JUFOF - Issue 169 - 2007 01

Magazine Overview

Title: jufof
Issue: 01-2007 (Volume 28, Issue 169)
Date: January 2007
Publisher: GEP e.V. (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens)
Country: Germany
Price: 4.50 Euro
Language: German

This issue of 'jufof', the journal for UFO research, presents a new, more professional layout. The editorial by Hans-Werner Peiniger welcomes readers and highlights the issue's focus on the British Ministry of Defence's (MoD) 'Condign' study. He also calls for reader contributions, particularly translations of foreign-language UFO articles.

The Condign Project: Investigation by the British Ministry of Defence – Part 1

This major article, authored by David Clarke and Gary Anthony and translated by Ulrich Magin, details the discovery and significance of the secret 'Condign' report. The report, a four-volume study by the MoD, was uncovered by British UFO researchers after 18 months of investigation. Its existence was announced in March 2006. The authors criticize the superficial media coverage, which often focused only on the summary, and the initial dismissive reactions from some ufologists who immediately cried 'cover-up' without reading the full report.

The article highlights that the study's introduction states it is 'undeniable' that some UFOs (or UAPs) described in the report are generated by an unknown phenomenon. However, the report's author concluded there was no evidence for an extraterrestrial origin, attributing unexplained sightings to 'natural, but very rare phenomena' such as ball lightning or atmospheric plasmas, which are not yet fully understood.

The authors question why the MoD, after decades of downplaying UFOs, commissioned such a study in 1996, and why it was conducted with such secrecy, only coming to light through the UK's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

The article delves into the MoD's historical interest in UFOs, noting that the Directorate of Air Staff (DAS) has been the responsible office for UFO matters, evolving from earlier departments that supported the RAF. It explains that while the MoD publicly maintained it was not interested in UFOs, various departments, including the Defense Intelligence Staff (DIS), were involved in evaluating UFO reports, a fact that only became public in 1986.

The authors explain their process of obtaining the Condign report using the FOIA, detailing how they navigated government archives and negotiations to secure a copy. They also touch upon the Rendlesham Forest incident and the Flying Saucer Working Party papers, which were released due to similar FOIA requests.

The article aims to answer questions about the MoD's UFO interest, how the report was accessed, and the scientific value of its conclusions.

UFO Sightings: Documentations – Evaluations

This section presents two analyzed UFO sightings:

Blue Object Discovered in Photo (Case File: 20001107 A)

• Date: November 7, 2000
• Time: 15:51 MEZ (14:38 UTC)
• Location: Kulmain-Zinst, Germany
• Witness: Josef R. (51)
• Classification: DD
• Evaluation: IFO / V1 (Identified Flying Object / Version 1)
• Identification: Lens reflection

Herr R. discovered a 'bright spot in the clouds' and a blue object in a photograph he took of the evening landscape. The analysis by Hans-Werner Peiniger concludes that the phenomenon is a lens reflection caused by the sun, which was outside the frame but in the direction of the photograph. The 'rosy tail' is explained by the sun's rays, and the bright area might be due to a fingerprint, moisture, or water droplets on the lens.

Unusual Appearance over the Black Forest (Case File: 20061215 A)

• Date: December 15, 2006
• Time: 12:38 MEZ (11:38 UTC)
• Location: Ibach, Schwarzwald, Germany
• Witness: Willi H.
• Classification: DD
• Evaluation: IFO / V2 (Identified Flying Object / Version 2)
• Identification: Lens reflection

Willi H. photographed an unusual aerial phenomenon while taking landscape shots in the Black Forest. The analysis by Hans-Werner Peiniger identifies the appearance as a lens reflection within the camera's objective. The bright vertical structure (labeled '1') and other similar reflections (labeled '2' and '3') are visible in the image, confirming it as an artifact of the photographic process.

Extraterrestrial Science

This section features a commentary by Danny Ammon on Eric Julien's "Theory of Absolute Relativity." The magazine states that while open to new speculations, they do not always present them without comment and may critically question such publications.

Short Notes

• Thutmosis' UFO – A Fake After All! (Page 23): Discusses a potential UFO hoax related to the pharaoh Thutmosis.
• The 'Andreasson Affair' – A Hoax? (Page 24): Questions the authenticity of the well-known 'Andreasson Affair' abduction case.

Literature

• A.A.S. Conference Proceedings Erfurt 2006 (Page 25)
• The Riddle of Malta (Page 27)
• Flying Saucers over Neuschwabenland (Page 28)
• Conspiracy of Silence (Page 30)

These are book reviews or listings related to UFO topics.

Software

• Redshift 6 – The Virtual Planetarium (Page 31): A review or mention of planetarium software.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of official government documents related to UFOs (specifically the Condign Project) and the rigorous analysis of photographic evidence to identify potential misidentifications or camera artifacts. The editorial stance, as expressed by Hans-Werner Peiniger, is one of serious, evidence-based UFO research, open to new ideas but committed to critical evaluation and avoiding sensationalism. The magazine also shows a willingness to engage with speculative theories, such as Eric Julien's, but reserves the right to offer critical commentary. The GEP e.V. emphasizes its non-commercial basis and its commitment to providing informative content to its members and the public.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), dated 1-2007, Issue NR.169, focuses on the UK Ministry of Defence's (MoD) handling of UFO reports and critically examines Eric Julien's "Theory of Absolute Relativity."

The MoD's UFO Policy and the Condign Report

The article begins by detailing how the true extent of the Ministry's interest in UFOs became known. In July 2001, an inquiry revealed that UFO reports were copied by the Air Staff Secretariat for the Directorate of Intelligence Scientific and Technical (DIST). However, by the end of 2000, DIST concluded that these reports were no longer relevant to defense and ceased their distribution. This decision was surprising, as it meant the Defense Intelligence Staff would no longer engage with UFOs, a practice traceable back to the Flying Saucer Working Party in 1952.

The journal recounts efforts to obtain information about the MoD's UFO policy, including a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request in 2005 for correspondence between DI55 and the civilian "UFO Office" from 1997-2000. This was prompted by the knowledge that the MoD had changed its approach to UFOs in January 1997. The released documents, dating back to 1993, included a protocol from December 4, 2000, announcing the completion of the DI55 study, codenamed "Project Condign." This study was classified as secret and was not publicly disclosed until 2006.

These documents revealed that since the 1960s, UFO reports received by the MoD were routinely copied and sent to various specialized departments, including DI55 and departments within the RAF responsible for defense and radar. These departments were tasked with investigating reports that appeared significant. However, the documents indicate that the MoD never actually investigated the reports themselves. After 1967, field investigations ceased, and departments were reportedly forbidden from pursuing UFO reports unless they posed a direct threat.

The author notes that the MoD's public stance was that it was not interested in UFOs, which contradicted the internal handling of reports. A 1995 Sec(AS) document summarized the MoD's position: "Basically, we do not research the phenomenon, we never have, and we would only do so if there were good reasons, e.g., evidence that they pose a threat. The fact is, however, that no threat has been identified that can be attributed to an unidentified flying object."

Prior to 1996, there were attempts to compel the MoD to conduct a UFO study. The most significant was during the 1967-68 "Flaps" period, when the MoD faced pressure from the press and parliament. The idea of an investigation was rejected after the negative findings of the University of Colorado team in 1969, which the MoD used to support its own conclusion that UFOs posed no threat.

The journal highlights that neither DI55 nor any other MoD department conducted a study beyond listing the thousands of reports received since the 1950s. Archiving was so poor that even responsible parties were unaware of past work. Reports and intelligence documents were routinely destroyed in five-year intervals up to 1967.

Despite the USAF's decision to cease UFO investigations, the MoD decided in 1970 to continue accepting reports but without allocating funds for investigation, unless a national threat was likely. In 1986, a plan was made to create a computer database of UFO reports to help categorize sightings and respond to public inquiries. DI55 supported this, but Sec(AS) intervened in 1988, deeming the project embarrassing and contrary to the ministry's public statements.

In 1993, DI55 pursued funding for a UFO study, facing resistance from Sec(AS). A memo from DI55 to Sec(AS) in October 1993 stated the need to investigate UAPs and their potential threat. In the mid-1990s, amid high public interest in UFOs, DI55 feared the MoD would be vulnerable if it had to admit it had never scientifically investigated the phenomenon.

Project Condign

After three years of uncertainty, DI55 commissioned a subcontractor in December 1996 to create a UFO report database. The subcontractor was granted access to 22 folders of UFO files dating back to the mid-1970s. The database was required to include incident numbers, locations, dates, witness details, incident categories, and possible explanations. The contract, NNR2/366, named the project "PROJECT CONDIGN." The term "Condign" is interpreted as a "hard but just punishment," possibly reflecting the MoD's attitude towards the UFO problem.

The identity of the subcontractor is not disclosed by the MoD, citing the need to protect defense contractors. However, clues suggest the author, referred to as "Mr. X," had a background in the RAF and technical intelligence.

Eric Julien's "Theory of Absolute Relativity"

The second major section of the journal focuses on Eric Julien's "Theory of Absolute Relativity." Julien, a former military jet pilot and air traffic controller with a business background, claims to have had contact with extraterrestrial beings since childhood. He describes various paranormal experiences, including receiving messages about the nature of time from UFOs, witnessing aerial battles, and encountering ethereal creatures.

Julien's theory posits that time is subject to wave-particle duality, exhibiting a fractal, cyclical oscillation. He suggests that different frequencies of this wave correspond to different densities of time, meaning more events occur in a given volume of space where time density is high, and vice versa. The journal critically analyzes this theory, pointing out that Julien appears to misunderstand the concept of wave-particle duality, as waves are not composed of quanta.

Julien's publications, including his book "La Science des Extraterrestres," describe extraterrestrial beings who travel in multidimensional spacecraft (perceived as UFOs) and are concerned about humanity's nuclear weapons. He claims these beings revealed to him that they had fragmented Comet Schwassmann-Wachmann 3 to avert a catastrophic impact on Earth in May 2006, later revising the narrative to state they altered its course to prevent a tsunami.

The journal notes that Julien's activities align with the contactee and channeling movements, which often involve prophecies of catastrophes that are later revised. The article also touches upon the disappearance and reappearance of Julien in 2004, initially suspected to be a UFO abduction but later revealed to be related to unemployment benefits.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently questions the official narratives and secrecy surrounding UFO investigations, particularly within the UK MoD. It highlights a pattern of dismissal, inadequate archiving, and a lack of genuine scientific inquiry into UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears critical of government transparency and supportive of continued research into UAPs, while also maintaining a skeptical eye towards extraordinary claims, as demonstrated by the critique of Eric Julien's theory. The journal advocates for a more open and thorough examination of the UFO phenomenon, contrasting the official stance with the evidence and the public's interest.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 1-2007, number 169, published by Ancient Mail Verlag, focuses on critical analyses of UFO-related theories and phenomena, alongside reviews of relevant books and conference proceedings.

Analysis of Eric Julien's "Theory of Absolute Relativity"

The issue critically examines Eric Julien's "Theory of Absolute Relativity" and its application to phenomena such as consciousness, imagination, UFO sightings, crop circles, and paranormal events. The reviewer argues that Julien's theory is premature and speculative, particularly its application to the mind-body dualism and the concept of psychic energy. The theory's reliance on an "exchange of energy with an unknown location beyond our known space-time dimensions" is deemed highly speculative. Furthermore, the proportional relationship between "time density" and an increase in "Matter-Psyche-ASW" is found to be unexplained, with no clear link to information theory. The reviewer concludes that Julien's application of his theory to UFO phenomena, which presupposes extraterrestrial spacecraft, is problematic. He notes that the heterogeneity of UFO sightings and witness accounts does not support a single explanation like the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) without further evidence. Julien's explanation that the perception of distance, size, and shape depends on the observer and "time density" is deemed unfalsifiable, thus contradicting scientific approaches.

The article also delves into Julien's proposed "UFO Technology," which involves four components: counter-rotating rotors, a "superconductor network," a "central oscillator," and a peripheral torus. The reviewer finds these descriptions insufficient, lacking details on materials, function, and interconnections. Julien's claims about manipulating time density and affecting perception, radar, light, and sound are considered to be on an unknown basis, with no experimental proposals. The reviewer also points out the inclusion of "physical nonsense," such as the claim that Bose-Einstein condensates can be created by manipulating time, which requires strong cooling.

Crop Circles and Extraterrestrial Life

Julien's theory is also applied to crop circles, which he attributes to the "creativity of extraterrestrials." The reviewer questions Julien's lack of explanation for the motivation of these extraterrestrials and highlights that many crop circles are known to be created by humans, with some creators even confirming their involvement. Julien's theory of time density changes as an explanation for crop circle formation is also criticized for being unfalsifiable. The article touches upon Julien's ideas about extraterrestrials inhabiting "time quanta below the scale of quarks" and their ability to manifest in the macroscopic world, but finds his explanations lacking and questions why he dismisses other well-known contactees like George Adamski, Travis Walton, and Whitley Strieber.

The Tulli Papyrus: A Forgery

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to debunking the Tulli Papyrus. Originally published in 1953 as a translation of a text from Pharaoh Thutmosis III., it was interpreted by some as a description of a UFO sighting. The reviewer, who had previously argued for its authenticity, now presents evidence from Markus Pössel and an Italian internet magazine, antikitera.net, that definitively proves the papyrus to be a forgery. The analysis shows that the hieroglyphic transcriptions of the papyrus contain identical phrases and sentences found in Alan Gardiner's "Egyptian Grammar" (published in 1926). The reviewer highlights specific examples of errors and inconsistencies, such as the placement of the determinative for "God" and the use of a subordinate clause conjunction at the beginning of a sentence. The article concludes that the Tulli Papyrus is a cleverly made forgery, and the question of who created it remains open, likely between 1926 and 1953.

The Andreasson Affair: A Hoax?

This section discusses the "Andreasson Affair," a series of alleged alien abductions reported by Betty Andreasson-Luca and Bob Luca. The article notes claims made by Robert Luca, Bob Luca's stepson, on his website, which suggest the affair is a hoax. The reviewer expresses caution, pointing out that Luca's website also has financial interests, which could influence his claims.

Book Reviews and Conference Proceedings

The issue includes several book reviews and a report on a conference.

"The Science of Extraterrestrials" by Eric Julien

This book, self-published by Eric Julien, is where his "Theory of Absolute Relativity" is detailed. The reviewer notes that the theory is not published in scientific journals or presented at conferences, and no evidence or experiments are proposed to support it. This leads to the suspicion that financial interests may be at play rather than scientific inquiry.

"Das Rätsel von Malta" (The Riddle of Malta) by Johannes Horn

This book is praised for offering a coherent and plausible theory about Malta's "Cart-Ruts." Horn suggests they are remnants of ancient stone quarrying. The reviewer finds Horn's analytical style engaging and his knowledge of similar ruts worldwide impressive. The book is recommended for anyone visiting Malta.

"Flugscheiben über Neuschwabenland" (Flying Saucers over Neuschwabenland) by Heiner Gehring and Karl-Heinz Zunneck

This book is categorized as conspiracy literature, focusing on "Vril," "Haunebu," and Nazi flying saucers. The reviewer finds the authors' approach superficially critical but ultimately lacking in new information, suggesting they largely repeat existing theories. The book posits that UFOs may be linked to Nazi-era flying saucer developments, and that these technologies might have been acquired and utilized by Allied powers after 1945.

Tagungsband zum One-Day-Meeting der Forschungsgesellschaft für Archäologie, Astronautik und SETI in Erfurt 2006 (Conference Proceedings of the One-Day Meeting of the Research Society for Archaeology, Astronautics, and SETI in Erfurt 2006)

This report covers a conference that brought together researchers and enthusiasts of pre-astronautics. Key topics included Peter Fiebag's work on the Holy Grail, Werner Betz's findings on ancient dome structures in Rennes-le-Chateau possibly used as power plants, Angelika Jubelt's analysis of myths and legends, and Paul H. Krannich's research on Near Eastern chronologies relevant to Paleo-SETI. Other contributions discussed Colonel Fawcett's expeditions in Brazil, Thomas Ritter's research on "flying gods" and Vimanas in India, Reinhard Habeck's investigation of ancient stone formations in Austria as potential GPS systems, and Harald Lanta's search for European pyramids suggesting a global network. The proceedings are described as well-presented and focused on Paleo-SETI, with sources provided for further research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of fringe theories, particularly those related to UFOs and ancient astronauts. The journal adopts a skeptical yet open-minded stance, prioritizing scientific rigor, evidence-based reasoning, and the debunking of hoaxes and pseudoscience. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between speculative ideas and verifiable facts, with a call for a return to "human science" that relies on empirical evidence and established methodologies. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation and a commitment to presenting well-researched analyses, even when they challenge popular beliefs or established narratives within the UFO community.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Issue 1-2007, Nr. 169) is published by Jochen Kopp Verlag in Rottenburg, Germany, and features a cover story titled "Flugscheiben über Neuschwabenland" by Heiner Gehring and Karl-Heinz Zunneck. The magazine focuses on UFO research, with this issue covering topics ranging from alleged Nazi flying saucers and secret societies to reviews of books and software relevant to the field.

Article: Flugscheiben über Neuschwabenland

The main article, "Flugscheiben über Neuschwabenland" by Heiner Gehring and Karl-Heinz Zunneck, is reviewed by Hans-Werner Peiniger. The book provides an overview of the Nazi flying saucer wave, discussing terms like "Vril-Flugscheibe" and "Haunebu-Bauweise," and the "Unternehmen Aldebaran." The reviewer notes that the authors present these concepts alongside actual developed weapons systems (V1-V7), creating an impression of their existence. Peiniger criticizes the book for lacking sources, citing an example of a UFO incident in a German city described as having hundreds of witnesses and media reports but no clear explanation. The review also touches upon rumors about Hitler's escape to Neuschwabenland and the "Third Reich" concept. A particularly concerning aspect for the reviewer is the downplaying of the "Colonia Dignidad" sect in Chile. Peiniger concludes that while the topics are currently popular, the book lacks verifiable historical sources to support its claims.

Article: Conspiracy of Silence - UFOs in Ireland

Bernd Biege reviews "Conspiracy of Silence - UFOs in Ireland" by Dermot Butler and Carl Nally. Biege admits that a book with "Conspiracy" in the title and a UFO on the cover should not be expected to be balanced, but finds this amateur production to be surprisingly lacking. He feels the authors have haphazardly compiled their case files, presenting highlights without a clear system. The book jumps between theories and reports across geography and time without establishing a coherent conspiracy. Biege points out basic factual errors, such as mistaking the moon for a planet or misjudging the significance of certain locations in Ireland. While acknowledging that it might serve as an introduction to the topic and documents some cases, he ultimately deems it a waste of money.

Article: RedShift 6 – Das virtuelle Planetarium

Hans-Werner Peiniger reviews the software "RedShift 6 – Das virtuelle Planetarium." This is the sixth version of a virtual planetarium program that has won multiple awards. Peiniger highlights its usefulness for UFO researchers, particularly for reconstructing astronomical situations at the time of a UFO sighting. The software allows users to input a location and time to view the sky, covering a vast historical and future range. It can help verify if a bright planet, the moon's phase, or satellites were present in a particular direction. The program is praised for being easy to use and providing quick results, serving both amateur astronomers and UFO investigators. RedShift 6 includes extensive catalogs of stars, planets, asteroids, comets, and space probes, along with features like a sky calendar, astronomy lexicon, and photo gallery. It also offers new features like synchronized access to the Digital Sky Survey (DSS) and Google Maps, improved sky rendering, and a panorama horizon. The installation is straightforward, with recommended disk space requirements of 900 MB to 1.5 GB. The reviewer concludes that RedShift 6 is one of the most comprehensive planetarium programs available and a valuable tool for UFO investigators.

GEP and JUFOF Information

The issue also provides information about the "Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens" (GEP e.V.), a non-profit scientific association in Germany dedicated to researching the UFO phenomenon. GEP uses questionnaires, field investigations, and background research, working interdisciplinarily with support from authorities and scientific institutions. The "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (jufof) is presented as the GEP's publication, which has critically documented the UFO phenomenon since 1980. It features research results, expert articles, and case studies. The journal is now available in PDF format on DVD-ROM and CD-ROM for the years 1980-2000. Contact information for GEP and the UFO reporting center is provided.

Article: Im Reiche des Poseidon

Another book review is presented for "Im Reiche des Poseidon" by Christian Brachthäuser. This book explores the Atlantis hypothesis from the perspective of ethnologist Leo Frobenius, who, in 1910, embarked on an expedition to Nigeria and claimed to have found relics of Atlantis there. The book offers a unique perspective on this adventure and discovery in Nigeria and its associated treasures.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the investigation of alleged Nazi UFO technology (Vril, Haunebu), the exploration of mysterious locations like Neuschwabenland and Antarctica, and the critical examination of UFO phenomena. The journal's stance, as represented by GEP e.V., is clearly critical and scientific, aiming to provide an adequate point of contact for UFO witnesses and a serious alternative to sensationalism and charlatans. The reviews, particularly of "Flugscheiben über Neuschwabenland" and "Conspiracy of Silence," emphasize the need for verifiable historical sources and factual accuracy, while the review of RedShift 6 highlights the utility of scientific tools for UFO research.