CENAP Report - No 203

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: 2/93
Date: February 1993
Publisher: CENAP (Centrales Forschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher-Himmelsphänomene)
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0942-0774

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, a German-language magazine focused on unidentified aerial phenomena (UFOs), delves into various aspects of UFO research, government secrecy, and advanced technology. The cover prominently features the headline "Die Geheimnisse der US-Regierung!" (The Secrets of the US Government!), indicating a major focus on this topic.

Key Articles and Features

The Secrets of the US Government!

This extensive section, authored by Werner Walter, explores the alleged involvement of the US government in UFO phenomena and the existence of secret underground bases. It references an article from the American magazine "California UFO" and veteran UFO researcher Richard Hall's concerns that the US government may know less about UFOs than UFO researchers themselves. The article discusses the possibility of subordinate government elements possessing information unknown to the higher administration. It also touches upon the "UFO Project Blue Book" and its limited success in increasing knowledge.

Underground Bases

The report details numerous rumors about secret UFO bases in the USA, supposedly established through secret agreements between US officials and aliens. While acknowledging the lack of concrete proof, it highlights sensational anecdotal accounts of secret bases in Dulce, New Mexico; Ada, Oklahoma; Athens, Texas; and the Twentynine Palms Marine Base in California. These facilities are described as being deep underground, partially operated by mixed alien-human crews. The article asserts that the US government operates many such underground bunkers and facilities nationwide, largely unknown to the public. It mentions specific locations like the "Raven Rock" or "Site R" facility in Pennsylvania, designed as a full-electronic command post, and the NORAD Combat Operations Center in Cheyenne Mountains, Colorado, which monitors global satellite and military activities.

Big Brother is Watching Us!

This section focuses on the extensive network of underground facilities and bunkers operated by the US government, particularly the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The Mount Weather facility in Virginia is described as a top-secret base established in the 1950s to serve as a refuge for the US government in case of a national crisis, such as a nuclear war. It is noted for its advanced electronics and direct lines to the White House and "Site R." The article also discusses the National Security Agency's (NSA) underground facilities at Fort Meade, Maryland, allegedly built to house the world's best computers and facilitate intelligence operations. Concerns are raised about the NSA's potential for manipulating communication systems, including telephone, telex, and microwave networks, to falsify information and gain sensitive data for espionage or blackmail.

The Aurora Project

This article, also by Werner Walter, investigates the "Aurora" project, a highly advanced, secret aircraft that has generated significant interest and speculation. It is presented as a potential explanation for numerous UFO sightings, challenging the notion that all advanced aircraft are based on extraterrestrial technology. The report traces the development and characteristics of Aurora, linking it to projects like the Northrop B-2 stealth bomber and the Lockheed F-117A. It discusses witness accounts of unusual aerial phenomena, including strange noises and contrails, and mentions the possibility of an "impulse engine" combining turbine and rocket propulsion. The article highlights the secrecy surrounding the project, with significant budgetary allocations and the involvement of companies like Lockheed.

Tunguska Riddle Solved

A brief report from the Hamburger Abendblatt (January 8, 1993) discusses the resolution of the 84-year-old Tunguska event. NASA scientists, led by Christopher Chyba, concluded that a 30-meter-wide asteroid exploded in the atmosphere, releasing the force of thousands of atomic bombs. This explanation accounts for the lack of impact craters or debris, as the object disintegrated into dust.

UFOs Everywhere?

An editorial piece notes the significant public interest in UFO phenomena, attributing it to humanity's innate curiosity about the unknown and the desire to solve mysteries. It laments that public interest often wanes when seemingly mundane explanations are found, but argues that even these lead to new questions. The article mentions the start of 1993 with several UFO-related events, including the release of UFO-themed videos by Columbia Tristar Home Video in Italy and a feature in the German magazine BUNTE.

UFO Sightings and Analysis

Several specific UFO sightings are detailed:

• Ludwigshafen-Oggersheim, Germany: A witness reported seeing a triangular UFO on December 6, 1992, described as being as large as a football field. The witness's wife provided slightly different details regarding the number and color of lights.
• Exploding Meteorite over Holland: On August 19, 1992, an "exploding meteorite" caused a shockwave, but astronomical and seismological data could not be explained by natural phenomena, leading to speculation about a supersonic aircraft.

Critiques and Satire

The magazine includes a section titled "Satire: Szenen-News gnadenlos!" (Scenes-News Mercilessly!) which humorously critiques various UFO researchers and organizations, including Luc Bürgin's "SIGN" journal, the GEP, and MUFON-CES. It also satirizes Johannes von Buttlar and Michael H., a prominent German UFO researcher.

Reader Mail and Analysis

A reader's letter from Emil Meier praises CENAP-REPORT for its depth and low price compared to other UFO journals. The magazine also includes a detailed analysis of witness testimonies, highlighting discrepancies and questioning the motivations of some witnesses who seem more interested in sharing their stories than in finding explanations. The article points out the increasing prevalence of triangular UFO reports, potentially influenced by media coverage.

UFO-Geheimnislüftung: Phantome des Verstandes!

This section promotes a new CENAP documentation titled "UFOs: Phantoms of the Mind," described as a comprehensive collection of UFO research findings from international colleagues. It covers topics such as the reality of UFOs, the limits of scientific understanding, and the public's perception of UFOs.

UFO-Critics Threatened with 50,000 Mark Contract Penalty

A report from Göttingen details a lecture by Rudolf Henke of CENAP, who presented findings on UFO phenomena. The article notes that Henke argued that most UFO sightings can be explained by terrestrial phenomena, such as atmospheric effects, aircraft, or misidentifications. It also mentions that some UFO researchers are accused of spreading superstition with scientific methods and that the media often treats the UFO topic ironically.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

CENAP-REPORT consistently advocates for a scientific and rational approach to UFO research, distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misidentifications or sensationalism. The magazine appears critical of what it perceives as unsubstantiated claims and excessive speculation within the UFO community. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, data analysis, and the distinction between scientific inquiry and pseudoscientific beliefs. The editorial stance seems to be one of debunking sensationalism while remaining open to unexplained phenomena that withstand scientific scrutiny. There is a strong focus on government secrecy and advanced military technology as potential explanations for some sightings, alongside a critical examination of the media's portrayal of UFOs.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated February 1993, is primarily dedicated to exploring the phenomenon of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), with a strong emphasis on skepticism and rational explanations. The magazine critically examines various UFO sightings, crop circles, and alleged alien encounters, often attributing them to natural phenomena, hoaxes, or psychological factors.

Radkappen vom andern Stern: UFO-Experte in Göttingen

This article features Rudolf Henke, a UFO expert from CENAP (Central Research Network for Extraordinary Sky Phenomena), who discusses the UFO phenomenon. Henke states that most sightings are explainable, citing examples like balloons, satellites, meteors, and atmospheric effects. He notes that UFO photos are often faked or misinterpreted, and that the lack of reference points makes size and distance difficult to estimate. Despite his skepticism, Henke acknowledges that not all cases are easily explained, referencing a story about a boy from Kansas who sent a photo of a UFO landing site to a tabloid.

UFOs entpuppten sich als Lichtshow

This section reports on several instances where alleged UFO sightings were revealed to have mundane explanations. In Rodewisch, mysterious lights were identified as a disco's light show. In Sigmaringen, strange rotating lights over a meadow were caused by fog reflecting car headlights, leading people to believe they were seeing UFOs. The article highlights how easily public perception can be misled by natural phenomena or simple tricks.

UFOs am Idsteiner Himmel

This report details how police in Idstein received numerous calls about unidentified flying objects. The lights and movements were eventually traced back to laser beams from a disco in Wiesbaden, demonstrating how advanced technology can be mistaken for extraterrestrial activity.

UFOs waren einfach Schabernack der Natur

Similar to the Sigmaringen incident, this article describes how fog reflecting car headlights created the illusion of UFOs near Winterlingen-Benzingen. It emphasizes the role of natural conditions and misinterpretation in UFO reports.

„Ufos haben den Chef entführt!“

This brief item from BILD humorously notes that 'aliens have abducted the boss' as an excuse for late payment from English companies, illustrating the increasingly absurd excuses used in business.

Unheimliche Zeichen am Himmel?

This section reflects on the continued reports of 'dancing discs' in the sky at the end of 1992. It mentions a miniature hot air balloon released by CENAP as a playful nod to the UFO phenomenon, questioning if it was a sign.

Wunderliche Zeichen im Korn: Geheimnisvolle Piktogramme im westlichen Manitoba, Kanada!

This article, written by Chris Rutkowski of the North American Institute for Crop Circle Research (NAICCR), discusses crop circle formations in Manitoba, Canada. Rutkowski explains that while many formations are investigated, some are found to be natural occurrences or hoaxes. He details an investigation into a crop triangle that was initially thought to be anomalous but later attributed to cattle. The article touches upon the skepticism surrounding crop circles and the difficulty in distinguishing genuine phenomena from fabricated ones. Rutkowski also mentions the media's role in sensationalizing these events.

Die Stelle in Ipswich

This part of the Manitoba crop circle investigation describes the team's visit to a site near Ipswich. They found a small, elliptical formation with an arrow, which was easily overlooked. The article notes that the site was already crowded with onlookers and that the formation was not particularly impressive.

Die Stelle in Strathclair

The investigation continues at a site in Strathclair, where a more prominent crop circle with a 'Mars symbol' was found. The team meticulously documented the formation. The article highlights the skepticism of a local journalist and the ease with which such formations can be created, as demonstrated by the team's own experiment in creating a crop circle.

Tests an Ort

This section details the on-site investigation of crop circles. The team used CB radios for communication and found no unusual electromagnetic influences. Compasses and tape recorders functioned normally. The presence of insects and dogs at the sites did not indicate any anomalies. The article contrasts these findings with the more dramatic accounts often reported from England.

UFOs, Entführungen, TV: "Ein gefährliches Spiel mit unterschwelligen Ängsten, Frustrationen und der Massen-Psychologie!"

This is a critical review of television programming related to UFOs and extraterrestrial encounters. The author criticizes the sensationalist nature of shows like "In der Gewalt der Außerirdischen" (Intruders), arguing that they exploit public fears and anxieties. The article suggests that these programs often blend reality with fiction, creating a sense of 'pseudo-reality' that blurs the lines between the known and the unknown. It posits that the fascination with UFOs and abductions may be a response to the perceived dehumanization and pressures of modern society.

Das deutsche Fernsehen und die UFO-Diskussion

This article compares the treatment of UFOs in German television to that in the United States, noting that the US has a more vibrant UFO-TV culture. It discusses various German TV shows and films that have explored UFO themes, ranging from invasion scenarios to more nuanced portrayals of extraterrestrials. The author observes a shift in the depiction of aliens from purely hostile to more human-like figures. The article also touches upon the rise of 'docu-dramas' that blend factual accounts with fictional elements to create suspenseful narratives.

UFOs, Entführungen, TV: "Ein gefährliches Spiel mit unterschwelligen Ängsten, Frustrationen und der Massen-Psychologie!"

This section continues the critique of media portrayals of UFOs and abductions. It argues that these programs often serve as an outlet for societal anxieties and a fascination with the uncanny. The author suggests that the popularity of such content stems from a desire for 'wonders' in a technologically advanced and bureaucratic world, and that it taps into a 'will to believe' that often overrides rational analysis.

Warum ich nicht an Ufos glaube

This article features an interview with Professor Hoimar von Ditfurth, a science journalist, who expresses his skepticism about UFOs. He argues that most UFO sightings are misidentifications or hoaxes, and that the idea of extraterrestrials visiting Earth is unlikely given the vastness of space and the lack of direct evidence. Von Ditfurth suggests that the belief in UFOs stems from a psychological need for a 'super-father' figure and that the 'experts' often lack scientific rigor. The article also includes a brief survey of public opinion on UFOs.

UFO-Entführungen: Ein paar Überlegungen der kritischen Art!

This section critically examines the phenomenon of UFO abductions. The author argues that there is a lack of credible evidence for such events, with most accounts emerging from hypnosis or being unsubstantiated. The article suggests that abduction narratives may be a reflection of deep-seated psychological issues, societal fears, and a desire to understand the unknown. It draws parallels between modern abduction accounts and historical folklore, such as encounters with fairies and other supernatural beings.

Die Delegation

This refers to a German TV film from 1970 about UFOs, described as a pseudodocumentary that blended reality with science fiction. The article notes its moderate viewership but positive reception, and that it was a precursor to later, more sensationalized UFO-themed productions.

UFO-Entführungen: Ein paar Überlegungen der kritischen Art!

This section continues the critical analysis of UFO abduction claims. It highlights the lack of physical evidence and the reliance on subjective accounts, often elicited through hypnosis. The author suggests that these experiences might be rooted in psychological phenomena, reflecting anxieties about modern society, technology, and the unknown. The article also points out that many UFO 'experts' and media portrayals have contributed to the popular image of UFOs as alien spacecraft, despite the lack of concrete proof.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CENAP REPORT are skepticism towards UFO phenomena, the critical analysis of media coverage, and the exploration of psychological explanations for belief in extraterrestrials. The editorial stance is clearly that of a debunking publication, aiming to provide rational explanations for alleged UFO sightings and encounters, while also examining the cultural and psychological factors that contribute to the enduring fascination with the subject. The magazine emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and scientific evidence in understanding these phenomena.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, NR.203, dated February 1993, delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, astronomical events, and the psychology behind belief systems. The cover story, "Am Silvesterhimmel sehen die Menschen viele UFOs" (On New Year's Eve Sky, People See Many UFOs), features Andrea Gibitz, a regional sighting investigator for CENAP, who debunks many UFO sightings, attributing most to natural phenomena or misidentification.

Cover Story: UFOs on New Year's Eve

Andrea Gibitz, a regional sighting investigator for CENAP (Centrale Erforschungs-Netz außergewöhnlicher Himmels-Phänomene), discusses the surge in UFO reports, particularly around New Year's Eve. She explains that 98% of sightings are explainable, with the remaining 2% being hoaxes or due to insufficient data. Gibitz emphasizes the vast distances to other star systems, making alien visitation improbable. She cites an example of a reported UFO sighting near Hameln that turned out to be a spotlight from a nuclear power plant. Gibitz notes a significant increase in reported UFO cases in 1992, linking it to a growing interest in esotericism and a desire for comfort and help from otherworldly beings. She mentions the 'Ashtar' movement, which has religious undertones, and the commercialization of UFO beliefs. Gibitz aims to counter these trends through education, working with the Nuremberg Observatory and publishing in the CENAP-Report to provide plausible explanations for mysterious aerial phenomena. She also points out that New Year's Eve sightings are often due to illuminated hot air balloons and the visibility of Venus.

Asteroid 'Teutates' and Cosmic Threats

The issue includes a report from the Frankfurter Rundschau about the asteroid 'Teutates' passing Earth at a distance of 3.5 million kilometers in December 1992. NASA captured detailed images of the two-part asteroid, which is approximately 4 and 2.5 kilometers in diameter. Scientists noted its extremely rugged surface, described as the most fractured object seen in the solar system. The article highlights the potential catastrophic consequences if such an asteroid were to impact Earth, referencing the extinction event 65 million years ago attributed to a similar impact. It also mentions the 1908 Tunguska event in Siberia. The report estimates a 1 in 10,000 chance of an asteroid impact of at least half a kilometer in diameter within our lifetime, which could devastate agriculture and civilization.

UFO Debunking and Psychological Aspects

Under the heading "Henkes Debunker-Ecke" (Henke's Debunker Corner), the magazine features an article discussing the perceived reality of alien abductions, particularly referencing the film "Intruders." The author satirically explores the common tropes associated with alien abductions, such as scars, implants, and the inability of humans or military forces to resist. The article suggests that the "Greys" are perceived as grey due to a lack of other plausible colors that might be associated with negative stereotypes. It also touches upon the idea that UFOlogists themselves might be influenced by psychological factors and wishful thinking.

Another section, "Neues aus dem Wunderland der UFO-Entführungen" (News from the Wonderland of UFO Abductions), critiques the case of Linda Politano and the work of Budd Hopkins. It questions the credibility of abduction claims and suggests that the media and certain researchers may be perpetuating a narrative that lacks concrete evidence. The article points out the shift in alien archetypes from benevolent beings to medical victims, linking this to the influence of media portrayals.

Media and UFOlogy

The magazine examines the role of media in shaping perceptions of UFOs. It discusses the "Multiple-Stimulus-Hypothesis" proposed by BUFORA (British UFO Research Association), which suggests that many UFO reports can be explained by a combination of natural phenomena and psychological factors. The article criticizes the tendency of some UFO researchers to rely on subjective experiences and anecdotal evidence, while acknowledging the lack of definitive physical proof for extraterrestrial spacecraft.

Specific Sightings and Cases

Several specific UFO sighting reports are detailed:

• The Farmer (Fall 1): A farmer from Neckartal-Dörfchen Schirmbach-Creglingen reported seeing a bright orange, pulsating object, followed by strange sensations and phenomena in his home. The report notes the potential influence of alcohol and the subsequent contamination of the case with occult and paranormal elements.
• The Farmer's Wife (Fall 2): Martina R. from Messel reported seeing five disc-shaped objects arranged like the Olympic rings in the sky, described as milky-yellow and glowing.
• The Tourist (Fall 3): A tourist in Side, Turkey, described a glowing red-orange, cloud-like object that emitted silent, rotating tubes before moving away.

Media Portrayals and Commercialization

The issue also critiques media portrayals of UFOs, including a segment on Erich von Däniken's new TV series, "Auf den Spuren der Allmächtigen" (On the Trail of the Almighty), and a review of a new book titled "Wesen aus dem Weltraum? Erste Dokumentation der Welt über fotografierte UFOnauten" (Beings from Space? The World's First Documentation of Photographed UFOnauts). The magazine highlights the commercialization of UFO-related material, including videos and books, and questions the scientific basis of many claims.

Meteorite Impacts and Cosmic Dangers

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to recent meteorite impacts and the broader threat of celestial objects. Reports detail a meteorite strike in Kozinozici, Croatia, which killed two people and destroyed a house, and a mysterious spherical object that landed in a greenhouse in South Australia. The article explains the phenomenon of fireballs and the composition of meteorites, noting that while most cosmic material burns up in the atmosphere, larger objects can cause significant damage. The magazine emphasizes the ongoing influx of cosmic material into Earth's atmosphere and the potential dangers posed by larger impacts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CENAP REPORT include the scientific investigation and debunking of UFO sightings, the psychological and sociological factors influencing belief in paranormal phenomena, and the growing awareness of cosmic threats from asteroids and meteorites. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, favoring rational explanations and scientific evidence while acknowledging the enduring fascination with the unknown. The magazine actively promotes skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and highlights the commercial exploitation of UFO beliefs. There is a clear effort to ground discussions in verifiable facts and to distinguish between genuine phenomena and hoaxes or misinterpretations.

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: NR.203
Date: February 1993

This issue of CENAP Report focuses on debunking a sensationalized news story about a meteorite strike in Bavaria, Germany.

Meteorite Strike in Bavaria: A Hoax Exposed

The cover story, "Rötlich schimmemdes Erz Meteorit schlug in Bayern ein" (Reddish shimmering ore Meteorite struck in Bavaria), details an incident reported in the Bavarian town of Bad Aibling. According to initial reports, a reddish, glowing meteorite fell from the sky and landed near a young girl. The article, however, immediately casts doubt on the sensationalized accounts, labeling the story as "fabricated" and having "nothing to do with cosmic dangers."

The report contrasts the sensationalist "BILD-Format" with a critical investigation. It references a report from the newspaper "TZ" which described the event as a "mysterious stone strike" in Bad Aibling. The object was described as a "kilo-heavy rock" that a twelve-year-old girl, Kathrin Flemming, claimed shattered at her feet on the pavement. The article notes the absence of a typical meteorite crater and the lack of other witnesses to the supposed cosmic event.

Further investigation into reports from "Münchner Merkur," which ran the headline "Student nearly killed by stone," reveals that the girl's parents had initially connected the incident to a supposed "iron meteorite" that caused an accident in Istria, Turkey. However, laboratory analysis of the Bad Aibling "meteorite" at the University of Munich revealed it to be an unspectacular 1.1 kg piece of limestone. The report explains that such rocks can break into smaller pieces when thrown to the ground from a moderate height.

The article dismisses the possibility of the rock being dislodged by quarrying or blasting, as there are no nearby quarries. It concludes that the story is likely an invention by the student, who was caught up in the "meteorite fever" and sought media attention. The sensationalist tabloid "BILD" is accused of embellishing the story with descriptions of a "reddish shimmering, glowing-hot, extraterrestrial ore lump from the depths of space."

Media Criticism and Skepticism

The report criticizes the mass media's tendency to sensationalize events, particularly those involving "phantom phenomena of the sky," for the sake of high circulation numbers. It highlights the role of critical and skeptical individuals, such as those found within the CENAP network, in pursuing truth and clarity.

Expert Opinion

Dr. Thomas Fehr, a university lecturer, is quoted as stating that the object was "with great probability an iron meteorite," and that the last such event occurred in Egypt in 1911. This statement, made prior to the conclusive analysis, is presented in the context of the initial, sensationalized reporting.

Personal Account

Kathrin Flemming, the student involved, is quoted as saying, "For a moment I was scared. But now I am proud: The sky has given me a souvenir." This quote is presented alongside the debunked nature of the event.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CENAP Report consistently adopts a critical stance towards sensationalist reporting, particularly in the field of UFOs and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance champions scientific investigation, skepticism, and the pursuit of factual accuracy over media-driven hype and public fascination with the extraordinary. The issue underscores the importance of discerning between genuine phenomena and fabricated stories, especially when fueled by media sensationalism and public interest.