JUFOF - Issue 069 - 1990 03

Magazine Overview

This issue of the 'Journal für UFO-Forschung' (Journal for UFO Research), published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP), is dated Mai-Juni 1990 and is the third issue of Volume 11. The cover prominently features the journal's title and a 'CENSORED' stamp over an illustration of a flying saucer, hinting at themes of secrecy and suppressed information.

Key Articles and Features

UFOLOGIE - Theories and Facts about Flying Saucers

This section reviews a new edition of Dieter von Reeken's book 'UFOLOGIE', originally published in 1981. The reprint is a direct, unchanged facsimile of the first edition, making it accessible to those who missed the original publication. The book is described as a valuable source of information and thought-provoking insights into the UFO phenomenon.

The Project OZMA: The Search Begins

This article details Project Ozma, the first systematic search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI), initiated by Frank Drake on April 8, 1960. The project aimed to detect radio signals from alien civilizations, focusing on the 21-cm wavelength emitted by hydrogen. Despite listening for 150 hours to stars like Tau Ceti and Epsilon Eridani, no artificial signals were detected. The article also touches upon the Soviet Union's parallel project led by Vselovod Troitsky in 1968.

The Dangerous Knowledge of the Ancients

This piece explores historical perspectives on the existence of other worlds and life beyond Earth, referencing ancient Greek philosophers like Pythagoras, Anaxagoras, Democritus, and Metrodorus. It notes that such ideas were often considered dangerous and led to persecution, citing the example of Giordano Bruno.

Skeptical Scientists

The article discusses the scientific community's initial reluctance to seriously consider SETI. It recounts how physicist G. Cocconi's proposal to use the Jodrell-Bank telescope for SETI in 1959 was rejected by Sir Bernhard Lovell.

The 21-cm Wavelength - Frequency of the Extraterrestrials?

This section explains why the 21-cm wavelength is considered significant for SETI, due to the abundance of hydrogen atoms in the Milky Way. It discusses the hypothesis that extraterrestrial civilizations might use this universal 'wavelength' for communication.

The Astonishing Persistence of SETI Researchers

Despite decades of unsuccessful searches, SETI researchers continue their work with remarkable persistence. The article mentions ongoing projects like 'Sentinel' and the use of advanced technology to filter out terrestrial interference.

Official UFO Research in Switzerland

This extensive report by Luc Bürgin investigates the Swiss military's (EMD) involvement with UFO phenomena. It reveals that the EMD has been collecting UFO reports since at least 1955, but these are kept secret and are not publicly accessible. Despite official denials, evidence suggests a continued interest and investigation, with inquiries often met with evasive answers or outright refusal to provide information. The article highlights inconsistencies in official statements and the experiences of individuals who attempted to obtain information.

Kriminaltechnische Methoden in der UFO-Forschung (Criminalistic Methods in UFO Research)

This section, authored by Hans-Werner Peiniger, focuses on the practical aspects of securing evidence from alleged UFO landing sites, particularly in snow. It details various methods and materials for creating casts of footprints and impressions, evaluating their effectiveness and suitability for ufological investigations. Materials discussed include Tewesil, snow spray wax, sulfur, and plaster of Paris, with plaster being recommended as the most practical for field use.

Case Reports and Briefs

• Several short reports detail specific UFO sightings and incidents:
• UFO over Düsseldorf-Lierenfeld?: A report of a large, silent, gray object observed by a couple.
• Parallels to the CE III case in Benediktbeuern: This refers to a case previously detailed in the journal and notes parallels to another case.
• UFO in Italia 1955-1972: A review of a book documenting Italian UFO and IFO cases.
• Background Information on Gulf Breeze: A review of a book by Ed Walters about the Gulf Breeze UFO case, noting controversy and alternative analyses.
• Case 1. FSR (February 1971, Altas Bardas, Argentina): Three dark, robe-like figures were observed by a witness.
• Case 2. JUFOF (April-May 1980, Benediktbeuern, Germany): Witnesses reported seeing three robe-like figures near their parked car.
• UFO Landing in Aargau, Switzerland: A report of a landed craft with spotlights and windows.

Short Notes (Kurz Notiert)

• Laura Mundo deceased: The passing of the American contactee and author.
• Heinz Haber deceased: The death of the astrophysicist and popular science communicator.
• UFO Conference in England: Announcement of an upcoming conference titled 'PHANTOMS OF THE SKY-UFOLOGY INTO THE 90's'.
• New UFO Magazine from Belgium: Introduction of 'NUFOC-Belgium JOURNAL'.
• D. U. - Dialogue with the Universe: Announcement of a conference in Munich.
• UFO over Düsseldorf-Lierenfeld?: A brief report on a sighting.
• Parallels to the CE III case in Benediktbeuern: A note referencing a previous case and its parallels.

Literature Review: The Armstrong Report

This section reviews Virgil Armstrong's book 'The Armstrong Report: "They Need Us, We Don't Need Them"'. Armstrong, a former intelligence agent and contactee, claims telepathic communication with extraterrestrials and discusses their alleged interactions with humanity and the US government. The review notes the book's unusual format and Armstrong's concerns about 'bad' ETs and the need for humanity's spiritual progress.

Standpoints on UFO Research and Prae-Astronautics

This is the fifth part of a series where various individuals involved in the German UFO scene answer questions on topics such as the Bermuda Triangle, pre-astronautics, the extraterrestrial origin of UFOs, abduction cases, and the probability of other technical civilizations in the universe. Hans-Werner Peiniger provides his detailed answers, expressing skepticism about pre-astronautic evidence and the extraterrestrial nature of all UFO sightings, while acknowledging the fascination of the topic and the need for careful investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a serious, investigative approach to UFO research, emphasizing scientific methodology and the importance of collecting and preserving evidence. There is a clear undercurrent of suspicion towards official explanations and a belief that significant information about UFO phenomena is being withheld by governments and military bodies, particularly in Switzerland. The GEP positions itself as a dedicated organization for serious research, distinguishing itself from purely journalistic or sensationalist accounts. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, tempered by a critical and analytical perspective, encouraging researchers to apply rigorous methods and to consider all possibilities, including extraterrestrial origins, while remaining grounded in evidence.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (2/90) from the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP) covers a range of topics related to UFO research, astronomy, and unexplained phenomena. It features book reviews, articles on specific cases, and discussions on the scientific and philosophical aspects of extraterrestrial life.

Book Reviews

"Lexikon der Astronomie" Review by Hans-Werner Peiniger

Peiniger reviews the first volume of the "Lexikon der Astronomie," a comprehensive encyclopedia of space research published by Herder-Verlag. The two-volume work, created by over 120 scientists, covers classical and modern astronomy, space travel, celestial bodies, and astronomical technology. It includes biographical articles on astronomers, information on observatories, and details on space missions. Peiniger highlights its relevance for UFO researchers, providing essential astronomical knowledge for understanding sightings and discussing the probability of extraterrestrial life.

"Die Entdeckung des Grals" Review by Hans-Werner Sachmann

Sachmann reviews the book "Die Entdeckung des Grals" by Johannes and Peter Fiebag. The book explores the alleged connection between the Holy Grail, the Manna machine, the Ark of the Covenant, and the Knights Templar, suggesting a possible extraterrestrial origin for the Manna machine. The review notes the book's detailed examination of these historical and mythological elements and its consideration of "contacts with extraterrestrial intelligences."

"Die Spuren der Außerirdischen" Review by Hans-Werner Sachmann

Sachmann reviews Erich von Däniken's photo book, "Die Spuren der Außerirdischen." The book presents over 280 color images of ancient structures and artifacts, with a 100-page text by Däniken. Sachmann notes that while the images are impressive, the text offers little new information for dedicated Däniken readers, serving more as a visual supplement to his previous works.

"Moderne Flugsicherung" Review by Hans-Werner Peiniger

Peiniger reviews Heinrich Mensen's book on modern air traffic control. The book provides a comprehensive overview of air traffic control systems, including legal frameworks, airspace organization, and technical equipment like radar. Peiniger finds the information on radar technology and airspace control relevant for UFO researchers investigating sightings.

"MJ-12 and the Riddle of Hangar 18" Review by Timothy Green Beckley

This review discusses Timothy Green Beckley's book, which compiles UFO crash rumors. The reviewer criticizes Beckley's uncritical approach and sensationalist style, noting that while the book gathers information, its analysis is superficial. The review mentions the inclusion of the 'MJ-12 Papers' and speculations by 'Lear' about a pact between the US government and ETs.

"Die Jagd nach Psi" Review by Gerald Mosbleck

Mosbleck reviews Harald Wiesendanger's book, which explores phenomena at the boundaries of knowledge, including telepathy, psychokinesis, clairvoyance, paramedicine, astrology, and UFOs. The review highlights the chapter on "Occultism" and the author's balanced presentation of different positions within parapsychology.

"Geheimnisse des 20. Jahrhunderts" Review by Gerald Mosbleck

Mosbleck reviews "Geheimnisse des 20. Jahrhunderts" by Janet and Colin Bord. The book covers various mysteries of the 20th century, including UFOs, poltergeists, yetis, and other phenomena. The reviewer praises the book's balanced approach and extensive index.

Articles and Discussions

"Sind wir doch die Einzigen?" Part 5 by Rudolf Henke

This installment of Rudolf Henke's series discusses the potential appearance of extraterrestrial beings and the conditions for intelligent life. Henke argues that evolutionary principles suggest a convergence towards a bipedal, symmetrical being with adapted sensory organs, similar to humans. He also addresses the challenges of interstellar communication due to the speed of light.

"Wachstums"-Fetischisten and Interstellar Spaceflight by Rudolf Henke

Henke critiques the concept of "growth fetishism" and discusses the limitations of interstellar spaceflight. He argues that natural and technological boundaries exist, and that while some physicists speculate about "hyperdrive" mechanisms, true interstellar travel remains improbable. He also touches upon the speculative nature of "black physics" theories.

GEP Special Editions and Publications

The journal lists several GEP special editions and publications, including works on UFO research, the JAL-1628 incident, the "UFO Enigma," bibliographies of German UFO literature, and the life and work of Hermann Oberth.

Letters to the Editor

Letters discuss the portrayal of UFO phenomena in the GDR, the concept of "creativity" in UFO sightings, and the potential misinterpretation of radar data by UFO researchers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently adopts a critical and analytical stance towards UFO phenomena, encouraging skepticism while remaining open to investigation. There is a strong emphasis on scientific reasoning and distinguishing between evidence-based research and speculation. The publication appears to favor a rational approach, often debunking sensationalist claims and promoting a deeper understanding of astronomical and physical principles in relation to UFO reports. The editorial stance encourages readers to critically evaluate information and to consider conventional explanations before resorting to extraordinary ones.