JUFOF - Issue 239 - 2018 05

Magazine Overview

This is the May 2018 issue (Issue 5-2018, Volume 39, Number 239) of the German journal 'jufof' (Journal für UFO-Forschung), published by GEP e.V. The cover features a headline about a conference report concerning the GEP member assembly and UFO research workshop, alongside images related to UFO sightings. The issue is priced at 4.50 Euros and has an ISSN of 0723-7766.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Danny Ammon, highlights the diverse spectrum of UFO phenomena covered in this issue. It notes that the case documentation section focuses on UFO reports, the work of investigators, and the results of their examinations. It points out how conventional causes can appear in unusual forms during observations or in photos/videos, leading to them being reported as UFOs. Ulrich Magin's contribution is mentioned, which revisits 'Foo Fighter' sightings in Europe from before the modern UFO era, emphasizing the importance of collecting and preserving such historical material for future research. The editorial also details the GEP's member assembly and subsequent UFO research workshop held in Lüdenscheid. Attendees learned about the GEP's work, including the process of receiving and documenting UFO sightings by the chairman, Hans-Werner Peiniger. Two other GEP members presented their research interests: one focused on using automated cameras and analysis techniques for UFO detection, while the other explored astrophysics-based research into new propulsion and movement forms in space, potentially impacting the assessment of extraterrestrial visitation likelihood. The editorial concludes by encouraging readers to consider active participation in workshops, conferences, or the GEP itself, suggesting there is always something to learn.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section presents detailed case studies of UFO observations:

Fall 4: Fehlerhafte Erinnerung (Faulty Memory)

• Case Number: 20171012 A
• Date: October 12, 2017
• Time: 20:15 MESZ (18:15 UTC)
• Location: 52072 Aachen – Richterich, Germany
• Witness: Sarina L.
• Classification: DD
• Assessment: IFO / V1 (Identified Flying Object / Possible Misidentification)
• Identification: Reflection from indoor lamps
• Summary: The witness submitted a photo taken through a skylight, showing two bright, oval objects. Initially, the witness believed she had taken the photo herself through an open skylight. However, upon further investigation by Hans-Werner Peiniger, it was determined that the photo was actually taken by her daughter through a closed skylight. The objects were identified as reflections of halogen lamps from the room in the skylight glass. The witness had faulty memory regarding who took the photo and whether the window was open or closed.

Zeuginnen von Lichtstrahl erfasst (Witnesses Caught by Light Beam)

• Case Number: 20180918 A
• Date: September 18, 2018
• Time: 21:30 MESZ (19:30 UTC)
• Location: 53804 Much, Germany
• Witness: Madita N.
• Classification: CE I (Close Encounter / Insufficient Data)
• Assessment: Insufficient Data
• Identification: Insufficient Data
• Summary: Two friends were sitting at an observation point near Much when they observed a silent, disc-shaped object with a strange light combination from below. The object changed course towards them, and a bright light beam was directed at them before the object ascended and flew away. The witnesses described experiencing fear and goosebumps. Thomas Mertens and Hans-Werner Peiniger investigated the case. Flight data revealed an Airbus A319 flying in the general direction of the witnesses around the time of the sighting. The investigation considered the possibility of a helicopter with a searchlight, but the lack of noise from a helicopter was a counter-argument. Due to insufficient data, the case was closed as inconclusive.

Urlauber filmt leuchtendes Objekt über Los Angeles (Vacationer Films Luminous Object over Los Angeles)

• Case Number: 20110205 A
• Date: February 5, 2011
• Time: Evening
• Location: Los Angeles, California, USA
• Witness: Philipp M.
• Classification: DD
• Assessment: IFO / V1
• Identification: Reflection of an indoor lamp
• Summary: The witness reviewed vacation videos from February 2011 and noticed a strange light emerging from a cloud, shaped like a flying saucer. He sent a short film (12-15 seconds) for analysis. Detailed frame-by-frame analysis by Hans-Werner Peiniger suggested that the object did not emerge from the clouds but rather appeared to move with the camera's movement. This indicated a reflection in a glass pane. A reconstruction of the scene identified the hotel and the specific window from which the video was likely filmed. Structures on the window glass, such as smudges, were visible in the analysis, supporting the reflection hypothesis.

Rundes Objekt nahe Hartha fotografiert (Round Object Photographed Near Hartha)

• Case Number: 20061120 A
• Date: November 20, 2006
• Time: 13:47 MESZ (12:47 UTC)
• Location: 01737 Kurort Hartha, Germany
• Witness: Lothar E.
• Classification: DD
• Assessment: IFO / V2 (Identified Flying Object / Likely Misidentification)
• Identification: Fruit from a tree
• Summary: The witness submitted a landscape photo taken through a closed window, in which a small, round object was later discovered. The object appeared to move analogously to the camera's movement. It was not noticed by the witness at the time of taking the photo but only during later review. Hans-Werner Peiniger concluded that it was likely a reflection of an indoor light source on the window glass. The witness confirmed the location and accepted this explanation.

Katalog der in Mitteleuropa beobachteten Foo-Fighter (Catalog of Foo Fighters Observed in Central Europe)

This section, authored by Ulrich Magin, presents a catalog of 'Foo Fighter' sightings recorded in Central Europe. These sightings, which occurred primarily during and around World War II, are described as UFO-like phenomena that predated the modern UFO era. The article emphasizes the importance of gathering and cataloging this historical data for future research into the phenomenon.

Kurz notiert (Briefly Noted)

This section reports the passing of Robert O. Dean.

Tagungsbericht der GEP (GEP Conference Report)

This article provides a detailed account of the GEP's member assembly and the subsequent UFO research workshop held in Lüdenscheid. It elaborates on the presentations and discussions, including the GEP chairman's report on sighting documentation and the workshop's focus on advanced research methodologies like automated detection and astrophysical studies. The report highlights the engagement of the participants and the value of these events for advancing UFO research.

Literatur (Literature)

This section includes a literature review, specifically mentioning 'UFO Photos' as a topic, suggesting a review of books or publications related to UFO photography.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the rigorous investigation and analysis of UFO sightings, often leading to prosaic explanations such as reflections or misidentifications. The GEP's commitment to scientific methodology is evident, with a focus on data collection, investigation, and the application of analytical techniques. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry combined with a critical and evidence-based approach to understanding the UFO phenomenon. The journal encourages active participation and continued learning within the field.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 5-2018, Nr. 239, features a comprehensive catalog of 'Foo Fighter' sightings, primarily from the 1940s in Central Europe. The magazine's cover displays a drawing related to the 'Foo Fighter MYSTERY'.

Analysis of a Photograph

The issue begins with an analysis of a photograph, presented by Hans-Werner Peiniger. The first image shows a distant object, while a zoomed-in version and a second photograph taken with a wide-angle lens are also presented. The article suggests that the object in question might not be a UFO but rather a decaying cherry from the tree visible in the image. By comparing a digitally inserted cherry with the object in the photograph, the author concludes with high probability that the 'UFO' was a falling, decaying cherry from the depicted tree.

Catalog of Foo Fighter Sightings

The main article, "Ein Katalog der in Mitteleuropa beobachteten Foo-Fighter" (A Catalog of Foo Fighters Observed in Central Europe) by Ulrich Magin, delves into historical reports of these phenomena. Magin aims to compile contemporary eyewitness accounts and media reports from before 1946.

World War I

The article briefly touches upon potential precursors in World War I, citing a report from the British military historian Denis Winter about 'green, luminous balls' seen by British pilots. However, it notes that claims of German pilots sighting Foo Fighters during WWI are currently unsubstantiated.

World War II

The bulk of the catalog focuses on World War II sightings:

• October 16, 1943, Schweinfurt: A report from the 306th Group describes a cluster of silver discs, approximately 1 inch thick and 3 inches in diameter, gliding slowly. An aircraft flew through the cluster without effect, and debris was observed.
• November 23, 1944, Mainz/Rhein/Straßburg: Lieutenant Edward Schluter and officers Donald J. Meiers and F. Ringwald observed eight to ten fireballs flying at high speed.
• November 27, 1944, Speyer: Radar observers Henry Giblin and Walter Cleary reported a large red light moving at high speed.
• December 18, 1944, Rastatt: Pilots reported green and red lights in a T-formation that followed their aircraft.
• December 22, 1944, Hagenau: Pilots David MacFalls and Edward Baker observed two lights ascending from the ground and hovering near their aircraft.
• December 23, 1944, Neuwied/Koblenz: A green ball, about 15 cm in diameter, was observed hovering motionlessly.
• December 24, 1944, Hagenau: David MacFalls and Edward Baker reported a bright red ball that transformed into an airplane.
• December 28, 1944, Neuwied/Koblenz: Another observation of a green ball, approximately 15 cm in diameter, hovering motionlessly.
• December 28, 1944, Elsass: Two groups of red and white lights were observed.
• December 28, 1944, Oberrheinische Tiefebene: Lieutenant Meiers described being pursued by a 'Foo Fighter' at high speed.

The article also includes reports from January 1945 and mentions sightings around Cologne, Belgium, and other locations. It notes that many reports were made years after the events, often based on secondary sources or anecdotal evidence.

Press Reports

Several contemporary press reports from December 1944 and January 1945 are included, such as articles from the New Orleans Item and the New York Herald-Tribune, which describe 'Foo Fighters' as a new German 'secret weapon' or 'mysterious balls of fire'. These reports suggest they were used for psychological warfare or as a new type of weapon.

Types of Foo Fighters

Lieutenant Donald Meiers is quoted describing three types of 'Foo Fighters':
1. A red ball appearing at the wingtips and following the aircraft.
2. A vertical row of three fireballs flying in front of the aircraft.
3. A group of about 15 lights appearing in the distance like a flickering Christmas tree.

Literature and Sources

The article cites numerous sources, including historical unit records, books, and online archives, to support the cataloged sightings. It emphasizes the difficulty in verifying many reports due to the lack of contemporary documentation and the reliance on later accounts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the historical investigation of 'Foo Fighters' as an early UFO phenomenon, particularly during World War II. The editorial stance appears to be one of careful historical research, attempting to distinguish between contemporary reports, later embellishments, and potential misidentifications. The analysis of the cherry photograph suggests a critical approach to some UFO claims, while the extensive catalog of Foo Fighter reports indicates a serious interest in documenting and understanding these historical aerial phenomena.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 5-2018, volume NR.239, published by GEP, focuses on the organization's activities and research efforts. It includes a report on the GEP's members' meeting and a workshop on UFO research and projects, alongside articles discussing historical UFO phenomena and the passing of a notable UFO researcher.

GEP Members' Meeting and Workshop

The main focus of the magazine is the report on the GEP's members' meeting and workshop held on October 13, 2018, at the Tagungshotel Kattenbusch in Lüdenscheid. The meeting included an update on the GEP's positive membership growth and the status of UFO reports, noting a decrease in reports possibly due to increased use of online portals like UfoWatch.de. The financial situation of the GEP was described as healthy, and the board was re-elected for another two-year term, with Hans-Werner Peiniger as Chairman and Danny Ammon as Vice-Chairman.

The subsequent workshop, open to all, aimed to discuss UFO research and GEP projects, gather ideas, and derive concrete actions. Three main themes were addressed: practical case investigation, instrumental UFO research, and the theoretical possibility of extraterrestrial visits. Hans-Werner Peiniger provided an overview of case investigation, emphasizing thorough documentation and the need for more investigators to adhere to GEP standards. He also presented data on UFO reports received by GEP, showing a decline in recent years. The GEP's UFO database, containing over 136,000 records, was discussed, along with the ongoing effort to analyze and classify older, 'open' cases.

Instrumental UFO Research

GEP member Jan W. presented on instrumental UFO research, highlighting the increasing affordability of surveillance equipment like Raspberry Pi combined with cameras and sensors. The goal is to develop a cost-effective system that can be sent to witnesses for automated, long-term video documentation of UFO sightings. A significant challenge identified is the time-consuming process of analyzing hours of video footage. To address this, Jan W. introduced his newly developed software designed to rapidly sift through video sequences by processing them into false-color difference images, making anomalies like flying objects or birds immediately apparent. He also discussed potential upgrades to monitoring stations, such as incorporating diffraction gratings for spectral analysis to identify light sources, though reference spectral data is currently lacking.

Theoretical Aspects and Historical Cases

Detlef Hoyer, another GEP member, discussed the theoretical aspects of UFO research, focusing on the document "Warp-Drive, Dark Energy and Manipulation of extra Dimensions" from the Pentagon's AAWSAP project. He delved into the theories of Theodor Kaluza regarding interstellar travel and his quest for a unified field theory.

The magazine also revisits historical UFO phenomena. An image is presented in connection with the Foo-Fighter phenomenon, reportedly taken over Germany in 1944. The article quotes R. V. Jones discussing British bomber crews' sightings of unidentified single-engine aircraft with yellow lights during WWII, noting the peculiarity that such aircraft were not supposed to be flying at night. Additional historical references include sightings in the Caribbean, Northern Europe, and the Mediterranean, as well as mentions of 'Kraut Balls' and 'Gremlins' in UFO literature. John A. Keel's claims about 'little green men' entering aircraft are also mentioned.

In Memoriam: Robert O. Dean

The issue notes the passing of US UFO researcher Robert O. Dean, a former NATO officer and US Army member, who claimed access to "Cosmic Top Secret" information regarding extraterrestrial intelligence. His work in documentaries and conferences, and a critical assessment by a NATO historian, are briefly mentioned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing efforts of the GEP in UFO research, including data collection, analysis, and the development of new investigative tools. There is a strong emphasis on scientific methodology, documentation, and the practical application of technology in UFO research. The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent, evidence-based investigation, aiming to bring clarity to UFO phenomena while acknowledging the challenges and limitations of the field. The GEP positions itself as a service provider for UFO reporters, committed to addressing all reported cases.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (jufof), Ausgabe 5-2018, Nr. 239, is primarily focused on providing information to international subscribers and features a critical review of a book on UFO photography. The magazine is published by GEP e.V. and is in German.

Content Highlights

Information for International Subscribers

The cover story, "Hinweis für Auslandsabonnenten" (Information for International Subscribers), highlights the benefits of becoming a GEP member, which includes the "jufof" journal and the "GEP-Insider" newsletter. It presents a comparison of costs, showing that a GEP membership is more economical than a standalone "jufof" international subscription. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact GEP for membership details.

Book Review: UFO Photos by Jason Gleaves

Pages 158-160 feature a detailed and critical review by Hans-Werner Peiniger of Jason Gleaves' book, "UFO Photos: Computer Analysis of Worldwide UFO Images Through The Decades." The reviewer expresses disappointment, stating that the book does not provide an introduction to photo forensics or a guide on analyzing UFO photos as expected. Instead, Gleaves superficially examines various UFO photos, using basic functions of image editing software like "Photoshop Express." Peiniger argues that Gleaves' methods are superficial and his interpretations are often unfounded. He points out that Gleaves fails to consider crucial aspects like examining negatives or glass plates for older photos and that his "analysis" often relies on enhancing artifacts created by JPEG compression. The reviewer concludes that Gleaves' analyses are largely worthless and do not contribute to finding evidence for exotic UFO phenomena or identifying photo forgeries. He also notes that many of the photos presented are not well-known within UFO research circles and that Gleaves does not precisely cite their sources. Peiniger contrasts this with the importance of credible witness testimonies and sufficient information about a photo's origin.

Historical Airship Phenomena

Pages 157 and 159 briefly mention historical UFO sightings, including a 1910 photograph from France allegedly showing a cylindrical/cigar-shaped object during the Catalan Cup motor race, and a 1970s Polaroid photo from Zurich Airport depicting a disk-shaped object. Page 159 also references a report about a large black triangular craft seen over Cosford Air Force Base in March 1993, with the author Jason Gleaves reportedly being present on the base at the time.

Book Feature: Luftschiffe und Aeronauten (Airships and Aeronauts)

Page 157 includes a brief mention of a book titled "Luftschiffe und Aeronauten: Eine historische Betrachtung des Luftschiffphänomens 1896 bis 1915" (Airships and Aeronauts: A Historical Examination of the Airship Phenomenon 1896 to 1915), edited by Ulrich Magin. This book, published by GEP, explores airship sightings and phenomena from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with contributions from Jerome Clark, Loren E. Gross, Nigel Watson, and Ulrich Magin himself. It is presented as part of the current GEP publication series.

GEP and UFO Research

Page 157 also contains a brief overview of the GEP's activities, emphasizing its role as a scientific organization dedicated to UFO research in Germany. It highlights their interdisciplinary approach, use of questionnaires, field investigations, and collaboration with authorities and institutions. The magazine itself, "jufof," is described as a publication that critically examines the UFO phenomenon since 1980, serving as an organ for the GEP by documenting and analyzing sighting reports and presenting scientific-methodical reports.

Contact Information

Pages 157 and 160 provide contact details for GEP and "jufof," including website addresses (www.ufo-forschung.de, www.jufof.de), an email address ([email protected]), and a telephone number (02351-23377) for reporting UFO sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue reflects a critical and scientific approach to UFO research. The editorial stance is evident in the detailed and often critical review of the book on UFO photography, emphasizing the need for rigorous methodology and evidence-based analysis. The magazine promotes the GEP's structured research efforts and encourages membership. There is a clear distinction made between speculative theories and scientifically verifiable data. The inclusion of historical airship sightings suggests an interest in exploring the historical roots of aerial phenomena that might be related to modern UFO reports. The overall tone is informative and analytical, aiming to educate readers and foster a deeper understanding of the UFO phenomenon through critical examination.