JUFOF - Issue 127 - 2000 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (JUFOF), number 1 of 2000 (Volume 21, Issue 127), published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., focuses on UFO sightings, investigation methodologies, and critical analysis within the field. The cover prominently features Ulrich Magin's book "Kontakte mit 'Ausserirdischen' im Deutschen Sprachraum" and highlights various articles on UFO observations and related phenomena.

Editorial and Letters

In his editorial, "Liebe LeserInnen!", editor Hans-Werner Peiniger reflects on the turn of the millennium and the ongoing pursuit of UFO research. He anticipates the usual influx of newcomers and the continued critical examination of evidence. Peiniger notes the inclusion of a short statistic on processed UFO observations and mentions that many cases remain in the archive. He also introduces an article critically examining the investigation methods of MUFON-CES, particularly their use of hypnosis regression. Peiniger mentions that several articles, including one by Christian Sommerer on physicist Burkhard Heim and reader responses, had to be postponed to the next issue due to space constraints.

UFO Observations and Evaluations

"Ufoartige" Wolke fotografiert

This case (Fall-Nummer: 199905) involves a photograph taken in May 1999 near the Strait of Gibraltar. The photographer initially identified an 'UFO-like' cloud in the developed photo. However, upon examination of the negative, it was determined that the anomaly was caused by a mechanical defect on the film, specifically a 'grain' that shifted and scratched the emulsion during processing, resulting in the appearance of a cloud-like shape on the print.

"Mutter wurde von einem 'inneren Grauen' gepackt"

This documented sighting (Fall-Nummer: 19910417 A) occurred on April 17, 1991, near Hildesheim, Germany. Two witnesses, a mother and her son, reported seeing a large, stationary spotlight about 50-100 meters high. After the spotlight switched off, the object's underside became visible, covered in numerous, varied, milky-green lights that did not blink. The object remained motionless, and no sound was heard, leading the witnesses to conclude it was not an aircraft. The investigation classified it as a NEAR IFO (Identified Flying Object), with a helicopter being the most likely explanation, possibly a Lynx helicopter used by British forces in night-flying exercises for the Gulf War.

"Farbe wie glühendes Eisen"

This case (Fall-Nummer: 19820109 A) from January 9, 1982, in Flensburg, Germany, describes a witness observing a blinking light and a red, football-sized object with a light beam. The object moved in serpentine patterns and loops at an estimated altitude of 10,000-15,000 meters. The witness noted its unusual color and behavior, deeming it unlikely to be an aircraft. The investigation concluded it was likely a model hot-air balloon, classifying it as NEAR IFO due to its low strangeness factor and lack of anomalous characteristics.

Investigation Methods and MUFON-CES Critique

Heiligt der Zweck jedes Mittel?

This section critically examines the investigation methods of MUFON-CES, particularly their use of hypnosis regression in UFO abduction cases. The author, Hans-Werner Peiniger, questions the scientific validity and ethical implications of this technique.

#### The Case of Mr. S. (Vienna, 1980)

The article details a case where Mr. S. reported an unusual event in Vienna in 1980, involving an explosion and a bright light engulfing his apartment. He sought help from Dr. Helmut Lammer and Dipl.Ing. Oliver Sidla, who then involved MUFON-CES leader Illobrand von Ludwiger. The investigation, as described by Mr. S., involved a session with a 'medium' and an individual identified as an 'arzt' (doctor) from MUFON-CES in Munich. Mr. S. recounts that the session was farcical, with the medium describing the event in vague, symbolic terms and the 'doctor' merely recording the session. He felt deceived, likening the experience to being conned and stating that his costs for the trip to Munich were over 5,000 Schilling.

#### Critique of MUFON-CES Methods

Peiniger, along with Dr. Lammer, expresses strong criticism of MUFON-CES's approach. They highlight that MUFON-CES's own guidelines, which emphasize scientific rigor, objectivity, and distancing from esoteric practices, were seemingly violated. The use of a medium, the lack of qualified medical professionals, and the questionable nature of the 'investigation' are all points of contention. Peiniger questions why von Ludwiger, who publicly advocates for scientific methods, would tolerate such an approach. He suggests that MUFON-CES might be exploiting the vulnerability of witnesses seeking answers, offering a pseudo-scientific approach rather than genuine investigation.

#### Oliver Stummer's Report

Oliver Stummer, who was asked to investigate the case, confirmed Mr. S.'s account and noted that other witnesses corroborated the observation of a bright light. However, Stummer points out several relativizing factors: the long time elapsed since the event, Mr. S.'s long-standing interest in UFOs, and the absence of post-traumatic symptoms. Despite these points, the article implies that MUFON-CES's involvement was problematic.

#### Mr. S.'s Account of the Hypnosis Session

Mr. S. recounts his experience with the MUFON-CES 'investigation' in Munich. He was led to believe he would meet with a psychologist and Mr. von Ludwiger for a scientific examination. Instead, he encountered a woman identified as a 'medium' and a man who recorded the session. The medium's descriptions were abstract and symbolic, involving concepts like 'psychic brain changes' and 'light balls connecting with motherships.' Mr. S. felt the session was a charade, not a scientific inquiry, and that his experience was being trivialized. He explicitly warns others against contacting MUFON-CES under Mr. Ludwiger's leadership, calling it a form of 'conmanship' that exploits people's helplessness.

#### Dr. Lammer's Response and MUFON-CES's Rationale

Dr. Lammer, in a statement, acknowledges that MUFON-CES had previously facilitated sessions with a 'sensitive assistant' for abductees, aiming to help with 'unorthodox anxiety therapy.' He admits this was not scientific research but a means to help. He also notes that MUFON-CES stopped referring people when the assistant raised her fees. This response is presented as evidence that MUFON-CES was aware of and condoned such methods, despite their public stance on scientific investigation.

#### Further Criticisms by the Author

The author reiterates his questions about why Herr von Ludwiger chose such an 'unscientific' communication channel and tolerated the 'nonsense' that contradicted MUFON-CES's own guidelines. He questions the lack of qualified doctors or psychologists and the absence of strict scientific procedure. The author concludes that MUFON-CES seems to have exceptions to its own rules, particularly concerning the use of mediums, which most members are unaware of. He contrasts this with the GEP's approach, which would have been more cautious given the age of the case and the lack of clear evidence.

Statistical Overview

A statistical overview of 540 cases processed by GEP by the end of 1999 is presented. The distribution shows a high percentage of 'IFO' (Identified Flying Object) cases (72%), followed by 'NEAR IFO' (11%), 'UNGENÜGENDE DATEN' (Insufficient Data) (10%), 'PROBLEMATIC' (6%), and 'GOOD UFO' (1%). A breakdown of the 'IFO-NEAR IFO' categories includes light effect devices, model hot-air balloons, aircraft/helicopters, meteors, stars/planets, satellites, zeppelins, and psychological factors.

Book Review

An advertisement for the book "DAS RÄTSEL: UNBEKANNTE FLUGOBJEKTE" by Hans-Werner Peiniger is featured, described as a "Serious and instructive book on the UFO topic."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes a critical and scientific approach to UFO research. The GEP, as the publisher, positions itself as a scientific organization dedicated to investigating UFO phenomena. There is a clear skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a focus on rigorous analysis. The critique of MUFON-CES highlights a division within the UFO community regarding methodology, with the GEP advocating for evidence-based investigation and cautioning against sensationalism or unverified techniques like unqualified hypnosis regression. The editorial stance is one of continued, albeit critical, exploration of the UFO phenomenon, prioritizing factual evidence and scientific methodology.

This issue of the 'Journal für UFO-Forschung' (JUFOF), Volume 1999, Issue 127, published in January 2000, is a German-language publication from the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V. It features a comprehensive table of contents covering a wide range of UFO-related topics, including articles, reports, book reviews, and software information. The issue is dedicated to exploring various facets of the UFO phenomenon, with a particular focus on debunking misinformation and presenting scientific and theoretical perspectives.

Roswell News: New Disinformation (Part 1)

Uli Thieme's article, 'Roswell News', addresses what he terms 'new disinformation' surrounding the Roswell incident. He criticizes sensationalist reporting, specifically an article in 'Magazin 2000', which claimed that US aircraft manufacturers, like the head of the US model aircraft company Testor, John Andrews, had benefited technologically from a crashed UFO. Thieme states that this article is filled with misinformation and that the accompanying drawings of the alleged Roswell UFO are dubious. He plans to divide his report into two parts, with Part 1 focusing on the 'development' of the supposed Roswell UFO and Part 2 on technological false claims.

Thieme questions the claims attributed to aircraft designer Ben Rich, who allegedly revealed that US stealth aircraft technology profited from a Roswell crash. He dismisses the 'evidence' presented as absurd and notes that the accompanying DIN A5-sized drawings, purportedly of the Roswell UFO, are not convincing. The article critiques the source of this information, William Louis McDonald, and the artist, Frank Kaufmann, whose drawings are presented. Thieme points out that McDonald's claims are based on hearsay and that the drawings, particularly those by Kaufmann, are inconsistent and appear to be manipulated, especially when compared to Kaufmann's earlier sketches and the alleged 'witness' testimony.

Thieme further scrutinizes the credibility of William Louis McDonald, who has used multiple aliases and changed his story over time. McDonald initially claimed to be a radar specialist who tracked the Roswell UFO and later a military pilot stationed at Roswell. However, he eventually admitted to Reuters in 1997 that he was merely a civilian working at the Roswell military airfield in 1947 and had not seen a UFO there. Thieme concludes that McDonald is a proven liar and that any drawings based on his testimony are therefore worthless.

Table of Contents Highlights

The extensive table of contents reveals a diverse range of articles:

• Roland Gehardt discusses 'Crazy Planet or The Invasion Has Long Begun'.
• Rudolf Henke explores 'Interconnected in the Fine Material' with photos of Rosemarie W.
• Peter Kauert examines 'UFO Waves' and their relation to solar activity, and also 'Space Debris and UFO Crashes'.
• Ralf Kuhn presents a 'Permanent Magnet Measuring Device and UFO Detector'.
• Gerald Mosbleck reports on physicist Burkhard Heim distancing himself from UFO research and a 'UFO Conference 1999'.
• Hans-Werner Peiniger writes about 'Apparitions and Their Parallels to the UFO Phenomenon' (Part 2) and 'UFOs in Everyday Life' (Parts 15-16), and also notes 'Further indications of fraud discovered'.
• Helmut Poppenborg discusses 'Forgotten and Suppressed Are Not the Same' and the term 'UFO' as a 'Problem of Linguistic Regulation'.
• Wladislaw Raab investigates 'The Humanoids: Anatomy of a Phenomenon' (Part 2).
• Christian Sommerer focuses on 'Burkhard Heim - the Einstein of MUFON-CES'.
• Uli Thieme contributes 'Roswell News' (Parts 6-10).
• Werner Walter offers an explanation for 'Flying Triangles' (Partially Explained).

UFO Observations

The issue includes a detailed list of UFO observations documented and evaluated by Hans-Werner Peiniger and Rudolf Henke, spanning from 1968 to 1999, with dates, locations, and brief descriptions of the phenomena observed (e.g., weather balloons, light effects, meteors, satellites, planets).

Books Reviewed

A significant portion of the journal is dedicated to book reviews, covering a wide array of UFO and related topics:

• W. Ahrheit-Volle reviews 'The Secret of the Apocalyptic Number'.
• Robert E. Bartholomew & George S. Howard's 'UFOs & Alien Contact. Two Centuries of Mystery' is reviewed.
• David Bischoff's novels 'The UFO Conspiracy: Deceived' and 'The UFO Conspiracy: Revealed' are discussed.
• Jerome Clark's 'The UFO Book. Encyclopedia of the Extraterrestrial' and 'The UFO Encyclopedia' are highlighted.
• Walter Closs's 'They Came from the Moon' is examined.
• Philip J. Corso & William J. Birnes' 'The Day After Roswell' is presented as proof that UFOs really came.
• Heather Couper & Nigel Henbest's 'Are We Alone in the Universe?' is reviewed.
• David Darlington's 'The Dreamland File. America's Super-Secret High-Tech Military Base' (Area 51) is discussed.
• Andrew Donkin's 'Alien Files. They Are Somewhere Out There...' is featured.
• Gisela Ermel explores 'The Time of Witchcraft in the Light of UFO Research'.
• Johannes Fiebag covers 'Secrets of Nature Peoples. God Signs - Death Cults - Star Myths' and 'UFO Waves'.
• Lars Fischinger & Roland M. Horn discuss 'UFO Sects'.
• Charles Fort's 'Lo!'.
• Heike Greiner's novel 'Nighttime Abduction' is reviewed.
• Michael Haase examines 'In the Sign of Ra'.
• Roland M. Horn explains 'How Saucers Learned to Fly'.
• David M. Jacobs' 'Body and Mind: The Secret Invasion of the Aliens' is discussed.
• Philip J. Klass's 'The Real Roswell Crashed-Saucer Coverup' is presented.
• Helmut & Marion Lammer's 'Black Research' is reviewed.
• Roger K. Leir's 'The Aliens and the Scalpel' is discussed.
• Alec Maclellan's 'The Lost World of Agharti' is examined.
• Ulrich Magin reviews 'Comet Ride' and 'Contacts with "Aliens" in the German-Speaking Area'.
• Kim Møller Hansen's 'UFO Vision No. 7' is featured.
• Hans-Werner Peiniger's 'The Riddle: Unknown Flying Objects' is discussed.
• Wladislaw Raab's 'Unheimliche Begegnungen' is reviewed.
• Tilman T. Reuss (Hrsg.)'s 'Yearbook of Aviation & Spaceflight 1999' is presented.
• Marina Rosenberg's 'Kidnapped by Aliens' is discussed.
• Benson Saler, Charles A. Ziegler & Charles B. Moore's 'UFO Crash at Roswell' is reviewed.
• Robert Sheaffer's 'UFO Sightings. The Evidence' is featured.
• Karl-Heinz Zunneck's 'Secret Technologies 2' is discussed.

Software Reviews

• UFOCAT99: Described as one of the most interesting CD-ROMs on the UFO phenomenon, this database, started by Dr. David R. Saunders, contains over 111,719 UFO sighting records. It provides data such as date, time, location, witness, classification, and physical characteristics of the objects. The review notes its extensive data, including 1622 German cases, and its accessibility via a Microsoft Access database.
• Tele-Info XX4: This is presented as a comprehensive German directory software offering a database of over 36 million entries, including phone and fax numbers, business and statistical information, and detailed maps.

Articles and Features

• Seth Shostak's 'Neighbors in Space: In Search of Life in the Cosmos' is reviewed. The book is praised for its witty and refreshing approach to the search for extraterrestrial intelligence.
• Hans-Ulrich Keller's 'Sky Year 2000: Sun, Moon, and Stars Throughout the Year' is recommended as an ideal guide for astronomical events.
• Johannes von Buttlar's 'Project Aurora: Secret Technologies of the 3rd Millennium' is reviewed. The book discusses a supposed advanced military aircraft but is criticized for not offering new information beyond existing UFO lore.

Leserbriefe (Letters to the Editor)

• Illobrand von Ludwiger writes a 'Correction of Sommerer's Heim Biography', defending physicist Burkhard Heim's work on unified field theory against criticism from Christian Sommerer. Ludwiger argues that Heim's theories are scientifically sound and that Sommerer's critique is based on misinformation and personal attacks.
• Edgar Wunder also contributes a letter regarding Christian Sommerer's article on Burkhard Heim, criticizing Sommerer's 'demagogic' approach and lack of factual arguments. Wunder defends Heim's work and criticizes Sommerer for resorting to ad hominem attacks.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of UFO reports and media coverage, the debunking of misinformation and alleged hoaxes, the exploration of theoretical physics related to UFO phenomena (particularly Burkhard Heim's work), and the investigation into the nature of humanoids. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous, evidence-based research, with a strong emphasis on scientific methodology and a skeptical approach to sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims. The journal actively engages with its readership through letters to the editor, fostering a dialogue on these complex topics.

Title: JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: 127
Volume: 1/2000
Date: January 2000
Publisher: GEP e.V.
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research) delves into critical analyses of prominent UFO theories and investigations, featuring a strong focus on challenging the work of Michael Hesemann.

Article: Rudolf Henke on Burkhard Heim

Rudolf Henke responds to an article by C. Sommerer concerning Burkhard Heim's theories. Henke dismisses Sommerer's suggestion of "pronounced personality splitting" in Heim, arguing that early interests in science like biology and explosives chemistry are normal for young people. He questions why Heim has not addressed the legends surrounding his accident, pondering whether Heim himself believes in a revolutionary discovery made during that incident or if he is intentionally perpetuating legends to protect his theoretical framework.

Henke emphasizes the need for experimental verification of Heim's theories. He notes the lack of clear, verifiable experimental results or confirmations, despite the theories being public for over 20 years. He expresses skepticism towards individuals who claim expertise across multiple fields, labeling them as potentially suffering from megalomania. Henke observes a pattern of self-imposed isolation and an unwillingness to engage in feedback from the wider scientific community among such "universalists," suggesting that Heim's theories might collapse if subjected to rigorous scientific scrutiny.

Article: Werner Walter on Michael Hesemann

Werner Walter of CENAP, Mannheim, addresses Michael Hesemann's writings and public statements. Walter clarifies that he has never used the term "Hesemann-Prügeln" (Hesemann-bashing), distinguishing criticism from outright attacks. He points out that neither he nor Hesemann receive "state research funding" for UFO investigations, though GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.) members can deduct donations from taxes. Walter dismisses the idea that GEP is a state-sponsored debunking organization.

Walter acknowledges his own UFO-skeptical book's success but states it provides no reason for Hesemann to be envious, as Hesemann's books have sold significantly better. He characterizes his own book as a "wallflower" compared to Hesemann's sales figures. Walter refutes Hesemann's assertion about the "confirmation of public prejudice" being profitable, comparing it to the low cost of the Bild newspaper. He strongly denies being an opportunist and criticizes Hesemann's rhetorical tactics.

Regarding the Kopp-Verlag, Walter explains that its function as a UFO specialty store meant his book was not offered, which he interprets as censorship of critical voices within a specific community. He rejects Hesemann's claim that quotes are not quotes but Hesemann's own authentic statements. Walter suggests that if Hesemann admits his 1980s stories were from his "pubescent youth," then all articles published before 1989 could be dismissed as youthful enthusiasm or fantasy. He notes that Hesemann's later works are not significantly better.

Walter states that his research, unlike Hesemann's, includes cases beyond those with obvious explanations like Venus sightings or miniature hot-air balloons. He suggests that differences in their research outcomes might stem from mental or conceptual factors. He criticizes Hesemann's presentation at an "X-Files" convention, calling it unscientific and aimed at creating a negative position against Walter.

Article: Uli Tieme on Michael Hesemann and Roswell

Uli Tieme, responding to a letter from Michael Hesemann in JUFOF Nr. 123, addresses Hesemann's claims about "Hangar 18" and the Roswell incident. Tieme states that he was able to verify that Hesemann's "Hangar 18" is indeed nonsense during a trip to Dayton, Ohio.

Tieme expresses understanding if the JUFOF editorial board wishes to end the dialogue with Hesemann, deeming Hesemann's "catastrophic ignorance" regarding Roswell "mega-embarrassing." He wishes the JUFOF editors had demanded an apology from Hesemann to the readers for his "wild fairy tales" about Hangar 18, Trockensee, and other cases. Tieme accuses Hesemann of being the only German ufologist who can be clearly proven to be misinforming interested individuals with false photos, invented dialogues, unscientific nonsense, and neglected research, a point he claims was substantiated by Sascha Schomacker in a previous issue.

Tieme asserts that Hesemann escalates his misrepresentations by attempting to justify his invented dialogues with further false statements. He argues that the discussion about Roswell should not be shut down, as JUFOF readers deserve to know what firsthand witnesses truly said and what is merely the product of uninformed ufologists' fantasies.

Tieme directly refutes Hesemann's statement that only Major Marcel and Col. DuBose were present in the room with Brig. Gen. Roger Ramey during the Roswell press conference, and that six reporters were present based on Major Marcel's account. Tieme states this is false. He cites Warrant Officer Irving Newton (in an interview with Randle/Schmitt in 1990) who stated that on July 8, 1947, Brig. Gen. Roger Ramey, Col. DuBose, Major Jesse Marcel, and Warrant Officer Irving Newton were present, along with "a few colonels and a major" who was presented as the one who flew it from Roswell. This contradicts Hesemann's claim of only one colonel being present.

Furthermore, Tieme identifies Major Charles A. Cashon as the press spokesman who photographed the debris, adding another military figure present. This clearly indicates that the instruction to cancel the flight to Dayton was not solely directed at Col. DuBose, as Hesemann implied.

Tieme also corrects Hesemann's assertion that Major Jesse Marcel identified the number of reporters as "six." According to Tieme, Marcel consistently spoke generally of "some press people" or "a lot of press people" in interviews with Stanton Friedman and William Moore (1978) and Bob Pratt (1979). It was Irving Newton, not Jesse Marcel, who introduced the numbers "five or six," a detail Hesemann misrepresented.

Tieme concludes by expressing his dismay at how Hesemann ignores the reality of 1947 and presents his own fantasies as facts, solely to justify his personal errors.

Literature and Information

The magazine includes several sections offering UFO-related literature and services:

• Book Reviews/Offers: Several books are listed for sale, including "Unheimliche Begegnungen" by Wladislaw Raab, "Jenseits von Top Secret" by Timothy Good, works by C.G. Jung, Michael Hesemann ("UFOs: Die Kontakte," "Geheimsache U.F.O."), Stanton T. Friedman ("TOP SECRET"), Pat Delgado & Colin Andrews ("Kreisrunde Zeichen," "UFOs: So rund wie Untertassen"), and Gottfried Hierzenberger & Otto Nedomansky ("Erscheinungen und Botschaften der Gottesmutter Maria"). Special discounts are offered for GEP members.
• New Publications: Ulrich Magin's book "Von Ufos entführt: Unheimliche Begegnungen der vierten Art" is highlighted, described as an exploration of alien abduction experiences and medical examinations, questioning whether they represent truth, delusion, or wonder in the technical age. It is available as a paperback original from C.H.Beck-Verlag.
• Newspaper Clipping Service: GEP offers a service to collect newspaper articles related to UFOs for those wishing to build an archive.
• GEP Membership: Information is provided on the benefits of GEP membership, including receiving "GEP-NEWS" and the ability to deduct contributions and donations from taxes.
• Special Issues (GEP-Sonderhefte): A list of special publications is offered, including excerpts from the "Condon Report," a bibliography on extraterrestrial life, and works on the UFO phenomenon by various authors.
• INFO-Paket: A package containing several GEP publications on UFO phenomena, research, and a literature overview is available.
• Journal Subscription: Information on subscribing to the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" is provided, with an annual subscription cost and the option to receive back issues.
• Other: A used copy of "Der UFO-Kurier" (Heft 1-19) is offered for bid. A GEP questionnaire and the GEP statutes are also available.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical examination of UFO phenomena, skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, and the importance of evidence-based research. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and challenges sensationalism or misinformation within the ufological community. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between factual reporting and speculative or fabricated accounts, particularly evident in the detailed critiques of Michael Hesemann's work. The journal also serves as a platform for promoting UFO literature and fostering a community of researchers through its services and publications.