CENAP Report - No 137

Magazine Overview

Title: NIGHT LIGHTS
Issue: 7/1987, Nr. 137
Publisher: CENAP (Das Centrale Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene)
Country: Germany
Language: German
Price: DM 3,90

This issue of 'NIGHT LIGHTS' is a specialized journal focusing on UFO phenomena, published by CENAP, a German organization dedicated to the research of unusual aerial phenomena. The cover prominently features the title 'NIGHT LIGHTS' and highlights a significant event from 40 years prior: the first UFO sighting. The main cover story teases an exclusive report from a Soviet pilot about an encounter over Minsk and an explanation for a Japanese Jumbo-Crew sighting over Alaska.

CENAP - Aufgaben und Ziele (Tasks and Goals)

Page 2 details CENAP's mission. Founded in 1976, it is a private, non-commercial, and ideologically independent society focused on recording, analyzing, and evaluating unidentified aerial observations. CENAP aims to identify reported phenomena, with a stated historical success rate of over 98%. Beyond identification, a key objective is 'psychohygiene,' which involves proactive education to prevent misinformation and demystify unserious reporting, particularly addressing the influence of mass media on public opinion. CENAP also critically examines the symptoms, genesis, and psychosocial causes of global 'UFO cults.' In 1986, CENAP was recommended by the German Federal Ministry of the Interior as a contact point for handling sighting reports.

NIGHT LIGHTS - Das CENAP-Fachjournal (The CENAP Specialist Journal)

This section describes 'NIGHT LIGHTS' as CENAP's new report that objectively and critically documents, analyzes, and comments on current and historical sighting reports, with special attention to media coverage. The journal also functions as an organ for 'psychohygiene,' informing readers about dubious reporting and the aims and origins of various pseudoreligious and occult criminal groups, thereby fulfilling an important public function.

Impressum (Imprint)

The imprint on page 2 states that 'NIGHT LIGHTS' is published monthly by CENAP Mannheim/Heidelberg, with issues released mid-month. It contains approximately 40 pages and costs DM 3.90 for a single issue or DM 40 for a 12-issue annual subscription. Reprinting of articles requires written permission, and the editors are not liable for unsolicited manuscripts or photos. They also reserve the right to shorten reader letters. The magazine provides contact information for CENAP institutes in Mannheim, Heilbronn, and Heidelberg, as well as the OEP (Society for the Research of UFO Phenomena) reporting office in Lüdenscheid.

Inhalt (Table of Contents)

Page 3 presents the table of contents for issue Nr. 137. Key articles include:

• CENAP Exclusiv: A report from a Soviet pilot about an uncanny encounter.
• Meteorologie: CENAP offers an explanation for the sighting of a Jumbo-Crew over Alaska.
• CISU, Italien: Articles on perceptual psychology related to UFOs and IFOS (Identified Flying Objects), including a case from Viverone.
• Medienkritik/Psychohygiene: An article titled 'The Dream of Immortality' and a section on 'Cults of the Irrational.'
• Kurzmeldungen (Short News): A report on an 'Alien Baby in China?'
• Berichtigung (Correction): Clarification regarding 'Dallas or Denver?'
• Astrowarnung (Astro Warning): A warning for the period August 1st to September 15th.
• Veranstaltungen (Events): Announcement of the 8th UFO Annual Meeting.
• Impressum: The imprint details.

Editorial

The editorial on page 3 emphasizes CENAP's success in obtaining sighting reports from the Eastern Bloc, highlighting a detailed account from a new DDR correspondent about an encounter involving a Soviet crew over Minsk. It poses the question of whether UFO research is officially conducted in the Soviet Union. The editorial also discusses a sighting of objects described as 'twice the size of aircraft carriers' over Alaska, which CENAP claims to have a plausible explanation for, contrasting their findings with those of other reporters. The article mentions serious UFO research in Italy by the group CISU, illustrating how sighting reports can depend on the observer's perception. Additionally, it touches upon the 'dream of immortality' and comments on the unreliability of certain media reports, referencing Rainer Holbe. Readers are urged to pay special attention to the 'Astro Warning.'

CENAP Exclusiv: Augenzeugen-Bericht aus der UdSSR (Eyewitness Report from the USSR)

Pages 4-10 contain the detailed report of a Soviet pilot's sighting. The introduction on page 4 states that CENAP, through its DDR correspondent T.M., obtained an original report from a Soviet pilot who had a spectacular sighting over Minsk in September 1984. This report includes a statement from the Commission for Atmospheric Phenomena in Moscow, confirming that UFO reports are registered and processed in the USSR.

The pilot, Igor Alexejewitsch Tscherkaschin, along with his crew on a TU-134A aircraft, reported seeing a phenomenon described as 'a ball of green light' (page 4). Initially, the pilot instructed the passengers to believe it was an aurora borealis. The detailed account on pages 4-8 describes the sighting:

• Initial Observation: While flying near Minsk, the crew noticed a large, non-flickering yellow 'star' that expanded. This evolved into three light cones illuminating the ground with remarkable clarity.
• Object's Behavior: The object, estimated to be 40-50 km above the surface, emitted a beam that transformed into a bright white point with concentric rings, changing colors from white to violet. It then moved rapidly towards the aircraft, cutting off its path, before stopping and then moving away.
• Radar and Dispatcher Interaction: The Minsk air traffic controller could not detect anything on radar or visually. The pilot expressed frustration, fearing they would be deemed abnormal.
• Mimicry and Shape Changes: The phenomenon then transformed into a green cloud that moved vertically, mimicking the aircraft's movements. It later took on shapes resembling a 'tail' like a whirlwind, a 'comma,' and a 'spitz-nosed aircraft without wings,' glowing yellow and green.
• Encounter with Another Aircraft: Another TU-134A from Leningrad approached, and its crew, initially unable to see the phenomenon, later described the 'cloud aircraft.' The Minsk dispatcher provided the Leningrad crew with coordinates, but they only observed it at close range.
• Dimensions and Trajectory: The 'cloud aircraft' was estimated to be 8-10 km long, with the 'object' within it measuring 100-300 meters. The sighting continued until the aircraft landed in Tallinn, with the phenomenon moving towards the Gulf of Finland and then towards Petrozavodsk.
• Radar Echoes in Tallinn: The Tallinn air traffic controller reported seeing two additional, persistent radar marks on the screen, even though no other aircraft were present.

On page 7, the magazine presents a letter from the second pilot, G.I. Lasurin, dated April 1987, clarifying some details from the initial newspaper publication. He corrects the description of the light cones opening simultaneously rather than sequentially and provides more precise details on the light beam's angle and the object's dimensions. He also notes that the light had a sharp boundary between light and shadow.

Pages 8-9 include sketches made by Pilot G.I. Lasurin during the sighting, illustrating various shapes and phases of the phenomenon. The sketches depict different stages, including conical beams, circular patterns, and the final cloud-like forms.

Page 10 presents the official statement from N.A. Sheltuchin, Chairman of the Commission for Atmospheric Phenomena (WSNTO) and corresponding member of the Academy of Sciences of the USSR. He confirms that the commission is systematically investigating UFO incidents over the Soviet Union and possesses material related to these events. While acknowledging that descriptions are often one-sided and incomplete, Sheltuchin states that the case involving the Tallinner crew is indeed interesting and anomalous. He concludes that the crew encountered 'something that we call a UFO,' emphasizing the value of the detailed descriptions and drawings provided by Lasurin. The commission requests readers of 'Trud' newspaper to report similar observations to their Moscow address.

Other Articles

• Meteorologie: CENAP provides an explanation for the sighting of a Jumbo-Crew over Alaska (page 3).
• CISU, Italien: Three articles on perceptual psychology related to UFOs and IFOS, including a case from Viverone (page 3).
• Medienkritik/Psychohygiene: An article titled 'Der Traum von der Unsterblichkeit in der Mojave-Wüste' (The Dream of Immortality in the Mojave Desert) and a section on 'Kulte des Irrationalen' (Cults of the Irrational) (page 3).
• Kurzmeldungen: A brief report about an 'Alien Baby in China?' (page 3).
• Berichtigung: A correction regarding 'Dallas or Denver?' (page 3).
• Astrowarnung: An astronomical warning for August 1st to September 15th (page 3).
• Veranstaltungen: Announcement of the 8th UFO Annual Meeting (page 3).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the critical analysis of media reporting on such phenomena, and the concept of 'psychohygiene' – educating the public to discern credible information from misinformation and sensationalism. CENAP positions itself as a serious research organization that actively investigates UFO reports, even from behind the Iron Curtain, and aims to provide plausible explanations or confirm the anomalous nature of sightings. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, emphasizing scientific analysis and a debunking of pseudoscientific claims and cultic behavior, while also acknowledging the reality of unexplained aerial phenomena.

Title: Night Lights
Issue: Nr. 137
Volume/Date: 7.87 (July 1987)
Publisher: Night Lights
Country of Publication: Germany
Original Language: German

This issue of Night Lights delves into the complex world of UFO phenomena, with a particular focus on reports from the Soviet Union and a notable encounter over Alaska involving a Japanese Airlines (JAL) jumbo jet. The magazine aims to provide explanations and context for these sightings, often suggesting conventional explanations for what are perceived as extraordinary events.

UdSSR-Behörde gibt zu: UFOs existieren !

The lead article reports on a statement from a Soviet agency, the WSNTO, acknowledging the existence of UFOs and their investigation into these phenomena. The agency refers to them as Unidentified Atmospheric Phenomena (UAPs), drawing a parallel to the term used by CENAP. The article highlights the surprising openness of the WSNTO to a hobby journalist from East Germany, suggesting that this might counter rumors of a secret agreement between superpowers to prepare for an alien invasion. The WSNTO's criteria for classifying a phenomenon as a UAP are listed, including sudden changes in direction, intense light beams, localized nature, large size, shape-shifting, and proximity. The magazine then presents a detailed account of a sighting over the Soviet sky, characterized by a round object with three fan-shaped light cones, concentric circles of white and violet, a light source believed to be a propulsion system, and a green, expanding cloud of light. The object reportedly did not register on radar, transformed into a horizontal comma, emitted a strong light beam, and disappeared, leaving a green boomerang shape. Two objects were also detected on ground radar.

The article attempts to explain the complex phenomenon by breaking it down into three parts. The first part is identified as a standard rocket launch, with the three light cones being the typical exhaust from the propulsion stage. The pilot reportedly mistook the light source for exhaust gases. The second part, the green cloud, is explained as a Barium cloud, used for meteorological experiments. These particles align with the Earth's magnetic field lines, creating the observed shapes like a comma or boomerang. The most mysterious aspect is the intense, spotlight-like beam that reached the ground. This phenomenon, observed long after the rocket engines had burned out, is not explained by the rocket or the Barium cloud. However, the article suggests a possible explanation involving powerful laser 'cannons' used by superpowers. It posits that a carrier capsule might have carried such a device, and the preceding Barium cloud could have been stimulated by the laser light, acting as a natural laser amplifier. This would explain the cone-shaped beam rather than a focused cylindrical one, hinting at a possible military secret.

Weltraumbahnhof Pleseck (Plesetsk) - Bericht: J.Oberg

This section, a report by J. Oberg and translated by W. Walter, focuses on the Pleseck spaceport in the Soviet Union. It revisits the 'Jellyfish UFO' case from September 1977 near Petrosawodsk, which NASA expert James Oberg identified as a rocket launch. The article clarifies that most scientific, intelligence, and military rocket launches do not originate from the well-known Baikonur cosmodrome but from Pleseck, located about 100 km south of Severodvinsk and Archangelsk. Pleseck is at a similar northern latitude to Trondheim, Norway, while Baikonur is further south. The Pleseck launch complex, operational since 1966, rarely conducts night launches, making such events particularly noticeable. Known launches from Pleseck include Kosmos-184 (October 25, 1967), Meteor-2 (October 6, 1969), Meteor-22 (September 18, 1975), and Kosmos-955 (September 20, 1977). The spectacle of a night rocket launch is compared to the Apollo 17 launch in 1972, noting the vivid descriptions of colors. Due to Pleseck's northern location, all its rocket launches are reportedly reported as luminous UFOs in Finland.

The magazine also thanks its East German correspondent, T.M. from Sahr, for his contributions and expresses a desire for continued support in Eastern Bloc research.

Doppelt so groß wie ein Flugzeugträger...

This section details a sighting by a Japanese jumbo jet crew on November 17, 1986, over Alaska. The crew of a JAL Boeing 747 reported observing a massive UFO, described by Captain Kenju Terauchi as a 'mothership' twice the size of two aircraft carriers, accompanied by two smaller cylindrical objects. These objects were visible for approximately 50 minutes. The crew sought permission to perform evasive maneuvers due to fear of collision, but the objects maintained formation. The sighting was also confirmed by ground radar operators from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Air Force, who detected a mystery object. However, subsequent investigations by the FAA and USAF reinterpreted the radar echoes as 'faulty data,' 'streaks' from the aircraft, or 'misjudged ground reflections.'

Captain Terauchi reported a second UFO sighting on January 12, 1987, during a flight from London to Anchorage, describing 'irregular lights, resembling a spaceship.' This sighting was corroborated by the co-pilot but not the flight engineer. The article notes that Terauchi later conceded this second sighting might have been a misinterpretation, possibly due to light reflections from city buildings on atmospheric ice crystal clouds, agreeing with the US Federal Aviation Administration's assessment. However, Terauchi remains convinced that his original sighting on November 17, 1986, could only be explained by a 'spaceship of unknown, extraterrestrial origin.' He mentioned that he had not flown the Iceland-Greenland-Anchorage route very often but had conducted numerous other polar flights.

The UFOs That Chased Jet

This section, based on a report from the Sydney 'Sun' dated January 5, 1987, provides drawings made by JAL pilot Kenju Terauchi of the UFOs he encountered over Alaska. The drawings depict a globe-shaped 'mothership' and two smaller, spacecraft-like objects with multiple lights. The article reiterates that both US FAA and Air Force officials confirmed ground radar operators also detected a mystery object on November 17. Terauchi claimed the 'mothership' was as large as two aircraft carriers. The drawings show the position of the lights relative to the 747, estimated to be 2-3 km distant, and the 'mothership.' At one point, Terauchi turned the 747 through a 360-degree turn to see if the UFOs would disappear, but they followed. The article includes comparative sizes of the 747 and the UFO, indicating an angle and distance of the two brilliant objects seen by the captain, and a sketch of the UFOs as viewed through the plane's windscreen.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings, often presenting official explanations or plausible conventional causes, such as rocket launches, meteorological experiments (Barium clouds), or atmospheric phenomena. There is a clear interest in Soviet UFO reports and a tendency to demystify sightings by linking them to known aerospace activities. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding some phenomena. The magazine also highlights the role of amateur researchers and journalists in bringing these cases to light.

Title: Night Lights
Issue: Nr. 137
Volume: 7.87
Date: July 1987

This issue of "Night Lights" delves into the complexities of UFO sightings, presenting a critical analysis of common explanations and highlighting the role of natural phenomena and psychological perception. It features two main case studies: an Alaskan sighting and a mass sighting in Italy, both of which are examined to debunk or re-contextualize UFO reports.

Alaska Sighting: Planets or Northern Lights?

The article begins by addressing a sighting in Alaska, where skeptic Philip Klass attributed the observed phenomena to the planets Jupiter and Mars. The author strongly refutes this explanation, calling it "unbelievable" and "far-fetched." While acknowledging that Mars and Jupiter were indeed visible in the sky over Anchorage at the time, the article argues that Klass's interpretation fails to account for the full details of the report, particularly the "cylindrical objects" and the "gigantic mothership" impression. The magazine proposes that the observed "lights" were likely caused by atmospheric phenomena, specifically northern lights (aurora borealis), which can create pulsating, dancing, and undulating light bands or curtains. The author criticizes Klass and other "debunkers" for clinging to preconceived notions and forcing explanations that do not fit the evidence, suggesting that such interpretations are driven by a desire to maintain their own positions.

The issue includes a celestial chart for November 17, 1986, at 18:30 hrs, showing the positions of Mars and Jupiter, along with other celestial bodies, to visually support the discussion of planetary visibility.

CENAP's Realistic Explanation: Northern Lights

Further elaborating on the Alaskan incident, the article introduces H.J. Köhler from CENAP Mannheim, who believes he found a "unique and convincing natural explanation" for the two cylindrical objects depicted in a drawing by W. Hays. This explanation centers on the phenomenon of northern lights. The article details the characteristics of northern lights, describing them as "undulating, pulsating, swinging light bands or curtains" that are often "amber-colored" and flicker across the polar sky. These are explained as electrical discharge phenomena similar to those in neon tubes, caused by solar radiation interacting with the Earth's upper atmosphere. The article notes that northern lights can appear as arcs, streams, and rays reaching the zenith and can last for hours, typically occurring in high northern or southern latitudes at altitudes between 100 and 1000 km.

Köhler suggests that the "cylindrical objects" were likely caused by a cloud illuminated by city lights, with the flickering northern lights in the background creating the impression of a "gigantic spaceship." The author posits that the experienced Japanese pilot, despite numerous flights, might not have had the "luck" to witness intense northern lights from his illuminated cockpit. Regarding radar observations, W. Walter of CENAP is cited, stating that the radiation fields of northern lights can indeed be detected by radar, and that northern lights are known to significantly disrupt UKW (VHF) reception.

The magazine concludes this section by asserting that their explanation is "far less contrived" than Phil Klass's planetary theory and invites readers who may have witnessed similar phenomena to share their experiences.

Italian UFO Study: No Differences Between UFOs and IFOs

The issue then shifts to a comparative study of Italian UFO sightings from 1977, conducted by Marcel Delaval, Jean Bourdon, and Fion Murtagh from the Centro Italiano Studi UFOlogici (CISU). This study analyzed 217 reported sightings, which were broken down into 44 variables and categorized using the French Tetraeder-Model (developed by GEPAN at CNES). The categories included statements, witnesses, physical environment, and psychological backgrounds. After excluding cases with insufficient information, 175 cases remained for analysis.

The core finding of the study was "sobering": no statistically significant differences were found between sightings classified as UFOs and those classified as IFOs (Identified Flying Objects). The authors acknowledge that skeptics might question the sample size, but they present this result as a significant challenge to conventional UFO beliefs. The study also attempted to correlate sighting frequency with sociological events like UFO congresses or media attention, but found no link, suggesting that most reports do not originate from dedicated UFO believers.

A graph titled "FIG. 4: NUMERO DI TESTIMONI" illustrates the number of witnesses for both UFO and IFO cases, showing a similar distribution pattern, with a peak around 2-3 witnesses for both categories and a gradual decline thereafter.

Perception Psychology: When a Hundred See the Same Thing...

This section explores the psychological aspects of perception, using the example of a mass sighting in Piemonte/Valle d'Aosta, Italy, on September 15, 1985. Thousands of people reported seeing a bright, motionless object that was eventually identified as a stratospheric balloon. The article questions the reliability of witness observations, noting that estimations of size, distance, and angle are inherently uncertain. It references previous studies, including one by GEP/CENAP, on the topic of size estimations.

The article discusses controversies surrounding witness perception, with some arguing for photographic memory and others suggesting significant limitations in form and structure perception. It contrasts the approaches of debunkers like P. Klass and S. Campbell, who attribute sightings to planetary illusions, with investigators like G. Mosbleck, who explain sightings as helicopter observations. The Italian investigator Gian Paolo Grassiono is highlighted for his study of the Piemonte/Valle d'Aosta mass sighting.

The Piemonte/Valle d'Aosta Mass Sighting: A Stratospheric Balloon

Grassiono's investigation into the September 15, 1985, event involved analyzing thousands of witness accounts, including those who used binoculars and telescopes. The most spectacular observation was by an Italian television team from RAI, who filmed the object for over an hour. Despite renting a plane that reached its maximum altitude of 15,000 feet, they could not get closer to the object. The object was visible on radar, but its echo was absent, suggesting it was extremely high.

RAI news broadcasts showed footage of the "UFO" appearing to change shape and move erratically. A CISU investigation team interviewed the TV crew, the cameraman, the pilot, and a meteorologist. Over 100 witnesses came forward, providing detailed accounts and sketches. Trigonometric calculations based on numerous observation points helped to pinpoint the object's location above ground.

Object Characteristics:

• Shape: Most descriptions (58%) were consistent with a balloon or similar shape (pearl, tear, football). 15% described it as star-like. 23% reported other forms, including cylinder, triangle, crescent, saucer, horseshoe, orange slice, butterfly, and jug. Some witnesses reported bands or strips hanging from the object.
• Color: The object was described as bright white, occasionally metallic or silvery, reflecting sunlight.
• Movement: Over half of the reports described a motionless object; the other half reported slow movement. Differences in perception were likely due to the location and direction of observation points.
• Quality of Description: Witnesses using optical instruments were more certain that the object was a balloon.

Time and Duration: Sightings typically lasted for hours, often beginning early in the morning and ending when clouds obscured the object or witnesses had to stop observing. Most reports were between 10:30 and 14:30.

Location: The sightings occurred across the provinces of Turin and Aosta, as well as ten other locations, particularly in mountainous regions and Alpine valleys.

Photos: Three photo series were reviewed, but only a small bright spot was visible. Magnified images revealed a balloon-like shape.

RAI Film Analysis: The RAI film, enhanced by 300mm telephoto equipment, showed a larger shape. "Form changes" and jerky movements were attributed to distortions in the cockpit glass, the automatic focus system, camera instability, and aircraft vibrations.

True Position: Triangulation determined the object's likely position over Lanslebourg, France, at an altitude of 22 km, with witnesses being 40 to 80 km away.

True Nature of the Object: All data (shape, movement, duration, position, photos) identified the object as a large stratospheric balloon, similar to those launched by CNES in France. The lack of sightings from France was attributed to the sun's position relative to the balloon and the witnesses, who often noticed the balloon due to sun reflections.

Resümee (Summary of the Case): The investigation, though time-consuming, confirmed the object was a balloon. The study successfully collected quantitative data (azimuth, altitude, angular height) to determine the object's true position and size. Witness testimonies were generally good but included a few anomalous descriptions that, taken out of context, might suggest a non-balloon object. The study noted a tendency for witnesses to perceive structures that weren't there, even when they knew it was a balloon. Media coverage was criticized for sensationalizing the "most unusual" descriptions and focusing on "mysterious aspects."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Night Lights" revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena and the importance of scientific and psychological analysis. The magazine consistently advocates for natural explanations, such as northern lights and balloons, over more speculative theories. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a preference for evidence-based reasoning. The publication emphasizes the fallibility of human perception and the tendency for misinterpretation, particularly in ambiguous situations. By presenting detailed case studies and research findings, "Night Lights" aims to demystify UFO reports and encourage a more rational approach to understanding unexplained aerial phenomena.

Title: Night Lights
Issue: Nr. 137
Date: July 1987

This issue of "Night Lights" delves into various aspects of unexplained phenomena and human psychology, with a particular focus on UFO sightings, the concept of immortality, and the controversial Integratron project.

Perception and UFOs: The Viverone Case

The issue begins by examining the psychological factors influencing UFO sightings, using the case of Luigi C. in Viverone, Italy, from August 1986. Luigi and two friends observed a large, yellow-red, triangular object for over an hour. While most witness accounts were consistent, the investigators Edoardo Russo and Gian Paolo Grassino noted that a significant portion of reports might still be classified as Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP). They raise the question of whether a percentage of these sightings could be due to psychological "misperceptions," even with prolonged observation. The article highlights the difficulty in achieving a 100% clarification rate and points out that many sightings are made by a single witness, lacking corroboration. The Viverone sighting itself was later attributed to astronomical phenomena: the planet Jupiter and the star Capella, whose unusual brightness was explained by atmospheric conditions.

The Dream of Immortality

Shifting focus, the magazine explores the age-old human dream of immortality. This desire is presented as a fundamental human aspiration, manifesting in various forms throughout history, from religious beliefs in an afterlife or reincarnation to the pursuit of physical longevity and eternal youth. The article contrasts this with the everyday experience of death. It references historical figures like China's First Emperor, Ch'in Shih-huang-ti, who was obsessed with overcoming death and sought an immortality drug, even commissioning a massive terracotta army for his tomb. The text also touches upon modern medicine's role in fueling these desires, albeit without the ability to fulfill them. The concept of immortality is linked to the idea of overcoming physical death, with examples like the Indian mystic Sri Aurobindo and his successor Mira Alfassa, who pursued the creation of a semi-spiritual, semi-physical being to transcend death. The article also notes the Jehovah's Witnesses' belief in eternal earthly life and connects these aspirations to modern "UFO cults" that seek earthly salvation through extraterrestrial beings.

Unglaubliche RTL-Geschichten: UFOs and the Mojave Desert

The issue then discusses a segment from the RTL broadcast "Unglaubliche Geschichten" (Unbelievable Stories) from April 1987, which addressed the question of whether humanity is alone in the universe. The program featured popular writer Johannes von Buttlar and parapsychologist Elmar Gruber. Von Buttlar presented his book "Leben auf dem Mars" (Life on Mars), and the discussion touched upon the idea of extraterrestrial contact and consciousness expansion. The broadcast highlighted a community in the Mojave Desert, California, where hundreds of people have reportedly sighted alien spacecraft and made contact with their crews over the past 30 years. A specific structure, a white wooden dome building, was presented as potentially inspired by alien civilizations.

The Pyramids and Extraterrestrial Influence

Johannes von Buttlar suggests that the pyramids, particularly those in a "pyramid belt" around the Earth, may be evidence of extraterrestrial communication. He posits that these structures, along with astronomical observatories built into stone, point towards cosmic visitors. While acknowledging that humans have always observed the stars, he questions whether the pyramid shape, symbolizing the zenith, is inherently linked to extraterrestrial influence. The article critically questions this assertion, noting that the symbolic representation of the sky could also be achieved through dome structures, which are more complex to build than pyramids.

George W. Van Tassel and the Integratron

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to George W. Van Tassel, a UFO contactee from the 1950s, and his "Integratron" project. Van Tassel, a former pilot and engineer for Howard Hughes, reportedly abandoned his former life after a purported encounter with extraterrestrials in 1953. He dedicated 25 years to building the Integratron in the Mojave Desert, based on instructions from an extraterrestrial named Solganda. The machine was described as a cosmic rejuvenation device designed to extend human life by regenerating cells. Van Tassel was the founder and director of the "Ministry of Universal Wisdom," an organization focused on advancing "science and scientific philosophy" through the Integratron project. He claimed to have invested $200,000 in the project, which was reportedly only 50-60% complete, requiring an additional $100,000 and a team of scientists.

The magazine critically analyzes the theory behind the Integratron, which involves "charging" human cells with electromagnetic fields to restore youth. It dismisses the explanation as a mixture of undefined jargon, combining concepts from wave theory and esotericism. The article argues that electromagnetic fields are not inherently beneficial and that the Integratron's purported mechanism lacks scientific basis. It questions the need for an "aura" if electromagnetic forces can directly influence biological cells and points out the lack of evidence for radiation selectively influencing biological functions. The author suggests that the pursuit of the Integratron is akin to the historical quests for the "Philosopher's Stone" or the "Perpetuum mobile," representing a mechanical dream that is unlikely to be fulfilled.

George Reynolds, a friend of Van Tassel, reported witnessing and filming an "electro-violet glow" from a UFO near the Integratron. However, the film was allegedly lost in a US government safe.

Critical Analysis of UFOlogy and Pseudoscientific Claims

The magazine concludes with a critical perspective on UFOlogy and pseudoscientific claims. It criticizes the tendency of some groups, like the German UFO sect DUIST, to selectively quote scientists out of context to support their unsubstantiated theories. The article suggests that a belief in the paranormal often stems from a desire to explain the inexplicable, sometimes by rejecting established science while simultaneously attempting to "explain" their own beliefs using scientific terminology. The author implies that Van Tassel's claims, while presented as scientific, are ultimately rooted in a desire for immortality and are not supported by empirical evidence. The article contrasts the pursuit of paranormal phenomena with the idea that a deeper life meaning can only be understood and realized through personal effort, not through mechanical constructs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the psychological interpretation of unexplained phenomena, the enduring human fascination with immortality, and a critical examination of pseudoscientific claims, particularly those related to UFOs and extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, questioning the validity of claims that lack empirical evidence and highlighting the role of psychology and misperception in UFO sightings. The magazine encourages a critical approach to sensational claims, urging readers to distinguish between scientific inquiry and unsubstantiated speculation.

Title: Night Lights
Issue: Nr.137
Volume: 7.87
Date: July 1987
Publisher: Night Lights
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of Night Lights delves into the world of UFO phenomena, focusing on significant events and figures within the UFO community, particularly from the 1950s and 1960s, with contemporary reports on UFO congresses and claims.

Giant Rock Conventions and Contactee Accounts

The magazine extensively covers the events held at Giant Rock in the Mojave Desert, California, which served as a major gathering point for UFO enthusiasts and contactees. Daryke Neiman, a Hollywood mannequin, is featured recounting an experience in 1952 where she claimed to have had contact with an extraterrestrial named Soloma in Chesterfield, Indiana. Soloma, described as wearing a white robe, reportedly vanished before Neiman's eyes after a discussion about interplanetary life.

Neiman also reported seeing flying saucers and an alien creature named Mika, described as a cross between a rabbit and a cat. The article analyzes these accounts, noting their similarity to other contactee stories, but acknowledges Neiman's apparent sincerity.

The Giant Rock events attracted not only UFO cultists but also esoteric artists hoping to sell their work. The conventions were a lively marketplace for contactee stories and UFO-related merchandise. Daniel Fry, author of the "White Sands Incident," had "Understanding" units across the country with over 1500 members.

Contactee Truman Betherum was present, urging attendees to nominate Van Tassel for president. Medium Mark Probert was shown in a trance state, allegedly making contact with Yada di Shi'ite from the "Inner Circle," a mystical entity from the Himalayas. Gray Barker was also present with his bookstand.

James W. Moseley, a prominent UFO critic, is pictured at Giant Rock Airport. Daniel Fry is shown with a follower, discussing his "Understanding" units. The event is described as a "Festival of Madness," with jugglers and artists entertaining the crowds.

Van Tassel's events were a melting pot for unusual movements, especially UFO cultists. He believed humanity was partly of non-terrestrial origin and that perception of cosmic reality varied with an individual's spiritual level. His biography in Ronald D. Story's "The Encyclopedia of UFOs" concluded that "with him, a UFO epoch came to an end."

UFOlogy in Germany and International Gatherings

The magazine notes that Van Tassel was also celebrated in the German UFO scene. The "UFO Nachrichten" (1957) reported on Van Tassel's "Cosmic Warning to Governments and Atomic Scientists," referencing space commander Ashtar and positioning Van Tassel alongside other contactees like George Adamski, Daniel Fry, and Elisabeth Klarer.

An article in "UFO Nachrichten" (1957) detailed the "Saucer Movement in California," where approximately 7,000 fans gathered, drawing criticism from Los Angeles newspapers. Prominent figures in the scene, including Frank Scully, were present.

Photographers from LIFE and Esquire documented the events. However, some attendees were skeptical, with reports of charlatans attempting to mislead the audience with balloons and torches.

Inspired by Van Tassel's event, Germany saw an increase in UFO conferences. In November 1957, an "International Annual Meeting of German Friends of the Planetarians" was held in Wiesbaden. A greeting from George Adamski was read, along with a message from an alleged space being named Seta. The press referred to "new science UFOlogy," and the UN declared a "Cosmic Advent."

In 1958, another large event took place in the California desert, attracting over 10,000 people. The magazine "UN Nr.24" reported extensively on this gathering.

Van Tassel's events were a significant platform for UFO-related activities, with many contactee stories from 1952 to 1957 showing similarities. An article in "UN Nr.38" (October 1959) discussed the "Effects of UFO Facts" and "Flying Saucers over Giant Rock," with Van Tassel claiming that the term "UFO" was a deliberate misdirection by US government propaganda experts to conceal the existence of "Interplanetary Spacecraft."

Van Tassel argued that authorities denied UFOs were unidentified, knowing they were spacecraft. He presented a Polaroid of a "flying saucer" as evidence of extraterrestrial visits to Giant Rock, even if not directly witnessed by all. The event's success led to significant donations, with one donor contributing $40,000.

By 1960, the UFO fever had somewhat subsided. An appeal by contactee Orfeo Angelucci for attendees to come to Germany to support DUIST was largely ignored. UN correspondent Elbert described the people at Giant Rock as "nice and friendly" and mentioned the presence of Princes Neasom and Negonna from the planet Tythan.

The report concludes that naivety, deception, and psychopathy have always existed and will continue to do so, with only their belief systems changing.

Astronomical Observations and Corrections

The issue includes an "Astro-Warning" section covering celestial events from August 1 to September 15. It highlights Jupiter's increased visibility and brightness in August, its apparent size growing until October. The Perseid meteor shower is expected in August, with up to 70 objects per hour and occasional bright fireballs. September is predicted to have four meteor streams, including the Piscids.

A correction is issued regarding a previous report on a US TV series about a UFO spectacle. The author apologizes for conflating the Denver and Dallas series, clarifying that the report specifically concerned the Denver series.

8th German UFO Congress

The 8th German UFO Congress was scheduled to take place from September 19-20 in Osterburken at the Hotel Märchenwald, organized by CENAP Heilbronn. This was a non-public event for members of serious investigator groups. Topics for discussion included methods of witness interrogation, criteria for perceptual psychology, discussion of unclassified cases, and standardization of case reports. The GEP (Society for the Investigation of the UFO Phenomenon) from Lüdenscheid was also scheduled to attend. Contact information for inquiries was provided: Jochen Ickinger, Olgastraße 13, 7100 Heilbronn.

News Brief: UFO Crash Claim in Rotchina

A news brief reports a claim by a Soviet intelligence officer that an egg-shaped spacecraft crashed in Rotchina. According to the report, Chinese border guards found a six-month-old alien baby with pointed ears among the wreckage, supposedly seeking to refresh their genetic material on Earth. Professor Heinz Kaminski of the Bochum Observatory dismissed this claim as "pure nonsense," stating he had investigated 100 similar cases, all of which were fabrications. The article criticizes the sensationalism and absurdity presented in the media, suggesting a decline in journalistic standards.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Night Lights strongly focuses on UFO sightings, contactee experiences, and the subculture that emerged around these phenomena, particularly in the mid-20th century. The magazine presents a mix of detailed accounts of alleged encounters and events, alongside critical analysis and skepticism, as seen in the dismissal of the Rotchina incident. There's an emphasis on the historical significance of events like the Giant Rock conventions and the figures associated with them. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on the phenomena while maintaining a critical perspective, as evidenced by the inclusion of skeptical viewpoints and the debunking of certain claims. The magazine also touches upon astronomical events, suggesting a broader interest in the sky and potential unexplained phenomena.