CENAP-REPORT

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr.110
Date: Wednesday, February 20, 1985
Publisher: CENAP (Centrales Erforschungs-Netz außergewöhnlicher Phänomene)
Type: UFO-Fachjournal (UFO Specialist Journal)

CENAP: An Overview

CENAP is presented as a private, non-commercial research organization focused on the serious, factual, and critical study of the UFO phenomenon. Klaus Webner defines UFO as an "unidentified flying object" from American aviation terminology, emphasizing that it refers to an object that appears strange and cannot be identified by the observer, not necessarily an extraterrestrial spacecraft. CENAP's research aims to demythologize and identify the physical and socio-psychological aspects of UFO phenomena. The organization documents its findings in the publication CENAP REPORT (CR), which covers current events, research results, case studies, and public UFO debates. The magazine also touches upon the societal impact of "UFO belief" and its media portrayal. CENAP affirms the existence of the UFO phenomenon and the necessity of serious research.

CENAP REPORT Publication

The monthly publication CENAP REPORT (CR) provides ongoing reports on UFO events and research findings through documented case studies with authentic material. It also addresses the public UFO debate and interdisciplinary discussions. The German-language publication includes content from the Luxembourgish publication INFO-CEPS by Gilbert Schmitz. The annual subscription for CR costs DM 35.--.

"Rückblicke" (Looking Back) - Summer 1984

This section, authored by Hansjürgen Köhler, reviews events from summer 1984, including the 5th CENAP UFO/UAP meeting in Heilbronn, a CENAP-attended Belgian UFO-21 event, and a meeting of the Danish SUFOI in Mellerup. Köhler participated as a guest speaker at the Mellerup event, which was a week-long UFO seminar aimed at attracting Danish UFO enthusiasts. Despite initial skepticism due to a decline in interest observed in 1983, the 1984 seminar managed to cover its costs, partly due to local interest during public lectures. The article notes that while other international guests had promised to attend, many did not show up, leaving only Bertil Kuhlemann from Sweden and Köhler as foreign guests. The seminar provided valuable information, and the organization was praised. The article mentions a press report by Per Boorgard in JYDSKE TIDENDE on June 24, 1984, highlighting the event, and subsequent reports on July 22, 1984, mentioning a lecture on German UFO research.

Mellerup Seminar and SUFOI

Köhler's report from the Mellerup seminar details his positive experience with the organization and lectures. He highlights a conversation with Torben Birkeholm, then the youngest SUFOI chairman and head of its research department, whom Köhler considered a valuable asset to SUFOI. Birkeholm's presentation on a case study, emphasizing the psychological aspects, was particularly interesting. CENAP plans to report on this CE III case from Denmark in a future issue, as Birkeholm has agreed to provide a report. Köhler also observed that while SUFOI possesses a rich archive, its departments seem disconnected, suggesting a need for better integration. Peter Hansen had resigned from his leadership role in SUFOI for personal and professional reasons.

UFO'er i Mellerup (UFOs in Mellerup)

This article, by Per Borgaard, reports on the UFO-84 seminar in Mellerup. The seminar began with a debate on the UFO problem, featuring representatives from Danish UFO organizations. Participants and local attendees had the opportunity to ask questions, and a panel engaged with the problem, leading to a lively debate. The seminar continued with presentations on soft data problems in close encounters and other topics throughout the week, including a lecture on German UFO research. Flemming Falkenberg from Aarhus, known for his critical stance on UFOs, was an introductory speaker. The organizers offered transport from Rødekro Station to Mellerup.

Tyske ufo'er mangelvare (German UFOs a Rarity)

Hans-Jürgen Köhler, head of the German UFO organization CENAP, stated at the Mellerup seminar that Germany has had very few unexplained UFO cases in the last five years. CENAP has investigated 257 UFO reports in its 11 years of existence, with only seven remaining unexplained. Of these, 72 were identified as balloons, 36 as misidentified aircraft, 34 as meteorites, and 23 as hoaxes. Köhler noted that CENAP collaborates with the Danish organization SUFOI but conducts more thorough investigations to find natural explanations for UFO sightings. He humorously remarked that people sometimes get angry when their 'toys' are taken away by finding a rational explanation. The article also mentions that the seminar would continue with a presentation by SUFOI's vice-chairman, Torben Birkholm, on Danish close encounters.

CENAP-AUSTRIA: 1984: DAS JAHR IM SPIEGEL (1984: The Year in Review)

Christian Pöchhacker of CENAP-AUSTRIA reviews 1984 as a typical "pickle year" for UFOs, with sightings but few unexplained cases. He highlights a case from 1982 that CENAP AUSTRIA investigated retrospectively: a photo case in Saalfelden. Initially, CENAP AUSTRIA was not active, and the case was handed over to MUFON-CES. After receiving information in May 1982 about a photo case in Saalfelden, and due to "youthful recklessness" and "general conscription," the case was transferred. MUFON-CES took over the work and phone costs to Austria. The article notes that after the resumption of CENAP AUSTRIA's activities, they took the case back. The report mentions INTERKOSMOS in Vienna, a UFO circle, which was apparently unaware of this photo case until this CR issue.

UFO über Saalfelden? Rätsel um Fotografien (UFO over Saalfelden? Mystery of the Photographs)

This section details the Saalfelden UFO case. Gustav Schumacho, the former tenant of the Tennis restaurant in Saalfelden, claimed to have photographed a UFO with a Polaroid camera in May 1982. He described a fast-moving, highly maneuverable object without visible propulsion. The Pinzgauer Nachrichten newspaper published photos of this alleged UFO. However, a later investigation revealed that Schumacho, facing business difficulties, staged the event to attract attention. The "UFO" was identified as a lid from a trash can. The article criticizes the lack of thorough investigation at the time, which allowed the hoax to persist for two years.

Current Events: Graz Sighting

The article then shifts to current events in 1984, starting with a sighting on January 3, 1984, in Graz. A witness described a strong, white light that stopped and then moved rapidly south, disappearing in all colors. This sighting was later identified by air traffic control as a four-engine Tyrolean Airways DASH-7 aircraft on its approach to Graz-Thalerhof Airport. The aircraft's colorful livery, described as "brightly lit in all colors," and its flight path matched the witness's description. The article suggests that the aircraft's landing lights were likely responsible for the visual phenomenon.

Geheimnisvolles Ufo über dem Marchfeld (Mysterious UFO over the Marchfeld)

This section reports on sightings on June 12 and 13, 1984, near Gänserndorf and Angern. Passersby reported a bright, hovering object resembling a "Christmas tree" with lights that blinked on and off. Investigations by air traffic control located the phenomenon in Czech territory, east of Stillfried. Experts suggested it was a test of a new lighting system for military exercises. The mystery was solved by the military police in Schwechat, who, after checking with CSSR authorities, identified the object as "Flares" (light rockets) fired from a military training ground in Malacky, CSSR. The report notes that UFO believers could dismiss this explanation.

UFO-Alarm um Raketen aus der CSSR (UFO Alarm about Rockets from CSSR)

This article from the "Marchfelder Nachrichten" on June 15, 1984, confirms the explanation of the Marchfeld sightings as flares from CSSR military exercises. Following the clarification, a reader's letter was published, leading to another witness contacting CENAP-Austria. However, this witness provided no new information, and the case was considered identified.

UFO-Hammer for Austria

The report mentions a "UFO-Hammer" for Austria in August 1984, with a reported "UFO invasion" in the Upper Waldviertel. Short press reports appeared, hinting at a larger event. The article details a specific incident that began on August 13, 1984, around 2 AM. A farmer reported his animals were restless, and upon investigation, he saw a "mothership" (identified by an ICUFON member) about 2 meters long, cylindrical, with a particle tail. The next day, a cupola-shaped, red-glowing UFO was seen, with multiple witnesses and a hobby photographer taking two pictures. These photos, however, mysteriously disappeared. A few days later, an object with blue light was reportedly observed. The article suggests the possibility of a hoax or the involvement of Peter Krassa's 'Men in Black'. The Polaroid photos remained missing.

Investigation and Cover-up Allegations

CENAP-Austria attempted to gather detailed information about the August 1984 incident but achieved little success beyond a phone call and a sketch. Despite contacting five witnesses multiple times, they became unresponsive. The article alleges that the Austrian ICUFON was involved in a "cover-up," with local officials questioning the witnesses, making them unavailable. CENAP sent explanatory material to the witnesses, which apparently led the ICUFON representative to realize that support for the "saucer belief" was unlikely. The author concludes that this case was clearly not a genuine UFO sighting.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CENAP-REPORT demonstrates a strong commitment to rational investigation and debunking of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific explanations and critical analysis, aiming to demythologize UFO reports. The magazine actively investigates and clarifies cases, often identifying mundane explanations for alleged sightings, such as aircraft, flares, or hoaxes. While acknowledging the existence of the UFO phenomenon, CENAP emphasizes the need for serious, evidence-based research rather than sensationalism or unfounded belief. The publication serves as a platform for disseminating research findings, case studies, and critical perspectives on UFOs, aiming to inform the public and counter misinformation. The recurring theme is the pursuit of truth through rigorous investigation, even when it means disappointing those who wish to believe in extraterrestrial visitors.

This issue of the magazine, with a cover date of November 27, 1984, and identified as issue number 11, focuses heavily on UFO phenomena, particularly debunking hoaxes and explaining sightings through natural phenomena. The main headline on the cover is "Augenzeugen meldeten verdächtige Objekte der Polizei: Neunkirchen: UFO-Alarm!" (Eyewitnesses reported suspicious objects to the police: Neunkirchen: UFO Alarm!). The magazine features articles from various publications, including the Neunkirchner Volkspost, Haller Lokalanzeiger, and Kurier-Burgenland, as well as international sources.

UFO-Bløffen: The Norwegian Hoax

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the case of Pål Kristian Vaag from Aure, Norway, who created a widely publicized UFO photograph. The article "Slik fikset jeg UFO-bløffen" (How I Faked the UFO Hoax) details how Vaag used a two-meter long cut water pipe and a gray bookend shaped like a flying saucer, suspended by a thin fishing line, to create his 'evidence'. The photograph, initially published by VG and accepted by experts, was later analyzed by NIVFO (Norsk Institutt for Vitenskapelig Forskning og Opplysning) in cooperation with Ground Saucer Watch (GSW) in the USA. Computer analysis revealed the suspension thread, exposing the hoax. Vaag admitted to the deception, stating he was surprised by how many people were fooled and hoped it would make people more skeptical of UFO photos.

Neunkirchen UFO Alarm

The Neunkirchen section reports on multiple calls to the police over a weekend regarding two suspicious objects seen in bright light between the Ternitz substation and the Gasthaus am Forst. Witnesses described the objects as blinking, sometimes simultaneously, and disappearing towards Styria after about an hour. Police Inspector Kurt Tschich confirmed the reports were consistent. Eyewitness Erwin Thiel, a lifeguard, found the sighting strange but did not believe in UFOs.

Other Sightings and Misidentifications

The magazine also covers other reported sightings, often attributing them to natural phenomena. A report from Hall i. Tirol describes a 'fireball' over Innsbruck, identified as a meteorite. Another section discusses how many UFO reports are actually misidentifications of planets, particularly Venus. The article "Die Venus plinkert - und viele Berliner glauben, es ist ein Ufo" (Venus Blinks - and Many Berliners Believe It's a UFO) explains that the bright, twinkling appearance of Venus in the sky is a natural phenomenon, amplified by atmospheric conditions and the planet's proximity to Earth.

Professor Charles Huffer, a mathematics professor and researcher for the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON), is quoted explaining that many sightings are natural events. He notes that while he has investigated many UFO reports, he has not personally witnessed any, but believes in the possibility of extraterrestrial life. He encourages people to report their observations.

The Jimmy Carter UFO Case

The issue revisits the famous 'Jimmy Carter UFO' sighting. UFO investigator Robert Sheaffer's research is highlighted, suggesting that Carter's sighting in 1969 was likely a misidentification of the planet Venus, which was particularly bright at the time. Despite Sheaffer's findings, the 'Jimmy Carter UFO' continues to be cited by UFO enthusiasts.

CENTRO UFOLOGICO NAZIONALE Information

A brief "BRANDHEISS! C.U.N.-INFO!" section relays information from the Italian CENTRO UFOLOGICO NAZIONALE, stating that UFO files are unclassified and contain no truly unidentified reports. A specific case involving a pilot's encounter with photographic evidence was explained as a black foil balloon, not an alien craft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the debunking of UFO hoaxes, the misidentification of celestial bodies (especially Venus) as UFOs, and a generally skeptical approach to sensational UFO claims. The editorial stance appears to favor scientific explanations and critical analysis over unverified sensationalism, encouraging a more grounded approach to observing the night sky. The magazine aims to educate readers about the prevalence of natural explanations for many reported UFO phenomena.

This issue of "UFO-JOURNALISMUS" focuses on the critical examination of UFO reporting, particularly the phenomenon of misidentifying the planet Venus as a UFO, and the broader issues of disinformation and journalistic practices within the UFO field. The publication, originating from CENAP-Mannheim, appears to be a German-language periodical dedicated to analyzing and clarifying UFO-related topics.

The Venus Misidentification Phenomenon

The core of the issue addresses how the planet Venus, due to its bright appearance and perceived unusual movements, has been responsible for millions of alleged UFO sightings. Dr. Jacques Vallee, a prominent UFO theorist, is quoted stating that Venus is the most frequently misinterpreted object as a 'flying saucer.' The magazine details numerous cases where observers, including astronauts like Michael Collins, pilots from World War II, and law enforcement officers, have mistaken Venus for an unidentified flying object. Specific incidents are recounted, such as the 'Mantell-Fall' of 1948, where a pilot pursued what was later identified as Venus, leading to a fatal crash. Other examples include Trooper Dale Spaur's pursuit in Ohio in 1966, police sightings in Maryland and Georgia, and the famous 'Father Gill' case in New Guinea in 1959, all of which were eventually attributed to Venus or other celestial bodies.

The text emphasizes that while Venus's characteristics can be deceiving, careful analysis by UFO investigators often reveals the planetary explanation. However, it also notes that the allure of the extraordinary can lead some to reject these explanations.

UFO Journalism and Desinformation

Beyond the specific misidentifications, the magazine launches a strong critique of UFO journalism. It argues that many publications and media outlets, driven by a desire for sensationalism and readership, engage in "desinformation." This includes sensationalizing events, presenting biased or misleading information, and creating "pseudo-events" to capture attention. The article posits that the media landscape often prioritizes entertainment over factual reporting, leading to a public that is "lied to" or "confused" about reality.

Journalists are described as "gate-keepers" who control the flow of information and set the public agenda. The issue highlights how this power can be misused, either intentionally through manipulation or unintentionally due to a lack of critical rigor and a susceptibility to sensationalism. The article quotes Bundespräsident Walter Scheel stating, "Sensation is ultimately disinformation, as it breaks the connection of things." The authors suggest that journalists often struggle to admit errors and resist corrections, preferring to maintain a narrative that sells.

Media Practices and Critical Consumption

The magazine discusses various journalistic practices that contribute to misinformation, such as selective reporting, exaggeration, and the blending of fact with fiction. It criticizes the tendency to inflate minor events into major news stories and to focus on scandals and catastrophes. The article suggests that readers themselves may sometimes prefer to be entertained by a mix of truth and fiction rather than seeking purely factual information.

Ultimately, the issue calls for a more critical approach to consuming media, especially concerning UFO topics. It implies that a healthy skepticism and a demand for verifiable information are crucial for discerning truth from sensationalism and disinformation in the realm of UFO reporting.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the pervasive nature of UFO misidentifications, particularly involving the planet Venus, and a critical exposé of journalistic practices in the UFO field. The editorial stance is clearly one of skepticism towards sensationalized UFO reporting and a strong advocacy for factual accuracy, critical analysis, and transparency in media coverage of such phenomena. The publication aims to demystify UFO reports by providing rational explanations and to expose the mechanisms of disinformation within the media.

This issue of L'EST RÉPUBLICAIN, dated Saturday, July 23, 1983, with issue number 31.615 and volume 33, focuses on a UFO sighting that was later identified as a missile test, and explores themes of journalism, information manipulation, and scientific skepticism in the context of UFO research.

Journalism and Information Manipulation

The issue begins by examining the role of journalists in shaping public perception, suggesting that reporting can create self-fulfilling prophecies and new realities. The 'agenda-setting function' of the media is discussed, where readers deem topics important based on what is presented to them. The article highlights how financial incentives can influence reporting, citing an example from FAZ where a small sum could prompt a newspaper to publish a specific claim. Heinrich Oberreuter is quoted stating that scientists often play with the media to seek sensation rather than normalcy.

The Toulouse UFO Incident

A prominent article details the luminous phenomenon observed by numerous inhabitants in southwestern France, particularly in Toulouse, on the night of July 12-13, 1983. Initially perceived as a UFO, the event was later identified by GEPAN (Groupement d'étude des phénomènes aérospatiaux non-identifiés) as an experimental launch of the new French 'M 4' ballistic missile. The missile was fired from the submarine 'Le Gymnote' in the Atlantic Ocean. The report notes that GEPAN received many testimonies, including a record number of children's drawings. The favorable observation conditions, including a clear sky and late sunset, contributed to the widespread sightings. The article questions why such a military experiment, typically classified, was officially announced, suggesting it might have been due to the high number of public inquiries to GEPAN.

Scientific Investigation and Skepticism

The issue features a piece by Gilbert Schmitz of CEPS/CENAP titled "INFORMATIONSMANIPULATION BEI BUFORA?" This section critically examines the handling of UFO information by media and research groups. Schmitz discusses the controversy surrounding UFO sightings in Hessdalen, Norway, specifically the debate between Jan S. Krogh of NIVFO and Odd-Gunnar Røed of UFO-NORGE. NIVFO, after conducting meteorological investigations in Hessdalen from March to May 1984, concluded that most sightings could be explained by natural phenomena, including plasma phenomena, and possibly atmospheric experiments involving sodium release. They found no evidence of extraterrestrial activity. In contrast, UFO-NORGE, described as a "Gläubigergemeinschaft" (community of believers), is accused of spreading superstition and pseudo-science, particularly regarding 'little green men' from outer space. Schmitz criticizes UFO-NORGE for not respecting scientific methodology and for misinterpreting phenomena, such as overestimating sizes. He also points out contradictions between statements made by Mentz Kaarbo and Odd-Gunnar Røed within UFO-NORGE, suggesting a deliberate misinformation campaign. The article also criticizes BUFORA for censoring a reader's letter before its public release.

Hysteria and Perception

An illustration by a witness, Yves Chausson, depicts a white ball that appeared shortly after the disappearance of the main phenomenon. The article touches upon the concept of 'hysteria' by providing a psychological definition: a neurosis where psychological conflict manifests through physical symptoms, characterized by emotional crises, theatricalism, and often prolonged effects like anxiety hysteria. The author suggests that the official announcement of the missile test might have been a way to manage potential mass hysteria.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the influence of media and journalism on public perception, and the importance of scientific rigor in investigating unexplained events. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a call for critical analysis of information, particularly in the field of UFO research. The issue advocates for distinguishing between sensationalism and factual reporting, and for uncovering the true background of reported events, especially when dealing with potentially manipulated information.