JUFOF - Issue 173 - 2007 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'jufof' (Journal für UFO-Forschung), dated May 2007 (Volume 28, Issue 173), published by GEP e.V., focuses heavily on a widespread UFO sighting wave that occurred in Germany throughout the spring and summer of 2007. The cover prominently features the headline 'UFO-Sichtungswelle in Deutschland' (UFO Sighting Wave in Germany), illustrated with a map of Germany dotted with numerous glowing lights.

Editorial

In his editorial, Danny Ammon reflects on the state of UFO research 60 years after the initial 'flying saucer' reports. He notes the public's exposure to UFO topics through media like the talk show 'Menschen bei Maischberger' and a press release from various UFO research groups. Ammon questions whether 'the UFO research' as a unified field truly exists, given the diverse goals and approaches of different groups. He confirms that UFOs themselves are real and abundant, with Jochen Ickinger's article detailing the current situation in Germany. The editorial also mentions contributions from Marius Kettmann, translating Richard Hall's work on UFO cases, and Ulrich Magin's analysis of the 'Fall of Phaeton' myth. Ammon concludes by wishing readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, anticipating further UFO developments in the coming year.

UFO Sightings: Documentations – Evaluations

The magazine presents several documented UFO sightings from May to August 2007, with detailed analyses by investigators, primarily Hans-Werner Peiniger.

Graz-Strassgang, Austria (May 26, 2007)

A witness, Mariella F. (27), reported seeing a fireball-like object that moved like a flame and hovered for about 30 seconds. The object was described as round and red, resembling a burning aircraft but without flames. The investigation concluded it was likely a model hot air balloon (IFO/V2).

Meckenheim, Germany (August 4, 2007)

Axel Oe. and his wife observed five to eight lights ascending rapidly from south to northwest. They took eight photos. The lights were described as non-blinking and silent, maintaining their distance and speed. The analysis, supported by weather data indicating light wind, suggests these were likely model hot air balloons (IFO/V2).

Taunusstein-Seitzenhahn, Germany (May 26, 2007)

Patrick W. (38) photographed an oval object in the corner of an image taken to capture a thunderstorm. He also noted six other round objects. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, identified these as lens reflections, likely caused by photographing against the light. The witness, however, interpreted them as a fleet of spaceships.

Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany (May 25, 2007)

Tina B. and her friend reported a silent, orange-red light ascending from the southwest. They initially thought it might be a helicopter but ruled out a hot air balloon as the balloon itself was not visible. The object moved erratically, 'trembling' like a drunkard's light. The evaluation concluded it was a model hot air balloon (IFO/V2).

Attendorn, Germany (April 27, 2007)

Michael N. submitted two photos showing small dark objects. He had been photographing the sunset and discovered the objects on his computer later. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, identified these as birds or insects that happened to fly through the frame during the photograph.

UFO Sighting Wave in Germany

Jochen Ickinger provides an extensive report on the UFO sighting wave in Germany, which began in May 2007 and was characterized by similar reports of orange-red, silent, hovering luminous objects. The wave saw a significant increase in reports, particularly on weekends, with over 292 sightings recorded between May and September 2007. Many of these reports were geographically mapped. While the wave showed similarities to past sporadic sightings, its duration and consistency made it unique. The article notes that the wave coincided with celebrations, such as the VfB Stuttgart football championship, suggesting a possible link to events involving model hot air balloons.

Roswell News Nr. 25

This section reports on the second affidavit from Walter Haut regarding the Roswell incident, stating that it is considered worthless. Further details are not provided in the scanned pages.

The Fall of Phaeton

Ulrich Magin analyzes the myth of the 'Fall of Phaeton' from a UFOological perspective. The article explores whether this ancient myth could be interpreted as an early UFO crash report. The full analysis is likely continued in subsequent issues.

Literature

This section lists books related to UFOs, including 'Ufos', 'Alien Worlds', and 'Falsch informiert!' (Misinformed!).

Impressum

The 'Impressum' section details the publisher, Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., founded in 1972. It provides contact information, including postal address, telephone, fax, and email. The section also outlines subscription prices (€27.00 for one year within Germany, plus postage), advertising rates, and reprint policies. The printing is done by MG-Verlag. The editorial responsibility lies with Hans-Werner Peiniger and Danny Ammon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the analysis and documentation of UFO sightings, with a strong emphasis on identifying conventional explanations, particularly model hot air balloons. The GEP's stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, seeking rational explanations for reported phenomena while acknowledging the reality of UFOs as a subject of study. The editorial highlights the ongoing challenge of presenting UFO research to the public in a clear and understandable manner, suggesting that despite advancements, the field remains as elusive as it was decades ago. The magazine aims to provide factual reporting and analysis, distinguishing between genuine unexplained phenomena and misidentifications.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Volume 5-2007, Issue Nr. 173, published by GEP e.V., focuses on a significant UFO sighting wave in 2007 and the GEP's public communication efforts, alongside obituaries for key researchers.

Analysis of the 2007 UFO Sighting Wave

The lead article details a notable UFO sighting wave in 2007, with CENAP registering 292 sightings in just five months, a figure three times higher than the typical annual reports for organizations like CENAP and GEP. Similar, though less numerous, reports also came in from Switzerland and Austria. This wave is compared to previous significant European UFO waves in France (1954, humanoid sightings) and Belgium (1989-1991, flying triangles). The Belgian wave saw over 2,000 reports to SOBEPS, with media attention amplifying public interest. The 2007 wave is considered unique due to its high reporting rate despite being largely unknown to the public.

Debate: Miniature Hot Air Balloons vs. UFOs

While the existence of a sighting wave is generally agreed upon, its interpretation is highly debated. UFO proponents and organizations have not issued official statements. However, reports suggest that DEGUFO has not noted unusual sighting patterns. Forum discussions indicate a majority opinion that most sightings involve largely unexplained phenomena. Some suggest terrestrial (military) objects, while critical investigators propose Miniature Hot Air Balloons (MHB), specifically Asian sky lanterns, as the cause, noting their availability in Europe since 2006.

UFO proponents reject the MHB hypothesis as too simplistic, citing witness accounts of object sizes, speeds, and abrupt maneuvers that they believe are inconsistent with balloons. The article argues that these perceptions are subjective and influenced by assumptions about object size and distance. It highlights two key issues: the unreliability of witness estimations for size, distance, and speed, and the lack of knowledge about MHB characteristics and flight behavior.

Evidence Supporting the MHB Hypothesis

The author presents several points supporting the MHB theory:

1. Visual Appearance: MHBs typically appear as orange-red or yellowish light points or glowing spheres, with flickering or pulsating light. While blue or patterned balloons exist, they haven't been reported in this context.
2. Dynamic Behavior: Due to their low weight, MHBs, especially Asian sky lanterns, react sensitively to wind, exhibiting abrupt changes in direction and speed. They can form various formations and appear to hover or move at different speeds relative to the observer and wind.
3. Typical Observation Days: 93% of sightings occurred on weekends (late Friday to early Monday), aligning with the timing of events and parties where MHBs are often launched. This contrasts with other stimuli, which would likely be observed more evenly throughout the week.
4. Known MHB Launches: MHB launches have been documented for events like the VfB championship celebrations in May 2007 and weddings. Sightings from Solingen/Wuppertal on August 25, 2007, were linked to a wedding where 15 MHBs were launched, matching descriptions of 'red light points' and 'glowing spheres'.
5. MHB Sales: There was a significant sales increase for MHBs in 2007, with reports of 500,000 units sold monthly in Europe. This suggests a large number of MHBs were available to be launched.

The author concludes that the MHB is the most likely stimulus, adhering to Occam's Razor principle. Approximately 75% (CENAP) to 90% (GEP) of witnesses accept this explanation. The author calls for clearer criteria from UFO proponents to distinguish MHB sightings from other cases.

Public Statement by GEP

A press release from the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens) announces their intention to clarify their role and objectives in public and within the UFO community. The GEP, a non-profit organization in Germany, has been researching the UFO phenomenon for 35 years and considers 2007 its most active year, with over 130 reported sightings. The organization emphasizes a scientific and critical approach, utilizing questionnaires, field investigations, and extensive background research. They aim to study both the UFO phenomenon and the UFO witness, employing modern technology, an extensive archive, and interdisciplinary methods, supported by authorities and scientific institutions. GEP publishes its findings through its bimonthly journal, "Journal für UFO-Forschung," and maintains the largest UFO sighting database on the German internet. The GEP acknowledges that some cases remain unexplained, classifying them as genuine UFOs requiring further scientific discourse. They advocate for a collegial and professional discussion within the UFO research community, rejecting personal attacks.

Roswell News – Nr. 25: Walter Haut's Second Affidavit

This section critically examines the second affidavit by former RAAF press officer Walter Haut regarding the Roswell incident. The author, Uli Thieme, previously questioned the affidavit's validity, suggesting it was prepared for Haut due to his declining health and dementia, and that his statements were exploited. The article reveals that Donald R. Schmitt admitted to preparing affidavits for multiple individuals, though he did not name them. The author doubts Haut's mental capacity to have fully understood and agreed to the affidavit's contents, especially given Sheridan W. Cavitt's prior statements that no UFO crashed at Roswell and that debris consisted of balsa wood and balloon parts. Sheridan Cavitt's son, Joe Cavitt, had also allegedly attempted to have his father sign a pre-written affidavit.

Obituaries: Robert G. Todd and Karl T. Pflock

The issue includes obituaries for two significant Roswell researchers:

• Robert G. Todd (died March 22, 2007, age 53): Todd is credited with proving the 'Schulgen Memo' was a forgery and was a leading Roswell researcher. He uncovered documents revealing Jesse Marcel's tendency to exaggerate and his later false statements. Todd also linked the 1947 debris to a secret MOGUL flight, identifying Flight Nr. 4 as the cause of the 'Roswell UFO incident' with the help of scientist Dr. Charles B. Moore. Todd had withdrawn from ufology in the late 1990s.
• Karl T. Pflock (died June 5, 2006, age 63): Pflock authored the 1994 documentation "Roswell in Perspective," a 190-page report for the Fund for UFO Research Inc. This work, which included sketches by Frank Kaufmann and Glenn Dennis, was considered a milestone. However, after 15 years of research, Pflock's belief in an actual UFO crash at Roswell diminished, leading him to conclude that the debris was from a crashed MOGUL balloon train. Despite accusations of being an 'agent' due to his past work with the CIA and Department of Defense, Pflock remained a UFO believer, continuing to write columns for "Saucer Smear" until shortly before his death.

The Science of UFOs: Facts vs. Stereotypes – Part 1

This article by Richard Hall, translated by Marius Kettmann, addresses common scientific stereotypes about UFOs, such as them being mere lights or uninteresting phenomena. Hall argues these views are 'psychological roadblocks' hindering research. He presents cases to counter these stereotypes and highlight recurring patterns. The article emphasizes that solid, vehicle-like objects with tangible effects suggest a technology, but the question remains: whose technology? It discusses the 'Condon-Committee's' focus on 'solid objects' and the importance of investigating environmental, electromagnetic, and physical trace effects.

Case Examples:

• May 1, 1952, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona: Two luminous discs overtook a B-52 bomber. The discs were described as lens or double-disc shaped, about 20-25 feet in diameter. The bomber crew reported the object made a sharp turn and departed quickly.
• August 13, 1960, Red Bluff, California: Police officers observed a large object that performed abrupt maneuvers, changed direction and speed rapidly, and caused radio interference when approached by police spotlights. Two similar objects were seen.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the analysis of a contemporary UFO sighting wave, the ongoing debate about the nature of these sightings (MHB vs. genuine UFOs), the GEP's role and methodology in UFO research, and historical reflections on the Roswell incident through the lens of prominent researchers. The editorial stance, as expressed by the GEP, is one of scientific rigor, critical analysis, and open-mindedness, aiming to advance the understanding of the UFO phenomenon through evidence-based research and collegial discourse, while actively debunking common myths and stereotypes.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Issue 5-2007, Nr. 173) presents a blend of detailed case studies and historical-mythological analysis within the field of ufology. The magazine features a prominent article on the "Sturz des Phaeton" (The Fall of Phaeton), exploring the ancient Greek myth through the lens of modern ufological and pseudoscientific interpretations, alongside a detailed account of the significant 1964 Socorro UFO incident.

The Socorro Incident: A Detailed Account

The issue dedicates significant space to the April 24, 1964, sighting in Socorro, New Mexico. Police officer Lonnie Zamora is the central witness, reporting an encounter with a white, elliptical object that landed nearby. Zamora described seeing two small, humanoid beings and hearing loud noises before the object ascended rapidly. The article details the initial police response, including the arrival of Deputy Sheriff James Luckie and Sergeant M. S. Chavez, who confirmed the presence of four square imprints in the ground arranged in a trapezoidal pattern, along with burnt areas. The analysis highlights the object's characteristics: elliptical shape, small beings, leg-like imprints, and destruction of foliage. The report notes that the object emitted a loud noise and flames upon ascent, described as a "white ellipse with a red symbolic marking." The incident was further investigated by military and FBI personnel, including Captain Richard T. Holder from White Sands Proving Grounds and FBI Agent D. Arthur Byrnes. Major William Connor and Sergeant David Moody from Kirtland Air Force Base also investigated for Project Blue Book. Dr. J. Allen Hynek conducted a follow-up investigation in August 1964, finding strong corroboration for Zamora's account. A classified CIA publication later described the Socorro case as "enigmatic." The article also mentions a scientist from the health department who analyzed melted sand at the site, though the results were not included in the official file. A qualitative soil analysis from the Air Force file identified "main elements" but no percentages.

Case Study: Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota (March 5, 1967)

This section details a radar-visual sighting at Minot Air Force Base. The Air Defense Command radar detected an unidentified object near Minuteman missile silos. Base security teams observed a metallic, disc-shaped object with bright flashing lights. The object moved slowly, maneuvered, stopped, and hovered at approximately 500 feet. F-106 interceptors were scrambled. The object then ascended rapidly and disappeared at "unimaginable speed." The report cites Fowler (1981) for this account.

Case Study: Mansfield, Ohio (October 18, 1973)

This case involves an Army Reserve UH-1H helicopter crew, captained by Lawrence J. Coyne. While flying at 2500 feet over mixed forest and farmland, they observed a red light approaching from the horizon. The light, described as cigar-shaped with a dome, exhibited apparent lift and electromagnetic effects. As the light neared, the crew lost radio contact with Mansfield air traffic control. The red light intensified and appeared to be on a collision course, prompting Coyne to descend rapidly. The object suddenly stopped and hovered in front of the helicopter. It was described as solid, obscuring stars, with a red light at the nose, a white light at the tail, and a green beam emanating from its underside, which illuminated the cockpit. The crew felt no turbulence. The object then moved west, exhibiting a sharp 45-degree course change. The helicopter's altimeter registered a rapid ascent of 1000 feet per minute, despite the controls being in a full down position. Coyne regained control at 3800 feet, noting a slight "jolt" and a rotating magnetic compass. The object was later seen in tandem flight with another object, moving northeast before disappearing when its green light extinguished. Ground witnesses also observed two lights, one red and one green, moving rapidly towards them, initially mistaken for a low-flying aircraft. As the object approached, the driver stopped the car. They then noticed a second set of flashing lights, and a helicopter-like sound. The driver initially thought two helicopters were about to collide. The article cites Zeidman (1979), who analyzed the event and concluded that the object's precise shape, opacity, and maneuvers ruled out a meteor.

The Fall of Phaeton: A Mythological Analysis

The second major section of the magazine focuses on the Greek myth of Phaeton, the son of Helios, who lost control of the sun chariot and crashed to Earth, causing widespread fires. The author, Ulrich Magin, explores how this myth has been interpreted within fringe science and ufology.

Mythological Origins and Interpretations

Magin traces the myth's origins, noting that Homer's 'Odyssey' mentions Phaeton in relation to Okeanos, but not the fall. Hesiod and Plato provide earlier accounts of the fall, with Apollonios Rhodios offering a detailed description of the crash into the Eridanos river. The Eridanos is often equated with the Po River in Italy. Various interpretations are presented: some view Phaeton's fall as the first known UFO crash, others as a planetary collision (e.g., Venus), or the destruction of a planet between Mars and Jupiter. Johannes von Buttlar and Erich von Däniken are cited for their theories linking Phaeton to a destroyed planet or a spaceship.

Locating the Eridanos

The article discusses the difficulty in pinpointing the Eridanos. Initially a mythical river in the far northwest, it was later identified with major European rivers like the Rhine, Rhône, and Po. The connection to amber, found in the Po Delta, is highlighted as a key factor in linking the Eridanos to the Po. The myth's description of Phaeton's fall into a lake or river, and the subsequent transformation of his sisters into poplar trees weeping amber, is analyzed in relation to geographical features in Northern Italy, such as the Idro, Iseo, and Garda lakes, some of which have warm thermal springs.

Ufological and Scientific Interpretations

Within pre-astronautics, Phaeton's fall is considered an early UFO catastrophe. Otto Muck suggests the myth relates to the meteor that destroyed Atlantis. Immanuel Velikovsky proposed Phaeton was Venus, which became a comet. Magin cautions against naively interpreting myths as natural events, but acknowledges that a meteor impact is a plausible explanation. However, he notes the lack of concrete evidence for a major impact around the proposed timeframes. The article also touches upon the idea that the myth might have originated from a strong heatwave or an unusual daytime meteor, or simply served as a cautionary tale about disobedience and hubris.

Chronology and Evidence

Magin examines various chronological datings of the Phaeton event, from Renaissance scholars placing it around 1519-1511 BC, to Herodotus and Eratosthenes dating the Argonautic expedition and the Trojan War. The article questions the scientific basis for interpreting the myth as a literal UFO crash, noting the lack of geological evidence for a significant impact in Northern Italy around 1500 BC. The author concludes that while elements of the myth might have been inspired by real events, the narrative itself evolved over time, incorporating geographical discoveries and local lore.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, historical accounts, and mythological narratives. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various interpretations and case studies while also critically examining the evidence and historical context. The magazine encourages readers to consider unconventional explanations for phenomena, but also grounds its analysis in research, citing numerous historical and scientific sources. The dual focus on modern UFO sightings and ancient myths suggests a belief that similar phenomena or narratives may have persisted throughout human history, interpreted through the cultural lenses of their respective eras.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue number 173 from 2007, features a "Literature New Releases" section, reviewing several books related to UFOs and the paranormal. The journal is published by Europäischer Universitätsverlag and is in German.

Book Reviews

Heinzgerd Rickert: Ufos

This review, authored by Danny Ammon, critiques Heinzgerd Rickert's book "Ufos" from the "Ewige Mythen" (Eternal Myths) series. Despite the promising title and publisher, the 52-page booklet is described as more of an essay than a scientifically founded, comprehensive, or seriously researched work. Rickert attempts to shed light on UFO sightings by first addressing misinterpretations of terrestrial stimuli like weather balloons and astronomical objects. He then provides a historical overview of myths about "flying vehicles" that mirrored contemporary technology. The reviewer argues that Rickert incorrectly dismisses the increase in UFO photos with "orbs" and "rods" in the digital age, showing ignorance of modern forgery techniques. The book briefly touches upon UFO religions, the origins of science fiction, the panspermia hypothesis, and modern space travel, concluding that "we may not be alone in the universe" but that many "errors" can occur in sky observations. The reviewer notes that Rickert cites outdated sources like a dtv space travel lexicon and UFO encyclopedias. Due to its brevity, disjointed thoughts, and factual/typographical errors, the book is deemed barely recommendable as a thematic introduction.

Diana G. Tumminia (Hrsg.): Alien Worlds: Social and Religious Dimensions of Extraterrestrial Contact

Danny Ammon also reviews this edited volume, describing it as a highly substantial and interesting book that explores the religious, mythical, folkloristic, and media-related processing of aliens and UFOs. The book aims to show how the academic world perceives UFOs, aliens, and contactees. The editor, Diana G. Tumminia, has previously studied a UFO sect, the Unarius Academy, and expands on these analyses here. The book is divided into four parts. The first part focuses on UFO sects and contactees, detailing groups like the Aetherius Society, the Universal Industrial Church of the New World Comforter (UICNWC), the Raelianers, and the Unarius Academy, analyzing their belief systems and stability. The second part delves into "alien abductions," proposing explanations involving ritualized therapeutic settings, hypnotic regression, and self-help groups, and analyzing the reasons for belief in their reality. The third part examines myths, folklore, and media, discussing the UFO phenomenon's impact on modern culture, UFO myths from a Polish perspective, and the Star Trek Klingon fandom. The fourth part addresses UFO research itself, exploring humanity's reactions to extraterrestrials and the roles of science and belief in ufology. It also covers pre-astronautics and the Raelian cloning attempts, with the reviewer finding the section on "abduction self-help groups" to be the most exciting. The book concludes with lists of known UFO sects and an attempt to categorize aliens. Ammon highly recommends the work for those seriously interested in subjective research on UFOs and extraterrestrials, noting that only about three of the 17 authors are well-known in the UFO scene, including Jerome Clark, Jacques Vallee, and Benson Saler.

Erich von Däniken: Falsch informiert!

Peter Kauert reviews Erich von Däniken's latest book, "Falsch informiert!" (Incorrectly Informed!). He notes that Däniken's ideas about Paleo-SETI (then called pre-astronautics) peaked in 1972 with his book "Aussaat und Kosmos" (Sowing and Cosmos), where he presented artifacts with strange depictions. While Däniken's interpretations then were sometimes speculative, as he later admitted, too fantastical, he is primarily an entertainer whose books belong to popular science literature. Kauert considers "der goldene Däniken" (the golden Däniken), referring to "Aussaat und Kosmos" due to its numerous gold artifacts, to be one of his most exciting and speculative books, firmly in the realm of science fiction. The new 250-page book is described as a significant improvement after several less impressive recent works by Däniken. Since the author frequently refers to his 1972 book, Kauert likens it to "Aussaat und Kosmos - Part 2." The book introduces the Voynich Manuscript, a mysterious book with undeciphered script and enigmatic illustrations. Däniken explores its origins, mentioning Roger Bacon, but ultimately cannot solve the mystery. He then speculates that the Bible's Old Testament texts, having been copied and altered over generations, lack genuine originals. Däniken suggests the Voynich Manuscript was written in an unknown language precisely to preserve its message unaltered, with scribes merely copying the letters from an original text. This leads Däniken to connect the manuscript's script to his 1972 book, comparing it to depictions on artifacts from the "metallbibliothek" (metal library) and other gold artifacts he photographed 30 years prior, which were allegedly received from indigenous people. Kauert finds this part, which suggests the book is in an extraterrestrial language and parallels ancient astronaut theories, to be typical of Däniken's high-energy approach, polarizing readers into lovers or haters. Däniken attempts a translation that conveniently fits his ancient astronaut theory. The review also touches upon Däniken's defense against accusations of lying regarding underground facilities in Ecuador, as reported in "Aussaat und Kosmos," where the press accused him of fabricating the story by not revealing his informants, photos, or the exact location of the caves. Kauert notes that the book provides a detailed account of the reporting surrounding these claims, including numerous documents and letters, which successfully explain Däniken's motivations and the surrounding lies, though he feels it is three decades too late. The final chapter revisits Nazca and the desert geoglyphs, presenting new information on this recurring theme. Kauert concludes that the book is finally an exciting read, entertaining and characteristically speculative, embodying what makes a good Däniken book.

Olaf Fritz: Über die Wissenschaftlichkeit der UFO-Forschung der GEP e. V.

This review by Olaf Fritz examines the scientific validity of UFO research conducted by the GEP e.V. (Society for the Investigation of UFO Phenomena) in Germany. Fritz's empirical case study analyzes whether German UFO research, often privately funded, meets the standards of scientific rigor. He focuses on the GEP in Lüdenscheid as an exemplary group. Fritz, a social scientist, concludes that the GEP e.V.'s UFO research has a clearly defined subject matter and employs a systematic, reproducible, and verifiable approach. Their research findings are regularly made public through the "jufof" journal. The book is 125 pages and costs €16.95.

Journal for UFO Research (JUFOF) Archive

The journal also announces the availability of the "JUFOF" (Journal for UFO Research) archives from 1980-2000 on DVD-ROM (€15.00, €12.00 for GEP members) and 4 CD-ROMs (€18.00, €14.40 for GEP members). The GEP e.V. critically examines the UFO phenomenon, specializing in the investigation, documentation, and evaluation of UFO sightings from German-speaking regions. It positions itself as a contact point for UFO witnesses and a serious alternative to profiteers and UFO sects. The "JUFOF" journal, published since 1980, presents the GEP's research results, supplemented by contributions from national and international experts on topics like abductions and crashes. The journal is noted for its critical stance, distinguishing it from other fringe science publications and making it a unique compilation of 20 years of meticulous fieldwork.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" focuses on book reviews and the scientific approach to UFO research. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous, evidence-based investigation, as exemplified by the positive review of Olaf Fritz's analysis of the GEP e.V. and the critical reviews of less scientifically grounded works like Rickert's and Däniken's. The journal itself, through its "JUFOF" publication, aims for a factual and critical examination of the UFO phenomenon, distinguishing itself from sensationalism and pseudoscience. The recurring themes include the nature of UFO sightings, the interpretation of myths and folklore in relation to UFOs, the role of science in understanding the phenomenon, and the critical evaluation of research methodologies and popular theories.