JUFOF - Issue 075 - 1991 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 1991, Volume 12, Issue 3 (Heft 75), and costs DM 4,00. The cover headline is "BLICKPUNKT SZENE 90 Gedanken zur aktuellen UFO-Lage" (Viewpoint Scene 90 Thoughts on the Current UFO Situation) by Gerald Mosbleck.

GEP and its Mission

The introductory pages explain the GEP's role as a recognized scientific association in Germany dedicated to UFO research. They define a UFO as an object or light whose appearance and behavior cannot be conventionally explained. The GEP investigates sightings using questionnaires, field research, and interdisciplinary analysis. Membership benefits include receiving the journal, discounts, and access to literature.

UFO Observations and Case Studies

UFO-BEOBACHTUNGEN (UFO Observations)

This section details several UFO sightings, primarily from Gengenbach, Germany, in May 1989. Witnesses reported seeing bright, round, or disc-like objects with unusual flight patterns. One case from March 1991 in Halle, Germany, involved children reporting a strange, humming object.

BLICKPUNKT SZENE 90: Gedanken zur aktuellen UFO-Lage

Gerald Mosbleck discusses the ongoing debate between UFO believers and skeptics, highlighting the professionalization of UFO research and the emergence of individuals who monetize their involvement in the field. He also touches upon the controversy surrounding Werner Walter, a prominent skeptic, and the legal actions taken against him by other figures in the UFO community.

EIN SELTENER FOTO-FALL (A Rare Photo Case)

Bruce Maccabee presents a detailed analysis of two similar UFO sightings, one from July 1989 in Kanazawa, Japan, by Yasuhiko Hamazaki, and another from January 1975 in Maui, Hawaii, by Michael Lindstrom. Both cases involve objects with a distinctive "square ring" and a rounded lower part, captured on video and photographs, respectively. The analysis includes comparisons of the object's shape, size estimates, and flight characteristics, noting the similarities despite the geographical and temporal separation.

RÄTSEL UM ERDLÖCHER GELÖST (Mystery of the Earth Holes Solved)

Josef Garcia investigates mysterious earth holes that appeared in Confignon, Switzerland, in early 1990. Initially thought to be of UFO origin, further research and geological analysis by Gad Amberger revealed that the holes were likely caused by ground subsidence related to the construction of an underground highway tunnel.

DER GIPFEL DES UFO-COVER UPS ERREICHT? (Has the Peak of UFO Cover-ups Been Reached?)

Werner Walter discusses a UFO sighting by Axel Ertelt over Afghanistan in December 1990. Ertelt described a bright, star-like object that ascended vertically and then flew horizontally. Walter explores potential explanations, including military aircraft, Scud missiles, and the possibility of a deliberate attack on a civilian aircraft, while noting the difficulty of definitive classification.

Other Articles and Features

GEP Sonderheft 11: DAS UFO-RÄTSEL

A review of a new edition of "DAS UFO-RÄTSEL" (The UFO Riddle) by Marcia S. Smith and George D. Havas. This book is described as a comprehensive documentation compiled from the US Congressional Library, covering UFO reports and activities from 1947 to 1982.

Postcard and Subscription Information

Included are a postcard for ordering articles and subscription information for the "Journal für UFO-Forschung," with details on prices and membership benefits.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a commitment to rigorous investigation and analysis of UFO phenomena, presenting both detailed case studies and critical perspectives. There is a clear distinction made between hobbyist researchers and those who profit from the UFO topic. The magazine aims to provide factual reporting and encourages scientific inquiry, while also acknowledging the complexities and controversies within the field. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness combined with a demand for credible evidence and logical explanations.

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG delves into a wide array of topics concerning UFO phenomena, government secrecy, and alternative theories about our past and present. The publication maintains a critical yet open-minded approach, emphasizing the importance of on-site research and verifiable information.

Key Articles and Features

Jupiter-Journal Ceases Publication

The editors announce the discontinuation of the "Jupiter-Journal" with its 35th issue in April 1991. The decision was made due to a lack of sufficient subscribers, which made publication and sales unsustainable. The founders, Adolf and Inge Schneider, expressed hope that Adolf Schneider would continue to contribute UFO research articles to other publications.

Pre-Astronautics Literature

The issue highlights a book from 1932 by Nikolai A. Rynin titled "Interplanetarische Kontakte-Raumschiffahrt: Cronik und Bibliographie." This work is noted for exploring themes of extraterrestrial visits to Earth based on mythologies and religious traditions, predating more widely known authors in the field.

Townsend Brown and NICAP

An article clarifies the founding of NICAP, attributing its establishment in October 1956 to Navy scientist Townsend Brown, who was later succeeded by Donald Keyhoe.

UFO Sightings and Incidents

• Several recent sightings are reported:
• Maracaibo, Venezuela (April 2, 1991): Five luminous flying objects were observed, causing significant public attention.
• China (early March 1991): A Chinese aircraft reportedly encountered an oval UFO near Shanghai's Hongqiao Airport.
• Bogota, Colombia (April 2, 1991): Farmer Luis Rodriguez claims to have been abducted by aliens and transported 450 km in a UFO.

George Adamski and Contactees

Information is presented regarding George Adamski's early, lesser-known books, "Wisdoms of the Masters of the Far East" (1936) and "Pioneers of Space: A Trip to the Moon, Mars and Venus" (1949), published before his more famous works.

The Cedric Allingham Hoax

It is revealed that the alleged contactee Cedric Allingham was a fabrication by British astronomer Patrick Moore, who reportedly used photos from a different source to support the hoax.

Michael Hesemann and Reincarnation

Michael Hesemann, editor of "Magazin 2000," is mentioned in relation to theories about reincarnation on Earth.

Rudolf Henke on UFOs

Rudolf Henke discusses his personal experiences and views on UFOs, including a statement about his past lives and experiences on other planets.

Martina Popovich's Academy Affiliation

Reporter Ekkehard Kühn investigates claims that ufologist Dr. Martina Popovich is a member of the Soviet Academy of Sciences, with Popovich clarifying she is a member of an associated club.

Sal Amendola's "A Sociopolitical View"

This book review critiques Sal Amendola's work, describing it as a confusing mix of personal opinions, quotes, and UFO literature. The reviewer finds the book poorly structured and lacking clear arguments, despite acknowledging Amendola's effort in self-publishing.

"Die Kreise im Korn" (Crop Circles)

This section reviews the book "Die Kreise im Korn" by Ralph Noyes, edited by Busty Taylor. It is hailed as one of the best books on crop circles published in Germany. The book features contributions from ten co-founders of the Centre for Crop Circle Studies (CCCS), exploring various hypotheses for the formation of crop circles, from meteorological phenomena to extraterrestrial origins. The reviewer praises the extensive photographic documentation.

Trevor James Constable's "The Cosmic Pulse of Life"

Trevor James Constable's theory that UFOs are plasma-like living organisms is discussed. The review expresses skepticism, particularly regarding the use of infrared photography and the connection to Wilhelm Reich's theories and the "Cloudbuster" device.

"Journal of UFO Studies" Review

The "Journal of UFO Studies," published by the J. Allen Hynek Center for UFO Studies, is reviewed. It is described as a collection of scientific contributions focusing on "Abductions" and "Earth Lights," aiming to professionalize UFO research.

Timothy Good's "Jenseits von Top-Secret"

Timothy Good's book "Jenseits von Top-Secret" (Beyond Top-Secret) is presented as a comprehensive documentation of government UFO knowledge. The reviewer praises its depth and the author's meticulous research, calling it a standard classic that challenges both believers and skeptics.

Howard Blum's "Out There"

The book "Out There" by Howard Blum is discussed. It details a secret UFO working group within the Pentagon formed in 1987 to investigate extraterrestrial life. The article highlights Blum's journalistic approach and the challenges he faced in obtaining information from government sources.

US Government UFO Investigations

Detailed accounts are given of US government involvement in UFO research, including the formation of a secret UFO working group in 1987. The article describes the detection of an unidentified object by radar and the subsequent efforts to analyze its characteristics. It also touches upon Project Aquarius and the use of 'psychics' in intelligence gathering.

GEP Publications and Membership

Information is provided about GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.) publications, including bibliographies and special reports, and details on membership benefits.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently emphasizes a commitment to rigorous, evidence-based research, distinguishing itself from sensationalism. There is a clear focus on scientific inquiry, critical analysis, and the pursuit of verifiable facts. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, acknowledging the possibility of extraterrestrial phenomena while demanding credible evidence and avoiding unsubstantiated claims. The publication also highlights the role of government secrecy and the challenges in obtaining official information on UFOs. The recurring theme is the ongoing effort to bring a scientific and systematic approach to the complex and often controversial field of UFO research.