JUFOF - Issue 059 - 1988 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (ISSN 0723-7766), Volume 9, Number 5, dated September/October 1988, published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP), focuses on the origins of ancient 'gods' and the possibility of lost civilizations.

Bibliography of German-Language Literature on Extraterrestrial Life, UFOs, and Pre-Astronautics (1901-1986)

Dieter von Reeken presents a bibliography covering the period 1901-1986, containing 453 titles. It includes an introduction, explanations, an abbreviation index, an alphabetical author index, a chronological overview, a systematic overview with keyword index, a pseudonym index, a list of specialized journals, a directory of international bibliographies, and recommendations for literature and annotations. The bibliography is available in a cardboard cover, approximately 14.5 x 20.5 cm, with 56 pages, ISBN 3-923862-09-1. The price is 8.00 DM (6.40 DM for GEP members), plus shipping. Orders can be sent to the GEP e.V. in Lüdenscheid.

GEP and its Members

The GEP is described as the largest recognized non-profit scientific organization in Germany dedicated to researching the UFO phenomenon. They define a UFO as an object or light whose appearance and behavior are not conventionally explainable. The GEP investigates sightings through questionnaires, field research, and analysis of background information, employing an interdisciplinary approach. Their work includes publishing the journal 'Journal für UFO-Forschung' (JUFOF) and collaborating with international organizations.

GEP members receive the JUFOF as part of their membership, can request questionnaires, receive additional GEP news, get a 20% discount on GEP special issues and brochures, and can borrow books discussed in JUFOF.

One-Day Meeting of the AAS in Wiesbaden

This section reports on a one-day meeting of the Ancient Astronaut Society (AAS) held in Wiesbaden-Nordenstadt on September 10, 1988. Approximately 300 attendees were present in a room designed for 250, leading to seating shortages. The report notes issues with the hotel's catering during the extended lunch break and the special prices offered for the meeting.

Key speakers and topics included:

• Wilfried Briegel: A slide presentation on the Schlossberghöhlen.
• Jörg Dendl: A presentation on the Ark of the Covenant, suggesting the existence of both the Ark and a 'Manna machine'.
• Viktor Farkas: Presented his 'Experimentierfeld Erde' (Earth as an Experiment Field) theory from his new book, suggesting extraterrestrials genetically manipulated humans.
• Rainer Hanz: Discussed the activities of 'ADI' (Arbeitsgruppe Dokumentation und Information für Präastronautik), aiming to professionalize AAS research.
• Rudolf Eckhardt: Presented on 'Newer Gods and Humans in Mesoamerica'.
• Peter Krassa: Discussed his book 'Inferno aus dem Kosmos' concerning the Tunguska catastrophe.
• Reinhard Habeck: Presented on 'New Finds in Val Camonica', focusing on drawings of humans in 'space suits'.

The report notes that Johannes Fiebag's presentation, "Von wo die Götter kamen und von wo nicht" (Where the Gods Came From and Where Not), was particularly well-received and was chosen for immediate publication.

"Where the Gods Came From and Where Not" by Dr. Johannes Fiebag

Dr. Fiebag critically examines theories about ancient astronauts and lost civilizations, particularly the concept of Atlantis. He argues that many works in the field are superficial and lack logical rigor. He questions the existence of technologically advanced terrestrial civilizations like Atlantis, Lemuria, or Mu, stating that geological evidence does not support the idea of entire continents sinking.

Fiebag discusses the theory of continental drift, initiated by Alfred Wegener, and the discovery of mid-ocean ridges and sea-floor spreading. He explains that oceanic crust (basalt) is denser than continental crust (granite), meaning oceanic plates subduct under continents, not the other way around. This process explains mountain formation and volcanic activity but contradicts the sinking of a large landmass like Atlantis.

He dismisses the idea of a catastrophic event like a meteor impact or nuclear war causing the destruction of Atlantis, as there is no evidence of such events occurring 10,000 years ago that would have global repercussions. He also questions the survival of a highly advanced civilization in underground shelters for millennia.

Fiebag concludes that the evidence does not support the existence of a prehistoric terrestrial high culture and that the 'gods' likely did not originate from Earth. He suggests that while extraterrestrial influences might exist, the theory of a terrestrial high culture is unnecessary ballast for the AAS and should be removed from their statutes.

He then explores the possibility of extraterrestrial origins, ruling out planets within our solar system (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Moon, asteroid belt, outer planets) due to their harsh conditions and lack of evidence for advanced life or past civilizations. He specifically addresses the 'Mars face' and other geological formations on Mars, noting that while some analyses suggest artificial origins, further research is needed. He also dismisses the asteroid belt as a source, citing the age and composition of meteorites and the total mass of asteroids.

Fiebag also discusses the hypothesis of a '12th Planet' (Nibiru) and concludes that there is no evidence for its existence or for life developing there. He reiterates that the gods must have come from outside our solar system.

"Nach trag zum 'Nullarbor-Mundrabilla' Fall" by Luc Bürgin

This article provides a follow-up on the 'Mundrabilla' fall, a case where the Knowles family claimed their car was lifted by a UFO on January 20, 1988, near Mundrabilla, Australia. The incident was widely discussed in UFO publications, with some calling it a new 'classic'.

Bürgin notes that while George Eberhart of CUFOS stated he knew of no other similar 'car lifting' incidents, there are at least two other reports with similar parallels.

The article details three 'car lifting' cases:

• The 'Raw' Fall (May 14, 1971): Wilton Raw Eater and his wife reported a brightly shining object lifted their car off the road for a short time in Alberta, Canada.
• The 'Burk' Fall (October 15, 1983): Catherine Burk reported a bright disk-shaped object lifted her car and dropped it, causing her severe injuries, in Pennsylvania, USA.
• The 'Knowles' Fall (January 20, 1988): The family reported their car was lifted by a UFO in Australia.

Key parallels noted are the duration of levitation (a few seconds) and the witnesses' reactions (shocked, pale, hysterical).

The article also briefly mentions the 'Coyne' case from October 18, 1974, where a cigar-shaped UFO allegedly 'sucked up' a US Army helicopter.

Short Notes (Kurz Notiert)

• Triple Tracer UFO Detector: A description of a UFO detector developed in the Netherlands that registers magnetic, static, and magnetic fields. It has visual alarms (three lamps) and an acoustic signal. It can be powered by a mains adapter or batteries. The device cost Df1 285 and its current availability is unknown.
• Who's Who in UFology: A US publication compiled by D. Boyd, listing individuals involved in UFO research, their personal data, and their views on the UFO phenomenon. German entries include Hj. Köhler, G. Mosbleck, H.-W. Peiniger, and W. Walter. The book has 260 pages and costs $6.95 plus postage.
• Aus für UFO-BELGIUM: Marc Broux, editor of 'UFO-BELGIUM', is ending his 10-year involvement in UFO research. His final report, "SUCCESSES OF RECENT UFO-INVESTIGATION," is available.
• Aus für ALPHA: The pre-astronautics magazine ALPHA has ceased publication. Publisher Gerhard Linder cited harassment and threats from unknown individuals as the reason.
• Congress "Kanal zum Kosmos" in Murnau: A report on a congress organized by 'Magazin-2000' and Michael Hesemann. Andreas Schneider claimed to have regular contact with extraterrestrials and predicted a UFO sighting, which reportedly 40 attendees witnessed. The congress focused on 'contacts with higher levels'.

Book Review: Condon Report

A used copy of the original Condon Report, "SCIENTIFIC STUDY OF UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS" by Dr. Edward U. Condon, is for sale. It is a 965-page paperback with photos, index, and is in good condition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the origins of ancient myths and civilizations, the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, and the critical evaluation of various theories. The GEP, as the publisher, appears to favor a rigorous, evidence-based approach to UFO research, as exemplified by Dr. Fiebag's critical analysis of ancient astronaut theories and his call for scientific grounding of UFO hypotheses. The magazine also highlights specific UFO cases and new research tools, aiming to inform its readership while encouraging critical thinking and discouraging unsubstantiated speculation.

This issue of JOURNAL FUR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Volume unknown, Issue 4/88) is primarily dedicated to reviewing and discussing UFO-related literature and reports from various other publications, as indicated by the cover headline 'AUS ANDEREN ZEITSCHRIFTEN' (From Other Journals).

SUFOF-Niederheimbach Seeks Assistance

Frank Nicolai of SUFOF-Niederheimbach is compiling a catalog of UFO shapes based on sightings since 1920. He is requesting interested individuals to submit sighting reports, photographs, or drawings of these or similar objects to aid his research.

NASA Scientist a Contactee?

The journal reports on Dr. Fred Bell's claims made in Zurich about his alleged contacts with extraterrestrial beings. Bell, a former employee of Rockwell and NASA involved in Apollo and Saturn projects, claims to have had his first physical contact with 'Semjase' in 1971. Semjase is described as a 430-year-old, blonde, attractive woman from the Pleiades. Notably, Billy Meier, who also claims contact with Semjase, distributed flyers at Bell's lecture distancing himself from Bell's assertions, stating that only he has had genuine contact with Semjase and other Plejadians. Bell also claims to have invented a 'nuclear receptor' medallion for protection against radiation, which he offers for DM 288.-.

Hynek Books Sought

Readers are looking for two specific paperback books by J. Allen Hynek: 'UFO-Report - Ein Forschungsbericht-' (Goldmann, Munich, 1978) and 'UFO-Begegnungen der ersten, zweiten und dritten Art' (Goldmann, Munich, 1978). Contact information for GEP is provided for those who can assist.

SUFOF-Erbach Contact Update

A note informs readers that the telephone number for SUFOF-Erbach (Roland Horn) has changed and is now 06062/61853.

German UFO Research Conference

The annual autumn conference of German UFO researchers is scheduled for November 12-13, 1988, in Mannheim-Neckarau. Interested parties are directed to contact CENAP for further information.

Review of Other UFO Journals and Publications

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to summarizing and reviewing content from various international UFO journals and publications:

• CENAP-REPORT (No. 149, July 1988): Features articles on 'SPACENAPPING' (abductions) and the Australian UFO case 'Mundrabilla'.
• SKYLIGHT AKTUELL (No. 7, Feb 1988 & No. 3, March 1988): Includes reports on unusual encounters, the 'Mundrabilla' case, the 'Night-Light' of Frickenhausen, B. Heim's field theory, the 'Moon Hoax', contact reports, abductions, and theories about ancient gods being UFOs.
• UFO-NACHRICHTEN (No. 310, May/June 1988): Covers topics such as UFOs receiving landing clearance from air traffic controllers, UFOs causing a Russian fighter jet to crash, a pilot encountering a UFO, underwater UFO bases, and the establishment of a Japanese UFO party.
• Jupiter-Journal (No. 5, July 1988 & No. 6, Aug 1988): Reports on UFO sightings over Munich and UFOs in Brazil and Peru, including a secret UFO base in the Amazon.
• MUFON UFO JOURNAL (No. 240, April 1988 & No. 241, May 1988): Features articles on 'FOO-FIGHTERS', the Gulf Breeze, Florida photographic case, interviews with Jacques Vallee, and discussions on UFOlogy management.
• UFO-FORSCHER (No. 2, March/April 1988): Includes reports on UFOs in Washington D.C., abduction experiences, and the Gulf Breeze case.
• JOURNAL OF TRANSIENT AERIAL PHENOMENA (No. 2, March 1988): Contains articles on the Gulf Breeze case, 'MYSTERY CIRCLES', abductions, and the 'MJ-12' document.
• BUFORA BULLETIN (No. 28, May 1988): Features articles on mirages explaining UFO reports, statistical analysis of UFO reports, astronomical UFOs, and Scottish UFOs.
• MAGONIA (No. 30, Aug 1988): Discusses the importance of ufology, monsters, off-limits ufology, and British government UFO files.
• FOCUS (No. 1, Jan 1988 & No. 2, Feb 1988): Covers 'MJ-12' and its debunking, with one article asserting the 'MJ-12' document is real.
• UFO-NYT (No. 2, April/May 1988): Includes reports from Australia and Sweden.
• INFORESPACE (No. 74, April 1988): Features analysis of OVNI sound recordings and reports from Italy and Gulf Breeze, Florida.
• UFO REVISTA DI INFORMAZIONE UFOLOGICA (No. 4, Dec 1987): Covers UFOs in Italy, humanoids, and geophysical hypotheses.
• IL GIORNALE DEI MISTERI (No. 202, Aug 1988): A special issue on 'ENIGMA UFO' with articles on UFO wreckage, abductions, and the Fatima phenomenon.

Literature Reviews

• 'Die Besucher' by Whitley Strieber: Reviewed as a significant book for contactees, detailing Strieber's experiences with alleged alien abductions. The review notes that Strieber uses his knowledge of ancient and Christian mysticism to interpret these experiences, suggesting they are psychological rather than literal encounters with extraterrestrials. The book is recommended for its honest and compelling account, highlighting the importance of support groups for contactees.
• 'Herr der Götter' by Harald Stöber: This book is praised for its in-depth research into ancient Egyptian texts, proposing that the 'gods' were extraterrestrial beings who influenced early human civilization. Stöber's work is presented as a serious academic endeavor that challenges conventional scientific views.
• 'Unerklärliche Phänomene' by Viktor Farkas: This book is described as a collection of factual accounts of unexplained phenomena, separating them from pure speculation. It includes a fascinating anecdote about the Krakatau eruption, where a journalist's fictional account eerily predicted the event.
• 'UFO-VISION' (1988 Yearbook): This Danish publication by Kim Moller Hansen is a compilation of reviews of UFO literature from 1987, filling a gap left by the cessation of the 'SKEPTIKA' journal.
• 'Das Entführungs-Syndrom' (CENAP): A collection of translated articles on alien abductions, noted for its balanced presentation and for providing concentrated material on the topic in German.
• 'Lexikon Grenz-wissenschaften' by Marcus Gossler: This lexicon covers topics in parapsychology, esotericism, magic, mathematics, physics, and astronomy. While some answers are criticized for not withstanding critical scrutiny, the sections on natural sciences and UFO research are found to be useful.

Letters to the Editor

• Axel Ertelt (MYSTERIA): Responds to an article by Gerald Mosbleck, refuting claims about a pre-arranged 'MYSTERIA' meeting during a GEP event. Ertelt clarifies that MYSTERIA did not plan or approve a separate 'tagung' during the GEP meeting and that any attendees choosing the 'tagung' over the GEP event did so independently.
• Gerald Mosbleck: Responds to Ertelt's letter, stating that his report was subjective and that his comments on Thomas Riemer were more reserved. He also clarifies the nature of a cart being 'self-moving' in relation to oxen.
• Gerald Mosbleck (Correction): Corrects a previous statement, clarifying that Michael Hesemann organized a HOPI festival, not a HIPPIE festival, at the Externsteine.
• Ulrich Magin: Praises the journal's quality but wishes for better German skills to read it in detail. He also comments on the 'brown UFOs' report, suggesting that giving attention to 'misguided' individuals only serves their purpose.
• George M. Eberhart (CUFOS): Expresses admiration for the journal's quality and wishes he could read it more thoroughly in German.
• Hansjürgen Köhler (CENAP): Responds to the 'brown UFOs' report, stating that CENAP and SUFOF are not susceptible to infiltration and that their research policy prevents such individuals from joining. He suggests that the 'secret weapon' story is of interest only to island inhabitants and is rendered absurd by modern stealth aircraft development.
• Thomas Mehner: Thanks the journal for its latest issue, praising the diverse and well-researched articles.
• Walter L. Kelch: Reviews Whitley Strieber's book 'Die Besucher', noting its commercial success and questioning whether it was written for financial gain. He suggests it might be better categorized as science fiction.
• Wolfgang Schröder: Comments on the journal's content, particularly praising reports by Magin, Peiniger, and Mosbleck. He questions the emergence of 'new stars' like Thomas Riemer and suggests that the 'astronaut god' thesis is losing traction.
• Rudolf Henke (Sandhausen): Critiques MUFON-CES for not responding to his inquiries regarding the Füssen UFO case. He highlights that his verification of the case as a planetary sighting was met with criticism from a MUFON-CES representative, despite his offer to provide further information.

GEP News

• New Members: Welcomes Mr. Bernhard Mayr and Mr. Ludwig Donnerbauer.
• UFO-Enigma: Announces that the German translation of 'UFO-Enigma' will be published in two parts due to translation delays. The first part is ready for printing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical review of UFO literature, the analysis of various UFO sightings and cases from different countries, and discussions on contactee experiences and ancient astronaut theories. The journal maintains a stance of critical inquiry, seeking to differentiate between serious research and sensationalism, while also providing a platform for diverse viewpoints within the UFO research community. There is a clear emphasis on scientific rigor and a skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, as seen in the reviews and letters to the editor. The journal also highlights the importance of international cooperation and information exchange among UFO research organizations.