Deguforum - Issue 88

Magazine Overview

This issue of DEGUFORUM, Nr. 88, from the Summer 2016 edition, is the 23rd year of publication for the journal of the German-speaking Society for UFO Research (DEGUFO e.V.). It is priced at 5.00 EUR in Germany and 7.50 EUR in the EU.

Cover Story: Citizen-Science Strategy 2020 for Germany

The main cover story is "Citizen-Science: Strategy 2020 for Germany," a position paper on the framework paper (Green Paper) from the German Cooperation Initiative UFO Research. This initiative, founded by DEGUFO, GEP, and MUFON-CES, aims to advance UFO research through citizen participation.

Editorial and Letters

The editorial, written by Marius Kettmann, welcomes readers to the upcoming DEGUFO members' meeting in Leverkusen on November 19, 2016. The meeting will include an internal session with a statutory amendment discussion and an open afternoon with lectures. Notable speakers include Klaus Felsmann and Dr. Danny Ammon. The editorial also mentions the transfer of the "Generationen-Bibliothek" archive to the DEGUFO archive, ensuring the preservation of literature on unusual aerial phenomena and fringe sciences.

Articles and Reports

• "Kugelförmiges Objekt über Bamberg" (Spherical Object over Bamberg): This article by Peter Hattwig details a UFO sighting from June 28, 1981, where a pilot and passengers observed a spherical, yellowish, matte object that exhibited extreme acceleration and speed.
• "Die 10 überzeugensten UFOs i.e.S. Fälle der MUFON 2014" (The 10 Most Convincing UFO Cases of 2014): Translated by Dr. Johannes Lienert from MUFON-CES, this article presents the top UFO cases investigated by MUFON in 2014. It highlights the increasing number of reports and the scientific rigor of MUFON's investigations. Several cases are detailed, including one from Oakville, Missouri (Case 57046), and another from Joplin, Missouri (Case 57853).
• "Positionspapier zum Rahmenpapier (Green Paper) - Citizen-Science-Strategie 2020 für Deutschland" (Position Paper on the Framework Paper (Green Paper) - Citizen-Science Strategy 2020 for Germany): This article outlines the strategy for citizen science in UFO research in Germany, developed by the German Cooperation Initiative UFO Research.
• "20 Jahre DEGUFO - Ein Blick auf die besten Fälle!" (20 Years of DEGUFO - A Look at the Best Cases!): This is the third part of a series presenting significant UFO cases from DEGUFO's archives over the last two decades. Christian Czech, DEGUFO's chief case investigator, presents incidents from 1993-1997.
• "Entführungserfahrungen / Teil 15: Forschungspraxis #6" (Abduction Experiences / Part 15: Research Practice #6): Jens Waldeck continues his series on abduction research, focusing on practical aspects.

Interview

• "Seriöse Forscher wollen das UFO-Rätsel lösen, nicht bewahren!" (Serious Researchers Want to Solve the UFO Riddle, Not Preserve It!): An interview with Dr. Danny Ammon, 2nd Chairman of GEP and a member of DEGUFO and GfA, discusses UFO research, inter-organizational cooperation, and the scientific approach to the phenomenon.

Book Reviews (Rezensionen)

• "Apollo 20" by Hartmut Großer: Reviewed by Marius Kettmann, this book is described as a mixed bag concerning a mysterious moon mission.
• "Deutschland, deine Götter" by Gideon Böss: Reviewed by Marius Kettmann, this book reportedly discusses topics including Raelianism.
• "Ko(s)misch Kochen - Das Kochbuch für Aliens" by Mario Rank and Heiko Stehr: Reviewed by Marius Kettmann, this cookbook is explored by a reader of fringe science literature.

DEGUFO Members' Meeting 2016

Page 4 provides a detailed agenda for the DEGUFO Members' Meeting on November 19, 2016, in Leverkusen. The agenda includes a closed session for members with reports and voting on statutory changes, as well as an open part with lectures on UFO research methods and case discussions. The meeting will also cover the transfer of the Generationen-Bibliothek's assets and plans for future DEGUFO events and publications.

Additional UFO Case Reports

The issue includes several detailed reports of UFO sightings from MUFON's database:

• Case 57046: June 9, 2014, Oakville, Missouri - A metallic, gray, oval object observed by a mother and son.
• Case 57853: July 8, 2014, Joplin, Missouri - A box-shaped object with internal light observed by three witnesses.
• Case 59580: September 7, 2014, Augusta, Maine - A triangular UFO observed by a mathematics professor and his family.
• Case 59470: November 7, 2006, Chicago O'Hare Airport, Illinois - A disc-shaped object observed by passengers on a landing flight.
• Case 57173: June 19, 2014, Arvada, Colorado - A police officer observed an oval arrangement of lights that disappeared.
• Case 53948: February 6, 2014, Norcross, Georgia - A large, black triangular object observed by two individuals.
• Case 59652: July 15, 1975, Panama City, Florida - Two brothers observed two round, metallic objects near a US Navy research platform.
• Case 56134: May 8, 2014, Monticello, Mississippi - A witness observed a round object with advanced flight capabilities and potential cloaking.
• Case 59652: July 1, 2014, Vancouver, Washington - A police officer reported a metallic disc moving across the sky.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO case investigations, the promotion of scientific UFO research through organizations like DEGUFO and MUFON, and the development of citizen science initiatives. The editorial stance emphasizes a serious, scientific approach to understanding UFO phenomena, encouraging cooperation between different research groups, and documenting significant cases. The magazine also highlights the importance of preserving historical UFO research data and literature.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, titled "Positionspapier zum Rahmenpapier (Green Paper) Citizen-Science-Strategie 2020 für Deutschland" and subtitled "Deutsche Kooperationsinitiative UFO-Forschung," delves into the intersection of citizen science and UFO research in Germany. The cover prominently features an interview with Danny Ammon, a key figure in the field, conducted by Marius Kettmann.

I. Einführung (Introduction)

The introduction defines UFO research as an engagement by citizens oriented towards scientific standards, focusing on investigating unusual aerial phenomena. It highlights the interdisciplinary nature of this research, driven by diverse knowledge interests and research questions. The term UFO is defined as an "unidentified flying object" without implying origin or form. Initially, it refers to the perceived light or object in the sky that defies conventional explanation. Occasionally, UFOs are also registered by instruments like radar. The paper notes the occasional use of the term UAP (unidentified aerial/atmospheric phenomenon) to avoid misunderstandings associated with the colloquial use of UFO. The primary goal of UFO research is to gain a sufficient understanding of these experiences and to make them theoretically connectable to the body of scientific knowledge. While most UFO sightings are attributed to misinterpretations of astronomical bodies, artificial objects, or natural phenomena, a small percentage remains unexplained, necessitating the consideration of multicausal phenomena. The text acknowledges the frequent categorization of UFO research as pseudoscience by mainstream media and some professional circles, which hinders collaboration with scientific institutions. It proposes that constructive citizen-led UFO research requires cooperation between citizens, associations, and scientific organizations.

The Deutsche Kooperationsinitiative UFO-Forschung (German Cooperation Initiative UFO Research) is presented as the result of efforts to establish lasting collaboration between the three largest German-speaking UFO organizations. To ensure this collaboration meets scientific standards, principles of "Honest Scientific Practice in UFO Research" have been developed. Joint projects include a standardized questionnaire for witness interviews and the shared archiving of sighting cases in the publicly accessible UFO database. Contacts with European and international UFO researchers and organizations, such as the French GEIPAN, are maintained through personal connections or mailing lists. Cooperation and professionalization are identified as central themes in contemporary UFO research in German-speaking regions. The paper aims to contribute to the development of suitable measures for strengthening Citizen Science in Germany.

II. Quantitative Assessments of Citizen Science

This section explores the perspectives of UFO researchers on Citizen Science. Regarding citizen participation in science, it's noted that UFO research is internationally followed by interested citizens and observers, but lacks societal recognition and connection to suitable scientific institutions. Some scientific fields, like sociology and psychology, independently engage with UFO-related topics. For the objectives of Citizen Science, the focus is on collaborative work between society and science. UFO research is currently conducted within specialized associations by interested citizens, with cooperative efforts between these associations and scientific institutions potentially strengthening research questions and societal relevance. The insights gained in these associations could inform scientific institutions, and the publication of initial results is already occurring. Cooperations focused on specific aspects could enhance civil engagement and public understanding of scientific fields.

Regarding the integration of citizens into research processes, it's stated that citizens currently conduct all phases of UFO research. However, due to limited expertise, not all research questions can be addressed. For cooperation with scientific institutions, it is suggested that these institutions could develop research focuses, formulate questions, and design studies, especially for data that requires specialized knowledge. The data for UFO phenomena are often collected by citizens, either through spontaneous observations or instrumental recordings. Automated detection systems are being developed to enable distributed and independent data collection by citizens. The primary goal of UFO research is to gain a sufficient understanding of these experiences and to make them theoretically connectable to scientific knowledge.

Barriers to Citizen Science in Germany are discussed from an external perspective. Inter- and multidisciplinary research projects initiated by citizens often face difficulties in identifying institutional cooperation partners for specific aspects. The investigation of a reported UFO observation may require knowledge in astronomy, meteorology, atmospheric physics, perceptual and memory psychology, as well as experience in qualitative interviewing methods. The importance of measures to strengthen Citizen Science in Germany is highlighted, viewing them as a milestone for developing a society with more decentralization, self-responsibility, and sustainable development. Tailored, regional, and decentralized solutions could be jointly developed through citizen participation and networking, benefiting UFO research as a field of citizen research.

III. UFO Research as Citizen Science

This section focuses on the opportunities and potentials of volunteer researchers and the significance of Citizen Science within UFO organizations. UFO research has been predominantly conducted by citizen scientists for decades, with numerous volunteers worldwide engaging with the topic. They have categorized UFO experiences, observed objects, and analyzed sightings. They have also pointed out the challenges of treating UFOs as a negative residual category of human perception, which complicates hypothesis formation about objective phenomena. While the potential of Citizen Science in UFO research has been largely recognized, the lack of cooperation with scientific institutions hinders the investigation of specific sub-fields that could benefit from qualified researchers.

Challenges for Citizen Science in Germany and UFO organizations include divergent understandings and objectives within "UFO research" itself. This encompasses attempts to answer questions objectively as well as work driven by emotional and worldview-based motivations lacking scientific rigor. These uncertainties contribute to the public and media reception of the topic as absurd or pseudoscience, despite efforts to integrate scientific methods into UFO research by various associations.

Interview with Danny Ammon

The interview with Danny Ammon, a medical informatician and board member of GEP, DEGUFO, and Gesellschaft für Anomalistik (GfA), explores his involvement in UFO research. Ammon, who has been interested in anomalous topics for over 20 years, explains how his background in a secular GDR society, which emphasized science and technology, initially distanced him from such subjects. His interest was reignited upon encountering the book "UFOs – Es gibt sie" after German reunification.

Ammon joined GEP in 2003, followed by DEGUFO and the Gesellschaft für Anomalistik. He has served as the second board chairman of GEP since 2008. He highlights the shift in German UFO research towards cooperation, evidenced by the joint journal "JUFOF," collaborative projects, and the establishment of the "Deutsche Kooperationsinitiative UFO-Forschung." He notes that this cooperation was facilitated by a generational shift, with newer members less influenced by past conflicts within the UFO community.

His professional work in IT and medical informatics, which involves managing complex systems, supporting healthcare professionals, and documenting processes, shares common ground with anomalous research in terms of methodical approaches, scientific standards, and the careful handling of information. He emphasizes the importance of "Principles of Honest Scientific Practice" in UFO research, similar to his professional work.

Ammon discusses his involvement in multiple organizations (DEGUFO, GEP, GfA), viewing them not as competitors but as enriching each other through diverse approaches and member expertise. He sees the Gesellschaft für Anomalistik as a way to broaden perspectives beyond UFO research, connecting with parapsychology and consciousness research to understand the limits of scientific inquiry.

Regarding the core of UFO phenomena, Ammon acknowledges the

This issue of DEGUFORUM, titled "Abduktionsforschung - Entführungserfahrungen" (Abduction Research - Entrapment Experiences), delves into the complex world of UFO sightings, alleged alien abductions, and other paranormal phenomena. The issue features a collection of case studies from the 1990s, alongside in-depth articles on research methodologies, the philosophical implications of consciousness, and the role of language in understanding these events. The magazine also includes book reviews and discussions on related topics.

Case Studies and Sightings

The issue presents numerous accounts of unexplained aerial phenomena and encounters:

• 1995: Encounter with Grey Beings: A witness describes seeing three small, grey beings with large, dark eyes in their bedroom. The beings reportedly levitated and then vanished.
• 1995: Dark Blue-Gray Object: A witness observed a peculiar object in the northwest that moved erratically upwards and then horizontally.
• 1995: Metallic Spheres over Lake Constance: Multiple metallic, shiny spheres were seen flying in formation at high altitude.
• 1995: CE-IV Case in Schlierenbachtal: Two friends experienced a sudden tingling, numbness, and loss of consciousness, waking up disoriented in an unfamiliar environment.
• 1996: Brightly Glowing Sphere over Bad Kreuznach: A large, luminous sphere was sighted in the morning sky.
• 1996: Triangular UFO over Winnenden: A triangular object with three lights was observed scanning the ground with a beam of light.
• 1996: UFO on Swiss Radar: A UFO sighting in Switzerland was corroborated by radar data.
• 1996: Light Phenomenon in Berlin: A large area on the ground was suddenly illuminated.
• 1996: USO Sighting: An Unidentified Submerged Object was reported moving across a lake.
• 1996: Animal Mutilation in Poland: A dog was found partially eaten by 'sphere beings'.
• 1997: Large Rectangle over Holland: A large rectangular object with multiple lights was observed hovering before accelerating rapidly.
• 1997: Blinking Objects over Hanover: Two blinking objects were seen, one of which exhibited unusual maneuvers.
• 1997: Orange Object over Austria: A luminous orange object was observed moving slowly before disappearing.

Research and Theory

Several articles explore the theoretical and practical aspects of researching paranormal phenomena:

• Abduction Research Methodology: Jens Waldeck discusses the importance of an appropriate research attitude, distinguishing between processual and resultative observation. He highlights the psychological stress associated with abduction experiences, such as PTSD, and suggests that processual observation methods can be less stressful.
• Telepresence and Virtual Reality: The article explores how telepresence technologies, like video conferencing and telemedicine, are changing the nature of interaction and research, potentially enabling remote observation and investigation.
• The Role of Language: The issue delves into the linguistic challenges of describing paranormal experiences, particularly abduction phenomena. It discusses how language can shape our understanding and the concept of 'null-subjects' in grammar, which can be relevant when describing subjective experiences.
• Flow-Erlebnis: The concept of a 'Flow-Erlebnis' is introduced as a state of deep immersion and engagement, contrasting it with the often jarring nature of abduction experiences. It is suggested that understanding and cultivating flow states can be beneficial.
• Computer Science and Consciousness: The articles touch upon the development of AI, neural networks, and the potential for quantum computers to exhibit creative consciousness, drawing parallels between biological structures and artificial systems.
• Smart Alien Technology: The concept of self-evolving structures in alien technology, potentially stemming from quantum principles, is briefly mentioned.
• Blicklenkung (Gaze Direction) through Language: This section explores how language can be used to direct attention and perception, a technique relevant in both everyday communication and psychological interventions.
• Processual Observation: The distinction between resultative observation (focusing on outcomes) and processual observation (focusing on the unfolding of events) is emphasized as crucial for understanding phenomena that are not easily objectified.
• Agnosia: The neurological concept of agnosia, a deficit in recognizing objects or stimuli, is discussed in the context of how our understanding of terms can be fragmented or 'zerrüttete Begriffe' (disrupted concepts).

Book Reviews

Two book reviews are featured:

• "Apollo 20" by Hartmut Großer: This review critically examines a book that claims a secret Apollo 20 mission to the moon uncovered crashed alien spacecraft and dead aliens. The reviewer expresses skepticism about the book's claims and its reliance on questionable sources.
• "Deutschland, deine Götter" by Gideon Böss: This review discusses a book that explores various religious and spiritual communities in Germany. The reviewer praises the author's open-minded approach and the book's ability to provide insights into diverse belief systems, including some with UFO-related connections (e.g., the Raelian movement).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of DEGUFORUM revolve around the investigation of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs and abductions. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging rigorous research while acknowledging the subjective and often elusive nature of these experiences. There is a strong emphasis on exploring new methodologies, including the role of consciousness, language, and technology in understanding the paranormal. The magazine promotes a scientific yet open approach to these topics, encouraging readers to share their own experiences and engage with the ongoing research.

Title: DEGUFORUM
Issue: Nr. 88
Publication Date: December 2016 (estimated from cover text indicating the next issue is in December 2016)
Publisher: Ancient Mail Verlag
Country of Publication: Germany
Language: German
Price: 8,90 EUR, inkl. MwSt.

This issue of DEGUFORUM, a German-language magazine focused on UFOs and related phenomena, features a review of a unique cookbook, an interview with a prominent parapsychologist, and a historical look at early UFO sightings.

Review: „Ko(s)misch Kochen - Das Kochbuch für Aliens" by Mario Rank and Heiko Stehr

Marius Kettmann reviews the book "Ko(s)misch Kochen - Das Kochbuch für Aliens" (Cosmic Cooking - The Cookbook for Aliens), a work by Mario Rank and Heiko Stehr. Kettmann emphasizes that this is not a serious, data-driven UFO investigation book, but rather a humorous and artistic creation. The book is described as a blend of alien visitation and vegetarian cooking, featuring cartoons by Heiko Stehr and recipes developed by Mario Rank, the DEGUFO Regional Representative for Austria. The reviewer notes the unusual square format of the book. It contains eight recipes, ranging from soups to cakes, each accompanied by a witty introductory story and lovingly crafted cartoons. Highlights include the authors' self-portraits, an interview between an 'Alien' and Mario Rank, and a full-page 'Cook & Bake Duel' cartoon featuring notable figures from the UFO and paleo-SETI communities, such as Robert Fleischer and Erich von Däniken. Kettmann suggests the book is best enjoyed on relaxed evenings, for both reading and cooking, and should not be taken too seriously. The authors themselves summarize the book's intent: to answer the questions of what aliens eat and whether they are as clumsy in the kitchen as humans, offering a 100% vegetarian alien dinner that is easy to prepare.

Interview: Dr. Dr. Walter von Lucadou

The magazine announces an upcoming interview with Dr. Dr. Walter von Lucadou, described as a globally recognized authority in parapsychology. His unique approach, viewing phenomena through the lenses of psychology and physics, has established him as a leading researcher. The Parapsychological Consultation Center in Freiburg, founded in 1989, is noted as bearing his signature. The interview aims to explore what drives him, his findings after decades of work, and the connection between parapsychology and UFOs.

Reportage: UFO Research Before 1947

This section delves into the history of UFO research, challenging the common notion that it began with Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting, which coined the term "Flying Saucer." The report argues that various researchers have disproven this cliché. Even if medieval or ancient sightings are considered too distant for analysis, phenomena from before 1947, such as the Foo Fighters (1943-45) and the mysterious Ghost Rockets (1946), should be included in the UFO phenomenon. The Ghost Rockets were observed over Scandinavia (particularly Sweden) and remain largely unexplained. The article mentions that Greek UFO researcher Thanassis Vembos has explored this topic, uncovering similar cases from the same period in Greece. This information is presented in German for the first time in DEGUFORUM.

Other Features and Announcements

• Christian Czech's Investigation: Chief Investigator Christian Czech has reviewed the best and most spectacular UFO incidents reported to the organization and will present them again. The article mentions projects with other groups and a desire for collaboration.
• Upcoming Issue: The autumn issue of DEGUFORUM is expected in December 2016.
• Reader Services: The magazine promotes its archives, information on attending conferences, finding like-minded individuals in their region, reporting UFO sightings, providing feedback, accessing the latest news, supporting research through donations or collaboration, and purchasing literature. A website, www.degufo.de, is provided for readers to stay updated.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of UFO phenomena with humor and creativity, as exemplified by the "Ko(s)misch Kochen" cookbook review. The magazine also maintains a commitment to rigorous historical research into UFO sightings, pushing back against conventional timelines and highlighting lesser-known cases like the Ghost Rockets. The editorial stance appears to be one that acknowledges the seriousness of UFO research while also embracing lighter, more accessible ways to engage with the topic, as seen in the interview with Dr. von Lucadou and the review of the cookbook. There is a clear emphasis on providing in-depth information and fostering a community around UFO investigation and parapsychology.