JUFOF - Issue 236 - 2018 02

Magazine Overview

Title: Jufof
Issue: 2-2018
Volume: 39
Date: February 2018
Publisher: GEP e.V.
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0723-7766
Price: 4.50 Euro

Editorial

In the editorial, titled 'Liebe Leser,' T.A. Günter discusses the foundation of UFO research on data collected and classified by the GEP. He highlights the importance of cases with a high 'strangeness' factor but notes the problematic lack of a unified and solid definition for 'strangeness,' leading to subjective interpretations by researchers. The GEP is undertaking a project to inductively define this term. Günter also addresses the need to more explicitly highlight the anomalous characteristics in UFO case reports within the journal, a practice already implemented in previous issues. He mentions André Kramer's call for cases to explicitly state the reasoning behind their evaluations and emphasizes the importance of the 'reflexive element of the case investigator.'

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen

This section presents several documented UFO sightings and their evaluations:

Beweglichen Punkt während Silvesterfeuerwerk entdeckt (Moving Point Discovered During New Year's Fireworks)

• Case Number: 20180101 A
• Date: January 1, 2018
• Time: 0:08 MEZ (23:08 UTC)
• Location: Krefeld-Linn, Germany
• Witness: Michele G.
• Classification: NL (Not Identified)
• Evaluation: IFO / V2 (Identified Flying Object / Category 2)
• Identification: Drone

Witness Report: The witness observed a stationary red point for about 15 seconds during New Year's fireworks. It then turned green and moved slightly in a zigzag to the left for 3 seconds before disappearing. The witness ruled out fireworks, planes, or helicopters due to the object's specific movement and the lack of other aerial activity at that moment. The sky was slightly cloudy, mild, and windy.

Discussion and Evaluation: The investigators concluded that the object was likely a drone, with the red and green lights being characteristic of quadcopters. The lights observed in night flight can appear as red, green, or mixed-color objects.

»Unerklärliches« Objekt auf Familienfoto entdeckt (Unexplained Object Discovered on Family Photo)

• Case Number: 20170805 C
• Date: August 5, 2017
• Time: 13:29 MESZ (11:29 UTC)
• Location: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
• Witness: Uwe M.
• Classification: DD (Data Deficient)
• Evaluation: IFO / V2
• Identification: Bird / Insect

Witness Report: The witness submitted a photo taken by a friend's family, on which he later discovered an elongated object. He stated that the object's shape did not match known objects and that it was particularly strange because it was not visible in photos taken immediately before or after. The witness affirmed that no manipulation had been done and that no unusual lights or sounds were perceived at the time.

Discussion and Evaluation: The metadata of the photo, including geographical coordinates, indicated a location on Gran Canaria. Google Maps confirmed the precise location. The investigators concluded that the object was likely a bird or insect flying through the frame, causing motion blur. The witness likely only noticed it upon later review of the photos.

»3 UFOs« neben Flugzeug auf Video aufgenommen (3 UFOs Recorded on Video Next to Aircraft)

• Case Number: 20171213 A
• Date: December 13, 2017
• Time: 14:30 MEZ (13:30 UTC)
• Location: Werdau, Germany
• Witness: Axel J.
• Classification: DD
• Evaluation: IFO / V1 (Identified Flying Object / Category 1)
• Identification: Air-to-air refueling training

Witness Report: The witness reported recording three UFOs flying silently next to an aircraft with his mobile phone.

Discussion and Evaluation: The video, lasting only three seconds, showed three objects near a larger aircraft. Investigations using flight tracking data revealed that the larger aircraft was an Airbus A310-304 MRTT, likely engaged in a training flight over Werdau/Zwickau. The three UFOs were identified as Eurofighters. Their flight paths are not always publicly available, but one Eurofighter was identified with the callsign HFT1117, stationed at Nörvenich Air Base. The formation suggested a military refueling maneuver. The investigators concluded that the objects were Eurofighter jets participating in an air-to-air refueling exercise with the Airbus, and therefore not UFOs in the strict sense.

Aufblitzendes Licht über Herne-Sodingen in mehreren Videos aufgezeichnet (Flashing Light Over Herne-Sodingen Recorded in Several Videos)

• Case Number: 20160528 C
• Date: May 28, 2016
• Time: 19:35 MESZ (17:35 UTC)
• Location: Herne-Sodingen, Germany
• Witness: Hendrik G.
• Classification: DD
• Evaluation: IFO / V2
• Identification: Drones

Witness Report: The witness observed a flashing light late in the afternoon/evening. The sighting occurred over Recklinghausen Suderwich and Castrop-Rauxel Pöppinghausen. The object's distance was difficult to estimate, but it appeared high on the horizon and then approached. The observation lasted under 10 minutes and was divided into three phases: points, streaks, and trajectories, documented with pictures and two videos. Another witness was present. The witness initially considered it might be a position light of a wind turbine or aircraft but found it too high or low. The light blinked out and reappeared later at a different altitude.

Discussion and Evaluation: The object was identified as likely a drone. The witness provided images and videos that illustrate the phenomenon. The object was behind a building and in front of a hill in one of the video stills.

»Nicht irdische Lichter« fotografiert ('Not of This World' Lights Photographed)

• Case Number: 20170203 A
• Date: February 3, 2017
• Time: 22:36 MEZ (21:36 UTC)
• Location: Preußisch Oldendorf, Germany
• Witness: Johanna H.
• Classification: NL
• Evaluation: IFO / V2
• Identification: Light effect devices

Witness Report: The witness photographed lights in the northwest. She mentioned the moon was in the southwest and used 'Delightning' in her camera to brighten the photos. The lights appeared as two symmetrical beams, possibly originating from a low light source in the northwest. They lasted about 4 minutes and then abruptly went out. There was no wind or engine noise. The witness felt the lights were not earthly but could not prove it. Enlarged photos showed small red points, which a contact from the Sternwarte Osnabrück suggested might be camera heat spots.

Discussion and Evaluation: The investigators concluded that the phenomenon was likely caused by two 'light effect devices' on the ground. Depending on meteorological conditions, distance, and viewing perspective, ground lights can appear as beams or reflections on clouds or fog. The beams were likely not directed vertically, creating a visible spot where they hit the cloud layer. This explanation is considered more plausible than a speculative one.

Leben in zwei Welten (Life in Two Worlds)

This section features an article titled 'Psychosoziale Folgen von UFO-Entführungserlebnissen' (Psychosocial Consequences of UFO Abduction Experiences), exploring the psychological impact on individuals who report such events.

Kleine Statistik (Small Statistics)

A pie chart illustrates the sources of GEP UFO report submissions: Mail, Contact Form, Phone Call, Facebook, Forum, Letter, and Personal Contact. The chart indicates that the majority of reports come from Mail and Contact Forms, followed by Personal Contact and Phone Calls.

Literatur (Literature)

This section includes an article titled 'Das Phänomen des Zufalls' (The Phenomenon of Chance).

Impressum (Imprint)

• Publisher: Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GEP) e.V., founded in 1972.
• Address: Postfach 2361, 58473 Lüdenscheid, Germany.
• Contact: Phone: (02351) 23377, Fax: (02351) 23335, Email: [email protected].
• Bank: Postbank NL Dortmund.
• Editors Responsible: Hans-Werner Peiniger, Danny Ammon.
• Disclaimer: Articles and statements in literature references and advertisements do not necessarily reflect the views of GEP. Unsolicited manuscripts are not liable for.
• Publication Frequency: Jufof is published bimonthly on a non-commercial basis, with contributions being honorarium-free.
• Subscription Price: 1 year (6 issues): €27.00 plus postage (€8.00 for Germany, €20.00 for international).
• Advertising: Information available upon request. Small ads are free for subscribers (up to six lines) and members (up to ten lines).
• Reprint Policy: Reprints are only permitted with written permission from GEP e.V. and a copy of the publication.
• Printing: bis500 Druck, 98693 Ilmenau.
• Copyright: © 2017 GEP e.V.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the detailed analysis and investigation of UFO sightings, with a strong emphasis on identifying the phenomena. The GEP's stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, aiming to provide rational explanations for reported events, classifying them as IFO (Identified Flying Object) whenever possible. The journal also touches upon the psychological impact of unusual experiences and the ongoing effort to refine research methodologies, particularly concerning the definition of 'strangeness.' The editorial tone is professional and analytical, encouraging detailed reporting and critical evaluation of evidence.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 2-2018, issue number 236, focuses on photographic evidence of alleged UFOs and UAPs. The journal presents multiple cases, primarily investigated by Hans-Werner Peiniger, analyzing witness reports and photographic evidence to determine the nature of the observed phenomena. The publication emphasizes a rigorous approach to debunking misidentifications and natural explanations.

Case Studies and Analyses

Witness Report from near Naumburg, Germany

A witness, Stanko G., reported observing a cigar-shaped object with six lights (three red and three white/yellow) on the evening of July 10, 2011, near Naumburg. The object was visible on the camera's screen during a test shot but not with the naked eye. The investigation concluded that the observed phenomenon was a streak caused by an airplane, with the white and red position lights flashing multiple times during the four-second exposure. The length of the streak corresponded to the plane's flight path in that time, and the faint illumination of the fuselage was also visible.

Silvery Object over Bremerhaven, Germany

On December 21, 2010, Iris S. photographed a "silvery object" moving west near Bremerhaven. Initially thought to be an aircraft, she later submitted the photo for analysis. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, considered several explanations, including an insect or a foil balloon. While an insect was ruled out as the witness saw the object, a foil balloon or similar object was deemed the most probable explanation. The possibility of a briefly visible aircraft reflecting sunlight was also mentioned.

Silvery-Gray Spots over Stockholm, Sweden

Bernhard A. submitted photos taken during a sightseeing tour in Stockholm on July 10, 2009, which revealed two silvery-gray spots in the sky. The witness did not notice them at the time but found them upon reviewing the photos later. Potential explanations considered were weather balloons, small aircraft, or a tourist zeppelin. The analysis concluded that the spots were most likely birds in flight, captured as motion blurs due to the camera's relatively slow shutter speed and the birds' movement. The investigator accepted this explanation.

Round Object over Mauna Kea, Hawaii, USA

Kurt P. photographed a round object on three photos taken on July 23, 2017, at Mauna Kea, Hawaii, during sunset. He questioned if it was a weather balloon or something else, noting that the moon was not visible. The analysis, conducted by Hans-Werner Peiniger, identified the object as a lens reflection within the camera's lens, typical for Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge phones, which often show bright points in such reflections.

"UFOs on Every Photo" Series from Peru

Rainer F. reported finding UFOs in a series of 10 photos taken near the "Cabeza de la Humanidad" rock formation in Marcahuasi, Peru, in January 2006. The photos were taken during sunset. The investigation identified the phenomenon as a digital photography effect known as the "Black-Sun-Effect" or "black dot," which occurs during extreme backlight conditions when the camera sensor's pixels are overloaded with light energy. This effect can cause an overexposure in the center, appearing as black.

Bright Object over Berlin, Germany

Ina S. submitted two photos taken with her phone from Berlin on November 15, 2017, showing a bright object in the sky. Upon review, she discovered the object in both images. The investigation identified the phenomenon as a lens reflection. The unusual appearance was attributed to the design of a flat double streetlight on Spandauer Straße in Berlin-Mitte. By using Google Maps' Streetview function, the investigator could replicate the viewing angle and confirm the lighting conditions that caused the reflection.

Object near a Kite, North Sea, Germany

Steffen B. took photos of a kite near the North Sea on August 8, 2017, and noticed an object in two of the images. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, analyzed the photos and concluded that the object was likely one or two birds, possibly a seagull or a greylag goose, flying at a slightly different altitude. The slight blur in the silhouette was attributed to the bird's movement during the flight.

Unknown Flying Object on Vacation Photos from Konstanz, Germany

Willi A. discovered an unknown flying object in vacation photos taken near Lake Constance (Bodensee) on April 24, 2011. The photos were taken by his friend, who was simply photographing the sky. The investigator identified the object as an insect, clearly visible upon magnification, showing a forward-directed wingbeat. Another insect was also visible in the background of another photo. The phenomenon was noted to be discovered retrospectively during photo review, not during the actual observation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical analysis of photographic evidence of alleged UFOs and UAPs. The journal consistently seeks to identify mundane explanations for these sightings, attributing many to natural phenomena, optical illusions, camera artifacts, or misidentifications of conventional objects like aircraft, balloons, birds, and insects. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards extraordinary claims, prioritizing scientific and logical explanations based on available evidence. The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, plays a central role in meticulously examining each case, often providing detailed technical and observational reasoning for his conclusions.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), dated 2-2018 (NR.236), features a prominent article by André Kramer titled "Leben in zwei Welten Über die psychosozialen Folgen so genannter UFO-Entführungserlebnisse" (Life in Two Worlds: On the Psychosocial Consequences of So-Called UFO Abduction Experiences).

Article: Life in Two Worlds: On the Psychosocial Consequences of So-Called UFO Abduction Experiences by André Kramer

This article is the written record of a lecture given by the author at a joint UFO conference on June 24, 2017, following his Bachelor's thesis. The thesis examined how individuals process UFO abduction experiences and the resulting consequences for their lives. Kramer's research aims to understand the psychosocial challenges faced by those who believe they have been abducted by UFOs, arguing that the need for help and the resulting psychosocial problems are within the purview of UFO research.

Introduction to the Study

Kramer's contribution is based on a qualitative study conducted in 2010 for his Bachelor's thesis at the Fachhochschule Kiel. The study investigated how individuals cope with the subjective reality of being affected by the UFO abduction phenomenon. He emphasizes that most researchers focus on the content of abduction experiences, neglecting the consequences for the abductees' lives. Kramer believes that addressing the resulting need for help and psychosocial problems is crucial for UFO research.

History and Evolution of the Abduction Phenomenon

The article provides a historical overview of the UFO phenomenon. It notes that after the term "flying saucer" was coined, the phenomenon expanded. Initially, it involved sightings of objects in the sky. By the 1950s, the concept of "contactees" emerged – individuals who claimed not only to have seen UFOs but also to have communicated with their pilots and even traveled to other planets. Prominent figures in this category include George Adamski, Daniel Fry, Howard Menger, and Billy Meier. The article also mentions Claude Vorilhon (Rael) and his followers.

Beyond the contactee phenomenon, a different type of encounter, classified by J. Allen Hynek as CE3 (Close Encounter of the Third Kind), appeared early on. This involves not only sighting an unidentified object but also seeing entities within or near it. Early CE3 cases, like that of Lonnie Zamora in 1964, described encounters with small beings in overalls, who appeared to be collecting samples or orienting themselves.

UFO abductions, now categorized as CE4 (Close Encounter of the Fourth Kind), are often understood through the experiences of Betty and Barney Hill. Their account, revealed through hypnotic regression, described being taken aboard a spaceship by small, humanoid beings and undergoing medical experiments. While the Villas Boas case from 1957 predates the Hills and shares some elements, the Hill case is considered the archetypal abduction narrative, often uncovered through hypnosis.

Since the Hill case, the abduction phenomenon has evolved. Abductions are reported not just from isolated roads but also from bedrooms. These experiences can span a lifetime and often begin in childhood. The work of researchers like Budd Hopkins and David M. Jacobs brought to light the scenario of genetic experiments and fetus retrieval by small aliens with large black eyes, commonly referred to as "Greys." These "Greys" differ significantly in appearance from the beings described in the Hill case.

In cases from the 1990s, particularly those published by Johannes Fiebag, the connection to unidentified flying objects sometimes became less prominent. Abductees often reported only remembering strange beings, resembling "Greys," in their bedrooms at night. The article acknowledges alternative explanations such as false memories induced by hypnosis and phenomena like sleep paralysis combined with hypnagogic and hypnopompic hallucinations.

Kramer emphasizes the importance of the abductees' subjective reality, regardless of whether the events objectively occurred. He notes a shift in the typical UFO abduction scenario over time:

• Early cases resembled CE3 encounters more than contactee experiences, though some aspects of contact were present.
• Encounters evolved from chance meetings on lonely roads to deliberate abductions by beings who could enter homes without a trace, often for genetic experiments or fetus retrieval.
• Since the mid-1990s, there has been a reduction in complexity, with many reports focusing on "Bedroom Visitors" rather than full abductions. However, these entities are still described as having extraordinary abilities, such as passing through walls, and telepathic communication remains a common element.

Kramer acknowledges that this is a general trend and overlapping cases exist. He also notes a historical dimension, with folklore and superstitions (e.g., tales of dwarves, changelings, incubi, and succubi) bearing similarities to modern UFO abduction accounts.

UFO Abductions – An Attempt at Definition

Kramer proposes a phenomenological definition of abduction experiences, focusing on the subjective perception of anomalous phenomena. These experiences are interpreted as encounters or abductions involving unknown beings, often in unknown locations or flying objects. This definition allows for the inclusion of historical cases not directly linked to UFOs and accommodates various interpretations beyond a strictly extraterrestrial one. He notes that some modern cases involve encounters with entities interpreted as folklore figures like Heinzelmännchen or Dschinn, rather than aliens.

Research Question and Methodology

The article shifts to the core of Kramer's research: the psychosocial consequences of abduction experiences. He points out that most research focuses on the ontological questions of the phenomenon (whether abductions are real) or seeks conventional explanations like hallucinations. However, the subjective reality and psychosocial consequences for abductees are paramount.

Kramer's research addresses how individuals cope with this subjective reality, the impact on their psyche and social environment, and how they integrate these experiences into their daily lives. He argues that quantitative methods are unsuitable for this research due to the novelty of the subject and the difficulty in recruiting a large enough sample size. Instead, he opts for qualitative research methods, which involve in-depth interviews with a smaller number of participants.

For his study, Kramer conducted eight detailed interviews with abductees recruited through an online self-help network. He utilized Gerhard Kleining's "Qualitative Heuristics" method, a form of exploratory social research that involves iterative analysis of interview data and confrontation with the research question. Key criteria for this method include openness of the researcher and the research subject, maximum structural variation of perspectives, and analysis of commonalities.

Life in Two Worlds

Analyzing the interviews, Kramer identifies several commonalities and differences. Most experiences occurred or were remembered in a sleep-associated state. The entities described varied from "Greys" to dwarf-like beings, light figures, robotic creatures, and ordinary humans. The locations where abductees found themselves ranged from bare examination rooms to underground facilities. A sexual component was often present, described with ambivalence, perceived as frightening and violent, yet sometimes containing positive elements.

The psychological consequences reported are diverse and similar to those associated with other forms of trauma, including:

• Sleep disturbances
• Nightmares
• Flashbacks
• Claustrophobia
• Panic attacks
• Fear of death
• Self-doubt
• Burden of a double life
• Depression
• Loss of trust in family's protective abilities
• Worry that family members might experience similar events

These symptoms often manifest differently depending on the individual's life phase, with anxieties potentially decreasing over time as coping mechanisms develop.

Regarding the social environment, Kramer notes that when childhood experiences are later interpreted as abductions, a deep mistrust of "adults" can develop, as they were perceived as unable to protect the abductees. This mistrust is exacerbated by dismissive reactions when abductees attempt to discuss their experiences. Consequently, many abductees feel hesitant to share their experiences, yet have a strong desire to communicate them. This leads to a feeling of "living in two worlds," where this need for communication can only be met through discussions with other abductees, often anonymously online.

Kramer also observes a specific linguistic behavior among interviewees, termed "communication" by researchers. This involves attempts at self- and other-legitimation through language, emphasizing their sanity and justifying their interpretation of events while excluding alternative explanations, thereby avoiding stigmatization.

The article details various coping strategies employed by abductees, including defensive measures, social withdrawal, emotional blunting, acceptance, positive reframing, relaxation techniques, keeping busy with work, feigning disinterest in fringe topics, keeping a diary, and, in rare cases, talking to family members.

The Findings of the Interviews in the Context of Victimology

Kramer frames his findings within the context of victimology, the study of victimization. He distinguishes between primary victimization (the event itself), secondary victimization (reactions from society and institutions), and tertiary victimization (the overall result). He notes that while primary victimization in abduction cases can involve elements like intrusion, confinement, sexual abuse, and physical violence, the consequences are often less severe than in cases of proven perpetrators and events. However, the violation of identity, stemming from the seamless intrusion into the abductees' lives, is a significant factor contributing to the feeling of living in two worlds.

Secondary victimization arises from societal stigmatization, leading to social withdrawal and a need for protected communication, primarily through online channels. Tertiary victimization, described using Alfred Schütz's model of multiple meaning-making provinces, highlights how individuals navigate different realities.

Schütz's model distinguishes between:

• The everyday world: The realm of the present, where daily life is lived and physical existence is maintained. This is where time is synchronized with objective and social time, and most social interaction occurs.
• The world of fantasy and imagination: Where individuals imaginatively explore alternative life scenarios and roles. This world is not bound by rational judgment but by imagination.
• The dream world: Distinct from fantasy, the dream world incorporates aspects of everyday life but is experienced as fully immersed in subjective time. Dreams are passively experienced and inconsistencies are accepted.
• The world of scientific theories: The realm of theoretical exploration and experimentation, where scientists contribute to solving unsolved questions.

Kramer explains that each of these provinces represents a distinct role and sense of time. Abductees inhabit these same worlds (work, family, dreams) but struggle to reconcile them. While someone waking from a dream can quickly reorient to everyday reality, for abductees, this transfer is more difficult. Their abduction experiences, though structurally similar to dreams (surreal atmosphere, passive experience), are not perceived as fictional but as an integral part of their everyday reality, even if they don't fully belong there. The negative consequences are then transferred from the "dream world" to the everyday world. Communication about these experiences is limited due to fear of stigmatization, leading to the feeling of living in two worlds.

Coping strategies can involve opening "windows" into other meaning-making provinces. Abductees may seek meaning in religion or worldviews, read about fringe science, or theorize about these topics. These coping mechanisms can alleviate the consequences of primary and secondary victimization by providing a sense of not being alone and enabling exchange through social networks.

Sources

The article concludes with a comprehensive list of cited works, including those by Peter Baumgartner, Johannes von Buttlar, Susan A. Clancy, Johannes Fiebag, Peter Fiedler, Lars A. Fischinger, Roland Horn, Charles Fort, John G. Fuller, Michael Hesemann, Budd Hopkins, J. Allen Hynek, Prof. David M. Jacobs, Gerhard Kleining, André Kramer, Wolfgang Lebe, Ina Schmied-Knittel, Alfred Schütz, and Jacques Vallée.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the exploration of UFO phenomena and their impact on individuals and society. The "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" appears to adopt a stance that takes the subjective experiences of individuals seriously, even when the objective reality of these phenomena is debated. The journal provides a platform for in-depth research into the psychological, social, and historical aspects of UFO sightings and alleged abductions, encouraging a nuanced understanding that goes beyond simple dismissal or uncritical acceptance. The focus on psychosocial consequences and coping mechanisms suggests an editorial interest in the human element of the UFO phenomenon.

Title: JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG

Issue: 2-2018 NR. 236

Date: 2018

Publisher: GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens)

Country: Germany

Language: German

Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the 'JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG' (Journal for UFO Research) is dedicated to the second part of a statistical analysis of UFO reports received by the GEP, authored by Hans-Werner Peiniger. The journal itself is described as a publication that has critically accompanied the UFO phenomenon since 1980, serving as an organ for the GEP.

Analysis of GEP UFO Reporting Channels

The primary focus of this article is to examine the different channels through which individuals report UFO sightings and events to the GEP. The data covers the period from approximately 2008 to the present, with a detailed breakdown for the years 2016 and 2017.

Overall Data (since ~2008):

Over the years, the GEP has recorded 2418 cases. The most common reporting channels have been:

• Sichtungsdatenbank (Sighting Database): 1179 cases
• Mail (Email): 668 cases
• Kontaktformular (Contact Form): 253 cases
• Anruf (Phone Call): 182 cases
• Brief (Letter): 67 cases
• Forum (Web Forum): 32 cases
• Facebook: 36 cases
• Persönlich (In Person): 1 case

The article notes that reporting behavior has changed over time. For instance, web forums are no longer actively used for reporting, with Facebook now serving that purpose. The UFO database in its older version was used more frequently than the current one. The website's contact form was introduced later, which explains why email was a more dominant channel in the past.

Data for 2016 and 2017:

To provide a more current picture, the analysis focuses on 402 cases from 2016 and 2017. The distribution of reporting channels for this period is:

• Sichtungsdatenbank (Sighting Database): 60 cases
• Mail (Email): 111 cases
• Kontaktformular (Contact Form): 174 cases
• Anruf (Phone Call): 39 cases
• Facebook: 14 cases
• Forum (Web Forum): 0 cases
• Brief/Fragebogen (Letter/Questionnaire): 3 cases
• Persönlich (In Person): 1 case

This recent data indicates a significant increase in the use of the website's contact form and email, while the sighting database has seen a decrease in usage compared to the overall period. The article suggests that the contact form on the website is now the most frequently used method, followed by direct email.

UFO Sighting Times

Another section of the article examines the times of day when UFOs were seen or photographed, based on an analysis of 3232 cases. The data reveals a peak in sightings between 22:00 and 23:00 Uhr. The number of sightings generally increases after dark and decreases significantly after 00:59 Uhr, possibly because most people are in bed by then. The author speculates that many witnesses might be smokers who go out onto balconies or terraces, leading to their observations.

Review: "Das Phänomen des Zufalls" by Trutz Hardo

This issue also includes a review of the book "Das Phänomen des Zufalls: Die Signale des Lebens entschlüsselt" (The Phenomenon of Randomness: The Signals of Life Decoded) by Trutz Hardo. Trutz Hardo is described as a reincarnation therapist and writer within the esoteric scene. The book explores the idea that seemingly random events and encounters may have underlying causes, suggesting that true randomness might not exist. Hardo posits that external forces, such as spirits or beings from other dimensions, may be influencing events. The reviewer notes that the book is more of an esoteric text than a scientific analysis and that Hardo attributes 60% of perceived random events to spiritual influences, 1% to extraterrestrials, and 1% to other dimensions, with the majority of events being part of a pre-life plan.

The reviewer expresses skepticism about the book's scientific claims, stating that it did not expand their consciousness as intended. The book is presented as an attempt to investigate the causes behind perceived random occurrences.

Historical Airship Sightings

A separate section, authored by Ulrich Magin (editor), discusses a historical examination of the airship phenomenon between 1896 and 1915. This period saw a wave of airship sightings, particularly on the American West Coast. The article references works by Jerome Clark, Loren E. Gross, Nigel Watson, and Ulrich Magin himself, exploring interpretations ranging from secret human inventions to extraterrestrial spacecraft. The consensus among many UFO researchers is that these historical observations are connected to the modern UFO phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of 'JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG' continues the publication's commitment to a factual and critical approach to the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance emphasizes rigorous investigation, interdisciplinary research, and the presentation of documented evidence. The journal aims to provide competent, methodologically sound reports and analyses, complemented by reviews and reader feedback. The focus on statistical analysis of reporting channels and historical cases underscores the journal's dedication to understanding the UFO phenomenon through data and historical context. The inclusion of a review of an esoteric book highlights the journal's broad interest in related topics, even if it maintains a critical distance from non-scientific interpretations.