JUFOF - Issue 200 - 2012 02

Magazine Overview

This is the 200th issue of the German UFO research journal 'jufof', published by GEP e.V. (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.). The issue is a special anniversary edition, celebrating both the 200th publication of the journal and the 40th anniversary of the GEP organization. The cover prominently displays "Jubiläumsausgabe" (Anniversary Edition) and "40 Jahre GEP - 200 Ausgaben Journal für UFO-Forschung". The magazine's title, 'jufof', is in large yellow letters, with the subtitle 'journal für ufo-forschung'. The issue date is February 2012, with volume Jg. 33 and issue number Nr. 200. The ISSN is 0723-7766, and the price is 4,50 Euro.

Editorial

The editorial, titled "Liebe Leser" (Dear Readers), is written by Hans-Werner Peiniger. He reflects on the journal's journey from its first issue in January 1980 to this 200th edition. He notes that the 100th issue was published in August 1995, and 17 years have passed since then. Peiniger provides a brief overview of the journal's content over the years, referencing a retrospective by Gerald Mosbleck that covered up to 1994. He acknowledges the difficulty of filling the journal every two months with interesting material, especially as ufological print media has become less common. The editorial highlights the increasing challenges due to the growing workload for editors from a large number of incoming UFO sightings, general association work, and other projects. Furthermore, he notes a decline in public interest in UFO research, partly due to the increased flexibility demanded by the modern workforce, which limits free time. Many enthusiasts have turned to the internet for information, often foregoing paid publications due to financial constraints. Peiniger expresses gratitude to the readers for their continued loyalty and support. He also announces that this issue will include a selection of interesting older cases investigated by GEP, suggesting that there is enough material for a potential special issue on this topic. He concludes by noting the high-quality, full-color printing of the current issue.

Historical Context and Publication Evolution

On page 4, Hans-Werner Peiniger further elaborates on the journal's origins. He explains that the early publications, including "GEP-Nachrichten" and the "UFO-Blatt" from the "UFO-Jugendclub Lüdenscheid", were produced using a simple mimeograph process with a wax matrix typed on a typewriter. This method allowed for small print runs. Creating drawings was difficult, and photos could not be included. The issue includes a reproduction of the first "UFO-Blatt" from March/April 1973 as part of the "GEP-insider" supplement for members. The page also displays images of various past 'jufof' covers from different years (1980, 1985, 1995, 2004, 2007), illustrating the journal's evolution. A caption mentions that this issue provides a cross-section of 200 'jufof' issues from 1980 to the present.

Key UFO Cases and Investigations

The magazine features several detailed reports on significant UFO sightings and investigations conducted by GEP:

11. April 1974, Hochheim, Germany

This case is described as one of the most interesting. Four witnesses in a car observed a disc-shaped object with rotating lights that emitted a "light beam" which moved like an elevator, scanning the ground and then the interior of their vehicle. The object then moved away rapidly. The witnesses estimated the observation lasted 15-20 minutes, but two hours had actually passed.

12. Juni 1976, Ennepetal-Schweflinghausen, Germany

Two police officers reported seeing an unusual flying object over a field. The object was described as having a bright, rotating light and was so intense that it outshone a nearby construction safety lamp. It hovered briefly before ascending and moving away at high speed. The report includes a copy of the police report to the Düsseldorf Ministry of the Interior and a newspaper clipping from BILD-Zeitung detailing the event. The article notes that despite extensive investigations, the object could not be identified.

23. Januar 1981, Dierdorf, Germany

A witness, Frau K., driving on a rural road, experienced her car engine failing as a luminous, reddish object landed nearby. The object emitted a "steam-like" substance and left a burnt circle on the road and ground, with melted tar and a grey, compacted surface. The witness reported unusual heat and a smell of burnt nickel or brass. She developed an allergic reaction to a residue found on her car, which was later analyzed as containing nickel, oxygen, iron, silicon, and lithium-oxygen. The GEP investigation concluded that a landing likely did not occur, citing inconsistencies in the witness's account and the lack of evidence of damage to the surrounding vegetation.

7. Januar 1982, Hamburg-Neustadt, Germany

This case involves a police officer who photographed a UFO over the Hamburg Michel church. The BILD-Zeitung reported on the incident. The officer positioned his patrol car with flashing blue lights and took several photos. One photograph revealed a reddish ring with a red cap. However, the GEP's analysis concluded that the phenomenon was a "Linsenreflexion" (lens reflection) caused by the police car's blue light, and they declined to examine the original negative due to the high cost requested.

16. September 1982, Gudensberg-Dorla, Germany

This report details landing traces found in a forest, a sighting by multiple witnesses, and burnt spots in a field. The objects were described as luminous and flying at a constant speed. Due to the proximity of two air force bases, the GEP investigation suggested the objects were likely aircraft or helicopters. The report also mentions unusual sounds heard by one witness, which were potentially explained by wind conditions.

Other Content

• Inhalt (Table of Contents): Page 2 lists the articles, including "Editorial", "UFO-Beobachtungen" (UFO Sightings), "Zur 200. Ausgabe des jufof" (On the 200th Issue of jufof), and "Literatur" (Literature).
• Impressum: Page 2 provides the publication details, including the publisher (GEP e.V.), editorial team (Hans-Werner Peiniger, Danny Ammon), bank details, and subscription information. It states that the journal is published on a non-commercial basis and contributions are honor-free.
• GEP-News: Page 4 mentions that members receive the "GEP-insider" which includes the text of the first "UFO-Blatt".
• Literature: Page 2 lists "Publikationen der GEP" (Publications of GEP).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are historical UFO cases, the evolution of UFO research and reporting, and the challenges faced by organizations like GEP in disseminating information. The editorial stance, as expressed by Hans-Werner Peiniger, emphasizes a commitment to serious, evidence-based UFO research, despite declining public interest and the shift towards online information. The GEP appears to maintain a critical and investigative approach, as seen in the Dierdorf case where they concluded no landing occurred despite the witness's claims. The publication aims to provide objective and factual reporting, accessible to both specialists and laypeople, as indicated in the historical context of the journal's founding principles.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), specifically "AUSGABE 2-2012 NR. 200", presents a compilation of UFO sighting reports and investigations primarily from the 1980s and early 1990s. The magazine focuses on detailed case studies, including witness testimonies, investigative findings, and photographic evidence where available. The publication aims to document and analyze unexplained aerial phenomena.

Case Studies

Crescent-Shaped Tracks (Undated)

The issue begins with a report on crescent-shaped tracks found on a driveway and in a field. The driveway tracks were only visible when the ground was wet and could not be removed. Investigations by GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens) revealed no increased radioactivity or magnetic field changes. The field tracks showed soil that absorbed water slowly, suggesting an organic structure like roots or fungi. No witnesses were found for these initial ground trace reports.

Jüchen-Bedburdyk, November 19, 1982

Frau D. observed a flying object near the autobahn, which was initially attributed to a helicopter. However, a track was later discovered in a field, believed to be from the UFO. A dowser suggested an extraterrestrial landing. Field investigations indicated altered plant growth in a depression due to accumulated fertilizer, providing a natural explanation for the track.

Nürnberg, April 26, 1983

An unidentified flying object (UFO) observed from April 26-28, 1983, caused concern among German authorities. While experts debated its nature, GEP identified it as a stratospheric balloon, citing a similar photograph taken over Sarajevo in 1968. These balloons, with volumes up to 130,000 m³, are used for atmospheric research. The German Weather Service confirmed the possibility of a stratospheric balloon.

Jüchen, May 24, 1983

Jürgen R. witnessed a red flying object descend through clouds and stop over a high-voltage power line. The object then emitted a pyramid-shaped 'radiation field' that moved up and down. During the observation, CB radio experienced interference. The object's diameter was estimated to be between 11 and 23 meters.

Radevormwald, November 30, 1984

Jürgen H. observed a box-shaped object with a luminous, hose-like bulge and two round 'windows' on its front. These windows had copper-colored lamellae from which dark brown light emanated. The object flew past a house, clearly illuminating its gable, rooftops, and the surrounding area. The case was classified as a 'PROBLEMATIC UFO' after discussions with other researchers, including the possibility of a CH-47 helicopter. The witness was so impressed that he created a model of the object.

Comiso, Sicily, Italy, June 19, 1987

Giuseppe L., an Italian living in Solingen, was visiting the construction site of his house in Comiso when he saw an unidentified flying object approaching. He managed to take six Polaroid photos during its brief flyby. The object moved towards a nearby NATO site, leading the witness to suspect a secret military test flight. Despite time-consuming investigations, the photographed object could not be identified.

Eschweiler, December 7, 1989

Gert G., a geography teacher, observed an object in the sky that approached in a bow flight and then hovered motionlessly over a field. He described the underside of the object as spider-like, with three legs or stilts. The object appeared as large as an elephant. His life partner also witnessed the event. After about ten minutes, the object moved away at high speed. The experience left the witnesses deeply impressed and in a state of shock. No identification was made.

Ronneburg, January 19, 1991

Helga F. encountered a large, bell-shaped flying object while walking home. A strong wind preceded the event. The object, approximately 30 meters wide, hovered about 25 meters above the street, emitting pulsating orange lights and a central yellow light. The witness saw three large figures inside a transparent dome, wearing silver suits and helmets. One figure seemed to aim a black, round rod at her. She felt fear and hid behind a lamppost. The entire experience lasted about 10 minutes, but the witness felt a time loss of 15-20 minutes. The GEP could not form a definitive judgment but ruled out conscious deception.

Braunschweig, March 8, 1993

Carsten B. reported seeing a small humanoid being and a flying object in a forest near Melverode, claiming to have photographed them. However, during GEP investigations, he admitted that the photographs were faked using a large model and a self-constructed puppet. He submitted the photos to the BILD newspaper to test media and public reactions.

Fehrenbach, October 25, 1994

Two schoolboys, Sascha W. (15) and Karsten T. (14), photographed a UFO seven times with a Polaroid camera. Their grandfather submitted the photos to the local press, which published an article. A UFO group composed of scientists analyzed the photos and concluded they were likely genuine, estimating the object's size at seven to eight meters. They argued against the possibility of a model. The case gained wider media attention, including a report on the TV channel "n-tv". GEP also began investigations.

Commentary

Gerald Mosbleck's commentary, titled "Kommentar," reflects on the media's role in UFO phenomena. He criticizes the sensationalism and speculative reporting that often surrounds UFO sightings, likening it to a "soap bubble." He notes how media attention, fueled by authors like Johannes von Buttlar, can disrupt local peace and lead to exaggerated interpretations of events. Mosbleck suggests that UFO researchers often face challenges in having their findings accurately represented, especially when relying on journalistic accounts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the documentation of unexplained aerial phenomena, the investigation of physical traces, and the critical analysis of witness testimonies. The journal appears to maintain a stance of rigorous investigation, attempting to identify mundane explanations (IFO - Identified Flying Object) before classifying a case as unexplained (CE - Close Encounter). There is a clear emphasis on differentiating between genuine sightings, misidentifications, and potential hoaxes, as demonstrated by the inclusion of cases like the Braunschweig sighting. The commentary by Gerald Mosbleck suggests a critical perspective on media sensationalism surrounding UFOs, implying an editorial stance that values factual reporting and careful analysis over sensationalism.

Title: JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: 2-2012 (NR. 200)
Date: 2012
Publisher: GEP (Gemeinschaft zur Erforschung unbekannter Phänomene)
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research) celebrates its 200th edition with a significant retrospective, looking back at its history, key cases, and evolution. The issue features a cover story titled "Zur zweihundertsten Ausgabe des jufof – ein kleiner Rückblick" (On the Two Hundredth Issue of jufof – A Small Retrospective) by Gerald Mosbleck and Hans-Werner Peiniger.

Case Study: The Fehrenbach UFO Hoax

The journal details the investigation into a case from Fehrenbach, Germany, where two students allegedly photographed a "flying saucer" on October 25, 1994. Initially, the photos were presented to the media and MUFON-CES, who also took up the investigation. However, the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" uncovered that the students had used a commercially available toy model, the "Robo-Saucer" from the "Galaxy Space Pocket" series, which was approximately 12 cm in diameter and 6 cm high. By hanging the model on a thread and photographing it multiple times with a Polaroid camera, they created the illusion of a UFO. The journal emphasizes that even sophisticated photo-computer analyses may not yield reliable results and that seemingly spectacular cases can be explained by simple pranks, even fooling knowledgeable scientists.

Case Study: Weyhe-Dreye Sighting

Another detailed case discussed is a sighting on July 29, 1997, in Weyhe-Dreye, near Bremen, Germany. Witnesses Clemens U. and his daughter reported observing a bright, oval-shaped light phenomenon consisting of several yellow-white lights. The object reportedly hovered and then moved towards them before disappearing in the direction of the railway bridge. Investigations, including radar data from civil air traffic control, revealed that an Airbus A320 aircraft was on its landing approach to Bremen airport at the time of the sighting. The report explains that the aircraft's landing lights, position lights, and illuminated fuselage, combined with foggy conditions (visibility between 450m and 750m), could have been misinterpreted as a UFO. The silent operation of modern aircraft also contributed to the potential for misidentification.

Journal History and Evolution

The retrospective section provides a comprehensive overview of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" from its inception in 1980 to 2012. It traces the journal's origins from the "UFO-Jugendclub" founded in 1972 and the subsequent "Gemeinschaft zur Erforschung unbekannter Phänomene" (GEP). The first issue of "jufof" appeared in January 1980, initially as a self-duplicated newsletter and later evolving into a professionally printed magazine. The journal highlights key milestones, including:

• Early Years (1980-1984): Monthly issues, introduction of UFO case reports, book reviews, and contributions from prominent researchers like Illobrand von Ludwiger, Dieter von Reeken, and Werner Walter. The journal received its ISSN in 1983, becoming an "official" publication.
• Growth and Expansion (1985-1990): Introduction of new authors such as Ulrich Magin and Johannes Fiebag, critical analyses of cases, and the GEP's efforts to obtain non-profit status. The journal's layout improved with the use of computers.
• Continued Development (1991-1994): Coverage of various UFO phenomena, including UFO abductions, and discussions on research methodologies. The journal also featured interviews and critical reviews of other UFO organizations.
• Later Years (1995-2011): Analysis of photo cases like the Nagora series, critical examination of the Santilli film, and investigations into alleged alien encounters. The journal continued to feature a wide array of authors and topics, including crop circles, historical UFO cases, and the scientific study of UFO phenomena.

Throughout its history, "jufof" has maintained a critical approach to UFO research, emphasizing thorough investigation and evidence-based analysis. The journal has featured numerous authors and researchers, contributing significantly to the discourse on unidentified aerial phenomena in Germany.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue and throughout the journal's history include detailed case investigations, photo and video analysis, witness testimony evaluation, and historical reviews of UFO research. The editorial stance, as evidenced by the Fehrenbach case analysis, is one of critical inquiry, seeking rational explanations for reported phenomena while acknowledging the complexity and occasional ambiguity of UFO sightings. The journal consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous research methods and highlights instances where seemingly extraordinary events have mundane explanations. There is a clear dedication to providing a platform for in-depth research and discussion within the UFO community.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (2-2012, NR. 200) provides a comprehensive overview of developments in UFO research, particularly focusing on German contributions and historical cases. It highlights the journal's evolution, its editorial content, and the activities of the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens).

Historical Cases and Research

The issue revisits the Roswell crash and introduces the Biefeld-Brown Effect, first experimented with by Thomas Townsend Brown in 1928 using a model similar to Adamski's 'Venus-Untertasse'. The German Air Traffic Control is mentioned for providing radar data for a UFO sighting investigation. The third annual conference of German UFO researchers is noted as taking place in Cröffelbach.

Editorial and Content Evolution

Starting in 2001, Mirko Mojsilovic took over the editorial duties. Sascha Schomacker's work on an alleged UFO unit within the German Federal Armed Forces in Düsseldorf is featured, alongside the Tulli Papyrus, described by Ulrich Magin as the oldest known UFO description. Ralf Härtel explores the UFO phenomenon in the former GDR, and Rudolf Henke presents an analysis of case studies from John Mack's book "Entführt von Außerirdischen" (Abducted by Aliens).

In 2002, the GEP celebrated its 30th anniversary. A fireball over Southern Germany triggered a UFO alarm, and Ralf Härtel revealed details about Area 51 from forgotten government documents. The journal also discusses the concept of longwave reception in UFO research and proposes a UFO surveillance system.

UFO-Absturz auf Helgoland and Other Cases

Sascha Schomacker contributes three articles on findings related to UFO crashes on Helgoland, the beach at Timmendorfer Strand, and in Rothenfier. He also reports on an alleged alien in a German concentration camp.

Journal Enhancements and Themes

From 2004 onwards, the "jufof" began appearing in full color, significantly enhancing its quality. The journal's layout was modernized, and email discussion lists were established. Ulrich Magin discusses cases of dried rays being mistaken for aliens, and Sascha Schomacker covers the Knechtsand riddle and forgotten rocket launches from Cuxhaven.

A spectacular UFO photo from Paderborn in 2005 was identified as a 'Minnie-Maus' foil balloon. The journal also covers the topic of 'flying triangles' and alien abductions. Floco Tausin introduces 'entopic phenomena', and Ulrich Magin reports on German Underwater Object (USO) sightings.

Research and Analysis

In 2007, the journal adopted a more professional layout, moving away from its yellow cover. David Clarke and Gary Anthony presented details from the British Ministry of Defence's secret UFO study, codenamed 'Condign'. Natale Guido Cincinnati interviewed Italian UFO researcher Dr. Roberto Pinotti and Nick Pope, a former Ministry of Defence official.

The journal notes a surge in sighting reports, often attributable to misidentified sky lanterns. The GEP issued a public statement clarifying its role in UFO research. A purported alien drone caused a stir, prompting Danny Ammon to analyze the CARET report. The tenth UFO researchers' meeting was held in Schwäbisch Cröffelbach.

UFOs and Religion, Scientific Approaches

The Religious Studies Institute in Leipzig hosted a lecture series on UFOs, with Dr. Michael Blume exploring the phenomenon from a religious perspective. André Kramer investigated the scientific value of the Mimicry Hypothesis, and Gerhard Gröschel presented his instrumental UFO research, including a self-developed magnetic field detector.

2009 and Beyond

The year 2009 saw a wave of UFO sightings, with Hans-Werner Peiniger providing an overview. Interviews with Michael Hesemann, a former UFO researcher, were published. The journal also discussed the growing cooperation between UFO groups and initiated joint projects. Ulrich Magin expanded his USO reports, and Hans-Werner Peiniger critically examined witness altitude estimations.

Thomas E. Bullard's psychological study "Falsche Erinnerungen und UFO-Entführungen" (False Memories and UFO Abductions) began serialization. André Kramer highlighted the risks of the 'looks-like' approach in Paleo-SETI research. Hans-Werner Peiniger reiterated the importance of perceptual psychology in UFO sightings.

Thomas Mertens demonstrated the potential for 3D animation software to fake UFO photos and videos. Hans-Werner Peiniger addressed the cult-like community of FIGU and Billy Meier's claims. The GEP organized a two-day conference in Schmerlenbach.

Literature and Reviews

Illobrand von Ludwiger's book "UFOs – die unerwünschte Wahrheit" (UFOs – The Unwanted Truth) was reviewed. Strange lights over Ramstein Air Base, the 'bulbs of Dendera', and a 'bulb relief' contradicting the electro-thesis were discussed. Hans-Werner Peiniger presented a statistical analysis of 1,020 sightings from 2005-2009. The new MUFON-CES volume was reviewed.

Ulrich Magin analyzed UFO ground traces from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The 30th anniversary of the Rendlesham Forest incident was marked, with Tim Printy offering a new perspective. The phenomenon of Men in Black was also covered, with Natale Guido Cincinnati compiling cases from German-speaking regions.

GOOD UFO Project and Methodological Critiques

The "GOOD UFO" project was launched for an unusual case classified as a GOOD UFO. Chris Rutkowski examined the Falcon Lake case, and André Kramer explored Indian pre-astronautic traditions. The GEP distanced itself from the presentation and content of CENAP's work, terminating their collaboration. A case initially classified as GOOD UFO was later explained in early 2012.

Jochen Ickinger critically questioned the use of lie detectors for witness credibility assessment. Danny Ammon presented the GEP's principles for honest scientific practice in UFO research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal emphasizes its unique position as the only German print publication exclusively dedicated to the UFO phenomenon and its related themes, presenting a large number of analyzed UFO photos and detailed case studies. The editorial stance is one of critical, scientific, and interdisciplinary investigation, acknowledging the voluntary efforts of its contributors and the challenges of timely publication due to personal circumstances. The journal aims to provide a platform for in-depth research and analysis, distinguishing itself through its methodical approach and comprehensive coverage of the UFO phenomenon.