CENAP Report - No 147

Magazine Overview

This issue of the CENAP-REPORT, titled "CENAP-REPORT," is issue number 147 from May 1988, published by CENAP-Mannheim in Germany. It is priced at DM 3.90 and focuses on UFO phenomena, with a particular emphasis on historical sightings from the 1930s and a recent event in Australia.

UFO's in the '30s

This section, written by Ulrich Magin, delves into various unexplained aerial phenomena reported during the 1930s. It references John A. Keel's book "Operation Trojan Horse" and highlights sightings of "ghost flyers" – unidentified aircraft that were often mistaken for early UFOs. The article details specific incidents, including a mysterious aircraft over Berlin in August 1933, numerous unidentified aircraft over Greece in January 1934, and a peculiar incident near Brighton where an aircraft reportedly crashed into the sea, but no wreckage was found.

Further reports from the 1930s include alleged radio signals from space in November 1935, a "ghost flyer" over Vienna, and sightings of mysterious aircraft over Finland in September 1936, suspected to be Soviet spy planes. The article also touches upon other unusual aerial phenomena observed during that decade, such as ball lightning and strange lights during earthquakes, which were often interpreted as omens of war. The prevalence of reports about sea monsters like the Loch Ness Monster and other unusual events in newspapers of the era is noted as potentially influencing the reporting of other phenomena.

The Nullarbor Affair

This major section, written by Werner Walter and Innes Willox, details a significant UFO incident that occurred on the Nullarbor Plain in Australia. The report begins by referencing previous CENAP-REPORT articles on the subject and then presents a detailed account based on reports from "The Advertiser" and other Australian media.

The core of the report is the testimony of the Knowles family – Faye Knowles and her three sons (Sean, Patrick, and Wayne). They claim that on January 20, 1988, while driving on the Eyre Highway near the Western Australia-South Australia border, their car was pursued by a bright, glowing object. They described the object as white with a yellow center, egg-shaped, and about a meter wide. The object allegedly hovered over their car, lifted it from the ground, causing a tire to burst, and distorted their voices. The family also reported a black, ash-like substance found on and inside their car.

The report includes statements from Sergeant Jim Furnell of the Ceduna police, who took the family's report seriously due to their distress. He noted that the car had a dented roof and was covered in an ash-like material. Another policeman, Sgt. Fred Longley, described the family as being in a state of shock and fear.

The incident gained further attention when a truck driver, Graham Henley, reported seeing a bright light in his rearview mirror around the same time and location. Additionally, the crew of a fishing boat, the "Empress Star," reported being "confused" by a UFO sighting near Port Lincoln shortly after the Knowles family's encounter, suggesting the possibility of the same object being involved.

Scientific and Skeptical Perspectives

The article presents various theories and analyses regarding the Nullarbor incident. Professor Glen Moore from the University of Wollongong suggested that the circumstances were consistent with the family having witnessed a carbonaceous meteorite. This theory is supported by the description of the object, the physical evidence (ash-like substance), and reports of similar phenomena associated with meteorite falls. Other theories proposed include a natural phenomenon like ball lightning or a mirage caused by the rising sun, as suggested by meteorological expert Allan Brunt.

However, the Knowles family vehemently rejected these explanations, insisting they had encountered a UFO. The report also mentions that UFO researchers in the United States, such as George Eberhart, considered the case to be potentially the most significant documented close encounter due to the physical evidence.

Media Coverage and Investigation

The report highlights the media's role in covering the Nullarbor incident, noting that "The Advertiser" published a detailed report, while "The News" focused on the investigation into the mysterious ash-like substance. The article suggests that a contract with Channel 7 may have influenced the family's public statements. It also mentions that scientists from Adelaide University and US experts were examining the substance, with initial findings suggesting it might contain iron oxide and be related to worn brake pads, though this was contested by some UFO experts.

Technological Limitations

A section titled "NULLARBOR IS A BLACK HOLE FOR UFO TRACKING" discusses the limitations of current technology in monitoring the Nullarbor Plain. It points out that high-tech satellites, radar stations (RAAF, Williamtown, Brisbane, Jindalee), and air traffic control systems have insufficient coverage of this vast region, making it difficult to track or identify aerial phenomena there.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the theme of unidentified aerial phenomena, presenting both historical accounts and a contemporary case study. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into UFO reports, acknowledging the need for scientific rigor while also giving credence to witness testimonies. The magazine aims to uncover the truth behind these events, distinguishing between genuine phenomena and potential hoaxes or misidentifications. There is a clear effort to present different perspectives, including those of witnesses, investigators, and skeptics, and to analyze the physical evidence presented in cases like the Nullarbor incident.

This issue of CR (Volume 12, Issue 146), published in March 1988 by CENAP, focuses on UFO phenomena, astronomical events, and skeptical analysis. The cover story, "Wo bleibt er eigentlich, der liebe Gott?" (Where is he, dear God?), features a personal narrative by Andreas Schneider dealing with his HIV diagnosis and its emotional impact.

The Mundrabilla Case: A Skeptical Analysis

The issue begins by revisiting the Mundrabilla UFO incident, presenting a skeptical viewpoint attributed to A.T. Brunt, a UFO spokesperson for Australian Skeptics. Brunt argues that the "UFO dust" observed was likely brake dust from the Knowles family's Ford Telstar, which experienced a tire blowout. He suggests the bright light seen was possibly the star Sirius, or a distorted view of the sun, exacerbated by the driver's fatigue and the stressful event. Brunt dismisses the idea of extraterrestrial visitors, emphasizing that many unusual experiences have natural explanations.

Atmospheric Phenomena and Refraction

Further analysis of the Mundrabilla incident by Brunt delves into meteorological conditions, specifically a strong inversion layer over the area on January 20, 1988. This condition, he explains, can create Fata Morgana effects, causing distant lights or objects to appear distorted or as if they are in the sky. He likens this to the "Novaya Zemlya effect" and suggests that the perceived "chasing" light could be a distorted solar appearance.

The Amsterdam UFO Alarm

The magazine reports on a UFO alarm in Amsterdam in early March 1988, where the police, alerted by air traffic controllers at Schiphol Airport, launched a large-scale search. The initial reports described unidentifiable lights. However, the official explanation, provided by the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute, identified the lights as the planets Venus and Jupiter in close conjunction, visible in the western sky. The article also mentions a possible misidentification of a crane with lights as a UFO.

UFO Sightings and Explanations from Around the World

Several other UFO reports are discussed:

• Villingen, Germany: A woman reported a "balloon-like" object with a bright light, which the article suggests might have been a party gag balloon.
• Weisenheim, Germany: A man reported a large, steady red light, also potentially explained as a party gag balloon.
• Shanghai, China: A sighting of an oval or comet-like object led to military aircraft being scrambled. The article notes that a later report from THE HOUSTON POST suggested a Japanese satellite launch was responsible.
• Haifa, Israel: A report of a patch of burnt sand was linked to UFO activity by some, but a military explanation involving naval exercises was also provided.
• Texas, USA: A Soviet rocket burning up in the atmosphere caused a bright flash, initially leading to numerous calls to authorities.

The Role of Skepticism and Research

Werner Walter of CENAP-Mannheim is introduced, and the magazine expresses interest in his UFO research. The article highlights the importance of distinguishing between natural phenomena and genuine unexplained events, emphasizing that many UFO reports can be traced to misidentifications, atmospheric effects, or hoaxes. The article also mentions the work of Rudolf Henke and his star chart program, which was used to identify celestial objects in some cases.

Organizations and Publications

The issue provides information on various UFO research organizations and publications:

• DARAI (Deutsche Agentur für Raumfahrt und Astronomie Information): Described as an association for spaceflight and astronomy enthusiasts, DARAI aims to provide information and foster understanding. It publishes the DARAI Journal and maintains an archive.
• CENAP: CENAP is presented as the working group for "unusual celestial phenomena/UFOs" within DARAI, committed to serious research and cooperation.
• APRO (Aerial Phenomena Research Organization): The article notes that APRO has ceased operations, leaving CUFOS and MUFON as the primary US-based UFO organizations.
• MUFON-CES: Mentioned in the context of a potential blending of older UFO cults with neo-UFOlogy.

Personal Narratives and Reflections

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the personal story of Andreas Schneider, who is HIV positive. He recounts his struggles with love, fear of transmission, and his emotional turmoil, questioning the absence of divine intervention in suffering. His narrative touches upon themes of isolation, depression, and the search for meaning.

Letters and Critiques

Roland Horn from SUFOF-Erbach writes in to correct astronomical details in a previous article, specifically regarding the position of Venus and Jupiter. He clarifies that Venus was not near Earth at the time mentioned and that Jupiter was not visible in the evening sky as stated.

Astrowarning

A section provides an astronomical forecast for May 1988, detailing the visibility of planets like Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Saturn, as well as meteor showers such as the Eta-Aquarids and Scorpius-Sagittarius meteors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a skeptical approach to UFO phenomena, emphasizing the importance of scientific investigation and the likelihood of natural explanations for many sightings. It highlights the role of atmospheric optics, misidentification, and psychological factors in UFO reports. While acknowledging the enduring mystery of UFOs, the editorial stance leans towards debunking sensational claims and encouraging rational analysis. The magazine also features personal stories and reflections, such as Andreas Schneider's narrative, which adds a human dimension to its content, exploring themes of illness, love, and existential questions.

This document is a single page from a German publication, likely a newsletter or magazine, focusing on amateur astronomy. The page is dated May 21-23, 1988, and announces the 6th Amateur Astronomers Fair (FAA) organized by the Volkssternwarte Laupheim e.V. The page also includes a report on CENAP's participation in this fair.

6. Fachmesse für Amateurastronomen (FAA) The main event advertised is the 6th Amateur Astronomers Fair (FAA), which took place from May 21st to 23rd, 1988, at the Volkssternwarte Laupheim e.V. The fair offered a variety of attractions for amateur astronomers, including:

• Interesting Lectures: Specific lecture topics are not detailed in the main advertisement, but the overall theme is amateur astronomy.
• Exhibits and Sales: Visitors could find telescopes, accessories, astronomical slides, books, meteorites, optics, mirrors, sidereal clocks, and domes.
• Special Exhibition: An exhibition titled 'Astrofotographie' (Astrophotography) was featured.
• Scientific Film Program: A program of scientific films was presented.
• Entertainment: The best science fiction movies were shown for relaxation.

The event was described as 'Das Forum der Amateur-Astronomie' (The Forum of Amateur Astronomy) and was held in Laupheim during Pentecost 1988. Information was available by sending a franked return envelope to the Volkssternwarte Laupheim e.V. Geschäftsstelle.

CENAP auf der FAA This section details the involvement of CENAP (a group or organization) at the FAA fair. It stems from a friendly contact between CENAP and Nuremberg amateur astronomers. On March 13, 1988, an invitation was received from Robert Clausen, the organizer of the FAA and representative of the Volkssternwarte Laupheim e.V.

The invitation confirmed that Werner Walter from CENAP would give a lecture on Saturday, May 21, 1988, at 13:00. The lecture's topic was 'DAS UFO-PHANOMEN' (The UFO Phenomenon), described as a critical examination of extraordinary celestial phenomena. Mr. Clausen expressed his belief that factual, educational work in this field would benefit amateur astronomy and stated that they wished to support this endeavor.

CENAP also planned to have an information stand at the fair to cater to the approximately 5,000 expected visitors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The publication clearly supports and promotes amateur astronomy events and activities. It highlights the educational and scientific aspects of astronomy, including the study of UFO phenomena, while also acknowledging the entertainment value of science fiction films. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging scientific inquiry and knowledge sharing within the amateur astronomy community, as evidenced by the support for Werner Walter's lecture on UFOs and the general promotion of the FAA fair.