CENAP Report - No 126

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr. 126
Date: Saturday/Sunday, June 21/22, 1986
Publisher: CENAP (Centrales Erforschungs-Netz außergewöhnlicher Phänomene)
Type: UFO-Fachjournal (UFO specialist journal)

CENAP: Mission and Methodology

CENAP describes itself as a private, non-commercial research organization focused on the serious, factual, and critical study of the UFO phenomenon. It aims to demythologize and identify the physical manifestations and socio-psychological impacts of UFOs. The organization investigates specific reports, thematic areas, and aspects of the phenomenon, documenting its findings in the CENAP REPORT publication. CENAP also examines the societal impact of 'UFO belief' and its portrayal in the 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 findings through documented case studies with authentic material. It also addresses the public UFO debate and interdisciplinary discussions, taking clear stances and providing commentary.

Cover Story: UFO-Alarm in Brasilien

Headline: UFO-Alarm in Brasilien: Verfolgung durch Jagdflugzeuge blieb erfolglos (UFO Alarm in Brazil: Pursuit by Fighter Jets Remained Unsuccessful)

This article reports on an incident where six Brazilian Air Force fighter jets pursued unidentified flying objects (UFOs) sighted over Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and São José. The pilots described the UFOs as multi-colored, table tennis ball-sized, and round, traveling at approximately 1400 km/h. The objects allegedly disappeared into space.

Article: UFO-Alarm: Polizei und Heer im Einsatz (Zwischen Salzburg, Fuschl und St. Gilgen)

This multi-part report details UFO sightings in Austria during June 1986.

Salzburg Area Sightings

An elderly man and a gendarmerie inspector reported seeing two bright, hovering objects over the Salzburg mountains. The objects were described as spherical, sometimes brightly lit, sometimes golden-yellow, with a strong core and a weaker ring. They hovered for about 30 minutes before moving towards Fuschl and St. Gilgen. Gendarmerie units confirmed the phenomenon. The Austrian Army's radar systems searched the sky but detected nothing. Binoculars became bestsellers in the region.

"UFOs" near Salzburg

Two "UFOs" were sighted near Salzburg, described as bright objects moving at an altitude of approximately 5000 meters. A police officer at Mondsee confirmed the observation.

UFO Alarm in Upper Austria

On Friday morning, between 4:10 AM and 5:20 AM, multiple early risers in the Mondsee and St. Gilgen areas of Upper Austria observed two bright white and yellow-orange objects. The post commander of St. Gilgen described them as slightly larger than stars, initially stationary, then moving silently southwards before disappearing at 5:20 AM. The Bundesheer radar at Kolomannsberg did not detect the objects.

Astronomical Explanations and Details

Astronomers suggested the objects could be two weather balloons, but noted their altitude was unusual for balloons. Alternatively, they proposed the planets Jupiter (white) and Mars (orange) might be responsible. However, the planets are typically seen closer to the horizon. Notably, despite many witnesses, no one managed to photograph the objects.

Article: Gendarmen schlugen UFO-Alarm: Aber Bundesheerradar blieb leer!

This article elaborates on the Austrian UFO sightings, noting that three days after the initial alarm in Salzburg, a white and an orange object were seen over the Salzkammergut. A pensioner reported the sighting, and three gendarmerie officers observed the objects for seventy minutes. The Bundesheer radar at Kolomannsberg again detected nothing. The objects were described as "spheres at an estimated five thousand meters" and appeared "as large as footballs" through binoculars. The objects were seen moving southwest and disappearing. The radar of the Austrian armed forces found nothing. The article also mentions a similar observation over Salzburg on Tuesday.

Expert Opinion on Planets

Richard Schmitt quotes a police officer who specializes in UFO reports, suggesting that the time of day and year can make objects like planets and weather balloons appear particularly striking. He also notes that the Austrian Army's radar systems might not be sensitive enough to detect such phenomena. The head of the Linz observatory, Konsulent Hans Plasser, suggests the white object was likely Jupiter and the reddish one Saturn, rather than Mars. He also speculates the hovering object might have been a party balloon.

Article: UFOs über dem Mondsee

This section summarizes the Austrian UFO events, confirming police observations and the army's radar search. It reiterates that police in the border region between Upper Austria and Salzburg confirmed two "unidentified flying objects." Similar observations were made in Salzburg on Tuesday. The radar stations of the Austrian Bundesheer were also involved in the "UFO hunt." The article mentions that multiple callers informed the Mondsee police post at 4:10 AM about unusual aerial phenomena. A duty officer confirmed the observations with binoculars. The objects were described as "white-shining objects" hovering over the Attersee and a "yellow-orange shining" object over St. Gilgen, the vacation spot of Chancellor Helmut Kohl. The objects were described as "shining balls with a bright core and a weaker ring" and moved away in a southwesterly direction by 5:20 AM. The Bundesheer radar detected nothing. The article also notes a similar observation over Salzburg on Tuesday.

UFO sighted over Attersee and St. Gilgen

A brief report confirms that police and other witnesses saw mysterious flying objects described as shining balls with rings over the Attersee and near St. Gilgen. The army's radar surveillance found no trace of the UFOs.

Article: Österreicher irrten: Ufos waren Planeten (Austrians were mistaken: UFOs were Planets)

This article, citing the Frankfurter NEUE PRESSE and AZ, reports that the UFO alarms in Austria were false alarms. Astronomers concluded that the objects were the planets Jupiter and Mars. Their movements appeared like flying objects to untrained observers. Salzburg psychologist Alexander Keul pointed to a socio-psychological phenomenon, suggesting a collective desire for something extraordinary from above to alter bleak circumstances.

"UFO-Jagd zu Ende" (UFO Hunt Ends)

This brief report confirms that the "UFO hunt" in Austria ended with the realization that the phenomena were the planets Mars and Jupiter. Their movements were mistaken for flying objects by untrained observers.

Austria-UFOs "enttarnt" (Austria-UFOs "unmasked")

This short piece from the Abendpost-Nachtausgabe states that the UFO alarm triggered by the Gendarmerie in Upper Austria was a false alarm. Astronomers calculated that the objects were Jupiter and Mars, which appeared like flying objects to the untrained.

"Vom Baum der Erkenntnis" (From the Tree of Knowledge) by Werner Walter

This personal account by Werner Walter details his investigation into the Austrian UFO reports. He was alerted by a radio news report about UFO sightings in Austria. He followed the press coverage, noting headlines like "UFOs über dem Mondsee" and "UFO-Alarm: Polizei und Heer im Einsatz." Walter describes the UFOs as "hovering, white-shining objects" seen for about 70 minutes, appearing as "shining balls with a bright core and a weaker ring." He notes the lack of radar detection. Walter contacted various newspapers and news agencies (Frankfurter Abendpost, Münchner Abendzeitung, Deutsche Presse Agentur, Associated Press) to gather information and share his findings. He expresses frustration with the media's lack of interest in the explanation, stating that while the initial sighting was front-page news, the debunking was not considered newsworthy. He recounts calling colleague Jochen Ickinger, who used an astro-computer program to confirm that Mars and Jupiter were in the SSW and SSO positions, respectively, at the time of the sightings, explaining the optical spectacle. Walter concludes that the Austrian Army's radar systems were likely not sophisticated enough to detect these planets.

"Quer Durch Die UFO-Welt: Vermischtes..." (Across the UFO World: Miscellaneous...)

This section presents several brief UFO-related reports.

Lichter Über Alaska (Lights Over Alaska)

On October 29, 1985, a sibling pair in Wasilla, Alaska, observed a fiery, cylindrical object that appeared to hover and emit smaller pieces with a bluish-rosy tail. Other reports came from Cantwell and Soldotna. The FAA initially suggested a meteor shower, but Katherine Cormier of SPACE COMMAND identified the object as the last rocket stage of the Soviet satellite COSMOS 1699, which re-entered the atmosphere over Alaska at 22:26 h at 17,000 mph. The satellite remains in a stable orbit. TASS stated its purpose was "continuation of our space research." This case is considered identified.

Ehemaliger Tulsaner erinnert sich an seine UFO-Aufnahme (Former Tulsan Recalls His UFO Photo)

This article details a UFO photograph taken by Alan R. Smith in Tulsa, USA, about 20 years prior (around 1965). Smith, then 14, witnessed and photographed a large orange object. The photo, described as a round orange-red disc with a slight white shift, was published in the "Oklahoma Journal." Smith developed an interest in journalism due to the attention his photo received. He recalls two UFOs appearing over his parents' home in the Carbondale area of Tulsa on August 1 and 2, 1965. He describes the object as a "round brilliant object" that was "a light, just a light," emitting a humming sound. He took three photos, but only one yielded a usable image after the negative was enlarged to reveal a small fleck. The "Oklahoma Journal" published the photo, retaining the copyright, and Smith received no payment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently reports on UFO sightings, often with a focus on official investigations (police, military). A recurring theme is the misidentification of celestial bodies, particularly planets like Jupiter and Mars, as UFOs, especially when observed by untrained individuals. CENAP-REPORT appears to advocate for serious, scientific investigation of the UFO phenomenon while also critically examining and debunking cases where natural explanations are found. The publication aims to inform its readers about both reported sightings and their potential explanations, contributing to the public discourse on UFOs.

Title: FLYING SAUCER DIGEST
Issue: No. 94
Date: Summer 1986
Publisher: United Aerial Phenomena Agency (UAPA)
Country: USA
Language: German

This issue of FLYING SAUCER DIGEST, published by the United Aerial Phenomena Agency (UAPA), delves into various aspects of UFOlogy, historical cases, and the analysis of photographic and film evidence. The magazine features articles on UFO sightings, government investigations, and the potential for hoaxes within the UFO community.

Alan's UFO Photograph

The issue details the story behind a UFO photograph taken by an individual named Alan. Initially hesitant to profit from the photo, Alan eventually received around $500 for reprint rights. The photograph was first published on October 5, 1965, in the 'Oklahoma Journal,' which reportedly sold out its entire issue. Hayden Hewes, a UFOlogist from Oklahoma City, submitted a copy of the negative to the Air Force UFO team in November 1965. The Air Force's initial response was dismissive, but a year later, after LIFE magazine published the image, a Congressional committee urged the Air Force to analyze it. In June 1966, the Air Force stated they could neither confirm nor deny the identity of the object. Alan maintained he was not seeking attention and had simply photographed an object he could not identify. This photo became a key reference point for UFO enthusiasts.

Satellite Photo Investigation

An article discusses a satellite photograph of an unidentified flying object, reported by the 'Bulletin Journal' in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, on November 5, 1985. Dr. Harley Rutledge, head of the physics department at SEMO University, identified the object as the 'clearest shape' he had ever seen. The photo, taken in October 1978, was from a defense weather satellite moving at high speed. The US government confirmed it was a satellite image. John T. Smith and James Bounds investigated the photo, consulting UFO experts and bringing it to Rutledge. They invested time and money, concluding it was a valuable satellite photo of an unidentified object. The object was not attributed to extraterrestrials, but simply noted as unidentified. Smith emphasized that it was a clear object, not just a light.

The 'Lost Creek' UFO Film

The March 1, 1986, issue of SAUCER SMEAR is mentioned for its coverage of the 'Lost Creek' saucer film. This film, shot in 1966 near Lost Creek, West Virginia, features Gray Barker and John Sheets, who claimed to have seen the saucer. The article notes that the saucer in the photograph appears smaller than in the film. It is suggested that various saucer models may have been used. Jim Moseley, editor of SAUCER SMEAR, hopes to find a photo of the real Lost Creek UFO. Barker had previously sold a collection of three UFO films, including one from Clarksburg Airport, one with Howard Menger's 'fried egg' sighting, and the Lost Creek film, which became a classic in UFO documentation.

Historical UFO Cases and Personalities

The magazine touches upon several other UFO-related topics and personalities:

• George Hunt Williamson: A UFO pioneer who passed away in January 1986. He authored books on UFOs and South American archaeology and was one of the six witnesses to George Adamski's 'Desert Contact.' His real name was Michel d'Obrenovic.
• Larry Bryant and CAUS: Larry Bryant of Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS) faced difficulties advertising in military magazines, seeking evidence of crashed UFOs.
• Howard Menger: A 1950s UFO contactee who is still alive and working as a sign painter, also involved with the New Age movement.
• CSICOP: The organization CSICOP is noted for its tenth anniversary at the University of Colorado, Boulder, with speakers like Phil Klass, James Randi, and Paul Kurtz.
• Dr. Allen Hendry Greenfield: Formerly Al Greenfield, he commented on SAUCER SMEAR's role in exposing UFO hoaxes, emphasizing the importance of understanding why such deceptions occur.
• Oskar Linke: A case involving Oskar Linke is mentioned, with photos and drawings from Kemsley Newspapers showing him with his stepdaughter and an affidavit from 1952. The article suggests that if Linke's description is accurate, the saucer had jet power.

British Government's Stance on UFOs

The issue includes information from 'The Churchill Papers,' obtained by YUFOS. Prime Minister Winston Churchill inquired about flying saucers in July 1952. Lord Cherwell responded in August 1952, supporting a paper from the Ministry of Defence. This paper, from the Air Ministry in Whitehall in 1951, concluded that UFO incidents could be explained by known astronomical or meteorological phenomena, mistaken identification of conventional aircraft, balloons, birds, optical illusions, psychological delusions, or deliberate hoaxes. The paper also noted that a similar American investigation in 1948/9 reached the same conclusion, and nothing since 1951 had changed the Air Staff's opinion.

Norwegian UFO Sightings

An account from Norway details reports from Finn Kalvik of UFO NORGE regarding sightings in YGRE. A man claimed to regularly see UFOs, including 'UFO cabins,' with binoculars. Investigations involved interviewing the witness, his friends, and neighbors. The sightings often appeared as yellow or white lights low on the horizon. While witnesses could distinguish them from aircraft due to the lack of noise, some sightings were later identified as Scandinavian Airlines System DC-9s or other aircraft, with officials pointing to heavily used air corridors in the region.

Prince Charles and the 'Sunday Mirror'

The March-April 1986 issue of NORTHERN UFO NEWS criticized the 'Sunday Mirror' for its story about Prince Charles's alleged UFO encounter. The 'Sunday Mirror' reported that Prince Charles did not see anything himself, but his pilot and other aircraft reported a bright red flash. The article suggests this was likely a fireball meteor and questions the interpretation of such events as extraterrestrial encounters, emphasizing the need to explain phenomena scientifically.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO evidence, distinguishing between genuine sightings, misidentifications, and deliberate hoaxes. The magazine appears to adopt a skeptical yet open-minded approach, encouraging scientific investigation and rational explanations for UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on debunking sensational claims and providing factual analysis, as seen in the discussions of Alan's photo, the 'Lost Creek' film, and the British government's historical stance. The editorial stance leans towards demystifying UFO reports and understanding the psychological and social factors that contribute to the UFO phenomenon.

Title: THE BRAZILIAN (UFO-) CONNECTION

Issue Date: Friday, May 23, 1986

Publisher: ESTADO DE MINAS

Country of Publication: Brazil

Document Type: Magazine Issue

Cover Headline: Groß-Alarm: Militär-Jets jagten Ufos (Great Alarm: Military Jets Chased UFOs)

Cover Description: The cover features a map of Brazil with a headline about military jets chasing UFOs, dated Friday, May 23, 1986.

Article Summaries

"Groß-Alarm: Militär-Jets jagten Ufos" (Great Alarm: Military Jets Chased UFOs)

This article reports on an incident where the Brazilian Air Force engaged in a pursuit of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) over three major Brazilian cities: Sao Paulo, Sao Jose dos Campos, and Rio de Janeiro. Air Force Minister Olavio Moreira Lima stated that the objects disrupted the radar system and air traffic, necessitating their pursuit. Four fighter jets were deployed: two French-made Mirage aircraft and two American-made F-5s. One F-5 pilot reported seeing multi-colored objects, with 13 objects reportedly accompanying his aircraft (seven on one side, six on the other). Another pilot described the UFOs as having the shape and size of ping-pong balls and flying at speeds of 1400 km/h. The pilots involved were asked to submit detailed reports.

"Rätselhafte Flugobjekte halten seit Montag die brasilianische Luftwaffe in Atem" (Enigmatic Flying Objects Keep Brazilian Air Force on Alert Since Monday)

This article details the events starting on Monday, May 19, 1986, when enigmatic flying objects (UFOs) were sighted in Brazil. Brazilian fighter pilots attempted to intercept these objects. Two pilots reported their experiences, with one describing a "pulsating light, red and white - not a star, but another aircraft." He approached within 20 km but could not catch up due to fuel limitations. Captain Marcio Jordao reported seeing a "red light that did not change" and noted the object's movement. Colonel Ozires Silva, president of the state-owned oil company Petrobras, confirmed the sightings, stating they did not resemble classic flying saucers but rather "illuminated points."

The Brazilian Air Force formed a commission to investigate the sightings. Air Force Minister Otavio Moreira Lima stated that the objects appeared on radar screens on Monday evening, disrupting the Sao Paulo radar system and air traffic. The Air Force deployed four fighter jets (two French Mirage and two American F-5s) to pursue the objects over Sao Paulo, Sao Jose dos Campos, and Rio de Janeiro. One pilot reported that the UFOs were the size of ping-pong balls and flew at 1400 km/h. The jets pursued the objects for three hours before returning to base due to fuel concerns.

"Kampfjets jagen Ufos" (Fighter Jets Hunt UFOs)

This article reiterates the events of the Brazilian Air Force's pursuit of UFOs. The objects were detected on radar over three major cities and were pursued by fighter jets. Air Force Minister Otavio Moreira Lima confirmed the radar sightings on Tuesday night. He stated that he could offer no explanation for the phenomena. The objects disrupted the radar system in Sao Paulo and air traffic, leading to the deployment of aircraft. Four fighter jets, two Mirage and two F-5s, were involved. One F-5 pilot reported seeing 13 objects, seven on one side and six on the other. Another pilot described the objects as ping-pong ball-sized and flying at supersonic speeds (1400 km/h). The jets pursued the objects for three hours before running low on fuel.

"Brasilianer machten Jagd auf Ufos" (Brazilians Hunted UFOs)

This article provides further details on the UFO pursuit. The objects were detected on radar, and one pilot reported being surrounded by 13 colored lights. The closest approach by the jets was 4 miles. After the F-5Es gave up the chase, three Mirage-3 supersonic fighters equipped with Sidewinder and Matra-530 missiles were deployed but could not visually confirm the objects, despite radar detection. Air Force Minister Octavio Moreira Lima stated that there were no technical explanations for the events. President Jose Sarney was informed and reportedly "interested and confused." Additional sightings were reported, including a dark, cigar-shaped object near the Fortaleza Air Base and a glowing object filmed near Maringa.

"Phase Eins - Die ersten Informationen" (Phase One - The First Information)

This section details the initial reports of the UFO sightings. On Thursday evening, May 22, 1986, Hansjürgen Köhler was informed of a news report about UFOs appearing over Brazil and being pursued by military aircraft. German newspapers subsequently published numerous articles. Reports varied on the number of UFOs sighted, ranging from 13 to 21. The Brazilian defense radar system reportedly crashed due to the numerous targets. Two Mirage and two F-5 aircraft were involved in the pursuit. Descriptions of the objects included "illuminated points," "a pulsating light, red and white," and "multi-colored objects" the size of "ping-pong balls," which did not resemble traditional flying saucers. The event began on Monday, May 19, 1986, and was reported late in Europe. The objects disappeared 200 miles off the coast after the pursuing fighter jets ran out of fuel.

"Phase Zwei - Ergänzende Informationen aus dem Ausland" (Phase Two - Supplementary Information from Abroad)

This section presents information from international sources. Philip Mantle, Overseas Liaison Officer for YUFOS, reported on June 14, 1986, that Ozires Silva, head of Petrobras, was flying near Sao Paulo when he saw three colored lights resembling "ping-pong balls." Silva pursued them, and radar also detected them. He informed the Brazilian Defense Center, which dispatched three aircraft. The report mentions that the objects were described as "pulsating light, red and white," and "multi-colored objects" the size of "ping-pong balls."

"Der Bericht von Dr. Willy Smith, Project UNICAT" (The Report by Dr. Willy Smith, Project UNICAT)

Dr. Willy Smith, a South America specialist for CUFOS, provided a report on July 3, 1986. He notes that UFOs returned to the headlines following an incident in Brazilian airspace on the night of May 19, 1986. Colonel Osires Silva, head of Petrobras, was flying near Sao Paulo when he spotted an unidentified object described as a "dancing point in the sky." He and pilot Commander Alcir Pereira da Silva observed a bright, red-orange light for 10-15 seconds, which then disappeared and reappeared elsewhere. The pursuit lasted about 30 minutes. During this time, the Brazilian Defense Center (CINDACTA) was on high alert, with radar screens in Sao Jose dos Campos and Sao Paulo being obscured, and air traffic being disrupted. Fighter jets from Santa Cruz and Anapolis were scrambled but could not reach the lights, despite radar contact. The incident ended around midnight as the UFOs disappeared from radar and visual observation, moving over the ocean.

Pilots reported that seven pilots and three radar controllers appeared on television. Seven pilots were military, with the exception of Commander Alcir Pereira da Silva. Three F-5E jets were dispatched from Santa Cruz AFB, and three Mirage III fighters from Anapolis AFB, but only one Mirage had effective contact. Lt. Kleber Caldas Marinho was guided to a target 35 miles away but could not approach it. Radar control informed him that the target was rapidly approaching, but the pilot saw nothing. Later, he made visual contact with a target 35 miles away, which he described as a "reddish light, very intense," that changed color as the pursuit failed. Capt. Marcio Jordao managed to reduce the distance to the target to 12 miles.

"Aeronáutica ainda sem explicação para os OVNIS" (Air Force Still Without Explanation for the UFOs)

This article from ESTADO DE MINAS on May 24, 1986, details the ongoing investigation into the UFO sightings. The Air Force Minister reported that they were investigating 20 unidentified flying objects that appeared over Brasilia. The Mirage fighter base in Anapolis and the Cindacta base were alerted, but nothing could be intercepted as the objects were outside the range of their instruments. The Minister informed President Jose Sarney about the attempts to track more than 20 unidentified objects over Sao Paulo, Sao Jose dos Campos, and Rio de Janeiro. A general alert was issued, and two Mirage jets and two F-5s were scrambled. The objects were described as "multi-colored light points." The UFOs obscured the radar systems of Cindacta and Sao Paulo. One F-5 pilot reported being surrounded by 13 intense light points, with only one appearing on radar. The pilot could not identify the objects. The minister stated that there was "no technical explanation" for the phenomena, as radar can only detect metallic objects, solid surfaces, and heavy clouds, and the sky was clear. The collected reports were to be analyzed by the Air Force command. This is noted as the first time a high-ranking government official has officially supported the identification of UFOs.

Colonel Ozires Silva reported an incident where he was flying a Xingu aircraft at 2000 m altitude when he pursued three UFOs for about 30 minutes. They were described as red lights, strong and distinct from stars and planets, which changed position without a trail. The objects disappeared and reappeared elsewhere. The control in Sao Paulo warned them that the objects were behind them, and they performed a 180-degree turn. They reappeared opposite Serra do Mar with a strong light. The flight lasted 30 minutes between Sao Jose dos Campos and Serra do Mar, but they could not get closer. Silva and his pilot were convinced they were extraterrestrial.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the widespread sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) in Brazil in May 1986 and the subsequent military response. The articles emphasize the disruption caused by these objects to radar systems and air traffic, the attempts by the Brazilian Air Force to intercept them, and the lack of official explanations for the phenomena. There is a clear focus on the official acknowledgment of the events by high-ranking officials, including the Air Force Minister and the President, which is presented as a significant development in the study of UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these events with a degree of seriousness, highlighting the official investigations and the perplexing nature of the sightings, while also acknowledging the lack of concrete answers.

This issue of CR magazine, dated July 1986, focuses on UFO phenomena with reports from Brazil, Austria, and Germany, alongside a scientific exploration of 'earthquake lights' and a book review.

Brazilian UFO Incident

The magazine details a significant UFO event in Brazil where multiple unidentified aerial objects were detected by radar and visually by pilots. Captain Armando Souza Viriato de Freitas reported being warned of multiple targets approaching him, which were later described as six on one side and seven on the other, performing 80-degree turns at high speed. He noted that no known aircraft could perform such maneuvers at 1000 km/h. The Air Force Minister, Brigadier Octavio Julio Moreira Lima, confirmed that radar echoes were not an optical illusion and indicated the presence of solid objects or massive clouds. He stated that no further reports would be issued until a special commission investigated. President Jose Sarney reportedly made the decision to release this information, which was considered unusual. The incident lasted nearly three hours, involving "balls of light of many colors." The speed of the objects was estimated to be around 1500 km/h (937 mph), with radar speeds varying between 150 and 800 knots (173 to 921 mph). The sightings occurred between 20:50 and midnight.

Austrian UFO Sightings and Media Coverage

Several articles focus on UFO sightings in Austria, particularly in Salzburg and Oberösterreich, during June 1986. The media is criticized for sensationalizing these events, with headlines like "UFO-Fieber" and "Außerirdische lassen grüßen" (Aliens send greetings). Reports describe sightings of "flying objects" and "spaceships" by civilians and gendarmes. In one instance, a pensioner named Kurt Waldstädter reported seeing two bright, colored spheres over Salzburg, which were also observed by a gendarme. The objects were described as yellow-orange and light blue, hovering for about 20 minutes before disappearing. The Austrian military's radar stations did not detect any unusual objects, and the Federal Office for Civil Aviation suggested they might have been high-flying aircraft reflecting sunlight. The magazine criticizes the press for not providing a balanced perspective, often omitting official denials or scientific explanations, and instead promoting the idea of extraterrestrial visitors. A diagram illustrates a cycle of sensationalism: UFO "experts" fantasize, the press publishes sensational articles, leading to public attention, further sightings, and confirmation for UFO believers, while official sources and demystals are often ignored.

Scientific Explanation for "Earthquake Lights"

An article explores the phenomenon of "earthquake lights," which have been reported worldwide but are unfamiliar in Germany. It details laboratory experiments where crushing stones in various atmospheres (argon, helium, normal air, water, vacuum) produced light. The light's spectrum did not match the rock's composition but rather that of the excited atmospheric atoms. For example, crushing granite in an argon atmosphere produced the spectrum of atomic argon. This research suggests that earthquake lights might be related to stress in the Earth's crust and could potentially lead to a new method for earthquake prediction. The experiments also produced atomic and molecular hydrogen in underwater tests, opening possibilities for understanding unknown chemical processes in the Earth's crust and their implications for the origin of life.

German UFO Sighting

A brief report from Stuttgart describes a "sparkling object" sighted by police and several individuals on a Sunday night. The object reportedly rose vertically from the ground and then exploded. Subsequent searches by police and helicopters yielded no explanation.

Book Review: "In Advance of the Landing: Folk Concepts of Outer Space"

The magazine features a review of Douglas Curran's book, "In Advance of the Landing: Folk Concepts of Outer Space." The book, a collection of 60 color and black-and-white reproductions, documents Curran's eight-year journey across the United States and Canada, exploring folk concepts of outer space. The foreword is by Tom Wolfe, and the Boston Globe is quoted as describing the book as a "valuable portrait of a rootless nation."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CR magazine demonstrates a critical approach to UFO reporting, highlighting the sensationalism often present in the media, particularly in Austria. It contrasts these sensational accounts with official statements and scientific investigations, such as the Brazilian incident and the research into earthquake lights. The magazine appears to favor a more evidence-based and analytical perspective, questioning the uncritical acceptance of extraterrestrial explanations and encouraging readers to consider all available information, including scientific findings and official reports. The editorial stance seems to be one of skepticism towards sensationalism and a promotion of critical thinking when evaluating UFO phenomena.