JUFOF - Issue 100 - 1995 04

Magazine Overview

Title: JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: 100
Volume: 16
Date: 4/95 (April 1995)
Publisher: Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V.
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0723-7766
Price: DM 5,00

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (JUFOF), published by the GEP, is the 100th edition and marks 16 years of publication. The magazine focuses heavily on the "Fehrenbach UFO" case, presenting a detailed investigation and analysis that ultimately concludes the incident was a hoax.

NEUAUFLAGE (New Edition)

The issue begins with an announcement about a new edition of a book by Dieter von Ree ken titled "UFOLOGIE". The book, originally published in 1981, aims to provide an overview of the UFO topic, debunking myths and presenting factual information supported by sources. The new edition features a more readable layout.

Editorial: "Liebe Leser" (Dear Readers)

Editor Hans-Werner Peiniger reflects on the 100th issue and the 16 years of JUFOF's existence, noting the many UFO groups and publications that have come and gone. He emphasizes the journal's commitment to critical reporting and detailed case studies, particularly those from Germany. Peiniger announces that the journal will no longer adhere to a fixed page count, allowing for more content if needed. He also mentions a delay in the previous issue due to printing problems and the intention to use a local printer going forward. A significant part of the editorial is dedicated to the Fehrenbach case, where two schoolboys photographed a UFO. Peiniger presents his detailed documentation of the case, including the analysis by MUFON-CES, which initially suggested the object was a real, unknown craft approximately 7-8 meters in diameter. However, Peiniger reveals his findings that it was a schoolboy prank involving a toy model spaceship.

Feature Article: "FALL FEHRENBACH AUFGEKLÄRT" (Fehrenbach Case Solved)

This extensive article details the investigation into the UFO photos taken by 15-year-old Sascha Wudy and 14-year-old Karsten Traut in Fehrenbach on October 25, 1994. The boys claimed to have seen and photographed a UFO multiple times. The article outlines the initial report, including witness statements, descriptions of the object's appearance (disk-shaped, blue dome, brown underside), estimated size (approx. 8m diameter, 2.5m high), distance (approx. 100m), and flight behavior (sudden directional changes, hovering, rapid movement). The article notes that the boys' grandfather contacted the press, leading to media attention.

MUFON-CES Analysis

The article describes the involvement of MUFON-CES (Mutual UFO Network), led by Illobrand von Ludwiger, and its photo analyst Rolf-Dieter Klein. MUFON-CES conducted an on-site investigation and computer analysis of the photos. Their preliminary report, dated December 5, 1994, concluded that there were no indications that the object's appearance was inconsistent with the witnesses' descriptions and that it must have been a large, unknown object. This conclusion was reported in the media, including an n-tv broadcast.

GEP's Investigation and Conclusion

The GEP, with contributions from Gerald Mosbleck and Hans-Werner Peiniger, also investigated the case. Peiniger, suspecting a "schoolboy prank," acquired a toy model spaceship called the 'Robo-Saucer' from the 'Galaxy Space Pocket' series, manufactured in China. He found that this model closely matched the descriptions and photographic evidence of the Fehrenbach UFO, including its shape, dimensions, and even the detail of broken 'cannons' with white reflective surfaces, mirroring the appearance in the photos. Peiniger confronted Sascha Wudy via telephone, who eventually admitted that they had used the toy model, thrown into the air like a frisbee, to create the photos. The boys were inspired by a TV documentary about UFOs aired the day before.

Discussion and Evaluation

The article critically evaluates MUFON-CES's findings, questioning their methodology and the interpretation of the photographic evidence. It points out inconsistencies in MUFON-CES's analysis of image sharpness and motion blur, arguing that their conclusions were flawed and that they failed to consider the possibility of a model. The GEP's analysis, in contrast, successfully identified the object as a toy model, thereby debunking the sighting.

Other Sections

• "ZUR HUNDERSTEN AUSGABE DES JUFOF" (For the 100th Issue of JUFOF): Gerald Mosbleck provides a brief retrospective on the journal's 16-year history.
• "KURZ NOTIERT" (Briefly Noted): A collection of short news items, including announcements of pre-astronautics events, a UFO conference in Düsseldorf, a mysterious object identification, a new magazine, the Roswell autopsy film, and warnings from space.
• "LITERATUR" (Literature): A list of books reviewed or recommended, covering topics such as UFO secrecy, the Warminster Triangle, ancient astronauts, and UFO databases.
• "JUBILÄUMSQUIZ !" (Anniversary Quiz): An announcement of a quiz with prizes for readers.
• Definition of "UFO" (in the narrower sense): The GEP provides its definition of an Unidentified Flying Object.
• GEP Information: Details about the GEP's mission, membership benefits, and contact information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme in this issue is the critical examination of UFO evidence, particularly photographic material. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards sensational claims and a commitment to rigorous, evidence-based investigation. The JUFOF positions itself as a journal that critically analyzes UFO phenomena, often debunking cases that have been sensationalized by other media or organizations. The Fehrenbach case serves as a prime example of how initial conclusions, even from established ufological groups like MUFON-CES, can be incorrect, and how thorough, independent research can uncover the truth. The journal emphasizes the importance of questioning and cross-referencing information, especially when dealing with potentially fabricated evidence.

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Issue 100, 4/95) critically examines UFO research methodologies and specific cases, with a strong focus on debunking a prominent UFO sighting and critiquing the organization MUFON-CES.

Illobrand's Error: How two renowned UFO researchers fell for a prank (Illobrands Irrtum: Wie zwei renommierte Ufo-Forscher einem Lausbubenstreich auf den Leim gingen)

This lengthy article details the Fehrenbach UFO case, where two boys, Karsten Traut and Sascha Wudy, allegedly photographed a UFO. The magazine meticulously dissects the claims and the subsequent analysis by MUFON-CES, led by researchers like Illobrand von Ludwiger and Rolf-Dieter Klein. The authors of this article express skepticism about MUFON-CES's methods, pointing out inconsistencies in the boys' testimonies and the photographic evidence. They highlight that MUFON-CES seemingly overlooked simpler explanations, such as the use of models or toys, and failed to conduct thorough follow-up investigations.

The article details how the boys eventually admitted the photos were of a model they threw in the air. It criticizes MUFON-CES for their perceived arrogance and their attempts to downplay the hoax after it was exposed by the magazine FOCUS. The authors suggest that MUFON-CES's 'scientific' approach, particularly their reliance on computer analysis, can lead to flawed conclusions when not combined with sound investigative journalism and common sense.

• Key points of contention include:
• Photo Analysis: The article questions the interpretation of photographic details, such as the 'headlight' on the object and the lighting conditions, suggesting MUFON-CES ignored evidence that contradicted their UFO hypothesis.
• Witness Testimony: Inconsistencies in the boys' accounts regarding the time of the sighting, the number of photos taken, and the object's behavior are highlighted.
• MUFON-CES's Methodology: The article criticizes MUFON-CES for not adequately verifying witness statements, for allegedly altering protocols (like changing the time of the object's standstill), and for not considering alternative explanations like the use of a model or toy.
• The Role of FOCUS: The magazine FOCUS played a crucial role in exposing the hoax by publishing its findings, prompting MUFON-CES to re-evaluate the case.
• The 'Arrow' Argument: The article dismisses the argument that an arrow drawn on a photo indicates authenticity, suggesting it could be a newspaper editor's addition.
• 'Difficult to Fake' Argument: The claim that an object being partially obscured by an object (like a branch) is 'difficult to fake' is refuted by the authors, who state that 'field tests' with models would show this is easily achievable.

Criticisms of MUFON-CES (KRITIK AN MUFON-CES)

• This section provides a list of other cases where MUFON-CES's analyses have faced criticism:
• Monguzzi-Fotoserie (1952): MUFON-CES identified a UFO, but the photographer later admitted to faking the photos with a plastic astronaut and a model.
• CE III-Fall Langenargen (1977): Significant criticisms arose regarding the investigation and reporting of this case.
• Wedel-Foto (1977): MUFON-CES estimated a UFO's diameter, but the witness was deemed highly unreliable.
• Greifswald (1990): MUFON-CES concluded light phenomena were 'flares', despite evidence suggesting otherwise.
• Nagora-Fotoserie (1971): MUFON-CES believed these photos were genuine, but critics suggest they might be a car hubcap, with a detailed report forthcoming.
• Strahlenwirkungen (Radiation Effects) in UFO Surroundings: Reports on this topic are also mentioned.

The section also includes quotes from critics like Rudolf Henke of GWUP, who labels MUFON-CES's approach as 'charlatanry', and Gerald Mosbleck, who calls their methods 'naive' and 'amateurish'.

Literature Reviews and Short Notes

Several books and publications are reviewed or mentioned:

• "UFO-GEHEIMHALTUNG EINE WISSENSCHAFTLICHE BILANZ" by Helmut Lammer and Oliver Sidla: This book is praised for its critical approach and for distancing itself from UFO cults. However, the reviewer notes that while the authors acknowledge alternative explanations, they offer little critical material themselves, leading to speculation rather than solid analysis.
• "THE WARMINSTER TRIANGLE: ASTOUNDING AND CROP CIRCLE SIGHTINGS" by Ken Rogers: This book is described as a collection of newspaper clippings and anecdotes, lacking rigorous analysis and featuring poorly reproduced photos. The reviewer finds it unbalanced and lacking in critical material.
• "Menschen, Götter, Astronauten: Der bittere Kampf ums Überleben" and "Raum, Zeit, Gewalt: Ein ungewöhnlicher Ritt durch das Universum" by Manfred Thomas: These books are characterized as philosophical rather than scientific, exploring societal systems and cosmic intelligence. The reviewer finds them lacking in concrete UFO-related evidence.
• "UNIDENTIFIED AERIAL OBJECT PHOTOGRAPHED NEAR ZWISCHBERGEN, SWITZERLAND, ON JULY 26, 1975" by Wim van Utrecht & Frits van der Veldt: This is presented as a thorough, well-researched case analysis of the 'Saas Fee photo', which is considered a significant UFO photograph. The work is praised for its detailed presentation, including interviews, photo analyses, and historical context.
• "ICE FALLS AND ANGEL HAIR: A CHRONOLOGICAL CATALOG OF ICE FALLS AND ANGEL HAIR ANOMALIES" by Allan J. Manak: This brochure lists chronological cases of ice falls and 'angel hair' phenomena, providing a useful resource for researchers.
• "UFO DATABASE MAPPING AND RESEARCH TOOL" by Larry Hatch Software: This PC program is reviewed positively for its extensive database of over 11,700 UFO cases, offering search capabilities and statistical analysis. It is recommended as a valuable tool for UFO researchers.

Other Sections

• "New Magazine on the Market" (Neue Zeitschrift auf dem Markt): Introduces "JENSEITS DES IRDISCHEN", a new magazine.
• "First UFO Report" (Erster UFO-Bericht): Discusses an early UFO sighting from 1741 reported in the "Elektrotechnik" magazine.
• "The Roswell Autopsy Film" (Der Roswell-Autopsiefilm): Critically examines the controversial Roswell autopsy film, questioning its authenticity and suggesting it might depict an earthly anomaly or a staged event.
• "Life's Origin in Space Possible" (Lebensentstehung im All möglich): Reports on the detection of glycine, an amino acid, in the Sagittarius B2 dark cloud, suggesting the possibility of life beyond Earth.
• "Warning from Space" (Warnung aus dem Weltall): Mentions alleged warnings from extraterrestrials to a Colombian about nuclear tests.
• "Short Notes" (Kurz Notiert): Includes announcements for upcoming UFO events and research calls.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO research methods, the importance of rigorous investigation, and the debunking of hoaxes. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of unsubstantiated claims and organizations like MUFON-CES that are perceived as lacking scientific rigor. The journal champions investigative journalism and a more grounded, critical approach to UFO phenomena, contrasting it with what it views as the speculative and sometimes uncritical methods of some UFO research groups. There is a consistent emphasis on distinguishing between genuine phenomena and potential hoaxes or misidentifications.

This is the 100th issue of the German UFO research journal, "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (JUFOF), dated 4/95. The journal is published by CENAP-Mannheim, with contributions from activists HW Peiniger and Gerald Mosbleck, who have dedicated significant personal resources to UFO research. The issue celebrates this milestone and reflects on the journal's role in shaping the German UFO research scene.

Editorial Reflections and Collaboration

The editorial highlights the 100th issue of JUFOF, acknowledging the efforts of HW Peiniger and Gerald Mosbleck. It emphasizes that competence in UFO research is gained through persistence and continuous development, rather than superficial appearances. The journal notes the long-standing relationship between the Lüdenscheid-based GEP and CENAP, describing it as a "firm component" of UFO investigation and a recognized entity in the field. Despite facing challenges over two decades, their collaboration has reportedly fostered evolution and strengthened their friendship. A parallel is drawn between the development of GEP and CENAP, both organizations initially focused on defending the existence of flying saucers and aliens. However, personal experiences led to a shift in perspective, and a more skeptical, fact-based approach has become prominent in JUFOF, attributed to the practical approach of Peiniger and the analytical thinking of Mosbleck.

The journal expresses that while they are proud of JUFOF's readership, they do not harbor envy towards other UFO journals. They acknowledge their own more "aggressive and impulsive" style, sometimes internally jesting about the more "bureaucratic UFO research" of their GEP colleagues. Despite these differences, both organizations are recognized for setting important developmental points and complementing each other.

GEP in the Media

GEP has been featured in various media outlets. In December 1994, Gerald Mosbleck contributed an article about GEP's work to the educational magazine "Astronomie & Raumfahrt." A similar article with images appeared in the first issue of the new magazine "Jenseits des Irdischen." Following a "FOCUS" article on the Fehrenbach case, the local newspaper published two reports on GEP's successful work on this case. The WDR broadcast a film about GEP, recorded on May 19, 1995, which is described as a "quite successful presentation" of their work and views.

Gerald Mosbleck's article on the Fehrenbach case was published in "Magazin für Grenzwissenschaften." Further contributions are planned for "Magazin 2000," "UFO-Kurier," "Jenseits des Irdischen," and "Skeptiker."

GEP Goes Online

GEP has acquired an affordable modem, enabling them to access information via the INTERNET and CompuServe. They can now send and receive faxes via computer and connect to mailboxes. The long-term goal is to establish their own mailbox service.

New Editions of GEP Special Issues

Special issues 12 (Maccabee. The JAL Flight) and 16 (Magin: Contacts with "Aliens") are currently out of print. Issue 12 will be reissued with improved typography. Issue 16 will be expanded by several pages and completely reset.

UFO Database Mapping and Research Tool

An advertisement introduces a demo version of Larry Hatch Software's "UFO DATABASE MAPPING AND RESEARCH TOOL." The demo version contains 1111 UFO cases from 1952-1953, with the full version offering over 11700 cases. It is available on a 3.5-inch disk for DM 6.00 in stamps from GEP e.V.

Reader Quiz: Anniversary Quiz!

To celebrate the 100th issue, JUFOF is holding a reader quiz for all JUFOF subscribers and GEP e.V. members. Prizes include over 50 books and videos worth more than DM 1600. The top prize is 10 items of the winner's choice, with subsequent prizes offering decreasing numbers of items. Winners can select their prizes from a list, and remaining prizes will be distributed by lottery. To enter, participants must answer two questions based on the magazine's content and send their answers on a postcard to GEP e.V. by September 16, 1995.

The questions are: 1. What is the name of the location where two boys wanted to photograph a UFO on October 25, 1994? 2. What did this UFO ultimately turn out to be: a) two stuck-together hats, b) a toy spaceship, or c) an extraterrestrial spaceship?

GEP Special Issues and Publications

A list of GEP special issues is provided, including "Condon: Scientific Investigation of UFOs" (Issue 2), "Cohen: Are There Really Flying Saucers?" (Issue 9), "v. Reeken: Bibliography of Extraterrestrial Life, UFOs, 1703-1990" (Issue 10), "Smith/Havas: The UFO Riddle" (Issue 11), "v. Reeken: Ufology" (Issue 14), and "v. Reeken: H. Oberth and UFO Research" (Issue 15). Prices are listed in German Marks (DM), with discounted prices for GEP members in parentheses.

Photomechanical reprints are also available, including "Trent: Secrets in the Universe" (DM 10.00), "Plassmann: Is Mars a Habitable Planet?" (DM 5.00), and "Schöpfer: Flying Saucers - Yes or No?" (DM 5.00).

Several slide series (DIA-SERIEN) are offered, categorized by the type of phenomenon depicted (e.g., hot air balloons, helicopters, trick photography), with prices for individual series and combined sets.

Journal Subscription and Other Items

The annual subscription for "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" is DM 30.00, with a discount for GEP members. Subscribers are asked if they wish to start their subscription with the next issue or retroactively from issue 1 of the current year.

Other available items include the GEP questionnaire (DM 1.50, free for members) and GEP statutes with a membership application (free).

GEP Special Issue 11: The UFO Riddle

GEP Special Issue 11 features "The UFO Riddle" by Marcia S. Smith and George D. Havas. This documentation was originally compiled in 1976 by Marcia S. Smith for the Congressional Research Service and updated in 1983 by George D. Havas. The text, now available in German, provides a concise overview and detailed information, including documents and compilations in the appendix. The Congressional Research Service is described as a scientific advisory body for the US Congress.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the celebration of JUFOF's 100th edition, the history and evolution of UFO research organizations like GEP and CENAP, and their media engagement. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of persistent, fact-based research, moving away from purely belief-driven approaches. The journal also promotes its own publications and activities, such as the reader quiz and special issues, while also embracing new technologies like the internet for communication and information dissemination. The editorial stance appears to be one of dedication to UFO research, with a pragmatic and sometimes critical perspective, fostering collaboration while maintaining distinct identities.