JUFOF - Issue 152 - 2004 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of JUFOF, Journal für UFO Forschung, dated March/April 2004 (Heft 152, Jahrgang 25), is published by GEP e.V. and focuses on UFO observations and related phenomena. The cover features a photograph of an object within a white square, accompanied by headlines about UFO observations, unusual light phenomena, extraterrestrial traditions, and a Mars Rover photograph.

Editorial and Publisher Information

The 'Impressum' section identifies the publisher as Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., founded in 1972. The editors are Hans-Werner Peiniger (hwp) and Mirko Mojsilovic (mmo). The magazine states that contributions and opinions expressed within the literature references and advertisements do not necessarily reflect the views of GEP. Unsolicited manuscripts and photos are not liable. JUFOF is published bimonthly on a non-commercial basis, and authors are generally not paid.

Reprints are only permitted with written consent from GEP and upon submission of a copy. The subscription price for one year (6 issues) is €21.00 plus postage (€6.00 domestic, €9.00 international). For GEP members, the subscription is included in their membership fee. The magazine also mentions advertising prices and offers free classified ads for subscribers and GEP members.

The GEP is described as a non-profit scientific organization dedicated to researching the UFO phenomenon, defining a UFO as an object or light that was unexplainable to the witness at the time of observation. Their research involves questionnaires, field investigations, and analysis of background information, often supported by authorities and scientific institutions. GEP publishes 'JUFOF', other specialized publications, and collaborates with related organizations worldwide.

GEP members receive 'JUFOF', the 'GEP-insider' newsletter, assistance with sighting investigations and literature, and can request questionnaires for 'unidentified aerial phenomena' (UAP). They can also borrow books from the GEP library and receive a 20% discount on special GEP issues. Membership contributions are tax-deductible. The current annual contribution is €35, including 'JUFOF' and 'GEP-insider'.

A definition of 'UFO' (in the narrower sense) is provided: it is a perceived object or light whose appearance, trajectory, and behavior defy conventional explanation and remain unidentifiable even after expert scrutiny.

Contact information for GEP, including postal address, phone, fax, email, and bank details, is provided. A hotline for UFO observations is also listed.

Letters to the Editor

The 'Liebe LeserInnen!' section addresses the readers, noting the positive reception of the new color printing. The editor expresses hope that this enhances the magazine's attractiveness as a critical print magazine. A new UFO discussion list, initiated in March under GEP's sponsorship and managed by Henriette Fiebig, is highlighted. This mailing list aims to facilitate a factually grounded exchange of information and opinions across different UFO research groups. The list charter, available at http://gep.alien.de/email_ufo-forschung.htm, is mentioned as a guide for maintaining a constructive discussion. Interested individuals are encouraged to read the charter and contact Henriette Fiebig ([email protected]) to join.

Contents and Featured Articles

The 'Inhalt' (Contents) section lists the articles in this issue:

• UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Observations) by Hans-Werner Peiniger, detailing several sightings from 2004, 2003, 2002, 1999, 1997, 1994, and 1987 in various German locations and Tulln, Austria.
• Ungewöhnliche Lichterscheinungen: Fahrlässige Körperverletzung durch den MAD? (Unusual Light Phenomena: Negligent Bodily Harm by the MAD?) by Sascha Schomacker.
• Rochen in Raumschiffen? Kuriose Außerirdische in einer alten Tradition (Rays in Spaceships? Curious Extraterrestrials in an Old Tradition) by Ulrich Magin.
• Kurz notiert (Short Notes) including 'It's a Bird, it's a Plane, it's a... Spacecraft', 'UFO or Bird?', and literature reviews.
• Literatur (Literature) featuring reviews of 'Widerstreit ist zwecklos / Feuerteller von den Sternen / Die Mehrheit bewohnter Planeten'.
• Leserbriefe (Letters to the Editor).

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen - Bewertungen

This section presents detailed case studies of UFO sightings:

Klassisches UFO mit Fluggeräusch (Classic UFO with Flight Noise)

• Case Number: 20040204 A
• Date/Time: February 4, 2004, 3:30 AM MEZ (2:30 UTC)
• Location: Düsseldorf, Germany
• Witness: Birgit N. (born 1964, office clerk)
• Classification: NL / IFO (Natural Phenomenon / Identified Flying Object)
• Identification: Helicopter
• Investigation Status: Closed

The witness was awakened by loud flight noises resembling a helicopter. She observed an unusual flying object described as a 'disc', white and blinking at the rear, with a narrower bottom than top. It flew straight and relatively slowly before disappearing behind buildings. The witness contacted the police, who offered no explanation. The investigation, supported by the German Air Traffic Control (DFS), concluded that the object was a Bundesgrenzschutz (Federal Border Guard) helicopter. The report details the helicopter's flight path, which was logged by radar, and suggests that the 'UFO' appearance might have been due to the helicopter's spotlights, atmospheric conditions like mist, and the witness's perspective.

Zufällig ein UFO fotografiert? (Accidentally Photographed a UFO?)

• Case Number: 2002 Sommer (Summer 2002)
• Date/Time: Summer 2002, evening
• Location: Heidelberg, Germany
• Witness: N. N.
• Classification: NL / IFO
• Identification: Lens reflection
• Investigation Status: Closed

A photograph submitted by a witness, Herr M., showed a bright, oval 'spot' in the upper right corner. The photo was taken about two years prior during a barbecue. The investigation concluded that the object was likely a lens reflection or a camera aperture artifact, possibly caused by strong light sources like the sun or a camera flash. The report includes a discussion of how light can be refracted by the camera lens and aperture to create oval or lens-shaped artifacts.

Drei Lichter über Blumenthal (Three Lights over Blumenthal)

• Case Number: 19970413 A
• Date/Time: April 13, 1997, 1:30 AM MESZ (April 12, 1997, 23:30 UTC)
• Location: Bremen-Blumenthal, Germany
• Witness: N. N.
• Classification: NL / IFO
• Identification: Light effect device
• Investigation Status: Closed

An eyewitness couple reported observing three round, luminous objects in the eastern sky that moved towards each other and then away, repeating this pattern for 15 minutes. The objects' light was described as not very bright, but milky. The husband suggested it might be a reflection, but the wife noted the absence of light beams from the ground. The investigation suggests that the phenomenon was likely caused by a 'space cannon' light effect device, which can produce dynamic light patterns. The report includes an image of a 'space cannon' device.

Drei Lichter, die sich wiederholt aufeinander zubewegten (Three Lights Moving Repeatedly Towards Each Other)

• Case Number: 19970515 B (Referenced from JUFOF Nr. 151)
• Description: Similar to the Blumenthal case, this report notes that while witnesses initially considered an explanation, a missing characteristic led to its rejection. However, the appearance and flight behavior suggest the use of a three-beam light effect device.

"Es glänzte ernorm im Sonnenlicht" ("It Gleamed Enormously in the Sunlight")

• Case Number: 20030604 A
• Date/Time: June 4, 2003, approx. 10:30 AM MESZ (8:30 UTC)
• Location: Burghausen, Germany
• Witness: Alfred R. (born 1947, pensioner)
• Classification: DD / NEAR IFO (Doubtful Data / Near Identified Flying Object)
• Identification: Balloon (?)
• Investigation Status: Closed

The witness observed an object resembling a 'box kite' moving towards his house at an altitude of about 500 meters. The object then stopped, and the witness described it as similar to a large beer mug with two side 'wings' that moved slightly up and down. The object was golden and gleamed intensely in the sunlight. The witness speculated it could be a spy object or an extraterrestrial spacecraft, noting the presence of chemical companies nearby. The investigation suggests a balloon as a possible explanation, possibly a special form manufactured for promotional purposes, or even a 'balloon grid' with many small foil balloons. The witness's sketch shows a distinctive shape.

Roter Feuerkranz über Eltville (Red Ring of Fire over Eltville)

• Case Number: 20020929 A
• Date/Time: September 29, 2002, approx. 0:40 AM MESZ (September 28, 2002, 22:40 UTC)
• Location: Eltville, Germany
• Witness: Carsten F. (born 1961, watchman)
• Classification: NL / IFO
• Identification: Model hot-air balloon
• Investigation Status: Closed

The witness observed an object that he initially thought was a balloon. He described it as a red ring of fire that blinked and sometimes appeared blurred. The investigation tentatively identifies it as a model hot-air balloon, noting that while the object's appearance was unusual, the behavior could be explained by local wind movements. The report mentions that a previous call for witnesses yielded no further information.

Mars-Rover "Spirit" fotografiert UFO

This section likely discusses a photograph taken by the Mars Rover 'Spirit' that appears to show a UFO. Further details are not provided in the scanned pages.

Literatur

This section includes reviews of books related to UFOs and space phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the detailed investigation and classification of UFO sightings, often leading to prosaic explanations such as helicopters, lens reflections, or balloons. The magazine maintains a critical and scientific approach, aiming to provide factually grounded analysis. There is an emphasis on distinguishing between genuine unexplained phenomena and misidentifications. The GEP's role as a scientific research organization is consistently highlighted, promoting a rigorous methodology. The issue also touches upon the historical and cultural aspects of UFOs, as seen in the article on ancient traditions, and explores the possibility of UAP on other planets through the Mars Rover photograph. The editorial stance is one of thorough investigation and rational explanation, while remaining open to the possibility of truly anomalous events.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 152 from 2/2004, features several articles and case studies related to unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and unusual aerial phenomena. The cover highlights "Unusual Light Phenomena: Negligent Bodily Harm through the MAD?" and mentions a MAD investigation, suggesting a focus on cases involving potential military intelligence and unexplained events.

Case Study 1: Model Hot Air Balloon near Annaberg-Buchholz

The first case, dated September 13, 1999, describes a sighting near Annaberg-Buchholz, Germany, by a 13-year-old student named Thomas H. The witness observed three bright lights in a triangular formation moving in a straight line. The object was described as having a short tail and disappearing suddenly. The investigation concluded that the most probable explanation was a model hot air balloon, citing the time of year (summer, evenings) when such balloons are often launched, the witness's estimation of slow speed comparable to a balloon, and the visual appearance.

Case Study 2: Lights near Wiesa

This case, from an unspecified date, involves a witness who saw lights moving in a straight line. The formation was described as slightly larger than a fingertip held at arm's length. The witness provided detailed information about the apparent size, color (brightly lit), outlines (not sharp), and movement (from right to left), noting a short tail and a sudden disappearance. The witness, who had prior knowledge of UFO literature, suggested it might be an extraterrestrial spacecraft due to its speed, which was described as much faster than any human-made aircraft. The investigation considered a foil balloon or an aircraft with its anti-collision or landing lights on, classifying it as NEAR IFO (Near Identified Flying Object).

Case Study 3: Triangular Formation over Königsbrunn

Reported in 1987, this incident involved Maria M. who witnessed three bright lights in a triangular formation over Königsbrunn, Germany. The lights were described as moving together without changing position and were only visible for about three seconds. The witness was profoundly affected by the experience, stating it changed her life and thinking. The investigation suggested the possibility of a light effects device, possibly with a color filter, as a potential explanation.

Case Study 4: Two UFOs over Tulln

This case from November 1, 1994, involved Milovanovic R. in Tulln, Austria, who observed two triangular, brightly lit UFOs flying at high speed (approximately 1000 km/h) at an altitude of about 2000 meters. The witness described the objects as being about 50 cm apart from his perspective, with a side length of about 30 cm, and flying silently from west to east. Due to insufficient data and the witness's inability to provide a photograph, the case was classified as having 'insufficient data'.

Case Study 5: Unusual Light Phenomena and Alleged Bodily Harm (Ohrdruf)

This extensive case study, authored by Sascha Schomacker, details an incident involving D. Kausarn (pseudonym) near the Ohrdruf military training area (TÜP) in Thuringia, Germany, in 1997. Kausarn reported being pressured by the MAD (Militärischer Abschirmdienst - German Military Counterintelligence Service) regarding unusual light phenomena he observed on Kirchberg, a hill near the training area. Kausarn provided a detailed log of observations from August 20-27, 1996. On August 20th, he and a friend observed a pulsating, orange-red fireball between mountains, later described as an elliptical object with downward-pointing lights. On August 27th, Kausarn, alone, observed a bright object descending vertically, which resolved into a disc-shaped object with four downward-pointing spotlights, enveloped in a light cloud. This object was described as approximately 30-40 meters in diameter and disappeared within seconds. Kausarn also reported a rocket-like object flying past him at high speed, causing a burn on his face and leaving a smell similar to a burnt electric motor. He initially suspected a rocket attack and filed a police report. The MAD became involved, suggesting Kausarn and his friends were being monitored due to 'unexplained occurrences' within the military area. The article delves into the MAD's role as a German intelligence agency and its mandate to monitor threats within the Bundeswehr. The investigation considered explanations such as pyrotechnic flares (Leuchtmunition) used by the military for training or by unauthorized individuals. The police investigation was reportedly kept under wraps at the MAD's request. The author speculates whether an overzealous MAD agent might have accidentally injured Kausarn. The article includes a sketch by Kausarn of the object and its trajectory.

Short Notes

UFO or Bird?

This section discusses a photograph taken by the Mars rover 'Spirit' on March 11, 2004, showing a fadenförmiges (thread-like) object in the Martian sky. Experts are divided on its nature, with some suggesting it could be a natural phenomenon like a meteor, while others propose it might be a piece of discarded equipment or even an artificial object. The article also mentions a BBC report speculating about a UFO.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently investigates reports of unidentified aerial phenomena, often attempting to provide conventional explanations such as balloons, aircraft, or natural phenomena. However, it also documents cases where conventional explanations are insufficient or where official investigations are inconclusive or suppressed, as seen in the Ohrdruf case involving the MAD. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting witness testimonies and investigative findings while maintaining a critical perspective. The recurring theme is the persistent occurrence of unexplained aerial events and the challenges in obtaining definitive explanations, often complicated by official secrecy or lack of data.

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 152 from 2/2004, titled "Rochen in Raumschiffen? Kuriose Außerirdische in einer alten Tradition" (Rays in Spaceships? Curious Extraterrestrials in an Old Tradition), edited by Ulrich Magin, delves into the historical and contemporary misinterpretations of dried rays as evidence of extraterrestrial life.

Rochen in Raumschiffen? Kuriose Außerirdische in einer alten Tradition

This main article by Ulrich Magin explores the curious phenomenon of dried rays, commonly known as "Jenny Hanivers," being mistaken for mythical creatures and, more recently, for extraterrestrials. The article begins with a report from Austria in April 2003, where a mummified creature found in a stream was initially thought to be an alien due to its unusual appearance. Olga Schilke, the discoverer, described it as having a "face-like underside." Helga Happ and Sabine Happ, experts in exotic animals, identified it as a ray, noting its gill slits that resemble eyes and mouth. Landesmuseum Geologist Friedrich Hans Ucik explained that while seas once covered the area, the find was likely a "dry mummy" brought from a distant location.

The article highlights how the "ray-as-alien" narrative is a modern manifestation of an older tradition. For centuries, dried rays have been crafted into "sea devils" or "mermaids" (Jenny Hanivers) and displayed in curiosity cabinets or at fairs. The author points out that this practice, while known, has been co-opted by ufology, shifting the interpretation from cryptozoology to alien encounters.

Peter Kolosimos's 1970s book "Viel Dinge zwischen Himmel und Erde" is cited as an early ufological context for the Jenny Haniver, suggesting intelligent "mer-people" living in the oceans. The article also references a 1966 publication, "UFOs Uncensored," where ufologist Frank E. Stranges presented a dried ray as an extraterrestrial being.

Further examples include a businessman, Humberto Poggini, who in 1963 found two carcasses on a beach in Chile, initially believed to be alien children. However, zoologist Julio Lamilla later identified them as ray skulls and prepared rays, debunking the alien claim. The article notes that similar finds have been reported in Panama, Playa Eréndira (USA), and Ecuador, with some being identified as bird remains rather than alien bodies.

Ulrich Magin concludes that the UFO myth is pervasive, absorbing and reinterpreting ancient traditions, such as the "mermaid" or "sea serpent," into modern alien narratives. He mentions the many CE III cases where aliens with webbed fingers are reported, and how sightings of sea monsters are now often classified as aliens.

Book Reviews

Ulf Harendarski: Widerstreit ist zwecklos

This section reviews Ulf Harendarski's book, which offers a semiotic analysis of UFO abduction narratives. The reviewer notes that Harendarski treats UFO stories not as factual accounts but as linguistic constructs. The book examines how therapists and abductees synchronize their narratives, often leading to the construction of "alien abduction" as a social phenomenon. The reviewer praises the book's depth and scholarly approach, though notes it is dense and aimed at specialists. Key points include the construction of reality through language, the use of indicative mood over subjunctive, and the role of the therapist in shaping the narrative. The reviewer suggests that the debate around abductions is becoming historical, with the focus shifting to the semiotics of the narratives themselves.

Christian Brachthäuser: Feuerteller von den Sternen

This review discusses Christian Brachthäuser's study, which examines Native American myths from the perspective of the Paleo-SETI hypothesis. The book analyzes myths from various tribes (Inuit, Ojibwa, Oglala-Sioux, Hopi) for similarities with modern UFO sightings. The reviewer commends Brachthäuser's critical approach, his thorough use of literature, and his detailed introductions to the geographical and cultural contexts of the tribes. However, the reviewer regrets that the chapter on the Kachina myth is brief and relies heavily on only two authors. The lack of a separate bibliography is also noted as a minor drawback.

Paola Leopizzi Harris: Connecting the Dots

This review critiques Paola Leopizzi Harris's book, which presents interviews with 25 individuals considered "UFO personalities." The reviewer questions the author's selection of interviewees, noting that many are not prominent figures in UFO research, with exceptions like J. Allen Hynek and R. Leo Sprinkle. The review suggests that Harris prioritized photographic opportunities over in-depth interviews, resulting in a collection of "small talk rounds" that offer little substantial information. The reviewer concludes that the book provides few new insights into the UFO phenomenon.

Book Publication: Camille Flammarion - Die Mehrheit bewohnter Welten

This section announces a new German edition of Camille Flammarion's influential work, "La pluralité des mondes habités" (The Plurality of Inhabited Worlds), originally published in 1862. The new edition is a modern typeset reprint of the 1865 German translation. Flammarion, a renowned astronomer and popular science communicator, explored the possibility of life on other planets based on the scientific knowledge of his time. The review highlights his optimistic view on extraterrestrial life and his extensive work in popularizing astronomy. The book, originally published in France and later translated into German, is described as a foundational text in the study of astrobiology and the search for extraterrestrial life.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme in this issue is the historical and psychological roots of UFO beliefs, particularly how ancient folklore and misinterpretations of natural phenomena are re-contextualized within the modern UFO narrative. The journal consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded stance, examining UFO claims through historical analysis, semiotics, and scientific scrutiny, while acknowledging the enduring human fascination with the unknown and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The reviews of books by Harendarski, Brachthäuser, and Harris reflect this approach, dissecting the methodologies and claims within different subfields of ufology.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Issue 152, dated 2/2004) is published by the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V. The magazine focuses on UFO research and related topics, featuring reviews, reader letters, and information about the organization's publications.

Review: Jahrbuch der Luft- und Raumfahrt 2004

The issue prominently reviews the 'Jahrbuch der Luft- und Raumfahrt 2004' (German Aerospace Annual 2004) edited by Tilman T. Reuss. The reviewer, Hans-Werner Peiniger, highlights its value for UFO researchers, noting that it provides a comprehensive list of addresses for relevant authorities, organizations, military bodies, scientific institutions, aviation clubs, and airports. This information is deemed crucial for investigative work. The yearbook is structured into 14 chapters and includes directories and indexes for easy access to data. Specific contents mentioned include information on the organizational structure of aviation in Germany, defense and military economy, air traffic, aerospace research, space exploration (including a list of artificial satellites and space probes launched), German air sports, space law, media and exhibitions related to aviation, international aviation organizations, and the aerospace industry.

Peiniger concludes that the yearbook is a valuable resource that has proven its worth in their daily work, offering facts, information, and addresses.

Review: G DATA REDSHIFT 5 - Das virtuelle Planetarium

Another significant review covers the astronomy software 'RedShift 5', the fifth version of a virtual planetarium program. The reviewer notes that while the UFO phenomenon's popularity may have waned, the GEP and JUFOF continue their work. RedShift 5 is presented as a useful tool for UFO investigators, particularly for reconstructing the astronomical situation at the time of a UFO sighting. Users can input a location and time to see the corresponding sky view, even going back to 4713 BC. The software allows users to check for the presence of bright planets or the moon's phase. It is praised for its ease of use and quick results. The program is also recommended for amateur astronomers, offering an introduction to the field and a comprehensive catalog of celestial objects. The review confirms that RedShift 5 meets all requirements, offering standard planetarium functions along with additional features like a film recorder for animations, field-of-view indicators, and distance measurers. The interface is described as user-friendly, and the sky view has been optimized for screen and print. The software simulates the movement of over 20 million stars, planets, and deep-sky objects, and includes a celestial calendar, an illustrated astronomy lexicon, and a photo gallery. The ability to observe astronomical events from multiple viewpoints (e.g., a solar eclipse from the sun, moon, or Earth) is highlighted.

The software's system requirements include Win98, Me, 2000, XP, a 300 MHz CPU, 64 MB RAM, a 12x CD-ROM drive, and 105 MB of hard disk space for the compact version, expandable to 690 MB with all star catalogs. RedShift 5 is priced at €79.90.

Reader Letters

Several reader letters offer feedback on the journal and the UFO topic:

• Peter Kauert (Ludwigshafen) reflects on the journal's 25th year, noting its consistent, critical approach. He observes that while ufology in Germany may be declining, the journal continues its course. He praises the GEP and JUFOF for maintaining factual and competent content, especially during the boom of UFO publications in the 1990s. He contrasts JUFOF with other magazines that often favor pro-alien hypotheses, stating that JUFOF rarely presented such a one-sided view, and even its occasional missteps contributed to its growth. He expresses satisfaction with the journal's evolving layout and the wealth of information it provides.

• Dieter von Reeken (Lüneburg) commends the new print quality and improved image quality, hoping the price remains affordable. He finds the journal's friendly appearance appealing.

• Uli Thieme (Schwäbisch Hall) also praises the new print and color pages, describing the journal as professional and a good decision by the JUFOF crew.

GEP Publications and Ordering Information

The issue provides a detailed list of GEP publications available for purchase, including:

• GEP Special Reports: Titles cover topics such as the Condon Report, the existence of flying saucers, bibliographies on extraterrestrial life and UFOs, the JAL-1628 flight, Hermann Oberth's research on UFOs, and a reader's contact with 'Ausserirdischen' (aliens).
• Photomechanical Reprints: Includes historical texts on mysteries of the universe, the habitability of Mars, and flying saucers.
• INFO-Paket: A package containing informational booklets on UFO phenomena, research, and a literature overview.
• Journal für UFO-Forschung Subscription: An annual subscription is available for €21.00 plus postage.

Information is also provided on how to order books and materials, with prices listed for GEP members and non-members.

Advertisements

Advertisements include:

• A list of books for sale on parapsychology, the supernatural, and UFO phenomena.
• Information on ordering UFO lectures on video or VCD, featuring topics like UFOs in Turkey and the Roswell incident.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal maintains a critical and factual approach to UFO research, as noted by its readers. It aims to provide a platform for in-depth analysis and discussion, distinguishing itself from publications that may present biased or sensationalized content. The editorial stance appears to favor objective investigation and encourages readers to engage in their own critical thinking. The journal also serves as a valuable resource for both dedicated UFO researchers and amateur astronomers, bridging the gap between scientific inquiry and the unexplained.