JUFOF - Issue 190 - 2010 04

Magazine Overview

This issue of jufof, the journal for UFO research, is dated April 2010, Volume 31, Number 190. Published by GEP e.V., it features a cover headline focusing on 'Landspuren' (ground traces) in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, presented as the first part of an overview. The cover image depicts a classic UFO shape hovering over a landscape.

Editorial

The editorial, titled 'Liebe Leser' (Dear Readers) and written by T. A. Günter, addresses the perceived superfluity of investigating Identified Flying Objects (IFOs) by some UFO enthusiasts. Günter argues for the necessity of studying IFOs, citing the extensive 'UFO Observations' section in the magazine, which spans 12 pages in this issue. He explains the GEP's '100-percent rule,' which dictates the collection and processing of all available data without initial selection, to ensure that no information relevant to other researchers is discarded. This comprehensive approach is seen as crucial for collaboration between UFO groups. The editorial also mentions Ulrich Magin's article on UFO ground traces. Günter concludes by announcing his departure from the GEP board after 10 years due to time constraints, but affirms his continued membership and interest in the subject.

UFO Observations: Documentations – Evaluations

This section details several reported UFO sightings and provides an analysis of each.

Elliptical Object over Großglockner

This case (Fallnummer: 20050521 A) involves a photograph taken by professional photographer Wilfried B. on May 21, 2005, near Großglockner, Austria. The object, initially described as a Z-shaped cloud, was captured by chance. The investigation, led by Hans-Werner Peiniger, explored several explanations, including a cloud formation, a halo, or a lens reflection. The photographer insisted the sun was behind him and he used a lens hood, ruling out direct sunlight reflection. However, an analysis of the shadows in the photo indicated the sun was in front of the photographer. While the photographer later conceded a possible error in his memory regarding the sun's position, he maintained the lens hood was used. The investigator concluded that while a definitive identification was difficult without further analysis, it was unlikely to be a conventional aircraft or a physical object that coincidentally appeared in the frame. The conclusion leans towards a lens reflection or an unusual cloud formation.

Unidentified Flying Object with Occupants over Bad Neuenahr

This report (Fallnummer: 20090426 A) from April 26, 2009, in Bad Neuenahr, Germany, describes a white point that grew larger, displaying aircraft-like lights and a square beam. The witness reported seeing "standing persons" behind green, orange, and blue windows on what appeared to be a modern ship's deck, flying silently at a close distance (30 meters). The investigator, Natale Guido Cincinnati, noted the unusual details, such as the close proximity and apparent occupants, which contradict a typical aircraft sighting. Due to insufficient data, a definitive conclusion could not be reached, but the case is classified as CE III.

Round Object over Karlsruhe

Photographed on May 25, 2008, in Karlsruhe, Germany, by Ina R. (Fallnummer: 20080525 B), this object was discovered by the witness only after reviewing her photos of clouds. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, suggests the object is likely a bird, insect, or possibly a balloon, given the short exposure time (1/1600s) which would make a moving object appear elongated. The object's absence in subsequent photos makes a balloon less likely. The witness did not notice the object at the time of the photograph.

Other UFO Observations

Brief mentions of other sightings are listed without detailed descriptions in the provided scan: May 21, 2005, Großglockner, Austria; April 26, 2009, Bad Neuenahr, Germany; May 25, 2008, Karlsruhe, Germany; May 31, 2009, Berlin-Spandau, Germany; August 19, 2008, Navis, Austria; September 2, 2009, Krefeld, Germany; and August 13, 2010, Ochtrup, Germany.

Further Reports Overview

This section includes a brief mention of 'Teil 1' (Part 1) of 'Weitere Meldungen im Überblick' (Further Reports Overview), suggesting a continuation of sighting reports.

Noteworthy Items

Obituary

The issue notes the passing of Wendelle C. Stevens, a figure in the UFO community.

Technology

A brief mention of 'Augmented Reality with Smartphones' indicates a contemporary technological topic is touched upon.

UFO Literature

This section reviews recent book titles related to UFOs, including 'Top Secret,' 'S.O.S. Erde,' and 'Blick in den Himmel.'

Impressum

The 'Impressum' section details the publisher as Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., founded in 1972, with contact information and bank details. It states that marked contributions do not necessarily reflect GEP's views and that unsolicited manuscripts are not liable. The magazine is published bi-monthly on a non-commercial basis, with contributions printed without honorarium. Subscription prices are listed: €27.00 per year plus postage (€7.00 Germany, €18.00 Europe, €24.00 rest of the world). GEP members receive the magazine as part of their membership. Advertisements are also mentioned, with free classified ads for subscribers and members.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the systematic investigation and documentation of UFO phenomena, including both unexplained sightings and identified objects (IFOs). The editorial stance, as articulated by T. A. Günter, strongly advocates for a comprehensive, non-selective data collection approach ('100-percent rule') to ensure thoroughness and facilitate future research. The magazine aims to inform the public about UFO research findings, adhering to its statutes. The analysis of individual cases, even those identified as IFOs, is valued for its educational 'learning factor.' The issue also highlights the importance of inter-group cooperation in UFO research.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue number 190 from Ausgabe 4-2010, focuses on various reported sightings of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs) and objects, primarily from Germany and Austria, spanning dates from 2008 to 2010. The majority of the investigations and analyses are attributed to Hans-Werner Peiniger, with a contribution from Thomas Mertens. The magazine presents detailed witness reports, photographic and video evidence, and the subsequent assessments and conclusions drawn by the investigators.

Case Studies and Analysis

"No idea what that was« (Berlin-Spandau, Germany)

This case, dated May 31, 2009, involves a witness named Artur R. who photographed an object while intending to capture storm clouds. The object was not visible in subsequent photos taken moments later. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, notes that the object's blurriness is likely due to the camera's shutter speed (1/40 second). The conclusion is that the object was probably a bird or insect that flew through the frame during the exposure, with the blurry areas interpreted as wings.

UFO over the Blasigler Alm (Austria)

On August 19, 2008, Claudia N. photographed an elongated object at an altitude of approximately 1700 meters in Austria. While reviewing the photos later, she noticed the object. Analysis of the image, including raster depth processing, revealed darker areas suggestive of wing beats. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, concludes that it was likely an insect captured due to the relatively long exposure time (1/125 second) and the insect's movement.

Yellow-Orange Light Point with a Tail (Krefeld, Germany)

This report from September 2, 2009, details an observation by two witnesses, Micha and Barbara. They saw a yellow-orange light point with a small tail moving at high speed in a zig-zag pattern, disappearing behind a tree. Shortly after, they observed a fixed, white light point that blinked on and off like a lamp. Investigator Thomas Mertens suggests the yellow-orange object could be a pyrotechnic body or a sky lantern. The white light might have been an aircraft's spotlight. Due to insufficient data, the case is classified as having "insufficient data" (NL).

"Rod« Photographed During Fireworks (Ochtrup, Germany)

On August 13, 2010, Michael S. recorded fireworks with his mobile phone and later noticed an object moving rapidly from right to left, against the direction of the fireworks, and disappearing upwards. The video, when slowed down, showed an object resembling a UFO. Investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger identifies the object as likely an insect due to its wave-like movement and the blurriness caused by the phone's camera settings. The phenomenon is compared to "Rods," which are often explained as insects captured on film.

Further Reports in Overview - Part 1

Case 20100708 A (Rügland, Germany): An anonymous witness reported a very bright object on July 8, 2010, resembling an aircraft with its landing lights on, observed at a distance of about 2 kilometers. The witness ruled out a conventional aircraft due to the lack of sound and the object's profile. Investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger concludes it was likely a sky lantern.

Case 20100702 A (Gummersbach – Strombach, Germany): On July 2, 2010, Holger P. observed a bright orange-red object moving from south to north. The object's size, altitude, and speed were comparable to a small aircraft, but there was no sound. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, identifies it as likely a sky lantern.

Further Reports in Overview - Part 2

Case 20100711 A (Hohen Neuendorf, Germany): On July 11, 2010, witness Ch. M. observed 10-15 bright light points moving in formation from southeast to northwest. The objects appeared and disappeared rapidly, exhibiting unnatural speed and flight paths. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, concludes these were likely sky lanterns.

Case 20100707 B (Schlegel, Germany): An anonymous witness reported seeing three bright lights in a triangular formation on July 7, 2010, which slowly moved and faded. Later, another light was seen moving from south to west. Investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger identifies these as likely sky lanterns.

Case 20100628 A (Germersheim, Germany): On June 28, 2010, an anonymous witness observed three spherical, yellow-orange objects moving silently and slowly from west to east. Investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger concludes these were likely sky lanterns.

Case 20100627 A (Nürnberg, Germany): On June 27, 2010, witness Klaus G. observed an object resembling a bright star or Venus moving from west to east at an estimated altitude of 10,000 meters. The witness provided videos of the object. Investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger identified the object as the International Space Station (ISS), noting the significant discrepancy between the witness's estimated altitude (10 km) and the ISS's actual altitude (355 km).

Further Reports in Overview - Part 3

Case 20100624 A (Gargazon, Italy): Witness Klaus G. reported a luminous object moving slowly then quickly from east-southeast to west-southwest. Due to the lack of details and no contact information, this case is classified as having "insufficient data."

Case 20100610 A (Mäder, Austria): An anonymous witness reported seeing white lights on two consecutive days, moving slowly then accelerating rapidly before disappearing. Investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger concludes these were likely sky lanterns.

Case 20100611 A (Hamburg, Germany): On June 11, 2010, Bettina A. observed a white-yellow, spherical object moving silently and in a perfectly straight line from west to east. The object was brighter than a star and appeared to be at a high altitude (estimated 1000-3000 m). Two such objects were observed. Investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger identifies these as likely sky lanterns.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the misidentification of common aerial objects as UFOs, particularly insects, birds, and sky lanterns. The journal consistently applies a critical and analytical approach, often concluding that reported sightings can be explained by known phenomena. The investigators, especially Hans-Werner Peiniger, meticulously examine photographic and video evidence, witness testimonies, and environmental factors like camera settings and atmospheric conditions. The editorial stance appears to favor rational explanations and the identification of phenomena, classifying many cases as IFOs (Identified Flying Objects) rather than true UFOs. Cases with insufficient data are clearly marked, indicating a commitment to rigorous investigation. The journal aims to document and analyze these sightings, providing explanations based on available evidence.

Title: JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG

Issue: 190

Volume: 4-2010

Issue Date: October 2010

Publisher: GEP

Country: Germany

Language: German

Cover Headline: Landespuren in Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz (Ground Traces in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland)

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research) delves into the phenomenon of "Landespuren" (ground traces) associated with UFO sightings across German-speaking countries, presenting a comprehensive overview and analysis of numerous cases.

Article: Landespuren in Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz – Eine erste Übersicht – Teil 1

Author: Ulrich Magin

Ulrich Magin presents the first known analysis of "Landespuren" in the German-speaking region. The article aims to list and evaluate all known cases with basic information about the UFO and descriptions of the ground traces from literature. Magin notes the difficulty in finding cases, as many UFO groups use the term "CE II" loosely, sometimes referring to mere fear reactions or simply close encounters without traces. Genuine ground traces are often categorized under "CE III" but are not explicitly cataloged as such.

Magin explains his methodology, stating that he has been very generous in his classification, considering any trace not clearly attributable to a conventional cause as unidentified. He defines a "UFO-Landespur" as a trace where neither the stimulus nor the trace itself could be conventionally identified. Conversely, an "IFO-Landespur" is one where the trace, the "causing" object, or both can be conventionally explained. He acknowledges that his dataset likely contains many "IFO" cases due to this broad definition.

The article filters out hoaxes and clearly identifiable conventional stimuli, such as cases where a burnt patch is found alongside a burnt "MHB" (Mutmaßliches Himmels-Boden-Phänomen - Suspected Sky-Ground Phenomenon). Magin emphasizes that even if the "triggering" UFO had parameters similar to an MHB, it's not considered an IFO factor unless the MHB itself is found and secured.

The remaining cases are to be analyzed based on criteria like the proportion of burnt patches, ground impressions, diameter, and quantity. Magin speculates that the distribution of sizes might reveal two peaks, one correlating with burn marks and the other with flattened grass, which could suggest unknown phenomena.

He also considers the possibility that statistically, there might be no difference between UFO and IFO ground traces, which would call the entire UFO category into question. The dataset begins with cases categorized as "Spurenfall – UFO," meaning anything not classified as "Best IFO."

Case Examples:

• 1941, Switzerland: Alpinists searching for three missing mountaineers found traces indicating a landing site of a flying object, with three holes in a triangle in the snow where the footprints ended.
• Summer 1948, Hemer, Germany: A forest ranger and shepherd, Ernst-August R., witnessed a thirty-meter long, cylindrical object. He touched the object, received an electric shock, and lost consciousness. Upon waking, he found himself eighty meters away, surrounded by four one-meter tall beings with large heads, slit-like eyes, and carrying boxes with tubes.
• June 17, 1950, Haselbach: Oskar Linke observed a "flying frying pan" with men in silver suits on the ground. A conical tower descended from the object and then retracted as it took off. A circular opening was found in the ground where the object had been.
• 1974, Westerwald, Germany: A burnt patch with a diameter of 2.30 meters was discovered, with no ash residue. Dark imprints resembling landing gear were found in the grass, and a compass spun erratically. The circle was found without a prior UFO observation.
• September 1981, Mainau: A couple on a houseboat heard a strange noise and saw a bright, illuminated sphere land on the water. They observed small, grey-clad beings re-enter the object, which then flew away in a zig-zag pattern. The landing site showed flattened reeds in a wide radius.
• December 30, 1981, Berlin-Frohnau: A homeowner found a 15 cm round hole melted through the 20 cm thick ice of her pool. Police divers found nothing, and experts could not explain it, suggesting a magnesium projectile that dissolved.
• June 1982, Benediktbeuren: A witness saw a "round, grey-black thing" in the form of a "bowl lying on its side" on the grass. When the witness looked away and back, the object was gone. A trace was found on the landing site.
• Summer 1982, Dorla, Germany: A farmer reported burnt grass in a clockwise direction and semi-circular imprints 1.46 meters apart. The earth at this spot did not absorb water, and nothing grew there.
• August 8 or October 8, 1982, Dorla, Germany: An event described as a "giant spectacle" occurred, resulting in twelve semi-circular imprints, each 1.46 meters apart, on the paving stones of a garage entrance. These traces were only clearly visible when wet. Johannes von Buttlar noted a "change in charge polarization," while GEP and CENAP suggested a natural explanation, Hesemann and von Buttlar considered them evidence of a UFO landing.
• February 10, 1986, Darmstadt, Germany: A crater-shaped hole with a diameter of 80 cm was found in the ice of a pond, surrounded by hundreds of other holes, some breaking through the 10 cm thick ice. An explosion had been heard days earlier. Experts considered a plane part or meteorite, but divers found only mud and a piece of wood. Some newspapers claimed they were landing traces of a flying saucer.
• February 1986, Stockstadt, Germany: Three holes were found in a pond's ice, one rectangular and two round, with red-colored ice edges, possibly blood.
• February 1986, near Aschaffenburg, Germany: Three holes were found in the ice over a pond, the largest being 60 cm in diameter.
• February 1986, Eschau, Germany: "Strange traces" were found in the ice over a pond.
• February 1986, Weibach, Germany: Holes were found in the ice.

Witness Reports and Assessments

Several witness reports are included, detailing sightings and subsequent ground traces. For instance, a report from Esslingen (20100719 A) describes a burning disc that moved rapidly. The assessment by Hans-Werner Peiniger concludes that the visual appearance and dynamic behavior are consistent with sky lanterns, making them the likely cause.

Another report from Strasburg (20100731 A) describes a burning object that moved rapidly. Peiniger again assesses this as likely a sky lantern. A sighting from Gladbeck (20100731 B) mentions three orange/red glowing objects in a triangular formation, followed by one object. The assessment also points to sky lanterns.

Short Notes: Current Reports

Wendelle C. Stevens Passes Away

The obituary for Wendelle C. Stevens, a former Air-Force Lt.-Colonel, highlights his over 50 years of activity in UFO investigations, including his role as Director of Investigations for APRO. He was known for his large collection of UFO photos and authored over 20 books. The article mentions criticisms of his uncritical approach to cases and his past conviction for sexual contact with minors. His books include "UFO Contact from the Pleiades" and "UFO Crash at Aztec."

Influence of Augmented Reality on UFO Sightings

This section discusses how modern smartphones with advanced sensors and internet access, combined with Augmented Reality (AR) apps like "Planefinder," could change how UFO sightings are reported. AR apps can overlay flight information onto real-world views, potentially leading to more detailed or verifiable reports from smartphone users.

GEP Insider

A note informs members that GEP Insider No. 61 includes an analysis of the UFO discussion on the internet and information about the MIKADO drone of the German Federal Armed Forces.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the investigation and analysis of physical evidence left behind by alleged UFO phenomena, particularly "Landespuren." The journal consistently presents witness testimonies alongside expert assessments, which often lean towards conventional explanations like sky lanterns, while acknowledging cases that remain unexplained or require further investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of thorough, albeit sometimes skeptical, inquiry into UFO-related events, with a focus on cataloging and analyzing evidence. The inclusion of the obituary for Wendelle C. Stevens and the discussion on augmented reality suggest an interest in both historical context and future technological impacts on UFO research.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 4-2010, Nr. 190, published by GEP e.V., delves into various aspects of UFO research, including specific sighting reports, reviews of relevant literature, and an examination of the scientific methodology employed by the organization.

UFO Sightings and Cases

The journal presents several detailed UFO sighting reports from Germany:

• Hamburg-Wandsbeck (Mid-1986): A witness observed a large, container-like object with multiple windows flying slowly at low altitude, approximately 10 meters away. The object was estimated to be 20 meters long and 3-4 meters high. The sighting was accompanied by a power outage in a neighboring house and a dog's panicked reaction.
• Lüchow (August 28, 1989): A witness reported a 'yellow sphere' and subsequently found two circular impressions on the lawn. The grass was described as having brown tips and being slightly twisted. These impressions, measuring 60 cm and 40 cm in diameter and 70 cm apart, were still visible after multiple lawn mowings and had also been present in 1988. Soil samples were taken, with a suspicion of grass disease.
• Gengenbach (May 27, 1989): A witness, who had prior UFO sightings, experienced an encounter in a forest clearing. The witness reported memory loss from the appearance of a light beam until waking up with a rash. The area where the object was observed showed no grass growth, while the surrounding area was covered. Investigator Josef Garcia suggested natural causes.

Book Reviews

The issue features several book reviews, offering insights into literature relevant to UFO research and related fields:

• 'Top Secret: Geheimprojekte und Technologien der Supermächte' by Hartmut Grosser: This book provides an overview of current military technologies, including aircraft, drones, and spacecraft, with a speculative dive into UFO phenomena and pre-astronautics. The reviewer notes that while the book covers advanced technologies, it also ventures into speculative areas like Haunebu flying saucers and time machines, presenting them as facts. The reviewer criticizes the author's reliance on Wikipedia and a single magazine for research.

• 'S.O.S. - Erde: Wettermanipulation möglich?' by Ulrich Bergemann: This book examines the possibility of environmental catastrophes and weather being influenced by weapons or tools. It covers meteorological and geophysical fundamentals, unusual weather phenomena, and biogenic influences. The reviewer finds the book interesting, particularly its presentation of unconventional weapon systems and its avoidance of conspiracy theories, though it has limited direct relevance to the journal's primary focus.

• 'Blick in den Himmel: Lichterscheinungen und Himmelskörper beobachten und fotografieren' by Laurent Laveder and Didier Jamet: This richly illustrated book offers an overview of celestial phenomena for amateur astronomers and beginners. It explains light phenomena, celestial bodies, and methods for observation and photography, using simple equipment. The reviewer praises the book's accessible explanations and inspiring photographs, encouraging readers to observe and photograph the night sky.

• 'Über die Wissenschaftlichkeit der UFO-Forschung der GEP e. V.' by Olaf Fritz: This study evaluates the scientific validity of UFO research conducted by the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.) in Germany. The author concludes that the GEP's research has a clear subject matter, employs a systematic and traceable approach, and its findings are reproducible, controllable, and open to criticism. The results are regularly published in the journal.

• 'Das UFO-Rätsel' by Marcia S. Smith & George D. Havas: This documentation, originally published as 'The UFO Enigma' by the Congressional Research Service, provides a comprehensive overview of UFO phenomena, including detailed information and appendices. The revised German edition is updated and expanded.

GEP and Journal Information

The journal also provides information about the GEP e.V., described as Germany's largest non-profit scientific association dedicated to UFO research. It details the GEP's research methods, including questionnaires, field investigations, and background information analysis, noting their interdisciplinary approach and support from authorities and scientific institutions.

Information about the jufof (Journal für UFO-Forschung) is also presented, highlighting its role since 1980 in critically documenting UFO sightings, their classification, and case studies. The second part of each issue contains scientifically-styled expert reports, case studies, and analyses, rounded off by reviews and reader letters.

Contact information for reporting UFO sightings to the GEP is provided, including a phone number (0 23 51 / 2 33 77), email ([email protected]), and website URLs (www.ufo-forschung.de, www.jufof.de).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around documented UFO sightings, the critical examination of UFO research methodologies, and the review of literature that bridges the gap between fringe topics and scientific inquiry. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous, scientific investigation, as evidenced by the GEP's methodology and the critical reviews of books that may lean towards speculation without sufficient evidence. The journal aims to provide a factual and methodologically sound platform for UFO research and related subjects.