JUFOF - Issue 201 - 2012 03

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'jufof' (Journal für UFO-Forschung), Volume 33, Number 201, dated March 2012, is published by GEP e.V. and priced at 4.50 Euro. The cover headline prominently features "Die Priester der »High Strangeness«" (The Priests of 'High Strangeness'), with a subtitle posing the question of how the abduction phenomenon is collectively generated. Other key articles include a report on the GEP's 40th-anniversary conference and reviews of UFO literature.

Editorial

Danny Ammon, in his editorial, welcomes readers to the 201st issue of 'jufof'. He reflects on the recent GEP anniversary and looks towards the present and future of the organization. The editorial highlights the GEP's anniversary conference in Hannover, with a report by T. A. Günter. It also introduces an exceptional case study presented by the first chairman, Hans-Werner Peiniger, focusing on witness participation in UFO sighting investigations. Ammon emphasizes the importance of understanding how witnesses interpret UFO sightings within their life contexts. He then introduces a significant article on the 'High Strangeness' phenomenon, noting recent developments and the emergence of accounts from individuals previously involved in abduction research, specifically mentioning Budd Hopkins and David Jacobs. The article features a translation of Carol Rainey's account, which also discusses the case of 'Emma Woods'. Ammon expresses the urgency of these voices being heard in Germany.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen

This section details a UFO sighting that occurred on June 25, 2010, in Bochum, Germany. The case, classified as CE II, involved a detailed report from witness Dr. H.-G. H. (80) and his wife Brunhilde, both engineers with backgrounds in diesel engines, nuclear power plants, and atomic ship propulsion. The object was described as having a Y-shape, emitting white light, and possessing a wingspan of approximately 20 meters and a length of 60 meters. The witness provided extensive technical interpretations, suggesting the object utilized ion thrusters and a vapor cooling system on its delta wings. The sighting occurred in the early morning hours, with the object observed descending and then proceeding horizontally towards Dortmund. The witness's detailed observations, including the object's flight path, speed, and lack of conventional aerodynamic surfaces, are presented, along with his own technical analysis and comparisons to aircraft.

Zeugenbericht (Witness Report)

The witness describes the object's flight and propulsion direction as 90° (East), with minimal wind. He notes the object's dimensions and the absence of a tail fin, rudder, or elevator. He interprets the wing-like structures as cooling surfaces for an atomic reactor. The weather was clear. The object was initially observed as a bright oval light through the slats of a window blind, later identified as a low-wing aircraft-like shape with a blinding light emanating from its fuselage and wing leading edges. The witness also describes a white light illuminating the garden and neighboring bungalow. He notes the object's quiet approach and its passage directly overhead. He recounts his actions, including taking measurements of his own vital signs, and his wife's observation of the object. The witness also mentions his experience as a private pilot and his familiarity with aircraft in the Düsseldorf flight path.

Technische Einzelheiten (Technical Details)

This section delves into the technical interpretation of the object by the witness, based on his sketches (Blatt 1 and Blatt 2). "Auffallend 1" describes the white glowing Y-form under the bow, with red-highlighted parts emitting blinding white light, possibly from glowing components or a white-hot surface. "Auffallend 2" details the white bow tip and the blue-white striped delta wing, noting a slight cloud formation suggesting water vapor as a cooling agent. The witness hypothesizes a film cooling system with evaporating water. He describes pulsating vapor trails and silent flashes of light. "Auffallend 3" details the Y-shape, which runs under a cone angle of less than 5° to a point below the delta wing's tip, suggesting a possible shockwave from supersonic flight. "Auffallend 4" describes a blue overlay on the delta wing, interpreted as structural material or a heat-resistant ceramic glaze, not typical blue metals found on Earth. The witness also notes the brief, one-sided, and non-continuous expulsion of water or water vapor for cooling.

Literatur

This section includes reviews of current UFO literature, with one entry titled "UFOs im 21. Jahrhundert" (UFOs in the 21st Century).

Impressum

The 'Impressum' section provides details about the publisher, GEP e.V., founded in 1972. It lists their address, contact information (phone, fax, email), and bank details. Hans-Werner Peiniger and Danny Ammon are listed as responsible for the editorial content. The section clarifies that contributions do not necessarily reflect GEP's views and that unsolicited manuscripts are not liable. It states that 'jufof' is published bi-monthly on a non-commercial basis, with contributions being honorarium-free. Subscription prices are listed as €27.00 per year plus postage, with a renewal clause. Information on advertising prices and reprint policies is also included. The printing is done by bis500 Druck.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the 'High Strangeness' phenomenon, detailed UFO case investigations, and the history and activities of the GEP. The editorial stance, as conveyed by Danny Ammon, emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, understanding witness perspectives, and bringing significant, often overlooked, UFO-related information to the German-speaking public. There is a clear focus on presenting detailed, technical analyses of sightings and exploring the psychological and sociological aspects of UFO experiences, particularly in the context of abduction research.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), dated Ausgabe 3-2012, NR.201, features a prominent article by Carol Rainey, titled "Die Priester der >>High Strangeness<<: Wie das Entführungsphänomen gemeinsam erzeugt wird – Teil 1" (The Priests of >>High Strangeness<<: How the Abduction Phenomenon is Co-Created – Part 1). The article, translated by Ulrich Magin, is based on Rainey's experiences as the former wife of renowned UFO abduction researcher Budd Hopkins. The issue also includes several detailed observations of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and their alleged characteristics.

UFO Sightings and Object Characteristics (Page 1)

The first page presents several "Auffallend" (Remarkable) observations related to UFO phenomena:

• Auffallend 5: Describes the rear three thrusters of a UFO being obscured by a steam cloud, noting that the cloud's expansion was influenced by radiation from presumed ion-thrusters. It contrasts this with how terrestrial gas turbine engines would behave.
• Auffallend 6: Details the sudden disappearance of a cooling film on a visible, arc-shaped baffle, which had a smaller radius than the six arc-shaped steam trails. The baffle was part of an opaque cooling film wave.
• Annotation 6.1: Suggests this cooling film is part of a system for reusing cooling gas, which is collected at the baffle and likely fed forward within the hull. It implies a need for internal cooling.
• Auffallend 7: Describes what appear to be twelve rectangular nozzles or thrusters arranged in two rows of six on the delta-wing's rear slope, possibly for propulsion using invisible propellant (ion-thrusters). Some thrusters might swivel downwards for stability and maneuvering.
• Auffallend 8: Reports on a UFO observed at a distance, initially appearing aircraft-like with a central circular fuselage and two wing-like structures. Upon closer inspection, it was identified as a flying wing, a delta-wing with a pointed front. The observer noted an oval light spot on the inside of their window blinds that corresponded to the object's cross-section. The light was described as blindingly bright in the center of the fuselage and wings, transitioning to a less intense light band. The underside appeared like a highly polished metallic surface reflecting light. The object disappeared behind a neighbor's house.
• Annotation: The observer notes that people tend to stare at bright lights, which is an unconscious defense mechanism, and advises looking away to observe details in darker areas.

The Priests of >>High Strangeness<<: How the Abduction Phenomenon is Co-Created – Part 1 (Pages 2-10)

This extensive article by Carol Rainey delves into her critical perspective on the field of UFO abduction research, particularly focusing on the work of Budd Hopkins and David Jacobs.

Background and Motivation

Carol Rainey, a documentary filmmaker, spent two decades working with Budd Hopkins, researching UFO abduction cases and co-authoring books. Despite her extensive involvement, she distanced herself from the field around 2004, citing ethical concerns. She felt compelled to speak out due to the case of Emma Woods, which mirrored other instances where she believed subjects were negatively impacted by the research process. Rainey questions the validity of abduction claims, suggesting they are often constructed or manipulated.

Critique of Research Methods

Rainey argues that researchers like Hopkins and Jacobs often lead subjects during hypnotic regressions, subtly influencing their narratives. She points to the Emma Woods case, where David Jacobs allegedly guided Woods' story to fit his theories about alien-hybrids, including graphic sexual encounters and the suggestion of a chastity belt. Rainey criticizes the lack of scientific methodology, ethical oversight, and the tendency to present sensational cases as representative of the phenomenon.

She highlights that these researchers lack formal medical, psychiatric, or neurological training and do not adhere to the same standards as conventional scientists, who would face severe repercussions for similar practices. Rainey contrasts the rigorous protocols in scientific research, which she experienced during her years producing medical films, with the unchecked methods employed in UFO abduction studies.

The Emma Woods Case

The article details the Emma Woods case, which gained prominence through a UFO Magazine article by Jeremy Vaeni. Rainey interviewed Emma Woods and listened to audio recordings of her hypnotic sessions with David Jacobs. Woods' narrative included violent sexual encounters with an alien-hybrid, and Jacobs' suggestions about her needing a chastity belt and seeking specialized Sado-Maso shops. Jacobs also claimed to receive threatening SMS messages from a hybrid, which he used to pressure Emma into accepting his diagnosis of multiple personality disorder rather than alien abduction.

The Linda Cortile Case

Rainey also discusses the Linda Cortile case, which was the subject of Budd Hopkins' book "Witnessed: The True Story of the Brooklyn Bridge Abductions." She notes that Hopkins and Cortile shared the advance for the book, an arrangement she found unusual. Rainey describes the case as dramatic and thriller-like, involving UFOs over Manhattan, numerous witnesses, and elements like alien implants and encounters with various figures, including a Mafia boss. She points out that not all events described by Cortile were included in Hopkins' book, creating discrepancies.

Broader Implications and Researcher Behavior

Rainey expresses concern for the vulnerable individuals who seek help from these researchers. She questions the lack of progress and new insights in the field over many years, noting that abduction stories have become repetitive. She contrasts the "high strangeness" of the cases presented by Hopkins and Jacobs with the more mundane experiences of many alleged abductees. Rainey also touches upon the personal cost for researchers in this field, who often face isolation and reputational damage.

Despite criticism, Hopkins and Jacobs continue to present their findings, claiming significant evidence for alien-hybrid presence. Rainey notes that even with advancements in DNA technology, no tangible evidence like hybrid DNA has been presented. She concludes that the field of UFO abduction research lacks proper scientific grounding, ethical guidelines, and a clear connection to verifiable truth, often relying on anecdotal evidence and the gullibility of the public.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around critical examination of UFOlogy, particularly the methodologies and ethical considerations within abduction research. Carol Rainey's article strongly advocates for higher scientific standards and transparency, questioning the narratives constructed by prominent researchers. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a call for more rigorous, evidence-based investigation within the UFO field. The detailed descriptions of UFO sightings also suggest an ongoing interest in documenting and analyzing unexplained aerial phenomena.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Journal for UFO Research), Volume 3-2012, Issue NR.201, published by GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.), focuses on the Linda Cortile abduction case and the 40th anniversary of the GEP organization. The magazine is in German and features articles that delve into UFO phenomena, research methodologies, and related controversies.

The Linda Cortile Abduction Case and Budd Hopkins

The issue extensively discusses the case of Linda Cortile, who claimed to have been abducted by aliens on November 30, 1989, from her home in Lower Manhattan. Researcher Budd Hopkins promoted this case, calling it "the most important case of the century" in his book "Witnessed: The True Story of the Brooklyn Bridge Abductions." The article highlights that Hopkins' research involved numerous witnesses, including diplomats and security agents, who allegedly corroborated Cortile's story. However, the book faced significant criticism from both within and outside the UFO community, with many labeling it as the fantasy of a bored housewife or a hoax. Despite the controversy and the failure of a planned film adaptation, Hopkins remained steadfast in his belief in the case.

Carol Rainey, the author and filmmaker, expresses her critical view of Hopkins and other UFO researchers like David Jacobs. She recounts an instance where Linda Cortile allegedly lied to Hopkins, pretending to be her cousin Connie. Rainey suggests that researchers like Hopkins and Jacobs are so deeply immersed in their field that they may have lost touch with consensus reality, becoming part of a surreal connection between fantasy and reality. She plans to explore this further in her documentary film, "Something Hidden."

Critiques of UFO Research and Researchers

Rainey criticizes the pressure on UFO researchers to find increasingly sensational cases to maintain their standing. She points out that researchers like David Jacobs allegedly steered subjects in hypnosis sessions to elicit specific narratives for his books, a method she views as manipulative rather than objective inquiry. She also notes that Budd Hopkins never doubted Linda Cortile's story, which she implies would necessitate questioning his own ability to discern fact from fiction.

Rainey posits that researchers in this field, driven by ego and the need for recognition, often become victims of their own beliefs and potentially of charlatans. She describes a "fundamentalist belief structure" that makes them susceptible to gullibility and a loss of critical thinking, leading them to believe they are saving humanity from an alien takeover.

GEP's 40th Anniversary Celebration

The magazine also covers the 40th anniversary of the GEP, which was celebrated in Hannover on March 24, 2012. The event featured presentations by GEP members, focusing on the organization's history and research. Hans-Werner Peiniger, the First Chairman of GEP and a co-founder, provided a retrospective of the German UFO research landscape since 1972. He detailed GEP's evolution from a youth club to a research society, its role in publishing the 'jufof' magazine, and its involvement in various research projects, including the "GOOD UFO" project.

Danny Ammon, the Second Chairman, presented Peiniger with a surprise gift: a glass and stainless steel door sign for the GEP office in Lüdenscheid. The event included a Q&A session where the GEP's sometimes reserved stance on certain UFO topics was discussed. The article notes that while GEP aims for scientific rigor, some attendees expected more definitive opinions on popular UFO topics.

UFOs and Conspiracy Theories

Andreas Anton, a speaker with an M.A. in sociology, presented on "UFOs and Extraterrestrials in the Context of Conspiracy Theory Models." He discussed the nature of conspiracy theories, differentiating between orthodox and heterodox types, and posited that UFO and alien theories occupy a marginalized space within these frameworks. Anton suggested that the "UFO taboo" reflects a socially constructed reality. He also touched upon the historical context of conspiracy theories, referencing events like the witch trials and the JFK assassination.

Ingbert Jüdt's presentation, "A Paranoid Style of UFO-Politics: The Birth of the Disclosure Movement from the Spirit of the Cold War," explored the role of disinformation in the UFO community. He discussed the case of Paul Bennewitz and the alleged disinformation campaign by the AFOSI, which aimed to distract him from genuine discoveries. Jüdt highlighted how fabricated documents, such as the MJ-12 papers, fueled existing suspicions about government UFO secrecy.

Analysis of Unexplained UFO Cases ("GOOD UFOs")

André Kramer presented an analysis of GEP's "GOOD UFOs" – cases that remain unexplained after investigation. Out of over 2000 reported UFO sightings, about 1% are classified as such. Kramer outlined nine specific unexplained cases investigated by GEP, dating from 1974 to 1991. He proposed four models for understanding these phenomena: common conventional cause, common unknown cause, multiple unknown causes, or multiple conventional causes. Kramer emphasized the need for qualitative heuristics in research, including openness from both the researcher and the subject, and a structured variation of perspectives.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO research, the challenges of distinguishing between genuine phenomena and hoaxes or psychological factors, and the historical development of UFO investigation in Germany. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism, emphasizing scientific rigor and critical thinking, while acknowledging the complexity and enduring mystery of the UFO phenomenon. The magazine also highlights the importance of organizations like GEP in systematically researching these topics over decades.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), designated as NR.201 and part of the 3-2012 Ausgabe, published by Ancient Mail Verlag, delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon with a focus on German research and organizations. The cover prominently features a photograph of a gathering, likely from a conference, and the main headline hints at a discussion about the scientific nature of UFO research.

Conference Report: GEP Tagung 2012

The issue begins with a report on a GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.) conference held in Hannover. The author describes the event as a presentation of the current state of UFO research and an overview of cases, noting that as a running project, no definitive results could be presented yet. The speaker addressed questions from the audience, but some listeners expecting groundbreaking insights were disappointed. The author suggests that this might change over time and anticipates further developments from this project. The report also touches upon the social aspect of such conferences, where participants value the opportunity to connect with colleagues. To facilitate this, the GEP-Tagung 2012 opted for a less extended program, concluding with a shared dinner at a nearby restaurant where attendees could discuss their projects and ideas. The author reflects on the mixed nature of the program, which included topics like "Peiniger" (likely referring to a specific case or theory), conspiracy theories (Jüdt, Anton), and UFOs in a broader sense (Kramer). The attendance was good, attracting individuals not actively involved in the UFO scene. The author speculates on how the conference was perceived by first-time attendees and suggests that feedback forms could be beneficial for future events. Overall, the conference was well-received by UFO scene activists, though some felt a lack of festivity. The author expresses personal satisfaction and hopes the next GEP-organized UFO conference won't be too far in the future, thanking the organizers and participants.

Literature Reviews

The majority of the issue is dedicated to literature reviews of books and articles concerning UFO research.

"UFOs im 21. Jahrhundert" (UFOs in the 21st Century) - Edited by Alexander Knörr

This section reviews a book edited by Alexander Knörr, the chairman of the German-speaking Society for UFO Research (DEGUFO e.V.). The book is presented as a compilation of contributions from members and experts of three major German UFO research organizations: DEGUFO e.V., GEP e.V., and MUFON-CES. These organizations are described as scientifically oriented and recognized for their objective approach to UFO phenomena. The book aims to provide an insight into current UFO research in Germany.

Chapter 1, "Die Methodik der UFO-Forschung" (The Methodology of UFO Research) by Alexander Knörr, offers an overview of UFO research in Germany and introduces various UFO groups. It highlights a clear distancing from extreme viewpoints, both from skeptics and those who believe in potential extraterrestrial origins for some UFOs. Notably, the book mentions the group CENAP, led by Werner Walter, from which the three major German UFO research societies had already distanced themselves in August 2011 due to Walter's polemics against serious UFO researchers and witnesses.

Mirko Mojsilovic (GEP e.V.) contributes "Was ist kritische UFO-Forschung?" (What is Critical UFO Research?), tracing the evolution of the German UFO scene from early ufologists who indiscriminately attributed phenomena to extraterrestrials, leading to a "contactee cult" particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. The section also discusses the historical context and the current pursuit of truth through constructive research.

André Kramer (GEP e.V.) addresses the sensitive topic of "UFO-Entführungen" (UFO Abductions), referencing the Betty and Barney Hill case from 1961 as a pivotal event that brought this aspect of the phenomenon to global attention. The review notes that while many cases are reported, scientific explanations also exist, which Kramer elaborates on.

Christian Czech (DEGUFO e.V., GEP e.V.) presents an overview of publicly available UFO databases where sightings and their outcomes are listed. Since 2007, over 1,250 people have used these databases to report their sightings.

Chapter 2, "Fälle und Ermittlungen" (Cases and Investigations), includes contributions detailing specific cases. Jutta Behne (GEP e.V.) discusses a case investigated with Hans-Werner Peiniger, the 1st Chairman of GEP e.V. Alexander Knörr presents three cases, including two from military sites (Ramstein Air Base and a Bundeswehr training area in Speyer), that remain unexplained.

Lars A. Fischinger examines "Seltsame 'Alien-Leichen' und ein bisschen 'Akte X'" (Strange 'Alien Corpses' and a bit of 'X-Files'), discussing reports of alleged alien bodies, often fakes or animal carcasses, but also cases that warrant closer examination.

Other Contributions and Reviews

Roland Roth, an author and publisher of fringe science topics, contributes "Das UFO-Phänomen ist Realität!" (The UFO Phenomenon is Reality!), citing politicians who, while initially open, have become more distant over time due to the topic's stigmatization. Roth also analyzes the film "Die vierte Art" (The Fourth Kind), which claims to be based on real events, exploring its potential parallels and fictional elements.

Lars A. Fischinger revisits the topic of alleged alien bodies with his article on the "Liebling der Medien: Der 'Alien' von Metepec" (Media Darling: The 'Alien' of Metepec), a case from 2009 involving a small creature found in Mexico.

Gerhard Gröschel (DEGUFO e.V., GEP e.V., MUFON-CES) presents "Neue UFO-Forschung in Deutschland" (New UFO Research in Germany), detailing methods and equipment used for monitoring the sky for potential UFO data. Marius Kettmann offers "Neue Impulse für die UFO-Forschung" (New Impulses for UFO Research), suggesting unified approaches for future-oriented research.

The review concludes that the book is recommendable, offering a factual, scientific, and engaging insight into the current state of UFO research in Germany, acknowledging that the UFO mystery remains unsolved despite the explanation of most cases.

"Über die Wissenschaftlichkeit der UFO-Forschung der GEP e. V." (On the Scientific Nature of GEP e.V.'s UFO Research) by Olaf Fritz

This book by social scientist Olaf Fritz empirically examines whether UFO research in Germany, largely privately funded, meets scientific standards. It focuses on GEP in Lüdenscheid as an exemplary case. Fritz concludes that GEP's research has a clear subject, employs a systematic and comprehensible approach, is reproducible, controllable, and thus criticizable. GEP's findings are regularly published in 'jufof'.

"Kontakte mit 'Außerirdischen' im deutschen Sprachraum" (Contacts with 'Extraterrestrials' in the German-speaking Area) by Ulrich Magin

This work is described as a comprehensive collection of German contactee and humanoid reports. It critically analyzes reports, witnesses, and the social context of UFO beliefs, providing a chronological overview of over 350 entries detailing alleged contacts with beings from space or other dimensions. The GEP special issue covers various aspects of the UFO myth, from abductions to pseudo-astronautics, and includes an extensive bibliography.

Definitions and Contact Information

The final pages provide definitions for GEP and UFO, along with contact information for reporting UFO sightings. The GEP is defined as the largest non-profit scientific association in Germany dedicated to UFO research, working interdisciplinarily with support from authorities and scientific institutions. A UFO is defined as a perceived object or light whose appearance, trajectory, and behavior defy conventional explanation and remain unidentifiable after thorough investigation. Contact details for reporting sightings via phone, email, and the internet are provided, along with website addresses for GEP and 'jufof'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific methodology of UFO research, the critical analysis of UFO cases and phenomena, and the role of organizations like GEP and DEGUFO in advancing this field. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for a serious, scientific, and methodical approach to UFO research, distinguishing it from sensationalism or extreme skepticism. The journal aims to document, analyze, and disseminate findings within the UFO research community and to the broader public.