JUFOF - Issue 122 - 1999 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (JUFOF), published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., is dated March/April 1999, marking the 20th year of publication. The cover prominently features an article titled "Der Mensch als Teil des UFO-Phänomens" by Craig Roberts, exploring psychological theories related to UFO experiences and abductions. The magazine includes a variety of articles, case reports, and discussions relevant to the field of UFO research.

GEP and its Mission

The GEP is described as Germany's largest recognized scientific association dedicated to UFO research. Their definition of a UFO is an object or light observed at the time of the sighting that was not explainable by conventional means. The GEP employs detailed questionnaires, field investigations, and background analysis, working interdisciplinarily with support from authorities and scientific institutions. The magazine itself, "Journal für UFO-Forschung," is a key output, alongside internal newsletters and publications.

Editorial: Skepticism and New Forums

The editorial addresses a schism within the German skeptical community, specifically the GWUP (Gesellschaft zur wissenschaftlichen Untersuchung von Parawissenschaften). A group of 'liberals' broke away due to perceived dogmatism, forming the "Forum Parawissenschaften." This new forum aims to be more open to various perspectives within 'Parawissenschaften' while maintaining critical dialogue. The editorial welcomes this development as a counterpart to the GEP's own approach.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section presents several documented UFO sightings with detailed analyses:

• Pulsating Object over Bad Neuenahr (1998-08-29): A witness reported a pulsating white point that later disappeared. Investigations suggest it was likely a rotating satellite (Ariane 4, ERS-1) reflecting sunlight, classified as an IFO (Identified Flying Object).
• UFOs as Art Objects (1998-06-13): A reported sighting in Bergisch Gladbach was revealed to be a staged event created for a VHS course, intended to test the local newspaper's reaction. The witnesses admitted to presenting it as a real event.
• UFOs Causing TV Interference? (1997-09-03): A young witness described lights causing TV interference. However, astronomical data contradicted the witness's account regarding the date, moon phase, and weather conditions, leading to its classification as having insufficient data (CE II).
• Fluorescent Lamp-like Object Shows Seemingly Intelligent Behavior (1993-06-10): A witness reported a light beam that appeared to react to their presence and move intelligently. The object's behavior was unusual, but the case is classified as problematic (CE I) due to lack of further evidence.
• Flying Andreas Cross over Hof (1994-04-02): A witness described a cross-shaped object with an oval center. Despite initial interpretations, including the planet Venus, the case is classified as NL/NEAR IFO, with the possibility of it being an unknown natural phenomenon.
• "Great, Dark, Round Discs with Strong Headlights" (1995-10-17): A witness reported seeing two large discs with bright lights. The article suggests this could be related to aircraft landing lights or other atmospheric phenomena, classifying it as a V-3 case.
• A UFO Sighting, a Celestial Sign, and NATO Fighters: This article by Sascha Schomacker critically examines reports published in "Magazin 2000plus." It debunks a "ring" sighting as a light effect device and a "celestial sign" (a '2' in the sky) as likely caused by military aircraft maneuvers, specifically Tornado jets operating near Bremerhaven.

Discussion and Evaluation of Cases

Several articles provide detailed discussions and evaluations of the reported sightings. The authors emphasize the importance of rigorous investigation, cross-referencing data, and considering mundane explanations. Cases are often classified as IFO (Identified Flying Object), MHB (Model-Heißluftballon - Model Hot Air Balloon), or CE (Case Evidence) with varying degrees of certainty. The journal highlights instances where witnesses' interpretations are influenced by their predisposition towards UFO phenomena.

Psychological Aspects of UFO Phenomena

• "Der Mensch als Teil des UFO-Phänomens" (The Human as Part of the UFO Phenomenon): This GEP special issue by Craig Roberts explores two psychological theories: one focusing on personality traits like 'Fantasy Proneness' and psychopathology, and another linking geology and psychology through brain stimulation. The author aims to advance scientific understanding by investigating whether psychological mechanisms create these unusual traumatic events.
• "Vergessen und verdrängen nicht dasselbe" (Forgetting and Repression Are Not the Same): Helmut Poppenborg discusses the psychological concepts of forgetting and repression, particularly in relation to traumatic experiences like those potentially associated with UFO encounters or abductions. He emphasizes that while traumatic events may not be constantly remembered, they can resurface as 'ressentiments' or lead to post-traumatic stress disorders. The article touches upon therapeutic approaches for dealing with such experiences.

Billy Meier's Spaceship Photos

Hans-Werner Peiniger revisits the case of Billy Meier, presenting evidence that photos claimed to be of his spaceship are actually based on a model. The article identifies specific parts of the model, such as a flower pot saucer and a shelf bracket, which are visible in the published images, thus exposing the alleged photos as fraudulent.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently adopts a critical and scientific approach to UFO phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between genuine unexplained events and misidentifications, hoaxes, or psychological factors. The GEP's mission is to investigate UFOs scientifically, and the journal serves as a platform for presenting detailed case analyses, critiques of other publications, and discussions on the psychological and sociological aspects of the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance is one of open-minded skepticism, encouraging thorough investigation and a rational approach to the subject matter.

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 122 from 2/99, is primarily focused on the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) and related phenomena. It features articles on Project SETI's citizen participation, critical analyses of UFO cases, and reviews of relevant literature and media.

Project SETI: Now with Citizen Participation

The lead article by Hans-Werner Peiniger introduces Project SETI@home, a new initiative that invites individuals to contribute their computer's processing power to analyze data from the Aricibo radio telescope in Puerto Rico. This project aims to search for narrow-band radio signals indicative of extraterrestrial intelligence. The article explains that while SETI research typically focuses on specific celestial regions, SETI@home will analyze a narrower frequency spectrum with greater precision. The Aricibo telescope collects 35 Gigabytes of data daily, and SETI@home will distribute this data to volunteers for analysis when their computers are idle.

Billy Meier's "Starship" Under Scrutiny

Another article critically examines the models allegedly built by Billy Meier, which he claimed represented "Semjase's starship." The author details how the structure of a common brass shelf bracket precisely matches the pattern on Meier's alleged spacecraft. The dimensions of Meier's model are compared to everyday objects, suggesting it was constructed from readily available materials like a plastic barrel lid. The article concludes that this provides further evidence of a "Billy Meier hoax," arguing that those who still believe Meier's photos show real spacecraft, or claim they were forged to discredit him, are ignoring verifiable facts and contributing to a cult-like community.

Roswell News: Part 7

Uli Thieme continues his series on the Roswell incident. He addresses a claim that Colonel Blanchard dictated the famous "flying saucer" press release, refuting it by stating that Walter Haut, the former press spokesman, confirmed he wrote the story himself and that Blanchard authorized its release. Haut also reiterated that he never saw the wreckage himself and that the "flying saucer" description was based on hearsay. Thieme emphasizes that Haut's statement was not a dictation but a report based on what he was told, and that the media was supported without direct knowledge of the material.

Thieme also touches upon an internal "power struggle" within the International UFO Museum and Research Center (IUFOMRC), detailing the dismissal of employees and the termination of contracts. He mentions the creation of a new website and alleges that board member Glenn Dennis employed "manipulated" events. The article also describes the IUFOMRC's membership drive, offering various sponsorship levels, including a "lifetime membership" for a substantial donation.

New UFO Detector

Hans-Werner Peiniger discusses the possibility of detecting unidentified flying objects (UFOs) by their magnetic field emissions. Citing research from 1981, the article suggests that UFOs may emit strong magnetic fields or cause significant magnetic field fluctuations. It explains how a simple detector can be built using a compass needle connected to a circuit, which would trigger an alarm when magnetic field changes are detected. However, the article notes that such devices are unreliable and imprecise.

Books and Media Reviews

The issue includes several reviews of books and media related to UFO phenomena:

• "The UFO Book: Encyclopedia of the Extraterrestrial" by Jerome Clark: Described as a comprehensive and well-organized reference work covering various UFO phenomena, cases, and personalities.
• "Die UFO Verschwörung" (The UFO Conspiracy) by David Bischoff: A review of the third novel in a trilogy that explores a secret CIA department attempting to cover up the truth about UFOs.
• "A Strange Harvest" documentary by Linda Moulton Howe: This film is reviewed for its examination of animal mutilation cases, tracing their origins and presenting evidence that suggests non-terrestrial involvement.
• Bob Lazar documentary: A review of a film featuring Bob Lazar, who claims to have worked on alien propulsion systems at Area 51. The review notes the film's use of inserts, graphics, and animations to illustrate Lazar's claims.
• "The PSI Agents of the Pentagon: The Real X-Files" film by Jim Schnabel: This documentary explores the US government's research into paranormal techniques, particularly remote viewing, and its application in intelligence gathering.
• "Spacewalk" board game: A brief mention of a board game that incorporates spaceships and a UFO, suitable for players aged eight and up.
• "HUBBLE: A Look into Infinity" CD-ROM: A review of a CD-ROM featuring over 500 images from the Hubble Space Telescope, offering stunning views of the universe.
• "Business English" software: A review of a software program designed to assist with writing German and English business correspondence.

Other Sections

• Letters to the Editor: Includes correspondence from Uli Thieme and Wladislaw Raab, engaging in debates with other researchers, particularly Michael Hesemann, regarding the manipulation of evidence and the interpretation of historical UFO cases.
• New UFO Detector: A brief technical description of a potential UFO detection device.
• New Publications: Announcements of upcoming books and services, including a new edition of Ulrich Magin's work on "Contact with "Extraterrestrials" in the German-speaking world.
• GEP Services: Information on the GEP's newspaper clipping service and software offerings, including astronomy programs and the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" index.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI), critical examination of UFO evidence and claims (particularly the Billy Meier case and the Roswell incident), and the dissemination of information through books, films, and research. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to question claims and seek verifiable facts, while also acknowledging the fascination and ongoing research within the UFO community. There is a clear emphasis on scientific methodology and a skepticism towards unsubstantiated assertions.