CENAP REPORT

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: Nr. 174
Date: June 22-24, 1990
Publisher: Centrales Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene (CENAP)
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated June 1990, presents a diverse range of topics related to UFO phenomena, investigations, and conferences. The cover prominently features the headline "Dialog mit dem Universum" (Dialogue with the Universe), indicating a focus on communication with extraterrestrial life, and announces an extended special section on the "Gulf Breeze" UFO case, which is labeled as a hoax.

Articles and Features

"Luftwaffe sichtete Ufo" (Air Force Sighted UFO)

This article reports on a Belgian Air Force radar detection of an unidentified flying object on the night of March 31st. Two F-16 fighter jets were scrambled to investigate a radar contact that exhibited flight characteristics impossible for conventional aircraft. The object made rapid directional changes and increased its speed from 280 to 1800 km/h in seconds. The Luftwaffe confirmed the sighting, stating it was not an aircraft, weather balloon, laser, or atmospheric inversion, but cautioned against speculation about extraterrestrial visitors. The report references similar sightings and the potential for radar inversions to cause misinterpretations.

"UFO-Rätsel im Malsteld bei Paris" (UFO Mystery in Malsteld near Paris)

A brief report about a three-meter deep, 20-meter diameter crater found in Evreux, west of Paris. The surrounding vegetation was undamaged, leading local farmers to believe a UFO had landed.

"UFO wars: Europe vs. America"

This section contrasts UFO research approaches in Europe and America. It suggests that while American UFO enthusiasts focus on fantastical ideas, European researchers are adopting a more serious approach to the phenomenon. The article introduces a paper by Christopher O. Allan from England, discussing "Helle Lichter und der Airship-Effekt" (Bright Lights and the Airship Effect).

#### "Helle Lichter und der Airship-Effekt" by Christopher O. Allan

Allan discusses a sighting from July 24, 1948, where an airliner pilot reported a bright light that rapidly approached. He explains the "Airship Effect" and the "Excitement Effect" as psychological factors that can lead to misinterpretations of sightings. He suggests that many sightings, including the one reported by the pilots, could be explained as bright fireballs (meteors). The article also references historical cases like the "ghost rockets" over Scandinavia and bright lights near Honolulu, attributing them to meteors and psychological effects.

"Atlanta Pilots Report Wingless Sky Monster" by Albert Riley

This article recounts the famous 1948 sighting by two Atlanta pilots of a "wingless sky monster." Riley analyzes the case, suggesting that the object's reported behavior and appearance might be explained by a meteor or a misinterpretation of a distant object. The article includes a sketch of the object and discusses how distance and perspective can distort perceptions.

"Die identifizierten Flug-Objekte" (The Identified Flying Objects) by G.M. Rowe

Rowe discusses the challenges in investigating UFO sightings, particularly those involving lights. He notes that while many sightings are likely natural phenomena, it's difficult to convince witnesses otherwise. Rowe proposes a scenario involving reflections from glass surfaces (like eyeglasses or windshields) as a potential explanation for some sightings, demonstrating how simple optical illusions can create the appearance of UFOs.

"Sahen Astronauten fremde Raumschiffe?" (Did Astronauts See Alien Spacecraft?) by C.D. Allan

This article examines reports of UFO sightings by astronauts. It discusses cases from Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo missions, including sightings by John Glenn, Scott Carpenter, James McDivitt, and the Apollo 11 and 12 crews. The author, citing the work of James E. Oberg, a computer scientist at NASA, argues that most of these sightings can be explained by misidentifications of satellites, rockets, or natural phenomena like light reflections and particles. Oberg's analysis suggests that the NSA does not hide UFO documents to conceal extraterrestrial contact but rather to protect sources and methods related to national security. The article also debunks the "snowman UFO" phenomenon and the Apollo 12 "object" as misinterpretations of equipment.

"NSA: DAS COVER-UP" (NSA: The Cover-Up)

This section critically examines the claim that the NSA is hiding UFO documents. It discusses Stanton T. Friedman's assertion that the NSA is withholding 156 classified UFO-related documents. However, the article argues that these documents are primarily COMINT (Communications Intelligence) reports from foreign governments, collected between 1958 and 1979. The NSA's refusal to release them is attributed to national security concerns, such as protecting intelligence sources and methods, rather than concealing evidence of alien visitation. The article suggests that Friedman selectively presents information to support his cover-up theory.

"Der UFO-Jäger Frederick Valentich..."

This article revisits the case of Frederick Valentich, a pilot who disappeared in 1978 after reporting a UFO. It details the extensive media coverage and subsequent investigations. The article presents findings from the Australian Centre for UFO Studies (ACUFOS), which concluded that the event was not connected to UFO phenomena. Key points include Valentich's failure to file a flight plan, the lack of radar confirmation, the non-functioning emergency beacon, and the questionable nature of his final communications. ACUFOS suggests that the case is likely a misinterpretation or a fabricated event.

"Luftkampf über Bayern: Polizei jagt Leichtflieger" (Air Combat over Bavaria: Police Chase Ultralight Aircraft)

A news report about a police pursuit of two ultralight aircraft over Bavaria. The pilots were eventually apprehended after a lengthy chase involving a police helicopter and ground units.

"Russen enthüllen: Wir haben ein UFO abgeschossen" (Russians Reveal: We Shot Down a UFO)

This article reports on a supposed Soviet revelation that they shot down a UFO on March 5, 1983. It claims that Soviet fighter jets intercepted a cylindrical object with a three-legged landing gear, which was then shot down and crashed. The article quotes a Soviet spokesperson and scientist who believe the object was of extraterrestrial origin. It also mentions the recovery of a 33-meter diameter, 6.5-meter high craft.

"Erdlinge auf der Suche nach E.T." (Earthlings in Search of E.T.)

This short piece introduces Michael Raven and Andreas Slavik, who are investigating the UFO phenomenon with a technical and skeptical approach through their research group IO-Base. They have developed a questionnaire to gather data from the public.

"Rätselhafte Spuren" (Mysterious Traces)

Reports of strange circular traces found in a meadow in Ostbelgien, with the grass appearing scorched and the ground depressed. Witnesses claim to have seen a UFO landing about a month prior. Soil samples were taken for analysis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue demonstrates a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena, often seeking rational explanations for sightings and debunking sensational claims. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained aerial phenomena, the magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and scientific scrutiny. There is a recurring theme of distinguishing between genuine mysteries and misinterpretations, hoaxes, or psychological effects. The editorial stance appears to favor skepticism towards claims of government cover-ups and extraterrestrial visitation, advocating for a grounded, evidence-based approach to UFO research. The publication also highlights the role of organizations like CENAP in conducting such investigations and disseminating information.

This issue of AZ München, dated Tuesday, June 26, 1990, focuses heavily on UFO phenomena, police investigations, and the critical examination of alleged sightings and evidence. The cover story details a police chase of two sport pilots in Munich, who were mistaken for terrorists. The magazine also features articles on UFO conferences, crop circle investigations, and the debunking of the widely publicized Gulf Breeze UFO case.

Cover Story: Terroristen-Alarm löste die Jagd auf Sport-Piloten aus! 22 Piloten aus!

The main cover story, written by Dorita Plange, reports on an incident where two hobby pilots, Johannes Feicht and Fritz Lüthe, flying ultralight aircraft, were pursued by a police helicopter and a large police contingent over Munich. The pilots claim they adhered to all flight regulations and had necessary permits. Feicht speculates they were mistaken for terrorists, possibly due to flying near the Gesellschaft für Strahlenschutz und Umwelt (GSF) facility, which had received anonymous bomb threats. GSF spokesperson Heinz-Jörg Haury confirmed the threats were taken seriously. However, Criminal Chief Commissioner Richard Scherer could not confirm a "terror alarm." The pilots were to be interrogated further, and the incident also brought up the topic of a UFO reportedly seen over Pasing the previous year, which police had dismissed as an ultralight aircraft.

AZ-Leser: Aufklärung tut not

This section features a letter from Rudolf Schröck, who expresses concern about the police's involvement in UFO investigations. He notes that Munich police have apparently discovered a new target group: UFOs. Schröck points out that the police were mobilized with 50 patrol cars and a helicopter to chase two ultralight planes, which were mistaken for UFOs. He questions the reliability of UFO sightings and whether all such reports are truly misidentifications of conventional aircraft, suggesting that "clarification is needed" to avoid missing other phenomena, like the Loch Ness Monster.

UFO Kongreß: „Sie griffen einfach in meinen Brustkorb"

This article reports on a UFO congress held at the Deutsches Museum, featuring four researchers from the Soviet Union. Dr. Marina Popovich, a test pilot, claimed that over 100 people who came too close to a UFO died. Valeri Uvarov spoke about a downed UFO on a military base near Moscow, and Viktor Kastrikin described an encounter where he was allegedly freed from heart problems by aliens who spoke Russian and touched his chest. Talif Shonya claimed that up to 100 UFOs land daily. The article also mentions Armstrong, who believes UFOs and aliens visit Earth daily and that the US government has been involved in a cover-up since 1943 regarding Nazi Germany's alleged development of flying saucers and their use of 'Foo Fighters.' Armstrong also references a book about 'Alien Bases On The Moon' as evidence of a cover-up.

The article critically analyzes Armstrong's claims, calling them "romantic nonsense" and questioning the scientific basis of the conference. It suggests that Armstrong mixes rumors and legends into a "new SF truth" and that his statements are detrimental to common sense.

Bayern 3-TV, Tele 5, Sendungen über UFOs

This section reviews television programs discussing UFOs. Bayern 3 featured a program with UFO researchers Hesemann and Ruppe, discussing contact with extraterrestrial beings and inviting Soviet specialists. Felix Maschek, an Austrian UFOlogist, described three types of UFO occupants: pilots in protective suits, large robot-like constructs (2-2.5m), and small artificial mutants (1-1.2m). Viktor Kastrikin, a Soviet UFOlogist, claimed to have spent 33 hours on a spaceship with ETs. UFO-Baron von Buttlar acknowledged the existence of genuine UFO incidents but cautioned against speculation and the possibility of hoaxes, sectarism, and fraud within the UFO community.

Tele 5's report, "Geheimnisse um das Phänomen UFO," focused on why people believe in UFOs, framing it as a form of "substitute religion." The report featured clips and interviews, including one with Hesemann, who defended the inclusion of individuals like Manfred Kage, a "crystal photographer" who believes Earth is a colony of extraterrestrial intelligence. Hesemann argued that such individuals, though perhaps eccentric, fulfill a need for the fantastical in a rational world. The report also touched upon the idea of Hitler's escape and his alleged use of flying saucers for world surveillance.

Kreise lassen Forscher rotieren: Phänomen auf britischen Kornfeldern wird wissenschaftlich untersucht

This article discusses the phenomenon of crop circles appearing in British fields. It notes that over 130 circles have been registered, particularly in Wiltshire. While amateur researchers have proposed various explanations, including helicopters, wild animals, and extraterrestrial visitors, scientists are now investigating. Derek Elsom of the Tornado and Storm Research Organization (Torro) suggests natural weather phenomena, such as whirlwinds or plasma vortices, could be responsible. Terence Meaden, director of Torro, believes a plasma vortex, a previously unknown type of whirlwind, causes the circles. However, some meteorologists question how such a vortex could remain stationary. The article also mentions that the phenomenon has spread to other countries like Japan and Australia. It highlights the scientific community's efforts to provide rational explanations, potentially dispelling some of the more fantastical theories.

Blick zurück auf die skandinavischen Geisterraketen

This section revisits the "ghost rocket" sightings reported in Scandinavia in 1946. It mentions rumors of a secret US investigation into these UFO precursors and cites a report from the magazine JUST CAUSE, which published findings from 1984. General James Doolittle, reportedly sent by the US Army Intelligence, investigated the phenomenon. However, when contacted, Doolittle claimed no knowledge of the events, suggesting that sensationalized newspaper reports can contaminate UFO data.

Blick nach Florida, Gulf Breeze läßt grüßen!

This article focuses on the Gulf Breeze UFO case in Florida, which attracted significant attention from media outlets like USA TODAY. The town is described as either a "parking lot for flying saucers" or a "breeding ground of one of the biggest UFO hoaxes." Local builder Ed Walters claims to have seen and photographed numerous UFOs since 1987. The article notes that the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) officially supports Walters' photographs. However, skepticism exists, particularly after a homemade model resembling Walters' alleged UFOs was found in the attic of his former home. Walters denies ownership of the model. The article also mentions the presence of military installations in the area, whose officials deny any knowledge or involvement with UFOs.

Witness says he saw UFO photos being faked

This section details the debunking of the Gulf Breeze UFO case. The Pensacola News Journal reported that a model UFO was found in Ed Walters' former residence. The model, constructed from Styrofoam plates, paper, and plastic, allowed photographers to replicate Walters' alleged UFO photos through double exposure. Walters, despite the evidence, denied the photos were faked. The article quotes former MUFON member Boyd, who left the organization after concluding the Gulf Breeze photos were a hoax. It also mentions that Walters received a significant sum of money for his book and TV rights. A witness named Chris, along with his parents, came forward to state that they saw Walters faking UFO photos using a model and a flashlight. Chris claimed Walters asked him to help create more fake photos. The article concludes that MUFON is facing a crisis of confidence due to this case.

ERGEBNIS: TEST'88 - AUSWERTUNG DES GEP-CENAP-WAHRNEHMUNGSEXPERIMENTS 1988

This is a detailed report on a perception experiment conducted by GEP and CENAP in 1988. The experiment involved showing participants a color slide of a hot air balloon for 10 seconds and then asking them to describe and draw the object. The study aimed to verify previous findings that "observers" tend to exaggerate time durations and that their descriptions and sketches can be subjective. The report analyzes data from four groups, evaluating the accuracy of verbal descriptions and sketches. It found that while a majority of participants provided "fair" to "so-so" descriptions, few were "very good." The study concluded that group averages are more reliable than individual estimates and that UFO research is considered necessary by most participants, though not all necessarily subscribe to the extraterrestrial hypothesis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, investigations, and the critical analysis of evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensationalized UFO claims, with a focus on debunking hoaxes and providing rational explanations. The magazine highlights the role of media in promoting UFO narratives and questions the scientific rigor of some UFO research organizations. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between belief and evidence, and on the importance of critical thinking when evaluating UFO phenomena. The issue also touches upon the potential for government cover-ups and the psychological aspects of UFO belief, framing it at times as a form of "substitute religion."

Title: ORBITER
Issue: #24
Date: May/June 1990
Publisher: The New England Aerial Phenomena Report
Editor: Jim Melesciuc
Location: Reading, MA, USA

Cover Story: Gulf Breeze UFO Model Found

The cover of this special issue prominently features the headline "Gulf Breeze UFO model found." A black and white photograph illustrates the main story, showing a hand holding a small, detailed model that resembles a UFO. The caption beneath the image states: "This small UFO model was found in a house where Ed Walters used to live."

Editorial Information

The magazine is identified as ISSUE #24 and is dated May/June 1990. The editor is Jim Melesciuc, with the publication's address listed as 43 Harrison Street, Reading, MA 01867, USA. A hotline number is provided as (617) 944-0686.

The publication is also identified as "The New England Aerial Phenomena Report," indicating its focus on aerial phenomena and UFO investigations within that region.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue appears to be a "SPECIAL ISSUE" dedicated to a specific UFO-related discovery. The focus on the Gulf Breeze UFO phenomenon and the recovery of a model associated with Ed Walters suggests an editorial stance that investigates and reports on significant UFO cases and related artifacts. The inclusion of contact information and a specific publisher points to a dedicated effort in documenting and disseminating information within the field of aerial phenomena research.