JUFOF - Issue 258 - 2021 06

Magazine Overview

Title: jufof
Issue: Nr. 258
Volume: Jg. 42
Date: 06-2021
Publisher: GEP e.V.
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0723-7766
Price: 4,50 Euro

Editorial

The editorial, written by Hans-Werner Peiniger, reflects on the year 2021, noting significant ufological developments, including the US Pentagon's confirmation of UFO photos and videos from military missions, and the media hype generated by former US President Barack Obama's comments on UFOs. The UAPTF has been reorganized into the AOIMSG. Peiniger points readers to online portals like grenzwissenschaft-aktuell.de for timely US developments, while highlighting that the magazine will feature domestic UFO sightings. He introduces two key articles: one by Ulrich Magin questioning whether some UFOs might be explained as IFOs (Identified Flying Objects), and another by Erich Habich-Traut about his 'Contact Initiative' project. Peiniger expresses skepticism about the 'Contact Initiative's' feasibility and potential for positive contact, a sentiment echoed by GEP member Josef Carcia. Peiniger concludes by wishing readers happy holidays and a healthy new year.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen

This section presents detailed case studies of reported UFO sightings, with investigations and assessments.

Ungewöhnliches Objekt über Frankfurt fotografiert

Case Number: 20200628 A
Date: 28.06.2020
Time: 10:29 MESZ (08:29 UTC)
Location: 60318 Frankfurt – Nordend, Germany
Witness: Helena B.
Classification: DD
Assessment: PROBLEMATIC UFO
Identification: None
Investigator: Hans-Werner Peiniger

The witness submitted a photo taken during a walk in a park, showing unusual cloud formations. Upon later review, a "black elongated part" was discovered, seemingly protruding from the clouds. The discussion and assessment note that the object appears to emerge from the clouds, but the clouds are not dense. The camera used was a Samsung Galaxy S8 smartphone with a shutter speed of 1/8384 s. The object was not visible in a photo taken seven seconds earlier. Several explanations were considered:

1. A Balloon: No specific foil balloon matching the description was found, but a normal "Raupenballon" (caterpillar balloon) was considered a possibility.
2. A Caterpillar Abseiling: The original image shows trees, including a chestnut tree, suggesting a caterpillar or group of caterpillars abseiling, possibly from a bagworm moth.
3. A Minitornado: A meteorological phenomenon like a minitornado or funnel cloud was considered, but the weather and cloud formations did not strongly suggest this possibility, as such phenomena typically taper downwards.
4. A Vertically Flying Insect/Beetle: Rüdiger Manig from the German Weather Service (DWD) suggested this possibility. The object's shape might be distorted due to its movement during the exposure time, making it unrecognizable as an insect.
5. Tree Seeds: The possibility of tree seeds, such as rotating "flying fruits" from nearby trees, was explored. The image shows structures that could be interpreted as rotating. The Ahorn (maple) and Linde (linden) trees were discussed, with their fruits/seeds potentially resembling the object. However, the timing of the sighting (June) seemed early for these trees to shed their fruits.

The investigator, Hans-Werner Peiniger, found no fully satisfactory explanation and left the case open, suggesting it might be an unknown natural phenomenon.

Aktuelle Fälle im Überblick – Teil 3

This section provides brief overviews and assessments of recent UFO cases.

Case: 20210624 A
Date: 24.06.2021, 21:25 MESZ
Location: 99848 Wutha-Farnroda, Germany
Witness Report: The witness and their mother observed an unexplainable "flying object/celestial object" in the evening sky, appearing as a bright, stationary point about the size of an airplane. They observed it for 5-10 minutes with binoculars before it disappeared. They ruled out a star due to the clear sky and the object's appearance. The object was described as a gray point emitting bright white light.
Discussion and Assessment: Based on the witness's description and the flight path data from the German Weather Service (DWD), the object was identified as a weather balloon launched on 24.06.2021. The witness's location and viewing direction align with the balloon's trajectory. The sudden disappearance is explained by the balloon bursting shortly after observation.

Case: 20210619 B
Date: 19.06.2021, 11:46 MESZ
Location: 48477 Hörstel, Germany
Witness Report: A 47-year-old witness discovered an "unknown flying object" on a photograph taken at a campsite. The object was not noticed at the time of photography. The witness described it as an unknown flying object and was very shocked.
Assessment: The object is very likely an insect that flew through the camera's field of view during the exposure. The blurriness indicates it was close to the camera and outside the focus range. The motion blur suggests it was a flying insect.

Case: 20210621 A
Date: 21.06.2021, 12:48 MESZ
Location: 07774 Dornburg-Camburg, Germany
Witness Report: The witness photographed near the Dornburger Schlösser and later discovered an oval object in the sky on one of the photos. The object was not seen at the time of shooting. The photo was taken with an iPhone XR on a tripod as part of a series of 10 shots. The witness ruled out lens dirt as the object appeared only on one frame.
Assessment: This case is also assessed as likely being an insect that flew through the frame during the photo series. The blurriness and the appearance of structures possibly related to wing beats support this conclusion. Insects are often not noticed by photographers during the act of shooting.

Case: 20210821 A
Date: 21.08.2021, 19:55 MESZ
Location: 10997 Berlin – Kreuzberg, Germany
Witness Report: A 29-year-old witness observed and filmed a dark flying object rotating on its axis and flying southeast. The witness described it as having an unusual shape, resembling a "capital Gamma (Γ)", and being too large for a bird but too small for a helicopter. They observed it for a moment before going to the balcony to film it. The witness noted its proximity to the Mercedes-Benz headquarters and suggested it was flying at the height of the Spree river.
Assessment: The described visual appearance and dynamic behavior, along with the video evidence, strongly suggest the object was a foil balloon shaped like the number "7" or the letter "L".

Die "Contact Initiative"

This article discusses Erich Habich-Traut's "Contact Initiative" project. The project is based on the premise that UFOs are manned craft from a technical intelligence, and it aims to establish contact through a mobile application. The author, Hans-Werner Peiniger, expresses skepticism about the project's global implementation and the possibility of a positive contact. Josef Carcia, another GEP member, agrees that while using technology in UFO research is valid, the proposed form of the initiative is not feasible. The article suggests that a simplified version connecting witnesses and UFO research organizations via a mobile app might be a more achievable goal.

Kommentar zur "Contact Initiative"

This section likely contains further commentary or analysis related to the "Contact Initiative" project, building upon the discussion in the previous article.

Kurz notiert

Ufologische Frage in TV-Sendung Late Night Berlin

This brief note likely discusses a UFO-related question or segment featured on the TV show "Late Night Berlin."

Literatur

This section reviews books and publications related to ufology:

• Atlas der außerirdischen Begegnungen: A review of an atlas of extraterrestrial encounters.
• Außerirdische und was Sie darüber wissen sollten: A book or article providing information about extraterrestrials.
• Neue Erkenntnisse: A review of new findings or discoveries in the field.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the analysis of UFO/UAP sightings, with a strong emphasis on providing rational explanations, often identifying them as natural phenomena or misidentified man-made objects. The editorial stance, particularly from Hans-Werner Peiniger, is critical and cautious regarding speculative projects like the "Contact Initiative," preferring evidence-based research and grounded explanations. The magazine aims to document and investigate UFO reports, particularly those from Germany, while acknowledging international developments. There is a clear focus on debunking or explaining sightings rather than promoting sensationalism, though cases that remain unexplained are also presented.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 6-2021, Nr. 258, published by GEP e.V., delves into the analysis of various reported UFO sightings, with a strong emphasis on identifying them as misinterpretations of known phenomena (IFOs). The articles, primarily authored by Hans-Werner Peiniger and Ulrich Magin, critically examine the nature of UFO reports and the reliability of eyewitness accounts.

Case Studies and Analyses

Hallstadt Case (20210902 B)

A witness in Hallstadt, Germany, filmed a rotating, round object reflecting sunlight on September 2, 2021. The object flew north and was described as moving with the speed of an airplane. The analysis by Hans-Werner Peiniger concludes that the object was likely a foil balloon, possibly in the shape of the letter 'O' or the number '0'. The report notes that helium-leaking balloons can deform, and sunlight reflections can distort their appearance.

Hameln Case (20210903 B)

On September 3, 2021, a witness in Hameln, Germany, reported observing a large number of bright points in the sky that remained stationary for an extended period. Photos submitted showed what appeared to be a cluster of balloons, possibly with a card attached. Peiniger's assessment suggests these were balloons, possibly released for a wedding or kindergarten event, and that their apparent lack of movement might be due to low wind and their movement away from the observer's line of sight.

Adelmannsfelden-Kuderberg Case (20211017 A)

On October 17, 2021, a witness near Adelmannsfelden-Kuderberg, Germany, described an unknown flying object that appeared oval or disc-shaped with a dome, and seemed to be hovering. The witness initially considered it a large balloon or airship but noted its non-round shape. Subsequent research by Peiniger identified the object as the Trigema airship, a large advertising blimp used for promotional purposes across Germany since 2016. The operating company confirmed the airship's presence in the area at the time of the sighting.

Würzburg Case (20190518 A)

A photograph submitted by a witness from Würzburg, Germany, taken on May 18, 2019, appeared to show a UFO. However, the analysis by Peiniger concluded that the object was not a UFO but a forgery. The image was likely created using a smartphone app designed to insert UFOs and aliens into photographs, a common practice facilitated by various mobile applications.

Theoretical Discussions on UFOs and IFOs

Ulrich Magin's Argument on the Null Hypothesis

Ulrich Magin's article, "Ein paar Betrachtungen zum Thema UFO/IFO" (A Few Reflections on the Topic of UFO/IFO), strongly advocates for the null hypothesis in UFO research. He argues that researchers should not dismiss the possibility that most UFO sightings are actually IFOs (Identified Flying Objects) – misidentifications of known phenomena. Magin questions how experienced UFO researchers can identify IFOs (like MHBs, sky trackers, or SpaceX launches) if eyewitness accounts are inherently unreliable. He posits that precise descriptions of IFOs do not automatically imply that UFO descriptions are equally accurate or refer to unknown objects.

Magin highlights several points:

1. Eyewitness Testimony vs. Physical Reality: Eyewitness accounts can significantly deviate from measurable physical reality. To prove a genuine UFO, physical evidence, not just witness testimony, is required.
2. UFOs and IFOs as Mental Constructs: Statistically, UFOs and IFOs are considered phenomena of the human mind rather than distinct natural entities, as the classification of what constitutes a UFO or IFO is determined by the researcher.
3. The Question of Witness Reliability: Magin questions why witnesses can clearly describe IFOs but not UFOs, suggesting a consistent pattern of misinterpretation.

The Moon as a Common Misidentification

Several examples illustrate how the moon has been mistaken for UFOs. John A. Keel and Spanish UFO enthusiast Juan Jose Benitez both reported seeing UFOs that were later identified as the moon. A French study from 1976 documented 29 reports of UFO landings that were actually misidentifications of the moon. Another case from 1977 involved a car being followed by a bright object, later identified as the crescent moon.

Experts and Misidentifications

Charles Fort's observations from 1919 are cited, suggesting that people familiar with their surroundings might not always be reliable witnesses. The article also points out that even trained professionals like pilots, captains, and military personnel are not immune to misinterpretations. Examples include a German officer in WWI who reported seeing spirits fighting in the sky, leading to a friendly fire incident, and Russian naval officers mistaking Japanese submarines for enemy vessels in 1904. A British warship also fired on what it thought was an American ship but was an island.

Psychological Factors in Eyewitness Accounts

Psychologist Elizabeth Loftus's research is referenced, indicating that eyewitnesses often observe poorly and that their memories can be altered over time by new information and the way questions are asked. The article notes that while intense experiences might lead to vivid memories, they do not guarantee accuracy. The example of "Titanic" survivors is used to show how even deeply involved witnesses can provide contradictory accounts and recall events they only heard about.

The Challenge of Verifying Unidentified Objects

It is argued that the correctness of an eyewitness report can only be verified if the reported event is known or can be identified. For unidentified objects like Nessie, UFOs, or Bigfoot, verification is impossible because there is no baseline to compare the report against. The conclusion is that assuming an unidentified object in a UFO report is real simply because witnesses accurately describe known objects is a logical fallacy.

Statistical Comparisons of UFOs and IFOs

Some studies have attempted to statistically compare UFO and IFO data. While one study by the Batelle-Institut suggested that less than 1% of unidentified sightings were truly unknown, other studies, including those from Italy (CISU) and Spain, found no significant statistical differences between UFO and IFO cases. These studies indicated similar patterns in yearly distribution, time of day, and even preferred landing months, suggesting that UFOs and IFOs might stem from the same underlying phenomena or perceptual biases.

The Role of Belief and the "Pascal's Wager" Argument

The article touches upon the subjective nature of belief in UFOs. J. Allen Hynek acknowledged that eyewitness reports cannot prove a physical phenomenon and that belief in UFOs often requires a leap of faith. The concept of "Pascal's Wager" is introduced, suggesting that believing in the reality of UFO experiences, even without definitive proof, might be a more pragmatic approach for researchers, akin to Pascal's argument for believing in God.

Conclusion

The issue strongly suggests that the lack of progress in UFO research over 74 years is due to a focus on the anomalous and poorly described sightings rather than on the vast majority of correctly reported IFOs. The authors contend that while a genuine "UFO in itself" might exist, the evidence presented so far is insufficient and largely based on unreliable eyewitness accounts, which can be easily distorted or misidentified. The scientific approach requires physical evidence, not just anecdotal reports.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, with a consistent emphasis on the misidentification of known objects and the unreliability of eyewitness testimony. The editorial stance appears to be skeptical of conventional UFO explanations, advocating for rigorous scientific analysis and a preference for IFO explanations whenever possible. The journal encourages a critical approach to claims, prioritizing physical evidence over anecdotal accounts and exploring psychological and perceptual factors that contribute to misinterpretations.

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), dated June 2021 (Issue 6-2021, Nr. 258), features a prominent article on "Die 'Contact Initiative'" by Erich Habich-Traut, proposing a new approach to contacting UAPs/UFOs.

The 'Contact Initiative'

Erich Habich-Traut introduces the "Contact Initiative" (CI), a project aiming to establish contact with UAPs/UFOs via radio waves. The initiative is based on the premise that UAPs/UFOs are controlled by biological or technical intelligence that is not hostile. Unlike SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence), which passively listens for signals, the CI proposes an active approach.

Challenges of SETI

The article outlines three main difficulties for SETI: finding a planet with intelligent life, assuming extraterrestrials use radio waves for communication, and the immense time lag involved in interstellar communication. The latter is illustrated by the fact that a response to a signal from 25 light-years away would take 50 years to receive, potentially outliving the participants.

The 'Contact Initiative's' Approach

The CI aims to leverage crowdsourcing through a smartphone app called "CONTACT PROJECT APP." This app would allow users, termed "Search Partners," to report UAP/UFO sightings. The system would involve various participants, including amateur radio operators (HAM/CB), video and Gigapixel camera operators, and operators of Unistellar telescopes and passive radar devices. The app would have two modes: ALERT and CONTACT. Alerters report sightings, while Conctacters are radio operators who would attempt to establish contact.

UFO/UAP Identification and Analysis

When a sighting is reported, the app records time and GPS coordinates. Users can optionally add photos or videos. The system uses gravity sensors and a compass to capture elevation and azimuth data. An exclusion server analyzes GPS data against astronomical, NORAD, and air traffic databases to identify known objects. If an object remains unidentified within a set time, it is classified as a potential UAP (PUAP/UFO) and alerts are sent to nearby Conctacters.

Communication Methods

Amateur radio operators would attempt to establish contact using various radio bands, listening for incoming signals and transmitting messages. The content of these messages would need to be pre-discussed and agreed upon. The CI also suggests the possibility of live streaming communications globally. Qualified participants from organizations like the SETI Institute, METI, SETI League, and MUFON would coordinate and continue any established communication.

The 'Alien Marketplace'

To incentivize participation, the project proposes an "Alien Marketplace" where prizes, potentially in the form of money or non-fungible tokens (NFTs), would be awarded for successful discoveries. The most valuable prize, a "Jackpot," would go to the first person to report a UAP/UFO that makes contact. False reports would be penalized. The project and app would be financed through advertising on the Alien Marketplace.

UFO/UAP Theories and History

The issue touches upon the history of UFO research, mentioning Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting and the subsequent media coining of "flying saucer." It notes how UFOs transitioned from mainstream media topics to a more fringe subject, influenced by the "Sagan Standard" (extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence). The article also explores theories about UFOs, including the possibility of them being future human technology (time travel) or originating from other worlds. The concept of warp drives and FTL (Faster-Than-Light) travel is discussed, referencing Miguel Alcubierre's work and Dr. Erik Lentz's recent research on positive energy warp fields.

Commentary on the 'Contact Initiative'

Josef Garcia provides a commentary on Habich-Traut's initiative, highlighting several challenges. He points out the limitations of amateur radio frequencies set by the IARU, the difficulty of communicating with potential alien technology that might use different methods (e.g., laser), and the fact that no verifiable contact with extraterrestrials has been made by amateur radio operators since 1925. Garcia also expresses concern about the reward system potentially encouraging false reports and the difficulty in distinguishing UFOs from advanced military aircraft or secret satellites that can disable their transponders. Despite these challenges, Garcia acknowledges the importance of new technological possibilities in UAP/UFO research, citing other researchers like Prof. Hakan Kayal and Avi Loeb.

Literature and Media Reviews

The issue includes a brief note on a TV segment from "Late Night Berlin" where the podcast "Exploring the Bizarre" by Tim Beckley and Tim Swartz was discussed, with Beckley being referred to as a ufologist. A review of the book "Atlas der außerirdischen Begegnungen" (Atlas of Extraterrestrial Encounters) by Bruno Fuligni and François Moreno is also presented. The book is described as a general overview of UFO literature, focusing on a geographical presentation of selected cases.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the active pursuit of contact with potential extraterrestrial intelligence (UAPs/UFOs), the technological and scientific challenges involved, and the historical context of UFO research. The "Contact Initiative" represents a proactive, crowdsourced approach, contrasting with traditional passive SETI methods. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the UAP phenomenon, exploring both scientific and speculative avenues, while also acknowledging the skepticism and challenges within the field. The inclusion of commentary and literature reviews suggests a balanced approach, presenting different perspectives and ongoing developments in UFO research.

This issue of "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), issue number 258 from the 6-2021 volume, published by Frederking & Thaler Verlag GmbH, offers a critical and investigative look into the UFO phenomenon. The magazine focuses on providing information and analysis, distinguishing itself from superficial internet searches by offering in-depth content.

Book Reviews

"Atlas der Ufologie" by Hans-Werner Peiniger

The review discusses a book that presents 33 UFO-related locations organized by continent, including a German case involving Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's sighting of a luminous "amphitheater" in 1768. It also highlights curious incidents like a medium in Geneva in 1894 claiming to have visited Mars and spoken Martian, and the 1950s/60s Marxist ufology movement in Brussels led by Juan Posadas. The reviewer notes the book's lack of photos or sketches, but praises its glossary and index. The book is described as potentially interesting for young ufology enthusiasts, featuring locations like "the flying saucer of Morsbach," Roswell, and Area 51.

"Außerirdische und was Sie darüber wissen sollten" by Peter Leibundgut

Authored by a retired individual deeply engaged with cosmological ethics, this book aims to provide a scientific perspective on extraterrestrial life, distinguishing between knowledge and speculation. It does not offer proof of aliens but delves into the fundamentals of intelligent life's origin, its probability in the universe, and potential implications. The author touches upon the Earth's formation, the evolution of life, and future prospects, suggesting humanity might need to seek new planets. The review notes Leibundgut's discussion on the challenges of interstellar communication, the characteristics of stars and galaxies, and the possibility of alien contact. He mentions UFO-related events like Roswell and the Greifswald case but concludes that aliens are not necessarily required to explain these phenomena. The book also explores hypothetical alien appearances and the number of potential civilizations, referencing the Drake equation and past attempts at interstellar communication like the Arecibo message and Pioneer plaques. The reviewer expresses a desire for more depth on the social consequences of potential contact.

"Neue Erkenntnisse" by Erich von Däniken

This review praises the book's visual presentation and content, highlighting its high-quality paper and color photographs from the author's extensive research. It presents "impossible" artifacts like "alien skulls" and "skeletons not of this world," suggesting that the conventional understanding of Earth's history and humanity might be flawed. The reviewer, Walter Jörg Langbein, commends von Däniken's provocative and entertaining style, noting his lifelong dedication to collecting and synthesizing "forbidden facts" into a coherent worldview. Langbein encourages readers to approach von Däniken's work with an open mind, acknowledging that while not everyone may find his conclusions convincing, his research is driven by a genuine pursuit of scientific understanding. The book is presented as a means to reconsider established truths and embrace new perspectives.

"Luftschiffe und Aeronauten" by Ulrich Magin (Hrsg.)

This book offers a historical account of the airship phenomenon between 1896 and 1915, particularly focusing on sightings along the American West Coast. The review notes that these sightings of steerable balloons, which were novel at the time, led to speculation ranging from secret inventors to extraterrestrial spacecraft. A significant portion of UFO researchers believe these historical observations are connected to the modern UFO phenomenon. The book is 122 pages, paperback, with illustrations, and costs €10.00 (€8.00 for GEP members).

"Vorsicht Verschwörung!" by André Kramer

The second edition of this book provides a current overview and refutation of right-wing extremist conspiracy theories within the field of fringe science, including topics like Paleo-SETI and UFOs. The author argues that addressing these fringe science communities directly is crucial for achieving any real enlightenment. The book suggests that as long as these claims remain unchallenged and appear plausible, they will continue to attract followers who can exploit these aspects for their own agendas. The book is 185 pages, paperback, with 39 illustrations, and costs €15.00 (€12.00 for GEP members).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently adopts a critical and scientific approach to ufology, aiming to provide well-researched information and analysis. It distinguishes between factual reporting and speculation, encouraging readers to engage with evidence thoughtfully. The recurring themes include historical UFO sightings, the scientific investigation of the phenomenon, the potential for extraterrestrial life, and the debunking of unsubstantiated theories, particularly those linked to extremist ideologies. The journal also serves as a platform for book reviews and reader feedback, fostering a community dedicated to the serious study of UFOs.