flashing red light, likened to a metallic dining car.
• October 27, 1983: A witness near Hahn saw two large round lights that later resolved into a UFO with a central light and a darker interior.
• November 23, 1985: A witness in Ellenhausen observed two strange objects, a large and a small glowing circle, with beams of light moving between them.
• November 30, 1983 (Montabaur): A witness saw a black object descend, hover, and then disappear after exhibiting two bright lights.
• November 30, 1983 (Hohenroth): Two bright points of light were observed moving slowly, initially mistaken for an aircraft, but they later separated and moved independently.
• December 6, 1983 (Weilburg): A hospital patient reported seeing a flying object with red and white lights that hovered and moved away.

UFO Begleitete Flugzeug (UFO Accompanied Aircraft)

Authored by Wolfgang Schröder, this article details a spectacular UFO sighting in the Soviet Union on January 30, 1985. The four-person crew of an Aeroflot flight (Tiflis-Rostow-Tallin) observed a bright object, initially hovering about 40-50 km above the earth. The object then approached the aircraft at high speed, prompting an alert to ground control. The crew reported that the object emitted a light beam to the ground, forming a 'light cone' with additional reflectors, and later redirected a blinding beam towards the aircraft, causing temporary blindness. The object then transformed into a 'green cloud' and reportedly accompanied the aircraft to Tallin. The article also discusses scientific explanations for UFOs, such as atmospheric phenomena, while questioning their applicability to this specific case. It cites experts like Prof. Dr. Felix U. Ziegel and Dipl.-Ing. Adolf Schneider.

Neuerscheinung: Extraterrestrische Intelligenzen Band 4

This section announces a new publication: 'Extraterrestrische Intelligenzen Band 4. Bibliographie 1981-1982' (Extraterrestrial Intelligences Vol. 4. Bibliography 1981-1982), compiled and edited by Dieter von Reeken. This is a special issue (Sonderheft 6) of the GEP, providing a commented bibliography of German-language publications on topics including extraterrestrial life, UFOs, and pre-astronautics. It is a 37-page booklet priced at DM 10 (DM 8 for GEP members).

GEP Computer Service: Cosplan II

This article introduces 'Cosplan II', a computer program for simulating the night sky, designed for use with the Commodore 64. Developed by Carsten Schlosser and adapted by Gerald Mosbleck and Uwe Zimmermann, the program assists in UFO investigations by calculating planetary and stellar positions. The article provides detailed BASIC code listings for the program, including routines for displaying planets, stars, and a grid, and offers the program for sale.

Other Sections

• JufoF-Einbanddecken: Information on purchasing binder covers for the journal.
• Die GEP: A description of the GEP as a leading German UFO research organization, detailing its methods and publications.
• Impressum: Standard publication details, including editor responsibilities and non-liability for unsolicited manuscripts.
• Bezugspreise: Subscription prices for the journal.
• Meldezentrale für UFO-Beobachtungen: Contact information for reporting UFO sightings.
• Neu im JufoF: Announcements for new items in the JufoF (new reports, letters to the editor, new books, GEP news).
• Bewertungen folgen im nächsten Heft: A note indicating that evaluations will be in the next issue.
• Achtung!: A call to subscribe to 'UFO-INFORMATION' magazine and a mention of available brochures on UFO topics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently focuses on empirical UFO research, presenting detailed witness accounts and attempting to provide explanations or further investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous analysis and distinguishing between credible reports and misidentifications or hoaxes. The inclusion of a computer program for astronomical calculations highlights the journal's commitment to providing tools for researchers. The publication emphasizes its role as a platform for disseminating information within the German-speaking UFO research community.

This issue of the 'Journal für UFO-Forschung' (Journal for UFO Research), identified as GEP 2'85, is a German-language publication from 1985 focusing on UFO phenomena. It features news, reports, book reviews, and letters from readers, reflecting the ongoing discussions and research within the UFO community at the time.

MELDUNGEN (Reports)

The 'Meldungen' section opens with a critical examination of Klaus Webner's brochure "DIE INAGORA FOTO-SERIE KRITISCH BETRACHTET," which attempted to debunk a series of UFO photos. Adolf Geigenthaler, the copyright holder of the photos, responded with a 7-page document titled "DIE NAGORA UFO FOTOSERIE und die TRUĞSCHLÜSSE Klaus Webner's," accusing Webner of using false arguments. The article suggests that while Webner may have shown how the photos could be faked (e.g., using a VW hubcap), a definitive proof of forgery was not provided. Interested parties can request Geigenthaler's response.

The section also reports on the passing of Gray Barker, a prominent American UFOlogist, on December 6, 1984, in Charleston, West Virginia. Barker was known for his magazines 'Saucerian' and 'Gray Barker's Newsletter' and authored several books, including 'They Knew Too Much About Flying Saucers' and 'Gray Barker's Book of Adamski'.

New organizations are highlighted: the 'Center for Identified Flying Object Studies' (CIFOS) in the USA, led by Hobart Gregory Baker, aims to assess the credibility of UFO observers and build a database for statistical analysis. Michael D. Hart founded the 'COMPUFON NETWORK' to collect and share UFO research-related computer information.

A report from the magazine 'MYSTERIA' discusses a contribution by H. Hoffmann questioning whether UFO sightings are effects of geophysical phenomena, suggesting that some sightings, like Kenneth Arnold's in 1947, might be explained by such effects.

The 'Internationale Union zur Erforschung außerirdischen Lebens' (IUEL) was founded in Dortmund on March 17, 1985. However, the article expresses skepticism about its potential for serious UFO research, suggesting it is likely composed of esotericists and spiritualists.

An article from 'UFO-Nachrichten' by K.L. Veit suggests that meteorite observations on February 3/4, 1985, were actually 'extraterrestrial spacecraft,' criticizing astronomy experts for their 'pseudoscientific' explanations.

The company 'Detmar Zeugfang' offers two saucer-shaped balloons filled with helium for sale or rent.

Finally, the German edition of 'OMNI' magazine, which featured a UFO column, has ceased publication, likely due to lack of profitability.

LESERBRIEFE (Letters to the Editor)

To JUFOF 1'84 and 2'85

Jochen Ickinger from CENAP, Heilbronn, responds to a previous remark about a 'wheel of fortune' with various explanations for UFOs. He defends CENAP's methodology, stating they do not selectively dismiss inconvenient details but rather classify cases after thorough investigation. He argues that UFO-typical clichés (e.g., 'typical silence,' 'saucer shape') are considered, and that cases are classified based on evidence, not preconceived notions. He criticizes the idea that CENAP would dismiss cases that don't fit a 'typical UFO' mold, asserting that all cases are worked on and re-evaluated if new information arises.

Roland Gehardt, also from CENAP, Heilbronn, defends 'Professor Brand' against criticism, calling the accusations 'insolent' and 'stupid.' He suggests Brand's professional position gives him better insight than figures like Hynek, who he claims embarrassed himself regarding the New York sighting. Gehardt praises Lothar Richter's contribution.

To JUFOF 6'84

Stephan Steuer from Hamburg discusses the term 'UFO' and the need for more neutral terminology. He agrees with the sentiment that 'UFO' should be replaced by terms that are less emotionally charged. While 'UFO' itself is a neutral term, media often equate it with 'alien spacecraft.' He criticizes the lack of neutral classification systems and the use of loaded terms like 'flying saucers.' Steuer suggests that the complex phenomenon of UFOs cannot be adequately described by existing aerospace terminology and calls for new terms, possibly derived from letters, numbers, or words not commonly used in international discourse.

The editorial note mentions the discussion of replacing 'UFO-Phänomen' with 'oligochrones Phänomen' (short-lived phenomenon) and 'UFO-Forschung' with 'Oligochronologie.'

To JUFOF 2'85

Stephan Steuer also contributes an analysis of the relationship between solar activity and UFO waves. He notes that while solar flares and solar winds are linked to auroras, this explanation for UFO sightings is limited. He points out that UFO waves do not consistently correlate with the maximum solar flare activity, as statistics from 1947, 1952, 1973, and 1954 suggest. He questions whether the 1947 UFO wave, which primarily involved daylight discs, can be explained by solar activity, despite a relative maximum in sunspot activity. He also speculates about the UFO wave of 1896/97, which featured nocturnal lights possibly resembling auroras.

NEUE BÜCHER (New Books)

"Von den Göttern verlassen?" by Peter Kaufhold

This book, published by Meyster Verlag, is critically reviewed by Peter Kaufhold, who previously wrote "Auf den Spuren des Erich von Däniken." Kaufhold examines Däniken's arguments, highlighting how sources are sometimes taken out of context. He discusses Däniken's theories regarding the Padre Crespi gold treasure and the caves of Juan Morics, as well as the significance of the date August 11, 3114 BC for the Maya and the archaeological site of Nemrud Dag. The book also touches upon biblical texts, including Ezekiel's 'Manna machine' and the Ark of the Covenant. The review notes that the UFO chapter is a weak point, suggesting the author dismisses UFOlogy as being solely about 'sectarians and storytellers.' However, the book does explore possible propulsion methods for interstellar travel, referencing physicists like Forward and Sänger, and Burkhard Heim. Kaufhold concludes that extraterrestrial visits are not impossible, and the belief in 'god-astronauts' and UFOs may serve as a substitute religion for many. The reviewer praises the book's critical approach and recommends it to AAS members and pre-astronautics enthusiasts.

"Investigación OVNI" by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos

This is the third book by Spanish UFO researcher Ballester Olmos. The review highlights his serious approach, focusing on in-depth investigation rather than mere sensationalism. The book examines Spanish UFO cases, emphasizing quality over quantity in research. It covers misinterpretations of objects like 'RE ENTRIES' from satellites and photographic errors, as well as psychological aspects of UFO witnesses. A chapter is dedicated to ball lightning, suggesting some UFO sightings might be explained by this phenomenon. The book also includes a guide to conducting scientific UFO research. The review concludes that the book is a valuable contribution to UFO research for Spanish-speaking readers and expresses hope for an English translation.

"OVNI PREMIER BILAN" by Philippe Schneyder

This book is presented as a comprehensive overview of UFO phenomena, addressing the physical reality and plurality of UFOs. The author, Philippe Schneyder, a historian and journalist, has gathered contributions from numerous French and international scientists. The book aims to provide a foundational document for the scientific community and the general public. It covers key aspects of UFO phenomena, including case examples, sketches, and tables. The review notes that the listed authors, such as Dr. Jean-Francois Gille and Dr. Richard F. Haines, suggest a serious approach. The book concludes with a brief overview of three main explanations for UFOs: psychological origin, unknown natural phenomena, or extraterrestrial origin. It also includes a bibliography of Spanish UFO literature from 1950 to 1980. The reviewer recommends it as an interesting contribution for UFO researchers and enthusiasts.

"MEET THE EXTRATERRESTRIAL" by Isabel L. Davis

This is a revised reprint of a 1957 article from 'Fantastic Universe,' now illustrated with photos by Armand Laprade. The author, Isabel L. Davis, was a well-known US UFOlogist who focused on alleged alien contacts. The book is based on eight books by six contactees. Davis critically examines the stories of contactees like Adamski and Angelucci, noting the uniformity of alien descriptions and the apparent lack of problems on their home planets. She questions why aliens would only contact 'unimportant' people and compares contactee reports to 'normal' CE-3 sightings, finding the latter more credible due to the witnesses' lack of self-promotion. Davis concludes that contactee reports are likely fraudulent. The reviewer finds the book's critical stance surprising and recommends it for its insights into evaluating contactee stories.

"THE EVIDENCE FOR ALIEN ABDUCTIONS" by John Rimmer

This book, part of the 'Evidence' series from the Aquarian Press, critically evaluates evidence for alien abductions. Rimmer, who has practical experience in the field, examines common abduction scenarios, noting that they often occur at night on lonely roads and fit typical clichés. The book also delves into the historical perspective of abductions. Rimmer analyzes witness reports, including those from the Lorenzens, Fowler, and Hopkins, and finds a lack of significant similarity between different witnesses. He stresses the importance of investigating the witnesses' background, family, and work. The review highlights the examination of 'hard evidence' such as traces, electromagnetic effects, and hypnosis, concluding that these are not conclusive proofs and fall into a 'no man's land' between critics and believers. The book discusses the ETH (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis) and the role of hypnosis, with Rimmer suggesting that hypnosis might create more problems than it solves. He proposes that psychology offers a better approach to understanding UFO abductions. The book concludes by exploring the message of abductions, suggesting they contain a significant message about humanity and the world. Rimmer's personal assessment is that abductions are important and convey a message. The reviewer agrees with Rimmer's call for more in-depth investigation of witness backgrounds and recommends the book for its critical approach.

GEP-NACHRICHTEN (GEP News)

New Members

The GEP welcomes new members: Bärbel Garcia, Carola von Reeken, Michael Weckerle, and Gerold Vollmer.

August Wörner deceased

August Wörner, known for his UFO study group in Mayen, has passed away. The GEP had corresponded with Wörner but broke contact after an 'UFO Olympiad' where meteors and satellites were mistaken for alien spacecraft.

Difficulties with Non-Profit Status

The GEP is experiencing difficulties in obtaining recognition as a non-profit organization. The Ministry for Science and Research in NRW has not responded as expected, and state and federal parliament members are being asked to intervene.

CEPS/CENAP Meeting

Despite Gilbert Schmitz's illness, the annual meeting of UFO researchers is planned to take place in Luxembourg.

MYSTERIA

'MYSTERIA,' a bi-monthly magazine on UFO research and pre-astronautics, is available for subscription. It covers current UFO research, pre-astronautics, and related fields, including book reviews and advertisements.

THE WORLD SPACE STATION

The Federal Minister for Research and Technology has released a brochure about the Federal Republic's participation in the US-planned space research station. The brochure is available upon request.

Kosmologie (Cosmology)

This section reviews a book titled 'Kosmologie' (Cosmology), part of a series from 'Scientific American Spektrum der Wissenschaft.' The book compiles 15 articles on cosmology, offering an updated overview of modern research. It is praised for its accessibility, though it acknowledges the inherent complexity of the subject. The review highlights a specific contribution by Bart J. Bok, who suggests the Milky Way galaxy is ten times larger and seven times more massive than previously thought, proposing the existence of a 'corona' that contains at least 100,000 parsecs (approximately 330,000 light-years) in diameter, which is dark and therefore not luminous.

PREISE (Prices)

This section lists new prices for GEP special issues and other publications, with discounts for GEP members. It includes an order form for various GEP special issues, books by Richter, Strehl, von Reeken, Trent, Plassmann, and Schöpfer, as well as MUFON CES reports. The ordering instructions specify payment in advance, with GEP members able to pay by invoice.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include critical analysis of UFO evidence and theories, the ongoing debate about the classification and scientific rigor of UFO research, and the review of new publications in the field. The editorial stance appears to favor a more scientific and critical approach to UFO phenomena, as evidenced by the detailed book reviews and the discussion on research methodologies. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between serious research and sensationalism or unsubstantiated claims. The publication also serves as a platform for community news and discussions among UFO researchers.