JUFOF - Issue 149 - 2003 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 5/2003, volume 24, published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., focuses on the human element in UFO phenomena and presents a critical examination of various cases and theories. The cover prominently features an article by Craig Roberts titled "Der Mensch als Teil des UFO-Phänomens" (The Human Being as Part of the UFO Phenomenon).

Articles and Features

Der Mensch als Teil des UFO-Phänomens by Craig Roberts

Roberts explores how psychology has engaged with UFO and abduction research. He discusses two theories: one focusing on witness personality traits like "Fantasy Proneness" and psychopathology, and another that links geology and psychology through brain electrical stimulation. The author emphasizes the importance of these investigations for science, aiming to reduce the scientific community's reluctance to address the topic.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section documents several UFO sightings with analyses:

• Helles Licht über Höhr-Grenzhausen (Bright Light over Höhr-Grenzhausen) (August 8, 2003): A witness photographed a bright, orange light with multiple points. The identification as the planet Mars was made due to atmospheric conditions, with the light trail attributed to camera shake.
• Schattierungen ähnlich eines Kaminfeuers (Shading Similar to a Fireplace) (August 15, 2003): Witnesses observed a silent, reddish, circular object that appeared to be burning and flickering. It was identified as a model hot-air balloon, a phenomenon unknown to the witness.
• „Ein allmählich von oben herabfallendes Objekt" (An Object Gradually Falling from Above) (July/August 1986): Witnesses in Gollwitz observed a dark, slowly falling object resembling a black-gray tarp or foil. The investigation concluded it was likely a cover foil, though the witness found it inexplicable.

Ungewöhnliche Erlebnisse in Nienstedt (Unusual Experiences in Nienstedt)

This report by Thomas Klußmann details two alleged experiences from the summer of 1995. The first involves a woman who was woken by a loud noise, felt paralyzed, and saw three small shadows and a sensor beam that interacted with her hamster. The second, recounted by her mother, describes a similar experience involving a bright light and a loud noise. Due to a lack of independent witnesses and the subjective nature of the accounts, these cases are classified as having insufficient data.

Der UFO-Absturz am Timmendorfer Strand und „An Assessment" by Sascha Schomacker

This article investigates the claims of Robert O. Dean, a former US soldier, who alleged in 1994 that a UFO crashed near Timmendorfer Strand in 1963 or 1964. Dean cited a classified NATO document called "An Assessment" as evidence, which he claimed to have seen during his service at SHAPE. The GEP contacted NATO and various German ministries, but no evidence of this document or Dean's alleged access to it could be found. The article also mentions a "Penthouse" magazine report from 1994 about a Bundeswehr soldier claiming to have seen a similar NATO document, but this could not be verified either. The article concludes that there is no evidence for the alleged UFO crash or the "An Assessment" report.

Drei mal CE-3 - drei mal Schwindel! (Three CE-3s - Three Times a Hoax!) by Ulrich Magin

This piece debunks several well-known UFO cases. It begins by mentioning Armando Valdes Garrido, who claimed to have been abducted by aliens, but later stated he wanted to make peace and that his famous abduction story was a hoax. The article then discusses the alleged teleportation of the Vidal couple from Argentina to Mexico City in 1968, which is revealed to be a publicity stunt for an Argentinian science fiction film, "Che OVNI." Finally, it revisits the "Monster of Flatwoods" case from 1952, where witnesses admitted to fabricating the story due to being stranded without gasoline and wanting to create a sensational tale.

Interview mit Ole Henningsen, SUFOI by Robert Habersack

Robert Habersack interviews Ole Henningsen, a board member of the Danish UFO research organization SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information). Henningsen describes SUFOI's history, its approximately 300-400 members, and its critical approach to UFO research, which he contrasts with the more credulous stance of other groups like IGAP. He explains that SUFOI's critical stance, while leading to fewer members, is essential for serious research. Henningsen details his own journey into UFO research, influenced by early newspaper articles and his initial belief in figures like George Adamski, before adopting a more skeptical and evidence-based methodology. He highlights the importance of truth and verifiable sources in UFO work. Henningsen also discusses SUFOI's collaboration with Danish authorities like the Navy and Air Force, and with scientific institutions. He notes a decline in UFO-related publications and public interest in Denmark compared to the 1960s and 70s, attributing this to the critical approach of researchers.

Satellitentracking in der UFO-Forschung (Satellite Tracking in UFO Research) - Part 2: Orbit 1.0a by Hans-Werner Peiniger

This article introduces the satellite tracking software "Orbit 1.0a" by Sebastian Stabroth. It explains how the software uses the same data as "Orbitron" to display visible satellites and their visibility ranges. While not all satellites can be shown simultaneously, users can select individual satellites to view their data and track their positions on a world map. The author suggests that this tool can help identify potential UFO candidates, although it is considered less user-friendly than "Orbitron." The article provides a download link for the software.

Topp oder Flop? Erich von Dänikens Mystery Park by Roland Gehardt

This review critically assesses Erich von Däniken's "Mystery Park" in Interlaken, Switzerland, which opened in May 2003. The park aims to spark curiosity about alleged mysteries of human development rather than thrill visitors with rides. The author describes the park's main attractions, including a central tower with a sphere housing the "Erich von Däniken Foundation," and a pyramid structure. However, the review expresses disappointment with the park's execution, describing the pyramid as a "meager, riveted structure" and other exhibits as appearing cheap and plasticky. The author notes that the park's exhibits largely reiterate themes already present in von Däniken's books and criticizes the omission of information that would contradict his theories, such as the actual age of Stonehenge. The review also mentions the high entrance fee and the use of personal audio guide systems.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a critical and evidence-based approach to UFO research. It emphasizes the importance of scientific methodology, rigorous investigation, and the debunking of hoaxes and misidentifications. The GEP, as the publisher, positions itself as a serious scientific organization dedicated to understanding the UFO phenomenon, distinguishing itself from more sensationalist or uncritical groups. There's a clear effort to separate factual reporting from speculation and to encourage readers to adopt a similar critical mindset. The inclusion of articles on psychology and the use of technology like satellite tracking further underscores this scientific orientation. The journal also highlights the challenges faced by UFO researchers, such as limited resources and the need for collaboration with authorities and scientific institutions.