JUFOF - Issue 146 - 2003 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of JUFOF, the journal of the German UFO research society GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.), is dated March/April 2003, Volume 24, Issue 2 (Heft 146). The cover prominently features "UFO-Beobachtungen" (UFO Observations) with several sub-articles, including a look back at the "Hudson Valley UFO" 20 years later, a proposal for a UFO surveillance system, and a report from the FGK (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens) main assembly. The price is €3.00.

Articles and Reports

UFO Observations (UFO-Beobachtungen)

This section presents several documented UFO sightings and their analysis:

• Diamond-shaped object over Zingst: A hobby astronomer, Sven Z., reported observing a large, diamond-shaped object with black and orange sections in December 1996. His extreme reaction of panic was later attributed to psychosomatic disorders and anxiety, but the visual characteristics were consistent with a model hot-air balloon. A similar sighting occurred in January 2003.
• Cushion-shaped object over Wuppertal: In March 2000, a red, cushion-shaped object was observed moving silently and quickly. The analysis suggests it was likely a foil balloon, possibly a promotional one.
• Glowing Spheres over Hoheneck: In June 2000, six round, glowing, dark yellow spheres were observed ascending in a formation. The witness suggested they might be night flights of hot-air balloons, a theory supported by the analysis which points to the possibility of large model hot-air balloons with lights.
• Blue oval object over Southern Austria: In February 2002, a blue, oval object with a halo was observed moving rapidly and disappearing. The witness experienced intense fear. The analysis suggests it could be a landing light of an aircraft reflected by atmospheric conditions, though the deep blue color is noted as a strangeness factor.
• UFO over New York (Hudson Valley): This article revisits the 1983 "Night Siege" reports of giant flying triangles in Westchester County. The author, Ulrich Magin, concludes that after 20 years, the origin of these sightings is now clear: they were reflections of light effect devices on cloud cover, not extraterrestrial craft. He criticizes the original book for its sensationalism and lack of critical analysis.

Proposal for a UFO Surveillance System (Vorschlag für den Aufbau eines UFO-Überwachungssystems)

Harald Lutz proposes the establishment of an automated UFO surveillance system. He argues that unexplained aerial phenomena, if real, likely emit broad-spectrum electromagnetic waves. Such a system would use multiple, automatically working direction-finding receivers to monitor radio frequencies, potentially identifying and tracking UFOs. The system would also incorporate other sensors like video cameras and spectrometers.

Report from the FGK Main Assembly 2003 (Bericht von der FGK-Hauptversammlung 2003)

Mirko Mojsilovic reports on the FGK's spring assembly held in Zierenberg in March 2003. The event included lectures on crop circles and "light phenomena" (Orbs). Lena Hegger presented her research on crop circles, concluding that theories by Koch and Kyborg were most plausible. The "Light Phenomena Symposium" featured presentations by Ed Voss and Wolfgang Schöppe on "Leuchtkugeln" (light orbs) observed in photographs, with discussions on their potential origins, including paranormal explanations. Christina Reuber demonstrated how similar artifacts could be artificially produced, while Frank Peters presented photos of nebulous artifacts. Uwe Engelmann showed images related to crop circle research.

Literature Reviews

Several books are reviewed:

• "Das Alpha Fragment" by Johannes von Buttlar: A revised edition of a 1983 novel about a journalist searching for a mysterious fragment related to a new energy source after a UFO crash.
• "Delphos / Flugscheiben über Peenemünde?" by Leonhard Eckardt & Heiner Gehring: This book examines the development of disc-shaped aircraft in Nazi Germany and their potential connection to UFOs. The review notes that while it provides historical details, it also delves into speculative territory.
• "DELPHOS: A Close Encounter of the Second Kind" by Jennie Zeidman (ed.): This comprehensive report details the 1971 Delphos, Kansas UFO case, including witness interviews, analyses, and scientific investigations.
• "Unheimliche Begegnungen der 5. Art" by Hartwig Hausdorf: This book is described as the "darkest side of the UFO phenomenon."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores UFO sightings, attempting to provide rational explanations where possible, but also acknowledging unexplained cases. There's a focus on detailed case analysis, witness testimony, and photographic evidence. The GEP, as the publisher, positions itself as a scientific research organization. The editorial stance, as expressed by Hans-Werner Peiniger, encourages membership and participation in the GEP to support their research efforts. The recurring theme is the rigorous investigation of UFO phenomena, balancing skepticism with an open mind to the possibility of genuine unexplained events. The journal also highlights the importance of distinguishing between factual reporting and speculation, particularly in the context of UFO research and related phenomena like crop circles and light orbs.

This issue of "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Issue 146, 2/2003) is a German-language publication from the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens) that delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, historical cases, and related research.

Book Reviews

"Unheimliche Begegnungen der 5. Art" by Hartwig Hausdorf

Reviewed by Hans-Werner Peiniger, this book is described as a compilation of "CE-5 cases" where people were harmed in UFO-related events. Hausdorf presents a range of cases from classic sightings to human mutilations, but the reviewer criticizes the lack of in-depth background material and proper source citations. Peiniger finds Hausdorf's speculation about an intelligence showing humanity a mirror of its own behavior unconvincing and suggests that the cases presented are a small percentage of unexplained events, urging for more conventional explanations. While acknowledging the book's attempt to summarize "special cases" of the UFO phenomenon in German, Peiniger notes a lack of rigorously researched cases and critical evaluation, ultimately categorizing the work as speculative literature.

"Kornkreise: Annäherung an ein Phänomen" by Harald Hoos and Florian Brunner

This book is highly praised by reviewer Hans-Werner Peiniger. Hoos, a former chairman of the "Forschungsgesellschaft Kornkreise," has a long history of researching crop circles. The book explores the annual emergence of new crop circle formations, examining whether they are communication attempts by extraterrestrial intelligence, related to UFOs, or simply created by clever individuals. The authors present reports, including contributions from external researchers, offering insights into current research, the crop circle scene, and marketing strategies. They even explain how to create a crop circle, leading to the conclusion that they are human-made artworks. Despite this, the authors acknowledge that the fascination and mystical atmosphere surrounding crop circles remain, and they have inspired a new myth.

"S.E.T.I.: Die Suche nach dem Außerirdischen" (Edited by Tobias Daniel Wabbel)

Edited by Tobias Daniel Wabbel, who initiated the first European SETI project, this book gathers responses from twenty scientists and science fiction authors to the question of whether humanity is alone in the universe. The anthology covers technical aspects of the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, speculation about alien life forms, and potential societal reactions to a first contact. Contributors include Stephen W. Hawking, Ulrich Walter, Arthur C. Clarke, and Douglas Preston. The reviewer, Hans-Werner Peiniger, notes that the book presents a unique collection of scientific models, speculations, and personal expectations. Some authors explore the implications of contact, while others, like Ulrich Walter, express concern about potential threats from advanced alien civilizations, suggesting that humanity might be seen as an obstacle.

"Der Mensch der JESUS [seinen] VATER nannte" by W. Ahrheit-Volle

This book is the seventh in a series by the author who interprets biblical texts, arguing that the Bible has been altered and falsified. The author claims the true biblical text contains sensational, highly relevant statements unrelated to religion. The book reportedly examines the interpretation of biblical verses, such as those from Ezekiel, suggesting they describe multi-stage rocket technology and discussing the implications of time dilation and length contraction.

"Operation Sigiburg" by Hans-Werner Sachmann

This publication by Hans-Werner Sachmann is reviewed by Christian Brachthäuser, Peter Krassa, and Walter-Jörg Langbein. Brachthäuser's review is critical, questioning Sachmann's interpretation of a 778 AD event at Sigiburg as a UFO sighting. Krassa and Langbein defend Sachmann's work, arguing that Brachthäuser's critique is overly harsh and that Sachmann's interpretation, while speculative, is a valid contribution to the discussion of ancient UFO phenomena (Paleo-SETI). They emphasize that Sachmann's work is a well-researched report on a historical event and that his interpretation, while unconventional, deserves consideration. The debate highlights differing approaches to historical interpretation and the study of unexplained phenomena.

Other Content

"Jahrbuch der Luft- und Raumfahrt 2003"

Edited by Tilman T. Reuss, this yearbook is described as a comprehensive source of information on aviation and spaceflight, useful for UFO researchers due to its directory of relevant authorities, organizations, and institutions.

"Erscheinungshinweis: NEUE WEGE Jahrbuch 2002"

This entry announces a yearbook covering topics in fringe science, parapsychology, and spiritual life, with contributions on subjects like Antarctica, the "Jonastal" secret, and telepathy.

"Leserbriefe"

This section features letters from readers, including Gottfried Bonn, who responds to Christian Brachthäuser's review of Hans-Werner Sachmann's "Operation Sigiburg." Bonn argues that medieval visions might be influenced by extraterrestrial intelligence adapting to human beliefs rather than solely being hallucinations.

"Journal für UFO-Forschung" Back Issues and GEP Information

The magazine also includes advertisements for back issues of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung," special GEP publications on UFO research, and information on how to join the GEP.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the UFO phenomenon, its historical manifestations, and the ongoing search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging critical discussion and the exploration of unconventional theories while also acknowledging the need for rigorous research and balanced perspectives. The magazine provides a platform for diverse viewpoints, as evidenced by the debates surrounding book reviews and reader letters, particularly concerning the interpretation of historical events and the nature of UFO sightings. There is a clear interest in Paleo-SETI and the integration of historical accounts with modern UFO research. The publication also serves as a resource for UFO enthusiasts, offering book reviews, event announcements, and information about research organizations.