CENAP Report - No 114

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr. 114
Date: 10./8/85 (August 10, 1985)
Publisher: CENAP (Centrales Erforschungs-Netz außergewöhnlicher Phänomene)
Type: UFO-Fachjournal (UFO specialist journal)

CENAP: The Research Network

CENAP is presented as a private, non-commercial organization focused on the serious, factual, and critical study, analysis, and evaluation of the UFO phenomenon. It aims to demythologize and identify the physical forms and socio-psychological impacts of UFOs. The organization investigates specific reports, themes, and aspects of the UFO phenomenon, documenting its findings in the CENAP REPORT publication. CENAP also examines the societal impact of 'UFO belief' and its portrayal in mass media. They affirm the existence of the UFO phenomenon and the necessity of its serious research.

CENAP REPORT Publication

The monthly publication, CENAP REPORT (CR), provides ongoing coverage of current events and the latest research results through case studies with authentic material. It also addresses the public UFO debate and interdisciplinary discussions. The CR includes the Luxembourg publication INFO-CEPS by Gilbert Schmitz. The annual subscription costs DM 35.--.

"UFORIA" in South America: UFOs or Soviet Satellites?

This section, authored by James Oberg, explores the "UFO-panics" in Argentina and neighboring South American countries, attributing many spectacular sightings to normal spaceflight operations, specifically Soviet rocket launches. Oberg explains that these launches, often from Plesetsk, create gas clouds from residual fuel that are mistaken for UFOs. These clouds can be several kilometers wide and appear at altitudes between 600 and 40,000 km, with orbital inclinations over 63 degrees. Two main types of satellites using these orbits are MOLNIYA communication satellites and MEW early warning systems, part of the KOSMOS program. These can form 'constellations' of two or nine satellites.

Launches occur about once a month. When these events happen shortly after sunset in South America, the drifting gas clouds, spacecraft, rocket stages, and protective shells are illuminated by the setting sun, appearing as a cloud-like, round mass with a darker center. These phenomena can be as large as the apparent moon diameter and move across the sky in minutes. Sometimes, small light points accompany the cloud, or a yellow 'V' shape is seen moving northward, indicating the rocket ignition.

Over 150 such launches since 1970 have been documented, with over a dozen occurring during twilight. In the last six years, nine such events led to spectacular "UFO encounters." Eyewitnesses described unusual movements, electrical effects (radar blips, TV interference), psychological effects (drowsiness, fear, time loss), and even claimed encounters with alien creatures. However, these sightings are contrasted with photographs of 'traditional' UFOs, which are noted as being difficult to obtain and often lacking the high quality of photographic evidence associated with these misidentified events.

Pseudo-UFOs and Re-Entries

Oberg connects these 'pseudo-UFOs' to Russian space activities, citing his own research into a spectacular event on July 14, 1980. He notes that while the phenomenon was reported as a true UFO in THE INTERNATIONAL UFO REPORTER, his own findings suggest a different explanation. He collaborated with South American ufologists like Dr. Willy Smith, Antonio Huneeus, and Alejandro Chionetti to investigate these cases. The combination of a returning space debris re-entry (likely from the Space Shuttle Challenger mission) and a fuel cloud from the same body is proposed as the cause. The article references MUFON UFO JOURNAL Nr.199 (November 1984) for a case study titled "RE-ENTRY RE-EXAMINED," detailing the re-entry of debris from the Soviet launch rocket SOYUZ T-20 on May 20, 1984, which caused unusual phenomena in the Texas atmosphere, mistaken by some as a "mother ship" ejecting smaller machines.

Other Sightings and Skeptical Principles

The issue also briefly mentions other sightings: a "Cigar-shaped" object seen by Steve Crum in Eaton County, Michigan, described as a liner with lights and a whitish haze; and a "Gigantic Triangle" seen by Butch Fuller and Bob Fowler in Ingham County, Michigan, appearing as two lights like aircraft landing lights, moving silently. Shirley Sturgis and Melody Hoerl reported a long, pointed object with a whitish haze and green and pink lights.

MUFON investigators suggested that some of these sightings, despite being attributed to re-entries, were perceived as distinctly different machines with capabilities beyond current technology. The article questions whether intelligent visitors would reveal themselves during known events like satellite re-entries.

Ten UFO Dogmas by P. Klass

Werner Walter of CENAP-Mannheim presents ten UFO principles from Philip Klass's "Welt-Almanach des Übersinnlichen." These principles are intended to highlight the dangers of accepting UFO reports uncritically:

1. Human Perception Limits: Honest, intelligent people can inaccurately describe unexpected events involving unfamiliar objects.
2. Distinguishing Details: The challenge for researchers is to differentiate between accurate and distorted details in eyewitness accounts.
3. Assumption of Intelligence: Observers may assume an object is reacting to their presence, when in reality, it is not.
4. Media Attention Fade: Newspapers that initially highlight UFO sightings often lose interest once the event is explained by prosaic facts.
5. Inability to Estimate Size/Distance: Without a known reference object, humans, even pilots, cannot accurately estimate the size, distance, or altitude of an unknown object.
6. UFO Hysteria Cycle: Media reports can create a 'UFO hysteria,' leading people to see UFOs in ordinary objects, which continues until media interest wanes and sightings disappear.
7. Reliance on Material Evidence: Researchers should rely on physical evidence or its absence, not on the character assessments of eyewitnesses.
8. Inconclusive Explanations: The inability to definitively explain a UFO report should not be taken as proof of extraterrestrial visitation.
9. Radar Confirmation: If a light is reported as a UFO and radar confirms an unknown object, it doesn't automatically mean it's an extraterrestrial craft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical yet open-minded approach to UFO phenomena. The primary theme is the demystification of sightings, often attributing them to known phenomena such as satellite launches, re-entries, and atmospheric events. The editorial stance is that while the UFO phenomenon may exist, many reported sightings are misidentifications of mundane objects or events. The publication emphasizes rigorous research, factual analysis, and the importance of distinguishing between genuine mysteries and explainable occurrences. There is a clear effort to educate the public about the scientific explanations behind many UFO reports, particularly those related to space activities. The magazine also touches upon the psychological aspects of belief in UFOs and their cultural impact.

This issue of the UFO INVESTIGATOR, published in November 1972 by NICAP (National Investigation Committee on Aerial Phenomena), focuses on a critical examination of UFO photography and the broader field of UFOlogy. The magazine adopts a skeptical yet investigative stance, aiming to apply scientific rigor to the study of unexplained aerial phenomena.

Article: FOTOS VON UFOS (?) VON S.NIXON

This lead article, written by S. Nixon, addresses the vast number of UFO photographs received by NICAP over 16 years. Nixon notes that these images display a wide range of phenomena, from simple smudges to clearly structured objects. He explains that many cases are dismissed due to clear explanations, lack of cooperation from photographers, or insufficient information. A significant portion of the analyzed photos were rejected due to issues with the original negatives or the lack of them, making thorough investigation impossible. Nixon emphasizes that while some images depict clearly structured objects consistent with UFO reports, the analysis often reveals details that suggest a hoax or misidentification. He points out that NICAP has never analyzed a structured object photo that fully aligned with claims of an extraordinary craft, always finding some detail that raised suspicion.

The article discusses the statistical improbability of truly unknown objects appearing in photographs if UFOs are a physical reality. It highlights surprising patterns in structured object photos, such as single or two-shot sequences, often taken by male teenage witnesses, depicting disk-shaped objects, sometimes with a dome, over open areas. The lack of corroborating witnesses, especially in densely populated areas, is presented as a critical point. Nixon outlines seven criteria for accepting UFO photos as potentially valuable evidence: 1) only clearly structured objects, 2) visually identified objects, 3) rejection of single-witness photos unless justified, 4) night photos are inadmissible unless criteria are met, 5) photos without reference points are questionable, 6) refusal to provide original negatives leads to rejection, and 7) photos from individuals with a UFO background should be rejected.

Applying these criteria would lead to a re-evaluation of famous cases like McMinnville, Beaver/Pa., Trindade Island, and Calgary/Alberta, as well as film sequences like GREAT FALLS/MONTANA. The article suggests that many sensational UFO publications and most images submitted to organizations like NICAP would be eliminated. The challenge of distinguishing hoaxes with multiple witnesses remains, but the author advocates for more rigorous standards to allow genuine evidence to survive the analysis process.

CENAP Commentary on Nixon's Article

The CENAP editorial team adds a note to Nixon's article, stating that it addresses a significant UFO problem: saucer photos. They observe that such photos are often highly praised in UFO circles, especially when they contradict the 'real' UFO situation by depicting flying saucers. The CENAP team agrees that if these photos are debunked, the foundations of belief can crumble. They note that this article, by a seasoned investigator from NICAP, has not been widely published or mentioned in popular UFO literature, suggesting it might be an 'experience guideline' for UFO research. CENAP intends to tackle this 'hot potato' for discussion and further consideration, pointing out that much information exists to solve the UFO riddle, but few seem willing to heed it.

Book Review: UFO-BÜCHER AUS FRANKREICH UND USA by Marc Hallet

This section reviews a chronological catalog of UFO observations from France and the USA compiled by Marc Hallet. The catalog, a limited edition of 40 copies, contains approximately 40 clichés, some of which are new to the UFO scene. The review questions the value of literature that presents UFO sightings from space as fact, asking if these cases have been critically examined. Hallet's work is presented as a chronological catalog, critically illustrated, aiming to analyze specific areas of UFO research where many 'solid' cases are found. The review highlights that Hallet's approach involves historical and scientific critique, emphasizing errors and misidentifications, particularly in observations by astronauts and cosmonauts. The catalog is described as a 'cold shower' for followers of UFOlogists like Hynek, Vallee, Chatelain, and Granger, who have allegedly sacrificed their scientific titles to convince readers. The catalog's goal is to prove that 'specialists' are the source of confusion, generating new investigations for similar doubtful cases. The book is recommended for critical UFO researchers and is self-published by Marc Hallet.

Book Review: UFOS & OUTER SPACE MYSTERIES - a sympathetic skeptic's report by James E. Oberg

This review discusses James E. Oberg's book, which is available for $6.95. Oberg, described as a 'sympathetic skeptic,' is presented as a significant figure in American UFOlogy, often branded a 'UFO demon' by enthusiasts. The book is aimed at anyone who has looked at the stars and wondered about UFO mysteries. Oberg, a trained professional and scientist, previously worked as a computer specialist for the US Air Force and at NASA's Space Shuttle program. His experience with UFOs evolved from a 'pro-UFO' stance in his youth to a more critical, research-based approach. The review highlights Oberg's argument that most UFO cases can be explained with thorough, unbiased investigation, and that there is no evidence for extraterrestrial beings. He suggests that many UFO reports are sociological phenomena driven by a 'will to believe.' The book tackles various famous UFO cases, including lights on the moon, the Apollo 11 incidents, Russian cosmonauts, the Petrozavodsk UFO-jellyfish, and the Betty Hill story, arguing that the evidence for these events is weak.

Article: ITALIEIN: EIN UFO-FOTO! (Italy: A UFO Photo!)

This section reports on a UFO photograph taken by Ernesto Pellizzari, a 33-year-old truck driver from Vicenza, Italy. Pellizzari claims to have photographed a 'flying saucer' that he sighted in Valdagno. The object reportedly hovered for about 10 minutes. The article notes that CENAP requested the photographic material for evaluation. Initial information indicated that the photos were published in Italian newspapers 'Il Giornale d'Italia' and 'Il Piccolo.' Professor Antonio Chiumiento, Vice-President of the National UFO Center (C.U.N.), investigated the case and found that other witnesses also saw a bright ball. Reports from Gorizia and Fontanafredda described similar objects. Chiumiento stated that the film quality was not the best but the 'saucer's' contour was recognizable. Daniela Giordano, editor of UFO EXPRESS, also commented on a series of UFO activities in Italy, calling this case a highlight. She stated, "THE CASE IS TRUE. The witness is credible and I trust the expert who examined the photo." However, the article expresses skepticism about such UFO photos, suggesting they can be easily faked by photographing a cut-out piece of paper against a window. The CENAP team questions the scientific rigor of UFO investigations when professors fall for such tricks, despite their stated commitment to scientific UFO research.

Article: BLICK NACH USA: „IHR WORT, MR MOSELEY!" (Look to the USA: "Your Word, Mr. Moseley!")

This article by Werner Walter features James W. Moseley, editor of SAUCER SMEAR and a prominent UFOlogist. Moseley is described as having organized the 1967 Flying Saucer Convention in New York, which drew over 2,000 UFOlogists. Walter quotes Moseley from a letter dated June 25, 1985, where Moseley agrees that understanding the UFO riddle involves a sociological study of people's 'will to believe,' comparing it to a new religion. Moseley states that while it would be wonderful if benevolent space beings protected humanity, there is no proof of such beings. He concurs that most UFO cases are explained with deeper, unbiased investigation, lamenting the lack of objective investigators. The article mentions that in the July 1, 1985 issue of SAUCER SMEAR, James W. Moseley discusses the topic further.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around skepticism towards UFO phenomena, particularly photographic evidence, and the need for rigorous, scientific investigation. The magazine consistently questions the validity of sensational UFO claims and highlights the importance of critical analysis and the exclusion of hoaxes and misidentifications. The editorial stance is one of cautious inquiry, advocating for a scientific approach to UFOlogy while remaining open to genuine unexplained phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on debunking weak cases and promoting a more grounded understanding of UFO reports, often attributing them to misperceptions, natural phenomena, or deliberate deception. The magazine also promotes books and authors who share this critical and skeptical perspective.

This issue of SAUCER SMEAR, dated August 1985, is the 21st issue from the SAUCER AND UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY. It presents a critical and often skeptical examination of various UFO phenomena, with a focus on debunking or providing mundane explanations for reported sightings.

Key Articles and Reports

Rendlesham Forest Incident (RendleSCHAM)

The magazine begins by discussing the Rendlesham Forest incident, referred to as 'RendleSCHAM'. It references an article from the PROBE REPORT (April 1983) titled "Rendlesham Revisited" by Ian Mrzyglod and Martin Shipp. This PROBE-team investigation examined five aspects of the case: the alleged landing site, a 'two (not three) men in black' incident, disturbed animals, electromagnetic effects, and TV/electrical disturbances. The investigation concluded that the landing site was just one of many clearings, the 'men in black' were two UFO investigators, and the other aspects had mundane explanations. The magazine expresses skepticism towards books like "SKY CRASH: A COSMIC CONSPIRACY" by Brenda Butler, Dot Street, and Jenny Randles, suggesting that the sources, like Brenda Butler's reliance on local pub gossip, might be fabricated. The article also mentions 'Art Wallace' (a pseudonym) who wrote a foreword to 'HIMMELS-ABSTURZ' and expressed fear for his safety if his real name were revealed.

Larry Warren, identified as the former pilot whose name was published despite his wishes, is discussed in relation to a lie detector test. MUFON's Walt Andrus stated that Warren would likely fail a lie detector test and had already failed a stress voice test, yet MUFON published a drawing of the Rendlesham machine by Betty Luca based on 'Art Wallace's' instructions. The article criticizes MUFON's approach to truth-seeking.

FIASKO NAHE FRISCO (Near Frisco Fiasco)

The issue reports on the 22nd annual UFO conference (NUFOC) held near Frisco on May 25th. Bill Moore's presentation on the Roswell UFO crash attracted a small audience. Moseley, the magazine's editor, suggests it was likely a terrestrial weather balloon, aligning with CENAP's view. Moseley, along with Kal K. Korff, also attended a meeting of the BAY AREA SKEPTICS, led by Bob Sheaffer. Moseley also visited Clear Lake City, Texas, to meet with Dr. Thornton Page and his wife, and met NASA personnel Jim Oberg and Karl Henize.

Westchester Hoax

Jerry Clark of FATE magazine is quoted stating that the Westchester hoax began accidentally when pilots overheard radio traffic and mistook maneuvers for UFO sightings, leading them to intentionally fake sightings and create the 'Boomerang from Space' legend.

Yorkshire Evening Post Report: Martians? Just the Jet Set

A report from the YORKSHIRE EVENING POST on June 28, 1985, addresses the mystery of red and white lights seen over Garforth and Swillington, Leeds. The lights were identified as those of Jet Provosts on night training flights from RAF Church Fenton. A spokesman confirmed that night flights occurred from June 24-27, and the afterburners of the jets could create the impression of stationary red lights, especially from a distance where the sound might not be heard.

SUFOI-News (Scandinavian UFO Information)

Reports from Scandinavian UFO Information include over 100 observers reporting a black 'stem' over Jutland on December 9, 1984. This was later identified as a high-altitude aircraft with an unusual black and white contrail, observed for 20 minutes. Another report from October 7, 1984, details over 30 witnesses observing a phenomenon over Nordsjaelland, described as three large, luminous squares with a neon-white glow. The article includes a drawing of the phenomenon and questions whether it could be mistaken for a terrestrial aircraft.

CENAP Analysis of UFO Characteristics

• The magazine provides a breakdown of commonly reported characteristics of UFO sightings, based on data from Allen Hendry, former chief UFO investigator for Hynek's CUFOS. Hendry's research indicates that 41% of reported UFOs were identified as aircraft or helicopters. Characteristics include:
• Time: Dusk to dawn.
• Appearance: Usually white and colored lights, singly or in clusters; broad range of shapes.
• Behavior: Real movements (hovering, sharp turns like helicopters), illusory movements, regular lack of noise.
• Duration: Up to 45 minutes, usually ten minutes or less.
• Confirmation: Contacting the nearest airport's air traffic control.

Examples from Allen Hendry illustrate how illusions of hovering can occur with distant aircraft, and how a series of lights can appear stationary before moving. A case involving a 'CE II' describes a saucer on legs outside a Chicago apartment, which police identified as a police helicopter landing site.

Sydney: The Steam is Out (SYDNEY: DER DAMPF IST RAUS)

This section, by Werner Walter of CENAP-MA, debunks reports of a 'Steam UFO' over Sydney. Initially reported by newspapers, the phenomenon was likely a meteor shower. Walter traces the thought process from 'steam UFO' to 'condensation trail' to 'meteor'. He cites a report from ACUFOS research leader Mark Moravec, who suggested that the description of the light, its short duration, and straight trajectory pointed to a meteor.

Several newspaper headlines are quoted, including from THE SUN, TELEGRAPH, and MIRROR, all reporting on UFO-like lights over Sydney. The meteor shower was described as a large, bright, round object with a tail, and it exploded about 15 km above the earth, with the shockwave registered by ten measurement stations. The meteor was estimated to be the size of a luxury car, possibly the largest in 50 years.

Other Sightings

The issue briefly mentions other sightings, including a meteor shower causing reports of unidentified flying objects across Australia, with one farmer in Marijimup claiming to be chased by a brightly-lit object that made his car interior hot.

CENAP Report

The CENAP (Central Research Network for Extraordinary Phenomena) section includes correspondence and announcements. It mentions that the CR (CENAP REPORT) is slightly delayed due to summer activities. Hansjürgen Köhler visited Christian Pöchhacker in Austria, and Werner Walter had computer issues while trying to arrange a visit to YUFOS in Leeds. Preparations are underway for the next national UFO convention in Heidelberg from September 27-29, 1985, with registration deadlines mentioned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination and often debunking of UFO sightings. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, favoring scientific and mundane explanations for phenomena that are often sensationalized by the media and some UFO organizations. The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and the potential for misinterpretation, particularly regarding aircraft and natural phenomena like meteors. There is a consistent effort to provide factual counterpoints to popular UFO narratives, highlighting the role of media sensationalism and the need for critical thinking in the field of ufology.

This issue of INFO-CEPS, identified as CR 102 and published in the Summer of 1985, is a German-language publication from CEPS-CENAP. It critically examines the field of UFO research, questioning its scientific validity and exploring the psychological underpinnings of belief and skepticism. The issue features articles discussing the tendency for UFOlogy to become a pseudoreligion, allegations of 'cover-ups' within UFO organizations, and the importance of psychological analysis in understanding witness testimonies.

UFO-Szene: A Call for a "UFO Parliament"

The issue begins with an announcement for a German UFO conference in the first week of September, emphasizing the need for a fruitful exchange of ideas among UFO researchers, ufologists, and publicists. It highlights the uncertainty of accommodation at the conference hotel, suggesting participants might have to rely on 'good luck'. The call to action encourages readers to spread the word and participate in this "UFO Parliament."

Reader Correspondence and Case Analyses

A letter from Leonhard Wieland thanks Werner Walter for a CENAP-Heft and mentions being unemployed, allowing him time to read it thoroughly.

Jan Heering, a reader known from CR 101, is featured for his continued critique of a "COVER UP" by ufologists. He references a report in MUFON's SKYLOOK about a UFO that interrupted electrical lines in Tandil, Argentina, on April 14, 1974. Heering learned from investigator Roberto Enrique Banchs that this was identified as a corona discharge in the underground electrical system. Despite the case being closed locally, the analysis report sent to MUFON's Richard Hall has apparently yielded no further resolution, leading Heering to label it a "COVER UP."

Another case discussed is from FLYING SAUCER REVIEW (Nr.16, 1970), detailing an incident in Olavarria, Argentina, on November 17, 1969. Alan D. March's investigation revealed the witness had consumed a liter of alcohol before the encounter, questioning his clear-headedness. Heering notes that Gordon Creighton has not informed readers of this detail, again citing "COVER UP."

In the spring of 1979, Heering attended a meeting of the Belgian UFO group SOBEPS. A letter from a French sister organization circulated, concerning the famous "UFO photo with solid light effect" from Albiosc, France, referenced in Schneider/Malthaner's book "Das Geheimnis der unbekannten Flugobjekte."

Ein ernstzunehmender Forschungszweig wird zur Pseudoreligion (A Serious Research Field Becomes a Pseudoreligion)

This main article, authored by Axel Ertelt, critiques the direction of UFO research, particularly a conference attended by the author in Dortmund. Ertelt expresses disappointment, feeling that the research is being marketed as a "new (or old?) sect" and becoming a "pseudoreligion." He criticizes the focus on "shadow and light UFOs" and "light-UFOs," suggesting that the pursuit of "consciousness expansion" is not the goal. He questions the motivations behind such claims, wondering if it's about attracting followers or financial gain.

Ertelt also discusses a "GEFÄLSCHTE FARBFOTOGRAFIE" (falsified color photograph) that was described in the Westfälische Rundschau on June 26, 1985. He notes the lack of any mention of this falsification in UFO publications, again implying a "COVER UP."

The article details Jan Heering's encounter with Alexander Keul, who described his own investigations in "Traunstein and so on" as the work of a "naive and inexperienced amateur." This led Heering to discard his "Traunstein-solid lights" catalog. The article questions what remains of high-ranking UFO phenomena if such cases are dismissed.

It also touches upon James Moseley's report in SAUCER SMEAR (July 25, 1985) thanking Timothy Green Beckley for a poster related to Beckley's film "DRILLER." Beckley's UFO REVIEW is described as the "world's largest (and only) flying saucer magazine," which follows the philosophy of "Give the people what they want." The article expresses alarm that Beckley also produced a "hard-core porn film," questioning his ethical boundaries.

Bruchlandung fliegender Ufos (Crash Landing of Flying UFOs)

This section discusses a group of skeptical detectives, led by magician and psychologist Richard Busch, who are investigating claims of supernatural abilities. Busch's committee in Pittsburgh offers a $5000 reward for proof of any supernatural phenomenon under scientific conditions, with $290,000 made available worldwide over three years. Despite numerous claims, the reward has not been claimed.

The article mentions the international committee for the scientific verification of supernatural phenomena, founded five years prior in Buffalo, New York. This association has 300 members, including Carl Sagan and B.F. Skinner. They publish "Der skeptische Frager" (The Skeptical Questioner) and advocate for applying the same rigorous standards to psychic phenomena as to other scientific fields.

Examples of investigated claims include poltergeist activity in Columbus, Ohio, where a teenager reported flying objects. However, no evidence was found, and the committee concluded it was a hoax. The article quotes Paul Kurtz, chairman of the international committee, stating that such claims are "unsinkable like rubber ducks" and always reappear. Busch believes that many mystics are not charlatans but "misguided people who deceive themselves."

Klaus Webner writes about his search for UFO film material and receiving a pornographic film titled "UFO-Girl" instead, which he resold.

SOMNIUM: Psychology and UFO Research

This section, authored by Gilbert Schmitz, focuses on the psychological aspects of UFO research. Schmitz argues that while UFO phenomena exist, they can only be understood and explained through modern psychology, not through fantastical theories or complex calculations. He believes that ignoring psychology leads to suppressing fear.

Schmitz intends to use his articles to explore psychological standpoints and insights, aiming to show how to move forward in UFO research by understanding not just what a witness saw, but why and how they perceived it.

He references C.C. Jung's view that the discovery of alien intelligence would be "devastating and traumatic," leaving humanity "without dreams."

Schmitz acknowledges that some readers might perceive his focus on psychology as a "psycho-fimmel" (psycho-mania) but asserts that his objective analysis confirms its relevance. He admits to experiencing difficulties in analyzing human behavior and fears losing himself or others. However, he also states that psychology has broadened his horizons, enabling him to understand people better.

He emphasizes that the core of UFO research is the witness testimony, but cautions against blindly believing it, as it is subject to "major error sources." Therefore, he stresses the need to analyze the human factor more deeply.

Schmitz questions the common phrase "as if I dreamed it" used by witnesses, suggesting that the distinction between dream, vision, and hallucination is not always clear. He probes the understanding of symbols, archetypes, colors, and numbers, implying that many people lack this knowledge.

He uses examples from advertising, such as traffic lights and cigarette branding, to illustrate how specific choices are made for psychological impact, arguing that these are not arbitrary.

Schmitz advocates for considering the human element more seriously in UFO research, rather than chasing "phantoms" or "dreams." He believes that understanding our own psyche and that of others is essential for future research.

He concludes by stating he does not "believe" in UFOs and has never done so.

IN EIGENER SACHE (In My Own Interest)

Gilbert Schmitz announces that he will be withdrawing from UFO research for personal reasons, unrelated to his work. He explains that his new professional activities, due to illness, prevent him from organizing the upcoming CENAP UFO/UAP meeting in Luxembourg. He apologizes for this unforeseen circumstance and states that while the INFO-CEPS section might be absent in some future issues, he has not stopped his involvement but will be dedicating more time to personal matters.

He references a Lexikon der praktischen Psychologie by Ludwig Knoll.

DEUTSCHER PRESSERAT (German Press Council)

This section contains a letter from the German Press Council's Complaint Committee to Werner Walter of CENAP REPORT, dated June 28, 1985. The committee addressed Walter's complaint from March 14, 1984, regarding "Das Neue Zeitalter." The committee concluded in its April 17, 1985 session that readers with "reasonably sound common sense" should recognize reports about extraterrestrial phenomena, saucers, UFOs, and other pseudo-scientific presentations in "Das Neue Zeitalter" as "outright fantasy products," especially since some photos have been manipulated.

However, the committee saw no possibility to generally prevent such publications, as long as there are readers who ensure their sales.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around a critical examination of UFOlogy, questioning its scientific basis and highlighting instances of alleged "cover-ups" within the field. There is a strong emphasis on the psychological aspects of UFO experiences and research, suggesting that a deeper understanding of human perception, belief systems, and cognitive biases is crucial. The editorial stance is skeptical, advocating for rigorous scientific methods and cautioning against the tendency for UFO research to become a form of belief system or pseudoreligion. The issue also touches upon the sensationalist nature of some UFO reporting and the role of media in disseminating such information, as evidenced by the Press Council's response.