JUFOF - Issue 106 - 1996 04

Magazine Overview

Title: Journal für UFO-Forschung
Issue: 4/96
Volume: 17
Date: 1996
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) from 1996, published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., offers a comprehensive look into UFO research, case documentation, and analysis. The cover prominently features a discussion on "Alien Spaceships over Los Angeles or Sighting of Japanese Military Balloons?" and highlights an updated bibliography on UFO literature.

Editorial and Introduction

The editorial, penned by Hans-Werner Peiniger, addresses reader inquiries about the journal's focus, particularly why more content isn't dedicated to topics like alien abductions or the Roswell incident. Peiniger explains that JUFOF aims to be a critical and alternative source, focusing on UFO phenomena, especially cases from German-speaking regions, and providing in-depth documentation and analysis. He positions JUFOF as a complement to commercial magazines and other UFO publications, emphasizing its role in investigating and evaluating German UFO cases.

Featured Articles and Case Studies

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section presents several documented UFO sightings with detailed analysis:

• January 1995, Neubrandenburg: A bright, rotating light circle was observed, described as 20-30 meters in diameter and moving north-south. The GEP's investigation concluded it was likely a light effect device.
• January 20, 1995, Krefeld: Reports of strange lights were attributed to a laser show at a company party.
• January 21, 1995, Jülich: Multiple citizens reported unusual lights and electronic disturbances. Investigations suggested a laser show from a nearby business.
• April 1995, Strücklingen: A witness reported seeing a "searchlight" in the sky, which was photographed. The analysis concluded it was likely caused by a light effect device or a conventional searchlight, with photographic artifacts interpreted as reflections.
• August 1995, Bonn: Photographs showed two objects, which were identified as seagulls.
• November 6, 1995, Hünfeld: A rotating light circle was observed, likely a reflection from a light effect device.
• December 21, 1995, St. Marien: A witness described unusual cloud formations, identified as Cirrocumulus.
• January 1, 1996, Male, Maldives: Video footage showed bright objects moving into clouds, interpreted as higher-altitude clouds.
• February 9, 1996, Reutlingen: A bright point in the sky was observed and later identified as the planet Venus.

Ausserirdische Raumschiffe über Los Angeles oder Sichtung japanischer Militärballons? (Alien Spaceships over Los Angeles or Sighting of Japanese Military Balloons?)

Wolfgang Schröder discusses two accounts of a significant aerial event over Los Angeles in 1942. One account from Dr. Rolf Schaffranke in 1989 described a "fleet of spaceships" over Los Angeles in 1941, with the military firing over 1500 rockets. A later report from former STASI employee Komorowski detailed a UFO sighting over Los Angeles on February 24, 1942, involving objects detected by searchlights and fired upon by the military. Schröder suggests that these sightings might be related to Japanese "Fugo-Ballons" (balloon bombs) launched during WWII, which were known to cause confusion and damage. He posits that the 1942 event was likely caused by these balloons rather than alien spacecraft.

"Lichtkreis" über Hünfeld ("Light Circle" over Hünfeld)

This article details a sighting on January 13, 1995, where police officers and a citizen observed a rotating light circle in the sky over Hünfeld. The object was described as 20-30 meters in diameter and moved north-south. While initial explanations were sought, the exact cause remained undetermined, with possibilities like conventional aircraft or light effects being considered.

Immer freitags: UFO-Spuk im Rheinland (Always Fridays: UFO Haunting in the Rhineland)

This report covers a series of sightings in the Jülich area, primarily occurring on Fridays, starting January 13, 1995. Witnesses reported unusual lights and phenomena, including electronic disturbances. While some suggested UFOs, investigations pointed towards laser shows from local businesses as a likely explanation for some events.

Lichtpünktchen über Herford im Juli 1978 und 1975 über Hiddenhausen/Sundern (Light Dots over Herford in July 1978 and 1975 over Hiddenhausen/Sundern)

Rudolf Henke analyzes two historical sightings reported by Stefan S. The 1978 sighting involved nine luminous points moving erratically in a loose formation. The 1975 sighting described a light that changed color and moved in a constant direction. Henke discusses potential explanations, including birds, aircraft, and atmospheric phenomena, concluding that the 1978 sighting might be explainable as birds in a flock, while the 1975 sighting could be an aircraft, though definitive conclusions are difficult due to the passage of time and limited data.

Zitterndes Objekt über Ried/Fulda im März 95 (Trembling Object over Ried/Fulda in March 95)

This case involves a 14-year-old witness who observed a bright, round, trembling object in the sky. The witness, highly predisposed to belief in UFOs, initially suggested an extraterrestrial or secret military craft. However, analysis by Rudolf Henke strongly suggests the object was the planet Arcturus, considering its position, brightness, and the witness's own astronomical knowledge (or lack thereof). The witness's high ETH predisposition and subjective interpretations are highlighted as factors influencing his perception.

Quick Notes (Kurz Notiert)

• UFO Congress in Lyon: Announcement of the 8th European UFO Congress in November, focusing on scientific research.
• CD-ROM UFO II: A review of a CD-ROM claiming to be an improved version of "UFO II," with concerns raised that it might be an older version.
• ALIEN WATCH: Introduction of a new UFO research association in Austria.
• Critiques of the 'Santilli Film': Two critical points are raised regarding the alleged alien autopsy film: (1) the film being in black and white is suspicious, as important military events were filmed in color, and (2) the alien's light skin color might reflect the filmmakers' Western cultural background, suggesting a potential bias or lack of imagination.
• Warning about Chain Letters: A warning is issued about a "Pleiadian Self-Help Project" chain letter promising significant financial returns.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently emphasizes a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. It prioritizes documented evidence, thorough investigation, and rational explanations, often debunking sensational claims. The GEP's definition of a UFO highlights the importance of an object remaining unidentifiable after rigorous examination. The publication aims to educate readers, differentiate between genuine mysteries and misidentifications, and provide a platform for serious UFO research, particularly within the German-speaking context. Themes include the analysis of sightings, photographic evidence, witness psychology (ETH predisposition), and the critical evaluation of popular UFO narratives.

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Issue 106, 4/96) is a German-language publication dedicated to the research and discussion of UFO phenomena, pre-astronautics, and related fringe science topics. It features a mix of articles, book reviews, reader letters, and informational sections.

Chain Letters and Esotericism

The issue begins with a critical commentary by 'hwp-' on a chain letter that claims to be from Pleiadian friends, warning readers against such schemes and suggesting they are ineffective despite their esoteric claims. The author dismisses the idea of financial gain through such methods and advises discarding them.

Self-Help Group for Abductees

A report details the formation of a self-help group in Berlin called "G.i.V." (Gemeinschaft zur interterrestrischen Vereinigung) for individuals who believe they have been abducted by extraterrestrials. The group aims to support abductees in processing their experiences, understanding interactions with non-human entities, and overcoming fear. The journal expresses support for bringing this topic to the attention of medical and psychological professionals but maintains a critical stance on the abduction phenomenon itself, suggesting psychological explanations might be involved.

Literature Reviews

UFOs: Wahn... Oder Wirklichkeit..? by Gerd Kirvel

This review discusses Gerd Kirvel's book, which presents UFO sightings and observations from German-speaking regions. The reviewer notes Kirvel's unusual acknowledgments and his background with the esoteric magazine "Jenseits des Irdischen." While the book aims to show that the UFO phenomenon is real and not just wishful thinking, the reviewer points out that Kirvel's own recollections of UFO sightings can 'blur' over time, leading to discrepancies with his daughter's accounts. The reviewer also suggests Kirvel should experiment with model hot-air balloons to better understand their visual characteristics and dynamics, and criticizes his speculative thoughts. Despite these criticisms, the book is recommended for both laypeople and UFO researchers for its introduction to the topic and presentation of lesser-known cases.

Jenseits des Irdischen by Dieter Kirvel

This is a brief mention of Dieter Kirvel's book, which is described as a companion to UFO research, potentially exploring otherworldly aspects.

Alien Discussions: Proceedings of the Abduction Study Conference

This section reviews the proceedings of a conference held at MIT on the abduction phenomenon. The book, a large compilation of papers and discussions, covers various aspects of abduction experiences, including alleged paranormal effects and the psychological impact on abductees. The reviewer highlights the multidisciplinary nature of the conference, with participants from diverse scientific and academic backgrounds. A significant finding reported is that a substantial percentage of the population may have abduction experiences, with estimates suggesting millions of Americans. The review touches upon the 'ontological shock' experienced by abductees and the challenges they face in integrating their experiences.

World's Best "True" UFO Stories by Jenny Randles & Peter A. Hough

This book is described as a superficial and sensationalized presentation of well-known UFO cases. The reviewer finds the coverage too brief, citing the Roswell incident being covered in only four pages. It is considered a basic introduction to the topic, and the reviewer notes that Jenny Randles has written better books.

Regional Encounters: The FC Files by Francis L. Ridge

This book focuses on UFO cases primarily from Indiana, collected by the 'UFO Filter Center.' The review notes that the cases presented are similar to those found in German UFO literature and that the research seems to focus on primary data collection rather than extensive investigation. The reviewer agrees with the author's emphasis on studying well-documented individual cases rather than generalizing the UFO phenomenon.

Software Reviews

Planetarium 1.0 by FUJI MAGNETICS

This review discusses a planetarium software program that can be used to reconstruct the astronomical situation during UFO sightings. While functional, the reviewer finds its interface and features somewhat lacking compared to other programs, particularly regarding precise astronomical data for UFO research.

Astronomy Lab

This is a brief mention of another astronomy program that is deemed unsuitable for UFO research due to its limited features and focus on American locations.

UFOs in Everyday Life

Hans-Werner Peiniger's column "UFOS IM ALLTAG" (UFOs in Everyday Life) highlights instances where UFO imagery and themes appear in popular culture and advertising, such as in furniture store advertisements, a ceiling lamp shaped like a UFO, and designs on socks. It also mentions a ZDF advertisement featuring a UFO photo and a VIVA music channel interlude with a flying saucer animation.

Letters to the Editor (Leserbriefe)

Wladislaw Raab, Munich

Raab criticizes authors Lammer and Sidla for what he perceives as a generalization against non-academic UFO researchers in their book. He notes that these authors rely heavily on US sources and have not conducted their own case research. He also criticizes the use of courts for resolving internal disputes within the UFO community.

Uli Thieme, Schwäbisch Hall

Thieme praises the journal for its content and thanks them for publishing his article on the Socorro UFO crash. He criticizes Michael Hesemann and others for their persistent claims about the Socorro crash site, questioning their journalistic integrity. Thieme also refutes a report about a Polish citizen's sighting of a Bundeswehr jet marked 'F-111', explaining that German military aircraft designations do not use such markings and that the F-111 is an American aircraft not typically used by the Bundeswehr.

Michael Hesemann, Düsseldorf

Hesemann responds to Uli Thieme's criticisms regarding the Socorro crash site. He defends his vague description of the location as a measure to prevent contamination before an archaeological expedition. He clarifies that his description was accurate and that the site is indeed located south-west of Socorro. He also addresses criticisms about his work, stating that he has not been untruthful and that his research methods are sound.

Michael Hesemann, Düsseldorf (continued)

Hesemann also provides comments on two German UFO cases: the Schilling photo and a police observation in Düsseldorf. Regarding the Schilling photo, he agrees with the assessment that it is likely a 'NEAR-HOAX' and criticizes MUFON-CES's analysis. For the Düsseldorf UFO sighting, he suggests that differing perspectives and distances between witnesses could explain discrepancies in their accounts, advocating for a more detailed analysis of the available data.

Book Sales and Information

This section lists books available for purchase, including titles related to alien encounters, cosmic secrets, and UFO reports. It also provides contact information for publishers and authors.

Police Address Book

A listing for a police address book for Germany is advertised, noting its utility for investigative work.

In Eigenem Sache (In Our Own Matter)

This section announces the availability of new participants for the journal's newspaper clipping service, which provides UFO-related articles from various newspapers. It explains the cost-sharing model for this service.

UFO Modell "Original Fehrenbach"

An advertisement for a replica UFO model used in the Fehrenbach case, available for purchase.

TALKY - Fachmagazin für Prä-Astronautik, Archäologie, UFO-Forschung

This section introduces "TALKY," a magazine that serves as a forum for theories and speculations on pre-astronautics, archaeology, and UFO research. It invites readers to submit their work.

GEP Special Issues and Series

A list of special publications and dia-series offered by GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.) is provided, covering topics such as the Condon Report, UFO bibliographies, and photographic evidence of alleged UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded approach to UFO research. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, factual analysis, and the avoidance of esotericism or unsubstantiated claims. The editorial stance is to present diverse viewpoints, including those from academic and scientific perspectives, while also acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the potential for psychological or misidentification explanations for many reported phenomena. The journal actively debunks hoaxes and critically examines controversial cases. There is a clear distinction made between genuine research and sensationalism or pseudoscientific claims. The publication also serves as a platform for debate within the German UFO research community, as evidenced by the reader letters section.