JUFOF - Issue 092 - 1994 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (JUFOF), number 92, from March/April 1994, published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., is dedicated to exploring the phenomenon of "aliens" and UFOs. The cover prominently features an article by Thomas E. Bullard titled "WIE ERSCHAFFE ICH EINEN ALIEN?" (How Do I Create an Alien?), suggesting a focus on the psychological and folkloric aspects of alien encounters. The issue also includes a "BLICK IN DIE WELT KURZ NOTIERT" (World View Briefly Noted) section, covering various UFO-related news items.

Articles and Content

How Do I Create an Alien? by Thomas E. Bullard

This extensive article delves into the historical and psychological roots of how humans conceptualize and describe "aliens." Bullard argues that the concept of the "other" or "alien" is deeply ingrained in human culture, dating back to ancient myths and legends. He traces this through Greek mythology (Odyssey, Cyclops), Alexander the Great's encounters in India, Roman accounts (Pliny the Elder), and medieval literature (Sir John Mandeville). The article posits that the exploration of the unknown, whether geographical or cosmological, has always led to the creation of imagined beings.

Bullard connects these historical concepts to modern UFO occupant reports, suggesting that the descriptions of "aliens" often follow established patterns derived from folklore and psychological archetypes. He identifies three main methods for creating alien descriptions: exaggeration, distortion, and chimera formation. The article also discusses the personality traits attributed to aliens, often presenting them as either extremely virtuous or malevolent, or a confusing mix of both. Their "powers" are frequently depicted as extraordinary physical abilities or advanced technology bordering on magic.

Furthermore, Bullard examines the role of distance and unfamiliarity in shaping perceptions of aliens. He notes that the "alien" must originate from a place far beyond ordinary experience. He critically analyzes abduction reports, suggesting that the consistency in descriptions might point towards psychological or folkloric origins rather than genuine extraterrestrial encounters. He contrasts the variability found in folklore with the perceived uniformity in UFO occupant descriptions, questioning the folkloristic explanation for UFO phenomena.

GEP and its Activities

The issue provides information about the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.), describing it as the largest scientific organization in Germany dedicated to UFO research. It details the organization's methods, including questionnaires and field investigations, and highlights its interdisciplinary approach. The article also explains the benefits of GEP membership, such as receiving the "JUFOF" journal and access to literature.

A definition of "UFO" (in the narrower sense) is provided, emphasizing its enigmatic nature and lack of conventional explanation. The GEP also operates a UFO observation hotline.

Editor's Letter

Hans-Werner Peiniger, in his "Liebe Leser!" (Dear Readers) letter, addresses the voluntary nature of the GEP's work, emphasizing that all activities are conducted in their free time alongside family and professional commitments. He apologizes for any delays in responses and highlights the organization's efforts to maintain professionalism despite limited resources. He also mentions that the GEP does not receive funding from government agencies like the CIA.

World View Briefly Noted (BLICK IN DIE WELT KURZ NOTIERT)

This section compiles several short news items related to UFOs:

• Curious Incident in Hungary: A report from the Hungarian newspaper 'Petöfi Népe' describes an event on January 2, 1994, where a couple witnessed a spherical object in their yard that transformed into an oval and flew away. The object reportedly caused numbness in the woman's hand and forearm.
• Alien Baby Survived UFO Crash: This item discusses a sensationalist report from the American tabloid "Weekly World News" and its German counterpart "NEUE SPEZIAL." The article criticizes such publications for presenting fabricated stories with photomontages as factual evidence, citing an example of an "alien baby" that appeared in a previous issue.
• UFO Exhibition in Hamburg: An exhibition held at the Hanse-Viertel shopping center from March 1-13, 1994, is reported. The GEP participated, providing information and engaging with visitors. The exhibition is noted for fostering cooperation among different UFO research groups.
• Initiative for European Parliament Failed: A previous initiative to establish a "UFO observation center" under the EU, proposed by Italian MEP Tullio Regge, has reportedly failed due to a lack of support from other parliament members.
• PDS Calls for Official UFO Research: The PDS/Linke Liste party proposed that the European Union should increase its involvement in UFO research, drawing parallels with initiatives in the USA.
• One in Five Germans Believes in UFOs: A survey by the Allensbach institute indicates that nearly one in five Germans believes in UFOs, with a higher percentage among younger demographics (16-29 years old). A majority of those surveyed stated they would not be bothered by alien visitation.
• UFO Witnesses are Normal People: A study by North American scientists is cited, suggesting that UFO witnesses are typically ordinary individuals with average or above-average intelligence, echoing earlier findings by astrophysicist J. Allen Hynek.
• Thema Flugkreisel (Topic Flying Saucers): An antiquarian bookseller provides a fascinating historical note about a secret German Luftwaffe publication from World War II describing disc-shaped aircraft, including details on their dimensions, speed (around 2500 km/h), launch sites, and even pilot names and flight durations. The bookseller speculates this might have been related to "Vergeltungswaffen" (retaliation weapons).

UFO Case Studies

The issue presents a detailed account of the "Falcon Lake" case from May 20, 1967, involving Steven Michalak. Michalak reported observing two oval UFOs, one of which landed near him. He described the object changing color, emitting sounds, and causing his glove to melt and shirt to catch fire when he touched it. The object then departed rapidly. Upon returning to the site with researchers, an outline of the UFO was visible on the ground, and nearby trees were withered.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of "aliens" and UFOs, exploring whether they are genuine extraterrestrial visitors or manifestations of human psychology, folklore, and imagination. The editorial stance, particularly in Thomas E. Bullard's article, leans towards a critical examination of UFO reports, suggesting that many descriptions can be explained through established folkloric patterns and psychological processes. The GEP's involvement in research and information dissemination is highlighted, emphasizing their role in investigating and analyzing UFO phenomena with a critical yet open mind. The magazine aims to inform its readers about UFO-related news, research, and historical perspectives, encouraging a thoughtful approach to the subject.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Journal for UFO Research), issue 92 from 2/94, is primarily focused on UFO phenomena, media coverage, and research efforts. It includes reviews of books, videos, and software related to UFOs, as well as discussions on specific cases and the historical context of the UFO topic. The magazine also features contributions from its editorial team and reader letters.

UFOs bei Hans Meiser

The article details a segment on the German afternoon talk show "Hans Meiser" on RTL, which featured a discussion about UFOs. The show included six guests: Gert Gröper, a school principal who claimed a UFO landed at his house in 1989; Rudi Nagora, who presented his controversial "Nagora-Fotoserie" from 1971; Illobrand von Ludwiger, an astrophysicist who used computer animation to analyze the Nagora photos, arguing for a 1:100 million probability against forgery, though his reasoning is critiqued; Jürgen Luchterhand, who presented his "Greifswald-Film" showing luminous spheres; and Maria Struwe, who recounted a personal experience of being examined by "little grey men." The article also mentions Dr. Johannes Fiebag's investigation into similar experiences, noting a shift from "little green men" to "grey men." Astrologer Horst Diettmer also shared his telepathic contacts with extraterrestrials, a topic that Michael Hesemann deemed real, much to the confusion of the audience. The segment concludes with a hint of a future continuation.

Mehr UFOs im TV

This section briefly covers two other TV appearances. Michael Hesemann was a guest on the talk show "Nachts" on February 5, 1994, discussing UFO abductions and government cover-ups, promoting his books and videos. Another segment on February 2, 1994, featured CENAP member Hansjürgen Köhler on the show "BIM-BAM-BINO," where his interviewer, Rainer Holbe, was criticized for his uncritical approach.

Kleiner Reisetip

A short note about the TECHNIK MUSEUM SPEYER, which features exhibits on American space exploration, including moon rock and astronaut menus, and celebrated the 20th anniversary of the moon landing with a visit from an American astronaut.

Book Reviews

UFO CRASH SECRETS AT WRIGHT/PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE by James W. Moseley

This review discusses Moseley's book, which rehashes the "Roswell incident" and claims that evidence of extraterrestrial spacecraft is stored at Hangar 18 of the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The reviewer finds the evidence presented to be weak and based on questionable sources, including alleged photo manipulations. The book is considered suitable only for staunch UFO believers.

UFOS UNBEKANNTE FLUGOBJEKTE AUS EINER ANDEREN WELT?

This review covers a 10-volume series titled "Die Welt des Unerklärlichen" (The World of the Unexplained), with a specific focus on the UFO volume. The reviewer notes that the series provides a general overview of unexplained phenomena but lacks in-depth analysis. While acknowledging that critical aspects and alternative explanations are mentioned, the overall intention is to favor the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH). The reviewer also criticizes the lack of source citations and the poor quality of the photographs.

DIE GRÖSSTEN UFO GEHEIMNISSE DER WELT by Nigel Blundell and Roger Boar

This book is recommended as an introduction to the UFO phenomenon, highlighting that it's not just the domain of fantasists but also involves serious individuals like pilots and politicians. The book covers various sightings and contact phenomena, including historical accounts and the Tunguska event. It also touches upon the possibility of government cover-ups and the mystery of the Nazca lines, linking them to pre-astronautics theories. The reviewer finds it a good compilation but criticizes the explanations as weak and lacking objective assessment.

UFOs 2000 - DIE ESKALATION - ENTFÜHRUNGEN - BELGISCHE DREIECKS-UFOS - VON ELFEN UND UFOS (Hrsg.): Werner Walter und Rudolf Henke

This CENAP documentation is described as containing interesting ufological material, including research by Keith Thompson, who suggests UFO phenomena might be a product of our mythology. Werner Walter analyzes the Belgian UFO wave, concluding it's not as mysterious as it seems and can be explained by data analysis. Rudolf Henke critically examines the SOBEPS study, questioning the ultralight aircraft hypothesis and the scientific validity of the documentation. He points out that not all observed objects were triangular, nor were they all 100 meters in size, and that the wave might be a "pseudo-wave." The review also mentions Philip Klass's critical work on UFO abductions, suggesting his information offers a different perspective on abduction cases.

ALPHA ETHIK, BIOLOGIE, NATURWISSENSCHAFTEN UND TECHNIK IM ALTEN- UND NEUEN TESTAMENT by Gerhard Linder

This section reviews a series of pamphlets by Gerhard Linder, focusing on his theory that UFOs are not extraterrestrial spacecraft but three-dimensional images or holograms projected from our present or future. Linder suggests this theory can also explain hauntings and ghost phenomena. The reviewer finds the theory unusual but acknowledges its potential. The series is available directly from the author.

PC SOFTWARE Reviews

SKY II

This review discusses the SKY II astronomy program, available for PC. It can display approximately 8500 stars and allows users to input location, time, and viewing direction. The reviewer praises its realistic sky view and various display options, including animations and orbital calculations. However, the lack of direct coordinate output for printing is noted as a drawback. The program is considered sufficient for investigative work.

SIRIUS (For Windows)

SIRIUS, a Windows-based astronomy program from DATA BECKER, is reviewed. It can display over 10,000 objects and offers features like time-location settings and a realistic sky view with a simulated horizon. The reviewer notes the absence of direct angle and azimuth display, requiring an external editor for output. The search function is good but cannot search for the Moon or Sun. Despite some limitations, it's considered a cost-effective option for its price.

SKYGLOBE 3.1

This shareware program is praised for its extensive features at a low cost. It allows users to display stars, planets, constellations, and coordinate grids, and can simulate city light pollution. While the sky display is not highly realistic, the program's speed is a positive point. The reviewer notes that expression is straightforward, and the program is a good option for those on a budget.

EPHНЕМ

This program is described as a professional tool for amateur astronomers, capable of accurate calculations of celestial object positions. It supports various coordinate systems and provides detailed physical ephemerides. The graphical view includes 1300 stars and planets. The reviewer notes that while it offers many features, it's geared towards a more professional audience.

EPHEM 4.0

This review of EPHEM 4.0 highlights its capabilities for checking astronomical situations during UFO sightings. It offers features like displaying azimuth and elevation angles, but the astronomical azimuth differs from compass readings. The program is considered somewhat cumbersome to operate but has a clear manual. It's noted that other programs might offer more features for the price, but EPHEM is aimed at professional or advanced amateur astronomers who prioritize precise calculations.

PC COSMOS 4.0 (For Windows)

This Windows version of PC COSMOS is highly praised for its user-friendliness and extensive capabilities in displaying the night sky. It allows users to input location and date, and offers various coordinate systems, including the horizontal system crucial for UFO research. The program can zoom, display object descriptions, and even control telescopes. The reviewer considers it a very convincing program with an excellent price-performance ratio.

Sky-Planetarium

This shareware program, found at a flea market, displays over 10,000 stars with information accessible via mouse clicks. It provides data like brightness, azimuth, and altitude, and allows users to select locations and input dates. Features include zoom and object centering, along with moon phase displays. The sky representation is noted as not particularly realistic, but the program is considered a good option for those with limited budgets.

VIDEOS

UFO-KONGRESS - WIEN 12.-14.November 1993 Videodokumentation

This video documentation covers a UFO congress held in Vienna, organized by the UFO-Club Wien. Despite limited promotion, the event featured various speakers, including Erich von Däniken, Dr. Johannes Fiebag, and others. The video provides a compilation of statements, lectures with slides, and film excerpts, offering a comprehensive overview of the congress's content.

DAS UFO-PHÄNOMEN Besucher aus dem All ? Teil 1

This video from "Komplett-Video" traces the historical evolution of the UFO phenomenon, from early utopian ideas to modern sightings. It covers events like Orson Welles' "War of the Worlds" broadcast, the "foo fighters" of WWII, post-war "ghost rocket" sightings, and Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting that coined the term "flying saucer." The video also touches upon the "Project Sign" and "Project Blue Book" investigations and the rise of contactees like George Adamski.

UFO-Entführungen - Die USA-Story

This VHS video from KOMPLETT-VIDEO GmbH provides a comprehensive overview of UFO phenomena, including UFO sightings, alleged abductions, and the "Area 51" incident. It also discusses the Roswell incident and the role of Illobrand von Ludwiger as a scientific advisor. The reviewer notes that while the video comments on the credibility of UFO reports, it also presents critical explanations. The video is praised for its engaging mix of film clips and interviews but criticized for focusing too heavily on US-based events.

GEP INTERNA

This section announces new members of the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.) and reports on the passing of Prof. Paul Feyerabend, who was instrumental in validating GEP's research methodology. It also mentions a Pro7 TV report about the UFO wave, featuring GEP's work and an interview with Hans-Werner Peiniger, contrasting it with Michael Hesemann's commercialization of the topic.

Leserbriefe (Letters to the Editor)

Henry Ende, Arnsberg:

Ende subscribes to the journal, appreciating its effort to distinguish serious UFO phenomena from hysteria and charlatanism. However, he expresses concern that the journal might be too dismissive of certain experiences, potentially "throwing the baby out with the bathwater."

Wolfgang P., Bonn:

P. responds to a previous article (JUFOF Nr.91:11/12), discussing the probability of a single object being observed in two parts of a sighting. He argues against explanations involving searchlights or lasers, stating the object appeared "tangible" and had a clear outline. He also dismisses atmospheric phenomena and reflections from searchlights as explanations.

GEP-SONDERHEFTE & DIA-SERIEN

This section lists available GEP special publications and slide series, covering topics like scientific investigations of UFOs, bibliographies, and specific phenomena such as hot air balloons, helicopter lights, and trick photography.

JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG Jahresabonnement

Information is provided about the annual subscription for the journal.

Vorbestellung

Details are given for pre-ordering upcoming publications, including revised editions of "UFOLOGIE" and "Hermann Oberth und die UFO-Forschung," with special prices for GEP members and those who previously purchased earlier editions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently adopts a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena, aiming to distinguish credible evidence from speculation, media hype, and outright fraud. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained aerial phenomena, the editorial stance favors rigorous investigation and scientific scrutiny. The journal frequently reviews books, videos, and software that either support or challenge UFO theories, often providing counterarguments or alternative explanations. There is a clear emphasis on differentiating between serious research and sensationalism, as seen in the critique of media coverage and certain individuals who profit from the UFO topic. The GEP's role as a scientific research organization is highlighted, emphasizing its commitment to methodical investigation and its efforts to gain recognition for its work. The journal also engages with historical aspects of UFO research and the evolution of public perception.