CENAP REPORT

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue Date: August 1988 (8.88, Nr. 150)
Publisher: CENAP-Mannheim
Country of Publication: Germany
Original Language: German

This issue of CENAP REPORT delves into the complexities of UFO research, questioning established theories and advocating for a more critical and scientific approach. It features a cover story questioning whether the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle has been solved and a section on UFOs in cinema. The magazine highlights the work of CENAP, an independent organization investigating UFO phenomena since 1976, and its collaboration with other international research groups.

The Debate on UFO Theories

The central theme of this issue revolves around the prevailing 'Extraterrestrial Hypothesis' (ETH) in ufology and the growing skepticism towards it. Andy Roberts, editor of UFO Brigantia, is extensively quoted, arguing that after 40 years of UFO research, little has been definitively learned. He criticizes the tendency to misidentify common objects as UFOs and points out the presence of liars and those who distort information within the UFO community. Roberts suggests that many sightings might have mundane explanations, including psychological factors, and that the focus should shift to a more rigorous, case-by-case analysis, possibly using a new term like UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena).

Roberts champions the 'Earthlight' theory, which posits that mysterious lights in the sky are caused by geological stress, as a more plausible explanation for some phenomena than extraterrestrial visitation. He laments the lack of intellectual flexibility within the ufological community, which he believes is too entrenched in the ETH, leading to disillusionment among new researchers.

Jenny Randles, Investigative Director for BUFORA (UK), is also featured, echoing similar sentiments. She questions the automatic equation of UFOs with alien spacecraft and the belief in 'little green men.' Randles emphasizes the subjective nature of human perception and urges researchers to accept that we are all influenced by our beliefs. She highlights that many reported UFO cases, upon closer examination, turn out to be IFOs (Identified Flying Objects). Randles stresses the importance of critical investigation and the need to rule out conventional explanations before considering extraordinary ones.

UFO Activity and Research in Spain

The magazine dedicates a significant portion to UFO phenomena in Spain. It traces the history of UFO sightings in the country, noting a surge in reports in the late 1960s and a consistent level of activity thereafter. The development of UFO research organizations in Spain is also discussed, starting with the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI) in 1958 and the emergence of more scientifically-minded researchers in the late 1960s. The article notes the presence of both serious researchers and sensationalists within the Spanish UFO community.

A specific incident from February 3, 1988, involving a bright UFO observed over Spain, is detailed. While some, like Ricardo Campo Antonanzas, immediately labeled it an extraterrestrial spacecraft, astronomers and organizations like ARP (La Alternativa Racional) suggested it was likely a bolide or meteor. The article criticizes media outlets for sensationalizing the event and failing to present the skeptical viewpoint.

UFOlogy: Two Approaches

Randles' article, titled "Are We Dealing With Two Ufologies?", highlights a divergence in approach between American and European (particularly British) ufologists. While American ufology tends to be more focused on the ETH and the idea of alien visitation, European ufology, according to Randles, shows a greater interest in sociological and psychological theories to explain the phenomena.

Personal Accounts and Skepticism

The issue includes a personal account from Luis Alfonso Gamez Dominguez of ARP, who shares his journey from believing in UFOs to becoming a skeptic. He recounts his collaboration with other skeptical researchers and criticizes journalists like Juan Jose Benitez for what he perceives as a lack of rigor and a tendency to sensationalize topics for profit.

Case Studies and Analysis

Several specific cases are briefly mentioned, including a small oval object over the Isle of Wight, a fireball over Dukinfield, and lights in formation over Whitchurch. These are presented as 'residual cases' by BUFORA, with potential explanations ranging from conventional aircraft and drones to natural phenomena. The article emphasizes that these cases, while unexplained, do not automatically constitute proof of extraterrestrial visitation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFOlogy, the distinction between genuine unexplained phenomena and misidentifications (IFOs), and the importance of scientific rigor in research. The editorial stance leans heavily towards skepticism, advocating for a rational approach that prioritizes evidence-based explanations and questions sensationalist claims. The magazine aims to publish research findings and analyses from around the world, promoting a more grounded understanding of the UFO phenomenon, and suggests a 'renaissance' in UFO investigation.

This issue of the CENAP REPORT, dated 1988, delves into the complex world of UFO phenomena, with a particular focus on Spain. It examines how UFO reports are handled by authorities, the statistical analysis of sightings, and the cultural impact of UFOs.

Government Handling of UFO Information in Spain

The report details the procedures established by the Spanish government for UFO observation reporting. Since 1968, the Air Space Section of the Air Force (Ministry of Defense) has been responsible for collecting, analyzing, and documenting UFO reports. The article notes that due to the sensationalist reporting by journalist J.J.Benitez, the UFO topic has been treated with a classified approach by authorities. This classification is attributed not to a specific cover-up, but to practical considerations, including the need to address unauthorized incursions into Spanish airspace and the difficulty in explaining all reported cases. The government's interest in UFOs is stated to be related to ensuring national airspace security.

Statistical Analysis of UFO Landings

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a detailed statistical analysis of UFO landing phenomena in Spain, based on a study of approximately 600 reported cases. This research, conducted between 1982 and 1986, resulted in the categorization of 230 unexplained landing events and 355 explained incidents. The data is presented through various illustrations:

• Illustration 2: Shows the distribution of 230 Iberian landings by year of occurrence, indicating a peak in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, with a decline in the 1980s.
• Illustration 3: Depicts the time curve of UFO landing phenomena, highlighting that sightings are predominantly nocturnal, increasing after 6 PM and peaking between 10 PM and midnight. The majority of incidents occur between 7 PM and 1 AM.
• Illustration 4: Illustrates the trend of nocturnal sightings over a 10-year period, showing a significant increase compared to daytime cases.
• Illustration 5: Maps the distribution of landing cases per Spanish province, identifying Barcelona, Cadiz, Huelva, Lerida, Sevilla, and Valencia as provinces with the highest number of reports.
• Illustration 6: Presents data on the proportion of events with traces and effects, and the proportion of cases with occupants sighted. It notes that 54% of cases involved physical or physiological evidence, and 17% reported the presence of occupants.
• Illustration 7: Shows the percentage of UFO cases per time of day, reinforcing the nocturnal nature of many sightings.

The analysis also touches upon the monthly distribution of cases, with August being the most active month, and the weekly distribution, showing Sundays as having more landings.

Case Studies and Explanations

The report includes a chronological catalog of various UFO-related incidents and folklore, analyzed from a sociological perspective. These include:

• Fall 1 (1125): A report from Reilbach near Freinstein about a fiery man in the mountains, described as a typical CE III case.
• Fall 2 (1870-10-25): An account from Brünn (Sudeten) of a fiery pillar resembling a smoke cloud, which was later identified as a being with a burning torch.
• Fall 3 (1917 onwards): Walter Schal's report of seeing a silver disc in the sky, linking it to his interest in 'new sciences' and extraterrestrial beings.
• Fall 4 (1950-06): An incident in Hasselbach (DDR) where Oskar Linke observed two figures in thick suits near a flying saucer.

These cases are examined for their psychological significance and sociological context. The article also discusses the influence of films like "EARTH VERSUS FLYING SAUCERS" on public perception, with DUIST protesting that the film unfairly portrayed aliens.

UFOs and Popular Culture

A significant section explores the impact of Hollywood cinema on the public's understanding of UFOs. It argues that films have created a 'UFO-Pop-Kino-Kultur,' shaping perceptions through dramatic portrayals and concepts. The article mentions an exhibition at the Frankfurt Film Museum dedicated to the special effects of Ray Harryhausen, known for his work on films like "EARTH VERSUS FLYING SAUCERS."

Events and Presentations

The issue also covers the CENAP's presentation on UFOs at the FAA '88 (Fachmesse für Amateur-Astronomen) in Laupheim, Germany. Despite initial concerns from organizers, the lecture by Werner Walter was well-received by the 331 attendees, including notable figures like Prof.Dr.Kippenhahn.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the systematic study and documentation of UFO phenomena, the government's role in managing and classifying UFO information, the statistical analysis of sightings, and the sociological and cultural interpretations of UFO reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous, data-driven research, aiming to demystify the UFO phenomenon while acknowledging its persistent presence and public fascination. There is a clear effort to distinguish between scientific investigation and sensationalism, and to provide a balanced perspective on the subject.

This issue of MANNHEIMER MORGEN, dated Friday, July 15, 1988, focuses heavily on UFO phenomena, alleged alien encounters, and related mysteries, particularly those reported in Germany and Austria during the mid-20th century. The articles explore a range of cases, from sightings of unidentified flying objects and humanoid figures to claims of telepathic communication and abductions.

Key Articles and Reports

Case Studies of UFO Sightings and Encounters:

The magazine presents a series of detailed case studies, often referencing earlier reports and investigations.

• Fall 5 (June 1951, Vacha, DDR): Erich Reinhold reported an event similar to the Linkes case, involving a bright light on Lohberg mountain and sightings of small figures in light suits, occurring during a local power outage. The incident was investigated by police.
• Fall 6 (September 11, 1954, near Vienna, Austria): Five adults and three children witnessed three classic saucer-shaped UFOs. The event was preceded by an automatically written message, and the witness's wife claimed to have communicated telepathically with the occupants.
• Fall 7 (October 9, 1954, Rinkerode near Münster, Germany): Herr Hoge observed a blue light that resolved into a cigar-shaped object with four men in overalls working beneath it. This report gained significant media attention.
• Fall 8 (Summer 1956, Stuttgart, Germany): Karl Ackermann described an encounter with a giant, diving-suit-clad figure that approached him and then departed.
• Fall 9 (March-April 1959, Lampertheim, Germany): Horst Raps reported three encounters with tall, slender beings who communicated messages of love and brotherhood, and even took him on a space flight.
• Fall 10 (1959, Rhine Valley, Germany): Virginia Horton, under hypnosis, recalled an abduction experience involving UFO pilots, describing a thin, white-skinned alien with six-fingered hands.
• Fall 11 (1950s, Hochwechsel, Austria): Emanual Cihlar recounted meeting a 'Martian' whose antenna touched his forehead, enabling telepathic understanding. This story was also spread by the DUIST.
• Fall 12 (August 29, 1961, Hamburg, Germany): Herta Schachner received numerous messages from 'Elder Brothers' claiming to be advanced extraterrestrials.
• Fall 13 (before 1966, Harz, Germany): Elisabeth Weindt claimed to have been taken to the moon by a UFO and met a being named Libena.
• Fall 16 (July 8, 1976, Lurup, Germany): Otto M. reported seeing a bright UFO with illuminated windows and large, robotic beings.
• Fall 17 (September 19, 1976, Mayen, Germany): August Wörner, a tax consultant and head of the 'UFO-Studio', claimed to have located a colony of survivors from a space catastrophe in Tibet, and that a visitor from Tibet had interacted with his camera.

The 'Mars Face' and the Bermuda Triangle:

• Rätselraten um das Marsgesicht (Speculation about the Mars Face): This article discusses the famous 'Mars Face' formation photographed by the Viking probe. Scientists are divided on whether it is the remnant of an ancient civilization or a natural geological feature. Mark Carlotto's study, published in 'Applied Optics', suggests the formation and others nearby are of 'intelligent design.' Richard Hoagland, founder of 'Das Mars-Projekt,' believes NASA knew about the formation for years and that it is part of a larger complex resembling a city. The article notes that the Soviet Union is also interested in investigating the phenomenon.
• Bermuda Triangle Connection: Several articles touch upon the Bermuda Triangle. One section discusses the 'Flight 19' incident, where five TBM-3 AVENGER aircraft disappeared. While mainstream explanations point to weather conditions, UFOlogists often link such disappearances to extraterrestrial activity. The article mentions the discovery of a TBM-3 AVENGER wreckage by treasure hunters, attributing it to natural causes rather than UFOs.

Other Topics:

• FLUG 19 and Avenger Aircraft: The disappearance of Flight 19 is discussed in relation to the Bermuda Triangle, with speculation about UFO involvement. The article clarifies that the TBM-3 AVENGER aircraft were part of this incident.
• Contactee Phenomenon: The issue highlights the 'contactee' phenomenon, where individuals claim to have had direct interactions with extraterrestrials. The article on Horst Raps and Virginia Horton exemplifies this, detailing messages of peace and alleged abductions.
• Esotericism and Religion: Many of the reported encounters are framed within religious or esoteric contexts. The stories of Emanual Cihlar and Elisabeth Weindt, for instance, are described as having religious undertones, with connections to concepts like the 'third eye' and angelic visions.
• DUIST and Related Groups: The role of organizations like the DUIST (Deutsche UFO-Studiengemeinschaft) in collecting and disseminating these accounts is mentioned, particularly in relation to the work of Karl Veit and Anny Baguhn.
• Psychological Aspects: The article on Horst Raps notes the pattern of 'contactees' sometimes becoming involved in criminal or psychiatric issues, and the recurring theme of sexuality (or its absence) in these narratives.
• Book and Publication Announcements: The issue includes an advertisement for a compilation titled 'DAS ENTFÜHRUNGS-SYNDROM: EINE MATERIALSAMMLUNG!' offered by CENAP, and mentions a forthcoming issue of the CR 150.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation and advanced civilizations. There's a clear interest in documenting and analyzing UFO sightings, humanoid encounters, and alleged abductions, often presenting these accounts as potentially significant evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these phenomena, while also acknowledging skeptical viewpoints and psychological explanations where applicable. The recurring themes include the search for truth about UFOs, the potential for interspecies communication, and the interpretation of these events through both scientific and esoteric lenses. The magazine seems to lean towards validating the experiences of witnesses, even when they are unusual or difficult to explain, and highlights the international nature of UFO research and reporting.