CENAP Report - No 153-154

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: Nr. 153/154
Date: November 1988
Publisher: CENAP-Mannheim
Price: DM 3,90

This issue of CENAP REPORT, published by CENAP-Mannheim, focuses on UFO phenomena in Spain, with the cover headline "SOBRE ESPAÑA" (About Spain) promising complete information on the investigation of the "phenomenon."

CENAP Organization and Activities

CENAP (Centrales Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene) is presented as a private, independent organization that has been investigating UFO reports since 1976, having examined approximately 350 cases. They approach their investigations with scientific rigor and a 'criminalistic' sense of detection. CENAP representatives have been invited to the German Ministry of Defense and were recommended by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Interior as a point of contact for UFO reports. They receive reports from the German Federal Aviation Office and Frankfurt Air Traffic Control. The organization is known nationwide through numerous press reports and media interviews, with their research described as 'meticulous,' 'objective,' and 'sober.' CENAP investigates both new and historical UFO events, maintaining an extensive archive and correspondent network. They are associated with various national and international organizations. A part of CENAP's work also focuses on 'psychohygiene,' combating occultism and superstition, and exposing fraudulent practices by popular authors and manipulations by mass media.

The CENAP REPORT is the monthly publication of CENAP-Mannheim, available by annual subscription for DM 40.

Case Study 1: The UFO Photo from Mallorca

This section details the analysis of a UFO photograph from Mallorca, initially presented as a significant case. The photograph, a black and white print, was sent to GSW (GROUND SAUCER WATCH) for analysis. The photo, taken during twilight, showed details of the foreground and background but lacked information about the observation, camera, or film used. GSW conducted various analyses, including color contouring, digitization, pixel analysis, outline enhancement, filtering, and high-resolution imaging.

The findings stated:
1. The photo is not a hoax.
2. The image is not a montage.
3. The unidentified object is not a photographic defect or anomaly.
4. The image is weak, and the object is neither a solid object nor a light source; the image is blurred.
5. The object is not suspended by a thread or thrown into the air.

However, further analysis revealed:
6. The photo was a newspaper reproduction, rastered, which complicated the electronic suppression of the rastering. The photo was a third-generation reproduction from a newspaper, with the original negatives reportedly held by the Ministry of Aviation.
7. The object is on the same plane as the emulsion film, not a distant object. This conclusion was reached by digitally transforming data of the mountain and clouds and comparing them with the unidentified image, suggesting atmospheric effects on other objects.
8. The image has all the characteristics of a lens reflection.
9. The main body of the object shows brighter points that resemble a group of small light objects, also part of the main reflection.
10. The position of the sun at sunset is ideal for creating a lens reflection, aligning with the sun behind the mountains, confirmed by a digital densitometer.

Conclusion: A rare atmospheric phenomenon, a sun pillar (Sonnen-Säule).

Case Study 2: "OVNI" Destined for Siberia

This section reports on an incident that occurred in March 1979, involving a Soviet submarine that fired two missiles near the Canary Islands, which were mistaken for UFOs by witnesses. The Spanish newspaper EL PAIS reported on this sensational event on June 14, 1987.

According to preliminary conclusions from an investigation commission of the Spanish Air Force, a nuclear-powered Soviet submarine fired two intercontinental missiles from the southwest of the Canary Islands towards Siberia on March 5, 1979. This conclusion was based on thousands of witness testimonies who claimed to have seen two UFOs emerge from the sea. The missile launches occurred about 200 miles southwest of the island group, with several minutes between them.

Military officials, after analyzing witness statements and photographic and film evidence, concluded that the objects were missiles. They inquired with US authorities if US units were responsible for the launches, but received a negative response. Air Force investigators noted the characteristic fiery tail visible in the photos, indicating missiles. They also determined that the missiles flew towards Siberia and left the atmosphere. The Air Force had numerous photographic documents, and the initial unusual sign was a horizontal rainbow observed from all islands, approaching and widening, which lasted for several minutes.

Some witnesses described the 'spaceship' in detail, including window locations, antennas, and colors of emitted light beams, which surprised some investigators. Independent investigators suggested the launch was a US test to check communication systems between the islands and the Pentagon. The Air Force commission typically finds conventional explanations for most UFO reports, identifying them as civilian or military aircraft, helicopters, weather balloons, conventional missiles, or agricultural rockets. If no logical explanation is found, the case is archived. The Air Force maintains a confidential archive of these reports, managed by Colonel Sergio Rubiano in the Air Safety department. The Queen of Spain was reportedly the only outsider granted access to these confidential documents.

The British & Irish Skeptic published an article titled "TWO SOVIET INTERCONTINENTAL MISSLES EXPLODED OVER 'THE UNIQUE PROFESSIONAL SPANISH UFOLOGIST'," which described the event as controversial, with some Spanish UFOlogists insisting the objects were extraterrestrial ships, while others agreed they were missile launches. Juan Jose Benitez, a prominent Spanish UFO investigator, argued that the phenomenon was not meteorological, an aurora, a meteorite, a balloon, or a rocket, but an extraterrestrial ship. However, GSW's photographic analysis in 1979 suggested the UFO could have been a US-Marine Polaris missile. The article notes that Benitez has consistently dismissed the missile explanation and has been accused of sensationalism.

Catalog of Negative UFO Landing Reports

This section introduces a computer index compiled in 1985 by V.J. Ballester Olmos and J.A. Fernandez, covering alleged UFO landing cases in Spain and Portugal from 1900 onwards. The project, funded by the FUND FOR UFO RESEARCH in Maryland, USA, aimed to identify and categorize cases that had conventional explanations.

The catalog uses a systematic classification system with eight columns:
I: Date (Year, Month, Day)
II: Local Time
III: Location
IV: Classification (including presence of occupants, effects/traces, and type of terrain/water)
V: Spanish Province
VI: Portuguese Province
VII: Type of Explanation
VIII: Researcher or Source responsible for identification

The article highlights that all CE III (Close Encounter of the Third Kind) cases in the catalog had conventional explanations, including sightings of 'lone creatures.'

Analysis of UFO Landing Explanations

Based on the catalog, the article presents a ranking of explanations for UFO landing reports (CE III cases):
1. Astronomical Explanations: (8.2%) Planets (Venus, Jupiter), Moon, star constellations, meteorites.
2. Aviation Phenomena: (7.1%) Balloons, helicopters, aircraft, missiles, re-entries.
3. Meteorological Phenomena: (25.1%) "Kugelblitz" (ball lightning), whirlwinds, ionization phenomena, lightning effects.
4. Biological Causes: (4.2%) Misinterpreted persons, monkeys, fetuses, algae, spiderwebs, parasitic fungi.
5. Miscellaneous: (13%) Vehicles (cars, motorcycles, tractors), fires (campfires, field/forest fires), lights (from cars, campfires, hunters, radio antennas, houses), submarines, short circuits, fire department operations, construction work, military maneuvers.
6. Hoaxes/Fabrications: (31.2%) This category accounts for the largest portion of CE III cases in Spain/Portugal.
7. Mental Defects of Witnesses: (10.9%) Hallucinations (normal or drug-induced), psychological disorders, psychopaths, paranoia, visionary experiences.

The article emphasizes that hoaxes constitute nearly one-third of reported CE III cases, followed by meteorological phenomena and miscellaneous non-UFO-related sightings. Mentally disturbed UFO landing witnesses are also a significant factor. The high number of potential misidentifications highlights the variety of phenomena in our environment that can lead to confusion.

Ballester Olmos and Fernandez Paris offer a concluding remark, urging young investigators to reflect on these realities and warning that ignoring this caution is "intellectual suicide" and an embrace of sensationalism and obscurantism.

Case Study 3: The Monguzzi Hoax

This section revisits the Giampiero Monguzzi UFO photo case, which was previously covered in CR 119 (January 1986). New material from Luc Bürgin of Basel provides further details.

The Monguzzi photos, allegedly taken in the Bernina Pass in the early 1950s, depicted a humanoid figure with a flying saucer. These were considered controversial but widely accepted by many UFO researchers as genuine. The article reveals that an article from the London newspaper REYNOLDS NEWS (February 15, 1953) contains an admission from Monguzzi himself, explaining how he faked the photos and even demonstrating the models he used.

Giampiero Monguzzi, a 26-year-old engineer, reportedly sought fame. He constructed a small flying saucer model (9 inches in diameter) from cardboard and tape, and a small Martian figure (2 inches high) from metal covered in gray cotton. He also recreated a mountain shape using plasticine. These models were photographed in a snowy landscape to create the illusion of a landing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently promotes a skeptical and scientific approach to UFO phenomena. It highlights the work of organizations like CENAP and GSW in conducting rigorous investigations and debunking hoaxes and misidentifications. The emphasis is on finding conventional explanations for sightings, whether they be meteorological, astronomical, aviation-related, or even psychological. The article strongly cautions against sensationalism and encourages critical thinking, as exemplified by the concluding remarks from Ballester Olmos and Fernandez Paris regarding the high rate of hoaxes and misinterpretations in UFO reports. The magazine itself serves as a platform for disseminating these analytical findings and promoting a rational understanding of the subject matter.

This issue of 'UFO'S UND SOZIOLOGIE' (UFOs and Sociology), the 4th installment, published in November/December 1988, delves into the complex interplay between UFO phenomena and societal perceptions, psychology, and media influence. The magazine, edited by Roland Horn of SUFOF-Erbach, features articles by U. Magin, Wolfgang Elsner, and Magnus C. Weise, exploring various facets of the UFO topic from a sociological and psychological perspective.

The Monguzzi Hoax and Media Influence

The issue begins by detailing the 'Monguzzi hoax,' where a family allegedly faked UFO photographs in 1953 and profited from them. Despite later revelations, many UFO researchers remained convinced of the photos' authenticity. The article highlights how UFO journals consistently reported the images as genuine, and even inquiries to established figures like Dr. Robert Pinotti yielded no definitive answers, illustrating the challenges in debunking persistent hoaxes.

The influence of the media on UFO sightings is further explored, drawing on the work of sociologist Ron Westrum. It's argued that media coverage can amplify individual sightings into 'waves' of reports, making the phenomenon appear more widespread and credible. This effect is not unique to UFOs but applies to other anomalous phenomena as well. The article notes how media attention can encourage witnesses to come forward, creating a feedback loop that fuels public interest.

UFOs, Sociology, and Psychology

Ulrich Magin's contribution examines the sociological and psychological underpinnings of UFO beliefs. He discusses how UFO phenomena can be interpreted through the lens of mythology and folklore, drawing parallels between alien encounters and ancient myths of beings from the sky. The concept of 'contactees' is analyzed, with their narratives often mirroring religious frameworks, presenting UFOs as divine messengers or saviors. Magin also touches upon the idea of 'good' and 'evil' UFO beings, akin to angels and demons in traditional beliefs.

Jacques Vallee's work comparing Celtic fairy beliefs with UFO sightings is mentioned, suggesting a continuity in human fascination with the unknown and otherworldly. The article notes how UFO narratives often incorporate elements of ancient myths, such as beings descending from the sky or offering advanced knowledge.

Abduction Phenomena and Psychological Interpretations

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the 'abduction phenomenon.' The case of Jeff Greenhaw, a police officer who disappeared after photographing an alien, is presented as a dramatic example. His wife, Elisabeth Greenhaw, believes he was abducted by aliens, possibly as retribution for photographing them. The article details the alleged threats and subsequent destruction of their property, culminating in Jeff's disappearance.

Magnus C. Weise reports on the case of Eddy Corner, an electrician who claimed to have been abducted and subjected to medical examinations by alien beings. The account includes details of physical examinations, the collection of biological samples, and even a film showing his intimate experiences. Psychologist Arnold Degrd. believed Corner's account, despite initial skepticism from colleagues. The article notes the rise in abduction literature in the late 1980s, with books by authors like Budd Hopkins exploring theories of alien genetic experiments or attempts to create a hybrid race.

IFOs: The Rational Explanation

Werner Walter addresses the 'old UFO dispute,' emphasizing the role of Identified Flying Objects (IFOs), particularly aircraft and helicopters, in many reported sightings. He highlights the work of Allan Hendry, who investigated thousands of UFO reports and found that a significant percentage could be explained as conventional aircraft, especially at night. Hendry's research indicated that 88.4% of reported UFOs occurred at night, with many being mistaken for exotic craft due to their lights and silent operation.

The article details how aircraft, especially advertising planes with light arrays or helicopters flying at low altitudes without audible noise, can be easily misinterpreted as UFOs. Walter stresses the importance of rigorously classifying these IFOs to avoid inflating the number of genuinely unexplained cases. He criticizes the UFO community for often neglecting the study of IFOs in favor of focusing solely on 'authentic' UFO reports, potentially skewing statistical data.

Astronomical Forecast

The issue includes an 'ASTROWARNUNG' section by Roland Horn, providing astronomical observations and predictions for November and December 1988, including the positions of Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn, as well as meteor showers like the Leonids and Taurids.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the sociological and psychological dimensions of UFO phenomena. The editors and contributors appear to adopt a critical yet open-minded stance, acknowledging the prevalence of hoaxes and misidentifications (IFOs) while also exploring the deeper cultural and psychological reasons behind belief in UFOs and alien encounters. There's a strong emphasis on the role of media in shaping public perception and the tendency for UFO narratives to draw from ancient myths and religious archetypes. The magazine seems to advocate for a more rigorous, evidence-based approach to UFO research, distinguishing between explained phenomena and those that remain truly anomalous, while also recognizing the profound impact these beliefs have on individuals and society.

This issue of DER SPIEGEL, dated October 29, 1973, focuses heavily on the burgeoning UFO phenomenon, with the cover headline proclaiming "The UFOs are coming." The magazine delves into a significant UFO wave that swept across the United States in the late summer and early fall of 1973, presenting a mix of eyewitness accounts, official investigations, and skeptical analyses.

The 1973 UFO Wave

The issue details how the "attack" began in late September, with sightings spreading rapidly across the southeastern United States and then expanding to other regions, including New England, the Great Lakes area, the Midwest, and the West Coast, even reaching into Canada. The sheer volume of reports overwhelmed local authorities, with hundreds of witnesses emerging from even small communities.

Notable Sightings and Encounters

Several specific incidents are highlighted:

• The Pastor Gill Case (1959): Mentioned as a classic UFO case, later identified by astronomers and UFO researchers like Dr. Hynek as a genuine UFO event, though physicists like Donald Menzel had previously suggested it was a misidentification of the planet Venus.
• Roland Horn's Astrophotography: The magazine notes that Roland Horn presented his private astrophotographs and a brochure titled "Rätselhafter Mond" (Mysterious Moon).
• The Falkville, Alabama Incident (January 8, 1987): The article revisits a story about Police Officer Jeff Greenhaw, who allegedly confronted and photographed an alien occupant of a UFO. His wife later claimed he was abducted by a UFO. However, the article points out that the "updated" version of this story, published in "Frau mit Herz," is based on an event from 1973, not 1987.
• The Pascagoula Abduction (Late Summer 1973): Two men from Pascagoula, Mississippi, reported being taken aboard a spacecraft by three humanoid creatures with "pointed ears and crab claws for arms." They described being examined with a large, "glass eye as big as a pizza."
• Ohio Governor's Sighting (October 15, 1973): Ohio Governor John Gilligan and his wife reported seeing an amber-colored, cigar-shaped object hovering in the sky for 30-35 minutes.
• Missouri Truck Driver Encounter: A truck driver in southeastern Missouri reported being blinded by a "large fireball" that approached his vehicle, causing his glasses to break and temporarily impairing his vision.
• Louisiana Police Sighting: Police officers in Pine, Louisiana, claimed to have spotted five UFOs in a forest.
• Tennessee Driver's Experience: A female driver in Tennessee reported a bright light that caused her car's engine to stall.
• New Orleans Sighting: A witness in New Orleans reported seeing a "giant oyster-like object" moving over her house.
• Mississippi Radar Incident: Radar operator James Thornhill reported his radar screen malfunctioning for 15 minutes after detecting an oscillating object.
• Other US Sightings: The article mentions reports from various locations including New England, the Great Lakes region, the Midwest, and the West Coast, as well as specific incidents in New York, Ohio, and Georgia.

Investigations and Skepticism

The magazine highlights the role of organizations like NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena) in investigating these sightings. NICAP's research often led to conventional explanations, such as misidentified aircraft, satellites, or natural phenomena. The article also touches upon the skepticism surrounding these claims, with some cases being dismissed as hoaxes or misinterpretations.

International Scope

While the focus is on the US wave, the article notes that similar phenomena were being reported internationally, including in Africa and the Soviet Union, where scientists detected regulated radio signals that TASS suggested could not be ruled out as extraterrestrial in origin.

The "Frau mit Herz" Article and Chronological Discrepancies

The article critically examines a story from "Frau mit Herz" about Jeff Greenhaw, pointing out that the details presented in the updated version actually stem from an event in 1973, not 1987, and that Greenhaw himself was not the primary source for the original abduction claim.

Object Characteristics

Descriptions of UFOs include shapes like discs, cigars, and spheres, with colors ranging from amber and red to green and blue. Behaviors noted are hovering, silent movement, and sudden stops. Some reports mention electromagnetic effects like radar interference and engine stalls, and physical trace evidence like broken glasses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a period of intense public interest in UFOs, fueled by media coverage and a series of widespread sightings. While presenting the accounts of witnesses and the work of UFO researchers, DER SPIEGEL also emphasizes the role of scientific investigation and skepticism in analyzing these phenomena. The magazine appears to lean towards providing a balanced view, showcasing both the mystery and the potential for rational explanation, while also acknowledging the public's fascination with the unknown. The critical examination of the "Frau mit Herz" story suggests an editorial stance that values factual accuracy and chronological integrity.