CENAP Report - No 190

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated December 1991, is published by CENAP (Centrales Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene), a German organization dedicated to the scientific investigation of alleged aerial phenomena. The magazine presents a skeptical perspective on UFOs, emphasizing media influence and the sensationalism surrounding the topic.

"Einzig und allein eine Medienlegende" (Solely a Media Legend)

This article features Werner Walter, a CENAP member with 15 years of research experience, who argues that UFOs are largely a media construct. He criticizes the press and literature for manipulating public perception, comparing it to religious influence. Walter states that CENAP's investigation of 250 UFO reports since 1976 has concluded that most sightings are misidentifications of mundane objects like photographic flashbulbs, car hubcaps, or reflections. He suggests that the UFO phenomenon generates profit for advertisers, writers, and organizers of 'UFO World Congresses'. Walter also debunks a specific 1977 UFO landing report in Dudenhofen, claiming it was merely a photographed light bulb.

Editorial Stance: The UFO Concept and Image from America

The editorial reflects on 44 years of the UFO topic, noting that the concept and imagery largely originate from America and continue to dominate the global UFO discourse. It questions whether the 45th year of UFOlogy will bring significant changes, doubting it due to the enduring, appealing 'American image' of UFOs. The editorial ponders whether 1992 will see an 'ufological collapse' or a breakthrough into 'ufological truth', expressing skepticism about significant changes.

"NICHT ALLE UNTERTASSEN IM SCHRANK" (Not All Saucers in the Closet)

This article, attributed to Dr. Erdling, features quotes from Hans-Jürgen Köhler, founder of CENAP, who claims that out of 11,300 investigated UFO sightings, none have substance. Köhler, a former member of a UFO sect, now provides plausible scientific explanations for sightings, such as balloons, bright stars, or laser beams. The article criticizes CENAP and similar organizations for an overly rationalistic approach that dismisses the possibility of the extraordinary, drawing a parallel to historical scientific resistance to phenomena like meteorites.

UFOs Before the Flying Saucers

This section, likely an excerpt from a publication titled 'The Examiner', discusses historical UFO-related reports, including an 1892 report about Mars and a 1954 French report titled 'Invasion from Mars?'. It also mentions a book titled 'History: Before the UFOs Came'.

"UFO-Gläubige unterliegen vor Gericht den Skeptikern" (UFO Believers Subject to Skeptics in Court)

Written by Bernd Harder, this article details a legal dispute where Andreas Schneider, a self-proclaimed 'contactee' and organizer of 'UFO Seminars', sued CENAP for defamation. CENAP had distributed leaflets accusing Schneider of fraud. The Frankfurt Regional Court dismissed Schneider's lawsuit, ruling that CENAP's statements were protected by freedom of expression and that Schneider, by engaging in such activities, must accept criticism.

"Zoo-Hypothese" and UFOs

This piece promotes a planetarium show in Stuttgart titled "Die Zoo-Hypothese" (The Zoo Hypothesis), which explores the possibility of extraterrestrial life and contact. It suggests the 'Zoo Hypothesis' as a speculative answer to why humanity has not yet contacted aliens. The show covers astronomical observations, Earth's movements, and the challenges of interstellar communication.

UFOs and Freedom of Speech

This article discusses a lawsuit in Frankfurt where a UFO seminar organizer sued CENAP for calling him an 'Aufschneider' (charlatan) and his claims 'Schwindel' (swindle). The court dismissed the case, stating that such criticisms fall under freedom of speech and that the plaintiff, by making public claims, must accept public scrutiny.

"Kosmischer Schwindel" (Cosmic Swindle)

Authored by Dr. Erdling, this article reiterates the legal ruling that claims of contact with extraterrestrials can be legally described as 'swindle' if they are subjective value judgments. It criticizes the plaintiff's recourse to legal action rather than providing evidence and suggests that the UFO phenomenon might not exist if not for sensationalist media.

"Fast ein Drittel aller Ufos sind nur Heißluftballone" (Almost a Third of All UFOs are Just Hot Air Balloons)

This report from CENAP in Mannheim states that their analysis of 314 reported UFO sightings in Germany since 1976 revealed that most were misidentifications. Specifically, 30% were mini-hot air balloons, 21% were bright planets, and 10% were meteorites. Only 6% were attributed to fraud or jokes, with no evidence found for actual UFO phenomena.

UFOs: The American Image

Werner Walter of CENAP discusses how the 'American UFO image' dominates global UFO discourse. He notes cultural variations in UFO beliefs and suggests that UFOlogy in the US often serves as an end in itself, driven by the pursuit of a grand dream.

Historical UFO Reports and Media Sensationalism

This section delves into historical UFO literature and media coverage. It references early UFO publications like 'SAUCERS' from 1954 and discusses popular figures like George Adamski and Donald E. Keyhoe. The article critiques the sensationalist nature of tabloids like 'Weekly World News' and 'The Sun', which publish outlandish stories about UFOs, aliens, and alleged government cover-ups, contributing to public fascination.

Encounters with Extraterrestrials

This part of the magazine explores accounts of alien encounters and abductions. It mentions the case of Betty and Barney Hill, who reported being abducted and examined. It also references the work of ufologist Budd Hopkins, who speculates that aliens might be attempting to hybridize with humans. The article touches upon the psychological impact of alleged abduction experiences, including phobias and weight problems, as reported by hypnotherapists.

UFOs and the Media

This section continues the critique of media sensationalism, citing examples of tabloid headlines about UFOs, aliens, and alleged extraterrestrial activities. It highlights how these sensational stories, even if fabricated, contribute to the public's fascination with UFOs.

UFOs and Freedom of Speech

This article revisits the legal case involving CENAP, emphasizing the court's decision to protect critical statements about UFO claims under freedom of speech. It also touches upon the Raelian movement's belief in extraterrestrial creators and their interpretation of historical events.

The Roswell Incident

The magazine discusses the Roswell incident, referencing the MUFON UFO Journal and an interview with Jesse Marcel Jr., son of one of the alleged witnesses. It presents a diagram of symbols found on alleged recovered UFO debris, though it notes the symbols are not exact representations. The article also mentions the 'Orbiter' publication and Lincoln Lapaz in relation to the Roswell incident.

Cartoons

Several cartoons are included, satirizing UFO encounters, alien abductions, and the sensationalism surrounding the topic. One cartoon depicts an alien encounter with a humorous twist on the 'tractor beam' trope, while another comments on the frequency of alien abductions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards UFO claims, the significant role of media in shaping public perception, and the debunking of common UFO sightings. CENAP's editorial stance is clearly one of critical investigation, aiming to provide rational explanations for alleged phenomena and to counter sensationalism. The magazine emphasizes that most reported UFOs have mundane explanations and that the UFO phenomenon is largely fueled by media hype and public fascination rather than concrete evidence of extraterrestrial visitation.

This issue of "UFOs THE BIG PICTURE," published by MUFON UFO JOURNAL in November 1991, delves into various UFO-related phenomena, with a particular focus on the Roswell incident and the investigation into crop circles. The magazine features articles that critically examine witness testimonies, explore scientific and skeptical viewpoints, and present historical accounts of UFO sightings and related events.

The Roswell Incident: Re-examining the Evidence

The core of this issue revolves around the Roswell incident of July 1947. It scrutinizes the accounts of key figures, notably Bill Rickett, who claimed to have participated in the recovery of a UFO crash. The article questions the veracity and accuracy of Rickett's 40-year-old memories, highlighting discrepancies and the lack of corroborating evidence. Lincoln LaPaz, a respected scientist in meteoritics, is presented as a key figure consulted by the USAF during the early UFO era, particularly concerning the 'green fireballs.' While LaPaz was reportedly cooperative and showed genuine interest in UFOs, the article suggests that Rickett may have conflated different events or embellished his recollections.

Investigative efforts by researchers like Bill Moore, Friedman, Randle, and Schmitt are discussed. The article points out that LaPaz's daughter confirmed her father's interest in UFOs and that his papers were with the USAF, but a FOIA request yielded no confirmation. LaPaz's expertise in meteorite analysis and his involvement in Project Twinkle are detailed. The article also notes that LaPaz never claimed to have found any UFO fragments himself.

A significant portion of the analysis focuses on the timeline and details of Rickett's account, particularly his claim that LaPaz arrived at the crash site two months after the event. This is contrasted with the urgency typically required for meteorite analysis, suggesting a potential inconsistency. The article also highlights that LaPaz, despite his high-level security clearance, was never shown the actual crash site or bodies.

The 'Green Fireballs' and Early UFO Investigations

Beyond Roswell, the issue revisits the phenomenon of 'green fireballs' observed in the late 1940s, especially in the Southwestern USA. Lincoln LaPaz was a primary consultant for the USAF in analyzing these sightings. The article mentions Project Twinkle, an USAF initiative to triangulate the paths of these objects, which ultimately yielded negative results. LaPaz speculated that these fireballs might be artificial rockets from the USSR or even visiting spacecraft, a view that was remarkable for its time.

Edward J. Ruppelt, former chief of Project Blue Book, is cited as a valuable source. His reports indicate that LaPaz was involved in investigating fireballs near Albuquerque in December 1948. Ruppelt's accounts suggest LaPaz was disappointed by his inability to find any fragments, leading him to classify the green fireballs as non-meteoritic and potentially artificial.

Crop Circles: Man-Made or Extraterrestrial?

The magazine also examines the phenomenon of crop circles, which had gained significant attention. The article discusses the MUFON UFO JOURNAL's report on a crop circle found in Milan, Illinois. While acknowledging the widespread fascination with crop circles and their connection to UFO lore, the article presents a skeptical view, citing evidence that many circles are created by humans. Michael Hesemann, a UFO researcher, is quoted as believing that some circles are too complex to be man-made and suggests the involvement of unknown intelligent energies or UFO components. He notes that in Germany, 21 crop circles appeared within a short period, and he is certain about seven of them not being man-made.

However, the article also highlights the possibility of human creators, referencing two individuals who admitted to creating crop circles in England. The possibility of 'cosmic graffiti' is raised, with a critical perspective on the destruction of crops in a world facing food shortages.

Other UFO-Related Topics and Skeptical Voices

Several other UFO-related topics are covered, including a discussion about the 'Alien' photograph, which is identified as a life-size reproduction of a 'being' found after the Roswell incident. The article debunks the authenticity of this image, tracing its origin to a display at the 'Pavillon du Monde de l'Insolite' in Montreal.

The issue also features a segment on a mysterious object orbiting Earth, identified as possibly a Saturn V rocket stage from the Apollo program. Astronomers were tracking this object, which had an unusual orbit, leading to speculation about its artificial nature.

Skeptical viewpoints are presented through the writings of Werner Walter, a UFO researcher who aims to debunk UFO myths. Walter argues that many UFO sightings can be explained by conventional phenomena, such as weather balloons, misidentified aircraft, or even hoaxes. He criticizes the sensationalism surrounding UFOs and the financial incentives that drive the industry.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of UFO evidence, the questioning of witness testimonies, and the exploration of both the mysterious and the mundane explanations for aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, acknowledging the enduring fascination with UFOs while emphasizing the need for rigorous analysis and skepticism. The magazine encourages readers to engage with the history of UFO research and to be discerning about the information they encounter, particularly in an era where sensationalism and profit motives can influence reporting.

Title: DIE RHEINPFALZ
Issue Date: Thursday, November 7, 1991
Publisher: DIE RHEINPFALZ
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue features an article titled "„Man muß auch das Irrationale denken können“" (One Must Also Be Able to Think the Irrational), focusing on Ulrich Magin, a translator from Mutterstadt and author of the book "Von Ufos entführt. Unheimliche Begegnungen der vierten Art" (Abducted by UFOs. Uncanny Encounters of the Fourth Kind).

Ulrich Magin: Author of "Abducted by UFOs"

The article introduces Ulrich Magin, who has written a nearly 160-page book exploring UFO phenomena from a scientific viewpoint. Magin's goal is not to add to sensationalist publications but to help people who claim to be victims of alien abductions to be accepted. He believes their accounts hold a certain truth, even though he personally does not believe in the existence of UFOs.

Magin, a qualified interpreter and translator, aims to debunk charlatans in the UFO field. He asserts that most sightings have rational explanations, often being mistaken for natural phenomena like meteorites, hot air balloons, shooting stars, or aircraft. To investigate, he spent nights observing in Warminster, England, a location known for alleged strange aerial phenomena, concluding that its location in a flight path likely explains the sightings.

Magin's interest in UFOs began in his youth, similar to others' interest in dinosaurs. He also delves into myths, legends, and fairy tales, finding parallels with how people have historically clung to things that couldn't be rationally explained, such as dragons, sea monsters, or Marian apparitions. He posits that in an age dominated by scientific explanations, there is a renewed need for the inexplicable.

He views UFO abductions as modern fairy tales through which the "abducted" person communicates with contemporary society. These are seen as technologically advanced versions of old legends. Magin considers it dangerous to dismiss those claiming alien abduction as mere crackpots, as their experiences, even if not objectively real, are perceived as true by the individuals. He suggests these experiences can sometimes mask serious psychological problems or repressed sexual abuse.

Magin's book, which has sold 20,000 copies, includes personal accounts and draws on sociological, psychological, and philosophical theories. It also features an extensive bibliography of over two hundred books and periodicals. Magin actively keeps up with the field, subscribing to numerous journals, attending conferences, and corresponding with international colleagues.

Personal Aspirations and Worldview

Magin expresses a desire to make a living from writing, acknowledging that future projects might not be as commercially successful as his current book, which he considers a stroke of luck. He also shares a personal dream of living in Wales or Cornwall, which aligns with his broader philosophy: "One must be able to think everything, even the irrational."

The article is authored by Claudia Schneider and published in DIE RHEINPFALZ on November 7, 1991.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to engage with contemporary phenomena, including UFOs and alleged paranormal experiences, by seeking rational explanations and psychological interpretations. The editorial stance, as represented by the featured article, encourages an open-minded yet critical approach, acknowledging the subjective reality of experiences while grounding them in scientific, psychological, and folkloric frameworks. There is an emphasis on debunking sensationalism and understanding the underlying human needs and issues that might manifest in such beliefs.