JUFOF - Issue 068 - 1990 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP), is the second issue of 1990, marking the 11th year of publication. It features a cover headline about a "Visit from Planet X-12-22" and includes a variety of articles on UFO theories, sightings, and research methodologies.

Articles and Content

UFOLOGIE-Theorien und Tatsachen über Fliegende Untertassen

This section reviews a new edition of a 1981 publication by Dieter von Reeken. The book, originally published by "2000 éditions saphir s.à.r.l.", is a facsimile reprint of the first edition. The decision to not update the text was made due to the disproportionately high effort required for revision and the fact that the original bound edition is no longer available. The reprint aims to make the information accessible at a lower cost, offering interesting insights and food for thought.

Besuch von Planeten X-12-22

This article by Hans-Werner Peiniger details an interview with a witness named Harry G., who claims to have had encounters with extraterrestrials from Planet X-12-22. The encounters reportedly began in 1967, with a second significant encounter in 1984. Harry G. describes being given a helmet to program his memory, experiencing amnesia, and even claims to have created planets using a model spaceship. The article also touches upon his ongoing psychiatric treatment and the challenges he faces.

Das UFO-Phänomen in der DDR

Thomas Mehner discusses the lack of official reporting and public discussion of UFO phenomena in the German Democratic Republic (DDR). He critiques the Soviet Union's opening of reporting in the mid-1980s and how it was ignored in the DDR. Mehner also challenges the interpretation of the Condon Report, suggesting it was misrepresented to support the non-existence of UFOs. He notes that while there are no official research bodies, private individuals are pursuing the topic, facing difficulties in obtaining information and facing skepticism.

UFO-Sichtungen als kreativer Akt des Zeugen

Ulrich Magin explores the psychological aspect of UFO sightings, suggesting that many are a creative act by the witness, influenced by the 'UFO myth'. He argues that witnesses often reject conventional explanations like identifying objects as stars or planets, preferring their own interpretation of the experience as a product of their imagination.

Methoden der Bildverarbeitung und das SPIT Verfahren

Rolf-Dieter Klein explains advanced image processing techniques, specifically the SPIT (Sub-Pixel Image Transformation) method, used to extract more information from images, particularly in low-light or shadowed areas. He discusses contrast enhancement, noise reduction through filtering, and the application of these methods to analyze images like the 'Mars Face'. The article includes detailed explanations and diagrams of the processes involved.

UFO-Phänomene in Ostbelgien

Another article by Hans-Werner Peiniger, this section likely details UFO sightings or phenomena observed in the Ostbelgien region.

Dr.A.Hedri-Preis 1990 für Exopsychologie an Illobrand von Ludwiger

This news item reports that Illobrand von Ludwiger received the Dr. A. Hedri Prize for Exopsychology for his extensive work in UFO research, particularly his efforts in compiling and analyzing UFO cases and developing research methodologies. The award is associated with the Dr. A. Hedri Foundation for Exopsychology and Epipsychology in Zurich.

Mars-Gesicht und Pyramiden

Dr. Johannes Fiebag, a geologist, presents an analysis of the structures in the Cydonia region of Mars. He discusses the possibility of artificial origins for features like the 'Face' and pyramids, referencing previous studies and his own geological analysis, including lineation and age analysis. He concludes that natural formation is more likely, given the age of the structures and the expected weathering rates.

UFO-Kongreß in Lyon

A brief announcement about an upcoming international UFO congress in Lyon, France, organized by the AESV, featuring speakers like Jacques Vallee and William Moore.

Vier leuchtende Quadrate...

Luc Bürgin reports on a UFO sighting from December 2, 1983, where witnesses in Germany and Ukraine observed unusual luminous objects. While some attributed it to a meteorite, Bürgin presents a witness account from Hamm describing four luminous squares that ascended vertically, suggesting a non-meteorological phenomenon.

Massenstarts von Forschungsballonen

This short piece mentions a large-scale atmospheric research campaign called 'Dyana' in early 1990, involving numerous research stations and the launch of sounding rockets and balloons.

Kurz Notiert

This section contains several brief news items and updates relevant to UFO research, including the award to Illobrand von Ludwiger, a critique of his presentation at the University of Bern, and a mention of the Jupiter-Journal. It also includes a report on the analysis of the Mars 'Face' and pyramids by Dr. Johannes Fiebag.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes scientific inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, encouraging detailed reporting and analysis. It highlights the importance of rigorous research methods, including image processing and interdisciplinary approaches. The GEP positions itself as a scientific organization dedicated to understanding UFOs, distinguishing itself from mere speculation. There is a recurring theme of challenging conventional explanations and exploring the psychological and societal aspects of UFO sightings. The magazine also aims to foster international cooperation and information exchange within the UFO research community.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, dated 1990 and identified as issue 67, is published by GEP and focuses on various aspects of UFO research and related topics. The cover prominently features a photograph of Hansjürgen Köhler and the headline "STANDPUNKTE ZU UFO- UND PRA-ASTRONAUTIK - Pro, contra und irgendwo dazwischen - Teil 4". The magazine delves into UFO phenomena, theories about extraterrestrial intelligence, and reviews of relevant literature.

UFO Phenomena in Ostbelgien

The article "UFO-PHANOMENE IN OSTBELGIEN" by Hans-Werner Peiniger discusses sightings reported in the border region of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany in late 1989 and early 1990. Residents described triangular craft with spotlights that illuminated the ground, accompanied by a humming sound. Two Belgian police officers reportedly observed one such craft for an extended period. Peiniger suggests that these sightings might be explained by ultralight aircraft, possibly used for smuggling across borders, to avoid radar detection by flying at low altitudes and using spotlights. He notes that while some aspects might not be fully explained by this theory, it is considered a high probability. The article also mentions that ultralight aircraft have been mistaken for UFOs in other instances, such as a case near Munich in August 1988.

Standpoints on UFO and Pra-Astronautics

This section presents the opinions of several individuals active in the German UFO scene on various questions. Hansjürgen Köhler attributes disappearances in the Bermuda Triangle to weather phenomena and air pockets, while considering extraterrestrial visits in ancient times possible but dismissing the evidence presented by AAS as "a joke." He believes current UFO phenomena do not indicate a present extraterrestrial visit and expresses skepticism about abduction cases in the USA due to lack of evidence and inconsistencies. Köhler estimates the probability of extraterrestrial civilizations as very high but contact as very low due to vast distances. He also mentions his work with CENAP and his observation that public and private cover-ups are not evident, but rather that many cases are resolved through misinterpretation or lack of information. He expresses a fascination with the subject despite his research findings.

Ulrich Magin attributes disappearances to natural causes like storms and navigation errors. He finds the idea of extraterrestrial visits in ancient times conceivable but believes the provided evidence is not convincing. Magin considers UFO phenomena to be unresearched natural occurrences and not indicative of current extraterrestrial visits. He views abductions as mystical experiences reinterpreted within the modern UFO mythos, not integral to the UFO phenomenon itself. He rates the probability of extraterrestrial civilizations as not very high and suggests focusing on Earth's own problems. Magin also shares his background as an interpreter and his interest in ancient myths and their influence on modern concepts.

Book Reviews

Stargazer by Gerald Hausman

Gerald Hausman's book is reviewed, noting its classification as "Fantasy" on the cover and "true story" in advertising. The book recounts Hausman's investigation into animal mutilations in New Mexico, aided by an Indian medicine man named Stargazer and a French UFO researcher. The narrative involves a strange series of events and dreams, including a conflict with a "Skinwaker." The reviewer finds the book a mixture of simple journalism, fictionalized UFO sightings, and philosophical musings, comparing it to the style of Carlos Castaneda and the "New Age" movement. The reviewer questions the book's claim to authentic Indian wisdom and criticizes the inclusion of Buddha, Jesus, and L. Ron Hubbard in the same context. The book is described as an easy read but lacking in profound insights into UFOs.

The Mystery Solved by Jenny Randles

Jenny Randles' book, originally titled "Abductions," is reviewed critically. The reviewer notes that the book does not offer a definitive solution to the "mystery" of abductions. The initial chapters are found to be vague and contain misunderstandings regarding the influence of myths and science fiction on the abduction mythos. The book presents several cases that Randles deems not authentic but not fabricated either, often involving individuals with psychological issues. The review highlights Randles' categorization of British abductions into sightings of beings, contact cases, and "real" abductions, suggesting that all CE III events without abductions are repressed or interrupted abductions, a claim the reviewer finds unjustified. Interesting aspects of British cases are noted, such as the prevalence of Adamski-type aliens and the presence of grey dwarfs and winged beings. The reviewer points out that in British cases, the aliens are often described as human-like with blonde hair, contrasting with some American accounts. The book is seen as a satisfactory introduction to the abduction phenomenon, aiming for objectivity and avoiding sensationalism.

To Catch a Flying Star: A Scientific Theory of UFO's by John Ackerman

John Ackerman's book proposes a scientific theory for UFO propulsion, based on numerous reports of UFO flight behavior, optical, electrical, and acoustic phenomena. Ackerman, who studied physics and worked as a flight engineer, suggests that UFOs utilize the Earth's magnetic field via a highly developed magnetic field drive. The book attempts to describe this principle using simple formulas and hand sketches. Ackerman's hypotheses are that UFOs are real, controlled by technologically superior extraterrestrial intelligences, and use Earth's magnetic field for propulsion and stabilization, powered by pulsed fusion reactors. The reviewer finds the book interesting for engineers interested in speculative concepts but concludes that it does not advance the UFO question, questioning why aliens would use such conventional methods if they are so advanced.

Yearbook of Aviation and Spaceflight 1990

This yearbook is recommended for UFO researchers due to its comprehensive information on German aviation and spaceflight, including addresses of relevant authorities, organizations, military units, and aviation clubs. The reviewer notes its usefulness for investigations and its clear, logical structure. However, it is mentioned that the yearbook lacks specific information relevant to UFO researchers, such as details on purely military airfields and flight control stations.

UFOs - The European House

This publication, a collaboration between CENAP and GWUP, features translated articles from international UFO journals. It aims to provide a broad spectrum of UFO events and research findings from Europe. The introduction emphasizes the shift away from a US-centric view of UFO research and the importance of information exchange. The book covers analyses, research, and results from various European countries, presenting a new approach to UFO research in the 1990s.

Letters to the Editor

Several letters to the editor are included:

• Hans-Werner Peiniger responds to previous discussions, defending his stance and clarifying his involvement with the GEP and the D.U. conference. He criticizes CENAP's methods of witness interrogation and accuses them of antisemitism and aggressive tactics. He also addresses a letter from Fiebag regarding his partner Miko and UFO phenomena, questioning Fiebag's objectivity and accusing him of opportunism.
• Michael Hesemann clarifies an incident at the D.U. conference, identifying Frank Nicolai as the disruptive individual, not a "friend of Andreas Schneider." Hesemann states that Nicolai was removed for causing disturbances and that the issue of D.U. and Walter/Hesemann is considered closed.
• Roland M. Horn criticizes the review of the book "In Kontakt mit dem Kosmos," suggesting it lacked scientific rigor. He also expresses disappointment with Werner Walter's response to a previous article and defends his own position, while acknowledging Walter's and Henke's work.
• Thomas Mehner writes about similar issues concerning business practices within the UFO community and expresses his agreement with the criticism of Klaus Webner's behavior.
• Rudolf Henke discusses the origins of life, questioning the probability of life arising by chance and suggesting that a paranormal component might be necessary for its explanation. He argues that if life arises elsewhere, contact would be extremely unlikely due to vast distances.
• Inge Schneider and Adolf Schneider respond to a review of their brochure "In Kontakt mit den Kosmos," clarifying their stance on "channeling" and its dangers, emphasizing that it should not be conflated with UFO phenomena.

Astronomical Problems

This section discusses the formation of our solar system, suggesting that it may have been influenced by two supernova explosions that created shockwaves, leading to the condensation of dust and gas clouds into planets. The article posits that the precise timing of these supernovas was crucial for the formation of planets and, consequently, the conditions for life. It concludes that the low probability of life arising and the limited number of potential "nurseries" for life in our galaxy suggest that humanity might be alone in the universe.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the analysis of UFO sightings, particularly in Ostbelgien, and the critical examination of various theories attempting to explain them, such as those involving ultralight aircraft or extraterrestrial intelligence. The magazine also engages in debates and discussions within the UFO community, as evidenced by the letters to the editor, which highlight disagreements regarding research methods, objectivity, and the interpretation of phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging detailed research and questioning sensationalist claims, while also acknowledging the complexity and enduring mystery of UFO phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on scientific and rational approaches, though the possibility of paranormal influences is also considered in some articles.