CENAP Report - No 133

Magazine Overview

Title: NIGHT LIGHTS
Issue: 3/1987, Nr.133
Publisher: CENAP (Das Centrale Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene)
Country: Germany
Price: DM 3,90

This issue of NIGHT LIGHTS, the new CENAP Report, marks its 133rd publication and introduces a revamped layout and name. The editorial highlights the long-planned relaunch and introduces Rudolf Henke, the main initiator behind the new design and the driving force behind NIGHT LIGHTS. The magazine aims to provide a critical and objective analysis of aerial phenomena, with a strong emphasis on "psychohygiene" – the demystification of UFO reports and the critique of media influence.

Key Articles and Features

In eigener Sache (Editorial)

The editorial announces the launch of the new CENAP Report, now titled NIGHT LIGHTS, as issue Nr. 133. It explains the delay due to technical and organizational challenges, including the adoption of a Macintosh computer and the RagTime software for layout. The new name, "NIGHT LIGHTS," was chosen because over 90% of sightings involve nocturnal lights, and the English title was selected for international accessibility. The editorial also details the new layout, emphasizing clarity with a table of contents and column-based articles. It promises a reduction in errors and a more professional presentation suitable for scientists and official bodies. Future content will include more balanced reporting, scientific case analyses, historical topics like "Paleocontact" (Präastronautik), and a regular "UFO-Warning" column offering preventive information. Translations from French-speaking UFO circles are also planned.

Interview mit Rudolf Henke vom CENAP HEIDELBERG

Rudolf Henke, 32, is the oldest CENAP member and works as a laboratory technician in the chemical industry. His hobbies include writing, photography, music, and biology. He has a long-standing interest in "borderline topics" like parapsychology and "Pre-astronautics." Henke explains his joining CENAP stemmed from his fascination with "borderline areas" and his belief that scientific inquiry should extend to the unknown. A pivotal experience was his investigation into Karl Bruggers' book "The Chronicle of Akakor," which he initially believed but later discovered to be plagiarized. This disillusionment led him to become more self-critical and question how he had so fervently believed in the story. He recounts being contacted by a young man who had invested heavily in the Akakor story, prompting Henke to share his findings and ultimately leading him to CENAP.

When asked about his current view of the UFO phenomenon, Henke states he is now much more skeptical, even "sobering." He attributes his initial pro-UFO stance to media reporting, which creates an imbalance of information, often neglecting the prevalence of Identified Flying Objects (IFOs) and the many possibilities for misidentification. He believes that while some cases might involve Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs), one must be cautious and avoid jumping to conclusions, especially given the potential for deception.

Henke also critiques CENAP's past reporting, noting that some cases are too lengthy, lack systematic analysis, and have poor translations. He describes CENAP's overall tone as "overly critical" but prefers this to an uncritical approach. He contrasts CENAP with groups like DUIST, emphasizing his preference for a critical stance that avoids falling into sectarianism (e.g., believing UFOs must exist or must not exist). He views the broader UFO research scene as plagued by dilettantism, infighting, and pseudoscience, with groups often prioritizing worldviews over objective research.

Klassiker (Classics)

• Der Roswell-Zwischenfall (The Roswell Incident): This section delves into the rumors, speculations, and facts surrounding the Roswell incident, aiming to provide a critical analysis.
• Wünschelruten von der Venus (Dowsing Rods from Venus): Werner Walter reports on little-known hoax cases from the MUFON archives (1980-1985). He highlights motives like greed, attention-seeking, and delusion. While these cases were eventually debunked, they caused significant trouble for investigators and persist in UFO literature. Walter emphasizes that the more spectacular a case appears, the greater the caution required.
• 1. Fall: Wünschelruten von der Venus (1st Case: Dowsing Rods from Venus) by Dennis Stacy: This article discusses the 1950 book "BEHIND THE FLYING SAUCER" by Frank X. Scully. It recounts a story of four crashed flying saucers, with 36 bodies recovered, one incident near Aztec, New Mexico, involving 16 bodies and a saucer crash attributed to a broken lug. William Moore is quoted as saying the story is likely fabricated, but it spawned similar rumors of crashed saucers in the American Southwest, with claims that wreckage and alien occupants were stored at Hangar 18, Wright-Patterson Field.
• Dr.Gee: Scully's informant was Silas M. Newton, described as a confidant and charmer, and the mysterious "Dr.Gee," identified by Moore as Leo Arnold GeBauer.
• Neues zum Roswell- und Ellsworth-Fall (News on the Roswell and Ellsworth Cases): This article by Bob Pratt et.al. likely provides updates or new information on these well-known UFO incidents.
• Stahlen Außerirdische Nuclear-sprengköpfe? (Are Aliens Stealing Nuclear Warheads?) - Der Ellsworth-Fall (The Ellsworth Case): This classic case is presented, questioning the possibility of extraterrestrial interest in nuclear weapons.

Phantasie (Fantasy)

• Das Mädchen vom anderen Stern (The Girl from Another Star) by Richard Hall: This piece likely explores fictional or speculative accounts of extraterrestrial contact.

Psychologie (Psychology)

• Der Priester und die außerirdischen Poltergeister (The Priest and the Extraterrestrial Poltergeists) - Der Fall H.E. Bailey (The H.E. Bailey Case): This article examines the psychological aspects of alleged poltergeist activity, possibly linked to extraterrestrial hypotheses, focusing on the case of H.E. Bailey.

Sichtungswelle (Sighting Wave)

• Das Hesdalen-Phänomen im Lichte der Astronomie (The Hesdalen Phenomenon in the Light of Astronomy) by Rudolf Henke: Rudolf Henke offers surprising explanations for the Norwegian Hesdalen sighting wave, analyzing it from an astronomical perspective.

Fotos (Photos)

• Luftige "UFOs" und andere Kuriositäten (Airy "UFOs" and Other Curiosities) by Hansjürgen Köhler: Hansjürgen Köhler provides a critical review of photographs of aerial objects, likely examining them for psychological explanations or misidentifications.

Impressum (Imprint)

Details the publication information for NIGHT LIGHTS, including publisher (CENAP Mannheim/Heidelberg), frequency (monthly), price (DM 3.90 single issue, DM 40.- annual subscription), and contact information for CENAP Institutes in Mannheim, Heidelberg, Heilbronn, and the OEP reporting office in Lüdenscheid.

CENAP-Service

• Sonderdrucke (Reprints): Information on ordering reprints of articles.
• Astrokarten (Star Charts): Details on available star charts.

Info

• GEP/CENAP-Tagung im April (GEP/CENAP Conference in April): Announcement of an upcoming joint conference.
• Astrowarnung (Astro Warning): A warning period from March 15th to April 15th, 1987.
• Berichtigung (Correction): A correction regarding the Barcelona case from November 1985.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena, emphasizing "psychohygiene" to combat misinformation and sensationalism. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards unverified claims, advocating for scientific rigor and objective investigation. There is a clear effort to distinguish between genuine unexplained phenomena and hoaxes, misidentifications, or psychological factors. The magazine also aims to engage with a broader audience by using accessible language and exploring topics from various angles, including historical cases, media analysis, and even speculative or fictional accounts, all while maintaining a critical perspective. The collaboration with other organizations like MUFON and GEP, and the inclusion of international perspectives (e.g., French translations), highlight CENAP's commitment to a comprehensive and global approach to UFO research.

Title: NIGHT LIGHTS
Issue: 3.87 - Nr. 133
Date: March 1987

This issue of NIGHT LIGHTS, a German-language publication focused on UFO phenomena and related topics, presents several compelling and controversial cases. It includes detailed accounts of alleged UFO encounters, investigations into potential hoaxes, and critical analyses of witness testimonies. The magazine also features information on obtaining article reprints and special reports from CENAP.

The Newton-GeBauer 'Wünschelrute' Case

The issue begins by detailing the story of Silas M. Newton and his associate GeBauer, who presented a device called the 'Wünschelrute' (dowsing rod). Newton, who had a background in electronics and was described as a clever mechanic, introduced GeBauer as a 'magnet scientist' who had privileged access to investigate a crashed UFO. GeBauer claimed the 'Wünschelrute' could measure changes in the Earth's magnetic field to detect oil and gas, and even determine a person's health. In 1949, they partnered with industrialist Herman Flader to build more 'Wünschelruten,' which proved to be a lucrative venture. Newton also claimed to have obtained parts from the alien craft and suits of the extraterrestrials. This led to an FBI investigation, and the case was eventually passed to the Airforce Office of Special Investigations (OSI). The article notes that the OSI memorandum from March 22, 1950, is now cited by UFO researchers as evidence of government possession of flying saucers, though the author of the article, Moore, suggests the original source (Newton) and his documentation were worthless.

The 'Wünschelrute' itself was revealed to be a simple device made of a few lamps and flashlight batteries, not advanced alien technology. Newton and GeBauer were eventually forced to repay the money they had collected and served time in prison. By the time of his death in 1972, Newton still owed over 140 people nearly 1.5 million dollars. GeBauer died in 1982, facing similar financial problems. The article suggests that Newton likely used Scully for his Hollywood connections and did not intend to fully involve him in his financial dealings.

The 'Carl' Case: A Witness's Confession

This section details a case reported by a 26-year-old security guard named 'Carl' from California, who contacted MUFON's Walter Andrus in September 1978. Carl described a fascinating and unusual experience. Richard Hall, the investigator, was initially convinced of Carl's sincerity. Carl, a religious, non-drinking family man, had spent money on newspaper and radio appeals to find corroborating witnesses, but without success. He kept his experience private due to fear of ridicule.

Carl recounted an incident on February 27, 1977, around 8:50 PM, while on patrol in an orange grove. He observed a bright light that he initially mistook for an aircraft. The object, estimated to be over three kilometers away and at an altitude of 2000-2500 meters, was moving at approximately 130 km/h. It began to descend northwest, leading Carl to believe it was a distressed aircraft. As he approached, he saw a large, oval machine about 75 meters away in the middle of the road. Lights on the machine illuminated the area. Carl's car engine died, and his radio emitted a high tone. He exited his vehicle and approached the object, which was supported by four telescopic legs about 25 meters away.

He noticed an open door with light emanating from it. Carl described seeing two individuals near the machine, one holding a bunch of oranges. He observed a third person partially hidden by branches. The beings were described as 'unconcerned.' Carl then saw two more individuals inside the craft's doorway, one clearly female, who appeared to be the commander. They wore identical gold-colored, metallic suits that covered their heads, leaving only the lower face exposed. Their eyes were obscured by large black goggles.

Carl estimated the men to be about 1.70 meters tall and weighing 70 kg. They wore shoes integrated into their suits and belts with small pouches containing a thin tube, possibly a defense weapon. Around their necks, they wore chains with oval emblems. One of the beings was limping slightly. They communicated telepathically, with the female commander warning Carl not to approach, stating it would only cause him harm and that they had no intention of hurting him. Carl asked if he needed to defend himself, and after a moment, he lowered his hand from his revolver. He inquired about their origin, and they stated they were from a distant world on a reconnaissance mission, expressing concern about Earth's problems. The commander mentioned that the US government possessed a crashed machine with four occupants, two of whom were alive. She also noted that humans did not understand how their machines flew or their defense systems.

The beings entered the craft via a ladder. Carl described the machine's seamless construction, with a dome that became very bright and glowed reddish-orange. The craft then ascended, its legs retracting. Carl felt a weak draft as the machine rose about 2.5 to 3 meters above the ground, circled him, and then shot upwards and disappeared to the northeast without a sound. The experience left Carl feeling dejected, and he later suffered from sleeplessness, nausea, diarrhea, and headaches, attributing the physical effects to the craft's radiation. He regretted not having a camera and vowed to always carry one.

However, the article concludes that the 'Carl' case is a confessed fraud. Carl admitted to fabricating the encounter to gain attention and be taken seriously. He explained that his religious upbringing made him feel insignificant, and he sought validation. The article notes that his story had inconsistencies when compared with other MUFON investigators' protocols. Carl apologized and stated he did not want to be seen again, emphasizing he was not psychologically damaged but simply sought attention.

The Priest and the Alien Poltergeists: The Strange Stories of Reverend H. E. Bailey

This section, written by Ann Druffel and commented on by the editor, presents the case of Reverend Harrison E. Bailey, a Baptist preacher from Pasadena, California. Bailey reported an encounter and abduction by two UFOnauts in a forest in Illinois on September 24, 1951. The FATE magazine had previously reported on this in April 1978.

Twenty-nine years later, on November 1, 1978, Bailey claimed to be visited again by two UFO creatures. He reported being awakened by two human-like, dark brown heads appearing in his window's shadow. These heads were described as human but without distinct features.

Since 1965, Bailey had experienced vivid 'dreams' in which he spoke with two beings, distinct from his 1951 UFO adventure. These dreams became more frequent and intense, often accompanied by sleepwalking episodes. He would walk miles through Pasadena, sometimes being brought home by police. The beings reportedly repeated their 1951 message, emphasizing they were friendly and intended to land openly one day, but did not want the US government informed.

In early 1979, Bailey claimed he had successfully photographed the creatures. He reported taking 12 Polaroid photos. He described seeing two brown heads against the window shadow and, after getting up, they were still there. The beings spoke with him for half an hour, dictating an explanation for him to write down. He was allowed to take photos without flash. He also photographed two Halloween masks on his nightstand, noticing gray-white appendages forming on them and appearing to be thin legs. The beings' heads were hidden behind the masks, and their eye sockets were black. One being moved through the bathroom door, and Bailey photographed it. He found no one in the bathroom but observed swirling colored light orbs. The second being also moved through the doorway, and more lights appeared. Bailey was highly agitated and unsure if he went back to bed. The next morning, he found the handwritten pages and the 12 photos.

The editor's commentary expresses skepticism about the Bailey case. It highlights the long-term nature of the events and Bailey's bizarre behavior, including being found in a tree in 1975 under suspicious circumstances. Bailey claimed Nazis had put him there. The commentary also notes that Bailey made unverified claims about his medical condition, such as his internal organs aging differently from his body. Crucially, the editor points out that Bailey's claim of taking photos without flash is contradicted by the typical reflections seen in the images, which are characteristic of flash photography. The editor also mentions Bailey's prepared 'Message to Earth,' allegedly from Christian spacemen, similar to Adamski's 'Cosmic Philosophy.'

Editorial Stance and Conclusion

The magazine concludes with a critical analysis of the 'Carl' case, labeling it a confessed fraud. The analysis delves into the psychological motivations behind such fabrications, suggesting that the desire for attention is a primary driver, rather than materialistic gain. It also touches upon the biological and technical implausibility of some humanoid encounter claims, questioning the biological basis of communication and the mechanics of alien craft described in some reports. The editor emphasizes the need to question the 'sense or nonsense' of individual details in such cases, beyond mere formal criteria.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of NIGHT LIGHTS demonstrates a critical approach to UFO phenomena. While presenting detailed accounts of alleged encounters and claims, it also actively investigates and exposes potential hoaxes and fabrications. The magazine appears to be skeptical of sensational claims, particularly those involving humanoid aliens, and emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and psychological analysis. The editorial stance leans towards debunking fraudulent cases, as seen with the Newton-GeBauer and 'Carl' incidents, while still acknowledging the complexity and intrigue of unexplained phenomena, as in the Bailey case, albeit with a critical eye.

This issue of NIGHT LIGHTS, dated March 1987 (Volume 3.87, Issue Nr. 133), is a German-language publication that delves into various UFO-related phenomena, including abduction cases, alleged UFO incidents at military bases, and the enduring mystery of the Roswell crash. The magazine features investigative articles, translations, and analyses of these events, often questioning official narratives and exploring psychological explanations.

The Bailey Case: Hypnosis and Psychological Interpretation

The issue begins by examining a case involving a witness named Bailey, who underwent hypnosis. The article highlights the potential unreliability of hypnotic recall, particularly when the hypnotist steers the subject towards specific narratives. In Bailey's case, the hypnotist shifted from discussing an actual abduction to asking Bailey to imagine one, leading to reconstructed events and inconsistent details, such as varying times for an imagined event. The author suggests that Bailey's behavior and story are not typical of classic 'contactees' from the 1950s and posits that he might be a mentally confused individual seeking attention, possibly due to psychological needs. The article critiques UFO investigators for underestimating the role of the human psyche, where strong emotional needs can lead individuals to engage in 'subconscious fabrications' to gain attention and highlight their importance.

The Ellsworth Case: A Disputed UFO Incident

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to investigating the "Ellsworth Case," which involved a reported UFO landing near a missile base in South Dakota on November 16, 1977. The alleged incident claimed that UFO occupants stole nuclear warheads and wounded a security guard. Bob Pratt, who investigated the case, asserts that this event never occurred. The investigation began with an anonymous letter received by the National Enquirer. Pratt and his colleagues meticulously researched the reported details, including names, ranks, and unit numbers of personnel involved. They discovered that while the individuals named did exist and were in service, the narrative of the incident was riddled with contradictions and factual errors. For instance, the reported roles of some personnel were incorrect, and key individuals had alibis or were not in positions to have witnessed the event as described. The investigation involved extensive interviews and review of official records, ultimately leading to the conclusion that the reported UFO incident was a fabrication. The article also touches upon the difficulty of obtaining information from military sources and the potential for misinformation.

The Roswell Incident: Ongoing Investigation and Cover-up Allegations

The magazine also revisits the Roswell incident, presenting it as the most well-documented UFO recovery case. William L. Moore, a UFO researcher, is featured, discussing his work and the ongoing investigation into the event. The article suggests that the Roswell incident has been a subject of US government policy for over three and a half decades, with evidence suppressed and witnesses potentially ridiculed or misled. The authors express a belief that the public has a right to know about technologically advanced visitors from outside our solar system. The article also briefly touches upon other alleged UFO crash and recovery cases, including the Aztec (New Mexico) crash and the 'Fritz Werner' incident in Kingman, Arizona, casting doubt on their authenticity and suggesting they might be distorted versions of the Roswell event or outright fabrications.

Other Sections and Themes

The issue includes a section on a joint working meeting between CENAP and GEP, discussing UFO cases and witness credibility. The magazine also features a brief mention of a case involving alleged alien corpse photos, which are dismissed as a hoax. The overall tone of the magazine is investigative and critical, often questioning sensational claims and seeking psychological or factual explanations for reported phenomena. It highlights the challenges of investigating UFO reports, particularly when dealing with potential government cover-ups and the complexities of human perception and memory.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes in this issue include the unreliability of eyewitness testimony, especially when influenced by psychological factors like hypnosis or a desire for attention. The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and critical analysis, often debunking sensational claims. There is a recurring suspicion of official cover-ups, particularly by military and government entities, regarding UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational, evidence-based approach to UFO research, while acknowledging the possibility of genuine, unexplained phenomena that warrant further investigation and public disclosure.

Title: NIGHT LIGHTS
Issue: Nr. 133
Volume: 3.87
Issue Date: March 1987
Cover Headline: Das Hesdalen-Phänomen im Lichte der Astronomie (The Hesdalen Phenomenon in the Light of Astronomy)

This issue of NIGHT LIGHTS delves into the Hesdalen phenomenon, a series of unexplained light sightings in Norway during the early 1980s, and critically examines potential explanations, particularly those rooted in astronomy. It also touches upon other curious UFO-related claims.

The Hesdalen Phenomenon in the Light of Astronomy by Rudolf Henke

The article begins by describing Hesdalen, a small village in Southern Norway, which became a focal point for UFO researchers starting in late 1981 due to a significant increase in reports of unusual nocturnal lights over the surrounding mountains. This phenomenon attracted international attention, with researchers gathering data using various instruments, including radar, spectrometers, and seismographs. Over 176 reports were collected by November 1984, with more than 50% classified as 'probably unknown.'

The author notes that while dozens of unidentified radar echoes were detected, this number is relativized by the fact that systems like NORAD receive hundreds of such echoes daily. Therefore, the significance of these echoes must be assessed carefully, ensuring they are not misidentifications of known objects like aircraft, meteors, or birds.

An interesting finding was the lack of statistical correlation between earth tremors and UFO sightings, which weakens the piezoelectric 'UFO' theory. Magnetometer measurements showed a potential link to sightings, but other measurements yielded no significant results.

The focus then shifts to optical-visual observations and radar-visual sightings. The article highlights three radar-visual cases: one described as a 'fireball' with a speed of around 10 km/s, suggesting a slow meteor, and two cases of blinking lights in the south, which could be aircraft. The proximity of the Røros civil airport and flight paths towards Trondheim are mentioned as potential sources of confusion.

Purely visual sightings included seven reports, with two describing blinking lights and two noting yellow light points in the south. Three observations detailed elongated objects with multiple light sources. Again, misidentification with aircraft is considered a possibility, as these objects could change appearance based on the viewing angle.

The article emphasizes that Hesdalen researchers relied heavily on local population reports. Nine such reports from the GEP-Journal are briefly mentioned, considered among the most 'spectacular' sightings. These include descriptions of oval or egg-shaped luminous objects, objects initially mistaken for stars, round luminous objects, and objects with metallic cores and bright orange light, hovering motionless.

Astronomical Hypothesis Examination

The article systematically examines the astronomical hypothesis for the Hesdalen sightings. Key criteria from witness reports are analyzed:

1. Object Shape and Color: Mostly yellow, round objects, followed by cigar-shaped ones. Some had blinking, white, or red rotating lights.
2. Sighting Period: The main wave occurred from December 1981 to October 1982.
3. Peak Activity Times: Around 19:30 and between 22:30 and 23:00. 91% of reports were between 17:00 and 00:00.
4. Average Sighting Time: 18:39.
5. Direction: Objects frequently appeared in the south.
6. Multiple Sightings: Several witnesses reported multiple observations.

The author notes that blinking lights, rotating lights, and cigar shapes can be attributed to aircraft. The frequent appearance in the south aligns with flight routes. Objects compared to 'large stars' suggest planetary or stellar misidentification.

To test the astronomical hypothesis, the author analyzed the rise and set times of the brightest planets (Venus, Jupiter, Mars) for the period of December 1981 to October 1982, considering a sighting window from 17:00 to 24:00. The analysis revealed:

1. An increase in planetary activity at the beginning of the observation period (17:00-24:00) and a decrease at the end.
2. Jupiter and Saturn formed a close conjunction, a rare event occurring approximately every 20 years.
3. Mars was 'active' during much of 1982, with close approaches to Earth occurring every two years.
4. Planets often appeared close together after midnight, creating a striking celestial display.
5. Most planetary activity was concentrated in the south.

Computer-generated star charts from March 23, 1982, and June 15, 1982, at 18:40 GMT are presented, showing the positions of Jupiter, Mars, and Venus, along with the bright star Spica, often clustered together in the southern sky.

Conclusion on Hesdalen: The author concludes that while not all Hesdalen sightings can be dismissed as mere coincidence or misidentification, a significant portion likely resulted from misperceptions of planets or aircraft. A small residual group of sightings may still be unexplained. The article suggests that a 'snowball effect,' where increased attention leads to more reports of ordinary objects being perceived as extraordinary, might have contributed to the phenomenon's perceived scale.

Airy 'UFOs' and Other Curiosities by Hansjürgen Köhler

This section critically examines various UFO claims, questioning the evidence presented and the motivations behind accepting them. The author expresses skepticism towards what he terms 'UFO-believers' and their acceptance of easily debunked 'documents.'

Lunar Bases and Adamsky-Type UFOs

The article addresses the persistent idea of alien moon bases, fueled by sensationalist media. It dismisses alleged UFO photos taken by astronauts as light reflections and criticizes the reinterpretation of terrestrial spacecraft, such as the Soviet Lunokhod rover, as evidence of alien technology on the moon. A specific example is given of a headline, 'Mysteries on the moon,' paired with a photo that, upon closer inspection, is revealed to be the landing gear of the Lunokhod. The author laments that many readers accept such claims uncritically.

Another case involves photos published in 1982 by a Danish 'study society' named IGAP, allegedly showing 'Adamsky-type spaceships' over the Giza pyramids in 1982. The article also discusses a 'cloud' that was purportedly a 'spindle-shaped mothership,' questioning how such interpretations are made.

The author concludes this section by stating that it is difficult to react to such cases with detachment, often resorting to a shrug or a headshake. He believes that those determined to maintain their worldview will find ways to believe even the most obscure articles and photos, even when nothing is visible, suggesting that some UFOs can become invisible or are only perceived by 'chosen' individuals.

Astro-Warning

This brief section provides astronomical information for the period:

• Planets: Venus is mentioned as a bright morning star, while Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars are too faint to be significant. The period might see Venus in the east around 5:00 AM.
• Meteor Showers: Three meteor showers are expected: the Hydraids (mid-March, few, slow objects), Virginids (early April, few objects), and Lyriden (around April 12, fast and bright objects).

It concludes with a playful remark: "Don't say 'I don't care,' because what is unimportant to one person is a UFO to another..."

CENAP-Service: Astrokarten

This section announces a service where readers can order computer-generated star charts for any geographical point on Earth and any given time. The price is DM 1.- per print (plus DM 0.80 for return postage), with a maximum of two graphics per DIN A4 page. Necessary information includes location coordinates or name, year, and time of sighting, and optionally, the direction of the sky.

Correction

An article titled 'UFOs über Barcelona' (CR Nr.131, 1/87, p.7 ff) is corrected. The lower star chart, incorrectly identified as the eastern sky of Barcelona, actually depicts the southern sky. Therefore, the star Sirius, visible on November 29, 1985, was in the southeast, not the east. This correction implies that neither a bright star nor a planet could be responsible for the reported sightings in that context.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the exploration of astronomical explanations for sightings, and a skeptical stance towards unsubstantiated claims and sensationalism within the UFO community. The editorial stance appears to favor rational explanations and scientific rigor, encouraging readers to question evidence and consider misidentification as a primary factor in many reported UFO cases. The magazine aims to debunk myths and provide a more grounded perspective on unexplained aerial phenomena, often contrasting them with known celestial events and human perceptions.