CENAP Report - No 232

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr. 232
Date: 4/96 (April/May 1996)
Publisher: CENAP (Central Research Network for Extraordinary Aerial Phenomena)
Country: Germany
Language: German
Focus: UFOs, with a special investigation into the Billy Meier case.

Editorial Introduction

The editorial, "Zu diesem CR, hallo Zielgruppe..." by Werner Walter, notes the recent surge in UFO-related programming on German television (RTL, ARTE, Pro7), particularly the "X-Files" themed night. Walter observes that these programs, largely based on inexpensive US productions, achieved high viewership ratings, outperforming German talk shows. He suggests that the success of this "TV massware" indicates a continued public appetite for UFO-related content, which will likely lead to more such programming, further embedding the image of UFOs in the public consciousness.

Main Feature: Fall: Billy Meier - Europas größter UFO-Schwindel (Europe's Biggest UFO Swindle)

This extensive article, authored by Werner Walter, delves into the Billy Meier case, a prominent UFO contactee story that gained global attention in the 1970s due to numerous daylight photographs and film footage. The report asserts that despite Meier's claims of contact with extraterrestrials from the Pleiades star cluster, the case is a deliberate hoax.

Kal K. Korff's Investigation

The article highlights the work of investigator Kal K. Korff, who published "The Billy Meier Story: Spaceships of the Pleiades" in late 1995. Korff's investigation, undertaken with Tina Layton, involved undercover work in Switzerland. Posing as "Steve Thomas," Korff visited Meier's property and gathered information. The report details Korff's methods, including analyzing photographic evidence, attempting to replicate Meier's photos, and interviewing individuals connected to the case.

Photographic Analysis and Hoax Evidence

A significant portion of the article is dedicated to the critical analysis of Billy Meier's UFO photographs. The report claims that numerous analyses, including those by supposed experts like Jim Dilettoso and Wally Gentleman, have been flawed or misrepresented. Key points raised include:

• Focus and Perspective Issues: Many photos show the alleged UFO in sharp focus while the background is blurred, suggesting the UFO is a small, close-up model rather than a distant craft.
• Inconsistencies in Location and Time: The article points out discrepancies in the claimed locations and times of photo sessions, particularly regarding the Fuchsbüel series, where the direction of photography and the presence of a specific tree are questioned.
• Use of Models: Korff's investigation suggests that Meier used small models, possibly suspended by threads, to create the "UFO" images. The report mentions that Meier himself admitted the need for better proof than simple photos.
• Lack of Original Negatives: A recurring issue is the unavailability of original negatives for independent analysis, with Meier's supporters often citing the cost and complexity of creating such images as a reason why Meier couldn't have faked them.
• "Computer and Laser Photo Examination": The article debunks claims made by the company DeAnza Systems regarding their analysis of Meier's photos, stating that the company denies ever performing such an analysis.
• "Film Grain Analysis" and "Infrared Analysis": These techniques are dismissed as pseudoscientific when applied to Meier's photos, with the report arguing that the materials used by Meier (ordinary film) would not yield such results.

Billy Meier's Background and Claims

The article provides a biographical sketch of Eduard Albert Meier, detailing his early life, brushes with the law, and his claim of receiving messages from Pleiadian extraterrestrials. Meier's "Talmud Immanuel," presented as the true testament of Jesus Christ, is described as a rehash of the New Testament with added passages. The report notes Meier's claims about the age of the Earth and other astronomical assertions, highlighting their pseudoscientific nature.

Key Figures and Supporters

The report names several individuals who supported or promoted Meier's case, including Ilse von Jacobi, Lou Zinsstag, Wendelle Stevens, Lee Elders, Gary Kindler, Guido Moosbrugger, and Michael Hesemann. It criticizes their uncritical acceptance of Meier's claims and their role in disseminating the story.

The "Semjase" Spaceship

Meier claimed his contact was with an extraterrestrial named Semjase, whose spaceship was described as being seven meters in diameter. The article analyzes photos of this alleged spaceship, again pointing to inconsistencies and evidence of models.

The "Talmud Immanuel"

This text, presented by Meier as the true testament of Jesus Christ, is described as a compilation and reinterpretation of existing religious texts. The report suggests that Meier's claims about Jesus being a Pleiadian and his own connection to Jesus are part of a larger fabricated narrative.

Korff's Methodological Approach

Korff's investigation is characterized by its systematic approach, including visiting claimed landing sites, attempting to replicate photos, and interviewing witnesses. The report emphasizes that Korff's findings are based on empirical evidence and critical analysis, contrasting with the uncritical acceptance often found in the UFO community.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CENAP-REPORT consistently adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards UFO claims, particularly those involving contactees and photographic evidence. The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific investigation, debunking hoaxes, and exposing pseudoscientific claims. The article on Billy Meier exemplifies this stance, meticulously dissecting the case with detailed photographic analysis and biographical information to demonstrate its fraudulent nature. The editorial also reflects a concern about the media's role in sensationalizing and popularizing unsubstantiated claims, potentially misleading the public.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated May/June 1996, focuses heavily on a critical examination of the Billy Meier UFO case, comparing it to the well-known McMinnville UFO photographs and dissecting various claims made by Meier and his supporters. The publication adopts a skeptical and investigative tone, aiming to debunk what it perceives as hoaxes and misrepresentations within the UFO community.

Analysis of Billy Meier's UFO Photographs

The report begins by scrutinizing photographs attributed to Billy Meier, particularly those taken in the Hasenböl-Langenberg area. Through digital enhancement, the analysis suggests that the "UFOs" in these images are not alien craft but rather small models suspended by wires or strings, possibly to simulate them appearing behind trees. This contradicts the claims of Meier's supporters who interpret these images as evidence of genuine alien spacecraft. The article details the process of digital magnification and contrast enhancement used to reveal these alleged suspension devices.

It draws parallels to the McMinnville UFO photographs, suggesting that similar analytical techniques reveal potential evidence of models being used in that case as well. The article posits that the apparent linear structures in the McMinnville photos could also be indicative of a tethering system.

Further analysis is presented regarding the Schmärbüel-Maiwinkle photos from April 14, 1976. These photos allegedly depict a Swiss military exercise involving a Mirage III fighter jet and Semjase's spaceship. The report argues that the lack of a visible shadow cast by the alleged Semjase spaceship, despite ample sunlight, points to it being a small model rather than a large craft. It also questions the depiction of the fighter jet, suggesting it is not engaged in any combat maneuvers and that its size relative to the alleged UFO is inconsistent with a real encounter.

The issue also examines photos claimed to be of Venus and the Apollo-Soyuz docking, taken by Meier from a spaceship screen. The analysis concludes that these images are likely derived from NASA's Mariner 10 probe and television broadcasts, respectively, due to their similarity to known images and the presence of terrestrial display artifacts.

Photos claimed to be of "DAL-Kosmonauten" and other extraterrestrial beings are also scrutinized. The report asserts these are two-dimensional images, likely taken from a curved screen, and that the "aliens" depicted resemble figures from 1970s television shows. The article dismisses claims of alien artifacts, such as metallic and crystalline samples provided by Meier, as being composed of common terrestrial materials, citing analyses by institutions like the Eidgenössische Materialprüfungs- und Versuchsanstalt and Dr. Walter W. Walker.

Critiques of UFO Researchers and Proponents

The report dedicates significant space to critiquing prominent figures within the UFO community. Wendelle Stevens is accused of fabricating his background and engaging in fraudulent activities, including child molestation charges for which he was convicted and imprisoned. Michael Hesemann is portrayed as a sensationalist journalist who has shifted his stance on the Meier case, initially being critical and later promoting it, allegedly for financial gain.

Jim Dilettoso, an analyst of UFO photos, is also heavily criticized for his methods and claims. The report alleges that Dilettoso misrepresented his qualifications, falsely claimed to have worked with LucasFilm, and made unsubstantiated assertions about radar frequencies and film grain exposure to radiation. The article suggests that Dilettoso's analyses are unscientific and biased.

Media Coverage and Abduction Claims

The issue includes reviews of television programs and articles that discuss UFO phenomena, particularly abduction claims. A critique of the ARD documentary "Von Ufos entführt?" (Abducted by UFOs?) is presented, with the report arguing that the program sensationalizes abduction testimonies without sufficient critical analysis. The documentary is accused of presenting pseudoscientific claims and failing to adequately explore psychological explanations for such experiences. The article suggests that the program, like many others, falls prey to the allure of sensational UFO narratives.

Specific Incidents and Evidence

• Hasenböl-Langenberg Photos: Analyzed as showing models suspended by wires, not genuine UFOs.
• Schmärbüel-Maiwinkle Photos: Questioned due to lack of shadows and inconsistent scale, suggesting models.
• Venus Photos: Believed to be derived from NASA's Mariner 10 probe.
• Apollo-Soyuz Docking Photos: Allegedly taken from a television screen.
• Alien Material Samples: Analyzed as terrestrial materials, not extraterrestrial.
• Wendelle Stevens: Accused of fraud and child molestation.
• Jim Dilettoso: Criticized for unscientific analysis and misrepresentation of qualifications.
• Michael Hesemann: Portrayed as a biased journalist promoting the Meier case.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards extraordinary claims, particularly those related to UFOs and alien contact. The editorial stance is critical and investigative, aiming to expose what the authors perceive as deception, misinterpretation, and sensationalism within the UFO field. There is a strong emphasis on scientific analysis, photographic evidence, and debunking claims that lack empirical support. The magazine appears to position itself as a voice of reason against what it views as gullibility and unfounded belief within the UFO community, particularly concerning the Billy Meier case and similar phenomena.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated May/June 1996, delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, investigations, and related cultural impacts. The cover story focuses on Dieter Flack, a Berlin-based UFO investigator, and the mysterious lights observed in Mörkenstraße.

Key Articles and Features

"Bei Dieter Flack in Mörkenstraße leuchten außerirdische Lichter, und keiner kommt damit aus den Gräben"

This article introduces Dieter Flack, a UFO investigator in Berlin, who acts as a local contact for the "Central Research Network for Extraordinary Sky Phenomena" (CENAP). Flack, a former bank clerk and current beverage dealer, takes reports of unexplained aerial phenomena. He explains that most sightings are misidentifications of common objects like Venus, hot air balloons, or aircraft, but he believes in people who have seen something truly inexplicable. He dismisses claims that Americans faked the moon landing, attributing such ideas to those who promote doomsday scenarios or substitute UFO belief for religion. Flack emphasizes that while he doesn't believe in aliens, he believes in the witnesses.

"Entführt vom UFO? Geistige Onanie als Ursache für Entführungsphantasien"

Authored by Klaus Webner, this article explores the psychological aspects of UFO abduction claims. It references Ernest Borneman's work on 'Geistige Selbstbefriedigung' (mental self-gratification) and daydreams, suggesting that the elaborate narratives of abductees might stem from complex fantasies, particularly those involving sexual elements, dwarfs, or small creatures. The article posits that these fantasies can become so consuming that they blur the lines between reality and imagination, especially in cases of mental illness. It questions whether 'abductees' should be interrogated about their sexual practices to understand the origins of their experiences.

"Kidnapped by UFOs?"

This piece discusses a NOVA-TV documentary that presented a skeptical view of UFO abduction claims, featuring experts on 'false memories' and hypnosis. The documentary reportedly challenged the narratives of prominent UFO researchers like Budd Hopkins and Dr. John Mack. Hopkins criticized the documentary for allegedly distorting the experiences of abductees, while Mack attempted to have a segment removed. The article highlights Dr. Michael Persinger's research suggesting that abductees are often highly creative and suggestible individuals, prone to vivid imaginative experiences, which can be influenced by external stimuli like music and imagery.

"Ein Landeplatz für Besucher aus dem All"

This article reports on Rachel, Nevada, a town that has become a hub for UFO enthusiasts, partly due to its proximity to the highly classified Area 51 and Groom Lake military facilities. The state of Nevada has even designated a section of Highway 375 as the "Extraterrestrial Highway" with special signs welcoming visitors from outer space. The article notes that while the military is not pleased with the publicity, the local community, including restaurant owner Pat Travis, benefits from UFO-related tourism. It also touches upon the testing of advanced aircraft like the F-117A Stealth fighter at Groom Lake.

"Verrückte USA: Sogar Schilder für Ufo-Piloten"

This section details the creation of the "Extraterrestrial Highway" (State Route 375) in Nevada, near Area 51. It explains that the highway is intended to attract tourists interested in UFOs and aliens. The article mentions that residents have reported strange lights and aircraft in the sky for years, fueling beliefs that the military is holding a crashed UFO and its occupants. Governor Bob Miller hopes the highway will boost tourism.

"Groom Lake-News und Area 51-Rätsel"

This piece discusses the continued secrecy surrounding military operations near Groom Lake, Nevada, as confirmed by a letter from US President William J. Clinton. It references the historical testing of various aircraft, including the A-12 Blackbird and the F-117A Stealth fighter, at Groom Lake and the surrounding facilities. The article also mentions Robert Lazar's claims of working on alien technology at a site near Papoose Lake, which brought significant attention to the Groom Lake area.

"Die offene X-Akte: USAF versus UFOs über Edwards AFB"

This article reviews an audio documentary titled "The Edwards Air Force Base Encounter: The US Air Force vs. UFOs," which details an incident on October 7, 1965. During this event, 12 UFOs were reportedly observed over Edwards Air Force Base, with air traffic controllers and pilots involved. The documentary uses actual military recordings and interviews, including one with former air traffic controller Chuck Sorrels. The report suggests that the USAF classified the objects as "Special 13 - Unsafe targets" due to their high speed and unusual maneuvers.

"Geheimnisse enthüllt: CIA und UFOs"

This section reveals a connection between the CIA and the Robertson Panel of 1953, suggesting the CIA influenced the Condon Committee's investigation into UFOs. It also discusses a case involving the analysis of UFO photographs by the National Photographic Interpretation Center (NPIC) in 1967. The memo indicates that the quality of the photographic evidence was poor, making definitive conclusions difficult, and highlights the ongoing challenge of analyzing UFO imagery.

"Piloten-Sichtung in Argentinien"

This article recounts a UFO sighting by the crew and passengers of an Aerolinas Argentinas flight on July 31, 1995. The pilot reported a delay in landing due to a power outage at the airport and the appearance of an unidentified object. The object was described as a large, blindingly lit, inverted flying saucer that moved with impossible speed and maneuvers, accompanying the aircraft during its descent.

"Seltenheitswert: Wiederkehrende UFOS"

This piece discusses the rarity of recurring UFO sightings and the challenges in investigating them. It references a statement by Major General John A. Samford, USAF, acknowledging that credible observers report incredible things. The article notes that many UFO sightings are misidentifications of celestial bodies like Venus or Jupiter, or atmospheric phenomena. It also points out the tendency for witnesses to exaggerate their experiences and the difficulty in distinguishing between genuine sightings and misinterpretations, especially when dealing with phenomena like mini hot air balloons or solar zeppelins.

"Die neuen Monster"

This section introduces the concept of the 'Grays' as a new archetype of intelligent extraterrestrial visitors, with a focus on alleged sightings of mutated Grays on Puerto Rico, referred to as 'Chupacabras'. The article mentions investigator Jorge Martin's work and witness accounts of bizarre humanoids involved in animal mutilations. It also touches upon other alleged creatures like winged beings (Mothman-like) and hairy monsters (Bigfoot-type) reported on the island, questioning whether these phenomena are paranormal.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CENAP REPORT include the investigation of UFO sightings, the psychological and sociological factors influencing UFO beliefs and abduction claims, government secrecy and potential cover-ups related to UFO phenomena, and the intersection of UFO lore with popular culture, particularly science fiction films and television series like 'The X-Files'. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting both skeptical and believer perspectives while emphasizing the need for rigorous investigation and factual analysis. The publication seems to aim at providing a comprehensive overview of the UFO phenomenon, from eyewitness accounts to expert analysis and media portrayals.

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: Nr. 232
Date: Mai/Juni 1996

This issue of CENAP REPORT delves into various UFO-related topics, including specific case investigations, the challenges of misidentification, and the influence of media on public perception of UFO phenomena. The magazine aims to provide a critical analysis of UFO reports, distinguishing between credible sightings and more mundane explanations.

Case Investigations

Scottish Sighting

The issue begins by discussing a case where a small, dark, angular object was observed near Edinburgh. The object appeared to have parts of its periphery cut off and vanished, with the CAA Air Traffic Control stating no radar anomalies were detected. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) downplayed interest in UFOs, suggesting the public might be mistaken. CENAP speculates it could have been a miniature hot air balloon.

Brussels Sightings (October 1983)

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a case reported by the Belgian organization SOBEPS, detailing observations by the R. couple in Anderlecht, Brussels, in October 1983. They reported seeing a bright light that appeared stationary for about four minutes, then reappeared slightly shifted before ascending. Over the next five minutes, it resolved into an oval shape with two lights, and as it moved away, they could discern two red and three white lights below it. The entire observation lasted approximately 15 minutes, with no sound reported.

On October 23rd, the same couple observed a light that changed course and approached them. Later, they saw a triangular shape composed of three white lights against a dark mass. The woman attempted to photograph it, but by the time she returned to the window, it was gone. The following evening, they observed two bright lights and a smaller one below, forming an elliptical shape. This observation occurred at 19:15h, prompting them to go to a park for a better view.

Photographic Analysis

The R. couple took photographs using a Canon AI Reflex Camera with Kodak 400 ASA film pushed to 800 ASA. The photos, particularly images A and B, are described as enlargements showing light trails, likely due to a 3-second exposure time. Image C is highlighted as particularly interesting, showing a straight trajectory with a bright core and intermittent flashes, suggesting a flash pair. Based on a 3-second exposure and assuming 4 flashes, the intervals between flashes were 0.95 seconds, with each flash lasting 35 milliseconds. If the distance between flashes is 5 meters, the object's speed is estimated at 100 km/h, doubling to 200 km/h if the distance is doubled.

SOBEPS Investigation and Conclusion

Michael Vander Elst of SOBEPS investigated the flight paths and found that they aligned with standard aircraft approach patterns for Brussels Airport, particularly when evasive maneuvers were required. He concluded that the observed lights were likely aircraft navigation lights, which flash at a rate of 40-100 per minute. The lack of accompanying sounds during the observation led to the misinterpretation. SOBEPS acknowledges being aware of such misidentifications, especially regarding triangular craft descriptions, but notes that lessons from the past seem to be forgotten, leading to a resurgence of 'triangular UFO' reports.

UFOlogy and Misidentifications

The IFO Problem

The magazine discusses the fundamental issue in UFO research concerning the self-perception of ufologists. Many are reluctant to investigate mundane explanations like aircraft or balloons, preferring to focus on exotic phenomena. However, the article stresses that a significant portion of UFO investigation time (95% or more) is spent dealing with Identified Flying Objects (IFOs). It is crucial for researchers to have direct knowledge of IFO characteristics to effectively separate them from potential UFOs, as suggested by Raymond Fowler in his book "UFOs - Interplanetary Visitors."

NICAP and Case Documentation

The article criticizes NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena) and its former chief, Keyhoe, for relying on rehashed newspaper reports and for being too quick to dismiss pilot sightings as misinterpretations of bolides. While NICAP is considered one of the more 'serious' UFO organizations, its methods are questioned.

Media Influence and the Roswell Incident

The issue touches upon the commercialization of UFO phenomena, mentioning a $1,695 replica of a Roswell alien sarcophagus available for sale in the USA. It also discusses the impact of Ray Santilli's Roswell Alien autopsy video, which generated significant interest and was even featured in an episode of "The X-Files." The article notes a boom in paranormal magazines in England, including NEXUS, Fortean Times, ENCOUNTERS, UFO Reality, and journals from the Wales Federation of Independent Ufologists and NARO minded.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CENAP REPORT adopts a critical and analytical stance towards UFO reports. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, the prevalence of misidentifications (IFOs), and the need for ufologists to be well-versed in identifying conventional aircraft and phenomena. The magazine highlights how media portrayals, such as "The X-Files," can shape public perception and contribute to the ongoing fascination with UFOs, sometimes overshadowing the need for grounded, evidence-based research. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensational claims, advocating for a more scientific and methodical approach to UFO investigation.