JUFOF - Issue 084 - 1992 06

Magazine Overview

This issue of JUFOF (JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG), number 6/92, Volume 13, published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., covers the period of November-December 1992. The cover prominently features the GEP's role in UFO research and includes a special edition on "UFOLOGIE-Theorien und Tatsachen über Fliegende Untertassen" by Dieter von Reeken, a reprint of a 1981 publication.

Table of Contents and Key Articles

UFO-BEOBACHTUNGEN (UFO Sightings)

This section, compiled by Hans-Werner Peiniger, details several reported UFO sightings from August and September 1992:

• August 16, 1992, Traunstein: Reports of "lights" were identified as "SKY-Tracker" searchlights used for a pub's reopening.
• August 27, 1992, Eckernförde: A "light spot" was identified as a searchlight from a discotheque.
• August 30, 1992, Engenhahn: A witness reported a "UFO with a fire beam," later identified as a model hot air balloon.
• August 5, 1992, Hilzingen: A burning object was observed and identified as a homemade paper hot air balloon.
• July 1, 1992, Schorndorf: A "fireball" was reported, suspected to be a hot air balloon, but no wreckage was found.
• September 20, 1992, Fellbach/Winnenden: Reports of a "circling light" were identified as a searchlight for a discotheque opening.
• July 24, 1992, Winterbach: A witness observed a "glowing object" identified as a meteor.
• August 18, 1992, Ihringen: A witness reported a bright yellow "streak" identified as a meteor.

CE-III-FALL IN RONNEBURG (CE-III Case in Ronneburg)

This is a preliminary report on an incident that occurred on January 19, 1991, in Ronneburg. The witness, Helga F. (40), described an encounter with a UFO approximately 60 meters in size. The report details a secondary event involving a strong wind and a possible power outage, followed by the primary sighting of an orange, bell-shaped object with three occupants in silver suits. The investigation is ongoing, with the case classified as CE-III (Close Encounter of the Third Kind) or potentially a "GOOD UFO." The report notes the witness's later affiliation with the "Gemeinde Christi" sect and discusses potential psychological influences, such as the similarity between the UFO occupants' insignia and the logo of "f6" cigarettes.

WER SPRICHT FÜR DEN ZEUGEN? (Who Speaks for the Witness?)

This section, authored by Dr. med. David A. Gotlib, delves into the medical and ethical problems of abduction research. It questions whether hypnosis is always necessary for abduction victims and discusses the limitations and risks of hypnosis, including the potential for confabulation and the influence of the patient's expectations. Dr. Gotlib emphasizes a cautious approach, prioritizing the patient's well-being and avoiding harm.

KOMMUNIKATION IM KOSMOS (Communication in the Cosmos)

This is a brief mention of the Berlin UFO Congress organized by Hans-Werner Peiniger.

KURZ NOTIERT (Briefly Noted)

This section contains several short items:

• A question about the value of searching for extraterrestrial intelligence.
• A report on "Hungarian UFO fever" being dismissed as a hoax.
• A mention of "red men from space."

LITERATUR (Literature)

A list of books is provided, including titles like "DER GÖTTER-SCHOCK," "CHRISTUS KAM EINST VOM SIRIUS," and "LOOKING FOR THE ALIENS."

GEP and JUFOF Information

The magazine also includes extensive information about the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.), its mission, membership benefits, and contact details. It defines a UFO in a narrower sense and provides contact information for reporting UFO sightings via a hotline. The "Impressum" section details the editorial responsibilities, publication frequency (bi-monthly), and subscription prices. It also notes that contributions are not commercially compensated and that reprints require GEP's written permission.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial, "Liebe Leser!" (Dear Readers!), by Hans-Werner Peiniger, addresses the increasing media interest in the "supernatural" and "extraterrestrial." Peiniger expresses a desire for more critical reporting and positions JUFOF as a "moderate counter-pole" to sensationalism. He critiques events like the D.U.-III in Düsseldorf for promoting one-sided views and including questionable groups. The editorial also previews the CE-III case from Ronneburg as a highlight of the issue. The overall stance of the magazine appears to be one of serious, albeit critical, investigation into UFO phenomena, aiming to provide a balanced perspective against what it perceives as excessive speculation in popular media and some UFO circles.

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Issue 84, 6/92) is dedicated to the theme of 'Communication in the Cosmos' and features a report on the Berlin UFO Congress. The magazine adopts a critical yet informative stance, analyzing various UFO-related phenomena, research, and publications.

The Berlin UFO Congress: 'Communication in the Cosmos'

The issue extensively covers the 'Communication in Cosmos' congress held in Berlin from April 16-20, 1992. While acknowledging the media attention it garnered, the report by Hans-Werner Peiniger highlights that the event was primarily attended by UFO spiritists and believers, with a notable absence of serious UFO researchers from Germany and abroad. The media focused on eccentric figures, such as the American Jerry Wills, an electronics engineer who claims to have alien parents on 'Tau Ceti' and to have been abducted by aliens as a child. Wills recounts his experiences, including being hypnotized and recalling missions to observe nuclear tests. The congress also featured speakers like Douglas Pue, who claimed contact with the Pleiades, and presented a mix of UFO lore, including alleged NASA discoveries and the Roswell incident. The journal's perspective, echoed by Jakob Augstein of the Berliner Zeitung, labels the congress as a 'New Age' event that favored 'New Age UFO Spiritism' over rigorous research.

Ethical Considerations in UFO Research

A significant portion of the issue delves into the ethical responsibilities of UFO researchers, particularly in their interactions with abductees. The author stresses the importance of understanding the abductee's perspective and the potential harm a researcher can inflict if rules are not followed. Collaboration between therapists and researchers is advocated to develop tools for identifying vulnerable witnesses and facilitating data collection without hindering the healing process. The need for formal guidelines to ensure the confidentiality of the therapist-patient relationship is also emphasized.

Critical Analysis of UFO Phenomena and Research

The SETI Project and the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence

An article critically examines the SETI project, questioning the likelihood of success. While acknowledging the scientific basis for the existence of life elsewhere in the universe, it highlights the extreme rarity of planets with the precise conditions necessary for life and the even greater improbability of intelligent life evolving. Professor Dr. Ernst Mayr is quoted as believing the probability of success is practically zero, suggesting the funds could be better utilized.

Hungarian Crop Circles: A Hoax

The issue reports on a case in Hungary where two students faked a crop circle, leading to widespread belief in a UFO landing and claims of 'healing energy.' The article details the legal proceedings initiated by the field's owner due to damages.

'Little Red Men' in Germany: A Misidentification

A humorous account describes an incident where sightings of 'little red men' in Germany were attributed to a fire department practicing with breathing apparatus, debunking claims of alien visitors.

Book Reviews

The magazine includes several book reviews:

• 'DER GÖTTER-SCHOCK' by Erich von Däniken: This review praises Däniken's new book for approaching the topic of 'cargo cults' and cultural shocks from a different angle, linking them to ancient human encounters with extraterrestrials. It also commends his updated views on UFO phenomena and abduction cases.
• 'CHRISTUS KAM EINST VOM SIRIUS' by Ulrich Schaper: This book proposes that Christ was an extraterrestrial visitor or influenced by them, drawing parallels between the 'Creator from Sirius' and Jesus.
• 'DAS VERDAMMTE UNIVERSUM DES CHARLES FORT' by Louis Kaplan: This review discusses the German translation of excerpts from Charles Fort's work, highlighting his influence on the UFO community and his unique literary style.
• 'GOTTES WÜRFEL' by Johannes von Buttlar: The review notes that while not strictly a UFO book, it touches upon UFO topics, including claims by John Lear and Robert Lazar. It criticizes Buttlar's lack of skepticism despite his commercial success.
• 'SILENT INVASION' by Ellen Crystall: This review is skeptical of Crystall's claims of observing and photographing over 1000 UFOs, suggesting many of her photos could be lens reflections. It questions the authenticity of alien photos and speculates about genetic manipulation by extraterrestrials.
• 'LOOKING FOR THE ALIENS' by Peter Hough and Jenny Randles: The review describes this book as a collection of disparate chapters on aliens, UFOs, and pre-astronautics, criticizing its lack of coherence and thoroughness.
• 'DER UNGLAUBLICHE FLUG DER JAL-1628' by Bruce Maccabee: This GEP special issue documents the 1986 sighting by the crew of a Japanese cargo plane over Alaska, noting the extensive material released by the US Federal Aviation Administration.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the distinction between serious research and New Age spiritualism, and the ethical considerations in dealing with witnesses. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards sensational claims and a preference for evidence-based investigation, while still acknowledging the complexity and enduring mystery of the UFO subject. The journal also promotes its own publications and membership opportunities.