CENAP-REPORT

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: 211
Date: December 1993
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German
Price: DM 70,--

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, a German UFO magazine, delves into several key topics: the 'Government Affair UFO', 'UFOs in Wreckage', and the pervasive influence of UFOs in advertising. The magazine maintains a critical and analytical approach to the subject matter.

Government Affair UFO: CIA, UFOs, and Great Secrets

The lead article, "CIA, UFOs und die grossen Geheimnisse" (CIA, UFOs and the Great Secrets), explores the long-standing debate surrounding government cover-ups of UFO information. It references the historical stance of the US Air Force, which aimed to reassure the public while allegedly conducting secret investigations. The article highlights the criticisms leveled by figures like Ex-Marine Corps Major Donald E. Keyhoe, who accused the USAF of censoring information. It touches upon the idea that the CIA might have been involved in suppressing or concealing UFO-related findings.

The piece further investigates the alleged role of UFOlogist Dr. Bruce S. Maccabee as a "UFO consultant" for the CIA. It details how Maccabee reportedly held informal meetings with CIA personnel from 1979 to 1993, discussing UFO research. This revelation, initially reported by Phil Klass, caused a stir in the UFO community, particularly given Maccabee's previous criticisms of government UFO secrecy. The article questions the implications of such a connection, especially when the CIA officially claims to have concluded its UFO investigations.

It is revealed that Dr. John Gibbons, President Clinton's Chief Science Advisor, requested a background paper on UFOs from the CIA. The CIA, in turn, tasked Bruce Maccabee with writing this report. This is presented as ironic, given Maccabee's belief in a government UFO conspiracy. The article also mentions the involvement of C. B. Scott Jones, who worked with Senator Claiborne Pell and had an interest in parapsychology and UFOs, further complicating the network of individuals involved.

UFOs in Wreckage: The Ubatuba Fragments Analyzed

Another significant section, "UFOs in Trümmern: Die Ubatuba-Fragmente analysiert!" (UFOs in Wreckage: The Ubatuba Fragments Analyzed!), focuses on the analysis of alleged extraterrestrial material recovered from a UFO crash near Ubatuba, Brazil, in 1957. The article draws on research by Michael D. Swords, Walter W. Walker, and Robert W. Johnson.

Historically, the Ubatuba case began with a letter to a Brazilian newspaper describing a disk-shaped object that exploded over the sea, scattering fragments. These fragments were collected and sent for analysis. Early tests, including spectrographic analysis, suggested the material was primarily magnesium, but with unusual purity.

The article details multiple analyses conducted by various laboratories, including the Dow Metals Products Laboratory, the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), and the Colorado UFO Project. While some initial analyses indicated unusual isotopic compositions, later, more rigorous studies, including isotopic analysis by Caltech and the University of Paris, concluded that the material showed no deviation from normal terrestrial magnesium. The microstructure analysis also suggested characteristics consistent with terrestrial magnesium processing.

Despite the material's unusual purity and the fact that magnesium is highly reactive and not typically found in metallic form naturally, the authors conclude that the extraterrestrial origin of the Ubatuba fragments cannot be definitively proven. They acknowledge that the material's purity is noteworthy but state that the evidence is insufficient to confirm it as non-terrestrial. The article also touches upon the possibility of the material being from an exploded aircraft or satellite, though the timing makes the latter unlikely.

UFOs in Advertising: Invasion of the Ad Industry

The issue also features an article titled "UFO-INVASION: DIE WERBEINDUSTRIE SCULLER ZURLEK - ÜBERALL SIND UFOS" (UFO Invasion: The Ad Industry Sculler Zurlek - UFOs Are Everywhere). This piece examines the increasing use of UFO imagery and themes in American advertising. It notes how concepts like flying saucers and aliens have become integrated into popular culture and are now widely employed in marketing campaigns for various products and services, from credit cards to food.

The article quotes Voltaire, suggesting that if God did not exist, humanity would create him, drawing a parallel to how UFOs and aliens are being used to capture public imagination. It suggests that this widespread use of UFO motifs in advertising might be a deliberate strategy to prepare the public for a future disclosure of alien contact, or simply a way for the advertising industry to tap into a popular and intriguing theme.

The author points out that while UFOs are a common theme in American culture, they are less integrated into the popular consciousness in Germany and Europe. The article lists numerous major companies that have utilized UFO imagery in their campaigns, highlighting the pervasive nature of this trend.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section titled "CENAP einmal gelobt!" (CENAP Praised!), where Gerd Schmidt of Dresden commends CENAP as one of the most serious UFO research groups in Germany and Europe, despite some disagreements.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

CENAP-REPORT consistently adopts a critical and analytical stance towards UFO phenomena. The magazine prioritizes scientific investigation, rigorous analysis of evidence, and a skeptical approach to claims that lack substantiation. The editorial stance emphasizes the need for transparency in government dealings with UFO information and highlights the importance of distinguishing between credible evidence and speculation or misinformation. The magazine aims to provide its readers with detailed, research-based information, often questioning official narratives and exploring complex cases with a focus on factual investigation.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated November/December 1993, delves into the pervasive influence of UFOs and alien themes in popular culture, advertising, and media. It critically examines how these concepts have become normalized and explores the methodologies and challenges within UFO research.

The Normalization of UFOs in Media and Advertising

The magazine argues that the constant exposure to UFO imagery through television, movies, and popular media has created a sense of familiarity and even reality for the average person. Examples cited include TV shows like 'Unsolved Mysteries' and 'Picket Fences,' as well as numerous talk shows and magazines that have featured UFOlogists and alien encounters. Even commercial advertising has embraced UFO themes, with brands like American Express, Levis, AT&T, and Camel using alien or UFO imagery to capture attention. The article suggests that this 'media contamination' has made it difficult for people to distinguish between reality and popular fiction.

Government and Military Involvement

The issue highlights that not only commercial entities but also government agencies have utilized UFO imagery. The US Post, Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), and Air Force have all incorporated UFO motifs into their promotional materials. This is seen as a reflection of the broader cultural trend and a potential indicator of official interest, though the magazine also cautions against jumping to conclusions.

UFOs and Children's Perceptions

A section discusses a study on how children portray UFOs, examining whether their drawings reflect actual sightings or culturally influenced concepts. The research suggests that children's drawings often depict idealized or conceptualized UFO shapes, particularly complex discs, which are more prevalent in popular imagination than in actual reported sightings. The study found little difference between drawings by children who claimed to have seen UFOs and those who had not, indicating a strong influence of cultural archetypes.

Critiques of UFO Research Methodology

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to critiquing the scientific rigor of UFO research. It points out the challenges in defining the subject matter due to the diverse and often contradictory nature of UFO reports. The article criticizes the tendency within UFOlogy to treat UFO reports as puzzle pieces that can be assembled without ensuring they all belong to the same phenomenon. It highlights the difficulty in establishing a clear scientific definition of UFOs and questions the validity of cases that are not well-documented or corroborated.

Case Studies and Skeptical Analysis

The magazine analyzes several specific UFO cases, often with a skeptical perspective:

• The Belgian UFO Wave: The issue discusses the 1989-1991 Belgian UFO wave, noting that while some researchers believe the sightings were caused by advanced aircraft, others propose alternative explanations. The article touches upon the controversy surrounding the Petit-Rechain photograph, with some suggesting it was a hoax or a model.
• The Trancas Case: This well-known case from 1963 is re-examined, with a psychologist suggesting that the witnesses misinterpreted military ground maneuvers as alien encounters.
• The Cash-Landrum Incident: The article questions the narrative of this case, suggesting that the alleged health effects might have been due to environmental factors rather than UFO radiation.
• The Linda Cortile Abduction Case: This case, once hailed as a major abduction event, is presented as increasingly questionable due to a lack of corroborating witnesses and the proximity of major airports from which the UFO was reportedly not detected.
• Roswell Incident: The magazine touches upon the Roswell incident, mentioning the release of some documents and the ongoing debate about their authenticity and meaning.

The Role of Skepticism and 'Debunking'

The magazine acknowledges the role of UFO skeptics and 'debunkers' like Phil Klass, who have analyzed radar data and other evidence. It also discusses the challenges faced by researchers in distinguishing between genuine UFO phenomena and misidentifications, hoaxes, or psychological factors. The article suggests that many UFO cases, when subjected to scrutiny, fail to hold up as evidence of extraterrestrial visitation.

UFOs in the News and Cultural Context

Several news clippings are included, such as a report from the Saarbrücker Zeitung about unusual lights over St. Ingbert that were later identified as a laser show, and an article from TAZ discussing the US government's decision to cut funding for the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, contrasting it with the continued search for 'intelligence' in the espionage sense.

Book Reviews

The issue features reviews of UFO-related books. One review is highly critical of Luc Bürgin's book 'Götterspuren,' accusing the author of presenting unsubstantiated claims and historical inaccuracies. In contrast, a Moewig paperback titled 'UFOs - Unknown Flying Objects from Another World?' is praised for its accessible approach and comprehensive coverage of UFO topics, despite its low price and paperback format.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the pervasive influence of UFOs in popular culture and media, the challenges and controversies within UFO research, and a generally skeptical approach to many widely accepted UFO cases. The editorial stance appears to favor critical analysis and scientific methodology, questioning claims that lack robust evidence and highlighting instances where UFO phenomena may be explained by conventional means or psychological factors. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between 'real' UFOs and those that are products of imagination, media influence, or deliberate deception.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated November/December 1993, delves into various UFO sightings and related phenomena reported across Germany and beyond. The magazine features a mix of witness accounts, investigative reports, and expert commentary, aiming to explore the unexplained aspects of aerial observations.

Key Articles and Reports

"Reimanns aus Schönebeck: „Wir sahen die UFO's wegfliegen“"

This article recounts the experience of the Reimann family from Schönebeck, who reported seeing three UFOs on a Saturday evening around 10:30 PM. They described a large, unknown flying object with a fiery tail, followed by two smaller ones, all flying south. Initially hesitant to share their experience for fear of disbelief, they were prompted to go public after hearing about mysterious crop circles found between Halle and Bitterfeld, suspecting a connection.

"Bremste UFO Fahrschulwagen?"

This report details a UFO sighting near Harderode on September 11, 1993, at 10:15 PM. Three witnesses in a driving school car observed a bright light that grew larger and seemed to approach them. They described the object as 'top-like' with pulsating yellow light from its center and a steady red glow from its lower part. During the sighting, the car's radio failed, and the vehicle lost speed as if being externally braked. The Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens (GRP) registered this case and is investigating, seeking other witnesses.

"Projizierte Scheinwerfer „UFO“ an den nebligen Nachthimmel?"

This article explores the Harderode UFO sighting further, introducing Siegfried Hufnagel from Bisperode, who corroborated the witnesses' description. However, Hufnagel suggests the phenomenon might have been a powerful spotlight, possibly from a hunter, whose light beam was refracted by the mist. The report also considers the possibility of a helicopter sighting, mentioning an ambulance helicopter that was in the area, though its flight path doesn't perfectly match the reported observation. The mystery of the car radio failure and loss of speed remains unexplained.

"Uni-Feuerteufel vor Gericht: Die UFOs haben mich zum Täter gemacht"

This piece focuses on Vittorio L., a man convicted of arson in Munich, who claimed UFOs were responsible for his actions. He believed he had a brain tumor caused by UFO radiation and sought literature on UFOs. His delusion stemmed from an experience at age 18 where he believed he saw a UFO land and beings in white coats emerge. The court sentenced him to prison and commitment to a psychiatric clinic.

"Kein Ufo, oder?"

This short report from Neubrandenburg describes Uwe Thieke's sighting of an unidentified object over the Reitbahnsee. He described it as 'zeppelin-like, silver-gray, and of changing color,' hovering for about five minutes. While Thieke dismissed explanations like beer or misidentification, the article speculates on logical explanations.

"Fliegen die UFOs ins Reich der Kobolde?"

This article discusses the phenomenon of UFO sightings and their connection to folklore and mythology, particularly in the context of the 'Kobolde' (goblins or sprites). It touches upon the idea that some sightings might be misinterpretations of natural phenomena or even psychological projections.

"UFOs über Wöhrden? Ehepaar sah ein Objekt mit Fenstern"

An account from Wöhrden where a couple reported seeing a flat, bright object with 20 windows, estimated to be 50-80 meters in diameter, hovering silently. They were puzzled by the lack of sound and the object's movement.

"Mehrheit meint: „Ufo“ war ein Laserstrahl"

This report addresses the Wöhrden sighting and suggests that the majority of callers believed it was a laser show from a disco in Büsum. Several witnesses reported seeing similar light phenomena attributed to advertising for the 'Cheers' disco.

"UFO-SICHTUNGEN: AKTUELL IN DEUTSCHLAND"

This section provides a collection of recent UFO sighting reports from Germany. It includes a case from Stuttgart involving a 'flying cigar' or 'flying saucer' identified as a 'Blimp' (airship), and another from Rostock where a witness reported observing a bright, 'star-like' object moving consistently for months.

"UFO'S über Heusweiler?"

Günter Georgi from Heusweiler reports seeing a bright, disc-shaped object hovering near the SR radio transmission towers. He attempted to photograph it but was unsuccessful. He describes the object as 'self-luminous' and moving silently, remaining unexplained.

"Seltsames Flugobjekt gefunden"

This brief report mentions the discovery of a 'flying pyramid' found by nature conservation workers near Reichenbach. The object, made of wood and resembling a kite, was found in a sandstone quarry.

"EG-Parlamentarier will zentrale Forschungsstelle"

This article discusses a proposal by Italian MEP Tullio Regge to establish a central research body within the European Community to investigate UFO sightings. The initiative aims to address public uncertainty and gather scientific data.

"UFOs über Oberndorf!"

An account from Oberndorf where a couple reported seeing a yellowish-milky light phenomenon moving in a snail-like pattern. Initial theories pointed to a disco spotlight, which was later confirmed as a light show in Nöbdenitz.

"Was war das für ein grüner Nebel?"

This article covers the International UFO Congress '93 in Vienna, featuring prominent figures like Erich von Däniken and Philip Mantle. It discusses theories about extraterrestrial contact, abductions, and the possibility of aliens observing Earth. The congress aimed to present 'serious' UFO research, distinguishing itself from 'contactees.'

"UFOs abholen"

This piece touches upon the idea of UFOs 'picking up' humans, referencing a case where a family reported missing time and a son's recollection of driving into a green mist, suggesting an abduction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings, often presenting witness accounts alongside potential explanations, which frequently involve misidentification of conventional aircraft, spotlights, or natural phenomena. There's a clear effort to investigate these reports, with a focus on gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, acknowledging the unexplained aspects of some sightings while also promoting rational explanations and scientific investigation. The publication highlights the psychological impact of these experiences on witnesses and the public's fascination with the unknown.

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: NR.211
Date: November/Dezember 1993
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP REPORT delves into various UFO phenomena, featuring eyewitness accounts, investigative reports, and analyses of significant UFO cases.

UFOs Shot Down My Plane! Pilot's Own Story

The lead story recounts the experience of Klaus Zimmerman, a German private pilot who claims his aircraft was forced down by three UFOs. While flying back from Garmisch, Zimmerman's electrical compass began spinning erratically. He then observed two saucer-shaped UFOs circling his plane at an incredible speed of 350 km/h. He described them as metallic but with a non-reflective quality. A third UFO then flew directly in front of his plane. Subsequently, all his instruments failed, his engine sputtered and died, and he was forced to make a dead-stick landing in a field. He noted that the UFOs seemed to be guiding him to a safe landing spot. After the crash, the UFOs reportedly performed a zigzag maneuver and then flew away. The article notes that this sensational story, reported by Dan Dolan in the SUN on August 7, 1984, is not widely known in Germany, and attempts to verify it with local newspapers were met with no response.

UFO Sightings in Germany

The report includes several brief accounts of UFO sightings within Germany:

• Kreblitz: Gunter Brandt reported seeing a bright light, described as an unknown object, circling near the moon on June 28, 1993, while testing a new video camera. He noted that the object was not captured on video, and the moon appeared blurred. He observed a similar phenomenon on September 1, 1993, but without his camera.
• Berlin: Michelle and Lena Hensel reported seeing something similar to a shooting star on September 19, 1993, at 9:21:30 PM. However, it descended slowly and in a zigzag pattern before disappearing. They observed seven such objects in total.
• Sachsen-Anhalt: The "Magdeburger Volksstimme" reported on July 24, 1993, that three UFOs were sighted in the Plötzky recreational area. One was described as large with a fiery tail, followed by two smaller, brightly shining objects. The family who witnessed this claimed they were not UFO believers and could distinguish between aircraft and satellites.
• Halle and Bitterfeld: The same newspaper also reported on mysterious crop circles sighted in this region.

Eckhard Rotenburg from the Archenhold Observatory expressed skepticism, stating that 98% of UFO observations are scientifically explainable, such as reflections from high clouds. He also noted a lack of crop circle or UFO sightings in Sachsen-Anhalt recently.

UFO Investigations and Controversies

UFO-Garten-Party: The issue mentions a "UFO-Garden-Party" held from September 13-15, 1993, at Laurence Rockefeller's ranch in Wyoming, organized by C.B. Scott Jones. The event aimed to consolidate knowledge about UFOs and the ETI phenomenon, bringing together pro-ufologists like Bruce Maccabee, Leo Sprinkle, Linda Moulton Howe, and Dr. Stephen Greer.

Billy Meier Controversy: The report highlights an upcoming UFO conference in San Mateo, California, where Kal Korff is expected to reveal his findings about Billy Meier's UFO photographs. Korff, who previously attempted to expose Meier's photos as hoaxes, reportedly infiltrated Meier's organization and used a hidden camera. He claims to have evidence that Meier created his UFO photos using small models, sometimes attached to helium-filled balloons. Korff is producing an investigative video on this topic, expected to be released in Spring 1994.

Carp Landing Video: A reference is made to a video of the controversial Carp landing in Canada. The "The Guardian"-Video was shown in England on September 28, 1993. A TV special on the HARD COPY program in late 1992 suggested the Carp film might be a staged scene rather than a genuine UFO landing.

CENAP Special Edition: UFOs 2000 - The Escalation

The magazine announces its 20th special publication, "UFOs 2000 - The Escalation," co-authored by Werner Walter (CENAP) and Rudolf Henke (GWUP). This 140-page volume (DM 35) covers:

• Belgian UFO Wave: An extensive analysis of the sightings between October 1989 and April 1991, focusing on the 'Flying Triangles' and the peak event of November 29, 1989.
• Alien Abductions: A critical examination of abduction phenomena, including a review of P. Klass's book, which challenges the claims of abduction "specialists" like Bud Hopkins and suggests a "dangerous game" is being played.
• Angels and Aliens: A review of Keith Thompson's book, which critically analyzes UFO history and the UFO scene, offering a non-reductionist explanation for the phenomenon.

UFOs on Video: An Interesting Offer

CENAP offers a collection of twenty hours of current and new UFO video material from the CENAP UFO Video Archive for DM 400. This material is described as suitable for presentations, studies, and analyses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently focuses on UFO sightings, pilot testimonies, and investigative efforts within the UFO community. There's a clear interest in debunking hoaxes, particularly concerning the Billy Meier case, while also presenting compelling eyewitness accounts. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to understand UFO phenomena through investigation and analysis, as evidenced by the promotion of the detailed special edition and the offer of extensive video archives. The magazine aims to keep its readers informed about the latest developments and controversies in the UFO field.