JUFOF - Issue 262 - 2022 04

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'jufof', journal für ufo-forschung (Journal for UFO Research), is the 4th issue of 2022, Volume 43, Number 262. It was published in April 2022 by GEP e.V. (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), with a cover price of 4.50 Euro. The ISSN is 0723-7766. The cover prominently features a photograph of a tree against a twilight sky with a small, circled object, and the main headline "Die Fliegenden Untertassen in deutschsprachigen Presseberichten 1951 und 1952" (Flying Saucers in German-Language Press Reports 1951 and 1952). The issue also includes articles on UFO observations, a historical UFO case from 1913, and literature reviews.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Hans-Werner Peiniger, begins by reminding readers of the upcoming GEP e.V. 50th-anniversary conference in November, urging them to register for planning purposes. It mentions contingency plans for an online video conference due to potential COVID-19 restrictions. The editorial highlights that such conferences offer opportunities for interesting presentations, discussions, and networking, fostering a stronger discussion culture and potential collaborations. It then introduces the content of the current 'jufof' issue, stating that it presents a selection of UFO/UAP cases from their archives, acknowledging that not all cases can be featured to avoid overwhelming the reader. The editorial also notes that André Kramer has analyzed German-language press reports on flying saucers from 1952 and 1953, emphasizing the importance of historical context for understanding the UFO/UAP phenomenon. Ulrich Magin is credited with uncovering an interesting report from 1913 about a 'blue flame ball' attacking a ship. Finally, the editorial touches upon the growing volume of self-published literature on UFO topics due to print-on-demand services, noting the challenge of distinguishing quality content from 'published nonsense' and positioning 'jufof' as a helpful guide.

UFO-Beobachtungen (UFO Observations)

This section presents several UFO/UAP events from the GEP archive, starting with Part 1.

Case 20101008 A: Ahrensfelde, Germany (October 8, 2010)

A hobby photographer, Marcel K., captured an image of an apple tree that, upon later review, revealed a disc-shaped object with a white dome. He initially sought help from the platform Exopolitik.org, which referred him to GEP. The photographer states that he and his companions saw nothing unusual at the time of the photo. After his own review, he ruled out reflections, insects, or aircraft. The analysis, conducted by Hans-Werner Peiniger, suggests that the object is likely an insect that flew through the frame during the exposure. The EXIF data indicates a 1/5 second exposure time with flash enabled. The bright, dome-like reflection is attributed to the insect's wing or body reflecting the flash. The camera used was a SONY DSLR-A200 with a vertical-slit shutter. The analysis explains how an insect's movement relative to the shutter can create a blurred streak, and while it's difficult to definitively identify the insect, the explanation is considered plausible.

Case 19691007 A: Köthen, Germany (October 7, 1969)

A photo from the Köthen city archive, submitted by a reporter, showed a disc-shaped object over a street. Hans-Werner Peiniger's assessment concludes that the object is a street lamp suspended over the road, not a flying saucer. The image shows the suspension mechanism and part of the cable leading to the lamp.

Case 19910000 F: Faßberg (Airfield), Germany (circa 1991)

A scanned print of a photo taken at the Faßberg airfield by a Bundeswehr member shows a dark, elongated object in the sky. The original negative is no longer available. Three possible explanations are offered: 1) An exterior mirror of a vehicle, with the photo taken through the side window, and the object being a smudge on the glass. Other smudges are also visible. 2) A conventional aircraft that flew through the frame unnoticed by the photographer, though research did not identify a matching aircraft. 3) An insect or bird. The analysis leans towards the insect or bird explanation as the most probable.

Case 20180605 B: Agioi Deka, Greece (June 5, 2018)

A photo taken from a moving car shows an unusual object in the sky. The analysis suggests it was a small, light object suspended in the air, possibly stirred up by the vehicle, such as a flower petal from roadside plants. Due to the general blurriness and being out of focus, it's considered a small object in the foreground, not the distant landscape. The object is too distorted by motion blur to be identified definitively.

Case 20191124 A: Gaimersheim, Germany (November 24, 2019)

Two videos submitted by a witness show an object moving with a tumbling motion. The assessment concludes it was likely a helium-filled foil balloon shaped like the number '4'. The characteristic tumbling movement is typical of light, wind-driven foil balloons. Meteorological data indicated a wind speed of 9 km/h, supporting the foil balloon hypothesis. A search for suitable models yielded results that closely matched the observed object.

Case 20200716 A: Hohenfelde, Germany (July 16, 2020)

A witness observed and photographed a dark, spherical object with a vertical bulge at a greater distance during a walk. The object drifted slowly to the left and disappeared behind trees. The assessment suggests it was likely a foil balloon.

Von abnehmendem und zunehmendem Interesse: Die Fliegenden Untertassen in deutschsprachigen Presseberichten 1951 und 1952 (On Decreasing and Increasing Interest: Flying Saucers in German-Language Press Reports 1951 and 1952)

This article by André Kramer examines the reporting of UFO phenomena in German-language newspapers during 1951 and 1952. Kramer notes that 1950 was a prolific year for UFO coverage. However, he found that 1951 showed a noticeable decrease in press articles and public interest compared to the previous year, although he acknowledges that his search might not have been exhaustive. In contrast, 1952 saw a significant surge in press reports, indicating that UFO sightings and the public discourse surrounding them were not merely a fleeting phenomenon.

The article then details specific reports from 1951:

• January 26, 1951: The 'Hamburger Abendblatt' reported on a "Fliegende Untertasse" (Flying Saucer) observed for an hour over a Swedish Air Force training camp in Ljungbyhed. A pilot attempting to pursue the object, estimated to be at 10,000-12,000 meters altitude, had to abandon the chase due to oxygen deprivation and lost sight of it over the Baltic Sea.
• January 26, 1951: The 'Abendpost' published an official communiqué from the Swedish Ministry of Defense regarding the same sighting, confirming the event and noting that various explanations existed for the 'Flying Saucer' phenomenon, with no definitive conclusion yet reached.
• February 14, 1951: The 'Frankfurter Nachtpost' cited American scientist Dr. Urner Liddel, who suggested that Flying Saucers were merely experimental balloons from the United States.

Literatur (Literature)

This section reviews several books related to UFOs and aliens.

• Was Sie schon immer über Aliens wissen wollten und bisher nicht zu fragen wagten (What you always wanted to know about aliens but never dared to ask): This review is not detailed in the provided text.
• Unidentifizierte fliegende Objekte (Unidentified Flying Objects): This review is not detailed in the provided text.
• When Saucers Came to Earth: The Story of the Italian Ufo Landings in the Golden Era of the Flying Saucers: This review is not detailed in the provided text.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of 'jufof' are the analysis of UFO/UAP sightings, the importance of historical documentation, and the critical evaluation of photographic and video evidence. The magazine takes a skeptical yet open-minded approach, often providing plausible, mundane explanations for reported phenomena (e.g., insects, balloons, street lamps) while still documenting and investigating cases. The editorial stance emphasizes thorough research, scientific scrutiny, and the value of historical context in understanding the UFO phenomenon. There is also a clear emphasis on the GEP's role in collecting, analyzing, and publishing UFO-related information, as well as promoting discussion and collaboration within the research community.

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), dated 4-2022 (NR. 262), focuses on reports and investigations of unidentified flying objects (UFOs), commonly referred to as 'flying saucers,' primarily from the years 1951 and 1952. The content is predominantly in German and draws from various international newspapers and magazines.

Key Articles and Reports

The journal presents a chronological compilation of news reports detailing numerous sightings and related discussions. Early reports from 1951 include a filmed 'flying saucer' over East Africa by photographer Ray Overstreet, a mysterious green fireball in Mittelfrankreich, and a US Air Force statement denying secret technology and suggesting research balloons as a cause for some sightings. Sightings over Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein were initially attributed to meteors.

The year 1952 saw a surge in reports and discussions. An article in "Walliser Bote" (April 18, 1952) noted renewed interest in flying saucers following a sighting by balloon engineer J. Kaliszewski in October 1951. A summary of an extensive "Life" magazine article (May 1952) concluded that the phenomenon was real and likely not man-made, with even US military officials admitting they couldn't explain all sightings. Specific photographic evidence, such as V-formations over Lubbock, Texas, was highlighted.

Several articles delve into specific incidents and potential explanations. The "Die Tat" (May 11, 1952) reported on the examination of photographic negatives from Brazil, deemed authentic by an American military attaché, depicting a fast-moving, aircraft-like object. Reports from Kopenhagen mentioned unidentified objects, while the US Air Force was investigating. The "Wiesbadener Kurier" (May 13, 1952) reiterated the "Life" article's findings and provided a brief history of UFOs since 1947.

Sightings in France (Montlouis, Cholet, Saint-Nazaire) were reported, described as pale green or white glowing discs. A significant development was the theory proposed by German engineer Dr. Richard Miethe, who suggested that if flying saucers existed, they might be Russian craft based on his V-7 design, capable of long-range flight. This theory was reported in "Weser Kurier" and "Frankfurter Nachtausgabe" (June 7, 1952).

Further reports from "Kasseler Zeitung" and "Passauer Neue Presse" (June 14, 1952) elaborated on Miethe's V-7 design, claiming it could reach 20,000 meters in 16 seconds with a 41,000 km action radius. Conversely, the "Weser Kurier" (June 19, 1952) cited the Bamberger Sternwarte suggesting that sightings over Franconia were simply meteors.

The issue also addresses hoaxes, such as the "Schulz-Keffels" case where a photographer allegedly used bread dough to create a 'flying saucer' image, as reported in "Kasseler Zeitung" (July 9, 1952). This article also referenced the work of astrophysicist Dr. Menzel, who suggested atmospheric refractions as a cause, supported by historical Japanese texts.

In July 1952, a wave of sightings over Washington D.C. became a major focus. Radar detected unidentified objects, prompting investigations and the mobilization of physicists by the Air Force. Reports described orange-red glowing, spherical objects observed by both military and civilian pilots. The "Höchster Kreisblatt" (July 23, 1952) mentioned radar detections over Washington.

By late July and early August 1952, official explanations began to emerge. The US Air Force stated that the Washington radar anomalies were likely atmospheric refractions caused by the meeting of cold and warm air layers. Out of over 2000 investigated cases, only 400 remained unexplained, and these did not necessarily indicate intelligently controlled craft. This explanation was reported in "Kasseler Zeitung" and "Weser Kurier" (July 31, 1952).

Despite official explanations, public interest remained high. Robert L. Farnsworth, president of the American Society for Rocket Research, urged President Truman not to have the Air Force shoot at flying saucers, fearing dire consequences. John Samford of Counterintelligence dismissed the idea of foreign aircraft, also leaning towards atmospheric phenomena.

Albert Einstein was consulted on the matter, responding to Pastor Luis Gardner that he didn't know what people were seeing but wasn't particularly interested. His statement was reported in "Wetterauer Zeitung" and "Die Welt" (August 1, 1952).

General Hoyt Vandenberg, Commander of the US Air Force, declared that UFO phenomena were entirely explainable by conventional means, ruling out secret technology or extraterrestrial visitors, and urged the public to overcome 'flying saucer hysteria.' This stance was reported in "Wetterauer Zeitung," "Weser Kurier," and "Neue Zeitung" (August 2-3, 1952).

Further reports continued, including sightings of four 'flying saucers' over Salem, Massachusetts, photographed by a Coast Guard cameraman (reported in "Westfälische Nachrichten," August 6, 1952). Physicist Noel Scott proposed that ionized air masses in a vacuum could form shapes like orange-red spheres and discs, explaining their evasiveness due to magnetic field disturbances. This theory was discussed in "Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung" (August 7, 1952).

Sightings were also reported in Southern Europe, including objects in Salzburg and Livorno, Italy, with high speeds and luminous trails. A report from Florida described a possible 'attack' by a 'flying saucer' on a pathfinder leader, D. S. Desvergers, who claimed to have sustained burns and damage to his hat and clothing from the encounter (reported in "Frankfurter Rundschau," August 27, 1952).

In late September 1952, a large meteor was observed over Northern Europe, leading to numerous 'flying saucer' reports. Astronomers and meteorologists largely agreed it was a meteor, though some speculated about Russian guided missiles. Reports from Tirol mentioned silvery discs with loud engine noises, while sightings in Stockholm described 'invasions' of flying saucers, including a large glowing sphere and smaller objects exchanging light signals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread sightings of unidentified aerial phenomena, the intense public and media interest in 'flying saucers,' and the ongoing efforts by scientific and military bodies to explain these occurrences. The journal presents a wide array of reports, from photographic evidence and radar detections to eyewitness accounts. It highlights the progression from initial bewilderment and speculation about advanced technology or extraterrestrial origins towards more conventional explanations like meteors, atmospheric phenomena, and optical illusions, particularly in the latter half of 1952. The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent archival reporting, presenting diverse viewpoints and findings without overtly endorsing any single theory, but clearly documenting the shift towards more mundane explanations as investigations progressed.

This issue of the "Journal für UFO-Forschung" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 4-2022 (NR. 262), published by GEP, focuses on historical UFO reports and related topics from the 1950s and earlier. The cover story, "Ein UFO im Jahre 1913?" by Ulrich Magin, examines an unusual incident from 1913 involving a ship's masts being cut by a mysterious object. The journal also features a comprehensive analysis of newspaper reception in German-speaking countries regarding UFOs in 1951 and 1952, with a particular focus on the "Washington wave" and alleged German secret technology.

Analysis of 1951-1952 UFO Reports

The article "Die Jahre 1951 und 1952, aus Sicht der deutschsprachigen Presserezeption betrachtet" provides an overview of UFO reporting during these years. It notes a lower level of public interest in 1951, with mostly singular events reported. In contrast, 1952 saw a significant increase in reporting, likely due to several sensational events occurring simultaneously. Fifteen articles from 1952 alone focused on the "Washington wave," ten on the Northern European sightings, and five on the claims by engineer Klein regarding German secret technology from WWII. The "Washington wave" of July 1952 is highlighted as a classic UFO historical event, featuring radar echoes of unusually moving objects. Explanations at the time included atmospheric inversions. Attempts by Air Force F4-Nachtjäger to intercept the objects were unsuccessful, with the objects disappearing when pilots approached. Donald Keyhoe described dramatic near-misses during these interception attempts. Radio engineer E. W. Chambers reported seeing five large discs in formation that ascended steeply. The article also mentions that on July 26th, radar echoes repeated. Edward J. Ruppelt, former head of Project Blue Book, found it unlikely that experienced radar operators would mistake weather phenomena for targets. He cited a pilot's account of mistaking a steamboat for a UFO target due to radar anomalies. Timothy Good referenced an FBI memorandum from July 29, 1952, suggesting the possibility of extraterrestrial spacecraft and the Air Force's intention to investigate thoroughly. The author suggests the "Invasion of Washington" might have been a result of self-perpetuating dynamics and panic, fueled by inversions and other stimuli, leading to misinterpretations of stars and planets.

European Sightings and Explanations

A sighting in Europe in September 1952 over Northern Europe generated considerable press coverage. This phenomenon was visible over a large area and described as cigar-shaped, a disc, or a fireball with a silvery sheen. Meteorologists generally attributed it to meteors (bolides), while others feared it might be a guided missile, given the context of the Cold War and the recent memory of the V-2 rockets. The wide visibility from Scandinavia to Lower Saxony strongly suggested a meteorological explanation, which was also the conclusion of the Swedish military.

The "Lubbock Lights" and Salem Photographs

The "Lubbock lights" of 1951 are presented as another classic UFO case. Although direct German-language newspaper reports are scarce, a 1952 article references the case. Hundreds of witnesses in Lubbock, Texas, reported seeing lights in V-formations between August and September 1951. The initial sighting was by three professors from Texas Technological College on August 25th. Carl Hart captured photographs of lights in a V-formation on August 31, 1951. Edward J. Ruppelt initially considered the lights to be plovers (birds) illuminated by streetlights but later retracted this explanation, stating that the lights were positively identified as a "very commonplace and easily explainable natural phenomenon" but could not divulge the exact details due to promising anonymity to the source. Photographs from Salem, Massachusetts, taken on July 16, 1952, showing four apparent lights over a parking lot, are also discussed. The photographer, Shell Alpert, reportedly took the photo through a window, and the explanation offered is that it likely shows the reflection of ceiling lights. Despite this, the photo has been widely published in UFO books.

German Flying Saucer Theories and Book Reviews

The issue also touches upon the theory of whether flying saucers were based on German secret technology from the Third Reich. The author refers to a more detailed essay on this topic. The years 1951 and 1952, as reflected in the German-language press, are seen as mirroring the broader UFO history, encompassing sightings, public reactions, discussions, and various interpretations.

A book review section features "Was Sie schon immer über Aliens wissen wollten und bisher nicht zu fragen wagten" by Arthur M. Lahn. The reviewer notes the book's striking graphic design but criticizes its use of red highlighting and the author's apparent pre-formed opinions on the "Alien Complex." Lahn quotes Haim Eshed and Paul Hellyer, who claim extraterrestrial contact with Israel, the USA, and ongoing UFO construction in Antarctica. The reviewer finds Lahn's discussion of the Roswell myth disappointing, citing the inclusion of Philip J. Corso's unverified statements. The book is described as a collection of unreflected assertions and conspiracy theories, though it does present arguments often cited in the UFO scene. The reviewer awards it 2.5 out of 5 stars.

Another review covers "Unidentifizierte fliegende Objekte: Alienraumgleiter oder 'reichsdeutsche Vergeltungswaffen'?" by Alfred H. Mühlhäuser. This book, part of a series on the end of WWII and flying saucers, examines whether UFO sightings could be attributed to Nazi-developed technology. The author's objective approach is noted, particularly in his use of newspaper and magazine articles from the 1950s. However, the reviewer points out that the book fails to adequately contextualize the Cold War and the Space Race, often presenting flying saucer reports as evidence of real constructions. The reviewer identifies several instances where the author's objectivity falters, such as misplacing Kapustin Jar, claiming that post-1945 UFO occupants were human, and stating that Area 51 began operations in the late 1940s (it was established in 1955). Despite these criticisms, the book is acknowledged for its many correct explanations, such as debunking Epp as a liar.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores historical UFO phenomena, emphasizing the importance of analyzing contemporary newspaper reports and critically evaluating claims. There is a clear focus on debunking unsubstantiated theories and conspiracy narratives, while still acknowledging the enduring public fascination with UFOs and extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and evidence-based conclusions, as exemplified by the critical reviews of the books and the detailed analysis of historical sightings. The journal also highlights the role of media in shaping public perception of UFO events.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), issue 4-2022 (NR. 262), published by GEP e.V. in Germany, focuses on UFO research, book reviews, and upcoming events. The magazine critically examines the UFO phenomenon, with this issue featuring contributions from Marius Kettmann and Ulrich Magin, among others.

Book Reviews

Review of an unnamed book by Marius Kettmann

Marius Kettmann reviews a book that critically examines the UFO phenomenon, particularly focusing on alleged German technological advancements during WWII and the post-war era. The reviewer notes the book's attempt to substantiate claims, citing 372 footnotes and a 13-page bibliography. However, Kettmann points out a lack of concrete evidence and reliance on speculative language such as 'soll dann' (should then), 'durchaus denkbar' (quite conceivable), and 'möglicherweise' (possibly). He highlights the book's mention of Howard Menger as a flying saucer constructor without noting his 'classic' contactee background and claims of extraterrestrial inspiration. The review questions why advanced technology, if it existed, was not used to win the war. Kettmann praises the extensive bibliography, which includes both skeptical researchers like Werner Walter and Dennis Kirstein, as well as journalists and more controversial figures. Despite the apparent objectivity, Kettmann expresses concern that such books can obscure the line between reality and myth.

Review of "When Saucers Came to Earth: The Story of the Italian Ufo Landings in the Golden Era of the Flying Saucers" by Maurizio Verga

Ulrich Magin reviews Maurizio Verga's book, which documents approximately 101 Italian UFO landing cases from 1912 to December 29, 1954, referred to as the 'golden age' of flying saucers. The book includes well-known cases like the alleged encounter of mountaineer Johannis (1947), photos by Monguzzi (1952), and the case of Frau Lotti (1954), where aliens allegedly stole her stockings. Magin notes that while many cases find conventional explanations or are debunked, some remain unexplained. The book provides detailed entries, with some cases like Parravicino (1954) spanning 6 pages, Monguzzi 10 pages, and Frau Lotti 15 pages. The review highlights the book's inclusion of contemporary newspaper reports, SF illustrations, and Italian pop culture information. Magin considers it one of the best UFO books he has read in years, praising its clear English and comprehensive information, including maps and illustrations. The book is available from Createspace Independent Publishing Platform, published in 2020.

GEP and UFO-Forschung

The journal provides information about the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), describing it as Germany's largest non-profit scientific association dedicated to UFO research. The GEP uses questionnaires, on-site interviews, and in-depth background analysis, supported by numerous authorities and scientific institutions. The "jufof" (Journal für UFO-Forschung) has been published since 1980, serving as the GEP's publication organ. It documents sighting reports, their classification, and case investigations. The second part of the journal features competent, scientifically-methodical expert reports on the UFO phenomenon, case studies, and international reports, rounded off by a review and letters to the editor section.

UFO-Tagung (UFO Conference)

The issue heavily promotes an upcoming "UFO-Tagung" (UFO Conference) and GEP-Mitgliederversammlung (GEP Member Meeting) celebrating "50 Jahre UFO-Forschung der GEP" (50 Years of UFO Research by GEP). The event is scheduled for Saturday, November 5, 2022, and Sunday, November 6, 2022, in Lüdenscheid, Germany. The conference will feature speakers such as Dr. Danny Ammon, Andreas Anton, Robert Fleischer, T.A. Günter, Jochen Ickinger, and Hans-Werner Peiniger. The conference fee is €36.00 for GEP members and €45.00 for others. The member meeting on Sunday is free for GEP members. Registration details are provided, including an email address ([email protected]) and a website (www.ufo-forschung.de/tagung2022).

Book Announcement: "Das UFO von Roswell" by Uli Thieme

Another new release announced is Uli Thieme's book, "Das UFO von Roswell" (The UFO of Roswell), subtitled "Ein Mythos stürzt ab" (A Myth Crashes Down). The book, 356 pages long, is described as an expanded and revised version of his earlier work on the Roswell incident. It aims to provide readers with original source material, including newspaper articles, teletype reports, and witness testimonies, to form their own conclusions about the Roswell UFO case. The book is priced at €24.00 (€19.20 for GEP members), with shipping costs extra. The first 15 GEP members to order receive a signed copy.

Contests and Prizes

The issue includes information about ongoing contests: Jubiläums-Preisrätsel Nr. 4 (Anniversary Quiz No. 4), where participants can win a complete 1953 collectible sticker album by correctly identifying its title. The deadline for submissions is September 15, 2022. It also mentions previous winners of book prizes and membership giveaways from earlier quizzes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO phenomena, historical UFO cases (particularly from Italy and the US), the role of research organizations like GEP, and the promotion of UFO-related events and publications. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous, evidence-based investigation, as indicated by the critical review of speculative books and the emphasis on scientific methodology in UFO research. The journal aims to provide a platform for documenting and analyzing UFO reports while encouraging readers to critically assess the information presented.