JUFOF - Issue 160 - 2005 04

Magazine Overview

This issue of JUFOF Journal für UFO Forschung, Heft 160, dated July/August 2005, is Volume 26 of the publication. It is published by GEP e.V. in Lüdenscheid, Germany, and costs €3.50. The cover highlights 'UFO-Beobachtungen' (UFO Sightings) and features articles such as 'Die "UFO-Debatte"' by Danny Ammon, and 'Die John Tosti-Story' by Brian Vike, along with a hypnosis protocol related to the Tosti case.

Editorial and Publisher Information

The 'Impressum' section identifies the publisher as Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., founded in 1972. The editorial responsibility lies with Hans-Werner Peiniger and Mirko Mojsilovic. The magazine states that contributions and opinions expressed within are not necessarily those of the GEP, and it is not liable for unsolicited manuscripts. The journal is published bi-monthly on a non-commercial basis, with author honoraria generally not paid. Reprints require written permission from GEP.

The subscription price for one year (6 issues) is €21.00, plus a shipping fee of €7.00 within Germany and €11.00 internationally. GEP members receive the journal as part of their membership fee. The subscription automatically renews unless cancelled three months prior to expiration. Advertising prices are available upon request, with small classified ads offered free to subscribers and GEP members.

The GEP and its Mission

The GEP is described as Germany's largest non-profit scientific organization dedicated to researching the UFO phenomenon. They define a UFO broadly as an object that was inexplicable to witnesses at the time of observation. The GEP employs special questionnaires, conducts field investigations, and analyzes background information, collaborating with authorities and scientific institutions. Their work includes publishing the 'Journal für UFO-Forschung', other publications, and cooperating with international organizations.

GEP Membership Benefits

GEP members receive the JUFOF, the GEP-insider newsletter, assistance with case investigations, help with literature acquisition, and can request questionnaires for documenting sightings. They also have borrowing rights for books discussed in JUFOF and receive a 20% discount on GEP special issues. Contributions and donations are tax-deductible. The current membership fee is €35 per year, including JUFOF and GEP-insider.

Definition of UFO (Narrower Sense)

A UFO is defined as a perceived object or light on the ground or in the sky whose appearance, trajectory, and behavior do not suggest a conventional explanation and remain unidentifiable even after thorough examination by qualified individuals.

UFO Sightings and Case Studies

The issue features several documented UFO sightings and their analyses, primarily conducted by Hans-Werner Peiniger:

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

• Case 20050529 A (Zirzow, Germany): A blurry object in a landscape photograph was identified as likely a bird or insect due to its wing blur and the camera's shutter speed. The object was not visually observed at the time but noticed later on the photo.
• Case 20050710 A (Tortoli, Sardinia): A blurry phenomenon in a photograph taken during a mountain bike tour was analyzed as likely a bird or insect, with its rapid movement causing the blur. The case is considered closed.
• Case 20050702 A (Egmating, Germany): Two white, cloud-like objects with downward streaks were observed for approximately two hours. The witness described them moving erratically and oscillating. The analysis suggests these were reflections from light effect devices, possibly projecting beams onto the clouds. The case highlights that even visible light beams may not make the phenomenon immediately explainable to the witness.
• Case 20050715 A (Gaggenau, Germany): A 'glowing disk' was observed moving from right to left. The witness provided details on its size, color (orange-red), and movement. Despite some discrepancies in the witness's estimations (e.g., angular height), the analysis points towards a model hot-air balloon as the most probable explanation, ruling out more 'exotic' theories.
• Case 20050624/25 (Attendorn, Germany): A bright light was photographed during sunset. The witness, a former Bundeswehr member, noted its unusual, non-linear movement. While Venus was a possibility due to its position, the object's altitude was higher. The analysis suggests the phenomenon could be a reflection from a high-flying aircraft, a weather balloon, or a foil balloon, with an aircraft being the most likely explanation.
• Case 20031216-17 (Dornbirn, Austria): A witness described a star 'bursting' and fading. This was identified as a potential Iridium satellite flare, caused by sunlight reflecting off the satellite's solar panels. Although a specific flare was not predicted for that time, uncontrolled satellites can cause unexpected flares. The witness's description of the event aligns with this phenomenon.

Articles and Themes

• "UFO-Beobachtungen" (UFO Sightings): This section presents the detailed case studies mentioned above, with dates and locations ranging from December 2003 to July 2005.
• "Die "UFO-Debatte"" (The "UFO Debate") by Danny Ammon: This article likely discusses the broader discourse surrounding UFOs.
• "Die John Tosti-Story" by Brian Vike: This article focuses on a specific case, the John Tosti story.
• "Hypnoseprotokoll zur John Tosti-Story" (Hypnosis Protocol for the John Tosti Story): This section provides details from a hypnosis session related to the Tosti case.
• "Literatur" (Literature): A review of Ulrich Dopatka's book "Die grosse Erich von Däniken Enzyklopädie" is included.
• "KURZ NOTIERT" (Briefly Noted): A short note about MUFON's Call for Papers regarding 'technological evidence'.
• "Cröffelbacher UFO-Forum": Information about the 8th Annual Meeting of UFO Phenomenon Researchers in Germany.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the rigorous investigation and analysis of UFO sightings, often concluding with conventional explanations such as birds, insects, aircraft, or atmospheric phenomena. The GEP's approach emphasizes scientific methodology, using questionnaires and expert analysis to evaluate cases. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena, the journal appears to lean towards rational explanations when evidence supports them. The inclusion of abduction cases like the John Tosti story suggests an interest in a wider range of UFO-related phenomena, even those that are more controversial. The editorial stance promotes a serious, research-oriented approach to the UFO topic.

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, dated 4/2005 (Heft 160), delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, featuring articles on astronomical explanations for sightings, critical analysis of UFO research, and detailed personal accounts of alleged encounters.

Iridium Flare Sighting Over Dornbirn

The issue begins with an explanation of a sighting over Dornbirn on December 17, 2003, around 4:45 UTC. The phenomenon is reconstructed using the satellite tracking program Orbitron, identifying Iridium 71 as the likely cause. The satellite's trajectory matched the witness's description of a celestial event in the northern sky. The article suggests that the long observation duration of the lingering light trail could be explained by a phosphorescence effect.

Vogel kontra UFO (Bird vs. UFO)

This section presents a photograph sent by Kevin D. Ohm from Sosa, who, as a hobby photographer, captured an image of a bird in flight. The article acknowledges the similarity of the image to UFO photographs, a point raised by Ohm himself.

Die „UFO-Debatte" (The "UFO Debate") by Danny Ammon

This extensive article by Danny Ammon critically examines the views of SETI researcher Seth Shostak on the UFO phenomenon. Ammon notes that surveys indicate a significant portion of the population believes in extraterrestrial life and that Earth is visited by aliens. He discusses how television shows often claim to uncover the 'UFO debate' but fail to do so. Ammon argues that interstellar travel, while possibly violating current physics, is not the core issue; the problem lies in the lack of conclusive evidence for alien visitation. He critiques the reliance on ambiguous photographic evidence, such as 'flying hubcaps,' and the argument that governments have confiscated evidence. Ammon also addresses the claims of 'expert testimony' from pilots and astronauts, stating that not every unexplained aerial phenomenon is extraterrestrial. He touches upon alien abduction stories as a separate, complex area. The article emphasizes that the burden of proof lies with those making extraordinary claims, not with skeptics. Ammon criticizes the tendency of UFO experts to resort to conspiracy theories or to blame scientists for not being convinced.

He further argues that UFO research should be treated as a multidisciplinary field, encompassing social sciences, psychology, and communication studies, rather than being solely focused on finding 'alien spacecraft.' He contends that while no scientist is forced to study UFOs, those who do should approach it scientifically. Ammon criticizes publications that reduce UFO research to a 'hunt for aliens' and fail to acknowledge the work of UFO investigators who often help identify mundane explanations (IFO - Identified Flying Object) for sightings.

MUFON Call for Papers

A brief note announces a MUFON (Mutual UFO Network) contest seeking articles with the 'best technological evidence' to support the hypothesis that UFOs are real, technological, and not human-made. The winning article will be published in the MUFON UFO Journal.

Die John Tosti-Story (The John Tosti Story) by Brian Vike

This is a lengthy, detailed account of John Tosti's experiences, beginning in Bloomington, Indiana. Tosti, initially uninterested in UFOs, claims to have been a victim of alien encounters and abductions for nearly a decade. His experiences reportedly led to the breakdown of friendships and family ties. Brian Vike, head of HBCC UFO Research, became involved after Tosti sought help. The story recounts Tosti's initial sightings of three bright, spherical lights, one blue and two smaller green and red ones, moving erratically above treetops. These lights were silent and appeared to be at arm's length. Tosti and his friend Jim later observed similar lights, which then seemed to be followed by two figures in white medical gowns. Tosti experienced a 'time loss' and later discovered a scar on his neck, which he believes was caused by an alien procedure. A baby monitor reportedly malfunctions when brought near the scar. Tosti's experiences escalated, including sightings of objects on his property, and he felt guided to specific locations. His relationship with his fiancée, Susan, was strained, and she eventually left him due to the unusual events, fearing for their child's upbringing. Tosti also describes an incident where he and Susan witnessed a bright flash and sound, initially thought to be a power line issue, but which repeated. They found his mother-in-law hiding. Later, while trying to get help at a hospital, John and Susan encountered two men in white medical gowns who detained John, claiming he needed to be examined. John's mother-in-law also reported seeing a fireball and lightning strike their house. Tosti's wife, Susan, initially skeptical, began to believe after witnessing some events and agreed to document them with a video camera. During one filming session, a red, rod-like object appeared on the video, and John reported a sensation of his arm becoming numb. The article also mentions that John's experiences continued for over a year, and he eventually sought professional help, leading to his detention at a hospital. The narrative highlights Tosti's struggle to find explanations and the impact on his personal life.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, the debate between scientific skepticism and belief in extraterrestrial visitation, and the presentation of personal testimonies. The journal appears to adopt a stance that encourages scientific inquiry into UFOs, advocating for multidisciplinary approaches and rigorous evidence, while also giving voice to individuals who have had unexplained experiences. The articles question the reductionist views of some scientists and highlight the complexity of the UFO phenomenon beyond simple 'alien spacecraft' theories. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded investigation, emphasizing the need for scientific methodology while acknowledging the profound impact these experiences can have on individuals.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 160 from April 2005, details several significant UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) encounters, primarily focusing on the experiences of John Tosti and his family in Bloomington, Indiana. The content includes witness testimonies, a hypnosis session, and reports of unusual aerial activity.

John Tosti's Encounters and Witness Testimony

The issue begins with Susan Tosti, John's wife, recounting an event that occurred during a blizzard. She describes a blinding light and a sound like 40,000 volts of electricity emanating from the window. This was followed by five nights of intense experiences, including power outages, a feeling of not being alone, bright lights illuminating their house, and the perception of entities within their home. Susan recounts an incident where an entity was in her bedroom and attempted to pull her out of bed.

Susan also explains that after the initial events, John decided to destroy all evidence to prevent further professional intervention. However, she disagreed, leading to a heated discussion just before the blinding light appeared. She notes that the snow had melted holes around their house, suggesting electrical discharges.

John Tosti himself had gathered extensive video material (8-10 hours) of these phenomena. A medical document, a Patient Discharge Summary from Bloomington Hospital, is included, showing John was admitted and discharged, confirming he was indeed seeking medical attention. The summary indicates his discharge date was 06/24/96, and his birthdate was 01/21/70.

John's family had also observed numerous helicopters flying unusually close to their home, which was a new occurrence. John captured footage of these helicopters as well.

Filmed Evidence and Government Secrecy Concerns

To potentially deter government intervention, John and his family contacted reporters. The idea was that public exposure might lead the government to leave them alone, especially after John filmed military jets flying low over the area.

John's video footage revealed a peculiar, shaky object directly beneath one of the fighter jets. He also observed a similar object flying over a friend's house. The camera settings were noted to be set for long exposure.

The "Moon-Sized" Object Encounter

One of John's most remarkable videos captured an object described as being the size of the moon, hovering vertically in the sky at an estimated altitude of 200 to 300 feet (60-90 meters). John could clearly see individual lights on the object. As the object tilted towards him, he observed a blue-white dome. He estimated the object to be about 500 yards away and approximately 65 feet in diameter. This footage was recorded on January 19, 1996.

John's filming of these events provided him with validation, proving to his family that he was not imagining things.

Search for a Downed Plane

The article "Officials search for downed plane" from the Sunday Herald-Times (March 31, 1996) is presented with a German translation. State police reported smelling something burning during a search for a downed aircraft in southern Monroe County. Despite a search involving police, helicopters, and volunteers, no visible sign of a crash was found. Corp. Rick Wright stated that they were close to calling off the search. Les Snyder, an air traffic controller, confirmed that no aircraft were reported missing from local airports. The search involved state and county police, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Perry-Clear Creek Fire Department, and U.S. forestry officials. A follow-up article from April 1, 1996, titled "NO PROOF OF DOWNED AIRCRAFT FOUND," reiterates that the extensive search yielded no extraordinary findings.

McClain speculated that a homemade bomb or gasoline might have caused an explosion reported in the area.

Further Sightings and Military Activity

John Tosti reported seeing lights in the sky that agitated his dogs. An email from a friend in October 2004 mentions John seeing these lights. The friend also observed five military vehicles, including Humvees and troop transports, and a helicopter hovering over John's house.

Two individuals near the Crane Air Base photographed a cloud-like object that moved over a lake and shot upwards, creating a hole in the clouds. A military time code is visible on the photos.

Hypnosis Session with Dr. Woodman

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a hypnosis session with Dr. Woodman, conducted on February 5, 2005. John Tosti, initially skeptical about being hypnotized, proved to be an excellent subject.

During the session, John described being on a beach, then suddenly finding himself behind a tree, looking at a bright, red, glowing ball in a ravine. He initially mistook it for the moon. He and his friend Jim hid behind the tree as the object approached. John felt fear and armed himself with a rifle but did not want to shoot.

He described seeing entities that looked like firefighters, one of whom tried to take his rifle. He felt cold and that he was being pulled. The hypnotist, Dr. Woodman, guided him through the experience, asking him to relax and focus.

John then described being pushed into a "ball" and into a hole. He saw a shiny ball with a hole in its side and felt cold. He encountered a small boy who asked him what he was doing and told him he was in his room. The boy led him to a bench where a larger figure, described as a hunter, was present. This figure seemed disoriented and unable to find a way out.

Later in the session, John described being pushed into a hole by the "hunter" figure. He then encountered a small boy again, who put a mask on him. The boy then led him to another room, where he saw a railing and a strange, non-human figure. The boy then left, and John was left alone, hearing a shrill, whispering sound.

John described the room as half-round and smelling strange. He also mentioned a railing about three feet off the ground. The session revealed John's fear and trauma associated with these experiences.

HBCC UFO Research and Further Information

The issue includes contact information for HBCC UFO Research, directed by Brian Vike, and provides a link to their website for the original report, photos, and video clips.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistence of UFO/UAP sightings, the impact of these encounters on individuals and families, the potential involvement of military forces, and the challenges of documenting and verifying such phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and reporting of these events, providing detailed accounts and evidence, including witness testimonies and photographic/video documentation. The inclusion of a hypnosis session suggests an interest in exploring the psychological and memory aspects of these encounters. The magazine aims to inform its readers about ongoing UFO research and reported incidents.

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Issue 160, 4/2005) delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, featuring a detailed witness account, a comprehensive book review, and announcements for upcoming events and publications from the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.). The magazine maintains a critical yet open stance towards UFO research.

Witness Account: An Encounter with a Boy and a Grey Creature

The issue presents an interview with a witness identified as J.T., conducted by Dr. W. J.T. recounts a disturbing experience where he was asked to remove a mask. Subsequently, a young boy opened the door and instructed him to relax. When asked about the wall's color, J.T. described the upper half as red and the lower half as silver, with the railing acting as a boundary. J.T. expressed a strong desire to leave the situation. The boy then returned, sat with J.T., and held his left hand, asking to play hide-and-seek. When J.T. asked where to hide, the boy pointed to a large, grey 'spot' on the wall and insisted J.T. hide there. Upon entering the 'spot,' J.T. felt someone else was present, though he couldn't see them. He heard someone grab his hand and pull him, with his head entering the next room. He described a small, grey creature that inserted something into his nose, causing pain, and then pushed him back into the spot, seemingly wanting to remain unseen. J.T. stated the creature did not want him to see it.

In a subsequent part of the interview, J.T. describes waking up in the morning to find his companion, Jim, scratched and looking shocked. Jim wanted to go home. They returned to a barn, and J.T. noticed his nose was bleeding. When asked if Jim noticed, J.T. confirmed Jim suggested he use a handkerchief because his nose was bleeding. J.T. did not tell Jim how the bleeding occurred and could not recall the details of the experience in the 'sphere' (Kugel).

Book Review: 'Die grosse Erich von Däniken Enzyklopädie'

Hans-Werner Peiniger reviews Ulrich Dopatka's book, "Die grosse Erich von Däniken Enzyklopädie: Die phantastische Perspektive der Menschheit." The review highlights Dopatka's extensive work in compiling facts, sources, evidence, and hypotheses related to Erich von Däniken's pre-astronautic theories. The book, an updated version of Dopatka's earlier 'Lexikon der Prä-Astronautik,' aims to systematically present the core arguments, artifacts, quotes, and testimonies supporting these theories. Peiniger notes that the book is written from the perspective of a proponent of pre-astronautic theories. He suggests that while one might expect too much from such a work, it serves as a useful reference tool for quickly looking up facts, sources, and arguments within the pre-astronautic discourse. It is recommended as an illustrated introduction for beginners and a 'working instrument' for critics to gain an overview of the proponents' arguments and conduct source research. The book is 464 pages, paperback, and costs €26.

GEP Activities and Publications

The magazine includes several sections detailing the activities and publications of the GEP. A book giveaway is announced, where the GEP is raffling off a copy of Ulrich Dopatka's 'Die grosse Erich von Däniken Enzyklopädie.' To enter, participants must send a postcard or email to the GEP by September 24, 2005.

Cröffelbacher UFO-Forum

Details are provided for the 8th Cröffelbacher UFO-Forum, themed "Außerirdisches Leben – auf der Erde und im All" (Extraterrestrial Life – on Earth and in Space), taking place on October 1 and 2, 2005, in Cröffelbach. The program includes talks by various researchers, including Roland Gehardt (opening), Peter Wright on SETI, Rudolf Henke on the origin of life, Harald Hoos on crop circles, Ingbert Jüdt on myths and pre-astronautics, and a presentation on German UFOs. The event is free for participants and will be held at the Hotel "Goldener Ochsen."

GEP Publications and Information

A list of GEP special reports ('Sonderhefte') and brochures is presented, covering topics such as the Condon Report, the existence of flying saucers, bibliographies on extraterrestrial life and pre-astronautics, the JAL-1628 UFO incident, Hermann Oberth and UFO research, and the human aspect of the UFO phenomenon. Prices are listed, with discounts for GEP members. Additionally, an 'INFO-Paket' is available for €8, containing explanations of UFO phenomena, a basic guide to UFO research, a literature overview, and a press review.

The journal also advertises its subscription options, with an annual subscription costing €21 plus postage. A section on 'Sonstiges, Neuerscheinungen' (Other, New Releases) mentions Ulrich Magin's book "Von Ufos entführt" and the GEP questionnaire.

European UFO Researcher Meeting

Information is provided about the "1. Begegnung der europäischen UFO Forscher und UFO-Interessierten" (1st Meeting of European UFO Researchers and UFO Enthusiasts) held from October 14-16, 2005, in Chalons en Champagne, France. The event aims to compare European research, foster international connections, and allow the public to interact with UFO researchers. It will feature exhibitions, lectures, and panel discussions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include detailed witness testimonies of alleged UFO encounters and abductions, critical analysis of UFO phenomena through book reviews and GEP publications, and the promotion of UFO research through conferences and information dissemination. The GEP's editorial stance emphasizes a factual, critical, and evidence-based approach, explicitly distancing itself from therapeutic interventions for witnesses. The magazine aims to inform both enthusiasts and skeptics about the UFO phenomenon and related research.