JUFOF - Issue 259 - 2022 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'jufof' (Journal für UFO-Forschung), Volume 43, Issue 259, dated January 2022, is published by GEP e.V. and marks the 50th anniversary of the organization, founded in 1972. The magazine emphasizes its commitment to serious, scientific, and open-minded research into unusual aerial phenomena and related experiences. The issue features a variety of articles, including case studies, historical investigations, and analyses of controversial figures in the UFO community.

Editorial

In the editorial, Danny Ammon welcomes readers to the first issue of 2022, highlighting it as a jubilee year for the GEP. He reiterates the organization's dedication to serious research and its open-minded approach to understanding the causes of reported phenomena. Ammon previews the diverse content of this issue, which includes investigations of reported cases, a detailed look at the Bob Lazar story, the historical context of airship sightings in Germany, and a discussion on the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. He also touches upon internal GEP discussions regarding the definition and scope of 'UFO research' and encourages member participation in these dialogues through their Discord server and mailing list.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Rätselhafte Lichterscheinung über Hoisdorf gefilmt

This article details a UFO sighting from October 17, 2021, in Hoisdorf, Germany. The witness, Kerstin W., reported a mysterious light phenomenon that lasted for about two hours. Initially, her son alerted her to something unusual in the sky. The phenomenon was described as having a rotating, pulsating, or shimmering light ring around a bright core, resembling a flickering aurora. Despite initial investigations considering natural atmospheric phenomena, the GEP's analysis, aided by a second witness's photo and media attention, led to the identification of the event. It was determined to be a skybeam from a new disco and event hall called 'FABRIK-Bargteheide', which was projecting beams to attract attention to their 'KORN ERNTEN' event. The GEP concluded that the case was resolved and not of extraterrestrial origin.

Aktuelle Fälle im Überblick – Teil 4

This section presents two distinct cases:

Case 1: Kausen, Germany (November 12, 2021)

A witness driving on the L288 near Kausen reported observing a large, triangular, silent, dark-colored aircraft. The witness initially saw an orange light, which then developed into a large flying object. The object flew silently at an estimated altitude of 50-60 meters and was described as being the size of a truck. Through cross-referencing with flight data and a YouTube video of a Boeing 747-8F, the object was identified as a UPS cargo plane on its landing approach to Cologne/Bonn airport at an altitude of 3600-4000 meters. The article notes that the witness's misidentification might be due to his pre-existing interest in UFOs and the perspective of the sighting.

Case 2: Hoisdorf, Germany (October 17, 2021) - Follow-up

This part of the article provides an update on the Hoisdorf sighting, referencing media coverage by the 'Lübecker Nachrichten'. It confirms that the case was resolved as a skybeam from a disco, dispelling any alien explanations. The article mentions that the NDR television program 'Schleswig-Holstein-Magazin' also covered the event and the GEP's investigation.

Bob Lazar – UFO-Insider oder cleverer Geschäftsmann?

This in-depth article by André Kramer examines the claims of Robert "Bob" Lazar, who alleges to have worked as a physicist at a secret facility within Area 51, Nevada, where he studied alien spacecraft propulsion. The article outlines Lazar's background, including his purported education at Pacific University, MIT, and CalTech, and his alleged recruitment through EG&G. It details his claims about working on a "sport model" spacecraft, its propulsion system involving Element 115, and his alleged knowledge of alien races (Greys from Ceta Reticuli) and their influence on human history, including the alleged involvement of Jesus Christ. The article also covers Lazar's claims of government suppression and threats against him. However, the GEP's stance, based on their investigation, is that Bob Lazar is very likely a fraud. The article references various interviews and documentaries related to Lazar's story.

Die Suche nach außerirdischer Intelligenz und das UFO-Phänomen, Teil 1

This article, written by Kurt Ullrich, begins an exploration into the broader context of the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) and its relationship with the UFO phenomenon. It delves into the interpretations and discussions surrounding aerial sightings, noting how the idea of 'extraterrestrial' often influences the perception and categorization of these events. The article aims to examine how this predisposition might affect the research process and the ability to identify the true causes of reported phenomena.

Luftschiffe im Jahr 1896 und 1897 – in Deutschland

Researched and compiled by Ulrich Magin, this article investigates the wave of airship sightings reported in Germany during 1896 and 1897. It explores the phenomenon, which predates modern UFO reports, and examines how these historical sightings were interpreted at the time. The article suggests a potential connection or parallel between these historical accounts and contemporary UFO phenomena, while also noting differences in the interpretations and experiences of the witnesses.

Leserbriefe

This section contains letters from readers, providing feedback and reactions to previous issues of the magazine.

Literatur

This section includes reviews of recent books related to the UFO topic. The listed titles are "Alles Evolution - oder was?" and "Trinity".

Impressum

The 'Impressum' section provides details about the publisher, Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., its address, contact information (phone, fax, email), and bank details. It also names the editors responsible for the content as Hans-Werner Peiniger and Danny Ammon. The section clarifies that contributions do not necessarily reflect the GEP's views and that unsolicited manuscripts are not liable. It states that 'jufof' is published on a non-commercial basis and contributions are honorarium-free. Information for authors is provided via a website link. Subscription prices and terms are also detailed, along with information on advertising and reprint policies. The printer is identified as bis500 Druck in Ilmenau.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of contemporary UFO/UAP sightings, the critical analysis of prominent figures and claims within the UFO community (exemplified by the Bob Lazar case), and the exploration of historical aerial phenomena. The editorial stance, as presented by Danny Ammon and reinforced by the GEP's conclusion on the Bob Lazar case, is one of rigorous, scientific investigation, aiming for factual explanations while remaining open to the possibility of unknown phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible evidence and unsubstantiated claims, with a particular focus on debunking hoaxes and misidentifications. The magazine also highlights the importance of historical context, as seen in the airship article, and the broader philosophical implications of searching for extraterrestrial intelligence.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Issue 1-2022, Nr. 259) focuses on a critical examination of the claims made by Bob Lazar, particularly concerning his alleged work at Area 51 and his purported discovery of Element 115. The article aims to analyze Lazar's statements and assertions, which have led some organizations, like the GEP, to classify his case as a hoax.

Bob Lazar's Claims and Biography

The article begins by summarizing Lazar's core assertions: holding master's degrees in physics and electrical engineering from CalTech and MIT, working as a lead physicist at Area 51 to reconstruct alien propulsion systems, and identifying Element 115 as a stable, non-synthetic element crucial to UFO drives. Lazar also claims to have previously had little interest in UFOs.

However, the article immediately casts doubt on Lazar's biography, stating that investigations into his claimed scientific qualifications and professional experience have yielded no external confirmation. French physicist and UFO researcher Jacques Vallée interviewed Lazar in March 1990 and, while impressed by his intelligence, ultimately deemed him a fraud. Similarly, Stanton T. Friedmann, a nuclear physicist and UFO researcher, concluded Lazar was a fraud after examining his claims.

Further investigation into Lazar's personal history reveals his birth certificate, presented in court on July 27, 1990, states he was born Robert Lazar on January 26, 1959, in Colorado Gables, Florida, to Albert Lazar and Phyllis Berliner. His childhood interest in science, rocket propulsion, and fireworks is noted. His high school graduation from W. Tresper Clarke Highschool in Westbury, Long Island, placed him 261st out of 369 students, a qualification deemed insufficient for elite universities.

His subsequent academic and professional path becomes obscure. A marriage certificate from July 27, 1980, lists his profession as electrical engineer with a highest level of education as high school, contradicting his university claims. Investigations by Tom Mahood and others found no evidence of Lazar attending CalTech or MIT, nor does a "Pacific University" in California appear to exist. Lazar's own narrative of his life story does not align with the available documentation.

Bankruptcy records from 1986 show only two addresses for Lazar over the preceding six years, listing his profession as a "self-employed photo developer" and making no mention of employment at Los Alamos Laboratories. This contradicts his claim of obtaining a Master's degree from CalTech in 1985, as he was reportedly living in Los Alamos during that period. Financial records from 1985 indicate significant credit acquisition in the Los Alamos area, with funds invested in his photo lab, including purchases of a film printer, a Chevrolet Corvette, and a house in Las Vegas. There is no evidence he was in Pasadena in 1985 to complete a Master's at CalTech. A professor named Dr. Duxler, whom Lazar cited as being at CalTech, stated he had never been to CalTech. Furthermore, MIT has no record of offering Electronics and Electrical Engineering programs during the relevant period.

Scrutiny of Area 51 Claims and Evidence

Regarding his alleged work at Area 51, the article questions the plausibility of Lazar's account. Stanton Friedman, a critic of Lazar, points out that security protocols for classified projects are far more stringent than Lazar describes, and a 22-man team would be insufficient for such a significant project. The idea of Lazar being able to steal sensitive material or gain extensive information is deemed improbable.

Lazar's explanation for obtaining his job—that his predecessor died in a spacecraft reactor explosion—is also questioned, as official documents and seismic measurements from the claimed periods (April and mid-1987) show no such tests or explosions. A W-2 form, presented as evidence of his government employment, shows a remarkably low salary of $958.11, which is considered inconsistent with his claims of being a lead physicist on a top-secret alien technology project. While Lazar could have falsified the form, the low salary would be a poor choice for a forgery.

The Element 115 Controversy

Lazar's claims about Element 115 are presented as a key part of his narrative. However, the article argues that his prediction was not extraordinary, as scientific knowledge of element synthesis was already developing. Elements are formed through nucleosynthesis, primarily in stars, and new elements are continuously discovered and synthesized in particle accelerators. By 2004, Russian researchers at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research had identified Element 115, which was officially recognized in 2016 as Moscovium. The crucial point is that Lazar claimed Element 115 was stable, which is incorrect; it is highly unstable. While a theoretical "island of stability" exists for superheavy elements, Moscovium is not part of it.

Lazar's explanation for discovering Element 115—using a mass spectrometer—is described as a standard procedure that requires no special expertise. The article estimates his actual work time in Area 51's S4 section to be a maximum of 49 hours, considering security protocols. His claim of smuggling out small amounts of Element 115 for private study, which allegedly showed it to be stable and non-radioactive, is also deemed highly questionable, raising questions about how and where such private testing could occur.

Influences and Possible Explanations

The article explores potential sources for Lazar's detailed knowledge of UFOs and Area 51, suggesting he may have gained information from individuals like John Lear, a former military pilot and UFO researcher. Lear was known for his theories about underground alien bases. The article also notes similarities between Lazar's sketches of his "Sportmodel" spacecraft and those of Billy Eduard Meier, another UFO contactee. Michael Hesemann confirmed this similarity with Lazar.

Christopher Mellon, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense, suggests Lazar might have worked as a security contractor for an external company at Area 51, potentially overhearing information in the base's cafeteria. This explanation could align with the W-2 form and the low salary, fitting within Lazar's web of half-truths.

Defense Mechanisms Against Criticism

Lazar's strategy to deflect criticism involves claiming that the US government systematically destroyed his biographical records, making verification impossible. This claim is undermined by the fact that some documents were presented in court, contradicting his statements, and independently researched details have exposed falsehoods.

A second strategy involves invoking induced amnesia, where Lazar claims government-induced medical procedures have impaired his memory, allowing him to explain away inconsistencies or forget details. He has also shown ambiguity regarding Element 115, sometimes questioning if it was 115 or 114, which is seen as implausible for someone claiming such a groundbreaking discovery.

Furthermore, Lazar has employed pseudoscientific explanations, such as using regression hypnosis to "concretize" his memories and claiming to have passed a polygraph test. The article dismisses these methods as unreliable for reconstructing "true" memories or distinguishing lies from truth.

Conclusion and Assessment

The article concludes that Lazar's claims about his biography, his work at Area 51, and his scientific assertions do not hold up under scrutiny. It suggests that Lazar has a history of deception and self-aggrandizement, possibly fabricating his elaborate story from existing literature and conversations. Todd Grande, a consultant for mental health and addiction, analyzes Lazar's personality as that of a skilled liar who projects an image of being humble and diligent to convince others.

Lazar's narrative is characterized as a mixture of half-truths and lies. He is described as an intelligent, imaginative man whose talent is often overshadowed by his unstable lifestyle, yet he possesses the ability to draw attention through his activities and fabricated stories. The article speculates that Lazar might even believe some of his own lies. His reappearance in the late 2010s coincides with a renewed public interest in UFOs, possibly triggered by New York Times reporting.

The issue also briefly mentions Robert Bigelow, founder of Bigelow Aerospace, who was involved with a Pentagon project and was a financial supporter of Lazar in the 1990s, though a direct connection remains unproven.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around skepticism towards extraordinary claims, particularly those related to UFOs and alleged government cover-ups. The editorial stance is clearly critical of Bob Lazar's narrative, presenting extensive evidence and expert opinions to debunk his claims and portray him as a fabricator. The article emphasizes the importance of verifiable evidence, scientific accuracy, and critical thinking when evaluating such accounts. It suggests that Lazar's story, while compelling to some, is ultimately a product of his imagination and a calculated attempt to deceive.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Issue 1-2022, Nr. 259) is titled "Die Suche nach außerirdischer Intelligenz und das UFO-Phänomen: Philosophische Aspekte einer aktuellen Debatte Teil 1" and is authored by Kurt Ullrich. It explores the intersection of UFO research and philosophy, examining recent developments and historical perspectives.

I. Einleitung (Introduction)

Kurt Ullrich introduces the article's aim to approach the question of extraterrestrial life and UFO research from a philosophical perspective. He cites recent developments, such as the official UAP reports from the USA and France, and the work of Harvard Professor Avi Loeb, as catalysts for this discussion. Loeb's hypothesis about the artificial origin of the object 'Oumuamua and his proposed 'Galileo Project' for detecting extraterrestrial technological civilizations and artifacts (SETA) are highlighted. Ullrich states that these developments prompt him to examine the topic from a philosophical viewpoint, suggesting that a shift in perspective might help in rethinking these questions.

He references Karl Jaspers' description of philosophy as a fundamental engagement with existence, arguing that the question of extraterrestrial life and UFOs falls within its purview. Philosophy's value lies in asking the right questions and offering broader perspectives, even if it doesn't provide universally accepted answers. The question of whether humanity is alone in the universe is presented as a fundamental human concern.

Ullrich outlines the article's structure: first, examining how philosophy has historically addressed the question of extraterrestrial intelligence through examples like ancient materialism and the Enlightenment; second, discussing the problem of anthropocentrism and the potential impact of confirming intelligent extraterrestrial life on religious worldviews (specifically Christianity); third, exploring scientific-philosophical considerations regarding the premises and methods of scientific research in this field; and finally, considering the consequences of empirical confirmation of extraterrestrial intelligence for human self-understanding from the perspective of philosophical anthropology.

II. Außerirdisches Leben und Anthropozentrismus (Extraterrestrial Life and Anthropocentrism)

1. Außerirdisches Leben in philosophischen Weltentwürfen (Extraterrestrial Life in Philosophical Worldviews)

#### a) Der philosophische Materialismus (Philosophical Materialism)

The question of life, especially intelligent life in the cosmos, is presented as an ancient philosophical inquiry. Ullrich quotes Lucretius (circa 99/94 – circa 55/53 BC) from his didactic poem "De rerum natura" (On the Nature of Things). Lucretius, an Epicurean philosopher and follower of Democritus, was a proponent of philosophical materialism and atomism. Based on the premise that the universe is composed of indivisible atoms and governed by natural processes, Lucretius argued that life could not be confined to Earth alone. He posited the existence of countless other worlds with diverse forms of life, including beings similar to humans and animals, and that all phenomena, including celestial bodies, exist in multiplicity rather than singularity.

#### b) Naturphilosophie der Aufklärung am Beispiel Kants (Natural Philosophy of the Enlightenment using Kant as an Example)

Immanuel Kant's "Allgemeine Naturgeschichte und Theorie des Himmels" (1755) is discussed as another example of philosophical reflection on extraterrestrial life. Kant, working within the scientific framework of his time, speculated about the habitability of planets in our solar system and the nature of their potential inhabitants. He suggested that matter on planets farther from the sun would be lighter and finer, influencing the development of life forms and their moral and intellectual capacities. Kant placed humanity between the inhabitants of Mercury/Venus and those of Jupiter/Saturn in terms of development, suggesting that contemplating these beings could either inspire or humble humanity.

Ullrich notes that Kant's views, while seemingly quaint today, reflect the dependence of even brilliant philosophers on the empirical knowledge of their era. Kant's work is seen as an Enlightenment vision that viewed reason as the core of humanity, extending this concept beyond Earth and challenging the notion of humanity's unique place in creation, thereby questioning the orthodox Christian worldview.

Hans Blumenberg is quoted as summarizing the Enlightenment's intention to break the perceived monopoly of terrestrial humanity on divine attention, often asserted through theological narratives.

#### c) Anthropologische Ansätze des 20. Jahrhunderts (Anthropological Approaches of the 20th Century)

The concept of anthropocentrism, the belief in humanity's central place in the universe, is presented as a persistent influence on thought. Its roots are traced back to ancient philosophy, where human reason was considered a unique attribute, elevating humans closer to the divine. While other philosophers like Aristotle acknowledged different forms of souls (vegetative, sentient, rational), the "rational soul" was largely seen as exclusive to humans.

Max Scheler, in his 1928 work "Die Stellung des Menschen im Kosmos" (The Position of Man in the Cosmos), despite acknowledging evolution, viewed humans as essentially "distinguished" beings. Scheler argued that what makes humans uniquely human is a principle that opposes all other life, a new existential fact not reducible to natural evolution but rooted in the ultimate ground of being. He described the "center of activity" where spirit manifests within finite spheres as "Person."

In contrast to other anthropological approaches that emerged after Darwin's theory of evolution, which might see human uniqueness as a cultural adaptation (like Arnold Gehlen's concept of humans as "Mängelwesen" or beings lacking), Scheler's view traces human distinctiveness to a metaphysical "Urgrund" (primal ground). This perspective, though framed in non-personal philosophical terms, implies a connection (re-ligio) of humanity to the divine as the ground of the world. Ullrich speculates that this perspective does not necessarily exclude the possibility of other "spiritual" beings in the cosmos who might share a similar relationship with this ultimate ground of things.

Luftschiffe im Jahr 1896 und 1897 – in Deutschland (Airships in 1896 and 1897 – in Germany)

Ulrich Magin investigates whether the wave of airship sightings in the USA in late 1896 and early 1897 was reflected in German newspapers. He reports on a German airship incident from 1896, which was described as a balloon, and also mentions media reports about the American airship phenomenon.

A German Airship Crash near Norderney

In October 1896, several observers reported an unknown airship near the North Sea island of Norderney. The "Berliner Börsen-Zeitung" reported that three airship occupants were believed to have perished in a storm. The airship was described as approaching the sea, and despite efforts, it was lost. Later, a large balloon basket was found, suggesting it belonged to the observed airship. Initial theories suggested it was a scientific balloon or had departed from Germany, but later reports indicated it might have been a Belgian airship with three officers that drifted towards the German coast due to severe weather. The report concludes that the airship likely crashed into the sea, but the fate of the occupants remained uncertain, with conflicting reports about their rescue.

This account was also published in the "Norddeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung" and "Vorwärts: Berliner Volksblatt." The lack of a definitive resolution to the Norderney incident is noted, especially given the general media attention to balloon launches at the time. The article suggests it was likely an earthly balloon with a human crew.

An Airship Crash over Norderney

A similar incident occurred a few months later, reported by the "Berliner Börsen-Zeitung" on June 17, 1897. An airship carrying three people was seen flying over Ostend, Belgium, at an altitude of 50 meters. It reportedly touched the roofs of houses and then flew towards the sea, pursued by thousands of onlookers. A tugboat rescued the three occupants, who had departed from Brussels. The airship itself disappeared. The report mentions a subsequent event where a dike was split and a large building collapsed, but no one was injured. The author expresses confusion about the connection between the airship incident and the subsequent structural damage.

Airships in the United States

Magin notes that the wave of phantom airship sightings in the USA in 1896 and 1897 did not go unnoticed in Germany. He references a report from "Vorwärts: Berliner Volksblatt" on November 27, 1896, about Dr. Benjamin, who allegedly invented a steerable airship in San Francisco. This airship was described as 150 feet long and capable of flying at nearly a mile per minute. The inventor reportedly kept the mechanism secret. Magin advises caution regarding this report, citing John Keel and others who have documented numerous hoaxers claiming to invent airships. However, he notes that Dr. Benjamin might be one of the earliest such figures, with the airship phenomenon in California beginning in November 1896.

German newspapers also reported on sightings, with a generally skeptical tone. The "Berliner Tageblatt und Handels-Zeitung" on April 21, 1897, discussed reports of a mysterious airship in New York, suggesting it might be a hoax. However, it also mentioned a report from the "Newyork Herald" about an airship seen over Greensburg, Michigan, and another sighting over Appleton, Wisconsin. The "Newyork Herald" reportedly identified the craft as the "Pegasus," built in Lafayette, Indiana. The article concludes by noting that details were scarce and quoting a saying about things being more common in the West.

Leserbriefe (Letters to the Editor)

Uli Thieme expresses irritation with two articles from the previous JUFOF issue (Nr. 258).

First, he questions the classification of a sighting investigated by Hans-Werner Peiniger as a "Problematic UFO" when it could be explained as terrestrial in 99% of cases. Thieme argues that classifying such cases as "problematic" inflates the number of unsolved cases and risks drifting into wishful thinking. He advocates for separating genuine cases from those with weak evidence.

Second, Thieme critiques the "Contact Initiative" article by Erich Habich-Traut. He finds it questionable to ask whether extraterrestrial intelligences would use radio waves for communication, stating that the answer "No" is too simplistic. He believes the JUFOF might not be the appropriate medium for such an article, suggesting a school newspaper would be more suitable for engaging young people with financial incentives for discovering alien spacecraft. He finds the ideas of an "Alien Marketplace" and "prizes" to be commercial and lacking seriousness. Thieme doubts that advanced alien species capable of interstellar travel would remain silent for years only to be discovered by "smartphone kids." He concludes that if such beings exist and are unwilling to communicate, they are not worth contacting.

Wichtiger Hinweis in eigener Sache! (Important Notice Regarding Our Own Affairs!)

This section announces the upcoming 50-year GEP anniversary conference in Lüdenscheid, planned for early October, and calls for speakers to present on relevant topics.

Literatur Rezensionen (Literature Reviews)

Erich von Däniken: Alles Evolution - oder was? Argumente für ein radikales Umdenken (Arguments for a Radical Rethink)

This section reviews Erich von Däniken's book "Alles Evolution - oder was?". The reviewer praises the book's provocative title and its direct engagement with the theory of evolution, which the reviewer suggests is not as coherent as commonly believed. Von Däniken is described as a meticulous investigator who presents numerous examples to highlight the perceived impossibility of the current evolutionary model. The book is characterized by its humorous and ironic tone, aiming to provoke readers and challenge seemingly established scientific truths. The reviewer notes that von Däniken, a skeptic in the best sense, questions what contemporary society accepts as scientific truth, contrasting genuine science, which is always open to revision, with pseudoscientific "substitute religions."

The review acknowledges that critics often accuse von Däniken of being unscientific, but argues that he rightly points out instances where science is replaced by pseudoscientific belief systems. The reviewer suggests that von Däniken's work is refreshing and entertaining, offering facts that are often overlooked. The book is seen as a call to question our assumptions about evolution and scientific certainty.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores the UFO phenomenon and related topics from various angles, including philosophical, historical, and scientific perspectives. There's a clear interest in challenging conventional explanations and examining evidence critically, as seen in the reader letters and the review of von Däniken's work. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging debate and a deeper understanding of these complex subjects, while also maintaining a degree of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and commercialization of the field. The inclusion of historical airship reports suggests an interest in the roots of aerial mysteries and their connection to modern UFO phenomena.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 1-2022, Nr. 259, published by GEP e.V., focuses on significant UFO-related literature and historical cases. The magazine critically examines books and events within the UFO phenomenon.

Book Review: Erich von Däniken's "Alles Evolution – oder was?"

The issue begins with a review of Erich von Däniken's book, "Alles Evolution – oder was?" (Everything Evolution – or What?). The reviewer, Walter Jörg Langbein, notes that Däniken's work often faces criticism for alleged misrepresentations, but argues that Däniken's core arguments are substantial. The book's central theme is a critique of Darwinism, proposing that extraterrestrial beings, referred to as 'heavenly gods' or 'astronaut gods,' have influenced human history and mythology. Däniken attempts to prove the presence of these cosmic visitors in myths, legends, and holy scriptures. The review highlights that the book also features contributions from other experts, such as Professor Dr. Ryofu Pussel, whose essay "Buddhism and Evolution" is considered a strong justification for acquiring Däniken's book. Langbein praises Däniken for stimulating thought and encouraging a re-evaluation of old ideas, finding his approach refreshing and his arguments compelling, suggesting a radical rethinking is necessary. He concludes that the current global situation underscores the urgency of such a re-evaluation.

The book is described as 223 pages, hardcover, illustrated, with ISBN 9783864457791, priced at €22.99 (e-book €19.99). It is published by Kopp Verlag, Rottenburg a. N. (2020), with a link provided for ordering.

Book Review: Jacques F. Vallée & Paola Leopizzi Harris' "Trinity: The Best-Kept Secret"

Another major section reviews "Trinity: The Best-Kept Secret" by Jacques F. Vallée and Paola Leopizzi Harris. The reviewer expresses excitement for this new UFO research book from Vallée, his first non-diary-based work since "Wonders in the Sky" (2010). The book reportedly details Vallée's experiences and research into UFO sightings and psychological warfare simulations by military or intelligence agencies. The reviewer recalls a 2018 interview where Vallée suggested he might publish more on these topics, mentioning "limited operations" and the possibility that some highly publicized UFO events are part of such operations.

The book's core narrative concerns an alleged event on August 16, 1945, near the Nevada test site, predating the Roswell incident. Key aspects are the timing (pre-Roswell) and the location. The reviewer notes that the case itself is not entirely unknown, having been reported by Timothy Good and others, including a book by Jose Padilla and Remigio Baca titled "Born on the Edge of Ground Zero" (2011). However, researchers like Donald Schmitt and Stanton Friedman have reportedly not delved deeply into this case, finding it too vague or too similar to Roswell, which casts doubt on its authenticity.

The review highlights that the case's validity hinges on witness testimonies, particularly from two witnesses who were 7 and 9 years old at the time. The reviewer questions how much their memories might have been influenced by later events, especially the Roswell incident. Similarities to Roswell include a large debris field, metallic material with a "memory effect" that could be crumpled and then return to its original shape, and a large-scale military operation to recover the object and debris. The reviewer questions whether these similarities indicate the same type of object.

The reviewer expresses disappointment that "Trinity" is not the comprehensive research book Vallée's followers might have expected. While Vallée analyzes material samples and artifacts left by UFOs, the book does not present new results from this work, though Vallée states his colleagues are re-doing measurements with precise methods to publish in scientific literature.

The book's narrative focuses on the 1945 event, detailing a debris field and military involvement. The reviewer notes that the military's behavior at the crash site seems less serious than at Roswell. Soldiers reportedly left for lunch, leaving the site unguarded, allowing children to approach the object. Debris was collected, but some was also buried. The book offers no explanation for this behavior.

Despite these criticisms, the reviewer acknowledges the authors' effort, noting that over 80 pages are dedicated to interviews with witnesses, conducted by Paola Leopizzi-Harris. The reviewer has mixed feelings about the interview style but praises the authors' engagement.

The most interesting parts of the book, according to the reviewer, are when Vallée draws on his extensive experience in UFO history, particularly his contributions during the Project Blue Book era. His earlier works like "Anatomy of a Phenomenon" (1965), "Challenge to Science" (1966), and "Passport to Magonia" (1969) are still considered essential reading.

The reviewer is surprised by the authors' uncritical approach to the UFO incidents in Aurora, Texas (1897), and Maury Island, Washington (1947), cases generally considered hoaxes by the UFO community.

The book is described as 360 pages, hardcover, with 30 illustrations, ISBN 979-8481834566. The price is €22.14 (paperback €23.67, e-book €14.15). It is independently published by StarworksUSA, LLC and Documatica Research, LLC in 2021.

A note indicates that the book is expected to be translated into German and published in 2022.

Book Review: Uli Thieme's "Das UFO von Roswell - Ein Mythos stürzt ab"

This section announces a new publication by Uli Thieme titled "Das UFO von Roswell - Ein Mythos stürzt ab" (The UFO of Roswell - A Myth Crashes Down). This documentation is presented as an expanded and revised version of his earlier work "Roswell, Sommer 1947 – ein UFO-Mythos stürzt ab" (first published in 1997, updated in 2019). The book contains translations of original sources, including newspaper articles, teletype reports, and witness testimonies, allowing readers to form their own judgment on the Roswell UFO case. It is 356 pages, paperback, DIN A5, illustrated, with ISBN 978-3-923862-62-7, priced at €24.00 (€19.20 for GEP members), plus shipping. The first 15 GEP members to order receive a signed copy.

GEP Anniversary Prize Puzzle

The issue includes an announcement for an anniversary prize puzzle for GEP members, celebrating "50 Years of UFO Research of the GEP." Members have the chance to win a copy of the new book "Das UFO von Roswell - Ein xxxxxx stürzt ab" by correctly identifying a missing word in the subtitle and submitting it by March 15, 2022.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently provides critical and scientific analysis of UFO phenomena. It reviews significant books and historical cases, encouraging readers to engage with primary sources and form their own conclusions. The editorial stance emphasizes interdisciplinary research and a methodical approach, as exemplified by the GEP's work. The journal also serves as a platform for documenting UFO reports, classifying them, and conducting case studies, alongside scientific articles and reviews.