JUFOF - Issue 215 - 2014 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'jufof', the journal for UFO research, dated May 2014 (Volume 35, Issue 215), is published by GEP e.V. The cover prominently features the headline 'UFOs auf hoher See...' ('UFOs on the High Seas...') with the sub-headline '...in Reiseberichten' ('...in Travel Reports'), suggesting a focus on sightings reported during travels. Other key articles include an essay titled 'Ethik und Moral im Spannungsfeld...' ('Ethics and Morality in the Field of Tension...') concerning the balance between science and fringe science, and a literature section with book reviews.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Hans-Werner Peiniger, reflects on the year 2014 for UFO research in Germany. It mentions the GEP's member assembly and the re-election of the board, followed by a workshop that generated ideas for new projects. Two key projects are highlighted: 'PROBLEMATIC UFO', which will analyze GEP's own cases, and a fundamental revision of the GEP's research principles. The UFO database is to be modernized, and resources for case investigators, including a manual, will be enhanced. The editorial also notes changes in other German-speaking UFO organizations, such as new leadership at DEGUFO and the formation of a new interdisciplinary research group by former MUFON-CES leader Illob-rand von Ludwiger. The 'ufo-und-alienforum.de' website had to be rebuilt after a hacker attack. Peiniger reassures readers that despite these changes, the GEP's commitment to fact-based research will remain unchanged. He notes that the GEP has processed its 3000th sighting report. The current issue aims to provide insight into this work with case documentations, an article on 'UFOs on the High Seas', an essay, and book reviews. The editorial concludes with holiday wishes for Christmas and the New Year 2015.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section presents detailed analyses of several reported sightings:

Unbekanntes Objekt über Weiterstadt (Unknown Object over Weiterstadt)

• Date: June 18, 2011
• Location: Weiterstadt, Germany
• Witness: Glenda T.
• Classification: DD
• Assessment: IFO / V1 (Identified Flying Object / Possible Misidentification)
• Identification: Water droplet on windshield
• Summary: The witness photographed an object on her car's windshield. After taking the initial photo, she took another from the same spot to ensure it wasn't a defect. The investigation concluded that the object was a water droplet on the windshield, reflecting the surroundings and the iPhone lens, creating an unusual appearance. Other photos from a slightly different angle did not show the object, supporting the droplet hypothesis.

Gelbes, rechteckiges über Flussufer in Thailand fotografiert (Yellow, Rectangular Object over Riverbank in Thailand Photographed)

• Date: February 3, 2008
• Location: Pathum Thani, Thailand
• Witness: Ralf L.
• Classification: DD
• Assessment: NEAR IFO (Near Identified Flying Object)
• Identification: Small object (leaf, toast slice, foil, paper scrap, etc.)
• Summary: A German photographer submitted a photo taken by his girlfriend of a yellow, rectangular object in the sky over the Chao Phraya River. The object appeared to reflect sunlight. While the photographer didn't notice it at the time, it was discovered later. Discussions with colleagues suggested it might be a 'kite sail for a surfboard'. However, internet research found no evidence of surfing on that river, and the water's appearance didn't suggest surfing activities. The object's shape was compared to a toast or bread slice. While its exact nature remains speculative, it was concluded to be a small object, not a large craft.

»Merkwürdiges« auf Wolkenfoto aus Thailand ("Strange" Object on Cloud Photo from Thailand)

• Date: June 1, 2014
• Location: Khao Yai National Park, Pak Chong, Thailand
• Witness: F.A.I.
• Classification: DD
• Assessment: IFO / V2 (Identified Flying Object / Possible Misidentification)
• Identification: Bird
• Summary: The witness sent two photos of cloud formations, noting something 'strange' in the first photo that was absent in others. The object, described as white and oval, was circled by the witness. The analysis suggests it is likely a bird, with the blurriness attributed to wing movement. The object was not present in a subsequent photo taken 10 seconds later. The case was classified as IFO/V2, meaning the object's characteristics align with known phenomena, specifically birds.

Weitere Meldungen im Überblick – Teil 12 (Further Reports in Overview – Part 12)

• Date: May 27, 2005
• Location: Mülheim, Germany
• Witness: Wolfgang B.
• Classification: DD
• Assessment: NEAR IFO
• Identification: Contrail
• Summary: The witness photographed the sunset and noticed an unusual bright 'tail' to the left of an aircraft's contrail. He took a second photo with a telephoto lens. The object appeared as a barrel-like shape with two trails. The investigation concluded that the phenomenon was likely a contrail from a high-flying aircraft illuminated by the setting sun. While the main contrail was clear, a secondary, possibly distorted or reflected, contrail or a 'rectangular area' was observed. The analysis suggests this might be an artifact of photography or image compression, and not indicative of an unconventional craft.

Essay: Ethik und Moral im Spannungsfeld... (Ethics and Morality in the Field of Tension...)

This section features an essay by Alexander Waschkau, author of the 'HOAXILLA' website, discussing the ethical and moral considerations in UFO research, particularly the tension between mainstream scientific approaches and more speculative or 'fringe' scientific investigations.

Literatur (Literature)

This section includes reviews of current books related to UFO phenomena and related topics:

• 'Lieschens Wald'
• 'Der UFO-Fall Reiner Haupt'
• 'Unmögliche Wahrheiten' (Impossible Truths)

Leserbriefe (Letters to the Editor)

This section contains letters from readers, including one from Ulrich Magin and a commentary from a case investigator.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical analysis of UFO sightings, emphasizing the importance of identifying conventional explanations (IFO - Identified Flying Object) while acknowledging unexplained anomalies. The GEP's stance, as articulated in the editorial, is one of rigorous, fact-based research, aiming for scientific credibility even when dealing with controversial topics. There is a clear emphasis on collaboration within the UFO research community and a commitment to maintaining the integrity of their investigative work. The issue also touches upon the ethical dimensions of UFO research, highlighting the challenges of balancing scientific skepticism with open-mindedness towards unusual phenomena.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), dated Ausgabe 5-2014, Nr. 215, presents a collection of case studies and analyses of alleged UFO sightings and photographic anomalies. The publication, originating from Germany, features articles primarily in German, with a focus on critical investigation and providing rational explanations for observed phenomena. The issue includes reports from various witnesses and detailed discussions by the investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, alongside contributions from other authors like André Kramer.

Case Studies and Investigations

Case 20140426 A: Kaltenholzhausen, Germany

This report details a sighting by Andreas B. on April 26, 2014, of an object that hovered for approximately five minutes before descending. The witness photographed the object, but a search of the estimated crash site yielded no results. Hans-Werner Peiniger classified this as a 'NEAR IFO' (Near Identified Flying Object), suggesting it was likely a balloon, possibly illuminated by the sun. The object was described as having a shiny, amorphous surface with a 'neck' and a lower part resembling an inverted flame, appearing hollowed out.

Case 20120508 A: Ettringen, Germany

Gerd O. reported an unusual phenomenon captured in a Google Earth satellite image from May 8, 2012, near Ettringen. The image showed a bright light cone and characteristic shadows. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, identified this as a reflection from a photovoltaic system on a nearby building's roof. Despite the witness's insistence that it was a real object and not a reflection, Peiniger explained that the shadows and light patterns were consistent with sunlight reflecting off the angled solar panels, especially considering the time of day and the angle of the sun.

Case 20140111 A: Weimar, Germany

Thomas N. submitted photos taken while testing a new camera, which revealed a peculiar 'red spot' phenomenon on three images of the moon. Hans-Werner Peiniger concluded that this was a lens reflection, possibly caused by a streetlamp or the bright moon itself. He noted that such reflections often show a characteristic extension of the reflection's axis through the image center.

Case 20120924 A: München (Neuperlach), Germany

Hakan K. took a photograph through a closed window of a sunset in Munich on September 24, 2012. Upon reviewing the photo, he noticed strange phenomena that appeared to be UFOs in formation. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, suggested these were likely reflections on the window glass, possibly from a ceiling lamp in the room. Although the witness ruled out reflections from indoor objects, Peiniger maintained that the 'smudge marks' on the photo were indicative of a reflection, classifying the case as 'IFO / V2' (Identified Flying Object).

Case 20130705 B: Schliengen, Germany

Jan K., a 20-year-old witness, photographed a bright object near the ground during a hike on July 5, 2013. The object appeared to flash brightly and ascend rapidly. Hans-Werner Peiniger investigated the location and suggested that the phenomenon was likely a reflection of sunlight. He noted that the area, about 6 kilometers from Schliengen, contained industrial buildings with numerous photovoltaic systems on their roofs, which are known to cause such reflections. The presence of multiple reflections in one of the accompanying images further supported this conclusion.

UFOs at Sea in Travelogues

André Kramer contributes an article titled "UFOs auf hoher See in Reiseberichten" (UFOs at Sea in Travelogues), exploring sightings reported during sea voyages. He posits that long sea journeys offer ample opportunity for observing unusual aerial phenomena due to the wide, unobstructed view.

#### Thor Heyerdahl's Ra II Expedition

The article highlights an account from the famous explorer Thor Heyerdahl, who described an extraordinary sighting during his second expedition with a reed boat, the Ra II. While sailing in the Atlantic, he observed a large, pale, disk-like object rising from the horizon. Heyerdahl described it as a "ghostly, aluminum-colored giant moon" that grew larger and then dissolved. He initially considered explanations like a powerful searchlight, an atomic cloud, or an aurora, but the feeling of a "luminous rain of foreign objects from the universe" eventually prevailed. Contact with another ship confirmed no visual sightings from their deck, but radio amateurs later reported similar phenomena from West Indian islands.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently demonstrates a commitment to rational explanation and thorough investigation. The journal's stance is to critically examine reports and photographic evidence, often identifying phenomena as natural occurrences or misinterpretations. The classification system, including 'NEAR IFO' and 'IFO' with various sub-categories, reflects this approach. While acknowledging the possibility of genuinely unexplained phenomena, the publication prioritizes evidence-based conclusions. The recurring theme is the analysis of light phenomena, reflections, and photographic artifacts, with a particular emphasis on debunking common UFO misconceptions through scientific and logical reasoning. The journal encourages reader input for cases that remain puzzling, as seen in the request for ideas regarding the Kaltenholzhausen sighting.

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Issue 5-2014, Nr. 215) is dedicated to exploring the boundaries between established science and fringe research, particularly in the context of UFO phenomena. It features an in-depth essay, a book review, and discussions of historical sightings.

Essay: Ethics and Morality in the Tension Between Science and Fringe Science by Alexander Waschkau

Alexander Waschkau opens the essay by recounting his first UFO sighting at age 16 or 17, a bright light moving impossibly fast across the night sky. He initially felt disappointed not to have witnessed evidence of extraterrestrial intelligence, but was soon fascinated by the idea of a man-made satellite. Waschkau identifies himself as a follower of a scientifically critical, evidence-based worldview, avoiding superstition and relying on empirical data. He emphasizes that science is the most reliable method for describing our universe, even if it cannot explain everything.

He discusses his background as a psychology graduate, highlighting that 'reality' is a human construct. He advocates for a humanist approach, emphasizing respectful dialogue even with those holding vastly different worldviews. Waschkau notes that without dialogue, one's perspective becomes limited. He shares his experience co-hosting the podcast 'HOAXILLA' for over 42 years, navigating the space between para-sciences and natural sciences. He observes how deep divisions between different 'camps' hinder general knowledge acquisition.

Waschkau clarifies that a UFO sighting is not necessarily an alien sighting, but simply an 'Unidentified Flying Object.' He argues that people who report UFOs often seek an explanation for what they saw, not necessarily proof of aliens. He criticizes the tendency of some 'skeptics' to dismiss such reports outright with pre-packaged explanations, which can alienate those seeking understanding.

He contrasts this with his approach when discussing paranormal phenomena like ghosts or parapsychological methods. While he doesn't share these beliefs, he engages in respectful dialogue, often offering to help find scientific explanations for their experiences. He stresses that admitting ignorance is not a weakness, unlike religions and parascientific fields which often claim to have all the answers.

Waschkau concludes that while science is constantly advancing, it's unlikely to explain everything. However, this doesn't justify generating arbitrary theories. He points to the stability of physics and advancements in medicine as evidence of science's power. Regarding UFOs, he acknowledges numerous phenomena that can explain sightings (headlights, auroras, planets, satellites, aircraft), but stresses the importance of careful observation and listening in UFO research.

He cautions against dismissing witnesses as 'spinners' and highlights that the hypothesis of fabrication should not be the first consideration. He also notes the complexity of the universe makes it doubtful that science will ever explain everything. He concludes by urging continued dialogue across divides, quoting Heinz Goldmann: "Whoever wants to be credible must seek constant dialogue."

Literature Review: 'Lieschens Wald' by Günter F. Janßen

This section reviews Günter F. Janßen's book, which is described as a work that blurs the lines between research and fiction. The book focuses on a recurring nocturnal light phenomenon in the Brieselang forest near Berlin. Janßen's research began in 1997, and he has documented various witness accounts, which often differ. A prominent legend associated with the light is that of a murdered girl.

The reviewer initially questions why the book is classified as a novel, finding it more akin to a research journal. Janßen's narrative intertwines his investigation of the light phenomenon with the historical case of Anna Thönßen, who was executed in 1767 for infanticide. The reviewer notes that Janßen frequently shifts between these two threads, making their connection unclear at first.

Janßen interviews Doris Wulkow, a witness who has provided information to other researchers, including the reviewer and MAZ editor Jürgen Krumnow. The book also mentions Dieter Flack, who led the CENAP regional office in Berlin, and CENAP itself as a UFO group. Janßen's research is aided by information from Wulkow and her husband.

Anna Thönßen's story, dating back 250 years, captivates Janßen. He finds limited information beyond known circumstances, primarily from chronicles and newspaper articles. The book then shifts focus to the Brieselang light, which Janßen plans to write about. He explores various legends, including one about a murdered girl whose restless spirit haunts the woods. Janßen discovers that this legend might have a basis in a tragic event: the rape and murder of 12-year-old Elisabeth Wieja (Lieschen) by Russians in 1945.

Janßen's investigation into Lieschen's story leads him to living relatives. The reviewer describes the search as somber. While Janßen considers natural phenomena and car headlights as possible explanations for the light, he does not rule out the possibility of a ghost. The reviewer notes that the book's narrative style, often presented as a personal journal, allows the reader to follow Janßen's thought process, including his evolving theories and potential descent into speculative ideas.

The review highlights the book's use of a 'mockumentary' approach, similar to 'The Blair Witch Project,' where real events or perceived realities are used as a basis for a fictional narrative. Janßen's work is seen as a rich source of information for those interested in the Brieselang light phenomenon, even if its fictional elements are debated.

The reviewer recounts a personal experience from November 2004, where former local politician Gerhard Schwandt (1928-2013) described a murder in Brieselang in 1945 that could be the origin of the ghost story. Schwandt stated that an 11-year-old girl, Lieschen Wieja, was shot by Russians and then raped and killed. This account aligns with Janßen's findings regarding the historical event.

Janßen's research also touches upon another murder in 1945: the deputy mayor of Brieselang, Paul Laubsch, shot his stepdaughter out of greed. However, the victim was in her late 30s or early 40s, making her unlikely to be the 'ghost girl,' and this murder did not occur at the 'Lichterweg' (light path).

The reviewer concludes that Lieschen's story is the most plausible explanation for the 'Lichterspuk' (light haunting), drawing from Brieselang's history. Janßen's work brings Lieschen out of anonymity, giving her a name and a documented history. The reviewer praises the book as a valuable and well-researched ghost story with historical grounding.

Historical Sightings

Thor Heyerdahl's Observations

Thor Heyerdahl is presented with a question about whether he witnessed a burning rocket part in the atmosphere, but he cannot provide a definitive answer. His description of a large, aluminum-colored disk ascending from the horizon, which later appeared to make the impression of a luminous rain of foreign objects, is found to be confusing and prevents a clear understanding of the phenomenon. The reader is left with the impression that Heyerdahl witnessed an atmospheric phenomenon.

Heyerdahl also reported observing two other phenomena on two consecutive nights at sea. He described a small, orange light on the northwestern horizon that flashed briefly, and another trapezoidal light that descended and disappeared into the sea. He speculated these might be flares from a distressed ship, but radio amateurs could not detect an SOS signal. Another possibility he considered was the position indicator of a submerged submarine.

Jean de Léry's Account

A UFO sighting from an older source is presented: Jean de Léry and other French Protestants undertook a journey to Brazil from 1556 to 1558, seeking a new home due to religious persecution. On their return journey in 1558, around May 5th, as the sun was setting, they witnessed a huge flash of fire that illuminated the sky and flew through the air. This caused such a strong reflection on their ship's sails that they believed the ship was on fire. The phenomenon vanished instantly without causing damage. Léry notes that the cause was difficult to determine, as they were near Newfoundland, a region known for cod fishing, and Canada, a generally cold region, making it unlikely to be due to hot atmospheric exhalations.

This phenomenon, seemingly atmospheric, was of immense power, causing a significant reaction on board. The article notes that while these examples may not resemble modern UFO sightings, they fall within the scope of comparable reports.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of a scientific and critical approach to understanding phenomena, particularly those that fall into the realm of 'fringe science' or the paranormal. The essay by Alexander Waschkau strongly advocates for evidence-based reasoning, dialogue, and avoiding unsubstantiated beliefs. The book review of 'Lieschens Wald' highlights the meticulous research involved in investigating historical cases and local legends, while also acknowledging the speculative nature of some interpretations. The inclusion of historical sightings by Heyerdahl and Léry serves to demonstrate that unexplained aerial phenomena have been observed for centuries, but the journal's stance leans towards seeking rational explanations, whether scientific, historical, or psychological, rather than immediately resorting to extraterrestrial hypotheses. The overall tone encourages open-mindedness tempered with critical inquiry.

This issue of the German publication 'JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG' (Issue 5-2014, Nr. 215) focuses on UFO phenomena, investigations, and related topics. The magazine is published by GEP e.V. and is written in German.

Articles

The UFO Case of Reiner Haupt

This article, authored by Axel Ertelt, details the UFO case of Reiner Haupt, who reported a sighting on March 15, 1977, near Lüdenscheid, Germany. Haupt observed two objects that merged into one. Ertelt, who led the 'private research group for ufology and archaeo-archaeology' in Halver, found Reiner Haupt through an advertisement in the esoteric magazine ESOTERA. The case is noted for parallels to the well-known Dr. X case from Southern France in 1968, particularly in the aftermath and psychological effects on the witness. Approximately 10 years after the sighting, Reiner Haupt experienced significant life changes, including divorce, estrangement from his son, and a shift in his lifestyle, becoming involved in meditation and ritualistic dances. He believed his 'Master' would pick him up via UFO on November 30, 1986, and had begun preparing by deregistering his phone and TV. The article highlights how UFO witnesses can undergo psychological transformations, as documented in an eBook by Axel Ertelt, which also draws parallels to other cases. The eBook is available from Ancient Mail Verlag.

Erich von Däniken: Impossible Truths

This section reviews Erich von Däniken's fourth book in a five-part series, 'Unmögliche Wahrheiten' (Impossible Truths). The book is described as a visual collection of archaeological sites that von Däniken visited decades ago. The review notes that the book contains updated texts commenting on the images, many of which have not been previously published. The book explores sites in Peru, including the ruins of Chavín de Huántar, with its monolithic architecture and underground corridors, and Machu Picchu and Cuzco, known for their megalithic construction. The reviewer expresses skepticism towards von Däniken's interpretations, particularly his suggestion of extraterrestrial technology, such as a 'steam engine with multiple functions,' to explain the construction. The reviewer argues that ancient peoples possessed greater building skills than often credited and that classical archaeology's interpretations are more grounded when based on extensive research rather than speculative theories about alien influence. Despite the reviewer's critical stance on the 'ancient astronaut' interpretations, the book is acknowledged for providing a fascinating overview of extraordinary archaeological sites and demonstrating the advanced construction capabilities of ancient civilizations.

Reader Letters and Opinions

Ulrich Magin, writing from per Mail, addresses a debate about a flying object previously discussed in 'jufof' (Issue 3-2014, p. 66 ff., and 4-2014, p. 126). Magin critically examines the testimony of a witness who claimed to have seen a UFO near Grünstadt while traveling from Ludwigshafen to Frankfurt. Magin points out geographical inconsistencies in the witness's account, arguing that the described route does not pass Grünstadt. He suggests that if the witness had indeed passed Grünstadt, their journey would have been in the opposite direction towards Kaiserslautern. Magin further scrutinizes the witness's reported sighting location, suggesting it was near Pfungstadt and within the flight path of Ramstein Air Base. He concludes that the witness's account is geographically nonsensical and questions why the investigator did not identify these discrepancies. Magin also references a map provided by the witness, which he believes places the sighting on the Autobahn A6 between Grünstadt and Mannheim-Sandhofen, potentially within the flight path of Frankfurt Airport.

Roland M. Horn, the case investigator, comments on Magin's analysis. Horn acknowledges that Magin's identified route, while perhaps presented as a 'last resort,' is indeed the correct one. He notes that the witness's description of a 'straight stretch' between Grünstadt and Sandhofen aligns with the map, suggesting the sighting occurred on the route between these two points. Horn implies that the witness's lack of precise geographical knowledge is not critical to the case itself.

GEP Publications and Information

UFOs - Phenomenon or Phantom Phenomenon?

This section announces a new publication from GEP, a comprehensive report documenting an extensive study from 2012. The study aimed to re-analyze and compare unexplained 'GOOD-UFO' cases to identify patterns and potential causes. The 114-page book, available for 12.90 € (10.32 € for members), is titled 'UFOs - Phänomen oder Phantomphänomen?' and is authored by André Kramer, Klaus Felsmann, and Natale Guido Cincinnati. It can be ordered through the GEP shop.

UFO Research and Science: Contributions to the GEP Conference

Another GEP publication highlighted is a collection of papers from a conference held on May 2-3, 2009, in Hösbach, Germany. The 64-page book, priced at 9.50 € (7.60 € for members), covers topics such as subjective UFO research, UFOs in mass media, social stigmatization, and discourse analysis of UFO research controversies. It is also available for order via the GEP shop.

General Information about GEP and 'jufof'

The journal provides information about GEP, describing it as Germany's largest non-profit scientific association dedicated to UFO research. GEP utilizes questionnaires, on-site interviews, and background information analysis, working with various authorities and institutions. The 'jufof' journal, in publication since 1980, offers critical and objective reporting on the UFO phenomenon. Each issue includes documentation of sighting reports, their classification, and case investigations, alongside scientifically written expert reports and analyses. It also features a review section and reader letters.

UFO Definition and Reporting

An official 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, path, and general dynamic and luminous behavior do not suggest a logical, conventional explanation, and which remains puzzling not only to the individuals involved but also, after careful examination of all available evidence by technically competent persons, remains unidentifiable.'

Information on how to report a UFO sighting is also included. The reporting office can be reached by phone at 02351-23377, via email at [email protected], or through the GEP websites. GEP assures immediate contact with the reporter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include detailed case studies of UFO sightings (Reiner Haupt), critical analysis of witness testimony and geographical data, and the exploration of ancient astronaut theories through archaeological evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous, scientific investigation, as evidenced by GEP's methodology and the critical approach taken in the reader letters and reviews. There is a clear emphasis on documenting phenomena, analyzing evidence, and exploring potential explanations, while also acknowledging the psychological impact on witnesses and the speculative nature of some theories.