CENAP Report - No 013

Magazine Overview

This document is issue number 13 of the "CENAP REPORT," published by CENAP, a UFO research group based in Mannheim, Germany. The issue is dated March 1977 and is presented in German. The cover features the CENAP logo and lists the "Private UFO-Forschungsgruppe Mannheim" and "3.U.N.O.R. deutsche Sektion." The table of contents indicates a variety of topics, including "Himmelsphänomene" (Celestial Phenomena), "UFO - Forschung?" (UFO - Research?), "UFO-Flap," "Nachtrag" (Addendum), "UFO über B.A.B," "Presse - News," and "CENAP-Intern."

Article 1: Himmelsphänomene (Celestial Phenomena)

This section, titled "Moderne Caiuter oder wear?" (Modern Flyers or What?), presents a compilation of numerous UFO sightings, primarily from civil pilots, that have been reported to the UFO archive. It notes that airline companies are frequently confronted with mysterious aerial objects, some of which are said to possess electromagnetic capabilities. In extreme cases, aircraft are reportedly abducted or destroyed. The article then lists a chronological catalog of sightings, starting from 1931 with an encounter by CHICHESTER, and continuing with many specific dates and locations, including:

• June 2, 1947: A formation of 40 UFOs over 3 IEID/Calif./USA.
• June 24, 1947: A sighting in Texas.
• July 23, 1947: A sighting.
• October 1, 1949: A sighting.
• January 20, 1951: A sighting.
• February 1951: The FUESELL sighting.
• July 1, 1951: The WAON/FORTENDRARY observation.
• January 29, 1954: The BONA sighting.
• February 7, 1955: The BL.0. and ELMORE observation.
• March 24, 1955: Observed over the RYUKYU ISLANDS.
• September 8, 1956: The RY sighting.
• March 9, 1957: A sighting between New York and San Juan.
• July 23, 1957: The SOKAEL sighting.
• August 14, 1957: The SOARES sighting.
• November 4, 1957: The REYSSAC sighting.
• February 24, 1959: Sighting by Capt. KILLIAN of AMERICAN AIRLINES.
• Spring 1959: A sighting of an M-104 in the USSR.
• September 23, 1959: A sighting.
• September 27, 1959: A sighting.
• December 10, 1960: The ARD sighting.
• May 22, 1961: The SAEZ sighting.
• July 27, 1961: The DARRE sighting.
• September 21, 1961: The GRIFFIN sighting.
• May 21, 1962: The PENDLETON sighting.
• November 2, 1965: The BASSI sighting.
• 1965: The TUKAMATSU incident.
• November 25, 1965: The LONGO sighting.
• December 18, 1965: The SAMOS sighting.
• September 11, 1966: The FLUKES sighting.
• October 22, 1966: A sighting.
• April 4, 1967: The S-VIII sighting.
• July 18, 1968: Another sighting by SUTTER.
• July 29, 1968: The BASTRO sighting.
• February 25, 1969: Observation over PALMA DE MALLORCA.
• 1969: The REITMAN sighting.
• 1971: A sighting involving a collision course with UFOs, the AADSLEY sighting.
• August 9, 1971: The DIOIO sighting.
• December 31, 1971/January 1, 1972: A sighting.
• July 1, 1972: The DL sighting.
• 1972: A sighting of a "Linzer Kegel" (Linz cone) UFO.
• September 22, 1972: The JET sighting.
• October 16, 1973: Observation over the MEDES Islands.
• November 30, 1973: A UFO sighting during the "Flage" in Turin, Italy.
• January 27, 1974: The BERGLUND sighting, involving 4 aircraft encountering UFOs.
• April 3, 1974: The OCODOBA sighting.
• October 23, 1974: The MOYES sighting over San Antonio.
• November 23, 1974: The FEUGEN sighting.
• January 15, 1975: The HIGUCHI sighting during a UFO "Flane" over Japan.
• May 3, 1975: The MUNTIEL sighting.
• January 3, 1976: The AGGONER sighting.

Article 2: A Specific Case Study (Eloy Sighting)

This section details a specific sighting that occurred on September 19, 1976, reported by CENAP staff member Herbert G. Jr. The sighting involved a civil pilot who observed a daylight object. The report provides the date and time (July 6, 1975, 17:00-17:30 EDT), location (30 nautical miles NNW of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania), and the observer's role as a civil pilot. The investigation was conducted by Rad. Forle, Research Director of MUFON.

Background

On September 13, 1975, Robert L. Hobson, a captain with Allegheny Airlines, contacted the author about a friend's UFO sighting. This friend, a captain with the FAA, had reported an encounter. Captain Hobson knew the author from a previous UFO sighting reported through the FAA. The author sent a letter and form to the captain to fill out and return.

Description of the Sighting

The pilot described flying in a thunderstorm front when he observed an object. The object was described as a disk, and the radar on his aircraft picked it up. The object made a sharp turn and flew into the thunderstorm. The pilot and his co-pilot observed the object for approximately 3 minutes and 45 seconds. The object's maneuverability, including a sharp turn of over 100 degrees, was noted. The author's initial impression was that it might be a balloon, but the object's speed and behavior made this unlikely.

Object Characteristics

The object was described as having a size of 1/3 of the full moon, with a dark red color that appeared almost black at times. Its apparent size was estimated at 2.54 cm at a certain point, but later corrected to 1/3 of the moon's diameter. The object's sharp 100° turn and its flight into the thunderstorm were key observations.

Interview and Analysis

Following the initial report, the author interviewed the pilot again. The pilot confirmed the object's size was 1/3 of the moon and that the 100° turn ruled out a balloon explanation. The speed of the object was estimated to be well over 400 knots, making a balloon highly improbable. The report also mentions that air traffic control in New York detected an object at the same time but classified it as "NEGATIVE" (no object in that area).

Explanations Considered

Various explanations were considered, including weather balloons, which are typically launched at specific times and locations. The report notes that the object's behavior did not align with known weather phenomena. The possibility of a "Kugelblitz" (ball lightning) was also briefly considered but dismissed due to the object's color, shape, and apparent speed.

Evaluation of the Sighting

The author concludes that the evidence, combined with the witness's training, places this UFO sighting in the category of "not aufgeklärten Fälle" (unexplained cases).

Article 3: DUIST and UFO Research

This section, labeled "SPEZIAL" (Special), discusses the DUIST organization and its stance on UFO research. It mentions that since the establishment of DUIST, there has been a secret attitude towards UFOs, which has led to a decline in UFO research over the past decade. The author notes that despite a lack of objections, they have decided to continue their work. The article references APOLLO-11 photos (Case 2) and other research findings from Mars and Venus, as well as UFO sightings (Cases 7, 8, 9, 10, 11). It highlights the importance of CENAP documentation. A letter from December 21, 1976/January 25, 1977, from DUIST Vice President and Treasurer (Herr Zimmermann) to Herr Köhler/CENAP is quoted. This letter expresses a threat of legal action for defamation, accusing the CENAP publication of being a "hobby" and an "auxiliary" effort. The DUIST representatives also mention Karl L. Veit, who has allegedly been involved in intercontinental UFO pioneering work since 1956, and state that they do not need further information from him. They also mention Prof. Oberth and imply that a 16-year-old member of DUIST has insights into the matter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CENAP REPORT are the compilation and analysis of UFO sightings, particularly those reported by pilots, and the ongoing debate and differing approaches to UFO research among various organizations like CENAP and DUIST. The editorial stance appears to be one of persistent investigation into UFO phenomena, despite potential opposition or skepticism from other groups. The detailed catalog of sightings suggests a commitment to documenting and understanding these events.

This issue of UFO-Magazin, Volume 2, Issue 1, published in 1977, focuses on UFO sightings and related investigations, primarily from Germany. The magazine, published by CENAP, features several detailed case reports and discussions within the UFO research community.

Cover Story: UFO über BAB

The cover story details an encounter on February 11, 1977, around 21:55 on the Autobahn Darmstadt-Basel, near Heddesheim. Three young individuals in a car witnessed a UFO. The driver initially saw a blue-yellow star-like object approaching, mistaking it for an airplane. His co-pilot and the person in the back seat also spotted the object. It was described as having two strong, blinding lights resembling headlights, and it moved across the highway, descending. The car stopped, and the occupants observed the object more closely. The 'headlights' extinguished, revealing 'cross-blue lights' like 'position lamps' and a flashing red light. The object was identified as disc-shaped with a cylindrical attachment, estimated to be about 100 meters long and 30-40 meters in diameter. It hovered at an altitude of 100-150 meters, illuminating the landscape. The object then moved from west to northeast/southeast and disappeared. The witnesses, who had a gas pistol, fired at the object. The report includes sketches of the object from different perspectives, showing its lights and shape, and notes its movement and eventual disappearance into a light mist.

Witness Accounts and Investigations

Eppelheim New Year's Eve Sighting

Several local residents in Eppelheim reported seeing a luminous phenomenon in the sky on New Year's Eve 1976. One witness, Sömund Wirth, described a below-hemispherical object that was glowing like metal, tapering to a point, and emitting flames. It moved faster than an airplane and did not have a comet-like tail. Another similar object was seen shortly after. The local newspaper (RNZ) investigated, with Dr. Möllenhoff suggesting it might be aircraft with flashing lights. However, the nature of the sighting remained unexplained.

Wiesenbach Sighting

A 36-year-old hairdresser from Wiesenbach reported a UFO sighting on December 31, 1976, around 18:00-19:00. While looking from his balcony, he saw a luminous object in the direction of Süd/West. He described it as a pulsating, orange-red, glowing body, not resembling an airplane or a meteorite. The object was visible for a short period. The RNZ also reported on this, mentioning a 'strange flying phenomenon' over Eppelheim during New Year's night.

Mannheim Area Sighting (Robin 63)

An additional report concerns a sighting from early 1976 and a more detailed observation on December 25, 1976, around 22:00, reported by a witness using the call sign Robin 63. He described a bright point of light that changed color through green, white, and red. With binoculars, the object appeared elongated, and a faint tail was observed. Its size was compared to a pinhead. A star map from December 1976 is included, suggesting the object was not a star.

Other Reports and Investigations

The magazine mentions ongoing investigations by CENAP, including attempts to gather information from witnesses like Herr Edmund Wirth and the family Kohler. The limitations of space in the magazine are cited for not being able to publish all details. A brief mention is made of a Mannheimer Funkstation (A-367) observing something from the Wackenburg during New Year's, but due to icy conditions, they could not investigate further.

Internal Discussions and Editorial Stance

The issue touches upon internal dynamics within UFO research. There is a critique of the 'UFO-Jugend' (UFO youth) being 'agitated' and spreading 'untruths' by a 'guided hand.' The magazine contrasts this with a larger, more 'active' segment of UFO youth. It also discusses the perceived 'elite of mankind' and 'intelligence circles.' The magazine expresses a critical stance towards the 'DUIST' organization, suggesting a lack of objectivity and a tendency towards specific viewpoints. The article mentions that Herr Veit was criticized for his 'performance' and the 'goals' of his work, and that even Prof. Oberth distanced himself from 'contactees,' stating that the operation of UFOs is unknown to anyone.

The magazine highlights the challenges CENAP faces, including the need for translators for their extensive documentation. They are seeking individuals proficient in languages to help process reports. The sheer volume of material suggests that many reports are not published, leading to 'information gaps.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, witness testimonies, and the challenges of UFO research and organization. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical investigation, questioning the methods and claims of certain UFO groups (like DUIST) while presenting detailed accounts of sightings. There's an emphasis on factual reporting and the difficulties in obtaining clear, verifiable evidence. The magazine seems to advocate for a more objective and democratic approach to UFO research, contrasting it with what it perceives as dogmatism or agitation within certain circles.

Title: CENAP-Intern
Date: Unknown (references to February 1977 and March 1977)
Publisher: CENAP (Centrum für Erforschung und Analyse paranormaler Phänomene)
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP-Intern focuses on UFO research and reports on specific incidents.

Article: Object Sighting near Darmstadt

The magazine details an observation by three witnesses near Darmstadt, Germany. The object initially moved erratically but then accelerated rapidly, disappearing into a fog bank. The witnesses described its movement as similar to a hovercraft, noting it did not rotate when changing direction. The object was pursued by a car, but the witnesses lost sight of it. The report mentions that the object's speed was estimated to be between 100 and 120 kilometers per hour over a distance of 1.8 kilometers. A spent shell casing was found, possibly related to the event. The witnesses stated that there was no significant traffic on the Autobahn at the time.

Article: Mysterious Celestial Body at Lake Victoria

This section reports on an event near Lake Victoria in Australia, where a mysterious celestial body was observed. The incident coincided with the emergence of a new island from the water. Witnesses described a 'yellow fireball with a long, green tail' and an 'explosion' that caused windows to rattle. The celestial body reportedly fell into the lake two kilometers from where the island later appeared. Scientists are investigating whether the object was a meteorite or other space debris. The emergence of the island was accompanied by steam and gas bubbles, and fishermen reported that the lake had become shallower in some areas. Some residents theorized that visitors from outer space had chosen Lake Victoria as a landing site.

Article: CENAP - Goals and Introduction

This section introduces the CENAP (Centrum für Erforschung und Analyse paranormaler Phänomene) research group, which was founded on March 1, 1977, in Mannheim, Germany. The group's primary goal is to re-examine the UFO phenomenon and investigate spontaneous aerial phenomena. CENAP utilizes two news archives (one geographical, one chronological) and a photo archive to collect and analyze data. They aim to separate factual accounts from hoaxes and misinformation. The group collaborates with newspapers, magazines, and international correspondents. CENAP also seeks to establish regional task forces to investigate UFO incidents locally and to provide timely research for their publications.

Article: CENAP's Research Approach

CENAP emphasizes a scientific approach to UFO research, distancing itself from occultism and spiritualism. They aim to provide a factual basis for understanding UFOs, drawing from astronomy, planetary research, and natural sciences. The group acknowledges the possibility of extraterrestrial visitors or phenomena from parallel universes but maintains a strict scientific stance. CENAP also publishes a journal to inform its members and interested parties, featuring news, research findings from around the world, and translations of relevant articles.

Contact Information

The magazine provides contact addresses for Werner Walter and Hans-Jürgen Köhler in Mannheim and Wallstadt, Germany, for further information about CENAP.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, unexplained aerial phenomena, and the scientific investigation of these events. The editorial stance is one of rigorous, evidence-based research, aiming to demystify the UFO phenomenon and provide accurate information to the public. CENAP positions itself as a serious research organization dedicated to uncovering the truth behind these occurrences, distinguishing itself from sensationalism and pseudoscience.