CENAP Report - No 123

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr. 123
Volume: 11.5-86
Date: May 26-27, 1943 (raw date of incident), published later.
Publisher: CENAP (centrales erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher phänomene)
Country: Germany
Language: German

"Riesen Ufo über Essen" (Giant UFO over Essen)

This article, written by Hansjürgen Köhler of CENAP, investigates a reported sighting of an unusual aerial object over Essen during a Royal Air Force (RAF) bombing raid in May 1943. The report is based on an account by G.N. Cockfort, who was a flight sergeant with pilot training in the RAF at the time.

The Sighting Account

Cockfort recounts that on the night of May 26-27, 1943, he was part of a bombing mission targeting the Krupp's weapons factory in Essen. Approximately 400-500 aircraft were involved. The mission involved an aerial marking phase using illumination flares. His squadron flew Halifax-1A bombers, each equipped with 4 Merlin engines and a crew of 7. Their task was to bomb from an altitude of 6 km, but engine performance was reduced due to high altitude temperatures.

During the approach to the target, at an altitude of approximately 5.6 km and 2-3 minutes from the target, Cockfort and other crew members observed a long, cylindrical object hanging in the sky at an angle of about 45 degrees off their port side. It was described as silver-colored with sharp outlines and appeared to have a series of 'portholes' along its body. Cockfort, serving as the second pilot, along with the bombardier, flight engineer, gunner, and radio operator, witnessed the object. The navigator and rear gunner did not see it.

The object remained stationary for about 20-30 seconds before it suddenly moved away, ascending and accelerating with incredible speed until it disappeared from view. Cockfort described the speed as "completely unbelievable" and estimated it to be thousands of kilometers per hour. As it accelerated, its contours blurred, and its form appeared to shorten. He estimated its size to be "very large, certainly much larger than our aircraft, at least as long as a King Size cigar held at arm's length."

Despite the unusual sighting, the crew continued their mission. Upon returning, they described the object to intelligence officers but were unable to provide any definitive assessment of its significance.

CENAP's Explanation

Hansjürgen Köhler, in his analysis, suggests that the described object was likely a German barrage balloon. He notes that during wartime, especially with heavy bombing raids on industrial targets like Essen, extensive air defense measures were employed. These included searchlight batteries, anti-aircraft guns, and night fighters. Additionally, barrage balloon units were deployed to protect vital industrial sites.

Köhler explains that barrage balloons, often cylindrical and equipped with steel cables, were used to deter low-flying aircraft. He details various types of balloons and their deployment tactics. He posits that the "portholes" observed by Cockfort were likely the eyelets or grommets on the balloon's rigging (ösengurt) used to attach the control lines (takelung). The observed movement and acceleration could be explained by the balloon being struck by an aircraft's cable during the chaotic conditions of a bombing raid, causing it to be dragged and then released, appearing to move with unnatural speed.

He concludes that the intelligence officers likely recognized the description as that of a barrage balloon, which would explain why the sighting was not given more weight.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section titled "Rudolf Henke: Nachtrag und Antwort zum CR 120ff" (Addendum and Response to CR 120ff). This section addresses a critique from G. Politzky of the Astronomical Institute in Vienna regarding earlier CENAP publications, specifically the "Karlsruhe/Durlach" case and a commentary titled "4 UFOs im Anflug auf die BRD" (4 UFOs approaching West Germany). Henke acknowledges the critique, particularly concerning the amateur nature and presentation of their publications, and expresses a desire for constructive collaboration with scientific professionals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme in this issue is the critical examination of UFO sightings, particularly those with historical context. CENAP's stance, as presented by Köhler's analysis, leans towards rational explanations, often identifying conventional objects or phenomena that may be misinterpreted under stressful or unusual circumstances, such as wartime conditions. The article on the Essen sighting exemplifies this approach by proposing a plausible terrestrial explanation (barrage balloon) for a seemingly anomalous observation. The inclusion of Henke's response to Politzky's critique further highlights CENAP's engagement with the scientific community and their efforts to refine their research methods and presentation, while also defending their amateur status and dedication to the field.

This issue of the magazine, published by National Enquirer, focuses heavily on UFO sightings, particularly those involving the British Royal Family. The cover story details an alleged encounter by Prince Charles with a 'blazing UFO' on February 23, 1986, during a flight from the USA to London. The article, sourced from the National Enquirer, highlights that the Prince and his pilot witnessed a bright, red glowing object, and that four other aircraft also reported similar sightings over the Irish Sea. An investigation was initiated, but no definitive explanation was found, with conventional explanations like meteors or satellite debris being dismissed.

Royal Family and UFOs

The issue delves into the Royal Family's long-standing interest in UFO phenomena, noting that Prince Philip has been a follower for thirty years and has even invited individuals who claimed to have seen UFOs to Buckingham Palace. Prince Charles's own encounter is presented as a pivotal moment, seemingly solidifying his belief in UFOs, with a 'Palace Insider' quoted as saying Charles told Princess Diana, 'I never believed it until I saw something like it myself. Now I know these things exist!'

Other UFO Sightings

Beyond the Prince Charles incident, the magazine reports on another UFO sighting near Windsor Castle, described as an oval-shaped, red, glowing machine observed in broad daylight. The article speculates whether this could be a reaction to Prince Charles's earlier report or a deliberate act.

A separate section details a UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon) incident in Belgium, where three young women reported seeing a flying saucer on July 6, 1981, near Aiseau. The article provides background on the witnesses, describing them as sympathetic and ordinary individuals whose daily lives are not related to ufology.

Critical Analysis and Previous Issues

The magazine also includes a section that appears to be a continuation of a critical analysis from a previous issue (CR 122). This part discusses a satirical article titled 'GLOSSE' from the March issue, which some readers apparently took as a factual report. The authors explain the satirical intent, highlighting 'errors' and wordplay within the article, and reflect on the reactions, noting that some readers lacked a sense of humor and that critical reading of even 'critical' publications is necessary.

This section also addresses a specific case critique by G. Polnitzky regarding a 'Karlsruhe-Durlach-Fall'. The authors acknowledge Polnitzky's points, particularly concerning witness estimations of altitude and angle, admitting that their own analysis was based on a shortened version of the case study. They discuss the challenges of relying on witness testimony due to perceptual and psychological factors, emphasizing the need for a systematic, analytical approach that considers both deductive and inductive methods.

Object Characteristics and Explanations

The magazine contrasts the characteristics of 'Marskanäle' (Martian canals) with the observed UFO phenomena, noting differences in geometry, sharpness, color contrast, and resolvability. It also explores explanations for UFO sightings, including 'Bariumwolken' (Barium clouds), meteorites, and night clouds, ultimately finding the 'cloud hypothesis' unconvincing due to the transient nature of such phenomena. The 'balloon hypothesis' is considered more plausible, even if not definitively proven.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the involvement of prominent figures like the Royal Family, and the challenges of investigating and explaining these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards UFO reports, while also emphasizing the importance of critical analysis, witness credibility assessment, and the systematic investigation of cases. The inclusion of a satirical piece and its subsequent explanation suggests an editorial approach that values humor and encourages readers to think critically about the information presented.

This issue of INFORESPACE, dated June 1982 (Nr. 60), published by SOBEPS, delves into a significant UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon) sighting and discusses the growing problem of space debris. The magazine features detailed accounts, witness testimonies, and investigative analysis.

The UAP Sighting in Belgium

The central piece of this issue details an encounter by three young women (referred to as D., M., and R.) on the night of September 11, 1981. While on a drive, they observed a luminous object described as trapezoidal with sharp contours, exhibiting an orange-red color. The object was initially seen at an ONO azimuth of N 65°, at a 30° incline, above a small wooded plateau approximately 180 meters high, estimated to be 2,000 meters away. The witnesses initially debated whether it was the moon or clouds, but its rapid movement and distinct shape quickly dismissed these hypotheses.

The object followed a curved path, approaching the road without changing altitude. The witnesses' car, an escort vehicle, followed the object's trajectory. As the car entered a zone without lighting, near a 3 km slope towards Aiseau, the view became clearer. The object eventually disappeared behind trees and vegetation.

Following the sighting, the women discussed the event, with R. noting the object was moving towards them. The witness accounts are presented with a sketch of the location and a drawing of the object. The women insisted it was a 'machine' or 'construction,' not a reflection or mere light.

Investigation and Explanations

The author, Franck Boitte, attempts to analyze the sighting by exploring various hypotheses. These include:

• Reflections on car windows: Dismissed due to the object's consistent shape, color, and visibility from different positions within the car, even with a rear window rolled down.
• Airplane: Ruled out due to the lack of engine noise at low altitude and the object's unusual color and movement.
• The Moon: This is explored in detail. Meteorological data for the night indicates cloudy conditions, but the moon was visible at a low altitude. While the moon's position and appearance could be mistaken for the object, its trajectory and direction of movement did not align with the described sighting. The witnesses' memory of the moon's visibility was inconsistent, though one witness distinctly recalled seeing two 'moons' in the sky.
• Meteorite: Considered but deemed unlikely due to the object's sustained flight, lack of visible smoke or sparks, and its consistent shape and color. A historical account of a meteor sighting is presented to illustrate the difficulty in estimating size and distance.
• Weather Balloon: A conversation with an unnamed individual suggested the object was a hunting weather balloon. However, the author refutes this, citing the time of year (July, not autumn hunting season), the time of night (2:20-2:30 AM), and the fact that such balloons are not used for hunting.
• Hallucination/Deception: The possibility of a shared hallucination or a fabricated story is considered, particularly in light of M.'s aspiration to be a writer and her brother's involvement with UFO-themed comics. However, the author notes that the witnesses' religious beliefs and the accidental nature of their group's involvement make this scenario less probable.

The author concludes that while the moon could be a possible explanation if the witnesses were disoriented, the specific details of the sighting, particularly the trajectory and behavior, make it questionable. The socio-psychological background of the witnesses is examined, noting their lack of prior UFO engagement.

The Problem of Space Debris

An article by Rainer Kayser addresses the critical issue of space debris. It highlights that with every rocket launch, not only is the payload sent into orbit, but also a significant amount of 'trash' such as spent rocket stages, connectors, and protective coverings. Since the launch of Sputnik in 1957, over 12,000 useless objects have entered Earth orbit. Approximately 60% of these have burned up in the atmosphere due to friction. However, around 5,600 objects are currently tracked, with the majority being inactive. Nasa uses a radar network to monitor objects larger than ten centimeters, but it is estimated that up to 60,000 pieces larger than one centimeter pose a threat. The high-speed collisions of even small fragments can have catastrophic consequences, creating more debris and increasing the risk of collisions. The article expresses concern about the potential danger to manned missions and larger space stations.

Other Mentions

• April Fools' Day: A brief section discusses the tradition of April Fools' pranks, referencing historical origins and common pranks, including a past incident involving a fake UFO photograph.
• Zagreb UAP Sighting: A report from Zagreb details a sighting of six green spheres moving in formation, observed by citizens and a pilot. Professor Dr. Josip Kotnik, an expert in space flight, suggests this could be evidence of extraterrestrial visitors, dismissing explanations like aircraft reflections.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained aerial phenomena, presenting witness accounts and attempting to provide rational explanations or highlight the mystery. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical investigation, seeking to debunk hoaxes while acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained events. The inclusion of articles on space debris suggests a broader interest in space-related issues beyond just UAP sightings. The magazine emphasizes the importance of detailed witness testimony and scientific analysis in understanding these phenomena.

This document is a collection of correspondence and articles related to paranormal phenomena, primarily UFO sightings, in Germany and Croatia during the 1980s. It includes a letter from the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Zagreb dated March 13, 1986, reporting on a UFO sighting near Zagreb on January 22, 1986. The issue also contains several articles from various German newspapers and magazines that analyze and often debunk paranormal events, including UFOs, poltergeists, and alleged miracles.

Consulate Letter Regarding Zagreb UFO Sighting

The letter from the German Consulate in Zagreb, addressed to a Mr. Walter, forwards photocopies of two newspaper reports about a "UFO" sighting on January 22, 1986, near Zagreb. A rough translation and summary of one report is included. The Consulate notes that German-language newspapers are not published in Croatia or Slovenia. For further information, Mr. Walter is advised to contact Mr. Ivan Rogi of Zagreb, who had previously reported a UFO sighting in early 1985, which was published in the magazine "Ufo-Nachrichten."

The attached report, titled "'Kleine Grüne' über Zagreb" (Little Green Ones' over Zagreb), details an incident on the evening of January 22, 1986, where several citizens observed 5 or 6 unidentified flying objects moving in a relatively low-altitude, wedge-shaped formation from Southwest to Northeast. The objects emitted an intense yellow light and left a trail. The report also includes an account from the pilot of an LTU aircraft flying at 10,300 meters who observed 6 unidentified objects moving from Southwest to Northeast. Air traffic control radar did not identify these objects. The "Center for Instruction and Alarm" stated no citizen reports were received, and no one seemed interested in the appearance of unknown flying objects.

Another report mentions an interview with Prof.Dr.J. Kotnik, a professor of space research at the Technical University in Munich, who categorically rejected the idea that the sighting was merely aircraft flashes at high altitude, suggesting it was a visit from beings from outside Earth. The article concludes by noting that Werner Walter of CENAP-Mannheim will investigate further.

Article: "Waffennarr fiel schon einmal auf: Er schoß in Zypern auf „UFOs""

This article from the "Welser Zeitung" (April 3, 1986) reports on Camillo Schlachter, a 34-year-old unemployed man who shot at his brother-in-law. Previously, as a soldier in the Austrian UN battalion in Cyprus, Schlachter claimed to have seen an unidentified flying object (UFO) and shot at it to drive it away, which led to his discharge. The article details his domestic disputes and the shooting incident, where he missed his brother-in-law. It also mentions the discovery of a significant weapons cache at his home, including a military knife and a gas revolver, all of which were confiscated.

Article Series: "DIE WUNDER DER GÖTTER UND DAS JAHR... der Ausserirdischen..."

This multi-part series, authored by Ulrich Magin and with a postscript by CENAP, examines various paranormal and UFO-related events in Germany, particularly focusing on the years 1982 and 1983, and attempts to provide a cultural-sociological explanation.

1. Vorwort (Foreword)

Ulrich Magin observes that Germans are not overly interested in unexplained events, and UFO reports are rare in national newspapers, appearing mostly in local ones. He contrasts this with the years 1982 and 1983, when supernatural phenomena, including sightings of the Virgin Mary and UFOs, received extensive coverage in national media and political magazines. He attributes this shift to a general lack of awareness of such phenomena among the average German, which changed during that period.

2. Das Jahr des sprechenden Poltergeistes (The Year of the Talking Poltergeist)

This section details the Obertraubing poltergeist case from March 1981, where a spirit named 'CHOPPER' made noises and obscene remarks. Initially, it was investigated by police and experts from the German Federal Post, but no explanation was found. Parapsychologist Professor Bender visited and found no evidence of fraud but noted the poltergeist was atypical. Journalists from STERN and SPIEGEL covered the story extensively. However, it was later revealed to be a hoax orchestrated by the dentist Kurt Bachseitz and his assistant, Claudia Judenmann, who used a disguised voice. The case ended after the deception was exposed.

3. The Saints Go Marching On...

Following the Obertraubing incident, the article discusses an alleged apparition of the Virgin Mary in the Eifel region in August 1982. A youth group reported seeing Mary's image in a rock face, attracting over 30,000 visitors and pilgrims seeking healing. The phenomenon was later attributed to an unusual rock formation illuminated by a flashlight. The article also mentions a sighting of what was claimed to be the Archangel Gabriel on the Salzburg-Munich Autobahn, who predicted the end of the world for 1984 before disappearing. This was classified as a phantom hitchhiker sighting.

4. Wunderwasser (Miracle Water)

This section recounts the story of the 'Unserer Lieben Frau Zu Kaltenbrunn' spring in Ranschbach. Initially a local pilgrimage site, it was sensationalized by a BILD reporter in early 1983, leading to a massive influx of over 200,000 people. The event resulted in two deaths from exhaustion in the long queues. The spring was eventually closed, and the Speyerer Domkapitular Johannes Maria Dürr declared that no healing had occurred and the water had no special properties, leading to a decline in public interest.

5. Das Jahr der AUSSERIRDISCHEN (The Year of the ALIENS)

1983 is described as the "Year of the Aliens" in Germany due to a significant increase in UFO reports, which were more widely covered by national media than usual. The article lists several incidents: a large aerial object over Nuremberg in April 1983, identified as a weather balloon; a similar object over Cologne; a bright red glowing ball seen by astronomers in Solingen, also identified as a balloon; and a bright point near the moon identified as Jupiter. The author notes that many of these sightings were misinterpretations of common objects. The article also mentions a "fireball" reported by BILD as a spaceship, and a UFO supposedly chased by the Bundeswehr, which is dismissed as a fabrication. It concludes by noting numerous sightings of colorful objects over the Pfalz region and a red glowing UFO that split in two, identified as a meteor.

6. Nachwort (Afterword)

Ulrich Magin summarizes that the poltergeist of Obertraubing was a hoax, the Virgin Mary apparition was a rock formation, and the Ranschbach miracle was a journalistic invention. He concludes that the UFOs of 1983 were identifiable as normal objects. He posits that the heightened public interest in these events during 1982-1983, despite their often false nature, was driven by the irrational fear and anxiety surrounding the stationing of new American CRUISE MISSILES in Europe. He suggests that this underlying fear created a collective tension, making people more receptive to extraordinary explanations for phenomena, shifting focus from religious miracles to UFOs.

CENAP Postscript

The CENAP postscript emphasizes the cultural-sociological aspect of the UFO phenomenon, suggesting that the press often sensationalizes minor events for commercial gain, creating a false sense of public interest. It warns about the potential harm to vulnerable individuals who cling to such stories, leading to disappointment and even physical harm.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are the reporting and analysis of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFO sightings, poltergeists, and alleged miracles. There is a consistent effort to investigate, explain, and often debunk these events, attributing them to misidentification, hoaxes, or psychological factors. The editorial stance, particularly in the articles by Ulrich Magin and the CENAP postscript, is critical of media sensationalism and highlights the influence of societal anxieties, such as those related to the Cold War and missile deployment, on the public's perception and interpretation of unusual events. The document suggests that while many reported phenomena are not what they seem, the underlying interest in the extraordinary is a significant cultural aspect.

This document is page 40 of the German UFO journal "CENAP REPORT," published by CENAP, a central research network for extraordinary phenomena. The issue date is May 1, 1986, and it celebrates "10 Years CENAP." The cover headline prominently features this anniversary.

Editorial Announcement: The New CENAP REPORT!

The main content of this page is an editorial announcement regarding the upcoming release of a "new" CENAP REPORT. The journal is set to receive a "professional" makeover and a new design. To achieve this, a new, expensive text processing system with a printer will be acquired. This upgrade is expected to result in greater timeliness, cleaner block lettering, and a drastic reduction in typing errors, thereby enhancing CENAP's image within the public and scientific communities.

The editorial team expresses a strong desire to hear from their regular readers about their current opinions on the CENAP REPORT. They pose several questions to gauge reader satisfaction: What do readers like and dislike about the current issue? Are they interested in content expansions? Do readers perceive the reporting as balanced, too critical, or not critical enough? These questions are presented as being of great importance to the CENAP team.

Reader Participation and Survey

To facilitate the further development and potential redesign of the CENAP REPORT, the readers (referred to as subscribers or "Abo-Bezieher") are invited to actively participate. A questionnaire has been developed specifically for this purpose and is enclosed with the issue. Readers are urged to complete this questionnaire and return it promptly, within the next few days, to Hansjürgen Köhler at Limbacher Str. 6, 6800 Mannheim-52, using the provided pre-paid return envelope (postage stamp already affixed).

As an incentive for participation, two annual subscriptions to the CENAP REPORT will be raffled among the returned questionnaires. These new subscriptions will commence immediately after the recipient's current subscription expires. The editorial team encourages readers to participate, stating, "Help us improve it... CENAP REPORT, help us to improve it..."

Contact Information and Publisher Details

Contact information for CENAP is provided for West Germany, listing Hansjürgen Köhler (Mannheim) and Werner Walter (Mannheim) with their respective phone numbers. A Postcheck account number for Ludwigshafen is also included. Additionally, Christian Pöchhacker in Persenbeug, Austria, is listed as the representative for Austria.

The masthead identifies the publisher as CENAP and describes the journal as "UFOs in Data, Facts and Backgrounds."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this page is the evolution and improvement of the CENAP REPORT, emphasizing reader feedback as crucial for this process. The editorial stance is one of openness to criticism and a proactive approach to enhancing the journal's quality and public perception. The anniversary theme highlights the publication's longevity and commitment to the field of UFO research.