JUFOF - Issue 245 - 2019 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'jufof', Journal für ufo-forschung (Journal for UFO Research), Volume 40, Issue 245, dated May 2019, is published by GEP e.V. and costs 4.50 Euro. The cover prominently features the headline 'UFO-Entführungen' (UFO Abductions) with a sub-headline about developing a questionnaire for experiencers, alongside an image of a silhouetted figure in a tunnel. The issue also highlights 'UFO-Beobachtungen' (UFO Observations) with sections on sightings, documentation, and assessments, as well as a 'Literatur' (Literature) section featuring book reviews.

Editorial

In his editorial, Danny Ammon notes that 'jufof' 245, like the previous issue 243, again focuses on abduction experiences as a significant part of the UFO phenomenon. He introduces two key contributions: a documented case of an abduction experience and a new questionnaire developed by André Kramer specifically for 'CE-IV-Fälle' (cases involving non-human entities abducting or examining individuals), based on J. Allen Hynek's classification. Ammon emphasizes that abduction experiences often have a profound psychological impact on the experiencer, sometimes leading to distress that requires expression. He contrasts the skills needed for investigating such cases with those for analyzing straightforward object sightings. While acknowledging that some cases may have conventional explanations like hallucinations, he stresses that others are difficult to explain conventionally, similar to UFO sightings, requiring careful individual research. The issue also includes other case documentations, an article on a UFO-themed pop song, and book reviews, highlighting current German-language UFO publications.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen

Bedroom-Visitor-Erlebnis in Dessau (Case S0073)

This section details a case from October 2016 in Dessau, Germany, reported by a 28-year-old witness. The witness reported waking up in the living room (where they were sleeping on the couch due to a broken bed) to a bright light at the kitchen window. Subsequently, a pillow was pressed onto their face, rendering them immobile and unable to see. The witness felt three long fingers and heard clicking or clacking sounds, indicating the presence of two entities, one holding the pillow and another moving around the living room. After about half an hour, the entities returned to the kitchen, closed the sliding door, and the light extinguished. The witness experienced intense fear but remained still. In a follow-up phone call, the witness clarified that the sliding door to the kitchen, which was usually open, was found closed after the entities left. The investigator, André Kramer, noted that the witness completed a questionnaire for 'CE IV-Fälle' without contradictions.

Hypothese und Überprüfung

Investigator André Kramer explored the possibility of sleep paralysis with hypnagogic or hypnopompic hallucinations, given the reported immobility. However, he found aspects difficult to explain conventionally, such as feeling fingers through a pillow and the closed sliding door. He ruled out wind as a cause for the door closing, as it was recessed and required a strong push. The presence of cat food and water in the kitchen made it plausible for the door to be kept open. The witness's childhood UFO sighting in Waldkraiburg, Bavaria, involved a disc-shaped object with bright lights and moving red points, described as shimmering with white and dark gray surfaces. Kramer concluded that while sleep paralysis is a likely explanation, certain details, like the pillow being pressed onto the head and the closed kitchen door, remain anomalous. He described the case as equivalent to a NEAR IFO (Identified Flying Object) due to its complexity and strangeness.

Fünf Feuerschweife am Himmel (Case 20190101 A)

This report from January 1, 2019, in Meißen, Germany, describes a sighting by Sandra K. She reported observing five objects flying in a southeast direction, each with a long, red 'fire trail' behind it. The objects flew in quick succession, and the witness found them unusual, not fitting the profile of typical aircraft or helicopters. She described them as not blinking and felt a sense of unease, finding the sight potentially threatening. The witness contacted German Air Traffic Control, who referred her to GEP. The investigation, led by Hans-Werner Peiniger, suggested the objects were likely contrails from multiple aircraft flying at different altitudes but in the same direction. The witness thanked the organization for their work and was informed about a related project.

Dreieckförmiger Flugkörper nahe Moormerland? (Case 20190616 A)

On June 16, 2019, Heidi K. from Moormerland – Warsingsfehn, Germany, submitted a photograph taken of the moon. Upon reviewing the image, she noticed a geometric shape that was not a sensor artifact or dust. Initially considering deleting the photo due to the moon being out of focus, she decided to develop it after applying a radial filter to adjust the exposure. The submitted image showed a triangular object. However, upon receiving the original RAW file, investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger identified the object as a bird silhouette that had flown in front of the moon during the photograph's capture. He noted significant digital manipulation in the submitted image, including darkening and contour enhancement. While the exact intent behind the alteration (testing, deception, or an unintentional error) remained unclear, the object was definitively identified as a bird, not a triangular craft.

Literatur

This section features reviews of recent books related to UFOs and related topics.

• LichterZauber by Waltraud Kaliba and Jürgen Trieb, with a foreword by astrophysicist Illobrand von Ludwiger, is reviewed. The book is described as a 'UFO-themed children's book' and a 'fairy tale'.
• MIB, UFOs und die Realität / MIB: Der Terror geht weiter by an unnamed author, is reviewed.
• Prisoner of Infinity is mentioned.
• Geheime Weltraumprogramme & Allianzen mit Außerirdischen (Secret Space Programs & Alliances with Aliens) is also reviewed.

>>Daran besteht kein Zweifel<<: Hot Chocolate und ihr UFO-Song

This article by Philip Mantle, translated by S. Witkowski, discusses the 1980 hit song "No Doubt About It" by the band Hot Chocolate. The song, which was a major success in the UK and other countries, tells the story of a UFO sighting. The author interviewed Steven Glen, one of the songwriters, in January 2019. Glen confirmed that the song was inspired by a UFO sighting. The article notes that the song was unusual for its time and was released by RAK Records, staying on the charts for 11 weeks. The song's narrative is presented as a true experience, distinguishing it from typical pop music of the era.

Kurz notiert

This brief section mentions changes at GreWi-Printmedien (presumably a media outlet related to UFO research).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, abduction experiences, and the methodology of UFO research. The magazine consistently presents documented cases, analyzes them with a critical yet open-minded approach, and explores potential explanations, ranging from psychological phenomena to conventional aircraft. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous investigation and the development of tools, such as questionnaires, to aid research. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into anomalous aerial phenomena and related experiences, encouraging reader participation and providing a platform for current research and literature in the field. The inclusion of book reviews and discussions on UFO-themed media like songs indicates a broad interest in how the topic is represented and perceived.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, dated Ausgabe 5-2019 (Nr. 245), focuses on personal UFO experiences and research developments. The cover story features Steven Glen, discussing his 1980 UFO encounter that inspired the Hot Chocolate song 'No Doubt About It'. The magazine also includes updates on the cessation of other UFO-related publications and introduces a new questionnaire for investigating UFO abduction cases.

Steven Glen: The UFO Encounter Behind 'No Doubt About It'

The lead article details an interview with Steven Glen, a singer, songwriter, and music producer who previously worked with artists like Cliff Richard and Gloria Gaynor, and was mentored by Micky Most. Glen's career began in music, but he transitioned to songwriting and production, working with RAK. His career has been long and successful.

The interview reveals that the song "No Doubt About It" is based on a genuine UFO encounter Glen experienced with his songwriting partner Mike Burns and a pop group named "The Toys." Glen describes the event as a "true occurrence," acknowledging it might be hard for many to believe.

On January 13, 1980, around 5:00 PM, while driving on Hendon-Straße towards St. John's Wood to produce songs for the band "The Toys," Glen's partner Mike Burns pointed to the sky, exclaiming about a UFO. Burns's reaction caused Glen to look up. As they turned onto Finchley-Straße and then West-Heath-Straße, they stopped near the Leg of Mutton Pond. The UFO was directly overhead, described as massive – "four to five houses wide." When they exited their vehicles to observe it, the object emitted an orange cloud.

The song's lyrics mention a white and green cloud, a deviation from the observed orange cloud, which the songwriters chose for rhyming purposes. As the observers stood watching the orange cloud, several small objects detached from it and flew towards them. These smaller objects were described as having wings but no fuselage, and were also gray-brown in color.

Steven Glen sought shelter in a hedge, while "The Toys" quickly got into their van. The UFO remained stationary above the vehicles. Glen noticed a telephone booth nearby, ran to it, and called the military, who dismissed his report. He then called the police, who arrived and also observed the UFO. The entire sighting lasted 40 minutes before the UFO ascended into the sky with incredible speed and absolute silence. Two police officers later visited the studio to gather more details.

Glen discussed the experience with Mike Burns before writing the song. Both agreed it was an undeniable UFO sighting. Glen stated it was one of the fastest songs he ever wrote and one of Hot Chocolate's most successful. He later wrote "Is There Anybody Out There" for Roger Daltrey, which also stemmed from a similar experience.

Glen explained that he didn't initially speak much about the experience because he was tired of accusations that, due to his music industry background, he must have been under the influence of drugs. He even advised Errol Brown of Hot Chocolate to claim the sighting was merely to boost song sales, which proved successful, with the single selling tens of thousands of copies worldwide.

Steven Glen continues to work in the music business on various new projects. When asked if he is now a UFO believer, his answer was a definitive "No doubt about it."

About the Author

Philip Mantle is an experienced UFO researcher from Great Britain, formerly the investigation leader for the British UFO Research Association and MUFON representative for England. He founded "Flying Disk Press" and can be contacted via his blog.

Short Notes: Current Reports

Changes at GreWi Print Media

Following the cessation of the DEGUFORUM's publication and the shift to yearbooks, Roland Roth's non-commercial magazine "Q'Phaze" also ended with issue 56, 4/2019. "Q'Phaze" featured articles on pseudo-archaeology, ufology, and other fringe sciences. The journal had exchanged issues with "Q'Phaze" for many years until they no longer received copies, which may have signaled its decline.

Luc Bürgin, a journalist and author known for his books and contributions to fringe science topics, has also ceased publication of "mysteries" due to health reasons. He cited personal reasons, an upcoming complicated shoulder operation, increasingly unrealistic production costs, and his refusal to publish any "nonsense" for payment as reasons for stopping.

Bürgin's book "Geheimdossier UFOs – Die Akten der Schweizer Luftwaffe" (Secret Dossier UFOs – The Files of the Swiss Air Force) was reviewed in issue 219 (3-2015) of this journal.

With issue Nr. 4/2019 (July/August), the bi-monthly magazine "mysteries," published under Luc Bürgin's editorial leadership, concluded its run. Bürgin stated that personal reasons, a pending shoulder operation, and rising costs led him to stop, preferring to focus on new book projects. The magazine covered topics like "Spuk im Weissen Haus" (Haunting in the White House), "Pyramiden von Gizeh" (Pyramids of Giza), and "Phänomene, die es nicht geben dürfte" (Phenomena that shouldn't exist).

The last issue of "Q'Phaze" (issue 54, 14th year) featured articles on "Die Quantenphase" (The Quantum Phase), "OneWesen" (One Beings), "NASA-MISSION STS-48 & DIE BELGIEN-UFO-WELLE" (NASA Mission STS-48 & The Belgian UFO Wave), "DAS KOSMISCHE WATERGATE" (The Cosmic Watergate), "DIE TEMPEL VON TULUM UND DIE FLIEGENDEN MÄNNER" (The Temples of Tulum and the Flying Men), "URBANE LEGENDEN" (Urban Legends), and "DER MANDELA-EFFEKT" (The Mandela Effect).

The magazine "mysteries" is being relaunched as "mystery – Welt der Geheimnisse" (Mystery – World of Secrets) by Kopp-Verlag, with issue Nr. 5/2019 (Sept./Oct.) being the first under the new format, featuring 32 additional pages. This relaunch includes articles on "Jagd auf den Skinwalker" (Hunt for the Skinwalker), "Das Geheimnis von Göbekli Tepe" (The Secret of Göbekli Tepe), and "UFO-Verschwörung" (UFO Conspiracy).

Hans-Werner Peiniger authored this section.

The Development of a Questionnaire for Those Affected by So-Called "UFO Abductions"

André Kramer discusses the development of a questionnaire for investigating "UFO abduction" experiences (CE IV cases). The project, initiated in 2011 by the GEP, aims to create a standardized questionnaire for complex UFO observations and to serve as the basis for a UFO database.

While the focus of the GEP's initial project was on UFO sightings (NL, DD, RV, CE I, CE II), the current work addresses contact experiences with extraterrestrials, categorized as "UFO abductions" (CE IV). These cases require a different approach than simple sightings.

The Purpose and Need for a Questionnaire in UFO Research

Beyond interviews, the GEP uses a detailed questionnaire to gather information from UFO witnesses. Questionnaires allow witnesses time to reflect on their experiences, potentially recalling details missed in spontaneous interviews. This method also reduces the risk of misinterpretation by the investigator.

However, filling out questionnaires can be time-consuming for witnesses, leading to low response rates. Despite this, it remains a useful tool for investigators, providing a framework for interviews.

While a comprehensive questionnaire for conventional UFO investigations exists (developed with the Institute for Border Areas of Psychology and Psychohygiene - IGGP), no such tool was available for UFO abductions.

Development and Structure of the "Questionnaire for the Assessment of Abduction Experiences by Extraterrestrial Entities (CE IV Cases)"

The development of the questionnaire considered several factors: clarity for the respondent, minimizing suggestion, and covering all relevant aspects in a logical order. It balances open-ended questions for narrative descriptions with closed-ended questions for specific details and comparability.

The questionnaire begins with instructions and a definition of a UFO abduction experience, based on Kramer's 2011 work. It includes a free-text field for the abductee to describe their experience, followed by specific questions about the event, circumstances, and personal interpretation. A key question asks about the abductee's expectations of the investigator, recognizing that abduction experiences can be psychologically taxing, leading to various motivations for reporting, such as seeking understanding, relief, or help for severe distress.

Understanding the abductee's motivation helps the investigator tailor their approach. The questionnaire also probes details of the encounter (location, time, duration) and allows for descriptions and drawings of observed entities. It then addresses the psychosocial consequences of the experience, enabling the abductee to categorize the event (positive or negative) and assess potential psychosocial symptoms.

Direct questions from the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (HTQ) are included, followed by further open-ended questions on psychosocial consequences. Finally, personal information is requested, along with permission to publish the report.

Previous Application and Discussion Among Colleagues

Three attempts were made to use the questionnaire, with one successful feedback. The feedback indicated that the questionnaire helped to specify details that were previously only gathered through phone contact, allowing for better preparation of in-person interviews.

Colleagues' input is valuable for identifying and rectifying weaknesses. The questionnaire was reviewed by psychiatrist Dr. Walter Andritzky and Alex S. Dr. Andritzky found the questionnaire well-founded and suggested adding a question about paralysis sensations (related to sleep paralysis). Alex S. disliked the term "extraterrestrial" in the title, but Kramer decided to keep it as it reflects the common interpretation of such experiences. Alex S. also suggested an addition to point 2.4 and noted a potential for suggestiveness in the HTQ items, though he agreed the symptoms themselves should be queried.

Alex S. intends to use the questionnaire as a guide for interviews. The questionnaire is considered functional and valid for now and will be made available by the GEP to other researchers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, personal encounters, and the scientific investigation of these events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging detailed reporting and research into unexplained aerial phenomena and related experiences, such as alleged abductions. The inclusion of a detailed questionnaire for abduction cases highlights a commitment to a more structured and in-depth approach to studying these complex phenomena.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), identified as Ausgabe 5-2019 and NR. 245, is primarily dedicated to exploring various facets of the UFO phenomenon through book reviews and a detailed questionnaire.

Questionnaire on Psychological Consequences

The issue presents a comprehensive questionnaire designed to assess the psychological impact of encounters with "foreign entities" (fremden Entitäten). Section 4, "Psychische Folgen" (Psychological Consequences), begins with a statement that close encounters often lead to a series of psychological reactions in those affected. Section 4.1 asks if the experience was perceived as positive, with space for a "yes, because..." response. Section 4.2 delves into specific symptoms, asking respondents to self-assess the frequency of experiencing issues such as recurring thoughts or memories, the feeling that the event is reoccurring, recurring nightmares, feeling detached or withdrawn, inability to feel emotions, nervousness, easily startled, concentration difficulties, restless sleep, feeling on edge, irritability or outbursts of anger, avoiding reminders of the experience, inability to remember parts of the experience, low interest in daily activities, sudden emotional or physical reactions when thinking about the experience, feeling misunderstood by others, feeling like one is going crazy, and feeling split into two personas.

Section 4.3 inquires about discussions with one's social circle regarding the experience and their reactions. Section 4.4 asks how the individual copes with problems caused by the experience in daily life. Section 4.5 seeks to identify any stressful life situations that occurred before or alongside the abduction experiences.

Section 5, "Persönliche Angaben" (Personal Information), collects demographic data including name, address, profession, date of birth, contact information, and education. It also asks about pre-existing physical or psychological illnesses and the respondent's familiarity with the topic of "UFOs and Aliens" in everyday life, categorizing engagement as "not at all occupied," "occasionally occupied," or "intensively occupied." Finally, it asks for permission regarding the use of personal data in publications, offering options for anonymity or full disclosure.

Book Reviews

Review of "LichterZauber" by Waltraud Kaliba and Jürgen Trieb

This section reviews the book "LichterZauber: Unidentifiziertes atmosphärisches Phänomen" (Light Magic: Unidentified Atmospheric Phenomenon). The authors, Waltraud Kaliba and Jürgen Trieb, are described as photographers from Styria, Austria, who have documented numerous UFO photos and observations, turning their location into a supposed UFO hotspot. The book contains 40 photos taken over a 26-minute period on December 27, 2008, documenting unexplained light phenomena. The reviewer, Hans-Werner Peiniger, expresses skepticism, suggesting that the phenomena are not spectacular and that plausible explanations exist which were not adequately discussed. He notes that the photos show bright lights between trees and light streaks, some of which are heavily blurred. The reviewer questions the authors' methodology, including the time spent at the location and the quality of the photos, suggesting they might be more of an artistic product than a scientific documentation. He also references a YouTube video that found no trace evidence at the reported location.

Review of "MIB, UFOs und die Realität" and "MIB: Der Terror geht weiter" by Axel Ertelt

This review covers two books by Axel Ertelt: "MIB, UFOs und die Realität" (MIB, UFOs and the Reality) and "MIB: Der Terror geht weiter" (MIB: The Terror Continues), both part of the "Blaue Dokumente" (Blue Documents) series. The reviewer describes the Men in Black (MIB) phenomenon as a classic fringe phenomenon of UFO-Thematik. Ertelt's books compile cases of MIB encounters. The reviewer criticizes Ertelt for focusing too narrowly on the stereotypical image of MIB in black clothing and cars, failing to recognize the broader diversity of the phenomenon. The arrangement of cases is criticized for lacking chronological, geographical, or thematic coherence, creating an impression of disorganized chaos. The reviewer also laments the lack of sources and citations, making it difficult to verify claims, particularly regarding alleged deaths or disappearances linked to MIB. The review notes factual errors, such as the dating of the Mothman sightings. Despite Ertelt's success in showcasing the diversity of MIB cases, the reviewer finds the books lacking in explanation and analysis, concluding they are merely case compilations with several deficiencies.

Review of "Prisoner of Infinity" by Jasun Horsley

This review introduces Jasun Horsley, a writer, artist, and podcaster who deals with fringe sciences. His book, "Prisoner of Infinity: UFOs, Social Engineering, and the Psychology of Fragmentation," explores modern UFO and abduction reports to uncover a centuries-long program of psychological fragmentation and indoctrination. The book is described as potentially the best UFOlogy book, offering a counterpoint to the mainstream "saucer cult." Horsley's work draws on the writings of Whitley Strieber and his own experiences, delving deeply into the psychological aspects of these phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the documentation and analysis of UFO phenomena, the psychological impact of alleged encounters, and critical reviews of literature within the field. The journal appears to maintain a stance that encourages detailed investigation and critical evaluation, as evidenced by the in-depth reviews and the structured questionnaire. While acknowledging the fascination with UFOs, the journal also highlights the need for rigorous evidence and analysis, as seen in the critique of the "LichterZauber" book.

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Volume 5-2019, Issue 245) is a German publication from the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), focusing on UFO research and related phenomena. The issue features reviews of books concerning conspiracy theories, social engineering, and alleged secret space programs, alongside historical accounts of airship sightings.

Review: 'Prisoner of Infinity' by Jasun Horsley

The first major article reviews Jasun Horsley's book, "Prisoner of Infinity: UFOs, Social Engineering and the Psychology of Fragmentation." The reviewer, Hans-Werner Peiniger, notes that Horsley posits that UFO and abduction experiences are not genuine encounters with extraterrestrials but rather the result of a deliberately controlled influence on people. This manipulation is allegedly orchestrated by a hidden power, which could be extraterrestrials, a secret political entity, or even divine forces. Horsley's work is placed within the context of conspiracy theories and New Age beliefs. The reviewer finds Horsley's claims to be presented as a tragic figure manipulated by a powerful entity. The article touches upon potentially dangerous projects like the CIA's MK-Ultra program, which involved experiments in psychological influence and mind control. While acknowledging the book's unique approach and its exploration of occultism, trauma, social engineering, and New Age movements, Peiniger expresses skepticism, suggesting some of Horsley's conclusions might stem from altered states of consciousness. However, he also notes that the book provides interesting connections and supports its claims with sources, allowing for independent research. Peiniger ultimately rates the book three out of five stars, recognizing its departure from typical UFO literature and its potential interest to sociologists, anthropologists, and psychologists.

Review: 'Geheime Weltraumprogramme & Allianzen mit Außerirdischen' by Michael E. Salla

The second featured review discusses Michael E. Salla's book, "Secret Space Programs & Alliances with Extraterrestrials: Whistleblowers Report What's Really Going On!" Salla is described as a pioneer of the Exopolitics movement. The book is characterized as a compilation of sensationalist internet content, often presented without critical evaluation. It claims the existence of a secret space program, allegedly developed with extraterrestrial assistance and vast financial resources, aiming to build a fleet of spacecraft. The narrative suggests that Germany had advanced space technology before the end of World War II, leading to a 'Lunar Task Force' that continues to recruit personnel. The book is based on the claims of a whistleblower who allegedly underwent training in a secret supersoldier program called 'Operation Moonshadow.' Another informant claims to have trained on Mars and participated in killing 'high-profile targets,' including extraterrestrial beings and synthetic life forms, and alleges slave labor and interstellar human trafficking on Mars. The book also mentions cooperation with a 'Draconian Federation,' described as a warlike reptilian alien race. The reviewer, Hans-Werner Peiniger, finds the book's content to be largely unsubstantiated and potentially fabricated, questioning Salla's motives. He notes that Salla's primary source is Corey Goode, who claims to be an 'Intuitive Empath' in contact with an alien race called the 'Blue Avians.' Peiniger compares Goode's claims to those of earlier contactees like George Adamski and Howard Menger. Despite his strong reservations about the book's veracity, Peiniger awards it one star, primarily for its extensive citations, which allow readers to verify the information and observe how conspiracy theories spread online and in books.

Historical Airship Sightings

A section titled "Luftschiffe und Aeronauten" (Airships and Aeronauts) by Ulrich Magin (Hrsg.) is presented. This work provides a historical overview of the airship phenomenon between 1896 and 1915, particularly focusing on sightings on the American West Coast. The article notes that these observations of steerable balloons sparked speculation, ranging from human inventors to extraterrestrial spacecraft. The GEP researchers generally believe these historical events are connected to the modern UFO phenomenon. The content includes contributions from Jerome Clark on airships, Loren E. Gross on UFOs from 1896, and Nigel Watson on 'Zeppelins of Fear.' An appendix covers airship sightings in Germany in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The publication is available from GEP.

GEP and 'jufof' Information

The issue concludes with information about the GEP, describing it as Germany's largest non-profit scientific association dedicated to UFO research. It details their methods, including questionnaires, interviews, and background information analysis, with support from various authorities and institutions. The 'jufof' (Journal für UFO-Forschung) is presented as a publication that has critically documented the UFO phenomenon since 1980. It serves as the GEP's publication organ, featuring sighting reports, case classifications, investigation details, scientific reports, and international analyses. Contact information for reporting UFO sightings and for the GEP is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of UFO phenomena with social engineering, conspiracy theories, and alleged secret government or extraterrestrial programs. The editorial stance, as reflected in the reviews, is critical and skeptical of unsubstantiated claims, particularly those presented by whistleblowers without rigorous evidence. While acknowledging the interest and potential for research in these topics, the journal emphasizes the need for critical analysis and verification of sources, as demonstrated by the detailed reviews and the information provided about the GEP's scientific approach.