CENAP Report - No 173

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: Nr.173
Date: 1990
Publisher: Centrales Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene (CENAP)
Country: Germany
Language: German
Price: DM 3,90

This issue of CENAP REPORT, titled "UFO-PARANOIA," delves into the contemporary UFO phenomenon, with a particular focus on alleged government cover-ups, media sensationalism, and the psychological aspects of belief in UFOs.

W. Smith und MJ-12

The article "W. Smith und MJ-12" by Christopher D. Allan examines the controversial MJ-12 documents and the alleged connection between Canadian ufologist Wilbert B. Smith and Dr. Robert I. Sarbacher. Smith, an engineer specializing in telecommunications, became interested in UFOs in the early 1950s. He published articles and founded the Ottawa Flying Saucer Club. After his death in 1962, Canadian authorities released documents, including a 'Top Secret' memorandum from Smith dated November 21, 1950, titled 'GEOMAGNETICS.' This memo discussed flying saucers and their alleged higher classification than the H-bomb, purportedly based on information from Dr. Sarbacher.

The article scrutinizes the 'Sarbacher Letter' of November 29, 1983, written by Dr. R.I. Sarbacher to William Steinman. Sarbacher, a scientist at the Washington Institute of Technology, allegedly confirmed the involvement of Vannevar Bush and John von Neumann in UFO recovery projects. However, the author points out discrepancies in Sarbacher's accounts over time, suggesting that his statements were influenced by his interactions with UFO proponents like Bill Moore and Stanton Friedman, and possibly by the sensationalist UFO literature of the era, such as Frank Scully's book.

The article questions the validity of the MJ-12 connection, suggesting that the Smith memo and the Sarbacher letter were likely fabrications or misinterpretations, possibly created to support the idea of a government cover-up. It highlights that Smith himself did not have the authority to classify documents and that his 'Top Secret' stamp on private papers was a personal habit.

The Bush Connection

The article explores the alleged connection between Vannevar Bush and UFOs. It suggests that Wilbert Smith might have heard about Bush's involvement through contacts in Washington, D.C., possibly during a conference in September 1950. Smith, who was working on Project Magnet to develop a flying saucer propulsion system, may have seen Bush as a potential collaborator. However, the article concludes that the idea of Bush's direct involvement in UFO recovery projects gained traction much later, in the early 1980s, fueled by misinterpretations of Smith's memo and the Sarbacher letter.

Project Magnet and Second Storey

Project Magnet, initiated in December 1950, was Wilbert Smith's attempt to study the theoretical possibilities of UFO propulsion and develop a working model. The project, along with 'Second Storey' led by Dr. Peter Millmann, was an investigation into UFOs but ultimately yielded no significant results and ended around 1954. The article notes that official papers confirming these projects are scarce, with only a handwritten note from C.P. Edwards, Deputy Minister of Transport, indicating approval.

UFO-Baron von Buttlar and HÖR ZU

Another section critiques a report in the German magazine HÖR ZU, which featured an interview with 'UFO-Baron' von Buttlar. The article dismisses Buttlar's claims and HÖR ZU's research as superficial, particularly its reliance on Carl Sagan, who is presented as both a UFO skeptic and someone who acknowledges the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The article criticizes HÖR ZU for sensationalizing UFO findings and for its alleged connection to the Springer publishing group, similar to the newspaper BILD.

The Current UFO Paranoia

The issue addresses the growing 'UFO paranoia' in Germany and the USA. It mentions an upcoming 'Dialogue with the Universe' conference in Munich, described as a continuation of a New Age fair. The article criticizes the 'New Age' movement's belief in spiritual contact with extraterrestrials, labeling it as 'delusional worlds' and the followers as 'star people' or 'light workers.' It also touches upon the financial dealings of some UFO promoters, like Edgar Wunder and Andreas Schneider.

UFO-Forscher Andreas Schneider

This section profiles Andreas Schneider, a self-proclaimed UFO researcher who claims to have been abducted by aliens. Schneider charges for his lectures and seminars, and claims that direct contact with extraterrestrials is imminent. He describes aliens from the planet Umo and their advanced technology. The article notes that Schneider's claims are met with skepticism, but he believes that aliens are preparing humanity for a future role in cosmic affairs.

Crop Circles

The article discusses the phenomenon of crop circles, referencing the book "Circular Evidence" by Pat Delgado and Colin Andrews. The authors, an electrical engineer and a retired NASA employee, attempt a scientific approach to documenting and analyzing crop circles. However, the article suggests that their efforts to find logical explanations are ultimately unsuccessful, leading them to speculate about forces from within the Earth, the cosmos, or other dimensions, bordering on science fiction.

John Lear and the UFO Conspiracy

The magazine presents the claims of John Lear, son of aviation pioneer William Lear, who promotes a vast UFO conspiracy theory. Lear alleges that Germany developed UFO technology in 1939, that James Forrestal died due to knowledge of aliens, that numerous UFOs have crashed and been recovered by the US government, and that there are secret pacts between aliens and the US government involving technology exchange for ignoring abduction cases. Lear also claims that the CIA and aliens maintain joint underground bases near Dulce, New Mexico.

The article critically examines Lear's claims, noting that his personal life and associations with far-right organizations cast doubt on his credibility. It also mentions Milton William Cooper, who shares similar conspiracy theories, including a secret pact between UFO aliens and the US government, and the assassination of President Kennedy due to his knowledge of UFOs.

UFO Crash in South Africa

An update on the alleged UFO crash in South Africa is presented, referencing information from QUEST INTERNATIONAL. The article debunks the claims of James Van Greunen, who presented himself as a South African intelligence officer with evidence of the crash. QUEST INTERNATIONAL asserts that Van Greunen was a fabricator who had pieced together fragments of the story. The article also mentions that the alleged recovered aliens in photos provided by Van Greunen were identified as hoaxes from years prior.

UFOs in the Soviet Union

The article touches upon the rise of parapsychological interests in the Soviet Union, noting that UFOlogy, once condemned as 'bourgeois science,' is now gaining traction with numerous amateur groups forming. The Voronezh UFO incident is mentioned as a catalyst that prompted media inquiries, and CSICOP's response is discussed, highlighting the media's tendency to accept TASS reports uncritically.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, CENAP REPORT maintains a critical and skeptical stance towards sensationalist UFO claims, alleged government cover-ups, and New Age interpretations of extraterrestrial contact. While acknowledging the existence of UFO sightings and the public's fascination with the topic, the magazine strives to present a more grounded and analytical perspective, often debunking elaborate conspiracy theories and highlighting journalistic errors. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, aiming to counter misinformation and provide a more rational understanding of the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of "Magazin für Neues Bewußtsein" from April 17, 1990, delves deeply into the world of UFO phenomena, government secrecy, and the possibility of extraterrestrial contact. The cover prominently features a dramatic illustration of a triangular UFO, with headlines in both English and German, hinting at the sensational content within. The magazine explores various UFO sightings, analyzes potential explanations, and questions official narratives.

Voronezh Incident

The issue begins by addressing the Voronezh incident, where reports of an alien landing were met with skepticism by organizations like CSICOP. The article highlights the lack of concrete evidence, with scientific analyses of the site revealing no anomalies. It points to the involvement of amateur UFO groups and suggests that the government investigation found no proof of alien activity, attributing any unusual findings to residual radiation from the Chernobyl disaster.

Wundervogel F-117A: Geheimnislüftung (Wonderbird F-117A: Secret Ventilation)

This section focuses on the American stealth fighter F-117A, described as a "flying saucer-high-tech magical effect." The article notes its partial reveal to the public in April 1990 after years of secrecy. It mentions the machine's high cost and its base at Tonopah, Nevada. The text also touches upon the controversial Area 51 in Nevada, known as DREAMLAND, and the claims of former government scientist Bob Lazar, who alleged that the facility housed alien spacecraft and advanced technology, including anti-matter devices.

Kommt bald ein Tarnkappen-Hubschrauber? (Will a Stealth Helicopter Come Soon?)

This article speculates about the upcoming development of a stealth helicopter, designed to evade infrared and radar detection. It mentions that companies like Boeing and Sikorsky are planning such a craft, which would feature minimal radar and noise signatures, and advanced targeting systems.

US-Regierung und Desinformation: NICHT SCHULDIG! (US Government and Disinformation: NOT GUILTY!)

This piece examines the "Desinformations-Syndrom" within the UFO community, particularly as propagated by William Moore. The author, Christopher D. Allan, argues against the idea that the US government is actively spreading disinformation about UFOs. Allan suggests that UFOs are a global phenomenon and that attributing them solely to US government conspiracy is a product of ufological paranoia. He posits that the lack of progress in UFO research is not due to a cover-up, but rather to the internal issues and infighting within the UFO community itself, citing the MJ-12 papers as an example of fabricated information.

UFO Sensation! Air Force Jets Chase the Most Astonishing Flying Object Ever Sighted

This section, featuring a prominent article from the National Enquirer, details a sensational UFO sighting in Belgium. Dozens of police officers and Belgian Air Force jets reportedly witnessed and pursued a bizarre triangular craft that disappeared inexplicably. The article highlights the object's impossible maneuvers, speed, and silent operation, quoting military officials expressing bewilderment.

Silberne UFO-Rätsel aus dem All (Silver UFO Riddles from Space)

This article by Jochen Sperber debunks a specific UFO sighting where children found a "silver object." It is revealed to be part of a weather balloon's radiosonde, explaining its beeping sound and the presence of an electric motor and battery. The piece emphasizes how misinterpretations of mundane objects can lead to UFO reports.

BRD: UFO'S UNTERWEGS? (FRG: UFOs on the Move?)

This section by Hansjürgen Köhler presents several UFO sighting reports from Germany. These include a possible Zeppelin sighting near Rothenburg o.T., a bright light observed in Mannheim, a star-like object seen near Springe that appeared to disintegrate, and a silent, cigar-shaped object with large propellers and a multi-faceted dome observed near Rothenburg o.T. The article attempts to provide rational explanations for these sightings, often attributing them to misidentified aircraft, weather phenomena, or balloons.

Rätselhafte Kreise im Kornfeld (Mysterious Circles in the Cornfield)

This report discusses the phenomenon of crop circles in England, with scientists suggesting meteorological reasons, such as wind vortices, as the cause. The article notes that the corn is pressed flat without being broken, and that the circles can be metallic and reflect sunlight. It mentions that over 850 circles have been documented.

Seit der Perestroika schätzen auch Ufos die Sowjetunion (Since Perestroika, UFOs Also Appreciate the Soviet Union)

This article explores the increase in UFO reports from the Soviet Union following the era of Glasnost and Perestroika. It recounts various sightings, including a swarm of UFOs over Kirov and alleged encounters with extraterrestrials. The piece highlights the detailed and colorful nature of these Soviet UFO reports, contrasting them with earlier, more simplistic accounts.

Augenzeugen berichten von einer diskusartigen Scheibe: Ufos in der Sowjetunion (Eyewitnesses Report a Disk-like Disc: UFOs in the Soviet Union)

This brief report from the Holsteiner Courier mentions that Soviet air defense units allegedly detected unidentified flying objects on their radar near Pereslavl'-Zalesskij. Eyewitness accounts describe a disk-shaped object, 100-200 meters in diameter, with two fiery streaks on its sides, capable of speeds three times that of modern jets.

Den UFOs auf der Spur... (On the Trail of UFOs...)

This article announces an upcoming lecture by UFO expert Werner Walther in Paderborn, Germany. Walther, who has investigated over 400 UFO reports since 1976, is set to discuss his findings on UFOs over Germany, including questions about their origin and whether they represent extraterrestrial intelligence.

UFO vom Satelliten fotografiert? (UFO Photographed by Satellite?)

This piece presents a claim by Mr. James S. Bounds, who presented a satellite photograph allegedly showing a UFO. The image, taken by a Defense Meteorological Satellite in 1978, was reportedly authenticated by physics professors. Bounds asserts that the US government has been withholding UFO information for decades.

Bestellte Wahrheiten (Ordered Truths)

This short review discusses Herbert Riehl-Heyse's book "Bestellte Wahrheiten," which examines the ethics of journalism. While not directly about UFOs, the reviewer suggests it is relevant for understanding UFOs as a media phenomenon and how truths can be "ordered" or manipulated by the media.

Dialog mit dem Universum, Zweiter Teil: Die Kontakte (Dialogue with the Universe, Part Two: The Contacts)

This section announces an international New Age/UFO conference in Munich from June 22-24, 1990, titled "Dialog mit dem Universum." The conference focuses on communication with extraterrestrial life and features a diverse group of international speakers, including UFO researchers, astrophysicists, and a Soviet delegation. The program includes concerts, lectures, and seminars on topics such as UFO landings in the USSR and the possibility of direct contact with aliens.

Der Mann, der an das Leben von Außerirdischen glaubt (The Man Who Believes in the Lives of Extraterrestrials)

This profile introduces Virgil Armstrong, a UFO expert who claims that US presidents and Gorbachev believe in UFOs. Armstrong, a former US military and CIA operative, asserts that the US government possesses numerous proofs of alien visitors and that Hollywood films are designed to acclimate the public to their existence. He believes that friendly extraterrestrials could help humanity avoid self-destruction, but only if humans first achieve unity and peace.

UFO-Lebensgeschichte (UFO Life Story)

This article recounts the experiences of R. Leo Sprinkle, an American abduction researcher. Sprinkle, who first saw a red UFO in 1956, began investigating UFO phenomena and using hypnosis to interview abductees. He concluded that UFOs are both a physical and non-physical reality, and that UFO experiences are often linked to psychic phenomena like poltergeist activity and out-of-body experiences.

The Far Side Cartoon

A "The Far Side" comic strip by Gary Larson humorously depicts aliens discussing their encounter with humans, referencing their experiences in a book.

Preis für nachgewiesene UFO-Entführung ausgesetzt (Reward for Proven UFO Abduction Offered)

This brief report mentions that skeptic Phil Klass offered a $10,000 reward for proof of a UFO abduction, challenging authors like Whitley Strieber and Bud Hopkins. Klass argues that such claims are often fabricated and that legal repercussions exist for false abduction reports.

Im Zuge der sowjetischen Freizügigkeit... (In the Wake of Soviet Openness...)

This article from the Houston Chronicle reports on Polish army newspaper articles detailing UFO sightings by military pilots. The pilots described mysterious, silent objects moving at high speeds, raising questions about their origin and nature.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings, often presenting them with a degree of sensationalism, particularly in its coverage of international incidents. There's a recurring theme of questioning official narratives and government secrecy, with a notable skepticism towards claims of widespread government disinformation campaigns. Instead, the magazine often points to internal issues within the UFO community or misinterpretations of mundane phenomena as explanations for many reports. The publication also highlights conferences and expert opinions, suggesting a belief in the reality of UFOs and the potential for extraterrestrial contact, while also maintaining a critical stance on unsubstantiated claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, balanced with a desire for rational explanations where possible, but not entirely dismissing the possibility of extraordinary events.