JUFOF - Issue 164 - 2006 02

Magazine Overview

Title: JUFOF JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: Heft 164, 2/2006 (Volume 27)
Date: March/April 2006
Publisher: GEP e.V., Lüdenscheid, Germany
Price: € 4.25

This issue of the German journal for UFO research, JUFOF, presents a mix of sighting reports, investigative articles, and discussions on the UFO phenomenon. The editorial notes improvements in the journal's layout, font size, and paper quality for better readability. It also highlights the inclusion of translated articles from international UFO researchers.

Table of Contents

• The issue features the following main articles:
• UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings): Documentation and evaluation of several cases.
• Roswell-News Nr. 22: An update on the Roswell incident and related topics by Uli Thieme.
• Digitale UFOs (Digital UFOs): An analysis of potential artifacts in digital photography by Danny Ammon.
• Immer wieder »Dreiecke« (Triangles Again): An article by Richard M. Dolan on the phenomenon of triangular UFO sightings.
• Kurz notiert (Briefly Noted): Short news items.
• Literatur (Literature): Reviews and listings of relevant books.

GEP and its Mission

The journal includes information about the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., an organization founded in 1972. The GEP describes itself as the largest non-profit scientific association in Germany dedicated to researching the UFO phenomenon. They define a UFO as an object or light that was unexplainable to witnesses at the time of observation. Their investigative methods include questionnaires, field research, and interdisciplinary analysis, with support from authorities and scientific institutions. The GEP publishes the journal JUFOF, other publications, and collaborates with international organizations. Membership benefits include receiving JUFOF, a newsletter, assistance with case investigations, access to literature, and discounts.

Definition of UFO (Narrower Sense)

A UFO is defined as a perceived object or light whose appearance, trajectory, and behavior do not suggest a conventional explanation and remain unidentifiable after thorough examination by competent individuals.

UFO Sightings: Documentation and Evaluation

Ovale Scheibe über Gaggenau (Oval Disc over Gaggenau)

• Date: January 1, 2006, 00:20 MEZ
• Location: Gaggenau, Germany
• Witnesses: 10
• Description: A glowing, orange, slightly oval disc with a diffuse, light outline was observed. It flew slowly from south to north, stopped, and changed its flight path multiple times at right angles. After about 15 minutes, it ascended and disappeared.
• Evaluation: The object's behavior, including abrupt changes in direction, is attributed to local wind variations affecting a light, wind-driven object. The investigation concluded it was likely a model hot-air balloon, noting previous similar sightings in the area.

Helle Lichtpunkte über Wien (Bright Points of Light over Vienna)

• Date: September 24, 2005, 11:15 MESZ
• Location: Vienna, Austria
• Witnesses: 2
• Description: Two witnesses observed a bright point of light, similar to a star, moving from the west. It grew brighter and then several more points of light approached it, appearing to nearly collide before passing each other. The total observation lasted about 10 minutes.
• Object Characteristics: 5 objects, point-like, size of a pinhead, brightness like a star, speed significantly faster than a jet fighter, altitude higher than cirrostratus clouds.
• Evaluation: Due to the small size and lack of distinct features in the photos provided, a definitive identification is difficult. Possibilities include foil balloons or high-flying aircraft. The behavior of the lights as a group was unusual, but individual lights showed no anomalous characteristics. The case is classified as NEAR IFO (Near Identified Flying Object).

Handy-Fotos zeigen merkwürdige Objekte (Mobile Phone Photos Show Strange Objects)

• Date: March 29, 2006
• Location: Freising, Germany
• Witness: 1
• Description: A witness photographed a sunset with a mobile phone, and later discovered 'objects' in the images. The investigation suggests these are likely water droplets or smudges on the camera lens or phone.

UFO über Ostia Antica fotografiert (UFO Photographed over Ostia Antica)

• Date: March 18, 2006, 11:11 MEZ
• Location: Ostia Antica, Italy
• Witness: 1
• Description: A witness discovered an 'unexplainable object' in vacation photos taken with a Kodak CX 7310. The object was estimated to be 30-150 meters away. The shape suggests a blimp, but information on air traffic in Italy is unavailable to the GEP.
• Evaluation: Given the low resolution of digital photos and the lack of definitive evidence, the object could be anything from a windblown plastic bag to a bird. The case is classified as NEAR IFO.

Roswell News Nr. 22: Santilli Film Definitely Falsified

• Author: Uli Thieme
• Summary: This article details the debunking of the infamous Santilli 'Alien Autopsy' film. The author explains that the film, consisting of two parts ('tent footage' and 'alien autopsy footage'), was revealed to be a hoax. The creators, Keith Bateman and Andy Price-Watts of AK Music Company, came forward in April 2006 to admit their involvement. They explained that Ray Santilli approached them in 1994 with a low-quality video he claimed showed aliens. When AK Music couldn't enhance it, Bateman and Price-Watts staged a scene using a latex dummy with a sheep's brain and chicken innards, filmed in a barn. The footage was then deliberately degraded to appear older. This staged 'alien autopsy' footage was later sold to Santilli. The article also notes that the 'alien' in the Santilli film was created by the same special effects artist, John Humphrey, who later worked on a film for the British entertainers 'Ant and Dec,' further linking the two productions. The 'tent footage' was also confirmed as a fabrication, with Santilli having lied about its origins and authenticity.

Digitale UFOs (Digital UFOs)

• Author: Danny Ammon
• Summary: This article addresses the challenges of identifying objects in modern digital photography, particularly in the context of UFO sightings. It discusses how digital artifacts, such as water droplets, lens flares, or sensor dust, can be mistaken for anomalous phenomena. The author analyzes specific examples, including the 'orb' photographs, suggesting that many apparent UFOs captured by digital cameras are likely due to technical limitations or environmental factors rather than extraterrestrial craft.

Immer wieder »Dreiecke« (Triangles Again)

• Author: Richard M. Dolan
• Summary: This article, translated from English, explores the phenomenon of triangular-shaped UFO sightings, which have been particularly prevalent in the USA. It delves into the characteristics of these sightings and discusses their potential origins and implications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of UFO evidence, particularly photographic and video material, and the debunking of hoaxes. The GEP's stance appears to be one of rigorous scientific investigation, seeking conventional explanations for sightings before considering more speculative hypotheses. The journal emphasizes the importance of documentation, detailed analysis, and interdisciplinary approaches. The editorial also highlights the GEP's role in educating the public and its members about UFO research.

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Heft 164, dated 2/2006, features a cover story on "Bildhauer und Special-Effects-Kreateur John Humphrey" (Sculptor and Special-Effects Creator John Humphrey), hinting at a discussion about hoaxes or staged events.

The Santilli Alien Autopsy Hoax

The article begins by detailing the infamous Santilli alien autopsy hoax. It reveals that John Humphrey, a sculptor and special-effects creator, was involved in staging the entire scenario. Humphrey personally appeared in the video, portraying the "chief surgeon" and performing a mock autopsy on a latex puppet filled with sheep's brains and chicken innards. The hoax was filmed in a vacant apartment in North London and later disseminated globally, generating significant revenue. The article quotes Ufologist Don Ecker, who estimates that the sale and broadcast of these videos have grossed around 30 million US dollars over the past decade, questioning if such fraud is worthwhile. The text highlights that all purported "evidence" supporting the event has been exposed as fakes or lies. It also points out that Ray Santilli, who presented the footage, had previously claimed there was "not a shred of evidence" to suggest the film was a fake, and that the evidence supported its authenticity. This leads to Santilli being sarcastically nicknamed "Saintly Lier" (a mild-mannered liar), suggesting his deception was far more audacious.

Digital UFOs: Photographic Peculiarities and Their Ufological Interpretation

Danny Ammon's article explores the phenomenon of "Digital UFOs," attributing the increase in UFO photos to the widespread adoption of digital cameras. The article explains the technical aspects of digital photography, contrasting it with film photography. It details how digital cameras use CCD or CMOS chips to capture images as discrete signals, which can then be processed and stored in various formats. The author discusses common image artifacts that can be mistaken for UFOs:

Image Artifacts

• Image Noise (Bildrauschen): Caused by random electron movements in digital sensors, it becomes noticeable in low-light conditions or with long exposures.
• Blooming: Occurs in CCD sensors when bright light overloads a pixel, causing excess charge to spill into adjacent pixels, creating bright streaks or halos. This is often seen with bright light sources like the sun.
• Hotpixels: Result from manufacturing defects or impurities in the silicon sensor, appearing as bright dots in the image, especially during long exposures.
• Aliasing and Moiré: These occur due to interference between the object's pattern and the camera's sensor grid, creating "ghost images" or shimmering patterns, particularly noticeable on repeating textures like clothing.
• Other Artifacts: The article also briefly mentions lens flare, banding, color fringing, and compression artifacts as potential sources of misinterpretation.

"Digital UFOs" Categories

• Black "Spaceship" in front of the Sun: These are clearly identified as blooming artifacts where the bright sun overloads the sensor, causing the area around it to appear black.
• "Rods": These are often explained as blurred images of flying insects or birds captured by the camera, which were not noticed by the photographer at the time.
• "Orbs": The most frequently discussed "modern UFO photographs" involve round or hexagonal, blurred light phenomena. The article cites a study by Schwartz and Creath that attributes "orbs" primarily to:
• Light Reflections: Reflections from polished surfaces, camera lenses (creating "ghost images" shaped like the aperture), or "lens flares" caused by bright light sources entering the lens.
• Airborne Particles: Dust or smoke particles near the camera, appearing as blurred light balls. The study suggests that most "orb" photos can be explained by these natural phenomena, and that active experiments are needed to rule out anomalous causes.

Triangular UFOs

Richard M. Dolan's article focuses on the persistent sightings of "triangular aircraft." The author notes that while many UFO sightings are ignored, triangular craft have gained more public recognition.

Sightings and Characteristics

• General Observations: Reports of triangular craft are numerous and often described as impossible to ignore. They are frequently observed at low altitudes and slow speeds, but witnesses also describe extraordinary acceleration and maneuverability.
• Dallas Sighting (March 2, 2003): A security guard reported seeing a single, black, triangular object for several seconds.
• Arkansas Sighting (January 24, 2003): A man observed a triangular object hovering about 3 meters above a telegraph pole, possessing three lights (red, white, and blue).
• Illinois "Police Sighting" (Early 2000): This case involved a massive, triangular object, larger than a jumbo jet, hovering at about 16 meters. It moved slowly and silently but was described as accelerating at an unbelievable speed, covering miles in an instant.
• Hudson River Valley Sightings (1980s): Numerous reports described a similar, huge, triangular object. It was filmed, appeared huge, flew at low altitudes, performed tight circles, and once directed a beam of white light onto a highway. In 1984, a similar object reportedly disrupted the electronics of the Indian Point Nuclear Facility.
• Belgian UFO Wave (Late 1989 - Early 1990): This wave included sightings of dark, triangular objects emitting humming sounds and light beams. One incident involved an object hovering over a Belgian police car.
• Belgian Incident (March 30, 1990): Thousands of witnesses saw a low-flying, triangular UFO with flashing lights that moved with incredible speed and maneuverability. Belgian F-16 jets were scrambled but could not intercept it. The object appeared on NATO radar screens and pilots sighted it, but it outmaneuvered the jets, demonstrating rapid altitude changes and acceleration.

Potential Explanations and Speculation

• Secret Aircraft Projects: The article speculates that the US may have developed advanced triangular aircraft. Chris Gibson, an expert in aircraft recognition, reported seeing a matte black, triangular aircraft with a 30-degree nose angle during a refueling operation with a KC-135. This sighting is linked to the rumored "Aurora" aircraft, a supposed successor to the SR-71 Blackbird, though its existence is officially denied.
• Unidentified Logic: The movements of the Belgian triangular UFO were described by the Belgian Air Force Chief of Staff, Colonel Wilfried DeBrouwer, as following an "unknown logic," suggesting intelligent control.
• Comparison to Conventional Aircraft: While the B-2 stealth bomber is angular, it is not perfectly triangular and lacks the extreme maneuverability described in UFO sightings. The article concludes that the reported triangular craft possess capabilities beyond known conventional aircraft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently approaches UFO phenomena with a critical yet open mind. The articles in this issue demonstrate a pattern of debunking hoaxes (like the Santilli autopsy) and providing scientific or technical explanations for seemingly anomalous sightings (digital photography artifacts, "rods," "orbs"). However, it also dedicates significant space to phenomena that remain unexplained or suggest advanced, possibly secret, technology (triangular craft). The editorial stance appears to be one of thorough investigation, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the possibility of genuine, unexplained aerial phenomena. The focus on detailed case studies and technical analysis underscores a commitment to rigorous ufological research.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, dated 2/2006 (Issue 164), delves into the persistent mystery of triangular UFOs, with a particular focus on the rumored advanced US military aircraft known as the 'Black Manta' or 'TR-3B'. The magazine explores witness accounts, technological speculation, and historical context surrounding these enigmatic craft.

The 'Black Manta' and TR-3B

The article introduces the 'Black Manta' (TR-3) as a legendary aircraft that 'does not exist,' yet is described as capable of silent hovering and rapid maneuvers. It discusses two versions, the TR-3A and TR-3B, with the latter speculated to be significantly larger. The TR-3B is said to possess a 'magnetic field manipulator' involving a mercury-based plasma ring that influences gravity, making the craft extremely light and capable of high speeds, potentially up to Mach 9. This information is largely attributed to Edgar Fouche's website, though the author notes that some technical details might be questionable.

Technological Speculation and Historical Context

The magazine questions whether aircraft like the Aurora or the 'Black Manta' could explain triangular sightings. It acknowledges that while some authors accept the reality of these craft, confirmation is lacking. The article references Chris Gibson's sighting of a matte black, equilateral triangle refueled by a KC-135, suggesting the existence of such deep black aircraft. The US government's history of declassifying advanced technologies, like the U-2, SR-71, and F-117, is mentioned as a precedent for new technologies eventually becoming known.

Chronological Problems and Belgian Sightings

The article highlights the chronological challenges in explaining triangular sightings. Even if the 'Black Manta' is real, it might only account for sightings since the 1990s. The author questions whether this technology could explain earlier sightings, such as the Belgian wave of 1989-1990 or the Hudson Valley sightings. The Belgian government's inquiry to the US regarding the origin of these craft is mentioned, with the US Air Force denying any Stealth aircraft were active at the time, leading to speculation about advanced, non-Stealth US aircraft.

Early Triangular Sightings

The existence of triangular craft is traced back further, with a report from September 8, 1960, in Tyneside, UK, describing a triangular craft with white lights at the tips and a red light underneath. The author questions if flying triangles were invented in the 1950s and points to numerous sightings between 1973 and the early 1980s as potential precursors to the Hudson Valley wave.

Political and Financial Context

The article examines the US defense budget, noting a significant increase in the early 1980s, suggesting ample funds for secret projects. It questions why such advanced craft, if they existed, were not deployed in modern conflicts like the Gulf War. The silence of publications like Aviation Week & Space Technology and Jane's Defense Weekly on these matters is noted, with speculation that they might be 'watchdogs' that do not bark or are perhaps more informed.

The NIDS Hypothesis: 'Black Deltas'

The National Institute for Discovery Science (NIDS) is discussed in relation to 'Black Deltas' (BBDs). A 2002 document suggested these were LTA (lighter-than-air) craft, possibly powered by an electrokinetic drive, used by the US military. The hypothesis links these sightings to a 2000 sighting in Millstadt, Illinois. The author expresses skepticism about the energy source concept and the potential dangers of microwave transmission.

Analysis of NIDS Data and Other Hypotheses

NIDS has mapped BBD sightings, finding a correlation with corridors between US Air Mobility Command (AMC) and Air Force Material Command (AFMC) bases, suggesting a logistical role. However, the author finds the map analysis somewhat subjective, akin to a Rorschach test, and suggests alternative interpretations. The article also mentions an inventor, Michael K. Walden, who proposed a solar-powered LTA craft in 1977, which the US military reportedly showed interest in but did not purchase.

Geographic Distribution and Russian Sightings

The geographical distribution of triangular UFO reports is noted as primarily North American and Western European. However, the article points out that Russia also experienced a wave of spectacular UFO sightings in the spring of 1990, with reports of spheres, discs, and large triangular craft near Moscow. This suggests the phenomenon is not solely confined to the US.

'Shadow Government' and Covert Operations

The possibility of a 'shadow government' or a highly classified group operating outside normal channels is raised as a potential explanation for these advanced craft. The article notes the existence of classified programs and uncounted billions of dollars funding them, suggesting that a significant technological leap could be hidden from public view.

Conclusion: A Multifaceted Mystery

The issue concludes that while some triangular craft sightings might be explained by advanced terrestrial technology, possibly developed by covert groups, others may not be 'ours,' hinting at extraterrestrial origins. The author emphasizes that the UFO phenomenon, including triangular craft, remains largely unexplained by conventional means, with a significant body of evidence defying easy answers. The article also briefly touches upon the resurgence of 'mystery booms' in media and literature, including films and TV series related to UFOs and aliens.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of triangular UFOs, the potential for advanced, secret US military technology (like the 'Black Manta' and 'TR-3B'), and the ongoing debate about whether these craft are terrestrial or extraterrestrial in origin. The magazine adopts a critical yet open-minded stance, presenting various hypotheses and evidence while acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the challenges posed by government secrecy. The editorial stance appears to favor exploring unconventional explanations when conventional ones fall short, highlighting the complexity and enduring nature of the UFO enigma.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 164 from February 2006, is published by GEP e.V. and focuses on UFO phenomena, critical analysis, and related topics. The cover prominently features the question "IS E.T. HERE?", suggesting a central theme of extraterrestrial presence.

Book Reviews

"Is E.T. Here? No Politically but Yes Scientifically And Theologically" by Robert Trundle, PhD

This review by Hans-Werner Peiniger discusses Robert Trundle's book, which is characterized as a standard work covering almost all themes of the UFO phenomenon with scientific formalism and a focus on philosophical aspects. Trundle, a philosophy professor, explains why the scientific community struggles to engage with UFOs. The reviewer notes that while Trundle's arguments might be followed easily by those not critical, the book's hypotheses are based on individual events, which should be critically examined. Peiniger criticizes Trundle for relying on questionable protagonists like Lt. Col. Philip Corso and for presenting lens reflections and disco lights as UFOs, suggesting a lack of in-depth expertise. Despite these weaknesses, Peiniger finds Trundle's philosophical and theological considerations interesting, making the book worth reading with reservations.

"Heavenly Lights: The Apparitions of Fatima and the UFO Phenomenon" by Dr. Joaquim Fernandes & Fina D'Armada

This review by Hans-Werner Peiniger examines a book by Portuguese historians Fernandes and D'Armada, which explores the 1917 events in Fatima, Portugal, from a UFO perspective. The book, translated into English with a foreword by Jacques Vallée, analyzes the 'Sun Miracle' that occurred on October 13, 1917, after reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three children. The authors present eyewitness accounts and discuss the phenomenon's impact on observers. While acknowledging that the authors may not have fully addressed all critical arguments, Peiniger considers "Heavenly Lights" to be a significant work on the Fatima event, noting that it highlights differing interpretations: religious believers see it as a divine sign, ufologists as an extraterrestrial intervention, and critics as a natural phenomenon or mass hysteria. The review also mentions the book's discussion of physical and atmospheric effects during the 'Sun Miracle' and potential natural causes, while suggesting the authors lean towards an extraterrestrial origin.

"Alien-Jahrbuch 2004" (Alien Yearbook 2004)

This entry provides ordering information for the "Alien-Jahrbuch 2004," priced at €10 for Germany and €15 for international orders. It is available from Wladislaw Raab.

"Phänomen Kornkreise" (Phenomenon Crop Circles)

This section announces the winner of a book giveaway for "Phänomen Kornkreise," with Jens Buntrock from Dinslaken being the lucky recipient. The AT-Verlag is thanked for the book donation.

"Von Ufos entführt: Unheimliche Begegnungen der vierten Art" (Abducted by UFOs: Uncanny Encounters of the Fourth Kind) by Ulrich Magin

This review by Ulrich Magin discusses his own book, which recounts stories of people claiming to have been abducted by extraterrestrial beings and subjected to medical examinations. The book explores whether these accounts are truth, delusion, or wonder, and frames them as a form of belief in the technical age. It is an updated edition of a 1991 paperback.

"Im Reiche des Poseidon: Spuren einer versunkenen Zivilisation in Westafrika?" (In the Realm of Poseidon: Traces of a Sunken Civilization in West Africa?) by Christian Brachthäuser

This book is presented as an exploration of the Atlantis hypothesis, focusing on the work of ethnologist Leo Frobenius, who led an expedition to Nigeria in 1910. The book offers a perspective on the discovery of relics related to Atlantis from a previously little-known viewpoint. It is described as an adventure and discovery journey into Nigeria, featuring discovered artifacts. The book is available in paperback for €10, with a discounted price of €8 for GEP members.

Journal Information and Back Issues

"Jahrbuch der Luft- und Raumfahrt 2006" (Yearbook of Aviation and Spaceflight 2006)

Edited by Tilman Reuss, this yearbook is described as an updated and comprehensive source of information on German aviation and spaceflight. It is considered valuable for UFO researchers due to its extensive list of addresses for relevant authorities, organizations, military bodies, scientific institutes, and aviation-related businesses. The yearbook is praised for its clear structure and detailed information.

"JUFOF Jahrgänge 1980-2000" (JUFOF Volumes 1980-2000)

This section announces the availability of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (JUFOF) from 1980 to 2000 in PDF format on DVD-ROM (€15, €12 for GEP members) and CD-ROM (€18, €14 for GEP members). The journal, published by GEP e.V. since 1980, is highlighted for its critical approach to UFO phenomena, in-depth contributions from national and international experts, and its unique compilation of 20 years of research.

"Journal für UFO-Forschung" Subscription

Information is provided for subscribing to the "Journal für UFO-Forschung," with an annual subscription costing €25.50 plus postage. GEP members have this cost included in their membership fee. The subscription renews automatically unless canceled three months prior to expiration.

Other Publications and GEP Information

This section lists various other publications available, including "U. Magin: Kontakte mit 'Ausserirdischen'" and photomechanical reprints of older articles on topics like the Trent incident and Mars. It also mentions GEP information packages, questionnaires, statutes, and membership application forms.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" clearly positions itself as a critical and serious platform for UFO research. It emphasizes its specialization in the German-speaking region and its role as a reliable source for UFO witnesses, distinguishing itself from sensationalist media and so-called UFO cults. The journal's approach is characterized by thorough investigation, documentation, and evaluation of UFO sightings. The content suggests a leaning towards exploring potential extraterrestrial or unusual explanations for phenomena, while maintaining a critical stance and demanding evidence. The recurring themes include book reviews, analysis of historical and contemporary UFO cases, and information on related research and resources. The editorial stance is one of rigorous, evidence-based inquiry into the UFO phenomenon.