JUFOF - Issue 213 - 2014 03

Magazine Overview

Title: Jufof
Issue: 03-2014 (Jg. 35, Nr. 213)
Publisher: GEP e.V. (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens)
Date: March 2014
Price: 4,50 Euro
ISSN: 0723-7766

This issue of Jufof, the journal for UFO research, is dedicated to UFO sightings, their documentation, and analysis. It presents a significant number of case files, reflecting the ongoing efforts of the GEP to investigate unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial highlights that the abundance of cases is due to various factors, including the progress of investigations, the timing of documentation, and the involvement of multiple investigators.

Editorial

Danny Ammon, in his editorial 'Liebe Leser' (Dear Readers), emphasizes that the journal's core business is the investigation of individual UFO cases. He notes that spontaneous, unpredictable observations of unknown aerial phenomena by the general public constitute the UFO phenomenon itself. Learning about this phenomenon requires engaging with these observers, especially since predicting or measuring UFO appearances is not yet possible. Ammon points out the lack of adequate models to distinguish between UFOs (Unidentified Flying Objects) and IFOs (Identified Flying Objects) and suggests that a deeper understanding comes from identifying specific characteristics of these cases. He states that this issue provides examples of cases that include clear IFOs, NEAR IFOs, and PROBLEMATIC UFOs, inviting readers to form their own judgments. The editorial also mentions two technical articles on Ezechiel's biblical 'UFO' description and new findings on ball lightning.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen

This section presents detailed case studies:

Bumerangförmiges Objekt über der A6 (Boomerang-shaped Object over the A6)

• Case Number: 20140208 B
• Date: February 8, 2014
• Time: 20:05 CET (19:05 UTC)
• Location: A6 near Grünberg, Germany (PLZ 67269?)
• Witnesses: Claudia W. (50) and her husband
• Classification: CE I (Close Encounter of the First Kind)
• Assessment: PROBLEMATIC UFO
• Description: The witnesses observed a boomerang-shaped object with angular ends and numerous bright lights flying at low altitude for 3-4 minutes. It hovered without apparent movement before disappearing. The object was described as similar to a wedge-shaped or angular boomerang, with lights at the front and rear. The husband reported seeing a red beam, which the wife did not. The wife described the object as a very large, flat, plate-like aircraft, possibly military, and mentioned experiencing a trance-like state with received messages. The sketch provided resembles the Horten H IX flying wing. The investigator, Roland M. Horn, classifies it as a 'PROBLEMATIC UFO' due to its unusual characteristics.

Schlafzimmerbesucher (Bedroom Visitor)

• Case Number: 20130623 A
• Date: June 23, 2013
• Time: 4:35 MESZ
• Location: Schorndorf, Germany (PLZ 73614)
• Witness: (Name known to investigator)
• Classification: CE 4.2 (Close Encounter of the Fourth Kind, less complex memories without hypnosis)
• Assessment: NEAR IFO (Near Identified Flying Object)
• Identification: Psychological
• Investigator: André Kramer
• Description: The 41-year-old witness reported waking up to a sensation and finding his bedroom wall missing, revealing a small, strange entity in the adjacent room. The entity approached him rapidly, stared intensely into his eyes for several minutes, touched his left foot, and then returned through the 'missing' wall. The wall reappeared, and the entity vanished. The witness found a dead butterfly where the entity had been. He described the creature as possibly shrinking and growing, and felt it was also uncertain and somewhat fearful. The investigator notes that while the witness's interpretation leans towards an alien, the experience shares characteristics with historical accounts of 'bedroom visitors' and sleep paralysis phenomena. The case is classified as NEAR IFO, suggesting a possible psychological or physiological explanation, though the unusual details make a definitive conclusion difficult.

Weitere Meldungen im Überblick – Teil 11 (Further Reports in Overview – Part 11)

• Case Number: 20120210 A
• Date: February 10, 2012
• Time: Daytime
• Location: Berlin-Moabit, Germany (PLZ 10557)
• Witness: Christian D.
• Classification: DD (Data Deficient)
• Assessment: IFO / V3 (Identified Flying Object / Visual, 3rd category)
• Identification: Balloon / Birds
• Investigator: Hans-Werner Peiniger
• Description: The witness filmed a small object with blinking lights on a snowy winter day. In the video, two additional small, bright objects are seen moving upwards. The witness initially noticed a blinking in the sky and later identified the objects on his camera footage. The assessment suggests the objects could be balloons or birds, with the video analysis indicating a possible balloon and two other points of light.

Other Articles

• Eine frühe Darstellung... ...von Ezechiels »UFO« (An Early Depiction... ...of Ezekiel's 'UFO'): This article likely discusses interpretations of biblical passages, specifically Ezekiel's visions, as potential early accounts of UFO-like phenomena.
• Dreieckförmiger Flugkörper... ...über Nordrhein-Westfalen (Triangular Aircraft... ...over North Rhine-Westphalia): This title suggests a report or analysis of a sighting of a triangular-shaped craft in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia.
• Das Kugel-Blitz-Rätsel (The Ball Lightning Riddle): This article delves into the phenomenon of ball lightning, exploring new theories about its origin and nature.

Impressum (Imprint)

• Publisher: GEP e.V., founded in 1972.
• Address: Postfach 2361, D-58473 Lüdenscheid, Germany.
• Contact: Phone: (02351) 23377, Fax: (02351) 23335, Email: [email protected].
• Editors: Hans-Werner Peiniger and Danny Ammon are responsible for the content.
• Publication: Jufof 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 for Germany, €20.00 for abroad). Membership in GEP includes the subscription.
• Advertising: Price lists are available upon request. Small ads are free for subscribers (up to six lines) and members (up to ten lines).
• Reprint Policy: Reprints are only allowed with written permission from GEP e.V. and require a copy of the publication.
• Printing: bis500 Druck, 98693 Ilmenau.
• Copyright: © 2014 GEP e.V.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed investigation and analysis of UFO sightings, the classification of these events (IFO, NEAR IFO, PROBLEMATIC UFO), and the exploration of potential explanations, including psychological factors and historical interpretations. The editorial stance, as presented by Danny Ammon, is one of rigorous, evidence-based research, aiming to move beyond purely subjective experiences towards more objective criteria for case evaluation. The GEP e.V. positions itself as a serious research organization dedicated to understanding the UFO phenomenon through systematic investigation and open discussion, as evidenced by the inclusion of diverse cases and thematic articles.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), designated as Ausgabe 3-2014 and NR. 213, covers a range of aerial phenomena and witness reports investigated by Hans-Werner Peiniger and others. The publication focuses on providing rational explanations for sightings, often classifying them as Identified Flying Objects (IFO) or attributing them to known phenomena.

Analysis of Sightings and Phenomena

Gelsenkirchen-Buer, Germany (April 7, 2005)

A witness, Winfried K., reported observing two bright orange light points descending from the clouds. The initial assessment suggested they might be reflections of sunlight, possibly from a high-flying balloon or even seagulls. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, leans towards the explanation of seagulls due to their rhythmic reflection of sunlight. He notes that while weather balloons are common, the observed objects' behavior was more consistent with birds.

Kosovo (July 2006)

Burim Z. submitted photos of a small, round, silver object that reflected sunlight and hovered slowly. The witness expressed doubt that it was a weather balloon, as they are not common in his region. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, acknowledges the object's characteristics but, without further data, classifies it as NEAR IFO (Near Identified Flying Object), suggesting a balloon of an unknown type.

Lofer, Austria (May 18, 1996)

Sonja S. reported a luminous object that rapidly grew larger and then flew horizontally for 8-10 minutes before appearing to split into two and disappear. Due to the long reporting delay (11 years), the case is classified as PROBLEMATIC UFO, but the investigator still considers conventional explanations like a fireball, satellite, or a sky lantern unlikely. The apparent division of the object is noted as an interesting aspect.

Germany (July 2, 2006)

Alex reported seeing a strange object in a photograph taken of the landscape. The object was not visible at the time of photography. The investigator identified it as a bird, possibly an insect, and noted that no unusual phenomena were observed in the sky during the photography session.

Nordholz, Germany (May 18, 1996)

Olaf F. observed an object off the North Sea coast that remained stationary for 30 minutes before disappearing. He took about 20 photos. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, discussed the photos with colleagues and concluded it was likely a kite, possibly a stunt kite, anchored to the ground to remain airborne for extended periods.

Wien-Floridsdorf, Austria (September 22, 2010)

Gerhard S. reported hearing a loud double bang and then seeing a perfect ring rotating clockwise at high speed. The ring dissolved after 3-5 seconds, leaving a rapidly spinning light ball. The investigator identified this as a smoke ring, which can be caused by various events, including accidental explosions or pyrotechnics.

Mount Etna, Italy (March 2000 & August 6, 2000)

Images show smoke rings originating from Mount Etna, identified as volcanic emissions. The journal notes that similar phenomena have been observed and documented.

Detmold, Germany (June 2009)

The artist group "The Lunatics" created a significant smoke ring during pyrotechnic tests for their show "Wanted: New Heroes." This event was observed and filmed by numerous citizens.

Football Stadium (Date not specified)

A smoke ring observed over a football stadium is presented as another example of a pyrotechnic effect, reinforcing the idea that such phenomena are not necessarily exotic.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the investigation and rational explanation of aerial phenomena. The journal consistently favors conventional explanations, such as balloons, birds, aircraft, and natural or man-made atmospheric effects (like smoke rings), over more speculative or exotic theories. The editorial stance is one of critical analysis, relying on photographic evidence, witness testimony, and comparative analysis with known phenomena to reach conclusions. The journal aims to demystify UFO sightings by providing plausible, evidence-based explanations, thereby reducing the number of truly unexplained cases.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), dated Ausgabe 3-2014, Nr. 213, delves into several intriguing cases and phenomena. The main focus is on the investigation of triangular-shaped aerial objects, particularly in Germany, and a discussion on the enduring mystery of ball lightning. The magazine also touches upon historical UFO events and the evolving scientific perspective on unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP).

Article: Triangular Aircraft over North Rhine-Westphalia

This section, authored by Hans-Werner Peiniger, details four sightings of triangular-shaped objects over North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, between March 2008 and June 2011. In all cases, the triangular craft was accompanied by a single-engine light aircraft. The author initially considered possibilities like drones or advanced aircraft but, through extensive research, identified the objects as the D-Plane 1, a unique triangular ultralight aircraft developed by Belgian engineer Bart Verhees. The D-Plane 1, with registration code F-PDHV, was a prototype with a wingspan of 4.5 meters and a length of 3.3 meters, first flown in 2004. The article presents photographic and video evidence, including close-ups and comparisons with known aircraft, to support this identification. The author notes that the D-Plane 1's silvery-aluminum construction could appear dark under certain lighting conditions, explaining why it might have been perceived as a dark object. The accompanying aircraft was likely a chase plane or a drone control aircraft.

Case 1, GEP: 20080315 A

Observed on March 15, 2008, in Dormagen-Zons, Germany. A woman and her husband observed a black triangular object accompanied by a small aircraft. Two photos were taken.

Case 2, CENAP: 20090804

Observed on August 4, 2009, in Dormagen-Zons, Germany. A witness and his girlfriend saw a grey, delta-wing-like object flying silently, similar to a motor aircraft. The object was approximately 1 km behind and at a 25° angle to the accompanying aircraft.

Case 3, GEP: 20110616 B

Observed on June 16, 2011, in Reichshof-Hunsheim, Germany. A witness, a colleague, and several children observed a black triangular object accompanied by a larger sport aircraft. The object had rounded corners and no visible lights.

Case 4, DEGUFO: 20110616

Observed on June 16, 2011, in Eitorf, Germany. A witness heard a small aircraft and saw a triangular object flying in front of it. The witness filmed the event, and the video was uploaded to YouTube.

Discussion and Evaluation

The author posits that in three of the four cases, the triangular object flew ahead of the accompanying aircraft, suggesting it was a test flight observed or controlled by the aircraft, rather than a UFO pursuit. The author dismisses the idea of a pursuit by a fighter jet. The D-Plane 1 is compared to larger aircraft and drones, with the possibility of it being a drone or a component of drone technology, such as the EADS-Cassidian 'Sagitta' project, being considered. However, the author concludes that the D-Plane 1 is the most likely explanation for the observed phenomena.

Article: UFO Wave Before Star Trek

This short news item, attributed to Danny Ammon, discusses a reported increase in UFO sightings in the USA just before the premiere of the original "Star Trek" series in 1966. It mentions the "Portage County UFO Chase" in Pennsylvania, where police pursued an object for 30 minutes. Some articles at the time speculated a connection to "Star Trek," with the series' creator, Gene Roddenberry, humorously suggesting that someone upstairs must have liked the show. The case was also used to criticize the Project Blue Book investigation, as its investigators could not agree on the nature of the stimulus.

Article: The Ball Lightning Riddle

Authored by Hans-Werner Sachmann, this article explores the ongoing mystery of ball lightning, a meteorological phenomenon that remains largely unexplained. Despite some researchers doubting its existence, recent observations by Chinese scientists have provided new insights. Ping Yuan and his colleagues at Northwest Normal University in Lanzhou recorded a bright sphere following a lightning strike during a thunderstorm. This observation supports John Abrahamson and James Dinniss's theory that ball lightning is triggered by ordinary lightning strikes in specific soil types. However, some scientists, including Gerd Fussmann and Alexander Keul, remain skeptical, citing the lack of detailed information and the extraordinary nature of a five-meter diameter luminous sphere. The article concludes by noting that while ball lightning has been described since ancient times, it is now being taken more seriously by the scientific community, a development that bodes well for UFO research, as witnesses of both phenomena have historically been dismissed.

Key Findings on Ball Lightning

• Ball lightning is a meteorological phenomenon that is still not fully understood.
• Recent observations in China have provided new data.
• The theory that ordinary lightning strikes trigger ball lightning in certain soils is supported by new evidence.
• Some scientists remain skeptical due to insufficient details and the unusual nature of reported phenomena.
• Scientific interest in UAP and phenomena like ball lightning is increasing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently focuses on detailed investigations of UFO and UAP sightings, often seeking conventional explanations through rigorous research. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded skepticism, encouraging thorough analysis and evidence-based conclusions. The magazine aims to demystify phenomena by identifying them with known objects or events, as demonstrated by the D-Plane 1 investigation. However, it also acknowledges the growing scientific interest in UAP and related unexplained phenomena like ball lightning, suggesting that the field of UFO research is gaining more credibility.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue number 213 from the 3rd edition of 2014, features an article titled "Eine frühe Darstellung von Ezechiels »UFO«" (An Early Depiction of Ezekiel's 'UFO') by Ulrich Magin. The magazine is published by GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), a German organization dedicated to UFO research.

An Early Depiction of Ezekiel's 'UFO'

Ulrich Magin's article delves into the Book of Ezekiel, a significant text in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, which is also frequently interpreted ufologically. The primary focus is on the 'UFO description' found at the beginning of the book (Ezekiel 1:4f.). The author quotes the biblical passage, specifically from the Luther Bible version of 1912, which describes a "storm wind," a "great cloud full of fire," and within it, four creatures resembling humans, each with four wheels. These wheels are described as being like turquoise, with wheels within wheels, and filled with eyes. They moved in any direction without turning and lifted off the earth with the creatures, guided by the spirit of the creatures.

The article then connects this biblical description to art history, highlighting a significant fresco cycle in the double church of St. Maria and St. Clemens in Schwarzrheindorf, near Bonn, Germany. This church, built in the mid-12th century and consecrated in 1151, contains magnificent wall paintings from around 1150 that are believed by contemporary theologians like Rupert of Deutz and Otto von Freising to depict the vision of Ezekiel. Rupert of Deutz, in particular, saw the text as a prefiguration of Jesus' later life.

The article notes that the fresco depicts the "storm cloud and wheel" and other relevant passages from Ezekiel, such as the "Devouring of the Scroll" (Ez. 2:3ff.), the "Vision of the New Jerusalem" (Ez. 40:3), the "Measuring of the New Jerusalem" (Ez. 40:5-42:20), and the "Appearance of the Glory of the Lord in the Temple Gate" (Ez. 43:1; 44:2). It also mentions passages considered irrelevant for pre-astronautics but important for Ezekiel's context, like his haircutting and the burning of his hair (Ez. 5:1-4), his shuddering at the animal cult (Ez. 8:1ff.), and the worship of the stars (Ez. 8:13-17).

Furthermore, the article mentions other 'pre-astronautic' sites in the Bonn region, such as the "Stone Circle of Oberdollendorf" and the "Iron Man of Kottenforst," which are no longer frequently cited by pre-astronautics proponents. It suggests that a trip to Bonn is worthwhile for those interested in these topics.

The article includes images of the frescoes, detailing a close-up of the wheel depiction and a broader view of the "Measuring of the New Jerusalem with the Cord." It also references a similar depiction in Neunkirchen, viewed through the lens of the Book of Revelation.

Literature and Internet Resources

Two literature references are provided: Roth, Hermann Josef's "Bonn" (1988) and Königs, Karl's "St. Maria und St. Clemens in Schwarzrheindorf" (2001), which offers detailed theological explanations of the artwork. Internet links are also given for viewing the complete Ezekiel cycle online, including a German region website and a Wikipedia page for St. Clemens in Schwarzrheindorf.

GEP Publications and UFO Information

The magazine also includes advertisements for GEP publications. One is a book titled "UFOs - Phänomen oder Phantomphänomen?" (UFOs - Phenomenon or Phantom Phenomenon?), a comprehensive report on unexplained UFO cases from a 2012 study, analyzing them for patterns and causes. It is 114 pages, priced at €12.90 (€10.32 for members).

Another publication advertised is "UFO-Forschung und Wissenschaft" (UFO Research and Science), a collection of papers from a GEP conference held in Hösbach in May 2009, covering topics like subjective UFO research, media portrayal, and discourse analysis. This volume is 64 pages and costs €9.50 (€7.60 for members).

Detailed information about GEP, its research methods, and its journal, "jufof" (Journal für UFO-Forschung), is provided. The journal, in publication since 1980, features factual and critical reporting on UFO phenomena, including documentation of sightings, case studies, and scientific-methodological articles. It also includes reviews and reader letters.

A definition of a UFO is provided: "A UFO is the reported perception of an object or light in the sky or on the ground, whose appearance, trajectory, and general dynamic and luminous behavior suggest no logical, conventional explanation, and which remains unidentifiable not only to the witnesses but also after thorough examination of all available evidence by technically competent individuals."

Finally, the magazine provides contact information for reporting UFO sightings, including a hotline number (02351-23377), an email address ([email protected]), and website addresses (www.ufo-forschung.de, www.jufof.de), encouraging readers to share their experiences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of biblical texts with UFO phenomena, the historical and artistic interpretations of these phenomena, and the promotion of scientific UFO research. The editorial stance of the journal is clearly one of critical, scientific investigation into UFO reports, as evidenced by the definition of a UFO and the description of the journal's content, which includes case studies, analyses, and discussions from a scientific-methodological perspective. The GEP positions itself as a serious research organization supported by various authorities and scientific institutions.