CENAP-REPORT

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue Date: January/February 1996 (Issue 229)
Publisher: CENAP (Centrale Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene)
Country of Publication: Germany
Language: German

Editorial Introduction and Themes

The issue's main theme, "Thema Nr. 1: Auf der Straße nach Roswell," signals a deep dive into the Roswell incident and related phenomena. The editorial notes that the previous issue focused on alien abductions, which have now become a prominent topic in media coverage, including reports on Swiss DRS and German Pro7.

CENAP Organization and Mission

CENAP is presented as Germany's oldest and most extensive UFO journal, operating as a private, non-commercial, and ideologically independent organization dedicated to receiving, analyzing, and evaluating reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOs). It emphasizes a critical stance and is integrated into the GWUP (Society for Scientific Investigation of the Paranormal). CENAP serves as a contact point for UFO reports, recommended by the German Ministry of the Interior, and advises the German Aerospace Agency (DARA). They also offer a UFO information service to astronomical institutions and collaborate internationally, maintaining a UFO video archive.

The Roswell Incident and the Santilli Film

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the Roswell incident and the controversial Santilli alien autopsy film. The issue highlights the ongoing debate about the film's authenticity, with various experts and organizations weighing in.

The Santilli Film: A Deep Dive

Ray Santilli's Film and Kodak's Involvement: The report details the difficulties in getting the Santilli film analyzed by Kodak. Initially, Kodak refused to examine a short film strip, requiring a minimum of 50 frames to analyze the perforation for dating purposes. Later, Kodak also required intact filmstrips to determine shrinkage and chemical tests, needing multiple pieces from the same film. Ray Santilli claimed he no longer possessed the film, stating it was in the possession of his German financier, who refused to cooperate.

Morgana Productions UK and the "Tent Scene": The magazine discusses "The Morgana Project," an initiative by Morgana Productions UK aimed at exposing the alleged Roswell footage as a hoax. They created their own alien model and footage to demonstrate how easily such material could be duplicated. The "tent scene," a part of the alien autopsy footage, is also analyzed, with experts noting the alien's appearance and the scene's production quality, suggesting it might be a later addition or a separate hoax.

Expert Opinions on the Film: Special effects experts, including those from Stan Winston Studios and Steve Johnson's XFX, Inc., largely believe the alien autopsy film is a hoax. They argue that the effects are achievable with modern techniques and that the film likely dates from a more recent period, not 1947. Rick Lazzarini from "The Character Shop" stated that the work was well-done but not beyond the capabilities of special effects artists.

Media Coverage and Sensationalism: The issue criticizes media outlets, such as FOX Network's "Alien Autopsy, Fact or Fiction," for sensationalizing the film and presenting it as potentially genuine without sufficient evidence. The report notes that many media outlets were easily swayed by the film's presentation.

BUFORA's Role: The British UFO Research Association (BUFORA) was involved in investigating the Santilli film. They received criticism for their handling of the situation, particularly regarding the marketing of the film and their conference. BUFORA's chairman, John Spencer, actively pursued leads and compiled a dossier, but the overall atmosphere was one of speculation and commercial interest.

The "Alien Autopsy" Hoax Theory: The article "FX-Experten: Bastelt euch einen Alien" (FX Experts: Build Yourself an Alien) details how special effects artists could create such a film. It explains the process of making a realistic alien body cast and head using materials like alginate and silicone, demonstrating that the technology existed to create a convincing dummy.

Key Figures in the Santilli Film Controversy

• Ray Santilli: The filmmaker who presented the alien autopsy footage.
• Volker Spielberg: Identified as the owner of the film material, who reportedly stated, "I fuck the world. The world is full of egoism - and I am too."
• Bill Randle: A former owner of Elvis concert footage that Santilli initially sought, who provided information about the cameraman.
• Jack Barnett: Allegedly the cameraman, whose existence and whereabouts became a point of contention.
• Stanton Friedman: A UFOlogist who helped revive the Roswell story and was involved in promoting the film.
• Gregory Benford: A physicist and SF author who urged collaboration between UFOlogists and scientists.
• Dava Sobel: Author who contributed to OMNI magazine's investigation into Roswell.
• John Spencer: BUFORA chairman who actively investigated the film.
• Mike Wootten: Contributed to UFO Times, analyzing the Santilli film and BUFORA's involvement.

Other News and Features

UFO Times: The magazine references "UFO Times" issue 37 (Sep/Oct 95), which featured commentary and research on the Roswell footage, including an analysis titled "What does it prove?" and a section on "Investigations Diary."

Bob Shell's Testimony: Bob Shell reported that Kodak had refused to test the Santilli film without sufficient material and that the film's owner was uncooperative.

The "Roswell Secrets Revealed?" Cover: The cover of the magazine features a striking image of a bright light in the sky, with the headline "Auf der Straße nach Roswell" (On the Road to Roswell), suggesting a focus on the iconic UFO incident.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly suggests that the Santilli alien autopsy film is a hoax, supported by expert opinions and investigative journalism. It criticizes media sensationalism and the commercialization of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical skepticism, aiming to uncover the truth behind alleged UFO events and films, while acknowledging the complexities and the potential for deception within the UFO community itself. The magazine emphasizes the need for rigorous scientific investigation and warns against blindly accepting claims without verifiable evidence.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated January/February 1995, delves into various UFO-related topics, with a strong focus on debunking claims and scrutinizing evidence. The cover story details how to create an alien head for special effects, referencing the 1985 film "FX-Deadly Tricks." The magazine also critically examines the "Roswell-The Movie" film, the alleged "Jack Barnett" UFO crash site story, and Michael Hesemann's research.

Special Effects: Creating an Alien Head

The article "HOW TO FORM AN ALIEN HEAD IN THE TRICK-SPECIAL WORLD" explains the process of creating an alien head for film, using the example of the 1985 film "FX-Deadly Tricks." It details the use of materials like silicone or gelatin for the skin, foam latex for the body, and internal mechanisms for movement. The process involves creating a 'core' for organs, shaping the body, and then applying the skin. The article notes that for the autopsy scene in the film, FX artists, the cameraman, and actors worked closely to avoid errors, and that filming in black and white, like the alleged Roswell autopsy film, can enhance realism.

The "Alien Autopsy" Film and Special Effects

The magazine discusses the creation of the alien autopsy scene, emphasizing the use of special effects to simulate realistic-looking organs and blood. It highlights techniques like using a 'blood knife' to create the illusion of fresh blood and the careful arrangement of organs to maintain a semblance of realism. The article points out that the grainy black-and-white footage of the alleged Roswell autopsy film simplifies the task of creating convincing special effects.

Critiquing the "Roswell-The Movie" Film

"Roswell - The Movie" is heavily criticized as "Hollywood schlock par excellence." The film is accused of completely distorting the "actual story" of the alleged UFO crash near Roswell in 1947. The article states that the film's fictional conversations and unrealistic scenes create a new Roswell legend. The narrative thread of a fictional 30th-anniversary celebration of the 509th Bomb Group in 1977, where Jesse Marcel meets other witnesses, is highlighted as fabricated. The film's attempt to portray the 1947 events, such as the collection of UFO debris and Glenn Dennis's encounter with a nurse, is deemed unrealistic and inaccurate compared to actual witness testimonies.

Specific discrepancies are pointed out, such as the film showing Jesse Marcel Jr. discovering alien symbols on the debris, whereas the book "UFO Crash at Roswell" attributes this to his wife. The dialogue attributed to farmer Mac Brazel, "I say nothing, if you give me a gift!," is dismissed as baseless and not originating from any literary or historical source. The article also criticizes the film's depiction of a meeting between military officials and an alien, deeming it overly dramatic and lacking in factual basis.

The "Jack Barnett" Story: A History of Contradictions

This section meticulously dissects the conflicting accounts surrounding the alleged cameraman, "Jack Barnett," involved in filming the "alien autopsy." The magazine notes that "Jack Barnett" has been presented with at least three different names and that his story has evolved significantly over time. The article highlights numerous contradictions in his accounts, including:

• Name Changes: Initially presented as "Jack Barnett," then revealed to be a pseudonym, later identified as "J.B.," and with further speculation about his identity.
• Location and Timeline: Discrepancies exist regarding where he lived, when he filmed the alleged autopsy, and how he obtained the footage. His story about obtaining the "Elvis material" and the "Roswell film" is also questioned.
• Age and Health: Reports on his age and health status vary wildly, with some suggesting he was in good health at 80 in late 1993, while others claim he died on August 3, 1995, or that he was 85 years old. His age in 1972 is also debated.
• The "Crash Site" Narrative: The article details how "Jack Barnett's" account of reaching the alleged UFO crash site has changed, with different versions of the date, time, and route taken. The magazine questions the plausibility of his timeline, especially given that June 1, 1947, was a Sunday.
• Military Logistics: The logistical feasibility of "Jack Barnett's" alleged travel from the East Coast to New Mexico, including intermediate stops and the assembly of a team, is questioned, particularly given the Sunday timing.

Critiquing Michael Hesemann's Research

Michael Hesemann's research and claims are consistently challenged throughout the issue. The magazine accuses him of fabricating details, misinterpreting evidence, and creating unsubstantiated theories. His attempts to locate a UFO crash site near Socorro are particularly scrutinized.

• Socorro Crash Site: Hesemann's claim of finding a UFO crash site near Socorro is debunked by the New Mexico Bureau of Mines & Mineral Resources. Dr. Richard M. Chamberlin, a Field Economic Geologist, analyzed a photograph provided by Hesemann and concluded that the location depicted was a natural geological formation, not a crash site. Chamberlin's analysis, based on topographical maps and geological data, refutes Hesemann's claims about the distance from Highway 60, the nature of the terrain (an old riverbed, not a lake), and the presence of any unnatural earth movements.
• "Apache Reservation" Misinterpretation: Hesemann's assertion that a wildlife refuge was an "Apache reservation" is dismissed as a misinterpretation. The report suggests he confused the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge with an actual reservation.
• Meteorite Story: The story of a "meteorite" crash witnessed by Fred Strozzi on May 31, 1947, is presented as another attempt to bolster Hesemann's claims, but the article points out that the direction of this alleged meteorite fall does not align with the supposed UFO crash trajectory.
• Historical Inaccuracies: Hesemann is criticized for historical inaccuracies, such as referring to the "US Air Force" before it officially existed as a separate branch of service. The magazine also notes Hesemann's tendency to promote individuals to positions they did not hold, such as promoting a colonel to general or a former East German railway official to "doctor."

US Army Helicopters Before 1947

The article addresses the claim that a "foreign spaceship was discovered by a patrol of RAAF helicopters" in the context of the Santilli film. It clarifies that the first McDonnell XH-20 helicopter flew on May 5, 1947, making it unlikely for the RAAF to have been equipped with helicopters for patrols so soon after. However, the article acknowledges that the US Army did operate helicopters, such as the Kellett YO-60 autogyro and Sikorsky R-4 and R-6 models, as early as 1942 and 1943, with hundreds produced by the end of World War II. This suggests that US Army helicopter flights in 1947 were plausible, but the specific claim related to the Santilli film is questioned due to the timeline.

"Roswell-The Movie" - A Critical Review

This section provides a detailed critique of the TV movie "Roswell - The Movie." The reviewer, Uli Thieme, argues that the film fundamentally misunderstands and distorts the "true story" of the alleged 1947 UFO crash near Roswell. The film's narrative, centered around a fictional reunion of witnesses in 1977, is criticized for its fabricated dialogues and unrealistic portrayal of events. The reviewer points out numerous factual errors and deviations from established accounts, including the misrepresentation of who discovered alien symbols on debris and the inclusion of a nonsensical quote attributed to farmer Mac Brazel. The film's depiction of a military encounter with an alien is also deemed highly improbable.

The "Socorro UFO Crash Site" Theory

The magazine presents a detailed analysis of Michael Hesemann's theory about a second UFO crash site near Socorro, New Mexico. The article contrasts Hesemann's claims with the findings of the New Mexico Bureau of Mines & Mineral Resources, particularly the geological assessment by Dr. Richard M. Chamberlin. The report includes a map showing the alleged crash site and the camera location used for a photograph Hesemann presented as evidence. Chamberlin's analysis indicates that the location is a natural geological formation, specifically an old riverbed, and not a crash site. The article highlights Hesemann's misinterpretations of distances, terrain features, and the presence of alleged "excavation" marks, attributing them to natural processes or the creation of a road.

Conclusion and Editorial Stance

The magazine concludes that the "new" crash site theory promoted by Hesemann and others is a fabrication designed to create a narrative separate from the original Roswell incident. The article suggests that these "fans of the Santilli film" are trying to salvage its credibility by creating new stories and "fitting" locations to them. The report emphasizes the lack of credible witnesses and evidence for these new claims, likening them to other sensationalized UFO stories. The overall stance of the magazine is highly skeptical of sensational UFO claims, particularly those promoted by Michael Hesemann, and advocates for rigorous, evidence-based investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO claims, the debunking of misinformation, and the analysis of special effects in film. The magazine's editorial stance is one of skepticism towards sensationalist UFO narratives, particularly those lacking strong evidence or relying on contradictory accounts. It emphasizes the importance of scientific investigation, factual accuracy, and the exposure of hoaxes and fabrications within the UFO community. The issue highlights the contrast between sensational claims and verifiable facts, often using expert opinions and detailed analysis to dismantle unsubstantiated theories.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated January/February 1995, delves into the controversial 'Santilli film' purporting to show an alien autopsy, alongside a critical examination of the Roswell incident and the broader influence of science fiction on UFOlogy. The magazine adopts a skeptical stance, aiming to debunk sensational claims and present a more grounded perspective.

The Santilli Film: A Critical Analysis

The lead article, "Obduktion eines Außerirdischen? Kritisches zum 'Santilli-Film' von Dr.med.A.T. Schäfer," by Dr. Achim Th. Schäfer, directly challenges the authenticity of the 'Santilli film.' Schäfer, referencing an article in SKEPTIKER 4/95, argues that the depicted procedure is a pathological autopsy, which would require prior anatomical knowledge of the subject. He posits that an extraterrestrial being would not possess such known anatomy, making the film's claim of an alien autopsy fundamentally flawed. The article criticizes the film for presenting a 'pathological' rather than an 'anatomical' dissection, suggesting that the alleged 'obducent' must have known the anatomical structures they were examining, which would be impossible for an alien. The author concludes that the film cannot be a genuine alien autopsy, even if the alien's appearance resembles a human.

Further critique of the Santilli film comes from various sources. Richard Corliss of TIME magazine quotes special effects artists who universally consider the autopsy a fake, with Gordon Smith suggesting it originated in England and was shot in a B-studio, and Stan Winston agreeing it's a sham. The article also highlights inconsistencies in Ray Santilli's own accounts of the film's origin and content, noting his changing stories about when and where it was filmed, and the presence of specific elements like President Truman. George Wingfield is presented as a key critic, asserting the film was shot on video in 1993, not on 16mm film in 1947, and likely in or around London. Wingfield also points out Santilli's denial of knowing crop circle artists Robert Irving, John Lundberg, and Rod Dickinson, despite evidence suggesting they collaborated on a 'hoax' project for a film company in 1993, possibly related to the 'Roswell' movie.

Bob Shell, initially presented as an expert analyzing the film's technical aspects, faces significant scrutiny. His initial claims about dating the film to 1947 based on edge codes and a distinctive smell are ridiculed. It's revealed that Shell only saw a photocopy of the edge codes, not the actual film, and his 'analysis' relied on his sense of smell. His statements about the film's origin and ownership have been contradictory, leading to a loss of credibility. The article suggests that Shell, like Santilli, is part of a promotional effort rather than a genuine investigator.

The Roswell Incident: Hoax or Cover-up?

The magazine extensively discusses the Roswell incident, framing it as a potential hoax or a subject of government disinformation. The film 'Roswell' (1995), starring Kyle MacLachlan as Major Jesse Marcel, is presented as a fictionalized account that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. The article criticizes the film for its 'degenerated morality' and its sensationalist approach to UFOs.

President Clinton's statement denying an alien spacecraft crash in Roswell in 1947 is mentioned, alongside the release of the USAF's 'The Roswell Report: Fact vs Fiction into New Mexico.' This report, a 1,000-page document, concludes that the Roswell case is a hoax, with authors Col. Richard L. Weaver and 1st Lt. James McAndrew finding no evidence of a cover-up. The article debunks claims about General Nathan F. Twining's involvement, explaining his visit to New Mexico was for a pre-scheduled military course, not related to a UFO recovery.

The Influence of Science Fiction on UFO Beliefs

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to exploring how science fiction, particularly films and TV shows, has shaped the public's understanding and perception of UFOs and aliens. The article "Kinobilder - Wenn SF zur Wirklichkeit wird" (Cinema Images - When SF Becomes Reality) argues that movies like "Raumschiff Orion" (1968) and Steven Spielberg's "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" (1977) have significantly influenced UFOlogy, popularizing concepts like alien abductions and 'grey' aliens. The film "The Day the Earth Stood Still" (1951) is highlighted as a seminal work that introduced themes of alien concern over nuclear weapons, a theme later adopted by contactees like George Adamski.

The article notes the increasing overlap between the science fiction and UFO communities, with SF magazines now covering UFO topics and UFO researchers appearing in SF-related media. It suggests that this convergence is leading to a new dynamic where SF tropes are increasingly presented as potential UFO evidence, and vice versa. The rise of shows like 'The X-Files' is seen as a prime example of this trend, blending UFO paranoia with conspiracy theories.

Media Analysis and Skepticism

The magazine features a discussion from a TV talk show, "UFO-Glotzkasten im CR: Was lief im TV?" (UFO-TV-Box in CR: What was on TV?), which includes a panel of experts and researchers. The discussion highlights the commonality of UFO sightings being misinterpretations of natural phenomena, aircraft, or satellites. Michael Hesemann, a UFO proponent, is challenged on his claims, particularly regarding the 'Billy Meier' case and his assertion that simple farmers are more likely to film real phenomena than create sophisticated hoaxes. Ulrich Magin, a sociologist, points out that many UFO claims can be explained by amateur photography tricks, such as reflections or models, and that even official documents might be mundane reports rather than evidence of a cover-up.

The panel discusses the difficulty of proving a UFO photograph is genuine, contrasting it with the ease of proving it's a fake. The article also touches upon the role of the KGB UFO files and declassified US documents, suggesting that while they might contain interesting reports, they don't necessarily prove the existence of a 'real phenomenon' beyond conventional explanations. The discussion emphasizes the need for rigorous analysis and a critical approach to UFO evidence, cautioning against jumping to conclusions based on sensational claims or media portrayals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards sensational UFO claims, particularly the Santilli film and the Roswell incident, and a critical examination of how media, especially science fiction, influences public perception of these topics. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting a rational and evidence-based approach to UFOlogy, debunking hoaxes, and distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misinterpretations or deliberate fabrications. The magazine aims to inform its readers by dissecting popular UFO narratives and encouraging critical thinking about the evidence presented.

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: Nr. 229
Date: Januar/Februar 1995
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP REPORT delves into the complex and often contentious world of UFO research, featuring a lively debate among prominent figures in the field, detailed witness accounts, and analyses of purported UFO evidence.

Debate on UFO Research and Credibility

The central part of the magazine features a discussion moderated by Wirbitzky, involving researchers Magin, Hesemann, and Walter. The debate quickly escalates, highlighting a significant 'potential for conflict' among researchers who often challenge each other's credibility. Magin questions the validity of UFO accounts obtained under hypnosis, suggesting that subjects might be influenced by the hypnotist's suggestions or construct narratives to fit their existing beliefs. He points to the work of Harvard psychiatrist John Mack, whose studies on alien abductions are met with skepticism by Magin, who claims Mack's colleagues distance themselves from him.

Hesemann, a UFOlogist, defends the scientific approach and dismisses Magin's claims as overly simplistic. The discussion touches upon the phenomenon of 'implants,' with Hesemann reportedly taking them away from Magin because they were not recognized by medical professionals and had counter-expert opinions.

Walter emphasizes the difficulty of remaining objective when investigating such a controversial and emotional topic, stating his personal approach is to try and verify individual incidents rather than fabricating fantastical phenomena. He questions whether, after decades of UFO research, it still boils down to a 'dispute of faith' due to a lack of concrete evidence. Walter notes that much of the evidence presented by UFOlogists over the last 50 years has been ambiguous.

Alien Contact and Government Secrecy

The issue explores the probability of extraterrestrial visitation, with a caller named Waffenschmitt from Neustadt presenting astronomical calculations on the frequency of alien visits and questioning the lack of official landings. Hesemann, in response, suggests that direct contact is inadvisable for scientific reasons, but also entertains the possibility of 'secret contacts' with governments. Walter provocatively claims that Hesemann himself has been involved in numerous such contacts, a statement Hesemann vehemently denies, leading to further accusations of Hesemann's research group being amateurish.

UFOlogy as Substitute Religion

Moderator Wirbitzky poses the question of whether UFOlogy could be considered a form of substitute religion. Magin agrees, citing 'faith' as a key element. Hesemann strongly refutes this, but Magin argues that as long as mainstream science does not accept UFOs, it remains a matter of belief. He also notes the formation of religious groups around UFOs, suggesting a cultural-anthropological argument that is countered by Hesemann, who denies the existence of UFO cults. Magin, however, points to 'lightworkers' who gather and pray, referencing Hesemann's own magazine for further information.

Case Studies and Evidence Analysis

The magazine presents several case studies and analyses:

• The "Lightship" Blimp: A CENAP segment shows a known blimp from Stuttgart being mistaken for a UFO by witnesses.
• Ruth Gulais Sighting (September 1986): A woman reported seeing a 'small fleet of greenish fireballs' in the sky for about 8-10 seconds. This sighting is linked to a widely reported bolide event across Central Europe at that time.
• Clementine Grings Sighting (circa 1952): A witness from her childhood in Belgian Congo recalls a brightly shining, emerald-green, round object flying overhead with a loud, shrill sound and a sonic boom. The object was described as round and comparable in size to a low-flying aircraft.
• Jörn Helmut Sighting (September 16, 1995): A witness filmed five ascending lights that appeared as glowing rings. The footage, analyzed by CENAP, shows pulsating, flickering ring-shaped objects with a slightly illuminated, egg-shaped structure above, resembling unmanned miniature balloons.
• Film Analysis and "Alien" Creation: The "Inhalt dieses CR Nr.229" section lists numerous articles related to film analysis, including tests on the Santilli film, instructions on how to create a UFO crash site, and an analysis of an alleged alien autopsy video. It mentions "Good Nose: The Film Analysis" and a "New Air Force Report."

Hesemann's Controversial Claims and Predictions

The issue revisits Hesemann's past claims, including a bet made in 1989 with 'Werner' about a worldwide UFO sighting wave in January 1990 and open landings by 1992/93, with Hesemann promising to leave the UFO scene if his predictions failed. The magazine notes that Hesemann has yet to fulfill this promise. It also mentions Hesemann's later labeling of Michael Schneider's case as a 'fraud' and the Miko case as a 'projection of the subconscious,' while Walter defends his past support for these individuals.

Sexual Encounters with Extraterrestrials

The article touches upon the topic of sexual encounters with extraterrestrials, with Hesemann dismissing such claims as sensationalism found in tabloids, not serious UFO research. However, the author references cases like Antonio Villas-Boas and discussions in books like "Geheimes Leben" which describe 'sexual episodes' as a potentially confusing but significant part of abduction experiences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CENAP REPORT highlights the ongoing debate within the UFO community regarding the nature of evidence, the role of belief versus scientific proof, and the credibility of researchers. The editorial stance appears to lean towards critical analysis, questioning sensational claims while acknowledging the persistent mystery of UFO phenomena. The magazine aims to provide a diverse range of topics, avoiding a singular focus, and promises future articles on subjects like 'Mr. Lazar' and secret UFO technology.