CENAP Report - No 227

Magazine Overview

CENAP REPORT, issue 227, dated October/November 1995, is a German-language UFO magazine published by CENAP. It presents itself as an "uncomfortable - other UFO magazine" and focuses on critical analysis of UFO phenomena. The cover prominently features the title 'CENAP-REPORT' and a striking image of a bright object, with headlines teasing articles on 'The Open X-File,' 'Cosmic Finds,' 'Japan: UFO Videos,' and 'X-File: Roswell Film.' The issue number is 227, and the publication date is 8/95.

Editorial Content

Editorial: To This CR, Hello Target Audience...

Werner Walter, the editor-in-chief, notes a boom in UFO reporting, with TV magazines and talk shows frequently linking UFOs to alien abductions. He mentions the 'World UFO Summit' in Kaarst, which excluded skeptics, and the attention given to the Roswell story and the Santilli-Roswell alien autopsy film. Walter also apologizes for a delay in the previous issue (CR 226) due to hardware problems with the distribution system, explaining that CR 227 is being sent out promptly to get back on schedule. He also notes difficulties in obtaining the Santilli alien film, with the promised review tapes not being provided.

The X-File Opened: X-Akte on Pro7, Every Thursday

This section discusses the popular TV series 'The X-Files' (Akte X), noting its influence and the upcoming 'ORION' series. It details the episodes aired in the first and second seasons, highlighting the series' blend of sci-fi, horror, fantasy, crime, and action. The article mentions the show's atmosphere of suspense and the popularity of its actors, David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson. It also touches upon the special effects used and speculates whether the Roswell alien film might have been a PR stunt for 'The X-Files.' The article notes that 'The X-Files' is produced in North Vancouver, Canada, and has received critical acclaim, including a Golden Globe award. It contrasts the series' approach to paranormal phenomena with other crime dramas, emphasizing its focus on government secrecy and the unknown.

The Truth Behind 'X-Files'

This article, adapted from USA TODAY, delves deeper into 'The X-Files.' It highlights the dedication of the stars and producers, the show's blend of genres, and its atmospheric approach. It mentions the special effects team and how some effects were toned down to appear more realistic. The article also discusses the influence of earlier shows like 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Outer Limits,' and specifically 'Kolchak: The Night Stalker,' which inspired producer Chris Carter. It notes the show's popularity and the fan base's engagement with details like actors' hairstyles. The article also touches upon the naming conventions within the show, linking them to real people and events.

'X-Files' - A Critical Look

This piece offers a more critical perspective on 'The X-Files,' suggesting that while the series is entertaining, it's important to remember it's fiction. It discusses the show's adherence to scientific skepticism versus paranormal belief, personified by the characters of Mulder and Scully. The article notes the show's success in capturing the public's imagination and its potential influence on other TV programming. It also mentions the involvement of the FBI in providing authenticity to the show's portrayal of its agents, while denying the existence of an actual 'X-Files' department.

Cosmic Finds: UFOs in the Firefighter's Manual

This section reports on a chapter about UFOs in the 'FIRE OFFICER'S GUIDE TO DISASTER CONTROL.' The article explains that the inclusion of UFOs in this guide is not an official FEMA directive but was suggested by the National Fire Academy to enhance the chapter on disaster control. The UFO section was contributed by Dr. Charles Bahme, who was inspired by the 1942 'Battle of Los Angeles' incident. The article highlights the guide's discussion of potential UFO threats and the panic they could cause, emphasizing the need for disaster planning to include such phenomena.

Breaching UN Resolutions? The UFO Question for the USA

This article examines the legal and political aspects of UFO recovery operations. It discusses UN General Assembly Resolution 1962, which addresses the ownership of objects recovered from space. The author questions why governments, particularly the US, are not more transparent about UFO incidents and potential recoveries, citing examples like the Kecksburg incident and 'Blue Fly' operations. The article suggests that UFOs are sometimes used as a cover for military-technological operations and that international agreements are sometimes disregarded for national security interests.

NASA and the Alien Question: The Mysterious Brookings Report

This section focuses on the Brookings Report, a study commissioned by NASA in 1959 to assess the societal impact of space exploration. The article explains that UFOlogists often cite this report to claim that the US government is withholding evidence of extraterrestrial presence. It details the report's findings, which suggest that the discovery of non-intelligent extraterrestrial life would not significantly alter human society, but the discovery of 'super-intelligent' life could have unpredictable consequences. The report also discusses the potential for contact and the implications for human society, religion, and philosophy.

Lessons from UFO Video Studies

This article, based on a study by Jun-Ichi Takanashi of the Japan UFO Science Society, critically analyzes UFO video footage. Takanashi emphasizes the need for caution when interpreting UFO videos, as they can be easily misinterpreted or manipulated. He discusses several cases, including the Fugendake UFO video and a case involving the planet Venus, highlighting how misidentifications and camera effects can create the illusion of UFOs. The author criticizes TV producers for sensationalizing such footage without proper verification.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded stance towards UFO phenomena. It aims to provide detailed, fact-based reporting, often questioning official narratives and media portrayals. Themes of government secrecy, the potential for misidentification, and the role of media in shaping public perception are recurrent. The publication seems to favor in-depth analysis over sensationalism, encouraging readers to think critically about UFO reports and related topics. The editorial stance appears to be one of informed skepticism, seeking to uncover the truth behind alleged UFO events while acknowledging the complexities and uncertainties involved.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated October/November 1995, delves into various aspects of UFOlogy, focusing on video analysis, historical research, and the controversial Roswell alien autopsy film. The magazine critically examines purported UFO evidence, explores the history of key UFO organizations, and questions the authenticity of widely publicized UFO footage.

Analysis of UFO Video Evidence

The issue begins by discussing the challenges of authenticating UFO video footage, citing examples from Japan where initial excitement over videos like the 'Hamazaki tape' was tempered by scientific analysis. The article highlights how phenomena like the planet Venus or even camera lens artifacts can be mistaken for UFOs, especially when excessive zooming is employed. The 'Fugendake' and 'Hamazaki' tapes are analyzed, with the latter being deconstructed as a likely misinterpretation of an out-of-focus aircraft due to extreme zoom. The production of a TV show for KANSAI TV is mentioned, which aimed to investigate UFO evidence. The article also touches upon the 'Batman-signal' sightings in Alabama, which were eventually identified as the planet Venus, demonstrating how atmospheric refraction and camera effects can lead to misidentifications.

Historical UFO Research: APRO and NICAP

The magazine provides a historical overview of UFO research, focusing on the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO), founded by Coral and Jim Lorenzen in 1952. APRO is noted as being unique for being founded and led by a woman, Coral Lorenzen. The article details their early work, including the use of hypnosis for 'missing time' investigations, and their efforts to build an international network. APRO's publication, the A.P.R.O. Bulletin, is mentioned. The relationship between APRO and NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena) is explored, with Coral Lorenzen encouraging NICAP's growth. The article also touches upon the influence of figures like James A. Harder and the critical stance of NICAP towards certain UFO claims.

Vize-Admiral Hillenkoetter's Role

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to Vize-Admiral Roscoe H. Hillenkoetter, a former director of the CIA and a member of NICAP's leadership. The article debunks theories linking him to the alleged MJ-12 documents, stating his involvement with NICAP stemmed from his friendship with Donald E. Keyhoe and a desire for more openness regarding UFOs, not from secret knowledge. Hillenkoetter's eventual resignation from NICAP is attributed to disillusionment with the organization's internal conflicts and direction. His correspondence with Harvard astronomer Donald H. Menzel in 1963 suggests a shift towards skepticism regarding UFOs.

The Roswell Incident and the Alien Autopsy Film

The magazine extensively covers the Roswell incident and the controversial 'alien autopsy' film. It questions the presence of President Truman at Roswell on the alleged date of the autopsy, citing his official schedule which places him elsewhere. The article scrutinizes the film's authenticity, noting that the alleged cameraman's identity has been protected, and that the film's provenance is debated. Experts like Dr. Paul O'Higgins express doubts about the film's realism, particularly the speed at which the 'autopsy' is depicted. The possibility that the 'alien' in the film might be a person suffering from Progeria (Hutchinson-Gilford Syndrome) is explored, highlighting similarities in physical characteristics but also noting discrepancies, such as the 'alien's' muscular build. The role of media outlets like FOCUS and The SUN in publicizing the film is discussed, along with the skepticism expressed by figures like Michael Shermer of 'Skeptic Magazine'. The article also touches upon the idea that the film might be a deliberate disinformation campaign to distract from the actual events of Roswell.

Other UFO-Related Topics

The issue also briefly mentions other UFO-related topics, including the 'Batman-signal' sightings, the historical context of the Cold War and its influence on UFO investigations, and the media's portrayal of UFO phenomena, such as the TV series 'The X-Files'. The article questions the motivations behind alleged government cover-ups and the role of skepticism in UFO research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

A recurring theme throughout the issue is the critical examination of UFO evidence, particularly video footage, emphasizing the importance of scientific analysis and debunking common misinterpretations. The magazine adopts a skeptical yet investigative stance, questioning sensational claims and seeking logical explanations for reported phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine research and hoaxes or disinformation within the UFO community. The editorial stance appears to favor transparency and rigorous investigation, while cautioning against accepting unsubstantiated claims at face value. The issue also highlights the historical evolution of UFO research, from early organizations to contemporary media coverage.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated October/November 1995, focuses heavily on the controversial Roswell alien autopsy film, presenting a multi-faceted debate on its authenticity. The magazine explores the claims made by filmmaker Ray Santilli, who alleges he possesses footage filmed by a US military cameraman, Jack Barnett, in 1947.

The Roswell Film Controversy

The central theme is the authenticity of the alleged alien autopsy film. Several articles dissect the evidence, expert opinions, and potential hoaxes. Michael Hesemann, a prominent UFO expert, is a strong proponent of the film's authenticity, citing supposed confirmations from KODAK regarding the film's age and statements from a Scotland Yard pathologist. However, many other experts express strong skepticism.

Expert Opinions and Skepticism

Dr. lain West, Chief Pathologist at Scotland Yard, believes it is likely a hoax but cannot definitively prove it. Bob Keen, an FX expert, suggests it's a well-executed special effect, possibly not cheap to produce. Professor Wolfgang Eisenmenger, a pathologist, points out inconsistencies in the autopsy procedure and the surgical table, suggesting it's not a genuine medical setting. Skeptics also question the film's quality, the lack of color in 1947, and the possibility of it being a staged production using dummies or even human organs.

Ray Santilli and Jack Barnett

Ray Santilli is presented as the central figure who acquired the film from an 80-year-old cameraman named Jack Barnett. Barnett allegedly worked for the US military in Roswell in 1947 and filmed the UFO recovery and alien autopsy. Santilli claims he bought 22 reels of film for $150,000, with Barnett reportedly keeping some for himself. However, Barnett's testimony is largely based on Santilli's account, as he has been difficult to interview.

The Roswell Incident Background

The articles provide context on the original Roswell incident in July 1947, where debris was found near the Roswell Army Air Field. The initial military report of a crashed UFO was quickly retracted and replaced with the explanation of a weather balloon. Despite the official explanation, doubts and theories about a cover-up persisted.

Media Coverage and Public Fascination

The issue highlights the significant media attention the Roswell film generated, with broadcasts on channels like RTL, Channel 4, and Pro7. The public's fascination with UFOs and aliens is evident, with many eager to believe in such phenomena. The magazine notes how media outlets often sensationalize these stories, contributing to the ongoing debate.

Technical Analysis of the Film

Technical analyses of the film are discussed, including KODAK's examination of the film stock, which suggested it could be from 1947, 1927, or 1967 due to repeated serial numbers. Bob Shell, who conducted chemical analyses, suggested the film was shot on Cine Kodak Super XX, a type used between 1956 and 1957, but also noted that older materials could be obtained from film archives. The focus on the 'I-beam' debris with symbols resembling 'VIDEO TV' is also mentioned.

International Reactions and Conferences

The magazine covers international reactions, including reports from the UK and Japan. A UFO conference in Sheffield is mentioned, where the film was shown and debated. The article also touches upon the broader context of UFO research, including the phenomenon of crop circles and alleged alien abductions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent debate over the Roswell alien autopsy film, the nature of evidence in UFO research, the role of media in sensationalizing such events, and the public's enduring fascination with the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical examination, presenting both sides of the argument while highlighting the lack of definitive proof and the prevalence of skepticism within the scientific community. The magazine seems to lean towards a critical, investigative approach, questioning claims and seeking verifiable facts, while acknowledging the widespread public interest in the topic.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, number 227, from October/November 1995, focuses heavily on the controversial "Alien Autopsy" film that gained widespread attention. The magazine presents a critical analysis of the footage, featuring numerous opinions from experts, commentators, and researchers who largely dismiss the film as a hoax.

Nach der UFO-Show im weltweiten TV (After the UFO Show on Worldwide TV)

This section discusses the public reaction to the "Alien Autopsy" film, noting that most viewers and online commentators considered it a hoax. Pete Studge, a commentator, reported that film snippets used in the documentary could have been created by filmmakers and set designers for historical simulations. Questions were raised about specific details in the film, such as a 'spiral cable' on a wall, which some believed did not exist in 1947. The protective suits shown were also questioned, with comparisons made to modern cleanroom suits, and the lack of visible oxygen supply or filters was noted.

Biologist Daniel Robert Holdsworth called the autopsy a fake. Rick McIntosh researched the 'spiral cable' and found it was available for telephones in 1947 for an extra cost, used by the USAF and Navy. Concerns were also raised about the containers used for alien organs, with Pat Braden, a cinematography specialist, stating that government films from 1947 were in color, not black and white, and questioning the cameraman's unsteady movements. Edward Ruden and Paul B. Thompson criticized the apparent lack of rigor and professionalism in the autopsy, comparing it to the handling of a vagrant's body and questioning why such a monumental event occurred in a small, ill-equipped room without expert witnesses.

ROMWARE and the Roswell Alien Film

The Hamburg-based company ROMWARE is selling a CD-ROM of the "Roswell Alien Film" (titled "Roswell: The Original") for approximately 70 DM. Three versions are available: for CDi players, IBM-compatible multimedia PCs, and Windows 3.1. The advertisement highlights about 17 minutes of autopsy material, noting that the lights flicker and the room appears cramped. The section speculates if ROMWARE's CEO, Peter Jäderberg, is the mysterious financial backer 'Volker' mentioned in relation to Santilli.

Critical Analysis of the Autopsy Footage

Commentators like Vince Grienti and Peter Hamilton express skepticism. Grienti notes the superficiality of the doctors' actions, with no registration of organ locations, weights, or measurements. Hamilton points out the apparent lack of ribs in the alien and describes the skin as thick, like latex. He also highlights Santilli's refusal to provide further film material or reveal the cameraman's identity, questioning the emphasis on 'VIDEO' on a wreckage carrier.

Paul Weber, a former Air Force cameraman, suggests the original film was 16mm and discusses the characteristics of 1940s military cameras (B-1A, Bell & Howell 70-H). He notes that density variations, scratches, and water stains are common in films from that era, which he believes are not adequately replicated in the 'alien autopsy' footage.

Dan Small, a TV producer and film historian, believes the film is a recent fake due to its MTV-like style, which is inconsistent with documentary filmmaking from the 1940s. He is currently working on a project digitizing old newsreels and has extensive experience with historical film materials.

Bob Shell reports that Kodak offered to chemically analyze a film strip from Santilli's material for free to determine the emulsion's development date, which could help date the film. However, Santilli has repeatedly accepted this offer verbally but has not provided the material. Shell also criticizes FOX for editing an interview with Ken Randle to make him appear supportive of the alien film, when he was actually critical.

Operation ANVIL

John Ratcliff presents information from a written statement by a cameraman near Cleveland, provided by Hans van Kampen. This cameraman, identified as JB, worked for the military from 1942 to 1952 and filmed parts of the Manhattan Project. He claims he was ordered to investigate a crash site near Socorro in June 1947, believing it to be a Russian spy plane. Instead, he found a large flying saucer. He spent three weeks at Wright-Field working on the wreckage and was then sent to Fort Worth to film an autopsy. He describes difficulty using his equipment due to the protective suit and claims he removed it against orders, which the article finds questionable given the camera's perspective.

JB states that the first two autopsies occurred in July 1947, shortly after the saucer was recovered, and a third in May 1949. He claims he contacted Washington to deliver the remaining film material but received no response and eventually gave up, keeping the film himself.

Content Overview of CR Nr. 227

The issue also includes several other articles:

• Geöffnet: Die X-Akte... (Opened: The X-Files...): A special report on the TV series 'X-Files' on Pro 7.
• Kosmische Fundsachen: UFOs im Lehrbuch der Feuerwehr... (Cosmic Finds: UFOs in the Firefighter's Textbook...): Covering pages 9 & 10.
• CNN: The Larry King Show vom 1.Oktober 1994...: Covering pages 10 & 11.
• MUFON-News: UFO-Flap vorausgesagt... (MUFON News: UFO Flap Predicted...): Covering pages 11 & 12.
• Brechen USA Resolutionen der UNO? (Do USA Break UNO Resolutions?): Covering pages 12 to 14.
• NASA und die Alien-Frage: Der geheimnisvolle Brookings-Report... (NASA and the Alien Question: The Mysterious Brookings Report...): Covering pages 14 to 16.
• Japan: Einige Lehren aus der Studie von UFO-Videos... (Japan: Some Lessons from the Study of UFO Videos...): Covering pages 17 to 22.
• Geschichte: Die gute alte APRO... Was General MacArthur wirklich sagte! Vergangenheits-Bewältigung... Admiral Hillenkoetter's Rolle... Wo war Präsident Truman? (History: The Good Old APRO... What General MacArthur Really Said! Coming to Terms with the Past... Admiral Hillenkoetter's Role... Where Was President Truman?): Covering pages 22 to 29.
• X-Akte: Roswell-Alien-Film - Stand der Dinge (X-Files: Roswell Alien Film - State of Affairs): Covering page 29.
• Ulrich Magin's UFO-Cartoon: Mentioned as being omitted due to space constraints on page 64.

Further Details on the Autopsy Film Analysis

Bob Shell reported on September 7th that the first autopsy lasted about twelve minutes, with doctors wearing only face masks and gloves, not full protective suits. A film slate indicated the autopsy was performed by "Dr. Detlev Bronk." The second autopsy, seen by many, lasted nearly 18 minutes and was less clear, but the 'tent scene' was reportedly clearer, showing the doctors removing the alien's suit. The wreckage sequence was only about 3 minutes long.

Shell also confirmed finding the cameraman, noting that both French television and FOX had also located him, leading to a media circus. Based on Santilli's information, the cameraman was supposedly the only one able to film at the Trinity Test Site. This led to the identification of Berlyn Brixner, a civilian photographer who worked for the army and had access to archives at the Los Alamos National Library. It was confirmed that only four photographers had access to the Trinity Site: Berlyn Brixner, Jack Aeby, Ben Benjamin, and Roger White. Only Brixner and Benjamin are still alive. Brixner is featured in Robert Del Tredici's book "At Work In The Fields of The Bomb."

Jeff Rassoul contacted Brixner, who confirmed filming the atomic bomb explosions and stated that military photographers were not used. Brixner recently received a call regarding the UFO matter but stated he had nothing to do with it. The report concludes by stating they await further developments.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards sensational UFO claims, particularly the "Alien Autopsy" film, and a focus on critical analysis of evidence. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of questioning official narratives and media portrayals of UFO events, encouraging readers to scrutinize information and seek verifiable facts. There is a strong emphasis on debunking hoaxes and presenting alternative explanations or highlighting inconsistencies in purported evidence. The editorial stance is clearly one of critical inquiry and a pursuit of truth through rigorous examination of available data.