CENAP-REPORT

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: 221
Date: February/March 1995 (2/95)
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German
Price: DM 70,--

CENAP-REPORT is described as Germany's oldest and most comprehensive UFO journal, published bi-weekly. It operates as a private, non-commercial organization dedicated to the collection, analysis, and evaluation of reports on unidentified flying objects (UFOs), taking a critical stance. CENAP is integrated into the GWUP (Society for the Scientific Investigation of Para-Sciences) and has been recommended by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Interior as a point of contact for UFO reports.

Editorial Introduction

Werner Walter, the editor-in-chief, introduces the issue, noting that it primarily focuses on two major themes: the Roswell incident and the Weaver Report, alongside a surge of UFO sightings involving lights in the night sky across Germany. He acknowledges that UFO research can be tiring when confronted with the same harmless stimuli repeatedly, leading to excitement among observers. Walter also mentions that due to current events, many articles had to be postponed, and they plan to analyze the RTL2 UFO report in the next issue (CR 222).

Cover Story: Roswell & The Weaver Report

The central article delves into the Roswell incident and the USAF's report authored by Col. Richard L. Weaver, which attributes the event to the crash of a secret balloon project named MOGUL. The author, Uli Thieme, expresses skepticism about this explanation, arguing that it overlooks crucial firsthand witness accounts. Thieme questions why so many credible witnesses would lie or fantasize, particularly regarding the presence of bodies. He notes that the term 'alien' can also mean 'foreigner' and that reports of 'aliens' emerged later in the Roswell narrative.

Thieme proposes an alternative theory: that the crashed object might have been a Japanese Mitsubishi J8M Shusui (also known as Me 163 Komet), a rocket-powered fighter jet developed from German technology. He suggests that after the war, some of these aircraft, along with potentially Japanese POWs, could have been tested in the US. The highly explosive nature of the Walter rocket engines used in these planes could explain accidents, and the use of POWs would have been a way to avoid endangering American pilots. This theory, Thieme argues, could explain several aspects of the Roswell incident:

• Secrecy: The continued secrecy for over 47 years could be due to the scandal and shock of the US military using similar methods to the Nazis, violating the Geneva Convention, and potentially straining US-Japan relations.
• Witness Descriptions: The descriptions of 'aliens' with 'slightly slanted eyes' could refer to Japanese pilots, and the smaller stature of the 'aliens' might be explained by the compact cockpit of the J8M/Me 163, favoring smaller pilots.
• "Spacesuits": The mention of 'spacesuits' could refer to the specialized suits worn by German Me 163 pilots to protect against burns.
• Hieroglyphic Script: The fragments with hieroglyphic-like writing seen by Jesse Marcel could have been Japanese characters.
• Material: The unusual materials could be explained by the use of wood, rubber, or canvas-like parts in the Japanese aircraft, and the wreckage could have been sent for material analysis.

Thieme acknowledges that this theory has its own limitations, such as explaining only one 'alien' instead of multiple, and the need to accept a second crash site. He concludes that while lacking definitive proof, it's an interesting and unusual explanation.

Analysis of the USAF Roswell Report

The magazine discusses the USAF's Roswell Report and its translation into German. While many in the UFO community criticize the report as flawed, the authors of CENAP-REPORT take a more nuanced view. They acknowledge the report's thoroughness in searching for documents but question whether it represents a 'breakthrough' for UFO research. The report's investigation was prompted by public pressure and the GAO's inquiry, leading to a systematic review of Air Force archives. The SAF/AAZ team found no evidence of a Special Access Program related to extraterrestrial spacecraft or aliens. They also found no indications of unusual activities, heightened security measures, or cover-ups related to Roswell in July 1947.

The report states that the Air Force found no evidence of extraterrestrial spacecraft or alien recovery operations. Instead, the investigation pointed towards the recovery of equipment from a MOGUL balloon. The authors note that the Roswell incident only became widely considered a UFO event between 1978 and 1980, evolving from simple newspaper reports to mythical dimensions with numerous variations in witness accounts and debris descriptions.

The magazine highlights that the USAF investigation focused on a 'document search' rather than a UFO case investigation. When Project MOGUL was identified, the USAF verified it as a plausible explanation for the debris found. The authors argue that the UFO community's criticism of the report as full of 'defects and problems' overlooks the contradictory statements made by key witnesses. They suggest that the USAF's conclusion that a MOGUL balloon project was the cause of the Roswell find is a probable explanation based on the available evidence, rather than a definitive decision.

The 'Tanz der Lichter' Phenomenon

The issue also touches upon the phenomenon of 'Tanz der Lichter' (Dance of Lights), described as UFO sightings involving lights in the night sky, which are common in Germany. The magazine notes that while these sightings can cause excitement, they are often difficult to investigate and can be confusing.

UFO Believers Stand Their Ground

An article from USA TODAY is included, reporting that the Air Force admitted responsibility for the Roswell incident, explaining it as part of the 'Project Mogul' effort. However, the article also notes that UFO enthusiasts are largely unsatisfied, viewing it as another cover-up. The magazine contrasts this with the ongoing fascination with UFOs in Roswell, which has become a tourist attraction.

Further Analysis of Roswell Theories

The magazine continues to dissect the Roswell incident, presenting arguments from various researchers. It discusses the skepticism surrounding the MOGUL balloon explanation, particularly concerning the lack of direct documentary evidence linking it to the crash debris. The article also examines the testimony of Glenn Dennis, a Roswell mortician, whose accounts of alien bodies and autopsies have been influential but also contain contradictions. The magazine points out that many key testimonies emerged decades after the event, raising questions about their reliability and potential monetary incentives.

Spandauer im Ufo-Fieber (Spandau in UFO Fever)

This section features UFO researchers Joachim Koch and Hans-Jürgen Kyborg from Spandau, Germany, who aim to have their UFO research recognized scientifically. They investigate unexplained light phenomena and high-speed aerial objects, criticizing the lack of official investigation into such sightings. They are members of MUFON-CES, an organization dedicated to filtering the physical core from anecdotal UFO reports. The article mentions the historical context of UFO research, dating back to the 1947 Roswell crash.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent controversy surrounding the Roswell incident, the critical examination of official explanations versus witness testimonies, and the ongoing debate about the nature of UFO phenomena. CENAP-REPORT maintains a critical yet open stance, presenting various theories and analyses while encouraging readers to critically evaluate the evidence. The magazine emphasizes the importance of scientific methodology in UFO research and highlights the challenges posed by conflicting accounts, potential misinformation, and the difficulty of obtaining definitive proof. The editorial stance appears to be one of thorough investigation and a commitment to uncovering the truth, even when it challenges popular UFO narratives or official reports.

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: NR.221
Date: February/March 1995

This issue of CENAP REPORT focuses heavily on the enduring mystery of the Roswell UFO incident and presents a collection of recent UFO sightings, primarily from Germany. It critically examines official explanations, highlights witness testimonies, and explores the ongoing public interest and government secrecy surrounding these phenomena.

The Roswell Incident: Continued Controversy

The magazine revisits the Roswell crash of July 1947, presenting accounts that challenge the official explanation of a weather balloon. It features the testimony of Glenn Dennis, who claims to have had contact with a nurse who provided a sketch of an alien. Dennis's account is presented with some skepticism due to perceived inconsistencies and his later statements regarding his oath of secrecy. The article questions the credibility of some witnesses and researchers involved in the Roswell case, particularly highlighting the work of Mark Rodeghier and Mark Chesney, who critiqued the USAF's investigation.

• Key points raised include:
• The Nurse's Sketch: Dennis recounts an encounter with a nurse who allegedly provided him with a sketch of an alien, but her subsequent death in a plane crash and the disappearance of the sketch add layers of mystery.
• Witness Credibility: The article scrutinizes Dennis's own credibility, noting contradictions in his statements and his dismissal of sworn oaths.
• Material Analysis: The unique properties of the alleged Roswell debris are described, with witnesses like Jose Marcel detailing its resistance to damage and its unusual characteristics, leading to the conclusion of non-terrestrial origin.
• Official Retraction: The initial military announcement of a crashed 'flying saucer' is contrasted with the later retraction, which attributed the event to a weather balloon. The article suggests a deliberate cover-up.
• Research Critiques: Rodeghier and Chesney's arguments against the USAF's findings are discussed, with the magazine finding their reasoning flawed and their focus on minor details to be a distraction from substantial evidence.
• Project MOGUL: The connection to Project MOGUL balloons is explored, with the magazine suggesting that some researchers dismiss this explanation too readily, while others might be too quick to label any unusual aerial phenomenon as a UFO.

International Roswell Initiative

The magazine reports on the 'International Roswell Initiative,' a campaign aiming to pressure the US President to release all government information concerning UFOs and extraterrestrial intelligence. This initiative has garnered support from various UFO organizations and has been publicized internationally, including in Russia.

Recent UFO Sightings in Germany

• A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to numerous UFO sightings reported in Germany during late 1994 and early 1995. These reports, often from the Mannheim UFO hotline, describe various aerial phenomena:
• Kreisende Lichtteller (Circling Light Discs): Several accounts describe luminous, disc-shaped objects moving silently and erratically in the sky. These sightings often occur at night, sometimes accompanied by clouds.
• Witness Accounts: The magazine details specific cases, including:
• Grödersby: Frau Sieglinde Kempelmann and her family observed a large, circular light phenomenon moving from left to right.
• Berlin Area: Manfred Wenzel and his family reported a bright, rotating light disc hovering near their car, which followed them for a considerable distance.
• Zühlsdorf: Similar sightings were reported, though later attributed to a disco laser effect.
• Goldbach and Hösbach: Reports of 'unusual encounters' were also linked to disco lights.
• Stuttgart: Witnesses reported 'light fan channels' and 'light spheres'.
• Schleswig-Holstein: A caller claimed to have seen a 'space shuttle'-like object and small green men, later revealed to be a radio prank.
• Gelsenkirchen: Frau Kempelmann reported seeing a light beam and a light ring.
• Attribution and Skepticism: While many of these sightings are presented with detailed witness testimonies, the magazine frequently suggests that disco lights, laser shows, or other terrestrial explanations are the most likely causes, especially in cases where similar phenomena were observed in nearby locations.
• Emotional Impact: The witnesses often describe feelings of fear, unease, and fascination, highlighting the psychological impact of these encounters.

UFO-Fieber in Germany

The article "Deutsche im UFO-Fieber" (Germans in UFO Fever) suggests that Germany has become a focal point for UFO reports, possibly fueled by media coverage. It notes that even after attempts to debunk sightings, new reports continue to emerge, indicating a persistent public fascination with the phenomenon.

Specific Case Details:

• The Wenzel Sighting: The Wenzel family's encounter involved a hovering, rotating light disc that followed their car for about 50 minutes. They attempted to test the object's reaction by turning off their car's engine and lights, but the object continued to hover and circle.
• The Seffern Sightings: Three women in Seffern reported seeing a bright, circular formation of lights that transformed into a point and then reappeared. They pursued the object in their car, experiencing feelings of being followed.
• The Light Curtain: In one case, a reported circular light formation changed into a 'light curtain' or a series of 'strangely arranged, elongated lights,' possibly due to increased cloud cover.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent controversy surrounding the Roswell incident, the ongoing search for definitive proof of UFOs and extraterrestrial intelligence, and the frequent reporting of aerial phenomena that are often explained away as terrestrial lights. The magazine adopts a critical stance, questioning the credibility of some witnesses and researchers while acknowledging the public's deep interest in the subject. There is an underlying suggestion that while genuine mysteries may exist, many reported sightings can be attributed to misidentification or hoaxes. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, seeking factual evidence while remaining skeptical of sensational claims. The publication also highlights the role of media in both fueling and potentially debunking UFO phenomena.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated February/March 1995, focuses heavily on UFO sightings and related phenomena, particularly in Germany, with a significant emphasis on reports from the Sachsen region. The cover headline, "Ich habe ein Ufo gesehen - bestimmt" (I have seen a UFO - definitely), and the sub-headline, "Immer mehr Sachsen sind überzeugt, daß es Außerirdische gibt" (More and more Saxons are convinced that aliens exist), set the tone for the issue.

Witness Accounts from Sachsen

The magazine presents several personal accounts from individuals in Sachsen who claim to have seen UFOs. Ruth Kürschner, a 65-year-old pensioner, reported seeing a "flying saucer" while gardening. Kellner Jan Böhme (21) described seeing a six-sided metallic object with red, dark blue, and white lights. Maria Grund (42), a housewife, recounted a sighting from 1990. Schuldirektor Georg Kurfürst (64) described a bright light outside his window that resembled a flying saucer. Klempner Sven Kluge (17) expressed his belief in extraterrestrial life.

The Dresden to Erfurt Incident

A detailed account describes an experience on the Autobahn from Dresden to Erfurt. Cornelia Faulstich and her husband reported seeing a cluster of white light spots that swirled and moved erratically in the sky, disappearing and reappearing as light circles. They noted that the phenomenon followed them for the entire journey, similar to what was shown in a recent ARD UFO documentary.

The Impact of the ARD UFO Report

The ARD report "Ufos - Und es gibt sie doch" (UFOs - And they do exist) on October 24th is cited as a catalyst for a "UFO boom," with the Central Research Station for Extraordinary Sky Phenomena in Mannheim receiving daily calls from eyewitnesses. The report is noted for featuring a UFO that scientists from Deutsche Aerospace in Munich identified as genuine, providing validation for observers like Bernd Heinze from Leipzig, who had previously photographed a UFO.

Further Sightings and Investigations

The issue continues with numerous other reported sightings and investigations:

• Thomas Striber (14) from Glauchau: Reported seeing two light balls moving in a triangular formation, which he compared to the Belgian UFO shown on the ARD program. He also described seeing two luminous spheres moving in a coordinated manner.
• Eveline Kriche from Schloßberg: Described two light balls moving in a triangular formation, which she initially dismissed as disco lights but later reconsidered.
• Herr Butter from Chemnitz: Reported seeing two light balls moving back and forth in the sky, described as "light circles."
• Petra Setunsky: Reported seeing a "flying saucer" outside her living room window.
• Frau Kiel from Bautzen: Along with Frau Thiem, reported seeing "spotlights like from a disco tent" on the Autobahn, which formed light patterns in the sky.
• Heike Norin from Riesa: Reported seeing three "almost moon-sized circles without light cones" moving in a triangle formation with her daughter.

Misidentification and Terrestrial Explanations

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to debunking or explaining UFO sightings as misidentifications of terrestrial phenomena. The article "Die Scheune strahlte aus allen Ritzen" (The Barn was Shining from All Cracks) and the interview with Werner Walter, editor of CENAP, highlight this theme.

• Disco Lights: Numerous reports are attributed to powerful laser light effects from discos. Examples include the "SKY TRACKER 4000" with its 4,000-watt lamp, which could project light beams up to 40 kilometers. The magazine suggests that many UFO sightings are simply reflections of these lights off clouds or atmospheric conditions.
• Braunschweig Incident: A large-scale event in Braunschweig, where hundreds of people were frightened by perceived UFOs, was later identified as the result of three World War II-era searchlights used during a Christmas celebration.
• Southampton UFO Group: Reports from the UK are also discussed, with sightings attributed to laser effects from discos and searchlights.
• Czech MiG-21 Incident: A report from the Czech Republic about two MiG-21 fighter jets investigating a UFO is presented. However, the pilots and military officials later concluded that the phenomenon was likely laser beams from a disco in Jarosov, near Neuzarkou, and not an extraterrestrial object. The military also stated that no radar contact was made and that the jets were on a routine exercise.

The "UFO-Fieber" and Psychological Factors

The magazine explores the psychological aspects of UFO sightings, suggesting that media coverage and a desire for extraordinary experiences can lead to misinterpretations. The "UFO-Fieber" (UFO fever) is described as a phenomenon where people are eager to report sightings, often influenced by sensationalized media reports. The article "Die ufologische Lehre aus der Geschichte: Kennt man die IFOs nicht, fällt man bei den UFOs auf die Nase" (The ufological lesson from history: If you don't know the IFOs, you'll fall for UFOs) directly addresses this.

Specific Case Studies and Analysis

• Gunnar Ulrich's Berlin Sighting: A detailed account of a complex UFO experience in Berlin, involving an object that changed shape and moved erratically, is presented. The witness described it as a "flying saucer" and noted its proximity.
• Rheinland UFO Spuk: Reports from the Jülich area in the Rheinland describe "circling lights" that appeared on Fridays, accompanied by humming sounds and vibrating tables. These were also investigated and linked to disco light effects from the "ROCKFABRIK" in Übach-Palenberg.
• Southampton Evening Echo Reports: Several sightings from Southampton are discussed, including one by Peggy Lappage and others attributed to laser shows and reflections.

Editorial Stance

The overall stance of the magazine appears to be critical of the more sensationalist aspects of UFOlogy. While acknowledging the genuine emotional impact of these sightings on witnesses, the authors consistently seek rational explanations, often pointing to misidentified terrestrial phenomena like disco lights, searchlights, and atmospheric effects. The magazine seems to advocate for a more grounded approach to UFO research, emphasizing the importance of identifying known phenomena (IFOs) before jumping to conclusions about extraterrestrial visitors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

A recurring theme throughout the issue is the tendency for UFO sightings to be explained as misinterpretations of terrestrial light sources, particularly those from discos and searchlights. The magazine frequently highlights instances where reported UFOs were later identified as mundane phenomena, suggesting that a lack of knowledge about these common occurrences leads people to believe they have witnessed something extraordinary. The editorial stance leans towards skepticism regarding extraterrestrial explanations, advocating for a rational and investigative approach to UFO phenomena. The impact of media sensationalism is also a prominent theme, with the magazine suggesting that widespread reporting can fuel a "UFO fever" and encourage the misinterpretation of everyday events.

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: NR.221
Date: February/March 1995
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP REPORT provides a critical examination of the RTL2 television reportage titled "Außerirdische unter uns" (Aliens Among Us), analyzing its content, the reactions it generated, and the broader media landscape surrounding UFO phenomena in early 1995.

Main Cover Story: RTL2 UFO Reportage Analysis

The central theme of this issue revolves around the RTL2 UFO Reportage, with the cover story detailing how CENAP became involved and their perspective on the broadcast. The reportage, which aired on January 17, 1995, was based on a documentary originally produced by Central Television Network (UK). CENAP's analysis highlights that RTL2 adapted the documentary, omitting the Roswell case and adding commentary from W. Walter. The magazine criticizes the way the broadcast was presented, noting that many viewers mistakenly believed they had reached a UFO hotline and offered various materials. The report also mentions that the Mannheimer UFO-Hotline received 317 calls on the night of the broadcast, though many were unrelated or confused.

UFO Sightings and Eyewitness Accounts

Zwickau and Neukirchen

Reports from Zwickau and Neukirchen detail UFO sightings that occurred on the preceding Friday and Saturday. These sightings reportedly excited Swiss expert Erich von Däniken, who traveled to Chemnitz to speak with witnesses. Von Däniken suggested that extraterrestrials are searching for energy sources, possibly related to uranium deposits in the Ore Mountains. Witnesses, including Maria Weigel and Diana Knüpfer, described seeing not just lights but also "several small objects" flying around a luminous disc. Christoph Schneider, head of the Zwickau School Observatory, acknowledged the topic's interest but expressed personal skepticism, attributing such phenomena to atmospheric disturbances or ice crystals.

Aussig

A detailed account from Aussig describes an encounter on a Saturday evening where approximately 30 people witnessed an elliptical, rotating object at an altitude of about 1500 meters. The object was described as 50 meters wide and bright. A video recording was made of the event, which lasted until around 21:00. Witnesses like Mario Sawallisch and Uwe Teiche provided their accounts, with Sawallisch noting the lack of a clear explanation from the weather service.

Werder

An incident in Werder is discussed, where a witness reported a light-surrounded object. However, further investigation by the Potsdamer Neueste Nachrichten, with input from Alfred Mechler, suggests this was not a UFO but likely a laser beam from powerful spotlights, known as "Moonflowers," installed on a McMöbel building for a light show.

Media Reactions and Criticism

CENAP REPORT analyzes how various German media outlets covered the RTL2 UFO Reportage. Publications like FUNK UHR, TV (Hören und Sehen), Bildwoche, and Fernsehwoche reportedly showed interest, with some featuring UFO-related content. The magazine criticizes a BILDWOCHE report for uncritically presenting alleged UFO evidence, including trick photos and a Roswell 'rubber doll.' The FERNSEHWOCHE is also critiqued for its superficial coverage. The article notes that the Mannheimer UFO-Hotline and fax number were publicized in several magazines.

The issue also mentions other television programs related to UFOs, including a report on n-tv featuring MUFON-CES expert Klein, a poorly executed report on VOX titled "UFO über Moskau und L.A.," and Erich von Däniken's appearance on RTL's "Nachtshow." The documentary "The Day the Earth Stood Still" is mentioned as a classic sci-fi film.

Skepticism and Debunking

A comic strip by Michael Hasenmann satirizes a presentation at a congress, questioning the authenticity of a UFO video clip allegedly filmed from a US Space Shuttle. The comic suggests the footage might be a PC screen saver or a deliberate deception, raising questions about who might be behind such a hoax, including the CIA, FBI, or other organizations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CENAP REPORT demonstrates a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena and their media representation. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensationalized reporting and unverified claims, while acknowledging the public's fascination with the topic. The magazine aims to provide a more grounded perspective, debunking hoaxes and analyzing the information presented in television programs and other media. There is a clear emphasis on investigative journalism, fact-checking, and providing context for UFO-related events and discussions.