CENAP Report - No 131

Magazine Overview

Title: Night-Light's
Issue: 131
Volume: 1/1987
Date: January 1987
Publisher: CENAP-REPORT
Country: Germany
Price: DM 3.50

This issue of Night-Light's, a publication focused on the study of extraordinary aerial phenomena, delves into several key topics. It begins by addressing a recent wave of sightings in Austria, suggesting a mundane explanation, and then transitions into a more in-depth, psycho-social analysis of the UFO phenomenon. The magazine concludes with a detailed report of a specific radar-confirmed sighting in Spain.

Party-Gag: Austrian Mystery Lights Explained

The lead story on the cover, "Geheimnisvolle UFOs nur Party-Luftballone" (Mysterious UFOs are just Party Balloons), addresses reports from Austria. Specifically, it mentions an incident in October where two gendarmes in the Steyr region observed "unexplained lights" and a "UFO." The article reveals that German and Austrian meteorologists and UFO experts believe these sightings were likely caused by a new type of hot air balloon, popular as a "party gag." While the Bundesamt für Zivilluftfahrt (Federal Office for Civil Aviation) considers these balloons problematic for several reasons, the immediate mystery of the Austrian sightings is presented as solved.

A Psycho-Social Perspective on UFOs: Attempt at a Psycho-Social View!

This extensive section, authored by W. Walter, explores the phenomenon of UFO sightings from a psychological and sociological standpoint. Walter argues that the complexity of the subject prevents simple answers and that many different areas need to be examined. He traces the origins of modern UFO interest back to the post-World War II era, marked by the atomic bomb threat, the Cold War, and rapid technological advancement, which spurred interest in space travel and the question of humanity's future.

Walter suggests that the fear of uncontrolled atomic power and the ideological conflicts of the Cold War, coupled with a growing awareness of the cosmos, led people to look outward. The emergence of "flying saucer" sightings and the concept of "contactees" who claimed to receive messages from technologically superior beings from space became a significant part of this new worldview. These beings were often depicted as benevolent "cosmic brothers" with advanced knowledge and morality, offering a potential solution to Earth's problems.

The article posits that the societal changes of the mid-20th century – including the decline of traditional religions, the rise of youth movements, increased liberalism, and a questioning of authority – created a fertile ground for new belief systems. UFOs and their supposed occupants became a focal point for many seeking meaning and a sense of purpose, especially those feeling alienated or dissatisfied with the modern world. This phenomenon is described as a "modern ghost belief" or a "pseudoreligious" movement, where UFO occupants are elevated to angelic status, forming an "ufological salvation religion."

Walter critically examines the motivations of UFO enthusiasts, distinguishing between "consumers" and a small number of "activists." He suggests that the interest in UFOs often stems from a desire for self-understanding, a need for recognition, and an escape from the complexities and anxieties of modern life. The search for "inner peace" and a connection to the universe is seen as a driving force, but one that can be hindered by personal issues and a tendency towards irrationality.

The author also touches upon the perceived conflict between science and religion. He notes the decline of traditional religion in the West and the search for the "meaning of life." While science has provided explanations for many natural phenomena, it has also challenged traditional religious views by placing humanity on an insignificant planet in a vast universe. This has led some to seek alternative explanations, with UFOs sometimes being interpreted as evidence of advanced extraterrestrial beings, akin to angels or divine messengers.

Walter concludes this section by questioning the origins of the universe and the natural laws that govern it, suggesting that even with scientific advancements, fundamental questions remain, potentially leaving room for interpretations that blend science with the mystical or pseudoscientific.

Literature Tips

The magazine provides a short list of recommended reading on irrational cults and UFOs:

• "Kulte des Irrationalen" by Christopher Evans
• "Flying Saucers Magic in the Skies" by Otto Billig
• "Project UFO 3" by Werner Walter (CENAP-Mannheim)

UFO i.e.S. (UAP) über Barcelona (Spanien)?

This section, also by Werner Walter of CENAP-Mannheim, shifts from philosophical discussion to a specific case report. It refers to a previous article in the "CR von 1986" that mentioned a "gigantic UFO" filmed by TV news, citing the American "NATIONAL ENQUIRER" as a source. Walter acknowledges the ENQUIRER's questionable reputation for sensationalism but decided to investigate the event further.

He contacted Spanish UFOlogists and received a report from Herr Juan Plana Crivillen of Sabadell, Barcelona, titled "Immenso OVNI detectado por Radar en la zona de Tarrasa y Sabadell (Barcelona) la noche del 29 al 30 de Noviembre de 1.1985" (Immense UFO detected by Radar in the area of Tarrasa and Sabadell (Barcelona) on the night of November 29 to 30, 1985).

Walter summarizes Crivillen's report, noting that it contains all essential elements and details. Crivillen himself saw a film of the UFO on TV-3, describing it as a "powerful white and blue light" that was motionless in the sky.

The report details the sighting that began on Friday, November 29, 1985, around 9:30 PM. Various police officers and civilians in the Tarrasa and Sabadell area (25 km from Barcelona) observed a large, motionless light in the sky, described as white-blue and four times larger than a normal star. Binoculars revealed a large shape within the light.

The Tarrasa police alerted Barcelona police, who in turn notified the air traffic control center at Barcelona Airport at 10:30 PM. Radar operators initially saw nothing unusual, but upon reviewing the "MOVING TARGET INDICATER," they detected a "stationary echo" approximately 200 meters in size, located north of Tarrasa.

A team from the Catalan television channel TV-3, including cameraman Josep Ros and journalist Roser Barnich, traveled to Tarrasa and filmed the object with a BETACAM video camera. The film reportedly showed a significant white-blue light of considerable size.

Notably, a DC-9 and a Boeing 727 from IBERIA were in the area between Tarrasa and Sabadell but did not report seeing anything. Air traffic control confirmed excellent meteorological conditions, with no temperature inversions and no meteorological balloons present.

Later, around 1:30 AM on November 30, a Boeing 727 of IBERIA, flying over Sitges to reach Barcelona, reported to controllers that the pilot had observed a white-blue, large, motionless light object with windows and an orange light on its edge between Tarrasa and Sabadell at a great height.

Around 4:20 AM, the radar screen at Barcelona's air traffic control center suddenly showed a "primary echo, very strong and 7.4 km north of Sabadell," which was moving.

Accompanying the report are two diagrams: one is a photograph of the "ASR-7" radar antenna at Barcelona Airport, from which the unidentified echoes in the Vallés area were detected. The second is a schematic map showing the positions of the radar echoes and sightings during the November 29-30, 1985 incident, including locations like Manresa, Terrasa, Sabadell, Barcelona, and Sitges, as well as the positions of two aircraft (a DC-9 and a Boeing 727).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena with psychological, sociological, and even quasi-religious interpretations. There's a clear interest in demystifying reported UFO sightings, as seen with the Austrian case, while also acknowledging the profound impact such phenomena have on human belief systems and societal discourse. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking rational explanations where possible but also recognizing the deep-seated human need for meaning and wonder that UFO phenomena can tap into. The publication seems to position itself as a network for research and discussion on these extraordinary events, bridging the gap between scientific investigation and the more speculative aspects of the UFO field.

This issue of the magazine features a detailed table titled 'CUADRO GENERAL DE ECOS DETECTADOS POR RADAR' (General Table of Radar-Detected Echoes), documenting radar observations from the night of November 29-30, 1985, in the Tarrasa and Sabadell area of Barcelona, Spain. The publication also includes an interview with Jim and Coral Lorenzen, founders of the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO), and extensive discussions on radar technology and its application in UFO detection.

Radar Observations in Spain (November 1985)

The primary focus of the issue is the comprehensive data presented in the radar echo table. The observations, spanning from approximately 22:30 on November 29th to 06:00 on November 30th, 1985, detail multiple 'ECOs' (echoes) detected by radar. These echoes are categorized into three types (ECO 1, ECO 2, ECO 3) and provide specific data points:

• Time (HORA): Ranging from ~22:30 to ~06:00, with specific timestamps like ~04:20, ~04:20:50, ~04:21:30, and ~04:21:05.
• Quality (CALIDAD): Described as 'MANCHA' (smear/blot) and 'MUY POTENTE' (very strong), 'POTENTE' (strong).
• Shape (FORMA): Varied from 'ALARGADA' (elongated) and 'MUY ALARGADA' (very elongated) to 'PUNTO' (point).
• Size (TAMAÑO): Estimates include ~200 m, ~9,000 m, and ~20-30 m.
• Altitude (ALTITUD): Recorded at 8,000 m with an additional +1,000 m.
• Speed (VELOCIDAD): Ranges from 'NINGUNA' (none) to 90 km/h and a remarkable 900 km/h.
• Direction (RUMBO): Indicated as 'NINGUNO' (none) or specific degrees like 180° (South) and 150° (Southeast).
• Distance to Radar (DISTANCIA AL RADAR): Measured in kilometers, such as ~33 km, ~36 km, ~34.5 km, ~33.75 km, and ~31.5 km.
• Miscellaneous Data (DATOS VARIOS): Includes 'ECO FIJO' (fixed echo), 'ECO MOVIL. APARICION BRUSCA' (mobile echo, sudden appearance), and 'ECO MOVIL. DESAPARICION BRUSCA' (mobile echo, sudden disappearance).

The table also notes that the radar used was an ASR-7 type, capable of determining echo distance and flight direction but not altitude. The system operates within a range of 600 to 12,000 m and had reportedly been functioning correctly without errors.

Radar Technology and UFO Identification

Several articles delve into the complexities of radar detection and its role in identifying Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). The text explains how radar works, comparing it to a lighthouse's rotating beam that emits invisible radio pulses. A 'BLIP' or 'TARGET' appears on the radar screen when these pulses reflect off an object. The distance is calculated by the time it takes for the pulse to return. The speed and direction of a target can be estimated by observing its position changes between antenna rotations.

Key factors influencing radar detection include:

• Object Characteristics: Size, shape, material (metal reflects better than plastic), and construction.
• Radar System: Type of radar beam (e.g., 'Fan Beam'), its range, and the presence of features like Moving Target Indicators (MTI) designed to filter out stationary objects.
• Environmental Factors: Temperature inversions can cause radar waves to bend, leading to 'ghost echoes' or 'false targets' that can be mistaken for real objects.

Challenges in UFO Detection by Radar

The articles highlight several challenges in confirming UFO sightings through radar:

• Size and Altitude: Small UFOs or those flying at very low altitudes might not be detected, especially if they are not moving or are obscured by ground clutter. Conversely, very large objects can be detected.
• Speed and Maneuvers: UFOs capable of extreme acceleration, deceleration, sudden stops, or right-angle turns far exceed the capabilities of conventional aircraft. Such maneuvers, if detected, are strong indicators of non-terrestrial technology.
• Distinguishing from Other Phenomena: Radar operators must differentiate between actual objects, 'ghost echoes' caused by atmospheric conditions, and even celestial bodies like stars (e.g., SIRIUS). The text mentions a specific incident where a radar echo was initially thought to be a UFO but was later suggested to be an atmospheric inversion or a misidentified star.
• Military Secrecy: Information regarding UFO sightings, especially those involving military radar, is often classified as 'military secret,' making it difficult for civilian researchers to access.

The Lorenzens and APRO

An interview with Jim and Coral Lorenzen, founders of the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO), provides insight into their work. They established APRO in 1952, motivated by the unsatisfactory explanations provided by the Air Force for UFO incidents. APRO aimed to systematically collect and evaluate UFO sightings. The Lorenzens have authored books on UFOs, including 'Encounters with UFO Occupants.' They both worked at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico in the 1950s before dedicating themselves fully to APRO. The interview touches upon the early days of UFO research, the debate about government cover-ups, and the challenges of distinguishing UFOs from other phenomena.

Specific Incidents and Case Studies

Beyond the general radar data, the issue references specific cases:

• Barcelona Airport Radar: The ASR-7 radar at Barcelona Airport was used for the observed events. The text notes its capabilities and limitations.
• C-212 Aviocar Incident: A pilot of a C-212 aircraft reported seeing a bright, flashing light near Tarrasa while flying from Barcelona to Madrid. This sighting occurred during the period of the radar observations.
• MUFON UFO Journal: A contribution from Wayne Laporte in the MUFON UFO Journal (December 1981) on 'Radar-Visual UFO Sightings' is mentioned, emphasizing the significance of correlating visual sightings with radar data to confirm non-hallucinatory experiences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of advanced radar technology and the persistent mystery of UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, emphasizing the need for empirical data (like radar readings) to move beyond speculation and subjective accounts. While acknowledging the potential for misidentification and atmospheric phenomena, the articles strongly suggest that certain radar signatures and observed maneuvers are difficult to explain with conventional aircraft or known terrestrial technology. The issue advocates for a scientific approach to ufology, using technological tools to gather evidence and challenge official narratives, while also recognizing the limitations and potential for secrecy surrounding military investigations.

This issue of "UFO Report" delves into UFO phenomena, primarily focusing on sightings in Poland and comparing them to international cases, particularly those from the United States. The content is largely based on interviews with researchers Jim and Coral Lorenzen, and includes detailed accounts of various UFO incidents.

UFOs in Poland: Different from Ours?

The lead article, "UFO's ÜBER POLEN: Anders als bei uns ?" by Bronislaw Rzepecki, presents a series of UFO sightings reported in Poland, primarily on December 2, 1983. These incidents are highlighted as significant observations over Polish territory, confirmed by multiple UFO research groups. The article details specific events:

• December 2, 1983, 19:30: Krzysztof Klimek in Zebrzydowice observed six yellow and red lights moving rapidly from northwest to southeast for about 3 seconds. The front lights left a "tail" similar to a welding torch.
• December 2, 1983, 19:45: Three independent witnesses in Brzeg saw four lights darting by at an estimated altitude of 1500 meters. One witness described rectangular lights, while another could not define them. These observations lasted 40-50 seconds and were completely silent.
• Roman Kremplewski's Observation: While cycling between Piotrkow Kujawski and Opatowice, Kremplewski saw twelve lights (white, blue, red, and green) that resembled a cigar. The object flew 300 meters above the ground, slower than an airplane, for several minutes. Four smoke trails were observed, but the object was silent.
• Jan Gralewski's Observation: Approximately 2 km from Kremplewski's sighting location, Jan Gralewski and his son saw twenty lights moving at the speed of an airplane, 100 meters above the ground. They also noted four smoke trails and heard no noise.
• Tadeusz Jasak's Observation: In Piotrkow Trybunalski, Jasak saw three lights moving eastward at 500-1000 meters altitude, leaving smoke trails. They were faster than a helicopter and silent, visible for about 1 minute.
• Warsaw Sighting: Lights appeared over Warsaw, observed by Witold Koczynksi. The formation was described as a leading light followed by four others in a rhombus shape, with a strange light in the center. The movement was slow, estimated at 30 km/h.
• Klaudia Allison's Observation: An eleven-year-old girl observed a large, yellow ball that was motionless before ascending and flying away.

The article suggests that these varied observations might represent different angles or perspectives of a single phenomenon, possibly similar to a cross-shaped object seen in England in 1967.

Another significant event detailed is from January 30, 1983, near Dabrowa Gornicza, where Elzbieta Pala and three other women observed a "light bundle" of cylindrical shape that glowed like "glowing coals." It transformed into a large, red ball with two horizontal brown stripes, moved, and then disappeared into a "blue mist." The women also reported feeling unusually tired before the sighting.

The article also references other Polish sightings, including a "TV-screen" object in Ruda (1981), a "cigar" in Lubomierz (1983), and a "sparkling cylinder" near Kielee (1975). A report from Lithuania describes a ball emitting a light beam over a field.

Interviews with Jim and Coral Lorenzen

The magazine features extensive interviews with researchers Jim and Coral Lorenzen, who discuss various aspects of UFO research:

• Government Secrecy: Jim Lorenzen explains that UFO research was largely conducted under the umbrella of national security, leading to classification of information. He believes the Air Force was more of a victim of circumstances than a perpetrator of a conspiracy.
• Early Research and Occupant Reports: Coral Lorenzen explains their logical approach to UFOs, including the possibility of occupants. They accepted occupant reports as part of the phenomenon, evaluating cases based on witness credibility and source.
• The George Adamski Case: The Lorenzens investigated George Adamski, whom they found to be a charming but dishonest individual who made factual errors, such as calling the moon a planet. They concluded he was an "old faker."
• South American Cases: They discuss their satisfaction when researchers like Dr. Olavo Fontes and Horacio Gonzales investigated cases in South America. They also address the perceived "hostile" nature of some South American cases, suggesting it might be defensive behavior, possibly by trained animals.
• Villas-Boas Case: Coral Lorenzen discusses the Villas-Boas case, where a Brazilian farmer claimed sexual contact with an alien. She notes that Dr. Fontes' interpretation was influenced by his cultural background, seeing a romantic element.
• Humanoid Encounters: The Lorenzens compare the Villas-Boas case with the Hill episode, suggesting a possible attempt by aliens to collect genetic material. They note similarities in descriptions of the beings, with Betty Hill recalling they had "only four fingers."
• UFO Research Organizations: Coral Lorenzen explains the separation between APRO and NICAP. NICAP was unhappy that APRO could not share its membership list due to confidentiality agreements. NICAP also rejected APRO's occupant reports, leading to a philosophical split.
• Center for UFO Studies: Jim Lorenzen views Dr. J.A. Hynek's Center for UFO Studies as an effective initiative and plans to cooperate with it.
• Evolution of UFO Phenomena: Coral Lorenzen believes that while researchers have learned to ask better questions, the UFO phenomenon itself has also evolved, becoming more spectacular with landings, contacts, and abductions.
• The Moody Case: Jim Lorenzen discusses the abduction case of Sgt. Charles Moody, who reported receiving information from UFO beings about a planned open contact in 1976 and a potential shift in humanity's perceived importance.
• Alien Communication: Jim Lorenzen acknowledges the fantastic and contradictory nature of messages reportedly conveyed by aliens, making it difficult to believe the messengers.
• Misinformation and Psychological Projection: Coral Lorenzen suggests that abductees might be fed false information to conceal alien activities. She also discusses the possibility of UFO sightings being psychological projections, referencing the work of Carl Jung.
• Hypnotic Regression: Jim Lorenzen notes that some abduction cases, particularly those involving "recovered memories" through hypnosis, might not be real events but rather products of imagination or implanted memories.
• The Pascagoula Case: Coral Lorenzen dismisses Philip Klass's claim that the Pascagoula abduction was a hoax, arguing that the witness's inability to see from his vantage point is irrelevant.
• Travis Walton Incident: The Lorenzens consider the Travis Walton case to be the most baffling, particularly due to the details of Walton's experience with "humanoids" in a warm, humid atmosphere.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous research, critical evaluation of evidence, and open-mindedness in the study of UFO phenomena. The Lorenzens advocate for considering all possibilities and sources equally. There's a recurring theme of government secrecy surrounding UFOs, with an underlying belief that the phenomenon is real and warrants serious investigation. The magazine also highlights the international nature of UFO sightings, with a particular focus on recent events in Poland. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena, acknowledging the complexities and controversies within the field.

This issue of MUFON UFO JOURNAL, dated October 1983, delves into the complexities of UFO sightings, focusing on the psychological aspects of eyewitness testimony and the potential for misidentification. The publication, originating from the USA and translated from German, features articles that critically examine reported phenomena.

Key Articles and Content

"Die Möglichkeit einer Helikopter- oder Flugzeug-Observation..."

This section discusses the possibility of UFO observations being mistaken for conventional aircraft. It mentions a case where a witness heard dogs barking, suggesting a possible connection to the event, but notes the difficulty in linking it to the observed object. It also provides contact information for Bronislaw Rzepecki in Poland for those interested in the "UFO Research Group."

CENAP-Nachsatz: Etwa 10 Bilder von UFOs sind in Polen bekannt...

This addendum notes that while about 10 UFO pictures are known in Poland, Mr. Rzepecki and his group do not possess any prints. It draws a parallel between some UFO events and meteorites or re-entry phenomena, suggesting that spectacular mass sightings often involve time discrepancies of around 45 minutes, which are attributed to subjective misjudgments rather than actual changes in the object's direction.

SZENE 87: EIN NEUES UFO-JOURNAL!

This article introduces the "Stuttgarter UFO JOURNAL," a new publication edited by Thomas Bucher, Oliver Heineke, and Walter Erwin. The journal, presented in Din-a-4 format with 20 pages, costs 10 DM for a yearly subscription and aims to cover ufology and related fields through translations, interviews, and original research. The first issue includes reports like "UFO-Alarm! Fireball in the Sky," "UFO over Kornwestheim," and "Astronaut Cooper Stays Silent." The author notes the inconsistent layout but finds the content interesting for newcomers to the UFO scene, expressing a need for more information about this new "UFO activity."

DIE GEFAHR DER ÜBEREILTEN FRAGESTELLUNG >>Unglaubwürdige Zeugen<<

Authored by Paolo Toselli from Alessandria, Italy, this article critically examines the reliability of eyewitness testimony, particularly in the context of UFO sightings. Toselli argues that the common phrase "I saw it with my own eyes!" is often used to dismiss doubt, but eyewitness accounts are prone to errors. He explains that the perception of an event is not a direct recording but a process filtered by the individual's personality, environment, prior knowledge, and potential distortions. The article references Richard F. Haines' work, "Observing UFOs, An Investigative Handbook," which suggests that witnesses may add details from their imagination or memory to make the phenomenon more consistent with known UFO descriptions. The concept of "mental set," influenced by factors like "Hypothesis," "Expectation," and "Attitude," is highlighted as crucial, especially when data is scarce, as it can transform an identifiable object into an unidentifiable one. An example is given of three radio astronomers who initially perceived a large, cigar-shaped object as a UFO, but later identified it as an airliner after the wind changed and the sound of engines became audible. The article emphasizes that memories are not perfect recordings but processed interpretations, often relying on verbal symbols for organization. It also touches upon the influence of leading questions in interrogations, citing Dr. Loftus's work on eyewitness testimony in accident cases, where the choice of words like "angestoßen" (bumped) versus "aufschlagend" (collided) significantly affected speed estimates.

"Letzte Verteidigung der DUIST" .. UFO-Krieg um Ballone?

This article by Hansjürgen Köhler from CENAP-Mannheim addresses a UFO case from Austria that generated significant media attention. The case was reportedly resolved by Dr. A. Keul, identifying the phenomena as party balloons. The article criticizes the "DUIST" (likely a UFO research group) for resisting this explanation, particularly Walter Weisser, who is described as an "Altmeister" (old master) of DUIST. Weisser is portrayed as clinging to the idea of extraterrestrial spacecraft and dismissing the party balloon explanation as "poor elementary school education." The article notes that the manufacturer of these party balloons sells approximately 10,000 units annually in Germany alone, and they are also available in Austria. The Bundesamt für Zivilluftfahrt (Federal Office for Civil Aviation) considers these balloons potentially dangerous due to fire hazards and suggests they might require permits. The article concludes by highlighting the resistance of some UFOlogists to rational explanations, attributing it to a desire to protect their established beliefs.

Bericht über UFO-Erscheinungen

This section discusses a report by two gendarmes about a UFO sighting in the Steyr region, which aligns with thousands of UFO sightings worldwide. It dismisses the explanation of a hot air balloon (as suggested by meteorologists and "UFO specialists") as inconsistent with the reported phenomenon. The article quotes an editorial from the "UFO-Nachrichten" publication, which emphasizes the significance of "flying saucers" as a sign of the times and categorizes people's reactions into three groups: indifferent, scientifically educated but dogmatic, and those who intuitively understand the existence of extraterrestrial spacecraft. It suggests contacting the Deutsche UFO-Studiengesellschaft (DUIDT) e.V. in Wiesbaden for information. The article also mentions the efforts of the "Gesellschaft für Interplanetarik" and its president, Dr. Hermann Weyss, in promoting UFO research in Austria, noting a significant interest from the public in Linz.

"Österreichische Gesellschaft für Interplanetarik" eine Vortragsreise

This piece details the historical activities of the "Österreichische Gesellschaft für Interplanetarik" (Austrian Society for Interplanetarik), including a lecture tour in 1959. The UN (likely a publication) reported positively on the audience's engagement and insightful questions, contrasting it with the press's more business-oriented interest. The article also references a report from UN Nr. 63 (November 1961) by Dr. Weyss about "BÖSARTIGE SCHWINGUNGEN" (Malignant Vibrations) and the global situation.

UFO-Erscheinungen im Ennstal

This section recounts a UFO sighting in the Ennstal region in August 1963, described as an excellent case with numerous witnesses, including Walter Weisser. The event involved a "mothership" from which smaller "satellites" detached and explored the area. Weisser, described as a reliable UFO researcher, investigated the site. The report details the mothership hovering and the smaller objects entering caves. Weisser later witnessed a UFO that appeared to be a "spaceship" with pulsating lights and "bull's-eyes."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the unreliability of eyewitness testimony, and the tendency for misidentification, particularly with phenomena like party balloons. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensationalist claims and a preference for rational, evidence-based explanations, while acknowledging the persistent public interest in UFOs. There's a clear emphasis on the psychological factors influencing perception and memory, suggesting that many reported UFOs may have mundane explanations.

This issue of "Was geht am Himmel über unserer Heimat vor?" (What's going on in the sky above our homeland?), published by Die Rheinpfalz on December 27, 1986, focuses on the persistent mystery of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and the efforts to understand them.

The UFO Riddle in Austria

The article highlights the Society for Interplanetarik in Vienna, an organization dedicated to studying UFOs. It explains that for over twenty years, these mysterious phenomena, initially termed "Flying Saucers" and later UFOs, have been observed. The society aims to awaken interest in studying extraterrestrial space endeavors and, more importantly, to clarify celestial phenomena. They achieve this through study groups, public lectures, observation excursions, and the distribution of informative materials. The society exchanges findings with similar groups internationally, acknowledging that some foreign groups are ahead in research organization.

The society's objectives include verifying sighting reports, investigating contact claims with alleged occupants of UFOs, and studying terrestrial efforts to explore space, explicitly excluding military conquest or possession of celestial bodies.

Members engage in individual or group sky observations, recording and sharing their findings. Night excursions, such as to the Marchfeld, are organized for optimal observation conditions. One member reported a recurring object, jokingly called the "UFO of the day," appearing nightly. Another member successfully photographed a UFO from their apartment window in Währing during a half-hour exposure.

The Society for Interplanetarik actively seeks private observations from the public, noting the lack of a dedicated state agency in Austria for continuous sky monitoring. While Austria has numerous observatories, their registration of celestial events is often sporadic and unsystematic. The society believes that more information is needed to advance understanding of UFOs and related phenomena.

The Mainz UFO Congress: Research vs. Speculation

Ingenieur Erich Halik, President of Studiengesellschaft für Erforschung unbekannter Flugphänomene (Interplanetarik Austria), represented Austria at the 7th International UFO Researchers' World Congress in Mainz, Germany. The congress, held from November 3rd to 6th, focused on applying scientific knowledge and possibilities to UFO research. Halik noted that only two presenters, himself and archaeologist E. v. Daeniken, adhered strictly to scientific principles. Daeniken proposed that ancient deities might have been extraterrestrial astronauts.

Halik's presentation focused on "New Findings in UFO Propulsion Mechanics." He also expressed interest in the work of rocket specialist Prof. Dr. Hermann Oberth, who suggested that UFOs are likely spacecraft from other worlds, implying advanced alien civilizations. Halik, however, criticized Oberth for not using his influence to encourage more qualified scientists to engage with the UFO problem, comparing the scientific community to overfed geese unwilling to accept new food.

Halik praised the organizational efforts of Karl Ludwig Veit and his wife, who compiled extensive materials, including sighting reports, contact descriptions, and landing accounts. However, he pointed out a lack of systematic organization and analysis in the presented materials, which could lead to misinterpretations or accusations of deception.

Despite these criticisms, Halik affirmed that the Austrian research group is capable of demonstrating unusual movement patterns and replicating the physical characteristics and operational tactics of UFOs through experiments.

UFOs Blue - Pilots Too?

A report from Anchorage, Alaska, details a sighting by Japanese jumbo jet captain Kenju Terauchi. He described a UFO, "twice the size of an aircraft carrier," accompanied by two smaller objects, which pursued his Boeing 747. The incident, occurring on November 17th, was partially confirmed by the US FAA and Air Force, with the UFO detected on radar for at least 32 minutes. Terauchi humorously suggested the aliens might have been interested in the Beaujolais wine cargo.

UFOs: Miscellaneous

This section announces the availability of the new CENAP REPORT, which is still being processed for digital distribution. It also mentions Werner Walter's acquisition of a nearly four-hour UFO video cassette from the USA, containing TV news segments, talk shows, and a documentary titled "THE UFO-EXPERIENCE." Copies are available for DM 120.

CENAP is actively discussing unexplained UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) cases from its research, with a new statistic report forthcoming. Plans for a UFO conference in or around Heidelberg are also mentioned.

Project SIGMA and the Cracoe Fell Case

A document from the September-October 1986 issue of QUEST, reprinted on page 48, details "PROJECT SIGMA," a US research project initiated in 1954 and made independent in 1976. Its objective was to establish communication with aliens, reportedly achieving success in 1959 with primitive communication. A 1964 incident involved a USAF intelligence officer meeting two aliens in the New Mexico desert for three hours.

"PROJECT SNOWBIRD," established in 1972, is mentioned as a project to test-fly and recover captured alien spacecraft.

The article also discusses the "Cracoe Fell Case," defended by YUFOS, involving a UFO photograph. Nigel Mortimer of WYUFORG concluded that the phenomenon, appearing when sunlight hits the barren mountain, is natural. WYUFORG managed to photograph the phenomenon again in November 1986, supporting this natural identification.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of UFOs, the scientific and pseudoscientific approaches to their study, and the potential for extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging serious investigation and data collection while distinguishing between credible reports and speculation. There's an emphasis on the need for scientific rigor and the frustration with the lack of official scientific engagement with the topic. The issue also touches upon alleged government secrecy and the possibility of advanced alien technology.