CENAP Report - No 226

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: 226
Date: September/October 1995
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, a long-standing German UFO journal, delves into the complex relationship between media, particularly television, and the UFO phenomenon. It critically examines how sensationalism, 'infotainment,' and the pursuit of ratings shape public perception and potentially obscure the truth about UFOs. The magazine also critiques alleged government secrecy and the role of media conglomerates in controlling information.

Editorial Stance and Key Themes

The editorial, penned by Werner Walter, expresses frustration with the perceived lack of objectivity and practicality in some UFO research, specifically referencing a negative encounter with Dr. Lammer on a talk show. Walter criticizes Lammer's reliance on ufological literature and his dismissal of evidence that contradicts his theories, likening him to a 'scientific Hesemann.'

The central theme of this issue is the pervasive influence of media, especially television, in shaping reality and public opinion. The article "UFOs und Medien-macht: Wehe, wenn..." (UFOs and Media Power: Beware, When...) argues that television has become an 'opium for the people,' driven by commercial interests and a desire to entertain rather than inform. It highlights the shift towards 'boulevard' journalism, characterized by sensationalism, sex, and trivial content, which caters to a younger demographic attractive to advertisers. The article criticizes the transformation of news into 'infotainment' and the blurring lines between journalism and entertainment.

Media Criticism: The Rise of Boulevard Journalism

The magazine details how German TV channels are increasingly adopting the sensationalist approach of American media, exemplified by shows like 'Explosiv,' 'taff,' and 'Akte 95.' These programs are accused of prioritizing 'trash' and 'reality TV' over substantive reporting, often using dramatic visuals and emotional appeals to capture viewer attention. The article points out that this trend is driven by the need to attract specific demographics (14-49 year olds) for advertising revenue, leading to a decline in the quality and depth of journalistic content.

It is argued that this media landscape is creating a 'globalized village' where individuals are increasingly disconnected from reality, seeking escapism through television. The influence of media giants like Disney, Time Warner, and Rupert Murdoch is highlighted, emphasizing their consolidation of power and their role in shaping cultural narratives.

UFOs and Secrecy: A Critical Analysis

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a critical review of the book "UFO Geheimhaltung" (UFO Secrecy) by Helmut Lammer and Oliver Sidla. The reviewer expresses disappointment with the book, finding it tedious and lacking in rigor. The authors are criticized for their alleged failure to engage with skeptical viewpoints and for their reliance on sensational claims about a global UFO cover-up. The review also scrutinizes the terminology used by Lammer and Sidla, particularly their distinction between 'unidentifiable' and 'unidentified,' suggesting it reveals a bias rather than a scientific approach.

The article questions the authors' assertion of a worldwide conspiracy to hide UFO evidence, pointing out that the more witnesses there are to a UFO event, the easier it is to debunk. It also touches upon the alleged crash of a UFO in Roswell, New Mexico, and the subsequent efforts to conceal information, citing a declassified FBI document as potential evidence.

The Role of Public Broadcasting

The magazine discusses the challenges faced by public broadcasters (ARD and ZDF) in maintaining their role as reliable news sources amidst the rise of commercial television. While acknowledging that public broadcasters are still seen as competent news providers, their ratings decline when they attempt to provide more in-depth and critical reporting. The article questions whether public broadcasters should lower their standards to compete with private channels, suggesting that this would be a compromise of their core mission.

International Media Trends

The issue also touches upon media trends in other countries, including Italy and Brazil. In Italy, Silvio Berlusconi's media empire is presented as an example of how television can be used for political influence and commercial gain, blurring the lines between news, advertising, and entertainment. In Brazil, the influence of TV Globo and its 'telenovelas' is examined, showing how they shape cultural norms and consumer behavior, even influencing political discourse.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, a strong critical stance is maintained against the commercialization of media and its impact on public discourse. The CENAP-REPORT advocates for a more discerning approach to media consumption, urging readers to question the narratives presented and to seek out factual information. The magazine appears to champion critical thinking and a skeptical, yet open-minded, approach to phenomena like UFOs, distinguishing itself from sensationalist reporting.

The recurring themes include the manipulative power of mass media, the erosion of journalistic integrity, the impact of commercial interests on information dissemination, and the alleged efforts to conceal or distort the truth about UFOs. The editorial stance is one of caution and critical inquiry, urging readers to be aware of the forces shaping their perceptions.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated September/October 1995, is a critical analysis of UFO literature and phenomena, particularly focusing on the book 'MJ-12 Papiere' and the Roswell incident. The magazine's stance is highly skeptical of many popular UFO theories and claims, often accusing authors of sensationalism, disinformation, and misinterpretation of facts.

Critique of 'MJ-12 Papiere' and Roswell

The review begins by dissecting claims made in a book (presumably 'MJ-12 Papiere' or a similar work) that attempts to explain the Roswell incident and the alleged MJ-12 documents. The CENAP REPORT authors are critical of the book's interpretations, particularly its translation and contextualization of FBI memos, suggesting that the original intent and meaning are distorted. They highlight discrepancies in translations and point out how the book sensationalizes events, such as calling the Roswell crash the 'most important event in human history' based on a 'presumed' crash.

The article scrutinizes the timeline of the Roswell incident, questioning the dates provided and the credibility of witnesses like Steve MacKenzie. It also challenges the idea that the MOGUL project was 'unimportant,' emphasizing its significance for national security at the time. The authors dismiss the notion that the MJ-12 documents are proof of a UFO cover-up, suggesting that many individuals claiming to have insider knowledge have proven to be unreliable.

Skepticism Towards UFO Claims

CENAP REPORT expresses strong skepticism towards various UFO-related claims, including those concerning Bob Lazar and his alleged work on alien spacecraft. While acknowledging that Lazar's stories might not contradict current scientific understanding, the authors imply that his accounts are more akin to science fiction and that he might be seeking attention or financial gain. They also question the idea that Lazar was a 'guinea pig' for intelligence agencies.

The article also addresses the role of Dr. Robert Sarbacher, suggesting that his involvement might have been part of a disinformation campaign to discredit UFO research, a tactic allegedly employed by the USAF after the success of Frank Scully's book.

Cattle Mutilations and UFOs

The issue delves into the phenomenon of cattle mutilations, linking it to UFO sightings. The 'SNIPPY' case from 1967 is discussed, where a horse was found mutilated. While some theories suggest UFO involvement, the article also presents alternative explanations, including potential hoaxes and natural causes, and criticizes the tendency to immediately attribute such events to extraterrestrials.

Alien Abductions and Psychological Explanations

Alien abduction claims are a significant focus, with CENAP REPORT arguing that the topic has become widespread and is no longer 'unknown.' The magazine criticizes the notion that abduction experiences are inherently proof of alien encounters, suggesting that they are often influenced by media, psychological factors, and the power of suggestion, particularly through hypnosis. The authors question the credibility of witnesses who claim to have no ulterior motives, suggesting that financial gain or ego might be driving factors.

They argue that the 'simple explanations' for UFO sightings, such as atmospheric phenomena or misidentified aircraft, are often dismissed by the public and UFO enthusiasts, leading to a pervasive 'paranoia' about government cover-ups. The magazine criticizes the tendency to label anyone who offers negative or skeptical assessments as a 'government-paid informant.'

Government Involvement and Cover-Ups

CENAP REPORT examines the alleged involvement of government agencies like the CIA, FBI, and NSA in UFO research and potential cover-ups. The article scrutinizes the Robertson Panel, suggesting that its recommendations were largely ignored and that the CIA's role was often misinterpreted. The authors argue that the government's interest in UFOs was primarily driven by national security concerns and the need to distinguish between potential Soviet threats and genuine unidentified aerial phenomena.

The magazine dismisses the idea that the CIA actively suppressed UFO information to maintain a 'cover-up.' Instead, it suggests that the CIA's involvement was more about analyzing information and assessing potential threats. The article also criticizes the notion that UFO skeptics are trying to 'debunk' UFOs out of malice, arguing that distinguishing between known (IFO) and unknown (UFO) phenomena is a necessary part of research.

Specific Cases and Analysis

Several specific UFO cases are analyzed, including the Mantell case, the DC-3 Chilles/Whitted incident, and the Washington D.C. sightings of 1952. CENAP REPORT attempts to provide rational explanations for these events, often attributing them to misidentified aircraft, atmospheric conditions, or balloons. The magazine also critiques the way these cases are presented in UFO literature, accusing authors of sensationalism and selective use of evidence.

Critique of UFO Research Methodology

CENAP REPORT criticizes the methodology of many UFO researchers, accusing them of lacking scientific rigor, relying on anecdotal evidence, and succumbing to 'paranoia' about government cover-ups. The magazine argues that the field is dominated by sensationalist works rather than serious scientific investigation. It also points out the lack of resources and expertise within many UFO research groups.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards sensational UFO claims, a critical examination of alleged government cover-ups, and a preference for rational, scientific explanations over speculative theories. The editorial stance is one of debunking and demystifying UFO phenomena, challenging the narratives presented by popular UFO literature and advocating for a more grounded approach to the subject. The magazine appears to position itself as a voice of reason against what it perceives as widespread credulity and misinformation within the UFO community.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated September/October 1995, focuses heavily on the Roswell incident and related phenomena, particularly the controversial alien autopsy film. The magazine presents a critical and investigative approach, dissecting claims, interviewing key figures, and highlighting discrepancies.

UFO Museums in Roswell

The report details visits to two prominent UFO museums in Roswell: the UFO ENIGMA MUSEUM and THE INTERNATIONAL UFO MUSEUM & RESEARCH CENTER. The UFO ENIGMA MUSEUM is described as having a more critical approach, with its Executive Director, John A. Price, being a highly knowledgeable individual. However, its presentation is noted as less polished than its competitor.

The INTERNATIONAL UFO MUSEUM & RESEARCH CENTER is depicted as having undergone changes, including expansion and new exhibits like replicas from the TV film 'Roswell: The Movie' and an alien model. The museum is staffed by volunteers, and visitors are encouraged to sign a guest book and mark their hometown on a map. The report notes a shift in atmosphere, with a more reverent tone when discussing the alien exhibits, attributed to information from Glenn Dennis's girlfriend, a nurse.

The article highlights the commercial aspect of Roswell, with both museums selling merchandise. It also points out the state of New Mexico's promotion of the UFO crash as a tourist attraction, citing a 'New Mexico Vacation Guide' that presents the crash as a fact.

The Roswell Alien Autopsy Film Controversy

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the 'Roswell Alien Autopsy Film.' The report details the film's screening, the reactions of various individuals and organizations, and the ongoing debate about its authenticity. SPIEGEL TV is mentioned as having shown interest in the film.

Key figures like Ray Santilli, the film's promoter, and Bob Rickard of FORTEAN TIMES are discussed. Rickard describes the film as a 'sophisticated model' and questions its authenticity. Jenny Randles also expresses skepticism, noting the film's lack of historical context within the Roswell timeline.

Professor Charles B. Moore, a former weather equipment officer, is cited as discrediting the MOGUL balloon theory as an explanation for the Roswell crash, suggesting it was a 'heavy object' that created a significant impact. However, the report points out that Moore's own description of the event differs from the official narrative.

Kent Jeffrey, an international coordinator for the Roswell Initiative, is quoted as calling the film a 'betrayal' and a 'hoax,' stating that the 'corpse' shown was clearly a 'falsified human corpse.' He argues that the film's inconsistencies, such as the presence of six fingers and human-like internal organs, point to its artificial nature.

Conflicting Witness Testimonies and Theories

The report delves into the inconsistencies and contradictions in witness testimonies related to the Roswell incident. The changing descriptions of the alien 'species' are highlighted, contrasting the 'Popovich/Hesemann Alien' with the 'Glenn Dennis Alien,' which is depicted as having four fingers and a different appearance.

The location of the alleged crash site is also a point of contention, with multiple sites proposed over time, including the Forster Ranch, Plains of San Agustin, and the Corn Ranch. The report suggests that the designation of the 'Jim Ragsdale Event and Crash Site' might be influenced by financial motives.

Media and Research Perspectives

The magazine discusses the involvement of various media outlets and researchers in the Roswell narrative. The role of Stanton Friedman and William Moore in popularizing the Roswell incident is noted, as is their involvement in the 'Roswell Incident' book. The report also touches upon the work of researchers like Karl Pflock and Michael Hesemann, often presenting their views critically.

UFOs in the News

A brief section mentions reports of 'light jellyfish' (Lichtquallen) being sighted in Mannheim, Germany, and the local CENAP organization seeking public input on these sightings. This section also includes a brief mention of a UFO photographed by a South Korean journalist.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overall stance of the CENAP REPORT appears to be critical and investigative, aiming to debunk sensational claims and expose inconsistencies in the UFO phenomenon, particularly concerning the Roswell incident. The magazine emphasizes the importance of scientific scrutiny and critical thinking, often questioning the motives and credibility of individuals and organizations promoting certain narratives. The commercialization of the Roswell event is a recurring theme, as is the skepticism towards 'UFOlogists' who are perceived as prioritizing profit or personal gain over factual accuracy. The report advocates for a more grounded and evidence-based approach to understanding UFO phenomena.

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: Nr. 226
Date: September/Oktober 1995
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated September/Oktober 1995, focuses heavily on the controversial Roswell incident of 1947 and the alleged alien autopsy film, alongside other UFO-related phenomena and media coverage.

UFOs irdischer Herkunft: Abiturienten narrten gläubige Außerirdischen-Gemeinde

The magazine reports on a UFO hoax in Mannheim, Germany, where students from the Kurpfalz-Gymnasium fooled the public into believing they had seen UFOs. For two weeks, the students released miniature hot air balloons, described as "orange-red pulsating" light phenomena, from a parking lot. The prank was reportedly inspired by an 'alienologist' who had previously presented 'unscientific theories' at the university. UFO researcher Werner Walter of CENAP is using this incident to conduct a study on perceptual psychology, comparing reality with UFO witness accounts. The students apologized to CENAP for the deception.

The Super-Hime aus dem All (The Super-Beings from All)

This section discusses the characteristics of alleged alien abductees and the beings they claim to have encountered. It notes that many people claim to have been abducted by aliens. The beings are described as 1.10 to 1.30 meters tall, with grey skin and bald heads. They are said to be able to reduce fear, cause sexual arousal, and induce feelings of love. They can also stop physical pain. The beings reportedly do not appear to breathe, as their chests do not move, and they have three nimble fingers. They communicate telepathically and seem to have no interest in Earth's politics, culture, or economy, only in the procreation process. German expert Illobrandt von Ludwiger suggests that these beings think much faster than humans and that human brains are not equipped for such an overload of information. A quote from a US professor, John E. Mack, is included, stating that the abductees' brains are not made for such contact, leading to total overload.

Das geheime Militär-Video: Erster Außerirdischer gefilmt? (The Secret Military Video: First Alien Filmed?)

This article, referencing EXTRA - Das Magazin, discusses the 1947 Roswell crash and an alleged film showing the autopsy of an alien. It mentions that the film, purportedly shot by US military personnel during the autopsy of "human-like beings with large heads," was later confirmed, then denied. EXTRA reportedly shows excerpts of this film. The beings are described as having large bald heads and huge slit eyes.

Ufo-Crash auf Video (UFO Crash on Video)

This report from London/Berlin (AFP/taz) questions the authenticity of a historical UFO film from 1947, allegedly shot by the US Air Force. The British Sunday Times, after extensive investigation, claims the film is a fake. The film, which was to be shown to 500 UFO experts at the University of Sheffield, reportedly shows scientists performing an autopsy on a dead alien woman and wreckage of a flying saucer. British documentary filmmaker Ray Santilli claims to have obtained the 16mm black-and-white film in 1993 from an 82-year-old former US Air Force cameraman, Jack Barnett. Santilli purchased 22 reels but agreed to keep Barnett's location secret. The Sunday Times found implausible passages, including the presence of then-US President Harry Truman, who was demonstrably not in New Mexico at the time. A letter supposedly from a Kodak film expert confirming the film's authenticity was identified as a sales letter. Special effects experts consulted by Channel Four also concluded it was a fake. Channel Four and RTL planned to broadcast the film on August 28th, but demanded Santilli present the US cameraman as a witness. Santilli is reportedly selling video copies for approximately 75 German Marks to UFO fans worldwide.

Große BZ-Serie / 6. Teil: Von Ufos entführt (Great BZ Series / Part 6: Abducted by UFOs)

This article, part of a series in BZ, focuses on the Roswell crash and claims that witnesses were threatened with death. Berlin UFO researcher Johannes von Buttlar expresses doubts about the autopsy film, believing it shows prepared corpses rather than real aliens. However, he asserts that the Roswell incident itself is "one hundred percent real." Von Buttlar claims there were two crashes and that military radar detected two "Unidentified Flying Objects" before a bright flash, after which the objects disappeared from radar, and wreckage was found. He states that he has found nearly 50 witnesses, including former high-ranking generals who saw both wrecks. These witnesses reportedly had to sign non-disclosure agreements and were threatened with death. Senator Stephen Schiff of New Mexico has urged the US Department of Defense to release the investigation reports. The article includes a photo of what is claimed to be the first alien from the Roswell crash, but von Buttlar believes it is a prepared corpse.

HAVE ALIENS LANDED?

This section, featuring images, discusses the Roswell incident and the claims surrounding the autopsy video. It shows a surgeon removing a membrane from an alien's eye, and the alien's six-fingered hand. It also shows alien debris and a "control panel." Jesse Marcel and Mack-Brazel are pictured, presumably related to the Roswell incident. The section promotes the next CENAP REPORT (Nr. 227), which will further investigate the Roswell alien film.

WIR WISSEN: STEVEN SPIELBERG DREHTE ET, UM UNS AUF DIE LANDUNG DER UFOS VORZUBEREITEN (WE KNOW: STEVEN SPIELBERG FILMED IT TO PREPARE US FOR THE UFO LANDING)

This humorous segment suggests that Hollywood films, like "Terminator" and "Schmidteinander," are preparing the public for alien contact, possibly under government orders. It speculates that Steven Spielberg will film a Roswell movie in 1997, allegedly commissioned by the US government to condition the population for hidden secrets. It also questions the mysteries behind Thomas Gottschalk and Wolfgang Lippert, humorously advising readers to ask their CIA agents.

Inhalt dieses CR Nr.226 (Contents of this CR No. 226)

This page provides a table of contents for the issue, listing articles such as "UFOs and the secrecy of the two from the Tankstelle," "UFO-Cash in Museums, Myths and Moneten," "Roswell-Alien Film," "Trouble with the Roswell Object," and "UFOs in the News/Cartoons." It also mentions an article about three fortune tellers in Northern Bulgaria who waited for aliens to arrive to pay their debts.

Notiert an Rhein und Neckar (Noted on the Rhine and Neckar)

This section reports on a UFO sighting in Mannheim where an elderly couple from Frankenthal reported seeing "discs in the sky, larger than the full moon." UFO researcher Werner Walter of CENAP received the report. The article also mentions a UFO hotline.

UFO-Gläubige an der Nase herumgeführt (UFO Believers Led by the Nose)

This article from DER TAGESSPIEGEL criticizes the media's "absurd UFO mania," particularly concerning the Roswell alien autopsy film. It notes that TV channels, including RTL in Germany and Channel Four in the UK, have broadcast the film, which is being presented as a documentary. The article highlights that while some broadcasters, like TF1 in France, explicitly state they are not claiming the film is true, others, like RTL, have defended it by saying no proof of forgery exists. The German public broadcaster Arte planned to air a documentary that would reveal the Roswell film as a deliberate fake, produced in Russia, to counter the sensationalism. The article quotes a Spiegel reviewer who noted that the internal organs of the alien in the film looked like "original Black Forest ham."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CENAP REPORT consistently questions the authenticity of sensational UFO claims, particularly the Roswell autopsy film, while acknowledging the public's fascination. The magazine appears to adopt a critical stance towards media sensationalism and hoaxes, as seen in the debunking of the Mannheim incident and the critique of TV broadcasts. There's a recurring theme of investigating and researching UFO phenomena, with CENAP positioning itself as a platform for such inquiries, even if it involves exposing deceptions or questioning evidence. The editorial stance leans towards skepticism regarding unverified claims, while still engaging with the subject matter and encouraging further investigation, as evidenced by the promotion of future reports on the Roswell film.