JUFOF - Issue 154 - 2004 04

Magazine Overview

This issue of JUFOF, the Journal für UFO Forschung, is dated 4/2004, Heft 154, covering July/August, and is in its 25th year of publication. It is published by GEP e.V. (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), a non-profit scientific organization based in Germany. The cover features the main headline "UFO-Beobachtungen" (UFO Observations) and highlights articles on a misinterpreted rocket launch in Cuxhaven, forgotten rocket experiments from Cuxhaven, and the deciphering of an Apollo 16 UFO photo.

Editorial and Publisher Information

The "Impressum" section identifies the publisher as GEP e.V., founded in 1972. The editorial responsibility lies with Hans-Werner Peiniger and Mirko Mojsilovic. The magazine is published bi-monthly on a non-commercial basis, with no author honoraria typically paid. Reprints are only permitted with written consent from GEP. The subscription price for one year (6 issues) is €21.00 plus postage. GEP members receive the magazine as part of their membership fee. The GEP is described as Germany's largest non-profit scientific association 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 background analysis, with interdisciplinary collaboration and support from authorities and scientific institutions. GEP members receive the magazine, a newsletter, assistance with investigations, literature access, discounts, and tax benefits. The definition of a UFO (in the narrower sense) is provided: an object or light whose appearance, trajectory, and behavior do not suggest a logical, conventional explanation and remain unidentifiable after thorough examination.

Table of Contents and Featured Articles

The "Inhalt" (Contents) lists several key articles:

• UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Observations) by Hans-Werner Peiniger, detailing sightings from August 2003 to August 2004 in various German locations (Ulm, Overath, Heidelberg, Saalfeld, Ingerkingen, Dresden, Wallmerod).
• Raketenstart in Cuxhaven fehlinterpretiert (Rocket Launch in Cuxhaven Misinterpreted) by Sascha Schomacker and Mirko Mojsilovic.
• Die vergessenen Raketenexperimente von Cuxhaven (The Forgotten Rocket Experiments of Cuxhaven) by Harald Lutz.
• Kurz notiert (Short Notes) covering topics like an Apollo 16 UFO photo deciphered, an unidentified object photographed on Saturn, and found UFO wreckage.
• Literatur (Literature) reviews, including titles like "Mr. Däniken, wie haben Sie das vollbracht?" and "Das Geheimnis der verborgenen Bibel-Worte."
• Software including "3D Atlas des Universums."

UFO Observations and Analysis

The issue features detailed analyses of several UFO sightings:

Helles Objekt neben Regenbogen fotografiert (Bright Object Photographed Next to Rainbow)

• Case: 20040710 A
• Date/Time: July 10, 2004, approx. 18:00 MESZ
• Location: Ingerkingen, Germany
• Witness: Dietmar W.
• Classification: DD / IFO / V3
• Identification: Bird/Birds, Insect, or similar.
• Summary: The witness photographed a rainbow and later discovered one or two objects on one of the photos that were not noticed during the shot. The analysis suggests the objects are of poor resolution, possibly cloud-like or a single object, and due to their indistinct nature, the case was classified as IFO (Identified Flying Object) / V2.

Mattweißes Licht über Heidelberg (Matt White Light over Heidelberg)

• Case: 20040717 A
• Date/Time: July 17, 2004, 23:30 MESZ
• Location: Heidelberg-Kirchheim, Germany
• Witnesses: Hannelore S. and Charlotte B.
• Classification: NL / IFO / V2
• Identification: Light effect device.
• Summary: The witnesses observed a matt white light in the night sky for about 25 minutes. It was described as moon-sized, surrounded by a torn veil, and moved in an elliptical path. The analysis suggests it could be a reflection from a light effect device, possibly influenced by atmospheric conditions, and classified as IFO / V2.

Zylinderförmiges Objekt über Wallmerod (Cylindrical Object over Wallmerod)

• Case: 200308
• Date/Time: August 2003, 11:00 MESZ
• Location: Wallmerod, Germany
• Witness: Karl-Heinz H.
• Classification: DD / NEAR IFO
• Identification: Aircraft.
• Summary: The witness observed a low-flying, silent object resembling an aircraft but lacking wings, windows, or markings. It was described as cylindrical, three-colored (silvery, light blue-grey, dark grey), and moved horizontally. The witness speculated it might be an extraterrestrial craft. The analysis suggests it was likely an aircraft, possibly illuminated by the sun, and classified as NEAR IFO.

Ungewöhnliche Himmelserscheinung über Dresden (Unusual Celestial Phenomenon over Dresden)

• Case: 20040414 A
• Date/Time: April 14, 2004, 20:30 MESZ
• Location: Dresden, Germany
• Witnesses: Dieter S. and his wife.
• Classification: NL / IFO / V3
• Identification: Aircraft.
• Summary: The witnesses observed a bright object in the western sky, initially appearing as a square aura that later became a point of light. It moved eastward and was described as significantly brighter than Venus. The analysis considers the possibility of Venus but notes the observed movement, suggesting an aircraft with landing lights as a more plausible explanation, classifying it as IFO / V3.

„Wie ein Stück glühende Kohle“ (Like a Piece of Glowing Coal)

• Case: 20040806 A
• Date/Time: August 6, 2004, 23:30 MESZ
• Location: Overath, Germany
• Witnesses: Angelika S. and her husband.
• Classification: NL / IFO / V2
• Identification: Model hot air balloon.
• Summary: The witnesses observed a round object moving silently and uniformly, described as "like a piece of glowing coal" with changing colors (yellow, orange, red). It appeared to be at a moderate altitude and gradually became smaller until it disappeared. The analysis concludes that a model hot air balloon is the most likely explanation, classifying it as IFO / V2.

Special Features: Cuxhaven Rocket Experiments

The issue delves into the Cuxhaven rocket experiments, with one article by Sascha Schomacker and Mirko Mojsilovic titled "Raketenstart in Cuxhaven fehlinterpretiert" (Rocket Launch in Cuxhaven Misinterpreted), and another by Harald Lutz, "Die vergessenen Raketenexperimente von Cuxhaven" (The Forgotten Rocket Experiments of Cuxhaven). These articles likely explore historical events and potential misidentifications related to rocket tests in the Cuxhaven area.

Literature and Software Reviews

A section is dedicated to literature reviews, featuring titles that suggest a critical examination of UFO-related claims and historical mysteries. The software section mentions "3D Atlas des Universums."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed investigation and classification of UFO sightings, emphasizing the importance of rigorous analysis to distinguish between genuine unexplained phenomena and misidentifications (IFO). The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking rational explanations while remaining open to the possibility of truly anomalous events. The GEP's commitment to scientific research and interdisciplinary collaboration is evident throughout the publication. The magazine encourages reader participation through reporting sightings and engaging with the research presented.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Journal for UFO Research), issue 154, dated 4/2004, features several articles on UFO sightings and historical rocketry.

Hellgünes Objekt vom Himmel gestürzt (Bright Green Object Fell from the Sky)

This section details a UFO sighting that occurred on July 11, 2004, at 0:28 MESZ (0:28 UTC on July 10, 2004) in Saalfeld, Germany. The witness, Christian M., and his fiancée observed a bright green object falling from the sky, appearing to be on fire, for a duration of approximately 3-5 seconds. The object was described as point-like, with a perceived size of 0.5-1 meter and an estimated speed of 150-200 km/h. The light was described as flickering and self-luminous. The witness's own explanation was that it was a rare but normal physical phenomenon. The investigation concluded that it was likely a fireball (meteoroid entering the atmosphere). This event was also observed by other witnesses and reported in various newspapers, including the 'Augsburger Allgemeine,' 'BILD-Zeitung,' and 'Frankfurter Rundschau.' The event was confirmed by the Central European Fireball Network (supported by the DLR), which has multiple camera stations. The technical director of this network, Dieter Heinlein, is shown with a meteorite camera. The object was photographed by three German and three Czech stations.

Drei weiße Punkte über Ulm (Three White Points over Ulm)

This case, Fall-Nummer: 20040813 A, occurred on August 13, 2004, at 3:49 MESZ (1:49 UTC) in Ulm, Germany. The witness, Werner K., observed three white points in the sky that appeared to be stationary and pulsed with red and green light. The witness described the event as lasting for one minute. The object's apparent size was compared to a pinhead, and its distance was estimated at 3-5 kilometers. The witness's own explanation was that it was an aircraft. The investigation classified the object as an IFO (Identified Flying Object) / V2, meaning its characteristics matched those of known phenomena within the scope of perceptual psychology.

Raketenstart in Cuxhaven fehlinterpretiert (Rocket Launch in Cuxhaven Misinterpreted)

This extensive article, authored by Sascha Schomacker and Mirko Mojsilovic, investigates a potential UFO sighting reported by Leopold H. from Cuxhaven. Leopold H., an 84-year-old man, recounted an experience from September 21, 1961, around 7:40 PM. He described seeing a bright object, like a fireball, that flew upwards and then veered right, accompanied by a humming sound. He initially thought it might be a rocket launch, as he recalled that V-2 rockets were launched from Cuxhaven during WWII. The authors, after interviewing Leopold H. and analyzing his description, concluded that his experience was likely a misinterpretation of a rocket launch. They cite historical records of rocket experiments conducted in the Cuxhaven area, particularly the "Operation Backfire" project and subsequent launches by the "Deutsche Raketengesellschaft e.V."

Die vergessenen Raketenexperimente von Cuxhaven (The Forgotten Rocket Experiments of Cuxhaven)

This section, written by Harald Lutz, provides a detailed historical account of rocket experiments in the Cuxhaven area between 1945 and 1964. It covers the "Operation Backfire" project, which involved launching captured A4 rockets for demonstration purposes by British military personnel. The project aimed to gain experience in handling large rockets. The article details the challenges faced, including the need to procure or manufacture parts and secure liquid oxygen. It describes the launch sites and the rockets used, including the A4 rockets and later "Kumulus" and "Cirrus" rockets.

Key events and details from this section include:

• Operation Backfire: Conducted by the British military, using A4 rockets. The first launch on October 1, 1945, failed. The second launch on October 2, 1945, reached an altitude of 69.4 km and a range of 249.4 km. The third and final launch on October 14, 1945, reached an altitude of 64 km and a range of 233 km.
• Post-War Rocketry: After "Operation Backfire," rocket development in Germany was initially halted due to the war's devastation and Allied restrictions. However, interest revived, leading to the formation of organizations like DAFRA (Deutsche Arbeitsgesellschaft für Raketenangelegenheiten).
• Karl Poggensee: A key figure who began rocket development in 1952, forming DAFRA. His group developed rockets capable of reaching up to 6 km in altitude.
• Herrmann Geveke: Advocated for Cuxhaven as an ideal launch site due to its open firing range.
• Ernst Mohr: A constructor from Wuppertal whose rockets were launched starting in 1958. His rockets developed a thrust of 76,500 Newton and could reach altitudes of 50 km with a 5 kg payload.
• DAFRA's Successors: The "Deutsche Raketengesellschaft e.V." continued rocket experiments, including postal rockets and research rockets.
• "Kumulus" Rocket: First launched on December 12, 1960, this 60 kg rocket had a maximum altitude of 20 km and was used to transport animals (a newt and a flounder) during one flight.
• "Cirrus" Rockets: "Cirrus 1" and "Cirrus 2" were two-stage rockets, with "Cirrus 1" being 4.155 meters long.

IFO-Verifikationen V1 - V3 (IFO Verifications V1 - V3)

This section explains the classification system used for identified flying objects (IFOs):

• V1-Fälle (V1 Cases): Temporary and geographical coincidence with known objects.
• V2-Fälle (V2 Cases): Object characteristics match known phenomena within perceptual and experimental frameworks.
• V3-Fälle (V3 Cases): Object characteristics match multiple known object types.

All these cases are considered to have no "strangeness."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently investigates UFO sightings, attempting to provide rational explanations, often classifying them as IFOs (Identified Flying Objects) or natural phenomena like fireballs. There is a strong emphasis on historical research, particularly concerning rocketry and aerospace developments in Germany, suggesting a connection between early rocket experiments and some UFO reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to demystify UFO phenomena through rigorous investigation and historical context.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Issue 154, 4/2004) is a German-language publication focusing on topics related to unidentified flying objects, rocketry, and associated mysteries. The magazine features detailed articles on historical rocket development in Germany, interviews with prominent figures in the UFO and alternative science communities, and reports on various unexplained phenomena.

Rockets and Aerospace History

The issue dedicates significant space to the history of German rocket development, particularly focusing on Berthold Seliger and his contributions. Articles detail the technical specifications, development, and launch attempts of rockets such as the "Kumulus" and "Cirrus" series, built by the "Deutsche Raketengesellschaft" and later by Seliger's own company, "Berthold – Seliger - Forschungs- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH". The "Kumulus" rocket, a two-stage model, could reach altitudes of up to 35 kilometers. The "Cirrus 1" and "Cirrus 2" were also described, with the "Cirrus 2" capable of reaching up to 50 kilometers. The text highlights the voluntary, amateur nature of the rocket construction by society members, supported by industry and government approval at the time. It also touches upon the challenges and eventual cessation of rocket launch activities in the Cuxhaven area due to regulatory changes and safety concerns, partly influenced by an incident involving Gerhard Zucker.

Erich von Däniken: Theories and Interviews

A prominent feature of this issue is the exploration of Erich von Däniken's work and theories. The cover story is an interview with Däniken titled "Mr. Däniken, wie haben Sie das vollbracht?" conducted by Jürgen Mai. The interview covers Däniken's extensive body of work, his views on ancient astronauts, alleged conspiracies, and his responses to scientific skepticism. The magazine includes a review of Mai's book, which documents his extensive conversations with Däniken, covering over 470 pages and exploring Däniken's books chronologically. The review notes Däniken's charm and ability to engage the interviewer, while also pointing out some repetitive aspects and the need for critical distance from his more speculative claims. The review also touches upon Däniken's thoughts on the "signs of the gods," crop circles, and alleged scientific cover-ups.

Unexplained Phenomena and UFO Sightings

The issue also reports on several UFO-related incidents and phenomena:

• Apollo 16 UFO Photo: An analysis of a photograph taken during the Apollo 16 mission, initially presented by UFO proponents as evidence of an extraterrestrial craft. The investigation by a NASA expert group concluded that the object was a module attachment.
• Unidentified Object near Saturn: The Cassini space probe photographed an unusual object near Saturn in July 2004, which scientists are still trying to explain. While UFO enthusiasts speculate about an alien vehicle, astronomers suggest it might be a piece of debris.
• Russian Cosmonaut's UFO Sighting: Cosmonaut Vladimir Kovalenok reported seeing a small object in space during his stay on the Salyut 6 space station in 1981, which disappeared before it could be photographed. The article notes that Kovalenok had previously played a prank on the ground station with a modified shower head.
• Tunguska Event: The magazine revisits the Tunguska event of 1908, discussing findings from a Russian expedition that reportedly discovered "technical parts" of a spacecraft. It also presents scientific perspectives, favoring a meteorite explosion, and explores a potential connection to a meteorite fall in Kagarlyk, Ukraine, on the same date.

Book Reviews and Literature

Beyond the main articles, the issue includes reviews of books related to UFOs and mysteries:

• "Mr. Däniken, wie haben Sie das vollbracht?" by Erich von Däniken and Jürgen Mai.
• "Rätselhafte Persönlichkeiten des vergangenen Jahrtausends" by Roland M. Horn, which examines individuals with mysterious aspects to their lives, such as Leonardo da Vinci and Nostradamus.
• "Wenn Flugzeuge vom Himmel fallen" by Douglas Spalthoff, which compiles reports on mysterious aircraft crashes and alleged conspiracies.

The magazine also features a book giveaway for a signed copy of "Mr. Däniken, wie haben Sie das vollbracht?"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of early rocketry with UFO research, the enduring influence of Erich von Däniken's theories, and the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFOs and related mysteries, while also presenting scientific explanations and critical analyses where available. There is a clear interest in historical accounts and the technical aspects of early aerospace endeavors, juxtaposed with speculative and often controversial topics. The magazine encourages readers to engage with these subjects critically, as evidenced by the book reviews and the detailed reporting on various incidents.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 154 from April 2004, published by GEP e.V. in Germany, focuses on a variety of topics related to UFOs and unexplained phenomena. The cover prominently features the book "Wenn Flugzeuge vom Himmel fallen" (When Airplanes Fall from the Sky) by Douglas Spalthoff, suggesting a central theme of mysterious aviation incidents.

Article: "Wenn Flugzeuge vom Himmel fallen" by Douglas Spalthoff

This article, authored by Douglas Spalthoff, is presented in three parts. The first part aims to explain the background of mysterious aircraft crashes, listing a multitude of accidents that, while seemingly having conventional causes like human or technical failure, may have deeper, unexplained origins. Spalthoff suggests that HAARP experiments could be responsible for some of these crashes. The second part, contributed by guest author John de Verdale, speculates on the death of John F. Kennedy Jr., suggesting his sport plane crash might have been the result of foul play and a conspiracy. Spalthoff then continues by discussing other puzzling aircraft accidents. The third part is described as becoming somewhat disjointed, lacking a clear line. It touches upon Nazi technologies, anti-gravity drives, the "Disclosure Project" by Dr. Steven Greer, the Roswell incident, MJ-12 documents, and UFO sightings by pilots. It also mentions cases of near-collisions with UFOs and alleged UFO involvement in aircraft crashes. The article then abruptly shifts to animal mutilations and alleged CIA biological and chemical experiments on humans.

A review by Hans-Werner Peiniger notes that while the book's topic is interesting, it could have benefited from a more in-depth examination of specific crashes and original sources, rather than relying on speculation from conspiracy literature. Peiniger acknowledges that the book touches upon sensitive issues, such as the downing of Korean Air Lines flight on September 1, 1983, and the lack of full disclosure regarding such events, which he describes as an "open wound."

Article: "Das Geheimnis der verborgenen Bibel-Worte" by W. Ahrheit-Volle

This review discusses a book by W. Ahrheit-Volle, the eighth in a series that interprets biblical texts. The author claims that the original biblical texts have been altered and falsified, and that the true text contains sensational, highly relevant statements unrelated to religion. These original texts allegedly contain prophecies that are unfolding today and explanations for current events, which can only be understood with our current scientific knowledge. The author points to ancient artifacts and phenomena, such as reliefs in the Sethos Temple at Abydos depicting what appear to be modern aircraft, crop circles attributed to laser experiments, the Bermuda Triangle, descriptions of nuclear power plants in the Book of Ezekiel, and references to aircraft, rockets, and laser weapons in the Book of Daniel, as evidence supporting his interpretation.

However, the reviewer, Hans-Werner Peiniger, finds the reinterpretation of biblical texts difficult to follow and believes it requires a high level of reader attention, possibly necessitating the study of previous volumes in the series. Despite the unconventional writing style and structure, Peiniger suggests the book might be of interest to those who study biblical content and interpretations, particularly from a pre-astronautics perspective.

Software Review: "3D Atlas des Universums"

The "3D Atlas des Universums" (3D Atlas of the Universe) is a CD-ROM program that offers a realistic simulation of space exploration. Users can fly through the cosmos, explore planets and moons in our solar system, and travel to distant stars and galaxies. The program boasts a database of over a million stars and 80,000 galaxies, with many prominent objects featuring photos from the European Southern Observatory (ESO). The review highlights its educational value and the ability to recreate celestial views from any point in space, suggesting it could aid in identifying star constellations, such as the one depicted on the Betty Hill abduction map. The software's system requirements are listed, including compatibility with Windows 98/ME/2000/XP, a Pentium 200 MHz processor, 64 MB RAM, and a graphics card supporting 800x600 resolution.

Editorial and Conference Information

Mirko Mojsilovic, the editor, writes about the upcoming GEP conference in Cröffelbach. He emphasizes that the conference participation remains free of charge, contrasting this with other organizers who charge significant fees. He encourages readers to attend, highlighting the opportunity to gain knowledge and experience. The editorial includes a detailed schedule of the conference, featuring talks on topics such as UFOs and videos, time travel, astrophysics, UFO sightings, UFOs over France, and the legend of German flying discs.

Letters to the Editor

Ulrich Magin from Rastatt comments on issue 153. He discusses the Knechtsand riddle, noting how its interpretation has been distorted by pre-astronautics authors like Peter Kolosimo, who presented it as a USO (Unidentified Submerged Object). Magin also responds to a letter from Natale Cincinnati, adding another example of a "Jenny Haniver" found in Italy, which was speculated to be a satanic artifact or a mummified alien.

Corrections

A correction is noted for JUFOF 153, page 71, regarding a case where light reportedly darkened and then brightened. The correct case number is stated as 200307.

GEP Publications and Membership

The magazine lists various GEP special publications and books available for purchase, covering topics such as the Condon Report, UFOs, extraterrestrial life, and the history of UFO research. It also details the "INFO-Paket," a collection of informational brochures on UFO phenomena. Information on subscribing to the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" is provided, with an annual subscription costing €21 plus postage. The issue also promotes GEP membership, highlighting benefits such as receiving the JUFOF and the GEP-insider newsletter, assistance with literature acquisition, and discounts on publications. A special offer for new members who join by September 30, 2004, includes a GEP pen and a mini-meteorite.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the investigation of unexplained aviation incidents, the exploration of conspiracy theories surrounding historical events and government secrecy, and alternative interpretations of ancient texts, particularly the Bible, through the lens of ufology and pre-astronautics. The editorial stance, as expressed by Mirko Mojsilovic, promotes open access to information and discussion within the UFO research community, emphasizing the value of GEP's accessible conferences and publications. The magazine appears to maintain a critical yet open-minded approach to UFO phenomena, encouraging detailed research and the examination of evidence from various perspectives.