JUFOF - Issue 206 - 2013 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of jufof (Journal für UFO-Forschung), issue number 206 from February 2013, published by GEP e.V., focuses on UFO observations, case documentation, and analysis. The cover prominently features the headline "UFO-Beobachtungen" and highlights articles on "Der COMETA-Report" and "UFO-Literatur".

Editorial

The editorial, written by Danny Ammon, discusses the historical involvement of state and military authorities in UFO research, citing examples like the Kenneth Arnold sighting and various official reports. Ammon emphasizes the importance of critically examining such documents by considering their context, origin, and content. He introduces an analysis of the French "COMETA-Report" by member Klaus Felsmann, which is often cited as evidence of state interest and potential extraterrestrial explanations for UFOs. The editorial also promises current case documentation from GEP and a review of new UFO literature.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen

>>Unbekanntes Lichtspiel<< bei Kronshagen (19.09.2012)

This section details a sighting by Michaela S. in Kronshagen, Germany. The witness provided seven photos of a bright, pulsating light in the western sky, described as having "trembling movements" and "leuchtete und blinkte" (shone and blinked). The object was observed for about three minutes. Investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger analyzed the photos, noting they were taken with a Casio EX-Z550 camera under specific settings. Astronomical reconstruction suggested the object's position corresponded to the star Arcturus. Further investigation using the sender mast of the NDR radio tower in Kiel as a reference point helped refine the object's estimated position at an altitude of approximately 95 meters and an azimuth of 283°. The report concludes that the observed phenomena, including color changes, blinking, and apparent movement, are consistent with the star Arcturus affected by scintillation effects, which can make stars appear to move, change color, and twinkle. The witness's unusual perception of the star led her to photograph and report the event.

Weitere Meldungen im Überblick – Teil 7 (29.12.2012)

This report covers a sighting in München Schwabing-Freimann, Germany, by an unnamed witness. The object was described as a round, brightly glowing "Kugel" (ball) that flew relatively high (estimated 600-1000 meters) and emitted a bright light without illuminating the surroundings. It hovered, moved west, and eventually disappeared. The witness also reported a monotonous humming sound, unlike a typical helicopter. Investigator Peiniger and Seifert attempted to contact the witness for more details but received limited information. The location was determined to be south of the "Frankfurter Ring" in the Freimann district, possibly near the Munich-Nord interchange of the A99 and A9 motorways. Potential explanations considered include a rescue helicopter or a traffic observation helicopter, but the object's apparent size and lack of identifiable features made these less likely. A sky lantern is also proposed as a possibility, supported by the observed behavior and eventual extinguishing. Weather data for the night indicated low visibility due to fog and a slight easterly wind, which could account for the object's movement. The report notes that traffic statistics did not indicate any helicopter activity that would explain the sighting.

Case from Lüdenscheid (14.07.1989)

This section presents a case involving a photograph submitted by a 47-year-old man, allegedly taken during his school graduation trip in 1989, showing a flying saucer over Schloss Neuenhof in Lüdenscheid. Investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger analyzed the low-resolution image. The castle is confirmed to be Schloss Neuenhof. The witness claimed the photo was taken with an 8mm camera, but later accounts varied regarding the type of camera and whether it was an analog film camera, a camcorder, or a digital image. The witness also admitted to adding the date later and suggested the UFO might have been "einkopiert" (copied/inserted). The report highlights several inconsistencies: the varying camera descriptions, the grayscale nature of the image (unusual for 1989 color photography), the death of the photographer, lack of contact with a friend present, the late addition of the date, and the UFO's similarity to those found in iPhone apps. Peiniger concludes that the image is likely a digitally manipulated hoax, with a UFO inserted via computer.

Case from Sophienthal (05.01.2011)

This is a brief mention of a case from Sophienthal, Germany, classified as IFO/V1 and identified as a bird. No further details are provided in this excerpt.

UFO-Literatur

This section contains reviews of recent books related to UFOs. The titles mentioned are:

• "Götterbotschaft in den Genen"
• "Der Mittelmeerraum und seine Vorzeit"
• "Jesus, UFOs, Aliens"
• "Als die Götter die Menschen erschufen"
• "Die verletzte Pyramide"
• "Des Zeichners Geheimnis"
• "Von Space-Schnaps und Wurmlöchern"

These reviews are likely written by Hans-Werner Peiniger, as indicated in the editorial.

Impressum

The "Impressum" section provides details about the publisher, GEP e.V. (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), founded in 1972. It lists the editorial team as Hans-Werner Peiniger and Danny Ammon, who are responsible for the content. The magazine is published on a non-commercial basis every two months. Subscription prices are listed: €27.00 for one year (6 issues) within Germany, plus postage. Advertising rates are available upon request, with free classified ads for subscribers and members. Reprinting of articles requires written permission from GEP e.V.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical analysis of UFO sightings and evidence. The editorial stance emphasizes a rigorous, evidence-based approach, urging readers to examine documents and reports with a discerning eye, considering context and potential for misidentification or fabrication. The magazine appears to favor explanations that can be grounded in known phenomena (like astronomical objects or natural events) or identified as hoaxes, while still acknowledging the existence of unexplained cases. The inclusion of book reviews suggests a broader interest in the UFO phenomenon and its cultural and historical aspects.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Volume 2-2013, Issue Nr. 206, focuses on the analysis of various UFO sightings and reports, with a significant portion dedicated to photographic evidence and its interpretation. The issue features articles by Hans-Werner Peiniger and Klaus Felsmann, among others, and covers cases from Germany, Italy, and England.

Zeugenbericht: Bird mistaken for UFO (Germany, January 5, 2011)

A witness reported an unusual sighting on January 5, 2011, while taking photos with a new camera. Upon reviewing the images later, a shape was discovered that was not visible at the time of capture. The analysis, including an enlarged section of the photograph, clearly shows a bird in mid-flight with its wings outstretched. The witness did not recognize the bird at the time, attributing this to its small angular size, a common reason why such objects are not noticed by photographers during the act of taking pictures but are later discovered as potential UFOs in the resulting images.

Sachverhalt & Diskussion und Beurteilung: 'Black Sun' Effect (Germany, December 9, 2011)

A report details a 'black sphere' observed on a webcam image from the Postwiese ski resort near Winterberg, Germany. The witness discovered this image on a webcam website and subsequently reported it. Further investigation revealed that similar images could be found on archive webcam feeds from the same location. The phenomenon was identified as the 'black sun' effect, a digital photography artifact caused by extreme backlight. In such conditions, camera sensor pixels cannot process the light intensity, leading to an overexposure that appears as a black spot in the center, often affecting adjacent pixels and preventing color capture.

Sachverhalt & Diskussion und Beurteilung: Birds in Amalfi (Italy, June 16, 2009)

Two photos submitted by a witness, Walter H., taken during a vacation in Amalfi, Italy, showed several dark objects. Initially, the witness noticed a bright point in the sky that he attempted to photograph. Upon reviewing the photos, he discovered multiple dark objects that appeared to have moved during the exposure. The analysis concluded that these objects were birds in flight. The witness's initial attempt to photograph a bright point was unsuccessful, but the subsequent review of the images revealed the birds, which were likely not noticed due to their small size and rapid movement.

Sachverhalt & Diskussion und Beurteilung: Cylindrical Objects in Italy (Italy, August 27, 2009)

Another case involves photos taken by René S. in Mühlbach-Meransen, Italy. The witness reported seeing a bright point in the sky that he intended to photograph. Later, upon examining the photos, he discovered several dark objects that appeared to have moved during the exposure. The witness described the objects as cylindrical and suggested they were moving very fast. The analysis, using a Konica Minolta Dimage E40 camera with a 3x optical zoom, suggested that these objects were likely birds or insects that flew through the frame during the short exposure time. The elongated appearance was attributed to their movement and the camera's shutter speed.

Sachverhalt & Diskussion und Beurteilung: Orange-Red Object (Germany, May 1, 2009)

Thomas G. submitted two photos of an orange-red object that was visible for approximately 30 seconds before disappearing without a trace. The witness lived in Berlin, and while his location could be determined, it was uncertain if this was the sighting location. The description and the photograph led to the conclusion that the object was likely a sky lantern.

Zeugenbericht: UFOs in Sunset Photos (Germany, February 5, 2009)

Rainer H. submitted photos of a sunset taken during a car journey between Ehingen and Biberach, Germany. Upon reviewing the photos on a computer, he noticed what appeared to be UFOs. The witness stated that the objects were stationary while the car was moving, and he observed them for over 30 minutes. The analysis suggested that these were likely clouds, which can appear to change position and form due to atmospheric conditions and perspective. The witness's initial observation of stationary 'UFOs' while clouds were changing was likely due to the dynamic nature of cloud formations at different altitudes.

Zeugenbericht: Light Ball near Crop Circle (England, July 17, 2008)

Andrea R. reported observing a 'light ball' in photos taken during a visit to Wiltshire, England, near a crop circle formation. The object appeared in a series of photos taken within a 12-second timeframe, becoming more prominent in later shots. The witness believed it was a self-luminous object, possibly violet, and not a reflection. However, the analysis, conducted in collaboration with the CENAP (French UFO research group), concluded that it was a lens reflection. This reflection was likely caused by a small water droplet on the camera lens, acting like a tiny lens that reflected the sunlight, especially noticeable in the third photo taken against the light.

Zeugenbericht: Rotating Light (Germany, July 27, 2009)

Andreas F. reported observing a strange, bright light in the sky from his home in Glashütten/Schloßborn, Germany. The light was initially mistaken for a bright star but was unique in its appearance. It then began to move erratically, left and right, before becoming stationary. Using binoculars, the witness observed the light rotating in a circle. When a conventional aircraft appeared, the light became dimmer. The witness managed to photograph the object, noting three colors (red, green, blue) and a triangular appearance through the camera. The analysis suggested that the object could have been a bright star or a planet. Astronomical reconstruction identified several candidates, including Jupiter, Arcturus, and Capella, all of which have been previously reported as UFOs. Due to a lack of further information, such as the direction the witness was facing, the case was classified as 'insufficient data'.

Der COMETA-Report – eine Übersicht (Article by Klaus Felsmann)

This article provides a detailed overview of the COMETA Report, a significant document from France concerning UFO research. The report, compiled by 12 individuals from the "Comité d'Etudes Approfondies" (Committee for In-depth Studies), offers a comprehensive look at the state of French UFO research and the perspectives of its researchers. Key points highlighted include:

• Official Stance: French officials have officially committed to investigating the UFO phenomenon, establishing a government-supported case management system.
• Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH): The COMETA Report considers the ETH as the most probable explanation for UFOs.
• National Security: The UFO topic is deemed important for national security and the advancement of scientific and technological development.
• Positive Exception: France is often cited as a positive example of state-supported UFO research.

The article explains that the COMETA Report is readily available online, often as a two-part PDF in English translation. It details the report's structure, which covers approximately 90 pages and includes forewords, hypotheses, case examples, methods, UFOs and defense (strategic planning, spaceflight, science, religion, politics, media), conclusions, and appendices (radar cases, sightings by astronomers, life/colonization in space, disinformation, UFO chronology, psychological, sociological, and political aspects). The report is presented as a comprehensive study of the UFO phenomenon from various societal perspectives.

The article also touches upon the relationship between COMETA and other French organizations like CNES (French space agency) and its sub-groups GEPAN and SEPRA, which deal with aerospace phenomena. The COMETA Report itself was published in the French magazine "VSD" in 1999 after a three-year preparation period.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical analysis of photographic and visual evidence related to alleged UFO sightings. The journal consistently seeks to identify conventional explanations for these phenomena, such as misidentifications of natural objects (birds, insects, clouds, atmospheric effects), photographic artifacts (lens flares, black sun effect), or known aerial objects (sky lanterns). While acknowledging the existence of unexplained cases, the editorial stance leans towards rigorous investigation and rational explanation, often classifying cases as 'insufficient data' when definitive conclusions cannot be reached. The inclusion of the COMETA Report overview suggests an interest in official government approaches to UFO research and the broader implications of the phenomenon, including its potential connection to national security and scientific advancement.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Issue 2-2013, Nr. 206) is primarily dedicated to a comprehensive review and discussion of the COMETA Report, titled "UFOs and Defense: What Should We Prepare For?" The report, originally published in a special issue of the magazine VSD in July 1999, is presented as an independent investigation into UFO phenomena by the French association COMETA, based on a study by the Institute of Higher Studies for National Defence.

The journal delves into the background of COMETA, mentioning its participants and supporters from various French institutions, including CNES, SEPRA, the Gendarmerie, the Ministry of Defense, the French Air Force, and civilian pilots. The issue highlights numerous case studies that were presented or discussed within the COMETA framework, offering detailed accounts of sightings and encounters.

Case Studies from the COMETA Report and Beyond

The journal presents a series of detailed case examples, often with specific dates, locations, and witness descriptions:

• M. Giraud, Mirage-IV-Pilot, March 7, 1977 (Dijon, France): Two pilots observed a brightly shining object on a collision course that evaded their aircraft despite maneuvers. The object was not detected by radar, and no sonic boom was heard, even at supersonic speeds.
• Anonymous Fighter Pilot (later identified as Colonel Claude Bosc), March 3, 1976 (Rennes-Nantes-Poitiers-Tours flight, France): A pilot encountered a greenish-fluorescent light that ascended rapidly to 7500m and then descended to 6000m on a collision course. The object, estimated at 1-2 meters in diameter, had a fluorescent trail and disappeared quickly. It was not seen by radar but was confirmed by two other pilots.
• Air-France Flight AF 3532, January 28, 1994 (Seine-et-Marne, France): Three witnesses saw a large, brown, spherical object (estimated 250m) that elongated and became invisible. Radar tracked it for 50 seconds before it vanished.
• Lakenheath, England, August 13-14, 1956: An object was tracked by radar at an American air base, described as bright and performing extraordinary maneuvers. A fighter pilot reported cannon malfunctions and unusual speed changes without transitional phases.
• RB-47 Bomber Crew, July 17, 1957 (Mississippi-Louisiana-Utah-Dallas, USA): The crew detected non-ground radar signals from an intense bluish-white light object, confirmed by ground radar, which maneuvered erratically and intermittently appeared.
• Tehran, September 18/19, 1976: A brightly lit rectangular or cylindrical object was observed by the control tower and the air force. Approaching F-4 fighter jets experienced radio contact loss and missile system malfunctions.
• Russia, Pereslavl-Salesski region, March 21, 1990: A large disc-shaped object (100-200m) flew at various altitudes and then at speeds far exceeding modern fighter jets, seemingly without inertia.
• San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina, July 31, 1995: During a landing approach, runway lights failed. An object of passenger-jet size with three lights hovered parallel to the aircraft before ascending vertically. Other witnesses and ground personnel confirmed the sighting.
• Antananarivo, Madagascar, August 16, 1954: Hundreds of witnesses observed a green, metallic object that extended landing gear and flew over the city, causing animal unrest and extinguishing lights.
• Unnamed Pilot, December 9, 1979 (Dijon, France): A pilot and his wife observed a metallic gray object, shaped like two saucers, hovering low over a field before ascending rapidly.
• Kapustin Yar, Russia, July 28-29, 1989: Multiple witnesses reported up to three UFOs simultaneously performing abrupt maneuvers and evading a fighter jet silently. Some described a disk-shaped object with a bright light, while others noted green, fluorescent light directed into a rocket shaft.
• Valensole, France, July 1, 1965: A lavender farmer witnessed an object land silently on a stand, leaving ground impressions and causing vegetation to dry out, possibly due to electromagnetic radiation.
• Cussac, France, August 29, 1967: Two children reported seeing four black beings who retreated into a bright flying object. Ground impressions and a sulfurous smell were noted, and witnesses suffered eye irritation.
• Trans-en-Provence, France, January 8, 1981: A witness observed an oval object land silently on a stand. Ground impressions indicated a heavy object, and plant samples showed signs of disturbance, possibly from electromagnetic radiation.
• Nancy, France, October 21, 1982: An oval object (1m diameter, 80cm high) hovered silently over a garden for 20 minutes. It appeared metallic, beryllium-colored on the underside and green-blue on top. Upon ascending, it caused grass to straighten, and the vegetation below appeared dried out.
• Paris-Lille, September 29, 1988 (explained): A large red ball of light was observed, which was later identified as a decorative object for a Jean-Michel Jarre concert.
• Dombes, France, March 10, 1979 (explained): Four witnesses reported an unexplained bright glow, later attributed to a faulty 10kV power line affecting street lighting and fish in a pond.

UFO Research Organizations and Methodology

The journal details the organization of UFO research in France under CNES, starting with the establishment of GEPAN in 1977. GEPAN investigated cases with engineers and technical staff, liaising with scientific groups. Cases were channeled from various organizations, including the Gendarmerie and civilian aviation. GEPAN conducted further investigations in labs, institutes, and through photo analysis (ETCA). In 1988, GEPAN was transformed into SEPRA, shifting its focus towards investigating Re-Entry phenomena and reducing its capacity for civilian UFO case analysis.

The methods of GEPAN/SEPRA are discussed, emphasizing the importance of witness characteristics, report details, and environmental conditions. The journal notes that many cases were clarified due to extensive data collection, while some required up to two years for follow-up investigations. Cases were classified into categories: fully clarified, clarified with residual uncertainty, insufficient data, and 4-5% unexplained cases with good data (UAP - Unidentified Aerial Phenomena).

Hypotheses and Theories

The COMETA report is presented as favoring the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH), though it acknowledges limitations in proving it. The journal discusses various theories, including:

• Advanced Technology: Speculation about propulsion systems (MHD principle, particle emission) and projects like NERVA, ORION, and DEADALUS.
• Microwave Radiation: Potential effects on plants and witnesses, linking to developments in microwave weapon systems.
• Psychological and Social Aspects: The influence of ideas and the difficulty of analyzing reality, the possibility of a 'superpower' on Earth with an advanced technical level, and the concept of holographic images being presented.
• Natural Phenomena: The possibility of unknown natural phenomena.
• Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH): The idea that extraterrestrial intelligences have intervened in human evolution, possibly using asteroid belts for protection and travel.

The journal also touches upon the idea of disinformation policies, potentially stemming from the Cold War or extraterrestrial sources.

International UFO Research Landscape

The issue briefly reviews UFO research activities in other countries:

• USA: Mentions the Condon Report, noting its critique by the AIAA and ongoing UFO research supported by Freedom of Information Act releases. It also highlights Marie Galbraith's work in collecting UFO cases with support from Laurance Rockefeller, and the collaboration of organizations like CUFOS, MUFON, and FUFOR.
• England: Discusses Nick Pope's prominence and the possibility of a secret UFO research department operating in conjunction with the USA.
• Russia: Mentions the Academy of Sciences' involvement since 1979 and proposals for collaboration with SEPRA. It notes the partial release of UFO material from 1982-1990 and specific cases reported in Russian newspapers.

Book Reviews

Two book reviews are featured:

1. "Götterbotschaft in den Genen" (God's Message in the Genes) by Hartwig Hausdorf: This book proposes that extraterrestrial intelligences have intervened in human evolution, manipulating our DNA. Hausdorf argues against conventional anthropological models, suggesting that new findings point to alien influence.
2. "Der Mittelmeerraum und seine mysteriöse Vorzeit" (The Mediterranean Region and its Mysterious Past) by Erich von Däniken: Von Däniken explores ancient structures and knowledge in the Mediterranean region, questioning established historical timelines and suggesting advanced knowledge possessed by ancient builders, possibly linked to figures like Enoch and Methuselah.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently presents UFO phenomena as a serious subject requiring investigation. While acknowledging that many cases can be explained by conventional means, it emphasizes the existence of a significant number of unexplained aerial phenomena (UAPs). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various hypotheses, including the ETH, while also critically evaluating the evidence and methodologies used in UFO research. The COMETA report is treated as a significant, albeit sometimes debated, contribution to the field. The journal encourages further discussion and contribution from readers, indicating that the UFO topic remains complex and warrants continued attention.

This issue of the 'Journal für UFO-Forschung' (Issue 2-2013, Nr. 206) is a German-language publication focused on UFO research and related phenomena. It features several book reviews and articles that delve into the intersection of UFOs, aliens, ancient history, religion, and personal experiences.

Book Reviews

Erich von Däniken: 'Die Große Pyramide'

The review discusses Erich von Däniken's 'Die Große Pyramide,' described as the third volume in a five-part series. It presents 160 full-color annotated images of Mediterranean archaeological sites used to support his theories. The reviewer notes that while the book may not offer new information for those familiar with Däniken's work, it can serve as a useful travel guide for exploring these ancient sites.

Armin Kreiner: 'Jesus, UFOs, Aliens: Außerirdische Intelligenz als Herausforderung für den christlichen Glauben'

This book by Armin Kreiner, a Professor of Fundamental Theology, examines the potential consequences of discovering extraterrestrial intelligence for Christian faith. It questions whether the existence of aliens would challenge the uniqueness of God's incarnation in Jesus Christ and if theology needs to argue against alien intelligence. The review highlights Kreiner's precise arguments and his assertion that the possibility of alien existence warrants serious consideration.

Daniela Machnitzke: 'Als die Götter die Menschen erschufen'

Daniela Machnitzke's book explores the question of whether aliens exist and if they have visited Earth or live among us. The author investigates mythology, religion, archaeology, and ufology, suggesting that aliens may have created the first humans and continue to interact with them, possibly through hybrid offspring. The book also discusses various alien groups and hybrid beings.

Alireza Zarei: 'Die verletzte Pyramide: Wie Neugier Geschichte zerstört'

Alireza Zarei's work addresses the mysteries of the Cheops Pyramid and suggests that a secret archaeological group may have damaged the ancient wonder during investigations. The book claims to irrefutably prove the existence of a "secret Egyptianology" and analyzes existing theories and research findings to solve this riddle. The review notes that the book is positively received on Amazon.

Rolf Meisinger: 'Des Zeichners Geheimnis'

Rolf Meisinger recounts his early experiences as a soldier and his missions in a special unit tasked with investigating mysterious events. The review expresses doubt about whether these are factual accounts or fictional stories, given the extraordinary nature of the narratives. The book reportedly includes UFO-related incidents, such as Soviet paratroopers encountering and firing upon a spindle-shaped object in Afghanistan, resulting in casualties.

Roland Roth: 'Von Space-Schnaps und Wurmlöchern: Wörterbuch für Hobby-Raumfahrer'

This book is described as a quirky guide for aspiring space travelers, explaining terms and jargon used in the space community. It's presented as a lighthearted reference work with humorous explanations, some of which are intentionally absurd. The reviewer found the book entertaining initially but ultimately put it aside after a short time.

Ulrich Magin: 'Kontakte mit »Außerirdischen« im deutschen Sprachraum'

Ulrich Magin's work is a comprehensive collection of German contactee and humanoid reports. It critically analyzes reports, witnesses, and the social context of UFO beliefs, cataloging over 350 entries chronologically. The GEP special issue covers various aspects of the UFO mythos, from abductions to ancient astronaut theories, and includes a bibliography and indexes.

GEP and Journal Information

The journal also provides information about the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), a scientific association dedicated to UFO research. It details the GEP's methods, including questionnaires, on-site interviews, and background research, and mentions their interdisciplinary approach supported by authorities and institutions. The 'jufof' journal, in its second part, publishes scientific and methodical articles on UFO phenomena, case studies, and international reports, along with a review and letters section.

UFO Reporting

Information is provided on how to report UFO sightings to the GEP's reporting center, including a phone number (02351-23377), email address ([email protected]), and website links for their web forum and chat.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, the potential existence and impact of extraterrestrial intelligence, and the examination of these topics through the lenses of archaeology, theology, mythology, and personal accounts. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to explore these complex subjects with an open mind while maintaining a scientific and methodical approach, as exemplified by the GEP's work and the journal's content.