JUFOF - Issue 221 - 2015 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'jufof' (Journal für UFO-Forschung), issue number 221 from May 2015, is published by GEP e.V. and focuses on UFO observations, documentation, and assessments. The cover features a sky scene and highlights articles on UFO sightings, a piece on science-fiction author Clark Ashton Smith, and literature reviews.

Editorial

Danny Ammon's editorial discusses the evolving landscape of German UFO research, noting the increased cooperation between organizations like GEP, DEGUFO, and MUFON-CES, evidenced by joint participation in events like the MUFON-CES conference. He poses the question of why three separate organizations are necessary if cooperation yields good results, while acknowledging that each may have unique strengths. GEP's strengths are highlighted as its experience in case investigation, methodological work, and its UFO database. The editorial also touches upon the need for broader goals for UFO research organizations and invites reader participation in discussions. A practical note reminds members and subscribers to update their contact and banking information.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen

This section details a case from Schwelm, Germany, dated June 28, 2015. The witness, Marcus H., submitted photos of what he described as objects in the sky. Initially, the investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, considered various explanations but leaned towards the objects being smudges on a glass pane. However, Hansjürgen Köhler from CENAP had already published an assessment identifying the objects as balloons. Peiniger's detailed analysis, presented across several pages with photographic evidence and time-stamped close-ups, argues against the balloon explanation. He points out that the objects appear as diffuse spots with a darker core, not typical of distant balloons. Furthermore, the lack of significant changes in the relative positions of the objects over the 22-second span of the photos contradicts the expected behavior of balloons, especially under varying wind conditions. Peiniger also notes inconsistencies in the object's movement across different photos, suggesting a fixed perspective relative to the windowpane. He concludes that CENAP's assessment is incorrect and that the objects are indeed smudges on a window, possibly from deliberate photographic experimentation by the witness.

Kurz notiert: Aktuelle Meldungen

This section announces the launch of the international 'UFO Detection and Tracking' (UFODATA) project in October 2015. This initiative aims to use multiple ground stations to capture and analyze unidentified aerial phenomena using cameras, spectral measurements, and magnetic field detection. The project, costing $10,000-$20,000 per station, is seeking sponsors and crowdfunding. The founding team includes Mark Rodeghier (CUFOS), Alexander Wendt, Philippe Ailleris (ESA), and Leslie Kean. The project is described as a form of 'Local SETI' and aligns with instrumental UFO research efforts, such as those by MUFON-CES.

Weitere Meldungen im Überblick: Teil 16

This report details a case from Buch-St. Magdalena, Austria, dated August 19, 2015. The witness, Manuela G., discovered two unusual objects in a photograph taken during the construction of her house. Upon later examination, Hans-Werner Peiniger identified the larger object as likely an insect or bird that flew through the frame during the photo capture. The blurry nature and apparent speed of the object, along with the bright structures suggesting wingbeats, support this conclusion. The smaller object could also be an insect or bird. The report notes that such objects are often discovered only upon later review of photographs and are typically birds or insects.

Prophet des UFO-Phänänomens?

This is the first part of an article exploring the connection between science-fiction author Clark Ashton Smith and the UFO phenomenon. The article is presented as a literary analysis.

Literatur

This section includes reviews of current book titles related to UFO research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the rigorous analysis of UFO sightings, emphasizing the importance of documentation and scientific methodology. The magazine promotes a critical approach, often debunking apparent UFOs by identifying mundane explanations like smudges or natural phenomena. There is a clear stance in favor of instrumental and data-driven research, as seen in the coverage of the UFODATA project. The editorial also highlights the value of inter-organizational cooperation within the UFO research community while acknowledging the distinct contributions of each group. The inclusion of literary analysis, such as the piece on Clark Ashton Smith, suggests an interest in broader cultural and historical contexts related to the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 5-2015, Nr. 221, published by GEP, focuses on the investigation of several reported UFO/UAP sightings and delves into the literary connections between science fiction and early UFO phenomena. The issue is primarily in German and features detailed case analyses and a significant article on the influence of Clark Ashton Smith.

Case Investigations

The journal presents four distinct cases investigated by Hans-Werner Peiniger:

Case 20150826 A: Zoggler Stausee, Italy

On August 26, 2015, at 11:18 MESZ, a witness named Björn G. photographed three images near the Zoggler Stausee in Bozen, Italy. The photos showed an oval object near the sun, which the witness discovered only upon later examination. The investigation concluded that the object was a lens reflection within the camera's objective. Key points supporting this conclusion were that the object was not observed directly, a strong backlight source (the sun) was present, and the axis between the light source and the object passed through the image center. The report emphasizes that this was an extreme backlight situation where light from the sun caused reflections on the lens surfaces.

Case 20150831 A: Derendingen, Switzerland

On August 31, 2015, at 08:15 MESZ, a 56-year-old witness, Christine S., observed and photographed a dark, oval object in the sky with bulges. She managed to take several photos using a 300mm telephoto lens. The investigation identified the object as a foil balloon. The report includes various photographic enlargements of the object, showing its shape and texture. Later, the investigator found a Disney-themed foil balloon (Elsa from Frozen) that matched the observed shape and characteristics, confirming the identification.

Case 20150320 B: Darscheid, Germany

On March 20, 2015, at 10:04 MESZ, a 30-year-old witness, Janine M., submitted a video taken with her mobile phone during a solar eclipse from a moving vehicle. Upon later review, she noticed a bright object to the right of the sun. The investigation determined this to be a lens reflection within the mobile phone's optics, as the light appeared and moved in sync with the phone's movements.

Case 20150710 A: Huldang, Luxemburg

On July 10, 2015, at 20:48 MESZ, a witness named Johannes K. photographed an object with a tail in the northwest that appeared to be moving very slowly. Initially, there was a discrepancy in the date provided by the witness (July 4th) and the EXIF data of the photos (July 10th), which the witness later corrected. The investigation concluded that the object was an airplane's contrail. The report mentions searching online for terms like "sun plane UFO contrail" and notes that similar cases exist within the GEP archives. Further investigation identified an Airbus A-330 of Turkish Airlines flying northwest at an altitude of approximately 39 kilometers, matching the observed situation.

Feature Article: Prophet des UFO-Phänomens? Der Science-Fiction-Autor Clark Ashton Smith (1893-1961) – Teil 1

This extensive article by Christian Brachthäuser explores the profound influence of science-fiction author Clark Ashton Smith on the early development of UFO research and related concepts, particularly pre-astronautics.

Lovecraft's Endorsement and Smith's Cosmic Horror

The article begins by quoting H.P. Lovecraft's enthusiastic praise for Clark Ashton Smith in his 1927 study "Supernatural Horror in Literature." Lovecraft highlighted Smith's ability to evoke cosmic dread through tales set in alien universes filled with bizarre flora, grotesque temples, and spectral landscapes. Unlike Smith, Lovecraft is presented as a pioneer of the Paleo-SETI hypothesis, exploring themes of ancient alien contact, mysterious aquatic beings, reptilian entities, and pre-diluvian civilizations in his narratives. Lovecraft's story "The Whisperer in Darkness" is cited as anticipating key aspects of the "abduction phenomenon."

Smith's Literary Style and Themes

Clark Ashton Smith, born in 1893 in Long Valley, California, developed a unique style characterized by its rich vocabulary and imaginative scope. Despite a period of depression, he became highly productive from the 1930s onwards, publishing around 110 titles by 1940. His work often delved into themes of alien worlds, hidden dimensions, and the peculiar vibrational frequencies or atomic compositions that might render certain realities imperceptible to humans. The article notes that Smith's writing predated many concepts later popularized by figures like Erich von Däniken.

Pre-Astronautics and "Cargo Cults"

Smith's stories are presented as precursors to the pre-astronautics theory and the concept of "Cargo Cults." His 1931 story "An Offering to the Moon" describes scientists discovering an ancient temple on the Marquesas Islands, hinting at remnants of a lost continent in the Pacific. The article also references Smith's story "The Secret of the Asteroid," where stranded astronauts encounter an insectoid, intelligent life form that offers them sacrifices, a narrative that foreshadows the "Cargo Cult" phenomenon described by ethnologists. This phenomenon, where indigenous peoples interpret advanced technology and visitors as divine, was explored by Smith decades before Erich von Däniken popularized similar ideas.

Archaeological Mysteries and Astral Cults

The article further examines how Smith integrated astronomy and archaeology into his work, drawing inspiration from theories like James Churchward's "Lost Continent of Mu." Churchward's research into the "Nacaal-Schrifttafeln" suggested the existence of a highly advanced civilization in the Pacific that influenced ancient cultures like those of Egypt, India, and Babylon. Smith's exploration of these themes, including the colossal statues of Easter Island and the ruins of Nan Madol, is highlighted as remarkably prescient.

"The Mars Cycle" and Cosmic Horror

Smith's "Mars Cycle," written between 1930 and 1935, is particularly noted for its blend of science fiction and dark horror, featuring disturbing narratives about the Red Planet. The article also touches upon Smith's engagement with the theories of the eccentric "Colonel" and his integration of themes like the "bombastic style" of his prose, which he described as "lyrical cathedrals."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO sightings, often leading to mundane explanations, and the exploration of the historical and literary roots of UFO phenomena. The journal's stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, seeking rational explanations for reported anomalies while also acknowledging the significant influence of early science fiction and speculative literature on the development of UFOlogy. The detailed analysis of Clark Ashton Smith's work suggests a deep interest in how imaginative literature has shaped our understanding and perception of potential extraterrestrial contact and ancient mysteries.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), dated 5-2015 and numbered NR.221, features a cover story referencing the classic science fiction magazine "Weird Tales" and its depiction of Mars. The issue delves into various aspects of UFO research and anomalistics, including book reviews and analyses of specific cases.

Article: "The Vaults of Yoh-Vombis" and Mars Civilizations

This section discusses Edgar Rice Burroughs' (via Clark Ashton Smith's story "The Vaults of Yoh-Vombis" from the May 1932 issue of "Weird Tales") depiction of ancient, artificial structures on Mars. These include stepped, kilometer-long plateaus, eroded megalithic structures, and an underground tomb with Egyptian-like hieroglyphs. The text suggests these structures were built by a forgotten race of giants. The story also references other Mars-related tales like "Vulthoom" (1933), describing "pagoda-like stepped pyramids" and ancient obelisks, implying a Mars civilization that existed long before Lemuria. The narrative connects these descriptions to the impact of a celestial body, reinterpreted as a spacecraft landing, suggesting an extraterrestrial deity sought refuge on Mars.

Review: "An den Grenzen der Erkenntnis - Handbuch der wissenschaftlichen Anomalistik"

This review covers a comprehensive handbook on scientific anomalistics, edited by Gerhard Mayer, Michael Schetsche, Ina Schmied-Knittel, and Dieter Vaitl. The handbook aims to fill a gap by presenting the state of serious research into phenomena that deviate from current scientific understanding, including PSI phenomena, hauntings, cryptozoology, and UFOs. The review highlights contributions such as an overview of the spectrum and challenges of anomalistics by the editors, a historical outline of anomalistics by Gerhard Hövelmann, and a study on the prevalence of "extraordinary experiences" by Ina Schmied-Knittel, which notes that UFO sightings are among these experiences. Andreas Anton and Danny Ammon contribute a chapter on UFOs, detailing research history and key concepts, emphasizing that UFO research, though largely amateur, possesses robust conceptual frameworks. Jonas Richter discusses Paleo-SETI, noting its less defined conceptual basis compared to UFO research. Eltjo Haselhoff's chapter on crop circles is also mentioned, focusing on the anomalous characteristics of some formations, though the reviewer finds this section somewhat one-sided and unclear regarding the seriousness of the phenomena discussed. The review concludes that the handbook is a valuable resource, particularly its practical sections, though it notes the omission of topics like cryptozoology.

Review: "Ergebnisse aus 40 Jahren UFO-Forschung" by Illobrand von Ludwiger

This extensive review critically examines Illobrand von Ludwiger's book, which details his 40 years of UFO research and the work of MUFON-CES. The reviewer acknowledges that the book presents evidence for the existence of the UFO phenomenon and its research-worthiness but strongly disagrees with Ludwiger's interpretations. The review criticizes Ludwiger's dismissal of common UFO stimuli, such as "balloon trains" (Folienballons), and his tendency to interpret phenomena through the lens of Burkhard Heim's theories. Ludwiger's controversial remarks about skeptics, whom he compares to Holocaust deniers, are particularly scrutinized. The book is described as having "highs and lows," with positive aspects including a historical overview of early German UFO research and the activities of MUFON-CES. However, the reviewer finds Ludwiger's explanations for UFO phenomena, including the idea of future humans or extraterrestrials visiting Earth, to be speculative and lacking in critical analysis. The review also touches upon Ludwiger's accusations against the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Geschehens) regarding the handling of the Wedel photo, suggesting manipulation by the GEP to remove a shadow that would have supported Ludwiger's interpretation.

Specific Case Discussions and Criticisms

The review highlights specific cases and controversies discussed in Ludwiger's book and the journal's response. The Wedel photo incident is detailed, with Ludwiger accusing the journal of manipulating the image by cropping out a shadow. The journal's response clarifies that the shadow was indeed present but difficult to discern in older reproductions, and that the full photo had been published previously. The review also addresses Ludwiger's claims about "shape-shifters" and his interpretation of atmospheric phenomena, suggesting he fails to recognize common explanations like balloons. Ludwiger's assertion that UFOs change over time and present increasingly fantastic phenomena is questioned, with the reviewer suggesting he ignores the possibility of evolving communication methods or changing societal reporting habits.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded stance towards UFO research. While acknowledging the existence of anomalous phenomena and the need for serious investigation, the editorial stance, as reflected in the reviews, emphasizes rigorous methodology, critical analysis, and a cautious approach to interpretation. The journal appears to favor explanations grounded in evidence and logic, often challenging more speculative or fringe theories. There is a clear distinction made between amateur research and professional scientific inquiry, though the value of dedicated amateur work is also recognized. The journal also seems to engage in ongoing debates and critiques within the UFO research community, as evidenced by the detailed responses to Illobrand von Ludwiger's work and his criticisms of other researchers and organizations like the GEP.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Issue 5-2015, NR.221) is primarily a collection of reader letters, opinions, and ideas, alongside articles and book reviews related to UFO research. The magazine is published by GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), a prominent German organization dedicated to the scientific study of UFOs.

Key Articles and Discussions

The Fehrenbach Case Dispute

The issue opens with a detailed account by Hans-Werner Peiniger concerning a dispute over the Fehrenbach UFO case. Peiniger recounts his interactions with investigators Thomas Mehner and others, expressing frustration over perceived obstruction and a lack of cooperation from organizations like MUFON-CES. He details a specific incident where he was allegedly advised not to share UFO photos taken by students, leading to a conflict with individuals associated with GEP, specifically mentioning von Ludwiger and Herr Klein. The core of the dispute seems to revolve around differing approaches to UFO case analysis and information exchange between organizations.

Analysis of the Bamberg UFO Abduction Case

Friederike Schriever and Gerd H. Hövelmann contribute a piece titled "Aussage-Verlässlichkeit und Schreibkompetenz" (Reliability of Testimony and Writing Competence), which critically examines André Kramer's report on a UFO abduction case in Bamberg. They commend Kramer for acknowledging his own limitations and for cautioning against prematurely labeling abduction experiences as psychological disorders, referencing the ICD-10. However, they also highlight the significant spelling and grammar errors in the witness's emails, suggesting that while a diagnosis of 'Legasthenie' (dyslexia) might be considered, it should be approached with caution and require professional assessment, not just textual analysis.

Author's Response to Criticism

André Kramer responds to the critique from Schriever and Hövelmann, acknowledging that his mention of 'Legasthenie' was perhaps too casual. He emphasizes the challenges of dealing with emotionally charged cases and the need for careful handling of written testimonies. He reiterates that the GEP's goals are clearly defined in its statutes and do not include explaining all sightings, contrasting this with the perceived mission of other organizations.

Discussion on CE IV Cases and Witness Expectations

Further contributions delve into the complexities of handling "CE IV" cases (Close Encounters of the Fourth Kind, typically involving abduction). The authors stress the importance of understanding witness expectations, which often include a need for validation. They note that deviating from these expectations can lead to a loss of interest from the witness, hindering further investigation. The need for more comprehensive guidelines and research in this area is emphasized.

Praise for Roswell Reporting

Uli Thieme writes in to praise Danny Ammon's report on the "Roswell Dias" (Roswell Slides) in a previous issue of jufof. Thieme commends the report for its unbiased, well-researched approach, excellent sourcing, and well-founded opinion, expressing his continued interest in the Roswell phenomenon.

Book Reviews and Publications

The issue features advertisements and descriptions for two books by André Kramer:

• Vorsicht Verschwörung! (Caution Conspiracy!): This book reportedly analyzes and debunks right-wing extremist conspiracy theories related to UFOs, Atlantis, and Paleo-SETI.
• UFOs – Phänomen oder Phantomphänomen? (UFOs – Phenomenon or Phantom Phenomenon?): This is presented as a comprehensive report on unexplained UFO cases investigated by the GEP, aiming to analyze and compare them for patterns and underlying causes.

GEP and UFO Information

The final pages provide information about the GEP, describing it as the largest non-profit scientific UFO research organization in Germany. It details the GEP's methods, including questionnaires, interviews, and interdisciplinary research. The 'jufof' journal is described as a critical publication documenting UFO cases and featuring expert articles. Contact information for reporting UFO sightings and for the GEP and 'jufof' is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the challenges of UFO case investigation, particularly concerning witness testimony and potential psychological factors. There is a clear emphasis on a scientific and critical approach to the UFO phenomenon, as exemplified by the GEP's methodology and the 'jufof' journal's editorial stance. The issue also touches upon the intersection of UFO research with conspiracy theories and the importance of accurate reporting and analysis. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, caution against premature conclusions, and a commitment to scientific methodology in understanding UFO sightings.