JUFOF - Issue 111 - 1997 03

Magazine Overview

This issue of the "JUFOF Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., is dated May/June 1997 and is the 111th issue of the 18th year of publication. The cover prominently features the magazine's title and the GEP's name, along with a smaller advertisement for a special issue titled "Der Mensch als Teil des UFO-Phänomens" (Man as Part of the UFO Phenomenon) by Craig Roberts. The issue includes a variety of articles, UFO case reports, and literature reviews.

Special Issue: Der Mensch als Teil des UFO-Phänomens

The GEP special issue, "Der Mensch als Teil des UFO-Phänomens" by Craig Roberts, is highlighted. It explores two theories related to the UFO/abduction phenomenon: one focusing on witness personality traits like 'Fantasy Proneness' and psychopathology, and another that connects geology and psychology through electrical brain stimulation. The author aims to demonstrate the necessity of such scientific investigations to reduce the scientific community's hesitation towards the subject.

Editorial and Letters

The "Liebe Leser!" (Dear Readers!) section, written by Hans-Werner Peiniger, addresses the controversial case of Billy Meier. Peiniger discusses an interview with Meier's ex-wife, Kalliope Meier, who claims Meier's contacts and UFO photos are fabrications. He expresses skepticism towards Meier's claims and warns against his group being cult-like. The editorial also mentions other articles in the issue, including reports on nocturnal perceptual disturbances, lucid dreams, and a review of UFO literature.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen - Bewertungen

This section presents documented UFO sightings and their evaluations:

• Leucht-UFO auf Video festgehalten (Luminous UFO captured on video): A video from Ebeltoft, Denmark, taken in July 1996, shows a grey, elongated object. Analysis suggests it is a lens reflection, possibly due to a filter or surface damage, rather than a real object.
• Außerirdischer im Kleinwalsertal? (Alien in Kleinwalsertal?): A witness from Berlin reported seeing an 'alien' in 1975, who was later photographed. The author dismisses this as a misinterpretation of a signpost, possibly influenced by ufological literature.
• Das 'Flaschenverschluß-UFO' (The 'Bottle Cap UFO'): A case from Kirchheim, Germany, where a witness claimed to have photographed a small flying object. The witness later admitted it was a bottle cap thrown in the air, confirming it as a hoax.
• Flackerndes Licht am Bergheimer Himmel (Flickering Light in the Bergheim Sky): Reports from March 1996 in Bergheim, Germany, of a bright, pulsating light are analyzed. While initially considered a UFO, the description and movement align with observations of the planet Venus.
• Polizei jagt UFOS über Bergheim (Police chase UFOs over Bergheim): A newspaper clipping from March 1996 reports police investigating UFO sightings in Bergheim. The article suggests these were likely searchlights from a party.
• Essener Polizei auf UFO-Jagd (Essen Police on UFO Hunt): A report from December 1996 where police investigated UFO sightings in Essen, which were identified as searchlights from an entertainment center.
• Sky-Tracker-Lichter über Römhild (Sky-Tracker Lights over Römhild): A sighting from February 1997 in Römhild, Germany, of four milky lights moving in a pattern. This is identified as reflections from light effect devices, likely 'space cannons' or 'Sky Trackers'.
• Drehender Lichterkreis über Stelle (Rotating Circle of Lights over Stelle): A report from June 1994 in Stelle, Germany, of a rotating circle of lights. Similar to the Römhild case, this is identified as reflections from light effect devices.
• Fliegende Untertasse (CE-I-Objekt) anno 1945 über Wiesau/ Pfalz? (Flying Saucer (CE-I Object) in 1945 over Wiesau/Pfalz?): A witness from 1945 describes a silent, disk-shaped object. Due to the age of the report and lack of corroborating evidence, it is classified as having insufficient information, possibly a military aircraft.
• Pulsierendes Licht über Wanne-Eickel (Pulsating Light over Wanne-Eickel): A witness from July 1995 in Wanne-Eickel, Germany, reported a pulsating light with a humming sound. The investigation found no conventional explanation, classifying it as a 'Problematic UFO'.
• 'Leucht-UFO' über Gelsenkirchen fotografiert? ('Luminous UFO' photographed over Gelsenkirchen?): A case from July 1996 where a witness photographed a light phenomenon. The analysis suggests it might be a conventional aircraft with its landing lights on, due to its movement and appearance.
• UFO entpuppte sich als Pflanzenfolie (UFO turned out to be Plant Foil): A report from April 1997 in Karlsdorf-Neuthard, Germany, where a rotating object was mistaken for a UFO but was identified as a large piece of agricultural plastic film.

Special Feature: Erneute Zweifel am Billy-Meier-Fall (Renewed Doubts about the Billy Meier Case)

This extensive section details the controversy surrounding Billy Meier. It includes an interview with his ex-wife, Kalliope Meier, who claims Meier's UFO photos are fakes and his 'contacts' are fabricated. She describes his group as cult-like and criticizes his alleged manipulation of followers for financial gain. The article also mentions Michael Hesemann's positive portrayal of Meier and criticizes the lack of critical analysis from some UFO researchers. The author, Hans-Werner Peiniger, reiterates his long-held skepticism about Meier's claims, citing evidence of photo forgery and the cult-like nature of Meier's community.

Literature Reviews

A section on "LITERATUR" (Literature) lists several books related to UFOs and related topics, including "Der Vril-Mythos - Alien Discussion - UFO-Das Jahrhundertphänomen - Begegnungen bei Buff Ledge - Der UFO-Absturz bei Roswell - Feuer am Himmel - Wenn Götter Gott spielen - Die Wahrheit über die Plejaden." These are likely brief reviews or mentions, intended to guide readers in their research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical analysis of UFO sightings, with a strong emphasis on identifying misidentifications and potential hoaxes. The journal consistently applies scientific and psychological perspectives to evaluate witness testimony and photographic/video evidence. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of extraordinary claims, particularly those lacking robust evidence, as exemplified by the detailed debunking of the Billy Meier case and the rational explanations provided for many reported sightings. The GEP positions itself as a serious scientific organization dedicated to rigorous investigation, distinguishing itself from more sensationalist approaches to the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 111 from March 1997, offers a diverse range of articles and book reviews related to UFO phenomena, pre-astronautics, and related topics. The cover story focuses on nocturnal perception disturbances and lucid dreams, exploring their potential connection to UFO experiences and alien visitations.

Articles and Features

"Billy Meier's Flying Dinosaur Photo"

This short piece discusses a photograph attributed to Billy Meier, claiming it shows a Pteranodon from the planet "Neber." However, the article identifies the image as a section of a painting by Zdenek Burian, suggesting Meier may have photographed it from a book. The source is cited as "What Billy Meier-Saur" by Ray Rimell and Kal K. Korff.

"Nocturnal Perception Disturbances and Lucid Dreams" by Helmut Poppenborg

Poppenborg explores the psychological and physiological factors contributing to sleep disturbances, particularly lucid dreams. He posits that environmental factors like room climate, heavy meals, and evening caffeine can trigger these states. He suggests that noises during sleep can induce lucid dreams, potentially leading to the "Bedroom Visiting Syndrome," where individuals feel they are experiencing alien encounters. The article also touches upon physiological causes like circulatory disorders, which could be misinterpreted as levitation experiences or alien abductions. Poppenborg emphasizes that while these phenomena are often subjective, they can be significant for understanding reported abduction experiences, especially in children, where fever can also play a role.

Book Reviews

"The Vril Myth" by Peter Bahn and Heiner Gehring

This review discusses a book that investigates the origins of the Vril myth, a supposed cosmic energy form. The authors trace the myth back to Edward Bulwer-Lytton's 1873 novel "The Coming Race" and later popularization by Pauwels and Bergier. The book reportedly debunks the existence of a secret "Vril Society" in Nazi Germany, attributing the myth to literary and esoteric sources. The review notes that the second part of the book draws parallels between the Vril concept and Wilhelm Reich's Orgone theory, but finds this part less convincing.

"Mars: Planet of Life" by Johannes Fiebag and Torsten Sasse

This book provides an overview of current Mars research, prompted by the discovery of potential fossil microbes in a Mars meteorite. It covers historical observations, the Viking probes, and recent findings, while avoiding pre-astronautic speculation.

"Merging Dimensions: The Opening Portals of Sedona" by Tom Dongo and Linda Bradshaw

This review is critical of the book, which claims Sedona, Arizona, is a hub of UFO phenomena. The reviewer notes the book presents over 100 UFO photos and discusses alleged encounters with aliens, MIBs, Bigfoot, and other strange beings. However, the reviewer questions the credibility of the evidence presented.

"German Circular Planes" and "Strange Phenomena in the German Sky" by J. Miranda and P. Mercado

These brochures are reviewed as providing insight into German secret weapons development during World War II, particularly circular aircraft concepts. The reviewer notes that while they present technical details and illustrations, they lack historical sourcing and do not address unconventional propulsion systems often associated with UFOs.

"Abduction Phenomenon" Conference Report (MIT)

This report summarizes a conference held at MIT on the abduction phenomenon. It highlights the increasing number of people reporting alien abductions and the participation of researchers like psychiatrist John Mack and physicist David E. Pritchard. The conference aimed to provide a scientific platform for discussing these experiences.

"UFO Healings: True Accounts of People Healed by Extraterrestrials" by Preston Dennett

Dennett presents over 100 cases of alleged healing by extraterrestrials. The review is skeptical, noting that some cases involve questionable sources like Billy Meier and anonymous reports, and that the book lacks a balanced discussion or statistical analysis.

"Encounters at Buff Ledge" by Walter N. Webb

This book is described as a detailed investigation into a 1968 UFO abduction case at Buff Ledge, Vermont. The reviewer praises Webb's thorough research, which included interviewing numerous witnesses and finding parallels with other UFO events from the era. The book is recommended for those interested in abduction phenomena.

"The Star Gate of the Pyramids: Secret Paths to the Cosmos" by Erdogan Ercivan

This book is presented as a unique contribution to the field of pre-astronautics concerning ancient Egypt. It explores mysteries of the pyramids and Sphinx, discusses the work of Rudolf Gantenbrink, and critiques historical falsifications. The reviewer highlights the author's examination of the Sirius mystery, Dogon mythology, and hieroglyphs, and praises the inclusion of a detailed Egyptian dynastic timeline.

"Fire in the Sky" by Travis Walton

The reviewer is critical of this book, finding it overly long and filled with extraneous details about Walton's personal life and the film adaptation. While acknowledging the book's detailed account of the Travis Walton abduction case, the reviewer questions its authenticity, citing inconsistencies in polygraph tests and Walton's alleged attempts to manipulate the results. The reviewer suggests Walton may have exaggerated his story for financial gain and personal recognition.

"The UFO Encyclopedia, Volume 3: High Strangeness: UFOs from 1960 through 1979" by Jerome Clark

This is the third volume of Clark's UFO encyclopedia, covering the period from 1960 to 1979. The review praises its comprehensive coverage of UFO phenomena, including theories, organizations, key figures, and detailed case examples like the Andreasson abduction and the Travis Walton case. It is recommended for both UFO enthusiasts and researchers.

"Divine Times: The Past Future of Earth" by Lars A. Fischinger

This book is recommended for beginners in pre-astronautics, covering topics like ancient life on Earth, extraterrestrial visitors, and advanced technology in past epochs. It also touches upon UFO abductions and the possibility of returning astronaut gods.

"When Gods Play God: Our Evolution Came from Outer Space" by Hartwig Hausdorf

Hausdorf presents a collection of evidence suggesting extraterrestrial influence on human evolution and religion. The review notes that while the book covers various topics, including ancient artifacts and structures, it relies heavily on speculation and lacks scientific rigor, with the exception of a section on unusual spiral-shaped metallic objects found in the Ural Mountains.

"Image Manipulation with the PC" by Karl-Heinz Bleul

This book is a practical guide to using PC software for image manipulation, scanning, and presentation. While useful for general users, the reviewer finds it lacks sufficient depth for professional UFO researchers who might use such tools for analyzing UFO photographs.

"The Flying Triangle Mystery" by Omar Fowler

This brochure compiles sightings of triangular UFOs worldwide, suggesting they are material objects under intelligent control, possibly advanced aircraft or extraterrestrial craft.

"Conclusions on Operation Majestic Twelve" by Kevin D. Randle

Randle critically examines the controversial MJ-12 documents, concluding that they are likely a forgery. The book summarizes arguments against their authenticity.

"The UFO Crash at Roswell" by Kevin Randle and Donald Schmitt

This is a detailed account of the Roswell incident, based on interviews with over 200 witnesses. The reviewer notes that while it's an older work, it provides essential elements for reconstructing the event and supports the theory of an unknown flying object crash.

"The Truth About the Pleiades" by Billy Meier

The reviewer is highly critical of this book, authored by Billy Meier himself. It dismisses Meier's accounts of his contacts with extraterrestrials as lacking intellectual depth and resembling poor science fiction. The reviewer also criticizes Meier's claims about governments suppressing information and his assertion that he is the "most dangerous man" due to his UFO material. The book is seen as potentially damaging to serious UFO research.

Letters to the Editor

Wladislaw Raab vs. Rudolf Henke

This section features a lengthy exchange between Wladislaw Raab and Rudolf Henke, primarily debating the methodology of UFO research. Raab criticizes Henke's reliance on literature studies and his perceived uncritical acceptance of certain authors (like John Mack). Raab advocates for direct research and critical analysis of evidence, while Henke defends the value of literature review and historical analysis, arguing that UFO phenomena have a historical dimension.

Roland Horn on Poppenborg's Article

Horn writes in response to an article by Poppenborg about medications and UFO encounters. He consulted a neurologist who confirmed that the side effects mentioned by Poppenborg are known but rare. The neurologist also suggested the possibility of extraterrestrial presence.

Peter Kauert on UFO Research Methodology

Kauert emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to UFO research, drawing parallels to Sherlock Holmes. He suggests expanding questionnaires to include factors like medication use, drug consumption, and religious background of witnesses.

Hans-Werner Sachmann on Media and Research Practices

Sachmann criticizes certain UFO researchers and media outlets for their handling of UFO witnesses and research. He specifically calls out Michael Hesemann for allegedly disparaging a UFO witness and Poppenborg for warning against psychiatric misinterpretations of UFO witnesses. Sachmann advocates for objectivity and factual reporting.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a critical yet open-minded approach to UFO research. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous investigation, distinguishing between subjective experiences and objective evidence. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based analysis and debunks sensationalism, while still acknowledging the complexity and mystery surrounding UFO phenomena. The letters to the editor section highlights ongoing debates within the UFO community regarding research methodologies and the interpretation of evidence. The journal also seems to have a preference for German-language publications and authors, with many book reviews focusing on works available in German.