JUFOF - Issue 052 - 1987 04

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'Journal für UFO-Forschung' (JUFOF), published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP), is dated July-August 1987, Volume 8, Issue 4, with ISSN 0723-7766 and a cover price of DM 4.00. The issue is dedicated to exploring various aspects of UFO phenomena and related mysteries.

Key Articles and Content

Nahbeobachtung in Radevormwald 3 (Close Observation in Radevormwald 3)

This article, by Hans-Werner Peiniger, continues the investigation into a UFO sighting in Radevormwald. The author revisits his previous calculations regarding the object's size, estimating its length to be between 36 and 44 meters. He discusses various explanations, including the possibility of a large helicopter, and analyzes the available data. The article concludes that, based on the evidence, the object observed on November 30, 1984, at 22:49 must be classified as a UFO ('UFO i.e.S.'). The author notes the lack of any unusual reports in the local press regarding unusual aerial activity, which would be expected if a large helicopter was involved. He also states that there is no evidence to suggest the observation was caused by conventional aircraft, a deliberate hoax, or perceptual errors, leaving 'self-deception' as the last, though unlikely, possibility.

UFOs und Ungeheuer (UFOs and Monsters)

Ulrich Magin explores the perceived connection between UFO sightings and encounters with cryptids such as the Loch Ness Monster and Bigfoot. He references authors like John A. Keel, Janet and Colin Bord, and F.W. Holiday, who suggest these might be different aspects of a single phenomenon. Magin notes that reports of strange animals often accompany UFO sightings. The article details numerous cryptid sightings in Scotland (Loch Ness, Cairngorms, Scottish Puma) and Wales (Barmouth, Lake Bala), often occurring in proximity to UFO reports. It also touches upon similar phenomena in Great Britain, such as in Falmouth, Cornwall, where sightings of sea serpents, ghosts, and UFOs have been reported. Magin posits that these phenomena might be psychological manifestations or archetypal symbols, reflecting a collective human consciousness grappling with technology and the natural world.

Kreisspuren in Südengland (Crop Circles in Southern England)

Paul Fuller discusses the phenomenon of crop circles, particularly those with outer rings that appeared in the summer of 1986. He recounts the first ring/circle formation at Cheesefoot Head, observed by investigators who were attempting to witness the formation process but were hampered by rain. Fuller argues that the rapid appearance of a second, smaller circle nearby on a sunny evening, witnessed by many, makes a hoax unlikely. He collaborates with Dr. Terence Meaden of the Tornado and Storm Research Organisation, who notes the sharp edges of the circles, ruling out helicopters. The circles are often oval, not perfectly round, with spiral patterns not centered. Fuller suggests that whirlwinds are a likely cause for many crop circles, while acknowledging that some are deliberate hoaxes, citing an example by John Dodds. A survey of farmers in Hampshire indicated that less than 10% believed UFOs were involved, with whirlwinds being the more accepted explanation.

Der Hill-Entführungsfall (The Hill Abduction Case)

Wolfgang Schröder provides a critical examination of the famous Barney and Betty Hill abduction case from September 19, 1961. The article recounts their initial sighting of a bright object, their stopping the car to observe it, and the subsequent loss of consciousness and memory. Upon regaining awareness, they found themselves miles away, with a two-hour gap in their memory. The case gained significant attention due to their detailed accounts under hypnosis, which were remarkably consistent between them. Dr. Benjamin Simon, a psychiatrist, conducted the hypnotic sessions. The Hills described alien beings and a spacecraft, and Betty Hill drew a star map based on what she saw, which was later analyzed by amateur astronomer Marjorie Fish. Fish identified several stars on the map, including Tau Ceti and Zeta Reticuli, suggesting a possible origin for the beings. The article also notes that radar detected an unidentified flying object landing in the same region around the time of the alleged abduction. Schröder highlights criticisms of the case, including the possibility that Barney Hill's interest in aircraft might have led to misidentification, and that the initial sighting could have been influenced by the presence of planets like Jupiter and Saturn near the moon. Despite criticisms, the case is considered by many, including physicists like Stanton T. Friedmann, to be credible.

Die Hill-Entführung: Kritische Betrachtung des meist-publizierten Entführungsfalls (The Hill Abduction: Critical Examination of the Most Published Abduction Case)

Hans-Werner Peiniger offers a critical perspective on the Hill abduction case, focusing on points often overlooked in German literature. He discusses the initial sighting, suggesting that Barney Hill's known interest in aircraft might have led him to misinterpret a flying object as a UFO. Peiniger also points out that Betty Hill's sketch of the sky included celestial bodies like the Moon, Jupiter, and Saturn, and that the UFO's position in her drawing coincided with Jupiter's location. He notes that while the case has been widely published, critical aspects have sometimes been downplayed. The article references the work of Dr. Benjamin Simon and Stanton T. Friedmann, who supported the Hills' credibility.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section on "GEP-Nachrichten" (GEP News), "Leserbriefe" (Letters to the Editor), and "Literatur" (Literature), as well as a definition of a UFO. A postcard section is included for membership inquiries to GEP. The magazine also features a section on meteoritics, with an advertisement for the journal 'METEOR'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of UFO sightings, the exploration of alleged alien encounters, and the connection between these phenomena and cryptids. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena and related mysteries, encouraging critical analysis while acknowledging the possibility of genuine, albeit unusual, events. The GEP, as the publisher, positions itself as a dedicated research organization actively investigating these topics. The magazine aims to present detailed case studies, scientific analysis, and critical perspectives on UFOs and related subjects.

This issue of the German-language journal 'JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG' (issue 3'87), published by GEP, focuses on UFO research, case studies, and related phenomena. It features articles, reader letters, and book reviews, with a strong emphasis on critical analysis and the historical aspects of UFO sightings.

Articles and Discussions

The Hill-Hill Case Analysis

The lead article explores the possibility that the UFO sighting by the Hill-Hill couple was a misinterpretation of the planet Jupiter. It suggests that atmospheric conditions, such as clearing clouds, may have led Betty Hill to mistake Jupiter for a UFO. The analysis also considers the influence of prior conversations about UFOs and Betty's sister's interest in the subject, positing that an 'emotional drama' might have triggered the misperception. The article concludes that this stimulus-based explanation is plausible for the entire case.

Reader Letters: "In Doubt... For or Against UFOs?"

This section features critical commentary from readers on previous articles, specifically concerning the Tunguska catastrophe and the Livingston case. One reader expresses a concern about a perceived negative bias against real UFOs in some publications, while acknowledging the existence of numerous reports of 'first, second, and third kind' encounters. The reader argues that dismissing such reports without concrete counter-evidence is unwarranted.

Regarding the Tunguska event, the reader highlights two key facts that suggest an extraterrestrial object rather than a meteorite: the 'telegraph pole forest' symptom at the impact center, similar to atomic bomb effects, and the reported 'cigar-shaped object' with a trajectory that changed. The reader links these observations to potential nuclear explosions and the possibility of intelligent control attempting a course correction.

Concerning the Livingston case, the reader criticizes explanations involving Fata Morgana or epilepsy, deeming them 'defamatory.' The reader argues that such explanations are attempts to dismiss genuine UFO sightings and that the Venus is only visible as a point of light, making it difficult to mistake for a larger object. The reader suggests that this dismissive attitude aims to silence witnesses and prevent further investigation.

Another reader, Rudolf Henke, is criticized for his approach to UFO investigations. Gerald Mosbleck argues that Henke's method of downplaying witness testimony to fit a trivial solution is flawed. Mosbleck emphasizes the importance of considering all aspects of witness accounts and not just those that fit a preconceived theory. He also defends his own critical stance, suggesting it is a necessary countermeasure against self-deception within groups.

Correction Regarding CENAP Statements

A section titled "RICHTIGSTELLUNG" (Correction) addresses claims made in a previous issue (JUFOF 3'87). The author clarifies that they did not claim unusual objects indicated a hoax, but rather assigned a low degree of peculiarity to the discussed cases. They also refute the accusation of providing 'exotic explanations,' stating that their explanations (swindle, helicopter, airplane) were not exotic and that their CENAP colleagues, Werner Walter and Hansjürgen Köhler, largely agreed with their assessments.

Self-Deception and Perception

An article by Gerald Mosbleck discusses recent findings in psychophysiology relevant to UFO research. It highlights that only a fraction of perceived data reaches consciousness, with a 'mechanism' in the left brain hemisphere filtering information. This mechanism aims to protect against 'the unwanted,' leading individuals to consciously perceive what they 'want' to see. When this mechanism fails, unfiltered information can lead to confusion and a breakdown in distinguishing important from unimportant data, potentially resulting in schizophrenia. The article suggests that the tendency to quickly categorize new information as familiar, driven by a fear of the unknown, explains the often-desperate attempts by skeptics to reduce UFO phenomena to known causes. It also notes that self-deception can affect entire groups, leading to a rejection of criticism, and that this can manifest in UFO research as a preference for explanations that fit a particular theory while downplaying contradictory evidence.

Book Reviews

Several book reviews are featured:

• "UFO's: A History 1950: January-March" by Loren E. Gross: This is described as a valuable resource for UFO researchers interested in historical aspects. The author meticulously analyzed material from January to March 1950, covering UFO sightings, press reactions, and even a UFO crash. The review praises the work for its comprehensive nature and notes that it is part of a larger series.

• "UFOS AND THE EXTRATERRESTRIAL CONTACT MOVEMENT: A BIBLIOGRAPHY" by George M. Eberhart: This comprehensive bibliography is lauded for its extensive coverage of UFO literature, including books, periodicals, and special publications. It is noted that the journal articles cited are not solely from UFO publications but also from nature and popular science journals. The review highlights its usefulness for researchers despite its high price and the fact that it is primarily in English.

• "THE UFO LITERATURE: A Comprehensive Annotated Bibliography of Works in English" by Richard Michael Rasmussen: This bibliography is praised for providing annotated entries, allowing researchers to select literature based on their specific interests, such as 'contactee' literature or more skeptical works. The review notes its detailed examination of UFO literature, including pre-astronautics, and its comprehensive index.

• "MYSTERY OF THE CIRCLES" by Paul Fuller & Jenny Randles: This brochure is presented as a significant work on crop circles, summarizing previous findings and research. It discusses possible causes, including helicopters, UFOs, whirlwinds, and 'fakes.' The authors conclude that a substantial portion of crop circles are 'fakes,' but a significant part may be caused by unusual whirlwinds. The review notes some processing flaws but recommends the brochure.

• "MELBOURNE EPISODE: Case Study of a Missing Pilot" by Richard F. Haines: This book documents the disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich in 1978 after reporting a UFO. The review highlights Haines's scientific approach, presenting background material and analyzing the pilot's final radio communications. Four hypotheses are discussed: pilot error, hoax, UFO encounter, or secret weapons testing. The review notes that Haines finds some support for a UFO encounter and that the book enriches the UFO literature.

• "BEWEISE: DAS BERMUDA-DREIECK" by DAVID GROUP: This book is described as a well-researched report on the Bermuda Triangle phenomenon. The author acknowledges that not all cases can be explained by a single theory and includes logical explanations alongside UFO theories. The review notes that the author considers UFOs unlikely as a primary cause but suggests a link to electromagnetic changes that can affect human perception and cause hallucinations.

• "DIE GEHEIME BOTSCHAFT VON FATIMA" by Johannes Fiebag: This book is presented as a comprehensive investigation into the 1917 Fatima events, examining whether they can be interpreted within the UFO phenomenon. The review notes that the book prompts a re-evaluation of the 'Fatima miracles.'

• "FEUER FIEL VOM HIMMEL" by Peter Krassa: This book is described as a unique report on the 1908 Tunguska catastrophe, detailing the author's on-site research and the Soviet Union's efforts to solve the mystery. The review highlights the book's contribution to understanding the event.

• "UFOS: SO RUND WIE UNTERTASSEN" (UFOs: As Round As Saucers): This book is highly recommended for its extensive collection of photos and drawings that visually depict the UFO phenomenon. It is praised for its objective presentation, making it accessible to skeptics as well.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a critical and analytical approach to UFO research. There is a clear emphasis on historical documentation, case studies, and the scientific investigation of sightings. The editorial stance appears to favor open-mindedness towards the UFO phenomenon while rigorously scrutinizing evidence and explanations. The journal also highlights the importance of understanding human perception and the psychological factors that can influence witness testimony. The reviews of books and other publications indicate a commitment to providing readers with a comprehensive overview of available literature on UFOs and related topics, encouraging further research and discussion.