JUFOF - Issue 188 - 2010 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'jufof' (Journal for UFO Research), Volume 31, Number 188, dated February 2010, is published by GEP e.V. and focuses on UFO phenomena. The cover prominently features the headline "Sieben unidentifizierte Lichter über der Ramstein Airbase" (Seven unidentified lights over Ramstein Airbase), accompanied by a striking image of light pillars in the night sky. Other lead articles include "Falsche Erinnerungen und UFO-Entführungen" (False Memories and UFO Abductions), presented as part of an extensive study, and "Weiteres Glühbirnenrelief in Dendera" (Further Light Bulb Relief in Dendera), which refutes the 'Electrothesis' of Paleo-SETI.

Editorial

The editorial, titled "Liebe Leser" (Dear Readers), by Hans-Werner Peiniger, addresses a critical letter from colleague Jochen Ickinger regarding the classification system used for UFO sightings. Peiniger acknowledges the need to optimize methods for investigating high 'strangeness-grade' cases but stresses the organization's non-profit status and its duty to serve the public as an adequate point of contact for UFO witnesses. He emphasizes the importance of providing factual explanations and grounding witnesses rather than encouraging belief in extraterrestrial explanations, aligning with the GEP's mission of "promoting public education." The editorial concludes by expressing hope that the selected articles will be of interest and provide insightful information.

UFO Sightings: Documentations and Evaluations

The issue features several detailed reports and analyses of UFO sightings:

"Dreieckiges Objekt mit verschiedenfarbigen Lichtpunkten an den Außenkanten" (Triangular Object with Multi-colored Light Points on the Outer Edges)

This section details a sighting from October 18, 2009, near Herxheim, Germany, by witness Andreas S. The object was described as triangular with colored lights on its edges, accompanied by a second object. The formation moved synchronously and uniformly. Investigator Gerhard Gröschel and Hans-Werner Peiniger analyzed the case. The initial identification suggested a Centaur upper stage and satellite. Further investigation, including cross-referencing with other reports and astronomical data, led to the conclusion that the observed phenomena were likely the Centaur upper stage and the DMSP F18 satellite during their second orbit after launch from Vandenberg Air Force Base. The report notes that the witnesses' descriptions, while varied, showed similarities, but also discrepancies. The authors conclude that the case is explained by known space debris and re-entry phenomena, emphasizing the unreliability of witness accounts and sketches.

"UFO über Salz fotografiert?" (UFO Photographed over Salz?)

This article discusses a photograph taken by witness Sven Z. on May 22, 2009, near Silz, Germany. The witness discovered a flat object in a landscape photo months later. The investigation, led by Hans-Werner Peiniger, concluded that the object was most likely a bird in flight, captured incidentally during the photograph. The analysis of the image, including enhancements, revealed structures consistent with wing beats.

Other Sightings and Analysis

Several other sightings are presented, often with links to online forums for further details. These include reports of:

• Diffuse lights and clouds: Witnesses described bright, unfocused clouds with halos and light rings moving rapidly.
• Comet-like objects with trails: Reports mentioned objects with funnel-shaped tails and bright cores, sometimes accompanied by other phenomena.
• Objects resembling satellites or meteors: Some sightings were initially interpreted as comets or meteors but were later analyzed in the context of satellite launches and atmospheric re-entry.
• Triangular objects with halos: Several accounts described triangular or egg-shaped objects with large halos, moving at high speeds.

The analysis of these sightings often involves comparing them with known astronomical events, satellite launches (e.g., Atlas 5-401 carrying DMSP F18), and atmospheric phenomena. The authors frequently highlight how witness perceptions can be influenced by various factors, including atmospheric conditions, perspective, and psychological expectations, leading to misidentifications.

Literature and Reader Letters

The "Literatur" section lists books related to UFOs, including "UFOs – sie fliegen noch immer..." (UFOs – they are still flying...), "Mysterious Sky – UFOs über Russland" (Mysterious Sky – UFOs over Russia), and "Terra Enigma." The "Leserbriefe" section features a letter from Jochen Ickinger, who critically questions the classification system used by the organization.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

A recurring theme throughout the issue is the critical analysis of UFO sightings, with a strong emphasis on identifying misidentifications of conventional objects and phenomena. The GEP e.V. positions itself as a scientific research organization dedicated to public education and providing factual explanations to witnesses. The editorial stance leans towards a skeptical yet open approach, encouraging rigorous investigation and discouraging sensationalism or premature conclusions about extraterrestrial origins. The magazine aims to debunk common UFO myths and provide a rational framework for understanding reported phenomena, as evidenced by the detailed analysis of the Ramstein sighting and the photographic case.

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 2-2010, volume 188, dated 2010, features two main articles. The first, "Sieben unidentifizierte Lichter über der Ramstein Air Base" (Seven Unidentified Lights Over Ramstein Air Base) by Wim van Utrecht, translated by Ulrich Magin, details a sighting on January 22, 2004. The second, "Falsche Erinnerungen und UFO-Entführungen – Teil 7" (False Memories and UFO Abductions – Part 7) by Thomas E. Bullard, also translated by Ulrich Magin, continues an exploration of psychological aspects of UFO experiences.

Seven Unidentified Lights Over Ramstein Air Base

The article begins by describing the location of Ramstein Air Base (RAB) near Kaiserslautern, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, noting its role as the European headquarters for the US Air Forces and a key NATO facility. On January 22, 2004, an unusual event occurred: seven strange lights were observed in the sky above the base, remaining in their position for several hours. The "Kaiserslautern American," a local newspaper for American military personnel, reported on the incident, including a first-hand account and a photograph by Staff Sgt. Shawn Burke of the 86th Operations Support Squadron.

Staff Sgt. Burke, a weather forecaster with 14 years of experience and four years stationed at Ramstein, described looking up at the night sky around 9 PM. He saw seven bright white lights directly above him, brighter than the stars. Initially, he considered astronomical phenomena or planetary alignments. He also noted a biblical reference from Revelation 2:1. Burke stated he had never seen anything so astonishing in his career.

Despite the unusual sighting, air traffic controllers at Ramstein reported nothing on radar. One explanation considered was reflections from runway lights, but the clouds were too high (20,000 feet) for such sharp reflections. The lights also dimmed and disappeared when clouds became denser, suggesting they were above the cloud layer. Later, they reappeared, appearing elongated like streaks rather than points. Burke then took photographs. The lights remained in place all night, reappearing when clouds passed. During this event, communication systems, including mobile phones and internet, failed in the building where Burke was located.

The article then discusses potential explanations, including auroras (which Burke dismissed as he had seen them before) and "signallichter (Flares)" or "geheime militärische Tests." The newspaper "Kaiserslautern American" is described as being published by AdvantiPro, a private company, with content generated by the 435th Air Base Wing's public affairs department.

The author of the journal article presents the prevailing explanation: atmospheric reflections, specifically "Lichtsäulen" (light pillars). These are caused by the reflection of bright ground lights off flat, horizontal surfaces of ice crystals suspended in thin cloud layers at high altitudes. The segmented appearance of the light streaks in Burke's photo is characteristic of this phenomenon. The article provides links to further information on light pillars.

While the lights themselves are explained as atmospheric optics, the question remains whether there were sufficiently bright ground lights to cause these reflections. Staff Sgt. Burke himself dismissed the idea that runway lights were the cause, stating the clouds were too high for such sharp reflections. The green tint in Burke's photograph is attributed to the type of mercury vapor lamps used for runway lighting, which appear white-blue to the eye but green in photos.

False Memories and UFO Abductions – Part 7

This section of the article by Thomas E. Bullard examines the psychological profiles of individuals who report UFO abductions. It notes that most psychological studies find abduction experiencers to be mentally normal, yet mainstream psychologists often dismiss abduction reports as false memories of impossible events. The research explores the malleable and reconstructive nature of memory, suggesting that abduction experiences share similarities with recovered memories of abuse.

Individual Differences Among Abductees

Previous analyses of abduction reports indicate that experiencers generally have a clean bill of health, showing no serious mental disorders, fantasy proneness, or excessive suggestibility. Some studies suggest a history of unhappiness in childhood or suicidal tendencies in adulthood. Other findings include a slightly increased tendency towards fantasy or dissociation, artistic talent, fluid sexual identity, interpersonal vulnerability, negative early home environments, awareness of alternative realities, psychic sensitivity, and even serious sexual dysfunction. Abduction experiencers are described as "clinically normal, but atypical in several ways."

However, these atypical elements are generally minor and do not suggest personality characteristics that would explain their accounts. The article contrasts abduction experiencers with individuals who make other bizarre claims, noting that abduction experiencers have different personality profiles.

Psychological Testing and Findings

The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) is highlighted as a key tool used to assess individuals reporting possible false memories or genuine trauma. The article presents MMPI results for various groups, including abduction experiencers, those with sleep disorders, fantasy proneness, and histories of abuse. The data suggests that abduction experiencers, as a group, exhibit a remarkably normal personality profile on the MMPI, with scores generally within the normal range (45-59) for most scales, with slight variations for specific scales.

While some studies show slightly higher values for certain traits in abduction experiencers compared to control groups, these differences are often minor. The article notes that even individuals reporting near-death experiences or simply witnessing UFOs can show similar or even higher scores on some scales than abduction experiencers. The expected paranoia or schizophrenia is largely absent.

Dissociation and Trauma

The article discusses dissociation as a potential factor in abduction experiences. Dissociation tests (like the Dissociative Experiences Scale - DES) are used to compare abduction experiencers with other groups, including those who report physical abuse, sexual abuse, amnesia, satanic ritual abuse, and multiple personality disorder (MPD). The findings suggest that while some abduction experiencers may show mild levels of dissociation, they generally do not enter the territory of more serious disorders seen in some comparison groups.

Abduction experiencers appear to avoid the serious dissociative disorders or PTSD consequences linked to abuse-amnesia, ritual abuse, or MPD. The article notes that individuals reporting ritual abuse often exhibit more pronounced psychological distress. In contrast, abduction experiencers are often indistinguishable from control groups in terms of hypnotizability and fantasy proneness, and are mentally healthy.

Skeptical psychologists may attribute the experiencers' belief in UFOs and unusual bodily sensations to psychological causes, suggesting that similar stories could arise from sleep paralysis or leading questions from researchers. However, the article points out that similar accounts come from individuals who have not experienced sleep paralysis or been interviewed by researchers.

UFO abductions, past-life regressions, and satanic ritual abuse are categorized by psychologists as complex (and likely false) bizarre memories. However, psychological studies comparing individuals reporting these phenomena suggest that abduction experiencers are normal. Those who recovered past-life memories showed no signs of psychopathology but had higher hypnotizability and fantasy proneness, and readily incorporated researcher suggestions into their narratives.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue focuses on two distinct but related areas: unexplained aerial phenomena and the psychological underpinnings of anomalous experiences. The first article provides a scientific explanation for a specific UFO sighting, attributing it to atmospheric optics, while the second article delves into the psychological profiles of individuals reporting UFO abductions, emphasizing their general mental normality and distinguishing their experiences from those with severe trauma or false memory syndromes. The journal appears to maintain a balanced approach, investigating UFO phenomena while also critically examining the psychological factors involved in reporting such experiences.

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Nr. 188, Ausgabe 2-2010) features an article by André Kramer titled "Weiteres »Glühbirnenrelief« in Dendera widerspricht Elektrothese" (Further 'Light Bulb Relief' in Dendera Contradicts Electro-Thesis). The magazine focuses on UFO research and related phenomena, with this particular issue delving into ancient Egyptian artifacts and their interpretation within the context of pre-astronautics.

"Further 'Light Bulb Relief' in Dendera Contradicts Electro-Thesis" by André Kramer

Introduction

The article addresses the long-standing debate surrounding the "light bulb reliefs" found in the underground crypts of the Hathor temple in Dendera, Egypt. These reliefs have been interpreted by proponents of pre-astronautics, such as Charles Berlitz and later Peter Krassa and Reinhard Habeck, as evidence of ancient Egyptian knowledge of artificial electricity and potential extraterrestrial influence on early high cultures. The author, André Kramer, aims to present the "electro-thesis," describe the Hathor temple and the reliefs, discuss their Egyptological interpretation, and then present criticisms of the "electro-thesis," including a lesser-known relief outside the main crypts.

The "Electro-Thesis"

Krassa and Habeck proposed that these reliefs depict modern light bulbs. They commissioned an electrical engineer, Walter Garn, to build a model that functioned using ionized vapors and electrical discharges, with the snake in the relief interpreted as the "light beam." The basis for this interpretation is described as a purely associative "looks like" approach, where the similarity to modern light bulbs is considered sufficient justification. Another argument for this view is the alleged absence of soot marks on the temple walls and ceilings, which the authors claim indicates that torches were not used for illumination.

The Hathor Temple of Dendera

The Hathor temple in Dendera is described as a relatively young temple, built during Egypt's Late Period and completed during the Ptolemaic and Roman eras. Hathor, the cow-headed goddess, was associated with the sky and the Egyptian king. The temple is well-preserved and notable for its 12 crypts, which are decorated with reliefs, possibly for storing cultic objects. The controversial "light bulb reliefs" are located in the underground crypt South 1 C.

Egyptological Interpretation

Wolfgang Waitkus, referencing temple inscriptions and iconography, interprets the reliefs differently. He suggests they depict a bark (interpreted as the "cable") from which a lotus blossom (the "socket") emerges, and from the blossom, a snake (the "light beam") appears. The bulb-shaped body is seen as an undefined cult object, with the entire depiction symbolizing the different stages of the sun's journey. This interpretation is supported by other depictions of a lotus plant growing from a bark, with a snake emerging from its bloom.

Criticism of the "Electro-Thesis"

Kramer outlines several criticisms of the "electro-thesis":

• Energy Source: The "Baghdad Battery" is often cited as a potential power source for the alleged light bulbs. However, this artifact, a clay pot containing a copper cylinder and iron core, is estimated to have produced only 0.2 volts, requiring an immense number to power a lamp. Furthermore, it was sealed, limiting oxygen supply, and its origin (Parthian culture) and purpose are debated.
• Lack of Soot: The argument that the absence of soot proves torches were not used is countered by evidence of soot in other temples and pyramids, as documented by Frank Dörnenburg.
• Selective Interpretation: The interpretation of the hieroglyph "Ihi" as a "light source" is criticized as a selective reading. Dörnenburg points out that "Ihi" is also depicted as a youth holding a rattle, a detail omitted by Krassa and Habeck but present in the "light bulb relief" itself.

Another "Light Bulb Relief" in Room G of the Hathor Temple

In 2007, Kramer and Frank Dörnenburg visited Egypt to find another "light bulb relief" mentioned by Waitkus, located outside the crypts in Room G. After a difficult search due to the temple's vast number of reliefs, they found a relief about three meters high. This relief, unlike the one in the crypt, still retains some of its original color. Kramer notes that if the "electro-thesis" were correct, the "electrical discharge" (the snake) should exhibit a color that identifies it as a light source. However, the snake is painted in a dark color, further undermining the "light bulb" interpretation.

Current News and Reviews

The issue also includes a "Kurz notiert" (Briefly Noted) section with "Aktuelle Meldungen" (Current News):

• "The Fourth Kind" on DVD and Blu-ray: The film, previously reviewed, is now available on DVD and Blu-ray. The article notes that claims of the film being based on real documentary material are false, similar to other mockumentary films.
• President of Kalmykia Visits a Spaceship: Kirsan Iljumschinow, President of the Russian republic of Kalmykia, claimed in a talk show to have been invited aboard a spaceship in 1997 for sample collection and a tour. This is presented as an example of contactee-like experiences still being reported.

Literature Reviews

Two book reviews are featured:

• "UFOs – Sie fliegen noch immer. Neueste Fakten, das Wissen der Geheimdienste und die Intelligenz aus dem All" by Hartwig Hausdorf: Reviewed by Hans-Werner Peiniger, this book is criticized for relying heavily on popular UFO literature and rehashing classic cases without providing substantial new evidence or in-depth analysis. Peiniger finds the material superficial and speculative, suggesting it is suitable only for uncritical lay readers. The book is described as fitting into the category of popular boulevard literature.
• "Mysterious Sky: UFOs über Russland" by Philipp Mantle and Paul Stonehill: Reviewed by an unnamed author, this book is noted for collecting UFO phenomena from Russia after the fall of the Iron Curtain. The review criticizes the book's disorganized structure, numerous errors, and questionable translation, suggesting the translator may have injected personal ideology into the text.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of popular UFO theories, particularly those related to ancient civilizations and extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, favoring rigorous analysis, Egyptological interpretations, and a critical approach to evidence. The journal actively seeks to debunk or provide alternative explanations for phenomena often presented as definitive proof of UFO activity. The reviews of Hausdorf's and Mantle/Stonehill's books highlight a preference for well-researched, critically analyzed content over speculative or sensationalist material.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 2-2010, NR.188, published by Argo-Verlag, focuses on UFO phenomena, particularly in Russia, and critically examines research methodologies. The cover prominently features "Mysterious sky UFOs über Russland" with images of Lenin and Stalin, indicating a significant portion of the content is dedicated to Russian cases.

Book Review: "Mysterious Sky: UFOs über Russland"

The issue includes a review by Hans-Werner Peiniger of a book titled "Mysterious Sky: UFOs über Russland." Peiniger notes that the cases presented are similar to those in the USA, involving military sites, nuclear facilities, and even a purported UFO crash in Russia. However, he criticizes the book for presenting cases with mostly anecdotal evidence, mixed with rumors, and lacking solid facts. The photos are described as being of poor quality and unconvincing. Peiniger points out the lack of explanation for terms like "ORDZHENIKIDZE-Objekt" and expresses disappointment with the handling of cases like Voronezh, which leave more questions unanswered than resolved. He suggests that fewer cases described in more detail and with verifiable sources would be more beneficial than presenting numerous cases with weak evidence. He also questions the use of dowsing (Wünschelruten) to obtain information, referencing a presentation by Russian scientist Valerii Uvarov. While acknowledging the book offers a glimpse into Russian UFO research, Peiniger concludes it is not a particularly good UFO book and falls short of being a scientifically oriented publication, leaving the reader to decide if it warrants a place on their bookshelf.

Reader Letter: "Leserbriefe Meinungen & Ideen" by Jochen Ickinger

Jochen Ickinger writes in response to UFO case documentation in previous issues of JUFOF (4, 5, and 6-2009), which included two "Good UFO" cases and one "Problematic UFO" case. Ickinger emphasizes the importance of such unexplained cases for UFO research but raises concerns about the methodology used in these specific cases. He notes that in two of the cases, there was no personal contact with the witness or a personal interview, and no on-site investigation was conducted (excluding the international Bretagne case). For the German cases, he acknowledges that the time elapsed might make on-site investigations difficult, but he questions the reliability of witness testimonies after such long periods. He quotes the investigator stating that memories can change over time due to later perceptions or adjusted expectations. Ickinger believes that while some core details might be retained, it's difficult to discern which details are accurate, which are distorted, and which might be fabricated to fill memory gaps. He disagrees with the notion that memory imprints are static and can be recalled unchanged after long periods, referencing forensic witness and statement psychology. He stresses the need for personal witness interviews, especially for complex and unexplained cases, and on-site investigations, considering them essential even if resource constraints (time and personnel) make them difficult. He finds "remote diagnoses" insufficient. Ickinger concludes that these cases should primarily be documented and filed, as the evidence is too thin for further analysis. He also criticizes the classification of some cases as "Good UFO" based on the Hendry categories, arguing that these categories are insufficiently defined and that classifying a case as "GOOD" or "BEST" based solely on a single witness testimony without further evidence is inadequate, citing the Mörfelden-Walldorf case where the object was only registered by the witness.

Author's Comment on Ickinger's Letter

Hans-Werner Peiniger responds to Ickinger's critique, acknowledging the unsatisfactory situation regarding UFO case classification. He highlights that in Germany, only the GEP consistently classifies cases over many years according to international standards and has considered other classification systems. He mentions that they have adapted the IFO classification by adding a differentiation according to Rudolf Henke. Peiniger agrees that the Hynek/Hendry classification is purely object-based and does not account for factors like missing personal interviews or long time lapses. He concedes that this is not sufficient and that the subjective aspect of UFO cases has become increasingly important in recent years, a factor not captured by the current system. He acknowledges that all known classification systems have weaknesses and that a new, contemporary system is needed that considers both objective and subjective aspects and the quality of case processing. Regarding the criticism that GEP includes cases classified as "UFOs i.e. S." (unidentified flying objects, in the strict sense) based solely on objective criteria, Peiniger argues that this is not problematic, as it achieves the goal of selecting "interesting cases." He states that whether to include cases with "weak data" for further analysis is up to the individual researcher. He suggests that a new classification system could improve the quality of "UFOs i.e. S." cases and that the journal might explore this topic further, potentially through a cross-group project. He anticipates that this discussion will lead to further internal debates and that the findings will be reported in jufof at a later time.

Book Review: "Über die Wissenschaftlichkeit der UFO-Forschung der GEP e. V." by Olaf Fritz

This section reviews Olaf Fritz's book, which examines the scientific validity of UFO research in Germany, focusing on the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens) in Lüdenscheid. The review states that Fritz's social science perspective concludes that GEP's research has a clearly defined subject matter, a systematic and traceable approach, and is reproducible, controllable, and thus criticizable. GEP's research findings are regularly made public in jufof. The book is described as 125 pages, paperback, with ISBN 978-3-940445-04-9, priced at €16.95.

Advertisement: Q'Phaze Magazine

An advertisement for "Q'Phaze - Realität... anders!" magazine is included, promoting it as a large-format magazine covering topics like Paleo-SETI, Exobiology, Astronomy, Archaeology, and fringe science. It offers subscription options and lists several authors contributing to the magazine.

Journal Information and Contact

The final pages provide information about the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (jufof) and the GEP e.V. It defines a UFO as a perceived object or light that cannot be conventionally explained after thorough examination. It also provides contact information for reporting UFO sightings, including a phone number and website addresses for the GEP and jufof, as well as an email address for UFO reports.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical evaluation of UFO research methodologies, the reliability of evidence, and the definition and classification of UFO cases. The journal maintains a stance of scientific rigor, emphasizing the need for verifiable data, personal interviews, and systematic analysis. There is a clear effort to distinguish between anecdotal accounts and scientifically sound research, as evidenced by the critical reviews and the discussion on classification systems. The editorial stance appears to favor a cautious, evidence-based approach to the study of UFO phenomena, encouraging debate and the development of more robust research methods.