CENAP Report - No 113

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr.113
Date: 10./7/85 (July 10, 1985)
Publisher: CENAP (centrales erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher phänomene)
Type: UFO-Fachjournal (UFO Fact Journal)

Main Cover Story: Space Travel in Extraterrestrial Flying Objects

The cover prominently features an article titled "RAUMREISEN in extraterrestrischen FLUGKÖRPERN" (Space Travel in Extraterrestrial Flying Objects) by RAPS/GUIMARAES. Accompanying this are illustrations, including a portrait of Horst Raps, identified as a 'Konstruktionszeichner' (Design draftsman), and drawings of a 'Weltraummutterschiff' (Space mothership) with smaller craft and a 'Herabschwebendes Raumschiff' (Descending spaceship).

The main headline on the cover also includes a sensational sub-headline: "Allemal ein Fall für den Psychiater" (Definitely a case for the psychiatrist), referencing a legal case in Darmstadt involving a man from Lampertheim accused of indecently assaulting minors.

Article: Contactee Problems: Elite-Scandal!

This section, authored by Hansjürgen Köhler, delves into the psychological aspects of UFO contactees. Köhler suggests that some individuals, overwhelmed by stress and earthly problems, seek refuge in a 'second reality' or the 'UFOlogy' world, finding 'love vibrations' in a small community. He criticizes this as a self-made philosophy, drawing parallels to religious movements and the teachings of Jakob Lorber. Köhler argues that this phenomenon opens doors to cult-like behavior, fueled by literature that creates a 'fog of confusion' and the desire to not be alone. He highlights the case of Horst Raps from Lampertheim, who claims to have had encounters with extraterrestrial beings on March 29, 1959, and subsequently became a 'heavenly prophet of the new era.'

Köhler describes Raps's alleged intergalactic brotherhood and the publication of his 'space travels' in extraterrestrial flying objects, suggesting that this brought Raps recognition and a sense of belonging.

Article: Horst Raps: Spaceflight to Distant Planetary Regions

This article provides a biographical sketch of Horst Raps, born February 13, 1929. It details his alleged first encounter on March 29, 1959, near a forest clearing, describing a luminous, elliptical object that hovered and communicated with him telepathically. Raps claims the being invited him into the craft and spoke of a mission to warn humanity about dangers and the need for order, brotherhood, and peace on Earth before seeking other worlds. He was invited back for another meeting.

The article recounts a second encounter where Raps was invited into the spaceship and taken on a tour, including a visit to the Centauri system. He describes the alien civilization's societal structure, where housing is communal and individuals can choose their living environment. He notes the absence of children, with education provided in special institutions.

Raps's experiences are presented as evidence of advanced extraterrestrial technology and a potential future for humanity if they can raise their ethical and spiritual level to meet universal laws.

Discussion on UFO Literature and Potential Cults

The issue critically examines the literature surrounding UFO phenomena, particularly mentioning the 'Ventla-Verlag' and its publications. It draws parallels between the drawings of spaceships and those found in 'Flash Gordon' media. The article also references a 1980 CENAP-Mannheim investigation that identified Horst Raps as a known figure to the Lampertheim police, who would often report his UFO experiences and offer his brochure.

Legal Case and Psychological Evaluation

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a court case in Darmstadt involving a 56-year-old pensioner from Lampertheim accused of indecently assaulting children. The trial is investigating whether the accused, who claims to have parapsychological contact with extraterrestrial beings and believes the soul is an 'extraterrestrial object,' should be placed in a psychiatric hospital. His unusual life philosophy and alleged abilities, such as moving elevators remotely, are being examined. The accused claims his abilities stem from an encounter with a UFO and subsequent 'brain mutation' after a trip to Alpha Centauri.

Connections to Other Cases and Themes

The article draws parallels between Horst Raps's case and that of American contactee Wendelle C. Stevens, who reported on court documents from Pima County, Arizona, concerning child molestation charges. It also mentions the Betty Hill case and the DUIST group's focus on 'love-rays' and 'vibrations,' suggesting a rise in sexual fantasies within UFO narratives. Cases like Villa Boas and Elli Klarer are cited as examples of alleged extraterrestrial interactions with entire populations or individuals.

Critique of UFO Groups and 'Lorber Sect'

The magazine expresses strong criticism of certain UFO groups, particularly the 'DUIST' and its association with the teachings of Jakob Lorber. It labels DUIST as a sect rather than a research group, using UFOs as a facade for pseudoreligious goals. The article cites reader letters from 'UFO NACHRICHTEN' that describe the negative psychological effects on followers of Jakob Lorber, including suppressed sexual drives leading to irritability and conflict. The magazine warns against this group.

Warning: Another Sect: IUEL

This section issues a warning about a group called IUEL, led by Robert P. Tewes. Tewes is described as an 'esoteric' who also appeals to 'pre-astronautics' and 'reincarnation fans.' The 'Internationale Union zur Erforschung Ausserirdischen Lebens' (IUEL) is presented as a scientific-sounding organization. The article notes that CENAP representatives attended an IUEL presentation in Dortmund. The group offers 'reincarnation therapies' and training for 'UFO contactees,' with significant costs involved.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of UFO contactee experiences, the psychological and sociological factors influencing belief in UFOs, and the potential for these beliefs to manifest as cults or sects. The magazine adopts a critical stance towards many contactee claims, often linking them to psychological issues, delusion, or deliberate deception. There is a strong emphasis on debunking or questioning the veracity of extraordinary claims, particularly when they intersect with legal or psychological concerns. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensational UFO narratives and a concern about the manipulative potential of certain groups within the UFO community.

This issue of UFO-Nachrichten, primarily in German, delves into UFO sightings and related phenomena, with a significant focus on reports from Africa in 1952. It also includes a book review and discussions on the psychological and sociological aspects of UFO belief.

Article: IUEL and Esotericism

The first section critiques an organization called IUEL, led by 'Herr Tewes,' which appears to offer services related to UFOs and esotericism for a fee. The author describes the IUEL's approach as overwhelming the listener with esoteric information, making critical questioning difficult. The group's target audience is compared to a 'DUIST-Sekte,' characterized by passive listening and acceptance. The IUEL's origins are traced back five years, with its current form emerging in 1985 after a preparatory period. The article suggests that the IUEL's goal of uniting those interested in 'research' is overly ambitious.

Cover Cartoon

A cartoon features a dialogue between two figures discussing the nature of reality. One questions if the world is real or merely imagined, and the other suggests it is imagined to make everything seem realistic.

Book Review: 'Flying Saucers: Magic in the Skies' by Otto Billig

Werner Walter reviews Otto Billig's book, which approaches the UFO phenomenon from a psychohistorical perspective. The review highlights that the increasing interest in UFOs reflects a public hunger for new reports, leading to the formation of UFO societies and excursions. Billig's work suggests that vague, hard-to-define crises lead to an increase in sightings, while clearly defined crises cause a decrease. The controversy surrounding flying saucers, according to Billig, stems not just from the sightings themselves but from the interpretation of the observed objects as factual, extraterrestrial entities. The review notes that trained observers like police officers and pilots are not immune to misinterpretations driven by stress and anxiety. Billig's book is praised for presenting facts about UFO perceptions within their socio-political context over the last 35 years.

The book's chapters cover topics such as 'Contacts Then and Now,' 'Abductions by Flying Saucers,' 'Heroes and Anti-Heroes from Space,' 'Flying Saucers in Biblical Times,' 'Turning Points in History,' 'The 19th Century,' 'The Cold War,' 'Space Exploration,' 'UFO Organizations in the USA and Europe,' 'Motivation: Dreams and Visions,' 'Myth Makers,' 'Art and Social Structure.'

The psychological aspect of flying saucers is attributed to the 'unshakeable conviction' of observers that their sightings are sufficient proof of extraterrestrial origin. They tend to reject alternative explanations, even when presented with evidence of misidentification or unusual experiences. The review concludes that Billig's contribution is a 'mosaic stone' towards clarifying the UFO riddle.

Article: 1952: UFOs in Africa?

This section details numerous UFO sightings reported in Africa during 1952, drawing from CR 109 and CR 111, which previously covered CIA-registered UFO activities.

Andujar, Spain (August 1, 1952): Inhabitants reported seeing a red, round object, the size of a dessert plate, flying silently at high speed and leaving a long, greenish light trail.

Algeria (July 31, 1952): The newspaper 'La Vigie Marocaine' reported sightings of flying saucers in Algeria. In Casablanca, two were seen on July 29th, one briefly at 20:50 and another at 23:00, leaving a whitish trail. This was the fifth such sighting in a week in the Oran department. Phosphorescent discs were also seen in Frenda, near Tlemcen, and Lamoriciere.

Oran, Algeria (July 31, 1952): 'L'Echo d'Oran' reported that flying saucers were appearing with greater regularity in Oran than in France or the USA. Witnesses included police, civil servants, a priest, and a ship captain. Raymond Botella reported a flying object moving rapidly north from Tlemcen, leaving a smoke trail. In Sainte Barbe du Tlelat, a luminous flying object was seen for 30 seconds by local police and a soldier. In Algier, a luminous disc was seen shooting down from the horizon and moving horizontally.

General African Sightings (Late July 1952): Objects were described as flat, cone-shaped, emitting blue and red flames, flying at high speed southward, or as elongated discs with white light trails moving at high speed from north to south. Other descriptions include blue-green, ball-shaped objects with short fire trails, yellow flying discs moving rapidly east to west, and blue, phosphorescent, egg-shaped objects with bluish trails. Sightings often occurred near dusk or at night and affected Dakar, Oran, and Casablanca.

Algerian Weather Office Explanation: The director of the Algerian weather office dismissed sightings as weather balloons released nightly, equipped with a luminous device that moved in the wind.

Marrakech, Morocco (July 17, 1952): A large, luminous disc-shaped object was seen flying horizontally, breaking into light, followed by a smaller disc moving rapidly southwest. People in the Marrakech region reported seeing flying saucers with dizzying speeds.

Tangier and Fes (September 21, 1952): A luminous disc, nearly the size of the setting sun, flew horizontally from east to west, leaving two bright flame trails before disappearing. In Casablanca, an unusual object, possibly a saucer, flew at high speed. Observers reported cigar-shaped objects with silvery smoke trails, and a pilot reported a 'flaming, globe-shaped mass with white smoke' that stopped, spun, and emitted sparks before vanishing.

Pilot's Sighting (September 21, 1952): A former military pilot named Creze reported observing a foreign object to his left, about 30 meters from his aircraft, while preparing to land in Casablanca. The object flew horizontally from east to west at high speed, at least twice as fast as his own aircraft. He described it as a bright, blue-green flame, elongated and cigar-shaped, with no sound. Other reports from Azemour described a similar object that emitted a loud explosion.

Meteor Explanation: A report from Rabat suggested that a mysterious object seen on September 21, 1952, was a meteor due to its straight flight path and lack of maneuvers. The object was described as white-hot, an orange fireball, or a cone-shaped object with a green-blue smoke trail, moving parallel to the coast.

CIA Information: The CIA collected 'unevaluated information' on unconventional aircraft, including reports of flying saucer formations in Tarn, France, on October 27, 1952. These sightings involved objects flying in pairs, emitting bluish light and white, glass-wool-like particles that disintegrated upon contact.

Norwegian Report (September 18, 1952): A round, flat object, estimated to be 15-20 meters in diameter, was observed hovering motionless at 500 meters altitude near Kirkenes, Norway. It then flew off at high speed to the northwest.

West German Invention: A report from November 20, 1952, claimed that an inventor in West Germany, Rudolf Schriever, had created a perfect 'elliptical flying object' with a 40-meter diameter, capable of vertical take-off and landing, hovering, and reaching speeds of 4000 km/h. This is linked to the 'Hitler V-7 saucer.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the psychological and sociological factors influencing UFO belief, questioning whether the term 'flying saucer' has become a catch-all for phenomena like meteors. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical examination, presenting various sightings and explanations while also highlighting the potential for misinterpretation and the influence of societal context on perception. The critique of the IUEL suggests a skepticism towards organizations that commercialize esoteric beliefs. The recurring theme is the complex interplay between observation, belief, and interpretation in the context of unexplained aerial phenomena, particularly during periods of societal stress and crisis.

This issue of "UFO-JÄGER" (UFO Hunter) from March 26, 1985, published by Münchberg-Helmbrechtser Zeitung and Frankenpost, Hof, Germany, focuses on UFO phenomena, astronomy, and related topics. The cover story features Apollo-15 astronaut James Irwin discussing his experiences and views on extraterrestrial life, alongside a conference on UFOs held in Dortmund. The magazine delves into historical UFO sightings, research efforts, and astronomical explanations.

Conference on Extraterrestrials in Dortmund

The issue reports on a conference held in Dortmund for enthusiasts of the extraterrestrial, organized by the "International Union for the Investigation of Extraterrestrial Life." The main speaker was Peter Tewes, who specializes in esoteric psychology and claims to help people recall past lives. Despite the absence of any UFO sightings during the conference weekend, the event served as a platform for discussing "nightly UFO contacts."

Historical UFO Sightings and Cases

The magazine presents a compilation of UFO sightings from various periods:

• October 6, 1952: A luminous, cigar-shaped object with orange flames was observed flying along the Algerian coast near Algiers.
• October 27, 1952: Approximately 100 inhabitants in Gaillac, France, reported witnessing a formation of 16 disk-shaped objects, described as "flying saucers," which revolved and emitted a bluish light.
• November 20, 1952: Rudolf Schriever, a former pilot in West Germany, applied for the first patent for a "flying saucer," an elliptical craft with a 40-meter diameter capable of vertical ascent and descent at high speeds.
• 1967: The USA experienced a surge in UFO activity, with hundreds of sightings reported across the country. A significant case involved photo reporter Leonard Victor of the LONG ISLAND PRESS, who photographed a pale yellow, elongated object over Suffolk County, New York, on October 29, 1967. The object was described as motionless and unlike any aircraft. Air Force investigators later examined the photographs.
• October 21, 1967: A glowing object with pulsating light and color changes was observed near Patchogue, Long Island. Patrolman James Tate and Sergeant Enrico Maimoni witnessed it hovering and changing colors before ascending.
• October 21, 1967: Dozens of people in Brightwaters reported a UFO hovering motionlessly over the Great South Bay for nearly an hour.
• November 1, 1967: Lieutenant William Marley of the Air Force Special Investigations Unit suggested that the Suffolk County sightings should be considered "Siriusly" rather than "seriously," implying a possible astronomical explanation, though the object's movements and color changes remained puzzling.
• 1976: An incident involving a UFO reportedly driving a nine-foot hole into the ice over the Wanaque Reservoir in New Jersey was observed by two police officers. Later, Mayor Harry T. Wolfe and 400 residents reported seeing an "oversized star" that caused traffic chaos.
• December 25, 1976: A phenomenon observed over Mannheim-Wallstadt, Germany, was initially mistaken for a UFO but was later identified as celestial bodies like Venus, Jupiter, and Sirius. The article questions whether this was a misinterpretation or a genuine unexplained event.

The Sirius Effect and Astronomical Explanations

Werner Walter's article, "BLINK, STERNLEIN, BLINK – DER SIRIUS-EFFEKT?" (Blink, Little Star, Blink – The Sirius Effect?), discusses the Dogon tribe's ancient legends about Sirius and its companions. It then connects this to modern UFO sightings, particularly the 1976 Mannheim incident. While astronomical bodies like Venus, Jupiter, and Sirius were identified, the article notes that the unusual behavior and color changes of the observed object were not fully explained by these identifications alone. The author suggests that misinterpretations and the "UFO fever" of the time might have contributed to the confusion.

Dr. Edward U. Condon and the UFO Riddle

The article "UFO-JÄGER: DR.CONDON" examines the role of Dr. Edward U. Condon, a US Professor of Physics and Astrophysics, in investigating UFO phenomena. Condon led the University of Colorado's UFO study, and his judgment on the matter carried significant weight. The article defends Condon against accusations of being a "sorcerer" and clarifies that his work aimed to provide an accurate and justified assessment of the UFO riddle. It highlights his extensive scientific background, including his involvement in the development of the atomic bomb and his work at Los Alamos. Condon was granted considerable freedom in his research, including conducting field interviews and allowing researchers to follow their own lines of inquiry. The article also references a 1972 interview with David J. Shea, a US Air Force press spokesman, where Condon expressed his view that the Air Force's involvement in UFO matters was a "greatest mistake," as it led to sensationalized science fiction stories rather than serious investigation. He noted that high-ranking generals likely treated the subject with amusement.

Sociological and Psychological Perspectives on UFOs

Professor Francesco Alberoni of the University of Milan suggests that UFO sightings often occur during times of societal crisis or perceived threat, reflecting a human need for hope and wishes to be fulfilled. Franco Fornari, Director of the Institute for Psychology in Milan, echoes this sentiment, stating that in difficult times, people may see "heavenly angels" in the form of unidentified flying objects. The article also touches upon the Soviet Union's approach to UFO phenomena, noting that while the press rarely discusses it, there is no official ban. The Soviet press is characterized by its tradition of journalistic accuracy, avoiding sensationalism.

James Irwin's Views on UFOs and Space Exploration

In an interview in Münchberg, Apollo-15 astronaut James Irwin shares his profound experiences from his moon landing. He describes a spiritual transformation and a closer connection to God. Irwin expresses his belief that there is no intelligent life elsewhere in the universe besides Earth, dismissing Erich von Däniken's theories about extraterrestrial visits. He is optimistic about the future of space exploration, envisioning manned space stations and cities in space. Irwin's "High Flight Foundation" aims to spread the Gospel, and he emphasizes the importance of spiritual matters over human achievements like walking on the moon.

Unidentified Objects and Scientific Skepticism

An article titled "BLICK NACH OSTEN – UNERKANNTE OBJEKTE" (Look to the East – Unidentified Objects) discusses a report from the Bulgarian Telegraph Agency about a luminous sphere observed over Bochot, Bulgaria, in 1978. Professor Kirill Serfimow of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences commented that such phenomena could be explained by natural occurrences like research balloons, atmospheric effects, or ball lightning. He stated that while the object's existence was confirmed by multiple witnesses, the lack of photographic evidence and objective measurements made a definitive explanation difficult. He suggested it might have been a weather balloon or a man-made object for which a clear explanation was lacking.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of UFO phenomena with scientific inquiry, historical accounts, and psychological interpretations. There's a clear editorial stance favoring rational explanations and scientific investigation, as exemplified by the critical examination of Dr. Condon's work and the skepticism towards sensationalized UFO reports. The magazine presents a range of perspectives, from eyewitness accounts and research efforts to sociological theories and the personal experiences of astronauts, while maintaining a grounded approach to the subject matter. The recurring theme is the ongoing human fascination with the unknown in the sky and the scientific community's efforts to understand these phenomena.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, identified as Nr. 185 and published around May-June 1984, focuses on the state of UFOlogy in the United States and related organizational dynamics. The publication is from CENAP, a German research network for extraordinary phenomena.

Key Articles and Discussions

The Condon Committee and its Aftermath

The issue delves into the legacy of the Condon Committee, referencing interviews and perspectives from individuals involved or knowledgeable about its work. Edward Condon, the scientific director of the study, is quoted expressing regret over his participation, describing it as a confusing moment and a task he undertook to 'get his hands dirty' because someone had to do it. He felt pressured into the role and suggested that the Air Force should have handled the 'visitors from space' matter more discreetly. Condon also lamented the missed opportunity of the Robertson Forum in 1953. He criticized individuals like J. Allen Hynek, suggesting he should have been fired early on.

The report touches upon the publication of the final report, with Bantam showing early interest in printing a large number of copies. Condon also mentions his interactions with former Air Force Minister Harold Brown regarding the 'Project Blue Book' files, and the concern about a potential scandal if these files were destroyed in a fire.

Condon's personal perspective on the study is critical; he states he would not have conducted the study if he had known what he knows now, viewing the two years as a waste of time and effort that he had to undertake for the Air Force. He also humorously suggests that if he were to see a UFO himself, they would release a revised edition of the report.

Ronald D. Story's "THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF UFOS" is cited, describing Condon as a scientist known for his independent thinking and concern about government influence on science. Condon's background includes two years in Germany after earning his Ph.D. in Physics in 1926. He passed away in 1974.

The US UFO Situation and Organizational Landscape

Werner Walter provides an assessment of the US UFO situation, noting the difficulty in finding factual information and the prevalence of sensationalist tabloids. He highlights the work of volunteers in UFO research, who, despite lacking personal UFO sightings, are driven by a sense of concern, intellectual curiosity, or frustration with the lack of answers. These volunteers face attacks from 'skeptics' who generalize, distort facts, and engage in personal attacks.

The article discusses the formation of the NORTH AMERICAN UFO FEDERATION (NAUFOF) to address the UFO problem collectively. However, it points out potential internal power struggles that could hinder its goals.

NICAP's perceived failure is discussed, noting its past strength but also its exclusion of abduction cases, which limited its ability to assess the full scope of the mystery. The remaining organizations—CUFOS, MUFON, and APRO—each face financial difficulties and internal challenges. CUFOS is associated with Dr. Hynek, while MUFON and APRO also struggle economically.

APRO, the oldest organization, has faced setbacks due to health issues of Jim and Coral Lorenzen and accusations of dirty tricks. The article suggests a lack of succession planning within APRO, with Coral Lorenzen failing to train successors. Walter Andrus, who was forced out of APRO, went on to found MUFON.

MUFON itself is described as having hierarchical problems and internal disagreements. The issue of government secrecy and cover-up is a common theme among UFO organizations. The article mentions the Cash-Landrum case as an example where government agencies responded with "I don't know what you're talking about!"

Criticism of Tabloid Collaboration

There is strong criticism of MUFON's cooperation with tabloids like the NATIONAL ENQUIRER. While this might increase circulation, it is seen as detrimental to gaining credibility with academics and the general public. The article argues that mixing UFOs with sensationalist topics like Jackie Onassis and Princess Di only strengthens skeptical attitudes.

Internal conflicts between MUFON and CUFOS are also highlighted, with MUFON Chief Andrus reportedly upset about CUFOS directly contacting MUFON investigators. There's an impression that CUFOS might be dependent on MUFON, and Andrus wants direct reports sent to MUFON for duplication.

CENAP UFO/UAP-Meeting 1985

The issue announces the upcoming CENAP UFO/UAP-Meeting 1985, which will be held in Heidelberg, Germany, from September 27-29, 1985. Initially planned for Luxembourg, the meeting was relocated due to Gilbert Schmitz's health issues. The event is open to all UFO-interested individuals willing to engage in factual discussions. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own UFO-related materials, such as slides or films, for presentation. The meeting aims to foster informal discussions and exchange of information, with a potential public lecture by CENAP on Saturday evening.

News Briefs and Other Mentions

Brief news items include reports of UFO sightings and investigations. One item mentions a UFO sighting over Sydney on June 20, 1985, described as a large, luminous, round object emitting steam. Another brief mentions that the NATIONAL ENQUIRER is no longer upholding its million-dollar reward for absolute UFO proof.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the challenges and internal politics of the UFO research community, the persistent issue of government secrecy and skepticism, and the struggle for credibility. The editorial stance appears critical of sensationalism and internal conflicts, advocating for more factual, scientific approaches to UFO investigation, while also acknowledging the dedication of volunteer researchers. There is a clear emphasis on the need for organizations to work together effectively to advance the field, with a call for a more professional approach to UFOlogy.