JUFOF - Issue 082 - 1992 04

Magazine Overview

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 4/92, volume 13, dated July-August 1992, published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP) in Germany, focuses on the UFO phenomenon and the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH).

Contents Overview

GEP Special Issue 14: "UFOLOGIE - Theorien und Tatsachen über Fliegende Untertassen"

This section announces a re-release of a 1981 publication by Dieter von Reeken, titled "UFOLOGIE - Theorien und Tatsachen über Fliegende Untertassen." The new edition is a paperback reprint, approximately 14.5 x 21 cm with 56 pages and 33 illustrations, priced at DM 12.00 (DM 9.60 for GEP members). The text remains unchanged from the original, which is no longer available in bound form. The GEP emphasizes that the book still offers valuable insights and information.

Journal Contents:

• UFO-BEOBACHTUNGEN (UFO Sightings) by Hans-Werner Peiniger:
• 11.05.1992, Kirchheim: A mysterious light was reported, later identified as a large spotlight from a discotheque.
• 02.05.1992, Bergkamen: A witness reported an impressive sky phenomenon.
• 06.07.1991, im Klettgau: A witness filmed a small, triangular white object with a black part, exhibiting silent movements.

• VOLKSKUNDE ALS HILFSMITTEL DER UFO-FORSCHUNG (Folklore as a Tool for UFO Research) by Ulrich Magin: This article argues that folklore and saga research are valuable tools for interpreting UFO reports. Magin explains that folklore deals with narratives and cultural concepts, including altered states of consciousness and mythological ideas. He stresses that folklore research focuses on the narrative itself, not on proving its physical reality. Sagas are seen as stories that can be interpreted within their cultural context, not as direct reports of physical events. The article critiques the tendency to seek literal, positivist explanations for myths and highlights how folklore can help understand the 'numinous' or ineffable aspects of experiences, which may be expressed through UFO narratives.

• DAS UFO-PHÄNOMEN UND DIE EXTRATERRESTRISCHE HYPOTHESE (ETH) Teil 3 (The UFO Phenomenon and the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) Part 3) by Dr. Johannes Fiebag and Peter Fiebag: This section addresses a common criticism of the Paleo-SETI hypothesis and the ETH: the apparent discrepancy between the advanced technology of supposed extraterrestrial visitors and the descriptions found in historical accounts and modern sightings. The authors discuss examples like the 'technology' described in the Bible (Ezekiel's chariot, Manna machine) and ancient Indian Vimanas, noting that these often appear to be about a hundred years ahead of current technology. They also mention the social behavior of these 'gods' as being primitive, which seems contradictory to advanced intelligence. Two hypotheses are proposed to resolve this paradox: 1. The Delegated Evolution Hypothesis: Advanced extraterrestrial societies might withdraw after a certain period, leaving further development to younger interstellar societies. 2. The Mimicry Hypothesis: Highly advanced extraterrestrial intelligences adapt their appearance and technology to the specific cultural and intellectual level of the observers in different eras. This allows them to be perceived as divine beings in the past and as technological phenomena today, preparing humanity for future contact. The authors provide historical examples, including biblical apparitions, medieval sightings, airship phenomena, and Marian apparitions, as potential instances of this mimicry. They conclude that UFOs today might be a reflection of our current understanding, a synthesis of an actual extraterrestrial presence and our own imaginations.

• Case Study: The Filmed Object (Klettgau, 1991): This detailed case study examines a filmed object from July 6, 1991, in Klettgau, Switzerland. The witness initially described it as a possible motor-powered aircraft. The GEP, along with the German Federal Aviation Office (Luftfahrtbundesamt), analyzed the video. While SIGN (a Swiss colleague) suggested it might be a hang glider or ultralight aircraft, the GEP's investigation leaned towards this explanation. The article discusses the weather conditions, flight regulations near Zurich Airport, and compares the film with known hang glider footage. The conclusion is that the object was likely a hang glider or similar aircraft, with the unusual appearance attributed to the reflective material of the wing and the camera's autofocus. The article also notes that the Zurich air traffic control registered no unidentified objects during that period.

Other Sections:

• Definition of 'UFO' (in the narrower sense): A detailed definition is provided, emphasizing objects whose appearance and behavior defy conventional explanation.
• GEP Information: Details about the GEP's mission, membership benefits (including receiving the journal), and contact information (address, phone, fax).
• Literature Section: Lists various books and articles related to UFO research and related topics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a scientific and interdisciplinary approach to UFO research. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, data analysis, and the consideration of various hypotheses, including the extraterrestrial hypothesis. The GEP positions itself as a scientific association dedicated to understanding the UFO phenomenon. There is a clear distinction made between folklore/mythology and physical reality, with articles like Ulrich Magin's exploring how to use folklore as a research tool without conflating it with direct evidence. The Fiebag brothers' article on the Mimicry Hypothesis suggests a sophisticated, long-term strategy by advanced intelligences, aligning with a scientific yet open-minded perspective on the phenomenon. The journal also highlights the GEP's role in collecting and analyzing sighting reports, providing resources for members, and publishing its findings.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Issue 82, 4/92) focuses on the question of whether UFO research is gaining credibility, as explored in an article by Gerald Mosbleck. The magazine features a critical review of Illobrand von Ludwiger's book "Der Stand der UFO-Forschung," alongside various news items, research updates, and book reviews related to the UFO phenomenon.

Article: Wird die UFO-Forschung hoffähig? (Is UFO Research Becoming Respectable?)

Gerald Mosbleck critically examines Illobrand von Ludwiger's book, "Der Stand der UFO-Forschung," published by Alternativ-Verlag Zweitausendeins. Mosbleck acknowledges that Ludwiger, also known as "IvL," aimed to write a comprehensive work and largely succeeded in providing an overview of the international UFO scene. Ludwiger, a scientist with a position at the defense contractor MBB, sought to impress the skeptical scientific community, which Mosbleck believes could benefit UFO research.

However, Mosbleck points out that Ludwiger's book includes a list of technical terms, abbreviations, and organizations, with brief introductions to German UFO groups. Mosbleck criticizes Ludwiger for placing the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens) on the same level as CENAP and GWUP, without acknowledging GEP's unique status as a UFO research group recognized by the state for its contributions to the common good. Mosbleck notes Ludwiger's tendency to avoid polemics when discussing groups he favors, contrasting it with his attacks on alleged "skeptic bands."

Chapter 1 of Ludwiger's book, according to Mosbleck, attempts to address German UFO research and MUFON-CES. Mosbleck describes this section as starting with a vague, nonsensical attack on skeptics, followed by an autobiography and a list of academic titles of MUFON-CES members. Mosbleck questions the contribution of dentists, surgeons, and gynecologists to UFO research, suggesting their involvement might be limited to examining alleged UFO abduction victims.

Mosbleck refutes Ludwiger's implication that these scientists are available for UFO investigations, stating from his own experience with MUFON-CES that they are often unavailable when needed. He also points out that the number of active and informed members in such organizations is typically small, with most followers having little knowledge beyond what they read in popular magazines.

Mosbleck and his colleague Peiniger are personally criticized in Ludwiger's book as "non-academic MUFON members," with Ludwiger attributing to them the opinion that UFO research should be limited to preliminary investigations and that they try to reduce UFO cases to natural explanations within the GEP. Mosbleck counters that GEP existed before their MUFON membership and has investigated far more sightings, and that natural explanations are pursued only when they are evident.

Mosbleck notes that Ludwiger's book fails to delve into spectacular German UFO cases investigated by MUFON-CES, often suggesting psychological causes. Ludwiger then shifts to discussing American cases, admitting that MUFON-CES only published one out of four investigated abduction cases. The book also introduces a "reliability index" and discusses German cases, some involving GEP members.

Mosbleck quotes Ludwiger stating, "What counts are observation facts and measurements, as well as the attempt to find satisfactory (!) explanations. Further views and convictions are everyone's private matter, but not the subject of scientific discussion." Mosbleck expresses skepticism about Ludwiger's sincerity.

The following chapter on MUFON-CES's theoretical work reveals Ludwiger's primary goal: to investigate physical theories that can explain the UFO phenomenon. Mosbleck criticizes this approach, calling it UFO research as a vehicle for fringe physics and an "impoverishment" for a physicist who is considered a leading UFO researcher.

The book then discusses explanation theories, including parapsychological ones. Mosbleck criticizes the book for including a list of technical terms and abbreviations, and for its critical remarks about interactions between UFOs and witnesses, while simultaneously postulating that witness accounts are subjective and distorted by their personal experiences. He notes Ludwiger's emphasis on measurable physical interactions, such as fields and radiation, but points out that the data presented is often uncritical and compiled from US cases with little thorough research.

Mosbleck also finds Ludwiger's treatment of cases from the former USSR and China to be superficial, akin to retelling stories without deep analysis. While MUFON-CES is critical of "contactee" cases, Mosbleck argues that the book's focus on understanding the UFO phenomenon often leads to the exclusion of cases that don't fit a predetermined theoretical framework.

Mosbleck concludes that Ludwiger's book does not make UFO research respectable for uninvolved scientists due to its unproven claims and reliance on hearsay. He criticizes the selective focus on fringe physics and the author's arrogant tone towards those who disagree with his views.

Despite these criticisms, Mosbleck acknowledges the book as a comprehensive overview of the UFO spectrum, recommending a critical reading and questioning of its assertions. He concludes that even a scientist is only an expert in their field and that Ludwiger's work, while extensive, is not groundbreaking.

Other Sections and News Items

Blick in die Welt (Glimpse into the World):

• Moldavite - A tool for extraterrestrial communication? This section discusses Moldavites, volcanic glasses found in Czechoslovakia, and their purported use in communication with extraterrestrials. It mentions their properties and the claims made by an esoteric mail-order company, including their ability to activate higher brain cells and treat illnesses.

Independent Science:

A new journal, "INDEPENDENT SCIENCE," is introduced, focusing on pre-astronautics and UFO research. It is a non-commercial, bi-monthly publication.

Jupiter-Journal eingestellt (Jupiter-Journal Ceases Publication):

The "Jupiter-Journal" has ceased publication due to cost and time constraints, though books from "Jupiter-Verlag" remain available.

Prize for Adolf Schneider:

Adolf Schneider received the annual prize for Exopsychology from the Dr. A. Hedri Foundation for his UFO research.

Russian Military Develops New Defense Weapon Against Unknown Flying Objects:

RADIO MOSKAU INTERNATIONAL reported on a new anti-aircraft weapon developed by the Russian military, capable of detecting and destroying objects at lower altitudes than the American Patriot missile.

New Figures Discovered in Nasca:

Sensational new figures and lines have been discovered in Peru, attributed to the Paracas culture.

The Mars Face Gets Company from the Venus Man:

The Magellan probe discovered a large formation on Venus resembling a man, believed to be a natural structure formed by volcanic activity.

"P.M." on the Trail of Crop Circles:

The magazine "P.M." is launching a research project in Southern England to investigate whether crop circles are a result of fraud or a natural phenomenon, involving scientists like Rupert Sheldrake.

UFO on a Collision Course with Boeing:

A report from the British Civil Aviation Authority details an incident in 1991 where a Boeing 737 nearly collided with a diamond-shaped object, initially suspected to be a weather balloon but deemed too high for such an object.

Landebahn für UFOs (Landing Strip for UFOs):

The Hungarian "UFO-Gesellschaft" has reportedly built a UFO landing strip near Budapest, equipped with sensors.

Hungary in UFO Fever?

Reports from Szolnok, Hungary, describe sightings of a luminous object in a 'V'-shape and the appearance of crop circles.

Bizarre Condensation Trails:

This section discusses reports of unusually shaped condensation trails observed near Edwards Air Force Base, suggesting a revolutionary propulsion system, possibly related to the V1 flying bomb.

Seltsame Kondensstreifen über Los Angeles (Strange Condensation Trails over Los Angeles):

Further details are provided on the condensation trails observed over Los Angeles, with speculation about a pulsatile drive system similar to the V1.

MAGNETIC REPORTS WANTED:

An offer to pay for photocopies of published UFO reports that mention magnetic compasses or detectors being affected.

Anfrage (Inquiry):

A request for information from JUFOF readers regarding the "BLAUEN HEFTE VON HAMBURG" and the "UFO-STUDIENGRUPPE HAMBURG" for a master's thesis.

Verkaufe folgende Bücher (Books for Sale):

A list of books on UFOs and related topics is offered for sale.

GEP vermittelte Zeugen (GEP-Mediated Witnesses):

The GEP facilitated contact with witnesses for a WDR television report on UFOs, including a CE-III experience case currently being investigated.

LESERBRIEFE (Letters to the Editor):

Luc Bürgin of SIGN expresses disappointment with JUFOF's delayed publication of interesting UFO cases, preferring more immediate reporting.

Antwort der Redaktion (Editor's Reply):

The editors explain their policy of publishing detailed case studies with investigation results, even if delayed, to provide a comprehensive picture rather than superficial news.

GEP im Fernsehen (GEP on Television):

Hans-Werner Peiniger of GEP participated in a television discussion about UFOs, facing criticism from Michael Hesemann regarding his lack of academic qualifications.

Literatur (Literature):

• "UFOS AND THE ALIEN PRESENCE" edited by Michael Lindemann is reviewed. It features contributions from researchers like Stanton Friedman, Linda Moulton Howe, and Robert Lazar, discussing extraterrestrial presence and UFO phenomena. The review notes the book's one-sidedness due to the absence of skeptical viewpoints.
• "CROP CIRCLE COMMUNIQUE: INVESTIGATING THE CROP CIRCLE MYSTERY" by Montague Keen is reviewed as a comprehensive and professional video examination of crop circles, featuring interviews with researchers and crop circle creators.
• "THE ANTI-GRAVITY HANDBOOK" by D. Hatcher Childress is described as a collection of material on anti-gravity, including theoretical considerations and historical accounts.
• "1991 SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE FOR THE CROP CIRCLE PHENOMENON" by Montague Keen is presented as a brochure by the "CENTRE FOR CROP CIRCLE STUDIES," analyzing crop circle anomalies and research, particularly referencing the work of W.C. Levengood.
• "DER UNGLAUBLICHE FLUG DER JAL-1628" (The Incredible Flight of JAL-1628) by Bruce Maccabee is a GEP special issue detailing the 1986 sighting over Alaska, notable for the extensive documentation released by the US aviation authorities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a critical stance towards certain UFO research organizations, particularly MUFON-CES and its leader Illobrand von Ludwiger, questioning their scientific methodology and the presentation of their findings. There is a strong emphasis on evidence-based research and a skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, while still acknowledging the complexity and potential significance of the UFO phenomenon. The magazine also covers a wide range of related topics, including crop circles, alleged extraterrestrial contact, and theoretical physics, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for its readership, which includes both lay enthusiasts and more scientifically-minded individuals. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and a balanced presentation of evidence, even when it challenges popular theories.