CENAP Report - No 138

Magazine Overview

Title: NIGHT LIGHTS
Issue: 138
Volume/Date: 8/1987
Publisher: CENAP (Das Centrale Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene)
Country: Germany
Price: DM 3,90

This issue of NIGHT LIGHTS, a specialized journal from CENAP, focuses on critical analysis of aerial phenomena, with a significant portion dedicated to re-examining historical cases and presenting statistical findings.

Editorial

The editorial highlights that this issue features two articles concerning helicopter-'UFOs'. One article addresses the famous 'initial sighting' by Kenneth Arnold, proposing a plausible explanation after 40 years. The editorial also mentions the availability of a 3D program to analyze objects from various viewpoints, which will aid in future investigations of aircraft-'UFOs'. The Messel case is noted for its perceptual psychology aspects and the causality problem, emphasizing that apparent connections between facts may not always be real. CENAP's extensive 11-year research is summarized, with Jochen Ickinger's detailed statistical analysis of reported sightings being a key component.

History: Was Kenneth Arnold Really Seeing? - First "Saucer" Sighting After 40 Years Clarified?

Author: Hans van Kampen

This article delves into the iconic Kenneth Arnold sighting on June 24, 1947, which popularized the term "flying saucers." The author, drawing from research for his book "40 Jaar UFOs," proposes a surprising conclusion: Arnold may have seen Republic F-84 Thunderjets, military aircraft that were a secret at the time. The article details Arnold's flight path, his search for a lost Marine aircraft, and his observation of nine objects flying in formation near Mount Rainier. Arnold described them as moving like "flying saucers" and noted their speed and lack of visible control surfaces. The author critiques the lack of thorough investigation in the past and presents his findings from reviewing US National Archives material. He discusses Arnold's estimations of object size and distance, which were later challenged by Professor J. Allen Hynek during Project Blaubuch. Hynek's calculations suggested the objects were much closer and moving slower than Arnold estimated, implying Arnold's perception was flawed. The article also notes the objects' sickle shape and a possible central bulge. The author argues that Arnold likely saw "unknown aircraft" that appeared sickle-shaped from a distance, flashed in the sun, and had a thickening in the middle. The high speed, inability to see control surfaces, and seemingly unstable flight were key 'strangeness factors'. The author's theory posits that these F-84 jets, which entered production in 1946 and were known for instability at high speeds, could explain Arnold's observations. Using a 3D computer program, the author compares Arnold's sketches with the F-84's characteristics, finding a surprising match, particularly in the 'bulge' and sickle shape when the jets moved away. The article concludes that Arnold's sighting, when re-evaluated with modern knowledge, likely involved conventional aircraft, and calls the perpetuation of the 'flying saucer' myth a "disgrace for modern research."

Inland: The Flying Coffin of Radevormwald: UFO vs. Helicopter

Author: Hans-Jürgen Köhler (CENAP Mannheim)

This section, though only a headline in the table of contents, refers to a case study within the magazine that examines a sighting involving a 'flying coffin' and a helicopter, highlighting the complexities of identifying aircraft-like phenomena.

CENAP 11-Year Statistics (Part 1)

Author: Jochen Ickinger (CENAP Heilbronn)

This article presents the initial findings of an extensive statistical analysis of UFO sightings compiled by CENAP over 11 years. Jochen Ickinger developed a sophisticated coding system (CDSS-3) to manage and analyze the data. The statistics cover cases up to September 1986. The article explains why the dataset is not exhaustive: approximately 50 cases were lost due to organizational issues in CENAP's early phase, and another 50 cases were classified as "insufficient data" and excluded from the analysis. "Insufficient data" cases lack crucial details like date, object shape, color, or direction, making them impossible to verify. The authors align with Italian colleagues (CISU) in excluding such cases, contrasting with Belgian investigators (SVL) who include a higher percentage of such reports. In total, CENAP processed over 350 sighting reports, with 276 included in the final statistics.

Fall Analysis: The Causality Problem in the Example of the Messel Case '82

Author: Rudolf Henke

This article examines the Messel case from 1982, focusing on the problem of causality and perceptual psychology. It suggests that apparent connections between individual facts may be misleading and that even experienced investigators can be deceived. The case serves as an example of how seemingly obvious explanations might not be accurate.

Astrowarning (15.8.-30.9.)

This section likely contains information or alerts related to astronomical events or observations during the specified period.

Postscript: The Difficulty with Aircraft-"UFOs"

This section, appearing on page 8, elaborates on the challenges CENAP and GEP face in identifying aircraft as UFOs. It notes that aircraft, unlike planets or balloons, have variable shapes and appearances depending on the observer's angle and distance. Their lighting and brief appearances further complicate identification. The article contrasts this with planets, which are easily identifiable, and balloons, which are visible for a moderate duration. It also touches upon the acoustic problem, where the lack of engine noise might lead witnesses to misidentify aircraft. The author suggests that 3D computer models can aid in visualization but cannot replace human imagination. The article questions whether the widespread belief in UFOs stems from an overactive imagination, proposing that the opposite might be true. It also references the Belgian SVL's statistics, where only a small number of balloon cases were reported, questioning the completeness of these reports. The author concludes by reflecting on how CENAP would handle a similar case today, suggesting it would likely be classified as a non-UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) case. The article ponders whether the 'case of all cases' (Arnold's) being a deception could have initiated a wave of deception and questions the qualitative difference of the 1952 sightings compared to others.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of NIGHT LIGHTS strongly emphasizes a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. The magazine's stance is to demystify sightings, particularly those that can be explained by conventional means such as aircraft. There is a clear focus on debunking myths, such as the Kenneth Arnold case, and promoting a scientific understanding of aerial phenomena. CENAP positions itself as an organization dedicated to objective analysis, statistical rigor, and public education ('Psychohygiene'), aiming to counter sensationalism and misinformation, especially from the media. The recurring theme is the difficulty in distinguishing genuine anomalies from misidentified conventional objects, with a particular focus on aircraft and helicopters. The magazine advocates for thorough investigation and evidence-based conclusions, often challenging widely held beliefs within the UFO community.

Title: Night Lights
Issue: Nr. 138
Volume/Date: 8.87 (August 1987)
Publisher: Night Lights
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of "Night Lights" delves into the critical analysis of UFO (Unidentified Flying Object) and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon) reports, emphasizing source criticism, statistical data, and the potential for misidentification. It features a detailed examination of a specific case and presents a statistical breakdown of sightings.

Quellen (Sources)

The article "Quellen" discusses the origins of UFO cases investigated by the organization CENAP. It highlights that the vast majority of cases are reported through the daily press or direct witness contact, with only a negligible portion being selected from specialized 'scene literature.' CENAP asserts that the mainstream press often pre-selects cases that appear more credible, typically those reported by officials like police officers or experienced pilots, based on the assumption that these individuals are better equipped to distinguish genuine phenomena from misperceptions. The article suggests that if CENAP has successfully resolved these 'large,' high-profile cases, then those appearing in less reputable sources like the tabloid press or pseudoreligious literature are likely even less credible. A secondary selection mechanism is also discussed: witnesses who believe they have seen a 'genuine' UFO may approach investigation groups that are perceived to be more open to such phenomena. This leads to groups like GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomenes) potentially receiving more spectacular reports than CENAP, which has a reputation for being a 'ruthless debunking organization.' However, the article notes that even GEP, despite its openness, does not necessarily classify more cases as UAP than CENAP. There's a risk for more open groups to encounter neurotic individuals or hoaxers, whereas CENAP might face fewer such cases. The article concludes that while some might argue that credible witnesses would only trust established organizations, experience shows that even mundane observations can prompt a strong desire to share them, suggesting that a significant 'hidden number' of highly unusual sightings might not exist.

Statistics and Analysis of Sightings

1.1. Herkunft (Origin)

The statistics presented show that approximately three-quarters of the investigated cases originate from Germany (BR Deutschland) or German-speaking countries, particularly Austria. The collaboration with Austrian colleagues has diminished, leading CENAP to focus on particularly spectacular Austrian cases that also receive press coverage. Contact with Switzerland is limited, and few Swiss cases have been reported in international press. Cases from non-German-speaking foreign countries are mainly from continental Europe (e.g., Great Britain, Italy, France). Due to reliance on German and English-language press for information on foreign cases, CENAP primarily learns about the most spectacular sightings. The organization acknowledges that it lacks the time and financial resources for extensive research in regions like South America or Australia, relying instead on reputable investigative groups in those areas. Language barriers also pose a challenge. Only a small number of cases were selected from 'scene literature,' mostly photographic cases.

1.2. Zeitliches Auftreten (Temporal Occurrence)

The block diagram illustrates the number of observations made each year, not necessarily the years in which they were processed by CENAP, as some cases are reported years after the event. This delay can be due to witnesses only later becoming aware of investigative groups. The statistics are presented under the heading 'Interna' (Internal) and may not fully reflect the annual frequency of sightings due to the inability to investigate all reports. However, noticeable peaks in 1977 and 1983 are noted, possibly related to weather conditions.

2.1.1. Anzahl der Objekte (Number of Objects)

A bar chart shows the number of objects reported in sightings. The majority of sightings (around 80%) involve a single object. However, the article notes that this statistic might not fully represent reality, as many sightings reach the press precisely because multiple objects were observed. It also points out that natural phenomena like aircraft or balloons can appear in groups.

2.1.2. Formen (Shapes)

This section details the reported shapes of sighted objects. In 69% of cases, objects are described as circular, disc-shaped, or oval. The article speculates if this could indicate 'genuine saucers' but then tempers this by noting that about a quarter of cases are attributable to party balloons. Planetary sightings can also be misclassified as circular or disc-shaped objects. Additionally, partial illumination of non-circular objects can create the impression of a disc or oval. The text also discusses how spatial perception can lead to misidentification, such as mistaking a sphere for a triangle, and how the 'flying saucer' myth since 1947 might influence shape perception.

2.1.3. Die scheinbare Größe (Apparent Size)

Data is available for the apparent size of objects in 79 cases. 'Apparent size' is defined as the angular size an object subtends in the sky when viewed with an outstretched arm. The article explains that a 10-meter aircraft at a kilometer's distance would appear as about seven millimeters. A study by GEP and CENAP found that perceived sizes are drastically overestimated, with an average overestimation factor of 15. Applying this factor to a 10-meter object at a kilometer's distance would make it appear as large as an orange. The average perceived object size is about 37 mm, which, with the overestimation factor, reduces to a perceived size of about 2 mm.

UFO kontra Hubschrauber (UFO versus Helicopter)

This section focuses on the "CE I-Fall Radevormwald" (Radevormwald CE I-Case), a sighting reported to the GEP and later presented by CENAP. The case involves a witness, Jürgen Hagemann, who reported a large, box-shaped object with lights moving at moderate speed over Radevormwald on November 30, 1984. The object was estimated to be 60-80 meters long and appeared to obscure the moon at an altitude of approximately 160 meters. No sounds were reported.

CENAP, represented by Hans-Jürgen Köhler, proposed that the object was a CH-47 military helicopter. They countered the GEP's classification of the case as a UFO based on several arguments:

1. Noise: GEP argued that a large helicopter would be audible and that the event didn't cause public attention. CENAP countered that modern military helicopters like the CH-47 are designed for stealthy operations and can be very quiet, especially when used for reconnaissance or transport. They also noted that noise complaints would be expected if it were excessively loud.
2. Appearance: GEP stated there was no resemblance to a helicopter and dismissed the possibility of misperceiving a conventional aircraft or balloon. CENAP argued that the CH-47's appearance, particularly its contoured fuselage and illuminated windows, closely matches the witness's description. They presented sketches and compared them to the CH-47, suggesting a strong resemblance.
3. Altitude: GEP suggested the object flew at a low altitude of 5-10 meters, questioning a pilot's willingness to perform such maneuvers at night. CENAP responded that CH-47 pilots are trained for low-altitude flight, especially at night, to avoid radar detection, and that flying at treetop level is feasible.

CENAP further elaborated on the details, explaining how the CH-47's fuselage, windows, and searchlights could account for the reported lights and shape. They also pointed out that the USAF specifies the CH-47 as being 30.2 meters long and 5.67 meters high, which, when compared to the GEP's estimated dimensions (36-44 m length, 9-11 m width, 11-13 m height), further supports the helicopter identification.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes a skeptical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of seeking conventional explanations, particularly military aircraft, for reported sightings. The magazine highlights the importance of statistical analysis and source criticism in evaluating UFO reports. It suggests that many sightings, especially those deemed 'spectacular,' can be attributed to misidentification of known objects, psychological factors, or even hoaxes. The detailed breakdown of sighting characteristics (shape, size, origin, time) aims to provide a scientific framework for understanding these reports. The Radevormwald case serves as a prime example of CENAP's methodology: dissecting witness accounts and comparing them rigorously with known phenomena and technical specifications to arrive at a plausible, non-exotic explanation. The magazine appears to position itself as a counterpoint to more sensationalist UFO reporting, advocating for a grounded, evidence-based investigation process.

Title: Night Lights
Issue: Nr.138
Volume: 8.87
Date: August 1987
Publisher: Night Lights
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of Night Lights features a detailed analysis of the Radevormwald sighting from 1984, primarily focusing on the possibility that the observed object was a CH-47 helicopter. The magazine also revisits the Messel 1982 case and discusses a parallel case from 1947.

Analysis of the Radevormwald Sighting

The article begins by noting that human perception changes in darkness, a factor relevant to the Radevormwald witness's account. It then delves into the potential origin of the observed object, suggesting that CH-47 helicopters, used by the US Air Force and Royal Air Force, could have been involved in flight maneuvers over Radevormwald. The author dismisses negative responses from the German Ministry of Defense as inconclusive.

Witness Testimony Scrutiny

Author R. Henke expresses astonishment at the detailed description provided by the Radevormwald witness. He questions whether a person, even an exceptional observer, could accurately recall over 20 details within a minute, especially under stress. Drawing parallels with traffic psychology, which suggests accident witnesses recall only a few details correctly, Henke posits that the witness likely added or embellished details. However, he acknowledges that the main points of the description align with a CH-47 helicopter.

Object Characteristics and Distance

The article challenges the GEP's (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des Unerklärlichen Phänomens - Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained Phenomenon) estimation of the object's distance at approximately 160 meters. This estimation was based on the object allegedly flying past the gable of a guesthouse. Henke argues that the witness's description of the object obscuring the moon, given the guesthouse's low elevation, would require the object to descend rapidly, a maneuver not reported. He concludes that the object likely did not fly past the guesthouse gable, rendering the distance estimation unreliable. This, in turn, suggests the object could have been further away, making its sounds less likely to be perceived.

Further Investigations and Parallel Cases

Henke conducted further research by contacting the owner of the 'Cafe dello Sport,' a guesthouse in Radevormwald. The co-owner, Herr Bernuccio, confirmed that large, two-rotor helicopters (like the CH-47) frequently fly in the area at low altitudes, sometimes three in quick succession, and typically fly from NNW to SW. This direction aligns with the location of the US Air Force base in Lahnstein, SW of Radevormwald.

The article then presents a parallel case from 1947 in Brest, France, where two soldiers observed a silent, box-shaped object that briefly obscured the moon. The author notes similarities in shape, size, flight behavior, and silence, further supporting the helicopter theory for the Radevormwald case. He criticizes the GEP for favoring a UAP hypothesis over a more plausible explanation.

Table of Concordances

A table is presented listing twelve points of agreement between the witness's observation and the CH-47 helicopter explanation. These include the object's box shape, dimensions (length 36-44m, height 11-13m), light protrusions, 'window' with louvers, forward illumination, straight flight path, low altitude, and direction of appearance. The witness's reports of frequent, low-flying, two-rotor helicopters and moderate speed also align.

The Causality Problem: Messel 1982 Case Re-analysis

Rudolf Henke re-examines the Messel 1982 case, initially described as a spectacular CE II (Close Encounter of the Second Kind) event. The case involved police officers and a civilian reporting green flashes, lights, and disruptions, including police radio interference and radar anomalies. The initial media reports sensationalized the event, suggesting alien technology. However, an analysis by CENAP, based on a professional astronomer's opinion, concluded that the 'bright light points' were likely a special planetary constellation. Later information revealed that the sky was clear only initially, with a brief thunderstorm occurring. The article suggests that the media's sensationalism and the initial lack of a clear explanation led to the UAP interpretation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently advocates for rational explanations for alleged UFO sightings, prioritizing conventional explanations like aircraft over UAP hypotheses when evidence supports it. The editorial stance appears to be critical of sensationalism in media reporting and encourages thorough investigation and consideration of all plausible explanations, even if they are less extraordinary. The analysis of the Radevormwald case exemplifies this approach, meticulously dissecting witness testimony and comparing it against known phenomena, in this instance, military helicopters.

Title: Menschen Schicksale
Issue: 8.87 - Nr. 138
Date: August 1987
Publisher: Night Lights
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of "Menschen Schicksale" (Human Fates) focuses on the perplexing UFO sighting that occurred in Messel, Germany, on March 12, 1982, involving the Gustafson family and local police.

The Messel UFO Incident: A Family's Strange Experience

The article, "Erst landete ein UFO, dann gab es Drohungen" (First a UFO Landed, Then There Were Threats), details the extraordinary experience of the Gustafson family. Markus Gustafson (18) recounts how a "flying saucer" landed about 40 meters from his family's home on the evening of March 12, 1982, around 9:30 PM. He describes the object as bus-sized, round, with landing lights and a brightly lit glass dome, similar to scenes from "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."

Markus initially wanted to tell everyone but later decided to keep quiet, fearing disbelief. His mother, Margarethe Raab-Gustafson, confirmed the sighting, stating that the object was about the size of a bus with position lights. She also mentioned that friends from the youth center, her husband, and eight police officers later saw the object as it departed.

Margarethe expressed her frustration with the constant questioning and the need to recount the story countless times. She noted that people were curious about the object's altitude and exact appearance. Self-proclaimed "UFO researchers" interviewed the family, comparing their account to other "unidentified flying objects" (UFOs) reports. Even the local pastor jokingly asked if they were sober.

Adding to the distress, the family received a threatening anonymous letter stating, "Be careful with your statements, the end times are not far off." This incident left Margarethe unnerved, especially since the police had also witnessed the object, lending credibility to their account.

Investigating the Phenomenon

The article delves into the various interpretations and investigations surrounding the Messel sighting. The family's experience was compared to other UFO reports, and the term "UFO" itself is something Markus dislikes, preferring to describe it as a "thing."

One of the initial explanations offered by an American UFO institute suggested that such phenomena occur more frequently in the United States. The article also touches upon the philosophical and religious interpretations of UFOs, referencing Lafayette Ron Hubbard and Scientology's beliefs about beings from Venus.

Margarethe herself dismisses these esoteric explanations, expressing relief that the police also witnessed the object. She speculates that it might have been something "strategic," hinting at the presence of an American army base with a barbed-wire fence near Messel.

Re-evaluation and Skepticism

Five years after the initial event, a journalist revisited the Messel case for a series called "Menschen Schicksale." The story was "updated" with a new interview, leading to claims that the object had not just hovered but had landed and then taken off again. The article notes that the "Adamski saucer" was used as visual support for this revised report.

The author, Werner Walter, then critically examines the case, particularly the "planet explanation" that was initially proposed. He notes that the planets Mars, Saturn, and Jupiter do not flash green or behave as described. He suggests that the witnesses might have seen stars like Sirius or constellations like Orion.

Walter also analyzes the police sightings, suggesting the green, flickering point could have been Sirius, and other points could have been stars in the Orion constellation. He notes that clouds had appeared by the time the police made their observations.

Regarding the sighting by Markus' foster parents, Walter suggests it could have been Mars, the Moon, or Jupiter, depending on the time of observation and celestial positions. He points out that the perceived "size decrease" could be due to changing weather conditions.

Witness Accounts and Drawings

The article presents various witness accounts and sketches of the object. The shape varied significantly, from round and elliptical (as seen by the girls) to the "typical" saucer shape (as seen by the boys). The flight patterns were also diverse, including hovering, zig-zagging, and up-and-down movements.

Witnesses described lights that illuminated like a lighthouse, flashing on the underside, and rotating lights within a dome. The lights were seen in various colors, including red, blue, green, yellow, and orange. Some described a spotlight-like beam emanating from the underside of the object.

Sonja reported a flash and thunder, followed by rain, while Regina believed the flash originated from the object itself.

A Simple Explanation?

Walter proposes a "simple explanation," suggesting that the observed phenomena could be attributed to conventional aircraft, such as airplanes and helicopters. He points out that these vehicles have red and green position lights, rotating lights, and landing spotlights. He argues that the dynamic light phenomena, including the comparison to lighthouse beams, are typical for "aircraft UFOs."

He also addresses the bright flash and thunder, attributing it to a short thunderstorm, as determined by CENAP at the time, and not related to the UFO sightings.

Critiques and the Causality Problem

The article discusses the critiques of the Messel case, noting that comparing the four drawings of the object might suggest four different objects. This leads to the conclusion that significant deductions must be made when assessing witness accounts, especially regarding shape perception. If only Markus Steffen's drawing had been available, it might have been interpreted as a classic "saucer" sighting.

However, by considering all drawings, the "CE II-case" (a classification for UFO sightings) is reduced to the observation of terrestrial objects, primarily helicopters. Two witnesses drew the landing spotlight, two depicted illuminated windows, and one noted the red/orange and green position lights.

The author emphasizes the importance of immediate witness interviews to prevent embellishment over time, contrasting this with the views of the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens).

The Causality Problem

The final section, "Das Kausalitätsproblem" (The Causality Problem), explores the tendency to link unrelated events. The Messel incident is presented as an example where a helicopter sighting, a lightning flash, thunder, radio interference, and planetary alignments were causally connected, creating a sense of fear and hysteria. The article criticizes the media, like BILD newspaper, for amplifying this effect.

It argues that in literature, many reports connect physical phenomena to alleged UFOs, but a direct causal link is often absent. The author warns against assuming causality where none exists, citing examples like a car engine suddenly failing or a radio crackling during a night drive, which are then attributed to external, possibly extraterrestrial, influences.

This tendency to find connections is compared to astrology, where planetary positions are linked to human destinies. The article concludes that this "superstition" is widespread and can manifest as delusions of persecution.

Reasons for Error

The article outlines reasons why initial misinterpretations might occur, suggesting that organizations like CENAP should not solely rely on the judgment of professional astronomers but should independently verify their findings. The author implies that other investigators could learn from the mistakes made in analyzing the Messel case.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, witness testimony, the challenges of investigation, and the psychological and societal factors that contribute to the belief in UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical skepticism, aiming to provide rational explanations for seemingly extraordinary events while acknowledging the complexity of human perception and the potential for misinterpretation. The article encourages a cautious approach to UFO reports, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation and the avoidance of jumping to conclusions based on incomplete or sensationalized information.

This issue of Night Lights (8.87, Nr. 138) is a German-language publication focusing on UFO phenomena, research methodologies, and related controversies. It features detailed analyses, critical reviews, and exchanges between different research organizations.

Analysis of the Messel UFO Case

The issue begins with a critical re-evaluation of a UFO case from Messel, Germany. The article points out several key errors in previous investigations, including the uncritical acceptance of witness statements, insufficient data collection, and an overconfident interpretation by the initial investigators (CENAP). The re-analysis suggests that the perceived UFOs were likely a combination of misidentified phenomena, primarily flying helicopters and a thunderstorm. The author highlights that the alleged 'silence' of the objects might have been due to the witnesses' own hearing impairment after leaving a disco. The article concludes that the case, while spectacular, has a natural explanation and that the initial investigators fell prey to the 'causality problem' – assuming the boy and his foster parents saw the same thing.

The Mystery of the Chinese Stone Disks

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the controversial 'stone disks' allegedly seen by the Austrian couple, Mr. and Mrs. Wegerer, in the Panpo Museum in Xian, China, in 1974. The article presents an interview with the couple, who described seeing several similar disks, most of which were made of green jade. However, they also found disks in the museum that resembled those depicted in Peter Krassa's book "...und kamen auf feurigen Drachen" and were not made of jade. These disks were described as being about the size of a long-playing record, approximately 1 cm thick, with grooved patterns. The article then critically analyzes the Wegerer's account, pointing out inconsistencies between Mr. and Mrs. Wegerer's statements, questioning Mr. Wegerer's potentially overly enthusiastic and demanding behavior at the museum, and noting discrepancies in descriptions of the disks' color and size. The author expresses skepticism about the authenticity of these 'stone disks' as extraterrestrial artifacts, suggesting that if such important objects existed, they would not be displayed so casually in a museum. The article concludes that the story does not make the previous 'stone disk' narratives any more credible and that the objects in the Panpo Museum likely have nothing to do with the sensational claims.

Debate Between GEP and CENAP

A major theme of this issue is the ongoing dispute between the UFO research groups GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens) and CENAP (Comité d'Études des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés). The GEP issues a strong rebuttal to a report by Rudolf Henke (CENAP) concerning a joint working meeting in Sandhausen. The GEP accuses Henke of polemics, misrepresenting their stance, and lacking a proper understanding of scientific methodology. They defend their approach, emphasizing the importance of written protocols and the 'dialectical method' in scientific discourse. The GEP criticizes Henke for calling them 'pseudo-scientists' and for his perceived lack of experience and understanding of UFO research. They also refute claims about 'brain protocols' and 'aerodynamics' of satellites, suggesting Henke is a 'newcomer' who misunderstands the history and practices of their group. The GEP asserts that they have published research on size overestimations and that Henke has misrepresented their findings. They accuse Henke of personal attacks and of trying to discredit their work.

Rudolf Henke, in a separate response, defends his report and criticizes the GEP's methodology and behavior. He argues that the GEP's insistence on publishing their statement unedited is an attempt to 'blackmail' CENAP. Henke defends his use of 'brain protocols' and argues that immediate telephone interviews are crucial for capturing initial witness impressions before they become distorted. He also criticizes the GEP's planning of the Sandhausen meeting, calling it chaotic. Henke dismisses the GEP's claims of his inexperience, stating he has been involved with unusual phenomena since before the GEP was formed. He accuses the GEP of making unsubstantiated accusations of plagiarism and of misrepresenting his work on size estimations. Henke concludes by stating that CENAP will no longer attend meetings where Henke is present, citing a lack of constructive dialogue and personal attacks.

Other Articles and Letters

Zurla Dancers and Val Camonica Rock Drawings: Walter Jörg Langbein discusses the 'Zurla Dancers' rock drawing from Val Camonica, Italy. He addresses the theory that the figures depict astronauts, which is rejected by many researchers at the Prof. Emmanuel Anati's research center. Langbein explores various interpretations, including hunters, dancers, magicians, and musicians, and argues that the depiction of bows and arrows does not fit the 'astronaut' theory. He also touches upon the 'halo' or 'helmet' depictions, comparing them to medieval halos and suggesting they might represent the head as the seat of the spirit.

Michael Hesemann on TV Discussion: Michael Hesemann clarifies his participation in a TV discussion with Werner Walter (CENAP) on the show "So ein Zoff." Hesemann corrects inaccuracies in the reporting, stating he was not accompanied by a psychotherapist and that his 'UFO Memorandum' was well-received. He defends his views on the 'New Consciousness' movement and his belief that UFOs are an unexplained phenomenon requiring scientific investigation. Hesemann refutes claims that he did not allow Walter to speak and that he contradicted himself, asserting that he merely questioned current physical laws in relation to interstellar travel. He also defends his stance that UFOs are an unexplained phenomenon, not necessarily extraterrestrial.

Letter to the Editor (H.-W. Sachmann): A letter from H.-W. Sachmann criticizes the sensationalist reporting of some UFO publications, particularly regarding the 'stone disks' and the Cheops Pyramid. He defends the scientific approach and criticizes the use of headlines like "Conscious Fraud?" He also notes the increasing prominence of Rudolf Henke within "Night Lights."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO evidence, the importance of rigorous scientific methodology, and the often-contentious debates between different research groups. The magazine appears to favor a skeptical yet open-minded approach, prioritizing verifiable data and logical analysis over speculation. The editorial stance seems to lean towards debunking sensational claims while acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena that warrant further investigation. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine scientific inquiry and what the authors perceive as pseudo-science or polemical attacks.

Title: Night Lights
Issue: Nr.138
Volume/Date: 8.87 (August 1987)
Publisher: Night Lights
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of the German UFO and astronomy magazine 'Night Lights' contains several short articles and a letter to the editor, focusing on scientific skepticism, media commentary, and astronomical observations.

Commentary on Scientific Skepticism and Hypotheses

The issue begins with a series of numbered annotations. Annotation 1 states that a renaming of the journal from 'Night Lights' to 'Henke Lights' is not planned but not ruled out. Annotation 2 addresses the 'Hoyle's Hypotheses,' noting that they are not widely accepted and that many scientists doubt their validity. The author acknowledges the difficulty in discussing all sources, especially questionable ones, in a comprehensive review, suggesting that such a task could be endless.

Annotation 4, from the perspective of 'CENAP,' expresses a critical stance towards scientific authority. It states that CENAP is not so scientifically credulous as to accept every obscure theory simply because a Nobel laureate defends it. The authors believe that many errors made by Nobel laureates could fill volumes and emphasize the importance of forming one's own understanding through scientific knowledge.

Annotation 3 questions the significance of newly discovered chambers in the Cheops Pyramid, asking what they are intended to prove.

Denver and Dallas in one Pot (Letter to the Editor)

This section features a letter from R. Horn in Erbach. The writer expresses concern that the 'small war' (Kleinkrieg) between GEP and CENAP seems to be escalating into a 'big war' (Großkrieg). The writer finds a piece by 'Buttlar' to be 'shocking' and 'retouched reality' to be 'very interesting and illuminating.'

Regarding media, Horn finds the mention of 'Fallon' amusing and notes that neither ARD nor ZDF have shown interest in 'Die Colbys,' perhaps saving the creators work. The writer also expresses confusion about why people generally lump 'Denver' and 'Dallas' together. In a more fantastical note, Horn states they wouldn't mind if the entire 'Lindenstraße' and 'Glottertal' were swallowed by kilometer-long motherships, which have supposedly been sighted by millions but apparently only appear in the wrong places on Earth.

Quote of the Month

A humorous anecdote is presented as the 'Quote of the Month.' A newspaper publisher telegraphed a renowned astronomer asking for 500 words on the topic: 'Is there life on Mars?'. The astronomer's reply was: 'Nobody knows' - repeated 166 times. The source is noted as 'Das Beste 7.87, S. 87' (The Best 7.87, p. 87).

Astro-Warning: August 15 to September 30

This section provides an astronomical forecast. Venus and Mars are expected to remain invisible. Saturn will be visible low in the southwest for only about two to three hours after sunset, setting around 9:00 PM by the end of September. Jupiter, however, will become increasingly bright and visible. It will rise around 8:40 PM in late August and before 7:00 PM in late September, remaining visible for almost half the night from east to southwest.

The text notes that typically, most sighting reports come in during the summer months. However, this year, due to rainy and cool weather, few reports have been received, with a hope that the situation might change.

Meteor Showers

Four meteor showers are expected in September, including the Piscids and Taurids, with a peak around the 12th of the month. These are described as medium-speed objects.

A star chart labeled 'StarView1.1' is included, showing celestial positions for latitude 49° and longitude 9° on September 15, 1987, at 21:40 hours (20:40 GMT). It displays constellations and planets, with Jupiter (JUP) prominently marked. Key celestial times for that date are also listed: Celestial Time 20:53.1, Sunrise 5:59.4, Sunset 18:38.4, Sun R.A. 11Hr 32' Dec 3.0°, and Moon R.A. 6Hr 8' Dec 27.8°.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to adopt a critical and questioning stance towards established scientific consensus and media narratives. It encourages readers to independently evaluate information rather than blindly accepting pronouncements from authority figures. The inclusion of astronomical information suggests a dual focus on UFO phenomena and related scientific fields. The 'Quote of the Month' and the letter to the editor indicate a penchant for humor and a willingness to engage with reader feedback and contemporary issues, even those perceived as minor conflicts within the UFO community.