JUFOF - Issue 205 - 2013 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of jufof: journal für ufo-forschung (Journal for UFO Research), Volume 34, Issue 205, dated January 2013, is published by GEP e.V. The cover headline prominently features "UFOs in der Wikipedia: Ein Überblick zu Theorie und Praxis der Internet-Enzyklopädie" (UFOs on Wikipedia: An Overview of Theory and Practice of the Internet Encyclopedia). The price is 4.50 Euro.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Hans-Werner Peiniger, welcomes readers to the first issue of 2013 and expresses hope for interesting contributions. He announces a change: the annual index will no longer be included as a supplement but will be available for download on the website, aiming to make it accessible to non-members and potentially attract new subscribers. Peiniger notes three significant celestial events that occurred recently: on February 13th, a rocket stage burned up in the atmosphere, generating over 80 sighting reports in Germany; on February 15th, the asteroid "2012 DA 14" passed Earth at a distance of approximately 27,000 kilometers; and also on February 15th, a meteoroid exploded over the Russian Urals, causing damage and injuries.

The editorial highlights the magazine's investigative work, referencing the case from Grafschaft-Lantershofen where a witness's photo matched an astronomical reconstruction, lending credibility to the explanation. A new article by member Henriette Fiebig discusses how UFOs and anomalous topics are treated on Wikipedia, suggesting that the community should consider how to better utilize this platform. Finally, Peiniger announces the winners of the previous issue's anniversary contest, listing Michael Weckerle, Frank Häusler, Martin Harms, Wolfgang Schröder, and Peter Kauert as recipients of literature packages.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen

This section details two UFO sightings:

Helle Lichter über Lantershofen fotografiert (Bright Lights over Lantershofen Photographed)

This case (Fallnummer: 20121225 A) occurred on December 25, 2012, at 21:00 MEZ in Grafschaft-Lantershofen, Germany. The witness, Michel P. (19), reported observing and photographing multiple bright lights forming a triangle in the southeastern sky over a period of several weeks. The lights blinked in unusual frequencies and colors (red, green, violet, white, yellow). On the night of the observation, the lights formed a triangle, with one main bright light and two dimmer ones. The witness described a possible rotational movement and a low humming sound. The investigation, led by Hans-Werner Peiniger, involved comparing the witness's photos with astronomical data. The analysis concluded that the lights were likely stars, specifically Jupiter, the Moon, and the star Aldebaran, with the apparent movement and blinking attributed to atmospheric effects (scintillation) and camera shake during photography.

UFO über Freiberg gefilmt (UFO Filmed over Freiberg)

This case (Fallnummer: 20110128 B) took place on January 28, 2011, at 22:45 MEZ near Freiberg, Germany. The witness, Matthias K., reported seeing a round, bright red light that hovered for about three minutes before becoming smaller and moving towards them, appearing triangular. The witness described it as a "camouflaged fireball" and thought it might be a stealth aircraft. They had a similar experience in 2009 without a camera. The witness provided a mobile phone video, as did his girlfriend Madeleine S. The investigation, also by Hans-Werner Peiniger, analyzed the video footage. The commentary suggests the object was not a typical aircraft and that it reacted to their signals. The analysis points towards it being a known aircraft, possibly with unusual lighting or flight characteristics.

Die GEIPAN: »Unser Ziel ist es, zu erklären, wenn wir können«

This section introduces GEIPAN (Groupe d'Études et d'Informations sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés), a French organization dedicated to investigating unidentified aerial phenomena. Their motto, "Our goal is to explain, when we can," highlights their commitment to rational explanations.

UFO-Literatur

This part of the magazine features reviews of current UFO-related books, providing readers with critical assessments of new publications in the field.

Impressum

The "Impressum" section provides publication details. The publisher is Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., founded in 1972. The editorial team responsible includes Hans-Werner Peiniger and Danny Ammon. Subscription prices and advertising rates are listed. The magazine is published bimonthly on a non-commercial basis, with contributions being honorarium-free. The publication is printed by bis500 Druck in Ilmenau.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, their investigation, and the role of public information platforms like Wikipedia. The editorial stance, as exemplified by Hans-Werner Peiniger's analysis of the Lantershofen case, is one of critical examination and a preference for rational, evidence-based explanations, even when dealing with seemingly anomalous phenomena. The magazine aims to provide detailed case studies and reviews to inform its readership about the ongoing research in the field of ufology.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, dated Ausgabe 1-2013, NR. 205, focuses on two primary areas: an investigation into a specific UFO sighting and a detailed examination of how anomalous topics, particularly UFOs, are treated within the Wikipedia online encyclopedia.

Freiberg UFO Sighting Investigation

The issue details an investigation into a sighting that occurred on January 18, 2011, near Freiberg, Germany. The initial report involved witnesses who captured video footage of an unidentified object. The dialogue between the witnesses suggests initial confusion, with possibilities ranging from a rocket aircraft to a "stealth" aircraft.

Video analysis of the footage, described as shaky and of poor quality, revealed a weak white light that later turned reddish, followed by a white flash. The sound of an aircraft was audible in the background.

Through cross-referencing with flight data from the DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung (German Air Traffic Control), the investigation, led by CENAP and other researchers, identified a Lufthansa Boeing 737-300 aircraft on its landing approach to Dresden Airport around the time of the sighting. The aircraft was descending from approximately 2,000 meters to 1,000 meters, approaching from the southwest towards the northeast, passing near Freiberg. The landing lights and anti-collision lights of the aircraft are suggested to have contributed to the visual phenomena reported by the witnesses.

Researchers, including Werner Walter and Jens Lorek from CENAP, and later Christian Czech, concluded that the object was likely a conventional aircraft. The journal expresses some bewilderment at the amount of energy and manpower invested in the case, given the eventual explanation.

Wikipedia and Anomalous Topics

The second major section of the magazine, authored by Henriette Fiebig, provides an overview of Wikipedia, its principles, and its handling of subjects related to UFO research and other anomalous phenomena.

Principles of Wikipedia

• The article outlines Wikipedia's fundamental principles:
• Wikipedia is an encyclopedia: It aims to compile knowledge from all areas.
• Neutral Point of View (NPOV): All articles must represent viewpoints fairly and without bias, reflecting significant viewpoints in proportion to their prominence in the real world.
• Free Content: All content must be available under a free license, allowing for reuse and redistribution.
• No Personal Attacks: Editors must treat each other with respect, focusing discussions on the content, not the individuals.

Wikipedia's Structure and Content

Wikipedia is written and funded entirely by volunteer contributors. The content is largely driven by what volunteers have the time, interest, and information to write about, rather than a centrally planned editorial process. Articles can be created and edited by anyone, even without an account, although registration is encouraged for certain actions.

The article highlights the 'relevance criteria' used by Wikipedia to determine if a topic warrants an article. For organizations or associations, criteria include having a significant membership or supra-regional importance and attracting media attention.

Handling of UFO-Related Articles

The journal discusses the challenges of documenting UFO-related topics on Wikipedia, citing the example of the deletion of an article about the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Geschehens). The article about GEP had been edited and accepted for several years but was eventually flagged for deletion in November 2010, alongside other related articles like "Flying Saucer" and "Greys." The deletion rationale cited a lack of supra-regional importance and media attention, comparing the organization to carnival clubs.

The author notes that while many commentators argued for keeping the GEP article, the decision to delete was made. The journal points out that Wikipedia's 'relevance criteria' can be subjective and that the 'special interest' nature of UFO research might not align with mainstream encyclopedic standards.

The article also touches upon the subjective nature of terms used in deletion rationales, such as "significant membership," and how the perceived media presence of an organization can influence decisions.

Conclusion on Wikipedia

Ultimately, the article suggests that while Wikipedia aims for comprehensive coverage, its volunteer-driven nature and strict (though sometimes ambiguously applied) relevance criteria can lead to the exclusion or deletion of topics related to fringe or anomalous subjects, even if they have a dedicated following.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of UFO phenomena, moving from initial witness reports and video analysis to rigorous investigation and data cross-referencing. The journal demonstrates a commitment to debunking or providing rational explanations for reported sightings, as seen with the Freiberg incident. Simultaneously, it critiques the mechanisms and potential biases within platforms like Wikipedia that shape how anomalous phenomena are documented and perceived by the public. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based investigation and a skeptical approach to extraordinary claims, while also acknowledging the complexities of information dissemination and categorization in the digital age.

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), NR. 205, published in 2013, delves into various facets of UFO research, skepticism, and related phenomena. It features articles on the French UFO research group GEIPAN, the role of Wikipedia in discussing anomalous topics, and reviews of books that explore parapsychology and UFOs.

Wikipedia and UFO Research

The journal examines the suitability of Wikipedia as a platform for UFO research. It highlights the challenges faced by contributors, including navigating the platform's extensive rules and dealing with potential biases and personal attacks in discussions. The article notes that while Wikipedia aims for neutrality, anomalous topics often encounter skepticism and ungrounded rejection. It suggests that while Wikipedia can be a valuable tool for raising awareness, users must learn to present information effectively within the platform's framework.

GEIPAN: "Our Goal is to Explain, When We Can..."

An interview with Xavier Passot, head of GEIPAN (Groupe d'études et d'information sur les phénomènes aérospatiaux non identifiés), provides insight into the organization's work. GEIPAN, part of the French space agency CNES, analyzes unidentified aerial phenomena. Passot explains that they receive an average of one informal report per day, with about half leading to investigations. He notes that misinterpretations account for roughly half of their findings, with about 20% of cases remaining unexplained. Common misidentifications include Thai lanterns, celestial bodies, and aircraft. Passot emphasizes that GEIPAN's goal is scientific explanation, and it's not a failure to admit when a case cannot be explained.

Book Reviews

"Gedankenwelten: Interviews zwischen Science und Fiction" by Sebastian Bartoschek

This section reviews a book by psychologist and journalist Sebastian Bartoschek, which compiles interviews with various individuals from the realms of science, skepticism, and parapsychology. The review highlights Bartoschek's fair and non-judgmental approach, allowing interviewees to discuss their topics freely. The book covers a wide range of subjects, including cryptozoology, astrology, skepticism, and even a brief mention of UFOs. A significant portion of the review focuses on the interviews with Alexander Knörr (DEGUFO) and Werner Walter (CENAP), detailing their public dispute regarding UFO research methodologies and their respective organizations. The reviewer notes that while this exchange might be interesting for UFO scene insiders, it may be less accessible to general readers.

"Sie kamen um zu jagen: Historische UFO-Sichtungen im deutschsprachigen Raum" by Lylvia Lapp

This review discusses Lylvia Lapp's book, which explores historical UFO sightings in German-speaking regions and connects them to legends of the wild hunter. The book begins with Lapp's personal journey into UFO research, sparked by a DEGUFO conference. The review focuses on Lapp's analysis of declassified US FBI files on Cattle Mutilations, which she presents as a significant discovery. However, the reviewer points out that the FBI's interest in these cases was limited, often involving correspondence with local authorities rather than in-depth investigations. The review also touches upon the various theories discussed, including extraterrestrial involvement and satanic cults, and mentions the limited findings from FBI investigations into animal mutilations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently grapples with the challenges of presenting UFO research and related topics in a credible and accessible manner. There's a clear emphasis on scientific methodology and critical thinking, as seen in the GEIPAN interview and the review of Bartoschek's book, which includes interviews with skeptics. The journal also acknowledges the public's fascination with UFOs while cautioning against sensationalism and unverified claims. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and open-mindedness, encouraging a balanced approach to anomalous phenomena.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Journal for UFO Research), identified as Ausgabe 1-2013 NR.205, published in 2013, focuses on the intersection of folklore, particularly German legends, and the UFO phenomenon. The journal is published by GEP e.V., a German scientific association dedicated to UFO research.

Article 1: The 'Wild Hunt' and UFOs

The main article explores the legend of the 'Wild Hunt' (wilde Jäger) in German folklore and its potential connections to modern UFO sightings and animal mutilations. The author notes that the FBI, under J. Edgar Hoover, did not find sufficient evidence in the early 1980s to pursue theories about extraterrestrial involvement in cattle mutilations, suggesting that the information often came from newspaper reports or public congresses, and that the FBI likely found the requests for assistance burdensome.

The article delves into the 'Wild Hunt' legend, which describes a spirit forbidden entry into heaven and condemned to an eternal chase on Earth. Various regional variations are presented, including a Nordfriesland legend where the wild hunter chases unbaptized children, and a tale from Dithmarschen about a farmer who gained a secret for successful hunting from another hunter, which involved shooting at the sun with a consecrated host. This act resulted in the sky darkening and lightning, and the farmer was cursed to become the 'Wild Hunt' himself.

The author, Lapp, attempts to draw parallels between these legends and UFO phenomena, particularly animal mutilations. These connections are made through the idea of entire animals or parts falling from the sky (as in some 'Wild Hunt' tales) and the sounds associated with the 'Wild Hunt' (dog barks, carriage noises) being compared to the sounds of unmarked helicopters observed near mutilation sites. The sonic phenomena, including the 'crack' of supersonic flight, are also linked to descriptions of the 'Wild Hunt' appearing with great noise.

However, the article critically examines these connections, suggesting that such reinterpretations of old texts are common in the UFO research community but may not be based on solid evidence. The author points out a contradiction: Germany has legends of the 'Wild Hunt' but few documented animal mutilations, while America has many animal mutilations but no corresponding 'Wild Hunt' legends. This discrepancy leads to the assumption that the location of the phenomenon has simply shifted.

The article further questions the 'bizarre' characteristics of UFOs, such as silent flight and the apparent defiance of physical laws, noting that these are often cited as evidence of non-conventional nature. It is argued that if UFOs exhibit such traits, then postulating them in the context of 'Wild Hunt' reports would undermine the argument for their uniqueness.

When examining the details of animal mutilations, such as carcasses being bloodless, lacking ground traces, with specific organs removed and wounds resembling laser or sharp object injuries, the article finds that these specific details are largely absent in the traditional 'Wild Hunt' narratives. The legends typically describe loud carriage sounds, barking dogs, and the throwing of animal parts, rather than the precise surgical nature of mutilations.

The author also touches upon the work of Carl Gustav Jung and his theories on the collective unconscious, relating them to UFO phenomena and psychological projections. The article mentions Jung's interest in the hysteria surrounding flying saucers in the late 1940s and 1950s. It also references the concept of 'Vril' and 'Haunebu' discs, suggesting that some UFO theories have a right-wing extremist orientation, citing Lapp's work as an example of this tendency.

Ultimately, the article concludes that while Lapp's book may be entertaining due to its enthusiastic reporting and unintentional humor, it does not present any genuinely new or convincing facets to the mystery of animal mutilations, regardless of whether such a mystery truly exists.

Other Content

Book Review: 'Kontakte mit "Außerirdischen" im deutschen Sprachraum' by Ulrich Magin

This section reviews a comprehensive collection of German contactee and humanoid reports compiled by Ulrich Magin. The book offers a chronological overview of over 350 alleged encounters with beings from space or other dimensions, analyzing the reports, witnesses, and the social context of UFO beliefs. It covers aspects of the UFO mythos, from abductions to præ-astronautics, and includes an extensive bibliography and indexes. The book is 160 pages, DIN A 5, with illustrations, priced at 14.00 € (11.20 € for GEP members).

GEP and Journal Information

The journal also provides information about the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.), describing it as the largest non-profit scientific association in Germany dedicated to UFO research. The GEP employs interdisciplinary methods, uses special questionnaires, conducts on-site interviews, and field investigations, and is supported by numerous authorities and scientific institutions. The journal 'jufof' (Journal für UFO-Forschung) has been published since 1980, offering a factual and critical approach to the UFO phenomenon. Each issue includes documentation of sightings, their classification, and case studies, alongside competent, scientifically-methodical reports on UFO phenomena, case investigations, and international reports and analyses. It also features a review and reader letter section.

Information is provided on how to report UFO sightings, including a hotline number (02351-23377), email ([email protected]), and websites (www.ufo-forschung.de and www.jufof.de).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of folklore and its potential connections to modern unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs and animal mutilations. The journal maintains a critical and analytical stance, questioning the validity of speculative connections and emphasizing the need for rigorous investigation and evidence. There is a clear distinction made between folklore and documented evidence, and a critique of theories that lack empirical support or rely on misinterpretations of historical accounts. The journal also acknowledges the broader context of UFO research, including psychological aspects and the potential for fringe or extremist ideologies to influence certain UFO narratives.