JUFOF - Issue 091 - 1994 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of JUFOF (Journal für UFO-Forschung), number 91, dated January/February 1994, is published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP) and is part of their 15th year of publication. The cover features the journal's title prominently, along with details about the publisher and issue. The price is DM 5.00.

Book Review: 'Kontakte mit "Außerirdischen" im Deutschen Sprachraum'

The issue begins with a review of a special GEP publication titled 'Kontakte mit "Außerirdischen" im Deutschen Sprachraum' by Ulrich Magin. This 97-page, illustrated book is described as a comprehensive collection of German contact and humanoid reports. It analyzes witness reports and the social context of UFO beliefs, providing a chronological overview of over 120 individual entries on alleged encounters with extraterrestrial or interdimensional beings. The book covers aspects of the UFO myth, from abductions to claims of ancient astronauts, and includes a detailed bibliography and four indexes.

Editorial: 'Liebe Leser !'

Gerald Mosbleck, one of the editors, addresses the readers, apologizing for a slight delay in publication due to issues with their printer and postal services. He explains that a postal inspector had insisted their journal be sent as a letter rather than a book shipment, incurring extra costs. He also notes that the year's index is not included in this issue due to these postal regulations but will be provided separately. Mosbleck highlights that many recent UFO sightings are being attributed to misinterpretations of bright headlights or laser devices, which seem to be popular. He reassures readers that the GEP investigates all reports thoroughly and does not dismiss any sighting without careful examination, admitting when a case remains unexplained.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section details several UFO sightings investigated by Hans-Werner Peiniger:

• Fall-Nummer: 19930109 A (Tauberbischofsheim, 29.01.1993): A witness took photos of the night sky. Later, a few points were discovered on one image, possibly from a light structure or illuminated object. Photo analysis suggested the image was underexposed and over-brightened, with possible explanations including a house edge, illuminated tree, street lamp, or a distorted advertisement. The object's angular size was noted as significant, making it unlikely to have been missed by the witness if it were a real flying object. The conclusion was that the light structures were likely caused by city lights or other sources on a nearby mountain, and the case was classified as NL/IFO (Not Localized/Identified Flying Object).
• Fall-Nummer: 19930222 A (Giflitz, 22.02.1993): Helmut K. reported seeing a bright, descending object with rhythmic, jerky movements that then stopped and disappeared. The object was described as large and bright, like a fireball. This sighting was compared to another report from Arolsen-Mengerringhausen on the same night, describing a similar phenomenon. The Giflitz sighting was classified as NL/IFO, identified as a meteor or fireball.
• Fall-Nummer: 19930321 A (Osnabrück, 21.03.1993): Herr X, an astrologer, reported seeing a bright light point that moved, stopped, and then disappeared. The witness initially considered astronomical objects but found it too large and bright. The object then moved and disappeared. The evaluation suggested it was likely an aircraft with landing lights on, which appeared stationary due to its position and then moved away.
• Fall-Nummer: 19930623 A (Osnabrück, 23.06.1993): Herr X, also an astrologer, observed a luminous, moving object that flew erratically, stopped, and then moved again. The witness initially considered a helicopter or airplane but found the movement unusual. The object was described as oval and clearly visible even without binoculars. The evaluation suggested it could be a satellite or aircraft.
• Fall-Nummer: 19931129 A (Chemnitz, 29.11.1993): Bettina B. observed a narrow, very bright sickle-shaped object in the northwest sky. She described it as a 'moon' but with unusual aesthetics, a small shift to the right, and a downward-pointing focus. The evaluation concluded that this was likely a 'moon illusion' due to the moon's low position on the horizon, making it appear larger and more prominent, especially when near terrestrial objects. The witness's perception of the moon being in the southeast was deemed incorrect.
• Fall-Nummer: 1991 Herbst (Kirchwald, Herbst 1991): André T. reported seeing several circular lights in the sky that seemed to come from the sky, not the earth. He and his friend followed them in a car. The lights moved in a wide circle with constant high speed, sometimes disappearing behind clouds. After about half an hour, the phenomenon was barely visible. The evaluation suggested this was likely caused by large searchlights or similar technology, noting similarities to other such reports.
• Fall-Nummer: 19930531 A (Neuwied, 31.05.1993): Giuseppe L. and nine other witnesses observed an unknown object that was round with an unclear outer edge, a brighter inner part with moving light, and a yellow-white color. It had a size estimated at 7-8 times the full moon and moved evenly before disappearing suddenly. The evaluation suggested it could be a large searchlight, listing several points supporting this: color, outlines, flickering light, sudden disappearance, even movement, and similar position. The witness himself suspected it was a searchlight from an unknown flying object.
• Fall-Nummer: 19910812 A (Bonn, 12.08.1991): Wolfgang P., a chemical engineer, observed a very bright, stationary light point in the sky. It then moved downwards and disappeared behind a building line. The witness's wife had noticed peculiar movements. After retrieving binoculars, the object reappeared, and the witness described an oval outline, a yellow/orange to pink color, and rhythmic, jerky movements. The evaluation noted that while the initial observation of a bright light point is difficult to assess, the subsequent movements and oval shape are unusual. It was classified as NL/Problematic UFO, with no definitive identification.

Neues vom Europäischen Parlament (News from the European Parliament)

Hans-Werner Peiniger reports on the progress of establishing a European UFO observation center. He references a previous article and a new report by Member of the European Parliament Tullio Regge. The report highlights the long-standing public confusion surrounding UFO sightings and the need for reliable information. It also acknowledges the growing belief in paranormal phenomena. The report specifically mentions the SEPRA (Service d'Expertise des Phénomènes des Rentrées Atmosphériques) in France, an agency within CNES that has been systematically researching UFOs for decades in cooperation with French authorities. The proposal suggests giving SEPRA a permanent role within the EU to coordinate UFO research across member states, potentially funded through agreements with member governments or directly with research institutions.

Blick in die Welt (Look into the World)

This section contains several short notes:

• UFO-Foto geklärt (UFO Photo Clarified): An analysis of a famous UFO photograph taken in Oregon on November 22, 1966, is presented. The photograph, initially believed to show a disc-shaped object with a dome, was later identified by investigators as a traffic sign. The witness, a biochemist, admitted he had not actually seen the object ascend but inferred it from the photo. The investigation concluded that the photo was taken from a moving vehicle, and the 'object' was a road sign with horizontal white lettering and a vertical white arrow, appearing as a blur due to the camera's exposure time and the vehicle's motion.
• UFO war Werbezeppelin (UFO was Advertising Zeppelin): In late June 1993, several people in a Dortmund hospital observed a mysterious flying object. They initially thought it was extraterrestrial but later identified it as an illuminated advertising zeppelin from England, which was touring Germany from May to July advertising the KRAFT company. This zeppelin had caused multiple UFO sightings.

Literatur (Literature)

This section lists several books and topics related to UFO research, including 'Besucher von Innen', 'Raumfahrt im Altertum', 'Die Palmblatt-Bibliothek', 'Zeitschock', 'Die Wächter von Eden', 'Fehlende Zeit', and 'Wieder Kornkreise'. It also mentions 'UFOs & How to See Them' and 'Videos'.

Kurioses am Rande (Curiosities on the Side)

• UFO Landing Pad Proposal: A senator in Berlin is planning the redevelopment of Potsdamer/Leipziger Platz. A citizen, Frau B., proposed the creation of a UFO landing pad as a 'meditative center' for Berlin, suggesting that cars be removed and a quiet park be established. The city's planning office assured her that her suggestions would be considered.

UFOs im TV

Ilona Christen's afternoon program on RTL featured a segment on UFOs on December 7, 1993. The segment included Manfred Stein, who built a UFO landing pad in Austria, and Wolfgang Siebenhaar, chairman of a crop circle association.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the detailed investigation and classification of UFO sightings, with a strong emphasis on identifying conventional explanations such as aircraft, atmospheric phenomena, and misinterpretations of lights. The journal consistently promotes a scientific and analytical approach to UFO research. The editorial stance, as expressed by Gerald Mosbleck, is one of thoroughness and open-mindedness, acknowledging that while many sightings can be explained, some remain genuinely puzzling. The GEP's role as a scientific organization dedicated to researching the phenomenon is consistently highlighted. The issue also demonstrates an interest in official governmental and parliamentary discussions regarding UFOs, as evidenced by the report on the European Parliament's initiative.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, number 91 from 1/94, is dedicated to the broad theme of 'UFOS GRENZENLOS' (UFOs Without Borders). It presents a comprehensive look at the UFO phenomenon, drawing from various sources and perspectives.

Articles and Features

Personal Accounts and Expert Opinions

The issue begins with a report on former Lufthansa chief pilot Werner Utter's encounters with 'enigmatic light phenomena.' It also features a learned account from postal official Winfried Wirtz about an extraterrestrial encounter. The role of 'experts' like popular author von Buttlar is critically examined, with Professor Kaminski attempting to provide more grounded explanations, labeling UFO sightings as 'illusory perceptions.' The article notes that while these explanations might be superficial, they are presented in the context of shows that leave little room for deeper inquiry.

Photographic evidence is discussed, with Giuseppe Lucifora's photo series being debated. MUFON-CES representative Siegfried Streubel highlights their use of psychological studies to assess witness credibility, mentioning the controversial 'Rohrschach test.' The article concludes that such entertainment shows do not contribute meaningfully to the serious study of the phenomenon.

UFO Landing Sites

Ilona Christen, an RTL moderator, is reported to be building a UFO landing site in Switzerland. She plans to create a stone arena with 'Yin and Yang' symbols. She expresses a lifelong fascination with the supernatural and hopes that extraterrestrials will use her prepared landing site.

In a related piece, Japanese UFO enthusiasts are planning to build a UFO landing site in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan. This project includes a 'UFO message' center, a runway for spaceships, and a luxury hotel. This area has reportedly experienced UFO sightings.

UFOs in Advertising

Several instances of UFOs appearing in advertising are highlighted. The electronics retailer BERLET advertised a Christmas man flying in a saucer. A pack of 'chewing gum with crackling candy' features a small green alien with antennae. A children's drinking cup depicts a flying saucer with two aliens inside.

A restaurant in Stuttgart uses the slogan 'Außerirdisch Gut!' (Alien Good!) and features an alien emerging from a flying saucer, holding a hamburger.

CE III in Denmark

Colleagues from SUFOI (Scandinavian UFO Information) are investigating a CE III (Close Encounter of the Third Kind) case in Denmark. On August 18, 1993, a child observed a large object with a domed top and four windows, emitting three bright lights from its underside. A nearby pony became restless during the 30-second observation. SUFOI's attempts to find more witnesses through local television were unsuccessful.

DEGUFO and DEGUFORUM

The 'Deutschsprachige Gesellschaft für UFO-Forschung e. V.' (German Society for UFO Research), founded in June 1993, has released the first issue of its journal, DEGUFORUM. The photocopied 22-page issue covers internal matters, crop circles, new consciousness, and UFO sightings.

Book Reviews

'Die Palmblatt-Bibliothek und andere Geheimnisvolle Schauplätze dieser Welt' by Peter Krassa and Reinhard Habeck: This book is praised for covering a wide range of mysterious topics, including astrology, parapsychology, hauntings, monsters, UFOs, crop circles, pre-astronautics, and archaeology. It explores intriguing subjects like 'Agents of Terror' (Men in Black), Stonehenge, the Holy Grail, Merlin, and the 'flying people' depicted in frescoes in a Serbian monastery. The book also touches upon crop circles, time slips, ball lightning, and the mysteries of Oak Island and the 'magic mountain.' The authors are commended for presenting unresolved mysteries of human history.

'Zeitschock: Invasion aus der Zukunft' by Ernst Meckelburg: This is Meckelburg's third book on the subject of time, time slips, and time travel. He posits that UFOs are not alien spacecraft but time machines from our own future. 'Temponauts' (time travelers) use advanced technology, possibly holographic projections, to observe and influence humanity. The book draws on scientific findings from physicists like Kip Thorne and Yakir Aharonov, and includes historical accounts. It is recommended for researchers of 'Temponautik,' UFO enthusiasts, pre-astronautics proponents, and skeptics alike.

'Die Wächter von Eden' by Johannes von Buttlar: This book by Hans Busacker (under the pseudonym Johannes von Buttlar) attempts to find a 'world formula.' The reviewer finds the book to be a compilation of various themes, often lacking coherence and presenting a 'homespun novel' quality. It touches upon topics like the Philosopher's Stone, Sumerians, Knights Templar, and the concept of a 'world formula.' The book also discusses the development of modern physics and astronomy, including 'Super-String Theory,' but is criticized for rehashing previous material and containing inaccuracies.

'Fehlende Zeit: Von Ufos entführt' by Budd Hopkins: This is a re-release of Hopkins's seminal work on the abduction phenomenon. Hopkins, a New York artist, has researched alien abductions for 18 years. He describes cases where individuals lose blocks of time, often experiencing nightmares. Through hypnotherapy, 'missing time' is recovered, revealing alleged alien abductions where humans are taken for medical examinations and genetic material is collected. The book explores the possibility that aliens are conducting a long-term study of humanity. The reviewer notes that while psychological and sociological factors might play a role, Hopkins's work remains a classic in UFO literature.

'Und wieder Kornkreise: Die Suche nach Fakten und Begegnungen der dunklen Art' edited by Jürgen Krönig: This richly illustrated book features contributions from various authors. It reflects on the 1992 crop circle season, acknowledging that many circles were revealed as hoaxes, with Doug Bower and David Chorley admitting to creating many of them. The book discusses the difficulty in distinguishing between genuine and fake crop circles. It also explores other alleged UFO sightings and phenomena, suggesting that some might be explained by misinterpretations or deliberate deceptions. The reviewer highlights John Macnish's investigation into crop circle fakers and notes that some groups create crop circles to communicate with extraterrestrials.

'Die Palmblatt-Bibliothek und andere Geheimnisvolle Schauplätze dieser Welt' by Peter Krassa and Reinhard Habeck: This book is lauded for its comprehensive coverage of mysterious topics, including UFOs, crop circles, and pre-astronautics. It examines phenomena such as 'Men in Black,' Stonehenge, and ancient depictions of flying objects. The book is seen as a valuable resource for those interested in unexplained aspects of our world.

'Zeitschock: Invasion aus der Zukunft' by Ernst Meckelburg: Meckelburg's third book on time and time travel proposes that UFOs are time machines from our future. The reviewer praises the book's scientific grounding and its exploration of temporal phenomena.

'Die Wächter von Eden' by Johannes von Buttlar: This book is critiqued for its rambling style and its attempt to connect disparate themes under the umbrella of a 'world formula.' The reviewer finds the book's quality to be uneven, with some sections being overly sentimental and others rehashing old material.

'Fehlende Zeit: Von Ufos entführt' by Budd Hopkins: This is a review of Hopkins's influential book on alien abductions, highlighting its detailed case studies and the author's conclusions about extraterrestrial research on humans.

'Und wieder Kornkreise' edited by Jürgen Krönig: This collection of essays examines the crop circle phenomenon, addressing the issue of hoaxes and the ongoing debate about their authenticity. It also touches upon alleged UFO encounters associated with crop circles.

Videos Reviewed

'BEGEGNUNG DER 4. ART VON UFO'S ENTFÜHRT' (Encounter of the 4th Kind: Abducted by UFOs): This VHS video, produced by Christian Bauer, presents the ZDF documentary on alien abductions. It focuses on American abduction cases and features interviews with abductees, Budd Hopkins, Professor David Jacobs, and Professor John Mack. The film aims to present the phenomenon without explicit judgment, but highlights the disturbing nature of the experiences.

'UFO - GEHEIMNISSE DES DRITTEN REICHS' (UFO - Secrets of the Third Reich): This video explores the theory that flying saucers were advanced Nazi weapons. It discusses alleged occult organizations like the VRIL-Gesellschaft and the Tule-Gesellschaft, and their supposed involvement in secret projects. The video claims that the Nazis developed flying saucers and spacecraft with 'tachyon drives,' capable of interstellar travel. The reviewer notes that the video is a professionally made presentation of these theories, though it lacks critical distance.

Other Sections

'UFOS GRENZENLOS' Series: A detailed description of an 18-volume series on UFOs is provided, listing the content of each volume, which covers a vast array of UFO-related topics from historical accounts to government documents and abduction phenomena.

GEP Information: The issue includes information about the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des Unerklärlichen e.V.), announcing new members and detailing their activities, including information distribution to observatories and their involvement in reporting UFO sightings. It also mentions a literature list and a police address book for sale.

'ENDZEIT-VERLAG KATALOG 93/93': A catalog of German-language UFO literature and videos is advertised.

'PORTIKUS' Magazine: Information about the magazine 'Portikus,' focusing on historical mysteries and pre-astronautics, is presented, with specific issues highlighted.

'UFOS & HOW TO SEE THEM' by Jenny Randles: A brief mention of Jenny Randles's prolific output of UFO books, with this particular title described as a lightweight guide for beginners.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the multifaceted nature of the UFO phenomenon, encompassing sightings, alleged alien encounters, abduction experiences, and the crop circle mystery. There is a clear emphasis on presenting information from various sources, including scientific research, personal testimonies, and historical documents. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to form their own conclusions while also acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the prevalence of hoaxes and misinterpretations. The magazine also highlights the efforts of organizations like GEP in researching and disseminating information on UFOs. The reviews of books and videos suggest a focus on both established classics and new publications within the field, catering to both seasoned researchers and newcomers.