JUFOF - Issue 230 - 2017 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of Jufof, the journal for UFO research, is dated 02-2017, Volume 38, Number 230. Published by GEP e.V., it is priced at 4,50 Euro. The cover prominently features the headline "UFO-Berichte aus der Antike?" (UFO Reports from Antiquity?), suggesting a focus on historical accounts of unexplained aerial phenomena. The visual on the cover depicts the Sphinx and pyramids of Egypt with a distinct, possibly triangular or disk-shaped, object in the sky.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Danny Ammon, addresses the readers in the summer of 2017, reflecting on the recent joint conference of three German UFO organizations (DEGUFO, GEP, and MUFON-CES) held in Dipperz-Friesenhausen. The conference covered a broad spectrum of UFO research topics, including analyses of well-known cases, technical aspects of radar and camera surveillance, and abduction experiences, culminating in a panel discussion on the future of European UFO research. Ammon announces that a detailed report on the conference will be featured in the next issue of Jufof. This current issue, however, delves into ancient history with two articles by Ulrich Magin and Jörg Dendl that examine UFO reports from ancient Egypt and ancient Rome. Ammon cautions that interpreting ancient texts about seemingly unknown objects requires careful consideration, as modern perspectives and knowledge may influence their understanding.

The editorial also touches upon the regular documentation of UFO sightings, noting how stimuli in the sky can lead to reports. It mentions a follow-up remark by Hans-Werner Peiniger on a previously documented case of a geostationary object. The issue concludes with short news items and a book review, broadening the scope of UFO research to include the search for and speculation about extraterrestrial intelligence as a potential cause for unexplained sightings. Ammon emphasizes the value of diverse approaches in UFO research, from technical analysis to historical accounts and the study of witness testimonies, encouraging readers to learn and expand their understanding of the subject.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section presents documented UFO observations and their assessments. Several cases are detailed:

• Case 20150217 A (Groß-Ammensleben, Germany, 17.02.2015): This is a follow-up report to a previous issue (jufof Nr. 229) concerning a geostationary object with unusual dimensions. The report addresses criticism regarding the lack of an introduction in the original publication. The author, a member of an astronomical club, had initially been expected to inform the astronomical community. The case is classified as a 'GOOD UFO' with no identification, and investigations are ongoing. The report includes an astrophotographic detail from 19.02.2015.
• Case 20160710 D (Bern, Switzerland, 10.07.2016): This case involves a drone video that captured a white, fibrous object flying low over a cornfield at high speed. The observer interpreted it as a UFO before the drone crashed due to loss of control. The object was described as moving at approximately 900 km/h. The classification is 'DD' (Data Deficient), and the assessment is 'IFO / V1' (Identified Flying Object / Possible misidentification), with 'Distelsamen' (thistle seed) suggested as the identification. The report details the observer's interpretation and the investigator's counter-argument that it was likely a thistle seed, questioning the observer's calculations of speed and trajectory.
• Case 20161017 A (Seoul, South Korea, 17.10.2016): A photograph taken from the National Historical Museum in Seoul revealed several bright objects in the sky. These were identified as reflections, likely from the camera or window, and not actual aerial phenomena.
• Case 20161127 A (Stadtoldendorf, Germany, 27.11.2016): During an astrophotography session of the Pleiades, a white light trail was captured. The witness noted it was a single white trail, unlike the colored position lights of typical aircraft. Measurements suggested a distance of 16.6 meters at a range of 10 km. The investigation concluded it was likely an aircraft.

UFOs im alten Rom? (UFOs in Ancient Rome?)

This article, by Jörg Dendl, explores reports of unusual aerial phenomena in ancient Roman texts. It discusses the challenges of interpreting these historical accounts, emphasizing the need for caution when applying modern understanding to ancient observations. The article likely examines specific texts and accounts from Roman history that could be interpreted as UFO sightings.

UFO-Berichte aus der Antike? (UFO Reports from Antiquity?)

This is the overarching theme for the articles by Ulrich Magin and Jörg Dendl. Magin's contribution likely focuses on ancient Egypt, while Dendl's covers ancient Rome. Both articles aim to analyze historical descriptions that might correspond to modern UFO sightings, while acknowledging the potential for misinterpretation.

Literatur (Literature)

This section includes reviews of current books related to UFO research. One entry mentions the publication "Cielo Insolito" Nr. 4. Another entry is titled "Erst-Kontakt" (First Contact), suggesting a review of a book on that theme.

Impressum (Imprint)

The imprint provides details about the publisher, Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., founded in 1972. Contact information, including address, phone, fax, and email ([email protected]), is provided. The editorial responsibility lies with Hans-Werner Peiniger and Danny Ammon. The imprint also states that contributions are published on a non-commercial basis and without honorarium. Information for authors is available on the GEP website. Subscription prices are listed: 27,00 € for one year (6 issues) within Germany, with additional postage costs for international subscribers. The subscription automatically renews unless canceled three months prior to expiry. Advertising prices are available upon request, with small ads being free for subscribers and members under certain conditions. The printing is done by bis500 Druck.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the analysis of historical UFO reports, the rigorous documentation and investigation of contemporary sightings, and the critical assessment of potential explanations, often leaning towards conventional identifications (IFO) when evidence supports it. The editorial stance, as expressed by Danny Ammon, emphasizes a cautious and scientific approach to UFO research, acknowledging the complexity of the subject and the need for diverse methodologies. There is a clear emphasis on differentiating between genuine unexplained phenomena and misidentifications or natural occurrences, while also remaining open to the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence as a hypothesis.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), dated Ausgabe 2-2017, Nr. 230, features a variety of articles investigating unexplained phenomena, ranging from satellite observations and aircraft lights to ancient myths and meteorological events. The issue is primarily in German and appears to be from 2017.

Analysis of Satellite and Aircraft Observations

The issue begins by examining observations related to the Pleiades star cluster. Initially, the possibility of NOSS satellites being involved was considered, but this hypothesis was rejected due to the impractical length of the connecting cable that would be required (nearly 2 kilometers). The article then shifts to investigating the "airplane" hypothesis. By determining the precise position of the Pleiades at the time of the recording and cross-referencing it with flight traffic data, the researchers were able to identify a specific aircraft. The analysis, using data from Google Earth and astronomical software like Stellarium, points to a Boeing 737-800, specifically a 737-8AS model from Ryanair, as the source of the observed phenomena. The light trails are attributed to the continuously illuminated white lamps on the winglets of the aircraft, which are visible from behind and from below during flight. Measurements of the distance between these lights and the aircraft's wingspan are discussed, with the conclusion that the observed light patterns are consistent with these winglet lights.

Investigation of Optical and Meteorological Phenomena

Several cases are presented that are identified as non-UFO related optical or meteorological events.

One case, "Lichtbahn während Autofahrt fotografiert" (Light trail photographed during car journey), details an observation made on July 12, 2016, in Bad Bentheim, Germany. The witness, Hans W., provided photos of a vertical light trail over the sun. The investigation, led by Hans-Werner Peiniger, concluded that this was a meteorological phenomenon, specifically a "Lichtsäule" (light pillar).

Another case, "Grünliches Objekt auf Handyfotos entdeckt" (Greenish object discovered on phone photos), involves photos taken by Annette Q. on December 11, 2016, in Augsburg-Göggingen, Germany. While reviewing photos of the setting sun, she discovered a greenish round object. The investigation by Hans-Werner Peiniger identified this as a "Linsenreflexion" (lens reflection) or "Blendenfleck" (aperture flare) within the camera's lens, caused by extreme backlight from the sun. It was not a self-observed phenomenon but was discovered later when examining the images.

A third case, "Flackerndes Lichtobjekt über Stunden beobachtet" (Flickering light object observed for hours), reported by Julian H. on December 30, 2016, in Hildesheim-Moritzberg, Germany. The witness described a bright, flickering object resembling a large star, changing colors (red, green, blue, white) and moving slowly. Despite attempts to record it on video, the camera's focus was poor. The investigation, again by Hans-Werner Peiniger, concluded that the object was likely the star Sirius. The flickering is attributed to atmospheric conditions, and the ring-like structures in the video are explained as camera effects from zooming.

Scrutiny of Ancient Egyptian UFO Claims

The article "Ein abgestürztes UFO im alten Ägypten?" (A crashed UFO in ancient Egypt?) by Ulrich Magin critically examines claims that ancient Egypt possessed a crashed metallic "god vehicle." The author investigates references made by Ulrich Dopatka, who cites Kohlenberg, who in turn cites Plutarch's work "De Isid. et Osirid." (On Isis and Osiris).

Magin meticulously analyzes Plutarch's text, specifically chapters 1-12 and others, to find any mention of a crashed Osiris ship or metallic wreckage. He finds that Plutarch describes the myth of Osiris, his dismemberment by his brother Seth, and Isis's search for his body parts. The "ark" or "chest" (Lade) into which Osiris's body was placed and cast into the sea is described, along with its symbolic interpretations related to the moon and the Nile's receding waters. Plutarch also mentions ships in relation to Egyptian gods and the Argo of the Argonauts, but there is no mention of visible wreckage or metallic debris from a "sky ship."

Magin concludes that Kohlenberg and Dopatka's claims are not supported by Plutarch's writings. He corresponded with Professor Barry Baldwin, who also had never encountered such a passage in Plutarch and considered the quote to be an invention by Kohlenberg. The article suggests that the claims might stem from a misunderstanding or misinterpretation of Plutarch's text, possibly related to the symbolic nature of the Osiris myth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of anomalous aerial phenomena (UAP), the identification of mundane explanations for sightings (aircraft, meteorological events, optical illusions), and the critical examination of historical and mythological claims related to extraterrestrial or advanced technology. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, seeking verifiable evidence and applying scientific and astronomical principles to explain reported phenomena. The journal demonstrates a commitment to debunking sensational claims when evidence points to more conventional explanations, while also exploring the historical and mythological contexts that sometimes give rise to such claims.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG, dated Ausgabe 2-2017, Nr. 230, features a cover story titled "UFOs im Alten Rom? Spektakuläre Sichtungsberichte in antiken Quellen" by Jörg Dendl. The magazine explores historical accounts of unusual aerial phenomena, drawing from ancient Egyptian and Roman sources.

Götterbarken (God-Barks)

The article begins by discussing the concept of 'Götterbarken' in ancient Egypt. These were models of real Nile ships, often gilded, that were placed on pedestals in temples. They symbolized the movement of gods through the sky and were also linked to the journey of the human soul (Ka) and the mummy. Examples are given of specific barks mentioned in texts, such as the one named 'Herr der Ewigkeit' crafted by Ahmose, and those commissioned by Hatshepsut and Amonhotep III. These barks were described as being made of precious materials like cedarwood, gold, and electrum, and some had elaborate decorations. The text notes that Egyptian Egyptologists distinguish between ships for the soul, the dead, and the gods, but the fundamental construction remained similar. The sun god was believed to cross the sky in a boat, and other gods had boat-shaped shrines. The article mentions a specific 'Götterbarke' with stylized oars from the Greek period in the Siwa Oasis. It also references a passage from Diodorus Siculus describing a cedarwood ship dedicated to Amun, which was 280 cubits long, covered in gold externally and silver internally.

Egyptian Giant Ships

The discussion then shifts to the possibility that a Greek traveler might have seen remnants of exceptionally large Egyptian ships, rather than extraterrestrial craft. Several pharaohs are associated with the construction of impressive vessels. Sesostris is mentioned in relation to a legendary figure who conquered vast territories and commissioned a colossal ship. Ptolemäus Philopater is credited with two such ships: one with forty rows of oars, 280 cubits long, and another, the 'Thalamegos' or 'cabin ship,' which was 320 feet long and 45 feet wide, designed for the shallow waters of the Nile. These ships were described as having luxurious interiors, multiple decks, and elaborate decorations, serving more for state display than practical use.

Historical Accounts of UFO Sightings in Ancient Rome

The main article by Jörg Dendl focuses on spectacular UFO sighting reports from ancient Roman sources. It posits that the Roman culture's emphasis on omens and prodigies led to the meticulous recording of unusual celestial events. These records, often found in the 'Annales Maximi' and preserved through historians like Titus Livius and Julius Obsequens, provide a basis for analyzing these accounts. The article highlights a particularly interesting case from 104 or 103 BC, where three independent ancient authors – Julius Obsequens, Plinius the Elder, and Plutarch – describe a sighting of 'celestial weapons' or 'fiery lances and shields' in the sky over central Italy, near the towns of Ameria and Tuder.

According to the reports, two groups of flying objects appeared, one from the east and one from the west. They engaged in what appeared to be a battle, with the western group eventually fleeing and being pursued by the eastern group, with all objects disappearing to the west. Plutarch's account is more detailed, describing the objects as 'shields' (thyreous) and 'lances' (aichmä), suggesting they were either pointed or had pointed tips. The article notes that Plinius classified this event as occurring in the lower atmosphere, distinct from comets.

The author explores the interpretation of this event, suggesting it might have been used as a favorable omen to bolster the reputation of the Roman general Marius. The movements of the 'celestial battle' could be seen as mirroring a terrestrial battle Marius fought around the same time. However, the article concludes that this event, due to its unusual nature and the description of the objects' movements, suggests a phenomenon not entirely explainable by astronomical laws.

Other Sections

The issue also includes a "Kurz notiert" (Briefly Noted) section with "Aktuelle Meldungen" (Current News), featuring an announcement about the fourth issue of the Italian internet magazine "Cielo Insolito," which covers historical aspects of the UFO phenomenon. The article mentions contributions on UFO pioneer Luciano Salce, early depictions of flying saucers, solar phenomena, and UFO sightings in Hessdalen, Norway. The magazine is available for free download.

A "Nachtrag" (Addendum) by Ulrich Magin discusses a report from Peter Kolosimo and Robert Charroux about a monk named Rufinius Aquileia who allegedly witnessed a metal disc suspended in the air in the Temple of Serapis in Alexandria, possibly due to magnets. The author notes that the source for this claim could not be found.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the historical investigation of anomalous phenomena, particularly UFO sightings in ancient times. The magazine demonstrates a commitment to examining historical texts and archaeological findings to understand past accounts of unusual events. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to interpret these accounts through both conventional and unconventional lenses, while acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the need for further research. The focus on ancient sources suggests an interest in the long history of human encounters with the unexplained.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Volume 2-2017, Issue 230, published by GEP e.V., delves into historical and contemporary UFO phenomena. The content is primarily in German, with a focus on critical analysis and research.

Ancient UFO Sightings and Intelligent Control

The lead article discusses ancient aerial phenomena, citing two specific cases: the sighting of 'parmae' in 217 BC and a 'clipeus' in 100 BC. These objects were described as having shapes dissimilar to meteors and were noted for their unusual aerial behavior, including rapid movement and formation changes. The text highlights that ancient naturalists like Seneca recognized these as distinct from ordinary celestial events, suggesting they were intelligently controlled. The article posits that the UFO phenomenon has been known for millennia, with ancient encounters mirroring some modern reports.

Literature Reviews

"Erst-Kontakt: Warum wir uns auf Außerirdische vorbereiten müssen" by Daniel Gerritzen

This review examines Daniel Gerritzen's book, which explores the hypothetical scenario of first contact with an extraterrestrial civilization. The book addresses governmental and media reactions, the potential for public panic, and the psychological impact of encountering alien life. It discusses the risks of sending signals into space, referencing Stephen Hawking's caution against such actions. Gerritzen's work aims to outline possibilities and develop worst-case scenarios for preparedness. The review notes that the book does not present a 'best-case scenario' but concludes that humanity is not ready for first contact, with the primary threat coming from humans themselves and secondary threats from mainstream media.

"Vorsicht Verschwörung!" by André Kramer

This review covers André Kramer's book, which debunks right-wing extremist conspiracy theories related to UFOs, Atlantis, and Paleo-SETI. It addresses questions about Nazi UFO programs, ancient astronauts, and the persistence of World War II-era conspiracies. The book is described as a current presentation and refutation of these theories.

"GOOD UFO" by Sebastian Hartmann

This section reviews Sebastian Hartmann's book, a Bachelor's thesis project that compiles interesting UFO cases. The book features witness reports, sketches, images, and analyses from the GEP archive, presented in an engaging format.

UFO Phenomenon and Research

The journal defines a UFO as a perceived object or light whose appearance, trajectory, and behavior cannot be logically explained by conventional means, remaining unidentified even after thorough investigation. It outlines the GEP (Society for UFO Research) as a non-profit scientific organization in Germany dedicated to studying UFO phenomena through questionnaires, field investigations, and interdisciplinary collaboration with authorities and institutions.

Reporting UFO Sightings

Readers are encouraged to report UFO sightings to the GEP's reporting center, which is available by phone (02351-23377) and email ([email protected]). The journal itself, "jufof," has been published since 1980, critically documenting UFO reports, their classification, and case studies. It also includes scientific and methodological articles, international reports, analyses, reviews, and reader letters.

Additional Content

The issue includes a prize contest for Gerritzen's book and announces the winner of a previous contest. It also mentions the inclusion of the "GEP-Insider Nr. 101" with topics like "UFO Authors" and an interview with Hans-Werner Peiniger for members.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical presence of unexplained aerial phenomena, the potential implications of extraterrestrial contact, and the critical examination of conspiracy theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious, scientific, and critical investigation into UFO phenomena, aiming to provide factual analysis and debunk unsubstantiated claims, while also exploring the psychological and societal aspects of the topic.