CENAP Report - No 172

Magazine Overview

This issue of the CENAP REPORT, issue number 172, published in April 1990, is dedicated to the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena. The magazine is published by CENAP-MANNHEIM and costs DM 3.90. The cover prominently features a headline about two F-15 fighter jets being "abducted" by a UFO, questioning if it was an actual abduction or something else, alongside an image of aerial refueling.

CENAP's Mission and Work

The magazine details the work of CENAP (Centrales Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene), a private, independent institution founded in 1976. CENAP investigates UFO phenomena with a scientific approach, aiming to provide rational explanations for reported sightings. They have investigated approximately 380 cases, often finding natural explanations for what are reported as UFOs. CENAP collaborates with various authorities, including the German Ministry of Defense, the Federal Aviation Office, and police departments, and maintains an extensive archive of UFO-related material, including Europe's largest UFO video archive. CENAP is also a member of the GWUP (Society for the Scientific Investigation of the Paranormal), aiming to combat occultism and modern superstition.

CENAP REPORT - The UFO Fachjournal

The CENAP REPORT is published monthly by CENAP-MANNHEIM and is available via an annual subscription for DM 40. The issue highlights a comprehensive index of 4408 pages of the CENAP REPORT, compiled by Klaus Webner, which details articles, press reports, photographs, and graphics from the magazine's history. This index covers a wide spectrum of ufological topics, including research in Germany and abroad, statistical analyses, case explanations, and discussions on UFOs and sex.

Key Articles and Investigations

The Vallee Debate: UFO Pioneer Jacques Vallee

This section discusses the ongoing debate surrounding UFO pioneer Jacques Vallee, particularly in light of an article in the "International UFO Reporter" (IUR) that critiques his work. The article "Wo Vallee falsch lief" (Where Vallee Went Wrong) by Jerome Clark is examined. Clark suggests a growing neo-skepticism in the UFO community and criticizes Vallee's shift towards interpreting UFO phenomena as folklore or psychosociological events, moving away from physical evidence. Vallee's books, such as "Anatomy of a Phenomenon" and "Challenge to Science: The UFO Enigma," are reviewed, noting his initial impact and later perceived shift in focus. The article highlights Vallee's new book, "Confrontations: A Scientist's Search for Alien Contact," which reportedly includes claims of UFOs causing human deaths, a topic Clark finds sensationalist. The discussion also touches upon Vallee's theories on "Lethal Impact" and potential connections between UFO phenomena and CE III/IV experiences.

UFOs Abduct Two F-15s Over Puerto Rico?

This article reports on an alleged incident from December 28, 1988, where two US F-15 fighter jets were reportedly "abducted" by a triangular, silent UFO near Puerto Rico. Numerous witnesses reported seeing the UFO, described as having brilliant lights and a distinct shape, engage with the fighter jets. The jets allegedly disappeared inside the UFO. MUFON representatives investigated the case, but official sources like the FAA reported no unusual activity, only routine military exercises. The article suggests a potential cover-up and questions the official explanations.

UFOs in the USSR

This section reports on the increasing number of UFO sightings being reported in the Soviet Union, with a permanent center for UFO study established in Moscow. The article references a "Foreign Press Note" from November 1989 detailing media reports of UFO sightings and an investigation into a crashed object on Hill 611 near Dalnegorsk, which yielded metallic fragments.

The Socorro UFO and the South African UFO

This article examines the claim that a UFO crashed in South Africa and was later recovered. It compares a sketch of this alleged UFO and its occupants to the well-known Socorro UFO from 1964, as depicted in books by John Keel and Charles Bowen. The author points out the identical symbol on both the Socorro UFO and the South African UFO, suggesting the latter might be a copy or fabrication based on existing UFO lore, specifically referencing Margaret Sachs' "The UFO Encyclopedia."

Belgium's Easter UFO Hunt

This extensive report details a large-scale UFO search operation conducted in Belgium over the Easter weekend of 1990. The Belgian Air Force, along with civilian UFO research groups like SOBEPS, participated in the hunt, using radar and surveillance equipment. Despite numerous public reports of sightings, including amateur film footage and radar echoes, no definitive identification of unknown flying objects was made. The article suggests that some sightings might be explained by misidentified aircraft, weather balloons, or even ultralight aircraft with special lighting.

UFOs as Religious Phenomena?

A report on a VHS lecture in Calw by Werner Walter of CENAP discusses the tendency to view UFOs as religious phenomena. Walter emphasizes that 97-99% of reported sightings have natural explanations, such as misidentified planets, meteors, or aircraft. He warns against UFO spiritism and the dangerous trend of "UFO fascism," which links UFOs to Nazi conspiracies.

"Fremdes Echo auf dem Radar" (Strange Echo on the Radar)

This article from "Stern" magazine details the Belgian UFO hunt, highlighting the efforts of amateur ufologists and the involvement of the Belgian Air Force. It mentions that radar detected strange echoes, but visual confirmation was elusive. The article concludes by suggesting that some sightings might be explained by motor-driven hang gliders with lights.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CENAP REPORT consistently advocates for a scientific and critical approach to UFO phenomena, distinguishing itself from sensationalist media coverage and unsubstantiated claims. The magazine aims to educate the public, debunk myths, and provide rational explanations for sightings. There is a clear editorial stance against what is termed "UFO spiritism" and "UFO fascism," emphasizing the importance of evidence-based investigation over belief-based interpretations. The magazine also highlights the role of media in shaping public perception of UFOs and critiques instances where sensationalism overshadows factual reporting. The overall tone is one of rigorous inquiry and a commitment to uncovering the truth behind reported anomalies.

This issue of "WISSENSCHAFT" (Science), published by Aerial Anomalies International in January-March 1990, focuses on the scientific and skeptical examination of UFO phenomena and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The magazine presents a critical perspective, aiming to provide factual information and background rather than sensationalism.

Articles and Features

"Außerirdische: Wo seid ihr?" (Extraterrestrials: Where are you?)

This extensive interview with Astrophysicist Dr. Wladimir Strelnizki addresses the possibility of contact with extraterrestrial civilizations. Strelnizki clarifies that while no confirmed contact has been made, the search itself is a valuable scientific endeavor, yielding practical and philosophical benefits. He discusses various search strategies, including the 'Zodiak' program, which aims to focus on stars near the ecliptic. He also touches upon the philosophical implications of our existence and the potential for other civilizations, while emphasizing that the scientific community does not currently possess evidence of alien contact.

"UFO: Unver önemlidir?" (UFO: Unimportant?)

This section critically examines the nature of UFO phenomena, distinguishing between known objects and truly unidentified flying objects (UFOs). It highlights that many sightings can be explained by conventional means, such as aircraft, balloons, or astronomical events. The article stresses the importance of witness credibility and the subjective nature of perception in UFO reports. It also debunks common UFO shapes like saucers and cigars as often being misidentifications. The magazine's research organization, CENAP, claims a high success rate in explaining sightings.

"Das UFO-Journal von NUFOC-Belgium ist da!"

This short piece announces the launch of a new quarterly journal from NUFOC-Belgium, aiming to inform readers about UFO sightings in Belgium and the Netherlands and encourage self-investigation. It recommends the journal for its accessible English and expresses support for the organization's efforts.

"Polizei jagte den „Ikarus

This issue of CR magazine, published in German, focuses on UFOs, alien encounters, and related conspiracies. The cover features a cartoon depicting a UFO and aliens, with a stamp indicating it's from the CENAP Archive.

Ed Walters: A Gulf Breeze Resident's Past

The article begins by describing Ed Walters, a builder from Gulf Breeze, Florida, who has become known for his public persona, including participating in parties and dressing as Santa Claus. It touches upon his past legal issues, mentioning a two-year prison sentence in 1966 for borrowing a car without permission, followed by arrests for stealing vehicles in Jacksonville, Florida, and later for unauthorized use of a Thunderbird and a Pontiac. Walters is quoted as saying, "Since then, I've had no more problems with it."

UFO-Andy "Schneider" and His Claims

Under the heading "Latest News," the magazine reports on Andy "Schneider," who has been dubbed a "UFO researcher" by "BILD-am-Sonntag." Schneider claims that aliens have personally told him they are coming. He is undertaking a two-month lecture tour across the USA, reportedly earning $35,000 DM. His "World Institute of Light" provides information on extraterrestrials to 3,000 interested individuals, including notable figures like Nina Hagen, Christiane Rücker, Ruth-Maria Kubitscheck, and Erich von Däniken.

"Die Besucher" Film Release

The magazine notes that Strieber's film "Die Besucher" (The Visitors) did not premiere in February as expected. However, it will be released on videocassette on June 21, 1990, by VPS Film Entertainment. The film is described in the program preview as "The Visitors - Visitors in the House" and is characterized by Variety as "An occult thriller that will get under everyone's skin."

Upcoming CR Magazine Features

For the next issue of CR, planned topics include: Wilbert Smith and the MJ-12 connection; a Canadian UFO enthusiast investigating global UFO conspiracies and his problems related to the Roswell incident; new UFO cases reported to CENAP; a summary of events by Hansjürgen Köhler, including complicated sea operations; and a discussion on UFO photos, questioning whether they represent "The (new) truth" or just "hot air."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, alleged alien contact, and related mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these claims and investigations, while also maintaining a critical perspective, as suggested by the question about UFO photos being "hot air." The inclusion of past legal troubles for individuals like Ed Walters and the mention of "occult thrillers" suggest an interest in the sensational and potentially controversial aspects of the UFO topic.