JUFOF - Issue 184 - 2009 04

Magazine Overview

Title: jufof
Issue: 04-2009, Jg. 30, Nr. 184
Publisher: GEP e.V.
Date: April 2009
Price: 4,50 Euro
ISSN: 0723-7766

This issue of 'jufof', the journal for UFO research published by GEP e.V., presents a collection of UFO sighting reports, detailed case analyses, and investigations into potential misidentifications and hoaxes. The cover prominently features the headline "UFO-Beobachtungen" (UFO Sightings), with subheadings indicating a focus on "Sichtungen - Dokumentationen - Bewertungen" (Sightings - Documentations - Evaluations). The issue also highlights articles on "UFO-Fake mit 3D-Animations-Software" (UFO-Fake with 3D Animation Software) and "Falsche Erinnerungen und UFO-Entführungen" (False Memories and UFO Abductions), the latter being part 4 of an extensive study.

Editorial

The editorial, titled "Liebe Leser," (Dear Readers) by Danny Ammon, sets the tone for the issue. Ammon emphasizes the importance of transparency within the GEP's case investigations, stating that while most cases are IFOs (Identified Flying Objects), even these provide valuable insights. He highlights the inclusion of a "GOOD-UFO-Fall" in this issue, one for which no satisfactory conventional explanation has yet been found. The editorial also touches upon the psychological aspects of UFO sightings, noting that social and interpersonal dynamics can play a significant role. Ammon stresses that both proponents and skeptics of unknown phenomena can be mistaken if they make assumptions about the weight of human influence without sufficient evidence. He reiterates the GEP's commitment to rigorous research, even after 30 years, to address the many unresolved questions surrounding the UFO phenomenon. The editorial concludes by directing readers to the current issue's content, including the documented GOOD UFO case.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section details several reported UFO sightings:

Grünes Objekt aus Wasser aufgetaucht (Green Object Emerged from Water)

• Case Number: 19780700 A
• Date: July 1978 (exact date unknown)
• Location: Plouescat, Nord-Bretagne, France
• Witnesses: Manfred V. and his wife Ulrike
• Classification: CE I (Class I Evidence)
• Assessment: GOOD UFO
• Summary: While camping by the coast in Brittany in July 1978, the witnesses observed a greenish-yellow light phenomenon developing underwater in a bay. Approximately 10 seconds after emerging from the water, the diffuse, round object, estimated to be 1-2 meters in diameter, moved silently and rapidly upwards into the northern sky. The event lasted about 30 seconds. Despite the passage of 30 years, the memory remains vivid for the witnesses. The investigation by Hans-Werner Peiniger classified it as a GOOD UFO due to its anomalous characteristics.

UFO-Fake mit 3D-Animations-Software (UFO-Fake with 3D Animation Software)

• Case Number: 20080601 B
• Date: June 1, 2008
• Location: Near Vienna, Austria
• Witness: Matti M.
• Classification: DD
• Assessment: IFO / V1 (Identified as a reflection)
• Summary: A witness submitted a photograph taken outside Vienna, intended to capture sunlight breaking through clouds. Upon later review, an object was visible in the photo that was not seen with the naked eye. The investigation by Hans-Werner Peiniger concluded that the object was a reflection in a windowpane, possibly from an interior object like a lamp. The witness's initial report was deemed potentially misleading, and the case was classified as a hoax.

UFOs als Spiegelungen entlarvt (UFOs Exposed as Reflections)

This subsection covers two cases where photographic evidence was analyzed and identified as reflections:

• Case 1: Bad Säckingen, Germany (August 20, 2009)
• Case Number: 20090820 B
• Witness: Markus M.
• Classification: DD
• Assessment: HOAX
• Summary: A witness submitted a photo taken while walking along the Rhine near Bad Säckingen, describing two "clouds" that moved unusually fast. The investigation, involving Hans-Werner Peiniger and Werner Walter from CENAP, revealed that the photo was taken from a moving train. The objects were identified as interior lighting reflections within the train compartment, not external aerial phenomena. The witness's initial report, which suggested a sighting while walking, was considered a deliberate attempt to mislead.

• Case 2: Fensterbach, Germany (August 1, 2009)
• Case Number: 20090801 B
• Witness: Stefan S.
• Classification: DD
• Assessment: IFO / V1 (Identified as a bird)
• Summary: A witness took a selfie with his mobile phone and later found an object in the photo that resembled a flying saucer. Upon zooming in, the object appeared pixelated but had a distinct shape with a dome and hull. The investigation identified the object as a bird, likely captured in flight and distorted by the phone's camera and zoom.

Falsche Erinnerungen und UFO-Entführungen (False Memories and UFO Abductions)

This article, part 4 of an extensive study, delves into the psychological aspects of UFO abduction experiences, focusing on the formation and reliability of memories related to such events. It explores how social and psychological factors might influence or even create these recollections.

Anmerkung zur Rezension (Note on Review)

This section provides commentary on a review titled "Begegnung mit dem Unfassbaren" (Encounter with the Unfathomable), likely referring to a book or article discussed in a previous issue.

Kurz notiert (Brief Notes)

This section contains short updates and mentions:

• CameraUFO for iPhone: A tool or application related to UFO observation on iPhones.
• UFOs, Kugelblitze und Waffentechnologie (UFOs, Ball Lightning, and Weapons Technology): A topic suggesting a connection or comparison between these phenomena.
• Der Einfluss gefälschter Videos (The Influence of Fake Videos): Discusses the impact of fabricated video evidence on UFO research.

Literatur (Literature)

• Need to Know: This likely refers to a book or publication recommended for further reading.

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].
• Editors: Hans-Werner Peiniger and Danny Ammon are responsible for the content in terms of press law.
• Publication: '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 (€7.00 domestic, €18.00 international). Membership in GEP includes the subscription.
• Advertising: Inquiries for advertising rates should be made directly. Small ads are free for subscribers and members under certain conditions.
• Reprinting: Reprints are only permitted with written permission from GEP e.V. and require a copy of the publication.
• Printing: MG-Verlag, 56637 Plaidt.
• Copyright: © 2007 GEP e.V.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the rigorous investigation and analysis of UFO sightings. The editorial stance, as articulated by Danny Ammon, is one of critical inquiry and transparency. The GEP e.V. emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between genuine UFO phenomena and IFOs, acknowledging that even IFOs provide valuable data for understanding the broader phenomenon. The journal actively debunks potential hoaxes and misidentifications, as seen in the photographic case analyses, while also documenting cases that remain unexplained ('GOOD UFOs'). There is a clear commitment to methodical research and addressing the complexities of the UFO phenomenon, including the psychological factors that may influence witness accounts. The publication aims to provide a platform for serious UFO research, characterized by detailed documentation and reasoned evaluation.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue number 4-2009 (Nr. 184), published in Germany, features articles on the detection of fake UFO evidence and the psychological aspects of UFO abductions.

Article 1: UFO-Fake mit 3D-Animations-Software (UFO Fake with 3D Animation Software)

This article by Thomas Mertens discusses how UFO photos and videos are often created using 3D animation software. It explains the general process of creating animated 3D films, starting with modeling individual objects, defining their shape, size, and position. Geometric primitives are used to construct objects like flying saucers. The next step involves texturing these objects, which can range from simple colors to realistic reliefs, and applying properties like reflection and transparency. Photos can also be used as textures. The modeling phase is followed by arranging objects in the virtual space, setting up lighting, and defining camera positions and paths. The rendering process, which calculates the photorealistic animation, is described as a computationally intensive task.

The article highlights how fakers can create scenes where UFOs appear to interact with real-world elements, such as disappearing behind trees or moving through foliage. Two methods for incorporating trees are detailed: constructing a 3D tree from individual leaves and branches, or overlaying a photograph of a tree onto a 3D plane. The latter requires digital editing to isolate the tree and create an alpha channel, but can result in distorted shadows.

Key indicators for UFO researchers to identify fakes include:

• Detail Repetition: Look for duplicated elements in buildings (windows, balconies) or entire structures. The article notes that 3D worlds are often unrealistically clean and sterile, lacking the 'dirt and dust' found in reality.
• Camera Movement: Unnatural or overly smooth camera movements, especially those that seem to anticipate the UFO's movement, can be suspicious. The article questions whether depth of field is realistic.
• Lighting and Shadows: Inconsistencies in lighting, multiple shadows, or hard shadows alongside soft ones can be clues. The time of day indicated by shadows should also be consistent.
• Textures: Imperfectly tiled textures, visible seams, or textures that appear flat or out of focus on sharp-edged objects are suspicious. A texture that looks like a chessboard pattern from a distance is also a red flag.
• Atmospheric Effects: Fakers may avoid complex atmospheric effects like fire, smoke, fog, or wind, as they are difficult to model realistically.
• Human Movement: Realistic human movement, emotional expression, and the natural drape of clothing are hard to replicate, potentially revealing a fake.

The article also discusses a more advanced technique where a 3D UFO is integrated into pre-recorded live-action footage. This can be done by using the live-action footage as a background or by more complex methods involving reconstructing the real scene in the computer to ensure realistic shadows and lighting. The article provides links to YouTube videos demonstrating these techniques.

Article 2: Falsche Erinnerungen und UFO-Entführungen – Teil 4 (False Memories and UFO Abductions – Part 4)

This article by Thomas E. Bullard, translated by Ulrich Magin, explores the debate surrounding UFO abduction experiences and their relationship to false memories and satanic ritual abuse (SRA). The author notes that most psychological studies consider abductees to be mentally normal but often dismiss abduction reports as false memories of impossible events.

The article highlights the striking similarities between accounts of UFO abductions and reports of satanic ritual abuse, regardless of who is investigating or where and when the stories are told. This similarity poses a challenge for researchers, as it makes it difficult to dismiss one phenomenon as a false memory without affecting the other.

Two main approaches to understanding these similarities are discussed:

1. Skepticism: Some researchers argue that the parallels suggest both phenomena are rooted in similar causes, possibly related to conventional issues like child abuse, rather than being independent realities.
2. Focus on Advocacy: Another argument suggests that the perceived similarity is influenced by the proponents of these claims, rather than being an inherent characteristic of the reports themselves. The article calls for an investigation into how similar the similarities truly are.

The article then details specific parallels between abduction and SRA reports, noting common themes such as amnesia, bodily intrusion, and feelings of being chosen. While SRA accounts often involve explicit themes like torture, mutilation, cannibalism, and sexual abuse, abduction accounts may focus more on examinations, implants, and hybrid creation. However, there are also overlaps, such as the presence of implants and the involvement of aliens or satanic figures with hypnotic or all-seeing eyes.

Several theories attempt to explain these parallels:

• Psychological Processing: Some researchers propose that both abductions and SRA serve as psychological coping mechanisms, acting as 'screen memories' for genuine, but conventional, sexual abuse. These experiences are seen as a way to process the trauma through drastic fantasies of torture and helplessness.
• Cultural Influence: Cultural factors, therapeutic suggestions, and self-help groups are believed to play a role in shaping and disseminating these narratives.

However, the 'screen memory' theory is criticized because it implies that victims must create a fantasy to shield themselves from conventional abuse, yet the abduction narrative itself can make it impossible to access the underlying abuse memories.

The article also presents a table comparing specific elements of abduction and SRA experiences, covering aspects like the setting (lab vs. altar), the nature of the entities (aliens vs. Satanists), the procedures (examinations vs. torture), and the outcomes (hybrids vs. ritual sacrifice).

Despite the differences, the similarities are considered impressive. The article concludes by suggesting that the parallels might be explained by the way children process trauma, drawing a comparison between the themes of abduction and SRA and the context of Christmas, where childhood fantasies, rituals, and even darker themes can emerge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently focuses on critical analysis of UFO phenomena, emphasizing the importance of rigorous investigation and the detection of hoaxes. The articles in this issue highlight the increasing sophistication of fabricated evidence, particularly through digital means, and the psychological complexities involved in witness testimony and memory. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism, encouraging researchers to employ scientific methods and critical thinking to distinguish between genuine phenomena and manufactured or misinterpreted events. The exploration of false memories and psychological explanations for abduction experiences suggests an interest in the human element of UFO research, acknowledging that the witness's perception and memory are crucial, even when the phenomenon itself is debated.

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), issue number 184 from the 4th quarter of 2009, delves into several intriguing topics, primarily focusing on the potential overlaps between UFO abduction phenomena and accounts of satanic ritual abuse (SRA), as well as examining the nature of alleged alien-human hybrids and historical skull deformations.

Similarities Between UFO Abductions and Satanic Ritual Abuse

The article begins by drawing parallels between common elements in UFO abduction narratives and those found in reports of satanic ritual abuse. It notes how figures like the "Christmas man" (Weihnachtsmann) in his costume, and the concept of children being important in abductions, can be linked to UFO mythology. The Star of Bethlehem is presented as a potential UFO, and a mysterious flying sleigh as a UFO. A small, goblin-like creature entering homes at night is likened to an alien. The "Oz factor" of quietness and stillness before an abduction is compared to the magical atmosphere of Christmas Eve. Time distortion, a common abduction motif, is also discussed in relation to the Christmas man's ability to deliver gifts worldwide.

The author acknowledges that these similarities might not be causal but rather reflect inherent analogical patterns within two distinct, albeit sometimes overlapping, complexes of motifs and associations. The argument is made that simple comparisons are insufficient to prove a causal link, and that any evidence based on visual similarities is weak.

Analysis of Satanic Ritual Abuse Reports

The core of the issue is a detailed examination of satanic ritual abuse reports, presenting data from various studies. A table (Tabelle 3) lists common elements and activities described in SRA cases, with percentages indicating their prevalence across different studies and detailed reports. The article highlights that multiple investigations have shown a remarkable consistency in the descriptions provided by survivors, including specific rituals, locations (houses, churches, cemeteries), paraphernalia (altars, candles, crosses), roles (priests, princesses), costumes (robes, masks), activities (chanting, animal and human sacrifice, sexual acts), and supernatural elements (demons, holy light).

Key findings from the data include the high frequency of elements like torture, sexual abuse, and sacrifice, particularly of babies and fetuses. The reports often describe extreme cruelty, including physical mutilation, cannibalism, and forced participation in sexual acts and pornography. Survivors frequently exhibit symptoms of multiple personality disorder, dissociative tendencies, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Critiques and Interpretations of SRA Narratives

While acknowledging the consistency in SRA reports, the article also presents critical perspectives. It references critic Showalter (1997), who suggests that advocates of SRA might be unaware of the power of literary conventions, myth morphology, rumor, and suggestion in shaping narratives. The argument is made that individuals possess the internal material to construct elaborate and horrific stories, which may then be presented as factual accounts. The consistency of these stories, therefore, does not automatically validate their literal truth.

The article further categorizes the common elements in SRA reports into two types: specific details (like candles, altars, robes) that have become clichés, often popularized by media, and broader concepts (like "sacrifice," "torture," "sexual abuse") that are general enough to be found in almost any report. The author suggests that while superficial similarities exist, a closer examination reveals individualistic variations in the narratives, questioning the reliability of broad definitions used in comparative studies.

The "Hühnermensch" (Chicken-Human) Specimen

Another significant section reviews Peter Kauert's critique of Hartwig Hausdorf's book "Begegnungen mit dem Unfassbaren" (Encounters with the Unfathomable), specifically concerning the "Hühnermensch" specimen. André Kramer, the author of this review, provides additional information from Hausdorf's earlier publication "X-Reisen." Kramer states that investigations into the specimen, found in Chemnitz, revealed a genetic defect responsible for its malformations. He notes that the physical characteristics of the fetus—a bloated, pear-shaped body, round eyes, a large mouth, and a cranial protrusion resembling a rooster's comb—do not align with typical descriptions of "little grays" often associated with alien encounters.

Kramer highlights that museum publications mention previous examinations indicating that the grotesque appearance is due to the absence of certain skull bones (frontal, temporal, parietal) and incomplete development of the jawbones. Crucially, genetic studies from 1997 indicated that the "child" was missing a significant portion of chromosome 17, leading to the conclusion that it is not an alien-human hybrid but rather a result of a severe genetic anomaly.

Skull Deformations and Extraterrestrial Imitation

The article also addresses Hartwig Hausdorf's theory that skull deformations might be an attempt by humans to imitate extraterrestrial visitors. Kramer challenges this by pointing out that while skull deformations occurred globally at various times, they were not always executed in the same style. He argues that if humans were imitating aliens, one would expect a more uniform approach. The article cites evidence suggesting that skull deformations in Germany, specifically finds from Stuttgart dating to the 4th and 5th centuries AD, are likely cultural transmissions from the East, brought by the Huns during their migrations, rather than an "original invention" or an imitation of aliens.

Kramer concludes that Hausdorf's "unfathomable encounters" are often less unfathomable than presented, and that critical self-examination and research are necessary, rather than simply accepting what is presented. He agrees with Kauert's assessment that while the writing style may be rough and the treatment of some topics uncritical, the journal is still an entertaining read.

Short Notes: Current Reports

CameraUFO for iPhone

This section discusses a new iPhone app called "CameraUFO" that allows users to superimpose "UFO" images onto their photographs. The article warns that the ease of digital image manipulation makes it increasingly difficult to verify the authenticity of UFO photos, emphasizing the need for reliable eyewitness accounts to accompany any submitted imagery.

UFOs, Ball Lightning, and Weapons Technology

This part summarizes an article from Fortean Times by Nick Redfern, which explores the connection between UFO sightings, ball lightning, and potential weapons technology. It references British Ministry of Defence (MoD) project "Condign" documents, which suggest that some UFO sightings might be natural phenomena like ball lightning or plasma, rather than threats to national defense. However, the article also notes military investigations into the use of plasma as a weapon, stemming from Cold War fears of Soviet advancements. US research since 1949 also explored the link between UFOs and ball lightning, considering them as plasma, ionized gas, or radioactive radiation. While early concepts for controlling plasma balls with laser beams were considered, significant progress in weaponizing them was not achieved in subsequent decades.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of paranormal claims, particularly UFOs and alleged satanic ritual abuse. The journal adopts a stance that encourages skepticism, critical thinking, and thorough research. It questions sensationalist interpretations and seeks to provide evidence-based analysis, even when discussing controversial topics. The editorial stance appears to favor rational explanations and cultural/historical contexts over purely speculative or extraterrestrial hypotheses, as seen in the discussions on SRA and skull deformations. The inclusion of short news items on UFO-related technology and phenomena suggests a broad interest in the field, but the main articles lean towards debunking or providing alternative, more grounded explanations for purported mysteries.

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, Volume 4-2009, Issue 184, published by GEP e.V. in Germany, focuses on UFO phenomena, research methodologies, and the psychological impact of evidence. The cover prominently features Timothy Good's book, "Need to Know: UFOs, das Militär und die Geheimdienste," suggesting a strong emphasis on military and intelligence involvement in UFO cases.

Article 1: UFO Sightings and Controlled Plasma

This section discusses UFO cases, referencing the Rendlesham Forest sighting in 1980. It notes that while some enthusiasts believe such research continues, the connection between UFO sightings and "controlled" plasma remains speculative due to a lack of further evidence. The author acknowledges that most UFO sightings have logical explanations, but a few cases are far more unusual than natural phenomena, even if artificially controlled.

Article 2: The Influence of Fake UFO Videos on Witness Perception

This article details a psychological study from the University of Warwick published in "Applied Cognitive Psychology." The study involved three groups of university students playing a computer game. One group was told their partner (the experimenter) had cheated. The second group was shown a manipulated video as "proof" of the cheating, while the third group served as a control. The results indicated that participants in the video group were three times more likely to testify about the "betrayal" than those who only heard about it, even though the event never occurred. This highlights how fabricated visual evidence can significantly alter perception and lead individuals to falsely report events. The implications for UFO research are profound, affecting how video portals are used, how witnesses are interviewed, and confirming the influence of social contacts among witnesses. The study underscores the importance of current research in perception and psychology for UFO investigations.

Article 3: Review of Timothy Good's "Need to Know: UFOs, das Militär und die Geheimdienste"

This review covers Timothy Good's extensive book, which examines UFO incidents involving the military, government agencies, scientific institutions, and the role of secrecy. The book, over 500 pages long, describes numerous cases where military and civilian aircraft allegedly disappeared or encountered UFOs, and where UFOs appeared over military installations. The reviewer notes that Good relies heavily on secondary sources, with few direct interviews. The book is structured chronologically, covering periods from 1930-1949 (including Geisterraketen, Roswell, and Aztec, and alleged conflicts with extraterrestrials), 1950-1959 (discussing the MJ-12 documents), and 1960-2006. Good suggests a potential conflict with an extraterrestrial race and posits that a gradual, step-by-step revelation of UFO information is the wisest approach to avoid social unrest. The reviewer finds the book to be a comprehensive compilation of cases, particularly valuable for its German-language presentation and relatively low price. However, the reviewer cautions readers to critically examine the content, as many claims are second-hand and presented with a pro-UFO bias, lacking rigorous critical analysis. The reviewer praises Good's thorough sourcing, which allows readers to verify the material.

Article 4: Homepage at ALIEN.DE

This section is an announcement from ALIEN.DE, described as the largest and most read UFO server in Germany, seeking web authors, authors, interested individuals, and associations to host free homepages on their server. ALIEN.DE offers 50 MB of webspace, unlimited traffic, and a subdomain for websites related to fringe sciences, with restrictions against pure download or traffic-filling sites.

Article 5: Review of Olaf Fritz's "Über die Wissenschaftlichkeit der UFO-Forschung der GEP e.V."

This review discusses Olaf Fritz's empirical study examining the scientific validity of UFO research conducted in Germany, primarily by privately funded groups. The study focuses on the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.) in Liidenscheid. Fritz concludes that GEP's research has a clear subject, a systematic and reproducible methodology, and is open to criticism. The research findings are regularly made public through the "jufof" journal. The book is 125 pages, illustrated, and priced at €16.95.

Advertisement: Q'Phaze Magazine

An advertisement for "Q'Phaze - Realität... anders!" magazine, described as a large-format publication covering topics like Paleo-SETI, exobiology, astronomy, archaeology, and fringe science. It offers subscription options and lists several contributing authors.

Contact Information for UFO Reporting

This section provides contact details for reporting UFO sightings to the GEP e.V. It includes a phone number (0 23 51 / 2 33 77) available day and night, website URLs (www.ufo-forschung.de, www.jufof.de), a web forum address, and an email address ([email protected]).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UFO evidence, the psychological factors influencing witness testimony, and the scientific rigor applied to UFO research. The journal maintains a critical yet open stance, presenting research findings, book reviews, and discussions on UFO phenomena while emphasizing the need for methodical investigation and critical evaluation of evidence. The editorial stance appears to favor empirical research and psychological analysis in understanding UFO reports, as evidenced by the prominent placement of the study on fake video influence and the review of Olaf Fritz's work on scientific methodology in UFO research.