CENAP Report - No 187

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated 9.91 (September 1991), is published by CENAP (Central Research Network for Extraordinary Celestial Phenomena) and priced at DM 10,--. The cover prominently features a striking image of crop circles in a field near Hildesheim, Germany, posing the question: 'Mysterious figures in the corn – messages or warnings from space?' The magazine delves into various aspects of UFO research, including alleged government cover-ups, contactee experiences, and the scientific community's engagement with the phenomenon.

Key Articles and Features

Crop Circles and Extraterrestrial Messages

The cover story focuses on the enigmatic crop circles, presenting them as a potential form of communication from extraterrestrial intelligence. The article questions whether these formations are deliberate messages or warnings, linking them to the broader UFO phenomenon.

Government Involvement and Cover-ups

Several articles explore the historical involvement of government agencies, particularly the CIA and USAF, in UFO investigations. The issue highlights alleged attempts to downplay, conceal, or discredit UFO sightings and evidence. It references the Robertson Forum and the CIA's directive to counter UFO hysteria, as well as the USAF's Project Blue Book and its alleged shortcomings.

NICAP and its Role

The role of NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena) is discussed, including its founder Maj. Donald Keyhoe and its connections to former intelligence officials like Admiral Roscoe Hillenkoetter. The magazine touches upon the organization's efforts to bring UFO issues to the attention of Congress and its eventual dissolution.

Contactee Experiences and Personal Accounts

The issue features accounts of alleged UFO contactees, including the story of Sten Lindgren and his experiences related to the 'Dick-Fall' and 'Helge-Fall' in Sweden. These accounts are presented with an emphasis on critical analysis, questioning the veracity of some claims and exploring the psychological aspects of belief.

Scientific and Official Perspectives

Discussions include the perspectives of scientists like Dr. James McDonald and the findings of official studies such as the Condon Report. The magazine also touches upon the NASA's involvement in space research and its relation to UFO phenomena, including reports of unidentified objects observed by astronauts.

Congressional Hearings and UFOs

An article details the history of Congressional hearings on UFOs in the United States, particularly in the 1960s, driven by pressure from organizations like NICAP. It examines the motivations behind these hearings and the challenges faced in gaining serious consideration for the UFO topic within political circles.

Thematic Exploration

The magazine explores themes such as the 'religious science fiction' aspect of UFO beliefs, the potential for psychological projection in contactee claims, and the broader implications of extraterrestrial intelligence for humanity. It also touches upon theosophical influences within the UFO movement.

Book Reviews and Publications

References are made to books like Timothy Good's 'Above Top Secret' and other publications that contribute to the discourse on UFOs and government secrecy.

Astronomical Information

A section provides astronomical information for October 1991, including planetary conjunctions and meteor showers, presented by R. Henke of CENAP-HD.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

CENAP REPORT consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded stance towards UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained events and extraterrestrial intelligence, the magazine emphasizes the need for rigorous scientific investigation and critical analysis of evidence. There is a recurring theme of skepticism towards sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims, particularly those originating from less credible sources or involving alleged government cover-ups without concrete proof. The editorial stance appears to favor a more grounded, evidence-based approach to understanding UFOs, while still recognizing the profound questions they raise about our place in the universe. The publication seems to aim at informing its readership about the latest developments in UFO research, historical cases, and the ongoing debate surrounding the phenomenon.

This issue of the magazine, dated July 1991, focuses heavily on the phenomenon of crop circles appearing in Germany, alongside a report on unexplained lights over Nuremberg. The cover story, "Ufos am Nachthimmel: Nürnberg rätselte über Lichtkegel" (UFOs in the Night Sky: Nuremberg Pondered Light Cones), details an event on July 15, 1991, where thousands witnessed bright, circular lights over Nuremberg. Initially thought to be UFOs, the lights were later identified as powerful spotlights from the discotheque RESI, used for a celebration. The article debunks the UFO theory, attributing the event to earthly sources.

Crop Circles Sweep Germany

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the emergence of crop circles in various German regions, including Schleswig-Holstein, near Kiel, Damp, Hildesheim, and Magdeburg. These mysterious patterns in wheat fields, previously a phenomenon primarily associated with England, began appearing in Germany, drawing considerable public attention and media coverage.

Schleswig-Holstein: The First German Circles

Reports from Felm and Damp in Schleswig-Holstein describe the discovery of large, precisely formed circles in wheat fields. The Felm circle, measuring 70 meters in diameter, and the Damp circle, about 12 meters wide, attracted thousands of curious onlookers, including ufologists, parapsychologists, and the general public. Farmers, however, expressed frustration with the disruption and damage caused by the crowds.

Hildesheim and Beyond: More Mysteries Emerge

Further reports detail crop circles appearing near Hildesheim, specifically in Grasdorf, where intricate patterns including circles, crescents, and sickle shapes were found. These discoveries led to a surge in tourism, with farmers charging admission fees to view the fields. Similar phenomena were reported in Waldeck am Edersee and near the Schameder airfield, further fueling the debate about their origin.

Explanations and Debunking

The magazine presents a range of explanations for the crop circles, moving away from purely extraterrestrial theories. Several articles suggest that the circles are the result of human hoaxes. Students from Kiel are shown demonstrating how they created similar patterns using stilts, clotheslines, and planks. Farmers themselves, like Joseph Garbs from Borsum, even constructed devices ('magical rune rollers' made from oil barrels) to replicate the patterns, proving that such formations could be created by human intervention.

Meteorological explanations are also discussed, with theories involving whirlwinds or other atmospheric phenomena. Some scientists, like those from the Bundesforschungsanstalt für Landwirtschaft, suggest that human actions such as differential fertilizing, trampling, or the use of specific agricultural equipment could create such patterns. The precision of the formations is highlighted as a challenge for purely natural explanations.

Public Reaction and Media Frenzy

The media played a significant role in amplifying the crop circle phenomenon, with numerous newspaper articles and even a radio show (Radio 4 UFO) covering the events. The public's reaction ranged from genuine curiosity and belief in UFOs to skepticism and attempts to find rational explanations. Some individuals, like the 11-year-old Mike Grosse, expressed belief in 'intelligent beings from Mars,' while others, like Bishop Hans Christian Knuth, dismissed the phenomenon as 'nonsense.'

Scientific and Skeptical Perspectives

Experts from various fields, including meteorology, astronomy, and agriculture, largely dismissed the UFO theory. Dr. Hans-Ulrich Keller from the Planetarium Stuttgart stated that the International Astronomical Union had no evidence of extraterrestrial life. Meteorologists like Manno Peters argued that atmospheric phenomena like whirlwinds could not create such regular patterns. The consensus among many experts leaned towards human ingenuity, whether for pranks, artistic expression, or even commercial gain.

The 'Nuremberg Lights' Incident

Separately, the article "Ufos am Nachthimmel: Nürnberg rätselte über Lichtkegel" details the Nuremberg light incident. It explains how thousands of people reported seeing strange lights, which were later identified as powerful spotlights from a discotheque named RESI. The event highlights how misinterpretations and the power of suggestion can lead to UFO sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena, particularly crop circles and unusual lights. The magazine adopts a generally skeptical stance, presenting various theories but consistently leaning towards rational explanations such as hoaxes, meteorological events, or misinterpretations. While acknowledging the public's fascination and the media's role in sensationalizing these events, the editorial tone suggests a preference for scientific investigation and a debunking of purely speculative or extraterrestrial claims. The issue seems to aim at informing readers about these phenomena while encouraging critical thinking and a grounded approach to understanding them.

Title: NEUE REVUE
Issue: Nr. 32
Date: August 2, 1991
Publisher: NEUE REVUE
Country: Germany
Language: German
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Main Cover Story: "Sind jetzt auch bei uns Ufos gelandet?" - Ratselhafte Kornfelder in Schleswig-Holstein

The cover of NEUE REVUE's August 2, 1991 issue prominently features the sensational question: "Sind jetzt auch bei uns Ufos gelandet?" accompanied by striking images of crop circles. The main article delves into the mystery of these formations that began appearing in German cornfields, particularly in Schleswig-Holstein, sparking widespread speculation about extraterrestrial visitors.

The Phenomenon Arrives in Germany

For years, crop circles had been a recurring summer phenomenon in England, often depicted as mysterious symbols or landing sites for UFOs. In the summer of 1991, this phenomenon crossed over to Germany, with the first significant discoveries reported in Felm and Damp in Schleswig-Holstein, and later in Grasdorf (Hildesheim). These formations, characterized by precisely flattened stalks in circular patterns, immediately captured public and media attention.

Explanations and Speculations

Numerous theories were put forth to explain the crop circles. Initially, the 'UFO-researcher' community, including figures like Johannes von Buttlar and Hauke Loss, leaned towards extraterrestrial origins, suggesting they were messages from the cosmos or landing marks for alien spacecraft. Other proposed explanations included natural phenomena like wind vortices (supported by physicist Terence Meaden), animal behavior (like deer or 'love-struck hedgehogs'), and even geological or atmospheric electrical currents.

The Student Hoax Revelation

A significant turning point in the German crop circle narrative came with the confession of four law students from Kiel. Appearing on Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR), they admitted to creating eight of the ten discovered circles in Schleswig-Holstein out of sheer boredom during their semester break. They demonstrated their method, which involved using stilts to avoid leaving footprints, a rope as a compass, and a wooden plank to flatten the corn stalks without significant damage. This revelation, while debunking the alien theory for many of the German circles, also highlighted the media's eagerness to sensationalize the events.

Media Frenzy and Public Reaction

The crop circle phenomenon generated considerable media attention across Germany. Newspapers and television programs extensively covered the discoveries, featuring interviews with farmers, UFO experts, scientists, and curious onlookers. The farmers, whose fields were affected, often expressed frustration with the damage and the influx of curious visitors. Some, like the farmer in Hildesheim, even began charging admission fees.

International Context and Continued Mystery

The magazine also references the ongoing crop circle activity in England, where the phenomenon had been occurring for over a decade. While the German circles were largely attributed to student pranks, the article acknowledges that in England, the mystery persisted, with some scientists still investigating natural explanations like 'plasma vortices' and 'wind devils'. The media's role in popularizing both crop circles and UFO sightings is discussed, drawing parallels to the UFO craze of the 1950s.

Specific Incidents and Locations

• Felm, Schleswig-Holstein: The site of the first widely reported crop circle in Germany, a 70-meter diameter circle. This became a major attraction for tourists and researchers.
• Grasdorf, Hildesheim: Featured complex pictograms that impressed UFO enthusiasts.
• Damp, Schleswig-Holstein: Another circle appeared here, adding to the regional mystery.
• England (Wiltshire, Bath): Continued crop circle activity, with farmers capitalizing on the phenomenon.
• Netze, Waldeck: A large pictogram with four circles was discovered.

Scientific and Esoteric Perspectives

While the student confession provided a mundane explanation for many German circles, the magazine touches upon scientific theories like Terence Meaden's 'plasma vortex' hypothesis. It also acknowledges the continued interest from parapsychologists and 'UFO-researchers' who sought more esoteric explanations, sometimes linking the patterns to 'invisible energy beings' or 'other dimensions'.

The 'Golden Discs' Incident

One peculiar incident mentioned involves a treasure hunter who reportedly found three golden discs with patterns similar to the crop circles near Hildesheim. This added another layer of mystery, though its connection to the crop circles remains speculative.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the mystery and allure of crop circles, the media's role in sensationalizing unexplained phenomena, and the contrast between scientific inquiry, esoteric speculation, and practical explanations like hoaxes. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism, acknowledging the public fascination while ultimately leaning towards rational explanations, particularly the student prank, for the German incidents. The magazine highlights how easily the public can be swayed by visual evidence and sensational headlines, especially during the 'summer slump' when news is scarce. It also implicitly critiques the 'UFO-manie' that often accompanies such events, suggesting that many phenomena can be attributed to human ingenuity or natural causes rather than extraterrestrial intervention.

This issue of "INVESTIGATION: Kulturbeilage des EUROPEAN" from July 12-14, 1991, delves deeply into the phenomenon of crop circles, presenting a comprehensive overview of reported incidents across Europe and critically examining various interpretations. The publication aims to dissect the phenomenon, separating factual reporting from speculation and sensationalism.

Global Crop Circle Sightings

The magazine begins by illustrating the widespread nature of crop circles, with examples cited from England, Spain, the Netherlands, Sweden, Italy, Germany, Hungary, the Soviet Union, and Turkey. These reports highlight the visual diversity and complexity of the formations, ranging from simple circles to more intricate patterns.

• England: Noted for a surge in crop circle reports, particularly in the past decade, with 700 reported the previous year, mainly in the southwest.
• Spain: An example appeared in Aloalo de Guadaira near Seville.
• Netherlands: Two mysterious circles were found near Haarlemmermeer in August 1990, with local schoolchildren claiming to have created them.
• Sweden: The only known circle formation occurred in Örebro in 1972 after a star-like object was seen.
• Italy: In September 1990, villagers in the Puglia region reported a strange circle formation.
• Germany: A circle was sighted in a rape field near Cologne in May 1990, with another reported near Wiesbaden a year later.
• Hungary: A formation in the Puszta region remains puzzling.
• Soviet Union: Two formations appeared in July and August 1990 in remote villages near Tomsk in Siberia.
• Turkey: An unusual formation was reported near Anatolia and is being studied.
• Bulgaria: A complex formation of four circles was reported in July 1990 at Drouzhba, near Sofia.

Media and Public Perception

The issue critically analyzes the role of the media, particularly television, in shaping public perception of crop circles. The ZDF-Fernsehgarten show is highlighted for creating a large dumbbell shape on its grounds, which the magazine suggests may have influenced the public's readiness to accept sensational explanations. The media's tendency to label these phenomena as 'UFO-Nester' or 'mystery circles' is scrutinized, with a particular focus on how German media outlets like the Hessischer Rundfunk (HR) and others covered the events, often framing them as 'summer hole' fillers or 'Nessie' replacements.

The "1. deutsche Kornkreis-Konferenz" in Hamburg is mentioned, where attendees concluded that crop circles were not man-made and likely not natural phenomena. However, the magazine points out that many participants were esoterically inclined, and the discussion often veered into speculation rather than scientific inquiry.

Johannes von Buttlar and Esoteric Theories

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the controversial figure of Johannes von Buttlar, an esotericism expert who became a prominent voice in the crop circle debate. Von Buttlar's theories, which he presented on the RTL+ talk show "Heißer Stuhl," suggest that crop circles could be messages from extraterrestrials, parallel worlds, or related to 'morphogenetic fields'—a concept he attributes to Rupert Sheldrake.

The magazine meticulously deconstructs von Buttlar's arguments, highlighting numerous contradictions and a lack of empirical evidence. Critics, including scientists and journalists, challenge his claims, pointing out:

• Lack of Scientific Basis: Von Buttlar's assertions about molecular structure changes and 5.2 KHz frequencies are dismissed as unproven.
• Contradictory Explanations: He is accused of conflating different phenomena (e.g., sound signals with electromagnetic fields) and shifting his explanations to suit the audience.
• Misrepresentation of Science: Critics argue that von Buttlar misuses scientific terms and concepts, such as Sheldrake's morphogenetic fields, to support his esoteric views.
• Selective Use of Data: He is accused of relying on anecdotal evidence and selectively citing 'scientists' while ignoring contradictory findings or established scientific consensus.
• Self-Promotion: His involvement in organizing expensive trips to England to view crop circles is noted, suggesting a commercial motive.

The magazine also points out that von Buttlar initially claimed to be a mere 'data collector' but then presented himself as an expert with his own theories on the show.

Skeptical Perspectives and Counterarguments

Several other guests on the "Heißer Stuhl" program offer counterarguments and skeptical viewpoints:

• Heinz Kaminski: A 'futurist' and 'director of the Sternwarte Bochum,' Kaminski dismisses crop circles as a means to make money and a form of 'people's deception.' He challenges von Buttlar to provide concrete scientific data.
• Josef Hesselbach: From an MPI institute for breeding research, he suggests crop circles could be 'earthly messages' and proposes explanations related to soil compaction or wind vortices.
• Christian Graf Reventlow: A farmer, he describes crop circles as a 'northern fun' with a few drawbacks.
• Winfried Motter: A Catholic priest, he questions the scientific basis of von Buttlar's claims and the lack of verifiable methods.

Skeptics like Kaminski and others emphasize the need for scientific rigor and evidence-based reasoning, contrasting it with von Buttlar's speculative approach. The magazine also notes that many of the 'scientists' cited by von Buttlar are actually UFOlogists or proponents of fringe theories.

The "Mowing-Devil" and Historical Context

The issue includes a discussion of a 1678 woodcut depicting the "Mowing-Devil." The magazine argues that this historical image, often cited by proponents of ancient alien theories, is unrelated to modern crop circles. The text and imagery of the woodcut suggest a story about a farmer making a deal with the devil to mow his field, not an extraterrestrial phenomenon.

"Heißer Stuhl" Program Analysis

The magazine provides a detailed breakdown of the "Heißer Stuhl" broadcast, noting that von Buttlar himself seemed to influence the selection of his debate partners, leading to a situation where critics felt outnumbered and unable to present their arguments effectively. The article suggests that the show became a platform for von Buttlar's views, with only a few dissenting voices struggling to be heard.

Specific Criticisms of Von Buttlar's Claims

The article lists "12 Irrtümer bzw. Widersprüche des Herrn von Buttlar" (12 Errors or Contradictions of Mr. von Buttlar), including:

1. Molecular Structure Changes: Labeled as a completely unproven assertion.
2. 5.2 MHz Tones/EM Effects/Morphogenetic Fields: Criticized for conflating distinct physical phenomena and lacking basic physics knowledge.
3. Meaden's 5.2 KHz Signal: Identified as misinformation, with the signal reportedly registered by George Wingfield and analyzed later.
4. Denial of ET Involvement: Accused of having previously linked crop circles to UFOs and ETs in his books, despite later denials.
5. "Mowing-Devil" Connection: Argued that the 1678 woodcut is unrelated to modern crop circles.
6. Soviet Snow Patterns: Questioned, with only one known DIA image of a snow circle from Switzerland mentioned.
7. "Hordes of Scientists" in England: Claimed to be an exaggeration, with most attendees at a TORRO conference being UFOlogists, not scientists.
8. "Just a Journalist" Claim: Contradicted by his self-promotion as a scientist and use of academic titles.
9. Not a Chladni: Von Buttlar's theories are deemed unscientific and unprovable, unlike Chladni's work.
10. Sheldrake's Theory and Crop Circles: Von Buttlar is accused of misrepresenting Sheldrake's position, implying Sheldrake himself doesn't know if his theory applies to crop circles.
11. Lights Near Crop Circles: While acknowledged, the magazine notes that many such reports are not linked to UFOs.
12. Theses Not Based on Belief: Von Buttlar's claims are questioned as being presented as fact when they are speculative and unproven, thus requiring belief.

Conclusion

The issue concludes that Johannes von Buttlar likely failed to win over a scientifically educated audience due to the diffuse and contradictory nature of his explanations. The magazine suggests that while von Buttlar's followers may be accustomed to his UFO and ET connections, they might be disappointed by his shift to more abstract hypotheses. The article implies that von Buttlar's arguments, while perhaps convincing to some, lack the scientific rigor to be considered credible by a broader, more critical audience.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation into the crop circle phenomenon, the critical examination of esoteric and UFO-related explanations, and the role of media in sensationalizing unexplained events. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to debunk unsubstantiated claims and promote a more rational, evidence-based approach to understanding such phenomena. The magazine actively challenges the pronouncements of figures like Johannes von Buttlar, contrasting their speculative theories with scientific inquiry and logical reasoning.

This issue of 'die tageszeitung' from Saturday, August 10, 1991, features a prominent article titled "While Occultism is Booming, Scientists Still Cannot Lift the Veil of PSI Phenomena / The Parapsychology Congress in Heidelberg Brings Disillusionment." The cover also includes a large vertical masthead in German: "From the Parapsychological No Man's Land."

Main Article: Occultism and the Scientific Response

The main article, written by Erwin Single from Heidelberg, addresses the current surge in interest in occultism and PSI phenomena. It notes how, despite the commercialization and the debunking of some claims (like the 'wonder fields' in North German cornfields being explained as flattened windrows), a significant portion of the population remains fascinated. The article highlights the ongoing efforts of the international scientific community, particularly the Parapsychological Association (PA), which is holding its annual congress in Heidelberg. The goal is to investigate reports of supernatural events with an interdisciplinary approach involving psychologists, physicists, medical professionals, psychiatrists, philosophers, and theologians.

The Appeal of the Occult

The article explains that PSI phenomena, described as poltergeists, ghosts, or voices from the beyond, have long captured the human imagination. Since the 1970s, the PSI wave has gained significant momentum, with studies indicating that 80% of the population has had experiences related to it. This fascination is particularly strong among young people, who are drawn to practices like Ouija boards, automatic writing, and dowsing as a way to connect with perceived universal forces, find self-affirmation, and express a form of protest against a complex world.

Commercialization and Skepticism

Eberhard Bauer, from the Institute for Border Areas of Psychology, notes that the occult boom benefits the mail-order industry selling esoterica, generating millions. He also points out the presence of numerous charlatans who exploit people's beliefs. While acknowledging the potential for genuine PSI phenomena, Bauer cautions against dismissing everything as mere delusion, as this misses opportunities for self-discovery.

Walter v. Lucadou Interview: Occultism as Protest Behavior

In an interview, Walter v. Lucadou, head of the parapsychological counseling center in Freiburg, discusses his clientele, which includes both psychological counselors and individuals affected by parapsychological events. He confirms the popularity of occult practices among youth, attributing it to curiosity, a desire for simple explanations, and a form of protest. Lucadou also highlights the commercial aspect, with the esoteric mail-order business thriving. He states that while many phenomena can be explained physically, dismissing occultism entirely is a mistake, as it can offer a path to self-experience. He warns of the dangers of dependency and the potential for psychological distress, including hallucinations and delusions, which can lead to therapeutic treatment.

Scientific Challenges and Disillusionment

Professor Stephen Braude, president of the PA, emphasizes the need for serious investigation of PSI phenomena, regardless of their nature, due to their impact on people's sense of security. However, the article notes that many reported phenomena, such as telepathy, clairvoyance, and psychokinesis, are often revealed to be fraud or deception, citing examples like the Fox family and Uri Geller. The article mentions that even rigorous scientific investigations, like those by laser physicists into Geller's abilities, have failed to find evidence, with tricks often being exposed by colleagues. The work of the late Professor Hans Bender, a prominent figure in German parapsychology, is also recalled.

The Rise of Illusionism and the 'New Age' Movement

Scientists are increasingly focusing on illusionist techniques. Bob Morris, a parapsychology professor, is interested in the possibilities of deception. Walter Lucadou states that many occult manifestations can be simply explained physically. Professor Klaus Müller, an ethnology professor, describes occultism as a form of self-help for people who feel let down by science. He identifies the 'New Age' movement, with its courses, workshops, and esoteric markets, as a significant obstacle to serious scientific inquiry, as it promotes superficial engagement with occultism and allows anyone to present themselves as an expert.

Scientific Disillusionment

The article concludes by noting a growing disillusionment among scientists. Critics argue that parapsychologists have failed to provide concrete proof of PSI phenomena and are avoiding crucial questions. Eberhard Bauer is quoted as saying that scientists can choose their own reasons for their skepticism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the societal fascination with occultism and PSI phenomena, the scientific community's struggle to understand and validate these occurrences, and the commercial exploitation of these beliefs. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, acknowledging the existence of genuine unexplained phenomena while emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific investigation and cautioning against fraud and superficial engagement with the occult. The article highlights the tension between popular belief and scientific skepticism, suggesting that the scientific community is facing challenges and disillusionment in its pursuit of understanding these complex subjects.