JUFOF - Issue 263 - 2022 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of "jufof - journal für ufo-forschung" (Issue 05-2022, Volume 43, Number 263) is published by GEP e.V. and focuses on UFO detection from space and historical sightings. The cover features a striking image of Earth with satellite trails and space debris, overlaid with UFOs, and highlights the 50th anniversary of GEP's UFO research. The main headline is "UFO-Detektion im und aus dem Weltraum Teil 1" (UFO Detection in and from Space Part 1).

Editorial

In the editorial, Danny Ammon discusses the increasing data-driven nature of UFO/UAP research, emphasizing the shift towards 'measurement-based' UFO research using various sensors. He notes that despite over 70 years of research, the exact nature of UFOs remains unknown, making it difficult to distinguish anomalous measurements from conventional sources. The editorial highlights contributions from Walter Andritzky on technical UFO detection by authorities and Ulrich Magin on an atmospheric phenomenon over Unna in 1854. Ammon stresses that different research approaches (witnesses, measurements, traces, cultural knowledge) are all valid and should not be pitted against each other. He also announces a major anniversary conference in Lüdenscheid to discuss the past, present, and future of UFO research.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen

Späte Untersuchung einer UFO-Sichtung aus dem Jahr 1997

This section details a case investigated by Thomas Mertens, originally reported in July 2022 but concerning an event from July 6, 1997, near Zeitz, Germany. Two witnesses, Katja W. (born 1977) and another woman (then 23), reported seeing a UFO while driving. The object was described as saucer-shaped with a dome, made of brushed silvery metal, approximately 15-20 meters in diameter and 3-4 meters high. It hovered silently about 5 meters above trees at a distance of roughly 200 meters. The witnesses experienced euphoria rather than fear. The object then moved in an arc and descended into a cornfield. The investigation classified the case as having insufficient data, with a tendency towards a possible aircraft explanation. The witness described the object as having a smooth, seamless surface with no visible openings, and it made no sound. The witness expressed a strong belief in extraterrestrial visitors and that they might intentionally show themselves to receptive individuals. The report notes that the witness was very interested in UFOs but had not published the account before due to fear of not being taken seriously. The analysis suggests the sighting could be a misinterpretation of a conventional aircraft, possibly an ultralight aircraft, due to the lighting conditions and the witness's emotional state potentially affecting memory.

Plasma-Phänomen in Ravensburg?

This case, dated 00.00.2020 in Ravensburg, Germany, describes an unusual observation during heavy rain. The witness saw a red, glowing object, estimated to be 60-80 cm long and 15-20 cm in diameter, under a floodlight. The object appeared to 'charge' itself from the light and then moved flexibly, rotating like a worm before ascending rapidly and disappearing. The witness described it as possibly a plasma phenomenon or similar to a ball lightning. Hans-Werner Peiniger classified it as a 'PROBLEMATIC UFO' (CE I) and is seeking further information.

UFO-Detektion im und aus dem Weltraum Teil 1

This article by Walter Andritzky explores the increasing capabilities for detecting UAPs (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) from space. It notes recent UAP studies announced by NASA and the Airborne Object Identification and Management Synchronization Group (AOIMSG). The author questions the data sources these initiatives will use, suggesting a shift from eyewitness accounts to data from space surveillance technologies. These technologies, originally developed for space safety (e.g., collision avoidance with space debris, asteroid defense) and military applications (e.g., Earth observation, reconnaissance), are becoming increasingly sophisticated. The article highlights the dual-use nature of these technologies, with commercial and military applications often overlapping, citing examples like Starlink satellites and the Falcon 9 rocket. It points out that approximately 50 countries operate satellites, with non-US countries running hundreds of communication, Earth observation, and navigation satellites. The author suggests that the UFO detection potential of space agencies in countries like China, Russia, India, and Japan warrants investigation. The article also touches upon the growing problem of space traffic and the need for 'Space Traffic Controllers' to manage the increasing number of satellites. It mentions the development of anti-satellite weapons (ASAT) by various nations and the potential threats they pose to civilian and military communication systems. The article concludes by noting the proximity of an unidentified object to the ISS crew in April 2021, which prompted them to don spacesuits as a precaution.

Literatur

Jenseits von Materie

This section briefly mentions "Jenseits von Materie" and "UFO CONTACT AT PASCAGOULA" as literature references.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the evolving methodologies in UFO research, moving towards data-driven and technological approaches, alongside the investigation of specific historical cases. The magazine also addresses the growing relevance of space-based observation for potential UAP detection and the challenges posed by space debris and military applications in orbit. The editorial stance, as expressed by Danny Ammon, is inclusive, valuing multiple research methods and encouraging a holistic approach to understanding the UFO phenomenon. The GEP e.V. is presented as a long-standing organization dedicated to this research, celebrating its 50th anniversary.

This issue of 'JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG' (Issue 5-2022, Nr. 263) delves into the capabilities of various US military and civilian organizations in detecting Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and their role in space surveillance. The publication, originating from Germany and written in German, explores how technologies developed for tracking satellites, asteroids, and potential military threats can also be applied to the detection of anomalous aerial phenomena.

UFO Detection Capabilities in the USA

The article highlights the increasing collaboration between military and civilian entities like NASA and the Space Force (USSF) to leverage shared technologies for space domain awareness (SDA). The Space Surveillance Telescope (SST) of the USSF, initially for detecting Near Earth Objects (NEOs) and space debris, is noted for its potential in cislunar SDA and NEO search. A memorandum from September 16, 2020, emphasizes historical cooperation in space launches, communication, security, and situational awareness, with future efforts extending to the Moon.

The Space Development Agency (SDA), founded in 2019, plans a multi-layered defense system, including satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Geosynchronous Orbit (GEO), to track hypersonic objects, thereby enhancing UFO detection capabilities. These systems aim to improve the detection and tracking of objects, including those with rapid changes in direction that conventional radar struggles with.

NORAD's Role in UFO Detection

The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), established in the 1950s for early warning against Soviet bomber attacks, has evolved to include space surveillance. Its primary mission is airspace security using radar, satellites, and fighter jets. NORAD's systems, including the Space Surveillance Network (SSN), are designed to track a vast number of space objects. The article mentions historical UFO-related activities investigated by NORAD, such as an incident in April 1964 near Merced, California, where unidentified flying objects were detected at high altitudes.

NORAD's unknown track reporting system (NUTR) has logged thousands of entries between 1971 and 2015. These 'unknown tracks' are forwarded to the NORAD-USNORTHCOM Center for Aerospace Analysis. The journal also references a 1972 report of an object with flashing lights observed near North Bay airport, correlating with radar returns.

Advanced Detection Systems

The issue details numerous advanced systems employed for space surveillance and potential UFO detection. These include:

• Defense Support Program (DSP) satellites: Launched since 1970, these GEO satellites use infrared detectors to spot missile launches, nuclear explosions, and volcanic activity. They are being replaced by Space Based Infrared (SBIRS) and Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) satellites.
• Space Surveillance Telescope (SST): Operated by the USSF, it scans large areas of space and can detect fast-moving, faint objects like asteroids. A specific SST at Harold E. Holt Naval Communication Station in Australia uses algorithms for wide-angle detection of small, faint objects, which are characteristic of UFOs.
• Global Infrasound Acoustic Monitoring Network: With 60 stations worldwide, this network measures low-frequency pressure waves and can detect meteors and other atmospheric objects, with scientists reporting UFO detections.
• Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Telescopes: The Starfire Optical Range (SOR) at Kirtland AFB can distinguish objects the size of a basketball at 1000 km. The Advanced Electro-Optical System (AEOS) on Maui uses adaptive optics to enhance object detection.
• Site C-6 at Eglin AFB: This facility features a phased array radar capable of detecting baseball-sized objects at 40,000 km.
• Costa Rica Space Radar: Operational since 2021, it uses four reflectors to detect space debris and UFOs.
• Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) satellites: These satellites monitor objects from geosynchronous orbit and can provide high-resolution images of UFOs below GEO.
• Space Fence: Operated by Lockheed Martin, this radar system can detect objects as small as 10 cm up to GEO.
• Ground-Based Electro-Optical Deep Space Surveillance (GEODSS): Multiple GEODSS units with 1m telescopes provide high-sensitivity imaging, capable of detecting basketball-sized objects up to 40,000 km.
• Canadian Meteor Orbit Radar (CMOR): This radar system collects optical and radar data, with object sizes and speeds analogous to some UFO phenomena.
• German Systems: The Weltraumlagezentrum (WRLageZ) in Uedem/Kalkar utilizes the ASA 400 telescope and the mobile GESTRA radar for tracking space objects. The Tracking and Imaging Radar (TIRA) is designed to track ICBMs but can also image small objects and potentially UFOs.

UFO Detection from Space

The article suggests that instruments designed to track asteroids (NEOs) and rocket launches are well-suited for UFO detection due to similar characteristics. NASA's Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO) and its NEOWISE project, along with other asteroid-tracking initiatives, inadvertently register solid-body UFOs. The Spitzer Telescope and the planned NASA NEO Surveyor Infrared Telescope are also mentioned for their potential in detecting near-Earth objects, including UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the dual-use nature of advanced space surveillance technologies. Systems developed for national security, asteroid defense, and space debris monitoring are inherently capable of detecting and tracking unidentified aerial phenomena. The journal emphasizes the growing sophistication of these systems, from ground-based radars and telescopes to extensive satellite networks, all contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the space domain. The editorial stance appears to be one of informed inquiry, presenting the technical capabilities and historical data related to UFO sightings and the organizations involved in their investigation, without definitive conclusions but highlighting the potential for these technologies to shed light on the phenomenon.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 5-2022, Nr. 263, dated May 2022, focuses on a variety of topics related to unidentified phenomena, space surveillance, and historical accounts.

Asteroids and Comets

The newsletter section reports on the current count of known asteroids and comets, with 27,764 asteroids and 117 comets identified. It notes 1,309 objects on a 'risk list'. Recent close approaches to Earth are detailed, including six objects passing within half a lunar distance in February 2020, and asteroid 2020JJ passing at a mere 13,400 km in April 2020. Four asteroids remain on a collision course. The 410-meter asteroid 2020SW passed near Patagonia at a distance of 21,710 km in September 2020.

The Flyeye-Netzwerk, a system of four globally distributed telescopes with 16 cameras each, is being developed to automatically scan the night sky for Near-Earth Objects (NEOs). The goal is to detect all objects over 40 meters in diameter up to three weeks before impact by 2030. The first telescope will be installed on Monte Mufara in Sicily, with data sent to the Minor Planet Center. The article suggests that these instruments, utilizing AI for anomaly detection, could also be employed for UFO detection.

Satellite and Meteor Tracking

The Canary Island Long-Baseline Observatory (CILBO), with two fully automated video cameras on Tenerife and La Palma, tracks and calculates the flight paths of meteorites. The LIC1 Cam, with a 60° field of view, detected 37 meteors on August 10, 2020, and 61 on August 11, 2020, including 45 Perseids (debris from Comet Swift-Tuttle). These cameras use Zeiss Planar 50mm or Distagon 35mm lenses with a residual light amplifier, and it is assumed they could also document UFOs for the ESA Meteor Research Group.

Satellite and Rocket Tracking

The article delves into the history and scope of satellite and rocket tracking, starting with the "Space-Track" project founded in 1957 by G.R. Miczaika and Dr. E. Wahl. This USAF project aimed to track all satellites, rocket parts, and space debris using radar, telescopes, and radio waves. The SATCAT catalog contains 44,552 entries. By 1960, Space-Track had 150 sensors and was integrated into NORAD's Space Detection and Tracking System (SPADATS), maintaining close contact with the NSA and the CIA's Foreign Missile and Space Analysis Center (FMSAC). Radar installations on Shemya Island and Diyabarkir were used to monitor Soviet rocket launches and track satellites. Optical tracking was performed by 12 Baker-Nunn satellite cameras operated by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) and three USAF cameras. Amateur astronomers also participate in the SAO moonwatch team.

China is also developing similar space situational awareness capabilities through the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO). The article mentions the deployment of an inspection and repair satellite, Shijan-17, with a robotic arm.

Since 1960, satellite orbits have been calculated using fixed ground stations (satellite geodesy). This has been augmented by methods like laser ranging, radar, and microwave distance measurements. The Baker-Nunn cameras, with focal lengths of 30-70 cm and apertures of f/2 to f/5, provided photographic observations of satellites and ballistic objects against the star background. Twenty Baker-Nunn cameras were built.

UFO Interference with Rocket Launches

According to Tompkins (2020), rocket launches from Vandenberg AFB were allegedly disrupted by UFOs since 1955. These UFOs reportedly deflected the warheads of Nike missiles launched from Kwajalein-Atoll, preventing them from hitting ICBMs. Nike-Hercules missiles are said to have shot down several UFOs over the White Sands test range.

Space Surveillance and Military Operations

The Combined Force Space Component Command (CFSCC) and the 18th Space Control Squadron (18 SPCS) operate the website www.space-track.org, providing data for 16,000 satellites and offering services like collision avoidance. Innovations for future space warfighters are developed within the Air Education and Training Command's Spark Tank. The CFSCC collaborates with space operations centers in Australia, New Zealand, England, and Canada. The article notes a shift from the ideal of peaceful space utilization to a potential war-fighting domain due to national security interests, with NATO declaring space an operational domain due to the threat of anti-satellite weapons.

An Atmospheric Phenomenon over Unna in January 1854

This extensive section details a reported atmospheric phenomenon over Unna, Germany, on January 22, 1854. Multiple German newspapers reported on this event, which was described as an 'imposing phenomenon' (Fata Morgana - Luftspiegelung). Eyewitnesses reported seeing a vast military procession, including cavalry and infantry, moving across the landscape. The event was linked to local prophecies of a great battle ('Völkerschlacht am Birkenbaum').

The article presents a scientific analysis of the event, citing an essay by Ed. Heis in the "Wochenschrift für Astronomie, Meteorologie und Geographie." While some witnesses interpreted it as supernatural, the scientific explanation leans towards an atmospheric mirage. The phenomenon was observed shortly after sunset. The article discusses the timing, location, and witness testimonies, noting discrepancies and attempts to explain the event naturally.

Key witnesses included residents of Büderich, the teacher Herr Schlüchting, and others. The article details the time of day, the weather conditions (unusually warm for January, with strong sunset glow), and the geographical context of the Haargebirge.

It is suggested that the phenomenon might have been a reflection of a house on a nearby hill, made visible by atmospheric conditions and the heated ground, creating the illusion of a burning house and a moving army. The article also explores how the event was incorporated into folklore and later referenced in the context of World War I as a 'Kriegs-Fata Morgana'.

Literature Reviews

Two book reviews are included:

1. "UFOS - Die Fakten" by Harald Lesch, with contributions from Prof. Hakan Kayal and Hans-Werner Peiniger. This appears to be a ZDF documentary or related publication.

2. "Jenseits von Materie" (Beyond Matter) by Oliver Lazar. The review highlights Lazar's background as a scientist who, after a personal experience involving the death of a child, began researching paranormal phenomena and claims to have made contact with the deceased child through mediums, verifying the information through critical checks.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores the intersection of unexplained aerial phenomena with scientific inquiry, historical accounts, and folklore. There is a clear effort to provide detailed, evidence-based reporting on UFO sightings and related events, while also acknowledging and analyzing the cultural and psychological factors that may influence interpretations. The publication seems to maintain a critical yet open stance towards the subject matter, encouraging scientific investigation and the cataloging of data, as seen in the discussions on space surveillance and historical phenomena. The recurring theme of linking UFO sightings to prophecies or significant historical events is also evident, particularly in the detailed analysis of the 1854 Unna incident.

Title: JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG
Issue: 5-2022, NR. 263
Date: May 2022
Publisher: GEP e.V.
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of the Journal für UFO-Forschung (jufof) focuses on the 50th anniversary of the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), Germany's largest non-profit scientific organization dedicated to UFO research. The magazine includes a detailed program for the GEP's anniversary conference and member assembly to be held in Lüdenscheid in November 2022.

Book Reviews

"Paläo-SETI" by André Kramer

The issue features a review of André Kramer's book "Paläo-SETI: Methodenbausteine für die Suche nach den Spuren Außerirdischer in der Vergangenheit." The book critically examines the methods used in pre-astronautics, which claims that extraterrestrial beings visited Earth in the past, using myths and archaeological sites as evidence. Kramer analyzes these claims and proposes "Paläo-SETI" as a more rigorous search paradigm, contrasting it with existing pre-astronautics approaches. The review notes that Kramer traveled extensively to gather information for his research.

"UFO CONTACT AT PASCAGOULA" by Charles Hickson and William Mendez

Another significant review covers the book "UFO CONTACT AT PASCAGOULA," which details the famous abduction case of Charles Hickson and Calvin Parker in Pascagoula, Mississippi, USA, on October 11, 1973. The review recounts the witnesses' account of encountering a craft with blue lights and three alien occupants with crab-like hands. The witnesses were reportedly taken aboard the craft and subjected to examination. The case gained international attention, and the witnesses passed lie detector tests and were hypnotically interviewed.

Book Review of an unnamed book discussing Intelligent Design and Evolution

A review discusses a book that challenges the materialistic worldview and the theory of evolution. The reviewer highlights the book's critique of evolutionary theory, particularly regarding the origin of life from a primordial soup and the development of complex systems. The book suggests that evolutionary processes, relying on random genetic changes, are insufficient to explain the emergence of new species and complex organisms. It proposes "Intelligent Design" as an alternative, while acknowledging the term's frequent association with religious fundamentalism. The book also presents findings from the EREAMS study, which reportedly provided evidence of contact with deceased individuals.

GEP Anniversary Conference

Pages 3 and 4 are dedicated to the "50 Jahre UFO-Forschung der GEP" (50 Years of UFO Research by GEP) conference and GEP Member Assembly. The event is scheduled for November 5-6, 2022, in Lüdenscheid. The program includes various talks and discussions by GEP members and invited speakers on topics such as:

• A historical review of 50 years of UFO research by GEP.
• The future of UFO research and the GEP's guiding principles.
• The meaning of UFO drawings and perceived UFOs (IFO-Wahrnehmung).
• Exosociology and the implications of first contact with extraterrestrial intelligence.
• An analysis of the "Oz-factor" in GEP cases.
• An overview of official and secret UFO research in the USA.

The conference includes a welcome address, discussions, coffee breaks, a lunch break, and a podium discussion. The member assembly is scheduled for Sunday, November 6th.

Other Content

Contests and Giveaways

The issue announces two prize contests for GEP members: a book prize contest for a book related to aliens, and a jubilee prize contest for a collection of books about flying saucers. Details on how to enter and the closing dates are provided.

GEP and UFO Information

The final pages provide information about the GEP, its research methods, and the Journal für UFO-Forschung. It defines what constitutes a UFO and provides contact information for reporting UFO sightings via phone, email, or the GEP's websites.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the history and future of UFO research, particularly within the GEP. There's a strong emphasis on scientific methodology, critical analysis of existing theories (like evolution), and the exploration of alternative explanations such as Intelligent Design and pre-astronautics. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous, interdisciplinary investigation into the UFO phenomenon, aiming to provide a platform for documented evidence, case studies, and informed discussion. The journal positions itself as a critical yet open-minded publication, encouraging detailed research and analysis.