JUFOF - Issue 117 - 1998 03

Magazine Overview

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), number 117, dated May/June 1998, published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e. V. (GEP), delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon. The cover headline highlights "UFO-BEOBACHTUNGEN" (UFO Sightings), with a prominent article by Hans-Werner Peiniger.

Articles and Content

Der Mensch als Teil des UFO-Phänomens (The Human Being as Part of the UFO Phenomenon)

By Craig Roberts, this GEP special issue (Sonderheft 16) explores two psychological theories related to UFO and abduction research. It assesses witness personality traits (focusing on fantasy proneness and psychopathology) and a theory linking geology and psychology through brain stimulation. Roberts argues that if psychology can prove or disprove that humans create these unusual traumatic events through psychological mechanisms, it would be a significant scientific advancement. The author emphasizes the need for such investigations to reduce the scientific community's hesitation.

UFO-BEOBACHTUNGEN (UFO Sightings)

This section features several documented sightings:

• 27.09.1997, Graal-Müritz: Hans-Werner Peiniger reports a witness observing a large, red-grey, fluttering object flying slowly, described as a "Mothership."
• 01.09.1997, Urbar: Witnesses reported six white, silent objects moving in formations, forming triangles and later resembling saucers. The horses in the vicinity exhibited unusual restlessness.
• 15.06.1996, Leipzig: Children reported a circular, brightly lit object with colorful lights and round windows that made music-like sounds before ascending rapidly.
• 29.12.1995, Zeven: A witness observed three bright lights forming a triangle, moving in a steep descent and then maintaining a constant altitude, resembling large halogen headlights.
• 25.10.1995, Wüllersleben: A retired teacher observed a dancing, spiraling object with five bright yellow lights that moved silently across the sky. The witness also reported a vivid nightmare about a brightly lit object landing behind a small wood at the same time.
• 06.10.1995, Tamm: A witness observed a bright, oval object with a grey-brown lower part and a sparkling, cylinder-like upper section, resembling polished stones.

Technologieschub von Außerirdischen? (Technological Leap from Extraterrestrials?)

Uli Thieme critically examines the claim that a technological leap, including technologies like lasers and night vision devices, was due to an extraterrestrial spaceship crash in Roswell in 1947. Thieme questions the evidence presented by authors like Philip J. Corso, suggesting that Corso's book contains numerous factual errors and may be motivated by financial gain. Thieme also addresses claims in German UFO books about alien technology influencing the development of stealth bombers, arguing that these claims lack substantiation.

Hypnoseregression von UFO-Entführten (Hypnotic Regression of UFO Abductees)

Roland Horn discusses the use of hypnosis in UFO abduction research, referencing the work of Dr. Martin Orne. Horn highlights Orne's warnings about the limitations of hypnosis in accurately recalling events and the potential for suggestibility and fabrication. He notes that while hypnosis can be used to access memories, it is not a reliable tool for establishing factual truth, especially in the context of unverified claims.

Probleme bei Hypnosen (Problems with Hypnosis)

Helmut Poppenborg also contributes to the discussion on hypnosis, likely exploring further challenges and potential pitfalls associated with its use in UFO research.

Steinscheibenbericht ist Schwindel (Stone Disc Report is a Hoax)

Ulrich Magin critically examines reports about mysterious stone discs, suggesting that the claims are unsubstantiated or fraudulent.

Roswell News (Teil II)

Uli Thieme continues his coverage of the Roswell incident, likely providing further details or analysis.

KURZ NOTIERT (Briefly Noted)

This section includes short items:

• "Marsgesicht ist natürlich" (Mars Face is Natural): This note dismisses the idea of an artificial structure on Mars, stating it is a natural formation, likely a student project.
• "Schülerprojekt startet Wetterballons" (Student project launches weather balloons): This indicates a mundane explanation for some observed phenomena.

LITERATUR (Literature)

This section lists books and publications, including:

• "Das Rätsel: Unbekannte Flugobjekte - Aliens"
• "Leben jenseits der Lichtjahre - Aufbruch in höhere Dimensionen"
• "Ich bin auf dem Mars gewesen - Wunder oder Wundersucht?"

Stealth Technology Discussion

Pages 82-83 delve into the history and development of stealth technology, tracing its origins from early German research (Horten flying wing, radar-absorbent materials) to its modern applications in aircraft like the F-117 and B-2 bomber. The article explains how radar works and how stealth technology aims to reduce an aircraft's radar cross-section. It debunks the notion that stealth technology is of extraterrestrial origin, attributing its development to human ingenuity and scientific advancement, particularly citing the work of Pyotr Ufimtsev and the development of the "Skunk Works" program.

Hypnoseregression von UFO-Entführten: Mittel zur Wahrheitsfindung oder ungeeignetes Spielzeug unseriöser Ufologen? (Hypnotic Regression of UFO Abductees: A Means of Finding Truth or Unsuitable Toy of Unscrupulous Ufologists?)

Roland Horn critically examines the use of hypnotic regression in UFO abduction cases. He discusses the work of Phil Klass and Dr. Martin Orne, highlighting concerns about the reliability of memories retrieved under hypnosis. Horn points out that hypnosis can be used to fabricate memories or to lie, and that it is not a definitive tool for establishing the truth of abduction claims. He suggests that many ufologists may be using hypnosis inappropriately.

Technologieschub von Außerirdischen? (Technological Leap from Extraterrestrials?)

Uli Thieme revisits the claim that extraterrestrial technology from the Roswell crash influenced human technological development. He scrutinizes the arguments presented by Philip J. Corso, pointing out factual inaccuracies and questioning the evidence for alien technology transfer. Thieme also addresses claims about the development of stealth technology being influenced by alien sources, arguing that the technology has terrestrial origins.

Other Case Reports

• Flatterndes Objekt an der Ostsee (Fluttering Object on the Baltic Sea): A witness observed a large, red-grey, fluttering object near Graal-Müritz, possibly a model hot-air balloon.
• Drei Lichter nahe einer Linienmaschine (Three Lights near a Passenger Plane): A witness in Zeven reported three bright lights forming a triangle that moved in a steep descent and then maintained a constant altitude, resembling large halogen headlights.
• Bewegende Lichter nahe Koblenz (Moving Lights near Koblenz): Witnesses near Koblenz observed several white, silent objects moving in formations, with horses showing unusual restlessness.
• Hell erleuchtete Kreise über Leipzig (Brightly Lit Circles over Leipzig): A witness in Leipzig reported observing two bright, rotating circles with "windows" in between, similar to a UFO.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently adopts a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. While presenting witness reports and exploring various theories, including those involving extraterrestrial intelligence, the editorial stance emphasizes the need for rigorous investigation, scientific evidence, and the consideration of conventional explanations. There is a strong focus on debunking unsubstantiated claims and distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misidentifications, psychological factors, or hoaxes. The GEP, as the publisher, positions itself as a scientific organization dedicated to the serious study of UFOs, aiming to bring objectivity and clarity to a field often characterized by speculation. The issue highlights the importance of data collection and careful analysis, as exemplified by the detailed discussions and evaluations of individual cases.

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 117 from March 1998, delves into critical aspects of UFO research, with a strong focus on the reliability of hypnosis, the nature of alleged alien encounters, and the debunking of sensational claims. The magazine features articles by various authors, including Dr. Martin Orne, Philip Klass, Julian Jaynes, Ulrich Magin, and others, who critically examine the methodologies and findings within the UFO community.

Hypnosis and False Memories

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the problematic use of hypnosis in investigating UFO abduction claims. Dr. Martin Orne, a prominent figure in hypnosis research, is extensively quoted. Orne argues that hypnosis can significantly increase suggestibility, leading individuals to produce "memories" that are influenced by current impressions rather than actual past events. He highlights experiments where participants under hypnosis recalled details that were later found to be inaccurate, demonstrating the potential for confabulation. Orne warns against using hypnosis as a primary tool for retrieving factual information, especially in legal or investigative contexts, emphasizing the need for independent verification. The article points out that many UFO investigators, often amateurs, tend to focus on eliciting details through hypnosis, which, according to Orne, diminishes the accuracy of the recalled information.

The issue also discusses "pseudo-memories," which can be unintentionally induced during hypnosis if a subject has previously encountered information in media that is then incorporated into their hypnotic recall. The danger of "leading the witness" is also stressed, where the hypnotist's beliefs or suggestions can inadvertently shape the subject's "memories." Experiments by Orne are cited, showing how a suggested event (like hearing two loud knocks) could be incorporated into a subject's memory of a specific night, even if it never occurred.

Julian Jaynes's work is also referenced, with experiments suggesting that subjects in hypnosis may be more inclined to fulfill the hypnotist's expectations rather than recount objective reality. Jaynes's experiments with hallucination, such as describing a non-existent vase or book, indicate that subjects might simulate experiences to please the hypnotist, questioning the validity of hypnosis for truth-finding in UFO cases.

The concept of "Trancelogik" (trance logic) is introduced, describing the tendency of hypnotized individuals to accept illogical premises without apparent contradiction, often to align with the hypnotist's narrative. The article criticizes ufologists like Budd Hopkins, Scott Rogo, and others for allegedly not adhering to Orne's recommended precautions when conducting hypnotic sessions, suggesting they may be eager to elicit abduction narratives.

The 'Stone Disc Report' Hoax

Ulrich Magin's article, "Steinscheibenbericht ist Schwindel" (Stone Disc Report is a Hoax), thoroughly debunks the claim of ancient alien contact based on alleged prehistoric stone discs found in China. Magin highlights the lack of verifiable evidence for the discoverer, Tsum Um Nui, and notes that the story has been perpetuated by pre-astronautics authors. He points out that Dr. Karyl Robin-Evans's supposed findings, which lent credibility to the story, were later revealed to be a satire by David Agamon, who admitted to fabricating the account. The article concludes that the 'Stone Disc Report' is a classic example of a pre-astronautics hoax.

Roswell Incident and Military History

The issue touches upon the Roswell incident, with a review of an article from "Air Power History" magazine. This article discusses the 1947 top-secret project associated with the Roswell event, noting that the wreckage was initially identified as part of a weather balloon. The article clarifies that the balloon's purpose was not meteorological but for detecting Soviet explosions and rocket launches, serving as a cover for the actual project (MOGUL).

Steven H. Schiff, a former US Congressman, is remembered. Schiff is credited with initiating the GAO investigation into the Roswell incident in 1994, aiming to uncover potential government cover-ups, though he did not necessarily believe in extraterrestrial involvement. His efforts are seen as contributing to the demystification of the Roswell myth.

Book Reviews

The magazine features numerous book reviews, covering a wide range of topics related to UFOs and the paranormal:

• "Casebook on the MEN IN BLACK" by Jim Keith: This book explores the phenomenon of the Men in Black, their alleged role in intimidating UFO witnesses and suppressing information. Keith's research covers cases from the Middle Ages to the present.
• "Operation Trojan Horse" by John A. Keel: Reviewed as a classic in UFO literature, Keel's work is noted for its early consideration of occult and paranormal components of the UFO phenomenon, suggesting "ultraterrestrials" from other dimensions as a possible explanation.
• "They Knew Too Much About Flying Saucers" by Gray Barker: This book is presented as a historical account of early UFO research and the origins of the "Men in Black" legend, detailing cases from the 1950s.
• "The great UFO hoax" by Gregory M. Kanon: This book is described as a compilation of quotes from conspiracy literature, suggesting that government agencies and militaries use the UFO phenomenon to cover up more bizarre events.
• "Das Unerklärliche: Mysterien, Mythen, Menschheitsrätsel" by Reinhard Habeck: This review highlights Habeck's broad exploration of unexplained phenomena, including pre-astronautics, archaeological mysteries, and UFOs, noting its suitability for the general reader.
• "Heilige oder Kosmonauten" by Andreas Faber-Kaiser: This book is critically reviewed for its numerous factual errors and outlandish interpretations, linking UFO phenomena to ancient structures and historical events without sound evidence.
• "X-Akte: Ausserirdische" by Janet and Colin Bord: This compilation of alleged alien contact cases is praised for its neutral presentation, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions. The authors' differing views on extraterrestrial life are noted.
• "UFOs and Ufology: The first 50 years" by Paul Devereux and Peter Brookesmith: This comprehensive overview of UFO research covers historical sightings, the development of UFO cults, and serious investigations, with a focus on modern abduction reports.
• "Aufbruch in eine höhere Dimension: Neue Erkenntnisse über Erde, Menschheit und UFOs" by Manfred Schupp: This book is described as containing channeled information about Earth's history, humanity, and UFOs, with controversial claims about Earth's age and ancient civilizations.
• "Ich bin auf dem Mars gewesen" by Narciso Genovese: Genovese's account of alleged travel to Mars is critically dismissed as a "fantasy product" lacking evidence and comparable to trivial science fiction.
• "Wunder oder Wundersucht? Erscheinungen - Prophezeiungen - Visionen - Besessenheit" by Josef Hanauer: This theological work is reviewed for its critical examination of religious phenomena, drawing parallels between alleged miracles, visions, and possessions with UFO abduction experiences and paranormal phenomena.
• "Leben jenseits der Lichtjahre" by Manfred Reitz: Reitz's book discusses the probability of extraterrestrial life, the SETI project, and the conditions for life's origin, also touching upon UFO research and the possibility of alien visitation.

Other Sections

The issue also includes a section on "Kurz Notiert" (Short Notes) covering topics like the "Mars Face" being natural, a student project launching weather balloons, and a power outage in Argentina attributed to UFOs. A "Roswell News" section provides an obituary for Congressman Steven H. Schiff. A "Literatur" (Literature) section lists books and their authors, and a "Leserbriefe" (Letters to the Editor) section features correspondence from readers, including debates on historical UFO research and personal opinions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around skepticism towards unverified claims, particularly those derived from hypnotic regression. The journal emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, scientific methodology, and independent verification in UFO research. There is a clear editorial stance against sensationalism and a preference for evidence-based analysis. The magazine actively debunks hoaxes and questionable accounts, while also acknowledging the complexity and enduring mysteries of the UFO phenomenon. The critical review of books and research methods suggests a commitment to rigorous investigation rather than blind acceptance of extraordinary claims. The journal also highlights the historical development of UFO research and the evolution of its key concepts and controversies.