JUFOF - Issue 203 - 2012 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of "jufof" (Journal für UFO-Forschung), volume 33, number 203, dated May 2012, is published by GEP e.V. The cover features a striking illustration of a flying saucer and the headline "Eine neue Lösung... ...für die CE II von Livingston?", alongside the sub-headline "Verfälscht, vergiftet und verpönt: Ein Wissenschaftler beurteilt die Entführungsforschung". The issue also includes a section on UFO literature with reviews of current books.

Editorial

The editorial, titled "Liebe Leser," is written by Klaus Felsmann. He introduces new faces in the "jufof" editions and discusses his personal journey as a member of GEP since 2007. He recounts his experiences attending GEP meetings and conferences, highlighting the positive development of the organization and encouraging active participation. Felsmann outlines the contents of this issue, including the conclusion of the Bochum case, a current case report, a revisit of the CE II Livingston case, a translated article on investigating alien abductions by Dr. Tyler Kokjohn, and book reviews. He also mentions that the GEP-Insider newsletter is included with this issue for members.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen

Unbekannte Flugobjekte mit Atom-Antrieb über Bochum – Teil 3

This section details the investigation of a UFO sighting in Bochum, Germany, on June 25, 2010, by an 80-year-old witness, Dr. H.-G. H. The object was initially classified as CE II and identified as a sky lantern or conventional aircraft. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, discusses the witness's activities, including his attempts to inform government ministries and the German Air Traffic Control (DFS). The DFS found no radar data to support the sighting and recommended contacting GEP. The witness's detailed documentation and his persistent efforts are described, along with his frustration over the lack of official interest. Peiniger notes the witness's background in mechanical engineering and his specialization in engine technologies, suggesting it might influence his interpretations. The case is ultimately classified as "NEAR IFO with psychological characteristics," with Peiniger concluding that the witness may have misinterpreted conventional aircraft or phenomena like helicopters or sky lanterns due to his professional background and a possible development of a delusional state.

Flugkörper über Wesseling fotografiert

This report covers a UFO sighting in Wesseling, Germany, on August 21, 2012, photographed by a hobby photographer, Werner B. The object was described as olive-green-grey or camouflage, with an uncoordinated flight path. The witness initially thought it might be a sky lantern or the star Sirius, but later identified it as Jupiter. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, notes that the witness's wife was less enthusiastic about his interpretations. Peiniger suggests that the witness might have "conflated" details due to his professional background. The report also questions why such a conspicuous event over a densely populated area like the Ruhrgebiet would go unreported by others. The investigation concluded the object was likely a foil balloon, and the case is classified as IFO/V1.

Literatur

This section provides reviews of several UFO-related books:

• UFOS & Kornkreise: This appears to be a special edition or related publication focusing on UFOs and crop circles, with a mention of a "Mars Mission" and whether there is life on Mars.
• UFOs über Bochum: This likely refers to the case discussed in the magazine.
• UFO-Begegnungen in Österreich: This suggests a review of UFO sightings in Austria.
• UFO-Fotodokumentation in Melbourne, Australien: This indicates a review of UFO photographic evidence from Australia.
• Waren es UFOs? Unbekannte Flugobjekte: This title suggests a general discussion or review of unidentified flying objects.

Additionally, there are mentions of "Aliens im Aufwind" and a "Kurzinterview mit Roland Roth."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed investigation of specific UFO sightings, the analysis of witness testimony, and the classification of these events. The magazine adopts a scientific and analytical approach, seeking to explain sightings through conventional explanations (IFO) or identifying potential psychological factors influencing witness accounts. The GEP e.V. positions itself as a research organization dedicated to understanding UFO phenomena, encouraging member involvement, and publishing its findings. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded yet critical inquiry, aiming to provide thorough documentation and reasoned conclusions based on available evidence.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), dated Ausgabe 5-2012, Nr. 203, features two main articles. The first, by Hans-Werner Peiniger, debunks a UFO sighting by identifying the object as a foil balloon. The second, by Ulrich Magin, presents a new hypothesis for the classic 'Livingston UFO encounter,' suggesting it was a medical event. A third section, by Tyler R. Kokjohn, translated by Evin D., critically examines the scientific standards and ethical considerations in abduction research.

Article 1: Foil Balloon Identified as UFO

The article begins by referencing a UFO sighting reported by a witness, initially considered by some to be a "Sommerzeit-UFO-Fake-Gag-Zeit" (Summer time UFO fake gag time) by Werner Walter. Walter, from CENAP, initially suspected the object was too sharp, too small, and lacked sufficient three-dimensionality, suggesting it was a cheap UFO hoax. However, after consulting with CENAP colleague Hansjürgen Köhler, who had seen a similar object during a Baltic Sea vacation, the explanation shifted to a foil balloon shaped like a corn cob.

The author, Hans-Werner Peiniger, initially shared this suspicion of a foil balloon. He notes that while a corn cob foil balloon has a general resemblance, the specific details of the photographed object, such as the "fin-like" extensions and side bulges, did not perfectly match. However, after an extensive internet search, Peiniger found an identical foil balloon: the "Disney Princess Castle" balloon, measuring 89 cm x 66 cm.

Comparative analysis of photographs, including close-ups of the object's "side bulges" and "extensions," demonstrates a clear match with the Disney Princess Castle foil balloon. The color differences (light and dark areas) also align. The article includes images illustrating the comparison, showing the foil balloon and the original witness photos side-by-side. Peiniger concludes that the photographed UFO is unequivocally the "Disney Princess Castle" foil balloon.

Article 2: A New Solution for the CE II of Livingston?

This section, authored by Ulrich Magin, revisits the well-known UFO encounter of Robert Taylor in Livingston, Scotland, on November 9, 1979. Taylor, a 61-year-old forest worker, reported seeing a dome-shaped object approximately six meters wide hovering silently over the forest floor. The object had a rough, "camouflaged" surface, and two small spheres rolled towards him, causing him to lose consciousness. He described a biting, suffocating smell and awoke 20 minutes later to find the object gone, leaving an imprint on the ground.

Previous explanations for the case included a landing of an exotic craft, a mysterious earthlight, or a mirage of the planet Venus causing an epileptic seizure (Steuart Campbell). Nigel Watson suggested it was a hoax by local authorities.

Magin introduces a new hypothesis proposed by John Alison, a businessman from Edinburgh. Alison suggests that Taylor's experience was a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain. Symptoms of TIA can include half-sided paralysis, speech disorders, and temporary blindness, and typically resolve within 24 hours. Alison posits that the "UFO" Taylor described was actually a water storage tank built in the late 1950s, located near the M8 motorway. This structure, with its large grey dome and protruding rim on a cylindrical base, matches Taylor's description. Alison believes Taylor, possibly disoriented after the TIA, may have misidentified the water tank, and that police may have searched the wrong area for a landing site.

The article includes a map showing the location of the water reservoir near the M8. Alison suggests that Taylor, upon regaining consciousness and speaking to his employer, did not mention crossing a footbridge over the motorway to reach the water tank, leading to a misdirection in the initial investigation.

Article 3: Distorted, Poisoned, and Condemned: A Scientist's Assessment of Research into Alien Abductions

Authored by Tyler R. Kokjohn, Ph.D., and translated by Evin D., this article critically evaluates the research methodologies and ethical standards employed by some abduction researchers, drawing on the work of Carol Rainey.

Kokjohn, who works in Alzheimer's biochemistry and has a long-standing interest in UFOs but does not conduct UFO research himself, presents his views as an "outsider with scientific training." He contrasts the practices in abduction research with those in biomedical research, where stringent protocols are enforced by Institutional Review Boards (IRPs). These boards ensure that research proposals are thoroughly reviewed for background information, hypotheses, methodology, and participant safety.

He highlights that in biomedical research, participants are fully informed of risks, and safety measures and confidentiality plans are established. The IPA (Institutional Review Board) is responsible for evaluating the suitability of proposed measures for participant safety.

Kokjohn questions whether these strict standards should be applied to abduction research, which often involves collecting anecdotal accounts. He argues that researchers who bypass institutional oversight or peer review face significant risks. Firstly, participants may be exposed to increased danger. The collective review of project procedures, consent forms, and emergency plans by multiple individuals before a project begins increases the likelihood of identifying and avoiding potential errors or catastrophes. Even collecting oral histories can pose risks, making IPA oversight justifiable to ensure participant welfare.

He notes that abduction victims under hypnosis can experience extreme emotions and stress. Kokjohn raises concerns about what happens if a participant suffers a heart attack, psychosis, or becomes violent during a session, questioning the availability of emergency equipment, trained personnel for resuscitation or de-escalation, and protocols for handling such situations, especially for phone-based hypnosis sessions.

Secondly, Kokjohn discusses the risk of "insidious" problems when researchers circumvent oversight. Control and constructive criticism are essential for maintaining research quality. Anonymized peer review, common in academic publishing and grant applications, serves as a crucial mechanism for evaluating content and correcting errors, thereby minimizing the dissemination of questionable data and unfounded conclusions. Kokjohn emphasizes that while science is praised for its self-correction and error-fixing capabilities, excluding rigorous critique makes self-control more difficult, perhaps impossible. He advises against succumbing to the temptation to bypass these essential checks.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently addresses UFO phenomena with a critical and analytical approach, seeking rational explanations. The first article demonstrates a commitment to debunking by meticulously comparing photographic evidence to a known object. The second article showcases the journal's willingness to explore new hypotheses, even medical ones, for classic UFO cases, emphasizing the importance of re-evaluating evidence with updated knowledge. The third article underscores a strong emphasis on scientific rigor, ethical conduct, and the necessity of robust oversight and peer review in any research, particularly when dealing with potentially vulnerable subjects. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based investigation and the application of scientific methodology to paranormal claims, while also acknowledging the complexities and potential psychological factors involved in witness accounts.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), NR.203, from Ausgabe 5-2012, focuses heavily on a review of Leslie Kean's book "UFOS Generals, Pilots, and Government Officials Go on the Record." The journal emphasizes the importance of scientific methodology, critical analysis, and peer review in the study of UFO phenomena, while also acknowledging the challenges and skepticism faced by researchers in this field.

Critical Examination of UFO Research Methods

The articles delve into the complexities of UFO research, particularly concerning abduction phenomena. The author highlights the unreliability of hypnosis as a method for gathering information, noting its susceptibility to false memories and external influence. There's a concern that much of the publicly presented material on alien abductions might be a result of a combination of researchers seeking publication and abductees seeking attention, leading to potentially distorted information. The piece stresses the emotional toll of having one's research criticized by peers but frames it as a necessary price for avoiding self-deception. The necessity of rigorous scientific standards and the potential for even well-established theories to collapse under peer scrutiny are discussed. The author advocates for self-honesty and vigilance against self-deception, likening it to encountering a con artist, sometimes within oneself.

The Peer Review Process in UFO Research

The journal details the rigorous peer review process employed by scientific journals. When a manuscript is submitted, editors send it to several experts in the field for evaluation. To ensure objectivity, reviews are often anonymized, and the editor manages all correspondence. Manuscripts must include detailed descriptions of experimental procedures and analytical protocols. Authors are expected to address the reviewers' concerns and make necessary revisions. The author notes that most of their own published articles required modifications based on peer feedback, acknowledging the value of these corrections despite initial frustration.

Challenges and Skepticism in Ufology

The article touches upon the academic isolation often experienced by those who seriously investigate UFOs. Even mentioning an interest in the subject can lead to questioning one's professional judgment or being the subject of gossip. Decades of questionable research have contributed to a poor public image, deterring many scientists from entering the field. The text suggests that while undisputed facts are rare, some abduction researchers have developed theories that are now facing scrutiny. The potential for genetic analysis to provide concrete evidence for or against theories involving human-alien hybrids is mentioned, citing Ms. Rainey's perspective that decades of debate necessitate hard facts.

Leslie Kean's Book: "UFOS Generals, Pilots, and Government Officials Go on the Record"

The core of this issue is the extensive review of Leslie Kean's book. The reviewer begins by referencing a N24 television documentary, "Die geheimen UFO-Akten" (The Secret UFO Files), which presented several cases that are also covered in Kean's book. These include the Rendlesham Forest incident, the Phoenix Lights, the O'Hare Airport sighting, and the Belgian UFO wave. The reviewer praises Kean's approach of letting witnesses speak for themselves, which, while potentially leading to disagreements on details, showcases a broader movement interested in the UFO topic. The book is structured into three parts: UFO cases that leave little doubt about their existence, an indictment of the US government for creating a vacuum after the Blue Book project, and contributions from politicians and scientists on the societal implications of UFOs.

Part 1: UFO Cases

Part 1 of the book presents cases that are intended to be undeniable. While some might be familiar to insiders, their quality and sheer number are impressive. The reviewer notes that Kean aims to counter the resistance and denial surrounding UFO existence by emphasizing the status of witnesses, the conviction of their accounts, the quality of sightings, and the corroboration from radar data and expert analyses. The book covers cases from various countries, including the USA, Belgium, Portugal, England, Iran, Peru, France, and Chile. The reviewer finds the less familiar cases particularly appealing and notes that even in well-known cases, new details emerge, such as sketches of non-flat triangles in the Belgian UFO wave.

Part 2: Government Cover-up and International Organizations

Part 2 focuses on the US government's handling of UFO phenomena post-Blue Book and the establishment of international organizations. The reviewer notes the frequent use of terms like "debunking" and "debunker," suggesting a concerted effort to dismiss UFO evidence. Kean's persistent questioning of officials like Commander Will Miller of the U.S. Navy regarding secrecy is highlighted. While no sensational revelations are made, the chapter provides names and documents for those interested in the topic. The article also mentions organizations in France (COMETA, GEPAN, SEPRA, CODA), England (Nick Pope's UFO Desk), and Chile. The reviewer finds the book's structure to be a valuable index of organizations and individuals involved in UFO research.

Part 3: Societal and Political Implications

Part 3 examines the UFO taboo in the US, its origins, and potential vulnerabilities, with contributions from political science experts. Fife Symington recounts the Phoenix UFO case and discusses how politicians handle the topic. John J. Callahan details his involvement in the Anchorage, Alaska, case and the subsequent attempts by CIA representatives to dismiss the event. Kean argues for the re-establishment of a US organization similar to Blue Book, citing the need for a unified approach, especially given the involvement of other countries. The chapter also touches upon flight safety concerns related to UFOs, quoting Nick Pope's formula "Threat = Possibility + Intention."

Specific Case Highlights

Several specific cases are detailed:

• Captain Julio Miguel Guerra: Encounter with a UFO over Montejunto Mountain, Portugal, on November 2, 1982.
• Captain Ray Bowyer: Gigantic UFO sighting over the English Channel on April 23, 2007.
• General Parviz Jafari: Dogfight with a UFO over Tehran, Iran, on September 18, 1976.
• Comandante Oscar Santa Maria Huertas: Close combat with a UFO at La Loya Air Force Base, USA, on April 11, 1980. This case is noted for a pilot firing 64 rounds from a 30mm rapid-fire cannon at a UFO.
• Frederick Valentich: Possible abduction of the pilot and his Piper Navajo aircraft over Australia on October 21, 1978.
• 2002 Cessna 208B Collision: A Cessna 208B aircraft collided with an unknown object over America on October 23, 2002, with wreckage containing unidentified material.
• The Cosford Incident: Described in Nick Pope's "The Real X-Files" chapter, occurring on March 30/31, 1993.

Reviewer's Assessment

The reviewer finds Kean's book to be informative, despite some perceived shortcomings such as a lack of direct quotes in places and minor inconsistencies. The book's strength lies in its presentation of numerous witness accounts, particularly from credible sources like generals, pilots, and radar technicians. The reviewer notes that Kean seems to target a non-professional audience, offering ample information for the price. The book is recommended as a follow-up to the film and a useful reference work for individuals and sources related to the UFO phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a stance of critical inquiry and scientific rigor in UFO research. It emphasizes the need for verifiable evidence, objective analysis, and peer review, while acknowledging the potential for government secrecy and public skepticism. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, but with a strong demand for evidence-based conclusions. The journal also highlights the importance of international perspectives and the contributions of various individuals and organizations in the field.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), volume 5, issue 203, dated May 2012, is published by GEP e.V. in Germany. It features articles on UFO phenomena, pre-astronautics, and related research.

Book Review: "Aliens im Aufwind" by Gerhard Cruz

The issue begins with a review by Hans-Werner Peiniger of Gerhard Cruz's book "Aliens im Aufwind." Peiniger clarifies that despite the initial impression from the book's blurb, it is not a factual account but a science fiction novel. The story follows a German service employee who meets a woman in Costa Rica, leading to an encounter with an extraterrestrial. The narrative involves descriptions of UFO sightings and a planned demonstration flight of several spaceships over Germany. However, Peiniger finds the plot unengaging, lacking suspense, and failing to provide insights into human relationships or the societal impact of such events, ultimately deeming the book "meaningless."

Interview with Roland Roth about "Terra Divina"

An interview with Roland Roth, co-editor of the book "Terra Divina," is presented. The book, co-edited with Alexander Knörr, explores the Pre-Astronautics hypothesis, suggesting that Earth was visited by highly developed beings from space in ancient times. Roth explains that "Terra Divina" compiles research from 15 Pre-Astronautics researchers, including well-known figures and lesser-known authors. He contrasts it with their previous book, "Terra Enigma," which covered a broader range of topics, while "Terra Divina" specifically focuses on Pre-Astronautics and the concept of "divine masters." Roth emphasizes that the book aims to expand Pre-Astronautics research rather than sensationalize it, presenting new discoveries, ideas, and insights into existing mysteries. He notes that the Pre-Astronautics hypothesis is gaining traction and is supported by a growing body of evidence from mythology, history, archaeology, and cultural studies. Roth also mentions plans for future projects that will address counter-arguments and further explore the topic. He highlights that the book's individual contributions can be read independently and mentions that "Terra Enigma" and "Grenzen der Unendlichkeit" will be re-released as e-books.

"Terra Divina" - A Deeper Look

Roth further elaborates on "Terra Divina," stating that its title translates to "Divine Earth" and its subtitle, "On the Trail of the Divine Masters," points to its core theme. He suggests that modern archaeology cannot ignore the concept of "god-astronauts." The book includes contributions that seek to uncover traces of these "divine masters" in mythological and historical records, as well as in archaeological findings. Roth asserts that Pre-Astronautics research is far from complete and "Terra Divina" illustrates this point compellingly. He also touches upon the idea that UFOs might be real, unknown entities from space, a concept echoed by Carl Gustav Jung in 1958, who suggested they could be "entities of unknown nature" that have been visible on Earth for a long time.

Critical Perspectives and Future Directions

Roth acknowledges the need for critical contributions and a more differentiated examination of counter-theses to strengthen the arguments for Pre-Astronautics. He notes that the field is constantly evolving, with outdated theories being discarded and new aspects of existing mysteries being explored. He confirms that a future project is planned to address the differentiated examination of opposing viewpoints. Regarding the book series, Roth expresses his intention to continue exploring exciting themes, highlighting the advantage of collected works in offering a broad spectrum of independent articles.

Book Review: "Über die Wissenschaftlichkeit der UFO-Forschung der GEP e. V." by Olaf Fritz

This section reviews Olaf Fritz's study on the scientific methodology of UFO research conducted by GEP e.V. The book examines whether UFO research in Germany, often privately funded, meets scientific standards. Fritz's conclusion is that GEP's UFO phenomenon research has a clearly defined subject, a systematic approach, and is reproducible, controllable, and thus criticizable. The research findings are regularly made public.

Book Review: "Kontakte mit »Außerirdischen« im deutschen Sprachraum" by Ulrich Magin

Ulrich Magin's work is presented as a comprehensive collection of German contactee and humanoid reports. It includes a critical analysis of reports, witnesses, and the social context of UFO belief, cataloging over 350 entries that provide a chronological overview of alleged contacts with extraterrestrial or interdimensional beings. The GEP special issue covers various aspects of the UFO myth, from abductions to Pre-Astronautics claims, and includes an extensive bibliography and indexes.

GEP and UFO Reporting

The journal also provides information about GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), described as the largest non-profit scientific UFO research organization in Germany. It details GEP's methods, including questionnaires, interviews, and background investigations, and mentions their collaboration with authorities and scientific institutions. The journal "jufof" itself is presented as a publication that has critically documented the UFO phenomenon since 1980, serving as an organ for GEP. It includes documentation of sightings, classifications, case studies, scientific reports, and international analyses, along with a review and reader letter section. Information on how to report UFO sightings is also provided, including a hotline number and email address.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, the exploration of the Pre-Astronautics hypothesis and ancient astronaut theories, and the critical assessment of UFO research methodologies. The journal maintains a factual, critical, and scientific approach to the subject matter, aiming to document and analyze UFO-related reports and research findings.