JUFOF - Issue 242 - 2019 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of "jufof" (Journal für UFO-Forschung), Volume 40, Issue 242, dated February 2019, is published by GEP e.V. and priced at 4.50 Euro. The cover features a striking image of glowing blue lights against an aurora over a Norwegian fjord, with the headline "Beeindruckende Erscheinung... ...am Himmel über Norwegen" (Impressive Appearance... ...in the Sky over Norway). The issue also highlights "Über 70 Jahre UFO-Forschung" (Over 70 Years of UFO Research) with a focus on expectations, results, and potentials, and includes a literature section with book reviews.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Hans-Werner Peiniger, reflects on the current state of UFO research, noting that after over 70 years, significant results are still lacking, and the field remains largely where it started. Peiniger emphasizes the importance of data collection and analysis, acknowledging that the GEP's own data material is incomplete. He suggests a multi-pronged approach, including optimizing IT-supported data processing and continuing to receive and investigate UFO sightings to prevent misinformation on internet platforms. Projects like "GOOD UFO" and the "Strangeness-Projekt" are mentioned as steps towards scientific data evaluation. The editorial also promotes the "GEP Insider PLUS" membership area and online magazine.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section details several documented UFO cases:

Untertasse mit Kuppel fotografiert (Saucer with Dome Photographed)

• Case Number: 20140115 A
• Date: January 15, 2016
• Time: 12:02 MEZ (10:02 UTC)
• Location: Hemau – Mungenhofen, Germany
• Witness: Josef R.
• Classification: DD (Unidentified)
• Assessment: IFO / V3 (Identified Flying Object / Visual)
• Identification: "Object" on a windowpane (water droplet – favored explanation).
• Summary: A 60-year-old witness submitted a photo taken in 2014 showing a saucer-shaped object. Upon closer examination, the object appears to be in a different focal plane than the background, suggesting it is close to the camera, possibly on a window. Various explanations were discussed, with the favored one being a water droplet on a windowpane reflecting the sky.

Dunkles Objekt über Rüsselsheim (Dark Object over Rüsselsheim)

• Case Number: 20070902 C
• Date: September 2, 2007
• Time: 19:58 MESZ (17:58 UTC)
• Location: Rüsselsheim, Germany
• Witness: Stefan S.
• Classification: DD (Unidentified)
• Assessment: IFO / V2 (Identified Flying Object / Visual)
• Identification: Foil balloon.
• Summary: The witness photographed a small, dark object moving quickly from right to left. The object was described as moving faster than nearby aircraft and disappearing towards the horizon. The analysis suggests it was likely a foil balloon, possibly shaped like Minnie Mouse or Mickey Mouse, due to its dynamic flight path and appearance.

Sternförmiges Licht über Truppenübungsplatz (Star-shaped Light over Training Area)

• Case Number: 19690800 A
• Date: August 1969 (night)
• Location: Baumholder (TrübPI), Germany
• Witness: Anonymous
• Classification: NL (Insufficient Data)
• Assessment: NL (Insufficient Data)
• Summary: An anonymous witness, writing about an event from approximately 50 years prior, described seeing a bright, star-like object move across the entire night sky in less than a second. The witness was a 21-year-old group leader during military training. Due to the lack of precise timing and the witness's anonymity, the case is classified as having insufficient data, though it remains a personal mystery for the witness.

Fliegende Untertasse in Mönchengladbach (Flying Saucer in Mönchengladbach)

• Case Number: 20190228 A
• Date: February 28, 2019
• Time: 6:00 MEZ (5:00 UTC)
• Location: Mönchengladbach, Germany
• Witness: Anonymous
• Classification: CE I (Classified Evidence)
• Assessment: NL (Insufficient Data)
• Identification: NL (Insufficient Data)
• Summary: An anonymous witness reported being woken by a strong vibrating bass hum and seeing a "cliché-like flying saucer" outside their window. The object was described as matte metallic, seamless, with rotating white/silver and red lights. It was estimated to be the size of a car or bus. The witness also reported seeing similar lights in subsequent days. Due to the anonymity and lack of verifiable details, the case is classified as having insufficient data.

Literatur (Literature)

This section features reviews of current book titles. One review is for "Feurige Zeichen aus höheren Dimensionen" (Fiery Signs from Higher Dimensions).

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].
• Editors responsible for press law: Hans-Werner Peiniger, Danny Ammon.
• Publication: 'jufof' is published every two months on a non-commercial basis, with contributions being honorarium-free.
• Subscription Price: 27.00 € per year (6 issues) plus postage.
• Printing: bis500 Druck, 98693 Ilmenau.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the analysis and documentation of UFO sightings, with a particular focus on cases from Germany and one from Norway. The editorial stance, as articulated by Hans-Werner Peiniger, is one of cautious scientific inquiry, acknowledging the current limitations in UFO research while advocating for rigorous data collection and analysis. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible evidence and unsubstantiated claims, and a commitment to providing explanations for sightings, even if they are mundane. The GEP e.V. positions itself as a serious research organization, promoting its activities and membership through its publications and online platforms.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 2-2019, Nr. 242, published in 2019, presents a collection of short reports and analyses on various UFO-related topics, alongside a critical examination of the field of UFO research itself.

"Deutschland sucht den Superstar" and UFOs

The first article, "Alien und UFO bei DSDS" (Alien and UFO on DSDS), discusses the German casting show "Deutschland sucht den Superstar" (Germany is looking for the Superstar), broadcast by RTL. It notes that in episode 16, filmed in Thailand and aired on March 23, 2019, an alien head appeared in the background during the jury's assessment of candidates. In episode 17, aired on March 30, 2019, a UFO was seen flying into the frame during a thunderstorm, being struck by lightning, and crashing into the Thai sea. The article suggests these were "Easter Eggs" intended to pique viewer interest, with the alien head resembling a typical grey alien and the UFO resembling a classic flying saucer.

"Kottan ermittelt" and Duisburg Landing

Referencing a satirical crime series "Kottan ermittelt" from 1982, the magazine recalls an episode aired on December 3, 1982, on ZDF, which featured a text overlay stating: "Unidentified flying object landed near Duisburg. Special report to follow." This announcement reportedly caused a significant influx of calls to ZDF and overwhelmed the local police emergency services.

Drone Usage in Germany

Two reports detail the use of drones in Germany. "UFO über Karlsruhe?" (UFO over Karlsruhe?) describes how concerned citizens reported a brightly lit UFO over Karlsruhe for several nights in March 2019. The mystery was solved when it was identified as a hexacopter drone from the Munich-based company Air Bavarian GbR. This drone was equipped with a thermal imaging camera and was used to fly over public buildings in Karlsruhe at night to assess their renovation needs. The drone operated between 7 PM and 4 AM, with brief interruptions for battery changes, and was in continuous use for about 40 minutes at a time. A similar operation occurred in early April 2019 in Wolfratshausen, the headquarters of Air Bavarian GbR, for the same purpose. The author, Hans-Werner Peiniger, highlights this as another example of the commercial use of drones at night.

The ADIFO Flying Saucer Drone

"Ein UFO am Himmel?" (A UFO in the Sky?) introduces the ADIFO (All-Directional Flying Object), a prototype drone developed by Romanian engineers. The article notes that the ADIFO, designed to resemble a flying saucer, can fly like a quadrocopter at low speeds and function as a supersonic aircraft with its jet engines, provided it moves beyond its current model-building stage. The test model has a diameter of 1.2 meters and features exceptional maneuverability due to its concept and side thrusters. The developers are seeking partners to advance its development. The article includes images of the ADIFO and links to its website and a video.

NASA Experiment in Norway

"Beeindruckende Lichterscheinung über Norwegen" (Impressive Light Phenomenon over Norway) clarifies that recent media reports of UFO sightings in Norway were actually the result of atmospheric experiments conducted by NASA. On April 5, 2019, at 10:14 PM UTC, NASA launched two sounding rockets from the Andøya Space Center as part of the AZURE project. These rockets released trimethylaluminum and barium/strontium mixtures into the upper atmosphere at an altitude of 320 km. The goal was to study conditions in the polar light region and track neutral and charged particles in the ionosphere using the resulting clouds. The article explicitly states that this was not an "alien attack" but a NASA experiment, dispelling potential misinterpretations.

Doug Bower and Crop Circles

"How we made the circles and fooled the world" is a headline accompanying an article about the passing of Doug Bower, a renowned crop circle artist, who died on July 21, 2018, at the age of 95. Bower, a former RAF gunner, and his army friend Dave Chorley began creating crop circles in 1976, inspired by reports of "UFO nests" Bower had read about in Australia. Their creations gained public attention in the 1980s, and they became known for their increasingly complex designs, including pictograms. The article notes that Bower and Chorley are now considered masters of Land Art, comparable to artists like Richard Long, although the mystery of crop circles persists for many.

Critical Analysis of UFO Research

"Über 70 Jahre UFO-Forschung: Erwartungen, Ergebnisse, Potenziale" (Over 70 Years of UFO Research: Expectations, Results, Potentials) by Danny Ammon provides a critical review of the field. The author references the work of UFO researchers Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos and Thomas Eddie Bullard, who argue that UFO research has not yielded substantial evidence for extraterrestrial visitation despite decades of effort. Bullard is quoted stating that collected evidence does not meet scientific standards and is largely anecdotal, subject to human observation errors, illusions, and biases. Kramer's critique is also discussed, suggesting that UFO research has abdicated its responsibility by waiting for government disclosures rather than actively investigating the phenomenon. The article criticizes organizations for focusing on speculative theories and alternative physics rather than empirical data. It highlights the challenges of UFO research, including the rarity and non-reproducibility of cases, the difficulty in obtaining reliable data, and the reliance on individual witness reports. The author concludes that while instrumental measurement methods are being employed, they have not automatically led to new results. The article also touches upon the role of disclosure movements and exopolitics, suggesting they contribute to a passive waiting for revelations rather than active research. The need for a standardized, international data model for UFO case investigation is also mentioned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of UFO phenomena with popular culture (TV shows), technological advancements (drones), natural atmospheric events mistaken for UFOs, and the historical context of crop circle creation. The magazine also dedicates a significant portion to a critical, self-reflective analysis of the UFO research field, questioning its scientific validity and methodology. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting diverse UFO-related news while also engaging in a sober, critical assessment of the research landscape, emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific standards and empirical evidence.

This issue of the 'Journal für UFO-Forschung' (Journal for UFO Research), Volume 2-2019, Issue No. 242, published by GEP, focuses on the challenges and methodologies of UFO research, with a significant article analyzing a historical photograph from the 'Battle of Los Angeles' in 1942. The journal is in German and covers topics related to anomalous phenomena.

Methodological Challenges in UFO Research

The article begins by discussing the difficulties in gaining knowledge from spontaneous and retrospectively reported UFO cases, a common issue in anomalistics. It highlights that the analytical differentiation between the phenomenological similarity of experiences and uniformity created by interpretative patterns is a significant epistemological problem. Furthermore, it's argued that purely phenomenological comparability of individual cases is impossible, as any observation is already influenced by prior knowledge and assumptions. Cases can appear similar superficially but prove to be disparate upon closer examination, which is typical for the UFO phenomenon.

The journal emphasizes that UFO research presents difficult scientific challenges that should not be dismissed by excessive skepticism or premature conviction. Researchers are urged to create conditions for intersubjectively verifiable and research-accessible data on UFO sightings. This includes consistent data collection, a UFO sighting data model, digital documentation, case analysis, and cross-case data queries. A key aspect is the precise definition of terminology and the intersubjectively comparable phenomenological description of UFO experiences. The concept of 'Strangeness' is identified as a core aspect, requiring definition to categorize UFO cases based on their unusualness.

To address these challenges, UFO researchers are encouraged to look beyond their field and collaborate with experts from other areas of anomalistics. The article mentions the development of a cross-organizational 'common questionnaire' for UFO reporters, whose data items form the basis of a common UFO database. This initiative was undertaken in 2010 in collaboration with the Institute for Border Areas of Psychology and Psychohygiene (IGPP e. V.), incorporating expertise in anomalous case investigation and qualitative/quantitative survey methods.

Analysis of the 'Battle of Los Angeles' 1942 Photograph

A central piece of this issue is the article "Die Luftschlacht von Los Angeles: Eine moderne Analyse eines Fotos aus dem Zweiten Weltkrieg" (The Battle of Los Angeles: A Modern Analysis of a Photograph from World War II) by Jason Gleaves, translated by Ulrich Magin. The article revisits the dramatic events of February 24-25, 1942, when Los Angeles experienced a blackout and intense anti-aircraft fire directed at an unidentified aerial object.

Gleaves' analysis focuses on a key photograph from the event, which was originally published in the Los Angeles Examiner. He notes that despite the widespread nature of the sighting and numerous witnesses, high-quality photographs are scarce. The official explanation at the time, given by Navy Minister Frank Knox, was an 'all-clear' or 'false alarm,' attempting to downplay the incident. However, subsequent newspaper reports and speculation about government cover-ups, similar to the Roswell incident, emerged.

Later, the United States Coast Artillery Association identified the object as a weather balloon, suggesting that the initial firing was triggered by it, and subsequent sightings were due to the ensuing chaos and imagination. In 1983, the U.S. Office of Air Force History attributed the event to war anxiety, with a drifting weather balloon, flares, and nearby artillery fire contributing to the confusion.

Gleaves employed modern digital image processing software to analyze the photograph, revealing details previously unseen. His analysis suggests that the object was illuminated and appeared stationary, though witness accounts described movement. The photograph shows numerous light flashes, likely from artillery shells, and searchlight beams crisscrossing the sky. Gleaves' analysis indicates that the original photograph, when enhanced, shows the object's surroundings and raises further questions about its origin.

He discusses the technical aspects of the searchlights used, their immense power, and their capability to locate objects in the sky. The analyzed photograph, according to Gleaves, shows a large, illuminated object that appears stationary. However, witness testimonies indicate constant movement. The article also notes that the object moved towards Long Beach and disappeared over the Palos Verdes hills before the firing ceased. The object remains officially unidentified.

Literature Reviews and Commentary

The issue includes a review of Illobrand von Ludwiger's book, "Feurige Zeichen aus höheren Dimensionen" (Fiery Signs from Higher Dimensions), which covers phenomena like ball lightning, orbs, spontaneous fires, and burned hands. The reviewer praises Ludwiger's more focused approach in this work, contrasting it with his previous books. The review discusses Ludwiger's argument that a large number of consistent reports, even of controversial phenomena, can establish objective reality, suggesting that sociologists should determine the threshold for such acceptance. Ludwiger himself cites around 1,000 consistent reports as a basis for his conviction about the existence of UFO occupants.

The review critically examines Ludwiger's methodology, particularly his initial step of collecting all strange phenomena before attempting to create theoretical models, warning that this could lead to models based on phenomena like sky lanterns being misapplied to UFOs. The book's chapters on ball lightning and orbs are discussed, with the reviewer noting Ludwiger's attempt to explain these phenomena through a 'psycho-physical explanation within a six-dimensional theory' and referencing Burkhard Heim's work.

A commentary by Hans-Werner Peiniger discusses the photograph of the 'Battle of Los Angeles,' noting that Scott Harrison attempted to view the original negative. It was found in the Los Angeles Times archive, revealing two negatives: the original and a copied/edited version used for the newspaper report. The enhanced negative shows a concentration of light at the intersection of searchlight beams, which is often misinterpreted as a material object. The article suggests that during the wartime hysteria, a weather balloon or a Japanese Fu-Go balloon bomb might have been mistaken for an enemy aircraft.

Announcements and Recurring Themes

The journal also includes announcements regarding the GEP's member area, which is being restructured and will include an online magazine. New features include 'GEP INSIDER NEWS' and 'GEP INSIDER PLUS.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is the critical and scientific approach to UFO research. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous methodology, data analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The journal advocates for moving beyond mere speculation and towards a more systematic and evidence-based investigation of anomalous phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, tempered by scientific skepticism and a commitment to understanding the 'unknown components' of human experience and the environment through the study of UFO phenomena.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Issue 2-2019, NR. 242) delves into two primary areas: a review of Illobrand von Ludwiger's book "Feurige Zeichen aus höheren Dimensionen" and a historical exploration of "Luftschiffe und Aeronauten" (Airships and Aeronauts) from 1896 to 1915.

Review: "Feurige Zeichen aus höheren Dimensionen" by Illobrand von Ludwiger

The review critically examines Ludwiger's book, which posits that phenomena like "light balls" are not mere will-o'-the-wisps but are energy intrusions from higher dimensions controlled by unseen intelligences. These phenomena are described as capable of changing form, causing electrical disturbances, heat, cold, and even injuring humans and animals. Ludwiger reportedly found 34 cases from literature to support his theory, claiming conventional explanations are lacking and many cases involve paranormal phenomena.

The book also discusses "spontaneous light phenomena in living spaces," citing cases of small light spheres appearing in rooms, often linked to poltergeist activity, channeling, or magical rituals. Ludwiger's theory suggests humans can initiate these light phenomena through thought power.

Another chapter explores "burned hands" or imprint marks on various materials, attributed to paranormal causes. The reviewer notes that Ludwiger's theoretical framework is based on a "highly uncertain foundation," often using unverified cases from literature. The reviewer expresses a desire for a credibility assessment of the cases and a discussion of conventional explanations, finding Ludwiger's argumentation weak and unlikely to appeal to the scientific community.

A specific example cited is a photograph on the book's cover, identified as a wildlife camera image from Hartsville, California, on October 16, 2015. Ludwiger speculates it could be ball lightning or a will-o'-the-wisp, but the reviewer points out that further analysis reveals ring-like structures and suggests it might be a small particle illuminated by the camera's infrared light, with the lower structure being a reflection. The reviewer also notes that the phenomenon is part of a video sequence and that a spider in front of the camera lens could be a simpler explanation.

The review touches upon Ludwiger's discussion of Burkhard Heim's six-dimensional theory, mentioning experiments with spontaneous ignitions. The reviewer acknowledges that while individual cases might be known, their collective significance is likely underestimated, as Ludwiger suggests. However, the reviewer finds the concept of objects transmuting into ideas and vice versa in a six-dimensional world difficult to grasp.

Despite the criticisms, the reviewer, Hans-Werner Peiniger, acknowledges that the book contains a wealth of little-known special cases and interesting connections to Heim's theory. He recommends the book for its detailed information and unusual connections, viewing it positively overall.

Historical Focus: "Luftschiffe und Aeronauten" (Airships and Aeronauts) by Ulrich Magin (Hrsg.)

This section introduces a book edited by Ulrich Magin, 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).

The book covers the wave of airship sightings, particularly on the American West Coast and across the country, starting in 1896/97. These sightings of steerable balloons, which were novel at the time, sparked speculation ranging from social panic to secret human inventors and even extraterrestrial spacecraft. A significant portion of UFO researchers believe these observations are connected to modern UFO phenomena.

The book's content includes contributions from Jerome Clark on "Airships," Loren E. Gross on "UFOs: A History - 1896," and Nigel Watson on "Zeppelins of Fear." It also features an appendix on "Airship Sightings in Germany, 19th and early 20th Century."

The publication is described as 122 pages, paperback, with illustrations, and is available for 10.00 € (8.00 € for GEP members). Orders can be placed through the GEP shop or via mail.

GEP and UFO Information

The journal also provides information about the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), described as the largest non-profit scientific organization in Germany dedicated to UFO research. The GEP utilizes questionnaires, on-site interviews, and field investigations, working interdisciplinarily with support from various authorities and institutions.

The "jufof" (Journal für UFO-Forschung) has been published since 1980, offering a factual and critical approach to the UFO phenomenon. Each issue includes documentation of sightings, their classification, and case investigations, alongside competent scientific and methodical reports, international case studies, analyses, reviews, and reader letters.

A definition of a UFO is provided: a perceived object or light whose appearance, trajectory, and behavior defy conventional explanation and remain unidentifiable after thorough investigation.

Information is given on how to report UFO sightings, including a hotline number (023 51–2 33 77), an email address ([email protected]), and websites (www.ufo-forschung.de, www.jufof.de).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of anomalous aerial phenomena, the exploration of unconventional theories linking UFOs to higher dimensions or paranormal activity, and the historical context of such sightings. The editorial stance, as reflected in the review section, appears to be one of critical inquiry, valuing evidence-based analysis while acknowledging the potential significance of unexplained phenomena. The journal promotes a scientific and methodical approach to UFO research.