JUFOF - Issue 174 - 2007 06

Magazine Overview

This issue of *jufof*, Journal für UFO-Forschung (Journal for UFO Research), is dated June 2007, Volume 28, Issue 174. Published by GEP e.V., it costs 4.50 Euro and has an ISSN of 0723-7766. The cover prominently features "Der CARET-Report" with the subtitle "Beleg für außerirdische Drohnen?" (Proof of extraterrestrial drones?). Other cover elements include "Die Wissenschaft der UFOs" (The Science of UFOs) and a section on "Hesekiel & Co." celebrating "10 Jahre Cröffelbach" (10 years Cröffelbach).

Editorial

The editorial, titled "Liebe Leser," (Dear Readers) by Natale Guido Cincinnati, reflects on the nature of UFO research. Cincinnati emphasizes that UFO research involves engaging with eyewitness accounts of extraordinary objects or lights in the sky, treating these accounts as primary data. He notes that the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens) received a record number of sightings in the past year, indicating continued public interest but also straining the organization's resources. The editorial highlights the need for dedicated individuals to investigate these sightings, contributing to a growing body of knowledge that helps characterize the UFO phenomenon. It extends an invitation for readers interested in active investigation to join as field investigators.

The editorial also previews the content of the issue, mentioning case documentation from across Germany, a continuation of Richard Hall's article "Die Wissenschaft der UFOs" (translated by Marius Kettmann), and a report by Ferhat Talayhan on the tenth and final UFO research workshop in Cröffelbach 2007.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section details several UFO sighting reports:

Hennef and Cologne (Fall-Nummer: 20070818 B)

Reported by Natalie N. (31) and Thomas K. (36), this incident occurred on August 18, 2007, around 9:55 PM MESZ near Hennef. The witnesses described a red, glowing object with changing intensity that ascended slowly, paused, and then moved abruptly left, right, up, and down before shrinking and vanishing. They ruled out conventional aircraft due to its behavior and appearance in a clear sky. Natalie N. described the object's size as 4-5 mm at arm's length, its color as glowing red, its form as unclear, and its movement as pendular and direction-changing. Thomas K. estimated the size as 5-20 Cent coin size at arm's length and noted it was much brighter than an airplane.

The investigation included an interview on August 22, 2007. Several indicators suggested the object might be a model hot air balloon, such as its color, unclear outline, pulsating glow, and oval/spherical shape. The timing (Saturday evening) is also common for launching such balloons. Weather data confirmed conditions suitable for balloon launches. However, the object's dynamic behavior, including abrupt stops and directional changes, made a simple model balloon explanation questionable. The investigators classified it as a NEAR IFO (Identified Flying Object).

Rüsselsheim (Fall-Nummer: 20070322 A)

Reported by Helena K. (51), a service employee at the airport, this sighting occurred on March 22, 2007, around 11:30 PM MEZ in Rüsselsheim. Helena K. and her neighbors observed a bright light moving erratically, estimated at 20-30 meters altitude. Initially thought to be an aircraft with technical issues, the object made lawnmower-like sounds and moved in a way atypical for the nearby Frankfurt Airport traffic. Later, the light hovered in one spot, and Helena K. asked her brother to call the police. The object then descended to about nine meters, and a dark spherical object became visible above it. The object was described as 3-4 meters in size, matte metallic, with round indentations and irregular lines, resembling a melon. It hovered, then moved to the right side of the yard and stopped between two trees. Lights appeared around its middle like a belt, and what looked like retractable shutters opened, revealing illuminated windows, though the witness could not see any occupants, possibly due to mirrored glass. The object then ascended about a meter and vanished instantly. Helena K. speculated it might be military technology from Russia, America, or China, expressing frustration that such information is withheld. She also discussed the sighting with a Greek cardinal who suggested it could involve non-human entities, possibly "devils."

Her brother, Nikolas K. (45), a former police officer, corroborated the sighting but noted discrepancies in the timing and details. He described the sounds as consistent with an aircraft but unusual in their sustained, constant volume for 20 minutes. He felt something was wrong and became fearful. He also suggested the dark ball appearing only when his sister was alone might have been a test of human reactions.

The investigation, led by Jutta Behne and Hans-Werner Peiniger, found Helena K.'s account credible despite her initial agitation. While some aspects could be explained by light reflection devices or a helicopter with a searchlight, the sustained noise and the object's behavior, especially in the second phase, defied easy explanation. The case was classified as PROBLEMATIC UFO.

Kirchberg (near Hahn Airport) (Fall-Nummer: 20070603 A)

Reported by Daniel H. on June 3, 2007, around 12:28 AM MESZ (June 2, 10:28 PM UTC). The witness observed two brightly orange, glowing objects flying slowly and horizontally below a cloudy sky. They moved west, shrinking as they receded. One object slid vertically over the other. The apparent size was compared to a 1-€ coin at arm's length. Shortly after, three more objects appeared, flying in the same direction at a greater distance. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, concluded that these were likely model hot air balloons due to their appearance and movement, a conclusion the witness found plausible.

Die Wissenschaft der UFOs (The Science of UFOs)

This section continues an article by Richard Hall, translated by Marius Kettmann. It likely delves into scientific approaches and analyses related to UFO phenomena.

Hesekiel & Co.

This part of the magazine celebrates "10 Jahre Cröffelbach" (10 years Cröffelbach), possibly related to an event or anniversary associated with the organization or individuals named Hesekiel & Co.

Literatur (Literature)

This section provides reviews or listings of books related to UFOs:

• *Captured!* (Page 188)
• *Encounters at Indian Head* (Page 190)
• *Der schweigende Stern* (The Silent Star) (Page 192)

Impressum (Imprint)

The imprint details the publisher as Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., founded in 1972, with contact information for its postal address, telephone, fax, and email. The editors responsible are Hans-Werner Peiniger and Danny Ammon. The magazine is published bi-monthly on a non-commercial basis, with contributions being unpaid. Subscription prices are listed: €27.00 for one year (6 issues) plus postage. It also mentions that for GEP members, the subscription is included in their membership fee. The magazine is printed by MG-Verlag.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around detailed UFO sighting investigations, scientific analysis of the phenomenon, and the challenges of classifying unidentified aerial phenomena. The editorial stance, as expressed by Natale Guido Cincinnati, is one of open inquiry and a call for active participation from readers in the investigative process. The magazine appears to adopt a serious, research-oriented approach, presenting case details, witness testimonies, and investigator analyses, while also acknowledging the difficulties in definitively identifying all reported phenomena. The classification of cases as NEAR IFO or PROBLEMATIC UFO indicates a nuanced approach to categorization. There is an underlying theme of public interest in UFOs and the potential for government secrecy regarding related information, as suggested by Helena K.'s comments.

This issue of the Journal für UFO-Forschung (Issue 6-2007, Nr. 174) focuses on investigations into UFO sightings, alleged alien technology, and the debunking of famous cases. The magazine features articles by Danny Ammon, Natale Guido Cincinnati, and Richard Hall, translated by Marius Kettmann.

Sechs Objekte verschwinden im Nichts (Six Objects Disappear into Nothingness)

This article by Natale Guido Cincinnati details a sighting on August 5, 2007, near Troisdorf, Germany, where a witness observed six objects moving rapidly. The objects changed light from red/orange to white and disappeared after approximately three minutes. The witness, who had experience working at an airport, noted the objects lacked lights or directional spotlights. Further details from the witness indicated that three objects were initially seen, followed by three more appearing as if from nowhere. The investigation, led by Natale Guido Cincinnati, concluded that the objects were most likely model hot air balloons. This conclusion was based on favorable weather conditions (clear skies, light wind) and the common practice of launching model balloons for festive occasions. The observed characteristics, such as changing light and rapid movement, are consistent with model hot air balloons whose fuel has burned out. The witness also noted a resemblance to the 'Phoenix Lights,' which Cincinnati suggests could be due to the witness's prior knowledge or subsequent research into the UFO phenomenon. The classification assigned was IFO/V2 (Identified Flying Object / Conventional Aircraft).

Der CARET-Report: Beleg für außerirdische Drohnen? (The CARET Report: Evidence for Alien Drones?)

Written by Danny Ammon, this article delves into the claims of an insider using the pseudonym 'Isaac,' who alleges to have worked at a secret research laboratory, possibly under corporate control, investigating 'drones' of extraterrestrial origin. 'Isaac' claims to have been recruited by the CARET-Labor (Commercial Applications Research for Extraterrestrial Technology) to help decipher alien technology from 1984 to 1987. He provided documents, including color photos of alien technology parts and excerpts from a technical report, which he claims to have smuggled out. The article notes that 'Isaac's' claims are similar to those made by Robert Lazar regarding Area 51. The article also discusses the work of Kris Avery, a 3D imaging designer, who created videos and a music video based on the 'drone' sightings and 'Isaac's' provided materials. Avery disputes any authorship of the original photos and documents. Experts like Marc D'Antonio suggest the 'drone' photos might be computer-generated, citing features like jagged edges and lighting effects. The technical report provided by 'Isaac' appears to be in a professional format consistent with the 1980s. However, the article raises questions about the authenticity of the material, the timing of 'Isaac's' disclosure, and the possibility of a sophisticated hoax. The article also touches upon the 'alien script' found on the alleged technology, noting resemblances to Japanese Katakana and science fiction scripts, but concluding it's likely a unique system. The article concludes that while the CARET material is of high quality, it's impossible to definitively prove its authenticity, and the possibility of it being a fabrication cannot be ruled out.

Kurz notiert: Aktuelle Meldungen (Briefly Noted: Current Reports)

This section contains several short reports:

Trindade-Island-UFO eine Fälschung? (Trindade Island UFO a Hoax?)

Danny Ammon reports on the famous UFO photos taken by Almira Barauna on January 16, 1958, near Trindade Island, Brazil. Recent findings reveal that Barauna had previously faked UFO photos in 1954 for an article in the Brazilian magazine 'Mundo Illustrado,' which demonstrated how to create 'flying saucer' photos through double exposures. This discovery significantly impacts the credibility of Barauna as a witness. However, the article notes that this does not definitively prove the Trindade Island photos are a hoax, leaving the case still officially unresolved.

Flugverbot für MHBs (Flight Ban for MHBs)

In the districts of Düsseldorf and Cologne, Germany, the launch of sky lanterns (MHB - 'Himmelslaternen') has been banned under air traffic law. The ban is due to fire hazard concerns. Sky lanterns have been identified as a frequent stimulus for UFO sightings reported to the GEP in 2007, often explained as IFOs (Identified Flying Objects). The article questions whether the increased import, marketing, and regulatory response contribute to the wave of MHB sightings.

Die Wissenschaft der UFOS: Fakten gegen Stereotypen – Teil 2 (The Science of UFOs: Facts Against Stereotypes – Part 2)

This article by Richard Hall, translated by Marius Kettmann, continues the examination of UFO phenomena, challenging the scientific stereotype of UFOs as 'nonsense.'

Feststoffliche (fahrzeugartige) Objekte und handfeste Effekte (Fortsetzung) (Solid (Vehicle-like) Objects and Tangible Effects (Continued))

This section details two specific cases:

1. September 1, 1974: Langenburg, Saskatchewan, Canada; 11:00 AM

Farmer Edwin Fuhr reported observing a metallic, dome-shaped object approximately 50 feet away while operating his combine harvester. He approached to within 15 feet and saw four more identical dome-shaped objects arranged in a semicircle, hovering about a foot above the ground. These objects were described as looking like 'brushed stainless steel.' Fuhr experienced a state of fear or an electromagnetic effect that prevented him from operating his machinery. One object suddenly ascended, followed by the others in a stepped formation, stopping at an altitude of about 200 feet. They emitted gray vapor from their undersides, which created a downdraft. The objects then formed a line and hovered for a minute before departing. Upon investigation, Royal Canadian Mounted Police Constable Ron Morier found five rings of flattened, swirled grass. Morier stated he doubted it was a hoax and that there were no signs of ground vehicles. He later told an investigator that there was no possibility of a hoax and that the object came from and returned to the air.

January 1, 1978: Santa Monica, California; 12:45 PM - 1:00 PM

Floyd P. Hallstrom, a pilot with extensive experience, reported observing a disc-shaped object with a dome and hatches while flying a Cessna 170A. He initially mistook it for a friend's aircraft but realized it was larger and did not have wings or horizontal stabilizers. The object was described as being made of a bright, metallic material, possibly nickel or chrome, with a soft sheen, not like aluminum. Hallstrom observed 16 to 20 evenly distributed windows around the dome. The dome was estimated to be about 20 feet in diameter, with the base being about 30 feet in diameter. The UFO maintained a course of approximately 310 degrees, showing no signs of rotation, oscillation, or gierung. Hallstrom estimated its speed at around 650 mph (1,046.5 km/h). He took notes and sketched the UFO, then contacted his friend Jim and air traffic control authorities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores UFO sightings, aiming to provide factual analysis and challenge skeptical viewpoints. It investigates specific cases, analyzes photographic and documentary evidence, and considers potential explanations ranging from conventional aircraft and natural phenomena to alleged extraterrestrial technology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, seeking evidence-based conclusions while acknowledging the possibility of hoaxes and misidentifications. There is a clear effort to present detailed case studies and scientific perspectives on UFO phenomena.

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, dated Ausgabe 6-2007, Nr. 174, focuses on a variety of UFO-related topics, including historical sightings, scientific investigations, and a significant conference.

Featured Articles and Reports

Kuwaiti UFO Sightings (November 1978)

This section details a series of UFO sightings reported by employees of a Kuwaiti oil company between November 9 and November 21, 1978. On November 9, technicians at "Number 24" encountered a disc-shaped object with a dome that coincided with the failure of an oil pump station and communication disruptions. The object reportedly vanished rapidly. The Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) investigated but could not explain the sighting, classifying the report as confidential. A similar UFO reappeared on November 21, and an employee managed to take photographs, which were reviewed by KISR but never published.

Eastlake, Ohio Incident (March 4, 1988)

A family, coast guard personnel, and others witnessed a large elliptical object hovering over a frozen lake. The object emitted sequential blinking lights and light beams. A family observed the object while driving home and later reported it to the police. The coast guard was dispatched to investigate. During the observation, several bright yellow triangular objects emerged from the main object and maneuvered independently before rejoining it. The ice on the lake made loud cracking noises, which abruptly stopped when the lights and triangular objects disappeared.

Kuwaiti Oil Field Technician Sighting (November 9, 1978)

This report focuses on the specific sighting by an oil field technician in Kuwait. The object was described as disc-shaped with a dome, featuring blinking lights. It landed, and caused electromagnetic effects on pump systems and communication. The technician also took photographs of the object.

Damon, Texas Incident (September 3, 1965)

Deputy Sheriffs Billy E. McCoy and Robert W. Godde observed a bright violet light in the southwest. It resolved into a smaller blue light that detached and moved independently. The lights ascended and then rapidly approached the deputies. They described a solid, elongated object, roughly 150 feet (45 meters) from them, hovering about 100 feet (30 meters) above a meadow. McCoy described the main body as triangular, with a dazzling violet light at one end and a less dazzling blue light at the other. The object was dark grey, approximately 200 feet long (60 meters) and 40-50 feet thick (12-15 meters). It made no sound and had no tail. The violet light illuminated the ground beneath it. The object was estimated to be as large as a football field. The deputies fled at high speed, and the object abruptly returned to its original position before ascending rapidly and disappearing.

Ravenna, Ohio Incident (April 17, 1966)

Deputy Sheriffs Dale Spaur and Wilbur Neff encountered a glowing, disc-shaped object that rose from the woods and hovered above them, illuminating them and the surroundings. The object emitted a humming sound. After consulting with dispatch, they pursued the object into Pennsylvania. Other police units joined the pursuit. The object engaged in a "cat-and-mouse" game, accelerating and decelerating. It eventually moved away at high speed and hovered motionlessly before disappearing.

Bovina, Texas Sighting (May 25, 1995)

Captain Gene Tollefson, 1st Officer John J. Waller, and the crew of an American West Airlines flight at 39,000 feet observed a large, cigar-shaped object with pulsating lights. They reported radar contact. The object's lights sequenced on and off. The co-pilot contacted air traffic control, but no military activity could explain the sighting.

"Captured! The Betty and Barney Hill UFO Experience" Review

This section reviews the book "Captured! The Betty and Barney Hill UFO Experience" by Stanton T. Friedman and Kathleen Marsden. It highlights the Betty and Barney Hill case as a seminal example of the "abduction syndrome." The review notes that the book provides new details beyond Fuller's earlier account, including biographical information about the Hills and Friedman's efforts to prove the "authenticity" of the experience and the Zeta Reticuli star system connection.

Cröffelbach Conference: "Hesekiel & Co – 60 Years of UFOs"

The article details the 10th anniversary of the Cröffelbach conference, a free, volunteer-organized event. Roland Gehardt organized the program, which spanned from the biblical Hesekiel vision to current UFO research. Ulrich Magin presented on the Hesekiel vision, interpreting it in its historical context and linking it to ancient beliefs about God's presence. Jens Lorek discussed his experiences as an "Alien Lawyer," offering legal advice to alleged abductees. Werner Walter provided a retrospective on 60 years of UFO research. Edgar Wunder shared his experiences from a conference in Hessdalen, Norway, a known UFO hotspot. Rudolf Henke presented on "Life in Outer Space." The event also included a field experiment with "sky lanterns" demonstrating intelligent flight characteristics similar to UFOs.

Hessdalen Phenomenon

Edgar Wunder's report from the Hessdalen conference highlights Norway as a top UFO hotspot with a high sighting guarantee. He notes that Hessdalen is extensively studied, with researchers and the Norwegian government actively supporting scientific investigation of the lights. Political parties in Norway have included the promotion of Hessdalen research in their platforms. The phenomenon is referred to as the "Hessdalen phenomenon" rather than "Hessdalen UFOs" to maintain a scientific approach.

Manoeuvring Movements and "Intelligent Control"

This section discusses the "cat-and-mouse" behavior observed in UFOs during pursuit by military jets, noting that this pattern of acceleration, deceleration, and evasive maneuvers suggests an intelligence behind the phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores UFO sightings, abduction cases, and related phenomena with a focus on scientific investigation and historical documentation. There is an emphasis on presenting detailed accounts of sightings, including witness testimonies, physical evidence, and official reports. The Cröffelbach conference, as highlighted in this issue, serves as a platform for researchers to share findings and discuss theories, aiming to maintain a scientific approach to the subject matter. The interpretation of biblical texts in the context of UFO phenomena, as seen with the Hesekiel vision, is also a recurring theme, suggesting an attempt to find historical precedents or explanations within ancient narratives. The overall stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena, encouraging detailed reporting and analysis.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 6-2007, number 174, published by GEP e.V., focuses on book reviews related to UFO phenomena and research. The cover highlights two books and their authors, Kathleen Marden and Stanton T. Friedman, and features a small alien figurine.

Book Reviews

"Captured! The Betty and Barney Hill UFO Abduction Revisited"

This review, by Danny Ammon, discusses a book that revisits the seminal Betty and Barney Hill abduction case. Kathleen Marden provides a detailed account, correcting errors in previous descriptions and using hypnosis transcripts to analyze Betty Hill's statements. Marden's analysis suggests significant differences between Betty's dreams and her reported abduction experience, challenging the idea that she merely dreamed and recounted these to her husband. The review notes the presence of unusual biological substance on Betty's clothing. Stanton T. Friedman's contributions are described as less detailed, focusing on the 'star map' shown to Betty. Ammon criticizes the book's layout with its frequent, distracting images of spaceships. Despite these flaws, Ammon deems the book essential for understanding the Hill case.

"Encounters at Indian Head: The Betty and Barney Hill UFO Abduction Revisited"

This review, also by Danny Ammon, discusses a book that originated from a 2000 UFO researcher meeting near the site of the Hill abduction. The book compiles various perspectives on the case. Dennis Stacy provides a detailed account of the experience. Marcello Truzzi cautiously weighs the facts, suggesting the abduction might not have been a real event but warrants study. Thomas E. Bullard highlights similarities and differences in abduction experiences, viewing the Hill case as a myth but not reducible to mere psychological constructs. Hilary Evans compares the case to other extraordinary human experiences. Peter Brookesmith examines potential sources for the abduction narrative, including Donald Keyhoe's book. Robert Sheaffer offers a critical view, suggesting alternative explanations for the 'lost time' and questioning Betty Hill's credibility post-abduction. Karl T. Pflock defends the Hills, pointing out difficulties in explaining the 'lost time' and the political context of the era. Walter N. Webb, who investigated the case early on, provides his account. An appendix by Martin Kottmeyer explores potential cultural influences, such as science fiction films, on the Hill experience. Ammon concludes that despite the passage of time and the passing of some contributors, the book is valuable due to its collaborative nature, featuring both 'pro' and 'contra' researchers.

"Der schweigende Stern" (The Silent Star) edited by Roland Roth

This review, by Peter Kauert, describes Roland Roth's edited volume as a collection of diverse, seemingly unconnected topics ranging from prehistory to space, including Paleo-SETI, Voodoo, Atlantis, magic, and ghosts. Kauert notes that the book explores concepts like time shifts and dimensional jumps, with some contributions lacking proper source citations. Alexander Knörr's contribution questions the necessity of extraterrestrial explanations for phenomena. Wladislaw Raab presents visitor reports. The review points out the lack of illustrations as a drawback. Kauert finds the book appealing for both UFO researchers and those interested in fringe science, acknowledging its limited critical content.

"Über die Wissenschaftlichkeit der UFO-Forschung der GEP e.V." (On the Scientific Nature of UFO Research by GEP e.V.) by Olaf Fritz

This review discusses Olaf Fritz's study, which examines whether UFO research in Germany, often privately funded, meets scientific standards. Fritz analyzes the GEP e.V. (Society for the Investigation of UFO Phenomena) as a case study. His conclusion is that GEP e.V. has a clear research subject, employs systematic methods, and its activities are reproducible and subject to criticism. The review also mentions the magazine "Q'Phaze" and its subscription offers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently adopts a factually critical and scientific approach to UFO phenomena. It emphasizes rigorous investigation, detailed documentation of sightings, and critical analysis of evidence. The GEP e.V. is presented as a leading scientific organization in Germany dedicated to this research. The journal also serves as a platform for discussing various aspects of anomalous phenomena, from historical cases like the Hill abduction to broader scientific and philosophical questions about extraterrestrial intelligence and the nature of reality.

FAQ

What is the main focus of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung"?
The journal has been factually and critically covering the UFO phenomenon since 1980, serving as a publication organ for the Society for the Investigation of UFO Phenomena (GEP e.V.).

What is the GEP e.V. and what does it do?
The GEP e.V. is Germany's largest non-profit scientific association dedicated to UFO research, using questionnaires, field investigations, and in-depth background analysis, with support from authorities and scientific institutions.

How can one report a UFO sighting?
UFO sightings can be reported via telephone at 0 23 51 / 23 377, through the GEP's homepages (www.ufo-forschung.de, www.jufof.de), the web forum, or via email to [email protected].

What is the definition of a UFO according to this journal?
A UFO is the perceived observation of an object or light in the sky or on land whose appearance, trajectory, and dynamic behavior do not suggest a conventional explanation and remain unidentifiable after thorough investigation by technically capable individuals.