JUFOF - Issue 077 - 1991 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of the German magazine "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (ISSN 0723-7766, Number 5, 1991, Volume 12, Heft 77) is published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP) and costs DM 4.00. The cover prominently features the headline "KONTAKTE MIT 'AUSSERIRDISCHEN' IM DEUTSCHEN SPRACHRAUM" (Contacts with 'Extraterrestrials' in the German-speaking area), accompanied by an illustration of stylized figures. The issue includes a GEP Sonderheft 16, a catalog of contactee and humanoid reports in the German-speaking region.

Articles and Features

GEP Sonderheft 16: Kontakte mit "Außerirdischen" im deutschen Sprachraum

This special report by Ulrich Magin is a comprehensive collection of German contactee and humanoid reports. It analyzes reports, witnesses, and the social context of UFO belief. The catalog includes over 120 entries, chronologically detailing alleged contacts with beings from space or other dimensions. The Sonderheft covers aspects of the UFO mythos, from abductions to pre-astronautics claims, and includes an extensive bibliography and four indexes.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Observations)

This section details several reported UFO sightings from July and August 1991, with analyses and conclusions:

• 19910728 A, Lüdenscheid: A witness reported a small, round, bright red 'fire' moving uniformly northwest. The GEP concluded it was a model hot-air balloon.
• 19910723 A, Veitshöchheim: Residents observed a 'burning ball' described as a floating, yellow-orange sphere that appeared to move upwards and away. Local newspapers reported on the sighting, and the GEP identified it as likely a model balloon.
• 19910713 A, Veitshöchheim: Following the previous sighting, witnesses reported a 'glowing sphere' or 'light' moving silently at high altitude. The GEP suggests it could be a light beam from a SKY-TRACKER.
• 19910609 A, Dorsten: A newspaper report mentioned a large number of blinking yellow and green lights, estimated to be 50 meters in diameter, observed by an LKW driver. Due to insufficient data, the case was classified as 'Insufficient Data'.
• 19910608 A, Lüdenscheid: A witness observed a bright white light moving slowly eastward. The GEP identified it as a model hot-air balloon launched by a local couple.
• 19910227 A, Holtensen (near Hameln): A witness described a lens-shaped, red-tailed object hovering at treetop height for 15 minutes before descending diagonally. The GEP considered explanations like a model hot-air balloon or the planet Venus.
• 19910328 A, Autobahn 7 (Sarstedt): A couple observed a bright, fiery object with a pointed tail moving horizontally at high speed. The GEP concluded it was likely a bolide (fireball) or re-entering satellite debris.
• 19800912 A, Arberg: A witness reported a bright, steady light moving in a straight line across the night sky, identified as a meteor.
• 19880512 A, Frankfurt: A witness using a telescope observed a 'star' moving erratically from east to west. The GEP concluded it was likely a satellite.
• 198408 A, Helle: A witness reported a strange object in the sky, described as a 'burning ball' with a tail, possibly a satellite.

Eine Chance für das Marsgesicht (A Chance for the Mars Face)

Walter Hein discusses the controversial 'Mars Face' image. He argues against the NASA explanation of it being a trick of light and shadow, citing his own research and that of others like Richard Hoagland. Hein presents evidence from different photographic angles and computer enhancements that suggest the formation is artificial, possibly evidence of an ancient Martian civilization. He criticizes the dismissal of such findings and urges a more open-minded approach to investigating potential extraterrestrial intelligence.

Der Kaufhold-Skandal (The Kaufhold Scandal)

Klaus Webner details a dispute over research plagiarism. He recounts how his work on the 'Mister X' case (a supposed UFO occupant photograph from Wiesbaden) was allegedly used without attribution by Peter Kaufhold and published by UMSCHAU-Verlag and MEYSTER-Verlag. Webner asserts that Kaufhold misrepresented his findings and claimed them as his own. The article highlights Webner's legal efforts and his frustration with publishers who allegedly supported Kaufhold.

Kurz Notiert (Briefly Noted)

• "SKY-TRACKER": This section introduces a new type of lighting equipment used for events, featuring powerful spotlights that can create illusions of flying saucers. The article notes that these devices have previously caused 'UFO alarms' and mentions their rental costs.
• UFOs in der Werbung (UFOs in Advertising): This segment highlights the increasing use of UFO imagery in advertising, including examples from candy brands (Smarties, Skittles), a cigarette advertisement, and a promotional item from Agfa featuring a UFO theme. The GEP expresses a desire for readers to submit further examples.

Other Sections

• Die GEP... (The GEP...): An explanation of the GEP's mission, methods (questionnaires, field research, interdisciplinary analysis), and publications.
• GEP-Mitglieder... (GEP Members...): Information on benefits for GEP members, including receiving the 'JUFOF' magazine, ordering questionnaires, and receiving discounts on special publications.
• Impressum: Details about the magazine's publication, editorial responsibility, and non-commercial basis.
• Definition des Begriffs "UFO" (Definition of the term "UFO"): A definition based on Dr. J. Allen Hynek's work.
• Melde-Stelle für UFO-Beobachtungen (Reporting Office for UFO Observations): Contact information for reporting sightings, including a hotline.
• Der Freiherr und die sieben Zwerge (The Baron and the Seven Dwarfs): A satirical piece by Gerald Mosbleck, seemingly commenting on a TV appearance or debate involving a figure promoting UFO-related theories, critiquing the presentation and the media's role.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently emphasizes a rigorous, scientific approach to UFO research, aiming to identify mundane explanations for sightings while remaining open to the possibility of genuine anomalous phenomena. There is a clear stance against sensationalism and plagiarism, as evidenced by the 'Kaufhold Scandal' article. The GEP encourages reader participation through reporting sightings and submitting information. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical investigation, seeking factual evidence and logical explanations, but not dismissing extraordinary claims outright. The recurring theme of model balloons as explanations for many sightings highlights the journal's focus on debunking common misidentifications.

Title: JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: 76
Volume: 4
Date: 4'91 (April 1991)
Publisher: GEP
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0934-0370
Price: DM 4,00

This issue of the German UFO research journal "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research) delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, featuring a mix of book reviews, research articles, and reader contributions. The cover prominently highlights "DER RATtenHUND SAGEN DER GEGENWART" (The Rattenhund: Legends of Today), suggesting a focus on folklore and contemporary narratives related to the unexplained.

Key Articles and Reviews

"Der Rattenhund" by Helmut Fischer This section reviews a book titled "Der Rattenhund" which compiles modern legends and folklore, drawing from the author's extensive fieldwork in the Rhineland. The review emphasizes Fischer's attempt at authentic reproduction of narratives, even preserving linguistic quirks of the storytellers. A key aspect discussed is the transformation of a single story through multiple retellings, using the "Rattenhund" tale as a prime example. The book is noted for its thought-provoking exploration of how stories evolve and the value of witness testimonies.

"OUT THERE" by Howard Blum Reviewed by Werner Walter, this book is described as a journalistic investigation into alleged UFO cover-ups within the US intelligence community. The review notes Blum's attempt to uncover the truth behind classified documents, including the controversial MJ-12 papers. However, Walter expresses disappointment, finding the book to be more of a "novel" that raises more questions than it answers, and suggests that the UFO Arbeitsgruppe (UFO working group) might be a product of bored intelligence officials. The review criticizes the book for not offering a breakthrough and for blurring the lines between serious research and sensationalism.

"The Roswell Report: A Historical Perspective" edited by George H. Eberhart This book is presented as a supplement to the 1991 paperback "UFO Crash at Roswell." It aims to provide detailed information about the Roswell incident, examining various theories and explanations. The review highlights that the book features contributions from authors like Schmitt and Randle, who are noted for their extensive research and interviews with witnesses. Notably, the book, like other authors, dismisses the MJ-12 documents as a hoax. The review commends the brochure for its neutral stance and comprehensive summary of the Roswell crash.

"Von Ufos entführt: Unheimliche Begegnungen der vierten Art" by Ulrich Magin This book, part of the "Beck'sche Reihe," explores "fourth kind encounters" (CE IV), where individuals report being abducted by UFO occupants and subjected to medical examinations. Magin, a German UFO specialist, compiles well-known cases and attempts to interpret the UFO phenomenon. The review notes that these encounters often lead abductees to feel chosen and can trigger strong religious activity. The book also touches upon the historical context of UFO sightings, including the decline of "contactee" reports from the 1950s and the rise of abduction narratives, particularly in the USA.

"Meyers Handbuch Weltall" (Meyers Handbook Universe) This is a review of the 6th edition of a comprehensive astronomy handbook. While acknowledging its thoroughness and clarity, the reviewer points out that the edition is from 1984, making it somewhat dated. The book is praised for its detailed information on planets, stars, and cosmology, with rich illustrations and diagrams. However, it is noted that the book does not investigate the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

"Mythen und Wirklichkeiten: Sonderband I" edited by Georg Schulz jr. This collection of essays covers topics related to pre-astronautics and UFO research, including contributions on global UFO projects, the MUFON-Gruppe, interpretations of the UFO phenomenon, crop circles, and ball lightning. The brochure is illustrated and includes humorous anecdotes.

"Einringlinge" (Intruders) by Budd Hopkins This review discusses Budd Hopkins' bestseller "Intruders," which deals with UFO abductions. The reviewer is critical, suggesting that Hopkins, a sculptor by profession, acts as an "amateur hypnotist" who leads witnesses to recount pre-determined narratives. The review questions the authenticity of the hypnotic regressions, pointing out the potential for suggestibility and the lack of independent verification. Despite the criticism, the book is acknowledged as a significant work that fulfills the expectations and anxieties of some readers while reinforcing the skepticism of others.

SETI: Die Suche nach extraterrestrischer Intelligenz by Josef Garcia This article discusses the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) project. It highlights the historical attempts to communicate with potential alien civilizations, including the Voyager Golden Record and the Arecibo message. The article details the expansion of SETI with new technology like the Multi Channel Spectrum Analyzer (MCSA) and the use of multiple radio telescopes worldwide. It also explores hypothetical communication methods beyond radio waves and the philosophical implications of detecting a signal. The author expresses optimism about the chances of contact in the near future.

Letters to the Editor

Several letters address specific articles and topics:

• Frank Haeusler (Wetter) disputes the explanation of sinkholes (Erdlöcher) as natural geological formations, arguing that their circular shape and the disappearance of vegetation are inconsistent with typical sinkholes. He suggests laser experiments as a more plausible explanation.
• Gerhard Linder supports the laser experiment theory for sinkholes and crop circles, offering a publication (ALPHA 13) for further details.
• Josef Garcia responds to the sinkhole discussion, presenting newspaper clippings about natural sinkholes in Japan, Germany, and the USA, suggesting that natural explanations are often overlooked.
• Werner Walter (Mannheim) critiques an article by Fiebag regarding UFO abductions, defending the research of figures like Hopkins and arguing against Fiebag's methodology. He also comments on internal disputes within the German UFO community.
• Hans-Werner Sachmann (Dortmund) calls for greater tolerance and diplomacy within the UFO research community, urging members to accept differing viewpoints and avoid personal attacks.
• Hans Reinhard Kühnreich (Bensheim) refutes the theory that vampire bats are responsible for cattle mutilations, explaining that their feeding habits and geographical distribution make them unlikely culprits.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a critical yet open-minded approach to UFO research. There is a strong emphasis on scientific methodology, the examination of evidence, and the debunking of hoaxes, as seen in the discussions surrounding the MJ-12 documents and the Roswell incident. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation over sensationalism, encouraging readers to form their own informed opinions. The journal also highlights the importance of historical context and the evolution of UFO narratives, as exemplified by the reviews of books on folklore and abduction accounts. The recurring theme of internal debates and differing research methodologies within the UFO community is also evident through the letters to the editor.