JUFOF - Issue 231 - 2017 03

Magazine Overview

This issue of jufof, the journal for UFO research, dated March 2017 (Issue No. 231, Volume 38), is published by GEP e.V. and priced at 4.50 Euro. The cover prominently features a report on the 'First Conference of the German Cooperation Initiative UFO Research' (Tagungsbericht Erste Tagung der Deutschen Kooperationsinitiative UFO-Forschung), with the subtitle 'UFO Research and Anomalistics: Interconnections between Case Investigations, Anomalies, and Reflexivity'. It also includes a section on 'Literature' with reviews of current books.

Editorial

The editorial, titled 'Liebe Leser' (Dear Readers), apologizes for the delay in publication, attributing it to the time required for case investigations and administrative tasks within the UFO research community. The editor, Hans-Werner Peiniger, highlights the extensive effort involved in case work, including witness contact, explanations, internet research, and analysis of photos and videos. He notes that sociologist Olaf Fritz has positively commented on the thoroughness of their work. Peiniger also discusses the challenge of classifying UFO cases when clear criteria are lacking, emphasizing the role of the assessor's experience. He announces a project to identify and define anomalous characteristics from their case material to develop a more objective matrix for future assessments. The editorial also points readers to the conference report in this issue and wishes them an interesting read.

UFO Observations: Documentations – Assessments

This section details several specific UFO/UAP sightings and their subsequent analyses:

"Fremdartiges Objekt" photographed (Case File: 20161229 B)

• Date: December 29, 2016, 21:10 CET
• Location: Wallmenroth, Germany
• Witness: Marcus S.
• Classification: NL (Not Identified)
• Assessment: IFO / V1 (Identified Flying Object / Version 1)
• Identification: Sirius (the star)
• Summary: The witness observed a strange object in the sky that alternately glowed green, blue, and red. It remained stationary but briefly appeared to approach. The analysis, using Stellarium software, determined that the bright star Sirius was in the southeastern sky at the time of the observation. Atmospheric conditions likely caused the star to appear to change colors and possibly flicker.

"Regenschirm" on photo from Pömmelte discovered (Case File: 20161129 A)

• Date: November 29, 2016, 14:04 CET
• Location: Barby – Pömmelte, Germany
• Witness: Rolf G.
• Classification: DD (Data Deficient)
• Assessment: IFO / V1
• Identification: Lens reflection (Linsenreflexion)
• Summary: The witness, an amateur photographer, noticed an object resembling an 'umbrella' in a photo taken at the Ringheiligtum Pömmelte and questioned if it was a UFO. The investigation concluded that the object was a lens reflection within the camera's lens, caused by a strong light source (the sun) off-camera, creating a lens flare or 'blende-fleck'.

Crescent-shaped object photographed over Garching-Hochbrück (Case File: 20170227 A)

• Date: February 27, 2017, 19:28 CET
• Location: Garching – Hochbrück, Germany
• Witness: Hans G.
• Classification: NL
• Assessment: IFO / V1
• Identification: Planet Venus
• Summary: The witness observed and photographed a stationary object in the sky. A discrepancy in the date was resolved, with the correct date being February 27, 2017. The analysis, including astronomical reconstruction, identified the object as the planet Venus, which was located in the western sky. The crescent shape was attributed to camera shake during the exposure (1/17 second), creating a series of light points, similar to examples from the Blue Book archives. The flash function on the camera was active, which illuminated foreground objects but did not affect the Venus image.

Object with colorful, blinking lights over Riedenburg (Case File: 20161208 A)

• Date: December 8, 2016, 22:30 CET
• Location: Riedenburg, Germany
• Witness: Albertina G.
• Classification: NL
• Assessment: IFO / V1
• Identification: Helicopter
• Summary: The witness reported seeing a strange flying object with many colorful, blinking lights, described as triangular, flying low, slowly, and sideways. It was heard and seen for about half an hour. Subsequent internet research, cross-referencing flight data (planefinder.net) and police records, identified the object as a police helicopter (Eurocopter EC135 D-HBPA) involved in a search operation for a missing person in Riedenburg. The flight data indicated a low-altitude, low-speed flight pattern consistent with a search.

First Conference...

This section details the 'First Conference of the German Cooperation Initiative UFO Research' (Erste Tagung der Deutschen Kooperationsinitiative UFO-Forschung), which took place on June 24, 2017. The conference focused on 'UFO Research and Anomalistics: Interconnections between Case Investigations, Anomalies, and Reflexivity'. The report aims to inform readers who could not attend about the 'very exciting and informative content'.

Short Notes

This section contains 'Aktuelle Medienberichte über UFOs/GEP' (Current Media Reports on UFOs/GEP), indicating a brief overview of recent media coverage related to UFOs and the GEP.

Literature

This part of the magazine includes reviews of current books related to UFO phenomena. One review is for 'Götter-Astronauten' (Gods-Astronauten), and another is an interview with Jonas Richter.

Impressum (Imprint)

• Publisher: Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., founded in 1972.
• Contact: Postfach 2361, 58473 Lüdenscheid, Germany. Phone: (02351) 23377, Fax: (02351) 23335, Email: [email protected].
• Bank Details: Postbank NL Dortmund.
• Editors Responsible: Hans-Werner Peiniger, Danny Ammon.
• Content Disclaimer: Articles and literature references do not necessarily reflect the views of GEP. Unsolicited manuscripts are not liable.
• Publication Frequency: Monthly, non-commercial basis; contributions are unpaid.
• Subscription: 27.00 € per year (6 issues) plus postage (Germany 8.00 €, International 20.00 €). Membership includes subscription. Automatic renewal unless cancelled three months prior.
• Advertising: Price list available upon request. Small ads are free for subscribers (up to six lines) and members (up to ten lines).
• Reprinting: Allowed only with written permission from GEP e.V. and with a copy sent.
• Printing: bis500 Druck, 98693 Ilmenau.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed documentation and analysis of specific UFO/UAP sightings, often identifying them as conventional objects (IFO - Identified Flying Object) through astronomical or technical means. The journal also emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and the challenges of classifying ambiguous cases. The GEP's stance appears to be one of scientific inquiry, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the complexities and anomalies within the UFO phenomenon. The inclusion of a conference report highlights the organization's commitment to fostering collaboration and discussion within the UFO research community.

This issue of the 'Journal für UFO-Forschung' (Issue 3-2017, NR. 231) focuses on UFO/UAP investigations and a significant conference held by German UFO research organizations.

UFO Sighting: Object over the Sea near Fehmarn

The lead article details a case where an object was photographed and filmed near the island of Fehmarn, Germany, on April 20, 2017. A witness's acquaintance recorded a mobile phone video from a moving train, noticing an object that appeared suddenly, grew larger, hovered, and then disappeared. The investigation, led by Hans-Werner Peiniger, concluded that the object was likely a reflection on the train's window or dirt particles, possibly illuminated by the phone's LED light. The analysis of the video showed the object moving synchronously with the phone's movement, suggesting it was on the window surface. The case was classified as IFO (Identified Flying Object) / V2 (Visual Observation, low quality).

First Conference of the German UFO Cooperation Initiative

This section reports on the first joint conference of the German UFO Cooperation Initiative, held on June 24, 2017, near Fulda. The event brought together UFO organizations like DEGUFO, GEP, and MUFON-CES. The date was chosen to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Kenneth Arnold's sighting in 1947, which is considered the birth of the modern UFO phenomenon and coined the term 'Flying Saucer'.

Topics and Presentations:

• Jörg Kiefer (MUFON-CES): Discussed monitored airspace and UFOs, providing an overview of German airspace surveillance by civilian (DFS) and military radar, highlighting differences in their mandates and technology. He presented radar recordings of unidentified objects, including a notable case from Stuttgart in 2009 that remains unexplained.
• Rafal Nowicki: Presented an unusual photo case from Zdany, Poland (January 8, 2016), investigated by 'Fundacja NAUTILUS'. The article expresses skepticism, noting the witnesses were anonymous and possibly intoxicated, and the object's appearance resembled two glued-together salad bowls. The investigation focused on determining the object's size rather than potential fabrication.
• André Kramer (GEP): Spoke about the psychosocial consequences of alleged UFO abduction experiences. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the witnesses' experiences and potential psychological distress, advising referral to specialists if needed.
• Bernd Dohmen: Provided an update on research into the Hessdalen phenomenon, specializing in astronomical time-lapse and spectral photography.
• Marius Kettmann (DEGUFO): Presented the status of research on the Greifswald lights case (August 24, 1990), acknowledging that while some explanations exist (e.g., Czech air force maneuvers with flares), many questions remain open.
• Andreas Anton (IGPP): His planned talk on UFOs and science was canceled due to illness. Instead, a photo case of a light sphere near a passenger jet, investigated by MUFON-CES, was discussed.
• Robert Fleischer (Exopolitik): Proposed a video blog initiative to promote German UFO organizations and attract new members, citing the larger membership of Italian UFO groups.
• Gerhard Gröschel: Introduced a new system using a Raspberry Pi computer with sensors and a camera for monitoring.

Panel Discussion:

A panel discussion involving all speakers addressed UFO research in Europe, exploring possibilities for better networking and communication among researchers and organizations. The need for standardized research principles, case classifications, and a common database was highlighted. The website www.german-ufo-research.org was presented as a bilingual information resource.

UFO Research and Anomalistics: Connections between UFO Case Investigations, Anomalies, and Reflexivity

This article by Danny Ammon explores the relationship between UFO sightings, scientific anomalies, and the field of anomalistics. It discusses how 'strangeness' or 'anomalous characteristics' in UFO cases challenge conventional explanations and how UFO research can be considered a subfield of scientific anomalistics. The author touches upon the psychological impact of such experiences on witnesses and the challenges in investigating these phenomena, often conducted by amateur researchers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently reports on UFO/UAP sightings, investigations, and related research activities within Germany and internationally. It provides a platform for various UFO organizations to share their findings and discuss ongoing research. The editorial stance appears to be one of thorough investigation, critical analysis of evidence, and a desire to advance the understanding of unexplained aerial phenomena, while also acknowledging the challenges and skepticism surrounding the field. There is a clear emphasis on collaboration and standardization among research groups.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Volume 3-2017, Issue NR. 231, published by GEP in Germany, focuses on the scientific and methodological aspects of UFO research, particularly its relationship with anomalistics and scientific paradigms. The issue explores how UFO sightings can be analyzed using scientific principles and how the field can move towards greater scientific rigor.

Defining UFOs and Anomalous Characteristics

The journal begins by discussing Marcello Truzzi's classification of UFO research within 'para-sciences' and 'crypto-sciences,' contrasting it with the potential for UFO research to be conducted using scientific principles. It highlights the importance of qualitative interviewing, data analysis, and hypothesis testing in serious case investigations. The cooperation between German-speaking UFO organizations like DEGUFO, GEP, and MUFON-CES is presented as an example of applying "Principles of Sound Scientific Practice in UFO Phenomenon Research."

The core of the discussion revolves around the potential insights gained from UFOs with anomalous characteristics. These characteristics, initially reported by witnesses, are termed 'strangeness' and require further investigation to be confirmed as 'anomalous characteristics.' These characteristics play a crucial role in classifying and evaluating UFO cases. The concept of an 'anomaly' is defined relative to a scientific paradigm; for instance, an unusual maneuver by a meteor-like object would be an anomaly within the 'meteor' hypothesis. Some characteristics, like the 'falling leaf motion,' are noted as being atypical for conventional celestial phenomena or aircraft.

The term "UFOs i. e. S." (UFOs in the strict sense) is presented as a category for unexplained cases after investigation. The diverse nature of these cases raises questions about whether they constitute a single, coherent phenomenon. The "GOOD UFO" project (2011-2013) by GEP attempted to address this, but the limited number of cases and their differences yielded inconclusive results.

Scientific Anomalies and Paradigms

The issue delves into the concept of scientific anomalies, drawing heavily on the work of Thomas S. Kuhn. Scientific anomalies are phenomena that cannot be explained within an existing scientific paradigm, such as Newtonian mechanics. The text uses the example of Mercury's orbital precession, which deviated from Newtonian predictions but was later explained by Einstein's theory of General Relativity. Kuhn's concept of scientific revolutions suggests that new paradigms often complement, rather than entirely replace, older ones.

Two main categories of anomalies are discussed: those discovered by scientists and considered 'manageable' ('OK Anomalies'), like quasars and pulsars, and those described by non-scientists that pose a greater challenge to integration ('Not-OK Anomalies'), such as meteorites being dismissed as impossible by 18th-century French scholars. Phenomena like UFOs and psi phenomena are considered 'Not-OK Anomalies.' 'Sleeping Anomalies' are those that are part of scientific knowledge but not yet recognized as anomalies, like the geometric similarity of South American and West African coastlines, which only became an anomaly with Wegener's continental drift theory.

Harald Atmanspacher proposes a further categorization: empirical anomalies (unexplained observations) and theoretical anomalies (inconsistent with accepted theories). He also distinguishes between 'anomalies at the borders of science,' indicating a need for expanded knowledge, and 'internal anomalies,' which represent gaps within existing knowledge, such as the relationship between the brain and consciousness.

UFO Research and Anomalistics

UFO research is positioned within the broader field of anomalistics, which systematically investigates potential or existing scientific anomalies. Parapsychology is identified as the most established sub-field of anomalistics, focusing on psychophysical phenomena. While laboratory research in parapsychology emphasizes quantitative methods and replicability, qualitative case studies are also gaining traction due to the significant effects reported in spontaneous cases.

The concept of "reflexive anomalistics" and "reflexive UFO research" is introduced, emphasizing the need to consciously consider the specific conditions and challenges of studying phenomena like UFOs. This approach aims to ensure that UFO research is conducted professionally and adheres to scientific standards, avoiding association with pseudoscience or "science doubters."

Distinguishing UFO Anomalies

The journal distinguishes between "weak UFO anomaly principles" (suggesting unknown natural phenomena) and "strong UFO anomaly principles" (implying extraterrestrial or advanced intelligences). This distinction is seen as a potential starting point for defining anomalous characteristics more precisely for case investigation.

Methodological Approaches

The article highlights the difficulty in applying traditional scientific methods to UFO sightings, as they are often spontaneous and not easily accessible to experimental approaches. Unlike parapsychology, UFO research has not yet developed robust models for quantitative investigation of sightings. The heterogeneity of UFO cases is a significant challenge. While some instrumental approaches aim for maximal data collection (e.g., continuous sky surveillance), others focus on specific hypotheses, such as cameras triggered by magnetic field changes.

The Relationship Between UFO Research and Mainstream Science

Greg Eghigian's perspective on the "mutual mistrust" between UFO research and established sciences is discussed. He suggests that UFO researchers' creation of their own institutions and publications, which mimic scientific formats, can be seen as an attempt to differentiate themselves. This mistrust is partly rooted in historical developments, particularly after the US government's UFO investigations concluded in the late 1960s, shifting the focus to human factors like deception and belief systems.

The journal argues that UFO research should strive to be objective and communicate its findings positively to state institutions, avoiding the perception of being associated with "science doubters." The development of criteria for when UFO cases might represent scientific anomalies or new discoveries is proposed as a future direction.

Conclusion and Future Directions

The article concludes that UFO research can be considered a sub-field of scientific anomalistics, provided it acknowledges the relationship between anomalous characteristics of UFO cases and scientific anomalies. The proposed tripartite division of 'strangeness' (witness assessment), 'anomalous characteristics' (investigation result), and 'scientific anomalies' (cumulative result) is deemed worthy of further examination. The development of a standardized approach for discussing and evaluating anomalous characteristics across UFO organizations, contributing to a common UFO database, is suggested as a significant methodological advancement.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific methodology of UFO research, the definition and classification of anomalous phenomena, and the ongoing dialogue between UFO research and mainstream science. The editorial stance clearly favors a rigorous, scientific approach to UFO research, emphasizing objectivity, critical analysis, and the avoidance of pseudoscience. The journal advocates for "reflexive UFO research" as a means to achieve greater scientific legitimacy and integration.

Notable Mentions and References

The issue includes a "Kurz notiert" (Briefly Noted) section with updates on media coverage of UFO topics, including interviews with GEP representatives. Numerous references are provided, citing key works in UFO research, anomalistics, and the philosophy of science, including works by Thomas Kuhn, William R. Corliss, Harald Atmanspacher, and Greg Eghigian.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), identified as NR. 231 and part of Ausgabe 3-2017, is primarily dedicated to literature reviews and an interview related to the field of ufology and pre-astronautics.

Literature Reviews

"Götter-Astronauten: Erich von Däniken und die Paläo-SETI-Mythologie" by Jonas Richter

This section features a review by André Kramer of Jonas Richter's dissertation, "Götter-Astronauten: Erich von Däniken und die Paläo-SETI-Mythologie." The review highlights that Richter's work serves as an introduction to an upcoming interview with the author and is a precursor to the publication of his dissertation.

The review notes that 2017 marks the 50th anniversary of Erich von Däniken's seminal work, "Erinnerungen an die Zukunft" (Memories of the Future), which popularized and shaped the field of pre-astronautics. While biographies of Däniken are numerous, Richter's dissertation delves into a different aspect of Däniken's personality from a religious studies perspective. By analyzing all of Däniken's published works, including lesser-known early publications, Richter reconstructs Däniken's worldview and the underlying methodology and logic that shape his publications.

Richter's analysis points out the discrepancies between Däniken's logical arguments and scientific consensus, presenting them in a way that is useful for future analysis. He describes Däniken's text interpretation method as "interpretatio technologica," akin to Tacitus' "interpretatio Romana," where religious traditions are reinterpreted in a technological context.

The review emphasizes how Däniken's personal concept of God and religiosity becomes a seemingly objective factor in his pre-astronautic arguments. Däniken's view of God as omnipotent and impersonal leads him to interpret other cultures' divine concepts as potentially flawed unless they represent encounters with alien beings.

Richter also highlights Däniken's view of science. While Däniken values practical sciences, particularly engineering, due to his belief in progress, he tends to dismiss humanities and social sciences, seeking clear-cut answers rather than discourse and differentiation. This contrasts with his demand for openness to fantastic ideas, and his own explanations have evolved over time.

Richter's dissertation closely follows Däniken's direct quotes and identifies partial shifts in his worldview. He also incorporates works by earlier pre-astronautic authors like Charles Fort, Desmond Leslie, Louis Pauwels, Jacques Bergier, and Robert Charroux, drawing parallels and distinctions.

Richter's research also includes field observations, such as monitoring social networks and attending conferences like the A.A.S. One-Day-Meeting. The review praises the objective tone, readability, and insightful analyses of Richter's book, which offers a new perspective on a key figure in pre-astronautics.

The book is described as 364 pages, paperback, with ISBN 978-3-643-13655-8, priced at 39.90 €, published by Lit Verlag in the series "Perspektiven der Anomalistik, Band 5."

Interview with Jonas Richter

Conducted by André Kramer, this interview further explores Richter's book and his academic background. Richter explains that his doctoral advisor, Prof. Andreas Grünschloß, who studies "UFO religions," suggested the topic, noting the prevalence of pre-astronautic ideas in these groups and the lack of comprehensive research.

Richter's work examines the "inner plausibility" of Däniken's pre-astronautic books, analyzing the tension between his scientific claims and religious beliefs. He notes Däniken's oscillation between presenting irrefutable arguments and admitting a lack of proof, his criticism of science, and his desire for scientific recognition.

Richter elaborates on Däniken's worldview, stating that it is inseparable from his research. He uses biblical stories as an example, arguing that Däniken's interpretation relies on a modern, Western Christian concept of God, which is not inherently more scientific than other religious views. Däniken's worldview influences his pre-astronautic work by focusing on questions of origin and purpose, such as the idea that the universe's aim is to accumulate knowledge, and that aliens are motivated by this same drive.

Richter details his research methodology, which involved reading all of Däniken's non-fiction books, interviews, short stories, and novels, marking recurring themes and patterns. He also consulted specialized literature and works by other pre-astronautic authors to gain a broader perspective and better understand Däniken's idiosyncrasies.

Regarding the influence of earlier authors like Fort, Leslie, Pauwels, Bergier, and Charroux, Richter acknowledges their likely formative impact but finds it difficult to quantify. He also notes that Däniken's ideas developed over years through private conversations, articles, and lectures.

Richter expresses his personal opinion on the core question of pre-astronautics, finding it unlikely that intelligent aliens visited Earth and, if they did, that they would have undertaken complex projects like creating Homo sapiens. He suggests that pre-astronautic researchers should employ stronger hermeneutic reflection, engage in more methodological discussions, and actively seek to disprove their own hypotheses to identify biases.

Currently, Richter is not actively researching ufology, as his academic focus is on historical lexicography, working on a Middle High German dictionary. His personal research interests lie in early modern games.

"Vorsicht Verschwörung!" by André Kramer

This review introduces André Kramer's book, "Vorsicht Verschwörung!" (Beware Conspiracy!). The book offers a contemporary analysis and refutation of right-wing extremist conspiracy theories within fringe science topics like Paläo-SETI and UFOs. It poses questions such as whether Nazis were involved in UFO abductions or if ancient gods were "Aryan astronauts."

The book is 188 pages, paperback, DIN A5, with 39 color illustrations, ISBN 978-3-923862-43-6, priced at 15.00 € (12.00 € for GEP members). It can be ordered through the GEP-Shop or shop.jufof.de.

"GOOD UFO" by Sebastian Hartmann

This review describes Sebastian Hartmann's book, "GOOD UFO," which presents interesting cases of unidentified flying objects. Hartmann, a GEP member and media design student, created the book as part of his bachelor's thesis. "GOOD UFO" showcases compelling UFO cases with witness reports, sketches, images, infographics, and evaluations from UFO research groups. It includes material from the GEP archive.

The book is 170 pages plus 31 appendices, full color, with 300 copies printed, ISBN 978-3-00-052005-1. Further information is available at www.behance.net/gallery/33324693/GOOD-UFO. The book costs 39.95 € including shipping and can be ordered at www.goodufo.de.

Organizations and Publications

GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens)

The GEP is described as the largest non-profit scientific organization in Germany dedicated to UFO research. It utilizes special questionnaires, on-site interviews, and field investigations, supported by numerous authorities and scientific institutions.

Journal für UFO-Forschung (jufof)

The journal has been critically covering the UFO phenomenon since 1980. As the GEP's publication organ, it includes documentation of sighting reports, their classification, and case studies. The second part features competent technical reports on the UFO phenomenon, case studies, and international analyses in a scientific-methodical style. It also includes a review and reader letter section.

UFO Definition

A UFO is defined as the perceived observation of an object or light in the sky or on the ground whose appearance, trajectory, and general dynamic and luminous behavior suggest no logical, conventional explanation, and which remains unidentifiable after thorough examination by technically capable individuals.

UFO Reporting

Information is provided on how to report UFO sightings. The reporting center can be reached by phone at 02351-23377 or via email at [email protected]. The GEP's websites (www.ufo-forschung.de and www.jufof.de) also offer ways to report sightings, participate in forums, and chat.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of ufology and pre-astronautics literature. The journal maintains a factual, critical, and scientific-methodical approach, aiming to provide competent analysis and documentation of UFO phenomena. The reviews and interviews engage with popular figures like Erich von Däniken while also addressing the potential for conspiracy theories and the need for rigorous research methodologies. The editorial stance favors objective analysis and a scientific approach to understanding UFO-related claims.