JUFOF - Issue 109 - 1997 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (JUFOF), number 109, from January/February 1997, is the 18th volume and the first issue of the year. It is published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., a German scientific organization dedicated to UFO research. The magazine features a cover headline focusing on 'UFO-Phänomens' and includes a prominent sketch of a UFO-like object. The price is DM 6.00.

Featured Articles and Content

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section, authored by Hans-Werner Peiniger, documents several UFO sightings from the summer of 1994 and throughout 1995 and 1996 across various locations including Münster, Achim, Ibiza, Augsburg, Schwenningen, Kazakhstan, Mühlhausen, Loßburg, Göttingen, Sillenbuch, Stötten, Seestermühe, Dettingen, and Bedburg in Germany, as well as Kazakhstan and Ibiza.

• Case: 19950203 G (Achim, Germany): Michael M. reported a pulsating, emerald-green, toothpick-shaped object observed for about 10 minutes at 30-45 degrees altitude. The object would appear and disappear rhythmically. The analysis suggests it could be a UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon) rather than a typical UFO, with possible explanations including atmospheric phenomena or even rocket propellant.
• Case: 19960606 A (Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan): Frank K. discovered an oval object on a single frame of his Super-8 film. Investigations concluded it was a film artifact, likely caused by mechanical damage during editing, exacerbated by the witness's poor eyesight.
• Case: 19950729 A (Ibiza, Spain): Rolf Sch. and his family observed and filmed a bright point of light that moved slowly northwards. Further investigation revealed that similar phenomena were observed by multiple people and were officially identified as a meteorological high-altitude research balloon.
• Case: 19960725 A (Sillenbuch, Germany): A police search was conducted for a reported crashed hot air balloon. The incident was later clarified as a false alarm, possibly involving a model balloon or a misidentification.
• Case: 19960630 A (Loßburg, Germany) & ">>Ufo<< über der Ortenau" (Offenburg, Germany): These reports detail a large number of helium-filled balloons (around 350,000) that escaped from a charity event in France and drifted into Germany, causing public concern and being mistaken for UFOs. The balloons eventually landed in wooded areas.
• Case: 19960629 A (Mühlhausen, Germany): A woman reported seeing an unknown flying object land or crash. The investigation revealed it was several white balloons released from a wedding celebration.
• Case: 19960527 A (Schwenningen, Germany): Multiple citizens reported a UFO, which was later identified as light reflections from a device used at a local restaurant.
• Case: 19960507 A (Augsburg, Germany): Citizens reported an unknown flying object, which turned out to be a large plastic foil (approximately 10 meters wide and 250 meters long) from a garden center.
• Case: 1994 Summer (Münster, Germany): Nico S. reported observing a bright object moving in a zig-zag pattern. The analysis concluded it was likely a satellite, considering the witness's estimations of size and speed, which were subject to perceptual errors.
• Case: 19961005 B (Dettingen, Germany): Reports of rotating lights over a reservoir were identified as reflections from a light effect device used during a rock concert.

Neue Interpretation der Hill-Sternkarte (New Interpretation of the Hill Star Map)

Authored by Hans-Werner Peiniger, this article critically examines a new interpretation of the Hill-Sternkarte by Joachim Koch and Hans-Jürgen Kyborg. The authors propose that the stars and lines on Betty Hill's sketch represent planets and trade routes within our solar system, specifically aligning with a constellation configuration on October 20, 1961. Peiniger expresses skepticism, suggesting that this alignment might be coincidental or a result of retrofitting data to fit the hypothesis, questioning the logic of showing a future planetary configuration as part of the abduction event.

Kurz Notiert (Briefly Noted)

• This section provides short updates:
• M.A.A. and Further Connections: Discusses the M.A.A. organization, also known as QDW, and its various associated companies and pseudonyms. It highlights the organization's claims of being 'psychic spies' fighting against a 'New World Order' and alien takeover, criticizing the absurd arguments presented.
• CE-3-Fall - Rinkerode, 9.10.1954: A brief mention of a typical CE-3 (Close Encounter of the Third Kind) case from Rinkerode, Germany, noting that such German cases are often less known than their American or Russian counterparts.

Literatur (Literature)

This section lists several books related to UFOs and ancient astronaut theories, including "Die Antwort des Orion - Jenseits von Roswell," "UFOs über Deutschland," "Die Botschaft von Roswell," and "Die Wirklichkeit der Götter - Das Buch der Verdammten."

Leserbriefe (Letters to the Editor)

This section is present but no specific content is detailed in the OCR.

Objekt gibt weitere Rätsel auf (Object Raises Further Mysteries) & Objekt stürzt vom Himmel (Object Falls from the Sky)

These articles, by Manfred Bomm, report on a bright object seen falling from the sky on a Thursday evening, observed by weather experts in Stötten, Germany. Over 30 witnesses reported the phenomenon across the region. While some witnesses described it as a meteor with a long tail, others, like farmer Alfred Kaiser, described it as a multi-part glowing object. Police and the German press agency registered no official reports. The articles discuss possible explanations including a meteor, a weather balloon reflecting the setting sun, or even an extraterrestrial craft, but ultimately lean towards a meteor or atmospheric phenomenon.

Mysteriöses ums grelle Objekt (Mysteries Around the Bright Object)

This article from the Geislinger Zeitung discusses the continuing mystery surrounding the bright object. Walter Geiger, a mechanic, claims to have had a close encounter with the object directly in front of his car, which contradicts other witness accounts regarding the time and location.

Botschaft aus dem Licht (Message from the Light)

This article from the Geislinger Zeitung delves into the 'message' received by a 44-year-old alternative practitioner, Karin Nagel, who claims to receive communications from a 'higher intelligence' called 'Itoh'. The messages discuss 'light effects' in the atmosphere, suggesting they are not spaceships or meteors but 'high-frequency photons'. The messages also offer reassurance about world events and personal well-being, advising rest and relaxation.

Kurz Notiert - Kurz Notiert (Briefly Noted - Briefly Noted)

• Herbert Mohren: An obituary for Herbert Mohren, who was involved in UFO research and pre-astronautics, and passed away at age 42.
• Carl Sagan: An obituary for Carl Sagan, the renowned astronomer, who passed away at age 62. Sagan had commented on UFO phenomena and was involved in evaluating the 'Project Blue Book' and co-authored a book on UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently presents UFO sightings and related phenomena with a critical and analytical approach. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained aerial phenomena (UAP), the editorial stance often favors natural or conventional explanations when evidence supports them, as seen in the classification of many cases as 'NL/IFO' (Natural/Identified Flying Object) or 'DD/IFO' (Data/Identified Flying Object). The magazine aims to document and investigate these reports thoroughly, encouraging readers to consider all possibilities. There's a clear emphasis on scientific investigation and debunking hoaxes or misidentifications, while also exploring more speculative theories when evidence is scarce. The GEP positions itself as a leading scientific organization in Germany for UFO research, utilizing detailed questionnaires and interdisciplinary approaches.

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Issue 109, 1/97) is a German-language publication dedicated to the study of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. It features a mix of investigative articles, book reviews, and discussions on current events within the UFO community.

Articles and Features

Roswell "UFO-Bruchstück" is a Hoax!

The article debunks the authenticity of a "Roswell UFO fragment" that gained traction in ufological circles in 1996. The fragment, a small piece of copper and silver, was presented as evidence from the alleged 1947 UFO crash in Roswell. However, reporter John Fleck of the "Albuquerque Journal" revealed that the piece was created by New Mexico artist Randy Fullbright. Despite Fullbright's earlier attempts to inform the Roswell UFO Museum about the hoax, the museum continued to sell photos of the fragment, generating significant revenue.

The NSA and its Secret UFO Files

This section discusses the ongoing debate surrounding the National Security Agency's (NSA) UFO-related documents. UFO researcher Stanton T. Friedman argued that the NSA was withholding around 160 documents, suggesting a cover-up. However, UFO critic Philip J. Klass explained that these documents are primarily "COMINT" (communications intelligence) reports, containing intercepted foreign government communications. Releasing them would expose NSA's decryption methods and capabilities, hence their continued classification.

UFO Program Expanded

Larry Hatch has significantly expanded his UFO database, now containing over 14,400 sightings. The database includes additional search functions and features. Upgrades and the full version are available for purchase.

UFO Congress Rescheduled

The UFO Congress, originally scheduled for January 3-5, 1997, in Linz, has been postponed to February 28 - March 2, 1997. The venue has also changed to Gasthaus Stockinger in Ansfelden.

Book Reviews:

• "DAS ERBE VON AVALON: Verborgenes Wissen in den europäischen Mysterien wiederentdeckt" by Grazyna Fosar and Franz Bludorf: This book explores the connection between geomantic grids, modern science, and UFO phenomena. The authors attempt to show connections between "sacred geometry" and UFOs, though the reviewer notes a lack of critical analysis and expertise.

• "SIND WIR ALLEIN IM UNIVERSUM? Über die Wahrscheinlichkeit außerirdischen Lebens" by Paul Davies: Physicist Paul Davies examines the philosophical assumptions behind the belief in extraterrestrial life and the potential impact of its discovery. The book discusses recent findings like potential Martian microbes and meteorites, and touches upon the UFO phenomenon.

• "DIE BOTSCHAFT VON ROSWELL: Erste Kontakte mit einer Hyperzivilisation" by René Coudris: This book is critically reviewed as superfluous. It presents an overview of the Roswell incident and then delves into "channeling" sessions by the author's wife, Mirabelle Coudris, who claims to have communicated with alleged aliens, Major Jesse Marcel, John F. Kennedy, Marilyn Monroe, and Nikola Tesla. The reviewer finds the information to be unscientific and lacking in substance.

• "DIE WIRKLICHKEIT DER GÖTTER: Raumfahrt im frühen Indien" by Lutz Gentes: This extensive work by Lutz Gentes analyzes ancient Indian texts concerning space travel and warfare. The reviewer praises Gentes' meticulous interpretation of the literature and his "minimal solution" approach to technical interpretations, calling the book a potential "cornerstone" in the field of paleo-SETI.

• "WIR ENTDECKTEN AUSSERIRDISCHE BASEN AUF DEM MOND" by Fred Steckling & Glenn Steckling: This book presents speculation about extraterrestrial bases on the Moon, using NASA photos as purported evidence. The reviewer suggests that many of the phenomena depicted are likely natural lunar features, light and shadow effects, or photographic artifacts, rather than alien structures.

• "UFO's ÜBER DEUTSCHLAND" by Alfons Drothen: This book provides an overview of UFO cases, primarily drawn from popular UFO literature and MUFON-CES publications. The reviewer criticizes the book for its lack of original research, its superficial treatment of cases, and its failure to acknowledge critical UFO research.

• "UFOS ÜBER DEUTSCHLAND: Ein praktisches Handbuch" by Michael Hesemann: This handbook aims to provide practical tips for UFO researchers and discusses German UFO sightings. While it touches on various aspects of UFO research, the reviewer notes Hesemann's continued belief in the Billy Meier case and his speculative chapters on contacting aliens. The book is considered a useful introduction for laypeople despite its flaws.

• "Phantome des Schreckens" by Peter Krassa: This book is described as a standard work on "Men in Black," exploring their alleged manipulation of the world.

• "DAS UFO-RÄTSEL" by Marcia S. Smith and George D. Havas: This documentation, originally compiled for the US Congress, provides a comprehensive overview of the UFO phenomenon, updated and expanded.

• "Rätsel unserer Welt: BESUCH AUS DEM WELTALL und UNBEKANNTE FLUGOBJEKTE": These two volumes from the "Rätsel unserer Welt" series cover CE I and CE II cases, including well-known incidents like Livingston and Cash-Landrum, as well as lesser-known sightings. "Besuch aus dem Weltall" focuses on abduction cases, examining their psychological and sociological aspects.

• "DAS BUCH DER VERDAMMTEN" by Charles Fort: This book compiles and comments on a wide range of anomalous facts and phenomena that have been ignored or dismissed by orthodox science. The reviewer highlights Fort's critical humor and his work as a source for information on phenomena outside mainstream understanding.

Software Reviews:

• "SPACE VIEW Special" (CD-ROM): This CD-ROM provides information for fans of the TV series "X-Files," including an episode guide, summaries, and discussions on the sociological aspects of UFO research in relation to science fiction films.

• "UFO GEHEIMNISSE AUS DEM ALL" (CD-ROM): This CD-ROM offers facts and fiction about UFOs, covering topics like the "Men in Black," alleged UFO crashes, and sightings. The reviewer finds the material superficial and the installation process problematic.

• "PLANETEN: Eine Reise durch das Sonnensystem" (CD-ROM): This interactive CD-ROM offers a virtual tour of the solar system, including a planetarium program, 3D planet surfaces, and a virtual museum. It provides extensive information on planets and space exploration, making it a valuable educational tool.

Letters to the Editor (Leserbriefe)

This section features several letters, including:

• Steffen Q., Hackenheim: Expresses satisfaction with an objective analysis of the UFO phenomenon.

• Corinna Blöss, Hamburg: Responds to a previous article, defending her UFO sighting and questioning the author's interpretation and methodology.

• Michael Hesemann, Düsseldorf: Responds to criticism from Uli Thieme and Rudolf Henke, defending his research and publications, particularly regarding the Roswell incident and the "Socorro UFO crash site."

• Uli Thieme, Schwäbisch Hall: Critiques Michael Hesemann's work, accusing him of misinformation and questioning his academic credentials and professional ethics.

• Wladislaw Raab, München: Critiques Rudolf Henke's article on "happy abductees," arguing that Henke's own research methods are flawed and polemical.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently addresses the Roswell incident, the nature of UFO evidence (including photographic analysis and alleged hoaxes), the role of government agencies in UFO research (like the NSA and FBI), and the interpretation of ancient texts and symbols in relation to extraterrestrial contact. There is a clear emphasis on critical analysis and a skepticism towards sensationalist claims, particularly those involving channeling or unsubstantiated theories. The journal also reviews books and software, providing a platform for both proponents and critics within the UFO research community. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and a scientific approach, while acknowledging the persistent mysteries surrounding the UFO phenomenon. Debates between researchers, such as those between Hesemann and Thieme, highlight the internal discussions and disagreements within the field.