JUFOF - Issue 147 - 2003 03

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'Journal für UFO-Forschung' (Journal for UFO Research), number 3 of 2003, volume 24, published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP), focuses on various UFO-related cases and investigations. The cover prominently features 'DAS UFO-RÄTSEL' (The UFO Riddle), with contributions from Marcia S. Smith and George D. Havas, and a small illustration of a UFO.

Articles and Reports

DAS UFO-RÄTSEL (The UFO Riddle)

This section introduces a documentation originally compiled by Marcia S. Smith for the Congressional Research Service in 1976 and updated by George D. Havas in 1983. The Congressional Research Service is described as a scientific advisory body for the U.S. Congress. The text, now available in German, provides detailed information and documents.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section presents several UFO sighting reports:

• Oberbreitenau, January 19, 2001: Witness Josef H. reported seeing a pulsating, disc-shaped object with visible, ring-shaped energy fields that behaved in a unique, harmonic manner. The object accompanied him and moved towards Schönbronn. The report includes a detailed description of the object's energy fields and behavior, with the witness classifying it as 'not of this world'. The GEP's assessment suggests the phenomenon might be a light effect device, citing the witness's alcohol consumption and prior interest in UFOs as potential influencing factors.
• GEP auf Alienjagd (GEP on Alien Hunt): Hans-Werner Peiniger recounts an investigation into alleged strange occurrences in a forest area near Dortmund-Schwerte. A 18-year-old witness, Stephan D., reported blue flashes, moving clouds, red dots in ponds, mobile phone interference, sudden animal fear, a blue luminous sphere, blue lights, time shifts, strange noises, and sightings of a light-brown, headless creature. The investigation involved meeting the witnesses and visiting the location. The report details the group's excursions into the forest, their attempts to observe phenomena, and the challenges in chronologically documenting the events due to the witnesses mixing personal experiences with hearsay. The report also discusses the psychological aspects of group conformity and suggestion.
• Der UFO-Absturz auf Helgoland (The UFO Crash on Helgoland): Sascha Schomacker investigates a German UFO case. The report references a 1952 incident on the island of Helgoland, based on accounts from a Dr. H. Loberg and popularized by American ufologist Frank E. Stranges. Stranges' book 'Flying Saucerama' described a UFO crash, the discovery of seven burnt bodies, and the presence of unusual technology. The article critically examines these claims, noting that investigations by the GEP and historical research suggest the event might be related to the demolition of a German U-boat bunker by British forces after World War II, rather than an extraterrestrial crash. The report details the demolition of the 'Nordsee III' U-boat bunker in 1947 and the subsequent British presence on the island.
• Roswell - News (Part 18): This is a continuation of a series on the Roswell incident.
• Satellitentracking in der UFO-Forschung (Satellite Tracking in UFO Research): Part 1, 'Orbitron', by Hans-Werner Peiniger.
• Literatur / Software: A list of recommended books and software, including 'Wahrnehmungspsychologie / Wörterbuch der Psychotherapie', 'Im Angesicht der Fremden / Mission Mond / PowerPDF 2'.

Editorial and Organizational Information

• Impressum: Details the publication, including the publisher (GEP e.V.), editors (Hans-Werner Peiniger, Mirko Mojsilovic), and contact information for the GEP in Lüdenscheid, Germany. It states that contributions are not necessarily the views of the GEP and that the journal is published bi-monthly on a non-commercial basis.
• GEP Information: The GEP is described as a non-profit scientific organization in Germany focused on UFO research. It defines UFOs and outlines its methods, including questionnaires, field investigations, and interdisciplinary work with authorities and scientific institutions. Membership benefits include the journal, a newsletter, assistance with sightings, literature access, and discounts.
• Definition of UFO: A UFO is defined as a perceived object or light whose appearance, trajectory, and behavior are not conventionally explainable and remain unidentifiable after thorough examination.
• Meldestelle für UFO-Beobachtungen: Contact information for reporting UFO sightings is provided.
• Liebe Leserinnen! (Dear Readers!): Hans-Werner Peiniger writes about the end of the CENAP-Report, a German UFO publication, after 283 issues. He reflects on its role as an informative and critical medium and discusses the reasons for its discontinuation, including differences between editors and printers, and the shift towards internet-based communication. Peiniger expresses regret over the loss of critical print material and anticipates increased cooperation between CENAP and JUFOF.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently emphasizes a scientific and investigative approach to UFO phenomena. It encourages detailed reporting, critical analysis, and the debunking of misidentifications, while also acknowledging the existence of genuinely unexplained cases. The GEP's stance is to research the phenomenon thoroughly, utilizing witness testimonies, field investigations, and scientific methods. There is a clear effort to distinguish between verifiable data and speculative interpretations, as seen in the analysis of the Oberbreitenau and Helgoland cases. The publication also highlights the importance of critical thinking and the potential for psychological factors to influence witness accounts. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry combined with rigorous skepticism.

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Issue 147, 3/2003) delves into various aspects of UFO research, with a significant focus on the Roswell incident, satellite tracking, and the psychological interpretation of sightings. The magazine features articles by Uli Thieme, Hans-Werner Peiniger, and E. Bruce Goldstein, among others, and includes reviews of relevant books and software.

Roswell - News Teil 18: Frank Kaufmann als Fälscher entlarvt

This extensive article by Uli Thieme critically examines the claims of Frank Kaufmann, a key figure in pro-Roswell research, who presented himself under various aliases. The article details how researchers, particularly Kevin Randle and Mark Rodeghier, have exposed Kaufmann's stories and documents as fabrications. It highlights specific examples, such as the alleged memo from Major Edwin D. Easley and the 'Group of Nine' memo, which Kaufmann allegedly pieced together from multiple sources and altered. The article also touches upon Kaufmann's personal issues, including alleged alcohol problems, and suggests that his fabricated stories might have been fueled by a desire for attention or a distorted perception of reality. The research by Mark Rodeghier, published in the CUFOS journal, is presented as definitive proof of Kaufmann's deceit. The article concludes that Kaufmann not only faked his military biography but also other 'evidence' related to the Roswell incident.

The Roswell Connection

This section discusses the concept of 'ufological nepotism' within the Roswell research community, specifically mentioning the role of Julie Shuster, daughter of Walter Haut, in managing the UFO museum. It further explores the controversy surrounding the official press release issued in 1947. Karl T. Pflock's skepticism is highlighted, questioning Walter Haut's account of being dictated the press release by Colonel William H. Blanchard. Pflock suggests that Haut might have been motivated by self-interest in bringing Frank Kaufmann into the discussion, as Kaufmann was the only one to claim Blanchard dictated the text to Haut, thus providing Haut with a 'witness' to legitimize his actions.

Satellite Tracking in UFO Research: Part 1: Orbitron

Written by Hans-Werner Peiniger, this article introduces the software 'Orbitron' as a tool for identifying satellites that might be mistaken for UFOs. Peiniger explains that satellites account for about 3.6% of reported UFO phenomena. He details how Orbitron, developed by Sebastian Stoff, can help researchers provide witnesses with verifiable explanations for their sightings by identifying specific satellites. The article describes the program's features, including its ability to display Earth, satellite orbits, and visibility zones. It also walks through a case study from 1998 where a bright object observed over Greimerath was identified as the COSMOS 2058 satellite using Orbitron. The importance of accurate observation times is emphasized for correct identification.

Literature Reviews

Wörterbuch der Psychotherapie (Dictionary of Psychotherapy)

Reviewed by Hans-Werner Peiniger, this comprehensive dictionary edited by Gerhard Stumm and Alfred Pritz is presented as an essential resource for UFO researchers. It covers a wide range of psychological concepts, therapeutic approaches, and relevant aspects of psychotherapy. The review highlights its utility for understanding the psychological states of witnesses, assessing potential mental health issues, and interpreting phenomena like hallucinations and delusions. The reviewer praises its accessibility to lay readers and its practical examples.

Im Angesicht der Fremden: Eingriffe von anderen Welten (In the Face of the Foreign: Interventions from Other Worlds)

Patrizia Pfister's book, reviewed by Hans-Werner Peiniger, is described as a superficial exploration of the UFO phenomenon and alien encounters. Pfister's claims about the prevalence of 'Greys' and her interpretation of biblical texts are questioned. The reviewer notes that Pfister's assertion about the rarity of 'Greys' contradicts research by Wladislaw Raab. The review also criticizes Pfister's dismissal of skeptics and her unsupported claims about crop circles. A particularly striking aspect highlighted is Pfister's claim that chocolate acts as a defense mechanism against alien interference, a notion she claims is supported by other abductees. The reviewer expresses disappointment with the book's lack of critical analysis and balanced discussion.

Software Reviews

Mission Mond: Aufbruch ins All (Mission Moon: Breakout into Space)

This CD-ROM, reviewed by Hans-Werner Peiniger, is a virtual globe of the Moon that allows users to zoom in, rotate, and explore lunar features. It includes search functions for specific areas, information on lunar geology, and details about past moon missions. The review notes that while useful for research, the resolution could be better for a truly immersive experience. The software is priced at € 29.90.

PowerPDF2

Reviewed by Mirko Mojsilovic, this software by G DATA Software allows users to create PDF documents. The review highlights its ease of installation and use, noting that it functions as a printer driver. While it converts texts and images effectively, it lacks some advanced features found in Adobe Acrobat, such as document locking options. The software is available for € 39.95.

Events and Publications

The issue also includes announcements for upcoming UFO-related events, including the "Cröffelbacher UFO-Forum" (October 4-5, 2003) and the "10 Jahre DEGUFO e.V. Jubiläums-Tagung" (September 13-14, 2003). It also lists available GEP publications, such as special reports on UFO phenomena and a GEP ballpoint pen.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO claims, particularly those related to the Roswell incident, the importance of scientific and technological tools (like satellite tracking software) in UFO research, and the psychological aspects of witness testimony. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensationalist claims and a preference for evidence-based analysis, as demonstrated by the detailed debunking of Frank Kaufmann's stories and the promotion of tools for objective identification of aerial phenomena. The magazine also actively promotes its own publications and events, fostering a community around UFO research.