JUFOF - Issue 241 - 2019 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of jufof - journal für ufo-forschung (Journal for UFO Research), Volume 40, Issue 01-2019 (Nr. 241), published by GEP e.V., presents a diverse range of topics within the field of ufology. The cover prominently features the headline "Geisterraketen in Schweden" (Ghost Rockets in Sweden), accompanied by a subtitle indicating an overview of German-language press reports from 1946. Other key articles include "Das Pentagon-Forschungsprojekt Teil III" (The Pentagon Research Project Part III) with lectures by Luis Elizondo, and a "Literatur" section reviewing current book titles. The magazine is priced at 4.50 Euro and has an ISSN of 0723-7766.

Editorial

In the editorial titled "Liebe Leser" (Dear Readers), Danny Ammon, one of the editors, emphasizes the importance of activity, engagement, and member participation for the UFO research organization GEP e.V. He highlights the magazine 'jufof' as the primary platform for information exchange and the publication of findings. Ammon notes the increasing trend towards digitalization and online interaction, stating that the organization must keep pace. He introduces the new online platform "GEP INSIDER PLUS" aimed at providing members with more timely updates and facilitating feedback and engagement. The editorial also previews the current issue's content, including articles on current and historical cases by Hans-Werner Peiniger, a special focus on the Swedish 'Ghost Rockets' of 1946, an analysis of Luis Elizondo's presentations on the Pentagon UFO Project, and a report on the A.A.S. One-Day-Meeting at Jungfrau Park. The issue concludes with a book review and a reader's letter section.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen

This section features documented UFO sightings and their analyses.

Dreieckförmige grüne Licht-erscheinung fotografiert (Triangular green light phenomenon photographed)

This case, logged as FALLNUMMER: 20190118 A, occurred on January 18, 2019, at 8:30 AM MEZ in Berlin, Germany. The witness, Marina F., photographed a sunset and later noticed a strange green triangular object in one of the photos that she had not observed at the time of capture. The object had a distinct triangular shape with brighter green points at each corner. Investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger analyzed the photograph and concluded that the phenomenon was likely a lens reflection caused by the sun. He explains that various factors, such as light angle, aperture shape, lens coatings, and camera filters, can influence the appearance and position of such reflections. While the exact cause of the specific triangular shape is hard to pinpoint, he suggests it might be due to the irregular edge of a cloud refracting sunlight. The witness expressed relief that the object was not a UFO, fearing potential social repercussions.

Rundes UFO mit Insasse in Wegberg (Round UFO with occupant in Wegberg)

This archival case, FALLNUMMER: 20070600 B, dates back to June 2007 in Wegberg, Germany. The witness, Lucien S., described a round, fast-moving object that descended towards his field, emitted a beam, and then a small object (approx. 50 cm) emerged, circled a bush, and returned to the UFO before it rapidly disappeared. The witness reported feeling panicked and hearing a bird chirping. Investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger attempted to contact the witness but received no response. Due to insufficient data and the inability to verify the account, the case is classified as having insufficient data (CE III).

Zwei helle Objekte über dem Nürburgring fotografiert (Two bright objects photographed over the Nürburgring)

This case, FALLNUMMER: 20030729 A, occurred on July 29, 2003, at 10:23 AM MESZ near Nürburg, Germany. The witness, Ernst H., a professional photographer, captured several photos of two small, bright objects that remained in the sky for approximately 45 minutes before descending behind the sun. The objects were photographed using a Canon 10D camera. Investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger analyzed the images and concluded that the objects were most likely balloons. He notes that their prolonged stationary appearance could be attributed to a zone of wind stillness at high altitudes. The slight changes in position between the three photographed images further support the balloon hypothesis. The witness provided additional photos on negative film, which were too poor quality to scan effectively.

Geisterraketen in Schweden: Eine Übersicht über die deutschsprachigen Presseberichte 1946 (Ghost Rockets in Sweden: An Overview of German-Language Press Reports 1946)

Authored by André Kramer, this article examines the wave of mysterious aerial phenomena, dubbed "Geisterraketen" or "Gespensterraketen" (Ghost Rockets/Phantom Rockets), that occurred in Sweden from spring to autumn 1946. This event predates the famous Kenneth Arnold sighting of 1947, which is often considered the start of the modern UFO era. Kramer notes that hundreds of sightings were reported, with objects sometimes crashing into lakes or exploding in mid-air. While most sightings were in Sweden, some were also reported in Greece and Austria. He categorizes this as the third major UFO wave, following the airship sightings of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and the Foo-Fighters of World War II. This wave was notable for its extensive media coverage.

The article highlights that German-language newspapers only began reporting on the phenomenon weeks after it started. The tone of reporting evolved from serious investigation to a more skeptical and even mocking stance over time, a shift Kramer compares to the reporting in 1947. He acknowledges the influence of political ideologies during the Cold War era, with "Western" and "Eastern" aligned newspapers potentially shaping their coverage. The exact cause of the Ghost Rockets remains unsolved, with theories ranging from Soviet V-1 and V-2 rocket developments to alien spacecraft, or simply misidentification and hoaxes. Kramer mentions that Swedish military documents on the Ghost Rockets are now available online, including English translations.

The article then details specific newspaper reports from various German-speaking publications:

• Wiener Kurier (August 7, 1946): Cites Swedish Air Force Chief Major Nils Ahlgren, who stated the military believed the phenomena were rocket-like objects of unknown origin, with a range exceeding that of the V-1. Radar observations suggested controlled flight paths, though no damage was reported. The Swedish press speculated about Soviet rocket tests.
• Salzburger Nachrichten (August 8, 1946): Reports on hundreds of sightings between July 9-12, 1946, with objects generally moving from south to northeast. One object reportedly crashed into a lake in northern Sweden, prompting military consideration of draining the lake for recovery.
• Oberösterreichische Nachrichten (August 8, 1946): Refers to the Salzburger Nachrichten report.
• Passauer Neue Presse (August 9, 1946): Cites Major Nils Ahlgren, who noted that many reports were misidentifications of natural phenomena, but acknowledged credible reports of rocket-like objects. The Swedish press reportedly believed they were of Soviet origin.
• Freiburger Nachrichten (August 19, 1946): Reports on two sightings in Helsingör, Denmark, where objects flew in the Kattegat between Denmark and Sweden. A witness described them as aircraft without wings, moving at airplane speed, leaving a trail of black space.
• Vorarlberger Volksblatt (August 23, 1946): States that Sweden requested radar equipment from the British government to track the objects, with an estimated 500 objects having landed on Swedish soil in July.
• Salzburger Nachrichten (August 23, 1946): Cites British government claims that Russia was salvaging German military technology in its German occupation zone and suggests that the flight paths of the Swedish objects pointed to an origin in Soviet-occupied Baltic territories. Britain provided radar equipment to Sweden for better monitoring.
• Wiener Kurier (August 12, 1946): Mentions a Swedish military expert who observed a bright fireball moving relatively slowly at an estimated altitude of 500-1000 meters.
• Mittelbayrische Zeitung (August 16, 1946): Reports that the Swedish military was searching for crashed rockets at three locations but had found no material evidence, leading to official reticence. The Swedish press criticized the military's inability to provide clarity. The US Undersecretary of State Acheson reportedly expressed interest, with unofficial speculation pointing to Soviet rocket tests.
• Wiener Kurier (August 13, 1946): Describes a rocket explosion in western Jutland, Denmark, which illuminated the sky. Further sightings were reported in Finland.
• Salzburger Nachrichten (August 17, 1946): Reports a rocket explosion over Malmö, Sweden, on August 16, which shattered windows in houses.

Kramer also includes a report from the Wiener Kurier (August 13, 1946) describing a torpedo-shaped object with glowing blue-green smoke and fireballs, which exploded in mid-air. Another report from the Wiener Kurier (August 19, 1946) details a witness's observation of a fast-moving object that left a trail of black space. The article concludes by noting that Sweden requested radar equipment to track the objects, with an estimated 500 having landed on Swedish soil in July.

Literatur

This section contains reviews of current book titles related to UFOs. One review is for "UFOs über Rumänien" (UFOs over Romania), and another is for "Gremlins, Keel und Ulrich Magin" by Roland Horn, with commentary from the author.

Leserbriefe (Reader Letters)

This section includes letters from readers, such as Roland Horn's discussion on Gremlins, Keel, and Ulrich Magin, along with the author's commentary.

Impressum

The 'Impressum' section provides publication details. The publisher is Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., founded in 1972. The editorial team includes Hans-Werner Peiniger and Danny Ammon. Contact information, including postal address, phone, fax, and email ([email protected]), is provided. Bank details for Postbank NL Dortmund are listed. The magazine is published bimonthly on a non-commercial basis, with contributions being honorarium-free. Subscription prices are €27.00 for one year (6 issues) plus postage. GEP members receive the magazine as part of their membership. The subscription automatically renews unless canceled three months prior to expiry. Advertising prices are available upon request, with classified ads being free for subscribers (up to six lines) and members (up to ten lines). Reprinting of articles requires written permission from GEP e.V. The magazine is printed by bis500 Druck.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical "Ghost Rockets" phenomenon of 1946 and contemporary UFO research, including the analysis of photographic evidence and the implications of the Pentagon UFO Project. The editorial stance, as expressed by Danny Ammon, is one of promoting active engagement within the UFO research community, leveraging both traditional print media like 'jufof' and new digital platforms like 'GEP INSIDER PLUS'. The magazine aims to provide a platform for sharing information, discussing findings, and fostering interaction among members and readers. The analysis of UFO cases, particularly the detailed examination of the Swedish 'Ghost Rockets' and the photographic case from Berlin, demonstrates a commitment to rigorous investigation and evidence-based conclusions, even when those conclusions point to mundane explanations like lens reflections.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 1-2019 (NR. 241), published in 2019, focuses on two primary topics: the historical 'ghost rocket' phenomenon of the late 1940s and the modern Pentagon research project AATIP, presented through the insights of its former director, Luis Elizondo.

Ghost Rockets: A Historical Mystery

The issue revisits the 'ghost rocket' sightings that occurred primarily in Sweden in 1946. These reports described rocket-like objects with unusual capabilities, such as high speed, long range, and the ability to ascend from the ground and return to their origin. The articles compile various newspaper reports from the time, including:

• Neues Österreich (August 28, 1946): Reported that 'ghost rockets' were rumored to have a much greater range than German rocket developments and could travel up to 1,000 kilometers, with some capable of returning to their starting point.
• Oberösterreichische Nachrichten (September 6, 1946): Noted that the Greek Prime Minister acknowledged sightings of rocket-like objects over Greece.
• Freiburger Nachrichten (September 7, 1946): Quoted the Russian newspaper "Die neuen Zeiten," which accused Western media of engaging in a slanderous propaganda war against Russia based on unsubstantiated claims regarding the 'ghost rockets.'
• Wiener Kurier (September 5, 1946): Reported that Russia denied any involvement with the reported rockets in Sweden.
• Mittelbayrische Zeitung (September 6, 1946): Further reported that Russia viewed the coverage as an organized campaign.
• Freiburger Nachrichten (September 11, 1946): Discussed a photograph taken by Swedish observer Erik Reuterswaerd, showing a thickening trail, which investigations suggested depicted an object within a flame trail, possibly indicating a novel propulsion system.
• Sche Volksstimme (September 14, 1946): Mentioned a sighting over Graz, Austria, of an object flying from NNW to SSE with condensate trails and a howling sound, suggesting that right-wing newspapers were exploiting the topic.
• Österreichische Zeitung (September 21, 1946): Questioned the existence of 'ghost rockets,' suggesting they were used for anti-Soviet propaganda and referencing British bomb tests in Australia.
• Weltpresse (September 27, 1946): Quoted a "News Chronicle" researcher who concluded that the 2,000 reported cases were likely misidentifications and panic, with people mistaking natural phenomena like auroras and meteors for rockets.
• Salzburger Tagblatt (September 27, 1946): Labeled the 'rockets' as fantasies.
• Österreichische Zeitung (October 12, 1946): An article titled "Self-Created Bogeymen" suggested the 'ghost rocket' reports were fabrications.
• Weltpresse (October 23, 1946): Acknowledged that while most reports could be explained naturally, some remained unexplained.
• Freiburger Nachrichten (February 27, 1948): Reported recent sightings of fast-flying rocket-shaped objects from the direction of Peenemünde, hinting at possible Soviet experiments.

The articles also cite historical sources like Schneider (1974) and Spencer (1992) for further information.

The Pentagon's AATIP Project: Insights from Luis Elizondo

The second major section of the magazine focuses on the Pentagon's Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program (AATIP), with a detailed presentation by its former director, Luis Elizondo. The article, authored by Detlef Hoyer, summarizes Elizondo's talks at the MUFON Symposium in 2018 and a conference in Rome.

Project Origins and Goals:

• AATIP was initiated between 2007 and 2012 to collect and analyze reports of mysterious flying objects from military personnel.
• The program's name was changed from AAWSAP (Advanced Aerospace Weapon System Applications Program) to AATIP to shift focus from weapon systems to the investigation of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) using five key 'observables.'
• The project's goals were to understand UAP and determine if they posed a threat to national security.
• It was developed by Senators Stevens, Inouye, and Reid, with the DIA awarding the contract to a Bigelow Aerospace subsidiary (BAAS).

The Five Observables:

Elizondo highlighted five key characteristics used to analyze UAP:

1. Instantaneous Acceleration: Rapid changes in speed and direction, including high G-force maneuvers.
2. Hypersonic Velocity: Extremely high speeds, enabling rapid deployment and evasion.
3. Low Observability: Low radar cross-section, survivability, and anonymity.
4. Multimedium Travel: Ability to operate across different environments (air, space, possibly water).
5. Hover Capability: Ability to remain stationary or loiter in one position.

Project History and Challenges:

• AATIP operated under the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) from 2010-2012, previously under the DIA.
• Funding shifted to the ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) budget from 2013-2014.
• Internal resistance and skepticism within the Defense Department were significant, with some elements disagreeing with the project's focus or findings.
• Elizondo resigned on October 4, 2017, citing a lack of progress and internal opposition.

Key Points from Elizondo's Presentation:

• Disclosure: Elizondo believes that disclosure has already begun and is an ongoing process, not a single event.
• FOIA Exemptions: Information related to AATIP is often exempt from Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, purportedly to protect against foreign adversaries rather than to hide information from the public.
• Political Influence: Elizondo denied that AATIP was a political favor, stating the contract followed a formal bidding process.
• Academic vs. Practical: While AATIP involved academic studies, its core function was to gather data from eyewitnesses (military personnel, pilots, etc.) and analyze UAP characteristics.
• Human Effects: A significant aspect of the project involved studying the potential effects of UAP encounters on humans.
• Future Research: Elizondo suggested that future research and development might lead to public reports and potentially even reproductions of observed phenomena.

Author's Conclusion:

The author speculates that future research could lead to attempts at replication. He notes that despite claims of recovered materials from Roswell, replication has not been achieved. The continued observation of UAP suggests that a consensus or agreement on their nature has not been reached, possibly due to the possession of advanced technology, such as nuclear weapons, by unknown entities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores unexplained aerial phenomena, presenting historical accounts alongside contemporary research. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the investigation of UAP while critically examining explanations and potential governmental involvement. The 'ghost rocket' section highlights the challenges of interpreting historical reports and distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misidentifications or propaganda. The AATIP section emphasizes the shift towards a more systematic, scientific approach to UAP investigation within official circles, while also acknowledging the bureaucratic and political hurdles involved in such research and disclosure.

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 1-2019, NR. 241, published in January 2019, focuses on the AAS (Archäoastronomie und Archäologie Schweiz) One-Day-Meeting held at the Jungfrau Park in Interlaken, Switzerland. The main article, "A.A.S.-One-Day-Meeting im Jungfrau-Park" by Mirko Mojsilovic, details the event and the park itself.

The Jungfrau Park

The Jungfrau Park, formerly known as the Mystery Park, was reopened in 2009. Its aim is to present the pre-astronautic view of history and human development, challenging conventional historical understanding and offering alternative perspectives. The park is structured as a ring-shaped building with seven themed annexes, each representing a different exhibition topic. The main attractions are called 'Main Shows,' with supplementary displays termed 'Side Shows.' Originally, there were seven main attractions, five of which remain. About half of the Side Shows are still available. Visitors can still see the Main Shows: Vimana (dedicated to India and the 'wars of the gods'), Orient (focused on the Great Pyramid of Giza), Maya (featuring a pyramid in Central America), Mega Stones (covering Stonehenge and Carnac), and Nazca (showcasing the Nazca lines).

The Vimana show includes a film animation from the late 1990s, and while spaceship models from the Side Show are no longer present, the Orient show is described as being in better condition, offering a complete Side Show experience with exhibits like the 'Light Bulb of Dendera' and a model of the UPUAUT. The Maya show, despite the absence of its Side Show, presents a pyramid. The Mega Stones show explores Stonehenge and Carnac, offering alternative historical interpretations from a pre-astronautic viewpoint. The Nazca show is highlighted as particularly impressive, featuring a flight simulation over the Nazca landscape projected onto the floor.

Two Main Shows are no longer available: 'Contact - Culture Shock or Inspiration' and 'Challenge - Are We Alone in the Universe?'. The park also features exhibits like a model of the 'Goldflieger' (gold flyer), 'Fun Shuttles' (Sputnik and Apollo), crop circle images, and an exhibition on Cargo Cults by the AAS. A Wilhelm Tell exhibition is also present.

AAS One-Day-Meeting

The AAS One-Day-Meeting took place in the park's large central hall, designed for such events. Approximately 300 visitors attended. The meeting began with Peter Fiebag's presentation, who also welcomed the attendees. Fiebag noted that Interlaken and Beatenberg are the home of Erich von Däniken and emphasized the desire to discuss past and future, suggesting that humanity's longing for the stars stems from extraterrestrial influence. He referenced Däniken's book "Zurück zu den Sternen" and the concept of the ' Scheinparadoxon der erinnerten Zukunft,' highlighting Däniken's prolific writing career (a new book every 14 months) and his encouragement of critical thinking.

Prior to the main meeting, Wolfgang Siebenhaar gave an introductory talk the evening before at the 'City Hotel Oberland' titled "50 Years of Memories of the Future." He discussed how the idea of ancient extraterrestrial visits was not unique to Däniken, having appeared in science fiction and film, but Däniken was the first to popularize it and spark public discussion. Siebenhaar acknowledged Däniken's contributions over the past 50 years, presenting his work in a favorable light.

Peter Fiebag's main lecture, "Ceremonies for the Heavens," explored ceremonies, rituals, magical beliefs, and the transcendent manipulation of the universe, drawing on archaic Indian rituals and Vedic texts interpreted through the lens of AAS theories. He connected myths to the sun's fusion reactor and the use of nuclear energy, effectively engaging the audience emotionally.

Reinhard Habeck, a long-standing member of the AAS, presented on "Pre-Astronautics Under Scrutiny," examining the 'Light Bulbs of Dendera,' the 'Val Camonica Stone Age Astronauts,' and the 'Goldfliegers' from pre-Columbian times. He paid tribute to Erich von Däniken's impact on our understanding of the past. Habeck also critiqued AAS authors for their lack of cited sources and overconfidence, calling for more interdisciplinary research. He addressed the 'Light Bulb of Dendera' theory, suggesting it represented secret knowledge of Egyptian priests. Regarding the Val Camonica rock carvings (estimated at 350,000), he noted that 20 motifs could be interpreted as depictions of astronauts. He also discussed the Colombian gold flyers, noting their presence in museums and suggesting they might be examples of cargo cults, where ancient peoples recreated observed aircraft from gold.

Maria Hochberg presented an innovative idea for an "Academic Paleo-SETI Course," aiming to establish an interdisciplinary seminar at a German university. She proposed using crowdfunding to secure funding for the project, allowing her to focus on planning and preparation without relying on university financial support. The proposed seminar structure included modules on the possibility of the impossible, definitions, research directions, the origin of humanity, intelligence, religion, mysterious architecture, technology, contact scenarios (including UFOs), and the impact of extraterrestrials on pop culture.

Ramon Zürcher's talk, "Interdisciplinary Worldgrids," delved into esoteric concepts of energy lines and grid systems, linking them to the 'Zeitgeist' and suggesting they might be navigational lines used by ancient gods. He questioned if grid intersections represented Earth's chakras and proposed that ancient peoples built sacred sites at these points, citing megalithic structures as examples. He recommended Bernd Grathwohl's book "Die verborgenen Rätsel Griechenlands."

Mario Rank, an Austrian UFO researcher, presented on "UFOs Over Austria," discussing historical UFO sightings, including a 1344 event in Austria. He also covered a CEI (Close Encounter of the First Kind) case investigated by Roland Kernstock and a similar experience reported by a Viennese photographer. Rank also touched upon Marian apparitions and pilgrimage sites in Austria, noting a strange artifact in the Basilica Sontagberg that resembles 'Grey' alien skulls.

Hans-Peter Jaun's presentation, "Archaeoastronomy - A Stumbling Block for Historians," focused on an astronomically aligned structure, questioning its builders and suggesting a possible connection to megalithic or Celtic cultures.

Page 24 discusses Christos Langer's talk on "Mysterious Greece - The Oracle of Dodona," exploring founding myths and suggesting that Greek gods might have used 'flying devices.'

Page 24-25 features Mario Rank's talk on "UFOs Over Austria," detailing historical sightings and linking Marian apparitions to potential alien encounters. It also mentions Hans-Peter Jaun's presentation on archaeoastronomy and the debate over megalithic builders versus Celts.

Page 25 continues with Gabriele Lukacs' presentation on the "Cochasqui Pyramids of Ecuador," discussing their subterranean nature, dimensions, and potential astronomical alignments. The speaker presented figures allegedly wearing spacesuits and 'winged gods.' The session concluded with a Q&A and Erich von Däniken's closing remarks. The next meeting was announced for the last weekend of October in Hannover.

Literature Reviews

Page 26-28 features a review of Dan D. Farcas' book, "UFOs über Rumänien" (UFOs Over Romania). The reviewer highlights Farcas' extensive research into UFO phenomena in Romania, including early reports from 1517, depictions on church walls (e.g., a 1534 fresco in Sighisoara), and the first Romanian UFO photo from 1923. The review notes a significant UFO wave in Romania in 1968 with 94 reports. Farcas' work covers various aspects, including pilot sightings, encounters with humanoid beings, and contacts. The review also touches upon the Romanian UFO research group RUFOR and the formation of the ASFAN association in 1998. Farcas documents numerous cases, including unusual findings like the 1973 aluminum fragment from Aiud and military UFO events. The book also explores folkloric, spiritual, and religious aspects related to UFOs, comparing Romanian beliefs to those of other cultures and noting similarities with crop circles and remote viewing.

Farcas suggests that while UFOlogy may not be a mainstream science, it warrants investigation. He believes statistical studies could help clarify perceptions of UFO sightings. The review concludes that Farcas provides a detailed and comprehensive overview of UFO phenomena in Romania, contributing to a more objective approach to UFO research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores the field of UFO research and pre-astronautics, presenting alternative historical and scientific viewpoints. The articles often delve into ancient civilizations, mysterious artifacts, and unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, encouraging critical thinking and interdisciplinary approaches, while acknowledging the challenges and controversies within the field. The coverage of the AAS meeting highlights the organization's focus on linking ancient history, mythology, and potential extraterrestrial influences.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 1-2019, Nr. 241, published by GEP e.V., is primarily dedicated to a discussion about the phenomenon of 'Gremlins' and their alleged connection to early UFO sightings, particularly Foo Fighters. The issue also includes announcements regarding new GEP member services and a book review.

Book Review and Prize Contest

The issue begins with a review of a book titled "Mit UFOs über Rumänien" (With UFOs over Romania), presented as a significant work for UFO researchers, offering previously unknown material. The book is described as being 348 pages with 48 black and white illustrations, published by Ancient Mail Verlag in Groß-Gerau, 2018, with ISBN 978-3-95652-240-6 and priced at 18.50 €.

A prize contest is announced, offering readers the chance to win a copy of this reviewed book. To enter, participants must send the missing word from the title "UFOs über ..." to [email protected] or by post to GEP, Postfach 2361, 58473 Lüdenscheid. The deadline for submissions is April 15, 2019. The organizers thank Werner Betz from Ancient Mail Verlag for donating the books. It is also mentioned that the winner of the previous prize contest for the book "Reiseziel Erde - Sind UFOs real?" by Kurt Diedrich was Andreas Kubiak.

Announcement: GEP INSIDER NEWS and GEP INSIDER PLUS

An announcement details the restructuring and expansion of the GEP's member area, introducing a new online magazine. The "GEP INSIDER NEWS" will serve as a new supplement to the "jufof" journal, while "GEP INSIDER PLUS" will be a completely new online offering for members. The existing INSIDER content, including reports, news, background articles, and interviews, will be available in the member area/online magazine. The NEWS section will provide summaries of online content and additional internal information. Interested individuals are encouraged to become GEP members to gain access.

Leserbriefe: Meinungen & Ideen (Letters to the Editor: Opinions & Ideas)

This section features a lengthy exchange between Roland Horn and Ulrich Magin regarding John A. Keel's claims about "Gremlins" and their connection to Foo Fighter sightings.

Roland Horn's Perspective

Roland Horn addresses an article by Ulrich Magin in a previous issue (jufof 5-2018) where Magin commented on John A. Keel's assertion in "Our Haunted Planet" about "constant appearances of little green men" who invaded aircraft and caused mischief. Magin noted that this "sensational report still awaits confirmation." Horn, using a Wikipedia article as a starting point, explores the folklore of Gremlins, describing them as mischievous beings that cause malfunctions in aircraft. He notes their origin in pilot myths, particularly within the Royal Air Force in the 1920s. Horn cites John W. Hazen's book "Gremlin" and Carol Rose's encyclopedia, which link the term "Gremlin" to Old English words for vexation and potentially to a beer brand. Horn's research suggests that Gremlins are folkloric entities, and he questions whether Keel's claims about sightings are valid.

Ulrich Magin's Response

Ulrich Magin responds to Horn's letter, clarifying his original point. Magin states that his footnote in the Foo Fighter article was not about the existence of Gremlins as folklore but specifically about Keel's claim of "constant appearances of little green men" invading planes. Magin argues that the Wikipedia article Horn cited primarily refers to the folklore and rumors surrounding Gremlins, not to Keel's specific assertion of sightings. Magin emphasizes that Gremlins were considered a fictional construct used to maintain morale during WWII and were associated with aircraft malfunctions, not necessarily seen as actual beings. He points out that the only contemporary article that treated the Gremlin phenomenon as potentially real, albeit with a "wink," was "The Gremlin Question" in the Royal Air Force Journal of April 18, 1942. Magin asserts that this article itself notes the mystery surrounding their appearance and that few aircrews claimed to have seen them. He concludes that Keel's claim of "constant sightings" of small green men over Germany during WWII is false, as there were few, if any, such sightings, and those described were more akin to classic English goblins, not necessarily small green men. Magin believes Keel invented elements and presented later claims as contemporary phenomena, stating that the Wikipedia article supports his view and ending the discussion.

Further Discussion on Gremlins

Magin further elaborates on the Gremlin phenomenon, noting its popularization in the RAF during WWII. He explains that Gremlins were sometimes seen as sympathizers of the enemy, causing mechanical problems. He categorizes them as "tricksters" who disrupt order. Magin reiterates that the Gremlins were likely a "new phenomenon" born from the machine age, serving to boost pilot morale and aid in repelling the German invasion during the Battle of Britain. He suggests that Keel's claims about Gremlins being hallucinations due to oxygen deprivation are also mentioned in the Wikipedia article. The article notes that returning soldiers reported seeing beings tampering with aircraft, with one instance described of a B-25 bomber losing altitude after such an encounter. Hazen himself is cited as a "surprise witness" who saw Gremlins and heard a voice questioning his qualifications. The article mentions that Gremlins are often depicted as green, leading to the speculation about "little green men."

Magin concludes by stating that while Gremlins might be considered "imaginary," Keel's assertion about their "constant appearances" in the context of Foo Fighters is not supported by evidence. He maintains that the Gremlin phenomenon became an "integral part of the narratives about flying saucers."

Book: Luftschiffe und Aeronauten (Airships and Aeronauts)

This section introduces a book edited by Ulrich Magin titled "Luftschiffe und Aeronauten: Eine historische Betrachtung des Luftschiffphänomens 1896 bis 1915" (Airships and Aeronauts: A Historical Consideration of the Airship Phenomenon 1896 to 1915). The book explores the wave of airship sightings on the American West Coast and across the country in 1896-97. It discusses speculations ranging from human inventors to extraterrestrial spacecraft, with many UFO researchers believing these observations are connected to the modern UFO phenomenon.

The book's content includes contributions from Jerome Clark (on airships), Loren E. Gross (on UFOs: A History - 1896), Nigel Watson (on "Zeppelins of Fear"), and Ulrich Magin (on "Airships - A Modern Saga"), along with an appendix on airship sightings in Germany in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The book is 122 pages, paperback, DIN A5, with illustrations, ISBN 978-3-923862-58-0, priced at 10.00 € (8.00 € for GEP members). Orders can be placed through the GEP-Shop or via mail.

GEP, UFO, jufof, and UFO-Meldung Information

The final page provides information about the GEP, defining it as Germany's largest non-profit scientific organization for UFO research. It details the GEP's methods, including questionnaires, interviews, and interdisciplinary work supported by various authorities and institutions.

The "jufof" journal is described as a publication that has critically documented the UFO phenomenon since 1980, serving as the GEP's official organ. Each issue includes sighting reports, case classifications, expert articles, and reviews.

The "UFO" is defined as an object or light whose appearance, trajectory, and dynamic behavior cannot be explained by conventional means, remaining unidentifiable even after thorough investigation.

The "UFO-Meldung" (UFO Report) section provides contact information for reporting UFO sightings, including a 24/7 telephone number (02351-23377), an email address ([email protected]), and websites (www.ufo-forschung.de, www.jufof.de) for online submissions and further interaction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO-related phenomena, distinguishing between folklore, historical accounts, and potential evidence. The GEP's stance appears to be one of rigorous, interdisciplinary research, aiming to provide factual and methodologically sound analysis of UFO reports. The introduction of the GEP INSIDER platforms suggests a move towards more accessible, online content for members, while the jufof maintains its role as a scholarly journal. The debate between Horn and Magin highlights the journal's willingness to engage in detailed discussions and critiques of research and claims within the UFO community.