CENAP Report - No 144

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, identified as Nr.144 from 2/1988, is a publication from CENAP-Mannheim, a private, independent organization for the investigation of extraordinary aerial phenomena. The cover prominently features a headline suggesting that UFO sightings over England were actually Royal Air Force (RAF) refueling maneuvers, accompanied by an image of military jets. The issue is priced at DM 3.90.

CENAP's Mission and Methods

The introductory section on page 2 details CENAP's operational framework. CENAP positions itself as a private, independent organization dedicated to investigating the UFO phenomenon. Since 1976, they have examined approximately 350 reported sightings. Their approach is described as scientific, with an almost criminalistic investigative rigor. CENAP representatives have been invited to discuss UFOs with the German Ministry of Defence and the Air Force. The organization is also recommended by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Interior and receives UFO sighting reports from the Federal Aviation Office and Air Traffic Control. They collaborate with various national and international organizations and maintain an extensive archive of UFO-related materials. Beyond UFO research, CENAP also engages in 'psychohygiene,' aiming to combat occultism and superstition, and to expose charlatans and manipulation by mass media.

TENDENZEN: CR-STUDIE (Part II) - UFO Photos Confronted

This section, spanning pages 2 to 6, critically examines various UFO photographs and reports that CENAP has investigated. The study aims to identify misidentifications and hoaxes.

• Waldshut (1976): A dark UFO photo was initially reported with claims of radioactivity, but later admitted to be a trick involving a piece of paper.
• Mannheim-Wallstadt (1976): A 'UAP' photo taken during a stressful period was initially treated as a UFO case but later identified as the star Sirius.
• Saarbrücken-Dudweiler (1977): Long-exposure photos of lights, initially kept in the CENAP archive as a UFO case, were later identified as a party-gag balloon.
• Tarmstedt (1977): A UFO photograph was revealed to be a star obscured by clouds.
• Datteln (1978): A Polaroid photo of a UFO was sensationalized by the press but explained as a piece of paper on a window.
• Berlin (1978): A photo was taken, but the witness was later diagnosed with epilepsy, and the object identified as a lamp.
• Mannheim-Schönau (1978): A student's photo of a flying saucer was identified as a reflection of a kitchen lamp.
• Oberthal (1979): A student photographed a UFO multiple times, but the evidence was revealed to be a trick with paper scraps.
• Löhne (1979): A UFO-Nachrichten reader misinterpreted a photo error.
• Rheda-Wiedenbrück (1980): Photos taken by a student were identified as a small UFO model.
• Billy Meier (Switzerland): Models were presented, but the case was depicted as a hoax by GSW.
• Mister X (1950): A hoax was uncovered through research.
• Hirtshals Film (Denmark, 1976): A bright light filmed was identified as a advertising balloon.
• Gernsheim (1981): A film was claimed to show an energy UFO, but was allegedly swapped and showed windows at night, with a psychological explanation.
• Hamburg (1982): A lens reflection was photographed and mistaken for a UFO.
• Nagora Series (1971): A large UFO photo case was identified as a trick involving a VW car hubcap.
• Mühlheim-Wolke (1982): A photo published in BILD was identified as a UFO, but likely had a conventional explanation.
• Fall Stoll (Switzerland): Lights filmed were identified as a solar Zeppelin.
• Fall Saalfelden (Austria, 1982): A man photographed a thrown bin lid, admitting it was a prank.

The section also includes cases with trace evidence, such as a sand patch, 'UFO dust,' and impressions, which are often explained by natural phenomena like lightning strikes or are linked to hoaxes.

Oberthal: A 'UFO' in Broad Daylight

This article on page 5 details an incident on April 6, 1979, where three boys from St. Wendel-Oberthal reported seeing a 'thing' hovering over a forest. One boy, Ralf Klotak, took two instant photos. The boys then traveled to the local television station to report their sighting. The incident was broadcast, and the boys also reported finding mysterious circular tracks in the forest. The article notes that the boys were sometimes teased by classmates for their story. A follow-up by a journalist suggests that the tracks were not verifiable and that the lights seen might have been related to ground lights or helicopter activity.

Other Articles and Sections

• Information (Page 5): Lists contents of a previous issue of the publication, including topics like 'Oberthal: A 'UFO' in Broad Daylight,' 'Goldene Europa '79,' and SR-Kirchenfunk.
• MÄRZ '88 ASTROWARNUNG (Page 7): A celestial forecast by Roland Horn, detailing the positions and visibility of planets (Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Mars, Saturn) and meteor showers (Virgiden, Hydraiden, Sigma-Leoniden) for March 1988.
• BLICK NACH ENGLAND (Page 7-10): This section presents a response from Mark Ian Birdsall of YUFOS/QUEST to an article in BUFORA Bulletin titled 'UFOs Over Germany.' Birdsall defends YUFOS's reporting, stating they present facts and allow readers to draw their own conclusions. He argues that many UFO sightings can be explained by conventional means, but acknowledges that some phenomena might arise from physical stimuli, not necessarily alien spacecraft. He suggests that governments may possess more information about secret developments, such as stealth technology. The article also mentions the formation of the Independent UFO Network (IUN) in Northern England.
• UFO UPDATE: 'FLYING FAIRGROUND' IS SEEN OVER TOWN (Page 8-9): This article details a sighting over Exeter and Plymouth, England, on August 4-5, 1987. Witnesses, including an MoD officer and an ex-RAF pilot, reported seeing large, triangular objects. The article discusses the investigation by the Plymouth UFO Research Group and Robert Boyd. While some witnesses described the objects as UFOs, the official explanation provided by the RAF was that they were refueling aircraft (VC10 tankers). The article includes witness sketches and diagrams of the observed phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO reports, with a strong emphasis on identifying misidentifications and hoaxes. CENAP's editorial stance is one of rigorous, scientific investigation, aiming to demystify the UFO phenomenon by explaining sightings through conventional means whenever possible. They acknowledge the existence of unexplained phenomena but caution against jumping to conclusions, particularly regarding alien spacecraft. The magazine also touches upon the role of mass media in sensationalizing UFO reports and the potential for government secrecy regarding advanced technology. The publication advocates for a rational and evidence-based approach to UFO research, while also acknowledging the subjective nature of perception and the possibility of genuine anomalies.

This issue of CENAP, dated February 1987, focuses on UFO phenomena, with a particular emphasis on the investigation and explanation of sightings. The cover prominently features the book "UFOS 1947-1987: THE 40-YEAR SEARCH FOR AN EXPLANATION," compiled by Hilary Evans and John Spencer for the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA).

Analysis of UFO Cases and Cover-Ups

The issue begins by examining the case of Alex Birch and his 1962 UFO photographs, with Andy Roberts suggesting a government cover-up. Malcolm Robinson is quoted, urging researchers to investigate Ministry of Defence UFO files. The article dismisses this as a waste of time, citing the limited information revealed through US FOIA requests.

The 'Ice Carousel' Phenomenon in Sweden

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "RÄTSEL IM EIS" (Riddle in the Ice) case, authored by Hj Köhler. On December 15, 1986, Gösta Nilsson discovered a peculiar ice formation on the Pite River in Sweden, which resembled a "UFO landing trace." This phenomenon, a rotating ice disc with a diameter of 51 meters, was documented by researchers from the Technical University of Lulea, including Bo Nordell, Monika Söderlund, and Patrik Andreason. They calculated its weight to be approximately 700 tons and its rotation speed to be 3-4 decimeters per second, completing a full rotation in 8-9 minutes. The article explains this as a natural phenomenon resulting from river currents and ice formation, noting that the surrounding water prevented the entire river from freezing over. The researchers found this event to be a valuable opportunity for studying cold-region phenomena.

Soviet Rocket and Japanese Satellite Sightings

Under the heading "UFO FÜR EINEN TAG" (UFO for a Day), two distinct events are discussed. The first, attributed to a Soviet rocket, involved a bright object seen over the USA on December 10, 1987, which was identified as the final stage of a Soviet rocket carrying a communications satellite. The second, and more extensively detailed, event occurred on August 12, 1987. Millions of people across the eastern USA witnessed a spectacular, luminous object. Initial reports described it as a UFO, with some speculating about alien encounters. However, investigations led by Robert Gribble of the National UFO Reporting Center and contacts with NASA revealed that the object was a Japanese experimental satellite, launched on August 13, 1987. The satellite, part of the "H-1" rocket program, was equipped with 318 mirrors and rotated, reflecting sunlight. Its trajectory over the USA coincided with the sightings. The article also mentions the corkscrew-like cloud formation observed, attributed to the release of unused rocket booster fuel.

Analysis of UFO Reporting and Misidentification

Walt Andrus contributes an analysis of the August 12th sighting, detailing the numerous phone calls received by the National UFO Reporting Center. He highlights how the public's interest in space exploration fuels UFO speculation. The article discusses the role of amateur astronomers and radio amateurs in identifying the phenomenon. It also touches upon the psychological aspects of witness testimony, noting that fear and excitement do not necessarily validate a sighting.

James E. Oberg provides further details on the August 12th event, explaining how the satellite's high orbit (1,500 km) allowed it to be illuminated by the sun even after sunset on the ground. He mentions that the satellite was part of a Japanese space program and that its appearance was planned. The article also touches upon other potential misidentifications, such as B-52 aircraft landing in Syracuse and illegal fireworks causing panic in Kentucky.

The Challenge of UFO Classification

Pages 30-32 delve into the difficulties of classifying UFO cases. The general rule is stated: "The more independent witnesses, the faster a natural identification is found for a reported UFO appearance." Cases that remain mysterious are often based on single witnesses, where distortions in perception can lead to misidentification. The article references a case involving a stratospheric balloon over Piemonte, Italy, where approximately 2% of reports were so distorted that they could be mistaken for genuine UFOs without further context. This 2% figure is presented as consistent with the proportion of 'true' UFO cases acknowledged by reputable researchers.

Skepticism and Research Resources

The "CR-SCHLUSSLICHT" (Conclusion Light) section touches upon various aspects of UFO research and skepticism. It mentions a New Year's Eve gathering where discussions included education and criticism of certain media portrayals of UFOs. The section also references "DER SKEPTIKER," a publication of the "Society for the Scientific Investigation of the Paranormal," and its articles on UFOs. It highlights the value of publications like "THE SKEPTICAL INQUIRER" for understanding UFO investigations in the USA. Additionally, it lists resources for those interested in UFOs and extraterrestrial life, such as informational brochures and a "WHO'S WHO" directory of UFO phenomenology.

Mars Face and Other UFO-Related News

Page 34 includes a discussion of the "Mars Face" formation, explaining it as a natural geological feature misinterpreted due to shadows. It also mentions the "Happy Face" formation, a larger impact crater that was overlooked in favor of the more famous "Mars Face." The section notes the unusual camaraderie between UFO proponent Doc Hynek and UFO skeptic Klass Arm at a conference. Brief news items include a claim about the Vatican training priests for encounters with UFO aliens and a mention of a TV show flop related to alien abduction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CENAP consistently promotes a skeptical yet open-minded approach to UFO phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of scientific investigation, rigorous analysis, and the debunking of misidentifications. The magazine highlights how many reported UFO sightings can be explained by natural phenomena, space launches, or misinterpretations of known objects. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained cases, the editorial stance leans towards finding rational explanations and cautions against jumping to conclusions based on limited evidence or emotional testimony. The publication also serves as a resource for researchers, providing information on books, organizations, and ongoing investigations within the UFO field.