JUFOF - Issue 176 - 2008 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of jufof – Journal für UFO-Forschung, Volume 29, Number 176, dated February 2008, is published by GEP e.V. and focuses on a scientific and cooperative approach to UFO research. The cover prominently features the article "Die Mimikry-Hypothese" (The Mimicry Hypothesis), with additional headlines highlighting "Der Fall Gadebusch" (The Gadebusch Case) and "Die Wissenschaft der UFOs" (The Science of UFOs).

Editorial

In the editorial, Danny Ammon, the editor, emphasizes the importance of a cooperative and responsible approach to UFO research, a principle actively implemented at the DEGUFO conference. He stresses that while disagreements are natural, they should be handled with respect to foster objective, knowledge-oriented research. The journal aims to reflect this ethos. The lead article is by André Kramer, known for his work in the Paleo-SETI scene, who discusses the Mimikry Hypothesis, bridging the Paleo-SETI and UFO topics. The issue also concludes a multi-part series by Richard Hall, translated by Marius Kettmann. New projects are highlighted, including Christian Czech's growing UFO database and a linguistic analysis of the Roswell incident led by Ingbert Jüdt. Ammon expresses excitement about the future of German-language UFO research.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section presents documented and evaluated UFO sightings:

Scheibenförmiger Flugkörper nahe Burgruine Löffelstelz (Disc-shaped Flying Object near Löffelstelz Castle Ruins)

• Case Number: 19550500 A
• Date: May 1955
• Time: Approx. 21:00
• Location: Mühlacker, Germany
• Witness: Hubert E. (then 19 years old) and his girlfriend.
• Description: While walking near the castle ruins, they observed a disc-shaped object with a bright outer ring ascending from the horizon. It executed a 90-degree turn to the left, changed its flight attitude, and then silently flew away in an arc within two seconds. After the attitude change, it appeared as a "flat line." The object was described as a pale, milky white glowing ring with a faint green shimmer, with a dark core.
• Witness Testimony: Hubert E., a retired metalworker, recalled the event vividly. He initially thought it might be a thrown object but dismissed the idea upon observing its flight path. He believes it was an extraterrestrial vehicle, not a secret military project.
• Investigator: Jutta Behne.
• Classification: DD
• Evaluation: Problematic UFO.
• Identification: None.

Lichtobjekte über Pfronten? (Light Objects over Pfronten?)

• Case Number: 20070813 A
• Date: August 13, 2007
• Time: 21:56 MESZ (19:56 UTC)
• Location: Pfronten, Germany
• Witness: Julia P.
• Description: During a vacation, the witness and her friend took night photos with a new digital SLR camera. Several photos showed a red object with a greenish "tail" that was not visible to the naked eye but appeared in the photos. The object appeared and disappeared intermittently, changing position slightly.
• Witness Testimony: The witnesses are skeptical and critical but could not explain the phenomenon, stating it did not resemble a weather balloon, satellite, or meteorite.
• Investigator: Hans-Werner Peiniger.
• Classification: NL (Not Classified)
• Evaluation: IFO / V1 (Identified Flying Object / Visual)
• Identification: Lens reflection.
• Discussion: The investigator concluded that the light objects were lens reflections caused by the counter-light of lanterns in the lower part of the image. The bright light objects were clearly identifiable as lens reflections.

Ungewöhnliches Erlebnis mit Zeitverlust in Florida (Unusual Experience with Time Loss in Florida)

• Case Number: 19840130 A
• Date: January 30, 1984
• Time: Night
• Location: Florida, USA
• Witnesses: Herr S. (66, merchant) and Frau S. (60, physiotherapist).
• Description: While driving at night on a deserted Florida highway, the couple observed a swirling, cloud-like object following them at a low altitude. After the object disappeared and they reached their destination, they realized approximately three hours were missing from their journey.
• Witness Testimony: Frau S. noticed a strange, cloud-like mist in the clear night sky. Herr S. also saw it, describing it as moving erratically around the car. They noted the unusual absence of a shoulder on the toll road. A car with a brightly lit interior slowly overtook them, revealing a man inside who appeared "sculpted." The object then vanished. They experienced a fuel shortage despite a full tank and found no exits or rest stops for a significant stretch. Upon exiting the highway, Frau S. experienced severe eye pain. They arrived at their hotel about 2-2.5 hours later than expected.
• Investigator: Jutta Behne / H.-W. Peiniger.
• Discussion: The case is difficult to classify. The witnesses appeared credible. The "cloud" might be a reflection phenomenon. The missing time, fuel anomaly, and eye pain remain unexplained. The case is filed for later review.

Sternförmiges Objekt entpuppte sich als Planet Jupiter (Star-shaped Object Turned Out to be Planet Jupiter)

• Case Number: 20071025 A
• Date: October 25, 2007
• Time: 19:15 MESZ (17:15 UTC)
• Location: Essen – Steele, Germany
• Witness: Steffi H.
• Description: The witness observed a very bright light in the sky that she initially thought was a star, possibly Venus. It appeared around dusk and remained visible for about an hour, moving slowly downwards. She also noted what appeared to be two aircraft crossing paths, with one light moving like an aircraft and the other remaining stationary. The stationary light was as bright as aircraft headlights.
• Witness Testimony: The witness consulted her partner and a neighbor. After checking astronomical data, Venus was ruled out as a morning star. She noted the light's stationary appearance and slow descent. She drew a diagram of its movement and provided her location. She was interested in identifying the object.
• Investigator: Hans-Werner Peiniger.
• Classification: NL
• Evaluation: IFO / V1
• Identification: Planet Jupiter.
• Discussion: The witness reported her observation via the GEP forum. Upon inquiry, she clarified that the stationary light was extremely bright. She considered it might be an aircraft, but its lack of movement and descent suggested otherwise. She identified it as possibly a star, noting the sky was just beginning to darken. The only bright star she knew was Venus. The object was observed for two consecutive days. The investigator identified the object as the planet Jupiter, visible in the southwest during that period.

Kurz notiert (Briefly Noted)

• Erstes gruppenübergreifendes Projekt (First Cross-Group Project): Mentions a project involving multiple UFO research groups.
• Sichtungswelle von 2007 setzt sich fort (Wave of Sightings from 2007 Continues): Indicates a continuation of reported sightings from 2007.

Literatur (Literature)

• Die Außerirdischen (The Aliens)
• Der einsame Schütze (The Lone Shooter)

Die Mimikry-Hypothese (The Mimicry Hypothesis)

This article by André Kramer explores the Mimikry Hypothesis from a scientific-theoretical perspective. It suggests that some UFO phenomena might be explained by a form of mimicry, possibly involving advanced technology or natural phenomena that imitate known objects or behaviors. The article aims to provide a scientific framework for understanding these unexplained occurrences, bridging the gap between the Paleo-SETI and UFO research communities.

Die Wissenschaft der UFOs (The Science of UFOs)

This is the fourth and final part of a series titled "Fakten gegen Stereotypen" (Facts Against Stereotypes), likely presenting factual information and analysis to counter common misconceptions about UFOs.

Impressum (Imprint)

• Publisher: Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., founded in 1972.
• Address: Postfach 2361, D-58473 Lüdenscheid, Germany.
• Contact: Phone: (02351) 23377, Fax: (02351) 23335, Email: [email protected].
• Bank: Postbank NL Dortmund.
• Editors: Hans-Werner Peiniger, Danny Ammon.
• Publication: The journal 'jufof' is published bi-monthly on a non-commercial basis, with contributions being honorarium-free.
• Subscription Price: €27.00 per year (6 issues) plus postage.
• Copyright: © 2007 GEP e.V.
• Printing: MG-Verlag, 56637 Plaidt.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the importance of rigorous case analysis, and the promotion of cooperative research within the UFO community. The editorial stance, as articulated by Danny Ammon, strongly advocates for a responsible, objective, and collegial approach to UFO research, distinguishing it from less serious forms of engagement with the topic. The journal aims to present factual information and reasoned analysis, encouraging critical thinking and a deeper understanding of unexplained aerial phenomena.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 2-2008, Nr. 176, published in Germany, focuses on the scientific analysis of UFO phenomena. The issue features articles by André Kramer, Christian Czech, and Hans-Werner Peiniger, exploring specific sightings and theoretical frameworks.

Article 1: The Gadebusch Case – Two Cases That Caused Discussion

This section, authored by Christian Czech, details two distinct UFO sightings. The first, the Gadebusch case (Fall Nummer: 20080111), occurred on January 11, 2008, involving multiple witnesses (students) in Gadebusch, Germany. They observed a grey, tornado-like formation descending from the sky, which then began to glow. Photos were taken approximately seven minutes after the phenomenon began. The sighting lasted about 12 minutes. Initial proposed explanations included contrails and industrial chimneys, but these were deemed insufficient. The article also mentions a similar sighting in Wittenberge (Fall Nummer: 200711__) from November 2007, where a single witness described a tornado-like object that appeared to move towards her and then glowed intensely, resembling a fireball at its lower end.

The article critically examines various proposed explanations for the Gadebusch case, including contrails, industrial chimneys, and an object falling burning from the sky. The contrail theory is questioned due to the object's apparent 90° downward angle in photos and the lack of matching flight traffic. The industrial chimney theory is dismissed because the identified chimney in Rosenheim is not in the observed direction. The possibility of a burning object is considered, but it doesn't fully explain the 'contrail' appearance. The author concludes that while no UFO crash occurred, the natural cause remains unidentified, and the case is classified as 'Problematic UFO' due to anomalous characteristics.

The Wittenberge case (Fall Nummer: 200711__) involved a witness observing a tornado-like object at night. The object appeared to move towards the witness, grew brighter, and developed a typical tornado-like tube shape with a fireball at the bottom before vanishing. The witness initially suspected a plane crash but found no news reports. The article notes similarities to the Gadebusch case but highlights differences, such as the time of day (night vs. morning) and the lack of clear visual cues for a natural explanation like the sun. The author suggests possibilities like weather phenomena, re-entries, or other unknown origins, maintaining the 'Problematic UFO' classification.

Article 2: The Mimikry Hypothesis from a Scientific-Theoretical Perspective

Authored by André Kramer, this article critically examines the 'Mimikry Hypothesis' in the context of UFO phenomena. The hypothesis, notably discussed by Jacques Vallée and Johannes Fiebag, suggests that UFO sightings are not necessarily evidence of extraterrestrial visitors but rather phenomena that adapt to human cultural perceptions and historical contexts. Kramer questions the scientific value of this hypothesis.

The article outlines the challenges faced by proponents of exotic explanations for UFOs, including the diverse and often contradictory nature of reported sightings (e.g., saucers, cigars, triangles, spheres) and the apparent 'evolution' of UFO types over time, from 19th-century airships to modern-day craft.

Kramer discusses Vallée's view that UFO phenomena are interdimensional rather than extraterrestrial, suggesting they manipulate physical realities outside our space-time continuum. Vallée posits that the appearance of UFOs and their occupants adapts to the cultural environment of the observer, citing examples from myths, folklore, and medieval reports of encounters with fairies and elves.

Johannes Fiebag's 'Mimikry Hypothesis' is presented as a more systematic approach. Fiebag, while still considering an extraterrestrial origin, suggests that advanced intelligences can adapt their manifestations to the intellectual level and cultural context of different eras and civilizations. This includes phenomena like the Marian apparitions, which Fiebag links to UFO technology. The hypothesis suggests that these intelligences can interact with human consciousness, creating illusions or 'virtual reality scenarios.'

The article then delves into the scientific-theoretical aspects of the Mimikry Hypothesis, evaluating it based on criteria such as internal consistency, external consistency, and falsifiability.

Internal Consistency

Kramer argues that the Mimikry Hypothesis, in its various forms, struggles with internal consistency. While designed to explain away contradictions, it faces problems when confronted with specific cases, such as alleged UFO crashes (e.g., Roswell). If UFOs are merely cultural projections, then the physical craft and occupants reported in crash scenarios cannot be reconciled with this idea. To maintain the hypothesis, such cases must be excluded, which undermines its claim to be a unifying explanation.

External Consistency

The hypothesis also faces challenges with external consistency. It postulates a highly advanced technology capable of influencing both objective and subjective reality in seemingly magical ways. However, there is no current scientific basis or even a futuristic theoretical framework to support such a technology. This lack of grounding in known science makes it difficult to integrate with existing scientific knowledge.

Falsifiability

A key criterion for a scientific hypothesis is its falsifiability – the possibility of being proven wrong. Kramer contends that the Mimikry Hypothesis is largely unfalsifiable. It is difficult to devise an experiment or observation that could definitively disprove it, as any contradictory evidence can be explained away by the hypothesis itself (e.g., by claiming the evidence is a cultural construct or that the technology is beyond our current understanding). This makes the hypothesis more akin to a belief system than a scientific theory.

Kramer concludes that while the Mimikry Hypothesis attempts to reconcile the diverse aspects of the UFO phenomenon, it ultimately relies on compromises and unfalsifiable claims, questioning its status as a rigorous scientific explanation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. It highlights the importance of scientific methodology, including the evaluation of evidence, the testing of hypotheses against established criteria (consistency, falsifiability), and the consideration of natural explanations. The journal appears to lean towards a skeptical but open-minded stance, seeking to understand UFO reports through rigorous investigation rather than immediate acceptance of extraordinary claims. The articles demonstrate a commitment to exploring complex theories like the Mimikry Hypothesis while rigorously scrutinizing their scientific merit.

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue number 176 from 2008, volume 2, focuses on the scientific approach to UFO phenomena, particularly challenging existing stereotypes and exploring methodological rigor. The main articles discuss the difficulties in scientifically verifying claims related to UFOs and the concept of a creator deity, drawing parallels to the 'Mimicry Hypothesis'.

The Scientific Approach to UFOs: Facts vs. Stereotypes (Part 4)

This section, authored by Richard Hall and translated by Marius Kettmann, directly confronts the long-standing scientific stereotype that UFOs are a "nonsense problem." Hall argues that this myth, established over 50 years ago, persists today. He addresses several common scientific objections to UFO research:

1. Naive Observers: Hall counters that UFOs are reported by individuals from all educational and professional backgrounds, including scientists, engineers, pilots, professors, and clergy.
2. Seeking "Salvation": The fear and distress experienced by witnesses contradict the idea that they are seeking "salvation" through UFO encounters.
3. Conspiracy/Cover-up: The idea that a significant event like alien contact could be kept secret is deemed absurd, especially if those with information are as confused as the public.
4. Natural Phenomenon: Hall criticizes the argument that UFOs must be natural phenomena, stating that such claims often stem from ignorance of UFO data and that other, less impactful phenomena receive more scientific funding.
5. Unpredictability: He asserts that UFO sightings are as predictable and repeatable as car accidents or natural disasters, making them amenable to scientific study.
6. Lack of Substance: Hall encourages readers to examine the provided literature and reports for substantive evidence.

The article then outlines what science *could* do. It suggests that UFOs offer fertile ground for studies in sociology, history, psychology, and political science. More importantly, it proposes that physical and biological sciences could investigate UFO reports if properly supported. Hall lists several concrete suggestions for scientific investigation:

• Multidisciplinary Teams: Teams should investigate UFO close encounters, collecting physical and physiological evidence using forensic techniques.
• Instrument Development: Specialized equipment for rapid deployment to sighting locations should be developed, including cameras, spectrographs, and electromagnetic detectors.
• Database Creation: A comprehensive database of UFO cases meeting a minimum standard of evidential value should be established, enabling statistical analysis of propulsion systems and UFO physics.
• Radar Data Analysis: A central repository for historical and current radar-visual UFO sightings should be created for analysis.
• Cataloging Evidence: A catalog of physical and physiological evidence from UFO encounters should be compiled and cross-referenced with current reports.
• Witness Encouragement: Credible witnesses should be encouraged to provide sworn testimony for their photographic or video evidence, with a selective process for expert photo analysis.
• Scientific Journal: A dedicated scientific journal should be established to present UFO research, case studies, and analyses, fostering discussion among scientists.

Hall concludes this section by questioning why UFOs should not be studied, given their widespread impact. He argues that studying UFOs could teach valuable scientific methods applicable to other mysterious phenomena. He also touches upon the societal reaction to UFO witnesses, who often face ridicule rather than respect, and the broader issue of government secrecy.

Verifiability and the Mimicry Hypothesis

This section critically examines the concept of verifiability in science, particularly in relation to UFO research and the 'Mimicry Hypothesis'. The author begins by discussing how scientific hypotheses are rigorously tested and how untestable claims are discarded. Referencing Atteslander, the text emphasizes that hypotheses should be tested against their most challenging consequences.

The article draws parallels between the 'Mimicry Hypothesis' and the scientific approach to other phenomena, noting that while the core Mimicry Hypothesis might be irrefutable, its specific aspects can be tested. The author highlights the importance of intersubjectivity and transparency in scientific research, meaning that findings must be understandable and reproducible by others.

However, the author points out that much of the popular

Title: JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: AUSGABE 2-2008 • NR. 176
Publisher: GEP e.V.
Country: Germany
Language: German
Date: 2008-02

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research) delves into the cultural, historical, and media aspects of the UFO phenomenon, moving beyond simple sighting reports. It features reviews of several books that analyze the UFO myth, its societal impact, and the scientific approach to its study.

Key Articles and Reviews

Book Reviews:

• "Die Außerirdischen: Der größte Mythos des 20. Jahrhunderts" by Tommaso Pincio: This review highlights Pincio's work as a significant publication that approaches the UFO topic from a cultural and historical perspective. Instead of detailing UFO incidents, Pincio examines how the UFO myth emerged and evolved, influenced by Zeitgeist and pop culture, particularly in the 1950s. The review notes Pincio's humorous and critical portrayal of how media sensationalism exploited the topic, leading to widespread belief and a reluctance from the scientific community to engage. The book is described as a look into how a myth is created and how it continues to shape our thinking, suggesting that aliens may already 'live among us' in our minds.
• "UFOs and Science: The Collected Writings of Dr. James E. McDonald" edited by Valerie Vaughan: This collection presents the writings of Dr. James E. McDonald, a physicist who was a prominent figure in UFO research. The review implies that McDonald's work is significant for those interested in the scientific investigation of UFOs.
• "Der einsame Schütze: UFOs, USOs und fliegende Rätsel" by Nadine Schneider, Michael Schneider, and Martina Lohr: This book is presented as a compilation of interesting and spectacular UFO events from the magazine "Der einsame Schütze." It covers cases involving pilots, underwater UFOs (USOs), and alleged alien encounters. The review notes that while it details cases like Hopkinsville, Varginha, and Cash-Landrum, it is likely more suited for newcomers to the topic, as it lacks in-depth critical analysis, background information, and source citations that more experienced researchers might seek.
• "Über die Wissenschaftlichkeit der UFO-Forschung der GEP e.V." by Olaf Fritz: This book is an empirical study examining whether UFO research in Germany, often privately funded, meets scientific standards. Fritz analyzes the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V. as a case study, concluding that the GEP's research approach is clearly defined, systematic, reproducible, and open to criticism. The study suggests that GEP's research results are regularly made public through "jufof."

Other Content:

• "Erstes gruppenübergreifendes Forschungsprojekt initiiert" (First Cross-Group Research Project Initiated): This section announces a new collaborative research project focused on a socio-scientific analysis of the discourse surrounding the Roswell incident. Initiated by Ingbert Jüdt, the project involves DEGUFO and GEP. A weblog, http://roswell-diskurs.blogspot.com, has been launched to track its progress and share information.
• "Sichtungswelle von 2007 setzt sich fort" (Wave of Sightings from 2007 Continues): This report indicates a significant increase in UFO sightings in 2008, with estimates suggesting around 700 reports, surpassing the previous year's record. The primary cause identified is the widespread use of Asian sky lanterns, which create the appearance of flickering, colored light spheres. Despite bans in some areas, the trend is expected to continue.
• "Q'Phaze - Realität... anders!" (Q'Phaze - Reality... Different!): This is an advertisement for a magazine focusing on topics like Paleo-SETI, exobiology, astronomy, archaeology, and fringe science, offering subscription options.

Organizations and Publications

The issue prominently features the Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., described as Germany's largest non-profit scientific UFO research organization. The journal itself, "jufof" (Journal für UFO-Forschung), has been published since 1980, critically examining the UFO phenomenon. It serves as a publication organ for the GEP, including documentation of sightings, case studies, and scientific reports. The journal also provides contact information for reporting UFO sightings and accessing the GEP's online resources.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the academic and cultural study of UFOs, emphasizing the analysis of the UFO phenomenon as a myth and a media construct. There's a focus on the scientific rigor (or lack thereof) in UFO research, as exemplified by the review of Olaf Fritz's book on the GEP. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical, yet open-minded, investigation into the UFO phenomenon, encouraging scientific analysis and interdisciplinary approaches. The increasing number of sightings, even if attributed to mundane causes like sky lanterns, is noted, highlighting the continued public interest in the subject.