CENAP Report - No 223

Magazine Overview

CENAP-REPORT, issue number 223, dated April/May 1995, is the leading German UFO journal, published bi-weekly. The cover prominently features the title 'CENAP-REPORT' and highlights key topics: 'Saas Fee-UFO', 'Der Hesemann-Komplex', and 'Roswell-Alien-Film'. The issue includes a striking image of a bright object in the sky.

CENAP: An Organization for UFO Research

The magazine introduces CENAP (Centrale Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene) as a private, non-commercial organization founded in 1976. It emphasizes its commitment to receiving, analyzing, and evaluating UFO reports with a critical stance. CENAP is integrated into the GWUP (Society for Scientific Investigation of the Paranormal) and has served as a contact point for UFO reports for the German Space Agency (DARA). The organization also offers a UFO information service to astronomical institutions and collaborates with international networks, maintaining a UFO video archive.

Key Articles and Investigations

The Saas Fee UFO Case: A Photographic Analysis

This section delves into the controversial 'Saas Fee-Foto', a color photograph of a flying saucer taken near Zwischbergen, Switzerland, on July 26, 1975. The article, referencing a book by Wim Van Utrecht and Frits Van Der Veldt, discusses its significance as a European UFO 'proof'. However, it extensively analyzes the photograph, presenting arguments that it might be a trick photograph, possibly of an aluminum camping plate. The analysis points out inconsistencies and suggests that the object's appearance could be explained by simple photographic techniques or models.

Several experts, including Dr. Hynek and GSW-Spaulding, are mentioned for their initial positive assessments, but the article highlights later analyses that cast doubt on the photo's authenticity. The witnesses' accounts are also scrutinized, particularly regarding the date of the sighting and the weather conditions. The article concludes that while the photo has been influential, it lacks conclusive proof of an extraordinary object.

Michael Hesemann: A Critical Examination

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a critical review of Michael Hesemann, a prominent figure in German ufology, often referred to as "Germany's greatest UFO expert." The article questions his self-proclaimed title and his association with the magazine '2000', which is described as catering to New Age, esoteric, and mystical interests. Hesemann is criticized for his sensationalist claims, his use of 'official documents' (from KGB and CIA), and his tendency to present unverified information as fact.

The article details Hesemann's public appearances, his lectures, and his media engagements, highlighting his ability to attract large audiences and influence public perception. It also touches upon his controversial interactions with other UFO research groups, such as DEGUFO and MUFON-CES, accusing him of discrediting colleagues and engaging in 'character assassination'. The piece suggests that Hesemann's approach is driven by a desire for fame and financial gain, using the UFO phenomenon to promote his own agenda and that of his associated publications.

UFOs in Television and Media

The issue notes the increasing presence of UFO-related content in television programming, mentioning several shows and documentaries that aired in May 1995. This media attention is seen as contributing to public interest in the topic.

Other UFO Cases and Themes

Brief mentions are made of other UFO-related topics, including the 'Roswell Alien Film' and the concept of 'UFOnauts' (extraterrestrial beings), referencing a book by Klaus Webner. The article also touches upon the broader implications of UFO sightings, including potential government cover-ups and the psychological impact on witnesses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

CENAP-REPORT maintains a critical and analytical approach to the UFO phenomenon. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained aerial phenomena, the magazine emphasizes rigorous investigation, skepticism towards sensationalist claims, and the debunking of hoaxes. The editorial stance appears to be one of seeking factual evidence and scientific understanding, often contrasting with the more speculative and belief-driven aspects of ufology. The magazine frequently critiques figures like Michael Hesemann for their methods and claims, advocating for a more grounded and evidence-based approach to UFO research. There is a recurring theme of questioning the authenticity of photographic and film evidence, with detailed analyses provided to support these doubts. The magazine also highlights the role of media in shaping public perception of UFOs and criticizes what it perceives as sensationalism and a lack of critical reporting in some outlets.

This issue of CENAP REPORT (NR. 223, Mai/Juni 1995) delves into the complex world of UFO phenomena, crop circles, and alleged government secrecy, primarily through the lens of Michael Hesemann, presented as Germany's leading UFO expert. The magazine critically examines various claims, photographic evidence, and the cultural impact of UFOlogy.

The 'Mexican Wave' and Media Manipulation

The report begins by discussing the 'Mexican wave' of UFO sightings, heavily promoted by TV producer Jaime Maussan. While Maussan is portrayed as a believer, critics like J. Antonio Huneeus suggest the phenomenon was largely driven by marketing rather than solid evidence. The article highlights how media, including magazines and television, played a significant role in popularizing these accounts. Hesemann's own book, "Geheimsache UFO," is mentioned as a key publication in this context.

Scrutiny of Photographic and Video Evidence

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to analyzing photographic and video evidence presented as proof of UFOs. The case of Carlos Diaz, a Mexican contactee, is extensively discussed. His photos and videos, allegedly showing UFOs, are subjected to critical examination. Manuel Fernandez, a New York photographer, is cited for demonstrating how simple balloons could be mistaken for UFOs, and his experiment was allegedly used by Maussan as genuine evidence. The report questions the authenticity of many widely circulated UFO images, including those from the 'Mexican wave' and the 'Kühlerhauben-UFO' (hood UFO).

Crop Circles: Hoax or Phenomenon?

The issue also addresses the crop circle phenomenon. While acknowledging the widespread belief in their extraterrestrial origin, the report leans towards the explanation that many are man-made hoaxes. The work of Doug Bower and David Chorley is highlighted, who admitted to creating crop circles. The article criticizes the 'believers' for their resistance to skeptical explanations and their tendency to see conspiracies rather than accept simpler truths. It also touches upon the financial aspects of crop circle research, with organizations allegedly spending significant sums on investigations.

Michael Hesemann: The UFO Expert Under Scrutiny

Michael Hesemann is a central figure throughout the magazine. He is portrayed as a charismatic but controversial figure who presents various pieces of evidence, including alleged KGB and CIA documents, as proof of alien visitation. The magazine questions Hesemann's methods, his reliance on certain sources, and his tendency to dismiss skeptical analyses. His lectures and publications are described as 'UFO-tainment,' overwhelming the audience with a flood of information that makes independent verification difficult. The report also points out Hesemann's alleged inconsistencies and his defense of questionable evidence, such as the Amaury Rivera photos.

Allegations of Government Cover-ups and Secret Projects

The magazine touches upon the idea of government cover-ups, referencing alleged secret studies by NATO and the existence of UFO crash sites like Area 51. Hesemann claims that intelligence agencies possess definitive proof, such as films of alien autopsies, which are kept from the public. The report also mentions the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) as potentially being aimed at extraterrestrial threats.

Contactees and the 'New Age' Movement

The role of 'contactees' like Giorgio Bongiovanni is explored, linking UFO beliefs with religious and spiritual movements. Bongiovanni's claims of stigmatization and messages from extraterrestrial beings are presented, highlighting the intersection of UFOlogy with the 'New Age' movement and its focus on spiritual transformation and planetary salvation.

Debunking and Skepticism

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to debunking specific cases and challenging the claims of UFO proponents. The 'Henkes Debunkerecke' section, in particular, systematically analyzes and refutes various pieces of 'evidence,' attributing them to misidentifications, natural phenomena, or deliberate hoaxes. The report emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and scientific methodology in evaluating UFO claims.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of UFO evidence, the role of media in shaping public perception, the alleged resistance of authorities to disclose information, and the intersection of UFO beliefs with religious and New Age ideologies. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for a rational and evidence-based approach to the UFO phenomenon, while exposing what it perceives as manipulation, deception, and a lack of scientific rigor within parts of the UFO community.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated May/June 1995, delves deeply into the ongoing controversies surrounding the 1947 Roswell incident, focusing particularly on the alleged alien autopsy film and the internal dynamics of UFO research organizations.

UFOlogy in Crisis: MUFON-CES and the Roswell Film Controversy

The lead article, "MUFON-CES in der Krise? VOX-Sendung enthüllt mangelnden Gruppen-Konsens & hausgemachte Probleme" (MUFON-CES in Crisis? VOX Broadcast Reveals Lacking Group Consensus & Self-Made Problems), addresses internal strife within the UFO research community. It highlights a VOX broadcast that exposed a lack of agreement and internal issues within MUFON-CES. The article also touches upon a Spiegel TV program that discussed the "UFO Uproar: Alien Film from the Army Safe."

The Roswell Alien Film: A Deep Dive

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the alleged Roswell alien autopsy film. The article "TV-UFO-Aufreger bei Spiegel TV" (TV UFO Uproar on Spiegel TV) details a Spiegel TV report on April 2, 1995, which featured the topic of an alien film from an army vault. The report discussed the alleged crash of an alien spaceship near Roswell in 1947, a story that had been in the press since July 1947. Reg Presley, director of the Roswell UFO Museum, is quoted describing a shoe-shaped spacecraft and five bodies. The article also mentions the controversial film by Ray Santilli, who claims it proves that key technological advancements, like digital technology and fiber optics, originated from the UFO. Presley believes the film will "change the world."

The magazine critically examines the film's content, noting the lack of clear footage and the unusual filming angle. It questions the narrative, particularly the idea that an army cameraman would film a crucial autopsy from a strange angle. The report also references a "700-page USAF investigation report" that reportedly dismisses the Roswell crash as fable, with James McAndrew suggesting the found material might have been Soviet equipment.

Project Mogul and the Skyhook Program

Further analysis suggests that the Roswell incident might be explained by Project Mogul, a secret US Air Force program using high-altitude balloons equipped with sensitive microphones and sonar to detect Soviet atomic and rocket tests. The article posits that this program, which had the highest secrecy classification, comparable to the Manhattan Project, could account for debris found in the desert. The use of Skyhook balloons, officially acknowledged by the US government in 1951, is also discussed as a potential source of confusion.

International Reactions and Skepticism

The issue details the international reaction to the Spiegel TV broadcast, including discussions on computer networks. It mentions the "International Roswell Initiative" and its efforts to combat government cover-ups. The article notes that Spiegel TV contacted MUFON-CES in Berlin, leading to a planned discussion. However, the magazine expresses skepticism about the selection of participants, particularly the inclusion of Illobrand von Ludwiger, whom the author considers a proponent of the cover-up narrative.

The Alien Autopsy Film: A Closer Look

The magazine provides a detailed account of the Roswell alien film, citing sources like the Daily Mail and The Times, which reported on the film and its potential broadcast by the BBC. It discusses the claims made by Ray Santilli and Philip Mantle of BUFORA regarding the film's authenticity, including KODAK's alleged initial verification of the film's age. However, the article also highlights inconsistencies and criticisms, such as the film's poor quality, the lack of clear details, and the possibility of it being a deliberate disinformation campaign.

Critiques of UFOlogy and the Roswell Narrative

Illobrand von Ludwiger is quoted expressing frustration with "UFO spinners" who, in his view, hinder serious UFO research. He distinguishes between "UFOs in the narrow sense" (unexplained phenomena) and "UFOs in the broader sense" (misidentified objects like Venus or balloons). The article also touches upon the psychological aspects of UFO belief and the tendency for people to prefer sensational stories over reality.

The "Alien Autopsy" Film: A Detailed Examination

The magazine presents a thorough examination of the alleged alien autopsy film, including eyewitness accounts and expert opinions. It details the film's purported content: a deceased alien being autopsied in a field tent. The description includes physical characteristics of the alien, such as its size, skin color, large eyes, and unusual limbs. The article notes that the film is in black and white and silent, and that its quality is poor, leading to doubts about its authenticity. Several inconsistencies are pointed out, including the presence of a spiral cord telephone, which was not common in the late 1940s, and the alien having six fingers and toes, contradicting some established UFO lore.

Media Frenzy and Commercial Interests

The article discusses the media frenzy surrounding the film, with reports of press conferences and planned broadcasts. It highlights the commercial interests involved, with producer Ray Santilli reportedly seeking significant sums of money for the film. The magazine questions whether the film is genuine evidence or a sophisticated hoax designed to exploit public interest.

German Researchers' Perspectives

German UFO researchers, such as Johannes von Buttlar and Joachim Koch, are featured. Von Buttlar, who claims to have seen the film, describes the alien as about 1.50 meters tall with gray-white skin, large black eyes, and a disproportionately large head. He suggests that the US government's secrecy is driven by a desire to exploit alien technology. Koch, from the "International Roswell Initiative," expresses strong skepticism about the film and the official explanations, viewing the entire affair as a continuation of a cover-up.

Skepticism and Alternative Explanations

The magazine presents a skeptical viewpoint, questioning the authenticity of the film and suggesting that many UFO sightings can be explained by natural phenomena or secret military projects like Project Mogul. The article also touches upon the psychological motivations behind UFO beliefs and the potential for misidentification.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the Roswell incident, the alleged alien autopsy film, government cover-ups, and the internal dynamics and controversies within the UFO research community. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting various perspectives while maintaining a healthy dose of skepticism towards sensational claims and alleged evidence, particularly regarding the Roswell film. The magazine seems to favor rational explanations and questions the motives behind the promotion of the film.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated Mai/Juni 1995 (May/June 1995), is primarily focused on the controversial "Dead Aliens" film and the ongoing discussions surrounding the Roswell incident. The magazine critically examines media reports, UFOlogy debates, and alleged scandals within the UFO research community.

Tote Aliens (Dead Aliens)

The lead story discusses a film, allegedly shot in 1947 in New Mexico by US Air Force members, which purportedly shows the autopsy of a deceased extraterrestrial. Philip Mantle, an organizer of an event where the film was to be shown, states that the 91-minute film also shows parts of a flying saucer made of indestructible material. A 82-year-old former US Army cameraman is said to have provided a copy of the black-and-white film to documentary director Ray Santilli. Kodak has analyzed the film and confirmed its age, with further university analysis planned. The film was scheduled to be shown at the University of Sheffield in August to about 500 UFO experts. The article notes that the alien in the film had dark eyes, which were attributed to contact lenses, and that its physical characteristics (thin limbs, large feet, pronounced abdomen) differ from typical depictions of Roswell aliens. The article also mentions that BBC-TV purchased a segment for broadcast and that American companies offered significant sums for the material. Linda Howe expressed skepticism, calling it a forgery.

The article critiques the media's sensationalized reporting, citing articles in "Express" and "BILD." It questions the timing and presentation of information, particularly regarding individuals like J. Busacker (alias von Buttlar) and his alleged viewing of the film. The "ET" dummy from a Montreal exhibition is mentioned as unrelated to the actual case. The "Express" reported on the film's "convoluted paths" to Santilli's hands, while "BILD" quoted UFO researcher von Buttlar as being "shocked and impressed." The article points out that von Buttlar claims to have been investigating the Roswell crash for years and that his books cite "eyewitnesses" who are now being elevated to exclusive status, despite their accounts being common UFO knowledge.

"BILD" also linked the Roswell aliens to the film character E.T., suggesting they looked similar. The article notes that Mantle estimated the Roswell aliens to be between 1.05 and 1.20 meters tall, with thin limbs and four fingers/toes. The English press, like the "Daily Mail," is quoted with a headline questioning whether the aliens were "Little green men or big green dollars?"

Media Debates and UFOlogy

Ulrich Meyer, host of SAT1's "Die Menschen hinter den Schlagzeilen" (The People Behind the Headlines), interviewed "UFO-Baron" (described as "Germany's leading UFOlogist") about the Roswell case. The segment included RTL material and the "Fred vom Jupiter" song. Meyer suggested that the "truth" of a crashed military spy balloon was less exciting than the ET story. Bob Lazar was briefly featured, discussing his Area 51 story. A sketch and a SAT1 computer animation of the alien autopsy were presented, which the article notes did not align with previous information. Meyer stated that there have been many alleged encounters with extraterrestrials, citing Jimmy Carter as someone who claimed to have seen them (though the article clarifies Carter's experience was with Venus).

Johannes von Buttlar stated that he did not claim the film was authentic but acknowledged the possibility due to numerous indications. He cited Jack Barnett, the cameraman, as having worked for the military. When Meyer questioned why the film was only revealed after 48 years, von Buttlar argued that information about Roswell was highly classified, and those releasing it now could face prison. The article counters that the USAF's Weaver Report (September 1994) explicitly states that witnesses were released from their secrecy obligations, suggesting von Buttlar's argument is based on ignorance or misinformation.

Von Buttlar reacted defensively when asked if the film could be a fake, calling it a "brilliant forgery" if so. He reiterated that the Roswell incident is increasingly supported by statements from former recovery personnel, including generals, who claim it was not a balloon but alien wreckage. He mentioned General DuBose, who allegedly confirmed that the balloon story was a cover-up. The article criticizes this information as outdated and far from the truth.

Dr. Harald Lesch was also interviewed, but his lengthy explanations about the possibility of life in space were deemed irrelevant to the Roswell incident. The article questions whether this was intentional by the SAT1 editorial team, labeling Lesch as a "token scientist without real knowledge in the UFO sector" and suggesting a deliberate "powerlessness" or influence from external factors.

New Roswell Scandal

On April 15th, a UFOological "bomb" went off during Don Ecker's radio talk show. Kevin Randall, a producer for FOX's "Encounters" series, confirmed that FOX was interested in acquiring the rights to the Roswell film and planned a major UFO broadcast in the summer. The show also featured allegations that Don Schmitt had provided false information about himself to gain a reputation. Schmitt had previously claimed to have a degree in criminology from Concordia College and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, but these claims were found to be false. His profession was identified as a medical illustrator and UFO researcher. Stanton Friedman is mentioned as opposing Schmitt, potentially to damage his credibility in the Roswell investigation. It was revealed that Schmitt is actually a postal worker, a fact confirmed by his post office supervisor. Despite this, Schmitt reportedly continued to deny the allegations, isolating himself from the Roswell investigation. The article notes that a postal worker could still conduct excellent UFO research, citing UFO researcher Barry Greenwood as an example.

Randle had previously defended Schmitt, but after an interview with documentary filmmaker Russ Estes, Randle expressed disappointment in Schmitt's lack of honesty and the damage to the credibility of their Roswell investigations. The article suggests that Schmitt suffers from ego deficits, compensated by false personal histories. It draws a lesson that even honest individuals may exaggerate, and this applies to UFO "star witnesses" as well. The article speculates that some individuals might use the public interest in Roswell to gain attention in their later years.

Roswell News, General

UFO enthusiasts reacted enthusiastically to the Weaver Report, which stated that the USAF's Weather Directorate had no records of weather balloon descents between June 20 and July 31, 1947. This was interpreted by some as evidence against the weather balloon theory. However, Robert G. Todd refuted this, explaining that there was no directive to document such descents, as they were considered "expendable equipment." The article points out that this overlooks the nature of the SKYHOOK balloon, which was a spy balloon, not an ordinary weather balloon, and its loss would likely not be recorded in weather reports.

The Showtime film "Roswell-The Movie" is being offered by Polygram Video in England, seemingly timed with the discussion of the authentic Roswell film. The article anticipates its release in German video stores.

The case of Glenn Dennis is also revisited. Dennis reportedly told an interviewer that two doctors at the Roswell AFB hospital were pathologists flown in from Walter Reed Hospital, suggesting a professional examination of any found bodies.

Inhalt dieses CR Nr.223 (Contents of this CR No. 223)

The table of contents lists several articles:

• UFO-Beweis? Das UFO-Foto von Saas-Fee, Schweiz, am 26.Juli 1975 - Seite 3 bis 10... (UFO Proof? The UFO Photo from Saas-Fee, Switzerland, on July 26, 1975 - Pages 3 to 10...)
• Der Hessemann-Komplex - eine besonders brisante Reportage auf den Seiten 11 bis 30... (The Hessemann Complex - a particularly explosive report on pages 11 to 30...)
• Henkes Debunkerecke: Wie Ertrinkende an Strohhalmen - S.30 bis 36... (Henke's Debunking Corner: Like drowning people clinging to straws - pp. 30 to 36...)
• Korn-Zeichen, eine Buchbesprechung ab S.36... (Crop Circles, a book review from p. 36...)
• MUFON-CES in der Krise und der TV-UFO-Aufreger bei Spiegel TV ab Seite 40 bis S.50 (MUFON-CES in crisis and the TV UFO sensation on Spiegel TV from page 40 to p. 50)
• MUFON-CES und das Beispiel vom mangelnden Gruppens-Konsens, S.50/51... (MUFON-CES and the example of lacking group consensus, pp. 50/51...)
• News zum Roswell-Alien-Film ab S.51... (News about the Roswell Alien Film from p. 51...)
• Neuer Roswell-Skandal und diverse Roswell-News ab S.62... (New Roswell Scandal and various Roswell News from p. 62...)

Further Details on Roswell and Media Coverage

The article revisits the claim that two specialists from Washington, DC, flew to Roswell before Rancher Brazel reported finding debris. Karl Pflock was surprised by this detail, as it had never been mentioned before and would have provided a means of verification. Pflock contacted Dennis, who denied making such a statement. However, AP reporter Korte confirmed that Dennis had made the statement in writing. The article notes that this claim is also found on page 5 of "The Glenn Dennis Story," a report available from the Roswell International UFO-Museum, co-owned by Dennis. Dennis had also mentioned this detail in a 1994 TV segment for WDTN-TV in Dayton, Ohio, but in March 1995, he denied ever saying it.

Pflock's role as a spokesperson for Dennis is mentioned, along with his difficult position within FUFOR due to his "Roswell In Perspective" (RIP) report, which suggested that the Roswell debris was from a "highly secret, highly sensitive Project MOGUL" balloon. Despite this, Pflock accepted Glenn Dennis's story about nurse Naomi Maria Selff. Funding for further research was denied to Pflock. In a KOB talk show, Pflock stated that while he believed bodies were found, they were not necessarily alien bodies.

Another key witness, Sgt. Melvin E. Brown, who was stationed at Roswell Army Air Field in July 1947, was identified by Klass. Brown's daughter reportedly heard from her deceased father that he was ordered to the crash site as a guard and saw the ET bodies. The aliens' skin was described as "yellowish-orange" and resembling that of a lizard. Klass doubts Brown's involvement in recovering ET bodies, suggesting that if the RAAF planned to eat them, Brown's military records indicate he was a cook.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently questions the official narratives and media portrayals of UFO events, particularly the Roswell incident. There is a strong emphasis on debunking sensationalism and exposing potential falsehoods or exaggerations within the UFO community and media. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking verifiable evidence while acknowledging the complexity and often contradictory nature of UFO reports. The magazine highlights the importance of rigorous research and questions the motivations behind public statements and media coverage, often pointing to ego-driven behavior or attempts to gain attention. The issue also touches upon the broader themes of ufological research, media influence, and the challenges of discerning truth in a field rife with speculation and alleged cover-ups.