JUFOF - Issue 222 - 2015 06

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'jufof', the journal for UFO research, is dated 06-2015, Volume 36, Number 222. Published by GEP e.V., it features a cover headline about a position paper on the Citizen-Science-Strategy 2020. The magazine includes articles on UFO sightings, literature reviews, and discussions on UFO research methodologies.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Hans-Werner Peiniger, reflects on a dynamic year for UFO research, marked by increased collaboration between GEP, DEGUFO, and MUFON-CES. Key developments include the joint case investigation process and the launch of a shared UFO case database (www.ufo-db.com). Peiniger highlights personal meetings between the boards of these organizations, including a MUFON-CES conference in Großheirath. A significant outcome of these dialogues is the formation of the 'Kooperationsinitiative UFO-Forschung' (Cooperative Initiative UFO Research), which aims to launch joint projects. One such project is participation in the 'Citizen-Science-Strategie 2020', supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). A position paper, developed by members of the three major German UFO research associations, is presented in this issue. This paper argues that UFO research, conducted using scientific methods, can be integrated with other citizen science initiatives and potentially connect with scientific institutions. The editorial expresses anticipation regarding the project consortium's reception of their statement and promises future reports. The editorial concludes with Christmas and New Year wishes to the readers, hoping for a good and fulfilling year 2016.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen (Documentations – Assessments)

Außerirdisches Wesen fotografiert? (Alien Being Photographed?)

This section details a case from July 20, 2002, in Wandlitz, Germany (Case Number: 20020720 A). The witness, Johannes K., provided a photo taken by his wife of what appeared to be an alien figure under a transparent cover at a snack bar called 'Parkstübl'. The investigation, led by Hans-Werner Peiniger, concluded that the object was likely an alien-themed decorative figure or a printed sunshade with a cover, rather than an actual alien. The analysis considered possibilities such as a printed sunshade, a decorative alien figure covered with a transparent plane, or a printed sunshade with a cover. The location was identified as the 'Parkstübl' near the B273.

Aus dem Archiv: Rote Objekte in der Nähe des Mondes fotografiert (From the Archive: Red Objects Photographed Near the Moon)

This case (File Number: 20051216 A) occurred on December 16, 2005, in Oer-Erkenschwick, Germany. Witness Harald K. photographed the moon with a tripod and self-timer. Later, on his monitor, he noticed a red point to the right of the moon in seven out of thirteen images taken within a four-minute period. The object appeared to be moving. The investigation by Hans-Werner Peiniger suggested the object was likely a model hot-air balloon within the atmosphere, possibly misidentified due to camera settings or its position relative to the horizon. The classification given is NEAR IFO (Identified Flying Object).

Drei Lichter über Rovinj (Kroatien) (Three Lights Over Rovinj, Croatia)

This case (File Number: 19960900 C) took place in August 1996 near Rovinj, Croatia. Witness Daniel W. (16 years old at the time) and two friends were sleeping on the beach when they observed three lights appear directly above them. The lights were described as greenish-blue, bright but not blinding, and emitted no sound. The formation, estimated to be about 50 meters away and at a low altitude, moved slowly and silently towards the city of Rovinj before disappearing behind a hill. The witness reported being laughed at when he told others about the sighting. Investigator Michael Röhrich noted the similarity of the observed object to triangular UFOs reported in the 'Belgian Wave' cases, but without a central light. The case was classified as a GOOD UFO due to the lack of conventional explanations and the witness's impression that it was very low and silent, ruling out misinterpretation of aircraft or helicopters.

Weitere Meldungen im Überblick (Further Reports at a Glance)

Teil 17 (Part 17)

This section appears to be a continuation of a series of reports, with page numbers indicating further details on various sightings.

UFOs in alten... (UFOs in Old...)

This section features historical UFO reports, including a reference to 'Nro. 46' and a publication from 1832 titled 'Der Eil-Vote aus dem Bezirk Landau'.

Prophet des UFO-Phänomens? Der Science-Fiction-Autor Clark Ashton Smith, Teil 2 (Prophet of the UFO Phenomenon? The Science-Fiction Author Clark Ashton Smith, Part 2)

This is the second part of an article exploring the work of science-fiction author Clark Ashton Smith and its potential connection to UFO phenomena.

Positionspapier zur Citizen-Science-Strategie 2020 (Position Paper on the Citizen Science Strategy 2020)

This article details the position paper developed by the cooperative initiative of German UFO research organizations. It emphasizes the potential for citizen science in UFO research and its integration with scientific institutions, as mentioned in the editorial.

Literatur (Literature)

Rezensionen aktueller Buchtitel (Reviews of Current Book Titles)

This section contains reviews of recent books related to UFO research and related topics.

Lügen im Weltraum (Lies in Space)

This is likely a review of a book with this title.

Impressum (Imprint)

Herausgeber (Publisher)

The Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., founded in 1972, is the publisher. Its address is Postfach 2361, 58473 Lüdenscheid, Germany. Contact details include phone (02351) 23377, fax (02351) 23335, and email: [email protected].

Bankverbindung (Bank Details)

Postbank NL Dortmund, Account Number: 18 381 464.

Redaktion und verantwortlich im Sinne des Presserechts (Editorial and Responsible According to Press Law)

Hans-Werner Peiniger and Danny Ammon are responsible for the editorial content.

Notes on Contributions

Articles marked with names do not necessarily reflect the views of GEP. Unsolicited manuscripts and photos are not liable for. 'jufof' is published bimonthly on a non-commercial basis, with contributions being honorarium-free.

Hinweise für Autoren (Notes for Authors)

Information is available at www.jufof.de/ueber-das-jufof/autorenhinweise.

Bezugspreis (Subscription Price)

1 Year (6 issues): 27,00 € plus postage (Germany: 8,00 €, International: 20,00 €). Membership in GEP includes subscription. Subscriptions renew automatically unless cancelled three months before expiry.

Anzeigenpreise (Advertising Prices)

Price list available upon request. Classified ads are free for subscribers (up to six lines) and members (up to ten lines).

Nachdruck (Reprint)

Reprinting, even in part, requires written permission from GEP e.V. and a copy of the publication.

Druck (Print)

bis500 Druck, 98693 Ilmenau.

© 2015 GEP e. V.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the advancement of UFO research through collaboration and the integration of citizen science. The editorial stance is one of proactive engagement with scientific communities and the pursuit of rigorous, methodologically sound UFO investigations. There is a clear emphasis on documenting and analyzing sightings with a critical yet open mind, as evidenced by the detailed case assessments. The magazine also shows an interest in the historical aspects of UFO phenomena and the cultural influences, such as science fiction literature.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 6-2015, number 222, focuses on "Weitere Meldungen im Überblick Teil 17" (Further Reports in Overview Part 17). It presents a collection of recent and historical reports of unexplained aerial phenomena, with a strong emphasis on identifying common causes and providing detailed analyses.

Recent Reports and Investigations

The issue begins with the investigation of three recent cases, all of which are attributed to lens reflections, a common artifact in modern smartphone photography.

Case 20150208 C: Hoppegarten – Hönow, Germany

On February 8, 2015, at 9:20 AM MEZ, a witness named Regine K. from Hoppegarten – Hönow, Germany, took a photo of the rising sun with her smartphone. Upon later review, she noticed a round object in the photo described as a 'small circle with small lights and a symbol like a large A.' Investigator Hans-Werner Peiniger concluded that this was a lens reflection within the camera's lens or the phone's optics. The A-shaped structure was identified as the reflection of tree branches. Peiniger conducted comparative tests with his own phone, successfully replicating the reflection, thus closing the case as an Identified Flying Object (IFO) or visual artifact (V1).

Case 20150915 A: Herzogenrath, Germany

On September 15, 2015, at 2:30 PM MESZ, Hermann S. (57) from Herzogenrath, Germany, photographed clouds and light patterns. He later discovered a round object with several light points in one of his photos. This case, also investigated by Hans-Werner Peiniger, involved a Samsung Galaxy S5, the same model used in the previous case. The analysis determined it to be another lens reflection, with the axis between the light source and the reflection passing through the image center, confirming it as an IFO/V1.

Case 20021026 A: Speyer, Germany

On October 26, 2002, at 10:40 PM MESZ, a couple from Speyer, Germany, observed approximately 12 lights moving in a slow, pearl-string formation across the sky. The lights appeared to be at varying altitudes and moved with a speed comparable to helicopters. The primary witness initially thought they might be a rescue helicopter. The fire department and the local hospital reported no unusual activity. Investigations included obtaining radar data from German Air Traffic Control, which showed two aircraft in the vicinity but not directly correlating with the sighting. The German Air Force reported no military air traffic with transponder signals. However, the report notes that low-flying helicopters would not necessarily be registered. The investigation also considered the presence of US Army helicopters stationed at the nearby, now inactive, US Army airfield in Heidelberg-Kirchheim. The report concludes that the sighting was likely a formation of helicopters, classifying it as NEAR IFO (Near Identified Flying Object).

Historical UFO Reports

Ulrich Magin contributes a section titled "UFOs in alten Zeitungsmeldungen" (UFOs in Old Newspaper Reports), presenting historical accounts from the 19th century that resemble modern UFO sightings.

1521: Regensburg, Germany

A report from the "Regensburg Chronicle" describes a phenomenon on February 22, 1521, featuring a 'wheel of rainbow colors' and a 'large cloud-colored cross' above Regensburg, with the sun appearing to have three discs. This is tentatively identified as a parhelion or sundog.

1832: Münsterland, Germany

A newspaper report from 1832 describes a landing of a light in the Münsterland, accompanied by electrical charges. The report notes that the term 'meteor' in the 19th century encompassed various atmospheric phenomena.

1832: Near Münster, Germany

Another report from October 10, 1832, near Münster, details a man observing a flame while walking home, which is described as a 'fireball' that fell from the sky. The article also mentions earth tremors and atmospheric phenomena in Saxony.

1840: Gotha, Germany

A report from February 6-7, 1840, in Gotha, describes a fireball seen rising in the western sky, blinking, and disappearing behind a cloud. The event lasted only a few seconds and was characterized by a bright, phosphorescent glow.

1842: Pfalz, Germany

An account from November 12, 1842, describes a luminous sphere observed in the Pfalz region, moving horizontally with the speed of a rocket. It was described as having the shape of a paper kite, about half a meter long and half as wide, with a fiery, knotty tail. A distant thunderclap was heard seven minutes later.

1844: Speyer, Germany

On July 20, 1844, in Speyer, a 'fiery dragon' was observed. The object was described as having the shape of a paper kite, approximately half a meter long and half as wide, moving horizontally with a fiery tail.

circa 1852: Near Bergzabern, Germany

August Becker, a folklorist, recounts an experience of his father, who observed a bright, yellowish-blue flame in a wooded area. The flame moved erratically, then shot rapidly across the sky with a glowing tail. This event is described as an 'Irrlicht' (will-o'-the-wisp) or 'Feuermann' (fireman).

Clark Ashton Smith and UFO Phenomena

Christian Brachthäuser contributes an article titled "Prophet des UFO-Phänomens? Der Science-Fiction-Autor Clark Ashton Smith (1893-1961) – Teil 2" (Prophet of the UFO Phenomenon? The Science-Fiction Author Clark Ashton Smith (1893-1961) – Part 2).

The article highlights Clark Ashton Smith's early writings, particularly his 1931 story "Seedling of Mars," which prophetically described a first contact scenario with an extraterrestrial spacecraft landing in a stadium. The object was described as being nearly 40 meters long, egg-shaped, and of non-terrestrial origin. The author notes the striking similarity between Smith's descriptions and numerous UFO sightings reported since 1947. The article also touches upon Smith's exploration of the controversial viewpoints within the scientific community regarding the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently emphasizes the importance of critical analysis and the identification of mundane explanations for reported phenomena, particularly the increasing prevalence of lens reflections in modern UFO reports due to advanced camera technology. The historical section demonstrates a pattern of phenomena that, while mysterious at the time, can often be explained by known natural events or misinterpretations. The inclusion of Clark Ashton Smith's work highlights the long-standing fascination with extraterrestrial contact and the speculative nature of early science fiction in anticipating future UFO discourse. The journal's stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, favoring conventional explanations where evidence supports them, while still acknowledging the enduring mystery of unexplained aerial phenomena.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Volume 6-2015, Issue NR. 222, is primarily in German and focuses on the intersection of UFO research and citizen science, alongside an exploration of the literary contributions of Clark Ashton Smith.

Article: Clark Ashton Smith - An Avant-Garde of Parascientifics

The issue delves into the life and work of Clark Ashton Smith (1893-1961), a writer known for his fantastical and dark tales. The article highlights his unique perspective, which, according to the author, bears striking analogies to speculative ideas of the 'space age,' including extraterrestrial artifacts and UFO phenomena. Smith's work is presented as a precursor to modern 'parascientific' fields like Paleo-SETI and UFO research.

The text contrasts the views of Professor Godfrey Stilton, who was rigidly skeptical of intelligent life beyond Earth, with those who were more open-minded. Smith's theories were often met with resistance from the scientific establishment, which preferred empirical evidence and strict adherence to established formulas. The article notes that even after eight decades, these differing viewpoints remain relevant in discussions about extraterrestrial life and the search for it (SETI).

Smith's personal life was marked by significant hardships, including the deaths of his mother, his close friend and fellow writer Robert E. Howard, and H.P. Lovecraft. These events, coupled with his own health issues and financial struggles, led him to withdraw and rely on alcohol for solace. Despite these challenges, his literary output continued, and he is now recognized alongside Lovecraft and Edgar Allan Poe as a master of horror and fantasy.

The article suggests that Smith's fictional protagonists and narratives offer insights that resonate with speculative thought in the modern era, touching upon themes relevant to UFO research and the broader exploration of the unknown.

Article: Position Paper on the Citizen Science Strategy 2020

This section presents a position paper from the German Cooperation Initiative UFO Research (DEGUFO, GEP, MUFON-CES) regarding the Citizen Science Strategy 2020, a project supported by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).

Introduction to Citizen Science in UFO Research

The paper defines UFO research as a citizen-led engagement with scientific standards, focusing on the investigation of unusual aerial phenomena. It acknowledges that UFO research has been a citizen-driven endeavor for decades, with non-profit organizations examining these phenomena. The initiative aims to contribute to the Citizen Science Strategy 2020 by outlining key aspects of their work.

UFO research is characterized as an engagement by citizens to investigate recurring observations of unusual celestial phenomena. This involves various research questions that can be addressed using methods from different disciplines. The term 'UFO' is defined as an 'unidentified flying object' without implying origin or form. A UFO is initially a reported perception of a light or object in the sky whose form, dynamics, and luminous or reflective properties do not lend themselves to a logical, conventional explanation.

The primary goal of UFO research is to gain a sufficient understanding of these experiences and to theoretically integrate them into the body of scientific knowledge. The field is highly interdisciplinary, encompassing astronomical and atmospheric objects, perceptions, memories, and communications. While many UFO sightings can be attributed to misinterpretations of stimuli (e.g., stars, aircraft, natural phenomena), a small percentage remains unexplained, suggesting the need for multi-causal explanations.

Challenges and Opportunities for UFO Research

The paper addresses the perception of UFO research as pseudoscience, which hinders its acceptance by the public and scientific community. Constructive citizen-led UFO research requires cooperation among citizens and organizations, as well as engagement with scientific and specialized organizations.

The German Cooperation Initiative for UFO Research is the result of efforts to establish lasting collaboration among the three largest German-speaking UFO research associations. They have developed principles for scientific practice in UFO research and are implementing joint projects, such as a standardized questionnaire for witnesses and a shared database of sightings.

UFO Research as Citizen Science

UFO research has predominantly been conducted as citizen science for decades, with numerous volunteers worldwide investigating the topic. They have worked on defining terms, categorizing UFO experiences and observed objects, and highlighting the difficulties in treating UFOs as a purely objective phenomenon. While the potential of citizen science in UFO research is recognized, the lack of cooperation with scientific institutions impedes the investigation of specific sub-areas that require specialized expertise.

Significant challenges in citizen-led UFO research include divergent understandings and goals within the field itself, ranging from sober, objective investigations to those driven by emotional or ideological motives. This leads to a public and media reception of UFO topics as absurd or pseudoscientific, creating reservations among scientific institutions regarding collaboration.

However, established organizations provide structured frameworks for research, with offices, workspaces, and communication platforms. Their work is published in specialized periodicals and books, and data is made accessible through UFO databases. Researchers form networks, and these associations have been cooperating for years to optimize organizational and personal aspects.

Cooperation and Professionalization

The paper emphasizes that cooperation and professionalization are central themes in contemporary UFO research in German-speaking countries. The established structures are well-suited for project-based or continuous partnerships with scientific institutions. The knowledge and experience gained in data collection, case analysis, and statistical evaluations can serve as a basis for joint research on existing and new questions.

A fundamental goal for citizen science in general, and UFO research in particular, is societal and scientific recognition of citizen-initiated projects. Overcoming existing hurdles may involve jointly developed research principles and suitable training programs for interested citizens.

There is a desire for research cooperation with scientific institutions, potentially through funding instruments that allow partnerships with non-profit organizations. Improved access to scientific infrastructure, such as IT resources and conference facilities, would further strengthen citizen science projects.

Summary of the Position Paper

UFO research, conducted using scientific methods, is a long-standing area of citizen research in German-speaking countries. For active UFO research organizations, strengthening citizen science and connecting with scientific institutions would facilitate the achievement of their goals. The position paper is being submitted to the BMBF along with other statements on citizen research.

Literature and References

The issue includes an extensive list of literature and references, citing various works on UFO research, science fiction, paranormal phenomena, and related scientific disciplines. This section provides a comprehensive overview of the sources consulted and further reading for interested individuals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the integration of citizen science into scientific research, particularly in the field of UFO phenomena, and the literary and cultural significance of science fiction writers like Clark Ashton Smith. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for greater recognition and scientific legitimacy for UFO research, emphasizing the importance of structured, cooperative, and methodologically sound approaches, while also acknowledging the rich contributions of speculative literature to these discussions.

This issue of "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 6-2015, NR.222, published by GEP e.V., focuses on reviews of books related to conspiracy theories, UFOs, and space exploration. The primary review is of Gerhard Wisnewski's book "Lügen im Weltraum" (Lies in Space), subtitled "Von der Mondlandung zur Weltherrschaft" (From the Moon Landing to World Domination).

Review of "Lügen im Weltraum" by Gerhard Wisnewski

The reviewer, René Mendler, introduces Wisnewski's book, noting it is a 10-year-old publication but likely unchanged from its first edition. Mendler categorizes the book as a "conspiracy book of the highest quality" due to the author's skillful rhetoric, the difficulty in verifying claims without extensive research, and an underlying anti-American sentiment that is easily embraced.

The book is divided into three parts. The first part discusses Soviet and American efforts to "conquer" space, highlighting numerous alleged inconsistencies. One claim is that a space flight with cosmonaut Wladimir Iljuschin occurred five days before Yuri Gagarin's flight, ending with complications and Iljuschin being hospitalized in China. The book questions why Iljuschin would need hospitalization if he had merely suffered a car accident, as was also reported.

Wisnewski also questions Gagarin's qualifications, suggesting that the Soviets needed a presentable figurehead rather than an experienced pilot, as the mission was automated. Further doubts are raised about Gagarin's death, with suggestions of inconsistencies. The reviewer notes that information to verify these claims is scarce.

The second part of the book focuses on the alleged conspiracy surrounding the moon landing. The reviewer states that this topic is widely discussed online, making it easier to debunk Wisnewski's claims. However, the reviewer does provide links to websites that offer structured explanations.

The third part of the book delves into the US military-industrial complex and NASA. Wisnewski argues that NASA's space research primarily serves to funnel taxpayer money to American arms manufacturers, citing the SDI program as an example. He also references scientists and military figures who allegedly suggested the need for an end to the Outer Space Treaty to protect American security interests, and links these to political changes post-9/11.

Mendler expresses skepticism about the accuracy of Wisnewski's portrayal of American military space ambitions. He also questions the authenticity of quotes used in the book, suggesting that omissions and rearrangements could be used to create a desired effect, making verification difficult without consulting the cited works.

Specific Criticisms and Counterarguments

Regarding the Apollo precursor missions (Mercury and Gemini), Wisnewski focuses on astronaut Gus Grissom, alleging he was a victim of a NASA conspiracy due to his complaints about faulty equipment. The review details Wisnewski's account of the Mercury "LibertyBell" mission, where Grissom's capsule allegedly filled with water due to a self-opening hatch, leading to its sinking. Wisnewski also questions the recovery helicopter's supposed engine failure.

Concerning the Apollo 1 catastrophe, Wisnewski points to questionable details such as an excessive amount of Velcro, a cabin pressure of 1 bar with 100% oxygen, and a manipulated switch that allegedly caused the short circuit. Mendler highlights Wisnewski's strong reaction to the 100% oxygen environment, which would have been a significant fire hazard.

In response to Wisnewski's claims about solar activity during the Apollo moon flights, Mendler presents data from a website showing a different pattern of solar activity. Wisnewski claimed that high solar radiation during solar maximums would have been dangerous for astronauts, but Mendler's research suggests that the solar activity during the Apollo missions was not at its peak.

Mendler concludes his review by advising caution, stating that Wisnewski's rhetoric and the sheer volume of claims can easily draw the reader into his worldview. He notes that the author skillfully blends factual information with speculation, leaving the reader with a sense that the theories might be plausible, even if they are critical of such ideas.

Other Reviews

"Vorsicht Verschwörung!" by André Kramer

This book is described as an updated and refutation of right-wing extremist conspiracy theories, including those related to UFOs, Atlantis, and Paleo-SETI. It addresses questions about Nazi "breeding programs," ancient gods as "Aryan astronauts," flying saucers, and the continuation of World War II in the realm of conspiracy.

"UFOs – Phänomen oder Phantomphänomen?" by André Kramer

This book is presented as a comprehensive report on unexplained UFO cases investigated by the GEP. It documents a 2012 study that re-analyzed and compared unexplained GOOD-UFO cases to identify patterns and commonalities, aiming to uncover the causes of these observations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently adopts a factual and critical approach to the UFO phenomenon. The reviews, particularly of Wisnewski's book, demonstrate a commitment to scrutinizing claims and providing counter-evidence or suggesting avenues for further research. The journal's publication of Kramer's work also indicates an interest in debunking conspiracy theories and analyzing UFO phenomena scientifically. The GEP, as the publisher, is presented as a scientific research organization dedicated to interdisciplinary UFO research, supported by various authorities and institutions.