JUFOF - Issue 049 - 1987 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), published by the "Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V." (Society for the Research of the UFO Phenomenon), is Volume 8, Number 1, dated January-February 1987. The cover prominently features the headline "EXTRATERRESTRISCHE INTELLIGENZEN" (Extraterrestrial Intelligences), with a subtitle indicating it is a "Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.". The issue includes a detailed bibliography of German-language publications on 'Extraterrestrial Life, Pre-Astronautics, UFO Phenomenon' since 1901, compiled by Dieter von Reeken. It also presents articles on the analysis of UFO photographs and films, the Hessdalen phenomenon, and the methods of a UFO-psychiatrist.

Articles and Content

Bibliography of German-Language Publications on UFOs (1901-Present)

Compiled by Dieter von Reeken, this section provides a comprehensive list of self-published works in German related to extraterrestrial life, pre-astronautics, and the UFO phenomenon. It is presented as a loose-leaf collection, with different parts available for purchase: the 1901-1982 bibliography and introductory material (DM 14.50), the 1983-1986 bibliography (DM 3.00), and a register (DM 3.00). The complete edition costs DM 19.00. The GEP price is also listed for each item.

General Information About UFO Photography and Film

Authored by Gerald Mosbleck, this article discusses the importance and challenges of using photographs and films as evidence in UFO research. Mosbleck emphasizes that while visual evidence is highly sought after, it is also prone to manipulation and misinterpretation. He outlines the need for critical examination of all photographic and filmic material, considering natural phenomena, optical illusions, and deliberate fakes. The article details various methods of analysis, including the use of computers for enhancing image details and identifying potential flaws. It also covers common causes for misidentification, such as atmospheric effects, lens flares, dust, and developing errors. The author stresses the importance of examining original negatives or unedited film footage to detect manipulations. Specific examples of potential fakes, like those attributed to 'Billy' Meier, are mentioned. The article concludes that while photographs and films alone may not be sufficient proof of UFO existence, they can serve as supporting evidence in well-researched cases, and the exposure of fakes does not disprove the existence of unknown aerial objects.

The Hessdalen Phenomenon

This extensive section details the UFO sightings reported in the Hessdalen valley in Norway, starting in December 1981. The phenomenon is described as characterized by lights of various sizes and intensities, as well as cigar-shaped and oval objects. The reports come from numerous witnesses, including farmers and residents of the area. The article provides a geographical description of Hessdalen and its surroundings. It recounts specific sightings, including observations of objects moving at high speeds, hovering, and exhibiting unusual light patterns. Some reports mention interference with radio and television equipment, and one instance of a dog behaving abnormally. The article also touches upon the investigations conducted by UFO-NORGE and NIVFO (Norwegian Institute for Scientific Investigation and Information), including statistical analyses of the reported sightings. The data suggests that most sightings occurred in the evening, often involving luminous objects, with a variety of shapes and behaviors described. The article includes a map of the Hessdalen area and reproductions of drawings based on witness descriptions.

GEP Membership Information

This section outlines the benefits of becoming a member of the GEP. Members receive the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" as part of their membership fee, can request UFO sighting questionnaires, receive discounts on GEP publications, and have access to a lending library. The annual membership fee is DM 33 (DM 24 for students, unemployed, etc.).

GEP Overview and Impressum

The GEP is presented as the largest German organization dedicated to UFO research, defining a UFO as an object or light whose appearance and behavior cannot be conventionally explained. The magazine's "Impressum" lists Hans-Werner Peiniger and Gerald Mosbleck as responsible editors. It states that the "JUFOF" is published bimonthly on a non-commercial basis, and therefore, author honoraria cannot be paid. The magazine also includes contact information for GEP, including a post office box and telephone number.

FAQ Section

The FAQ section addresses common questions, including the definition of a UFO according to Dr. J. Allen Hynek, the role of the GEP, and the challenges in analyzing UFO evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of extraterrestrial intelligence, the critical analysis of photographic and filmic evidence in UFO research, and the detailed reporting of specific UFO phenomena, such as the Hessdalen sightings. The editorial stance, particularly in Gerald Mosbleck's article, is one of cautious skepticism regarding photographic evidence, emphasizing the need for rigorous analysis and the distinction between evidence of manipulation and evidence of genuine unknown phenomena. The GEP positions itself as a serious research organization, aiming to provide a platform for interdisciplinary investigation and information dissemination.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research) from 1987, published by GEP, focuses on the analytical and psychological aspects of UFO phenomena. It features articles on the methods of a UFO psychiatrist, the scientific analysis of UFO photographs, and reviews of recent literature and cases.

The Eigenart Method of a UFO Psychiatrist

The lead article, "DIE EIGENARTIGEN METHODEN EINES UFO-PSYCHIATERS" (The Eigenart Method of a UFO Psychiatrist) by Ulrich Magin, delves into the controversial case of Dr. Joseph Jaffe. Jaffe, a psychiatrist who investigated UFO sightings, was brought before a tribunal in November 1986 for malpractice. His methods were described as unconventional, and his treatment of George Waterson, a patient suffering from overwork and stress, involved a drug concoction called "Jaffe's Brew." Waterson allegedly became a "will-less zombie" after five years of this treatment. The article highlights that Jaffe had previously vouched for the authenticity of UFO abductions, including that of police officer Alan Godfrey in November 1980. Godfrey's abduction, detailed in Jenny Randles' book "THE PENNINE UFO MYSTERY," involved a time loss and a hypnotic regression where he described encounters with a humanoid named Yosef and a large black dog. Jaffe's defense was that it was simpler to believe Godfrey's account as it happened. However, Jaffe's subsequent malpractice trial casts doubt on his credibility as a UFO expert.

Analyzing UFO Photographs

Bruce S. Maccabee contributes "GRUNDSÄTZE DER ANALYSE VON UFO-FALLEN MIT FOTOGRAFISCHEN DATEN" (Principles of UFO Case Analysis with Photographic Data), offering a comprehensive guide for researchers. The article stresses the importance of verifying the consistency between witness statements and photographic evidence. Key steps include examining the photograph's background for alignment with the sighting location and time, checking weather reports, and analyzing shadows to determine light source direction. For objects large enough to show detail, the article explains how to calculate their angular size using the original negative or print and the lens's focal length. This allows for the calculation of the object's actual size if its distance is known. The analysis also covers potential issues like film defects, light reflections, and lens flares, advising researchers to obtain original negatives or slides and to check for missing frames. Computer analysis is presented as a tool that can highlight discrepancies, such as the presence of "linear structures" (threads) used to suspend models, but it cannot definitively prove or disprove a UFO's authenticity. The article also discusses the limitations of photography in capturing very small objects or those at great distances.

Key Incidents and Cases

Several notable UFO incidents are discussed:

• Alan Godfrey Abduction: The article references Jenny Randles' book on the Pennine UFO mystery, detailing Alan Godfrey's alleged abduction in November 1980, which included a time loss and hypnotic regression.
• Kirtland AFB Landing: A declassified document from August 9, 1980, reportedly describes a UFO landing observed by three security officers at Kirtland Air Force Base. The object was described as luminous and disc-shaped.
• Bentwaters/Rendlesham Forest Case: Raymond W. Boeche presents an update on the December 27, 1980, incident, noting 17 known witnesses and his research based on interviews and documentation.
• Scandinavian "Ghost Rockets" Wave: Kim Moller Hansen's brochure details the 1946 UFO sighting wave in Scandinavia, known as "Spukraketen" or "Spukbomber," which generated significant media attention. The material includes research by Clas Svahn and a contribution by Willy Wegner suggesting the phenomena might have been Russian research rockets.

New Literature and Research

The issue includes several reviews of recent publications:

• MUFON 1986 UFO Symposium Proceedings: The 17th MUFON UFO Symposium, themed "UFO's: Beyond the Mainstream of Science," featured speakers like Marge Christensen on "SCIENTISTS, UFO'S AND ANTI-SCIENTIFIC THINKING" and Dr. Michael D. Swords on "THE CASE FOR ET: WITHIN THE MAINSTREAM OF SCIENCE." The proceedings are praised for their comprehensive coverage and affordability.
• "Faszination des Unfassbaren" (Fascination of the Unfathomable): This book is reviewed for its exploration of paranormal and extraterrestrial phenomena, including hypnosis, telepathy, and UFOs. It features contributions from notable figures like B.D. Josephson and Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross. The UFO chapter is noted for its balanced approach, acknowledging both scientific skepticism and the unexplained aspects of sightings.
• "THE SEARCH FOR LIFE IN THE UNIVERSE" by Donald Goldsmith and Tobias Owen: This book is reviewed for its astronomical approach to finding extraterrestrial civilizations, covering topics like space, time, galaxies, interstellar gas, and the search for life within and beyond our solar system.

GEP News and Notes

The GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.) announces new members and provides a financial report for 1986. They also mention the revision of their UFO sighting questionnaire. A small advertisement seeks used literature on the UFO phenomenon and cryptozoology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently emphasizes a scientific and analytical approach to UFO research. It encourages critical examination of evidence, including photographic analysis and witness testimony. The editorial stance appears to be open to the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence while maintaining a skeptical outlook towards unsubstantiated claims. The journal also highlights the importance of psychological factors in understanding UFO reports and advocates for a more serious and less sensationalized approach to UFO research in the media.