JUFOF - Issue 163 - 2006 01

Magazine Overview

Title: JUFOF JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: 1/2006 (Heft 163)
Date: January/February 2006
Publisher: GEP e.V. (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens)
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of JUFOF, the Journal for UFO Research, marks the transition into 2006 with a slightly revised layout and an increased cover price of €4.25. The journal is produced using professional DTP software, allowing for improved quality in typography and image placement. The editorial team emphasizes the importance of reader feedback for the journal's continuous improvement and encourages active participation from its readership.

Key Articles and Features

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Observations)

This section presents several documented UFO sightings and photographs, with detailed investigations and classifications by Hans-Werner Peiniger.

• Schwache Lichter bei Götzenhain (Weak Lights near Götzenhain): A case from 1992 involving faint, round lights observed by a witness. Despite the witness's skepticism towards explanations like aircraft spotlights, the investigation concludes it was likely the reflection from a light effect device (IFO).
• >>>Etwas Reales<<< fotografiert (Something Real Photographed): A photograph taken in Sri Lanka in February 2006 shows a peculiar red, pyramid-shaped spot. The investigation identified this anomaly as a lampshade, likely captured due to the motion of the vehicle from which the photo was taken.
• »Seltsames Objekt« fotografiert (Strange Object Photographed): A photograph taken in Heiligenhafen, Germany, in August 2004, revealed a strange object. Upon closer examination, this object was identified as a lampshade, similar in shape to the anomaly in the Sri Lanka case, and likely blurred due to vehicle movement or wind.
• Schwarzes Objekt über dem Piz Pardatschas (Black Object over Piz Pardatschas): A 14-year-old student photographed a deep black object with a violet fringe in Switzerland in January 2006. This was identified as a camera effect, specifically related to the camera's sensor and lens when photographing against strong light.
• Schwarzes Objekt während Autofahrt fotografiert (Black Object Photographed During Car Ride): A photograph taken in Gütersloh, Germany, in January 2006, shows a black object with a colored fringe. This is also classified as a camera effect, attributed to the 'blooming effect' in digital cameras and mobile phones when photographing bright light sources like the sun. The phenomenon can create a 'black sun' effect and colored halos.

Statistische Übersicht von 750 per EDV erfassten und bearbeiteten UFO-Beobachtungen und -Fotos (Statistical Overview of 750 UFO Observations and Photos Recorded and Processed by EDV)

This comprehensive statistical analysis, based on data up to the end of 2005, categorizes 750 UFO sightings and photos. The majority (66.47%) are classified as IFO (Identified Flying Object). The breakdown includes categories like 'Near IFO' (16.76%), 'Insufficient Data' (11.18%), 'Problematic UFO' (4.56%), and 'Good UFO' (1%). The detailed breakdown of IFO classifications lists common explanations such as light effect devices, balloons, aircraft, celestial bodies, meteors, satellites, and psychological factors.

Entführungen durch Aliens - Teil 2 (Abductions by Aliens - Part 2)

This is the second part of a series by Danny Ammon, which provides a status update on the phenomenon of alien abductions.

H.P. Lovecraft - Der Chronist des Phantastischen (H.P. Lovecraft - The Chronicler of the Fantastic)

An article by Christian Brachthäuser exploring the connection between the works of H.P. Lovecraft and the UFO phenomenon.

Kurz notiert (Briefly Noted)

This section likely contains short news items or updates related to UFO research.

Literatur (Literature)

This section reviews books and publications relevant to UFO research, including titles such as 'Hair of the Alien', 'Das deutsche UFO-Phänomen', 'Kornkreise - Der größte Streich seit Max und Moritz', 'Phänomen Kornkreise', 'Tibets altes Geheimnis - Gesar - Ein Sohn des Himmels', and 'Leben im All'.

The GEP and Its Mission

The magazine provides an in-depth look at the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.), describing it as Germany's largest non-profit scientific organization dedicated to UFO research. The GEP defines a UFO as an object or light whose appearance, trajectory, and behavior are not easily explainable by conventional means, even after thorough investigation by qualified individuals. The organization utilizes detailed questionnaires, field research, and interdisciplinary approaches, supported by authorities and scientific institutions. Membership benefits include receiving the JUFOF journal, access to internal newsletters, assistance with case analysis, and discounts.

Nomenklatur »UFO-Beobachtungen« (Nomenclature "UFO Observations")

This section clarifies the GEP's classification system for UFO reports, defining IFO (Identified Flying Object) verifications V1, V2, and V3 based on the degree of explanation and match with known phenomena. It also explains the abbreviations used for 'Erstkontakt' (First Contact) methods like mail, email, telephone, and personal visits.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the systematic investigation and classification of UFO sightings, often identifying them as mundane phenomena or camera artifacts. The GEP's editorial stance is one of rigorous scientific inquiry, aiming to demystify UFO reports through detailed analysis and statistical data. There is a clear emphasis on providing rational explanations for sightings, while acknowledging the existence of unexplained cases. The journal also explores broader cultural and historical connections, such as the influence of H.P. Lovecraft on UFO lore and the phenomenon of crop circles.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 163, dated 1/2006, features an article titled "Entführungen durch Aliens: Eine Bestandsaufnahme, Teil 2" (Abductions by Aliens: An Inventory, Part 2) by Danny Ammon. The magazine is published by GEP and is in German.

Entführungen durch Aliens: Eine Bestandsaufnahme, Teil 2

This article, the second part of a series, shifts the focus from the psychological evaluation of alien abductions to a broader, multidisciplinary approach. The author, Danny Ammon, argues that understanding the abduction phenomenon requires more than just psychological analysis. It necessitates the examination of data and evidence using methods from various disciplines, including physics, medicine, and sociology.

Beyond Psychology

Ammon emphasizes that the data and alleged evidence presented by abduction researchers need to be scrutinized with modern scientific methods. For instance, claims of extraterrestrial technology should be measurable against current physics, and purported alien artifacts should be assessed for their authenticity and technological sophistication. Medical examinations of abductees can help determine if reported physical changes are genuinely unusual or can be explained by conventional means.

Sociological perspectives are also crucial, as they can help contextualize the phenomenon within human culture, potentially identifying social factors that contribute to abduction experiences. Comparing abduction reports to historical myths and legends can offer insights into the origins of these experiences and aid in understanding and assisting those affected.

Evidence for the Unusual

The article highlights the importance of seeking evidence that transcends conventional explanations. For those who believe in non-human consciousness as the source of abductions, concrete evidence is paramount. This section introduces the concept of multidisciplinary research and its value in understanding the phenomenon.

Medical Anomalies

One category of evidence discussed involves medical anomalies reported by abductees. These include unusual markings and scars on the skin, which are sometimes attributed to examinations by non-human beings. The article distinguishes between minor skin irritations and more severe scarring, noting that only a small percentage of the population reports unexplained scars of unknown origin.

Another significant anomaly is the "Missing Embryo Syndrome." This phenomenon involves women reporting that they were impregnated by non-human entities, experienced a normal pregnancy, but then the embryo or fetus was removed prematurely, often resulting in a subsequent pregnancy with a child exhibiting hybrid characteristics. However, the article notes that no such cases have been definitively medically proven.

Physical phenomena associated with abductions are also considered, such as the temporary disappearance of the abductee. Additionally, traces left at abduction sites or on victims are mentioned, with a specific case from Australia being highlighted for further discussion.

The Case of Peter Khoury

A detailed account is given of Peter Khoury, a 28-year-old Australian of Lebanese descent, who experienced an unusual event in 1992. While waking up, he perceived his consciousness separating from his body and saw two non-human female beings. One was described as blonde with large blue eyes, and the other as Asian-looking. The blonde being attempted to force sexual activity, and when Khoury resisted, he bit off a piece of her breast, which felt like an eraser and was accidentally swallowed. The beings showed no reaction to pain.

Following this encounter, Khoury experienced sharp pain while urinating, discovering a thin, almost transparent hair wrapped tightly around his glans penis. He saved this hair, which was later subjected to analysis. In 1999 and 2000, two analyses of the hair revealed it to be extremely thin, almost transparent, and unlike human hair. It was also noted to have a prominent 'mosaic structure.'

Further DNA analysis of the hair showed it to be human but with a rare genetic variation found in a small group of East Asian individuals. However, these individuals typically have black hair, not blonde or transparent. A second analysis of the mitochondrial DNA from the root revealed another variation, linked to a specific group of people of Basque/Gaelic European descent. The conclusion drawn by Australian researchers was that the DNA had been consciously genetically altered, suggesting possible extraterrestrial intervention.

Anomalous Data

The article presents several examples of unusual phenomena that are difficult to explain through conventional means. These include the aforementioned medical anomalies and the case of Peter Khoury's hair. The author suggests that more research is needed into cases of multiple abductions, where several witnesses corroborate the experience, and into individuals who report recognizing each other from prior encounters without prior contact.

H.P. Lovecraft and UFOs

A separate section discusses the influence of H.P. Lovecraft, an American writer of the early 20th century, on the UFO phenomenon. The article posits that Lovecraft's stories, written decades before modern UFO sightings, contained elements that foreshadowed contemporary abduction narratives. His works explored themes of ancient alien deities, lost civilizations, mysterious artifacts, and paranormal phenomena, which have striking parallels with modern UFO reports.

Lovecraft's writings integrated elements of astronomy, mythology, and what is now termed 'forbidden archaeology.' He wrote about expeditions to ancient sites, depictions of aquatic beings, reptilian creatures, and pre-diluvian civilizations. His stories often featured themes of hidden underground passages, caverns, and mysterious locations, creating a sense of dread and the uncanny.

While Lovecraft himself was a scientific materialist and agnostic, his literary executor, August Derleth, attempted to incorporate more overt UFO-related elements into his posthumous works. However, the article suggests that Lovecraft's original intent was to use these elements for colorful embellishment rather than to endorse pseudoscientific speculation or spiritualism.

Conclusions

Ammon concludes that while the abduction phenomenon presents numerous anomalies, it is premature to definitively conclude that aliens are real and abducting humans. Many of the reported anomalies require further investigation and independent verification to rule out errors and alternative explanations. The author criticizes the current state of abduction research for its lack of scientific rigor, its susceptibility to speculation, and its tendency to publish findings in popular formats rather than peer-reviewed journals.

He calls for a more unbiased approach, focusing on collecting anomalous data without preconceived notions. The involvement of psychologists is deemed essential due to the traumatic nature of these experiences. The article stresses the importance of separating speculative narratives from verifiable data and employing rigorous scientific methods to understand the phenomenon. The author also points to the need for careful publication of research findings in formats that allow for scientific scrutiny.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of the alien abduction phenomenon, the search for empirical evidence, and the critical evaluation of research methodologies. The journal appears to advocate for a rigorous, evidence-based approach to UFO research, cautioning against premature conclusions and speculative interpretations. There is a clear emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration and the application of established scientific disciplines to understand anomalous experiences. The article also touches upon the cultural and literary influences on the perception of UFO phenomena, as exemplified by the discussion of H.P. Lovecraft.

Kurz Notiert (Short Notes)

This section contains brief reports on various topics:

• Jenny Haniver als Chupacabra: This report discusses the recurring phenomenon of preserved rays, known as 'Jenny Hanivers,' being misrepresented as extraterrestrial beings in UFO literature. It cites examples from Italy and New Mexico, where such specimens were mistaken for alien creatures.

• »Engelhaar« bei Nordlicht: This note explores the mention of 'angel hair' (Engelhaar) in a novel set in Newfoundland, linking it to reports of fine, web-like material associated with UFO sightings. The author questions whether this is a literary invention or a local belief, and if it has any connection to UFO phenomena.

• Außerirdische in Stade gelandet?: This report details a police incident in Stade, Germany, where a slimy, slippery substance was found on a sidewalk, leading to speculation about landed extraterrestrials. The substance was later identified as likely being from municipal services.

• War »Nessie« ein Zirkuselefant?: This report presents a theory by Neil Clark suggesting that the Loch Ness Monster ('Nessie') sightings might be explained by circus elephants bathing in the loch. While this theory attempts to explain some early sightings, the report notes that historical accounts of the creature predate the era of traveling circuses and that no definitive evidence of 'Nessie' has ever been found.

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 163 from 1/2006, published by Geistkirch Verlag, delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, with a particular focus on the intersection of literature, alleged encounters, and fringe science. The cover prominently features the title "Das deutsche UFO-Phänomen" (The German UFO Phenomenon) with subtitles "Ein Grenzgang an das anscheinend Unbegreifliche" (A Borderline to the Apparently Incomprehensible), suggesting a broad exploration of unexplained phenomena.

Literary Influences on UFO Abduction Narratives

The issue extensively explores the literary roots and influences on the modern UFO abduction phenomenon, with a significant focus on the works of H.P. Lovecraft. The article "Lovecraft's Literary Precursors to the Abduction Syndrome" by an unnamed author highlights how Lovecraft's stories, written decades before the widespread reporting of alien abductions, contained strikingly similar themes and narrative elements. Lovecraft, contrary to the popular idea of his time, did not believe in extraterrestrial life within our solar system, yet his fiction depicted alien beings, their methods of infiltration, and psychological manipulation of humans. The article draws parallels between Lovecraft's descriptions and modern abduction accounts, noting how his work might have inadvertently contributed to the cultural framework that made such reports seem plausible.

Specifically, Lovecraft's 1930 story "The Whisperer in Darkness" is analyzed for its portrayal of molluscan beings from interstellar space (or the planet 'Yuggoth') taking over human minds. The author points out that Charles Fort's work, which compiled anomalous data ignored by academia, likely influenced Lovecraft. The discovery of Pluto in 1930 is also mentioned in relation to Lovecraft's narrative. The article details how Lovecraft described telepathic communication, unusual sounds, and the aliens' ability to speak all human languages, mirroring elements reported in contemporary abduction cases. The phenomenon of animals reacting fearfully to UFOs, as seen in the Betty and Barney Hill case, is also linked to Lovecraft's descriptions of animals hating alien beings.

Further connections are made to the concept of 'Men in Black' and the idea of hidden alien activities being monitored. Lovecraft's descriptions of mysterious tracks and 'claw marks' left by aliens are compared to physical evidence cited in abduction cases. The article also touches upon the idea of underground alien bases and tunnels, as well as the 'underground experiences' reported by abductees.

Book Reviews

"Hair of the Alien: DNA and Other Forensic Evidence of Alien Abduction" by Bill Chalker

This section reviews Bill Chalker's book, which investigates alien abduction phenomena from a forensic perspective. Chalker, an Australian UFO researcher, mathematician, and chemist, attempts to gather evidence for alien abductions being a real occurrence. The review highlights the case of Peter Khoury, an abductee whose experience included finding unusual hair. Chalker's book details DNA analyses conducted by the 'Anomaly Physical Evidence Group' (APEG) on this hair, reportedly revealing highly unusual human DNA. The review also mentions other cases covered in the book, such as that of Vicki Klein and Credo Mutwa, a South African shaman who claims knowledge of alien races.

The reviewer praises Chalker's work for filling a gap in the literature, although noting that not all cases are as well-documented as Khoury's. The book includes detailed documentation of the DNA analyses. The review concludes by expressing a wish for more such scientific endeavors in abduction research.

"Das deutsche UFO-Phänomen: Ein Grenzgang an das anscheinend Unbegreifliche" by Ralf Ettl & Günter Höhler

This review critically examines a book that compiles rumors and claims about the German UFO phenomenon, particularly focusing on secret Nazi flying disc technology (Haunebu, Vril, Do-Stra) and secret organizations like the Templars and Vril Society. The reviewer expresses skepticism, stating that the book largely consists of unproven assertions and disconnected speculation, with few verifiable facts. The authors are criticized for presenting a 'confused conglomerate' of information and for their vague methodology, which they describe as 'knocking on the right bushes to see what sort of mice jump out.' The reviewer finds the book's content to be based on probabilities, assumptions, and a lack of critical analysis, suggesting that the authors may be intentionally misleading the reader or are too naive to properly evaluate their material.

"Kornkreise: Der größte Streich seit Max und Moritz" by Florian Brunner & Harald Hoos

This review discusses a book that chronicles the history and investigation of crop circles, particularly in Germany. The authors, who admit to having created many crop circles themselves, aim to debunk the 'myth' surrounding them. The review highlights that while crop circles have become increasingly complex, many have been proven to be hoaxes. The authors critique the uncritical approach of many UFO experts and believers who attribute anomalies to extraterrestrial causes rather than human fabrication. They point to the lack of credible evidence for phenomena like radioactive traces or unusual substances in genuine crop circles, contrasting it with the ease with which elaborate patterns can be created by humans. The review notes that the book also touches upon the idea of 'flying machines' used for interdimensional travel and the concept of 'Maka'ara-Kraft' associated with women's hair, which is presented as a pseudoscientific explanation for attracting otherworldly energies.

The reviewer finds the book to be an enlightening and amusing read, especially its critical examination of the crop circle scene and its proponents. The book is recommended for those interested in the background of the crop circle phenomenon and the German scene.

"Phänomen Kornkreise: Forschung zwischen Volksüberlieferung, Grenz- und Naturwissenschaft" by Werner Anderhub & Andreas Müller

This review covers another book on crop circles, which aims to present the current state of research. The authors acknowledge the increasing number of crop circle fakes but still seem to believe in a 'genuine' phenomenon. The review notes that the book traces reports of crop circles back to pre-1970s folklore, citing examples like a 1678 woodcut depicting a circular pattern in grain. However, the reviewer dismisses these historical findings as not being indicative of the mystery of crop circles, suggesting they are simply examples of human mischief or traditional agricultural methods. The book also discusses the 'BLT' (an organization claiming to have found anomalies in crop circle materials) and criticizes the authors for their arguments against BLT's findings. The reviewer finds the book's arguments unconvincing and suggests that phenomena attributed to crop circles might be explained by more mundane causes, such as helicopter pilots using searchlights.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the blurry lines between fiction, folklore, and alleged real-world phenomena, particularly in the context of UFOs and alien encounters. There's a clear critical stance towards unverified claims and pseudoscientific explanations, especially concerning crop circles and some aspects of abduction research. The journal seems to favor a more skeptical and evidence-based approach, as demonstrated by the critical reviews of books that promote unsubstantiated theories. The recurring theme is the examination of how cultural narratives, literary works, and psychological factors might shape or explain UFO-related experiences and beliefs.

The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to differentiate between genuine unexplained phenomena and hoaxes, misinterpretations, or even deliberate fabrications. The journal encourages scientific investigation but is wary of accepting claims without rigorous proof, as seen in its treatment of both Lovecraft's literary influence and the crop circle phenomenon.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Journal for UFO Research), Heft 163, dated 1/2006, is published by GEP e.V. and focuses on a critical examination of the UFO phenomenon. The cover prominently features an article titled "Tibets altes Geheimnis" (Tibet's Old Secret) by Willi Grömling, subtitled "Gesar – Ein Sohn des Himmels" (Gesar – A Son of the Heavens).

Article: Tibet's Old Secret – Gesar, A Son of the Heavens

The issue begins with an in-depth look at Willi Grömling's book, which explores the Tibetan national hero Gesar. Grömling, a historian, spent eight years researching this material. The article highlights that the book makes Tibetan traditions about Gesar accessible to a broad audience for the first time, interpreting them through the lens of Paleo-SETI. It suggests that Tibetan legends speak of god-like kings descending from the heavens to help humans, and Gesar's father, the supreme sky god, sent him to Earth to set things right. The book reportedly details ancient Tibetan cities with skyscrapers, advanced transportation, and sophisticated weapon systems, some of which are only understood in modern times. Grömling is noted for meticulously citing his sources. The article posits that this work is significant for UFO research due to its revelations about ancient technological achievements and phenomena.

A review by Hans-Werner Sachmann praises the book "Tibets altes Geheimnis – Gesar – ein Sohn des Himmels" by Willi Grömling, published by Ancient Mail Verlag. Sachmann notes that the book covers incredible feats and supernatural abilities, drawing parallels to UFO-like objects, flying horses, and large birds described in the epic. He mentions that the book suggests ancient Tibet possessed advanced technology, including flying vehicles and weapon systems, and that such mysteries are not new but have ancient roots. The review emphasizes that the book supports the Paleo-SETI theory with current findings.

Book Review: Leben im All (Life in All) – Positions from Natural Science, Philosophy, and Theology

Another significant section is dedicated to the book "Leben im All," edited by Tobias Daniel Wabbel. This compilation features contributions from renowned scientists and writers, including Stephen W. Hawking, Ben Bova, and Jostein Gaarder, exploring the question of whether humanity is alone in the universe. The book delves into the implications of discovering extraterrestrial intelligence, examining how it would impact our understanding of the cosmos, our religions, and our place in the universe. It discusses the potential risks of contact, including the possibility that humanity might be perceived as a threat. The essays are described as interesting, exciting, and sometimes humorous, preparing readers for a significant "culture shock."

Book Review: Im Reiche des Poseidon (In the Realm of Poseidon) – Traces of a Sunken Civilization in West Africa?

Christian Brachthäuser's book "Im Reiche des Poseidon" is also featured. This work revisits the Atlantis hypothesis, focusing on the research of ethnologist and cultural philosopher Leo Frobenius, who in 1910 explored Nigeria and reportedly found relics of Atlantis. The book offers a new perspective on this topic, taking readers on an adventurous journey through Nigeria and its discovered art treasures.

Editorial and GEP Activities

The editorial section, written by Danny Ammon, highlights the current issue's focus on UFO phenomena, particularly "abductions by aliens." It mentions a statistical overview of UFO sightings compiled by the GEP, detailing the stimuli for sightings and the ratio of identified to unidentified objects. The editorial also points to an article by Christian Brachthäuser that explores the work of an American writer who anticipated many aspects of the UFO phenomenon in his science fiction and horror stories, including alien abductions. The issue concludes with recent news and a literature section featuring reviews of new publications.

GEP Information and Publications

The magazine includes information about the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V. (Society for the Research of UFO Phenomena). It announces a book giveaway for "Phänomen Kornkreise" (Phenomenon Crop Circles) by Werner Anderhub and Andreas Müller. Contact details for GEP e.V. are provided for inquiries and ordering.

Furthermore, the issue details various GEP special publications and photomechanical reprints related to UFO research, including works by Condon, Cohen, and others. It also offers the "JUFOF" (Journal für UFO-Forschung) archives from 1980-2000 in PDF format on DVD-ROM and CD-ROM. Subscription information for the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" is also provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical investigation of UFO phenomena, including historical accounts, scientific and philosophical inquiries into extraterrestrial life, and mythological interpretations linked to ancient astronaut theories. The GEP's editorial stance is clearly one of critical, evidence-based research, distinguishing itself from sensationalist or cult-like approaches to the UFO topic. The journal aims to provide well-researched articles, documentation, and reviews, serving as a serious platform for UFO research in the German-speaking world.