CENAP Report - No 197

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: 7/3/22
Date: May 12, 1992
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP REPORT, published by the Centrales Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene (CENAP), delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, with a particular focus on the question of whether extraterrestrials are among us. The cover art and headline 'Die Fremden in UNS' (The Strangers in Us) set the tone for an exploration of alien encounters, UFO sightings, and the evolving nature of UFOlogy.

The Strangers Among Us?

The lead article, 'DIE FREMDEN IN UNS?', questions the nature of extraterrestrials and their presence. It contrasts the 'little green men' of popular culture with the 'angelic beauties' described by contactees like Adamski, and the 'wild cosmos creatures' reported from South America. The article notes the absence of SF- or fantasy-like visitors in UFO literature, unlike in film and television. It highlights the prevalence of 'Greys' in abduction scenarios, linking them to researchers like Lear, Cooper, and Hopkins. The author suggests that Earth might be a 'galactic zoo' for various civilizations. The piece observes how aliens have become integrated into modern civilization, appearing in advertising and children's entertainment, displacing traditional figures. However, it points out a shift in UFOlogy: while classic UFO history focused on metallic spacecraft and landings with physical traces, contemporary accounts often involve ETs appearing directly to 'victims' without visible craft. This shift, often explored through hypnosis, has led to subjective stories that may not engage the public as much as the earlier, more objective reports. The article posits that UFOlogy has moved from objectivity towards subjectivity, contributing to the rise of channeling and New Age phenomena. Unlike older contactee reports, which rarely involved trauma, abduction stories often portray victims as pitiable, akin to victims of rape, reflecting contemporary societal discussions. The author suggests that contactees and abductees are merely reflecting current societal trends, and that experiences of abduction, like those of rape victims, are only recently being processed publicly.

Abductions and the Human Psyche

The article further explores the controversial topic of abductions, suggesting that ET abductors might be projections of ancient human problems, dressed in space suits to fit cultural expectations. It acknowledges that these encounters feel real to the 'recipients' and can produce physical effects, such as passing through solid walls. The author questions the physical nature of beings who can traverse walls and whether they require physical spacecraft. Abductees, it is noted, often report a wide range of paranormal phenomena alongside their UFO-ET experiences, such as time loss and children reporting sightings. The 'Hill effect' is mentioned, where spouses can become 'infected' by their partner's nightmares. The article suggests that the desire for ET intervention in human evolution, as proposed by pre-astronautics proponents, might stem from a need for higher guidance or a form of Ersatzreligion (substitute religion), as UFOlogy is sometimes criticized for being. The evidence for these claims is described as anecdotal and easily attackable.

Regarding genetic experiments for creating ET/human hybrids, the article touches upon ancient myths of gods mating with humans. It notes that 'Greys' are described as sexless, contrasting with contactees' descriptions of aliens with discernible gender characteristics. A contradiction is highlighted: Roswell in 1947 allegedly yielded 'Greys', while earlier contactees described ETs in futuristic attire. The article suggests that abduction victims experience trauma, similar to rape victims, and that their experiences often reflect contemporary societal issues rather than providing new information about extraterrestrials. The author concludes that contactees and abductees are merely tapping into the zeitgeist.

UFOs with Occupants in Argentina: New Findings

This section focuses on UFO occupant cases (CE III) in Argentina, referencing an article by Dr. Roberto E. Banchs from the MUFON journal 'ORBITER'. Dr. Banchs, a social psychologist and leading figure in the Argentinian UFO research organization CEFAI, emphasizes the importance of CE III cases for solving the UFO problem. The article discusses the long history of anthropomorphic alien sightings in Argentina since 1949. It acknowledges the regular appearance of unconventional objects in the sky and occasional landings, but finds the appearance of figures to be more challenging to explain. The author stresses the need for caution when accepting such reports as authentic, following a principle of 'the more bizarre the description, the more careful we should be'.

Dr. Banchs suggests that the core of the UFO phenomenon lies in cases where strangers were seen and communication occurred. However, investigating these events is problematic due to the focus on the witness's personality and socio-economic environment, which is more complex than analyzing atmospheric or astronomical phenomena. Dr. Banchs states that 'the human being is the only element we consistently have before us, as 'proof' for the UFO phenomenon, whatever its form may be.' He also notes that while people observe the sky, they often forget who is doing the observing.

CEFAI compiled a catalog of 46 UFO occupant cases, many of which were based on newspaper reports lacking prior investigation. A later update in 1980 provided more information. The project involved significant effort due to Argentina's vastness, limited press information, financial constraints, and poor communication infrastructure. The article mentions that the completion of the 46-case catalog was aided by foreign UFO researchers. Dr. Banchs advocates for similar efforts worldwide.

The selection criteria for the study focused on cases involving visual observation of UFOs and their occupants, excluding reports of aliens appearing without a UFO or typical contactee cases. The analysis of these cases revealed that most resolved CE III cases occurred during peak UFO years (1954, 1965, 1968, 1973, 1978/1979). The diversity of explanations is noted, and the author encourages readers to consider solutions for CE IIIs discussed globally.

UFO Sightings in Germany

This section presents several UFO sighting reports from Germany:

1. Oldenburg, circa August 21, 1976: Two elderly women reported seeing a metallic, flashing sphere in broad daylight. The object descended rapidly and disappeared behind buildings. It was described as being as large as a full moon when closest and had a distinct outline. CENAP's assessment suggests it might have been a balloon, but notes the recurring mention of a 'Saturn ring' in the center.
2. Hamburg, September 18, 1989: A pensioner reported seeing an object moving extremely fast from west to east at night. It was as bright as a star and appeared very high. The witness ruled out an aircraft due to its speed and altitude. CENAP suggests it could have been an unusual satellite.
3. Wolfsburg-Königslutter Autobahn Intersection, February 4, 1990: A family reported seeing two bright stars that appeared to change shape, becoming oval and then a single light that moved. They then observed four lights that ascended vertically and moved towards Hannover and Hamburg. The family also witnessed yellow flashes from a small cloud. CENAP interprets this as a circling aircraft, possibly on a holding pattern near Braunschweig airport.

The Belgian Triangle UFOs: A Case of Misinterpretation?

The article critically examines the Belgian UFO wave, particularly the triangular UFO sightings, which have been promoted as evidence of extraterrestrial activity. The author expresses skepticism, suggesting that the phenomena might be explainable by more mundane causes. The report mentions spectacular radar sightings and optical observations by the Belgian population, as well as film material. However, it points out that the most famous triangular UFO film, by Marcel Alfarano, has been questioned. Alfarano filmed a slow-moving 'phenomenon' near the Brussels airport, which was broadcast globally. The article notes that this sighting occurred at a different location than where Belgian Air Force fighter jets were attempting to intercept UFO radar signals. Patrick Ferryn of SOBEPS investigated Alfarano's film and concluded that the object was likely an ordinary aircraft on its landing approach to the busy Brussels airport, given the high frequency of landings at that time.

The article suggests that the 'Tarnkappen-Typ' (stealth aircraft) hypothesis, like the F-117A, has been used to add excitement but is ultimately unfounded. It concludes that ordinary phenomena can be misinterpreted as UFOs, and that the Belgian UFO wave should serve as a lesson.

UFOs: A Case for Themselves?

This section discusses the potential for government cover-ups related to UFOs and the implications for individuals involved. It references a Joint Army-Navy Air Publication (JANAP 146) that outlines procedures for reporting vital intelligence sightings, including unidentified flying objects. The publication details how information is handled and the penalties for misuse, including imprisonment or fines.

Airman Mendez vs. Bureaucracy: A Case of UFO Counter-Espionage?

This article details the experience of Simone Mendez, a former USAF soldier stationed at Nellis AFB, Nevada. Mendez, who had a Top Secret clearance and worked in telecommunications, received a Top Secret message from the intelligence center at Nellis AFB, referencing a NORAD report. The report indicated that unknown objects had entered Earth's atmosphere and were tracked towards the Soviet Union, where they hovered near Moscow for over an hour. Mendez, who had a personal interest in UFOs and had previously seen orange lights and a V-formation of lights, was astonished by this official confirmation of UFO reality. She discussed the document with a colleague named 'Green' and kept it for a while, feeling it was proof that humanity was not alone. This led to discussions with friends George and Marsha, who were also UFO enthusiasts. The article implies that Mendez's possession of this classified document and her subsequent discussions might have led to repercussions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CENAP REPORT consistently emphasizes a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. It aims to debunk sensational claims and provide rational explanations for sightings, often pointing to misinterpretations of ordinary objects or events, hoaxes, or psychological factors. The magazine appears to advocate for a more scientific and less speculative approach to UFO research, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and to consider mundane explanations first. There is a recurring theme of questioning official narratives and potential government cover-ups, but also a caution against jumping to conclusions. The editorial stance seems to be one of seeking truth through rigorous investigation and debunking, while acknowledging the complexity and persistent mystery surrounding UFOs. The publication also highlights the importance of organizations like CENAP as reliable channels for reporting and investigating UFO sightings, contrasting them with less reliable sources or media sensationalism.

This issue of the magazine, titled "UFOs - Ich sah sie" (UFOs - I Saw Them), with the subtitle "Weltrekord-Pilotin" (World Record Pilot), focuses heavily on UFO phenomena, extraterrestrial encounters, and related conspiracy theories. The issue date is April 3, 1992, published by Sächsische Zeitung. It features a cover headline asking, "Hat die Armee von UFOs glasklare Videobänder?" (Does the Army have crystal clear UFO videotapes?).

Simone Mendez Case: A UFO Document Mishap

A significant portion of the magazine details the case of Simone Mendez, an Airman First Class stationed at Nellis AFB. Her ordeal began when she received a UFO-related document from a friend, which she later attempted to return. This led to a severe investigation by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) and the FBI, who suspected her of espionage. Mendez underwent multiple lie detector tests and psychological evaluations, experiencing significant distress and a breakdown. Despite the intense scrutiny, the case was eventually closed in July 1982, with Mendez being cleared of espionage charges but facing career repercussions. The article suggests that the government's reaction was disproportionate to the perceived threat, highlighting the sensitivity surrounding UFO information and national security.

Marina Popovich: A Pilot's Cosmic Encounters

The issue features Marina Popovich, a renowned Russian test pilot and world record holder, who shares her experiences and theories about UFOs. She is presented as a prominent figure in Russian ufology, having written a book titled "UFO Glasnost." Popovich recounts two personal encounters with UFOs, describing them as observations of unusual aerial phenomena. She advocates for humanity to explore space and overcome its limitations, believing that understanding the cosmos is crucial for our future. Her work is presented as a scientific approach to the UFO phenomenon, exploring hypotheses and events that have recently become public.

Jerry Wills: Alien Encounters and Secret Deals

Jerry Wills, a 38-year-old electronics engineer, claims to have had encounters with extraterrestrials since childhood. He recounts meeting an alien named Zo in 1978, who told him that he, like Wills, was from another planet. Wills presents a 'crystal ball' as evidence of his contact, which he claims is not made of glass or quartz. He also alleges that in 1947, three UFOs crashed in Roswell, New Mexico, and that the US government made a secret deal with aliens, exchanging biological material for advanced technology. Wills believes that governments are actively trying to conceal knowledge of higher intelligences from the public.

UFO Investigations and Debunking

The magazine also includes articles that critically examine UFO sightings. One piece discusses the work of Dieter von Reeken, a Lüneburg resident who has researched UFOs for 25 years. He emphasizes that many reported sightings turn out to be mundane phenomena like aurora borealis, weather balloons, or optical illusions. Another article highlights the findings of the Society for the Scientific Investigation of the Paranormal (GWUP), which suggests that a significant percentage of UFO sightings are actually misidentified hot air balloons or other explainable phenomena. The GWUP aims to scientifically investigate and explain paranormal events, including UFOs, astrology, and clairvoyance.

UFO Congresses and Theories

Several articles cover UFO congresses held in Germany, such as the one in Berlin's UFA-Fabrik. These events bring together ufologists, researchers, and enthusiasts to share their findings and theories. Speakers like Virgil Armstrong, a former CIA operative, discuss alleged government conspiracies with extraterrestrials, while others explore the spiritual aspects of UFO encounters and the possibility of humanity evolving into higher dimensions. The magazine also touches upon the commercialization of UFO beliefs, with books, merchandise, and lectures being offered to a receptive audience.

International Perspectives on UFOs

The issue includes a report on the state of UFO research in Russia, noting that after the fall of communism, the media began reporting on a wider range of topics, including UFOs. It also touches upon the low level of UFO interest in Switzerland, attributing it to major international events distracting the public. The article about China's UFO researchers highlights their belief in extraterrestrial visitation and their efforts to obtain clear video evidence, while also noting the challenges posed by government secrecy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a generally open-minded yet critical stance towards UFO phenomena. While it presents numerous accounts of alleged encounters and theories of alien visitation and government cover-ups, it also includes articles that debunk sightings and question the scientific validity of some claims. The editorial focus seems to be on exploring the breadth of UFO beliefs and investigations, from personal testimonies to scientific inquiries and conspiracy theories. There is a recurring theme of government secrecy and the public's fascination with the unknown. The magazine appears to cater to an audience interested in the paranormal, conspiracy theories, and the potential for extraterrestrial life, while also providing a platform for critical analysis and debunking.

This issue of CR-Doppelnummer, dated Summer 1992 and identified as issue number 197, is a special double issue published by CENAP-HD. It covers a range of topics related to UFO phenomena, astronomy, and the growing skeptical movement.

Cover Story: Astrowarnung für August 1992

The cover prominently features an 'Astrowarnung für August 1992' by R. Henke of CENAP-HD. This section provides astronomical insights for the month, noting that August is a 'pure Mars month' for UFO stimuli, with Mars appearing brighter than Aldebaran. Venus is mentioned as a faint 'evening star,' and Jupiter disappears from the sky mid-month. The Perseid meteor shower is highlighted as a significant event, with bright fireballs (bolides) being common between August 10th and 14th.

UFOs and Extraterrestrial Contact

The magazine explores the question of whether UFOs are real and if extraterrestrials exist. It references the UFO World Congress in Berlin, where ufologists sought answers and evidence. The article touches upon historical accounts, from Giordano Bruno's ideas about infinite worlds to Orson Welles' 'War of the Worlds' radio broadcast and Steven Spielberg's 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind.'

Meditation and Channeling

A significant article details Julie Ravel's experiences with 'channeling,' a process of connecting with extraterrestrial beings through meditation. Ravel describes receiving messages from a being named Guramos, who speaks of supporting Earth and invisible crystal systems purifying the atmosphere. The messages emphasize the struggle between the physical body and the subconscious, and the need for humanity to overcome its adversarial view of others.

Case Studies and Sightings

Several UFO cases are presented:

• UFO near the Elbe (March 1977): A 'disc-shaped' UFO, 18 meters in diameter, was photographed.
• UFO near Greifswald (August 1998): A 'jellyfish-shaped' UFO was observed.
• UFO from McMinnville (August 1969): A 'Frisbee-shaped' UFO, 14 meters in diameter, was photographed.
• Betty and Barney Hill Abduction (1973): They reported being abducted by aliens.
• Leipzig Incident (May 5, 1991): A witness observed a strange aircraft near Leipzig, similar to one depicted in Ed Walters' book 'UFOs, Exist They?'
• Time Loss Incident (Winter 1977/78): A witness near Riesa experienced a time loss of approximately 2.5 hours after attending a wedding.
• Vibrations and Light Phenomenon (February 1985): A witness near Riesa reported house vibrations and a yellow light, interpreted as 'intelligent signs' from extraterrestrials.
• Red-Orange Light Phenomenon (February 3, 1991): Witnesses observed a red-orange light illuminating the sky near Riesa.
• Autobahn Sighting (February 9, 1991): Witnesses near Leipzig observed a bright, round object on the Autobahn, described as a 'fortress' and later as a dark aircraft.
• Schkenditz Airfield Sighting (May 16, 1991): A witness observed a large, silent object ascending from the airfield.
• Georgsmarienhütte Sighting (May 17, 1992): A witness reported a red-orange glowing cloud emitting rhythmic white light flashes.

The Skeptical Movement: CSICOP and its Allies

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the rise of skepticism in the paranormal field, focusing on the organization CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal). The article highlights CSICOP's founders, Paul Kurtz, James Randi, and Martin Gardner, and their efforts to counter pseudoscientific claims. It discusses CSICOP's influence in the media and its role in challenging beliefs in UFOs, astrology, and other paranormal phenomena. The article also mentions related organizations like GWUP in Germany and the journal 'Skeptical Inquirer.'

Critiques and Counterarguments

The magazine presents critiques of both the UFO community and the skeptical movement. It questions the sensationalism surrounding UFO reports and the tendency to interpret unexplained phenomena as extraterrestrial. Conversely, it notes that some critics view CSICOP as overly aggressive or as having political motivations. The article also touches upon the financial aspects of paranormal research and promotion.

Technological Developments

An article introduces the AT-3000 and AT-5000 'photo-helicopters' from AERO-TEC, designed for aerial photography and potentially for UFO research.

Media Coverage and Public Perception

The issue discusses how UFOs are covered in the media, noting that the topic can generate public interest and boost circulation for magazines like GEO. It also points out the difficulty in getting serious UFO documentaries aired on television.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of UFOs, the human desire for answers about extraterrestrial life, and the contrasting perspectives of believers and skeptics. The magazine appears to present a balanced view, reporting on various UFO cases and witness accounts while also critically examining the evidence and the methodologies of both ufologists and skeptics. The editorial stance seems to favor a rational and evidence-based approach, acknowledging the complexity of the phenomena while cautioning against unfounded speculation. The magazine also highlights the role of media in shaping public perception of these topics.

This issue of UFO-Nachrichten, dated June 1992, focuses on the resolution of a Belgian UFO case and explores sightings and technological advancements. The cover story, "Aufklärung eines belgischen UFO-Falls gelungen" (Resolution of a Belgian UFO Case Successful), highlights the investigative work of Wim Van Utrecht.

German Sightings and Investigations

The magazine details a sighting near Osnabrück, Germany, on May 31, 1992. A witness, G.R., reported seeing flashes emanating from a cloud. Initial reports were vague, but further investigation revealed that the Osnabrück police had no record of such an event. A letter writer suggested the phenomenon was an electrical discharge between cold and warm air. Klöckner-Edelstahl confirmed no industrial activity that could explain the event. The Osnabrück Planetarium noted the witness's reliability and suggested a connection to the Klöcknerwerk, mentioning unusual light effects during casting, but found the flashes unexplainable by lasers. The article also references a similar incident near Wolfsburg-Königslutter where witnesses saw light flashes from a cloud, later attributed to an aircraft maneuvering towards the Osnabrück airport.

Belgian UFO Case Resolution

The primary investigative piece details a January 1987 incident reported by American aircraft crews in Belgian airspace. While approaching Belgium at 20,000 feet, the crew of a US aircraft was asked by Maastricht-Control to confirm a sighting by Scandinavian Flight 575. This flight had previously reported a large orange ball of light accompanied by a smaller purple light. Later, Flight 575 reported a repeat of the sighting. The American crew observed a bright orange, slightly flattened circular light pulsing and varying in size between three and eight nautical miles, located below a broken cloud layer at approximately 5,000 feet. The light was intense in the center and diffused at the edges. One witness, an astronautical major, found it unlike anything he had seen. Upon approaching a cloud break, they also observed a smaller, upright cylinder of intense orange light near the ground, which one pilot compared to the 'lightsaber' from Star Wars. Another witness described it as a massive, intense flame similar to those seen at oil derricks. The observation lasted for half an hour.

Wim Van Utrecht, editor of the SVL-Newsletter and a Belgian UFO investigator, found the solution to this case. The reported phenomenon occurred over one of the largest chemical plants in Belgium's industrial zone. The large orange light was identified as a reflection of a massive flaring event at the chemical plant, while the upright cylinder was the plant's flare itself. The article notes that such atmospheric reflections, especially under inversion conditions, can create dramatic light displays. It also references a historical article from the AMERICAN METEORLOGICAL JOURNAL from February 1887 describing 'Gas-Comets' as atmospheric reflections of oil field flares.

Technological Advancements

The issue also introduces the CYPHER, a remote-controlled unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) from Sikorsky. This UAV, reportedly flown as early as 1988, is powered by a gas turbine and features counter-rotating rotor blades for noise reduction. It has a diameter of nearly two meters and is equipped with sensor packages including TV and infrared cameras. The article suggests that such advanced terrestrial technology could be mistaken for extraterrestrial craft, urging readers to be aware that 'flying saucers' might not always be from outer space.

Cartoons

The issue includes a humorous cartoon strip titled "DIE WAHRHEIT, NICHTS ALS DIE GANZE WAHRHEIT." (The Truth, Nothing But the Whole Truth.) It depicts aliens landing on Earth, attempting to camouflage themselves, but being easily identified because they only eat French white bread. One panel shows an alien ordering '100 pieces' at a bakery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation and resolution of UFO cases, the analysis of witness reports, and the exploration of potential terrestrial explanations for anomalous aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor rational, evidence-based explanations, emphasizing the importance of local knowledge and technological advancements in understanding sightings. The magazine highlights the role of investigative journalism in uncovering the facts behind UFO reports, as demonstrated by the detailed analysis of the Belgian case.