CENAP-REPORT

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr.121
Date: March 11, 1986
Publisher: CENAP (centrales erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher phänomene)
Type: UFO Fachjournal - UFOs in Daten, Fakten und Hintergründen

Cover Story: LTU Airliner Encounters UFO Formation

The cover of CENAP-REPORT Nr.121 prominently features an LTU airliner and announces a significant event: an encounter with a formation of six red glowing bodies, described as a UFO formation flight. The date 11.3.86 is also displayed.

Article: The Wright-Field Story

This section, attributed to James W. Moseley and originating from NEXUS, September 1954, discusses a letter from a correspondent who believed the Air Force was holding a UFO or parts of it at Wright-Patterson Field. The correspondent's belief was based on accumulated information and the testimony of a woman who was present during a two-week 'Red and White-Alarm' in autumn 1952. She reportedly saw a picture of a saucer brought to Wright Field and suggested the Air Force feared what might be found inside, leading to a cover-up via the 'Red and White-Alarm'. The correspondent speculates the saucer was found near Columbus, Ohio. The article delves into various rumors circulating at the time about crashed saucers and alien beings, including a professor from Columbia University allegedly called to examine bodies and a Massachusetts scientist who conducted X-ray photography. Moseley notes that most of these rumors were unprovable, and those he could check turned out to be hoaxes. He initially dismissed such stories until he heard a tape recording of the woman's testimony, which convinced him of its sincerity. He later learned the woman was a civilian employee at a large military base, working as a teletype operator. In August or September 1952, she was in the photo lab and saw a dozen photos of a flying saucer taken by an Army photographer during a special assignment to photograph a crashed saucer. She also handled messages indicating the saucer was being transported to Wright-Patterson AFB under heavy guard, with a 'Red and White-Alarm' in place for potential threats from other saucers. After two weeks, the alarm was lifted as the saucer was deemed not a direct threat. The article highlights that most base personnel were unaware of the reason for the alarm. The witness described the object as disc-shaped, about 30 feet in diameter, with no visible extensions except a thickened rim. The photos showed no windows, but she heard descriptions of internal viewing mechanisms. The government scientists reportedly had trouble penetrating the saucer's material, which was composed of two unknown components. The saucer had no living creatures on board and was apparently remote-controlled. Rumors of 5-foot-tall beings found in other saucers were also mentioned. Moseley attempted to verify the story, but the photographer refused to speak, citing active duty and fear for his job. Upon investigation, the photographer denied any knowledge of flying saucers or having photographed one. The woman's supervisor confirmed she worked as a teletype operator but had no access to classified messages. The article concludes that the witness's account was contradicted by official statements, raising the question of who is lying. It suggests the woman might have fabricated the story, altering details from Frank Scully's book. The issue also mentions that CENAP is presenting Major Hector Quintanilla of Project Blue Book, examining 'UFO material'.

Article: UFOs - Then and Now

This section examines various alleged physical evidence related to UFOs. It discusses the 'angel hair' phenomenon, which Dr. Robert Morrel in England identified as mostly spiderwebs. The article touches upon a reported UFO explosion over Ubatuba Beach, Brazil, in 1957, with fragments found. Dow Chemical Company later revealed that similar material had been produced since 1940, casting doubt on its extraterrestrial origin. The Condon Team's conclusion that the metal was not unusual is cited. The article reflects on how UFO crash stories, which were met with skepticism in North America in 1954, are being revived, questioning the motives behind updating old tales to generate interest.

Article: New Light on the CE III from Hasselbach? "Little Angels on Lohberg" Part 1

This article, by Rudolf Henke of CENAP, investigates the Hasselbach case, also known as the 'Linke Case', an alleged authentic CE III event in East Germany on June 17, 1950. Erich Reinhold, reading about the case in a book, believed he was a witness. He claims to have seen the object and a person (Oskar Linke) and his daughter about a year later, 40 km away near Vacha. Reinhold contacted W. Walter, who arranged for him to give a statement at a UFO forum. Reinhold's report, lasting over two hours, is summarized here. The event allegedly occurred in June 1951 on Lohberg, near Vacha. Six miners were on their way to work when they noticed unusual activity. Reinhold, then 19, and his friend Klevel, 28, approached a pavilion-shaped object on the hilltop. They encountered several other youths from the town who also seemed drawn to the object. Witnesses reported seeing small figures in light suits on the hilltop. Suddenly, the lights in the nearby settlement flickered and went out. A man, identified as Oskar Linke, and a young girl came down from the hill, agitated, stating they had never seen anything like it. Linke insisted it was not a helicopter. Reinhold later learned that Linke had a girlfriend named Hilde Rössler in Unterbreizbach and had been seen on a motorcycle earlier that day. Linke reportedly told the youths he wanted to flee to the West. The group debated the event for about an hour. Linke retrieved his motorcycle, which was hidden in bushes, and left with his daughter. Reinhold recalled that the object was described as having no unusual features beyond a thickened rim. The article notes that the local population believed it was a 'Flying Saucer', while townspeople were more skeptical. Rumors circulated that the object was a truck.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CENAP-REPORT consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, presenting witness testimonies, alleged physical evidence, and official explanations, often questioning the latter. The magazine appears to adopt a critical yet open-minded stance, analyzing reports and seeking to uncover the truth behind UFO sightings and alleged encounters. There's a recurring theme of government secrecy and potential cover-ups. The issue highlights the challenges in verifying UFO-related claims due to the speculative nature of the evidence and the potential for hoaxes. The editorial stance seems to be one of thorough investigation, presenting different perspectives while encouraging readers to form their own conclusions.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated 1987, focuses on two main themes: a critical examination of a specific UFO case and the evolving landscape of UFO research through new media. The publication is from CENAP, a German UFO research organization.

The Lohberg Case: A Critical Discussion

The issue begins with a detailed account of a UFO incident that allegedly occurred on the Lohberg near Sandershausen, Germany. The primary witness, Reinhold, recounts seeing an object from which small beings emerged. The report notes that local authorities and even the Soviets showed significant interest in the event, with witnesses being questioned and warned to remain silent.

However, the article then shifts to a critical discussion of Reinhold's testimony. The author, Werner Walter, expresses skepticism about Reinhold's direct observations, suggesting that his account is largely based on second or third-hand information. Several points are raised to support this skepticism:

1. Reinhold's reluctance and uncertainty when asked about his direct sightings.
2. The possibility that the initial report of "little men" was a joke among the miners.
3. Inconsistencies regarding the object's presence and visibility when other witnesses were searching the area.
4. Reinhold's inability to recall details about the object's departure or the circumstances of its disappearance.
5. The fact that Reinhold was not interrogated by the authorities, unlike other potential witnesses.

The report also touches upon the subsequent actions of the authorities, including the felling of trees on Lohberg, which is speculated to have been done to deter onlookers or possibly to search for refugees.

The discussion then moves to the alleged power outage that coincided with the UFO sighting. While some interpret this as evidence of electromagnetic effects, the report suggests it could be a coincidence or related to authorities' actions, noting that power outages were not uncommon in post-war Germany.

Ultimately, the article concludes that the Lohberg case, due to its speculative nature and lack of concrete evidence, is difficult to definitively resolve and may fall into the category of "insufficient information."

Challenge – New Media: UFOs on Video

The second major section of the magazine, authored by Werner Walter of CENAP-Mannheim, addresses the growing importance of new media, particularly video, in UFO research. The author highlights that traditional sources like newspaper clippings and magazines are often the starting point for UFO enthusiasts, but video footage is much harder to obtain.

He notes that while the visual impact of UFOs in film is powerful for theory-building and evidence, access to such material is limited due to lack of contacts, personal initiative, and financial resources. The advent of home video recorders has made it easier to view films, but acquiring original UFO footage remains a challenge.

CENAP has been actively collecting UFO-related video material for years, aiming to build a comprehensive archive. The article details the significant costs associated with acquiring and transferring video material, citing examples of German broadcasters (Südwestfunk, WDR) charging substantial fees for copies of old programs, often requiring additional licensing costs. For instance, two short programs from 1967/1968 cost over DM 700 for transfer and licensing.

The report also mentions commercial UFO videos available from companies like PYRAMID in the USA, such as "In Search of UFO Cover Ups," which, despite being a 45-minute production, costs $410 plus technical conversion fees to adapt from NTSC to PAL format.

Even archival footage from the National Archives in Washington, related to Project Blue Book, can cost between $250 and $450 per film. The article lists various types of UFO films available, including interviews with witnesses of classic cases, footage of experimental aircraft, and discussions with prominent UFO researchers.

CENAP has amassed a large collection of UFO documentation, including video, audio tapes, slides, and written materials. They are seeking partners and financial support to continue their efforts in acquiring and distributing UFO video material for private use, emphasizing the high costs involved.

BUFORA in England: "Problems"

This section, also by Werner Walter, discusses issues within the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA) as reported in their January 1986 bulletin. It highlights the distinction between UAPs (Unidentified Atmospheric Phenomena) and "Exotic UFOs." UAPs are described as objective, energetic phenomena, while Exotic UFOs are more subjective experiences that may not be witnessed by everyone present.

The article explores Steuart Campbell's perspective, which categorizes UFO phenomena within the realm of "myth" or "saga." Campbell views UFOlogy as a belief system centered on the idea of extraterrestrial civilizations observing and influencing human development. He suggests that the belief in UFOs often entails accepting the existence of beings with advanced technology, superhuman powers, and profound wisdom.

The report traces the origins of UFOlogy to the post-1947 era in the USA, with the coining of the term "flying saucer." It notes how early reports, like Kenneth Arnold's, were interpreted and sensationalized, contributing to a growing public interest and the formation of UFO clubs and organizations.

The article suggests that the rise of UFOlogy was partly fueled by perceived military secrecy surrounding the topic during the Cold War, leading the public to believe that governments possessed more information than they revealed. It concludes by stating that despite evolving official stances, the UFO saga persisted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CENAP REPORT are the critical analysis of UFO evidence and the impact of media on UFO research. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism regarding anecdotal evidence, emphasizing the need for rigorous investigation and verifiable data. There is a clear recognition of the growing importance of visual media, like video, in documenting and disseminating information about UFO phenomena, while also acknowledging the significant financial and logistical challenges involved in acquiring and preserving such materials. The publication also engages with the theoretical underpinnings of UFOlogy, distinguishing between observable phenomena and subjective experiences, and questioning the mythological aspects that have become intertwined with the subject.

This issue of the "Neue Volkszeitung" (and other associated Austrian newspapers like "Abendpost Nachtausgabe", "KURIER", "Kleine Zeitung", "Neue Kronen Zeitung", "Volksstimme", "Volkswille") from January 24, 1986, heavily focuses on UFO sightings, particularly a cluster of reports from January 22-25, 1986, in the Austria-Yugoslavia border region. The cover prominently asks "UFO über Kärnten?" and details a "UFO Alarm" involving a pilot's sighting.

UFO Sightings and Incidents

The central event appears to be the sighting by the cockpit crew of an LTU (Lufttransport-Unternehmen) flight, LT 731, on January 22, 1986, around 19:55. While flying from Male to Munich, approximately 20 km west of Zagreb and heading towards Klagenfurt at an altitude of 10,300 meters, the crew observed six fast-moving, spherical objects in close formation. These objects reportedly crossed the path of the LTU TriStar about 1000 meters higher, in a north-easterly direction. The pilot reported this to the Zagreb air traffic control, who stated they did not detect the objects on radar. The LTU provided a brief confirmation of this sighting via a letter from Peter W. Schmidt-Eisser.

Further reports detail similar sightings on January 25, 1986. A German pilot, identified as Dietmar Heldmeier, reported seeing six red, fast-flying light points over southern Carinthia, leaving condensation trails. This incident triggered a wave of calls to radio stations in Klagenfurt, with many people claiming to have also witnessed the phenomenon, leading to a "UFO-Hysterie" in the region. The Austrian military, however, denied having any aircraft in the area at that time and stated their radar systems detected nothing.

• Other reported sightings include:
• Three red spheres seen over the Leithagebirge near Hornstein by a couple.
• A glowing ball with a long tail observed over the Lammertal in Annaberg.
• A "Glüh-Kugel" (glowing sphere) with a tail seen over the Mühlviertel, which astronomers are investigating as a possible re-entering rocket stage, satellite, or even a piece of Halley's Comet.
• A report from the Soviet Union about a large, grey-blue UFO, described as football-field sized, being pursued by a jet, leading to the pilot ejecting.

Criticism of UFOlogy

Several articles and opinion pieces express skepticism and criticism towards the field of UFOlogy. One piece quotes Jenny Randles, author of "The Silent Conspiracy," who is perplexed by the "repeated ideas" in UFOlogy and criticizes its tendency to promote "conspiracy theories." The article suggests that UFOlogy is a "modern saga" or "space legend" born from misunderstanding and imagination, and that some UFOlogists mislead others. It argues that after nearly 40 years of UFOlogy, there is still no substantial proof of alien existence or technology.

Another perspective highlights that organizations like BUFORA were founded on the premise of UFO existence, but even researchers like Allen Hynek noted that UFOs are primarily "UFO reports." The articles suggest that many UFO researchers are not objective, either being too credulous or too skeptical to accept evidence. The lack of concrete evidence is repeatedly emphasized, with the explanation that the remaining unexplained cases are likely due to insufficient data rather than extraterrestrial origins.

Expert Opinions

Professor Kaminsky, an astronomer from Bochum, is quoted stating, "UFO is nonsense, they don't exist." He analyzed the details of the LTU sighting and concluded it was likely a larger meteor entering the atmosphere, which often breaks into smaller pieces and glows due to friction.

Dr. Gerhard Polnitzky from the University of Vienna suggested that the Kärnten phenomenon was likely a very bright meteor, while the one in Salzburg might have been a burning satellite remnant.

Media Coverage and Public Reaction

The media coverage of the sightings was extensive, with headlines like "Sechs rote Ufos griffen Urlauber-Jet an" (Six red UFOs attacked holiday jet) in the "Abendpost Nachtausgabe." However, other newspapers like "BILD" provided shorter reports. The public reaction in Carinthia was described as a "UFO-Hysterie," with numerous calls to radio stations and newspapers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes are the prevalence of UFO sightings, the skepticism surrounding them, and the critique of UFOlogy as a field. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious reporting of the events while simultaneously questioning the validity and scientific basis of UFOlogy, leaning towards conventional explanations or highlighting the lack of conclusive evidence for extraterrestrial phenomena. The articles suggest a shift towards a new wave of UFO research and a questioning of older, more established UFOlogists and their theories.

This issue of 'CR' (Volume 10, Issue 31), dated February 12, 1986, delves into the state of ufology, particularly in the USA, and reports on a mysterious incident near Darmstadt, Germany. The magazine features articles by John A. Keel and John Schuessler, offering critical perspectives on the UFO community and its organizations.

The Ufological Population: Inside the Scene

John A. Keel, in an article originally published in CABEAT EMPTOR and revised for this issue, examines the number of active ufologists and the health of UFO organizations. He defines a ufologist as someone with a continued interest in the subject who is willing to spend money on publications and attend conferences. Keel notes that the ufological community in the USA is small. Organizations like APRO and NICAP, which had significant memberships in the mid-1960s, have seen drastic declines. For instance, Ray Palmer's 'FLYING SAUCERS' magazine saw its readership drop by 80% from 1966 to 1972. NICAP's membership fell to 900 by 1971, and APRO claimed 450 investigators. Keel points out that many ufologists are members of multiple organizations. The 1960s saw an explosion of regional UFO publications, mostly simple photocopies by teenagers or housewives, with short lifespans and low distribution. Even established publications like 'SKYLOOK' had modest circulation. The market for UFO books also fluctuated, with John Fuller's books following Frank Edwards' success but not matching it. Dell Publishing's UFO magazine ceased publication after four issues despite initial high sales. The article highlights that while the general public's attention to UFOs is fleeting, professional UFO magazines exist in many countries, though the quality and distribution in the USA are inconsistent. 'Canada's UFO REPORT' is cited as a strong North American publication. Keel criticizes the American UFO research scene for being plagued by excessive eccentricities, egoism, paranoia, and a low level of psychological education. He observes a decline in attendance at UFO conventions and notes that the 'contactee' oriented annual affairs have ceased. He contrasts this with the continued success of science fiction and rock collector conventions. Keel concludes that ufology in the USA is a 'dead cause,' partly due to a lack of leadership and the deterring influence of extremists. He notes that while the SF fandom is largely teen-driven and produces better-made fanzines, the UFO fandom lacks new, notable writers, with only a few from the 1960s still active. He expresses doubt about the future of American ufology, predicting Palmer's magazine might cease by 1974. He states that England's 'FLYING SAUCER REVIEW' now dominates the field. Keel dismisses the idea that the Condon Report was responsible for the decline, calling it 'suicide.'

Post-1973 Developments and Organizational Struggles

An addendum notes that since Keel's 1973 article, the ufological movement in the USA has further withered, with the core group now around 300. Ray Palmer's 'FLYING SAUCERS' ceased publication before his death in 1977, and the numerous kiosk UFO publications of the mid-70s are now gone. NICAP died, and APRO struggles to survive. Timothy Green Beckley continues to publish his 'UFO REVIEW' sporadically. British publications like 'FSR' have seen a significant drop in US subscribers, while 'The Fortean Times' and 'Fortean Journal PURSUIT' have more modest circulations.

John Schuessler's 1986 assessment of the UFO situation is presented, building on his 1984 analysis. Schuessler observed that many people leave ufology due to personal attacks and unprofessional behavior from critics. He notes that UFO organizations face rising costs, loss of support, internal conflicts, and poor management. He criticizes the tendency to elevate certain names (like Hynek for CUFOS, Lorenzen for APRO, Andrus for MUFON) while others disappear. The idea of a 'North American UFO Federation' to unite groups has failed, partly due to personal animosities between MUFON and APRO, and a lack of support. Dr. Richard Haines was to lead this federation but it collapsed. CUFOS appears to be declining as Dr. Hynek focuses on his research center in Arizona. The cessation of the CUFOS Associate Newsletter is seen as a sign of hard times.

The Future of UFO Organizations

Schuessler emphasizes that existing UFO organizations need support to survive. He stresses the importance of members being able to contribute and of organizations being responsive to their needs. He advocates for better planning, training, and careful management to navigate the new era. Leaders must recognize the importance of their followers and be prepared to motivate them. UFO organizations play a crucial role in collecting and preserving historical data and serve as a vital resource for victims of UFO encounters. MUFON and CUFOS are seen as moving in the right direction, with 1986 being a critical turning point. The article suggests that cooperation will be key to their success.

Schuessler's observations are presented as potentially applicable to Germany as well, though he questions whether UFO groups in Germany truly serve as support for victims, given the apparent lack of such dramatic encounters. He also subtly critiques the self-promotion related to the Cash/Landrum case.

Warning About New Developments

The issue includes a 'Sect Warning' section, cautioning against new trends in ufology that might lead to utopianism rather than research. It suggests that catering to members' fantasies can be detrimental.

Sect Warning

This section, dated November 15, 1985, describes an experience where the author received a message about Earth entering a critical phase and the need for mental support from 12,348 'light-attuned souls' to send impulses for a coming sign. The author, initially skeptical, was chosen due to his location and his work publishing a 'Spiritual Address Book,' which provided him with contacts and means of dissemination. He was instructed to write a letter to as many people as possible, asking them to copy and forward it. He was also told that 12,348 souls would create a 'sea of light and strength.' A UFO sighting near Gifhorn/Braunschweig was mentioned as evidence. The author was inspired to accept the task and urged readers to help spread the word, but to be cautious about who they approached. He requested addresses for future communication and meditation instructions.

A follow-up note from 'KH Koch' of 'Die Goldene Flamme' explains that two weeks have passed since the initial letter. The author lost a significant amount of money due to a company bankruptcy, impacting his financial security. He received another message emphasizing the urgency of finding the 12,348 souls to avert greater disaster, explaining the number as 3x3x7x7x7x4, representing divine principles and worldly life. He describes visions of cosmic threats and reiterates the plea for help, highlighting Europe's key role. He states that money is no longer a dimension for this work and that a new meditation technique, the 'Chorus of the Golden Flame,' will be introduced. He stresses that the effort is for the world's progression, not individual fate, and that participants act freely but collectively combat dark forces. He again asks for addresses and participation in the 'Chorus of the Golden Flame.'

Himmels-Spuk: Rätsel ungelöst (Sky-Specter: Riddle Unsolved)

This article reports on an incident near Darmstadt, Germany, where an object crashed into a pond on the night of February 10, 1986. Divers searched the pond but found nothing. Possible explanations included a large meteorite, a piece of a crashed satellite, or a prank involving a hand grenade. The police planned to excavate the pond's muddy bottom in the spring to determine the object's identity. The incident generated local excitement, with police and fire departments checking for dangerous gases or radioactivity. The search yielded only dead roots and thrown stones. The article notes that CENAP was investigating further and would report in a future issue.

Comic Strip

A comic strip titled 'HERMA' is included, featuring a character who claims to recognize a genuine UFO after serving in the Air Force for three years.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a critical and somewhat pessimistic view of the state of ufology, particularly in the USA, highlighting organizational decline, internal conflicts, and a perceived lack of scientific rigor. There's a strong emphasis on the need for professional research and a warning against the proliferation of 'cult-like' elements within the UFO community. The Darmstadt incident serves as a current case study, while the 'Sect Warning' section addresses concerns about the direction some UFO groups are taking. The editorial stance appears to favor a more grounded, research-oriented approach to the UFO phenomenon, distinct from sensationalism or purely speculative beliefs.

Title: UFO Magazine
Issue: 1
Volume: 1
Date: 1977
Publisher: UFO Magazine
Country: USA
Language: English
Price: $1.50
ISSN: 0362-4810

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated 1977, presents a bold declaration on its cover: "UFO'S ARE REAL!". The cover art features a stylized illustration of a flying saucer, reinforcing the magazine's central theme.

Featured Content

The issue includes a humorous comic strip by cartoonist Jim Unger. The strip depicts a character pointing out a UFO, which is described as hovering over a neighbor's house. In a comedic twist, another character instructs to "QUICK... GET HARRY ON THE PHONE, IT'S RIGHT OVER HIS HOUSE," only for the situation to be revealed as someone on the roof with a flashlight, attempting to fix a TV antenna. This juxtaposition highlights a common theme of misidentification and the mundane explanations often sought for unusual aerial phenomena.

Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the reality of UFOs, as emphatically stated on the cover. The inclusion of a humorous comic suggests an attempt to engage a broader audience or to provide a lighter perspective on the often serious subject matter. The magazine appears to be dedicated to exploring UFO phenomena, with this issue aiming to assert the existence of UFOs as a factual matter.