JUFOF - Issue 186 - 2009 06

Magazine Overview

Title: jufof
Issue: 06-2009 (Nr. 186)
Volume: Jg. 30
Date: June 2009
Publisher: GEP e.V. (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens)
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0723-7766
Price: 4,50 Euro

This issue of 'jufof', the German journal for UFO research, marks the end of its 30th year and aims to catch up on its publication schedule. The editorial emphasizes the magazine's unique position as a German-language publication solely dedicated to the UFO phenomenon, distinguishing itself from other magazines by avoiding esoteric or fringe topics. The core mission remains to investigate all facets of the UFO phenomenon seriously, honestly, and critically. The magazine relies on reader support through memberships and subscriptions to continue its work amidst the rise of internet-based information.

Articles and Features

Editorial

The editorial, written by Hans-Werner Peiniger, reflects on the magazine's longevity and its commitment to rigorous research. It announces the publication of a long-awaited report on the GEP conference held on May 2nd and 3rd in Schmerlenbach, authored by Gerd H. Hövelmann, an independent contributor. The editorial also mentions a comprehensive review of a new book by Erich von Däniken, undertaken by André Kramer, which goes beyond a typical book review to analyze the evidence presented. The editorial concludes with holiday wishes for the readers and their families.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Bewertungen

This section presents detailed case studies of UFO sightings.

#### CE I-Fall in Mörfelden-Walldorf

This case, documented by Hans-Werner Peiniger, concerns a sighting on May 1991 by an 18-year-old baker named Marco S. While cycling at 3:00 AM, he observed a circular, metallic craft approximately 30-50 meters in diameter, hovering at 40-50 meters altitude. The object emitted a humming sound and had numerous white/yellow lights that appeared to rotate. The witness attempted to photograph the object, but his camera malfunctioned. The craft then moved towards a church, ascended vertically at high speed, and disappeared within seconds. The investigation notes that the witness was deeply affected by the experience, even years later. Despite some minor discrepancies between his verbal account and his sketch regarding the dome's lights, the case is classified as 'GOOD UFO' based on objective evidence, though the investigation acknowledges limitations due to the passage of time and the subjective nature of witness testimony.

#### UFO-Beobachtungen: Crailsheim-Burgberg

This report details an observation on December 29, 2008, by Florian B., a member of an astronomy group at the Albert-Schweitzer-Gymnasium in Crailsheim. While photographing the Orion constellation, the group captured a small, dark point that appeared to increase and decrease in brightness over approximately 15 minutes, without moving relative to the background stars. Initially unidentified, further analysis using astronomy software and comparison with satellite data identified the object as the geostationary satellite ASTRA 1KR. The report explains that geostationary satellites, particularly their large solar panels, can reflect sunlight, causing temporary bright flares visible from Earth. The object's stationary appearance and fluctuating brightness are consistent with this phenomenon.

Kulturen der Annäherung: Bemerkungen zur GEP-Fachtagung 2009

This article provides remarks on the GEP conference held in 2009. The editorial mentions that the report is by Gerd H. Hövelmann, an independent contributor, offering an external perspective on the event. The conference focused on 'Cultures of Approximation' ('Kulturen der Annäherung'), suggesting a theme of understanding and bridging different perspectives within the UFO research community or in relation to the phenomenon itself.

Kurz notiert

This section contains brief news items:

• Historie der Freigabe von UFO-Akten: A note on the history of the release of UFO-related documents.
• »The Fourth Kind« in den USA gestartet: News about the release of the film 'The Fourth Kind' in the USA, likely related to UFO abduction themes.

Literatur

• Götterdämmerung: A literature entry, possibly a book review or mention, titled 'Götterdämmerung' (Twilight of the Gods).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, investigations, and the challenges of documenting and evaluating such phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly one of rigorous, critical, and evidence-based research, avoiding sensationalism and focusing on the objective aspects of UFO reports. The magazine positions itself as a serious platform for UFO research, committed to providing reliable information and fostering a deeper understanding of the phenomenon. There is also an emphasis on the importance of witness testimony and the psychological impact of such experiences, as seen in the Mörfelden-Walldorf case.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 6-2009, Nr. 186, published by the journal itself, focuses on two primary topics: a potential UFO sighting explained as a satellite flare and an extensive examination of false memories in relation to UFO abductions.

Satellite Flare Incident

The issue begins with an analysis of an observed phenomenon that was initially suspected to be a UFO. The article "Horizont-Karte" (Horizon Map) presents a detailed investigation into a sighting that occurred on December 29, 2008. Using astronomical data and a 'Horizon Map' generated by www.astroexcel.de, the position of the ASTRA 1KR satellite is plotted at 48.8°N/9.1°E at 00:09:10 on December 29, 2008. The text explains that flares, a type of light emission from satellites, typically occur during specific seasons (summer south of the equator, winter in the Northern Hemisphere) when the elevation angle is not below 23.5°. The timing of the observed event aligns with the expected occurrence of such flares around midnight, especially during equinox periods.

Katharina Staszkow from SES ASTRA in Luxembourg, the operator of the ASTRA satellites, confirmed that it was plausible for one of their satellites, possibly ASTRA 1KR, 1L, or 1M, to have generated such a flare. However, she noted that the ASTRA 1H had a smaller surface area and was less likely to be the source. The company expressed surprise that one of their satellites could produce a flare as bright as neighboring stars. No mention was made of positional corrections.

The article concludes that the filmed object was likely caused by a flare from the geostationary satellite ASTRA 1KR or a nearby one, possibly triggered by a positional correction or general positional fluctuations. The congruence between the satellite's position and the observed object's position is considered significant.

The article also mentions that the astronomy working group contacted CENAP, leading to an information exchange with Roland Gehardt. Several individuals, including three professional astronomers, were consulted. Initially, some suspected an aircraft moving stationarily relative to the observer. However, other explanations were also considered, such as a 'hotpixel' on a camera chip or a satellite reorienting itself. The article provides a link to a video animation illustrating satellite flares.

A reconstruction using the program Celestia shows the Earth and Sun from the perspective of ASTRA 1KR on December 29, 2008, at 0:15:10 UTC. The lighting conditions indicate that the Sun's light directly hit the satellite, allowing it to reflect light. The satellite was positioned approximately 38,540 kilometers above the equator, confirming it was illuminated by the sun.

False Memories and UFO Abductions – Part 5

The second major section of the journal is "Falsche Erinnerungen und UFO-Entführungen – Teil 5" (False Memories and UFO Abductions – Part 5) by Thomas E. Bullard, translated by Ulrich Magin. This article critically examines the psychological perspective on UFO abduction experiences.

The Debate on Abduction Experiences

Most psychological studies consider abduction experiencers to be mentally normal individuals. However, mainstream psychologists often dismiss abduction reports as false memories of impossible events. The article explores the debate surrounding recovered memories and the malleable nature of memory, suggesting that UFO abductions share many characteristics with memories of abuse and their recovery.

Analysis of Abduction Cases

The article presents a comparative analysis of eleven well-known and well-researched abduction cases, primarily from the 1970s and earlier. These cases were reported before UFO abductions became widely known, and in most instances, before the release of the film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' in 1977.

The eleven cases are categorized by location of the initial event:

• Roadside (Landstraße):
• Barney and Betty Hill (1961)
• Sandra Larson (1975)
• David Stephens (1975)
• John and Sue Day (1974)
• Steven Kilburn (1973)

• In Nature (In der Natur):
• Antonio Villas Boas (1957)
• Charles Hickson and Calvin Parker (Pascagoula, 1973)
• Travis Walton (1975)

• At Home (Zuhause):
• Patty Roach (1973)
• Sara Shaw (1953)
• Betty Andreasson (1967)

Most of these cases were investigated between 1975 and 1978. Hypnosis was instrumental in recovering memories in eight of these cases, with Villas Boas, Walton, and Hickson-Parker being exceptions.

Table 4: Comparison of Abduction Reports

Detailed tables (pages 172-177) provide a systematic comparison of these eleven cases, outlining the sequence of events, descriptions of the abduction, the spacecraft, the beings, and the aftermath. The tables use a coding system (e.g., H, L, S, D, K, P, W, V, R, T, A) to represent different individuals, actions, and observations within each case. The descriptions cover various aspects, including:

• The Abduction (Ergreifung): Events such as being taken from a vehicle, seeing strange lights, experiencing time loss, being taken aboard a craft, and encountering beings.
• The Investigation (Untersuchung): Details of physical examinations, medical procedures, and interactions with the beings inside the craft.
• The Conference (Konferenz): Discussions between the abductee and the beings, often involving spiritual or existential themes.
• The Tour (Tour): Exploration of the spacecraft, including viewing star maps or machinery.
• Journey to the Otherworld (Reise in die Anderswelt): Experiences such as seeing alien planets, being escorted through hangars, and undergoing procedures in alien environments.
• Theophany: Mystical or spiritual revelations, often involving a divine-like entity or message.
• Return (Rückkehr): The process of being returned to Earth, often with instructions to forget or with a sense of disorientation.
• Aftermath (Nachwirkungen): Immediate feelings of fear, anxiety, physical sensations, and long-term psychological or life changes.
• Descriptions of the Spaceships (Beschreibungen der Raumschiffe): Various shapes and internal features of the craft, including disk-shaped, saucer-shaped, and elongated vessels with complex interiors.
• Descriptions of the Beings (Beschreibungen der Wesen): Detailed descriptions of different types of beings, including humanoids, 'Nordics,' and other non-human entities, noting their physical characteristics, attire, and demeanor.
• Communication and Control (Kommunikation und Kontrolle): Methods of communication, such as telepathy, and control mechanisms, including hypnotic eyes and induced paralysis.

GEP-Fachtagung 2009

Another article, "Kulturen der Annäherung – Bemerkungen zur GEP-Fachtagung 2009" (Cultures of Approximation – Remarks on the GEP Expert Conference 2009) by Gerd H. Hövelmann, discusses a conference held by the "Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e. V." (Society for the Research of the UFO Phenomenon) in May 2009. The conference aimed to bridge the gap between academic scientists and amateur UFO researchers, acknowledging the difficulties in achieving consensus and collaboration between these groups.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, scientific investigation, and psychological interpretation. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous analysis, presenting both conventional scientific explanations (like satellite flares) and in-depth examinations of controversial topics (like alien abductions) with a critical, comparative approach. The journal aims to provide a platform for detailed case studies and theoretical discussions within the field of ufology.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, Volume Nr. 186, dated June 2009, focuses on a significant cross-organizational conference held in Schmerlenbach, Germany, and includes a critical review of Erich von Däniken's latest book.

Conference Report: Two Days in Schmerlenbach

The main article details a two-day event in Schmerlenbach that was characterized by its experimental and cross-organizational nature. The conference brought together representatives from several UFO research organizations, including DEGUFO, GEP, GfA, MUFON-CES, Exopolitik, and CENAP. The author notes that while a general consensus on the need for reform in UFO research exists, the event's 'cross-organizational' aspect, particularly the inclusion of Exopolitik, led to polemical exchanges in internet blogs. The author, chosen to report due to his neutral stance, highlights the unusual mix of participants, including academics from various disciplines who observe the UFO scene without necessarily belonging to any specific organization. This diverse participation, with more than a fifth of attendees not being active UFO researchers, contributed to a more critical and analytical approach to the subject matter.

The conference's program included sessions that were deliberately experimental. The 'UFO-Forscher-Session' on the second day, in particular, drew criticism from some bloggers who argued that Exopolitik, an advocacy group focused on extraterrestrial presence and government cover-ups, does not conduct UFO research. The author defends the inclusion of Exopolitik, stating that not all participating organizations are strictly UFO research bodies and that excluding them would hinder dialogue. The GfA (Gesellschaft für Anomalistik) is also mentioned as an organization that, while not directly conducting UFO research, contributes to the field.

Several presentations are highlighted, including Edgar Wunder's on 'Extraterrestrials, UFOs, and Religion: Connections from a Social Science Perspective,' Ingbert Jüdt's 'Discourse Analysis as an Instrument for Evaluating Controversies in UFO Research,' and Gerhard Mayer and Ina Schmied-Knittel's 'UFO Alarm! UFOs, Mass Media, and Social Stigmatization.' The author notes that the critical thinking displayed by participants indicated a move towards maturity within the German UFO research community.

Martin Bielski's introduction to the 'Extended Heim Theory' is described as a significant contribution, making the complex theory more accessible. The formal conclusion of the conference was the 'UFO-Forscher-Session,' where representatives from various organizations, including DEGUFO, Exopolitik, GEP, GfA, and MUFON-CES, spoke. Although Hansjürgen Köhler from CENAP initially boycotted this session due to Exopolitik's involvement, he later participated in the discussion. The key takeaway from this session was the commitment of all groups to foster critical discourse and explore potential research collaborations.

The author concludes that the conference was a success in its aim to bridge divides and foster dialogue, even if not always in a fully 'cross-organizational' manner. The event demonstrated a level of sovereignty and a willingness to engage with difficult topics, suggesting a positive step forward for the UFO research community.

Literature: New Releases

Erich von Däniken: Götterdämmerung - Die Rückkehr der Außerirdischen 2012 und darüber hinaus (Twilight of the Gods - The Return of the Extraterrestrials 2012 and Beyond)

This section reviews Erich von Däniken's book, which focuses on the Mayan calendar's 2012 cycle and the alleged return of extraterrestrials. The reviewer notes a shift towards a more aggressive style in Däniken's writing, with a marked absence of his usual humor. The book delves into theories about ancient civilizations, particularly Tiahuanaco and Puma Punku, suggesting they were bases established by extraterrestrial visitors.

The review critically examines Däniken's use of evidence, questioning his interpretations of archaeological findings, such as the construction techniques at Puma Punku and the alleged giant human bones. Däniken's reliance on the 'World Ice Theory' of Hanns Hörbiger and the claims of researchers like Arthur Posnasky regarding the age of Tiahuanaco are discussed. The reviewer points out inconsistencies and a lack of proper sourcing in Däniken's arguments, often misrepresenting scientific findings, such as the 'giant footprints' from Glen Rose, which are identified as dinosaur tracks.

Von Däniken's arguments regarding the construction of Puma Punku and Tiahuanaco are challenged. The reviewer highlights that the blocks were likely joined with bronze clamps, a technique not unique to advanced alien civilizations and also found in Egyptian temples like Karnak and Edfu. The alleged magnetic anomalies are explained by the natural magnetic properties of the stone (diorite and andesite). The reviewer also debunks Däniken's claims about the Serapeum in Egypt, clarifying that the large stone sarcophagi were not designed to contain monstrous beings but were used for Apis bulls, and that the construction techniques are explainable by known ancient methods.

Furthermore, the review addresses Däniken's interpretation of zoomorphic and anthropomorphic depictions in ancient cultures as evidence of alien experimentation. The reviewer argues that these are more likely products of human imagination and cultural symbolism, drawing parallels with shamanistic practices and the human dream of flight.

Overall, the review finds many of Däniken's arguments in this book to be flawed or requiring significant relativization, suggesting that his claims about ancient aliens and their influence on human civilization lack robust evidence and are based on misinterpretations and selective use of information.

Short Notes: Current Reports

History of the Release of Formerly Secret UFO Files Published

This section reports on the increasing trend of governments worldwide releasing classified documents related to UFO sightings. Brazil is highlighted for releasing over 4000 pages of UFO case files from the 1950s to 1980s. Further releases are expected from Great Britain and other countries. Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos, a Spanish UFO researcher, has published a document titled 'State-of-the-Art in UFO Disclosure Worldwide,' which summarizes the history of government UFO file releases. This compilation serves as a valuable overview for researchers and counters rumors of government cover-ups.

"The Fourth Kind" Premieres in the USA

The film "The Fourth Kind," starring Milla Jovovich as an abduction researcher, has premiered successfully in the United States. The film claims to incorporate original documentary footage and tells a story about disappearances in Alaska linked to alien abductions. It is noted as a pseudorealistic film in the style of "The Blair Witch Project" and "Paranormal Activity." The German theatrical release is scheduled for 2010.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a strong emphasis on the critical evaluation of UFO research and related theories. The conference report highlights a desire for greater consensus and collaboration within the UFO community, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by differing methodologies and the inclusion of controversial topics like exopolitics. The review of Erich von Däniken's book underscores the journal's commitment to scrutinizing popular theories with a rigorous, evidence-based approach, often debunking sensational claims by providing scientific or historical context. The editorial stance appears to favor a more academic and analytical perspective on UFO phenomena, encouraging open discourse while maintaining a skeptical yet open-minded attitude towards extraordinary claims.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 6-2009, number 186, published by GEP e.V., focuses on a critical examination of Erich von Däniken's book "Götterdämmerung" and the scientific methodology employed by UFO research groups in Germany.

Review of Erich von Däniken's "Götterdämmerung"

The review, primarily authored by André Kramer, delves into several chapters of Däniken's book, scrutinizing his arguments and interpretations.

Chapter 3: "Wissenschaftlich? Wissenschaftlich!" (Scientific? Scientific!)

This chapter is criticized for offering little new insight. Däniken emphasizes that the interpretation of ancient texts is subjective and draws parallels between Egyptian and Mesoamerican cultures. The reviewer points out Däniken's selective use of text passages, often taken out of context, to support his pre-astronautics theories. The reviewer questions why Däniken applies this literal interpretation to ancient texts when he would not do so for biblical stories like Jonah surviving in a whale.

Chapter 4: "Die Rückkehr der Götter" (The Return of the Gods)

This chapter addresses the Maya calendar and the prophecy of the end of the great cycle on December 23, 2012, and the prophesied return of the god Bolon Yokte. Däniken expresses certainty about the return of extraterrestrials but is unsure about the exact date. The reviewer notes that Däniken's mention of Bolon Yokte is not new, having been previously discussed by Maya experts like Nikolai Grube. The reviewer also challenges Däniken's assumption that the Maya were a unified people, pointing out they were a collection of warring city-states. The inscription from Tortuguero, cited by Däniken, is argued to be relevant only to that specific city-state.

The reviewer expresses personal discomfort with the way Däniken's chapter seems to foster a sense of 'hope' for the return of extraterrestrial gods, likening it to a form of substitute religion.

The Quetzalcoatl Legend

Däniken also recounts the legend that Cortés was mistaken for the returning god Quetzalcoatl by the Aztecs. The reviewer dismisses this as a popular myth that has long been debunked by scholars, citing Werner Stenzel's research which suggests this confusion likely never occurred.

Chapter 5: "Die Ewige Intelligenz" (The Eternal Intelligence)

This final chapter discusses the SETI project, the Fermi Paradox, warp drives, and the concept of panspermia. Däniken proposes that life has spread universally through panspermia and that the return of the gods is inevitable. The reviewer criticizes Däniken's argument for extraterrestrial life, stating that it bypasses the fundamental problem of biogenesis – how life arises from non-living matter. The reviewer argues that without understanding abiogenesis, it's impossible to determine the conditions or frequency of life elsewhere. Däniken's reliance on panspermia, whether directed or undirected, is seen as merely relocating the problem of life's origin rather than solving it.

Personal Conclusion and Critique

André Kramer concludes that he did not enjoy Däniken's book "Götterdämmerung." While acknowledging its easy readability due to simple language, large font, and numerous illustrations, he finds the content lacking. He notes the absence of Däniken's characteristic humor and engaging anecdotes, replaced by claims of evidence that, upon closer inspection, are less convincing than Däniken suggests. For readers familiar with Däniken's previous works, there is little new information. While Kramer remains open to the possibility of pre-astronautics, he believes books like this are a step in the wrong direction for serious scientific inquiry into the subject.

Analysis of GEP e.V. UFO Research Methodology

Olaf Fritz contributes an article titled "Über die Wissenschaftlichkeit der UFO-Forschung der GEP e.V." (On the Scientific Nature of UFO Research by GEP e.V.). Fritz, a social scientist, investigates whether UFO research conducted in Germany, often by privately funded groups, meets the standards of scientific rigor.

GEP e.V. - A Case Study

The study focuses on the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens) in Lüdenscheid as an exemplary case. Fritz concludes that GEP e.V.'s research is characterized by a clearly defined subject matter, a methodical, systematic, and transparent approach to knowledge acquisition. Furthermore, their research activities are reproducible, verifiable, and thus open to criticism by third parties. The research results of GEP e.V. are regularly made public through the "jufof" (Journal for UFO Research).

"jufof" - Journal for UFO Research

The "jufof" has been critically documenting the UFO phenomenon since 1980. As the official publication of GEP e.V., each issue includes a section dedicated to documenting reported sightings, their classification, and related case investigations. The second part of each "jufof" contains competent technical reports on the UFO phenomenon, case studies, and international reports and analyses, written in a scientific and methodical style. The journal also includes a reviews and letters section.

Defining a UFO

The journal provides a definition of a UFO: "A UFO is the reported perception of an object or light in the sky or on the ground, whose appearance, trajectory, and general dynamic and luminous behavior does not suggest a logical, conventional explanation, and which remains puzzling not only to the witnesses but also, after careful examination of all available evidence by technically capable individuals, remains unidentifiable."

Reporting UFO Sightings

For individuals who have witnessed a UFO and wish to report it, the journal provides contact information for the GEP e.V. reporting center, including a telephone number (0 23 51 / 2 33 77) and website addresses (www.ufo-forschung.de, www.jufof.de), a web forum, and an email address ([email protected]).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue demonstrates a critical and analytical approach to UFO research and related topics. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous scientific methodology and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, as evidenced by the detailed critique of Erich von Däniken's work and the positive assessment of GEP e.V.'s systematic research practices. The journal actively encourages public participation in UFO research by providing clear channels for reporting sightings and engaging with the research community. The recurring themes include the interpretation of ancient myths and texts in the context of extraterrestrial visitation, the scientific validation of UFO research, and the ongoing quest to understand the origins and prevalence of life beyond Earth.