JUFOF - Issue 056 - 1988 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG' (ISSN 0723-7766), published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V. (GEP) in March-April 1988, is the 56th issue and part of the 9th year of publication. It features several articles investigating anomalous aerial phenomena, with a focus on re-evaluating sightings and distinguishing them from known natural events.

New Publication Announcement

The magazine begins with an announcement for a new publication: 'BIBLIOGRAPHIE DER SELBSTÄNDIGEN DEUTSCHSPRACHIGEN LITERATUR ÜBER AUSSERIRDISCHES LEBEN, UFOs, PRÄ-ASTRONAUTIK' by Dieter von Reeken. This bibliography covers the period from 1901 to 1985 and is available from the GEP for 8.00 DM (6.40 DM for members). It includes a foreword, explanations, an abbreviations list, an alphabetical bibliography (1901-1986), a systematic overview, and a chronological overview, all within a 60-page softcover format. The publication date is September 1, 1987, marking it as a jubilee edition.

GEP and Membership Information

Information is provided about the GEP, describing it as a recognized non-profit scientific association dedicated to UFO research. They investigate sightings using special questionnaires, field research, and background information analysis, employing an interdisciplinary approach. The GEP publishes its journal 'JUFOF' and other specialized works. Membership benefits include receiving the 'JUFOF' journal, access to questionnaires, additional GEP news, discounts on special publications, and access to a lending library for books discussed in 'JUFOF'. Contact information for the GEP in Lüdenscheid, Germany, is provided, along with details for reporting UFO sightings through various contact points.

Article 1: Himmelserscheinung vom 23. September 1986 war kein Meteoroid (Sky Phenomenon of September 23, 1986, Was Not a Meteoroid)

This article by Wilfried Briegel critically examines a widely reported sky phenomenon on September 23, 1986. Thousands witnessed a turquoise, unidentified flying object (UFO) over southwestern Germany, France, Belgium, and Luxembourg. While mass media suggested it was a meteoroid exploding, Briegel questions this explanation. He presents a witness account from Heinrich St. in Kaiserslautern, who described an object with a distinct front, metallic silver and grey colors, and a bright green rear. The object reportedly shed green spheres before disappearing. Briegel argues that a meteoroid would not have a distinct front, would glow at the front due to friction, and a 1-meter object at 60 km altitude would not show contours. He cites other media reports describing similar phenomena with variations in color and shape, suggesting a common event but questioning the meteoroid hypothesis.

Article 2: Ist eine Neubewertung der Himmelserscheinung vom 23.09.1986 notwendig? (Is a Re-evaluation of the Sky Phenomenon of 23.09.1986 Necessary?)

Hans-Werner Peiniger of the GEP responds to Briegel's article, initially suggesting the phenomenon was likely a meteoroid event. He estimates the bolide's speed at 15 km/sec at an altitude of 60 km, with a diameter of about 1 meter and a weight of 1.5 tons. Meteorite researcher Dieter Heinlein also supports the bolide hypothesis, estimating a geocentric speed of 13.8 km/sec. Peiniger then addresses Briegel's counterarguments, acknowledging that witness descriptions can be subjective. He discusses the apparent size of the object, comparing it to a plane, and notes that while meteors can have varied shapes, the witness's description of a distinct front and glowing rear is unusual for a bolide. Peiniger also delves into the nature of meteoroid trails, explaining that the glow is caused by ionization and recombination of atmospheric particles, which can persist for some time. He also discusses the size of fireballs, noting that a 1-meter bolide at 60 km altitude would likely not show discernible contours, but a larger bolide (e.g., 200m diameter at 70km altitude) could appear as a 1.5 cm object in a 57-cm test. Data from Belgian researchers is presented, detailing the atmospheric trajectory and heliocentric orbit of the meteoroid, including its speed, altitude, and orbital elements.

Article 3: Geisterlichter über Seen (Ghost Lights Over Lakes)

Ulrich Magin describes the phenomenon of 'geisterlicht' or 'Totenkerzen' (corpse candles), which are golden light spheres, about 30 cm in diameter, observed flying rapidly over rough lakes, particularly in Celtic regions of Europe. Folklore often interprets these as souls of the deceased or goblins. Magin seeks information on sightings in Germany, noting reports from Scotland (Loch Rannoch, Loch Tay) and Ireland (Lough Erne, Tom Steele's Lake). He recounts a specific incident from Inverness in 1855 and a sighting in Ireland in 1860. He also details a case from Poso Lake in Indonesia, where a bright light was observed moving rapidly over the water, described as a solid body surrounded by light. Magin questions whether these phenomena are Celtic folklore, rare natural occurrences like ball lightning, or unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP).

Article 4: Anomale Erscheinungen – Wie anomal sind sie? (Anomalous Phenomena – How Anomalous Are They?)

Written by W. Migulin and Dr. J. Platow, this article discusses the investigation of anomalous phenomena. It notes that while many sightings are attributed to extraterrestrial origins, scientific research often finds natural explanations. The authors highlight that the term 'UFO' has become problematic, and 'anomalous phenomenon' is preferred. They explain that many sightings, particularly those involving lights or objects in the sky, can be explained by natural processes, such as the reflection of sunlight off high-altitude balloons, artificial satellites, or even planets, especially during twilight. The article details the characteristics of high-altitude balloons used for research, their shapes (spherical, tetrahedral, cylindrical), and their behavior in the atmosphere. It also addresses phenomena related to rocket launches, such as the glowing exhaust plumes and the resulting dust and gas clouds, which can create unusual visual effects that are often mistaken for UFOs. The authors emphasize the need for rigorous scientific investigation and caution against premature conclusions, particularly regarding extraterrestrial hypotheses. They mention that a small percentage of phenomena remain unexplained but do not necessarily point to alien intelligence.

Article 5: UFO's im Bermuda-Dreieck? (UFOs in the Bermuda Triangle?)

Thomas Mehner investigates the persistent association of UFOs with the Bermuda Triangle. He states that while many disappearances in the region have conventional explanations, the area has also been a site of numerous UFO sightings since the mid-1950s. Witnesses have reported objects ascending from or descending into the sea at high speeds. Mehner questions the link between UFOs and accidents, arguing that the extraterrestrial hypothesis for UFOs lacks solid evidence. He acknowledges that extraordinary sightings have occurred in the Bermuda Triangle, citing a case from September 1972 involving the boat 'Nightmare,' which experienced compass deviation and electrical failure. The article suggests caution against speculative claims about UFOs, especially when a secure basis is lacking.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently promotes a scientific and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between genuine anomalous events and misinterpretations of natural phenomena, such as meteors, atmospheric effects, and man-made objects like balloons and rockets. While acknowledging that a small percentage of sightings remain unexplained, the GEP's stance appears to favor rational explanations over speculative or extraterrestrial hypotheses. The journal encourages detailed reporting and rigorous investigation, aiming to provide factual information to its readers.

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, Volume 35, Issue 3, dated September/October 1988, published by GEP, focuses on the intersection of historical astronomical events, natural phenomena, and UFO sightings, alongside a feature on the Commodore Amiga 2000 computer.

Articles

"When the Sky Burns: Cosmic Catastrophe Supernova" by Wolfgang Schröder

This article explores historical astronomical observations, particularly supernovae, and how they might have been misinterpreted as UFO sightings in ancient chronicles. It details the observation of a supernova in 1572 by Tycho Brahe, which was visible during the day, and another in 1604 observed by Johannes Kepler. The author discusses the Crab Nebula, the remnant of a 1054 supernova, and its immense energy output. Schröder contrasts scientific explanations with ufological interpretations of these events, noting that ancient peoples might have perceived these celestial occurrences with awe and fear, sometimes depicting them in art and carvings.

"Flying Dragons" by Ulrich Magin

Magin examines historical accounts of 'flying dragons' from medieval times, suggesting that many of these sightings can be explained as unusual meteorological phenomena such as waterspouts, whirlwinds, meteors, comets, and ball lightning. He cites examples from England and Arab texts, including Mas'udi's description of the 'tannin' as a sea serpent or a wind phenomenon. The article concludes that while the language used was often fantastical, the underlying events were likely natural occurrences, serving as a lesson for understanding modern UFO reports.

"The GUM Nebula, Remnant of a Supernova" by Wolfgang Schröder

This piece discusses an archaeological find in Bolivia: a rock carving depicting the constellation 'SEGEL' (Sail) with an unusual shell-shaped marking. Schröder, with the help of NASA astronomers, identifies this marking as the GUM Nebula, the remnant of a supernova that occurred around 9000 BC. The article touches upon local traditions of a reconciliation festival held at the site, suggesting it might stem from the fear inspired by the supernova. It also lists other known galactic supernovae and provides details on the Crab Nebula, emphasizing its significance as a unique cosmic object.

"Ufological Interpretations"

This section presents various interpretations of historical accounts and phenomena through a ufological lens. It includes examples of how ancient texts and observations, such as those by Titus Livius and Cicero, are sometimes seen as evidence of UFOs. The author also draws parallels to the 'Fatima spectacle' and quotes astrophysicist H.S. Hey on the brightness of supernovae. The section concludes by posing the question of whether certain observations are UFO sightings or astronomical events, leaving the reader to judge.

"When the Sky Burns" by Peter Krassa

This is a review of Peter Krassa's book, "Feuer fiel vom Himmel" (Fire Fell from the Sky), which reports on the 1908 Tunguska catastrophe. The book details the event and the subsequent efforts by Soviet scientists to understand this 'mystery of the century.'

"Commodore Amiga 2000" (Advertisement)

This section features an advertisement for the Commodore Amiga 2000 computer, highlighting its user-friendliness, open system architecture, and advanced capabilities in areas like text processing, database systems, desktop publishing, graphics, CAD, animation, and multitasking.

Book and Publication Reviews

Several books and publications related to UFO research are reviewed:

• MUFON 1987 INTERNATIONAL UFO SYMPOSIUM PROCEEDINGS: A review of the proceedings from the MUFON symposium, covering UFO scenes in Italy, Southern Africa, France, India, Uruguay, and Brazil, as well as historical aspects and abduction cases.
• UFO SU MILANO by Gianni, Giuliana, and Paolo Saltarel: A publication detailing UFO sightings and research, including photographs of lights observed in Milan.
• THE MYSTERY CLOUDS by Dr. Donald P. Coverdell: A review of a book that interprets UFOs primarily through biblical texts, discussing concepts like the Devil, God, and the Anti-Christ.
• PROJECT C.U.D. (CENAP-UFO-DATA) by Jochen Ickinger: A description of a system for computer-based coding and analysis of UFO sightings.
• GRUPPENKATALOG 1988 by Walter L. Kelch: A directory of over 350 organizations and individuals involved in UFO research, extraterrestrial life, and pre-astronautics.

Letters to the Editor

• Brünu Achermann expresses concern about the magazine's editorial direction, suggesting a lack of interest in exploring deeper ufological backgrounds and mentioning topics like Antarctic UFO bases and the 'hollow world' theory.
• H.-W. Peiniger responds to Achermann, stating that the magazine lacks concrete evidence for 'UFO bases' in Antarctica or the 'hollow world' theory and prefers to publish factual analyses by Ulrich Magin.
• Roland M. Horn responds to a comment by Thomas Mehner regarding a UFO sighting during a USSR flight, explaining it as a meteorological experiment involving barium clouds and refuting the idea of an intercontinental rocket launch.
• Rudolf Henke also addresses Thomas Mehner's speculation, arguing that Mehner's comments reveal a significant lack of knowledge about meteorological plasma experiments and that the observed phenomena were likely related to such experiments, not UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores the scientific and historical aspects of UFO phenomena, often seeking rational explanations for sightings that may have been misinterpreted in the past. There is a clear preference for factual analysis and research, as evidenced by the reviews of scientific symposia and the critical responses to more speculative theories. The editorial stance appears to favor a rigorous, evidence-based approach to ufology, while acknowledging the enduring mystery of unidentified aerial phenomena. The inclusion of a section on the Commodore Amiga 2000 suggests an interest in technology and its potential applications in research.