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CENAP Report - No 186
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This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated 8.91, is published by the Centrales Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene (CENAP) and is priced at DM 5,--. The cover prominently features the title 'CENAP REPORT' and highlights articles on 'The Story of the Mars Canals!', 'Beyond…
Magazine Overview
This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated 8.91, is published by the Centrales Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene (CENAP) and is priced at DM 5,--. The cover prominently features the title 'CENAP REPORT' and highlights articles on 'The Story of the Mars Canals!', 'Beyond Top Secret!', and 'Project URD - A Scientific Cult'. The issue includes a satellite image and technical data from 'CAMERA 1'.
Key Articles and Content
The Story of the Mars Canals!
The issue begins with a discussion of the 'Story of the Mars Canals!', suggesting a scientific exploration of this phenomenon.
Beyond Top Secret! UFOs (Continued)
This section delves into the book "Jenseits von Top Secret: Das geheime Ufo-Wissen der Regierungen" by Timothy Good. It explores UFO experiences across different nations, focusing on the Soviet Union and notable landings in Voronezh. The article references the work of Dr. Felix Jurewitsch Zigel, a professor at the Moscow Institute of Aviation, who advocated for scientific UFO research and noted the theories of Dr. Donald Menzel. It also recounts the experiences of decorated Air Force pilot Arkadij Iwanowitsch Apraksin, who had two significant UFO encounters in 1948 and 1949.
The article details Soviet interest in UFOs, mirroring that of the US Pentagon during the Cold War, with the CIA investigating potential espionage or extraterrestrial incursions. A 1952 CIA memorandum noted the absence of UFO discussions in the Soviet satellite press. The text also mentions a 1955 incident where a group traveling in Transcaucasia witnessed two unconventional aircraft ascending from the ground.
Further discussion revolves around the 1966 International Congress of Mathematicians in Moscow, where Dr. Jacques Vallee reportedly discussed UFOs with scientists. The formation of a semi-official group under Major General Stoljarow in March 1967, with an estimated 15,000 UFO reports in the Soviet Air Force's archives, is also mentioned. A 1967 report from the USSR Academy of Sciences details a UFO sighting over Volgograd.
A CIA report from August 1967, discussing conversations with Russian scientists about UFOs, highlights differing viewpoints. Some scientists dismissed UFOs as solely American phenomena, while others acknowledged observations in the north of the USSR, not published in Soviet newspapers. The CIA noted the Soviet press's willingness to publish fantastical hypotheses, suggesting potential government sanctioning. One scientist speculated that UFOs might originate from Venus.
The article suggests that the Soviet Union lacked an official UFO handling policy but possessed widespread knowledge of the phenomenon. It touches upon a rumored 1955 meeting in Geneva where intelligence chiefs from the USSR, USA, France, and England allegedly agreed to maintain secrecy regarding UFOs.
UFOs in the Soviet Union: A Statistical Overview
This section presents the 15-year CENAP case statistic (March 1976-March 1991), covering 230 cases. Identified Objects (IFOs) accounted for 73.0% (168 cases), with insufficient information in 15.2% (35 cases), 'near IFOs' in 10.4% (24 cases), and 'problematic UFOs' in 1.3% (3 cases).
Within the IFO category, 'Artificial Objects' comprised 49%, 'Natural Phenomena' 37%, and 'Subjective Phenomena' (delusion/psychological) 14%. Further breakdown of IFOs includes: Astronomical Objects (57 cases, 33.9%), including planets, meteors, and stars; Balloons (54 cases, 32.18%), including model hot-air balloons and weather balloons; Swindels (16 cases, 9.5%); Aircraft/Helicopters (15 cases, 8.9%); Photo Errors (7 cases, 4.2%); Non-UFOs (7 cases, 4.2%); Psychological (4 cases, 2.4%); and Signal Rockets (3 cases, 1.8%). Other categories included 'Miscellaneous' (5 cases, 3.0%), 'Ortsschild' (1 case), 'Bariumwolke' (1 case), 'Reentry' (1 case), and 'Physiological' (1 case).
The classification system by A. Hendry is mentioned, distinguishing between reports with 'slight peculiarity' (considered near IFOs) and 'moderate peculiarity' (considered not good UFO cases). 'Good UFO' and 'best UFO' classifications were not used.
"Golden Death Rays!" UFO Attacked Russian City
This article, referencing reports from BILD am Sonntag (April 16, 1978) and the Soviet news agency TASS, details a sensational UFO incident in Petrozavodsk. It describes a mysterious flying object firing golden beams that burned holes in streets and windows, causing panic among the city's 185,000 inhabitants. The event is linked to a previous sighting of light arrows over the border region between the Soviet Union and Finland.
UFO Department of the DOSAAF
On October 18, 1967, the UFO department of the All-Union DOSAAF Cosmonaut Committee held its first meeting, attended by 400 participants. Major General Porfiri Stoljarow was elected chairman, with Dr. Felix Zigel as deputy. The group included a cosmonaut, eighteen scientists and astronomers, and 200 observers. A subsequent television broadcast led to over 200 serious reports, prompting the DOSAAF Central Committee to consider dissolving the UFO department in November 1967, without informing its members.
US Intelligence and UFOs
The issue explores the US government's handling of UFO phenomena, including the CIA's involvement. A 1952 CIA document noted the Soviet press's silence on UFOs, attributing it to a political decision. The CIA expressed concern about potential mass hysteria and the need for a unified political line on the issue, recommending it be presented to the National Security Council.
Despite the CIA's stated interest, the article suggests their involvement was not as significant as often portrayed in UFOlogy. A 1949 document noted the possibility of UFOs being inter-planetary or foreign aircraft, necessitating investigation. The CIA's caution about public disclosure is highlighted, fearing it could be interpreted as confirmation of hidden facts.
The article discusses the Roswell incident and the alleged Majestic 12 (MJ-12) group. It mentions a 1980 document from the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) that was later deemed a forgery, intended to create a story around the fabricated MJ-12 group. The article casts doubt on the authenticity of MJ-12 related documents.
It also references a 1947 document from General Twining, who stated a lack of tangible evidence from crash sites to prove the existence of these objects. A declassified 1948 paper, 'Analysis of Flying Object Incidents in the US,' emerged in 1985, focusing on UFO sightings near sensitive security installations.
Project Blue Book and US Air Force Investigations
The US Air Force's 'Project Blue Book' investigation, spanning 15 years and examining 7,369 reports, concluded that no evidence was found to support the theory that UFOs were extraterrestrial visitors. The final report, published in Washington, identified most sightings as conventional aircraft, satellites, meteorological balloons, or birds. A small percentage (1.94%) remained unexplained.
UFOs and National Security
The article discusses the US government's classification of UFO reports, particularly those near sensitive security installations. A 1952 CIA document noted Soviet press silence on UFOs, suggesting a political decision. The CIA's interest was primarily in gathering information related to military reconnaissance and potential Soviet rocket tests.
The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), established in 1961, reportedly holds limited UFO-related documents, with some being withheld due to security classifications. The DIA's interest focused on UFO sightings in the USSR and potential Soviet rocket tests.
International UFO Reports
Reports from Argentina in 1968 and Spain in 1973-74 are mentioned, where US defense attachés sent newspaper clippings to the Pentagon, highlighting public concern.
The CIA and the Robertson Panel
The CIA's involvement in UFO research is detailed, including the establishment of the Intelligence Advisory Committee and the Robertson Panel in 1952. The Robertson Panel Report concluded that most sightings had reasonable explanations and found no evidence of extraterrestrial origin. The panel also noted the potential for misidentification of enemy aircraft and the risk of public hysteria.
'Flying Saucer' Crash in Arizona?
This section reports on a supposed crashed 'flying saucer' found in the Arizona desert, with no trace of its crew. The 'National Enquirer' is cited as the source, and the US Department of Defense is said to be keeping the find secret to avoid public panic. Rocket expert Fowler described the object as resembling two stacked hubcaps, about ten meters in diameter.
UFO Sightings and Pilot Encounters
The issue recounts various pilot sightings and encounters, including a case from 1954 where a pilot reported an object behaving erratically. It also mentions a 1953 incident involving an F-89C Scorpion aircraft pursuing a radar-detected UFO near Soo Locks, Michigan, which reportedly merged with the UFO's echo.
The Lüdenscheid Incident
A local report from Lüdenscheid, Germany, describes a sighting of a bright white oval light in the night sky. Initially investigated by the 'Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens' (GEP), it was later identified as a hot air balloon, debunking the UFO theory.
Astrowarning for September 1991
A celestial forecast for September 1991 notes the visibility of Venus and Jupiter before sunrise and predicts no significant meteor showers.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue of CENAP REPORT include the ongoing investigation into UFO phenomena, the role of government secrecy and intelligence agencies in handling such information, and the historical analysis of significant UFO cases, particularly those involving the Soviet Union and the United States. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking scientific explanations while acknowledging the persistent mysteries and the potential for misinterpretation or deliberate obfuscation. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible evidence and speculation, and on the geopolitical implications of UFO sightings during the Cold War era. The magazine aims to inform its readers about the latest findings and historical context within the field of ufology.
This issue of UFO-FORSCHUNG from 1991 (published by Archives for UFO Research, Sweden) delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, covering historical mysteries, scientific debates, and contemporary reports. The magazine features articles on the Bermuda Triangle, the Mars canals controversy, UFO cults, and detailed accounts of alleged UFO sightings and encounters.
Bermuda Triangle Mystery Debunked
The issue begins by addressing the long-standing mystery of the 'Lost Squadron,' five US Navy Avenger aircraft that vanished in 1945. A report details how a salvage ship, the 'Deep See,' found five aircraft off the coast of Florida, initially thought to be the lost planes. However, a subsequent article clarifies that these were not the 'Flight 19' aircraft, debunking the sensational claim and attributing the find to a mistaken identification, noting that over 130 Avenger aircraft were lost off Florida.
The Mars Canals: A Historical Perspective
An extensive article explores the history of the 'Mars canals' theory, tracing its origins to 19th-century astronomical observations by Giovanni Schiaparelli. It details how telescopes improved, leading to more detailed observations and the naming of Martian features. The article discusses the scientific community's acceptance and eventual skepticism towards the canals, influenced by figures like Percival Lowell and the limitations of planetary photography. The controversy was largely settled with the advent of space probes like Mariner 4, which provided clear images of a canal-less Mars.
UFO Cults and Contactee Movements
The magazine examines the phenomenon of UFO cults and contactee movements, particularly focusing on Sten Lindgren and the Intergalactical Federation (IGF) in Sweden. It describes Lindgren's early UFO experiences and his involvement with various groups, including his interactions with a mysterious figure named BEA. The article critiques the scientific basis of these movements, highlighting the blend of pseudoscience, occultism, and spiritualism. It also discusses the psychological aspects of UFO experiences, drawing parallels between UFO encounters and near-death experiences.
Close Encounters and Case Studies
Several case studies of alleged UFO encounters are presented. One section discusses 'Close Encounters of the Fourth Kind' (CE IV), where individuals report being abducted and subjected to medical experiments by aliens. The book 'Rettung vor dem Untertassen-Kult' by Anders Dahl is reviewed, offering an inside look at the psychological impact of such cults.
Another article details a UFO-CE-II case from Nördling, Germany, involving mysterious circular patterns in a rapeseed field. It explores witness testimonies and potential explanations, including the possibility of a landing craft.
A report from Gulf Breeze, USA, describes sightings of a red UFO, including an account of a Japanese TV crew attempting to film it. The article also touches upon the skepticism surrounding such sightings, with suggestions of misidentification with balloons.
Media and UFOs
The issue also touches upon the role of media in shaping UFO narratives, with a discussion of Erich von Däniken's lectures in East Germany and his views on extraterrestrial intervention. The article critiques the sensationalism surrounding UFO phenomena and the tendency to attribute unexplained events to aliens.
Book Reviews and Research Initiatives
Reviews of UFO-related books are featured, including 'Kreise im Kornfeld' (Crop Circles) and 'Other Tongues - Other Flesh.' The 'Archives for UFO Research' (AFU) and its publication, the AFU Newsletter, are highlighted, along with their 'Project URD,' an attempt to scientifically analyze UFO reports.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained, the nature of belief, and the intersection of science and pseudoscience in the study of UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting various perspectives while often questioning the validity of extraordinary claims and highlighting the role of media in perpetuating UFO myths. There's a consistent effort to distinguish between verifiable facts and speculative theories, often pointing out the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to UFO beliefs.
This document is a continuation from page 2, presenting a 15-year statistical analysis of UFO cases compiled by CENAP (Central Network for UFO Research). The analysis, primarily conducted by Rudolf Henke, focuses on cases where CENAP members directly contacted witnesses, distinguishing them from cases presented by external UFO groups or the press.
CENAP Case Statistics Analysis The article begins by clarifying that the presented 15-year statistics are based on a subset of CENAP's total case files, specifically those involving direct witness contact by CENAP members. Out of approximately 1300 total cases reported to CENAP, about 500 received a new interpretation or reclassification. The analysis highlights that cases presented by external UFO groups or the press have a higher rate of re-evaluation (222 cases) compared to CENAP's internal re-evaluations (around 78% success rate for external cases vs. 28% for press cases).
The statistical analysis itself is based on a revised categorization scheme, replacing the previous black-and-white 'UFO/IFO' (Unidentified Flying Object/Identified Flying Object) system with one that includes a category for 'Insufficient Information.' The article notes that the cases included in this specific statistic do not feature spectacular sightings but rather those lacking even basic data like the date.
The overall 'UFO quote' (percentage of cases classified as UFOs) has been reduced to 3 problematic cases, equating to 1.6%. The author suggests that if one were to classify more dubious cases as IFOs, an additional 14% of cases could be explained. The article refutes claims of a 99.98% explanation rate, as suggested by a MUFONces representative.
Case Examples and Classifications Three specific cases are detailed:
1. Mannheim, May 17, 1977: Two witnesses reported a drop-shaped object seen over the Rhine promenade at night. It appeared to rotate, was equipped with bright headlights, and had red and blue lights. A foul odor was also noted. Before the object appeared, two helicopters were seen, whose flight behavior suggested they were playing. An inquiry at the nearby Neuostheim airfield yielded no results. Due to features like colored lights and headlights, which suggest a helicopter, and the lack of excessive strangeness, the case is classified as 'PUFO' (Possible UFO).
2. Berlin, October 9, 1978: A single witness observed a drop-shaped, gold-colored, glowing object during an evening walk. The object moved slowly at first, then very rapidly ('shot away'). The case was classified as 'unidentified' due to its unusual shape and color. However, the lack of high strangeness and the presence of only one witness mean it cannot be considered a good UFO case.
3. St. Pölten, Austria, February 23, 1983: The main witness reported that his car's electrical systems (consumption regulator, radio, interior lighting, windshield wipers) began operating spontaneously. He then saw a bright to dark orange, elliptical object with blurred edges filling his entire windshield. Another driver also observed the object. The phenomenon reportedly hovered for a time before disappearing. While many aspects suggest a model hot-air balloon ('Party-Gag'), the enormous size is considered peculiar. The electromagnetic effects are not necessarily linked to the object, and therefore, it is not considered a good UFO case.
Identified Flying Objects (IFOs) The article then discusses common IFOs:
- 'Party-bag-Ballon': This is identified as a recurring explanation, accounting for one in every four cases.
- Bright Planets: Venus and Jupiter are frequently mistaken for UFOs, especially when viewed with a 20x magnification.
- The Moon: The moon was identified as the cause in two cases, following astronomical reconstructions. Examples include Ampolla (December 12, 1975) and Bielefeld-Leopoldshöhe (May 9, 1979). The article notes with some satisfaction that MUFONces did not identify the moon explanation in the latter case.