CENAP Report - No 220

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, dated December 1994/January 1995, is identified as issue number 220. The magazine's title, 'CENAP-REPORT', is presented in bold blue lettering, with the subtitle 'Das unbequeme — andere UFO - Magazin' (The uncomfortable — another UFO Magazine). The cover prominently features a thematic statement: 'Thema: „Es gibt da eine Wahrheit, aber viele Lügen.“' (Theme: 'There is a truth, but many lies.'), a quote attributed to Scully and Mulder from the TV series Akte X. The issue number '220' and the publication date '1/95' are also clearly visible.

Editorial and Publisher Information

The magazine is published by CENAP, described as Germany's oldest and most extensive UFO journal, with a bi-weekly publication schedule. The publisher and editor-in-chief is Werner Walter, located in Mannheim, Germany. The issue also lists Hansjürgen Köhler as a case investigator and CR dispatcher. CENAP is presented as a private, non-commercial organization founded in 1976, dedicated to receiving, analyzing, and evaluating reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) with a critical stance. It is integrated into the Darmstadt-based scientific organization GWUP (Society for the Scientific Investigation of Para-Sciences). CENAP was recommended by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Interior as a contact point for UFO reports and serves as a consultant to the German Space Agency (DARA). They offer a UFO-Info-Service to astronomical institutions and collaborate with various national and international bodies, maintaining an extensive UFO video archive. Their goal includes public education through media and scientific institutions.

Main Articles and Investigations

The Problem of Manipulated Documents: Fragile Papers!!!

This section focuses on the alleged manipulation of documents within UFO circles, particularly concerning the MJ-12 (Majestic 12) phenomenon. The article highlights a document from the Department of the Air Force, dated November 3, 1961, concerning projects 'Moon Dust' and 'Blue Fly'. While UFO promoters have interpreted these projects as solely for UFO recovery, the article argues that their primary purpose was the retrieval of crashed Russian or other foreign aerospace hardware. A key point of contention is a handwritten note by Lt. Col. Norman M. Rosner, which was allegedly removed with correction fluid by UFO manipulators. This note stated that the concept proposal was not approved and would not be implemented. Furthermore, paragraphs 5f and 5g, related to Blue Fly and Moon Dust, were marked with a handwritten 'NEIN' (NO) in the original document, indicating that these ideas were not to be pursued. The article points to the new Roswell book by Randle/Schmitt, which reprints this document but omits Rosner's handwritten notes, suggesting a deliberate attempt to alter the document's meaning. It also mentions that Barry Greenwood inquired about the document's origin, learning it came from Clifford Stone, who received it from an unknown source. Robert Todd is mentioned as having distributed copies of the original document.

The U.S. Air Force has reportedly begun using a new stamp to clearly mark questionable material as 'NOT AN OFFICIAL USAF DOCUMENT' and 'SUSPECTED FORGERY OR BOGUS DOCUMENT' when such documents are submitted for inquiry. The authors express skepticism about the UFO community learning from this example, anticipating more computer-styled 'documents' that cater to wishful thinking.

UFO Stories: From Fairy Tale Uncles and Storytellers in Ufology!

This extensive section critically examines several prominent figures and claims within ufology, particularly focusing on alleged UFO sightings and encounters.

#### The Great Temptation: UFO Chatterboxes

This part of the article scrutinizes the claims of William English, who asserted he was an 'intelligence analyst' at the English RAF base Chicksands in Bedfordshire in 1977. He claimed to have found the 'non-existent' Grudge/Blue Book Report 13, which allegedly detailed human and animal mutilations by UFOs, UFO propulsion systems, interviews with captured aliens, and autopsy reports of extraterrestrials (ETs). The report supposedly included photos of dissected aliens. English's claims are linked to George Clinton's book 'Extras-Terrestrial Among Us' and sources like Col. Wendelle Stevens and Thomas R. Adams. The article questions the authenticity of these claims by comparing them with official military records. It notes that the USAF denies the existence of a Report #13, attributing the number's omission to superstition, similar to the absence of a 13th floor in buildings. Military records indicate that no B-52 aircraft were lost over Southeast Asia between July 1969 and July 1972, contradicting English's story about a B-52 crash. Furthermore, the article points out discrepancies in English's account regarding military procedures and the units involved in recovery operations.

#### Operation Phoenix

William English also claimed to have led an Army Special Forces team (A-Team) to recover material from a downed B-52 in Laos. He described the aircraft as intact and undamaged, suggesting it was not a crash. He also mentioned Operation Phoenix, which he linked to an event in Vietnam. The article notes that the B-52 was not referred to as 'Elephant Cage' and that the recovery operation described by English does not align with known military procedures or unit designations. The article also questions the existence of a 'Colonel Robert Black' at RAF Chicksands during the period English claimed to be stationed there, citing conflicting records regarding military personnel.

#### UFOlogy Time Travel

This section revisits the International UFO Reporter from July/August 1994, focusing on Edward J. Ruppelt, the head of the Pentagon's UFO program (Project Blue Book) from 1951 to 1953. Ruppelt's 1956 book, 'The Report on Unidentified Flying Objects,' is considered a classic. The article discusses Ruppelt's attendance at the 1955 'Second Annual Interplanetary Spacecraft Convention' at Giant Rock, California. Here, he encountered 'contactees' like Richard Miller and George Williamson, who claimed to have had contact with extraterrestrials via amateur radio and other means. Ruppelt, while initially intrigued, expressed skepticism about their claims, noting inconsistencies and a lack of verifiable evidence. He also met Dana Howard and Truman Bethurum, authors who presented their experiences with extraterrestrials.

Ruppelt's investigation into George Adamski's claims revealed significant discrepancies. Adamski, who claimed to be a 'Professor' and worked at Palomar Gardens, was found to have no connection to the famous observatory. His UFO photos were analyzed and deemed to be fabrications. Ruppelt's personal encounters with Adamski and Dan Fry (who reportedly failed a lie detector test) further fueled his skepticism.

The convention speakers discussed various themes, including the state of the world, reincarnation, and impending cosmic events like a pole shift. Some speakers claimed to be extraterrestrials or to have contact with them, describing 'Venusians' who were present among the audience. Ruppelt, despite his past involvement with USAF UFO investigations, distanced himself from these claims.

An incident where six paper 'saucers' were dropped from a small aircraft led to mockery among some attendees, while others, like Ruppelt, found the situation indicative of a lack of seriousness. Ruppelt's interactions with Williamson and Miller revealed their claims of communication with 'spacemen' via radio and light signals. Williamson was also linked to George Adamski's claims of contact with an entity named Orthon from Venus.

UFO Culture: A New Case of UFOtainment

This section, written by music journalist from Hannover, introduces the concept of 'UFOtainment,' which analyzes how modern media shapes our perception of UFO phenomena. The author contrasts 'serious UFOtainment' with the 'UFO mafia,' criticizing the latter for its reliance on speculation and alleged cover-up theories. The article praises the work of musicians like Sun Ra, whose cosmic music and philosophy are presented as a model of disciplined and visionary entertainment, contrasting it with the perceived unseriousness of some UFO proponents.

#### SPACE IS THE PLACE: Hopes that Mean the World

This part of the article delves into the life and work of Sun Ra (born Herman Lee Blount), a pioneering musician in cosmic jazz and afrofuturism. Sun Ra's music, characterized by its experimental nature and thematic exploration of space and extraterrestrial themes, is presented as a form of 'UFOtainment' that offers a vision of a more enlightened planet. His use of space-themed imagery, including a flying saucer as stage prop, and his philosophical outlook are highlighted. The article connects Sun Ra's artistic vision to the disciplined teamwork seen in science fiction series like Star Trek, suggesting that both offer models for collective endeavor and moral storytelling.

The article also touches upon the broader context of entertainment and media's role in shaping public perception, contrasting the 'technologically paralyzed media victims' of alleged UFO encounters with the 'serious UFOtainment' that offers a more grounded perspective. It critiques the 'UFO mafia' for its focus on external conspiracies rather than self-observation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO evidence, the prevalence of hoaxes and misinformation within ufology, and the role of media in shaping public perception of the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance is clearly one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a strong emphasis on factual analysis and critical thinking. The magazine actively seeks to debunk alleged fabrications and expose inconsistencies in UFO narratives, contrasting them with documented facts and official records. There is a clear distinction made between 'serious' UFO research and what is termed 'UFOtainment' or the 'UFO mafia,' which is accused of promoting sensationalism and conspiracy theories without sufficient evidence. The issue advocates for a more rigorous and evidence-based approach to understanding UFO phenomena, while also exploring the cultural and psychological aspects of belief systems surrounding them.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, NR. 220, dated December 1994/January 1995, is primarily in German and focuses on the history and investigation of UFO phenomena. It features articles that delve into early UFO sightings, the role of key researchers and organizations, and the challenges of distinguishing genuine aerial phenomena from misidentifications and hoaxes.

Early UFO Phenomena and Government Response

The issue begins by discussing early UFO reports, such as 'Foo-Fighters' and 'Ghost Rockets,' and questions the historical accuracy of certain claims regarding government investigations. It highlights the US Air Force's stance in 1947, which attributed UFO reports to misinterpretations, mass hysteria, or false claims. The Pentagon's UFO study faced challenges, and the US Air Force's declaration in December 1948 is noted. The role of Donald Keyhoe, a former Marine Major and advocate for UFOs, is detailed. Keyhoe founded the NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena) group, which exerted public pressure for UFO discussions. The article mentions prominent figures associated with NICAP, including Rear Admiral Delmer S. Fahrney and Vizeadmiral R.A. Hillenkoetter, former head of the CIA.

The Condon Report and NICAP's Struggles

The report touches upon a controversial claim by American colleague Fowler regarding an Air Force intelligence study of NICAP. It contrasts this with Captain Ruppelt's semi-official report on UFOs, which diverged from the official Air Force line. The issue of UFO information being released to the public is discussed, with a mention of the 'Life' magazine article in April 1952. The context of the Cold War and the Soviet Union is noted as a backdrop to the 'contactee' movement and the wave of sightings over the US capital in 1952. The article suggests that alien messages often carried an anti-war sentiment.

Contactees and the UFO Movement

The role of 'contactees' is explored, with mentions of Daniel Fry and Truman Bethurum. George Adamski is presented as a significant figure who gained prominence by publishing books about his encounters with extraterrestrials. The article critiques the 'contactee' phenomenon, suggesting that it often blurred the lines between science fiction and reality, and contributed to the public's association of UFOs with 'little green men.' Richard Hall, a former deputy director of NICAP, is cited for his personality profiles of early contactees, describing them as individuals seeking to solve earthly problems through alien parables.

Challenges in UFO Investigation

The text highlights the difficulties faced by responsible UFO organizations in identifying and exposing fraudulent claims, citing the case of Reinhold Schmidt. The article also discusses the US Air Force's Project Blue Book and the limitations of its investigation, noting that many officers involved lacked proper training or interest. The role of Dr. J. Allen Hynek is mentioned in relation to the Condon Committee and his subsequent involvement in establishing the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS).

Misidentification and 'Prank Balloons'

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to explaining common misidentifications of UFOs. The article details how natural phenomena, aircraft, and even simple homemade devices like 'prank balloons' (hot-air balloons made from plastic bags, wire, and candles) can be mistaken for UFOs. Numerous examples are provided, including cases where bright lights were identified as planets like Jupiter, or where descriptions of objects matched those of aircraft lights or atmospheric inversions. The author emphasizes the importance of objective observation and critical analysis, contrasting this with the tendency of some UFO researchers and witnesses to readily accept extraordinary explanations.

The Role of Media and Public Perception

The influence of media in shaping public perception of UFOs is a recurring theme. The article notes how sensationalized reporting and the shift towards 'infotainment' have sometimes overshadowed serious investigation. The case of the 'Project Skylight' and the formation of NICAP are discussed, along with the challenges faced by the organization in managing public interest and information requests. The article also touches upon the historical context of UFO sightings during the Cold War and the potential for government secrecy.

Specific Cases and Analysis

Several specific UFO cases are examined, including the 'Lubbock Lights,' the 'McMinnville-UFO' photos, and a case involving a glowing object over Boston. The author critically analyzes these incidents, often concluding that they can be explained by conventional means. The article also discusses the difficulties in verifying photographic evidence of UFOs and the potential for hoaxes.

NICAP's Evolution and Demise

The later sections of the magazine detail the internal struggles and eventual decline of NICAP. The article describes leadership changes, financial difficulties, and a shift in focus that alienated some members. The influence of former intelligence personnel within NICAP is also mentioned. The text suggests that NICAP's inability to effectively manage its resources and public relations contributed to its downfall.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the persistent nature of the UFO phenomenon, the challenges of objective investigation, the impact of media and public perception, and the tendency for misidentification. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, aiming to debunk sensational claims while acknowledging the existence of unexplained aerial phenomena. The magazine emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor and logical analysis in understanding UFO reports, often contrasting this with the more speculative and sometimes pseudoscientific approaches found in parts of the UFO community.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated December 1994/January 1995, focuses heavily on the history of UFO investigation, particularly the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP), and critically analyzes media coverage of the UFO phenomenon, especially a recent ARD documentary.

NICAP's History and Demise

The report details the early days of NICAP, founded in 1956 by Townsend Brown, with prominent figures like Donald E. Keyhoe, Rev. Albert Baller, Rev. Leon C. LeVan, and former CIA personnel involved. The organization aimed to investigate UFOs and exert political pressure. However, it struggled with financial instability and a lack of professional management, as highlighted by Richard H. Hall's experiences. Despite efforts to salvage it, NICAP ultimately collapsed in 1976, with its archives being transferred to Dr. Hynek's Center for UFO Studies.

The article contrasts the financial models of UFO organizations in Europe and America, noting that in the US, some groups are run as full-time businesses with paid staff, unlike the often self-funded efforts in Europe.

Media and UFOs: The ARD Documentary

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the ARD documentary "UFOs - und es gibt sie doch!" (UFOs - and they exist, but not!). The report includes critical reviews and analyses of the film from various newspapers and the CENAP itself. While the documentary presented compelling cases and witness accounts, many reviewers questioned its conclusions and the evidence presented. Some criticized the film for sensationalism and for not providing definitive proof, while others acknowledged that it brought attention to unexplained phenomena.

Rudolf Henke's critical documentation of the ARD film is highlighted, which scrutinizes the "UFO evidence" presented and the methods used by "UFO experts."

Case Studies and Analysis

The issue presents several UFO sighting reports and analyzes them critically:

• Düsseldorf Sighting (July 16, 1994): A report details a sighting by five employees of a transport company and a police officer in Düsseldorf. Descriptions varied, with some seeing a larger-than-airplane object with blinking lights, while others perceived a smaller, dark shape. Potential explanations like balloons or atmospheric phenomena are discussed.
• Greifswald Sighting (August 24, 1990): The sighting of seven bright light points over Greifswald is presented as a well-documented case, with multiple witnesses and video recordings. Heinz Rohde, the ARD documentary's author, reconstructed the event using computer animation.
• Belgian and Italian Cases: Incidents from Belgium (Eupen, Charleroi) and Italy (Aviano NATO base) are mentioned, some linked to alleged government cover-ups or secret military projects.
• Other Sightings: Various other cases are briefly discussed, including sightings in Jegum, Wedel, Berlin, and incidents involving NATO bases.

Critical Perspectives on UFOlogy

The magazine emphasizes a critical approach to UFO research, distinguishing between genuine unexplained phenomena and misinterpretations, hoaxes, or psychological factors. The article questions the methods of some UFO researchers and the tendency to sensationalize reports. It highlights the difficulty in identifying objects and the importance of not jumping to conclusions about extraterrestrial origins.

The role of the media in shaping public perception of UFOs is a recurring theme, with the publication suggesting that sensationalist reporting often overshadows rigorous investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CENAP REPORT consistently adopts a skeptical yet open-minded stance towards UFO phenomena. It advocates for rigorous, evidence-based investigation and critical analysis, distinguishing between unexplained events and definitive proof of extraterrestrial activity. The magazine criticizes the sensationalism often found in media coverage and in some UFO research circles. A key theme is the historical perspective, emphasizing that understanding current UFO debates requires knowledge of past investigations and organizational efforts like NICAP. The editorial stance is to provide a platform for detailed, critical examination of UFO reports and related societal and media phenomena, encouraging readers to think independently and question assumptions.

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: NR. 220
Date: December 1994 / January 1995
Publisher: CENAP
Country of Publication: Germany
Original Language: German

This issue of the CENAP REPORT delves into the complex world of UFOlogy, offering a critical perspective on media portrayals, research efforts, and related cultural phenomena. The publication aims to provide a more grounded and analytical approach to UFO topics, contrasting with what it perceives as sensationalist reporting in popular media.

Media Criticism: The UFO in Popular Press

The lead article critically examines how German magazines, particularly 'Die Zwei', handle UFO reports. The author accuses the magazine of employing suggestive language and half-truths to create a sense of conspiracy and government cover-up, without providing concrete evidence. The report highlights the tendency of such publications to sensationalize UFO sightings, linking them to alleged secret projects and intelligence agencies. The article points out that while 'Die Zwei' claims the German military denies collecting UFO reports, it implies this denial is part of a larger deception. The piece also criticizes the magazine for suggesting that the US has multiple UFO projects involving intelligence agencies and the Luftwaffe, a claim presented without substantiation.

The report further dissects the magazine's use of historical figures and events, such as referencing former US Presidents Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, and Ronald Reagan in relation to UFOs, and mentioning Lord Dowding's alleged knowledge of unexplained sightings. It also critiques the portrayal of individuals like Obserst Wilfried de Brouwer and Ex-Major Hans Petersen, suggesting misrepresentation of their roles and affiliations. The article argues that 'Die Zwei' manipulates information by conflating professional achievements with private opinions, particularly concerning figures like Hermann Oberth, whose later esoteric ideas are presented without critical context.

A significant portion of the media criticism focuses on the impact of UFO-related hysteria, drawing a parallel to Orson Welles' infamous 'War of the Worlds' radio broadcast. The CENAP REPORT contends that media like 'Die Zwei' generate this hysteria through biased and dramatic reporting, which ultimately harms serious UFO research. The issue of Wernher von Braun's alleged statements about extraterrestrial forces is also discussed, with the report suggesting that 'Die Zwei' misinterprets these as evidence of intelligent UFOs, rather than potential astrophysical phenomena.

UFO Media and Entertainment

The issue includes a section on 'Videonews', promoting a 23-hour video package and a new 50-minute video titled 'UFOs – Phenomena in the Sky' from AV-Medien Produktion. This latter video is noted for its critical and in-depth examination of the 'image evidence' presented by Pleiadian contactee Billy Meier, promising new insights into his case.

A review of the UFO novel 'Dreamland' by Hilary Hemingway and J.P. Lindsay is presented. The book is described as a blend of horror literature and science fiction, tackling themes like alien abductions, the Roswell crash, Area 51, and MJ-12. While acknowledging its potential appeal as a fictional work, the review cautions readers to distinguish it from factual UFO literature, noting that its content, while engaging, does not necessarily reflect reality. The novel is compared favorably to other UFO-themed books like Whitley Strieber's 'Majestic' and Sidney Sheldon's 'The Last Conspiracy'.

Television and UFO Coverage

The 'TV-Notizen' section highlights a West3 UFO report titled "Zwischen den Schlagzeilen" (Between the Headlines) as an example of courageous journalism, despite its inconvenient broadcast time. It also notes Erich von Däniken's appearance on an MDR program where he distanced himself from being solely an 'UFO man'. Other TV mentions include an RTL family series episode titled "Ufo-Fieber" (UFO Fever) and an ORF2 documentary "Besuch aus dem All – UFOs: Das endlose Rätsel" (Visit from Space – UFOs: The Endless Mystery). The popular FBI series 'X-Files' is discussed, noting its cult status in the USA and the intense debates it sparks among viewers and critics. Readers interested in the series are recommended to consult the fanzine STARLOG#5.

CENAP REPORT's Internal Discussion and Operations

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to reader feedback and the internal operations of the CENAP REPORT itself. A letter from Karl Pflock expresses gratitude for the publication of his article. Uli Thieme, a new reader, found the magazine through issue Nr. 219.

Werner Walter, the publisher, addresses a reader's comment about the magazine's A5 format. Walter explains that while he understands the desire for a larger format, the current size is a compromise due to financial constraints. He notes that the CENAP REPORT is heavily subsidized by him personally, with approximately 200 DM per issue. He states that the magazine has the lowest circulation of its genre but offers the most comprehensive information output with a high degree of realism. Walter also discusses the challenges of acquiring new subscribers, estimating that about 120 sample copies are sent out monthly, resulting in only ten new subscribers, barely covering the attrition rate. He calculates that over nearly 20 years of publication, the CENAP REPORT has gifted over DM 10,000 to the German UFO-interested public through these sample copies. He also mentions the investment in modern equipment like Macs and a 600 dpi laser printer, which have improved the CR's quality but have not been recouped financially.

Preview of CENAP REPORT 221

The issue concludes with a preview of the next issue (CR 221), which will feature a report on the proliferation of circular signs in the sky and an analysis of the impact of the RTL2 UFO reportage and its consequences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CENAP REPORT consistently adopts a skeptical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. It prioritizes critical examination of evidence, media reporting, and popular beliefs. The magazine actively seeks to debunk sensationalism and misinformation, aiming to provide readers with a more objective understanding of UFO topics. Its editorial stance is one of rigorous investigation, distinguishing between factual reporting and speculative or fictional accounts, and highlighting the challenges faced by serious researchers in a field often dominated by hype and unsubstantiated claims. The publication also emphasizes its commitment to providing detailed information despite financial constraints, positioning itself as a valuable resource for those seeking in-depth analysis rather than mere sensationalism.