JUFOF - Issue 191 - 2010 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of jufof (Journal für UFO-Forschung), dated May 2010 (Issue Nr. 191, Volume 31), is published by GEP e.V. The cover prominently features the headline "Landespuren in Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz" (Ground Traces in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland), indicating this is the second part of an overview. The cover image depicts two figures in a misty, outdoor setting.

Editorial

The editorial, titled "Liebe Leser" (Dear Readers), written by Hans-Werner Peiniger, addresses publication delays, attributing them to the high workload of the editorial team and the printer, rather than financial issues. Peiniger expresses gratitude to colleagues and supporters of GEP for their contributions, including articles, website maintenance, database work, and financial donations. He specifically names Danny Ammon, Natale-Guido Cincinnati, Christian Czech, Henriette Fiebig, T. A. Günter, Peter Kauert, André Kramer, Ulrich Magin, and Dieter von Reeken. The editorial also previews the issue's content, highlighting Ulrich Magin's continued contribution on landing cases and André Kramer's in-depth review of Erich von Däniken's latest book. Peiniger concludes with New Year's wishes for health, happiness, and success.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section details several reported UFO sightings:

• Hell leuchtende Schweife beobachtet (Brightly Shining Tails Observed): Two cases are presented, one from Kiel, Germany (undated, possibly January 2004), and another from Maskat City, Oman (February 23, 2010). The witness, Claus D., describes seeing bright objects resembling contrails. The Kiel sighting is compared to a YouTube video (Ff1xZNddQIE). The Oman sighting, observed with two witnesses, was similar but smaller and descended steadily. The witness notes that Handy-Fotos did not capture the object, possibly due to sensor dynamics. Another YouTube video (v=-fYHJKWMAfU) showing a similar phenomenon is also referenced.
• Diskussion und Beurteilung (Discussion and Assessment): The assessment suggests these sightings are likely high-flying aircraft whose contrails were illuminated by the setting sun. Contrails are explained as ice crystals formed from aircraft exhaust at high altitudes, mixing with cold air.

• Rundes schwarzes Objekt über Rimbach (Round Black Object over Rimbach): Reported on March 3, 2010, in Rimbach, Germany. The witness, Bennet W., photographed a round black object with a white corona in the sky. A second photo taken three minutes later did not show the object. The initial assessment suggested a bird, insect, or balloon. The witness had previously contacted Werner Walter of CENAP. The GEP's assessment confirms that it could be a bird, insect, or balloon, but also notes that the object's slight movement over three minutes makes a bird or insect less likely. The object appeared as a dark silhouette against the light due to backlighting.

• Bläulich-weiße Kugel über Mühlheim-Kärlich (Bluish-white Sphere over Mühlheim-Kärlich): Observed on August 15, 2009, near Weitersburg, Germany. Witnesses Herr T. and his friend saw a bluish-white, strongly luminous sphere, approximately 1/2 meter in diameter, for about 20 seconds. The initial classification was 'ungenügende Daten' (insufficient data), with a possible identification as a model hot air balloon. Further investigation into weather data (warm temperatures, low wind) supported the possibility of a model hot air balloon, though the bright, steady light was unusual for such devices.

• Dabei kam mir das (?) vor die Linse (The (?) came in front of the lens): Reported on September 17, 2010, in Berlin, Germany, by Petra G., a hobby photographer. While photographing the moon, she captured an object that appeared as a reflection or a green ring-like phenomenon. The witness, a photographer, initially believed it to be a sensational discovery but later realized it was likely a lens reflection. The images show the moon and a distinct green ring or arc. The witness describes seeing a funnel-shaped ring and expresses a desire to regain inner peace after this experience.

Landespuren in Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz (Ground Traces in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) - Part 2

This section, continuing from a previous issue, focuses on the phenomenon of 'Landespuren' or ground traces, likely related to UFO sightings. The content details specific cases and their analysis, though the full extent of this section is not detailed in the provided pages. The visual elements include a diagram of a belt buckle ('Gürtelschnell') with measurements and a sketch labeled 'Querschnitt des Loches' (Cross-section of the hole).

Literatur (Literature)

• Grüße aus der Steinzeit (Greetings from the Stone Age): This appears to be a book review or article related to prehistoric times, possibly with a UFO or ancient astronautology angle, given the context of the magazine.

Leserbriefe (Letters to the Editor)

• Alexander Knörr, per E-Mail: A letter from Alexander Knörr is mentioned, indicating reader interaction.

Impressum (Imprint)

• Herausgeber (Publisher): Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e. V., founded in 1972.
• Address: Postfach 2361, D-58473 Lüdenscheid, Germany.
• Contact: Telefon: (02351) 23377, Telefax: (02351) 23335, e-Mail: [email protected].
• Bank: Postbank NL Dortmund.
• Redaktion (Editorial Staff): Hans-Werner Peiniger and Danny Ammon are responsible for the editorial content.
• Content Disclaimer: Articles and statements in literature reviews and advertisements do not necessarily reflect the views of GEP. Unsolicited manuscripts and photos are not liable.
• Publication Frequency: The magazine is published bi-monthly on a non-commercial basis, with contributions being honorarium-free.
• Subscription Price: 1 year (6 issues) costs €27.00 plus postage (€7.00 in Germany, €18.00 in Europe, €24.00 for other countries). Membership in GEP includes the subscription.
• Advertising: Information on advertising prices is available upon request. Small ads are free for subscribers (up to six lines) and members (up to ten lines).
• Reprint Policy: Reprints are only permitted with written permission from GEP and require a copy of the published material.
• Printing: MG-Verlag, 56637 Plaidt.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation and analysis of UFO sightings, with a particular focus on potential prosaic explanations such as contrails. The magazine maintains a scientific and investigative approach, evident in the detailed 'Diskussion und Beurteilung' sections for each sighting. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging detailed reporting and critical assessment of evidence, while also acknowledging the possibility of misidentification. The publication also engages with UFO literature, providing reviews and contributing to the broader discourse on the phenomenon.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, AUSGABE 5-2010, NR. 191, focuses on a variety of UFO sightings and ground trace cases, primarily from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Portugal. The publication is dedicated to the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena.

"Geräuschloser Lichtpunkt am klaren Nachthimmel" (Silent Light Point in the Clear Night Sky)

This section details a sighting on September 12, 2010, in Warthausen, Germany. Three witnesses reported observing a silent, orange-glowing light point that moved in a straight line, followed by several more lights. These lights eventually deviated from their paths and disappeared. The investigation, led by Hans-Werner Peiniger, concluded that the phenomenon was likely caused by sky lanterns.

Zeugenbericht (Witness Report) - Warthausen Sighting

The witness described initially seeing a single bright light, which then multiplied into several. These lights moved in parallel, sometimes deviating before returning to their original direction. A final point appeared from the northeast and followed the others. The lights were described as bright, not blinking, and larger and brighter than stars or satellites. The duration of the observation was approximately 5 minutes.

Diskussion und Beurteilung (Discussion and Assessment) - Warthausen Sighting

Despite the anonymous nature of the report, the data was sufficient for identification. Hans-Werner Peiniger concluded that the event was likely a mass launch of sky lanterns, citing similar descriptions from previous years (2007 and 2008).

"Weitere Meldungen im Überblick Teil 2" (Further Reports in Overview Part 2)

This section presents several brief reports of UFO sightings.

Case 20100719 B: Biel/Bienne, Switzerland

On July 19, 2010, at 3:00 AM, a 20-year-old witness named Ramon N. observed a bright light moving rapidly across the sky. He stated it covered a quarter of the sky in about 20 seconds before extinguishing. He was certain it was a UFO. The investigation by Hans-Werner Peiniger suggested it was a sky lantern, dismissing possibilities like the ISS or other satellites. The witness's certainty was attributed to a desire for mystery.

Case 20100804 A: Neustrelitz, Germany

On August 4, 2010, at 11:15 PM, Claus S. (29) reported seeing a large, spaceship-like object resembling a rectangle with six lights. It moved silently and disappeared. Hans-Werner Peiniger classified this as NEAR IFO, identifying it as likely sky lanterns.

Case 20100703 A: Freising, Germany

On July 3, 2010, at 11:50 PM, Claudio (55) observed a bright, white-yellow light moving silently and directly south. The witness's age and observation duration varied slightly in different reports. The investigation by Hans-Werner Peiniger suggested it was likely a sky lantern, noting that their appearance can be mistaken for other phenomena.

"Landespuren in Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz" (Ground Traces in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) - Eine erste Übersicht – Teil 2

This article by Ulrich Magin is a continuation of an analysis of ground traces attributed to UFOs in German-speaking regions. It lists and evaluates known cases with brief descriptions of the UFOs and the traces.

Case: 1990, February 25 - Holziken, Aargau, Switzerland

A witness reported seeing four orange spotlights from a three-legged, semi-circular object with a dome. The next morning, three triangular imprints, each ten centimeters deep and spaced between 8.70 and 11.10 meters apart, were found on the landing site.

Case: 1993, July 1 - Bonn, Germany

"Landespuren" were discovered on a lawn without a prior UFO sighting. These were described as two rectangular patches, like drawn with a ruler, with unusually sharp edges, measuring 2.80 x 1.40 meters and 1.30 x 0.70 meters. The grass was discolored brown, appearing dried. The article includes a photograph from the BILD newspaper and mentions that the area was near a military ministry, leading to speculation about a possible prank or an unusual event.

Additional Sightings and Investigations

Case 20060228 A: São Roque do Pico, Azores, Portugal

A photograph submitted by Herr S. showed several bright points in the sky. The investigation by Hans-Werner Peiniger concluded that these were likely insects attracted by the body heat of the people present. The objects were too small to be noticed by the photographer at the time of the shot.

Case 20071226 A: Döbeln, Germany

Torsten L. submitted two photos showing bright points in the sky that flew in pairs and then formed a circle. The investigation suggested these were likely sky lanterns.

Case 20071226 A: Goch, Germany

Torsten L. reported frequent sightings of 'flying stars' in the Kleve area. He described them as bright points with erratic movements, sometimes accelerating rapidly. He also reported an incident where two aircraft approached a UFO, but then turned away. The investigation by Hans-Werner Peiniger, with assistance from Gerhard Gröschel, suggested these were likely 'flying stars' or similar phenomena, with the witness's descriptions being somewhat vague.

Case 20100619 A: Hof (Saale), Germany

Otto S. (25) reported a spherical, orange-glowing object with no position lights, moving at an estimated 350 km/h at an altitude of 600m. It moved in a straight line from southwest to southeast and disappeared suddenly. Florian Seifert investigated, but the witness lost interest in further participation. The assessment was that it was likely a sky lantern.

Case 20100909 A: Güntersleben, Germany

An anonymous witness (23) observed a pulsating orange-red light moving from west to east. The object reappeared twice. Hans-Werner Peiniger concluded that it was likely a sky lantern.

Case 20100901 A: Wimpassing, Austria

Gerald S. (31) reported a grey light point that flashed twice and appeared to change altitude. It moved from north to southwest and disappeared. The witness noted the lack of typical aircraft lights and the unusual speed. Hans-Werner Peiniger assessed it as likely a sky lantern, with the flashes attributed to the uneven burning of the fuel.

Case 20070707 C: Val Müstair, Switzerland

Stefan S. (26) submitted photographs showing several 'objects' on the edge of a lake. The investigation by Hans-Werner Peiniger concluded that these were most likely insects attracted by the body heat of the people present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the investigation and identification of UFO sightings. The journal consistently attempts to provide rational explanations for reported phenomena, with 'Himmelslaternen' (sky lanterns) being a frequent conclusion for many aerial light sightings. Other explanations include insects, atmospheric effects, and misidentification of conventional objects. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, aiming to demystify UFO reports by applying logical analysis and evidence-based reasoning, while acknowledging the possibility of unexplained events. The journal also highlights the importance of detailed witness reports and photographic evidence in their investigations.

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, published in Ausgabe 5-2010 (NR. 191), focuses on UFO sightings, investigations, and alleged landing traces primarily in Germany and Austria, spanning from the 1950s to the late 2000s. The magazine features detailed case studies, witness accounts, and analytical articles, with a strong emphasis on scientific investigation and the differentiation between genuine phenomena and misidentifications or hoaxes.

Main Article: "Bremste UFO Fahrschulwagen?" (Did a UFO Brake a Driving School Car?)

The lead article details an incident on September 11, 1993, near Hameln, Germany, where three witnesses in a driving school car observed a bright, pulsating light. During the encounter, the car's radio experienced permanent static, and the vehicle's speed inexplicably decreased as if being braked by an external force or magnet. After a few minutes, the phenomenon vanished, and the car and radio returned to normal. The Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP), represented by Hans-Werner Peiniger, has registered this case and is investigating it scientifically. The article notes that police departments in the region reported no UFO sightings that night. GEP's work involves documenting cases, gathering witness testimonies, and attempting to find logical explanations, which can include aircraft lights, weather balloons, or even planets, rather than extraterrestrial visitors. The organization's efforts are recognized as beneficial for public education.

Historical Incidents and Investigations

The issue presents a chronological catalog of numerous UFO-related incidents and investigations:

• 1955, August 8 (Hameln): A strange light point was observed moving northeast.
• 1965, June 27 (Berlin): A case involving a child's alleged encounter with a flying saucer and "men in white" is mentioned, though verification through contemporary press is difficult.
• 1970, November 7 (Freihung): Four youths found a circular landing trace in a field, depicted as a crater.
• 1973, ca. (Kempten): A witness claimed to have seen a UFO landing, resulting in burnt trees and ground, but was later institutionalized.
• 1974, August 8 (L., Germany): Police officers reported observing a typical saucer-shaped UFO with a dome and three landing legs, leaving a burnt circular patch.
• 1976 (Hinterschmidrüti, Switzerland): Reports of landing traces, described as broad, circular, or triangular patterns of flattened or burnt grass, are linked to the Billy Meier case.
• 1979, April 5 (Oberthal): Students photographed a flying saucer, and a witness reported finding red dust and broken branches, later admitted to be a hoax.
• 1979, June 16 (Büchenau bei Bruchsal): A witness saw a fiery object fall from the sky, leading to the discovery of a burnt object identified as a piece of plastic.
• 1979, October 10 (Hilden): A witness reported a UFO landing in a forest, leaving traces, but the account was questioned due to lack of corroborating evidence and police reports.
• 1980, Mid-January (Bremen): Metal fragments were found on a field.
• 1982, August 17 (Darmstadt): A suspected UFO landing on a building roof turned out to be a weather balloon with a ticking device.
• 1982, December 5 (Bedburdyck): A couple observed a glittering object that left traces in a field, described as flattened grass and a circular area of stunted plants.
• 1983, February 23 (St. Pölten, Austria): A case identified as MHB (Manned Heuristic Balloon) or cloud.
• 1983, June (near Darmstadt): A fiery object seen falling from the sky was identified as a homemade hot air balloon.
• 1983, July 18 (Heidelberg): A bright object falling from the sky was later identified as the remains of a hot air balloon.
• 1983, July 26 (Rabenstein-Pielach, Austria): A case identified as Orion.
• 1984, January 28 (Meckenheim): Alleged UFOs landing were identified as position lamps set up by a hunter.
• 1985, August 20 (Gehlenbeck): A "shiny thing" found in a garden was identified as a weather balloon.
• 1986 or 1987 (Neuental-Gilsa): A witness reported paranormal phenomena and UFO sightings, including a landing site where snow had melted.
• 1987, July 11 (Meckenheim): A UFO landing on a road was identified as parts of a weather balloon.
• 1989, October 24 (Neumarkt): Radioactivity increased, but no UFO was seen.
• 1990, September (Berlin-Zehlendorf): A witness reported large circular rings of greener grass, possibly related to UFOs, though the photo is identified as a fairy ring (fungal growth).
• 1990, May (Hannover): A metallic box found in a field was identified as a weather balloon.
• 1993, July (Plötzky bei Magdeburg): A UFO sighting was linked to a crop circle.
• 1994, September 10 (Zühlsdorf): A witness reported seeing a Skytracker light effect as a UFO and developed skin marks.
• 1996, June 29 (Drosendorf, Austria): A landed UFO left triangular landing marks and burnt grass, with the marks attributed to a wine bottle being pressed into the ground.
• 1997, January 30 (Munich): A burnt circular area in a park was investigated, but later revealed to be staged for a TV show.
• 2008 (Siebengebirge): Plans for a UFO contact project in an area known for light phenomena and crop circles.
• 2009, May 19 (St. Pölten, Austria): A witness reported a large, silent, beige metallic sphere with glowing portholes.

Analysis of Landing Traces

The journal includes a statistical analysis of reported landing traces, categorizing them by type (brandspur/burnt trace, grass/reed, skin, radio/electricity, soil imprint, hole in ice/window, other) and diameter. The data shows a higher number of UFO-related traces than IFO (Identified Flying Object) traces, with burnt traces and flattened grass being the most common. The analysis notes that many traces, particularly those under 1 meter in diameter, are attributed to specific incidents like the Darmstadt case in 1986. The study concludes that while there are differences between UFO and IFO traces, the data is currently insufficient to draw definitive conclusions about distinct UFO types or their correlation with specific trace patterns. It suggests that a larger dataset is needed for more robust analysis.

Book Review: "Grüße aus der Steinzeit" by Erich von Däniken

The issue features a review of Erich von Däniken's book "Grüße aus der Steinzeit" (Greetings from the Stone Age). The reviewer notes that this is a visually oriented book, similar to Däniken's previous works, but focuses thematically on cave paintings and prehistoric monuments rather than a broad overview of ancient astronaut theories. The book explores sites like Nan Madol and Easter Island, posing questions about their construction and purpose, which the reviewer finds to be a recurring pattern in Däniken's work. The review suggests that while the book contains good images, it offers little new information for long-time followers of Däniken's theories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, the documentation of physical evidence such as landing traces, and the critical analysis of witness testimonies. The journal consistently strives to differentiate between genuine mysteries and cases that can be explained by conventional means, hoaxes, or misidentifications. The editorial stance favors a scientific and evidence-based approach to UFO research, as exemplified by the work of organizations like GEP. There is a clear effort to educate the public and debunk sensationalism while acknowledging the persistent questions surrounding unexplained sightings.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, Ausgabe 5-2010, Nr. 191, published by GEP e.V., is primarily a critical review of Erich von Däniken's book "Meine Welt in Bildern" and "Auf den Spuren der Außerirdischen." The journal also features discussions on the scientific approach to UFO research and examines specific cases and ancient sites.

Review of Erich von Däniken's Theories

The articles critically analyze Erich von Däniken's interpretations of myths and ancient sites. The author notes that Däniken often presents questions rather than definitive answers, using suggestive remarks to link ancient phenomena to 'astronaut gods.' The review points out that Däniken selectively mentions myths that fit his narrative, omitting others, such as the myth of a warrior named Olosopha founding a city, or the existence of large crocodiles that could have inspired dragon myths. The review questions Däniken's assertion that an extraterrestrial interpretation is the most obvious one, suggesting that other explanations, like those involving Melanesian conquerors, are also plausible.

Chapter 2: Greetings to the Gods

This section focuses on the Hopi Indians and the Nasca geoglyphs. Däniken's interpretation of Hopi traditions, particularly the 'Wandermythos' and the role of Kachinas as ancient astronauts, is scrutinized. The journal argues that a more extensive study of Hopi beliefs reveals that Kachinas are generally understood as spirits representing various aspects of nature (stars, mountains, planets, animals, or invisible forces) and that Däniken's interpretation of them as extraterrestrial teachers is questionable. The text highlights that Kachinas can appear as normal humans and even fight with arrows and bows, contradicting the idea of them being solely advanced beings.

Chapter 3: Stones Can Speak

This chapter reviews Däniken's analysis of European megalithic monuments, including Newgrange in Ireland, menhir columns in Brittany, and the Gavrinis dolmen. The journal criticizes Däniken's use of numerology and 'number games' to suggest advanced knowledge among megalith builders, finding little substance in these claims. The review also addresses Däniken's interpretation of the Er Lannic stone circle, suggesting it indicates a much older age for megalithic monuments than science accepts. Däniken speculates about an age of 18,000 years based on a submerged stone circle and an underwater cave find. However, the journal counters this by explaining post-glacial sea-level rise, which significantly impacted coastlines over millennia. Däniken's skepticism regarding the astronomical alignment of Newgrange, particularly its solstice alignment, is also challenged. He dismisses its function as a tomb and questions the effort involved for Stone Age people, calling the calendar interpretation 'hollow.' The journal defends the scientific view of Newgrange as a burial site and argues that the astronomical alignment was likely significant for religious or calendrical purposes, given the agricultural society's reliance on observing celestial cycles.

The article also discusses the Denghoog passage grave on Sylt, Germany, which has a similar astronomical alignment. It notes that despite Däniken's doubts about the 'calendar function,' such alignments were common in cultures heavily reliant on agriculture, serving as religious symbols rather than purely practical calendars. The journal concludes that Däniken's criticisms of scientific interpretations are often contrived and forced.

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

Olaf Fritz's book is reviewed, examining the scientific validity of UFO research in Germany, using the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.) as a case study. Fritz concludes that the GEP's research is clearly defined, systematic, and reproducible, making its findings verifiable and subject to criticism. The research results are regularly published in the 'jufof.' The book is 125 pages, illustrated, and costs 16.95 €.

Book Review: "Das UFO-Rätsel"

This review covers a documentation titled "The UFO Enigma" by Marcia S. Smith, updated by George D. Havas. Originally published in 1978 and revised in 1983, it was compiled for the U.S. Congress as a scientific advisory service. The book provides a concise overview and detailed information on UFOs, including documents and compilations. It is 84 pages and costs 8.00 € (6.40 € for GEP members).

Reader Letters and Opinions

Alexander Knörr writes a letter to the editor, praising the research in a previous issue (Fall Nr. 20100409A) concerning a plane crash, noting the thoroughness of the investigation. He also comments on an article by Peter W. Merlin, suggesting that Merlin should have focused on UFO crash sites if he was so convinced of finding evidence there, rather than solely on airplane crashes. Knörr believes that finding evidence at a UFO crash site would be a significant headline ('Man bites dog').

GEP and UFO Information

The final pages provide information about the GEP e.V., its mission, and its methods of UFO research. It defines a UFO and explains how individuals can report sightings to the GEP's reporting center via phone, website, web forum, or email. The journal 'jufof' is presented as the GEP's publication organ, offering critical analysis and documentation of UFO phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of popular UFO theories, particularly those presented by Erich von Däniken, and the promotion of a scientific and methodical approach to UFO research. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rigorous investigation, evidence-based analysis, and transparency, as exemplified by the GEP's work and the journal's content. There is a consistent effort to distinguish between speculative interpretations and scientifically verifiable findings.