JUFOF - Issue 175 - 2008 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'jufof' (Journal für UFO-Forschung), Volume 29, Issue 175, dated January 2008, is published by GEP e.V. and focuses on the theme "UFO Belief as a Neo-religious Phenomenon." The cover features a prominent yellow title, a DNA helix graphic, and headlines related to a university event in Leipzig on the UFO topic, alongside smaller images of movie posters and book covers.

Editorial

In his editorial, Danny Ammon welcomes readers to the first regular issue of 2008, reflecting on the state of UFO research. He acknowledges the overwhelming amount of data (reports, photos, videos) that UFO enthusiasts face and questions whether current methods are sufficient to penetrate this "jungle" of information. Ammon notes that after 60 years of research, we have only "scratched the surface" of the phenomenon. He highlights the University of Leipzig's Institute for Religious Studies' event on UFOs as a new and significant approach, framing UFO belief as a potential basis for modern religious engagement. This event forms the core of the issue's content.

UFO Sightings: Documentations – Evaluations

This section presents detailed case studies of UFO observations:

Hat-shaped Object over Bad Salzuflen (October 16, 2007)

Witness Ute C. reported seeing a black, hat-shaped object with a rim flying uniformly above rooftops. She noted a shimmering or darkening of the air around the object and that it rotated on its axis. The object was estimated to be 1.50 to 1.80 meters in diameter and flew at an altitude of 200-300 meters. The investigation classified it as a "Problematic UFO" with no clear identification, though wind direction data from a local weather station suggested an easterly trajectory.

Rocket Launch for Russian Light Phenomenon (May 25, 1995)

Gerd H. observed a bright, matte blue light phenomenon over Naberezhnye Chelny, Russia, which illuminated an elliptical area on the ground. Initially considered a light phenomenon or gas cloud, further investigation, including a report from a local Russian newspaper and data from the Kosmodrom Plesetsk, identified it as the gas emission from the Kosmos 2312 satellite launch on May 24, 1995. The perceived proximity was attributed to the limitations of estimating size and distance in the night sky.

Spherical Object over Raxalpe (August 15, 2007)

Giovanni S. photographed an out-of-focus spherical object while on a cable car ride in Reichenau, Austria. He did not notice the object at the time but discovered it in the photo later. The investigation concluded that the object was likely a small insect in flight, close to the camera lens, causing it to appear as an out-of-focus sphere with visible wing-flaps in the photograph.

UFO Belief as a Neo-religious Phenomenon

This article by Michael Blume discusses the event at the University of Leipzig, which explored UFOs from the perspective of religious studies. Blume argues that UFO belief can be understood as a "neo-religious phenomenon" and provides a basis for modern religious engagement. He differentiates religious studies from theology, emphasizing empirical and comparative analysis of belief systems. Blume traces the evolution of UFO mythologies, noting their spread and the difficulty UFO believers have had in establishing stable structures, unlike traditional religious groups. He suggests that the intersection of scientific understanding and the human need for enchantment, particularly since the late 19th century, has fueled sightings of extraterrestrials. The article also touches upon the historical context, including the influence of Helena Blavatsky's theosophy and the impact of events like the "War of the Worlds" radio broadcast and the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on shaping UFO narratives. A study on extraordinary experiences in Germany is presented, showing that while UFO experiences are reported, phenomena like déjà vu, premonitions, and apparitions are far more common.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the examination of UFO phenomena through a lens that bridges scientific inquiry and the study of belief systems, particularly religion. The editorial stance, as expressed by Danny Ammon, acknowledges the complexity and data overload in UFO research, advocating for new approaches like those taken by religious studies. The GEP e.V. presents itself as an organization for UFO research, but the editorial clarifies that the views expressed in individual articles do not necessarily reflect the organization's official position. The issue emphasizes critical analysis of UFO reports, distinguishing between verifiable evidence and subjective belief, and exploring the cultural and psychological factors that contribute to UFO belief.

Literature

Brief mentions are made of literature, including "Verborgene Wahrheit – Verbotenes Wissen" and "Lichtspiele in der Luft."

Short Notes

A brief note on "New developments in the UFO database" is included.

FAQ

• What is the main theme of the 'jufof' 01-2008 issue? The main theme is "UFO Belief as a Neo-religious Phenomenon," exploring the topic from a religious studies perspective, including a university event in Leipzig.
• What UFO sightings are documented in this issue? The issue documents a hat-shaped object over Bad Salzuflen (Germany), a light phenomenon over Naberezhnye Chelny (Russia) identified as a rocket launch, and a spherical object over Raxalpe (Austria) identified as an insect.
• What is the publisher's stance on the UFO phenomenon? The GEP e.V. (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens) publishes the journal and aims to investigate the UFO phenomenon. Articles are not necessarily representative of the GEP's views.
• How does the issue discuss the scientific vs. religious aspects of UFOs? It explores how UFO belief can be seen as a modern religious phenomenon, discussing the challenges of distinguishing between scientific evidence and personal belief, and how UFO myths have evolved historically.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue number 175 from the 1st-2nd 2008 edition, published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., focuses on the psychological, social, and cultural aspects of UFO beliefs and sightings. The journal aims to critically examine these phenomena rather than dismiss them, encouraging a dialogue between science and belief.

Key Articles and Themes

The Psychology and Sociology of UFO Belief

The issue begins by discussing the findings of social research on UFO sightings, noting that they do not generally correlate with psychological problems. Most people who have such experiences do not fundamentally alter their worldview or dismiss alternative explanations. However, some develop an actively affirmative stance towards the existence of extraterrestrial visitors, often seeking like-minded individuals, a process accelerated by the internet. The article highlights that older individuals tend to report more classic phenomena, while younger people are more likely to report UFO sightings. This is attributed to the younger generation's greater exposure to modern media, virtual realities, and alien-themed content. Peer influence also plays a significant role; if a social circle believes in UFOs, sightings are reported more frequently.

Harald Euler's study is cited, indicating that female students were more open to 'classic' religious phenomena, whereas male students were more likely to affirm the existence of aliens and UFOs. This is contrasted with the underrepresentation of young women in UFO-belief communities, despite their frequent use for outreach and promotion, particularly in science fiction.

The Evolution of Alien Depictions

The journal traces the evolution of alien imagery and perceived alien intentions. Early depictions, particularly in the 1950s, often featured benevolent, human-like aliens from planets like Venus, who brought messages of warning or hope. Ashtar Sheran is mentioned as a prominent figure in this context. Later, influenced by events like the Betty and Barney Hill abduction case and films like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," the image of 'Greys' with hostile or menacing features became prevalent. The article critiques the reinterpretation of the Roswell incident, suggesting that the narrative of a crashed alien ship and subsequent government cover-up emerged in the 1980s, long after the event, and was influenced by popular culture.

It is noted that even within UFO communities, alien depictions evolve. For instance, the Raelian movement's depiction of 'Elohim' has shifted from a more Jesus-like figure to a more modern alien appearance. The article posits that the human brain's evolutionary predisposition for threat detection influences the perception of aliens as potentially hostile, a theme explored in works like H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds."

UFO Mythologies and Scientific Scrutiny

The journal critically examines various UFO mythologies, including those popularized by Erich von Däniken, and numerous predicted UFO landing or world-ending dates that have passed without incident. It acknowledges that many UFO enthusiasts recognize faked sightings and photos but argues that the sheer volume of new alleged evidence sustains belief. The article suggests that UFO belief systems function as self-organizing mythological systems that can become resistant to external evidence, often resorting to conspiracy theories to explain away scientific refutations.

Examples like the Heaven's Gate mass suicide are presented as extreme cases of group dynamics, belief-wollens, and conspiracy thinking within UFO-related movements. The journal contrasts the scientific approach of established religions, which have learned to differentiate between science and faith, with UFO mythologies that often adopt a pseudo-scientific guise, making them vulnerable to scientific refutation. This vulnerability, the article suggests, leads to a reliance on conspiracy theories to maintain belief.

Scientific Engagement and Critical Reflection

The journal advocates for a scientifically open yet critical approach to UFO phenomena. It emphasizes that universities, funded by public money, have a duty to engage in dialogue, disseminate knowledge, and educate the public. The fascination with science fiction and questions about extraterrestrial life should not be ignored. While empirical science cannot definitively disprove certain beliefs (like the existence of God or UFOs), it can provide reasoned probabilities. The article encourages readers to critically reflect on their fascination with the extraordinary and engage with it responsibly. It suggests avenues for laypeople to participate in UFO research networks like GEP and CENAP, and for academics to explore anomalous phenomena through organizations like the Heidelberg Society for Anomalistics or the Freiburg IGPP.

UFO Observations and Reports

The issue includes sections detailing UFO observations and reports. The "UFO-Beobachtungen" section documents numerous sightings from 1988 to 2007, often categorized by the perceived cause, such as 'Problematic UFO', 'Linsenreflexion' (lens reflection), 'Insekt/Vogel(Wolke)' (insect/bird/cloud), 'Fotoeffekt/Bildfehler' (photo effect/image error), 'Frisbee-Scheibe' (frisbee-disc), 'Modell-Heißluftballon(s)' (model hot air balloon(s)), and 'Vögel/Insekten' (birds/insects). Many of these reports are attributed to mundane explanations like hot air balloons, lens flares, or atmospheric phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of belief, the social construction of reality, and the interplay between science, religion, and pseudoscience. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, aiming to understand the appeal and persistence of UFO beliefs without necessarily validating them as factual. The journal encourages a balanced perspective that acknowledges the human fascination with the unknown while grounding it in rational analysis and scientific understanding. It highlights the dangers of unchecked belief, particularly when it leads to conspiracy theories and social isolation, while also recognizing the value of interdisciplinary dialogue and open-minded scientific exploration.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), identified as "AUSGABE 1-2008 NR.175" and containing the "JAHRESINHALT 2007" (Annual Contents 2007), is primarily a compilation of book reviews, event summaries, and articles related to UFO phenomena. The magazine is published by "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" and appears to be from Germany, with content in German.

Books Section ('Bücher')

The "Bücher" section provides a comprehensive list of books published on UFO-related topics. Titles cover a wide range of subjects including:

• UFOs in Ireland: "Conspiracy of Silence" by Dermot Butlar and Carl Nally.
• UFO Journals: "CUFOS: Journal of UFO Studies : New Series, Vol. 9 – 2006."
• Ancient Civilizations and UFOs: Erich von Däniken's "Falsch informiert!" and Roland Roth's "Vermächtnisse der Vorzeit : Auf den Spuren vergangener Zivilisationen."
• Specific UFO Cases: "Captured! The Betty and Barney Hill UFO Experience" by Stanton T. Friedman and Kathleen Marsden, and "Encounters at Indian Head : The Barney and Betty Hill UFO Abduction Revisited" by Karl T. Pflock and Peter Brookesmith.
• German UFO Research: Heiner Gehring and Karl-Heinz Zunneck's "Flugscheiben über Neuschwabenland : Die Wahrheit über »Vril«, »Haunebu« u. d. Templer-Erbengemeinschaft."
• General UFO Topics: Robert Habersack's "UFO", Johannes Horn's "Das Rätsel von Malta", Roland M. Horn's "»Sie sahen aus wie Untertassen...«", Randy Koppang's "Camouflage Through Limited Dosclosure", Heinzgerd Rickert's "Ufos", and Dagmar Röhrlich's "Anybody Out There?"
• Specific UFO Sightings/Projects: Craig Myers' "War of the Words : The True But Strange Story of the Gulf Breeze UFO", Bill Rose and Tony Buttler's "Secret Project : Flying Saucer Aircraft."
• UFOs and Religion/Culture: Diana G. Tumminia's "Alien Worlds : Social and Religious Dimensions of Extraterrestrial Contact" and Nathalie Weidenfeld's "Alien Abduction Narratives als moderne Erscheinungsform puritanischer Kultur."
• Technology and UFOs: Ryan S. Wood's "Majic Eyes Only. Earth's Encounters With Extraterrestrial Technology."
• Other: Roland Roth's "Das Erwachen der Maschinen : High Tech vor Jahrtausenden" and "Der schweigende Stern."
• Conferences: A conference report from the "One-Day-Meeting der Forschungsgesellschaft für Archäologie, Astronautik und SETI in Erfurt 2006."

Additionally, a section on "Computer-Software, CD-ROMs" lists "G-Data: InternetSecurity TotalCare" and "United Soft Media: Redshift 6 : Das virtuelle Planetarium."

Events, Organizations, Media Section ('Vereinigungen, Veranstaltungen, Medien')

This section highlights UFO-related events and media:

• Meetings: A.A.S.-One-Day-Meeting (Erfurt, 26.10.2006) and Cröffelbacher UFO-Forum 10 (Cröffelbach, 6./7.10.2007).
• Regular Columns: "Kurz notiert" (Briefly Noted), "Leserbriefe, Diskussion" (Letters to the Editor, Discussion), and "Liebe Leser" (Dear Readers).
• GEP-Insider - Magazine for GEP Members: This section features articles for GEP members, with contributions from Jutta Behne, Natale Guido, Peter Kauert, Hans-Werner Peiniger, and Adolf and Inge Schneider. Topics include personal experiences, regional UFO research, implants, and flying saucer technology.
• Support-Inform (Peter Kauert): Information on "Folien" (Slides), "Rauchringe über dem Ätna" (Smoke Rings over Etna), and "Spurensicherung" (Trace Evidence).
• Magazine Reviews (Peter Kauert): Reviews of "Ancient Mail" and "Incognitas."

Commentary: ">>Ich glaube an Wasserbälle im All<< Kommentar zum UFO-Vortrag in Leipzig" by Robert Fleischer

Robert Fleischer, Coordinator of the German Initiative for Exopolitics, critically reviews a UFO lecture given by Michael Blume at the University of Leipzig. Fleischer argues that while Blume correctly identified UFO phenomena as potentially "new religious phenomena," he omitted crucial facts that prevent such a classification. Fleischer points to documented physical interactions like radar echoes, radiation residues, and landing traces, as well as declassified US military documents (e.g., a memo from General Nathan Twining) and the testimony of former government officials from a National Press Club conference in November 2007, as evidence that UFOs are a matter for military and intelligence services, not just belief.

Fleischer criticizes Blume's hypothesis that David Sereda's NASA footage shows "weightless water balls," calling it a sign of the urgent need for interdisciplinary and serious investigation. He advocates for state-funded research by an independent organization and a press that fulfills its role as the "Fourth Estate" by reporting facts and questioning preconceived notions.

Fleischer concludes by emphasizing the profound significance of the question of whether humanity is alone, suggesting that confirmation of extraterrestrial visitors would trigger a quantum leap in human consciousness and potentially disrupt global power structures.

"UFOs in Leipzig (Persönlich gefärbte) Impressionen eines Vortrags" by Henriette Fiebig

This article provides a personal account of the same UFO lecture in Leipzig, attended by Henriette Fiebig. She describes the event as part of a university seminar on applied religious studies. The lecture featured two speakers: Martin Bamert, who presented historical UFO evidence, and Michael Blume, who discussed UFOs from a religious studies perspective.

Fiebig notes that Bamert's presentation covered a broad history of UFO phenomena, including images from historical paintings (e.g., Carlo Crivelli's "The Annunciation") and newspaper clippings (e.g., the Roswell Daily Record). She found his presentation to be anecdotal and rushed, with many points only briefly touched upon. Bamert also showed clips related to the "Disclosure Project" and Clifford Stoll's views on evidence.

Fiebig found Blume's presentation, which viewed UFOs as a "new religious phenomenon," to be stringent, logically presented, and convincing. She was pleased that Blume, as a member of GEP, explicitly praised the organization.

During the subsequent discussion, questions were primarily directed at Blume, focusing on government cover-ups and the reliability of witness testimonies. One listener criticized Blume for neglecting the physical aspects of UFOs, a point Fiebig considered unfair given the lecture's focus on religious studies.

Fiebig concludes that the lecture was a success and congratulates the University of Leipzig on the event.

"Die Wissenschaft der UFOs Fakten gegen Stereotypen – Teil 3" by Richard Hall (Translated by Marius Kettmann)

This is the third part of a series by Richard Hall, translated by Marius Kettmann, which aims to counter the stereotype among scientists that UFOs are a "nonsense problem." The article argues that the scientific community's dismissal of UFOs has persisted for over 50 years.

Aggressive Encounters

The author discusses "aggressive encounters" and "secret earth technology" hypotheses, noting that reports of "solid objects" and their duration go back to the early 20th century. He criticizes the simplistic labeling of UFOs as "possible natural phenomena" without scientific investigation, highlighting the serious impact UFOs can have on individuals and society. Hall advocates for scientific research into UFOs to be funded similarly to research on natural disasters like tornadoes and hurricanes.

The article then details several specific cases:

• March 15, 1965, Everglades, USA: A witness reported a conical object with sound, light beams, physiological effects, and physical trace evidence (shredded foliage, a circle of cut grass).
• September 19, 1976, Teheran, Iran: Two F-4 pilots and military radar detected a brilliant glowing object, described as a radar target, with electromagnetic effects on the aircraft's weapons system.
• October 15, 1966, Split Rock Pond, New Jersey, USA: A witness reported a disc-shaped object with brilliant lighting that caused his car's engine and lights to fail, and experienced physiological effects.
• April 4, 1969, Atlanta, Missouri, USA: A witness observed a bright red object emitting a blinding light and heat, causing his car's engine and radio to fail.
• December 29, 1980, Huffman, Texas, USA: Witnesses reported a diamond-shaped object with flames, causing heat and burns, and exhibiting unusual movement patterns.

Physical and Physiological Effects

The article emphasizes that the detailed descriptions of physical and physiological effects in these cases are characteristic of "solid object" reports. It provides further examples of such effects.

Literature and Online Resources

The issue also includes a "Literatur" (Literature) section, listing books and articles relevant to the study of human nature, religion, and UFOs. It also provides a list of "Weitere Online-Ressourcen" (Further Online Resources), including links to the Marburg Journal of Religion, SETI, Das Parlament, and a website for Dr. Blume.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the historical documentation of sightings, the potential societal and psychological impacts of UFO encounters, and the debate over whether UFOs should be considered a subject of scientific inquiry or a form of new religious belief. The journal appears to advocate for a serious, evidence-based approach to UFO research, challenging skepticism and promoting interdisciplinary study. The commentary by Robert Fleischer strongly pushes for a more open and scientifically rigorous public discourse on the topic, emphasizing its importance for humanity's understanding of its place in the universe.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Volume NR.175, published in Ausgabe 1-2008, is a German-language publication from the GEP e.V. (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), a recognized scientific association dedicated to UFO research. The journal critically examines the UFO phenomenon, presenting documented sighting reports, their classification, and case studies, alongside scientifically-methodical expert reports.

UFO Characteristics and Technology

The journal explores the nature of UFO technology, citing hundreds of reports that suggest advanced capabilities. Key characteristics include various types of lights, such as pulsating, blinding, or directional beams, and geometric object shapes. Propulsion methods are inferred to be electromagnetic-gravitational, potentially shielding occupants from inertia effects. Specific flight patterns like hovering, rapid acceleration, hummingbird-like movements, and instantaneous location changes are highlighted as indicative of advanced technology.

Several detailed sighting reports are presented:

• Germany (1981): A case involving a large object and numerous helicopters, where the witness suffered severe illness attributed to radiation exposure.
• Colby, Kansas, USA (August 19, 1972): Multiple witnesses, including police, observed a large object with red and green lights emitting intense white light before ascending rapidly. The object was estimated to be 30-35 feet long and 18-20 feet wide.
• LaPoint, Utah, USA (October 11, 1967): A luminous orange object changed colors, illuminated the terrain, and followed a truck before disappearing at high speed.
• Algodonales, Cadiz, Spain (June 9, 1972): A driver reported being blinded by a pulsating yellow oval object that emitted electromagnetic effects.

Book Reviews

1. "Verborgene Wahrheit Verbotenes Wissen" by Steven M. Greer M.D.:

This section critically reviews Greer's book, which details his efforts to prove the existence of extraterrestrials and advocate for government disclosure of UFO information and technology. Greer, a former surgeon, founded the "Disclosure Project" and claims to communicate with aliens via a "CE-V Protocol." The reviewer expresses skepticism, describing Greer's narrative as "bizarre" and influenced by conspiracy theories, reminiscent of 1950s contactee accounts. Greer alleges involvement of a secret shadow government that suppresses UFO information and eliminates individuals who threaten to reveal the truth. The review notes Greer's claims of informing high-ranking officials, including a former CIA Director, and his belief that many UFO organizations are infiltrated by agents. The reviewer concludes that the book cannot be recommended, citing a similar critique by Illobrand von Ludwiger, who found Greer's claims unsubstantiated and his project unserious.

2. "Lichtspiele in der Luft: Atmosphärische Optik für Einsteiger" by Michael Vollmer:

This review highlights Vollmer's book as an essential resource for UFO researchers and interested laypersons. It explains that UFO phenomena are typically observed in Earth's atmosphere, making knowledge of atmospheric optics crucial for proper investigation. The book covers optical natural phenomena like mirages, moon illusions, rainbows, and auroras, which can sometimes be mistaken for UFOs. Vollmer's work, supported by photos, diagrams, and experiments, aims to demystify these natural occurrences without diminishing their fascination.

GEP and UFO Database Updates

The journal provides updates on the GEP's UFO database, noting its expansion with new data from 2007 and early 2008. The database has incorporated reports from CENAP and MUFON-CES, and now includes special sections for Austrian and Swiss cases, as well as German translations of French GEIPAN cases. The GEP is seeking additional contributors and reports on specific topics like abductions, cattle mutilations, and USO (Unidentified Submerged Objects).

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The journal maintains a factual, critical, and scientific approach to UFO research. It emphasizes the need for rigorous investigation and distinguishes between genuine UFO phenomena and misinterpretations of natural events. The recurring themes include the analysis of UFO sightings, the exploration of potential advanced technologies, the examination of government secrecy and alleged cover-ups, and the critical evaluation of claims made by UFO researchers and contactees. The journal also promotes the GEP's database as a valuable resource for researchers and the public.

Additional Content

An article by Olaf Fritz, "Über die Wissenschaftlichkeit der UFO-Forschung der GEP e. V." (On the Scientificity of UFO Research by GEP e.V.), is mentioned. Fritz's study concludes that the GEP's research methodology is clear, systematic, reproducible, and open to criticism, making its findings regularly accessible to the public through the journal.

The issue also includes information about the magazine "Q'Phaze - Realität... anders!" and contact details for the GEP and the "Journal für UFO-Forschung."