JUFOF - Issue 246 - 2019 06

Magazine Overview

This issue of jufof (Journal für UFO-Forschung), Volume 40, Issue 6-2019 (Nr. 246), published by GEP e.V., focuses on a GEP exhibition at the Lüdenscheider Museum, the UFO-Tagung 2019 in Kassel, and a detailed exploration of Exosoziology. The cover prominently features a photograph of the museum with a UFO hovering above it, accompanied by the headline "GEP im Lüdenscheider Museum" and a subtitle "Kleine Ausstellung zum UFO-Thema" (Small Exhibition on the UFO Theme).

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Hans-Werner Peiniger, reflects on the past year and the progress made by GEP. It highlights the introduction of monthly Skype conferences for GEP members, designed to foster open communication, define responsibilities, and share work updates. These conferences also spurred the initiative to improve public relations, particularly through new media like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, leading to the formation of a small project group. The editorial also mentions the successful UFO-Tagung 2019 in Kassel, organized by GEP and MUFON-CES, which received positive feedback. Peiniger then introduces the main articles, including a piece on Exosoziology and a report on the GEP's involvement in a UFO exhibition at the Lüdenscheid Museum. He expresses a desire for more members to contribute actively to GEP's work, emphasizing the need for shared effort to advance projects. The editorial concludes with New Year's wishes to the readers.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Sightings)

This section presents two documented cases:

Helle Lichterscheinung über Stade (Bright Light Phenomenon over Stade)

This case, from an unpublished archive, details a bright light phenomenon observed over Stade in 1999. The witness, Peter H., submitted a scanned photograph. The investigation, conducted by Hans-Werner Peiniger, concluded that the phenomenon was likely a photographic error (IFO/V3). The original negative could not be examined, but two explanations were considered: a lens reflection from a vehicle or a flaw in the negative itself. The latter is considered more probable due to the object's torn structure and apparent three-dimensionality. The investigator notes that a real phenomenon of such brightness would likely have been noticed by the photographer.

Rundes rötliches Objekt über dem Dislberg fotografiert (Round Reddish Object Photographed over Dislberg)

This case, dated August 24, 2005, involves Anne-Dore G. photographing a reddish object over Dilsberg near Neckargemünd. The witness initially considered it a fire but then realized it was something else. She took several photos over a 30-minute period as the object moved left and backward, becoming smaller. The final image showed a small, round object, similar to the Moon but smaller and partially obscured by clouds. Subsequent investigation by Hans-Werner Peiniger, including consultation with the Heidelberg Observatory, strongly suggests the object was the Moon. Astronomical reconstruction placed the Moon in the observed direction. The witness stated she did not see the Moon, but the investigator hypothesizes that atmospheric conditions, poor binoculars, or incorrect settings might have led to the misidentification and unusual appearance of the Moon.

Exosoziologie: Außerirdische Intelligenzen und die Folgen eines Erstkontaktes (Exosoziology: Extraterrestrial Intelligences and the Consequences of a First Contact)

This extensive article by Andreas Anton and Michael Schetsche delves into the field of Exosoziology. It begins by establishing the high probability of extraterrestrial life existing in the universe, citing statistical analyses of exoplanets and the prevalence of organic compounds. The authors define Exosoziology as the scientific study of the conditions for the emergence and characteristics of extraterrestrial civilizations, contact scenarios, and their societal impacts. They trace the concept's origins to a 1971 Russian publication by S. A. Kaplan and a 1983 article by Jan H. Mejer. The article outlines two phases of exosoziological research: a preparatory phase and a post-contact phase.

Preparatory Phase Tasks:

1. Sociological monitoring of the scientific search for extraterrestrial intelligence.
2. Prognostic assessment of the terrestrial consequences of a future first contact.
3. Investigation of the relationship between scientific and fictional thought regarding humanity's place in the cosmos.
4. Development of research on alienness and xenophobia, focusing on non-human actors.
5. Participation in societal discussions about the foundations of an extra-human ethic.

Post-Contact Phase Tasks:

1. Analysis of the structures, functions, developments, and goals of the extraterrestrial civilization.
2. Empirical investigation of the concrete consequences of first contact for human societies and terrestrial civilization.
3. Critical guidance of the various phases of cultural contact between terrestrial and extraterrestrial civilizations.

Three Scenarios for First Contact:

The article then presents three scenarios for first contact:

1. The Signal Scenario: This is the basis for most SETI programs, assuming the detection of artificial signals via radio telescopes. The impact on Earth is expected to diminish over time unless the signal's content can be linguistically deciphered. Cultural and spiritual developments might be stimulated, but daily life would likely remain unchanged.
2. The Artifact Scenario: This scenario involves discovering a physical artifact, such as a probe or spacecraft, from an alien civilization within our solar system or on Earth. The public interest and psychological consequences would depend on the object's age and functionality. Such a discovery would raise questions about potential weaponry and ownership.
3. The Artifact-Scenario (continued): This scenario, detailed further, involves the discovery of an alien artifact. The authors emphasize that the public's reaction would be influenced by the object's age and functionality. A younger, more functional object would likely generate more interest and concern. The discovery would raise critical questions about the object's purpose and origin, potentially leading to conflict.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the scientific and sociological aspects of UFO research and the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence. The GEP's commitment to rigorous investigation is evident in the detailed case analyses, even when they lead to mundane explanations. The magazine also highlights the organization's efforts in public outreach and member engagement. The article on Exosoziology signals a forward-looking approach, preparing for potential future encounters with alien civilizations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, thorough research, and proactive engagement with the UFO phenomenon and its broader implications.

This issue of "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Issue NR. 246, dated 6-2019) focuses on the "UFO-Tagung 2019 in Kassel," a conference organized by German UFO research groups DEGUFO, GEP, and MUFON-CES. The magazine delves into the field of exo-sociology, exploring the potential societal, economic, and political impacts of contact with extraterrestrial civilizations, as well as reviewing the current state and methodologies of UFO research.

Exo-sociology and First Contact Scenarios

The article "Thinking the Unlikely: Preparations for First Contact" by Andreas Anton and Michael Schetsche (pages 1-3) introduces the concept of exo-sociology. They discuss two main scenarios: the discovery of an extraterrestrial artifact and the encounter with an extraterrestrial spacecraft. The latter, termed the "encounter scenario," is described as a radical form of asymmetric culture contact, where humanity would be the "discovered" and aliens the "discoverers." Such encounters historically threaten cultural identity and physical existence. The authors emphasize that even a low probability of such an event, given its potentially devastating consequences (low-probability, high-impact events), necessitates planning. They highlight that while the existence of extraterrestrial life is not scientifically disproven, preparing for potential contact is a societal imperative.

UFO-Tagung 2019 in Kassel

Jochen Ickinger reports on the "UFO-Tagung 2019 in Kassel" (pages 4-8). The event, held on November 2, 2019, brought together approximately 40 participants. The conference began with presentations by Hans-Werner Peiniger (GEP) and Jörg Kiefer (MUFON-CES), who introduced their respective organizations and their research focuses. Peiniger discussed the GEP's evolution from a youth club to a critical research association, emphasizing perceptual experiments. Kiefer highlighted MUFON-CES's focus on instrumental UFO research.

Case Studies and Investigations

Natale Guido Cincinnati presented an extensive case investigation from the Kanton Obernai/Elsass region, detailing five distinct sightings from 2007 and 2017-2018. These included a disc-shaped object, glowing spheres, light phenomena, and an object with blue lights, as well as anomalous voices. Walter Andritzky discussed pilot sightings and close encounters, focusing on the conditions under which such observations are made, reported, and evaluated, noting the limitations of cockpit perspectives. He referenced the National Aviation Reporting Center on Anomalous Phenomena (NARCAP) study, which indicated that a significant percentage of pilots have encountered unidentified phenomena.

Hans-Werner Peiniger presented several previously unexplained cases, noting that 43% of investigated cases remain unclassified. Some of these involved witnesses describing "triangles," with variations in descriptions, including one resembling a "ray." A particularly intriguing case involved a couple observing an object with wings and a cockpit window, where the husband reported seeing "beings" inside, while the wife did not.

Jörg Kiefer provided information on natural and artificial objects in space and airspace, including planets, stars, satellites (like NOSS), and the ISS. He also discussed tracking civilian aircraft and mentioned examples of sky lanterns and LED balloons as potential sources of sightings. He outlined the controlled airspace structure and no-fly zones.

UFOs and Water

Another presentation by Detlef Hoyer (GEP, MUFON-CES) focused on interpretations from Carl W. Feindt's book "UFOs and Water." Feindt's research, based on over 1,000 sightings involving water, identified patterns of alleged exotic objects manipulating water, such as creating water columns. Hoyer proposed a five-dimensional physical theory to explain these phenomena. The presenter's critique focused on the reliability and sourcing of Feindt's case collection, which included reports from newspapers, UFO journals, and various UFO groups.

Discussion: 72 Years of UFO Research

The highlight of the event was a moderated discussion on "72 Years of UFO Research – Expectations, Results, Potentials," led by GEP. The discussion featured contributions from UFO researchers Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos and Thomas Eddie Bullard, with additional statements from André Kramer and Danny Ammon. Mirko Mojsilovic also contributed on engaging interested individuals in UFO research. The discussion addressed the limitations of UFO research, including the lack of conclusive evidence for extraterrestrial origins, the influence of pop culture, and the need for rigorous, scientific methodologies. Criticisms were raised regarding selective data collection and the reliance on pre-scientific hypotheses. The participants emphasized the importance of critical self-reflection for researchers, regardless of their position.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the need for a more scientifically rigorous and methodologically sound approach to UFO research. It highlights the challenges posed by the lack of verifiable data, the influence of popular culture, and the tendency towards speculative theorizing. The editorial stance appears to advocate for a balanced approach, acknowledging the unexplained aspects of the UFO phenomenon while demanding critical analysis and robust investigation, moving away from purely belief-based or sensationalist approaches. The importance of exo-sociology as a field for understanding the potential societal impact of extraterrestrial contact is also a recurring theme.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 6-2019, Nr. 246, focuses on a UFO conference held in Kassel and an exhibition in Lüdenscheid. The magazine features articles, survey results, and a book review related to UFO phenomena and extraterrestrial life.

UFO Conference in Kassel

The first part of the magazine discusses a UFO conference in Kassel. The event, which included workshops and discussions, aimed to explore the future and direction of UFO research. A key outcome was a consensus among participants to focus on "small research questions" and individual data material rather than pursuing grand, all-encompassing theories. The conference also featured a structured format with short, 30-minute presentations. A post-conference online survey of the 16 respondents indicated overwhelmingly positive feedback, with participants rating the event highly and expressing satisfaction with the organization. The survey also highlighted the participants' interest in various aspects of UFO research, including case investigation, theoretical and technical UFO research, and historical aspects.

Exhibition: "Westphalia in Moon Fever" and "Friedliches Lüdenscheid?"

The magazine extensively covers an exhibition titled "Westphalia in Moon Fever" held in the city museums of Lüdenscheid from September 19 to October 27, 2019. This traveling exhibition, organized by the LWL-Museumsamtes für Westfalen, traced the journey to the moon, starting with rocket development and culminating in the Apollo 11 moon landing. It featured numerous exhibits, including V2 rocket parts, a spacesuit, and models of spacecraft. The exhibition also included a "local part" that explored how people in the region experienced the moon landing. Notably, the exhibition also touched upon the historical context of alleged Nazi-era "wonder weapons" and "secret weapons," such as the V2 rocket, for which Lüdenscheid's industry produced components. This led to the inclusion of exhibits related to unconventional aircraft designs, including "flying wings" and early disc-shaped craft designs by German experts like Schriever, Habermohl, and Miethe, as well as Italian expert Belonzo. The article connects these historical developments to modern UFO conspiracy theories about advanced craft developed during the Third Reich.

Complementing this, the exhibition "Friedliches Lüdenscheid?" (Peaceful Lüdenscheid?) was also featured, with a dedicated "UFO room." This room displayed artifacts from the collection of Hans-Werner Peiniger, founder and chairman of the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens e.V.). The GEP's role in countering UFO conspiracy theories with factual information is emphasized. The exhibition aimed to present the UFO phenomenon as part of popular culture and make its background, research, and sociological aspects accessible.

GEP and UFO Research

The GEP, an organization dedicated to researching UFO phenomena since 1972, has received over 4000 reports from German-speaking regions. The article highlights that the GEP's analysis suggests most sightings can be explained by conventional phenomena. The magazine also discusses the sociological aspects of the UFO phenomenon, suggesting that our perception of aliens and UFOs is influenced by popular culture. The GEP has contributed exhibits to previous museum displays and is involved in making UFO research accessible through museums.

Book Review: "The Society of Extraterrestrials: Introduction to Exosociology"

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a review of the book "Die Gesellschaft der Außerirdischen. Einführung in die Exosoziologie" by Michael Schetsche and Andreas Anton. The review details the book's attempt to establish a social science framework for confronting extraterrestrial civilizations, introducing the concept of "Exosociology." The book examines historical theories about extraterrestrials, the scientific search for them (SETI, SETA, METI), and the potential consequences of contact. The reviewer notes the book's comprehensive overview of scientific approaches but finds the analysis of historical contact scenarios, such as cargo cults and the conquest of Mexico, to be somewhat brief. The book's discussion of panspermia and the challenges of deciphering potential extraterrestrial messages are also covered.

Current News: Pentagon and AATIP

A short news item reports on the Pentagon's clarification regarding the AATIP (Advanced Theoretical and Technical Intelligence Program) program. Contrary to media reports, a Pentagon spokesperson stated that AATIP was not a UFO investigation program but focused on advanced weapons systems. The article contrasts this with previous statements by Luis Elizondo, who was reportedly no longer employed by the Pentagon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the distinction between factual research and conspiracy theories, the historical context of UFO sightings and related technologies (like the V2 rocket), and the sociological impact of the UFO phenomenon on popular culture. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational, evidence-based approach to UFO research, as exemplified by the GEP's work and the critical review of the book on exosociology. There is an emphasis on making UFO research accessible to the public through exhibitions and publications, while also cautioning against unsubstantiated theories.

This issue of the JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Issue 6-2019, Nr. 246) is primarily dedicated to the historical phenomenon of airships and aeronautics between 1896 and 1915, exploring its potential links to modern UFO sightings. The magazine also features reviews of recent publications, including the DEGUFO Yearbook 2018, and discusses broader themes related to ufology and potential extraterrestrial contact.

Book Review: "Die Gesellschaft der Außerirdischen" by Schetsche and Anton

André Kramer reviews the book "Die Gesellschaft der Außerirdischen" (The Society of Extraterrestrials) by Michael Schetsche and Andreas Anton. He notes that the book explores various influences on the concept of alien contact, including religious influences, cargo cults, and millenarian expectations. The review highlights how historical cult movements, like the Filo-Kult and the Wailala-Wahn, often involved expectations of divine or alien intervention, which were sometimes reinterpreted retrospectively by witnesses. The book examines the potential for 'exosociology' and discusses the consequences of a potential first contact scenario, including who would have a claim to an artifact found in the solar system and how the public would be informed. Kramer praises the book for its engaging and accessible language, making complex sociological concepts understandable to non-specialists, although he suggests that some areas could benefit from further discussion and clarification. He highly recommends the book to anyone interested in the topic, even if UFOs are not the central theme.

Review: DEGUFO-Jahrbuch 2018

Marius Kettmann (Hrsg.)'s DEGUFO-Jahrbuch 2018 is reviewed by Hans-Werner Peiniger. The yearbook aims to present the best DEGUFO cases from its 25 years of existence. The first part includes a tribute to pilot Thomas Mantell and his encounter with a UFO, discussing the theory that he was pursuing a secret Skyhook balloon. Peter Hattwig contributes a piece on phenomena observed in crop circles, including unusual observations, camera malfunctions, spontaneous healing, and UFO sightings, though he refrains from offering explanations. Christian Czech presents a selection of unexplained UFO cases, summarizing witness reports without detailing research or discussions, which the reviewer finds regrettable. Jens Waldeck's contribution on 'Cognitive-Oriented Observation Methods of Extraterrestrial Intelligence' is described as highly complex and difficult to understand, focusing on altering consciousness for more intense contact experiences. Roland M. Horn's article, "Die Untertassen der Illuminati" (The Saucers of the Illuminati), is characterized as conspiracy-laden, linking contactee statements to occultism and political conspiracies, which the reviewer finds bizarre and difficult to take seriously. Manfred Greifzu discusses the possibility of information transfer via viruses, referencing the virus Phi X 174 as a potential candidate for an artificial message. Klaus Deistung's interpretation of biblical passages as evidence of ancient alien visits is presented, though the reviewer finds his conclusion about a rocket based on a quote from Exodus 19 to be speculative. The yearbook concludes with book reviews, including Kettmann's review of Frank Schwedes' "Das Geheimnis der schwarzen Dreiecke" and Jüdts' review of Alexander Wendt's "Quantum Mind and Social Science." Peiniger concludes that the yearbook has its highs and lows, with only a few contributions being convincing, and suspects it was hastily compiled to provide members with a publication.

Book Review: "Luftschiffe und Aeronauten" by Ulrich Magin (Hrsg.)

This section introduces a series of publications edited by Ulrich Magin, focusing on historical airship and aeronautics phenomena from 1896 to 1915. The editor notes that this period saw a wave of airship sightings, particularly on the American West Coast, leading to speculation ranging from secret human inventors to alien spacecraft. The publication includes contributions from Jerome Clark on "Luftschiffe" (Airships), Loren E. Gross on "UFOs: Eine Historie - 1896" (UFOs: A History - 1896), Nigel Watson on "Zeppeline der Angst" (Zeppelins of Fear), and Ulrich Magin himself on "Airships - Eine 'moderne' Sage" ('Modern' Saga). An appendix covers airship sightings in Germany in the early 20th century. The publication is described as a historical examination of the airship phenomenon, with a significant portion of UFO researchers believing these sightings are connected to the modern UFO phenomenon.

GEP and UFO Information

The final pages provide information about the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), described as Germany's largest non-profit scientific organization dedicated to UFO research. They utilize questionnaires, field investigations, and background research, working interdisciplinarily with authorities and scientific institutions. The Journal für UFO-Forschung (jufof), the GEP's publication since 1980, is detailed as a factual and critical source. Each issue includes documentation of sighting reports, classification, and case studies, alongside scientific and methodical articles on UFO phenomena, case investigations, and international reports. It also features a review and reader letter section. The definition of a UFO is provided: an object or light whose appearance, trajectory, and behavior cannot be explained by conventional means and remains unidentified after thorough investigation. Information is given on how to report UFO sightings, including a hotline number (02351-23377) and email address ([email protected]), as well as website links for reporting and accessing the web forum.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of historical phenomena (like airship sightings and cargo cults) with modern UFO research, suggesting a continuity or connection between past and present unexplained aerial events. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical yet open-minded investigation, encouraging interdisciplinary approaches and detailed research, as exemplified by the GEP's methodology and the journal's focus on scientific and methodical reporting. There's an emphasis on distinguishing between factual reporting, speculative interpretation, and conspiracy theories, with reviewers often critically assessing the evidence and arguments presented in the reviewed works.