CENAP Report - No 213

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: 213
Volume: 2/94
Date: February/March 1994
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German
Cover Headline: UFO-Crash 1978 ? Projekt Blaubuch Belgiens UFO's

The Tarija Incident: UFO Crash 1978 in Bolivia?

The lead article investigates the alleged UFO crash in Tarija, Bolivia, on May 6, 1978. Thousands reported hearing a massive explosion and seeing a bright object fall from the sky, described as a flying cigar or saucer. The object reportedly crashed in the mountains near El Taire. The article discusses the subsequent confusion in media reports and the speculation surrounding secret US government recovery operations, possibly involving projects named "Project Moon Dust" or "Operation Blue Fly." It mentions the involvement of US defense attachés and the Bolivian Air Force, as well as the retrieval of a "metallic gray cylinder." The article also touches upon the difficulty in verifying witness accounts and the tendency for technically educated individuals to interpret phenomena in specific ways.

Computer Searches for Extraterrestrials

A brief section notes that while NASA's SETI project searches for extraterrestrial signals, companies like Intel, Microsoft, and Hewlett-Packard are investing in searches for UFO spacecraft, raising concerns about the conflation of scientific inquiry with speculative fantasy.

The Mystery of Moon Dust

This section delves into "Project Moon Dust," a program based at Wright-Patterson AFB, which was reportedly tasked with locating and recovering downed foreign spacecraft. It references a 1961 Air Force Intelligence memo that outlined the need for "qualified personnel" for intelligence teams supporting projects like Moon Dust and Blue Fly. The article suggests that while the UFO project officially closed in 1969, Moon Dust remained active in 1978, with its project names possibly changed in 1981.

UFO Invasion of Puerto Rico: Why There?

This extensive section explores the history of UFO sightings and phenomena in Puerto Rico, describing it as a new hub for ufological activity. It details reports dating back to the 1970s, including organized ufology, UFO flaps, alleged contactees, animal mutilations, and mysterious disappearances. The article mentions the island's proximity to the Bermuda Triangle and reports of underwater UFO bases. Specific incidents discussed include a reported teleportation event from Spain to Puerto Rico and a 1989 UFO crash in Yunque Forest, with alleged recovery of wreckage and alien bodies. The role of the Roosevelt Roads Naval Base and alleged secret UFO bases in Yunque Forest are also highlighted. The section includes witness accounts of UFOs emerging from the water and strange lights in the Mona Passage.

UFOs: In the Sign of Conspiracy

This part of the magazine focuses on conspiracy theories, particularly those promoted by "conspiracy researcher" Mary Seal. It discusses a conference aimed at unifying various conspiracy theories, including those surrounding the Kennedy assassination, global economic manipulation, and a secret world government allegedly controlled by an ancient elite. The article touches upon theories of Nazi anti-gravity technology and a potential global government takeover within the next decade, facilitated by manufactured UFO scares. It also mentions the alleged involvement of the Vatican and the Illuminati in controlling world events and suppressing free energy technology.

Belgian Triangle UFOs: Dispute Continues! NUFOC Warns of Disappointment!

This section reviews the NUFOC-Flash! newsletter from Belgium, which focuses on ufological activities in Flanders. It notes the revival of Belgian UFO interest due to sightings of "flying triangles" and discusses the challenges faced by NUFOC in uniting various Flemish UFO groups, many of whom are strongly pro-extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH). The article expresses skepticism about the success of such unification efforts due to differing ideologies.

UFOs on Video

A brief advertisement offers "Twenty hours of research and study material from worldwide" on VHS cassettes for DM 400, emphasizing that the material is for private distribution only and not commercially available.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CENAP-REPORT consistently adopts a critical and investigative stance towards UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained aerial phenomena, the magazine often scrutinizes reports for evidence of hoaxes, misinterpretations, or deliberate disinformation. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine investigation and sensationalism or unfounded speculation, particularly within the context of South American UFOlogy. The publication also engages with broader conspiracy theories, exploring alleged government cover-ups and secret projects. The editorial stance appears to favor a scientific, albeit open-minded, approach, seeking to debunk fraudulent claims while remaining receptive to credible evidence. The use of declassified documents and detailed case analyses underscores this investigative methodology.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated February/March 1994, focuses on UFO phenomena, with a particular emphasis on the Belgian UFO wave of 1989-1991. The magazine features articles, interviews, and news items that explore various facets of UFO research, from eyewitness accounts and scientific analysis to psychological interpretations and media influence.

Belgian UFO Wave

The issue critically examines the Belgian UFO wave, noting that while it garnered significant attention, much of the research, particularly from organizations like SOBEPS, was deemed to be of questionable quality by some researchers. NUFOC attempted to create a 3D computer model of sighted objects but found inconsistencies. The article questions the common explanations for the wave, such as Belgium's visibility at night or proximity to the Russian border, suggesting deeper reasons are at play. It highlights that about 90% of sightings occurred in the southern, French-speaking part of Belgium, with Flemish regions feeling discriminated against.

Air Traffic Control and UFOs

An account of a visit to the Zaventem airport control tower reveals that air traffic controllers rarely pay attention to unidentified radar echoes, prioritizing real air traffic. However, they do investigate if a UFO sighting is reported by police or military radar. The article touches upon the concept of 'airways' as strictly defined corridors for air traffic and questions whether UFO sightings in these zones at night are mere coincidence.

UFOlogy and Media Influence

The magazine discusses how sensationalism and 'glitz' magazines often overshadow serious UFO research. It criticizes the American UFOlogy scene for prioritizing sensationalism and ET promotion over objective investigation. The influence of media, particularly 'Unsolved Mysteries,' is highlighted as contributing to the perception of widespread alien visitation in Belgium.

John Keel's Perspective

An interview with veteran UFO researcher John Keel reveals his skepticism towards the extraterrestrial hypothesis. Keel views UFOs as a manifestation of ancient myths, influenced by psychological and cultural factors, rather than physical spacecraft from other planets. He criticizes the tendency of UFOlogists to get caught up in sensational stories and calls for a return to rigorous research of existing data.

J. Allen Hynek's Criticisms

In his last interview, astronomer J. Allen Hynek, who served as a USAF UFO consultant, expresses strong criticism of his former employer. He alleges that the USAF manipulated statistics to close cases and used vague classifications. Hynek also laments the lack of a genuine scientific dialogue between the USAF and researchers, suggesting that UFO investigations should have been handled by academic institutions.

Psychological and Mythological Interpretations

Psychologist Kenneth Ring's work is discussed, which explores UFO abductions within the framework of 'imaginal' experiences, linking them to ancient myths and archetypal patterns. Ring argues that viewing abductions as literal events reduces the richness of their symbolic meaning. The article also touches upon the idea that 'elementals' and folklore figures may have transformed into modern UFO occupants and aliens.

European Union and UFOs

A report indicates that the European Union is considering increased engagement in space research and Earth observation, with a proposal to establish a European UFO observation center. However, the European Parliament ultimately rejected this proposal, deeming it a low priority amidst other crises.

News and Miscellaneous Reports

The issue includes various short news items: a report on the Mars Observer probe's failure due to a fuel leak, a humorous letter about 'Uforians' and their use of an 'anti-lock system,' and a plan by Japanese UFO enthusiasts to build a 'UFO embassy.' There's also a report about a 'photo-proof' of an alien in Italy and a story about six pensioners in Rome claiming to have seen an alien. The magazine also features a piece on Ilona Christen, a TV moderator who is building a UFO landing pad in Switzerland, and a report on the Hubble telescope photographing comet fragments heading for Jupiter.

Cover Story: 'Martians' Abduct Inca Women

The cover story details alleged abductions of Inca women by extraterrestrials in Peru, citing reports from local newspapers and a parapsychologist. These accounts describe encounters with tall, robotic-like beings and strange machines, with claims of forced examinations and even impregnation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO research, the influence of media on public perception, and the exploration of psychological and mythological interpretations of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensationalism and a call for more rigorous, evidence-based research, while acknowledging the enduring mystery of the UFO phenomenon. There is a clear distinction made between serious research and what is perceived as 'ufological fantasy' or 'cults.' The magazine advocates for a more objective and scientific approach to understanding UFOs, questioning the validity of many popular theories and claims.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated February/March 1994, focuses heavily on the political and investigative aspects of the UFO phenomenon. The cover headline, "UFO-Politik: Marsch auf Washington, DC! Ende des 'Cosmic Watergate'?", signals a deep dive into government secrecy and public demand for information.

UFO-Politik: Marsch auf Washington, DC! Ende des "Cosmic Watergate"?

The lead article discusses the resurgence of UFO activism, drawing parallels to the efforts of Donald E. Keyhoe. It details a protest march on Washington D.C. on July 5, 1993, organized by the 'The Right to Know' movement, which drew around 100 participants and garnered significant media attention, including reports from CNN, The New York Times, and The Washington Post. The activists aimed to pressure the Clinton Administration to release UFO-related documents. The article highlights the organizers' strategy of disseminating information packages, including books and documents, to the media. It also touches upon the internal dynamics of the UFO community, with some activists like Ed Komarek criticizing the 'UFO establishment' for being too conservative and failing to listen to the base, advocating for a more proactive approach to information disclosure.

The Travis Walton Encounter and Media Portrayal

A brief section discusses the video "Fire in the Sky," based on the Travis Walton abduction case. The article notes that while the film is described as having a shocking effect, it is characterized as a dramatized representation with little connection to reality, as even Walton himself admits.

Were US Presidents Briefed?

This section investigates the alleged involvement of US Presidents in the UFO cover-up. It references the 1952 Washington D.C. UFO sightings and the supposed initiation of Operation Majestic-12 by President Truman to analyze the Roswell crash. The article mentions claims that President Kennedy was briefed on alien presence and that this might have contributed to his assassination. It also touches upon alleged briefings for Presidents Nixon and Reagan, with Reagan reportedly discussing the implications of an extraterrestrial threat. The role of Vice President Dan Quayle and former CIA Director Bush in MJ-12 is also speculated upon. The current administration under President Clinton and Vice President Gore is said to be informed about alien presence, with Clinton reportedly unwilling to share knowledge without MJ-12 approval.

UFO Activities and Protests

The issue mentions several public demonstrations organized by the Long Island UFO Network, protesting the US government's alleged UFO cover-up policies.

UFO Festivals and Cultural Impact

The article describes the first UFO Festival held in New York City, featuring musicians and UFO researchers. It highlights the participation of Michael Luckman, the festival organizer, and mentions the display of a piece of metal allegedly from a crashed UFO found in Hungary.

Germany: Decline of Good Manners?

This section addresses the internal conflicts within the German UFO research community, identifying three main organizations: GEP, MUFON-CES, and CENAP/GWUP. It notes past friction between GEP and CENAP that has since been resolved. The article criticizes MUFON-CES and its leader, Illobrand von Ludwiger, for an elitist approach and for being overly critical of skeptics. It also discusses a confidential report (BR 2/93) from von Ludwiger that allegedly details MUFON-CES's involvement in the production of a ZDF television program about UFO abductions.

Project SIGN Analysis

The report details the USAF's Project SIGN, initiated in 1948 to investigate UFO sightings. It states that out of 434 reported sightings, only 12 were deemed significant enough to attempt to derive a model of a 'flying saucer.' However, even these cases did not yield a specific model. The analysis suggests that many sightings could be attributed to misidentifications of known phenomena like balloons, aircraft, or meteors. The project concluded that there was a lack of physical evidence to prove the existence of extraterrestrial objects.

Project Blue Book and Hynek's Findings

This section delves into the early stages of UFO investigation, particularly Project Blue Book and the work of J. Allen Hynek. It discusses Hynek's analysis of UFO reports, noting that many were incomplete or contradictory. Hynek emphasized the need for trained personnel and prompt data collection, suggesting that many sightings could be explained by astronomical phenomena like Venus, or by misinterpretations of known objects. He also highlighted the importance of considering psychological factors and the credibility of witnesses. Statistical data from Hynek's research indicated that a significant portion of sightings were brief, occurred at night, and involved objects described as round and bright.

Further Analysis of UFO Sightings

The magazine continues to analyze various UFO reports, often attributing them to conventional explanations such as balloons, meteors, or atmospheric phenomena. It discusses specific cases, including the Fargo incident and sightings of green fireballs, which were often debunked or explained as misidentifications. The article also touches upon the difficulty in obtaining reliable data and the challenges faced by investigators.

UFOs and Astronomy

Hynek's report to the ATIC regarding his experiences at the American Astronomical Society meeting is presented. He notes that many astronomers were interested in the UFO topic but were cautious about discussing it publicly. Hynek also mentions that some astronomers had observed phenomena they couldn't explain, but these were often attributed to known objects or atmospheric conditions.

Statistical Breakdown of UFO Reports

A news release from the U.S. Air Force dated July 15, 1959, is included, reporting a decrease in unidentified flying object sightings. The release breaks down sightings by category, with astronomical phenomena accounting for the largest percentage, while 'unidentified' cases were very few.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are government secrecy surrounding UFOs, the efforts of activists to demand transparency, and the ongoing debate between UFO believers and skeptics. The magazine appears to lean towards a critical and investigative stance, dissecting official reports and debunking sensational claims while acknowledging the complexity and persistent mystery of some UFO phenomena. The editorial stance seems to favor a rational, evidence-based approach, critical of both uncritical belief and outright dismissal of the subject.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated February/March 1994, focuses on UFO phenomena, particularly the investigation of 'green fireballs' and the common misidentification of celestial bodies as UFOs. The magazine presents detailed accounts, expert opinions, and media coverage related to these topics.

Green Fireballs in New Mexico

The report begins by discussing observations of 'green fireballs' in New Mexico, referencing interviews with individuals like Dr. La Paz, Director of the Institute of Meteoritics at the University of New Mexico. Dr. La Paz, who had previously gained publicity through a LIFE magazine article, was cooperative with OSI investigations into these sightings. While most astronomers tended to classify these phenomena as natural objects, they admitted to limited knowledge. The green fireballs are described as extremely bright, with an estimated magnitude of -12, capable of illuminating the sky. They reportedly appear in clusters, with up to ten sightings in 13 days. Notably, these objects produce no sound and exhibit a homogeneous light curve, appearing abruptly, glowing constantly, and vanishing quickly without trails. Dr. La Paz distinguishes their green hue from that of green meteors, noting it aligns with the green in the copper spectrum at 5218 Angstrom. A key characteristic is their movement, generally along two axes: North-South and South-North. Unlike normal meteors, which appear to originate from anywhere in the world, these green fireballs are reported exclusively over New Mexico. Normal meteors are described as starting faintly and then becoming very bright before rapidly disappearing, often breaking into pieces, and leaving smoke trails that glow at night, which is not consistent with the green fireball observations.

Clyde Tombaugh's Observation

Astronomer NN, identified as Clyde Tombaugh from the LIFE article, is mentioned as having made two sightings, one of which was detailed in LIFE. Hynek noted Tombaugh's cooperation and willingness to provide details if sent a questionnaire. Tombaugh, while serving at White Sands, observed an object with a magnitude of -6 (four times brighter than Venus) moving from the zenith to the southern horizon in approximately three seconds. This object reportedly performed maneuvers similar to those described in the LIFE article, without any audible sound.

Other Astronomical Observations

Astronomer OO, a meteor observer at the Harvard Meteor Station in New Mexico, reported observing two lights at 1:30 AM that moved too fast for an aircraft and too slow for a meteor. These lights were white and traveled on a parallel path.

An observation from May 20, 1950, by an unnamed observer at the Lowell Observatory was reported in a Flagstaff newspaper. The object appeared as a bright disk emerging from a broken cloud layer in the northwest, and as a dark object when moving against the clouds. No sound was perceived, and no exhaust was noted.

The Wiesloch UFO Incident: A Case of Misidentification

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a UFO report from Wiesloch, Germany, on January 10, 1994. Police officers were alerted by a woman who reported seeing a strange object in the southwestern sky. Initially, the officers might have dismissed it as a prank, but they subsequently observed the phenomenon themselves. The object was described as changing shape and colors, glowing red, green, and yellow, and appearing quite extraterrestrial. Colleagues from the Hockenheim police and officers from Heidelberg, observing from the Königsstuhl, also witnessed the phenomenon. One officer even attempted to record it with a video camera. Confusion mounted as neither the Karlsruhe nor the Frankfurt air traffic control registered any UFOs, and the possibility of satellite reflections was ruled out.

The explanation for this event was eventually provided by the Heidelberg Observatory. Immo Appenzeller, head of the State Observatory on the Königsstuhl, identified the object as the star Sirius. He explained that Sirius, particularly when near the horizon on winter nights, can produce reflections that cause it to appear to shimmer or iridesce in various colors, especially when viewed through atmospheric layers. Appenzeller stated that for astronomers, this is not an unusual phenomenon.

Expert Opinions and Analysis

Rudolf Henke, the UFO section leader of the Society for Scientific Investigation of Para-Sciences (GWUP), commented on the Wiesloch incident, noting that the misidentification of Sirius as a UFO is not uncommon. He recounted a case from Norddeutschland where a fighter jet squadron was reportedly scrambled due to Sirius. Henke estimates that thousands of UFO reports occur annually in Germany, most of which do not withstand critical examination. He claims to have never encountered a phenomenon that could not be explained by natural causes.

Henke also addressed the initial witness, Helga E., who, despite having doubts about her observation, alerted the police. He noted the discrepancy in the reported direction of the object between the witness and the police (a 90-degree difference). He questioned why a witness with early doubts would alarm the police.

Other UFO-Related Reports and Media

The magazine also touches upon other UFO-related events and media. It mentions Michael Hesemann's appearance on an RTL talk show and a UFO talk with Hans Meiser featuring 'experts' like Ludwiger, J. Fiebag, and Hesemann, described as a quarreling group. A new film about the UFO phenomenon in Greifswald, dated August 24, 1990, is highlighted as potentially the best UFO film to date. The report also notes Johannes von Buttlar's involvement with ZDF on a 90-minute video titled 'Auf den Spuren der Weltformel' and mentions other UFO-related books and videos available through ENDZEIT-Verlag.

The work 'UFO Abductions in Gulf Breeze' by Ed and Frances Walters is mentioned, detailing thousands of letters received from UFO witnesses. The book reportedly includes transcripts of hypnosis sessions with the late Dr. Dan Overlade and focuses on UFO sightings in the Gulf Breeze area.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of UFO reports, with a strong emphasis on identifying natural explanations for sightings. The magazine highlights the tendency for misidentification, particularly of bright stars like Sirius, and underscores the importance of scientific investigation. The editorial stance appears to favor skepticism towards extraordinary claims, while acknowledging the public's fascination with UFOs and the role of media in disseminating such reports. The magazine also indicates a future focus on UFO crashes and landings in upcoming issues.