JUFOF - Issue 054 - 1987 06

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP), is dated November-December 1987, Volume 8, Issue 6 (Heft 54). It features a cover headline about "KIDNAPPING DURCH ET'S" (Kidnapping by ETs) by Jim Slotek and includes a special supplement: a bibliography of German-language literature on extraterrestrial life, UFOs, and pre-astronautics from 1901-1986, compiled by Dieter von Reeken.

Contents and Articles

Kidnapping durch ET's (Kidnapping by ETs)

This article by Jim Slotek discusses the "ET Hypothesis" as presented by Roy Bonisteel on the CBS program "Man Alive." It explores the idea that aliens may be abducting humans for genetic experiments. The article references the work of Budd Hopkins, who has interviewed over 120 individuals claiming to have experienced alien abductions, often reporting similar details about the beings, their methods, and technology. The case of Dorothy from Trenton is highlighted, who described small, white creatures with large black eyes and reported the removal of her fetus during an encounter. The article notes the consistency of these accounts, even when individuals are from different continents and are unaware of each other's experiences.

Lichtphänomene und die Technik der Zukunft (Light Phenomena and Future Technology)

Thomas Mehner's article posits that UFOs might represent a future technology. He suggests that the observed light phenomena associated with UFOs are not emitted by the objects themselves but by the surrounding atmosphere, caused by electrical discharges and ionization of atmospheric gases. This process, he argues, could be a method for reducing the noise level and energy required for propulsion, potentially explaining the silent and efficient flight of UFOs. The article draws parallels to experiments conducted in the US in the 1960s that showed electrical discharges could dampen sonic booms and reduce aerodynamic friction. Mehner proposes that UFOs may have advanced this technology significantly, leading to their observed characteristics.

Die Hill-Entführung (The Hill Abduction) - Teil III

Hans-Werner Peiniger continues his critical examination of the Barney and Betty Hill abduction case. This installment focuses on the "Hill Star Map," a key piece of evidence interpreted by amateur astronomers Marjorie Fish and Charles W. Attenberg. Peiniger questions the accuracy of Betty Hill's memory under hypnosis and the reliability of these interpretations, suggesting they do not definitively prove the abduction. He notes that Fish identified only 15 out of 26 stars, while Attenberg identified 25 out of 26, with his interpretation pointing to Epsilon Indi as a potential home system. Peiniger concludes that the star map interpretations do not serve as proof and that the case remains open to scientific investigation.

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

Ulrich Magin continues his investigation into the Cash-Landrum incident. This section discusses the witnesses' accounts of seeing numerous helicopters accompanying the diamond-shaped UFO, leading to speculation about military involvement. Despite inquiries, the US Air Force denied any knowledge or involvement of such helicopters in the area on the night of the incident. The article details the legal battles initiated by the witnesses, who sued the US government for damages, alleging the UFO was a government experimental craft. The government's defense, including claims of governmental immunity and vagueness in the lawsuit, is presented. Magin also explores alternative explanations for the case, including natural phenomena, a hoax, or a collective hallucination, referencing the work of Loren Coleman and Jerome Clark who suggest such experiences might be a form of parapsychological vision.

GEP Information and Publications

The issue also includes information about the GEP, its mission, and benefits of membership. It details how members receive the "JUFOF" magazine, discounts on special issues, and access to a lending library. Contact information for GEP's UFO observation reporting centers (Meldezentralen) is provided. An "Impressum" section outlines the publication's details, including its non-commercial basis and the responsibilities of its editors. A small classified ad offers books related to UFOs.

Bibliography of German-Language UFO Literature

The supplement by Dieter von Reeken provides a comprehensive bibliography of German-language literature on extraterrestrial life, UFOs, and pre-astronautics published between 1901 and 1986. It is presented as a special GEP publication (Sonderheft 10) and is available for purchase.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the analysis of specific cases like the Hill abduction and the Cash-Landrum incident, and the exploration of potential technological and extraterrestrial origins of UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging scientific investigation while acknowledging the complexities and uncertainties surrounding the topic. The publication aims to provide a platform for detailed research, case studies, and the dissemination of information within the UFO research community, particularly in the German-speaking world.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), published by GEP, is identified as Volume 8 and features content from November/December 1983. The magazine is in German and focuses on UFO research and related phenomena.

8th Conference of German UFO Researchers in Osterburken

The issue extensively covers the 8th conference of German UFO researchers held in Osterburken. The event, hosted by CENAP-Heilbronn, brought together representatives from the German UFO scene for discussions and lectures. Jochen Ickinger and Roland Gehardt selected the Hotel Märchenwald as the venue. Despite arriving late for the press conference due to traffic, the GEP representatives found the event well-organized and flexible, as is typical for such gatherings.

Three representatives from the 'Nürnberger Astronomischen Arbeitsgemeinschaft' attended to learn about the methods of critical UFO groups. They were interested in how UFO reports are handled by observatories, with Susanne Strecker, Peter Friedrich, and Rolf Hembach sharing their insights. The astronomers were reportedly surprised that groups like GEP and CENAP approach the UFO phenomenon scientifically and were impressed by their work. They noted receiving frequent calls about UFOs, especially when Venus is visible.

Roland Gehardt initiated a discussion on the purpose of UFO research, which, like many such debates, concluded without a concrete result. However, these discussions are considered valuable for guests seeking insight into the internal workings of various groups.

Rudolf Henke from CENAP-Heidelberg presented on 'Perception Psychology,' titled "How reliable can witness accounts be?" He explained that most information is gathered visually, with hearing, smell, and other senses playing a minor role. Henke assigned reliability levels to different aspects of sightings, which were considered somewhat arbitrary, but highlighted the significant impact of optical perception errors on witness statements. The discussion touched upon the paradox of human reliability despite numerous potential perceptual errors.

Alexander Keul presented a slide show featuring a blurred object resembling an 'Adamski-saucer.' Attendees were shown the slide for 10 seconds and then asked to sketch it from memory and estimate its projection duration. The drawings were later evaluated. Keul also discussed methods for assessing witness reliability, mentioning a 1985 questionnaire developed in England by Karl Fischer, Alexander Keul, and Ken Phillips, which has been adapted by GEP and CENAP. The MMPI test was also mentioned as a tool for determining witness characteristics.

Another idea from Keul involved a test of perceptual abilities, where participants view a test image for a standardized time and then complete a questionnaire and draw the object. This test aims to gather data similar to studies on the overestimation of the sun and moon.

The evening concluded with a continuation of the discussion on the Radevormwald case. The event was overshadowed by underlying tensions between CENAP-Mannheim and CENAP-Heidelberg, resulting in Rudolf Henke's brief attendance.

On Sunday, Werner Walter discussed whether experiences with Identified Flying Objects (IFOs) could be applied to Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) cases. Walter saw no significant differences, suggesting that unexplained cases could be resolved by comparison with explained ones. This led to discussions that, while generally objective, provided food for thought.

The conference concluded with routine work, case discussions, and conversations. For newcomers like Thomas Bucher from SUFOF Stuttgart, it offered a glimpse into the operations of GEP and CENAP. Inter-group communication during meals was highlighted as crucial for establishing contacts, exchanging viewpoints, and discussing experiences. Conversations between Dr. Keul and the author revealed insights into MUFON-CES and internal structures.

The conference was deemed successful, fostering a sense of unity among the groups after recent disagreements. The event was characterized by interesting guests and productive ideas, despite a lack of press presence.

GEP-Nachrichten (GEP News)

New Members

GEP welcomed new members Ulrich Magin and Thomas Schmitt.

Night Lights discontinued

Following disagreements over editorial goals and 'ufological UFO politics' between CENAP-HD (Rudolf Henke) and CENAP-MA/HN, CENAP has replaced its 'Night Lights' publication with the 'CENAP Report.' CENAP has parted ways with Rudolf Henke, who may start his own journal.

New Photo Case

A positive outcome of the rapprochement between CENAP and GEP is their collaboration on a new photo case being processed by CENAP-Mannheim. A witness provided six photos of an object with recognizable structures. Another case, Nagora, involving a photo series, is also being investigated. GEP is conducting an on-site interview for this case, highlighting exemplary cooperation.

Case Discussions and Book Reviews

Radevormwald Case Discussion (Part V)

The Radevormwald case continues to generate discussion among JUFOF readers. Contributions include:

• Rudolf Henke acknowledges miscalculating absolute altitudes due to a lack of topographical data in the GEP material. He argues that the witness's perspective is key and that the object could only have been partially visible for a short duration if the gabled roof obstruction was accurate. He questions how the witness could recall so many details if the sighting was so brief. Henke also raises the point that the witness described the object from both front and side views. If the object was box-shaped with only front-facing windows, seeing it from the side would be difficult. However, if it were a Chinook helicopter, side windows would be visible, supporting the helicopter explanation. He notes that the GEP's investigation material includes topographical maps and city plans.
• GEP's Annotation clarifies that the photos show an assumed flight path, not an observed one, and that the witness corrected their account. The witness reportedly saw only the upper dark part of the object over the left house, with the rest obscured until it emerged from behind the house. Minor flight path changes might not have been noticed by the witness, who was focused on the object's appearance rather than its trajectory.
• Walter L. Kelch questions the helicopter explanation, particularly the "CH-47" identification, and provides details to refute it. He argues that a military helicopter would have been heard, especially during low-altitude flights, and that the sound of the rotors would have been noticeable. He also points out that external lights on a CH-47 would have been visible, which the witness did not report.

UFOs 1947 - 1987: The 40-Year Search for an Explanation

This book, compiled by Hilary Evans and John Spencer for BUFORA, is a comprehensive survey of UFO research over four decades. It covers psychology, sociology, physics, aviation science, folklore, parapsychology, history, and philosophy, featuring contributions from leading ufologists. The book includes illustrations, a bibliography, and organizational listings.

Book Review: "Feuer fiel vom Himmel" (Fire Fell from the Sky) by Peter Krassa

This book is a detailed report on the 1908 Tunguska catastrophe, based on on-site research and accounts of Soviet scientists' efforts to solve the mystery.

Book Review: "Unglaubliche Erscheinungen" (Incredible Appearances)

This book, part of "Die Welt des Unerklärlichen" series, covers various unexplained phenomena, including spontaneous human combustion, yogic abilities, and raining fish. While not exclusively about UFOs, it presents intriguing events and potential explanations.

Book Review: "Wir alle sind Kinder der Götter" (We are all Children of the Gods) by Erich von Däniken

The review criticizes von Däniken's work for posing many questions without providing answers and for citing sources selectively or inaccurately. It discusses the Queen of Sheba, the 'Great Unknown,' and the historical context of Jerusalem, questioning von Däniken's interpretations and pseudoscientific approach.

Book Review: "Lexikon der Psychologie" (Lexicon of Psychology) by Arnold Eysenck & Meili

This three-volume lexicon, reissued in a paperback cassette, is recommended for its updated content and comprehensive coverage of psychological topics, including hypnosis and parapsychology, which are relevant to UFO research and witness evaluation.

Other Sections

• Foo Fighters I & II: Calls for material on 'Foo Fighter' phenomena from 1939-1945, seeking contributions for books by Barry Greenwood and Andy Roberts.
• 10000 US-Dollar: A challenge by Philip Klass to prove 'alien abduction' for a monetary reward.
• The Encyclopedia of UFOs: Announcement of a second edition by Ronald D. Story, seeking suggestions for additions.
• WHO'S WHO der UFO-Forschung: Information on the upcoming 'UFO Phenomenon Community Who's Who Directory 1988'.
• Kurioses am Rande (Curiosities on the Side): A report about a false alarm of a plane crash in Lüdenscheid, which turned out to be a weather balloon.
• Neue Zeitschrift (New Magazine): Introduction of a new US-based scientific journal on anomalous phenomena, published by Pergamon Journals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the reliability of witness testimony, and the psychological aspects of sightings. The GEP appears to advocate for a rigorous, evidence-based approach to UFO research, collaborating with scientific institutions and utilizing psychological tools for analysis. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible cases and misidentifications or hoaxes. The magazine also engages with popular UFO literature, offering critical reviews and contextualizing claims within a scientific framework. The editorial stance seems to be one of cautious inquiry, promoting collaboration within the research community while maintaining a critical perspective on sensationalism and unsubstantiated theories.