CENAP-REPORT

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, titled "CENAP-REPORT Nr.102" and dated "9./H8/84" (August 1984), is published by CENAP, a central research network for extraordinary phenomena, and is likely from Germany. The cover prominently features a headline about a UFO colliding with a Soviet fighter jet and the formation of a UFO commission by the Soviet Academy of Sciences. The issue includes articles on Soviet intelligence, UFO sightings in the Soviet Union, and a critical review of a book on ancient astronaut theories.

Article 1: UFO Kollidierte mit Sowjet-Abfangjäger... Wissenschafts-Akademie in Moskau bildete UFO-Kommission

The cover story details an incident where a Soviet fighter jet reportedly collided with a luminous object over the Baltic Sea off Estonia. The object allegedly tore off the jet's tail, forcing the pilot to eject. While the official explanation was a ball lightning, a Russian ufologist disputed this, citing the object's size (up to 20-30 cm) and duration, which he claimed were inconsistent with a ball lightning. The article also announces that the Soviet Academy of Sciences has formed a UFO commission to investigate such phenomena.

Article 2: GEHEIMDIENST: KGB! von Werner Walter

This extensive article provides a detailed organizational chart and description of the Soviet Committee for State Security (KGB). It explains that the KGB is the Soviet secret police, responsible for state security and intelligence. The article highlights the KGB's vast network, comprising approximately 90,000 full-time agents, 300,000 uniformed state security personnel, and 1.75 million part-time informants. The KGB's headquarters is located at Dzerzhinsky Street No. 2 in Moscow, in a yellow block of flats known as "The World of Adults" or "The Lovely One." The article details the various administrations within the KGB, including foreign intelligence (First Main Directorate), domestic security (Second Main Directorate), military counter-intelligence (Third Main Directorate), border troops (Main Directorate of Border Troops), ideological opposition (Fifth Main Directorate), general administration, technical administration, personnel management, and specialized departments for surveillance, communications, and protection of officials.

The article emphasizes the KGB's role in maintaining control within the Soviet Union, including censorship (through 'Glawlit') and surveillance of citizens. It notes that under Andropov, the KGB's powers were expanded, allowing its uniformed Border Troops to conduct arrests and establish prisons domestically. The KGB also oversees the postal censorship and monitors the army. The Fifth Main Directorate is responsible for dealing with active critics of the system.

Furthermore, the article discusses the KGB's disinformation efforts, including the creation of the international news agency 'Novosti' and the use of publications like 'Nowoje Wremja' as cover for foreign agents. A decree signed by Chernenko in May 1984 made unregistered contact with foreigners punishable by imprisonment, and the transfer of any news to foreigners could result in an eight-year prison sentence.

The article contrasts the Soviet Union's emphasis on state secrets with the West's more open access to information. It suggests that the KGB projects its understanding of state secrets abroad, collecting official documents marked 'Strictly confidential.' However, it also notes that the First Main Directorate's analysis of this information is considered clumsy due to a lack of local knowledge among its staff. The KGB produces weekly internal reports and daily situation assessments for the Politburo.

Despite the KGB's extensive surveillance capabilities within the Soviet Union, the article concludes that their 'shield and sword' emblems are less effective abroad, and their 'eyesight' has weakened, unable to counter the accuracy of US electronic intelligence.

Article 3: UFO'S IN DER SOWJETUNION? von Hansjürgen Köhler

This article addresses the topic of UFOs in the Soviet Union, noting that UFO sightings occur globally and are often sensationalized in UFO literature. It specifically examines what is reported and known about UFOs within the USSR and the extent of Soviet UFO research.

The article references a report from the Swedish newspaper 'Ölandsbladet' dated April 18, 1984, about a Soviet fighter jet being sent to investigate a luminous object over the Baltic Sea near Estonia. The jet reportedly collided with the object, which tore off its 'random cladding' (Randomverkleidung), forcing the pilot to land. The official explanation was a ball lightning, but a Russian ufologist doubted this, stating that ball lightning is typically only 20-30 cm in diameter, whereas the object in question was much larger and lasted longer.

A subsequent report from the Swedish press, published on May 30, 1984, by 'Ysads Allehanda,' indicated that the Soviet Union had established a commission to investigate unidentified flying objects (UFOs). This commission was reportedly set up in February 1984 to examine observations of anomalous atmospheric phenomena, including moving objects and light phenomena. The commission is led by Pavel Popovitj, a former cosmonaut.

According to an interview with Popovitj in the newspaper 'TRUD,' hundreds of Soviet citizens report mysterious aerial phenomena annually. While most sightings are explained by scientists, the Gorkij incident from the previous year (40 km east of Moscow) remained unexplained.

Details of the Gorkij incident are provided: on March 27, 1983, the flight controller at Gorkij airfield observed an object on radar approaching the airfield, which did not respond to radio calls. The object was described as a 'steel-grey cigar,' similar in size to a commercial aircraft but without wings or a tail. It moved at an altitude of approximately 1,000 meters and a speed of 180-200 km/h. The object remained on radar for about 40 minutes before disappearing 4 km north of Gorkij. The witness, a qualified aircraft expert, provided a precise account.

The commission also investigated a phenomenon observed on December 2, where a light ball accompanied by smaller lights appeared over White Russia and Central Russia. 'TRUD' reported that some people were paralyzed with fear. The commission concluded this was a satellite burning up in the atmosphere.

Another report from the Gorkij area on February 6 of the same year described several flying light balls, with one witness noting that two of them resembled a 'flying saucer.' Anatolij Logunov, a deputy spokesperson for the Academy of Sciences, stated that most UFO reports contain insufficient information for conclusive analysis. However, he acknowledged that Soviet scientists take the matter seriously and admit that some well-documented phenomena remain unexplained.

Both Logunov and Popovitj avoided speculating whether these unexplained phenomena could be spacecraft from alien civilizations, instead emphasizing the need to improve research methods. Popovitj urged Soviet citizens to send detailed reports to the commission.

The article concludes by mentioning that the material is based on the SAF-Bulletin Nr. 3/4 of 1984 and includes the original Swedish text of the report.

Article 4: Was sehen wir, wenn wir ein UFO sehen? (Interview with V. Migulin and Ju. Platov)

This section presents an interview with two Soviet researchers, V. Migulin and Ju. Platov, from the Academy of Sciences, discussing the nature of UFO sightings. They express skepticism towards the sensationalism surrounding UFOs, suggesting that many phenomena can be explained naturally. They argue that the term 'UFO' (Unidentified Flying Object) is problematic, as it can lead to premature speculation about alien spacecraft.

Migulin believes that many reported UFO sightings are a result of rumors and discussions, leading to a 'fanaticism' where people are convinced of regular visits from alien worlds. He suggests that these events can often be easily explained.

Platov, in response to a letter from G. Borisova describing a luminous, round object with a tail that spread into an oval nebula, suggests that this phenomenon could be related to a space object entering the atmosphere. He notes that most reports lack crucial information like precise location and date, making definitive identification difficult.

When asked if they are sure they can identify a UFO when one is seen, Migulin reiterates that 'UFO' is an unfortunate term. He states that the 'unidentified' aspect depends on who is doing the identifying – a lay observer or an experienced scientist. He implies that scientific analysis can often provide explanations for what appears to be anomalous.

Book Review: Peter Kaufhold - Von den Göttern verlassen?

This section reviews Peter Kaufhold's book, "Von den Göttern verlassen?" (Abandoned by the Gods?). The book is presented as a critical examination of Erich von Däniken's theories about ancient astronauts. Kaufhold, a chimney sweep by profession, previously authored "Auf den Spuren des Erich von Däniken" (On the Trail of Erich von Däniken), which reportedly put Däniken in a difficult position.

Kaufhold's new book debunks Däniken's numerical interpretations, such as the significance of August 11, 3114 BC. It highlights the dangers of superstition and the rise of 'UFO cults.' The review states that the book focuses on Däniken's theories, questioning whether ancient astronauts influenced human thinking and if such beliefs are beneficial. It also explores the scientific and philosophical possibilities of interstellar travel and the question of whether aliens have visited Earth.

The book's content is outlined, including sections on "The Aliens in South America," "The Immortal Message of Nemrud Dag," "The Shoot with the Bible," "Intermezzo from the Year 3114 AD - with Phantadanikus," "The UFO Sects," "Physical Probabilities," and "Science - Belief - God-Astronauts."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of UFO phenomena with Soviet intelligence activities and the potential for disinformation. The magazine appears to be critical of sensationalist UFO reporting, particularly when it originates from sources like the US National Enquirer. There is a strong focus on the KGB's extensive capabilities and its role in controlling information, suggesting that UFO reports from the Soviet Union might be subject to manipulation or suppression. The review of Peter Kaufhold's book indicates a stance that is skeptical of ancient astronaut theories and emphasizes scientific and rational explanations for phenomena, while also acknowledging the existence of unexplained cases that warrant further investigation.

The editorial stance seems to be one of cautious investigation, seeking to separate factual reporting from speculation and disinformation, particularly in the context of the Soviet Union's closed information environment.

This issue of CENAP-ARCHIV, titled "UFO-feber i Sovjet-unionen," focuses on the Soviet Union's approach to Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and includes a Danish news clipping dated March 1, 1968, referencing Pravda's stance. The magazine features an interview with Soviet scientists V. Migulin and Ju. Platov, alongside reports on British UFO investigations.

Soviet Stance on UFOs and Scientific Explanations

The central theme is the Soviet Union's official position, as articulated by the Academy of Sciences and reported in Pravda, which dismisses UFO sightings as "anti-scientific sensations and speculations." The article highlights a discussion where scientists V. Migulin and Ju. Platov engage with the concept of UFOs. Migulin proposes the term "anormales Phänomen" (AP) as a more neutral descriptor than "flying object" or "UFO," suggesting that terms like 'dahinziehen' (drifting) or 'schweben' (hovering) are more accurate than 'fliegend' (flying) for many observed phenomena.

Migulin and Platov discuss the scientific approach to unexplained phenomena, emphasizing that the history of science is the study of the unknown. Platov counters the idea that everything is already explored, stating that many everyday things are poorly understood. They address why UFOs attract more public interest than scientific phenomena, attributing it to the association with extraterrestrial civilizations, a connection Migulin finds "completely unfounded" without hard evidence.

Platov explains that while he finds the idea of alien civilizations interesting, he distinguishes between scientific curiosity and the specific claims surrounding UFOs. He argues that while astronomy suggests the possibility of extraterrestrial life, there is no basis for linking it to anomalous atmospheric phenomena. He differentiates between hypotheses, such as physical or chemical processes in the ionosphere, and more speculative ones, like alien civilizations, which he deems to have "zero justification."

Explaining Anomalous Phenomena

The scientists discuss the nature of anomalous phenomena. Platov estimates that about 10% of reported phenomena remain unexplained, with figures from American (8%) and French (6-7%) sources cited. He notes that poorly documented observations, like seeing a "fireball" the size of a matchbox, can inflate these numbers. Many sightings are attributed to human activities, such as round balloon-sondes, which can have unusual shapes (e.g., triangular, as observed with a French probe). Even aviation specialists can be confused, as in the case of a stratospheric balloon near Nuremberg.

Platov explains that some phenomena, like balloons, can be visible up to 50 km high, especially when illuminated by the sun, even after sunset. He also mentions phenomena related to rocket launches and their exhaust plumes, as well as the visibility of aircraft and their searchlights at great distances, which can be mistaken for something unusual.

The Petrosavodsk Phenomenon and Other Cases

The issue delves into specific cases, including the "Petrosavodsk-Wunder" of 1977. Eyewitnesses described a large, star-like object emitting light beams over the city for 10-12 minutes. Migulin suggests this phenomenon was a combination of a complex geophysical situation affecting the magnetic pole and a technical experiment. Platov draws a parallel to the "Skylab effect," where rocket launches can disrupt ionospheric conditions and radio communications.

Another case mentioned involves car engines stalling near a railway crossing in Kuncero during a UFO sighting, which Platov attributes to the observer's shock causing them to inadvertently shut off the engine or ignition.

British UFO Investigations

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to British UFO investigations, particularly concerning the Ministry of Defence (MOD). The article details inquiries made by the Yorkshire UFO Society (YUFOS) to the MOD regarding UFO sightings and the ministry's policy on releasing information. Mrs. P.J. Titchmarsh of the Defence Secretariat Division 8 stated that UFO reports are part of 'public records' and are generally accessible after 30 years, though the MOD was considering earlier release while protecting witness anonymity.

An example of a released report is included, detailing a sighting near Bristol on May 13, 1983, involving three bright white spot lights in a line that moved and then dived down. The report notes the observer used their naked eye and the meteorological conditions were clear.

Further correspondence from the MOD, including a response to an inquiry about lights near RAF Woodbridge, indicates that the Ministry's interest is primarily focused on defense aspects. They do not believe there is a basis for establishing a government study group on UFOs, as it would not be a justifiable use of public funds.

Mr. Lee from the Ministry provided figures for unexplained sightings reported between 1980 and 1983, ranging from 250 to 600 per year. The Ministry concluded that none of these sightings were of significant defense interest.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes include the scientific investigation of anomalous phenomena, the distinction between scientific fact and speculation, and the role of government transparency in UFO-related information. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational, evidence-based approach, emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific study and cautioning against sensationalism, particularly concerning claims of extraterrestrial contact. The article implicitly critiques media outlets that might inflate minor incidents into major events, as seen with the reference to the "National Enquirer" and the "Krieg der Sterne" (War of the Stars).

This issue of CENAP-ARCHIV, identified as Volume 11, Issue 4, dated January 13, 1981, focuses on 'Unexplained Lights'. The document appears to be a compilation of reports and official responses related to UFO sightings.

Key Reports and Incidents

RAF Woodbridge Incident (December 27, 1980)

This section details an incident at RAF Woodbridge where two USAF security police patrolmen observed unusual lights outside the back gate. Believing an aircraft might have crashed, they investigated and reported seeing a strange, glowing, metallic object in the forest. The object was described as triangular, approximately two to three meters across the base and two meters high, illuminating the forest with a white light. It had a pulsing red light on top and blue lights underneath. As the patrolmen approached, the object maneuvered through the trees and disappeared. Animals on a nearby farm became frenzied. The object was briefly sighted again about an hour later.

The following day, three depressions, 1 1/2 inches deep and 7 inches in diameter, were found in the ground where the object had been sighted. On the subsequent night, radiation tests were conducted, yielding Beta/gamma readings of 0.1 milliroentgens in the depressions and near the center of the triangle formed by them. A nearby tree also showed moderate readings.

Later that same night, a red sun-like light was seen through the trees, moving and pulsing. It appeared to throw off glowing particles and then broke into five separate white objects. Subsequently, three star-like objects were noticed in the sky, two to the north and one to the south. These objects were described as moving rapidly in sharp angular movements and displaying red, green, and blue lights. The northern objects appeared elliptical and later turned to full circles, remaining in the sky for an hour or more. The southern object was visible for two to three hours and beamed down a stream of light periodically. Several individuals, including the Deputy Base Commander, Lt. Col. Charles I. Halt, witnessed these activities.

Parliamentary Questions and Ministry of Defence Responses

Two sections present excerpts from Hansard, the official report of UK parliamentary debates, concerning UFO sightings.

October 24, 1980: Sir Patrick Wall questioned the Secretary of State for Defence regarding a US Air Force memo about unexplained lights near RAF Woodbridge and requested the release of similar UK incident reports. Mr. Stanley stated that since 1980, the Ministry had received 1,400 reports of unidentified flying objects, but no corresponding unexplained radar contacts. He indicated a willingness to provide information on sightings of defense concern, but none had been found to date.

March 13, 1984: Sir Patrick Wall again asked about alleged landings and unexplained sightings of UFOs in 1980-1983 and their investigation. Mr. Lee provided figures for reported sightings: 350 in 1980, 600 in 1981, 250 in 1982, and 390 in 1983. He stated that alleged landings were not separately identified and that the Ministry was satisfied none of these reports had defense significance, thus not maintaining detailed investigation records.

November 1983: A letter from Michael Heseltine (MP) to an unnamed recipient (likely related to a letter from Mr. Philip Mantle) addresses allegations of a UFO 'cover up'. Heseltine assures that there is no truth to this, explaining that the Ministry of Defence examines reports solely for defense implications. He references John Stanley's answer in the House on October 24th regarding a 'News of the World' report, stating that no defense interest was found and no unidentified object was seen on radar in that specific case.

April 24, 1984: A letter from A. Mathewson of the Ministry of Defence to Mr. Birdsall explains the policy on releasing UFO information. They are prepared to consider releasing details of specific reports if easily identifiable and readily available, but have decided against publishing the reports due to the volume and the fact that it falls outside defense responsibilities. Mathewson was only able to find one report from Bristol airport out of three specific reports requested by Birdsall and could not find references to incidents in Cyprus (1981) or Devon (1967).

Report of an Unidentified Flying Object (Template)

Pages 3 and 4 contain a template for reporting unidentified flying objects, outlining fields such as date, time, duration, description of the object (number, size, shape, color, brightness, sound, smell), exact position of the observer, how observed, direction, angle of sight, distance, movements, meteorological conditions, nearby objects, and when and to whom it was reported.

Heilbronn-Böckingen Sighting (October 14, 1983)

This report details a sighting by Heinz Karger, a 16-year-old, of a bright, light-emitting sphere (described as 4 times the size of a star) flying from south to west for exactly two minutes. The witness initially contacted CENAP-HN to report a UFO. Subsequent investigation by Roland Gehardt and Jochen Ickinger, who visited the site, suggested the object was likely a plane. They noted that a civil flight path passes over the area, and bright lights are common at night. The report concludes by emphasizing how easily a normal object can be mistaken for a UFO under unusual circumstances.

Keynsham, Bristol Sighting (January 3, 1984)

A report describes a triangular object giving off a pinkish reddish glow, observed for 45 seconds. It flashed across the sky like a meteorite, paused, changed direction, paused again, and disappeared in a northerly direction. The observer was in Keynsham, Bristol, and saw the object with the naked eye. The angle of sight was overhead, and the distance was not determined. Meteorological conditions were clear.

Magazine Advertisement

Page 8 contains an advertisement for 'MAGAZIN 2000', described as 'The Magazine for the Man of Tomorrow'. It covers topics such as Parapsychology, Pre-Astronautics, Astrology, UFOlogy, Ecology, Esotericism, and New Age. The ad lists nine reasons to subscribe, highlighting its increased topicality, exclusive content (including a full translation of 'ANCIENT SKIES'), contributions from UFO research personalities, a UFO column, event calendars, and a new course program. It is published bi-monthly and costs DM 5,- per issue or DM 30,- per year.

Article on Press Council

An article titled 'Bald ein neuer Presserat?' (Soon a new Press Council?) reports on the election of Siegfried Maruhn as the new spokesperson for the German Press Council in Bonn. The council had suspended its activities in December 1981 due to publishers' refusal to print its reprimands. The article discusses efforts to revive the self-regulatory body for the press, including a new statute and complaint procedure agreed upon by publisher associations, the German Journalists Association, and IG Druck und Papier. Representatives of broadcasting organizations and full-time employees of associations and works councils will no longer be part of the restructured council.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are unexplained lights, UFO sightings, and the official responses to them, particularly from government and military bodies. The magazine presents detailed witness accounts alongside official statements and parliamentary inquiries, suggesting an interest in both the phenomena themselves and the transparency (or lack thereof) in their investigation. The inclusion of the Heilbronn case, which concludes with a prosaic explanation, indicates a balanced approach, acknowledging the possibility of misidentification while still documenting the initial reports. The overall stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into reported anomalies, with a critical eye towards official explanations and a desire for more transparency, as evidenced by the focus on parliamentary questions and the critique of the Ministry of Defence's limited engagement.

This issue of CENAP INFO-CEPS, identified as Nr.102 and dated September 1984, is a German-language publication focused on UFO research. It announces an upcoming conference and discusses ongoing investigations and interviews with prominent figures in the field.

5. Treffen der UFO-Forscher von Deutschland in Heilbronn

The main event announced is the 5th meeting of German UFO researchers, scheduled for September 29-30, 1984, at the Hotel 'KRONPRINZ' in Heilbronn. The conference is organized by CENAP and aims to bring together UFO enthusiasts, researchers, students, and ufologists. The program includes lectures, slide shows, film screenings, material displays, and, importantly, lively discussions. A 'UFO-FORUM' is proposed where representatives from various UFO organizations such as CENAP, GEP, MYSTERIA, MUFON-CES, and DUIST could meet to discuss and clarify viewpoints. The organizers are calling for representatives of non-CENAP formations to announce their participation in this 'UFO-PODIUMS-RUNDE'.

Additionally, the film 'HANGAR 18', which deals with the 'Crashed Saucer Syndrome', is highlighted as a premiere for Germany and is expected to be shown, serving as another attraction for attendees.

Interested individuals are directed to contact Roland Gehardt of CENAP-Heilbronn at Frundsbergstr. 244, 7100 Heilbronn-Böckingen, to indicate if they wish to give a lecture or participate in the UFO-FORUM.

CENAP and INFO-CEPS Integration

An editorial note explains that INFO-CEPS (the German-language publication) has been merged into the CENAP REPORT. This integration means the CENAP REPORT will now have a larger scope, including at least 32 pages, with contributions from Mr. Schmitz of INFO-CEPS. The standalone INFO-CEPS publication will cease, with its content appearing regularly within the CENAP REPORT, aiming to make the main publication more attractive and substantial.

CEPS-CENAP Representative Visit to Paris'er Becken

A report details a successful trip by CEPS-CENAP representatives to the Paris'er Becken area between June 1st and 4th. The visit is described as fruitful, with plans for future activities to be developed based on a report expected in September from Thierry Rocher.

Case Study: Trans-en-Provence

The issue touches upon the case of Trans-en-Provence, stating that further details cannot be provided at this time due to ongoing investigations. It is mentioned that the CIGU, along with Pinvidic, Figuet, and Yves Bosson, are conducting a thorough re-examination of the case, suggesting that GEPAN may have made significant errors.

The document includes technical material from the 'Note Technique No.16' of the Centre National D'Etudes Spatiales and its 'Groupe D'Etude des Phenomenes Aerospatiaux Non-Identifies', specifically related to 'Enquete 81/0I, Analyse d'Une Trace'. This section is accompanied by diagrams and photographs illustrating the location and characteristics of a trace found on the ground, including a 'Plate-forme' and the presumed landing point of a phenomenon.

Interview with Michel Monnerie

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an exclusive interview with UFOlogist Michel Monnerie, taken from OVNI Presence Nr.22. Monnerie discusses his views on UFOlogy, emphasizing it as a collaborative effort rather than a competition. He criticizes the tendency within the UFO community to ostracize those with differing opinions, comparing it to an inquisitorial system. Monnerie believes that a diverse range of perspectives is crucial for understanding the phenomenon and that open, sincere dialogue is essential for progress.

He recounts his own experience, stating that he entered UFOlogy with the understanding that it was a scientific study, not a matter of belief. He expresses a desire for discussion and understanding, likening it to understanding basic scientific principles like the Earth revolving around the sun. Monnerie suggests that many delicate situations could have been avoided if a more reasonable dialogue had taken place.

Monnerie also addresses the perception of his presence within the UFO community, noting that some find him controversial. He asserts that he does not see himself as a martyr but rather as someone contributing to the field. He advocates for a scientific approach and believes that sociological and psychological factors play a role in explaining UFO phenomena.

Advertisement: DIE NAGORA FOTOSERIE

A full-page advertisement promotes 'DIE NAGORA FOTOSERIE', described as 'Explosive Photodocumentation' confirmed by German TV. It offers 24 black and white pictures for $4 (including airmail) or 10 DM in Germany. The advertisement can be ordered from Klaus Webner in Wiesbaden, West Germany.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes open discussion and collaboration within the UFO research community. It highlights the importance of rigorous investigation and analysis, as seen in the coverage of the Trans-en-Provence case. The editorial stance appears to favor a scientific and open-minded approach to UFOlogy, as exemplified by the interview with Michel Monnerie and the call for diverse participation in the Heilbronn conference. There is a clear emphasis on the German-speaking UFO community and its activities.