JUFOF - Issue 081 - 1992 03

Magazine Overview

Title: JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: Number 3, Volume 13
Date: May-June 1992
Publisher: Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP)
Country: Germany
Price: DM 5,00

This issue of the German UFO research journal features a prominent cover story on "SPUREN IM KORN" (Traces in the Corn), detailing new findings about crop circles, including radioactive radiation and cell changes in stalks. The magazine also includes several articles on UFO sightings, theoretical discussions on the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH), and the intriguing concept of UFOs as time-traveling vehicles.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

The section "UFO-Beobachtungen" by Hans-Werner Peiniger presents a series of reported sightings with dates and locations, including Hamburg (1968), Marbach (1978), Rhüden (1991), Lüdenscheid (1991), Bremerhaven (1992), and Neuerburg (1992). Each report includes a brief description and an evaluation by the GEP. For instance, a sighting near Rhüden on November 1991 described a yellow, glowing object moving slowly, evaluated as possibly a conventional aircraft due to optical distortions from the car's windshield.

Das UFO-Phänomen und die extraterrestrische Hypothese (ETH) Teil 2

Authored by Dr. Johannes Fiebag and Peter Fiebag, this second part of the article delves into the challenges of accepting the presence of extraterrestrial intelligence. It argues that our imagination is limited by current technological understanding, and that advanced civilizations might possess capabilities far beyond our comprehension, potentially manipulating space, time, matter, and energy. The authors suggest that the concept of a "Superintelligenz" is not necessary if the ETH is modified to operate within our known universe. They favor the ETH because it requires fewer assumptions than other hypotheses and can explain many observed details of the UFO phenomenon. The article also discusses the potential societal and religious implications of confirming extraterrestrial presence, suggesting that a gradual revelation would be preferred by an advanced civilization to avoid mass panic and societal upheaval.

Mission Vergangenheit (Mission Past)

This article by Wladislaw Raab explores the hypothesis that UFOs might be time machines. It references scientific papers discussing wormholes as theoretical shortcuts through spacetime, enabling faster-than-light travel and, consequently, time travel into the past. The author considers the possibility that UFO occupants are future humans or beings from advanced civilizations, explaining the unusual characteristics of some sightings and potentially linking them to phenomena like "abductions" and "animal mutilations." The article suggests that if time travel is possible, it could explain the advanced capabilities of UFOs and the lack of direct, overt contact with humanity, possibly due to an "embargo" to allow human society to develop naturally.

Blick in die Welt (Glimpse into the World)

This section covers various international UFO-related news items:

• UFO Congress in Berlin: A congress organized by Leo Leschek, described as leaning towards the "New Age" side of UFO research, is mentioned. The article notes the organizer's questionable reputation based on a newspaper report.
• Glowing Balls on Video in Shanghai: Reports of multiple people recording glowing balls over Shanghai in February 1992 are cited, with speculation that the military may possess further footage.
• "SKY-TRACKER" and "Space Cannon's": The use of powerful light projection devices by the military in Germany and Italy is discussed as a potential cause for misidentified UFO sightings.
• Eastern European UFO Reports: The article notes an increase in UFO-related reports from Eastern European countries following the end of communism, suggesting that previously taboo subjects are now being openly discussed.
• Mysterious Aircraft over Los Angeles: Residents of Los Angeles reported a sonic boom and ground shaking caused by a high-speed aircraft, possibly the new US reconnaissance plane "AURORA," capable of flying at Mach 6 at high altitudes.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section on the GEP's activities, including their material lending service and a notice about a postponed D.U. III congress in Düsseldorf. An advertisement for a book titled "1992: Das Jahr der Geheimnislüftung" (1992: The Year of Secrecy Unveiling) by Werner Walter is featured, promising revelations about secret US government UFO sessions and investigations into phenomena like "Green Fireballs" and the "Blaubuch" project.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently focuses on empirical research and detailed case studies of UFO sightings, while also engaging with theoretical frameworks like the extraterrestrial hypothesis and the possibility of time travel. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to explain phenomena through rational analysis and scientific investigation, while acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the potential for advanced extraterrestrial intelligence. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible evidence and speculation or hoaxes. The GEP positions itself as a scientific organization dedicated to understanding the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Journal for UFO Research), volume 16, issue 81, published in 1992 by GEP, delves into a variety of topics related to UFO phenomena, ancient mysteries, and speculative science. The magazine features reviews of several books and films, alongside original articles and reader contributions, maintaining a critical yet open-minded approach to the subject matter.

Book Reviews and Articles

Ley Lines and Ancient Technology

Ulrich Magin reviews a book (likely by Pennick and Devereux, though not explicitly named in the review's title) that examines ley lines. The review critiques the sensationalist claims of authors like Däniken, who attribute ley lines to alien technology or advanced prehistoric knowledge. Instead, the book positions ley lines as a geomantic concept from the Stone Age, used for symbolic architecture and spiritual purposes, not requiring extraterrestrial intervention. The review emphasizes that the book integrates these lines into their historical and cultural context, explaining their development from sacred paths to aesthetic concepts in Baroque city planning. It also discusses the precise methods used in ancient times to create these lines, drawing parallels with Roman roads and Anglo-Saxon earthworks. The review highlights that the book explores global examples, including those in North America, India, and Nazca, South America, presenting them as part of a consistent tradition of geomantic landscape architecture.

Magin strongly criticizes the modern 'New Age' interpretations of ley lines, particularly those involving 'earth energies' and dowsing, calling them an 'irrational path.' He dismisses claims of global networks and thousands of kilometers of lines as unfounded, citing specific examples of such unfounded theories from authors like Däniken and Jens Möller. The review concludes by recommending the book for its competent and precise information on the historical and cultural significance of ley lines, contrasting it favorably with the sensationalism of 'pre-astronautics' authors.

Angels and Aliens by Keith Thompson

Ulrich Magin also reviews Keith Thompson's book, "Angels and Aliens." He describes it as a 'book-bastard,' struggling to find a cohesive unit. The first two-thirds of the book provide a serious and valuable overview of the UFO phenomenon in the USA since 1947, covering key cases and personalities like Arnold, Keyhoe, the Hill abduction, and Gulf Breeze. Thompson includes biographies of C.G. Jung, Philip Klass, Jacques Vallee, and J. Allen Hynek. Magin finds an analysis of the relationship between Strieber and Hopkins particularly illuminating. However, he notes the book's abrupt ending, missing Strieber's later declaration that 'visitors' were subjective hallucinations. Magin points out that while the book presents many facts, some of which are new, it also exhibits weaknesses. He criticizes Thompson's handling of the Billy Meier case and his assertion that independent witnesses seeing UFOs implies a paranormal phenomenon. Magin also finds Thompson's attempts to reconcile the contradictory aspects of UFOs (photographic evidence vs. psychological explanations) to be overly metaphorical and lacking in clarity, drawing parallels to the work of Keel and Vallee but without their precision.

170 Stunden mit Außerirdischen by Vitko Novi

This section reviews Vitko Novi's 'contactee' experience, published by 'LION STAR.' The book details Novi's encounters with beings from the planet Apu starting in March 1960 near Huallanca, Peru. These encounters involved revelations about a new worldview and glimpses into Earth's past and future via a 'time screen.' The reviewer, Hans-Werner Peiniger, notes that Novi's naive dialogues and childlike understanding of physics reflect his own worldview and desire for a different societal system. Peiniger categorizes the book as typical 'contactee literature,' suitable for collectors and those wishing to complete their libraries, but not for a general audience.

Transformation by Whitley Strieber

Whitley Strieber's "Transformation" is reviewed as the author's second UFO book, detailing events since "Communion." The reviewer, Hans-Werner Peiniger, states that the book is good but contains little about UFOs, focusing instead on mystical experiences. He suggests that proponents of the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) and pre-astronautics, as well as skeptics, might not appreciate it. The book delves into the deeper, visionary aspects of abduction experiences, which Strieber interprets differently from conventional explanations involving alien technology or hoaxes. Peiniger notes that Strieber's conclusions may cause controversy within the American UFO scene, as he moves away from the typical ETH narrative. The reviewer finds the book less about the 'thrill' of contact and more a collection of Strieber's dreams and paranormal experiences, with his interpretations. While acknowledging Strieber's significant contributions to the field of abduction research, Peiniger suggests that the book, like "Communion," is a crucial piece for understanding close encounters.

Cosmic Code of Natural Force? (Film Review)

Josef Garcia reviews an English film titled "Cosmic Code of Natural Force?" which investigates crop circles. The film is praised for its objective discussion of the 'hoax' theory and its focus on Terence Meaden's Plasma Vortex Theory. The review notes that Meaden and his colleagues gathered evidence in 1991 supporting his theory, with Japanese scientists also investigating the phenomenon. The film explores the possibility of crop circles being a form of communication from an unknown intelligence. However, Garcia criticizes the film for descending into New Age and esoteric practices after the initial scientific discussion. He finds the attempts to decode crop circle symbols using computer programs and Morse code speculative. The review recommends the film for those interested in the Plasma Vortex Theory.

Spuren im Korn (Traces in the Corn) by Jürgen Krönig (Hrsg.)

Josef Garcia reviews "Spuren im Korn," edited by Jürgen Krönig. Despite the exposure of crop circle hoaxers Doug Barrett and Dave Chorley, the book is deemed worthwhile. Krönig, a political scientist and correspondent, is presented as a well-informed source on crop circles, living near the phenomenon in Wiltshire, England. The book acknowledges the possibility of some fakes but asserts that the majority of formations are genuine. It features over 60 pages of the latest crop circle patterns from 1991, with 118 previously unpublished color photographs. The reviewer notes the book's excellent photographic documentation and Krönig's attention to detail in capturing formations under specific lighting conditions.

Zeittunnel (Time Tunnel) by Ernst Meckelburg

Ernst Meckelburg's book, "Zeittunnel: Reisen an den Rand der Ewigkeit" (Time Tunnel: Journeys to the Edge of Eternity), is reviewed by Hans-Werner Peiniger. The book explores the concept of time travel, proposing that advanced civilizations could undertake excursions into the past and future without violating causality. Meckelburg's theory is based on sophisticated thought experiments and calculations, which have been confirmed by other scientists. Peiniger, however, expresses skepticism about the practical application of these theories, criticizing Meckelburg for citing literature without thorough verification and for potentially misinterpreting UFO cases. He questions the claim that UFOs are 'time machines' and that contactees report similar phenomena. Peiniger finds the book's premise that time, consciousness, and matter are interconnected illusions to be speculative. While acknowledging the book's interesting ideas, he concludes that it does not make time travel more probable and is best suited for those who wish to explore speculative theories about time.

Neue Kosmische Spuren (New Cosmic Traces) edited by Erich von Däniken

This section announces the release of "Neue Kosmische Spuren," a follow-up to a previous anthology, edited by Erich von Däniken and compiled by Johannes and Peter Fiebag. The book contains updated and expanded contributions from "Ancient Skies" and "One-day-meetings," covering various aspects of the 'ancient astronaut' theory. It is structured into eight sections, examining prerequisites for cosmic traces on Earth, within the solar system, and in different regions like the Near East, Egypt, Asia, America, and Europe. The review lists several contributors and their topics, including Hans Herbert Beier on 'The Temple of the Prophet,' Erich von Däniken on 'Old and New Knowledge,' and Johannes Fiebag on '3.5 Billion Years Ago: Life on Early Mars.' The book is recommended for members of the 'Ancient Astronaut Society' (AAS) and interested readers.

Der Stand der UFO-Forschung (The State of UFO Research) by Illobrand von Ludwiger

Illobrand von Ludwiger's book, "Der Stand der UFO-Forschung," is presented as a serious and well-researched work on the UFO phenomenon. The reviewer, Johannes Fiebag, praises Ludwiger for his scientific background in physics, astronomy, and space technology, noting his Hedri Prize from the University of Bern for his research. The book is described as a comprehensive documentation of the current state of UFO research, based on scientific programs and data worldwide, with critical evaluation of findings. Fiebag agrees with Ludwiger that the lack of scientifically usable photos is an inherent part of the UFO phenomenon. The book also discusses physical traces left by UFOs. Ludwiger's central thesis is that the UFO phenomenon is a physical reality existing in a higher, possibly six-dimensional, realm, beyond our current four-dimensional perception. Fiebag finds some of Ludwiger's concepts, particularly those related to Heim's six-dimensional world theory, difficult to grasp but acknowledges their potential to expand our understanding of reality. The reviewer concludes that the book is a valuable resource for UFO researchers and contributes to a more scientific understanding of the phenomenon.

Inner Earth: A Search for Anomalies by William R. Corliss

This section highlights William R. Corliss's book, "Inner Earth: A Search for Anomalies," which catalogs geological anomalies. The book covers topics such as the Earth's interior, seismic activities, and the geomagnetic field. The reviewer, Hans-Werner Peiniger, suggests that this book, following discussions on 'Earth-Light' phenomena, would be of interest to UFO researchers, providing geological knowledge relevant to understanding such phenomena. It is recommended for knowledgeable UFO researchers.

Plasmaphysik im Sonnensystem (Plasma Physics in the Solar System) edited by K.-H. Glassmeier and M. Scholer

This book is described as an accessible introduction to plasma physics in the solar system, covering processes in interplanetary space and planetary magnetospheres. It includes 15 chapters by renowned scientists on topics like the Sun, solar wind, cosmic rays, and interactions with plasma waves. The reviewer, Hans-Werner Peiniger, finds the chapters on the Earth's magnetosphere and polar lights particularly relevant for UFO researchers, as they provide fundamental knowledge about these phenomena. The book does not require prior knowledge of plasma physics.

GEP Im Blickpunkt

This section announces new members of the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.) and the acquisition of a new, high-quality inkjet printer to improve the magazine's appearance. It also mentions a tax information sheet for members.

Reader Letters

Jörg Paulsen, Kiel

Jörg Paulsen writes to commend the journal for its informative content and its emphasis on citing sources, which he finds crucial for serious research into extraordinary phenomena.

Ulrich Magin, Mutterstadt

Ulrich Magin corrects an assertion made by the Fiebag brothers regarding the 'psychosocial theory' of UFOs. He argues that a shift away from the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) towards psychosocial explanations occurred primarily in the USA during the 1980s, driven by a perceived lack of concrete evidence. Magin states that in Europe and other regions, the psychosocial theory has long been dominant, citing prominent researchers in Spain, France, England, Australia, and Argentina who support this view. He contends that the ETH is largely considered defunct outside of the USA and certain fringe groups.

Werner Walter, CENAP, Mannheim

Werner Walter responds to an article by the Fiebag brothers, asserting that the ETH is vital for the survival of UFO belief, serving as a source of exciting stories for public discussion. He acknowledges the ETH's role in driving scientific and creative progress but criticizes the tendency to overcomplicate UFO theories and to present 'outsider theses' as core UFOlogy. Walter suggests that while UFOs are indeed observed, their interpretation as alien spacecraft faces challenges due to the vast distances involved in interstellar travel. He posits that the solution to the UFO riddle lies in the ongoing process of scientific discovery and potentially in a deeper understanding of reality beyond our sensory perception.

Other Sections

Archivauflösung (Archive Liquidation)

This section advertises the sale of books, brochures, and magazines on UFO research, monsters, pre-astronautics, archaeology, and the Bermuda Triangle due to an archive liquidation.

GEP-Sonderhefte (GEP Special Issues)

A list of available GEP special issues is provided, covering topics such as scientific UFO investigations, bibliographies, and analyses of specific UFO cases.

Fotomechanische Nachdrucke (Photomechanical Reprints)

A list of reprinted books on space and UFOs is offered.

Dia-Serien (Slide Series)

Various slide series on topics like hot air balloons, helicopters, and trick photography are advertised.

Ausserirdisches Gestein (Extraterrestrial Rock)

Advertisements for the sale of meteorites are included.

Beiträge zur UFO-Forschung Band 2 (Contributions to UFO Research Vol. 2)

This section features Bruce Maccabee's "Der unglaubliche Flug der JAL-1628" (The Incredible Flight of JAL-1628), detailing an incident in Alaska in 1986 where a cargo plane crew observed unidentified aerial phenomena. The review highlights the extensive material provided by the US Federal Aviation Administration.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, moving beyond sensationalism to explore scientific, historical, and psychological perspectives. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing between rigorous research and speculative theories, particularly concerning ley lines and alien visitation. The magazine promotes a balanced approach, acknowledging the complexity of the UFO subject and the need for continued investigation. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based analysis and critical thinking, while remaining open to the possibility of phenomena that challenge current scientific paradigms.