JUFOF - Issue 060 - 1988 06

Magazine Overview

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (ISSN 0723-7766), published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP), is Volume 9, Number 6, dated November-December 1988. It is priced at DM 4.00 and is the 60th issue.

The cover prominently features the "HERBSTTAGUNG DER DEUTSCHEN UFO-FORSCHER" (Autumn Conference of German UFO Researchers) held in Mannheim-Neckarau in November 1988. Key speakers and topics include Gerald Mosbleck, Ulrich Magin on "Unknown Atmospheric Phenomena over Germany," Walter L. Kelch on "Spherical UFOs = Ball Lightnings?", and Thomas Mehner on "Ball Lightning Research in the USSR." The cover also includes a section on "UFO Crashes in Germany?" by Ulrich Magin and "Letters to the Editor/Literature."

An accompanying postcard offers membership in the GEP e.V.

Editorial and Organizational Information

The "IMPRESSUM" section clarifies that articles and literature reviews do not necessarily reflect the views of the GEP. The journal is published bi-monthly on a non-commercial basis, and author honoraria cannot be paid. Hans-Werner Peiniger and Gerald Mosbleck are listed as responsible editors. Reprints require written permission from the GEP. Subscription prices are DM 24.-- annually for domestic (Inland) and DM 28.-- for international (Ausland) subscriptions, with single issues costing DM 4.--. Members receive the journal as part of their membership. The GEP also offers a hotline and a library service for members.

The definition of a UFO (in the narrower sense) is provided, citing Dr. J. Allen Hynek of the Center for UFO-Studies, USA. It defines a UFO as a perceived object or light whose characteristics are not conventionally explainable after thorough investigation.

Conference Report: Autumn Conference of German UFO Researchers (November 1988)

The issue extensively covers the autumn conference held on November 12-13, 1988, in Mannheim-Neckarau. The conference, attended by about 20 people, included discussions and presentations on various aspects of UFO research.

Werner Walter's Presentation:
Walter discussed the relationship between media and UFOs, highlighting the impact of media coverage on public perception. He touched upon the American abduction series and the claims of military retrieval of crashed UFOs, noting the influence of books like Whitley Strieber's. He also mentioned the "Gulf Breeze" case and the differing opinions between MUFON and CUFOS.

Historical Context of UFO Phenomena:
The conference explored the historical development of the UFO phenomenon. The term "flying saucer" was reportedly first used by a press reporter in the Mantel case. Hollywood's portrayal of UFOs in films like "The Day the Earth Stood Still" is noted. The influence of figures like George Adamski and the implications of government secrecy, as suggested by Keyhoe, were also discussed.

Ulrich Magin's Presentation: Folklore and UFOs
Magin presented a compelling argument for the similarities between folklore (legends, myths, songs) and modern UFO narratives. He drew parallels between ancient tales of supernatural beings and modern abduction accounts, noting similarities in themes like sudden paralysis, inability to move, and encounters with mysterious entities. He suggested that UFO phenomena might be a manifestation of humanity's search for lost religious and mythical worlds, a modern interpretation of archetypal patterns.

Roland Horn's Presentation: Abduction Phenomena
Horn focused on the common characteristics reported in abduction cases, often revealed through hypnotic regression. These include time loss, physical marks, and subsequent recurring sightings. He noted that witnesses are typically unburdened by prior beliefs, but often have pre-existing psychological factors. The experience is often described as liberating, leading to a more conscious life, similar to near-death experiences. He also mentioned the common themes of psychological influence, medical examinations (often of sexual organs), and amnesia.

Rudolf Henke's Presentation: Empirical Evidence and UFO Research
Henke presented a provocative view, stating that there is no empirical evidence for the extraterrestrial origin of UFOs. He argued that historical cases can be conventionally explained and that future cases should also be approached with skepticism. He categorized UFO researchers into three groups: the "believers" (DUIST, UFO study groups), the "theorists" (often lacking common sense, like MUFON-CES), and the "empiricists" (like himself). Henke questioned the continued relevance of UFO research if no proof of extraterrestrial visitors is found, sparking a lively discussion.

Other Conference Highlights:

• A photo case from Italy was discussed.
• A video featuring "experts" like Andreas Schneider, Helmut Reitz, Illobrand von Ludwiger, and Dr. Bick was shown, with Schneider being highlighted as the most effective presenter.
• Rudolf Henke presented his astronomical solution to the Father Gill case.
• Roland Horn showed images of planets and the moon.
• A French researcher, Morgenthaler, discussed critical research in France.

The conference was deemed a success, with Magin's presentation being a highlight. The next spring conference was planned for Lüdenscheid.

Articles on Atmospheric Phenomena

"Unknown Atmospheric Phenomena over Germany" by Ulrich Magin:
This section explores scientifically accepted atmospheric phenomena that bear resemblance to UFO reports. Magin argues that while many sightings are explained, a significant number remain unidentified. He presents examples of:

• Ball Lightning: Described as varied in size, color, and behavior, sometimes exhibiting intelligent-seeming actions, patterns, or antennae. The article cites historical accounts and scientific observations, including cases from Germany and a detailed account of a ball lightning observed near Langenschemmern.
• Pearl-String Lightning: A rare phenomenon consisting of a chain of ball lightnings, with a documented case from Schweinfurt in 1908.
• Spiral Lightning: Another rare phenomenon, with an example from Goslar in 1908.

Magin suggests that some phenomena identified as "party-gag balloons" might actually be ball lightnings due to similarities in size, appearance, and color.

"Ball Lightning Research in the USSR" by Thomas Mehner:
Mehner discusses the Soviet approach to ball lightning research, noting the collection of over 3200 reports. He presents two cases:

1. Valentin Akkuratow's Experience: A Soviet flight navigator reported a fireball entering his aircraft cockpit, causing damage and leaving him with a headache.
2. T. Wassiljewa's Experience: A witness described a purple glowing ball appearing on a light switch during a thunderstorm, which then exploded, burning her hand.

The article delves into the scientific theories surrounding ball lightning, including Kapitsa's plasma packet theory and Chasen's explanation involving electromagnetic waves. It highlights the immense energy potential of ball lightning, citing a case in Chabarowsk where water boiled for ten minutes. The article also touches upon the potential for ball lightning to absorb energy from the atmosphere and how substances in the air influence its color. The tendency for ball lightnings to enter buildings is attributed to higher groundwater levels and electrical conductivity.

Soviet scientists have attempted to model ball lightning in laboratory experiments, creating a plasma ball that mimics its flight patterns and energy absorption. The article concludes by suggesting that the characteristics of ball lightning, such as its energy release and interaction with the environment, might offer insights into the UFO phenomenon.

"Earth Lights" and "Will-o'-the-Wisps":

• Earth Lights: Hypothetical luminous phenomena attributed to tectonic activity, though their existence is debated. A reported case from Borken, Germany, involving miners seeing lights is mentioned.
• Will-o'-the-Wisps (Irrlichter): Described as small, short-lived lights rising from the ground, often seen in marshy areas. While their origin is debated, they are no longer outright denied by meteorology. The article notes their ability to attach to clothing and mentions folklore associating them with spirits or kobolds. A case from Neumarkt in 1832 is described, where blue flames were observed rising from a swamp.

"Airquakes" (Luftbeben):
These are described as sounds similar to sonic booms, heard for centuries, often in specific locations like large plains or lakes. Their origin is unclear, with theories ranging from tectonic to atmospheric phenomena. Examples are cited from India, Southern England, Scotland, and Germany, including reports from the Bodensee (Lake Constance).

"A Peculiar Cloud":
An unusual report from "Nature" (1892) describes a yellow cloud over Paderborn, Germany, from which a downpour of mussels fell.

"Gelatinous Meteors" (Gallertmeteore):
These appear as shooting stars but leave behind a phosphorescent, quark-like mass. The common folk call it "swamp butter," and scientists believe it to be slime molds. Examples from Germany are mentioned.

Other Sections

"Quick Notes" (Kurz Notiert):

• End of UFO-Nachrichten: The German UFO magazine "UFO-Nachrichten" ceases publication after 33 years due to the health of its publisher, Karl L. Veit.
• A Look at the USA: A survey by the National Science Foundation reveals a significant portion of the US population holds unscientific beliefs about astronomy and physics. The article questions whether these societal issues might influence the UFO phenomenon in the USA.

Bibliography and Sources:
The issue includes extensive lists of sources and references for the articles, particularly for the discussions on ball lightning and atmospheric phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the exploration of natural atmospheric phenomena that resemble UFOs, and the historical context of these reports. The GEP presents itself as a serious, interdisciplinary research organization. There is a clear effort to distinguish between scientifically accepted phenomena and speculative theories, while also acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding many sightings. The influence of media and popular culture on the perception and reporting of UFOs is a significant point of discussion. The journal also highlights the importance of empirical evidence and critical analysis, as exemplified by Rudolf Henke's presentation, while also acknowledging the subjective experiences of witnesses.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), published by GEP, focuses on UFO crashes and related phenomena, with a particular emphasis on incidents in Germany. The cover headline, "UFO-ABSTÜRZE IN DEUTSCHLAND?" (UFO Crashes in Germany?), sets the tone for several articles exploring alleged landings, encounters, and hoaxes.

UFO Crashes and Encounters in Germany

The issue details a significant encounter by military pilot B. Korotkow on November 3, 1981, who collided with a large fireball, identified as a Kugelblitz, while flying at high speed. The phenomenon, estimated to be 5 meters in diameter, caused damage to his aircraft, suggesting it moved with the plane at approximately 500 km/h. The article attributes the findings to Soviet scientific publications.

Another prominent case discussed is the alleged landing of a "flying saucer" in Duisburg in October 1954. However, this incident is revealed to be a hoax orchestrated by a prankster who constructed a paper model. The magazine also reports on a similar incident from October 30, 1954, involving a found "flying saucer" of considerable size, which was secured by the police, with the constructor remaining unknown.

A case from November 23, 1957, near Meckenheim, describes a silver sphere found in a farmer's field, identified as a modified hot water heater powered by a motorcycle battery. The article notes that in 1954, such an object would immediately be associated with UFOs, whereas in 1957, the connection was made to Sputnik.

International UFO Incidents

Beyond German cases, the magazine covers an incident on Spitzbergen in June 1952, where Norwegian jet fighters encountered a large, metallic disc. This object, described as potentially Soviet-made, was approximately 40-50 meters in diameter and embedded in snow and ice. It featured a plexiglass dome with control instruments and a plutonium-powered beacon emitting a unique signal.

Literature Reviews and Theoretical Discussions

The issue includes several literature reviews and theoretical articles. One review discusses J. Allen Hynek's "The Spectrum of UFO Research," highlighting its scientific approach to UFO phenomena. Another review covers Bruce Maccabee's analysis of the famous McMinnville photos, reaffirming their authenticity. John F. Schuessler's contribution examines medical injuries resulting from UFO encounters, specifically the Cash-Landrum case.

Alvin H. Lawson's article, "A Touchstone for Fallacious Abductions," explores birth trauma imagery in CE-III narratives, suggesting that some abduction experiences might be rooted in psychological phenomena related to birth. J. Gordon Melton provides a survey of "contactees," differentiating them from typical UFO phenomena.

Roberto Pinotti reviews Italian UFO cases, including the "angel hair" phenomenon. Donald A. Johnson analyzes data on electromagnetic effects on engines during UFO sightings, while Mark Rodeghier examines vehicle interference reports. Budd Hopkins discusses the challenges and ethical questions in investigating abduction cases, particularly concerning the use of hypnosis.

Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos and Miguel Guasp propose standards for evaluating UFO reports, introducing a "quality index." Keith Bastefield offers a new hypothesis for UFO close encounters based on imagery, and Alan C. Holt explores UFO maneuvers and radiation from a theoretical perspective.

Letters to the Editor and Debates

Several "Letters to the Editor" (Leserbriefe) engage in debates within the UFO research community. Hilary Evans, in a letter, reflects on his book "Beweise: UFOs" (Evidence: UFOs), expressing increased skepticism towards the extraterrestrial hypothesis and emphasizing the psychological and sociological aspects of UFO phenomena. He also highlights the influence of the American scene on UFO research and the importance of the "folklore" aspect.

Ulrich Magin responds to a letter, defending his work and challenging accusations of plagiarism. He asserts that his research incorporates later data and offers new interpretations, particularly regarding the connection between UFO phenomena and religious experiences.

Gerald Mosbleck comments on the "Pre-Astronautics" discussions, clarifying that JUFOF remains a UFO-focused journal and that contributions on pre-astronautics were not intended to be a permanent feature.

Another letter from Rainer Schenk criticizes the organization and presentation of a German UFO research conference, lamenting the lack of public outreach, scientific rigor, and adequate facilities. Werner Walter responds, defending the conference organizers and suggesting that Schenk's criticisms might stem from misunderstandings or a lack of participation.

Book Reviews

Several books are reviewed, including "The Spectrum of UFO Research" (edited by J. Allen Hynek), "The Contactees: A Survey" by J. Gordon Melton, and "Evidence for UFO's in the Italian Past" by Roberto Pinotti. The review of "An Extraterrestrial Conspiracy" by Marian Greenberg is particularly critical, labeling it the "worst book" he had to review and a "sociological case study" of gullibility in the US.

"Rätselhafter Mond" (Enigmatic Moon) by Roland Horn is reviewed, with the reviewer expressing disappointment that it doesn't delve deeper into UFO-related lunar mysteries. "UFOS OBER DER SCHWEIZ" (UFOs Over Switzerland) by Luc Bürgin is noted for documenting Swiss UFO reports, which are found to be similar to those from other countries.

"Gods, Spirits, Cosmic Guardians" by Hilary Evans is reviewed as a study of paranormal phenomena and encounters with non-human beings, suggesting a psychological or folkloric interpretation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a scientific and analytical approach to UFO research, encouraging critical examination of evidence and theories. There is a clear effort to distinguish between genuine research and hoaxes or unsubstantiated claims. The magazine also engages with debates within the UFO community, providing a platform for different viewpoints, while maintaining a focus on empirical data and scientific methodology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, but with a strong emphasis on rigorous investigation and a healthy dose of skepticism towards sensationalism.