JUFOF - Issue 114 - 1997 06

Magazine Overview

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Issue 114, November/December 1997, Volume 18) is published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e. V. and features a cover price of DM 6.00. The main cover headline highlights the GEP's role in researching UFO phenomena. A prominent announcement details a new GEP special publication by Craig Roberts titled "Der Mensch als Teil des UFO-Phänomens," which explores psychological theories related to UFO and abduction experiences, including 'fantasy proneness' and the idea of electrical brain stimulation. The publication aims to encourage scientific investigation into these phenomena.

UFO Observations and Case Investigations

The journal presents a series of UFO observations and case investigations, primarily from Germany, with some international reports. Each case includes a case number, date, time, location, witness details, classification (e.g., NL/NEAR IFO, NL/IFO, DD/IFO), and the identified explanation or ongoing investigation status.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Observations)

This section lists several recent sightings:

• 29.10.1997, Bottrop: Hans-Werner Peiniger reports an observation.
• 02.10.1997, Soest: Hans-Werner Peiniger reports an observation.
• 29.08.1997, Marktredwitz: Hans-Werner Peiniger reports an observation.
• 12.08.1997, Görlitz: Hans-Werner Peiniger reports a bright object near Capella, initially thought to be a plane's landing lights but later discussed as potentially Saturn or a misidentified star. The witness, an experienced astronomer, noted three smaller objects approaching the main one.
• 02.08.1997, Ahausen: Hans-Werner Peiniger reports a light that moved erratically, possibly a light effect device.
• 13.07.1997, Zeutern: Dozens of UFOs were reported, later identified as balloons with sparklers released for a 60th birthday celebration.
• 19.06.1996, Arnsberg: Roland Horn and Sascha Schomacker report disc-shaped objects observed from a balcony.
• 17.05.1996, Windhoek: A bright cylinder-shaped object, possibly a meteor or fireball, was observed.
• 06.02.1996, Halle: Hans-Werner Peiniger reports a silent, hovering, disc-shaped object with a red rim.
• 31.07.1995, Hagnau: Sascha Schomacker reports a moving light point.
• 21.05.1995, Assuan-Staudamm: Volker W. photographed an object that was later identified as a bird due to motion blur on the photograph.
• 11.07.1994, Weissbach: Manfred B. described a ball or disc-shaped object moving and changing colors, identified as a fireball or meteor.

Specific Cases and Analyses

• Helles Objekt nahe Capella (Bright Object near Capella) - Görlitz, 12.08.1997: The witness, an astronomy teacher, described a bright stationary light near Capella, followed by three smaller objects. Astronomical reconstruction suggested Saturn might have been the object, or possibly aircraft landing lights. The witness later clarified his directional estimates but maintained certainty about the object's appearance, ruling out aircraft lights due to the distance and lack of sound, and suggesting a large, high-flying object or a silent, low-flying one.

• Orangegelbes Objekt bei Soest (Orange-Yellow Object near Soest) - 02.10.1997: Marco Sch. observed an intensely shining, orange-yellow object with rapid speed changes. It was identified as likely a model hot-air balloon.

• UFO am Assuan-Staudamm fotografiert (UFO Photographed over Aswan Dam) - 21.05.1995: An object in a photograph was identified as a bird due to motion blur, likely caused by a slow camera shutter speed.

• Radähnliches Gebilde über Weissbach (Wheel-like Formation over Weissbach) - 11.07.1994: Manfred B. described a colorful, rotating, wheel-like object. This was identified as a fireball or meteor, with similar sightings reported in the area.

• Heller "Zylinder" über Namibia (Bright "Cylinder" over Namibia) - 17.05.1996: Prof. Dr. G. P. reported a large, bright, cylinder-shaped object moving across the sky, leaving a white condensation trail. It was identified as a meteor or fireball.

• Tellerförmiges UFO über Halle (Disc-shaped UFO over Halle) - 06.02.1996: Manfred Hunke reported a silent, hovering, disc-shaped object with a red rim. The investigation was inconclusive due to insufficient data, but a model hot-air balloon was suggested as a possibility.

• Lichtblitze über Marktredwitz (Flashes of Light over Marktredwitz) - 29.08.1997: Reports of UFOs were later identified as balloons with sparklers.

• Scheibenförmige Gebilde über Arnsberg (Disc-shaped Formations over Arnsberg) - 19.06.1996: Walter H. and Elfi S. reported observing ring or disc-shaped formations emerging from a hole in the clouds, rotating and moving. These were identified as light effect devices.

• Wandernder Lichtpunkt über Hagnau (Wandering Light Point over Hagnau) - 31.07.1995: Thomas H. observed a moving light point that reappeared several times, identified as a light effect device.

Articles and Editorials

• "Der Mensch als Teil des UFO-Phänänomens" (Man as Part of the UFO Phenomenon) by Craig Roberts: This article, presented as a special publication, examines psychological theories attempting to explain UFO and abduction phenomena. It discusses personality traits like 'fantasy proneness' and theories involving brain stimulation, aiming to bridge the gap between psychological explanations and scientific skepticism.

• "Wissenschaftlicher Anspruch kontra Realität" (Scientific Claim vs. Reality) by Rudolf Henke: This article likely discusses the challenges of maintaining scientific rigor in UFO research.

• "UFOs im Alltag (Teil 11)" (UFOs in Everyday Life, Part 11) by Hans-Werner Peiniger: This is a continuation of a series exploring the presence of UFO phenomena in daily life.

• "UFOs in der Pop-Musik" (UFOs in Pop Music) by Ulrich Magin: This article examines the influence and representation of UFO themes in popular music.

• Editorial by Gerald Mosbleck: The editor reflects on the 50th anniversary of the UFO phenomenon, the media's portrayal of cases like Roswell, the proliferation of UFO information online, and internal conflicts within the UFO research community. He criticizes a debate between Werner Walter and Roland Horn and concludes with a quote from Nietzsche about the fleeting nature of existence.

• "CE-III-Fall aus England" (CE-III Case from England) by Rudolf Henke: This detailed case study involves Robert G. B., who reported an encounter with a humanoid entity in England in August 1984. The report includes the witness's background, the encounter details, and an analysis that considers psychological factors, including potential 'astral journeys' and hallucinations, while acknowledging the difficulty in definitively proving the objective reality of such experiences. The witness's reluctance to share details and his background in spiritualism and mediumship are discussed.

• "Schwarzer Kasten über Plön" (Black Box over Plön) by Roland M. Horn and Sascha Schomacker: This case describes a stationary, grey, rectangular object observed over Plön. Initial explanations considered solar zeppelins, but the description led to further investigation. Sascha Schomacker's report suggests the object might have been a light effect device, though the witness's description and the witness's son's account are also considered. The possibility of a model hot-air balloon is also mentioned, but the case remains largely inconclusive due to insufficient data and potential misinterpretations.

• "Mit unvorstellbarer Geschwindigkeit" - Orangenes UFO über Schloß Neuschwanstein (Orange UFO over Neuschwanstein Castle) - 08.02.1997: Dieter Z. and Linde K. reported observing a bright orange light moving at high speed over Neuschwanstein Castle. The witness, a former soldier, ruled out conventional aircraft. The object was described as a bright, oval light, possibly a UFO, with an estimated size of 2-5 meters and a distance of 1.5-2 km. The witness interpreted it as an extraterrestrial vehicle.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the detailed investigation and analysis of UFO sightings, attempting to provide rational explanations where possible. The GEP emphasizes its role as a scientific organization and its interdisciplinary approach. There's a clear focus on distinguishing between credible observations and potential misidentifications, psychological phenomena, or hoaxes. The editorial stance, particularly from Gerald Mosbleck, acknowledges the historical significance of UFO research (50th anniversary) while also addressing internal community disputes and the challenges of maintaining objectivity. The psychological aspect of UFO experiences, as highlighted by Craig Roberts' publication, is a significant theme, suggesting that understanding the observer is as crucial as understanding the phenomenon itself. The journal aims to present cases thoroughly, offering detailed discussions and evaluations, even when definitive conclusions cannot be reached.

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Issue 114, 6/97) focuses on a variety of UFO-related topics, including case studies, critiques of UFO research organizations, and the presence of UFO themes in popular culture. The magazine maintains a skeptical yet investigative stance, aiming to provide factual analysis.

Case Study: Alpirsbach Sighting

The article "Rasend schneller roter Luftballon" (Fast-moving red balloon) details a sighting on August 17, 1996, in Alpirsbach, Germany. Multiple witnesses reported a "red sphere" moving "very fast" across the sky. The investigation, led by Rudolf Henke, concludes that the object was a Model Hot Air Balloon (MHB). Henke emphasizes that speed estimations are often subjective and influenced by factors like the autokinetic effect. He also notes the witness's strong "ufological" enthusiasm, suggesting it may have colored their perception. Despite the witness's claim of no prior UFO knowledge, the conclusion leans towards a mundane explanation.

Case Study: Holzminden Incident

Sascha Schomacker reports on a UFO incident from February 9, 1980, near Holzminden, Germany, involving a "glowing red flying object." Initially reported by police and soldiers, the object was later identified by the author as a helium-filled balloon. The investigation involved contacting Major Jürgen Sapauschke, who confirmed that the object was an illuminated gas balloon. The initial confusion was attributed to a teenager releasing balloons, leading to a mass sighting. The article highlights the tendency for such events to be initially misidentified.

Critique of MUFON-CES

Rudolf Henke presents a strong critique of the organization MUFON-CES in his article "MUFON-CES vollends auf dem Weg ins wissenschaftliche Abseits" (MUFON-CES completely off track towards the scientific periphery). He criticizes MUFON-CES members, including Walter von Lucadou and Illobrand von Ludwiger, for presenting "clarified" UFO reports as mysteries, often through appearances in popular media like RTL's "Mysteries" and Pro-7's "Taff." Henke accuses them of lacking scientific rigor, selectively presenting information, and ignoring evidence that contradicts the UFO hypothesis. He specifically points out Rolf-Dieter Klein's photo analyses, which he deems flawed and easily debunked, even by children. Henke argues that MUFON-CES prioritizes sensationalism and media appearances over genuine scientific research, questioning their claim to be the sole scientific UFO research organization.

UFOs in Pop Culture

This section, compiled by Ulrich Magin, explores the pervasive presence of UFOs and alien themes in everyday life and popular culture. It details how UFO imagery appears in:

• Advertising: Companies like BASF, M&M's, and D2 have used UFO imagery in their marketing campaigns.
• Music: Numerous songs and albums reference UFOs, aliens, and space travel, including works by David Bowie, John Lennon, B-52s, Steve Hillage, Andreas Dorau, Nena, Wolle Kriwanek, Blondie, and Philip Glass.
• Software: PC games like "UFO-Alarm" and "Funny Alien" incorporate UFO themes.
• Products: Items like children's shoes, snow globes, and salt and pepper shakers feature UFO designs.
• Media: TV shows and commercials have also utilized UFO imagery.

The article suggests that this widespread presence reflects a cultural fascination with the unknown and extraterrestrial.

Book Reviews

Several books are reviewed:

• "50 Jahre UFOs: Sichtungen, Begegnungen, Erfahrungen" by John & Anne Spencer: This comprehensive documentation analyzes UFO phenomena over the last 50 years, presenting well-known cases critically and considering their cultural context. The authors suggest that viewing UFOs as a modern myth helps understand their significance and the scientific community's skepticism.
• "50 Jahre Roswell: Ein UFO Mythos stürzt ab" by Uli Thieme: Thieme reconstructs the Roswell incident using original documents and re-translates key testimonies. He concludes that the wreckage was from the secret Project MOGUL, not an alien spacecraft, and that alien bodies are a product of rumor and charlatans.
• "Die Realität der Flugscheiben: Ein Leben für eine Idee" by J. Andreas Epp: This brochure details the life of Epp, an inventor of flying disc concepts, focusing on his designs and patents, which he claims were based on conventional propulsion technologies, not esoteric Vril energy.
• "Kosmische Begegnung: Die Außerirdischen sind unter uns" by Courtney Brown: Brown, a political science professor, explores remote viewing, a technique for gathering information about distant targets using psychic abilities. The review notes the academic terminology used to present this practice.
• "Anweisungen aus dem Kosmos" by Paul Wiesner & Matthias Jeschonnek: This book presents models of pre-astronautic artifacts and spacecraft based on interpretations of ancient texts. The review finds the models interesting but the accompanying text superficial, particularly regarding the Roswell incident.
• "The Truth About Alien Abductions" by Peter Hough & Moyshe Kalman: This book investigates alien abduction phenomena, examining neurological and psychological mechanisms. The authors conclude that UFOs are real and abductions are not mere fantasy, suggesting a causal link between the two.
• "Geheimnisse der Bibel" by Walter-Jörg Langbein: Langbein explores potential references to extraterrestrial visits in the Old and New Testaments, concluding that the Bible contains significant clues about such phenomena.
• "Himmelsjahr 1998" by Hans-Ulrich Keller: This astronomical yearbook provides monthly celestial events, astronomical topics, and practical information for navigation and observation, useful for UFO researchers.
• "Leben im Weltraum" by Roland M. Horn: Horn discusses the origins of life, the possibility of extraterrestrial life, and explores astronomical topics like radio astronomy, space probes, and the Hubble telescope. He critically examines pre-astronautics and UFO research.

Letters to the Editor and Other Sections

• Letters to the Editor: Several letters discuss the nature of UFO research, the credibility of certain researchers, and the interpretation of folklore as potential UFO accounts. One letter from Werner Walter addresses claims about Dr. Johannes Fiebag's alleged right-wing extremist connections, refuting them and questioning Fiebag's publications.
• "UFOs in der Pop-Musik": A detailed list of songs and artists referencing UFOs.
• "GEP-SONDERHEFTE" and "INFO-Paket": Information on available publications and resources from the GEP.
• "Fotomechanische Nachdrucke": Reprints of older articles and publications related to UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a critical and evidence-based approach to UFO research. It emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between factual observations and subjective interpretations, often debunking sensational claims with mundane explanations like hot air balloons or misidentified objects. The magazine also highlights the cultural impact of UFO phenomena, showing how they permeate various aspects of society. There is a clear skepticism towards organizations that prioritize media attention over rigorous scientific methodology. The editorial stance favors objective analysis and encourages readers to critically evaluate information, even when it challenges popular beliefs.