CENAP Infoline - no 162

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-INFOLINE
Issue Date: June 11, 2002
Issue Number: 162
Publisher: CENAP
Country of Publication: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP-INFOLINE, a supplement to the CENAP-Report focusing on the international UFO scene, covers a range of topics including space technology, astronomical phenomena mistaken for UFOs, and parapsychological issues.

Science & Technology

Barbara Morgan's Ticket to Space

16 years after the Challenger disaster, Barbara Morgan, the 'double' of teacher Christa McAuliffe, has been given a chance to fly into space. Morgan, who regained her astronaut status in 1998, is scheduled to participate in a Shuttle mission once the International Space Station is largely completed, according to NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe.

Northrop Grumman X-47A Pegasus

Northrop Grumman is preparing its X-47A drone for its maiden flight, expected in the coming months. The drone has undergone engine tests in December, January, and March. The primary focus is on thorough system checks, especially the software, to ensure safe operation. Flight tests will take place at the US Navy's China Lake facility. The Pegasus is a precursor to the UCAV-N, an unmanned combat aircraft being developed by Northrop Grumman for DARPA.

Researchers Solve Ice Lump Mystery

Madrid - Researchers have solved the mystery of ice lumps that fell on Spain two years ago. These 30-centimeter-sized chunks are identified as 'Mega-ice meteors,' a previously unknown natural phenomenon. According to research leader Martinez-Frias, these lumps formed at an altitude of twelve kilometers in the lower atmosphere where weather originates.

UFO Discussions and Explanations

UFO Alarm at Midnight

Mannheim UFO researcher Werner Walter reported his phone was constantly ringing due to reports of UFOs. However, the 'glowing torches' observed were identified as the planets Venus and Jupiter, which appear close together every few years.

Planets Keep UFO Researchers Awake

The conjunction of Venus and Jupiter caused excitement among many people, leading to numerous calls to UFO researcher Werner Walter. Walter explained that this celestial 'duo' aligns every few years, with the last occurrence in February 1999. He noted that people often mistake this for unidentified flying objects (UFOs). The phenomenon is easily observable with the naked eye under good weather conditions. Additionally, the International Space Station was flying over Germany, and its bright light could also be mistaken for a UFO.

Oggersheim 'UFO Case' Explained

Following a RHEINPFALZ report on unexplained UFO cases, UFO researcher Hansjürgen Köhler in Mannheim received numerous reports from readers. The Oggersheim UFO case from February 3, 2002, was explained as three kite-like objects observed by a family, which turned out to be models flown by a kite builder from Darmstadt. Köhler, who has been active with CENAP for 29 years, aims to find natural explanations for sightings that observers might mistake for UFOs. Most of these sightings are typically explained as balloons, aircraft, or astronomical phenomena.

Cases Explained: Kites, Aircraft, and Disco Lights

Several cases reported to CENAP have been explained: A family's claim of flying objects was attributed to a kite. A sighting of a 'strong white light in a triangle' was identified as a US Air Force C-141 transport aircraft. A 'weak white disc' seen in a large circle was determined to be a disco spotlight. Another case involving a red light over the moon was identified as an Esbit-powered party balloon.

Astronomical Phenomena as UFOs

Many reported UFO sightings are attributed to astronomical events. A woman in Haßloch observed 'two beautiful light stars' in May 1997, identified as the planet Mars and the star Regulus. Two couples in Bad Dürkheim saw a red light, later identified as a party balloon. A man in Kirrweiler saw a triangular formation of lights, identified as a US Air Force C-141. A 'white disc' seen in a large circle was explained as a disco spotlight. A man in Pirmasens saw a bright light that split into two, identified as a meteor or shooting star. A family in Zweibrücken observed a bright light, identified as the planet Saturn. Another report described a 'milky object' between clouds, identified as the moon.

Parapsychology and Witchcraft

"Witchcraft Can Work"

Walter von Lucadou, head of the Parapsychological Counseling Center in Freiburg, warns against engaging with self-proclaimed magicians. Approximately 3000 people contact the center annually, with about ten percent reporting fear of witchcraft and magic. Von Lucadou states that while people presenting as witches or magicians exist, their services, often involving 'hexing back' partners, can cost between 500 and 70,000 Euros, with catastrophic consequences.

Psychological Impact of 'Bewitchment'

Von Lucadou explains that 'bewitchment' can function psychologically. Even if a person doesn't believe in magic, knowing they are the subject of it can create immense fear and anxiety. He advises people to avoid such offers and, if they believe they are bewitched, to seek behavioral therapy. He notes that some people, particularly those with a tendency for inner dialogue or dissociation, are more susceptible.

Black Magic Still Feeds Fear

Many people who believe they are victims of 'black magic' feel misunderstood. The Parapsychological Counseling Center in Freiburg helps individuals who have had unusual experiences and feel overwhelmed. Von Lucadou emphasizes that paranormal events often occur when there is an unresolved problem between individuals, which they cannot address directly. He cites a case where a family's belief in witchcraft was linked to unresolved issues with their daughter-in-law.

Distinguishing SPE from Psychosis

Von Lucadou differentiates between people experiencing Spontaneous Paranormal Experiences (SPE) and those with psychosis. Individuals with SPE do not typically withdraw socially and are concerned about their mental health, unlike those with psychosis. Furthermore, SPE sufferers do not respond to medication, a key distinction identified by US psychiatrist Vernon Neppe.

The Nature of 'Bewitchment' Symptoms

Von Lucadou explains that 'bewitchment' symptoms often begin with a deliberate paranormal event, such as a healing or an occult séance, followed by uncontrolled experiences. He notes that these symptoms can resemble psychosis, but differ in key aspects. He advises that the duration of recovery from 'bewitchment' systems can be as long as the person was involved in them. He also points out that the public promotion of 'magicians' in talk shows contributes to the problem, and for him, witchcraft often amounts to fraud and criminality.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings, often providing rational explanations rooted in astronomy or misidentification. There's a strong emphasis on debunking sensational claims and presenting scientific or psychological perspectives. The publication also delves into parapsychological phenomena, particularly witchcraft, framing it largely as a psychological issue and a form of fraud, while acknowledging the persistent human fascination with the unknown. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards supernatural claims, favoring empirical evidence and psychological analysis.