CENAP Report - No 169

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP REPORT, titled "Astronomische Ufo's" (Astronomical UFOs), delves into the investigation of aerial phenomena with a focus on potential astronomical misidentifications. The magazine is published by CENAP-MANNHEIM and features articles that critically examine UFO sightings, often concluding with natural explanations.

CENAP: Central Research Network for Extraordinary Sky Phenomena

The introductory section details CENAP's mission as a private, independent institution investigating the UFO phenomenon since 1976. They emphasize that most reported UFO cases can be explained by natural phenomena, labeling such explanations as "UFO Stimulus." CENAP engages in scientific research, considering perceptual and socio-psychological factors. They highlight their unique position as UFO investigators invited for confidential discussions at the German Ministry of Defense and their recommendation by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Interior as a point of contact for UFO sightings. Various aviation authorities and police departments also cooperate with CENAP. The organization serves as a public point of contact for UFO reports via a dedicated hotline and aims to provide media with accurate and critical information. CENAP maintains an extensive archive of UFO-related materials and has gained national recognition through media coverage. They are associated with international UFO organizations and have established a global correspondent network. CENAP is also a member of GWUP (Society for the Scientific Investigation of the Paranormal), aligning with their goal to combat occultism and modern superstition, and to expose media manipulation regarding UFO phenomena.

The issue also promotes the "CENAP REPORT" UFO-specialty journal, available via annual subscription.

"UFOLOGISCHE STERNE" (UFOlogy Stars)

This section, authored by Werner Walter of CENAP-Mannheim, introduces two significant UFO reports, referred to as "stars." The article translates a contribution from the Spanish UFO magazine "Cuadernos de Ufologia" by Manuel Borraz Aymerich.

Badajoz, Spain Sightings (July 1980)

Two UFO sightings in Badajoz, Spain, are detailed. The first, on July 15, 1980, involved witnesses observing an object from their apartment. The accompanying illustration depicts the Colegio de Santa Teresa and a highway. The object was described as melon-shaped, initially red and yellow, then changing to a reddish hue and a triangular form, which split and rejoined. The phenomenon occurred multiple times and lasted from approximately 10:15 PM to 0:15 AM. Other families in the neighborhood also reported seeing the UFO, with a report even coming from Lobon, 35 km east of Badajoz.

The article includes diagrams illustrating the object's shape changes and a comparison with the moon's phase and inclination at the time of the sighting. The authors suggest that the observed transformations could be related to the moon's appearance during its rise and set. Several examples of personal observations of the moon's appearance are provided.

The second sighting in Badajoz occurred on the morning of July 16, 1980. A witness observed a bright object in the distance, larger than a star, described as ice-shaped and later coin-shaped. The witness's husband, a hobby photographer, managed to take 23 photographs of the object. The object was visible for about an hour, appearing around 6 AM. The photographs, taken with a Yashika TL-Elektro camera and Kodak Tri-X film, show the object as hexagonal, especially in the initial shots taken in darkness. The article discusses the possibility of the hexagonal shape being an artifact of the camera's aperture or a photographic distortion, rather than the object's true form. The authors conclude that the photos likely depict a small light source moving across the sky, supporting the theory that celestial bodies like Venus and the Moon can be mistaken for UFOs.

UFO to IFO: September 20, 1950, Kit Carson, Colorado

This section examines a case from the USAF Blue Book files, initially classified as Unidentified (IFO). The report details a sighting on September 22, 1950, by a credible source who observed five objects in the sky described as fireballs or flying saucers. Two objects were large, disc-shaped or spherical, and the formation moved at high speed. The article presents a detailed comparison between the characteristics of the Kit Carson sighting and those of a bolide meteor that exploded over Colorado-Wyoming around the same time.

The analysis suggests that the USAF's investigation was superficial, overlooking crucial details. The article points out that the bolide meteor sighting occurred between 10:45 PM and 10:50 PM on September 20, 1950, aligning with the reported UFO sighting time of 10:49 AM (potentially a misinterpretation of AM/PM). The report highlights several parallels: the objects' appearance as fireballs, their apparent separation into smaller parts, the underestimation of altitude and speed, and the brief duration of the sighting. The authors argue that the USAF failed to connect these two events, leading to the case being wrongly classified as unidentified. They suggest that the USAF's focus on technological explanations for UFOs (machines) might have prevented them from recognizing phenomena that do not fit this paradigm.

ASTROWARNUNG (Astrowarning)

This brief section by Roland Horn provides an astronomical forecast for March 1990, mentioning the visibility of Jupiter, Venus, Mars, Saturn, and Mercury. It also notes the activity of the Virgids and Hydrids meteor showers.

Open (Letter of Suffering) Letter

This section contains a strongly worded letter from Michael Hesemann, addressed to the "CR-Sturmstaffel" (CR Storm Squadron), criticizing the tone and content of previous issues of the magazine. Hesemann accuses the publication of personal attacks and anti-Semitic remarks, citing specific quotes directed at him and Werner Walter. He refutes accusations of homosexuality and defends his involvement with CENAP and the D.U. conference, which he claims was misrepresented. Hesemann asserts his willingness to engage in dialogue and criticizes the magazine's perceived bias and sensationalism, comparing it to propaganda outlets. He concludes by stating that a German journalist has canceled their subscription due to the magazine's anti-Semitic content.

The editorial response dismisses Hesemann's claims, accusing him of misinterpreting cause and effect and of engaging in personal attacks against CENAP. The editorial defends the magazine's stance and rejects the accusation of anti-Semitism, while also criticizing Hesemann's characterization of CENAP.

The D.U. Conference in the Mirror of the Esoteric Press

This article analyzes coverage of the D.U. conference in esoteric publications, such as "Lichtnetz Frankfurt" and "PSI-Journal." It notes that these publications often present a sensationalized view of UFO phenomena, including claims of "UFO crashes" and "messages from extraterrestrial channels." The article criticizes the lack of objectivity and the tendency to sensationalize or misrepresent information within the esoteric community. It also touches upon the concept of "star children" and questions the credibility of contactee reports.

Apropos "Whining" and Constructions...

This section continues the critique of sensationalist reporting, specifically targeting the magazine "Neue Revue" for its coverage of UFO photos from the space and Gulf Breeze. The article dismisses these photos as trickery and criticizes the magazine for presenting fabricated evidence and misattributing UFO sightings. It also mentions the alleged involvement of the UN in UFO research and misrepresents the statements of Dr. J. Allen Hynek.

Edgar Wunder Active!

A brief note about Edgar Wunder's participation in a UFO talk show on "Radio Downtown, Erlangen," highlighting the high listener engagement.

"UFO" Filed with the Police

This section reports on a police investigation in Eislingen regarding a UFO sighting. The police chief, Richard Kraus, investigated a report of a red, rotating, luminous object. Kraus, an amateur astronomer, identified the object as the planet Saturn, which was prominently visible at the time.

"UFO" at the Police Records: Saturn or Venus?

This article discusses the identification of celestial bodies as UFOs. It explains that bright planets like Saturn and Venus can be mistaken for UFOs due to their luminosity and apparent movement. The article mentions the visibility of Saturn in the evening sky and Venus's appearance as a bright object. It suggests that these planetary observations might explain some UFO reports.

"UFO" in Grounded Weather

This section reports on a UFO sighting near Sparwiesen, Germany, observed by multiple witnesses. The object was described as large, bright, and silent, moving slowly. Initial reports suggested it might be an aircraft, but the local air traffic control had no record of unusual activity. The article also mentions a weather balloon found in the area, suggesting it as a possible explanation for the sighting.

"UFO" in Grounded Weather: Was it just a Weather Balloon?

This article continues the discussion of the Sparwiesen sighting, presenting witness accounts and exploring the possibility of a weather balloon. It notes that a weather balloon, approximately five meters in diameter, was found in the area. While weather balloons are not equipped with headlights, their silver surface can reflect light, potentially explaining the luminous aspect of the sighting. The article also mentions that the balloon's large size when inflated could contribute to the perception of a large object in the sky.

Further UFO Witnesses

This section briefly mentions additional UFO sightings reported to the local newspaper, including observations from Woronesch, Russia, and Eastern Belgium, as well as reports from Landsberg/am Lech and the Göppingen region.

CENAP ARCHIVE: "UFO" Officially Recorded by Police: Saturn or Venus?

This article reiterates the police investigation in Eislingen, where a UFO report was investigated. The police chief, Richard Kraus, identified the object as the planet Saturn. The article further discusses how bright planets like Venus and Saturn can be mistaken for UFOs, especially when observed without proper astronomical knowledge. It notes that Saturn was particularly visible and bright in the evening sky during that period.

CENAP ARCHIVE: Yet Another UFO: A High-Flying Balloon

This article revisits the UFO sighting near Sparwiesen, suggesting that a high-flying weather balloon is the most likely explanation. It details how a weather balloon, found after the sighting, was identified by the German Weather Service. The article explains that such balloons, when inflated, can reach sizes comparable to a family house and reflect sunlight, creating a luminous effect. It also mentions that the balloon's trajectory and the time of the sighting align with the possibility of it being a weather balloon launched from Stuttgart.

CENAP ARCHIVE: What Happened Over Sparwiesen? Bright Thing in the Night Sky

This article presents witness accounts of a luminous object seen over Sparwiesen. Witnesses described it as large, bright, and silent, moving slowly. The article explores possible explanations, including aircraft and weather balloons, and notes the lack of official records for unusual aerial activity. It also mentions the possibility of the sighting being related to a football match, which might have distracted some potential observers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CENAP REPORT revolve around the critical examination of UFO sightings, with a strong emphasis on identifying natural explanations and debunking sensationalist claims. The magazine consistently promotes a scientific and rational approach to the UFO phenomenon, often highlighting misidentifications of celestial bodies like planets and meteors. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of claims of extraterrestrial visitation and critical of what it perceives as pseudoscientific or esoteric interpretations of UFO phenomena. There is also a notable undercurrent of internal debate and criticism within the UFO community, as evidenced by the letter from Michael Hesemann and the magazine's response.

This issue of the Neue Württembergische Zeitung, dated December 6, 1989, features a prominent article on a bright object observed in the night sky, identified as the star Sirius, with its unusual appearance attributed to ice crystals. The magazine also includes reports on UFO sightings and related phenomena from various locations, including Germany, Belgium, the Soviet Union, and Switzerland.

Sirius Shone Brightly: A Colorful Object in the Night Sky

The lead story, "Ein farbiges Objekt am Nachthimmel: Sirius strahlte äußerst hell," addresses reports of a peculiar celestial phenomenon. Bruno Funk of the Messelberg Observatory explained that the star Sirius, appearing low on the horizon, was refracted by ice crystals in the upper atmosphere, causing it to flicker in rainbow colors and appear larger than usual. This atmospheric effect was also observed on the moon, which was surrounded by a halo. The article also notes the current visibility of seven of the twenty brightest stars and the recent appearance of the aurora borealis, linking its increased frequency to heightened solar activity.

UFOs in the Göppingen Area

The magazine reports on UFO sightings in the Göppingen region, citing four witnesses: Norbert Patzelt, Marlene Weiß, Hedwig Koch, and Elfriede Haist. Hedwig Koch confirmed the newspaper's account, stating the object was seen in the direction of Albershausen and appeared different from an airplane. Elfriede Haist described the object as large as a full moon, hovering over the Ramsberg before moving silently towards Göppingen. The article notes that attempts to gather more detailed information from some witnesses were unsuccessful.

The UFO of Eupen: Secret Military Equipment or Mobile Laser System?

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the UFO sightings in Eupen, Belgium, which generated considerable public interest and speculation. Two Belgian gendarmes described a triangular object with strong headlights and a blinking light, moving almost silently at an altitude of 300-400 meters. Over 150 citizens reported similar sightings. Various explanations were proposed, including American helicopter prototypes, mobile laser systems, and even secret US aircraft like the F-117A. The Belgian Ministry of Defense denied involvement of military aircraft. The "Grenz-Echo" newspaper speculated about American tests of new helicopters, while the military and scientists remained puzzled.

Investigations and Speculations in Eupen

The Eupen UFO phenomenon led to extensive media coverage and public speculation. Reports indicated that the objects moved with varying speeds, sometimes hovering and illuminating the ground. Radar stations detected unidentified objects, described as "diffuse echoes." The article highlights the efforts of UFO researchers and organizations like CENAP and SOBEPS in gathering witness testimonies and analyzing data. Despite numerous reports, definitive explanations remained elusive, with some suggesting ultralight aircraft as a plausible cause due to their characteristics.

Ultralight Aircraft as a Possible Explanation

The magazine explores the possibility that many UFO sightings, particularly those in Eupen, could be attributed to ultralight aircraft (ULs). It details the capabilities of these aircraft, including their maneuverability, speed (around 80 km/h), and relatively quiet operation, which could be mistaken for something more exotic. The article references a competition for the quietest UL and discusses how modifications can further reduce noise. The presence of lights on ULs, though not standard, is also considered. The article suggests that some UL pilots might be engaging in night flights for recreational purposes, potentially causing confusion.

UFOs in Switzerland and the United States

Reports from Switzerland indicate a rise in UFO sightings, with 178 reported in the previous year. A notable incident involved a pensioner in Val-de-Travers who reported a strange glow and his electric razor activating spontaneously. In the United States, thousands reported seeing a strange blue-green light, initially speculated to be a large meteor, but experts could not definitively identify it. Sightings were reported across several eastern states, with some witnesses describing it as a brilliant white light that turned orange and broke apart.

Soviet UFO Reports and Glasnost

The issue also covers UFO reports from the Soviet Union, particularly the incident in Woronesch. The TASS news agency reported on aliens landing in a park, with children as the main witnesses. However, the article expresses skepticism, questioning the lack of adult witnesses and suggesting that such reports might be a product of Glasnost, serving to distract the public from economic and political issues. The article notes the growing interest in the paranormal and UFOs in the Soviet Union as a form of escapism. It also touches upon the possibility of secret military projects and the challenges of reporting accurately in a new era of press freedom.

Other UFO Incidents and Research

Brief mentions include a report of a twin-engine aircraft resembling a UFO over Barnsley, England, and an incident in Belgium where UFOs allegedly disrupted a football match and damaged power lines. The magazine also highlights the work of UFO researchers and organizations, including the "Fair-Witness Project" and the "California UFO Journal," and discusses the challenges of verifying UFO evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs), witness testimonies, and the ongoing efforts to find rational explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting various accounts and potential explanations, from atmospheric phenomena and conventional aircraft to more speculative theories. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible evidence and sensationalism, with a healthy dose of skepticism towards unverified claims, particularly those originating from media reports without robust corroboration. The magazine also highlights the role of media in shaping public perception of UFO phenomena and the challenges faced by researchers in obtaining reliable information.