UFO Information - No 11

Magazine Overview

This is the July 1984 issue, number 11, of the German magazine "HEILBRONNER UFO INFORMATION" (UI), published by CENAP-HEILBRONN UFO-INFORMATION. The magazine is described as a serious UFO journal and appears to be part of a research network for unusual phenomena.

Table of Contents

• The table of contents on page 2 lists the following articles:
• Psychology and UFOs
• Film Tips
• Reader Forum
• Book Tips in the UI
• We Observe the World
• How Could UFOs Come To Us?
• Well Done!
• German UFO Alarm Centers

WAS IST EIN UFO ? (What is a UFO?)

This section clarifies the definition of a UFO. It states that the term "U.F.O." (unidentified flying object) originates from American aviation terminology and refers to any flying object that appears strange to the observer and cannot be identified during the observation period. It emphasizes that this definition does not necessarily imply extraterrestrial spacecraft, citing the example of a weather balloon being misidentified as a UFO.

LIEBE UK LESER! (Dear Readers!)

This editorial note from Roland Gehardt marks the end of the first year of the magazine's publication. He expresses hope that the magazine has provided interesting information and announces an expansion of the magazine by 4 pages at the same price for members. He encourages readers to provide feedback on what they like and dislike, and suggestions for improvement, aiming to inform readers factually and impartially.

PSYCHOLOGIE UND UFO'S (Psychology and UFOs)

This article by Gilbert Schmitz (Ceps) attempts to define the UFO phenomenon and its scientific study within non-professional research communities. It highlights the complexity of the phenomenon, stating that a limited definition is not yet possible. Schmitz quotes definitions that describe UFOs as external manifestations of the subconscious, imbued with mythic powers, or as objects whose presence, appearance, and behavior cannot be explained by physical concepts. He references Carl Gustav Jung's work on the psychology of 'flying saucers' and mentions other researchers like Condon, Menzel, and Klass. The article suggests that a comprehensive definition must encompass all overlapping aspects of the phenomenon. It also discusses the psychological component as one element of the problem, contrasting it with the hypothesis of extra-terrestrial origin. The Colorado report by Dr. Condon is mentioned as having found no evidence of extraterrestrial spacecraft after years of investigation.

WAS IST EIN UFO ? (Continued)

This section, likely a continuation or related to the earlier definition, discusses the multifaceted nature of the UFO phenomenon. It notes the diversity of witnesses, observation circumstances, and testimonies, as well as the lack of logical connections between sightings. The article proposes developing a research schema that considers four areas: the witnesses (psychological and physiological standpoint), witness statements, the physical environment (meteorological, astronomical, atmospheric, photos, traces), and the socio-psychological and cultural environment (social and cultural context, media influence). The stimulus is considered to be at the center of these interactions.

QUELLEN (Sources)

A list of sources is provided, including works by C.G. Jung, J.A. Hynek, Michel Monnerie, the GEP report, and GEPAN.

FILM-TIPS (Film Tips)

• This section recommends new science fiction films:
• Star Trek III: Mentioned as a highly successful film in the USA.
• 2010: A New Odyssey: A sequel to the famous film, expected in German cinemas in February 1985.

leserforum (Reader Forum)

This section contains a letter responding to an article titled "Neues aus Halver" (News from Halver). The author criticizes "Herr Ertelt" for seeking attention and inappropriately using Albertus Magnus, a renowned scholar, to support his ideas. The letter argues that Magnus, who recognized the value of observation and experimentation, would likely have approached extraterrestrials differently than Ertelt suggests.

BUCH-TIPS IN DER UI (Book Tips in the UI)

This section reviews Isaac Asimov's book "AUSSERIRDISCHE ZIVILISATIONEN" (Extraterrestrial Civilizations). The review highlights Asimov's exploration of the question of whether humanity is alone in the universe, examining astronomical data, the number of galaxies, stars, planets, and the potential for intelligent life. The book is recommended for anyone wanting to discuss the topic.

WUNDERWESEN WUNDERWELTEN (Wondrous Beings Wondrous Worlds)

This is a review of a book by Hans Biedermann titled "Wunderwesen Wunderwelten." The book is described as exploring the nature of reality and dreams, and offering insights into the myths of our time. It is presented as a work that stands out from other literature on fringe science.

HEILBRONNER UFO INFORMATION (Page 6)

This page continues the book review of "Wunderwesen Wunderwelten," noting its positive aspects and distinguishing it from other fringe literature. It also includes a reader's letter from Axel Ertelt/Halver commenting on a previous issue. Ertelt expresses his satisfaction with the magazine but questions the "mystery" surrounding Andreas Schneider, suggesting that Schneider's knowledge of a specific UFO case (the Aluche Fall) indicates prior familiarity with UFOs.

The "Anm. der Redaktion" (Editor's Note) clarifies that their visit to Andreas Schneider revealed he has been involved with UFOs for some time.

DER "VATER" DER FLIEGENDEN UNTERTASSEN IST TOD! (The "Father" of the Flying Saucers is Dead!)

This short article reports the death of Kenneth Arnold in January 1984. Arnold is credited with observing unknown flying objects in 1947, which led to the popularization of the term "Flying Saucers," though the term itself was reportedly coined by a reporter.

UNGEWÖHNLICHER STEIN (Unusual Stone)

This piece discusses a stone found in Antarctica, believed to be from Mars. Its geological characteristics are described as unique and different from Earth or Moon rocks, but consistent with data from Mars obtained by the Viking probes. The stone's journey is theorized to be from a meteor impact on Mars millions of years ago. A NASA scientist is quoted questioning the need for Mars expeditions if Martian rocks are already found on Earth.

HEILBRONNER UFO INFORMATION (Page 7)

This page continues the discussion on the "Unusual Stone," mentioning the possibility of it being a Mars stone and quoting a NASA scientist. It also announces that the UFO film "Hangar 18" will be shown for the first time in Germany at their UFO meeting.

WIR GRATULIEREN! (Congratulations!)

This section congratulates the Mannheim CENAP-Zentrale on their 100th issue of the monthly CENAP-REPORTS, praising its informative content and colorful cover. Contact information for Werner Walter is provided for those interested in learning more.

EINE ANZEIGE IN DER UFO- INFORMATION HAT ERFOLG (An Advertisement in UFO-Information is Successful)

This is a small advertisement or notice.

WIE KÖNNTEN UFO'S ZU UNS KOMMEN? (How Could UFOs Come To Us?) - Part 3: Spaceflight from the Beginning to Today

This is the third part of a series by J. Jahn. It discusses the problems of spaceflight, focusing on temperature variations at different altitudes and the effects of ultraviolet and cosmic radiation. It mentions experiments with Plexiglas spheres filled with helium that were mistaken for UFOs. The article then delves into the technical aspects of space travel, discussing the challenges of overcoming Earth's gravity. It outlines two possibilities for achieving escape velocity: a single, powerful thrust or continuous propulsion. The need for a high-energy-density fuel is emphasized, with nuclear energy (Uranium 235 or Plutonium) being presented as a viable option for future space exploration, citing the "Orion" project. The multi-stage principle used in the Apollo project is also mentioned as a way to achieve necessary speeds. The article highlights the physiological challenges of space travel, including acceleration, deceleration, and weightlessness, and how these might be mitigated through design and propulsion systems.

DER VERKEHR ZWISCHEN DEN HIMMELSKÖRPERN (I) (Traffic Between Celestial Bodies (I))

This section, likely part of the same series by J. Jahn, shifts focus to the planets in our solar system, starting with Mercury and Venus. It describes Mercury as small, close to the sun, with extreme temperatures, and lacking a significant atmosphere. Venus is described as difficult to observe due to bright clouds reflecting sunlight. The article notes that while Venus is often mistaken for a UFO, its atmosphere (97% CO2) makes organic life unlikely, though recent NASA reports suggest volcanic activity. The travel time to Venus and Mercury with current technology is mentioned (42 and 92 days, respectively), suggesting these planets are not immediate targets for human landing. Mars is presented as a more likely candidate, with its atmosphere comparable to Earth's at Mount Everest's altitude, though also lacking life according to NASA probes. The article notes the varying distance between Earth and Mars.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a serious and scientific approach to UFO research, as indicated by its title and the editorial note "DIE SERIÖSE UFO FACHZEITSCHRIFT" (The Serious UFO Journal). It aims to provide factual and unbiased information, distinguishing itself from sensationalist reporting. Recurring themes include the definition and nature of UFOs, psychological interpretations, the scientific study of phenomena, and the technical aspects of space exploration and potential extraterrestrial contact. The magazine also engages with its readership through reader forums and book/film reviews, encouraging critical thinking and discussion within the UFO community.

Title: HEILBRONNER UFO INFORMATION
Issue: 11
Date: May 29, 1984
Publisher: Roland Gehardt

This issue of the German UFO magazine delves into the common misinterpretations and hoaxes surrounding UFO sightings, while also promoting UFO research and related publications.

UFO Hoax in Höxter

The lead story, accompanied by a small illustration, details a humorous incident in Höxter, Germany, where a prankster released a balloon equipped with an aluminum shell and a flickering light. This unusual sight led four local residents to believe they were witnessing a burning UFO, prompting them to alert the police. The article, dated May 29, 1984, highlights how simple pranks can create panic and lead to false UFO reports.

Misidentification of UFOs

Roland Gehardt, the publisher, contributes an article discussing the frequent misidentification of aerial phenomena. He points out that in America, many reported UFO sightings are attributed to advertising airplanes that use large, elaborate light chains under their wings, creating a mysterious glow from a distance. In Germany, however, a significant percentage of alleged "UFO sightings" are attributed to "Party-Gag-Ballons," which are readily available for about 30 DM. These balloons, when seen at night, can appear as uncanny flying objects.

Gehardt notes that during their investigations, they have repeatedly encountered cases where witnesses mistook these balloons for UFOs. He criticizes the press for often publishing these reports without proper verification, and for failing to report when a case is explained. However, he expresses optimism about a recent positive trend, citing articles that have begun to shed a more realistic light on supposed UFOs, including one from the Bild-Zeitung, which is pictured on the cover.

He concludes by hoping that this development continues, with newspapers seeking not just sensationalism but also providing due diligence to serious reporting.

Advertisements and Contacts

The magazine also serves as a platform for various advertisements and contact information related to UFO research and alternative interests:

• "MYSTERIÖSER ZIRKEL" (Mysterious Circle): Offers a "Kontakt-Katalog" (Contact Catalog) with 748 addresses and descriptions of individuals, groups, and publications. They provide a free two-line advertisement for private individuals and accept exchange advertisements from publishers. The catalog can be ordered for 20 DM from Tigre, Argentina.
• Gemeinschaft zur Erforschung unbekannter Phänomene e. V. (Community for the Research of Unknown Phenomena): Based in Lüdenscheid, Germany, this organization investigates unidentified aerial phenomena through field studies and witness interviews. They publish the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" and offer probe issues for 3 DM.
• Advertisements for other publications:
• "PANORAMA" Hobby Magazine offers a free classified ad up to 20 words with a coupon.
• "WORLD-MAGAZINE" (Vienna, Austria) is a private contact magazine for hobbies and exchange, offering a sample copy for 4 DM.
• "EUROCAT- NACHRICHTEN" offers a sample copy for 2 DM.
• "BIO-QUELLE" is a free private magazine focusing on unique items, sent monthly upon request with return postage.
• A request is made for material (books, magazines, photos, films) on UFO sightings by astronauts, to be sent to Gilbert Schmitz in Luxembourg.
• CENAP (Germany's serious UFO research group) offers information and sample reports.
• An advertisement for the "PRIVATE ERFORSCHUNGS- GRUPPE DER ASTROLOGIE (PEGA)" (Private Research Group for Astrology) in Ulm/Böfingen, which publishes the "PEGASUS- Magazin."
• "FREIZEIT- und KONTAKTMAGAZIN" (Leisure and Contact Magazine): This new magazine, due to be released soon, will feature various contacts (collectors, travel, pen pals, marriage ads) and side income opportunities. Advertisements are published for free. A copy can be obtained for 5 DM.
• "MYSTERIA Fachzeitschrift für UFO-FORSCHUNG und PRÄ-ASTRONAUTIK" (MYSTERIA Journal for UFO Research and Pre-Astronautics): Offers a probe issue for 3.50 DM, available from Axel Ertelt in Halver.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around debunking common UFO sightings through rational explanations, particularly the misidentification of balloons and advertising aircraft. There is a clear editorial stance advocating for more serious, investigative journalism regarding UFO phenomena, moving away from sensationalism. The magazine actively promotes UFO research organizations and publications, positioning itself as a source for credible information and a hub for like-minded individuals. The inclusion of numerous contact advertisements suggests an aim to foster a community among enthusiasts and researchers.