CENAP Report - No 091

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr. 91
Date: July 23-29, 1983
Publisher: CENAP (centrales erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher phänomene)
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of the CENAP-REPORT, a German-language publication focused on researching extraordinary phenomena, particularly UFOs and UAPs, covers a period of heightened activity and media interest in the summer of 1983. The report details numerous sightings and investigations, highlighting the organization's efforts to systematically gather and analyze information.

Key Articles and Reports

UFO-Meeting in Hadsten, Denmark

The cover story, "SOMMERFERIE MED INDHOLD" (Summer Holiday with Content), announces a UFO meeting held at Hadsten Højskole from July 23-29, 1983. This event, associated with 'SKANDINAVISK UFO INFORMATION', suggests a collaborative effort in UFO research within Scandinavia.

Mannheim UFO/UAP Meeting Preparations

A letter dated September 9, 1983, from Mannheim, addresses 'CR-Leser' (CR-Readers) and discusses the hectic preparations for the 3rd UFO/UAP Meeting. The author, likely Werner Walter, expresses hope that the event will not descend into chaos, despite some organizational problems, including the unavailability of the Mannheim central team due to professional commitments. The letter questions how the press will react to the more than 120 invitations sent out and notes that UFO research in West Germany is a complex matter. The report promises to detail various events that have led to confusion, with CENAP aiming to provide clarity.

Press News - 'The 'Saucers' Have Season'

This section compiles news clippings about UFO sightings. One report from Paris (AP) mentions that residents and gendarmes in Avon, near Fontainebleau, observed suspected 'Unidentified Flying Objects' (UFOs) on two consecutive nights in late July 1983. The objects were described as light points moving on an East-West course, too fast and silent to be aircraft or weather balloons.

'Spook in the Heidelberg Night Sky'

An article from the Rhein-Neckar-Zeitung discusses numerous reports of unidentified flying objects, balloons, and similar phenomena over Heidelberg. While some sightings involved strange pink-red glowing objects moving erratically, the investigation suggests two main causes: the proximity of Jupiter to the moon, creating unusual visual effects, and the launch of toy hot-air balloons. One incident, described as a possible aircraft crash, was later attributed to a hot-air balloon that landed on a car. The article acknowledges that not all sightings can be explained by these causes.

'Spain in UFO Fever'

A report from Barcelona details thousands of Spaniards claiming to have seen a UFO moving east with a comet-like tail. Sightings were reported across Spain, including from Barcelona, Madrid, Jaen, and Cadiz. Aircraft crews also reported the phenomenon to air traffic control, but the object was not detected on radar.

'Balloon Triggers Alarm'

An incident in Jerusalem where a toy hot-air balloon launched by scouts led to an Israeli air force response, with two 'Phantom' jets and a helicopter scrambled. The alarm was raised by a citizen reporting a large balloon with a basket and four people, but it turned out to be a small balloon with a tin can.

'Mysterious Light Phenomenon'

Four residents in Heidelberg reported observing a light phenomenon on a Sunday night, described as twice the size of the full moon, moving towards Pfaffengrund. The sighting lasted two to three minutes.

'Unknown Flying Object'

A report from the Rhein-Neckar-Zeitung on July 20, 1983, details an object seen falling burning from the sky between Dossenheim and Leutershausen near Heidelberg around 10:08 PM on Monday. Initial explanations ranged from a fireball to a hot-air balloon used for a child's birthday. However, police could not confirm the hot-air balloon explanation, and no official record of an aircraft crash was found.

'UFO Alarm in the Rheinpfalz and Rhein-Neckar Area'

This section summarizes that the July and August period brought several regional UFO observations to the CENAP area around Mannheim. Many of these were attributed to natural explanations, with 'Party-Gag-Hot-Air Balloons' being a recurring theme. The report also references the ABENDPOST report from August 1st about a balloon in Israel causing an 'UFO alarm'.

'Auf UFO-Jagd' (On the UFO Hunt)

A brief mention of a Mannheim amateur researcher who became intensely involved with the UFO phenomenon after a sighting.

'A Third Kind Encounter is Still Missing from the UFO Collection'

This article, dated August 16, 1983, by Werner Walter of CENAP, details the organization's history and methodology. Founded in 1973 by Walter and Hansjürgen Köhler, CENAP aims to investigate UFO phenomena systematically. They have archived over 6000 newspaper clippings and thousands of photos, and even purchased copies from FBI and CIA archives. CENAP has documented around 250 'first kind' encounters (sightings) and a few 'second kind' (landings) and 'third kind' (contact) encounters in Germany and Austria. Walter notes that most 'third kind' reports were from individuals seeking attention. He concludes that the UFO phenomenon is more a sociological and psychological issue than a physical one. He states that 97% of sightings can be explained as misidentifications of aircraft lights, balloons, satellites, stars, or the moon, with only three percent remaining unexplained, which CENAP terms 'UAP' (Unidentified Atmospheric Phenomena). The article also mentions CENAP's use of a special questionnaire and computer analysis, and their efforts to make contact with international UFO groups. They are seeking helpers proficient in foreign languages and are interested in new sightings. A UFO congress was planned for September 9-11 in Mannheim-Wallstadt.

'UFO over Oggersheim?'

Reports from Saturday night (August 2, 1983) describe a red, glowing fireball, larger than a football, seen moving westward. Official sources could not confirm the sighting, and the Mannheim weather station registered no unusual events.

'Numerous 'UFOs' Were Sighted'

This report from Die RHEINPFALZ (August 3, 1983) compiles multiple UFO sightings reported in the Rheinpfalz and Rhein-Neckar areas. Eyewitnesses reported 'red fireballs changing direction,' 'besom-like and green-glowing probes,' and 'fast-flying discs' between 9 PM and 10:30 PM. While some callers suggested weather balloons or Sputnik, others were convinced they saw UFOs. The Heidelberg State Observatory identified the setting Jupiter as a possible explanation for one sighting. The article also points out that Mannheim and Ludwigshafen are in the flight path of Frankfurt Airport, leading to potential confusion with aircraft lights. Venus and weather balloons with reflectors are also cited as possible explanations.

'Köln: 2 Phantom Jets Hunted UFO'

This article from BILD (July 25, 1983) reports on a UFO sighting over Cologne. Police Chief Master Rolf Behrmann and Officer Uwe Capitanio observed a round object rotating clockwise, about twice the size of a star, glowing in various colors (dark red, bright white, blue, green). The object moved slowly south, stopped, and then moved north. Later, two Phantom fighter jets were seen searching the sky. The UFO disappeared around 5:20 AM. The report notes that the object was tracked on radar in Düsseldorf. The article details the investigation by BILD reporter Schlagehan and editor Hoffmann, who contacted the police and air traffic control. Despite initial reports of military involvement, police records did not confirm any Phantom jet pursuit of the object. The article also mentions an older woman who reported a similar sighting over Holland weeks earlier.

'UFO Turned Right'

This continuation of the Cologne UFO report describes the object as round and always turning right. It was observed for about half an hour. The article mentions that the police received a call from a citizen in Fischnich who reported seeing a slowly moving object of double star size moving south. This led to a police broadcast and an inquiry to Düsseldorf Airport, which reported tracking something on radar. However, no record of military aircraft (Phantom jets) pursuing the object was found. Air traffic control at Cologne and Düsseldorf denied having any 'extraordinary findings' in their logs for the period. The article speculates about the possibility of a military secret.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CENAP-REPORT are the systematic investigation of UFO and UAP phenomena, the challenges of distinguishing genuine sightings from misidentifications and hoaxes, and the role of media in reporting such events. CENAP, as an organization, appears to maintain a skeptical yet open-minded approach, aiming to provide rational explanations where possible while acknowledging the existence of unexplained cases ('UAP'). The editorial stance emphasizes rigorous research, data collection, and the importance of critical thinking, moving away from sensationalism and towards a more scientific understanding of these events. The organization actively seeks public participation and international collaboration.

Title: UFO 83
Issue: 83
Issue Date: September 4, 1983
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of UFO 83 focuses on two primary areas: reports of secret espionage flights over German military facilities and detailed accounts of UFO sightings, particularly in Fontainebleau, France. It also covers a UFO seminar held in Scandinavia, highlighting international research and discussions within the UFO community.

Cover Story: Secret Espionage Flights Over German Barracks

The cover story, "Geheime Spionageflüge über deutschen Kasernen" (Secret Espionage Flights Over German Barracks), by H. G. Tolmein, reports on an intensive investigation by the German Federal Ministry of Defense and the Military Counterintelligence Service (MAD). Specialists are working to uncover a large-scale espionage operation conducted from the air. The magazine reveals that in July and August, unidentified helicopter crews and sport aircraft occupants were observed spying on Bundeswehr barracks, missile sites, and crucial telecommunication facilities. These craft reportedly had their identification markings obscured with tape, and in many cases, a door was removed to allow filming and photography. Specific locations mentioned include the Thorsberg Barracks in Süderbrarup, a missile site in Talk (Schleswig-Holstein), the Funk Kaserne in Euskirchen (three times), the Rommel Barracks in Osterode/Harz, and the antennas of Wehrbereichskommando IV in Mainz. Additionally, directional radio facilities near Illmensee and Tussenhausen/Bayern were also targeted. The concentration of these aerial surveillance activities on telecommunication nodes suggests a planned disruption for a potential "Day X." A spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Defense confirmed that the identity of a significant number of these mysterious helicopters has been established, and further investigations are ongoing. The article concludes that these are not extraterrestrial powers but earthly, political adversaries.

UFO Sightings and Investigations

Fontainebleau, France Sightings

The issue details a series of UFO sightings in Fontainebleau, France, reported by residents of Fontainebleau and Avon, as well as the local gendarmerie. On three consecutive evenings in July 1983, around 10 PM, multiple witnesses observed a bright, elongated light, described as being the size of two tennis balls, moving slowly from East to West over the forest. The first night, a watchman named G. Thill initially observed the phenomenon alone and was hesitant to report it for fear of being considered crazy. The following night, he was joined by a company inspector, and both witnessed the light. The gendarmerie was alerted and observed the phenomenon for an hour. On the third night, the sighting recurred, and this time, a second UFO, moving in parallel, was also observed. The gendarmerie used powerful binoculars to track the objects, which disappeared around 11 PM.

Initial explanations, such as a balloon probe or aircraft, were considered but largely dismissed due to the observed characteristics. The article notes that the consistent timing of the sightings made a simple hypothesis unlikely. Investigations were conducted by groups like CONTROL and GRC. Francois Gerard of CONTROL, along with Nicole Gomila and Michel Piccin, attempted to observe the phenomenon but were hindered by cloudy weather. Information was also sought from the gendarmerie, but they were initially uncooperative. A possible misinterpretation of astronomical light sources like Venus and Regulus was suggested by GRC. However, the witnesses' detailed descriptions of the objects' duration, positions, and flight paths were meticulously recorded.

Later analysis, particularly by Flemming F. Olsen, suggested that the sightings were likely Venus and Jupiter, which are very bright during that season. The witnesses, including Herr Thill, were commended for their cooperation. The article critiques the press's handling of such reports, noting how hypotheses are sometimes introduced or neglected. It emphasizes that while the witnesses saw Venus and Jupiter, the police observed Venus near Regulus, leading to detailed observations of their "flight paths" and timing.

Other UFO Research and Reports

Werner Walter, CENAP-Staff, reports on the establishment of CEPS (Centre d'etude des phenomens spatiaux) by Gilbert Schmitz in Luxembourg, which will serve as CENAP's liaison office for the French-speaking part of Europe. This new group aims to gather information on UFO incidents from neighboring French-speaking countries.

UFO Seminar in Scandinavia

The issue extensively covers a UFO seminar held from July 23-29, 1983, in Hadsten, Denmark, organized under the patronage of SUFOI. The author, Hansjürgen Köhler (CENAP-Staff), attended the seminar as part of his summer vacation, having previously visited Peter A. Hansen, head of SUFOI, in Copenhagen. The seminar was a free gathering for UFO enthusiasts, attracting around 20 participants from various UFO research groups, including SUFOI, IGAP, and FUFOS.

Key presentations included:

• Jørgen Nilsen spoke on the evolution of Earth and the possibility of extraterrestrial life, discussing humanity's attempts to contact alien intelligence via radio astronomy.
• Christa Nordin (UFO-Sverige) presented on Swedish UFO research, critically examining several cases, though only the Sprengstoff-Fabrik case was accepted with reservations. She noted that UFO-Sverige recorded 300 UFO incidents annually, with an 85% clarification rate, meaning 45 cases were considered genuine UFOs. However, she criticized the quality of research by UFO-Sverige, stating, "The training or experience of UFO-Sverige's investigators is not good."
• Per Borgaard, a journalist, offered a realistic and critical perspective on the UFO phenomenon as portrayed by the press, highlighting problematic and critical points within UFO research.
• Flemming F. Olsen, a theology student, discussed the religious influences in UFOlogy, labeling it the "UFO-Syndrome." He linked UFOlogy to occultism and magic, warning that CE-IV cases (involving alleged sexual contact with extraterrestrials) could cause severe damage to UFO research.
• Kim Maller Hansen presented on national and international photographic UFO evidence, discussing various film and photo errors and the limitations of computer analysis.

Other discussions included the Hessdalen incidents in Norway, with a desire for a comprehensive report. The seminar also featured a demonstration at a nearby football field for astronomical observation and a closing banquet.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded approach to UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained events, it emphasizes rigorous investigation and a preference for natural or terrestrial explanations over sensationalist or extraterrestrial hypotheses. The editorial stance appears to favor grounded research, as exemplified by the critical analysis of the Fontainebleau sightings and the focus on the espionage story as a clear case of human intelligence activity. There's a clear distinction made between genuine UFO research and what the magazine terms "UFO fantasies" or "UFO-syndromes" linked to occultism. The publication also highlights the importance of international cooperation and information exchange among UFO research groups, as seen in the CEPS initiative and the coverage of the Scandinavian seminar. The magazine seems to advocate for a scientific and methodical approach to studying the UFO phenomenon, often contrasting it with media sensationalism and speculative theories.

This document consists of several pages from a German-language publication, likely a magazine or newsletter, focusing on UFOs and parapsychology. The primary content details the activities and case investigations of CENAP-AUSTRIA and CENAP-Heilbronn.

CENAP-AUSTRIA: A New Beginning

Page 21 introduces CENAP-AUSTRIA, which has resumed its research activities in spring 1983 after a dissolution in the late 1970s. The organization aims to represent CENAP's interests in Austria. Currently, it is primarily operated by one person, but plans are in place to establish local groups. The work of CENAP-AUSTRIA is divided into three main areas:

1. Research Activities: Investigating UFO sighting cases reported in the press or from private sources, meticulously gathering details. As of August 1983, three cases were under investigation.
2. Combating Unserious UFO Research: CENAP-AUSTRIA intends to counter groups in Austria that focus on 'contactee' stories and disregard serious UFO research, similar to the German group DUIST.
3. Press Releases and Information: This area is under development, with plans to disseminate information about UFO sightings to major newspapers and to issue counter-statements against unserious reporting.

Additionally, CENAP-AUSTRIA plans to establish contacts with public and military authorities, as well as other research groups. They are actively seeking interested individuals for serious UFO research.

Case Investigations by CENAP-AUSTRIA

Page 22 details one of the cases being investigated by CENAP-AUSTRIA from 1983, designated Fall AUSTRIA 01/83. On February 23, 1983, near St. Pölten, Austria, witness P. B. observed an unknown flying object. At approximately 17:30, his car's electrical systems (consumption regulator, radio, interior lights, windshield wipers) spontaneously activated while driving. He pulled over and observed a bright, luminous object filling his field of vision at an estimated altitude of 100-120 meters. The object was described as bright to dark orange, with an approximately elliptical shape and blurred edges.

Shortly after, a red Ford Capri approached and stopped, its driver also observing the object. After 10-15 seconds, the object moved west. It stopped again after approximately 600-800 meters and then disappeared in a steep arc towards Krems. CENAP-AUSTRIA is attempting to locate the second witness. A report from the St. Pölten police mentioned a phone call about a UFO circling near Herzogenburg. The caller's name is known, but further details are scarce. CENAP-AUSTRIA considers this sighting potentially one of the most interesting in Austria if its reality can be proven by further witnesses, but emphasizes that further investigation is needed.

Page 23 discusses two identified cases:

• Fall AUSTRIA 02/83: On January 23, 1983, at 23:24, Karl Tamegger observed an unknown object while driving on the B 83 near Zollfeld. The object had an arm-thick, several-meter-long 'comet-like' tail that initially appeared dark red, then became brighter before exploding into fragments. Tamegger initially believed it was the re-entry of a Soviet satellite (KOSMOS) and reported it to the local Gendarmerie, who released the report to the press. The police report itself did not mention a UFO. The conclusion is that Tamegger witnessed a re-entry.
• Fall AUSTRIA 03/83: On April 28, 1983, several people in the northern Waldviertel region, near Gmünd, observed an object that was unidentified by the press. It was determined to be the same stratospheric balloon that had been seen over Nuremberg that morning. A hobby astronomer calculated its altitude to be approximately 25-26°, or about 30,000 meters. The conclusion is that this was not a UFO, but a stratospheric balloon.

The page includes a summary of cases: 3 total cases, 1 Strato-Ballon, 1 Re-entry, and 1 still under investigation. A map of Austria shows the locations of these sightings.

The report is signed by Pöchhacker Christian/CENAP-AUSTRIA.

CENAP-Heilbronn: UFOs and Parapsychology

Page 24 features an article from the 'Heilbronner Stimme' dated August 8, 1983, titled "Den Ufo's auf der Spur" (On the Trail of UFOs). It introduces the CENAP-Heilbronn information center, which has been active since September 1981 and is described as the largest department of CENAP in Germany after the Mannheim headquarters.

Founded and led by Jochen Ickinger (21, postal worker), with Roland Gehardt (23, skilled worker) as second in command, and Bernd Przybylla (21, student) handling parapsychology. CENAP-Heilbronn focuses on UFO research on a factual and critical basis. Their extensive archive includes over 1800 slides, 800 photos, 200 books, foreign reports (especially from the USA), CIA material, translations, a large written archive, and numerous periodicals.

They utilize a small home computer and data processing programs to create computer files and lists stored on cassettes. Jochen Ickinger developed a special Code System (CDSS) for processing and storing case data. So far, 16 sightings have been investigated, with only one remaining unidentified.

CENAP-Heilbronn's statistics indicate that about 80 percent of reported sightings are misinterpretations of conventional phenomena or objects, 10 percent are hoaxes, and about five percent are psychological in origin.

Jochen Ickinger defines a UFO as "the reported perception of an object or light in the sky or on the ground, whose appearance, trajectory, and general dynamic behavior do not suggest a logical, conventional explanation. An object that is puzzling not only to those involved but, after careful examination of all available evidence by persons capable of identification, remains unidentifiable."

He clarifies that UFOs are not necessarily "flying saucers" with "little green men" but simply unidentified aerial phenomena. CENAP-Heilbronn approaches the UFO phenomenon from a scientific perspective, discussing theories such as unknown atmospheric phenomena, plasma phenomena, physical appearances, or influences from higher dimensions.

The organization distances itself from religious-sectarian groups that view UFOs as "saviors" and from sensational "contactee" reports, which they find to be hoaxes upon closer inspection. In parapsychology, their focus includes poltergeist phenomena and alleged "voice recordings" (EVP), for which they also maintain computer files.

Currently, fewer than ten people have joined CENAP-Heilbronn. Interested individuals can contact CENAP via Jochen Ickinger at Olgastraße 13, 7100 Heilbronn, or by phone at 48 45 28. Ickinger assures that "No one is laughed at here."

The page includes contact information for Jochen Ickinger and Roland Gehardt, and a photo of Jochen Ickinger, identified as the founder and head of the group.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes are serious, evidence-based UFO investigation, the distinction between genuine unexplained phenomena and misidentifications or hoaxes, and the dissemination of accurate information to the public. Both CENAP-AUSTRIA and CENAP-Heilbronn emphasize a critical, scientific approach, rejecting sensationalism and unfounded claims. They aim to provide a credible resource for those interested in UFOs and related phenomena, while actively working to debunk misinformation and promote a rational understanding.