JUFOF - Issue 204 - 2012 06

Magazine Overview

This issue of "jufof" (Journal für UFO-Forschung), Volume 33, Issue 204, dated June 2012, is published by GEP e.V. and focuses on UFO sightings and research. The cover prominently features a dramatic image of a helicopter illuminated by green beams, with the headline "UFO-Sichtungen" and a sub-headline detailing a near-crash incident over Eschede. Other featured articles include "Die Fotos des Scout-Schiffs... von George Adamski" and "Ein UFO-Forschungsprojekt: Vorschlag zur Himmelsüberwachung mit Kameras". The price is 4.50 Euro, and the ISSN is 0723-7766.

Editorial

In the editorial, Danny Ammon reflects on the year 2012, which marked the 40th anniversary of the GEP. The organization celebrated with a special conference in Hannover and a "Jubilee Mode" on its website. The journal also celebrated its 200th issue, featuring a look back at the GEP's history. Ammon mentions the publication of the 2009 conference proceedings and an updated "GEP-Insider" newsletter. He highlights the progress made on research projects, including "GOOD UFO," and collaborations with DEGUFO, such as a joint questionnaire and UFO database. Several UFO reports were investigated, including an unexplained CE-II case. Ammon expresses anticipation for the new year and wishes readers a happy holiday season.

An erratum corrects that Peter Kauert, not Roland Roth, conducted the interview with Roland Roth for the previous issue's article on "Terra Divina."

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen

UFO am Himmel über Schorndorf?

This section details a sighting on September 13, 2012, in Schorndorf, Germany. The witness, Sven V., was testing his camera's new lens and photographed various subjects, including the sky. Upon later review, an unusual object resembling a classic flying saucer was discovered in one of the sky photos. The witness and his mother were fascinated and contacted the local newspaper and police, who reportedly described the photo as "authentic" but could not explain the object. The photographer initially hesitated to publish the photo due to privacy concerns but was persuaded by his mother. The investigation, led by Hans-Werner Peiniger, involved discussions within the GEP's mailing list. The consensus was that the object was likely a small, close-range item, such as dust particles on the camera sensor, rather than a distant aircraft. The photographer was asked to provide pre- and post-incident photos, which showed a plant, butterfly, and wall, but not the sky. Further analysis of comparative photos taken with the same lens showed similar dark spots, suggesting they were indeed sensor dust that may have shifted or been partially cleaned. The conclusion is that the object was not a flying object in the sky but rather a defect on the camera's sensor.

UFO verursacht fast Hubschrauberabsturz über Eschede

This is a detailed account of an incident on December 6, 1982, involving a German Air Force (Luftwaffe) Bell UH-1D SAR (Search and Rescue) helicopter. The helicopter, part of Hubschraubertransportgeschwader 64 Ahlhorn, was returning to Faßberg Airfield after transporting a heart patient to Celle hospital. The flight occurred at night in poor weather conditions: low clouds, fog, and light drizzle, with no moon. Approximately five minutes into the flight, west of Eschede at an altitude of about 50 meters, the crew noticed the undersides of the clouds glowing diffusely. Suddenly, a bright, greenish-white light appeared, estimated to be spherical with a diameter of 0.5 to 2 meters. The light emanated from the object diffusely without flickering. The light hovered to the left of the helicopter, flying at approximately 90 knots (160 km/h). The pilot contacted air traffic control, who confirmed only the SAR helicopter was visible on radar. The light then accelerated rapidly towards the helicopter, exhibiting no apparent inertia. The pilot executed an evasive maneuver, pulling the helicopter sharply to the right and downwards. During this maneuver, the reporting witness (the medical doctor on board) saw the light pass directly over his window, near the rotor. He heard a crackling sound and saw the clouds above light up. The co-pilot warned the pilot about approaching trees, and the helicopter narrowly avoided crashing into the forest canopy, landing near a pond. The crew decided not to file an official report due to concerns about their reputations and flight licenses. The pilot later inquired with military air traffic control, who confirmed seeing the helicopter perform a "loop" but no other objects. The witness, a retired military officer, reported the incident to the GEP 30 years later after finding similar case descriptions. The report suggests the phenomenon might be related to ball lightning, citing its description and occasional seemingly controlled behavior. Dr. Alexander Keul, a ball lightning researcher, was consulted, and weather data from December 6, 1982, was examined. The weather data indicated overcast conditions with low temperatures and some precipitation, consistent with the reported conditions.

Die Fotos des Scout-Schiffs...

This section refers to photographs taken by George Adamski, presumably depicting his famous "scout ship" sightings. The content is not detailed in the provided text, but it is listed as a feature in the table of contents.

Ein UFO-Forschungsprojekt

This article proposes a UFO research project focused on sky surveillance using cameras. The details of the proposal are not elaborated upon in the provided text but are listed in the table of contents.

Literatur

This section lists literature related to UFOs, specifically mentioning "UFOs über dem KKW Neckarwestheim" (UFOs over the Neckarwestheim Nuclear Power Plant), indicating a focus on specific types of sightings or locations.

Gewinnspiel

A contest or sweepstake is announced, related to the GEP's anniversary.

Impressum

The "Impressum" section provides details about the publisher, Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., founded in 1972. It lists the editorial team as Hans-Werner Peiniger and Danny Ammon. The journal is published on a non-commercial basis, with contributions being honorarium-free. The subscription price for one year (6 issues) is 27.00 € plus postage. Information on advertising prices and reprint policies is also included. The printing is done by bis500 Druck in Ilmenau.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, investigations of alleged UFO incidents, and the promotion of UFO research. The GEP e.V. maintains a stance of investigating and documenting UFO phenomena, as evidenced by the detailed case reports and the proposed research project. The editorial emphasizes the journal's role as a platform for reporting on UFO-related news and research, particularly in the context of the GEP's ongoing activities and anniversaries. There is a clear effort to provide factual accounts and analyses, even when concluding that sightings may have mundane explanations (e.g., sensor dust).

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 6-2012, Nr. 204, published in June 2012, focuses on two main areas: a critical examination of George Adamski's famous UFO photographs and a proposal for a new, technologically advanced UFO research project. The magazine features articles by Tim Printy, Hans-Werner Peiniger, and Joel Carpenter, with translations by Danny Ammon and Ulrich Magin.

Ball Lightning and Plasma Phenomena

The issue begins with a discussion on ball lightning, referencing a specific case from 1982. The author notes the limited data available for that period and analyzes the meteorological conditions, concluding that while a ball lightning event is not impossible, it's not particularly likely given the circumstances (windless, cool December weather, fog, low clouds) which did not support electrostatic charges. The article contrasts this with typical ball lightning characteristics, such as their short duration and rarity of green color. It also touches upon laboratory experiments attempting to recreate ball lightning.

Further exploration into plasma phenomena includes a discussion of 'green fireballs' and their potential connection to UFO sightings, referencing projects like TWINKLE and the 'Foo Fighters'. The article mentions research by Stephen Hughes and the Hessdalen phenomenon. It also cites a study analyzing 87 ball lightning-aircraft incidents between 1938 and 2007, which found that 10% of reported objects were blue-green.

A UFO Research Project Proposal

Tim Printy's article, "Ein UFO-Forschungsprojekt" (A UFO Research Project), addresses the common issue of UFO sightings lacking credible evidence. He proposes a system to improve data collection, suggesting the use of multiple cameras for video recording. The proposed system involves 16 Supercircuits PC-164 cameras, each with a Fujinon 4mm f/1.2 lens, to cover the entire sky. The estimated cost for 16 cameras and a Multichannel Digital-Video Recorder (DVR) is around 2,400 Euros for the cameras and 1,500 Euros for the DVR, totaling approximately 3,900 Euros for one system. The author suggests setting up three such systems in a triangular formation, with each leg of the triangle being 3 to 8 km long. This setup would allow for the determination of an object's speed, altitude, size, and distance. Printy argues that such a system, costing less than 20,000 dollars, could have provided invaluable data for past UFO events like those in Gulf Breeze, Phoenix, or Stephenville.

The article highlights the capabilities of the PC-164 camera, noting its low light sensitivity (0.001 Lux) and ability to capture stars of magnitude 3.5. It also discusses the potential for this system to detect other phenomena, such as meteorites. The author encourages UFO organizations like MUFON to invest in such technology, emphasizing that amateur astronomers readily invest similar amounts in their equipment.

The Adamski Photos: A Critical Analysis

Joel Carpenter's article, "Die Fotos des Scout-Schiffs von Adamski" (The Photos of Adamski's Scout Ship), critically examines the iconic photographs attributed to George Adamski, allegedly taken in November and December 1952. Carpenter argues that the photos, despite their influence on popular culture's depiction of UFOs, are likely of a small model rather than a large object. He notes that many reproductions have been retouched or are complete fabrications.

The article delves into the design of the object depicted, suggesting that the main component might be a reflector from a widely distributed pressure gas lamp, possibly from the 1930s or early 1940s. The author discusses the 'ribbed decor' characteristic of Art Deco industrial design from that era. He also considers the possibility of it being a heat lamp for poultry farmers but leans towards a more decorative lamp for household use, given the design details.

Carpenter explores various possibilities, including desk lamps and kerosene lanterns, before focusing on gas pressure lamps. He identifies a Preway Model L46S as a strong candidate for the source of the 'Scout Ship's' main body, noting its similarity in shape and the presence of ribs. The article also mentions other manufacturers like Prentiss-Waber and Turner Brass Company, whose lamps featured similar designs.

The analysis of the photos' depth of field suggests a small object photographed at close range, contradicting Adamski's claim of a large, distant craft photographed with a telephoto lens. The author concludes that the object was likely assembled from various manufactured parts, making it difficult to identify definitively without extensive research into vintage catalogs and online marketplaces.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" demonstrates a strong inclination towards scientific investigation and critical analysis of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor natural explanations and technological solutions for data collection, as seen in the proposed camera system and the detailed debunking of the Adamski photos. There is an emphasis on moving beyond speculative theories and grounding research in empirical evidence. The magazine encourages proactive engagement from researchers and organizations, urging them to invest in the necessary tools and methodologies to advance the field. The recurring theme is the pursuit of verifiable data and the application of scientific rigor to understand unexplained aerial phenomena.

Title: JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: 6-2012
Volume: NR. 204
Date: 2012-06-01

This issue of the German UFO research journal delves into a detailed analysis of George Adamski's famous UFO photographs, specifically focusing on the possibility that his 'flying saucer' was constructed from common household items, namely lanterns.

The Lantern Identification and Comparison

The article begins by presenting an unusual lantern design by Prentiss-Wabers Co., also sold by Sears as model 742-461. This Preway model L46S features a hole in its glass globe to illuminate the filament and is noted for its weight of approximately 3 kg. The author acquired a Sears reference lamp of this type, measuring about 33 cm in height with a shade diameter of just over 26.7 cm. This size was found to be considerably smaller than initially expected.

The shade of the acquired model is made of stamped sheet metal, coated with a shiny, porcelain-like, heat-resistant material, weighing about 0.45 kg. The distinctive slots on the Adamski photos are explained by two rectangular openings in the shade through which the rods connecting the handle to the rest of the lamp pass. The shade is attached to the lamp by a simple nut and bolt, allowing for easy removal.

A comparison with Adamski's photos reveals that his 'object' most closely resembles a lantern with a blue or red shade, though the brown of the Sears model is too dark to replicate the 'Scout-ship's' appearance. Minor differences in the size and shape of the holes are also noted, with those on the Adamski object being closer to the underside of the 'command tower' and showing slight variations in distance and diameter.

Discussions with collectors of pressure lamps suggest that the slight differences are expected due to the long production period and multiple manufacturers of these lamps. Several Sears catalogs from 1935 to 1941 are presented, showing this model.

Reconstruction and Modeling

With the size of the lampshade determined, the author proceeded to estimate the dimensions of the other components of the Adamski object to create a scale drawing and reconstruct the entire 'Scout-ship' model. The visible components of the underside are analyzed, including the large dark dome, the highly reflective disc surrounding it, a dark circular groove, and three spheres or hemispheres, referred to as 'landing legs'.

A 3D digital model (CAD) was created using Solidworks software. This model utilizes the actual measurements of the lampshade and derived dimensions for the underside components, along with estimated sizes for the upper dome. The construction method was initially assumed to involve a wire connecting the parts, passing through the hole at the top of the lampshade.

The underside components are described as more complex. The CAD model was refined into an exploded view. The author also compared their findings with the most detailed representation of Adamski's craft available at the time: a dimension diagram created by British aerospace engineer Leonard G. Cramp, which was based on Adamski's own claims of the craft's size (approximately 10.5 meters in diameter). The similarity in proportions and appearance, differing only in scale, suggests the reconstruction is accurate.

Model Construction Details

The construction of the digital 3D model allows for virtual replication of the form, color, and size of the individual parts, as well as the physical production of the parts in the correct size. The actual components of the Adamski object (apart from the lampshade) are not known, but inferences can be drawn from the derived dimensions. The simplest construction method appears to be a wired central threaded rod holding the upper and lower parts together. A mirrored disc with a hole allows the rod to pass through the lampshade to the upper dome. The considerable weight of the parts suggests the upper and lower domes were made of metal to provide sufficient force to hold the parts together.

For the model, the author chose to fabricate the lower dome from aluminum and the upper dome from thin, hand-turned metal. A mirrored disc was ordered from a glass factory, while the mounting disc was made of plastic using stereolithography (SLA) to keep costs down. The files for the lower dome and disc were sent to a manufacturer, and the parts were ready within a week.

Parts that were easily purchasable for the model were sought in hardware catalogs. A colleague noted that these parts resembled standardized electrical lamp accessories. The diameter of the nut on top of the object allowed for the calculation of the threaded rod's diameter, which corresponds to a standard quarter-inch threaded rod commonly used in lamp assembly.

The upper dome, with its visible knurled ring, was the most challenging to reconstruct due to cost. The fine ribbing on the Adamski object and its size suggest it was a brass gear, which would have been readily available to mechanics in the early 1950s but is now rare and expensive. A metal disc with similar dimensions was used for the model to keep costs low.

Regarding the 'landing legs', it was found that ping-pong balls would have been too large based on the lampshade dimensions. However, smaller plastic spheres of the correct size were found and attached to the model.

The lampshade was painted red, while the underside, due to rust and damage, was painted white.

Final Assembly and Photography

The upper dome and nut with washer were added to the model, resulting in a finished weight of approximately 1.13 kg. Initial test photos of the revised model showed a close match in form, although the unpainted dome was too light. After painting the dome red and photographing the model outdoors, the lighting values matched. The slot for the lantern's handle is clearly visible. The Adamski photos appear to have been taken either outdoors in bright sunlight against a cloudless sky or in a studio with significant overhead lighting.

Test photos required strong bottom lighting to achieve conditions similar to the original photographs. The model was hung by a wire outdoors, and reflector cards and fill flash were used to adjust for the underside lighting. The resulting photos, when cropped to match the original frames, closely resemble Adamski's 'Scout-ship' photos. A key detail noted is that at an identical camera angle, one of the opposing 'porthole' windows is visible behind the handle slot, with light appearing as a white stripe to the left of the slot. This is presented as further confirmation of the lampshade theory.

Conclusion

The article concludes that the Adamski object undoubtedly consisted of multiple components, including the metallic dome, the spherical 'landing legs', and other parts not yet definitively identified. However, it is now established that the main component of the 'Scout-ship from Venus', the bell-shaped upper part, was a readily available lantern manufactured in the USA in the 1930s. Further investigations into the camera and telescope allegedly used for these photos are promised for future publication.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores conventional explanations for UFO phenomena, particularly when photographic evidence is involved. This article strongly supports the hypothesis that the famous Adamski craft was a terrestrial artifact, specifically a modified lantern. The editorial stance appears to favor critical analysis and debunking of well-known UFO cases through rigorous research and reconstruction, emphasizing the importance of identifying mundane origins for alleged extraterrestrial craft.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 6-2012 (NR.204), published in June 2012, features a "Literatur Rezensionen" (Literature Reviews) section. The magazine is published by GEP e.V. in Germany and is in German.

Literature Reviews

Review of "UFOs über dem KKW Neckarwestheim: Neue Ufoforschung in Deutschland" by Gerhard Gröschel

The primary focus of this issue is a review by Dennis Kirstein of Gerhard Gröschel's eBook, "UFOs über dem KKW Neckarwestheim: Neue Ufoforschung in Deutschland," released in late 2012. The reviewer describes the eBook as a "slim, rather unpretentious work" that initially appears more like a picture book with accompanying text. Gröschel's introduction details his UFO-specific biography, including a personal sighting in March 2011, and criticizes 50 years of private UFO research for lacking "real progress."

Kirstein fundamentally disagrees with Gröschel's assessment, crediting organizations like GEP e.V. with significant contributions to understanding the UFO phenomenon. Gröschel defines his "New UFO Research in Germany" as an apparatus he developed for video surveillance of the sky and measurement of magnetic field changes and gravity. While acknowledging that such an approach could be meaningful if the technology is mature and the analysis is done by experts, Gröschel claims with "great certainty" that no private UFO researcher in Germany possesses his level of experience with UFO surveillance systems and their results. He asserts his path is "the only one leading to real evidence."

The reviewer finds Gröschel's claims to be "big words," especially considering experienced UFO researchers in Germany who have successfully identified UFOs in video and photographic material for decades. Kirstein notes that the eBook's surveillance system is located about 1.5 km from the Neckarwestheim nuclear power plant, requiring the camera to cross a main road, railway lines, high-voltage power lines, and the Neckar River three times. An image shows the apparatus mounted on a wall, housed in a casing. Kirstein points out potential light reflections on the camera lenses and the glass plate of the housing, suggesting that more glass in front of the lens increases the probability of reflections and decreases the chance of clean images.

Kirstein labels the photographic material in the eBook as "pixel mush," created by extreme enlargement of simple light reflections on or in front of the lens, which are then processed to the point of being unrecognizable. He explains that professional image processing lectures have shown how little information remains after such high magnifications. When additional filters are used and a low-quality format like JPEG is chosen, most of the image information is irretrievably lost. Consequently, the reviewer deems the presented photographic evidence in the eBook "completely worthless."

The review then delves into two specific cases presented in the eBook:

1. "UFO (1) in daylight over the KKW Neckarwestheim": Described by Gröschel as "truly spectacular." The images show a spherical object that, upon magnification, becomes a pixelated blob. Gröschel compares its flight behavior and speed to a hot air balloon. Kirstein explains that the object's appearance is consistent with sunlight reflecting off clouds and the object itself. The "metamorphosis of color change" is attributed to the object moving from sunlight into shadow. Kirstein questions whether Gröschel investigated the object's origin, noting that a nearby weather station regularly launches balloons for meteorological measurements.

2. A second case, described by Gröschel as "unparalleled worldwide": Gröschel's UFO sensor allegedly registered physical changes in magnetic fields and gravity on January 4, 2011, at night. The camera system supposedly captured an object on film at 2:40 AM, but the sensors only showed anomalies around 3:40 AM. Kirstein points out a discrepancy, suggesting that if daylight saving time was still active, several cases described as occurring in winter months might be incorrectly dated. Gröschel describes the object's characteristic as a steady flashing, with the frequency decreasing as the UFO slows down, linking it to Soviet UFO reports where UFOs allegedly increase their blink frequency with speed. Kirstein finds this claim unsubstantiated. Gröschel explains the strong sensor readings by suggesting the UFO came directly from orbit, rapidly reducing its speed and creating magnetic and gravitational shockwaves. He considers this case a "milestone" in technical UFO research. The data sheet for the magnetic field sensor indicates it is designed to react to electromagnetic smog.

In his concluding remarks, Gröschel's conviction in an extraterrestrial background for the UFO phenomenon is evident, particularly when he questions why "extraterrestrial UFOs" would occasionally be interested in atomic power plants. Kirstein states that from the beginning, the eBook is driven by Gröschel's own preconceptions about the UFO phenomenon, lacking any scientific basis and offering no added value for "new UFO research in Germany." The reviewer notes that Gröschel never mentions consulting local authorities or the power plant operator. When presented with the eBook, the deputy head of the KKW Neckarwestheim security team stated that the plant could not confirm any of the UFO cases, attributing them to light reflections and balloons that occasionally fly over the plant.

Kirstein concludes that Gröschel failed to correctly interpret the results from his otherwise positively evaluated apparatus. He also criticizes the eBook for its spelling and grammar errors, stating that more should be expected from a paid eBook.

Other Content

• Jubiläumsgewinnspiel (Anniversary Competition): The GEP is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a competition for "jufof" readers. Participants must answer the question: "In which year did a rescue helicopter nearly crash due to a UFO?" Answers can be submitted by postcard, email, phone, or fax, with a deadline of January 19, 2013. Winners can choose from a list of rare UFO classics.
• Book Recommendations: Several books are listed as potential prizes, including "Fliegende Untertassen – Ein Geheimnis geistert um die Welt" by Rolf Strehl (1953), "Der Weltraum rückt uns näher" by Donald E. Keyhoe (1954), and "Das Geheimnis der unbekannten Flugobjekte: Fotodokumentation" by Adolf Schneider and Hubert Malthaner (1979).
• GEP-Insider: Members receive GEP-Insider No. 75, featuring topics like "Inside GEP – Interna" and "Chronology of GEP Activities 2011."

Publications by GEP e.V.

• "UFO-Forschung und Wissenschaft": A compilation of papers from the GEP conference on May 2-3, 2009, in Hösbach, covering topics like subjective UFO research, UFOs and mass media, and discourse analysis. It is 64 pages, paperback, with color illustrations, ISBN 978-3-923862-40-5, priced at €9.50 (€7.60 for members).
• "Kontakte mit 'Außerirdischen' im deutschen Sprachraum" by Ulrich Magin: A comprehensive collection of German contactee and humanoid reports, including over 350 entries with a chronological overview of alleged contacts. It covers aspects of the UFO myth, from abductions to ancient astronaut theories, and includes a bibliography. It is 160 pages, paperback, with illustrations, priced at €14.00 (€11.20 for members).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" maintains a factual and critical stance on the UFO phenomenon, as evidenced by its reviews and content. The journal serves as the publication organ for GEP e.V., a prominent scientific organization in Germany dedicated to UFO research. The content includes documentation of sightings, case studies, scientific-methodical reports, and reviews of relevant literature. The editorial stance emphasizes rigorous investigation, critical analysis, and a scientific approach to understanding UFO phenomena, as demonstrated by the detailed critique of Gröschel's eBook and the promotion of GEP's own research methodologies and publications.