CENAP Report - No 168

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: Nr.168
Date: November 3, 1989
Publisher: CENAP-MANNHEIM
Country: Germany
Language: German
Price: DM 3,90

This issue of CENAP REPORT, a German magazine focused on UFO phenomena, delves into a variety of topics, including a reported UFO sighting in Eupen, Belgium, and a critical examination of sensationalist reporting within the ufology community. The magazine features articles that question the authenticity of alleged alien evidence, discuss the direction of UFO research, and report on sightings from around the world.

Belgian Gendarmes on a Nightly UFO Hunt

The cover story highlights an incident in Eupen, Belgium, where approximately 150 people reported observing unidentified flying objects. The article details how Belgian gendarmes were involved in a nighttime 'UFO hunt'. It also touches upon military radar reports of 'diffuse echoes' and speculates whether the US Air Force might have been testing a new helicopter.

UFOs in USA: Collapse of the Old Way?

This section, authored by CENAP-Mannheim, discusses a perceived split between UFOlogists in the USA and Europe. It criticizes the 'narrow-minded hardliners' in the US and calls for a 'renaissance' in UFO research, moving away from sensationalism and 'adventurous tales' towards more grounded realities. The article references the 'MJ-12 document' and the 'Gulf Breeze photos' as examples of questionable evidence. It quotes Jim Melesciuc, a former MUFON representative, who laments the increasing tendency for ufology to resemble science fiction, driven by profit and sensationalism, which he believes is pushing the field away from scientific recognition.

Melesciuc argues that the trend is to 'go with the wind and ask no questions,' citing an article in the MUFON UFO Journal as an example of this approach. He criticizes 'Deputy Director' John Schuessler for defending figures like Moore and Lear, whom Melesciuc deems irrational. The article also touches upon 'shock ufology' and claims of aliens being housed at Wright Patterson AFB for study, funded by illegal drug trafficking.

The 'Tomaten-Mann' Photo Controversy

Several articles in this issue critically dissect the infamous 'Tomaten-Mann' photo, which purports to show a dead alien. The magazine presents a strong case against its authenticity, suggesting it is a manipulated image of a burned human pilot. The analysis points out inconsistencies and evidence of retouching, such as the missing eyeglasses, which would be expected on a pilot. The articles question the motives of those who promote such evidence, including publishers and authors like Johannes von Buttlar and Michael Hesemann, accusing them of sensationalism and contributing to the 'deception' of the public.

One article details how the photo was first published in a 1981 magazine and faced criticism even then. It highlights the efforts of researchers like James W. Moseley and others who have debunked similar claims, exposing the questionable credentials and methods of some UFO researchers. The article concludes that the 'Tomaten-Mann' photo is likely a misidentified image of a crashed aircraft and its pilot, rather than an extraterrestrial.

Turkey in UFO Fever

This section reports on a series of UFO sightings in Turkey during November 1989. The article details incidents in Trabzon, Mersin, and Eskisehir, where numerous witnesses reported seeing bright, unusual objects in the sky. While some witnesses described them as 'flying saucers' or 'flying discs', the Turkish newspaper Hürriyet initially reported on these events with excitement. However, the magazine also presents the scientific explanation offered by meteorologists and astronomers, who identified the bright objects, particularly in Istanbul, as the planet Venus, which was unusually close to Earth at that time.

Despite the scientific explanations, the article notes that many witnesses remained convinced they had seen UFOs, highlighting the persistent belief in the phenomena even when faced with rational explanations. The magazine contrasts the public's fascination with the 'UFO' sightings with the scientific consensus, suggesting that the 'phenomenon' is often a result of misinterpretation of astronomical events.

UFO Research: Experts in Trouble

This article, a letter to the editor of Hamburger Abendblatt, criticizes the sensationalist and pseudo-religious aspects of some UFO conferences, contrasting them with the more serious, scientific approach to UFO research. The author argues that Germany is falling behind in UFO research due to a 'clumsy denial' by some, and urges the press to show more courage in reporting the truth about UFOs.

Another article discusses the 'Dialogue with the Universe' conference in Frankfurt, noting the presence of both serious UFO researchers and more fringe elements. It highlights Stanton Friedman's claim to have found 'proof' and mentions the sale of UFO-related merchandise at the event. The article also touches upon the skepticism surrounding the 'Star of Bethlehem' being a flying saucer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, there is a strong emphasis on critical analysis and skepticism towards sensationalist claims within ufology. CENAP REPORT positions itself as a proponent of scientific investigation, aiming to debunk hoaxes and expose manipulation. The magazine criticizes the tendency for some UFO researchers and publications to prioritize profit and sensationalism over factual accuracy, leading to a 'science fiction' portrayal of the phenomenon. The editorial stance clearly favors a rational, evidence-based approach, distinguishing itself from what it terms 'pseudo-religious fanatics' and 'adventurous tales'. The issue also highlights the international nature of UFO phenomena and the varying approaches to its study across different countries.

This issue of FUNK UHR, dated December 9, 1989, delves into the world of UFO phenomena, extraterrestrial theories, and the growing spiritual and esoteric movements associated with them. The magazine features reports from Germany, the Soviet Union, Italy, and other parts of Europe, exploring both alleged sightings and the cultural impact of UFOlogy.

Frankfurt UFOlogen-Kongreß: A Shift Towards Esotericism

The issue opens with a commentary by Walter Filz on the Frankfurt UFOlogen-Kongreß, an event that attracted over 1000 participants and 30 speakers from 15 countries. Filz notes the shift from scientific inquiry to a more spiritual and esoteric approach, with lectures ranging from UFOs and ancient history to Hitler and Göring being reincarnated Atlanteans. He describes an audience willing to accept even the most outlandish theories, such as a speaker asking them to visualize a swastika in their heart to achieve astral projection. The congress, titled "Dialog mit dem Universum," highlights a growing belief in extraterrestrial contact as a matter of faith rather than proof, aligning with the New Age movement and the concept of "Star-People."

Miko: The Extraterrestrial Singer

A prominent feature is the story of Miko (Petra Mikolajczak), a 30-year-old singer and actress who claims to be an extraterrestrial from the planets Galaan and Sirius, over a thousand light-years away. She states that 144,000 extraterrestrials are living on Earth in human form, tasked with helping humanity avoid planetary destruction. Miko believes 30 starships are en route to Earth to help restore the ecosystem. Her performances are described as a way to open people's hearts and free them from aggression. Despite initial amusement, her message resonates with many, drawing them into deeper conversations.

UFOlogy in the Soviet Union: Unification and Glasnost

The magazine reports on the formation of a UFO commission within the Soviet Union's Committee for Problems of Energetic Information Exchange. Led by Dr. Ing. Wladimir Ashasha and cosmonaut Pawel Popowitsch, the commission aims to coordinate researchers and bring UFO phenomena to public attention. The article notes the influence of "glasnost" and "perestroika" on Soviet media, leading to more open reporting on UFOs, though it cautions against mistaking sensationalism for factual information. The Soviet approach is described as moving from academic research to addressing "anomalous atmospheric phenomena," with a growing body of reports, including alleged landings in Voronezh.

International Sightings and Explanations

Several articles detail UFO sightings from various locations:

• Italy (March 21, 1989): Thousands witnessed a bright, fiery object over Northern and Central Italy, described as a descending missile or a large cloud. Investigations by CISU (Italian Center for UFO Studies) and eyewitness accounts suggest this was a test launch of an S-3 ballistic missile from Biscarosse, France. However, some "anomalous" descriptions, like a ten-meter-long rocket with a heat trail or a multi-colored object, are also noted.
• France (June 12, 1974): A French UFO magazine reported on a phenomenon photographed over France, later identified as a rocket launch.
• France (March 18, 1972): A CE II (Close Encounter of the Second Kind) in Pont-de-Cheruy, France, involved a light descending from a hovering, cylindrical object with three windows.
• Canary Islands: Multiple sightings and photographs from 1976, 1977, and 1979 are discussed, with some suggesting underwater bases. Analysis indicates these were likely rocket launches.
• Soviet Union (September 20, 1977): The "Lichtqualle" (light jellyfish) from Petrozavodsk is explained as a launch from the Kosmos 955 satellite.

The "Fireball" Incident and Media Sensationalism

A dramatic account details a near-catastrophe over the Italian province of Piemont on February 23, 1971, where a TWA jet pilot reported an unknown object, described as a "giant fire cone," heading directly towards his plane. The object reportedly changed course at the last moment. This event, along with other sightings, is presented as evidence of mysterious aerial phenomena, though the article also points out how media and UFOlogists can sensationalize events, sometimes misinterpreting scientific or military activities.

Skepticism and Scientific Inquiry

Despite the widespread interest and belief in UFOs, the magazine also touches upon skepticism. An interview with a German UFO researcher (likely from GWUP, given the context) highlights the need for critical analysis and distinguishes between possibility and certainty. The researcher emphasizes that while many phenomena are reported, there's no concrete evidence for extraterrestrial visitation. The article also notes the difficulty of conducting serious scientific research in this field due to its fringe nature.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently highlights the growing trend of UFOlogy merging with New Age spirituality and esotericism, moving away from rigorous scientific investigation. There's a clear editorial stance that many reported UFO phenomena have mundane explanations, such as rocket launches or atmospheric events, and that media sensationalism plays a significant role in perpetuating UFO myths. However, the magazine also acknowledges the public's deep fascination with the unknown and the potential for genuine unexplained events, while advocating for a balanced, critical approach.

This issue of DIE WELT, dated Monday, December 18, 1989, focuses heavily on the UFO phenomenon, particularly a wave of sightings in Ostbelgien (the German-speaking part of Belgium) and related events in Germany and Spain. The cover story highlights new witnesses to a potential UFO crash near the Chiemsee in Germany.

UFO Wave in Ostbelgien and Beyond

The central theme is the widespread "UFO fever" that gripped Ostbelgien in late 1989. The issue details numerous reports of unusual aerial phenomena, including sightings of triangular craft, silent objects with headlights, and blinking lights. Two Belgian gendarmes from Eupen are featured prominently, recounting their experience of pursuing a triangular object for several kilometers with their patrol car. This event, along with others, sparked intense media interest, with journalists, TV crews, and UFO researchers descending on the region.

Eupen Incident and Gendarme Pursuit

Reports from Eupen describe a triangular craft flying at 300-400 meters altitude, equipped with strong headlights directed at the ground and an orange-red blinking light in the center. The object moved almost silently, emitting only a faint humming sound, likened to an electric motor. This sighting, and others like it, led to over 150 citizens reporting similar observations in the border region with Germany and the Netherlands.

Spanish UFO Video

An article details a video filmed by a witness in Estepona, Spain, on August 10, 1989. The video reportedly shows a bright object in the sky that appeared to split into two. The object was described as an "80% of full moon size" glowing fireball. The video was later ordered and analyzed, with the filmer noting optical difficulties and the object appearing to transform and shrink.

Inntal Sighting

In Germany, around Brannenburg, approximately a dozen people witnessed a bright, glowing fireball flying at low altitude from northwest to southeast on a Thursday afternoon. Witnesses provided conflicting accounts on whether the object descended or flew over the area. Police patrols searched the region but found nothing. The mayor of Neubeuern, Hans-Jürgen Tremmel, also reported seeing two peculiar objects.

Investigations and Explanations

Various organizations and individuals are involved in investigating these sightings. CENAP (Central Research Network for Extraordinary Phenomena), represented by Werner Walter and Hansjürgen Köhler, approaches the subject with skepticism, aiming to explain sightings through natural phenomena or misidentified objects. They state that in 98% of the approximately 400 UFO sightings they have investigated since 1976, earthly explanations were found.

• Potential explanations discussed include:
• Model hot-air balloons: Cited as a common cause for many UFO reports.
• Aircraft and helicopters: Including potential testing of new US military prototypes in Belgium due to flight restrictions in Germany.
• Meteorites: Specifically, iron meteorites, which glow white to greenish-blue, as opposed to orange-glowing stone meteorites.
• Laser light shows: This explanation gained significant traction, particularly for the Belgian sightings. A diskotheque owner in Halen was identified as projecting colorful light beams into the sky, creating illusions of UFOs. The public prosecutor's office subsequently banned these light shows due to public order concerns.
• Atmospheric phenomena: Such as inversion weather layers potentially causing radar echoes.

Media Hype and Public Reaction

The issue highlights the intense media coverage and public fascination surrounding the UFO phenomenon. Many witnesses initially withheld their observations for fear of being dismissed as 'spinners.' The media's eagerness for quick explanations is noted, with CENAP emphasizing its methodical approach to data collection and verification.

Unexplained Radioactivity Increase

Separately, an article from the Saarbrücker Zeitung reports on a localized increase in radioactive radiation detected in Neumarkt, Germany, on October 24, 1989. A private measurement station registered a nearly 25% increase that persisted. While authorities were initially unaware of the event, investigations suggested the source was artificial and local, but its exact origin remained undetermined, prompting calls for official action.

Scientific Skepticism vs. Public Fascination

Despite the media frenzy and public interest, the scientific community, as represented by CENAP, maintains a critical stance. They acknowledge the possibility of extraterrestrial life but emphasize the need for rigorous evidence and caution against jumping to conclusions. The article quotes CENAP's mission to investigate UFO phenomena without prejudice and to debunk hoaxes and charlatans who exploit the topic.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread UFO sightings in late 1989, the intense media coverage they generated, and the ongoing efforts by researchers and authorities to find rational explanations. The editorial stance, particularly from CENAP, is one of cautious skepticism, prioritizing scientific investigation and debunking sensationalism while acknowledging the fascination surrounding unexplained aerial phenomena. The issue also touches upon public health concerns with the report on increased radioactivity in Neumarkt.