CENAP Report - No 130

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr.130
Date: 12-86 (December 1986)
Publisher: CENAP (Centrale Erforschungs-Netz außergewöhnlicher Phänomene)
Type: UFO-Fachjournal (UFO specialist journal)

CENAP: An Introduction

The Centrale Erforschungs-Netz außergewöhnlicher Phänomene (CENAP) is presented as a private, non-commercial organization dedicated to the serious, factual, and critical study, analysis, and evaluation of the UFO phenomenon. Its goal is to demythologize and identify the phenomenon by examining its physical forms and socio-psychological impacts. CENAP also investigates the effects of 'UFO belief' on contemporary society and how it is portrayed in the mass media. The organization affirms the existence of the UFO phenomenon and the necessity of its serious research.

CENAP REPORT: Publication Details

The CENAP REPORT (CR) is a monthly publication that continuously reports on current events and the latest research findings. It includes documentations of case studies with authentic material in text and images. CENAP's activities concerning the public UFO debate and interdisciplinary discussions are regularly presented. The publication takes a clear stance and offers commentary. The annual subscription cost is DM 35,--, payable via Postgiro account Nr. 790 82-673 in Ludwigshafen, to Werner Walter in Mannheim.

UFO'S - SIGNS IN THE SKY? A Psycho-Social View

This article, authored by Werner Walter of CENAP-Mannheim, explores the UFO phenomenon from a psycho-analytical and socio-psychological perspective. Walter recounts a presentation given on October 18, 1986, at a UFO researchers' conference in Lüdenscheid. He begins by defining UFOs, citing Klaus Webner's definition: an 'unidentified flying object' from aviation terminology that appears strange to the observer and cannot be identified during observation. This definition, Walter emphasizes, has nothing to do with extraterrestrial spacecraft, contrary to common misconception.

The article traces the modern era of UFO history back to 1947, a time when speculation about life on Mars was prevalent. The close approach of Mars to Earth in the mid-1950s fueled further speculation, leading observatories to photograph the planet in hopes of finding evidence of life. This period also saw the rise of 'flying saucers' in the media, creating confusion and leading to the formation of UFO circles. The US military, concerned about potential threats, initiated efforts to understand the 'mystery of UFOs,' a process that blurred the lines between emotions, fantasy, and facts.

Walter explains that the military introduced the term UFO to demonstrate that not all observed phenomena were flying saucers and to establish a unified term for puzzling atmospheric occurrences. He clarifies the distinction between 'unbekannt' (unknown, without reference to experience) and 'unidentifiziert' (unidentified, not precisely known but potentially within the scope of experience). He notes a significant gap between how government UFO investigators and ufologists approach the subject.

While ufologists often focus on 'flying saucers' as advanced alien spacecraft, scientific and military researchers use a different definition. Walter shares a common experience: people are often interested in flying saucers, not just unidentified objects. If the explanation is rational and dismisses alien craft, interest often wanes, suggesting a search for the 'mysterious' or 'unfathomable.'

The article posits that humanity has historically looked to the sky for guidance and understanding, from ancient beliefs in gods to modern scientific inquiry. The 'signs in the sky' were once interpreted as divine or supernatural, but with increased knowledge, the world is increasingly understood through natural laws. However, the human mind still grapples with the unknown, and UFOs can be seen as a modern manifestation of this ancient search for meaning and the 'other.'

Walter discusses the human tendency to fear the unknown and the 'superior.' He suggests that the UFO problem, despite technological advancements, remains a part of our societal culture, leaving many with uncertainty. Modern society's emphasis on work and economic competition can lead to a sense of alienation and a desire for escape, which science fiction and other forms of media fulfill by creating alternative realities.

He contrasts the mystical interpretation of 'signs in the sky' with the call for pragmatic, scientific, and analytical UFO research, as advocated by organizations like CUFOS, MUFON, APRO, and CENAP. He criticizes some ufological approaches for relying on newspaper clippings and lacking a balanced, alternative-seeking methodology. The article also touches upon the 'contactee' phenomenon and the 'salvation philosophy' associated with some UFO beliefs.

Walter concludes by discussing the human need for sensation and the creation of alternative realities, such as those found in science fiction. He notes that while modern society can be alienating, there are still avenues for free expression and escape. He emphasizes that the UFO phenomenon is a sensation topic that fulfills a need for mental survival, allowing individuals to feel heard and seen.

UFO-Forschung im Heute (UFO Research Today)

The article outlines key points regarding contemporary UFO research:

• Scientific Approach: There is a call for pragmatic, analytical, and scientifically oriented investigation, as championed by major UFO research organizations like CUFOS, MUFON, APRO, and CENAP.
• Scientific Explanation: Science tends to accept a phenomenon as a 'given' and attempts to explain it within its existing framework.
• Ufological Focus: Some ufologists tend to focus on explaining flying saucers first, often interpreting reports as evidence for them.
• Methodology Critique: The problem lies in ufology's potential lack of balanced research, which may not sufficiently seek alternative 'normal/natural' explanations and instead relies on collecting data (e.g., newspaper reports).
• Contactee Beliefs: The widespread belief in 'contactees' and their 'extraterrestrial-terrestrial space philosophies' promoting a 'better world' with a typical 'salvation philosophy' is also noted.

The Psycho-Social Dimension

Walter further explores the psychological underpinnings of UFO belief. He suggests that the search for the 'mysterious' and 'unfathomable' is deeply ingrained in human nature. The desire to belong to an 'elite' or special society can drive individuals to defend their beliefs more strongly. He touches upon the concept of 'altered states of consciousness' (Wachträumen, Halluzinationen, Visionen) and the role of the unconscious (Freud's 'ES') in generating thoughts and desires that may not surface in normal consciousness.

He argues that the human mind, when confronted with the 'grey reality' of modern life, may seek refuge in fantastic utopias and alternative realities. This is seen in the rise of cults, New-Age movements, and 'new religions' that offer a sense of spiritual or philosophical grounding. The article implies that the fascination with UFOs can be a part of this broader human tendency to seek meaning and escape from the mundane, potentially serving as a modern-day equivalent to ancient myths and beliefs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CENAP-REPORT strongly emphasizes the psycho-social and psychological aspects of the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of a rational, scientific, and analytical approach to UFO research, distinguishing it from mere belief in extraterrestrial spacecraft. The magazine aims to demythologize the phenomenon, explore its societal impact, and critically examine the motivations and methodologies behind UFO investigation. There is a clear distinction made between the scientific definition of a UFO and the popular interpretation of 'flying saucers.' The publication advocates for rigorous research and critical thinking, while acknowledging the human need for sensation and the allure of the mysterious.

This issue of CENAP-ARCHIV, dated October 31, 1986, delves into UFO phenomena with a strong focus on reports from Australia and Austria. The magazine presents a collection of eyewitness accounts, official statements, and media coverage related to alleged sightings and a crash.

Australian UFO Reports

The issue details a series of UFO events in Australia throughout 1986. An article from the 'WEEKEND Australia' on January 4, 1986, anticipates a 'UFO flap' and discusses how such events are reported. Dr. David Whitehouse in London is quoted on the potential for sensationalism surrounding these sightings.

Alice Springs is mentioned as a popular tourist area where UFO sightings are reported annually, with data being sent to RAAF Darwin for verification. A report from March 1986 describes police officers in Lithgow observing a UFO that flashed red and green, which was identified by the Siding Spring Observatory as a star or planet.

A significant event covered is a reported UFO crash near Barcaldine, Queensland, on May 20, 1986. The DAILY SUN reported a 'fiery UFO' that 'crashed to Earth,' causing alarm. Witnesses described it as the 'size of a truck' and descending in a fireball. Experts were later reported to be searching for 'UFO particles.'

Another crash incident is detailed concerning an object in Encounter Bay, Victor Harbor. This object, described as 'much larger than a family car,' was unofficially classified as a meteorite by RAAF Edinburgh. Further reports from May 26, 1986, mention sightings from Mount Gambier, Robe, Kingston, Salt Creek, and Victoria, with the object descending rapidly and being exceptionally bright.

On May 27, the 'Border Watch' reported a UFO descending into the sea, described as golden and bright with a fiery trail. The AUSTRALIAN suggested the object might have been a 'spy satellite.'

Later, on July 17, the HERALD reported a Queensland pilot's account of a burning object overtaking his plane, emitting sparks.

Austrian UFO Reports

The issue also highlights UFO sightings in Austria, particularly in Oberösterreich. A prominent report from October 31, 1986, details two gendarmes from the Garsten post in Steyr observing an 'egg-shaped, open-bottomed object' resembling a balloon, hovering at about 300 meters. The object reportedly changed color from dark to light and moved towards Garsten before disappearing.

Revierinspektor Adolf Glöckner and Inspector Kurt Braunreiter are quoted, with Glöckner stating, "Fortunately, I wasn't alone in seeing it, otherwise I might have been suspended and subjected to psychiatric evaluation." They described the object as dark, egg-shaped, and moving at high speed in calm weather and fog. The Linzer air traffic control registered no aircraft in the area.

Further Austrian reports include a gendarme in Niederösterreich observing a 'round, orange to red glowing flying object' and a hunter in Annaberg seeing a 'red-glowing flying object' over St. Aegyd am Neuwalde.

Psychological and Archival Aspects

The magazine includes a section discussing psychological interpretations of UFO phenomena, referencing Freud's work on dreams and altered states of consciousness, such as those induced by meditation, sensory deprivation, or drugs. It suggests that these states can lead to a 'flight from reality.'

A new series, 'UFOS IN DER PRESSE!', is introduced, featuring original press articles from 1950 onwards. This series aims to provide young UFO researchers with access to primary source material, offering a less biased perspective than some UFO literature. The first part of this series is announced, covering press reports from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, Argentina, and Luxembourg.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, alleged UFO crashes, and the official responses or lack thereof. There's a consistent thread of eyewitness accounts, often from law enforcement or ordinary citizens, contrasted with official explanations that frequently point to natural phenomena like planets or meteorites. The magazine also touches upon the psychological underpinnings of belief in UFOs and the importance of archival research. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting reported phenomena and encouraging further investigation, while acknowledging the skepticism and official explanations that often accompany such events.

This document appears to be a collection of articles and reports related to UFO phenomena, primarily from October and November 1986. It includes detailed investigations into specific sightings, discussions from a UFO conference, and critical analyses of UFO research methodologies and organizations.

Garsten Sighting Investigation

The main article, authored by Dr. Alexander Keul, details an investigation into a UFO sighting in Garsten, Austria, on October 29, 1986. The report cross-references newspaper articles from Kronen-Zeitung, Kurier, and Oberösterreichische Nachrichten, as well as a broadcast from ORF's "Österreich heute." Keul's research involved phone calls to the Gendarmerie in Garsten and the ORF studio. The ORF editor dismissed the possibility of a balloon launch and stated a general indifference to the matter. An interview with Inspector Glöckner confirmed the day's report but offered no explanation. Further investigation with Hansjürgen Köhler of CENAP Mannheim revealed that similar "party gag" hot air balloons, with a diameter of 1.5 meters, red-white stripes, and a flight ceiling of 500 meters, were being sold by a German company. These balloons, fueled by cotton and Esbit on an aluminum plate, cost around 35 DM and appeared as flickering red lights at night. Reports of such balloons were prevalent in North and East Germany. Keul concludes that the Garsten object precisely matched these descriptions, as well as a prior sighting in Salzburg-Parsch on September 8, 1986. He suggests this is not the end of a wave of hot air balloon-related sightings in Austria. The data was shared with KURIER, but no official denial was issued.

UFO Over the House: "Nobody Cared About It"

This section, attributed to Werner Walter of CENAP MA, recounts an incident on October 1, 1986, where Hans-Georg Reimarus from Laubach-Ruppertsburg reported a bright, slow-moving object in the sky. Initially mistaken for a helicopter, it was later observed through binoculars as a bluish-white glowing object ascending. Reimarus also noted two smaller lights to its left and one to its right. He contacted the local police, who dismissed his report, and was advised to contact the Luftfahrtbundesamt in Braunschweig. Reimarus then contacted the "Gießener Anzeiger," reporting the sighting to local editor Lambers. Due to fog in Gießen, the object could not be seen there. Reimarus then called Walter, describing the object as "cold light, as strong as the moon, but much smaller." Walter, after confirming the object's appearance from his own location, identified it as the planet Jupiter with its moons, a phenomenon that was particularly bright at the time. Reimarus expressed embarrassment at having called about Jupiter. Walter later recorded the "UFO" on video.

UFO Conference '86 in Lüdenscheid: A Colorful, Lively Program

This report, written by Rudolf Henke, details his experience at a UFO conference organized by CENAP-HN and -HD in Lüdenscheid. Henke, new to serious UFO research, was initially impressed by the organizers' claims of scientific methodology. He notes the group's efforts to gain recognition as a non-profit organization and their collaboration with "UFO-Academics" and MUFON-CES. The conference featured presentations by various researchers, including physicist Heim, whose theories were considered groundbreaking. The report highlights the analytical approach of CENAP-Chef Walter, who presented a psychoanalytical view of the post-war UFO phenomenon, linking it to a human desire for the "higher, mystical." This perspective was challenged by Mosbleck, who accused Walter of deviating from the topic. The conference also included discussions on cooperation, standardization, and witness credibility, with participants debating the subjective nature of UFO reports and the difficulty in establishing objective criteria. Several UFO incidents were discussed, including a case from Neckarsulm and others from Hochheim and Jüchen, though concrete results were not achieved. A demonstration involving hot air balloons for a WDR television crew was attempted but failed due to wind. Henke's own presentation on the "Kelly case" was met with criticism regarding his research methods and the audience's biological knowledge. The report also touches upon the controversy surrounding HUGIN and its alleged use of CENAP material.

"Secret Superpowers' Secret Weapons?"

This section includes two letters to the editor. The first, from Richard Schepmann of Wetter/Ruhr, critiques an article titled "Debris from Space Burning Up Over Europe." Schepmann argues that UFOs are not debris from space but rather advanced aircraft developed in secret German workshops before 1945. He claims these "wonder weapons" were not captured by enemies but were transported to secret overseas bases. He asserts that the widely reported UFOs are the result of these secret programs and advanced propulsion technologies.

The second letter, by Winfried Reinke of Böblingen, responds to Schepmann's letter and another titled "Secret Weapons of the Superpowers?" Reinke, representing the CENAP research group, disputes the idea that UFOs are alien spacecraft or occupied by beings. He argues that reports of flying saucers are often misinterpretations of natural phenomena or advanced terrestrial technology. He criticizes the "DUIST" organization for promoting such ideas. Reinke also addresses the concept of "secret weapons," suggesting that modern advanced aircraft, like futuristic jets, are more likely candidates than flying saucers. He challenges Schepmann to provide verifiable evidence of extraterrestrial visitation, demanding specific details like names, locations, dates, and scientific analyses, and states that no such case has been proven beyond doubt, with most being explained as re-entries, meteors, or hoaxes.

Boden der Realität für Wunschdenken verlassen (Leaving the Ground of Reality for Wishful Thinking)

This article, also by Hansjürgen Köhler of CENAP Mannheim, directly addresses the letters from Schepmann and Reinke. Köhler defends CENAP's research and criticizes the notion of UFOs being alien spacecraft or occupied by "angels," as promoted by DUIST. He argues that while astronomical knowledge among the public may be lacking, experts' explanations should not be dismissed simply because they don't fit a particular worldview. Köhler dismisses the idea of "flying saucer fleets" observed in the 1950s in the USA as a "soap bubble" that bursts upon closer examination, attributing such reports to simple meteor observations. He also debunks the idea of advanced German flying saucers, stating that while an "AVRO-disc" was developed, the project was abandoned due to a crash. Köhler reiterates that modern military aircraft do not resemble flying saucers and questions the logic of investing heavily in such technology if alien craft were readily available. He challenges Schepmann and Reinke to provide concrete evidence of extraterrestrial visits, demanding specific data and scientific analysis, and states that no case has been proven to be anything other than a re-entry, meteor, aircraft, or fraud.

Further Conference Discussions

This section continues the report on the Lüdenscheid conference. Walter, representing CENAP, denies working for any intelligence agency. The discussion then shifts to Marten Dillinger, who presented his "Absolute Theory of Relativity." Dillinger, described as a "BILLY-Apostle" and head of the "Remscheider UFOlogen" group, presented his ideas with numerous illustrations. The report notes that his theories were met with skepticism and that the audience dwindled during his presentation. Dillinger's ideas about time dilation and hyperspace were discussed, but the presentation became more engaging when it focused on UFO photos. The report mentions that some UFO photos allegedly had wires added later to simulate hovering objects. Dillinger maintained that his work was not fabricated. The discussion then moved to the topic of "UFO beings from Hopkinsville," which led to a crowded room. Attempts to launch hot air balloons for a WDR film crew were unsuccessful due to strong winds. Henke reflected on his own presentation, acknowledging that he may have underestimated the audience's lack of biological knowledge and that the presence of many outsiders led to misunderstandings of his contribution. He also mentioned being criticized by GEP for his research methods.

Final Conference Day and Future Plans

The final day of the conference focused on internal discussions. Walter presented video material, and the group discussed credibility assessment and witness pre-loadings, a topic led by Hw Peiniger. The difficulty in finding consensus on these issues was highlighted, with the subjective nature of human judgment and the potential for "gray zones" in UFO cases being acknowledged. The report notes that unlike legal proceedings, where doubt favors the accused, in UFO research, the opposite often seems to be the case. The discussion also touched upon the statistical distortion caused by dismissing cases due to "insufficient information." A proposal was made to create a catalog of various IFOs (Identified Flying Objects) and two UFOs, to be presented to witnesses to help identify what they saw. This led to the compromise of creating a catalog of different IFOs from various perspectives to "dynamize" static images. The project for a German UFO HANDBOOK for UFO Investigators was also mentioned, with a follow-up planned in six months.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document include the investigation of UFO sightings, the potential for misidentification (especially with hot air balloons), the role of media in reporting such events, and the critical analysis of UFO research organizations and their methodologies. There is a clear emphasis on scientific rigor, skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, and a desire to distinguish between genuine phenomena and misinterpretations or hoaxes. The articles also touch upon the idea of government secrecy and the suppression of information regarding advanced technologies, particularly in the context of World War II and its aftermath. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the complexity and often ambiguous nature of UFO reports.

This issue of the magazine, dated October 7, 1986, features a prominent cover story titled "Feuerbälle über Deutschland" (Fireballs over Germany) and "UFO über Frankfurt Tausende sahen es!" (UFO over Frankfurt Thousands saw it!). The main article discusses the possibility of revising our understanding of humanity's place in the cosmos, suggesting that extraterrestrial beings might exist and could be assisting Earth.

Articles and Reports

"Feuerbälle über Deutschland"

The lead article on the cover reports on numerous sightings of fireballs and unidentified flying objects (UFOs) over Germany on September 23, 1986. Witnesses described bright, round, green, and turquoise objects with fiery trails. Pilots reported seeing a "round, bright ball" that emitted green, turquoise, and blue light. The article questions whether these sightings were meteors or falling satellite parts, but also suggests the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation.

"Wurde Deutschland von Außerirdischen besucht?"

This section explores the idea of extraterrestrial contact, with Christa Schlenker from VS-Schwenningen suggesting that "brothers from space" might be helping humanity transition into a new age. She posits that these beings could be assisting Earth through its current difficult situation.

"UFO über Frankfurt Tausende sahen es!"

This report details a significant UFO sighting over Frankfurt, with thousands of witnesses. UFO researcher Adolf Geigenthaler believes it was an extraterrestrial spacecraft. The object was described as the largest and brightest ever seen in the region, flying over Luxembourg, Belgium, and parts of France.

"Bundesverteidigungsministerium"

Reports to the Federal Ministry of Defense about the German sightings were numerous, but the ministry's radar systems showed nothing. The official explanation provided by a spokesperson was that the objects were meteors.

"Kein Meteorit"

Albert de Kerfgieter from the Brussels Observatory disputes the meteor explanation, suggesting that the object's prolonged burning and color indicate it might be metallic, possibly a crashed satellite. The article criticizes the official dismissal of UFO sightings, suggesting that UFOs are simply ignored.

"Das Ufo war wohl kosmisches Gestein"

This article, published in the Mannheimer Morgen on October 7, 1986, by "df," analyzes the September 23, 1986, sighting over Germany. It suggests the object was likely a cosmic rock, possibly a meteor, weighing around 1.5 tons and flying at an altitude of approximately 60 kilometers. The article draws parallels to a similar event in the USA and Canada in 1972. It dismisses the possibility of it being a satellite or rocket debris due to their orbital paths.

"Nachwehen" (Aftermath)

This section includes a report from Werner Walter and Hansjürgen Köhler of CENAP-Mannheim regarding the September 23, 1986, sighting. A colleague of Hansjürgen Köhler reported seeing two bright green, glowing objects flying in tandem over Mannheim on September 23, 1986, at 7:32 AM. The objects disappeared quickly.

Satellite Decay Data

A table lists predicted decay dates for various satellites in 1986, indicating that some objects are nearing their atmospheric entry. This information is presented in the context of potential explanations for aerial phenomena.

"TV Newsmen Film Giant UFO"

This article reports on a massive UFO sighting over Barcelona, Spain, on November 29, 1985. Eyewitnesses, including police officers and air traffic controllers, reported a UFO hovering for nearly nine hours. The object was captured on videotape by a local TV cameraman and aired on television. It was described as being three times the size of a jumbo jet, with a brilliant blue light and a pulsating red light. Radar operators confirmed its presence on their screens.

"UFO-Experte Behauptet: Diese 4 Typen von Weltraumfremdlingen besuchen regelmäßig die Erde"

This section discusses a report from the National Enquirer, citing Walter Andrus, director of MUFON (Mutual UFO Network), who claims that four types of space aliens regularly visit Earth. These types are based on thousands of cases in MUFON's files, ranging from a hairy beast to a human-like creature. The article expresses skepticism about the National Enquirer's sensationalist approach and the authenticity of the depicted alien types.

"UFO Studies" and International Organizations

The magazine also provides updates on UFO research organizations. It mentions the formation of CISU in Italy from the remnants of CUN and the planned English-language publication "ITALIAN UFO REPORTER." It notes the passing of APRO founder Jim Lorenzen and the uncertain future of APRO. The article discusses the landscape of US UFO organizations, highlighting MUFON as the most active group and mentioning Dr. Bruce Maccabee as a potential new spokesperson.

"Sowjet-Rakete: Feuerball am US-Himmel"

A brief report from November 7, 1986, describes a large fireball observed over the USA, which was identified by a military spokesperson as a decaying Soviet carrier rocket.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings and related phenomena, often presenting official explanations (like meteors or satellite decay) alongside witness testimonies and the perspectives of UFO researchers. There is a clear skepticism towards sensationalism, particularly from publications like the National Enquirer, while also acknowledging the persistent nature of UFO reports and the ongoing efforts of various research organizations. The underlying theme is the potential for a paradigm shift in our understanding of reality due to the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence and advanced technology.