CENAP Report - No 219

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, dated October/November 1994 (Issue 219), is a German-language UFO magazine focused on critical analysis and investigation of aerial phenomena. It is published by CENAP, an organization dedicated to the research and evaluation of UFO reports since 1976.

Main Cover Story: ARD's 'UFO Week' and the Documentary 'UFOs: Und es gibt sie doch!'

The central theme of this issue is a strong critique of the German public television network ARD's programming related to UFOs, particularly a documentary titled 'UFOs: Und es gibt sie doch!' (UFOs: And they do exist!). The magazine's editors, Werner Walter and others associated with CENAP, express significant frustration and anger over what they perceive as irresponsible and biased reporting by the ARD.

ARD's Handling of the UFO Topic

The editors accuse the ARD of failing to uphold its own statutes of 'balance' and 'consideration of minorities' in its UFO coverage. They argue that the documentary presented 'ridiculous' evidence and mishandled the UFO topic, contributing to a surge of unsubstantiated claims and a misunderstanding of the phenomenon. The magazine suggests that the ARD's approach was influenced by sensationalism rather than objective investigation.

Specific Cases and Criticisms

The issue delves into specific UFO cases that were featured or alluded to in the ARD's programming:

• Greifswald Case: The magazine discusses the Greifswald UFO sightings, noting that Rudolf Henke, head of the GWUP's UFO section, collaborated on a scientific documentation titled 'UFOs: Und es gibt sie doch!' to counter the ARD's narrative. CENAP claims to have clarified this case.
• Belgian UFOs: The Belgian UFO wave is mentioned as a key example used by the ARD. CENAP asserts that these sightings were likely misidentifications of light aircraft or related to drug smuggling, not extraterrestrial craft.
• Werner Utter's Spider-UFO: The case of Werner Utter, a pilot who reported seeing a bright, radiating 'spider' object, is presented. The ARD documentary reportedly used this case, but CENAP suggests the details were sensationalized or misrepresented.
• Photographic Evidence: The magazine scrutinizes several photographic 'evidence' presented by the ARD, including the 'Petit-Rechain' photo and images from Pontiac, Michigan, and Phoenix, Arizona. CENAP questions the authenticity and interpretation of these photos, often suggesting they are misidentifications, hoaxes, or military aircraft.
• Radar Data: The issue discusses radar recordings of unidentified objects, particularly from Swiss airspace, noting extreme altitude changes. However, CENAP cautions against interpreting radar echoes as definitive proof of UFOs, suggesting they can be misinterpreted.

Media Influence and Skepticism

CENAP-REPORT emphasizes the powerful influence of media (TV, radio, press) on public perception of UFOs. They criticize how the ARD and other media outlets, like HÖR ZU magazine and BILD newspaper, amplified sensational claims and presented them as fact. The magazine contrasts this with the work of CENAP and other critical researchers who aim for a more scientific and less sensational approach.

The Role of 'Experts' and Organizations

The magazine highlights the involvement of various individuals and organizations in the UFO field. It mentions Illobrand von Ludwiger, a physicist and DASA system analyst, who is presented as a key scientific figure in analyzing UFO cases. CENAP also references the work of MUFON-CES, while sometimes expressing skepticism about their methods or conclusions. The role of organizations like GWUP (Society for Scientific Investigation of Paranormal Sciences) is also noted.

Critique of 'Scientific' UFO Research

CENAP-REPORT expresses a critical view of what it terms 'scientific' UFO research, particularly when it appears to be driven by sensationalism or commercial interests. They question the methodology and conclusions of some researchers, suggesting that the pursuit of 'proof' can lead to biased interpretations. The magazine advocates for a more grounded, evidence-based approach, often contrasting it with the perceived 'pseudoscience' promoted by some media and researchers.

Erich von Däniken Feature

An article features Erich von Däniken, the author known for his theories about ancient astronauts. While not directly related to the ARD critique, it reflects the magazine's broader interest in UFO-related topics and popular culture surrounding extraterrestrial hypotheses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of media coverage of UFO phenomena, the distinction between genuine unexplained events and misidentifications or hoaxes, and the importance of a scientific and skeptical approach to UFO research. CENAP-REPORT positions itself as a voice of reason against sensationalism, advocating for a more responsible and evidence-based understanding of UFOs. The editorial stance is one of critical skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, while remaining open to the possibility of genuinely unexplained aerial phenomena that warrant rigorous investigation.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated October/November 1994, focuses heavily on the public reaction and media coverage surrounding a recent ARD television report titled "UFOs - and they do exist!". The magazine delves into the various theories, testimonies, and criticisms that emerged from this broadcast, presenting a multifaceted view of the UFO phenomenon as discussed in German media at the time.

ARD Report and Public Reaction

The central event is the ARD report, which featured testimonies from individuals like former Lufthansa chief pilot Werner Utter and craftsman Jürgen Luchterhand, who claimed to have witnessed UFOs. The report also included a video of a UFO over the Baltic Sea, which was reportedly verified. The broadcast evidently captured the public's imagination, with millions of Germans reportedly watching and discussing the topic.

Theories on UFO Origins

Diplom-Physiker Illobrand von Ludwiger, a UFO researcher, presented three main theories for the origin of UFOs: extraterrestrial beings from other solar systems, beings from parallel dimensions, or time travelers from humanity's future. He expressed a leaning towards the time travel hypothesis, suggesting that advanced beings from our future might be visiting us.

Criticism from UFO Researchers and Scientists

Despite the public interest, the ARD report faced significant criticism. UFO researcher Werner Walter from CENAP (Central Research Network for Extraordinary Aerial Phenomena) labeled the report as "bluff" and accused it of unnecessarily confusing viewers. He argued that many reported UFO sightings, particularly those over Belgium, could be explained as ultralight aircraft, possibly used by drug smugglers. Walter emphasized that CENAP, a private organization, critically examines UFO phenomena.

Several media outlets also published critical reviews. The Berliner Zeitung described the report as "absolutely unrewarding" and "senseless". The Frankfurter Rundschau noted the film's sensationalist nature and the lack of concrete evidence. The Süddeutsche Zeitung questioned the report's scientific basis, and the Münchner Merkur suggested that the ARD report left viewers with more questions than answers.

Media and Scientific Debate

The ARD report triggered a broader debate about UFO research and its scientific standing. Critics like WDR science journalist Jean Pütz condemned the report as "catastrophic" and "unscientific," arguing that it undermined the work of serious science journalists. He expressed concern that the report sensationalized the topic and blurred the lines between credible research and pseudoscience.

Scientists from the Max-Planck-Institut for Extraterrestrial Physics, who were reportedly consulted for the report, distanced themselves from its speculative aspects, stating that they did not claim UFOs were necessarily extraterrestrial. They emphasized that their involvement was to provide a scientific perspective, not to endorse the report's conclusions.

Specific Cases and Testimonies

The magazine details several specific cases discussed in the report and related media coverage:

• Werner Utter's Testimony: The former Lufthansa chief pilot recounted seeing three unidentified flying objects that resembled "jellyfish of light with long threads." He asserted he was sober and in full possession of his senses.
• Jürgen Luchterhand's Video: A craftsman from Greifswald, Luchterhand filmed a UFO over the Baltic Sea. The report claimed the video was authentic.
• Frau Holzer's Account: A painter and music teacher, Frau Holzer described seeing a UFO that performed a typical UFO maneuver, ascending rapidly. She also reported a subjective experience of time distortion.
• Belgian UFO Wave: The report highlighted numerous sightings of triangular UFOs over Belgium since 1989, which were presented as potentially significant evidence.
• Walter Rizzi's Story: Rizzi recounted seeing a 60-meter-wide saucer that was brightly lit and hovered close to the ground.

Critiques of UFO Research Methods

There was significant debate about the methods used in UFO research. Critics pointed out the reliance on computer-generated imagery and animations, arguing that such technology could easily be used to create convincing fakes. The use of amateur videos and photographs was also questioned, with suggestions that many could be misidentifications or deliberate fabrications.

Illobrand von Ludwiger, while advocating for serious UFO research, was also criticized for his involvement in organizations like MUFON-CES and for his perceived influence on the ARD report's direction. Some felt that the research was becoming too insular, focusing on confirmation bias rather than objective analysis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting both the sensational aspects of the UFO phenomenon and the skeptical counterarguments. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible scientific investigation and what is perceived as pseudoscience or sensationalism. The issue highlights the challenges of researching UFOs, the difficulties in obtaining objective evidence, and the media's role in shaping public perception. The recurring theme is the ongoing debate about whether UFOs represent a genuine mystery requiring scientific investigation or a product of human imagination, misperception, and media hype.

The magazine seems to lean towards a more critical and evidence-based approach, questioning the methods and conclusions of some UFO researchers while acknowledging that a small percentage of sightings remain unexplained. The overall tone suggests a desire for more rigorous, scientific inquiry into the subject, free from sensationalism and confirmation bias.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated October/November 1994, focuses heavily on the phenomenon of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), with a particular emphasis on the "Greifswald UFO formation" of August 24, 1990, which is described as the "best-documented UFO case."

Media Coverage and Criticism

The magazine critically analyzes the media's portrayal of UFOs, especially a recent ARD documentary titled "UFO-Reportage." The report notes that the documentary, while calling the Greifswald case the "best-documented UFO case," also faced criticism for its perceived bias and lack of scientific rigor. Several newspaper clippings are included, showcasing reactions from various publications.

• Münchner Abendzeitung refers to the ARD documentary as a "documentary quark" and notes the backlash from anti-UFO circles, leading ARD to bring in a WDR science editor and an astrophysicist to counter the author and a UFO researcher.
• The WDR rationalist is quoted as calling the phenomenon "pseudo, pseudo, everything pseudo," and criticizing the fueling of people's desires for "something out there" and the "prophet commerce."
• The Max-Planck physicist dismisses UFOs as mathematical fantasy, stating that if they existed, the Milky Way would be full of spaceships.
• Federico Fellini is mentioned in the context of a film portrait, with a critique noting that the UFO discussion delayed the viewing of the film.
• Westdeutsche Zeitung criticizes the ARD's UFO discussion, calling it "Flinke Zankäpfel" (Nimble Squabblers) and noting that even the moderator, Ullrich Wickert, distanced himself from the topic.
• Rheinische Post quotes Roland Horn criticizing the "experts" as incompetent and particularly singling out Ranga Yogeshwar and Heinz Rohde.
• Stuttgarter Zeitung questions the "balance in television" and criticizes "superficial scientific entertainment."
• Hannoversche Allgemeine Zeitung calls the ARD segment "superfluous."
• The Stuttgarter Zeitung also questions the balance in television, labeling it "superficial scientific entertainment."

The Greifswald UFO Case

The issue delves into the Greifswald UFO incident, describing seven yellow-white light balls observed on August 24, 1990, over the Baltic Sea. These objects were described as being approximately 4 meters in diameter and remained visible for about 20 minutes, moving slowly and exhibiting synchronized behavior. The case is highlighted as being particularly well-documented, with photographic and video evidence.

• CENAP (Central Research Network for Extraordinary Sky Phenomena) is actively investigating the case. Werner Walter, chairman of CENAP, states that while most UFO cases can be explained by conventional means (rockets, aircraft, balloons, disco lights), the Greifswald case remains a significant puzzle.
• The case is compared to the 1952 Delbert C. Newhouse film (Tremonton film), which the US Air Force explained as a flock of seagulls.
• The magazine mentions that the UFOs were observed over a Soviet military base near Peenemünde, with calculations suggesting a size of 17-19 meters per light sphere.

UFO Skepticism and Rational Explanations

The magazine presents a strong skeptical viewpoint, emphasizing rational explanations for UFO sightings.

• Dr. Wolfgang Wacker, director of the Mannheim Planetarium, argues that many UFO sightings stem from a desire for a "replacement religion" and that psychological factors play a significant role. He asserts that most UFOs are identifiable objects and that the vast distances in space make interstellar travel highly improbable.
• Werner Walter of CENAP explains that many "UFOs" are actually powerful disco spotlights reflecting off clouds, causing confusion. He notes that these lights can be seen from up to 30 kilometers away and have even caused accidents when drivers are startled.
• The article "Ufos: Nur Lichter der Großstadt? (Mannheim)" from MORGEN suggests that many sightings are simply misinterpretations of lights from the city or celestial bodies like the moon.
• Die Zeit features a section titled "Was meinen Sie dazu?" (What do you think about it?) with opinions from various individuals on whether UFOs exist. Most express skepticism or a lack of belief, citing the lack of concrete evidence.

Other UFO-Related News and Features

• "Seltsame Spuren auf dem Mond" (Strange Traces on the Moon) from AZ discusses the claims of Swiss author Luc Bürgin, who alleges that NASA is concealing evidence of extraterrestrial life on the Moon, citing astronaut testimonies and lunar orbiter data.
• A report from DER TAGESSPIEGEL titled "Fernsehfilm löst Panik aus" (TV film causes panic) describes a fictional CBS broadcast about asteroid impacts that caused widespread fear among viewers.
• An article from Berliner Zeitung titled "Pyramiden von Gizeh nach Orion-Sternbild gebaut?" (Pyramids of Giza built according to Orion constellation?) explores the theory that the Giza pyramids align with the Orion constellation, suggesting advanced astronomical knowledge by the ancient Egyptians.
• "Ufo-Alarm durch Disco-Strahler" (UFO alarm due to disco spotlights) from Hallesches Tageblatt and other regional papers highlights how disco lights are frequently mistaken for UFOs, leading to numerous false alarms.
• "Vielleicht ist Ihre Nachbarin eine Außerirdische?" (Maybe your neighbor is an alien?) from Leipziger Volkszeitung features UFO expert Michael Hesemann, who claims that evidence of UFOs and extraterrestrial contact is being suppressed by governments.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of media sensationalism surrounding UFOs, the promotion of scientific skepticism, and the investigation of specific UFO cases. The editorial stance appears to favor rational explanations and scientific inquiry, while acknowledging the public fascination with the UFO phenomenon. There is a clear effort to debunk common UFO myths and to highlight the role of misidentification and psychological factors. The magazine also seems to advocate for a more mature and scientific approach to UFO research, moving away from sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated October/November 1994, focuses on debunking prominent UFO cases and critiquing the UFOlogy community. The main cover story, "Greifswald UFOs were just NVA illumination bombs," highlights the magazine's investigative approach.

The Greifswald Case: Solved!

The lead article details the Greifswald UFO sightings of August 24, 1990, where multiple witnesses reported seeing seven light points over the city. Initially presented as a major UFO mystery, the investigation by CENAP, particularly Werner Walter, revealed the lights to be NVA (East German National People's Army) illumination bombs used in military exercises. The article contrasts this with the sensationalist claims made by UFOlogists and mentions the involvement of television programs in perpetuating the mystery.

Eyewitness Accounts and Debunking

Numerous eyewitness accounts from the Greifswald area are presented, including those of Steffen Pichollek, Katrin and Horst Fritz, Frau Peitersen, Erwin Kollath, Friedrich Seide, Herr Lepnitz, Ingolf Diense, and Dr.med. Lüder Stock. These accounts, while initially interpreted as UFO sightings, are systematically explained as military flares or other conventional phenomena. The article emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between genuine UFOs and misidentified objects (IFOs).

Comparison with the Cape Ann Case

The Greifswald phenomenon is compared to a similar case in Cape Ann, Massachusetts, in 1967, which was also explained as USAF dropping illumination bombs from a B-52 bomber. This comparison serves to reinforce the idea that similar events have conventional explanations.

The Roswell Incident: A Deep Dive into the "Cover-Up"

Another significant section of the magazine is dedicated to the Roswell incident. The article critically examines the USAF's official report, which identified the debris as part of Project MOGUL, a high-altitude balloon project. It refutes claims of a government cover-up, citing the thoroughness of the investigation and the lack of evidence for an alien spacecraft.

Scrutiny of UFOlogist Claims

The magazine scrutinizes the claims made by prominent UFOlogists like Stan Friedman and Kevin Randle, accusing them of misinterpreting evidence and perpetuating conspiracy theories. It highlights inconsistencies in witness testimonies and the alleged manipulation of photographic evidence.

The Role of the Media

The article discusses the media's role in the Roswell narrative, including appearances on shows like Larry King Live and the production of documentaries. It criticizes the sensationalist approach often taken by the media when covering UFO topics.

MUFON: Facing "Gigantic Problems"

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to criticizing the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON). The article highlights internal debates within MUFON regarding scientific credibility, citing a report by MUFON consultant Stuart Appelle. Appelle argues that MUFON's lack of rigorous reporting, poor presentation, and reliance on speculation undermine its scientific standing.

Internal Criticism and "Paranoia"

The magazine quotes Appelle and other MUFON members who express concern about the organization's direction, with some accusing MUFON of promoting sensational stories and conspiracy theories rather than pursuing scientific inquiry. The article suggests a "paranoia" among some UFOlogists who are resistant to skeptical viewpoints.

The "Skepticism Debate"

The issue includes a section titled "Rudolf Henke's Debunker's Corner," which discusses the "panic fear of UFOlogists towards skeptics." It argues that UFOlogists often avoid public debate with skeptics, fearing exposure of their lack of credible evidence. The article criticizes the tendency of some UFOlogists to label any criticism as personal attacks.

Gulf Breeze: Ed Walters' "Photographic Encounter"

The magazine also examines the Gulf Breeze UFO sightings, specifically focusing on new photographic evidence presented by Ed Walters. Bruce Maccabee, a supporter of Walters, analyzes the photos, which appear to show a UFO and a military jet. While Maccabee initially suggests the photos might be genuine, the article later implies that Walters' experiments with models and photographic techniques could be a source of deception, questioning the validity of the evidence.

Other Cases and Themes

Briefly mentioned are other UFO-related topics, including the "Midway UFO Videos" and a discussion on the lack of evidence in UFO research. The article also touches upon the controversial connections between some UFO researchers and right-wing extremist ideologies, particularly in the context of pre-astronautics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are the debunking of UFO phenomena through rational and scientific investigation, the critique of sensationalism and lack of rigor within the UFOlogy community, and the importance of critical thinking. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for evidence-based analysis and a scientific approach to understanding unexplained aerial phenomena. The magazine aims to separate credible research from pseudoscience and conspiracy theories.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated October/November 1994, focuses heavily on UFO phenomena, media analysis, and the burgeoning field of online information exchange. The cover story, "The UFO behind the airplane turns out to be in front of the flyer!", presents a CENAP photo analysis suggesting a reinterpretation of a well-known UFO image. The magazine also includes a Christmas book tip for "My Paranormal Bicycle and Other Occasions for Skepticism" by Gero von Randow, which critiques the paranormal and skeptical movements.

Photo Analysis: The UFO in Front of the Plane

The issue begins with a detailed photo-technical analysis by CENAP of a UFO image, likely related to the Ed Walters case. By digitally enhancing and sharpening the image, CENAP claims to have revealed that the "UFO" was actually in front of the airplane, not behind it as previously suggested. The analysis points to three bright, irregular light spots that appear to be part of the airplane's appearance, with a hazy halo around them. The article speculates that this might be a photographic artifact created during the development process, or that Ed Walters cleverly exploited this phenomenon to promote a new UFO narrative. It suggests that Walters may have photographed a jet and was surprised by the resulting image, which he then used to create a new UFO phenomenon.

Book Review: "My Paranormal Bicycle and Other Occasions for Skepticism"

Gero von Randow's book is reviewed, highlighting its exploration of paranormal and parascientific topics, including UFOs. The review notes that the book is difficult to find in typical bookstores, often relegated to "esoteric" or "new age" sections. The article discusses the human desire to understand the unknown and the role of fascination with the strange and unbelievable. It contrasts the scientific approach with "parascientific" claims, suggesting that the latter often exploit psychological needs for answers and a sense of special knowledge. The author criticizes the lack of rigor in much of the UFO research, particularly the tendency to ignore plausible natural explanations and to rely on anecdotal evidence.

The Rise of "New Age" and Paranormal Beliefs

The magazine touches upon the "New Age" movement and its roots in "New Thought," which posits the existence of unlimited, hidden human potential. It notes how these ideas resonate in modern society, offering a sense of empowerment. The article critiques the way paranormal research often highlights positive results while downplaying or omitting negative ones, suggesting a manipulation of public expectations and fears. It also discusses the Barnum effect, where people tend to accept vague personality descriptions as accurate, contributing to the belief in phenomena like fortune-telling.

UFO Abductions and Sleep Paralysis

The phenomenon of "UFO abductions" is examined, with a focus on the commonality of these experiences occurring during sleep. The article links these experiences to sleep paralysis and hallucinations, describing them as vivid and frightening but not necessarily indicative of mental illness. It suggests that these phenomena, while subjective, can be important for understanding "unexplained phenomena" and UFO abduction claims, citing the work of researchers like Budd Hopkins.

The Nature of Reality and Scientific Inquiry

The issue questions the idea that future civilizations will harness unknown forces, emphasizing that forces cannot be created from nothing and that human control over nature is limited. It discusses the possibility of new forces in nature but notes that if they existed, they would likely have been discovered already. The article stresses the importance of scientific methodology, including logical reasoning, healthy skepticism, and the principle of Occam's Razor (the simplest explanation is often the best). It criticizes the "black box" methods used in much of paranormal research, contrasting them with the rigorous, evidence-based approach of mainstream science.

CENAPNET: The UFO Data Highway

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to introducing CENAPNET, a computer network designed for exchanging UFO information using mailbox technology. The article explains the technical requirements (modems, computer) and software needed to participate, as well as the structure of the network, which is based on Fidonet. It details how information is shared through emails and files, and lists several participating mailboxes in Germany.

OMNI's Project Open Book and UFO Investigations

The magazine reports on OMNI magazine's initiative, "Project Open Book," which aims to find definitive proof of extraterrestrial visitation. It highlights OMNI's commitment to a scientific and skeptical approach, acknowledging that most UFO sightings have mundane explanations. The article discusses the challenges of UFO research, including the need for verifiable evidence and the difficulty of distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misinterpretations or hoaxes. It also lists the members of OMNI's UFO Project Team, comprising scientists, journalists, and researchers.

Specific UFO Cases and Media Coverage

Several specific UFO incidents and media reports are discussed:

• OMNI's Project Open Book: Mentions cases like the Shag Harbour UFO crash and the investigation of Soviet UFO cases.
• UFO-Alarm on March 8, 1994, in West Michigan: Details a mass sighting of red and white lights, corroborated by police and radar data.
• UFOs in the News: A compilation of UFO-related television programs and news reports from various countries, including the USA, England, and Australia, covering topics like crop circles, abductions, and specific sightings.
• NDR UFO Reportage Controversy: Critiques a German television report on UFOs, labeling it as "blending work" and questioning its scientific validity.
• CENAP's Critique of ARD UFO Reportage: Werner Walter of CENAP criticizes an ARD UFO reportage for being sensationalist and not providing clear explanations.
• Christmas UFO Video Offer: An advertisement for a comprehensive collection of UFO video material available for purchase.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the psychological underpinnings of belief in the paranormal, and the role of media in shaping public perception. The editorial stance is largely skeptical but open to rigorous scientific investigation. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between evidence-based research and speculative or sensationalist claims. The magazine advocates for a methodical, evidence-driven approach to understanding UFOs and other unexplained phenomena, while also acknowledging the public's fascination with these topics. The introduction of CENAPNET reflects a forward-looking approach to information sharing within the UFO research community.