CENAP Report - No 033

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP – REPORT
Issue: Nr. 33
Date: November 1978
Publisher: CENAP (centrales erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher phänomene)
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of the CENAP REPORT, number 33 from November 1978, delves into UFO sightings and the organizational framework for processing such reports. The cover prominently features the headline "Luftraumverletzung durch \"UFO\"" (Airspace Violation by \"UFO\"), indicating a primary focus on aerial phenomena. The table of contents lists several key articles, including a report to CENAP, details on an airspace violation by a UFO, another object sighting, press news, a visit to the CENAP headquarters in Mannheim, a five-year retrospective, and a photo case.

CENAP Data Processing and Reporting System

The issue dedicates significant space to the technical aspects of data collection and processing for UFO reports. A detailed report (likely by Frank Köther, Ing. (grad.)) outlines the proposed data format and reporting structure for CENAP. The aim is to create a system that can efficiently store and analyze UFO sighting data using a small computer.

Data Format Design

The report discusses the need for a clear and unambiguous identification of each report, suggesting a simple serial number from the hexadecimal system (16-bit, up to 65,536). The minimal necessary data to describe a phenomenon includes:

• Type of incident: The nature of the sighting.
• Time and duration: When it occurred and for how long.
• Circumstances: Details like weather, lighting conditions, etc.
• Sequence of events: How the phenomenon unfolded.
• Identification/Explanation clues: Any hints towards identification or explanation.
• Witnesses: Information about the observers.
• Sources/Cross-references: Where the information came from.

These data categories are intended to function as search terms, enabling the grouping of similar events. The report emphasizes a rigid structure for the data entry form, ideally identical for input and output, to align with the system's processing capabilities. The screen terminal's output of 16 lines with 64 characters per line is used as a basis for the data structure, with 64 bytes per line.

The proposed structure includes:

• Hauptkategorie (Main Category): Corresponds to one line of print.
• A. Location Data (Number, geographical location, date)
• B. Circumstances of the sighting (duration, weather, light conditions, etc.)
• C. Description of the incident (object type, color, movement, etc.)
• D. Witness (who reported the incident)
• E. Sources (magazines, books, radio/TV broadcasts)
• F. References to documentation material, cross-references
• G. Other witnesses
• Nebenkategorie (Sub-category): Data blocks within a line.

Each report is estimated to require about 0.5 Kilobytes of storage space on a small computer, with a C-90 cassette tape potentially holding up to 900 reports.

Meldungsformular (Reporting Form)

The reporting form is detailed with specific fields and byte allocations:

• Section A (Location & General Data): Includes serial number (2 Bytes), country code (3 Bytes), postal code (6 Bytes), sighting location (15 Bytes), geographical coordinates (11 Bytes), date of sighting (10 Bytes), number of sightings at this location (3 Bytes), and remarks (7 Bytes), totaling 64 Bytes per line.
• Section B (Circumstances): Covers earliest and latest sighting times (8 Bytes each), actual duration (8 Bytes), lighting conditions (2 Bytes), weather (2 Bytes), environment (2 Bytes), observation point (2 Bytes), means of observation (2 Bytes), temperature (4 Bytes), remarks (2 Bytes), estimates (2 Bytes), and notes (11 Bytes), with remaining space for line completion.
• Section C (Object Description): Details object type (3 Bytes), primary color (3 Bytes), point of appearance (2 Bytes), point of disappearance (2 Bytes), distance (6 Bytes), size (4 Bytes), speed (4 Bytes), altitude (6 Bytes), brightness (3 Bytes), behavior (2 Bytes), special features (4 Bytes), additional colors (9 Bytes), estimates (2 Bytes), and explanations (4 Bytes), totaling 64 Bytes.
• Section D (Witness Address): Includes name (15 Bytes), initial (1 Byte), street (15 Bytes), house number (4 Bytes), country code (3 Bytes), postal code (6 Bytes), and city (14 Bytes).
• Section E (Source Information): Similar to Section D, detailing source name, reference number, publication date, author, and remarks.
• Section G (Witness Credibility): Covers credibility (1 Byte), age (2 Bytes), gender (1 Byte), health status (2 Bytes), remarks on main witness (1 Byte), remarks on first secondary witness (1 Byte), consent for publication (2 Bytes), occupation related to literature (1 Byte), notes on similar sightings (44 Bytes), and editor index (1 Byte).

Kodelisten (Code Lists)

Code lists are presented as essential tools for compact data storage, translating text information into a coded format. These are crucial for larger, more complex systems, though the Klein-Computer used by CENAP may have limitations in processing speed.

Programs

The programming language used is BASIC or Tiny BASIC, available as software packages. Sorting and search programs need to be developed from existing BASIC programs, which is time-consuming due to the highly segmented 'data fields'. These programs must be capable of processing entire data fields (reports), data intervals (lines), or variables (search terms).

Costs

Costs are mentioned as a topic to be continued in the next issue, along with the code lists.

Key Incidents and Reports

Luftraumverletzung durch "UFO" (Airspace Violation by "UFO") - Part 2

This section, attributed to Frank Köther, Ing. (grad.), discusses a report from the local newspaper "AUSSERFERNER NACHRICHTEN" concerning a UFO sighting. The article questions the sensationalist reporting by local editor Werner Rex, who described the event as a mystery and a flying saucer. The report includes drawings and details provided by Polizeihauptkommissar Schaller.

On Friday, July 28, 1978, around 04:30 AM, an object was observed that was the size of a child's balloon, bright and glittering, sometimes shining more intensely. Around 05:00 AM, a smaller, more disk-shaped object separated from the main part, moving faster in a north-westerly direction. This smaller object had struts or bands from which a matte, elongated object hung. By 06:00 AM, the main part had changed into a long, wavy form.

The report then details findings from the CENAP local group in Neumarkt/Austria, citing a report from customs officer Helmut D. from Schattwald, Austria. On July 28, 1978, around 04:30 AM, while on duty with colleagues from customs and border police, he witnessed a phenomenon in clear skies. The object appeared to continuously change shape and shine much brighter than the background firmament. The object was described as having a 'silver thread' hanging from it and emitting a bright, white light. It appeared in opposition to the rising sun. Within the observation period, a smaller body seemed to detach from the larger one. The report includes sketches illustrating the object's transformation and disappearance.

During the observation, radio interference was noted, occurring regularly every 30 seconds, causing reception to fluctuate between good and poor. This secondary phenomenon was linked to the observation. The CENAP interpretation suggests that the rising sun and increased interference levels might have been mistakenly associated with the object, though they should be considered separately.

Helmut D. had read about UFO phenomena in magazines like READERS DIGEST but had not previously engaged with fringe science. He had reported his observation to the "AUSSERFERNER NACHRICHTEN" and possibly the tax authorities in Innsbruck. The report concludes by suggesting that the phenomenon might have been a falling balloon, from which instruments detached via parachute, and that misinterpretation by witnesses is a common factor in similar occurrences.

Noch ein Objekt (Another Object)

This section, attributed to Werner Walter/CENAP-Staff and Christian Pöchhacker/CENAP-Invest, addresses the sensationalist press reporting on UFOs. It references a report from the newspaper "BILD" dated August 2, 1978, about a UFO sighting over Lake Constance (Bodensee).

The "BILD" report quotes Ewald Saver, a plastic glazier from Frankfurt, who claims to have never believed in UFOs but saw something over Konstanz that night which he asserts were not airplanes, based on his experience as a Stuka pilot. He described the objects as two rotating light points about twelve kilometers high, with a white interior and a yellow-red outer ring. His wife described them as looking like 'fried eggs' with inverted colors.

The article notes that this report appeared during the 'silly season' ('sauren Gurken-Zeit') and was particularly linked to the OBERJOCH/SCHATTWALD case, suggesting a potential 'UFO invasion'. The CENAP REPORT had previously published a report from "AUSSERFERNER NACHRICHTEN" on August 12, 1978, also concerning a 'Konstanz UFO'.

CENAP investigated this event. The author contacted the "BILD" newspaper and was put in touch with the journalist who handled the story, Herr Machan, who then provided the name and phone number of the witness who relayed the observation. The "BILD" journalist informed the author that the observation was passed on by a Mr. Herr, who was also a journalist.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed reporting and analysis of UFO sightings, coupled with a strong emphasis on establishing a systematic and scientific approach to data collection and processing. CENAP aims to move beyond sensationalism, as seen in the critique of newspaper reporting, and establish a reliable database for investigating extraordinary phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, seeking factual evidence and employing structured methods for analysis, while acknowledging the potential for misinterpretation by witnesses and the influence of sensationalist media.

This issue of "CR - UFO-Nachrichten" from 1978, titled "5 Jahre dabei" (5 Years Involved), focuses on the ongoing work and findings of the CENAP (Centralen Erforschungs-Netzes Außergewöhnlicher Phänomene) organization. The magazine details investigations into UFO sightings, discusses the challenges of serious UFO research, and highlights the extensive archives and efforts of its members.

Konstanz Sighting Investigation

The issue begins by detailing an investigation into a UFO sighting reported by an individual identified as E.B. and his wife Ruth, who observed two objects on July 29, 1978, near Konstanz. E.B., a former pilot from World War II, described the objects as "completely unknown flying objects" that performed unusual maneuvers. Initially, the objects appeared to move like normal aircraft but then exhibited strange movements, including one object "tumbling." E.B. estimated their separation at 2-3 km if flying at Mach I and an altitude of 20,000 meters. The sighting lasted 3-4 minutes. E.B. emphasized that he was sober and a respected citizen of Frankfurt, a fact he offered as assurance of his credibility. He expressed frustration with the mocking calls he received after the newspaper report. The CENAP investigator, Werner Walter, assured E.B. that CENAP approached the matter objectively, without being "flying saucer believers."

Further investigation into the Konstanz incident involved contacting the local newspaper, "SÜDKURIER," and the festival organizer. It was revealed that the sighting occurred during a "SEENACHTSFEST" (Night of the Lake Festival). The objects were described as "circular with a ring of fire," with a "bright interior (like landing machine headlights)" and a "dark red-yellow-red exterior (rotating)." Frau R.B. sketched the phenomenon, depicting a "white core, orange ring." The investigation also considered the possibility of the objects being hot air balloons, especially since a fireworks display was scheduled. The flight controller at Konstanz Airport, WIEDMANN, reported that a "children's balloon" had crashed or burst, but he had no specific information about hot air balloons being reported as unusual.

Ultimately, the investigation concluded that the objects were likely hot air balloons. The report suggests that E.B. and his wife may have seen these balloons, which, being an unusual sight at night, were misidentified as UFOs. The object sketches were deemed consistent with the appearance of a hot air balloon seen from the ground at night.

Datteln UFO Photograph Case

The "Presse - News" section reports on a case where a 17-year-old apprentice named Rainer Berkenhoff claimed to have photographed a UFO while mushroom picking near Datteln on August 28, 1978. He described it as a flat, matte gray disc with a rounded dome, about three meters in diameter, with an antenna, and that it smelled of rotten apples. He took the photo with a Polaroid camera. The CENAP investigator contacted the newspaper "BILD" which had published the story. After some difficulty, the investigator obtained the contact information for Rainer Berkenhoff. However, Rainer's mother responded, stating that as he was a minor, they would not permit further publication of photos or reports. She claimed they were unaware of the prior publications and would have prevented them if they had known, as they were convinced it was a "remotely controlled flying object." The conclusion was that it was a "trick-IFO" and not a UFO.

CENAP's Work and Archives

The issue features a section titled "Besuch bei der CENAP-Zentrale MANNHEIM" (Visit to the CENAP Central Office Mannheim), detailing the organization's structure and activities. The CENAP archive in Mannheim is described as containing a vast amount of material collected over the years, with an impressive organization built up in a relatively short time. The report notes that CENAP has worked hard to establish itself as a serious research group in Germany. The speed at which cases are processed is highlighted as a positive aspect, with the CB radio network sometimes assisting.

Key Personnel and Research Focus

The article "5 Jahre dabei" introduces Hansjürgen Köhler, a CENAP-Investigator and co-editor of the CENAP-REPORT. Born in 1956, Köhler began collecting newspaper clippings in 1973, driven by a desire to research UFOs despite initial skepticism from his parents. He possesses a significant personal library of UFO literature. His research has involved establishing connections with Scandinavian UFO organizations and engaging in regular exchange programs. He has archived a large number of UFO reports from around the world, dating back to the FOO FIGHTERS of 1944/45. Köhler's investigative cases include incidents in Dortmund, Pascagoula, Baunatal, Hamburg, and Melle. He expresses skepticism about some cases, such as the Pascagoula incident, while finding others, like the Melle case, potentially significant but lacking sufficient witness information for a definitive explanation. He also mentions the "Mhm-Wallstadt" case, which fits into a pattern of worldwide reports from the 1976/1977 New Year's period.

Köhler's personal UFO sighting from December 1976 over Mannheim-Wallstadt is described as "enigmatic." He has compiled extensive material on UFOs, including reports from Danish organizations like SUFOI and Spanish publications. He has translated approximately 50 reports from Danish into German and has organized his material into binders, covering periods from 1944-1969 and 1970-present.

Theories and Future of UFO Research

Michael von Klimo, an astro-archaeologist, is mentioned for his theories that humans may have descended from extraterrestrials, though this theory is noted as having a limitation: he is the only one on the planet who can decipher the relevant runic script. The CENAP central office in Mannheim conducts regular DIA (slide) presentations to showcase their archive. One such evening was cut short due to a projector defect.

Hansjürgen Köhler, reflecting on his five years of UFO research, stated that "there is something to the matter, but a lot of nonsense is being peddled." He emphasized the need for serious UFO research and the importance of clearing out "sectarian UFOlogists." For the future, he advocates for scientific research into the question of UFOs, suggesting that collaboration between private investigators working on a serious basis would be fruitful. He views the explanation of the UFO riddle as multifaceted, involving physical phenomena, astronomical events, and potentially extraterrestrial spacecraft, though concrete proof is lacking.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a serious, investigative approach to UFO phenomena, distinguishing itself from sensationalist or pseudoscientific UFOlogy. There is a clear emphasis on documentation, evidence analysis, and objective assessment. The articles highlight the dedication of CENAP members in collecting and processing reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious inquiry, acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena while actively debunking hoaxes and misidentifications. The magazine aims to provide a platform for rigorous research and to educate its readers on the complexities of the UFO question.