JUFOF - Issue 053 - 1987 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of the German-language magazine "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), published by the "Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V." (GEP), is the 5th issue of Volume 8, dated September-November 1987. It features a cover headline about a sighting in Radevormwald and includes several in-depth articles on prominent UFO cases and related topics.

New Publication Announcement

The magazine announces the release of a "BIBLIOGRAPHIE DER SELBSTÄNDIGEN DEUTSCHSPRACHIGEN LITERATUR ÜBER AUSSERIRDISCHES LEBEN, UFOs, PRÄ-ASTRONAUTIK" (Bibliography of Independent German-Language Literature on Extraterrestrial Life, UFOs, Pre-Astronautics) covering the period 1901-1986. This bibliography, compiled by Dieter von Reeken, is a GEP special edition, approximately 60 pages, available for 8.00 DM (6.40 DM for members), plus shipping. It was released on September 1, 1987.

Articles and Features

Nahbeobachtung in Radevormwald (Close Observation in Radevormwald) - Part IV

This section critically examines explanations provided by CENAP for the Radevormwald sighting. The authors, G. Mosbleck and H.W. Peiniger, dispute CENAP's conclusion that the sighting was a misidentified Chinook helicopter (CH-47). They argue that CENAP's analysis relies on flawed assumptions and selectively interprets evidence. The GEP authors highlight discrepancies in CENAP's claims regarding the helicopter's noise level, the visibility of its windows, and the pilot's actions. They also point out that the reported observation occurred when the local inn was closed, contradicting a potential explanation involving local activity.

Der Cash-Landrum-Fall (The Cash-Landrum Case)

Authored by Ulrich Magin, this article details the extraordinary encounter of Vickie Landrum, Betty Cash, and Colby Landrum in Texas on December 29, 1980. The witnesses reported seeing a massive, fiery, diamond-shaped object hovering over the road, which emitted intense light and heat, causing them physical distress, including headaches, skin burns, and later, more severe health issues like hair loss and skin damage, suggestive of radiation sickness. The article discusses John F. Schuessler's investigation and his hypothesis that the event involved an extraterrestrial craft and resulted in radiation exposure. Magin notes that the case is significant as it potentially offers medical evidence for UFO encounters.

Die Hill-Entführung (The Hill Abduction) - Part II

This installment, written by Hans-Werner Peiniger, critically analyzes the famous Betty and Barney Hill abduction case, focusing on the hypnosis sessions conducted by Dr. Simon. Peiniger questions the validity of the abduction narrative, citing Dr. Simon's strong opinion that it was a fantasy or dream. He highlights that Betty's memories under hypnosis closely matched her prior dreams, and that Barney's recollections were minimal compared to Betty's, suggesting his account might have been influenced by her storytelling. The article also delves into the psychological and cultural context of the early 1960s, including the rise of science fiction and space exploration, which may have influenced the Hills' perceptions and the creation of the abduction narrative.

Offizielle Top-Secret-Dokumente: Manipulationen - Fälschungen? (Official Top-Secret Documents: Manipulations - Forgeries?)

Werner Walter examines a new book by Timothy Good and William Moore, which claims the US government recovered alien bodies and spacecraft from a crash in Roswell, New Mexico. Walter discusses the alleged MJ-12 documents, which are presented as evidence of a government cover-up regarding UFO phenomena. He expresses skepticism about the authenticity and interpretation of these documents, suggesting they may be manipulated or forged. The article includes reproductions of some of these purported documents.

Other Content

• Impressum: Provides publication details, including publisher, editors (Hans-Werner Peiniger and Gerald Mosbleck), subscription prices, and contact information.
• GEP Information: Explains the GEP's mission, membership benefits (including receiving the "JUFOF" magazine), and its research methods.
• Definition of UFO: Includes a definition of a UFO based on Dr. J. Allen Hynek's criteria.
• Reporting Centers: Lists contact details for UFO observation reporting centers (GEP and CENAP).
• Letters to the Editor, New Literature, GEP News: Standard sections for reader correspondence, book reviews, and organizational updates.
• Book Advertisements: Features advertisements for UFO-related books and the "MYSTERIA" magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained sightings, the GEP editors emphasize rigorous investigation and a scientific methodology. They are skeptical of sensational claims and potential hoaxes, as demonstrated in their critiques of CENAP's Radevormwald analysis and the questioning of the Hill abduction's authenticity. The publication also shows a strong interest in government secrecy and potential cover-ups, as evidenced by the discussion of the MJ-12 documents. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious inquiry, seeking verifiable evidence and logical explanations while remaining open to the possibility of genuine anomalous phenomena.

This issue of the German-language magazine "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), dated May-June 1987, focuses on the theme of "MORE ABOUT THE UNEXPLAINED, UFOS AND MONSTERS." The cover highlights an article by Ulrich Magin and features a striking visual. The magazine delves into alleged government cover-ups, the nature of UFO phenomena, and related unexplained events.

The Majestic-12 and Project Aquarius Controversy

The central theme explored is the alleged existence of secret US government projects like "Majestic-12" (MJ-12) and "Project Aquarius." The article critically examines documents that surfaced, purportedly detailing these operations. It notes that these documents, allegedly originating from the USAF National Archives, were released on January 12, 1987, and classified as TOP SECRET with limited distribution. The magazine questions the authenticity of these papers, pointing out that some crucial information is blacked out and that copies used in publications by figures like Moore and Good are less legible than original sources, suggesting deliberate manipulation. The article details a "TOP SECRET" and "EYES ONLY" document, stamped "COPY ONE OF ONE," which is presented as a briefing for President Eisenhower. However, the author argues that this document, with its heavily obscured text, is likely a fabrication designed to create a false impression. The document's content is analyzed, suggesting it pertains to a classified research and development operation, possibly involving the CIA, rather than a direct briefing to General Twining.

The article contrasts this with the alleged "Majestic-12" group, described as a special study project of the National Security Council. It mentions a memorandum from July 14, 1954, indicating that MJ-12 was to brief President Eisenhower on July 16, 1954, about a study project, the subject of which is undefined and not explicitly linked to UFOs.

Further analysis reveals that the "Majestic-12" documents are linked to a directive from President Truman on September 24, 1947, to establish a group to conduct an operation, based on recommendations from Dr. Vannevar Bush and Minister James Forrestal (identified as MJ-2 and MJ-3). This aligns with General Twining's recommendation on September 23, 1947, to the Air Force Headquarters to initiate a project investigating flying saucers. The magazine posits that this might be related to the precursor to Project Blue Book, known as Project SIGN (or Project Saucer).

The article also critiques the alleged "Project Aquarius," which is described as having started in 1959 and aimed at establishing communication with aliens. It mentions a supposed contact in 1969 between USAF intelligence officers and aliens in New Mexico. The magazine expresses skepticism about the modern computer font used in some documents and the overall narrative, labeling it as "total manipulation and propaganda."

Another document, "EXECUTIVE CORRESPONDENCE, Executive Briefing on PROJECT AQUARIUS (TS)," is presented as being prepared by MJ-12. The author finds this document highly suspect due to its modern computer font, suggesting it's a forgery from a later period, not the 1947-1954 timeframe claimed. The article also mentions "Project SIGMA," which reportedly separated from Aquarius in 1975 and involved a successful contact on April 25, 1969, with aliens in New Mexico. Additionally, "Project SNOWBIRD" (1972) for testing recovered alien aircraft and "Project POUNCE" (1966) for evaluating space flight information are mentioned, all contributing to a narrative deemed "a true adventure of the most questionable origin."

Unexplained Phenomena and Fortean Connections

Beyond the UFO cover-up narrative, the magazine explores a range of unexplained phenomena, drawing connections between them. Ulrich Magin's article, "MORE ABOUT THE UNEXPLAINED, UFOS AND MONSTERS," categorizes these phenomena:

• Sightings within a limited area over a long period: exemplified by Loch Ness and the Charles Fort area in Ireland.
• Sightings within a limited area over a shorter period (months to years): known as "Flaps."
• Sightings of diverse phenomena at the same time and place: sometimes by the same witnesses.
• Witnesses observing diverse phenomena over a longer period: termed "repeaters."

Magin discusses the famous Loch Ness monster and the phenomena associated with Charles Fort, including a supposed sea serpent sighting in 1850 and a miracle at a grotto in Ballinspittle in 1985. He also recounts the Loch Alsh area in Scotland, known for sea serpent sightings and unexplained "ghost lights" and "ghost cars."

The article touches upon the "Tunguska catastrophe" of 1908, described as a mysterious UFO crash in Siberia, and reviews Peter Krassa's book on the subject.

Case Studies and Explanations

The magazine presents several case studies:

• The Reeves family in Toledo, Oregon (March 1969): Reported encounters with spaceships, strange lights, and "stump-like creatures."
• A Welsh family in 1977: Alleged sightings of spaceships and giants.
• Professor Rufus Graves in Amherst, Massachusetts (August 13, 1819): Observed a bright white light that landed and appeared to be an overturned plate, with a substance resembling white soap.
• A sea serpent sighting in Gloucester, Massachusetts (same day): A 27-meter-long creature with a snake-like head.
• Mrs. W. Bowers in Vader, Washington (December 3, 1970): Found large footprints and later saw a UFO over her house.

Magin offers provisional explanations for these phenomena, suggesting that in some cases, "superstition" and folklore play a role, particularly in rural areas. He proposes that "flaps" might be driven by rumors and official denials, while sightings of multiple phenomena could be hoaxes or coincidences. For "repeaters," he suggests a susceptibility to extreme, archetypal hallucinations, possibly triggered by everyday stimuli. He introduces the terms "individual and local reaction" to describe how UFOs and monsters might be archetypal visions triggered by daily stimuli, with "local reaction" referring to widespread sightings in an area and "individual reaction" to single witnesses.

Letters to the Editor and Commentary

The "Letters to the Editor" section features various opinions. One reader suggests that the UFO phenomenon might be primarily psycho-social. Another comments on the Hill case and the use of hypnosis in UFO research, questioning the reliability of hypnotized witnesses. A letter regarding the Tunguska catastrophe argues for a "large meteorite" theory over an extraterrestrial spacecraft.

Another letter discusses the Livingston case, proposing a Fata Morgana effect as a possible explanation for visible celestial objects like Mercury and Antares. It raises questions about the health of the witness, Mr. Taylor, and suggests the possibility of a psychomotor seizure (epileptic twilight attack) as an explanation for his reported experiences, including the alleged damage to his trousers.

Roland M. Horn's commentary on a case involving a helicopter sighting suggests that while Köhler's explanation was plausible, Henke's attempt to discredit the witness was unsuccessful. He notes that official inquiries did not confirm helicopter activity and that the witness maintained his original account.

Werner Walter of CENAP criticizes the approach of some UFOlogists, arguing that they often start with preconceived notions of alien visitation and readily accept questionable evidence as proof. He contrasts this with the CENAP approach, which seeks alternative explanations for reported phenomena through rigorous research, often finding that cases crumble under scrutiny.

Book Reviews and Publications

The issue includes reviews of several books:

• "JAHRBUCH DER LUFT- UND RAUMFAHRT" (Yearbook of Aviation and Spaceflight): Described as a comprehensive reference work useful for UFO investigators due to its extensive data and addresses.
• "COMMUNION" by Whitley Strieber: A first-hand account of unusual experiences with non-humanoid beings, detailing encounters and psychological tests undergone by the author. The book is presented as a significant investigation into alleged alien abductions.
• "FEUER FIEL VOM HIMMEL" (Fire Fell from the Sky) by Peter Krassa: A report on the 1908 Tunguska catastrophe, examining Soviet research into the event.

GEP News and Editorial Stance

The "GEP-NACHRICHTEN" (GEP News) section announces new members and reports on a meeting with CENAP, where an agreement was reached to de-escalate conflict and avoid emotional attacks. Both organizations committed to respecting each other's research and sharing findings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the alleged UFO cover-up by governments, the potential manipulation of evidence, and the exploration of various unexplained phenomena. The magazine adopts a critical and analytical stance, encouraging readers to question official narratives and sensational claims. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous research, the consideration of psychological and sociological factors, and a cautious approach to accepting extraordinary explanations. The editorial stance appears to favor a grounded, investigative approach, warning against the pitfalls of confirmation bias and potential deception within the UFO community, while acknowledging the existence of phenomena that defy easy explanation.