CENAP Report - No 180

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated 2.91 (February 1991), is published by the Centrales Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene (CENAP) and costs DM 3.90. The cover prominently features the claim "Billy Meier HOAX" alongside an image of a UFO, immediately signaling a critical stance on the Meier case.

The Billy Meier Hoax

The magazine directly addresses the Billy Meier case, labeling it a hoax. It presents evidence suggesting Meier used trick photography and models, citing a report from the "UFO-IFO Gruppe 309 Uitikon/ZH" and Werner Walter's critical analysis. Walter, a "UFO-Realo" from Mannheim, disputes Meier's claims, stating that Meier's wife was used as an extraterrestrial and that the "spaceships" were models hung on threads. The article suggests that many UFO sightings are mistaken for phenomena like shooting stars, and that Meier's case is a "Christmas fairy tale."

The Origins of the UFO Phenomenon: Ray Palmer and the Shaver Mystery

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to tracing the roots of the UFO phenomenon, focusing on Ray Palmer. Palmer is credited with being a crucial link in the "birth of the most exciting mystery of our century." His publication of Richard S. Shaver's "Shaver Mystery" stories in magazines like FATE and Amazing Stories in the 1940s is highlighted. These stories, which depicted subterranean beings called "Deros," blurred the lines between science fiction and perceived reality, significantly influencing the public's perception of UFOs and extraterrestrials. The article notes how Palmer "fictionalized" Shaver's accounts to boost magazine sales, effectively creating a "new human and world image" in the post-WWII era.

Media Analysis: The "Live aus dem Schlachthof" TV Discussion

The issue includes a summary of a BR-Jugendsendung titled "Live aus dem Schlachthof" from November 12, 1990. The discussion featured four participants: Johannes von Buttlar (labeled "UFO-Baron"), T. Reckmann from MUFON-CES, Dr. Alain Schmitt (a neurophysiologist), and R. Henke from CENAP. The discussion covered various UFO-related topics, including the definition of UFOs, the possibility of extraterrestrial life, and the interpretation of evidence. The article notes the differing viewpoints, with von Buttlar emphasizing the existence of UFOs and Schmitt viewing the UFO myth as folklore. The debate touched upon the psychological aspects of UFO sightings and the role of prior beliefs. The magazine also critiques the media's handling of the discussion, noting the time allocated to each participant and the perceived bias towards "insider" perspectives.

UFO Technology and Alien Encounters

The magazine touches upon the technological aspects of UFOs and alleged alien encounters. It references the "Shaver Mystery" again, noting how Shaver described "Deros" possessing mechanical vehicles capable of moving through subterranean tunnel systems, similar to modern technology. The article also discusses the concept of "inner-earth civilizations" and the idea that "Deros" influence humanity. In the context of alleged alien abductions, the magazine references the book "Communion" by Whitley Strieber and the work of researchers like Budd Hopkins and David Jacobs. It describes alleged alien spacecraft interiors, including medical examination rooms and the concept of alien breeding facilities. The article questions the authenticity of these accounts, suggesting they may reflect human imagination rather than objective reality.

Skepticism and Scientific Scrutiny

Throughout the issue, a skeptical perspective is maintained. The magazine highlights the lack of definitive proof for UFOs and criticizes the sensationalist approach often taken by media and some researchers. The article on the "Try-Fall" incident, for example, discusses the presentation of evidence, including photos and video, and points out potential flaws in interpretation, such as mistaking camera movement for object movement. The discussion of the Belgian triangular UFO sightings also includes a critique of the interpretation of radar data and the possibility of misidentification. Skeptics like Philip J. Klass are quoted, emphasizing the need for rigorous investigation and the exposure of hoaxes.

Specific Case Studies and Analysis

Beyond the general themes, the magazine examines specific cases:

• The "Try-Fall": Presented with newspaper clippings and witness accounts, this incident is analyzed critically.
• New Zealand UFO Film (1978): Mentioned in the context of analyzing UFO footage.
• Belgian Triangular UFOs: Discussed in relation to radar data and potential misidentifications.
• Catalina Island UFO Film (1966): Presented as an example of a popular but potentially fraudulent UFO sighting.
• The "Erlanger Seismologen" Report: This section details a report from Erlangen seismologists suggesting a mysterious aerial object observed was a rocket fragment rather than a meteorite, due to its slow speed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this CENAP REPORT issue is the critical examination of UFO claims, with a particular focus on debunking the Billy Meier case. The magazine emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor, skepticism, and media literacy when approaching the UFO phenomenon. It highlights how early UFO lore, particularly through figures like Ray Palmer and the "Shaver Mystery," became intertwined with pseudo-religious beliefs and sensationalism. The editorial stance is clearly that of a rationalist organization seeking to separate fact from fiction in the realm of unexplained aerial phenomena, often pointing to psychological factors, misidentifications, and deliberate hoaxes as explanations for many reported sightings. The magazine aims to provide its readers with the tools to critically evaluate UFO claims, distinguishing between genuine mysteries and manufactured narratives.

This issue of SPUTNIK, dated Saturday/Sunday, January 5/6, 1991, with issue number 4 and volume 33, is primarily focused on the phenomenon of UFOs and alleged alien contact. The cover headline, "Warning: The Aliens Are Attacking," immediately sets a tone of alarm and intrigue. The magazine delves into various aspects of ufology, including personal accounts, scientific skepticism, and the societal implications of belief in extraterrestrial life, with a notable emphasis on reports from the Soviet Union.

Key Articles and Themes

The Meier Phenomenon: Contactee or Charlatan?

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the controversial figure of Eduard Meier, a Swiss UFO contactee who claims to have had extensive interactions with beings from the Pleiades, particularly a female entity named Semjase. The article details Meier's alleged communications, his claims of receiving advanced knowledge, and the extensive photographic and documentary evidence he has produced. However, the magazine also presents a strong skeptical counter-narrative, citing analyses that suggest Meier's photographs are faked using models and wires. It highlights accusations of fraud, psychological manipulation, and financial exploitation leveled against Meier by former associates and investigators. The article questions the authenticity of his claims, suggesting that the 'story' is not about aliens but about the 'crazy businessmen' behind the phenomenon.

UFOs in the Soviet Union: A Growing Interest Amidst Change

The issue explores the burgeoning interest in UFOs within the Soviet Union, particularly in the context of Glasnost and Perestroika. Reports from Soviet media outlets like "Trud" and "Komsomolskaya Pravda" are featured, detailing alleged UFO sightings, encounters, and even warnings about potential alien aggression. The magazine notes that in a time of political and economic uncertainty, UFOs and other mystical phenomena seem to offer a form of escapism or a search for answers. It highlights the Soviet government's official stance, which, while acknowledging the phenomenon, also expresses caution and a lack of concrete evidence. The article "Russische Sterndeuter haben Hochkonjunktur" (Russian Star-Gazers Are Booming) discusses the rise of psychics, astrologers, and UFO enthusiasts in Russia, attributing this trend to a 'crisis of the spirit' and a 'hunger for belief.'

Documented UFO Incidents and Evidence

• Several specific UFO incidents are described, including:
• A report from 1956 about a meeting of 'World-Interplanetarians' in Paris.
• The alleged crash of a UFO near Dalnegorsk in 1986, which purportedly left behind fragments and lead pellets.
• An account from 1989 of a UFO landing in Voronezh, with robots and human-like beings emerging.
• Photographs and descriptions of various UFO shapes, including discs, spheres, and cigar-shaped craft, with alleged physical characteristics like pulsating surfaces, windows, and light beams.
• The article "UFO-BRUCHSTÜCKE UND BLEIGEWINNUNG DURCH AUSSERIRDISCHE" (UFO Fragments and Lead Extraction by Extraterrestrials) details the analysis of materials from the Dalnegorsk incident, suggesting they are of non-terrestrial origin.

Skepticism and Analysis

Complementing the sensational reports, the magazine includes critical analyses and skeptical viewpoints. The "Ground Saucer Watch" computer analysis is mentioned as having identified Meier's photos as fakes. The article "Außerirdische besuchen am liebsten Russen" (Aliens Prefer to Visit Russians) from "Frankfurter Neue Presse" questions the authenticity of UFO reports, suggesting that many are fabrications or misinterpretations, and that the focus should be on the 'cover-up' rather than the aliens themselves. The magazine also touches upon the psychological aspects of belief, discussing 'belief hunger' and the susceptibility of individuals to charismatic figures and sensational claims.

International UFO Activity

Beyond the Soviet Union, the issue briefly touches upon international UFO activity, including reports from the USA and other countries. It mentions the "Washington TIMES" article by Don Kowet, which investigated the "UFO Working Group" in the Pentagon, and Howard Blum's skepticism about the phenomenon, suggesting it might be a government cover-up.

Technical and Scientific Aspects

Some technical details are included, such as the analysis of alleged alien materials and the discussion of orbital mechanics related to potential extraterrestrial spacecraft. The article "Die sogenannten 'Spaceports' auf diesem Globus" (The so-called 'Spaceports' on this Globe) lists various launch sites around the world, providing a backdrop of human space exploration against which alien visitation claims are contrasted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of SPUTNIK presents a multifaceted view of the UFO phenomenon. While it reports on numerous alleged sightings and contactee claims, it also actively engages with skepticism and critical analysis. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, presenting both the sensational and the debunking perspectives. There's a clear interest in the psychological and societal factors that drive belief in UFOs, particularly in times of social upheaval. The magazine seems to lean towards the idea that while the existence of extraterrestrial life might be plausible, many specific claims, especially those involving contactees like Meier, are likely fraudulent or misinterpreted. The recurring theme is that the 'real story' might be less about aliens and more about human psychology, deception, and the search for meaning in a complex world.

This issue of NEWS magazine, dated November 30, 1990, is heavily focused on sensational UFO and alien-related claims, with a prominent cover story alleging the capture of an alien by U.S. agents.

Cover Story: Alien Captured by U.S. Agents!

The main headline proclaims: "THEY REHERE! Creature's UFO landed in Virginia mountains! ALIEN CAPTURED BY U.S. AGENTS!" The cover features a dramatic, grainy photograph depicting what appears to be an alien being escorted by men in dark suits and sunglasses, promising "More top secret photos inside!". The article details how an intelligence source informed the magazine that U.S. agents had captured an alien and were transporting it to Washington for questioning. It suggests that while the government officially denies the report, half of Washington, including President George Bush, is aware of the details.

German Report on Alien Capture and Escape

A German-language section, sourced from GEP (Postfach 2361, 5880 Lüdenscheid) and referencing the "Weekly World News," provides a more detailed account. It states that the aliens are here and that the U.S. government is withholding this information, coinciding with the American holiday of Halloween. An unnamed "UFO researcher" allegedly provided the publication with exclusive photos of the alien's arrest, which were supposedly leaked from intelligence circles. The alien is described as large-headed and human-sized, not the small grey creatures often depicted in abduction stories. It landed with its UFO in western Virginia. When government agents arrived, they found the alien about 75 yards from the spacecraft, wandering through bushes. The alien and its craft were reportedly taken to a secluded location for "safekeeping." The "researcher" received a tip and went to the scene, capturing photos as agents apprehended the alien, who was then forced into a vehicle. The alien was allegedly taken to Washington D.C. and moved six times within 24 hours to conceal it. A NEWS reporter was allegedly "neutralized" by the CIA after inquiring about the event. The report claims that U.S. President George Bush has been briefed and that "half of Washington" knows about the "secret" of the alien, which reportedly speaks perfect English, both forwards and backwards. The NEWS is quoted as saying, "This is no Star Trek and no Science Fiction. The aliens are among us."

The report continues, detailing the alien's escape from CIA custody in Washington D.C. on October 22nd, three weeks after its capture. The alien reportedly broke out of its cell and escaped despite 11 guards and agents. The unnamed UFO expert claims this escape was treated as a top government priority. Initially, the alien was considered harmless, but its escape proved otherwise. The alien allegedly claimed to be from an underground civilization in the M-31 star system and was interested in establishing trade relations and sharing technology for cosmic radiation energy. However, it reportedly became uncooperative after October 18th, disliking the interrogation methods.

Fireballs Over Alsace and Europe

Several articles discuss a widespread phenomenon of "fireballs" or "glowing spheres" observed over Alsace, France, and other parts of Europe on the evening of November 5, 1990. Numerous eyewitness accounts are presented, describing multiple bright lights, sometimes in formations, with glowing trails. Some witnesses compared the event to fireworks or a meteor shower, while others suspected UFOs or military maneuvers. The "Offenburger Tageblatt" and "DNA" newspapers report on these sightings, with many readers contributing their observations.

One article, "Feuerkugeln am elsässischen Himmel...." (Fireballs in the Alsatian Sky...), details reports from readers who saw 10 to 15 white or bluish-white glowing spheres moving in formation, some with red or yellow hues, leaving light trails. The direction of movement was generally from west to east or southwest to northeast. Some witnesses reported hearing sounds, such as a "bip-bip," a whistling, or a sulfurous smell.

Another piece, "Wie bei den drei Weisen" (Like the Three Wise Men), likens the spectacle to a biblical event. "Schweif bis zu 300 Meter lang" (Tail up to 300 meters long) describes a large red fireball with a tail and other accompanying lights.

"Wie im Science-Fiction-Film" (Like in a Science-Fiction Film) recounts a training session where observers saw about ten bright objects with fiery trails, initially mistaken for fireworks or falling stars, but later described as splitting into 30 or 40 pieces, creating a "mad spectacle."

Official Explanations and Skepticism

Several articles attempt to provide explanations for the fireballs. The "DNA" newspaper, citing the French space agency CNES, suggests the phenomenon was the re-entry of the third stage of a Soviet Proton rocket (object number 20925/1990/094 C) which was on a waiting orbit and crashed on November 5th. The object is described as a cylinder about 10 to 15 meters long with a diameter of 3 to 4 meters and a mass of several tons. The article "Das Geheimnis der «Feuerkugeln » ist gelüftet" (The Secret of the 'Fireballs' is Revealed) states that the event was caused by the disintegration of the third stage of a Proton rocket, which was supposed to bring the Gorizont 21 satellite into orbit.

However, some skepticism is expressed regarding the official explanation. The article "Die Stille war faszinierend" (The Silence was Fascinating) notes the silent nature of the phenomenon, which is unusual for falling debris. The article "Grandios und unheimlich" (Grandiose and Unsettling) also emphasizes the silent movement of the objects.

UFO Investigations and Controversies

Other sections delve into ongoing UFO investigations and controversies:

• Howard Blum's Book "Out There": The magazine criticizes Howard Blum's book, labeling him a "disinformant" and comparing him to Philip Klass and Jaime Shandera. Blum's claim of a source named Sheila Mondran is questioned, with investigations suggesting she may not exist. Blum defends himself by stating "Mondran" was the woman's maiden name. The article also mentions a US Space Command spokesperson admitting to detecting an "unconnected" radar target on December 4, 1986.
• MJ-12 and Roswell: Blum is accused of involving other journalists, such as Seymour Hersh, who allegedly spoke of "spooky things" in military circles, possibly related to ESP experiments rather than UFOs. The article also touches on Blum's portrayal of SETI scientist Tarter and Jonathan Thompson, former White House official, with both denying Blum's claims about them reporting mysterious signals from space.
• "Dead Alien" Photo Controversy: The issue discusses a color photograph of a supposed alien in a silver suit inside a glass tube, published by Jim Melesciuc's ORBITER magazine. The magazine suggests this might be a prop from a science fiction film or an exhibit from a UFO convention, rather than genuine evidence from the 1947 Roswell incident. It questions the authenticity and origin of the photo.
• Gulf Breeze UFO Case: The article reports on new developments in the Gulf Breeze UFO case, where MUFON investigators Carol and Rex Salisberry have concluded that the Ed Walters photos are likely faked. This contradicts their earlier positive stance and has led to internal MUFON controversy, with MUFON boss Walt Andrus disavowing their findings.
• Billy Meier and RTLplus: A report on Billy Meier, a contactee who claims communication with extraterrestrials, is mentioned. A planned broadcast on STERN-TV was postponed due to protests. A subsequent report by Olaf Kumpfert for RTLplus is described as "helpless" and "ironically scratched." The report allegedly features film material of Meier, with critics calling it a "shameless fraud." RTLplus sent a team to Meier's "Semjase-Silver-Star-Center," which turned out to be an old farmhouse.

Other Mentions

• "UFO" Definition: A brief explanation of the term "UFO" (Unidentified Flying Object) is provided, noting that over 40 years of sightings have yielded no conclusive proof of extraterrestrial origin, despite ongoing scientific observation.
• Saljut 7 Space Station: Information is given about the uncremaned Soviet space station Saljut 7, its orbital altitude, and its expected atmospheric re-entry in January.
• Book Orders: Information is provided for ordering UFO documentation videos and a book titled "Above Top Secret" by Timothy Good.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the idea of UFOs and alien visitation, often presenting alleged evidence such as photographs and eyewitness accounts. There is a strong undercurrent of government secrecy and cover-up, suggesting that authorities are actively hiding the truth from the public. The editorial stance appears to be one of sensationalism and advocacy for the UFO phenomenon, while also engaging in critiques of certain researchers and cases, particularly when they challenge the magazine's overarching narrative or when evidence is deemed questionable. The publication seems to thrive on controversy and the presentation of 'exclusive' or 'top secret' information, often with a critical eye towards official explanations.