CENAP Report - No 235

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr. 235
Date: August/September 1996
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German
Price: DM 70,--

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, Germany's oldest and most extensive UFO journal, delves into the cultural phenomenon surrounding the film "Independence Day" (ID4) and its connection to UFOlogy and conspiracy theories. The cover prominently features the film's tagline and a dramatic UFO image, hinting at the issue's focus.

Editorial and Publisher Information

The magazine is edited and published by Werner Walter, with Hansjürgen Köhler serving as the case investigator and distributor. CENAP is described as a private, non-commercial, and ideologically independent organization founded in 1976, dedicated to collecting, analyzing, and evaluating reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) from a critical perspective. It is integrated into the non-profit Darmstadt Society for the Scientific Investigation of Pseudosciences (GWUP). CENAP was recommended by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Interior as a contact point for UFO reports and acts as a consultant for the German Aerospace Agency (DARA). They also offer a specialized UFO information service to astronomical institutions and collaborate with international organizations, maintaining an extensive UFO video archive.

Main Feature: "Independence Day" and the UFO Truth

The central theme of this issue is the massive cultural impact of Roland Emmerich's film "Independence Day" (ID4). The article highlights the film's unprecedented success at the box office, breaking previous records set by Steven Spielberg's "Jurassic Park." It notes that the film's release on September 19, 1996, in Germany, followed its successful premiere in the USA on July 4th, coinciding with American Independence Day.

The film is praised for its brilliant re-staging of the "War of the Worlds" narrative and its use of advanced special effects. The article suggests that "Independence Day" is more than just a movie; it represents a cultural moment that taps into the public's fascination with UFOs and alien invasions, a fascination amplified by media phenomena like "The X-Files." The film's success is attributed to its blend of popular American motifs, myths, and cinematic tropes, combined with a compelling narrative set against the backdrop of a national holiday.

Key points discussed regarding "Independence Day":

• Box Office Success: The film achieved record-breaking earnings, surpassing "Jurassic Park" in its opening week.
• Roland Emmerich: The German director is lauded for his ability to create commercially successful films that resonate with American audiences, a skill often lacking in German cinema.
• Cultural Impact: "Independence Day" is seen as having a significant influence on public perception of UFOs and alien encounters, potentially creating a "UFO-hysteria."
• Themes: The film explores themes of global unity in the face of an existential threat, with various nations banding together against a common alien enemy.
• Special Effects: The movie heavily relies on cutting-edge computer technology and special effects, with over 50 minutes of the film created using digital techniques.
• Filming Locations: Key scenes were shot in New York City and Los Angeles, utilizing real locations to enhance authenticity.

UFOlogy and Public Perception

The article explores how "Independence Day" and "The X-Files" have contributed to a mainstream acceptance of paranormal and UFO-related themes. It cites a NEWSWEEK article titled "Captured by Aliens!" which highlights the growing public belief in UFOs, government cover-ups, and extraterrestrial contact. A poll indicated that 48% of Americans believe UFOs are real, and 29% think contact has already occurred, with 48% suspecting a government cover-up.

Scientific and Governmental Stance:

• Scientific Community: The scientific community remains largely skeptical, awaiting definitive proof of extraterrestrial intelligence. Dr. Hans Haubold from the UN's Office for Outer Space Affairs stated that no one within the UN or its member states is officially responsible for UFOs or SETI.
• Governmental Preparedness: Inquiries to the Pentagon, White House, and FEMA revealed no official plans for dealing with alien visitors or invasions. Ex-President Reagan's past remarks about the possibility of facing a common extraterrestrial threat are mentioned.
• CSETI's Concerns: The Center for the Study of Extraterrestrial Intelligence (CSETI) expressed concern over the negative portrayal of aliens in "Independence Day," arguing that it could lead to a dangerous public reaction when the reality of extraterrestrial life is eventually revealed.

Media Coverage and Public Reaction

German media outlets like DER SPIEGEL and FOCUS also covered the "Independence Day" phenomenon, with headlines such as "Cosmic Armageddon." The article notes that while the film might be fictional, it taps into a growing public interest in UFOs and potential alien invasions.

Specific Media Mentions:

• NEWSWEEK: Featured "Captured by Aliens!" on its cover, linking "Independence Day" and "The X-Files" to the paranormal trend.
• USA TODAY: Highlighted "Independence Day" as the summer's blockbuster, predicting it would be a "gold rush" for the film industry.
• Hamburger Abendblatt: Reported on the film's record-breaking success in American cinema.
• DER TAGESSPIEGEL: Discussed the film's nonstop screenings and the public's fascination.
• DIE WELT: Announced Roland Emmerich's achievement in Hollywood, calling him the "Spielberg of Sindelfingen."

"Dark Skies" Conspiracy

The issue also briefly introduces the upcoming TV series "Dark Skies," which, like "The X-Files," deals with government cover-ups of alien encounters, specifically referencing the Roswell incident.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of science fiction cinema and UFOlogy, the public's growing belief in extraterrestrial phenomena, and the role of media in shaping these perceptions. The editorial stance of CENAP-REPORT is clearly critical and analytical, aiming to investigate UFO phenomena from a scientific perspective while acknowledging the cultural impact of popular media. The magazine seeks to debunk rather than explain away UFO cases, but it also recognizes the public's desire to believe and the influence of "paranormal" themes on society. The issue emphasizes a critical yet open-minded approach to the UFO subject, distinguishing between fictional portrayals and potential real-world evidence.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated August/September 1996, focuses heavily on the burgeoning UFO and alien-themed popular culture of the era, driven by new television series and blockbuster movies. It also includes reports on scientific discoveries and alleged sightings.

Dark Skies: A New Conspiracy Series

The magazine introduces the new NBC television series 'Dark Skies', described as a show that delves into the secret history of the Cold War and a 'total conspiracy' that allegedly begins where 'The X-Files' leaves off. The series reportedly covers historical UFO events, including the Roswell crash of 1947, and suggests alien involvement in major historical events like the assassination of President Kennedy and the 1965 New York City blackout. It posits that aliens were responsible for the blackout and that the Apollo 17 mission was an attempt to destroy an alien base on the moon, leading to the Space Shuttle Challenger being shot down.

The article notes that 'Dark Skies' was presented at the 'Akte X/Babylon 5-Convention' in Frankfurt, but criticizes the promotion of the event by Pro7 as poorly managed and a 'disaster' for fans.

The Rock and the Roswell Connection

The film 'The Rock', starring Sean Connery and Nicolas Cage, is discussed, highlighting how it subtly incorporates the Roswell incident into its narrative. The film's plot involves a terrorist threat on Alcatraz, and a character's past actions include stealing classified documents from FBI Director Hoover, which apparently included information about the 1947 Roswell landing.

Independence Day and the Mars Connection

The blockbuster movie 'Independence Day' is prominently featured, with its release coinciding with the NASA announcement about potential life on Mars. The magazine suggests that the movie's success was amplified by the Mars discovery, creating a 'perfect launchpad' for the film. The article notes the significant box office success of 'Independence Day' in England, surpassing 'Batman's' opening weekend sales.

Life on Mars? Scientific Debate and Skepticism

A major focus is the NASA announcement on August 7, 1996, claiming the discovery of potential fossilized life forms in a Martian meteorite. The report details the scientific findings, including the identification of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and microscopic structures resembling bacteria. However, the article also presents a skeptical view from German scientists, particularly from the Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics. They raise concerns about potential contamination of the samples, the reliability of the analytical methods used, and the difficulty in definitively pinpointing the meteorite's origin on Mars, suggesting it could even be terrestrial in origin.

UFOlogy and Media Influence

The issue extensively discusses the impact of popular media, particularly 'The X-Files', on the field of ufology. Several readers' letters and opinions highlight how the series has increased public interest in UFOs but also potentially 'fictionalized' the phenomenon, leading to the spread of misinformation and urban myths. Some argue that 'The X-Files' does not offer new insights but merely embellishes existing myths, while others believe it has made people less skeptical and pressured governments to reveal UFO secrets. The article also touches upon the commercialization of 'The X-Files' brand, with merchandise ranging from videos and books to magazines and T-shirts.

UFO Sightings and Investigations

The magazine reports on several alleged UFO sightings and incidents:

• MIR Station Lights: A report from the Salzburg Volkssternwarte (Austria) describes the observation of a chain of 12 luminous points moving in formation, potentially related to the MIR space station's activities or a Pepsi advertising stunt.
• Drosendorf UFO Landing: An incident in Drosendorf, Austria, where a pensioner, Rudolf Slama, reported seeing a UFO land and take off, leaving imprints and scorched grass. Subsequent investigations by MUFON-CES and ZEUS suggested the event was likely a hoax, possibly involving a balloon and diesel fuel, with the 'landing marks' resembling those made by wine bottles.
• UFO-Landung in Österreich?: This section further investigates the Drosendorf incident, noting media sensationalism and the involvement of 'esoterics' and 'wishful thinkers'. It critically analyzes Slama's video evidence, suggesting it was a reflection in a window and that the 'light cone' was from his camera's recording lamp.

New UFO Publications

The issue highlights the growth of UFO-related publications in England, mentioning 'UFO Magazine', 'Encounters', 'BUFORA's UFO Times', 'UFO Reality', and 'Sightings'. 'Sightings' is particularly praised for its high-quality production and investigative approach.

Religious Perspectives on Extraterrestrial Life

An article titled "Auch Außerirdische dürfen auf Erlösung hoffen" (Even Aliens Can Hope for Redemption) explores how world religions might accommodate the discovery of extraterrestrial life. Representatives from the Catholic, Jewish, and Islamic faiths suggest that aliens would be considered part of God's creation and would not fundamentally challenge their theological frameworks.

A Novel Airship for Space Exploration

The concept of a giant, disk-shaped airship called 'ISLA' (International Stratospheric Astrophysics) is presented. This airship, designed to float in the stratosphere, would carry powerful telescopes to observe distant planets and search for signs of life, offering a potentially more cost-effective alternative to space telescopes like Hubble.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of popular culture (TV, movies) with UFO phenomena, the media's role in shaping public perception, and the ongoing scientific and skeptical inquiry into UFO reports. The magazine appears to adopt a critical stance towards sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims, while also acknowledging the public's fascination with the unknown. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing between fictional portrayals and actual evidence, and on debunking hoaxes while remaining open to genuine investigation.

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: Nr. 235
Date: August/September 1996
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP REPORT delves into a variety of UFO-related reports, investigations, and critical analyses. It features numerous eyewitness accounts from Germany and the US, alongside in-depth articles scrutinizing the claims of prominent UFO researchers and alleged evidence.

Eyewitness Accounts and Sightings

The magazine presents several accounts of unusual aerial phenomena. In Bad Nauheim, a woman reported telepathic communication with 'Kosmos-Prinz,' a small alien. In Nürnberg, an observer described a large, orange-red 'lampion' that appeared larger than the full moon and behaved strangely before disappearing. Another report from Hochsteinfurth detailed two 'orange light balls' that moved and appeared to burn before vanishing. A woman in Berlin described a 'wobbly object' that was egg-shaped and emitted a yellow-orange glow, unlike any known aircraft. In Belzig, a couple reported a 'red flickering lamp' that was quasi-round and appeared to have a flame at the bottom. Frank Pfeffer and Dirk Hofmann from Darmstadt reported an orange to red colored 'ball-shaped to oval thing' that flew horizontally and then ascended rapidly. In Schwetzingen, observers at a water park saw an 'orange moon' that appeared to be glowing red metal from below, and a piece of metal detached from it and fell to the ground. In Salzburg, a man witnessed a 'red glowing ball' that moved slowly and disappeared like a star. An elderly woman in Berlin-Köpenick reported seeing 'nebulous figures' descending from the sky. Finally, a woman in the Rhineland described a 'glowing ball' that moved horizontally and broke apart into particles.

Investigations and Critiques

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to critically examining the work of UFO researchers, particularly Michael Hesemann and J.v.B. (Johannes Freiherr Treusch von Buttlar-Brandenfels). The article "Die Märchenonkels erzählen munter Weiter ! oder: Die haarsträubenden Beweise gewisser Ufologen" by Uli Thieme, dissects their claims regarding a UFO crash site in New Mexico. The authors argue that Hesemann and J.v.B.'s accounts are filled with inaccuracies, exaggerations, and a lack of scientific rigor. They dispute the location of the alleged crash site, the interpretation of geological features like the 'Trockensee' (dry lake), and the evidence presented, suggesting that the researchers are driven by financial motives, particularly in promoting tours to these alleged sites.

The article highlights discrepancies in the researchers' accounts, such as the differing descriptions of the crash site location and the timeline of their investigations. It also criticizes the use of unverified sources and the misrepresentation of scientific facts. The authors point out that Hesemann and J.v.B. often rely on speculative claims rather than concrete evidence, and that their 'research' appears to be more about creating sensational narratives than pursuing objective truth.

Specific Cases and Reports

The 'UFO' over Gostenhof: The magazine reports on a sighting in Nürnberg where a 30-year-old man filmed a bright object. While initially thought to be the Hyakutake comet, it was later identified as Venus by UFO researcher Stephan Matthiesen. The article also mentions other sightings of this bright object reported in Neumarkt, Landshut, and Regensburg.

The Manchester Incident: An article details a near-collision incident over Manchester involving a Boeing 737 and a triangular, silver-colored object. Experts from the British aviation authority reportedly concluded it was a UFO.

UFO Investigator in Kreuzberg: Manfred Flack, described as Berlin's first 'UFO investigator,' is featured. He registers reports of unexplained aerial phenomena and sends out questionnaires to witnesses, working with the CENAP organization for analysis.

UFO Fever in Czech Republic: Reports of mysterious circles in grain fields in Solnice, Czech Republic, have sparked a 'UFO fever,' attracting public attention and media coverage.

Water and Ice on Jupiter's Moon Europa: A report from BILD highlights the discovery of water and ice on Jupiter's moon Europa, suggesting the possibility of life. This finding is linked to the ongoing interest in extraterrestrial life, following discoveries on Mars.

Roswell Fragment Analysis: An article discusses the analysis of a fragment from the alleged Roswell spaceship crash. Scientists at the Los Alamos National Laboratory concluded that the fragment, composed of copper and silver, is of terrestrial origin.

Bob Shell's 'Socorro Report': The magazine analyzes Bob Shell's claims about a UFO crash site near Socorro, New Mexico. The article debunks Shell's assertions, particularly regarding missing newspaper archives and the location of the crash site, citing research by Karl Pflock.

Hesemann's Signature Analysis: A brief section touches upon a graphological analysis of Michael Hesemann's signature, suggesting a change in his writing style over the years, from reserved to bombastic.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue exhibits a strong critical and skeptical stance towards sensational UFO claims, particularly those promoted by Michael Hesemann and J.v.B. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena and UFO reports, the magazine emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor, factual accuracy, and critical analysis. There is a recurring theme of debunking exaggerated or fabricated evidence, exposing potential financial motivations behind some UFO investigations, and promoting a more grounded approach to the study of anomalous aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor rational explanations and evidence-based conclusions over speculative theories and unsubstantiated claims.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated August/September 1996, is primarily focused on the UFO phenomenon, with a strong emphasis on government secrecy, media coverage, and alleged extraterrestrial encounters. The magazine critically examines reports and claims related to UFOs, often questioning the sensationalism surrounding them while also presenting evidence and testimonies from various sources.

Key Articles and Features

The Manchester Incident and Expert Opinions

The magazine begins by referencing a report in BILD magazine concerning the Manchester incident from January 1995, which experts now believe to be a genuine UFO. The article notes BILD's dramatic illustration of a speculative alien spacecraft. It also contrasts this with a 'Wickert poll' on UFOs, suggesting that US values regarding UFO belief are not yet matched in Germany.

The UFO Cover-Up Argument

A significant portion of the text addresses the argument that the truth about UFOs is suppressed to prevent societal collapse, with churches, Wall Street, and secret societies fearing loss of power. The article dismisses this, drawing parallels to the discussion about life on Mars and Jupiter's moon Europa, which did not cause societal breakdown. It also notes the positive spin President Clinton put on NASA's successes for his election campaign, suggesting a more measured approach to the 'ufological crusade' is needed.

STAR Magazine's 'Top Secret' UFO Files

The issue highlights a cover story from the American magazine STAR (July 23, 1996) about 'Top Secret-1 Billion Dollar-UFO-Akten der (US-) Regierung'. The article questions why the government would spend a billion dollars looking for UFOs if they didn't believe in them. STAR reportedly uncovered 'massive' government investigations into UFOs dating back to the post-WWII era, including projects like Blue Book and NASA's involvement with SETI. The magazine also mentions 'secretly funded Pentagon projects' and a 'confidential report' from billionaire Laurance Rockefeller, which supposedly contains 'exciting implications' about extraterrestrial craft in Earth's atmosphere.

Stanton Friedman and the Roswell Crash

Nuclear physicist Stanton Friedman is featured, claiming to have spent 20 years in archives and legal battles to obtain secret material. He asserts he has found two documents that irrefutably prove two UFOs crashed near Roswell, New Mexico, in 1947. The article notes that the US government possesses 'incredible amounts' of information on this topic.

NASA and Alleged UFO Photos

An article titled 'Hält die Nasa Ufo-Fotos geheim?' (Does NASA Keep UFO Photos Secret?) by Peter Michalski discusses claims by astronauts and space agency employees that the US government possesses evidence of extraterrestrials and flying saucers. It references the 'MJ-12 documents' as the 'Holy Grail of ufology'. Friedman is quoted stating that these documents are authentic and cannot be faked by outsiders. The article also mentions Nick Pope's book 'Open Skies - Closed Minds' and the British government's stance on UFOs.

UFOs on the Moon and in Space

The magazine reports on UFO photos from the Moon's surface, allegedly from NASA's lunar program, published by the Daily Mirror. BILD magazine prominently featured this story. It also discusses the object '1996 PW', identified by the Kölner EXPRESS as an asteroid or comet, not an ID4 spaceship, despite its large size.

Analysis of NASA's STS-48 Footage

Physicist Dr. Jack Kashner from the University of Nebraska analyzed video footage from the STS-48 space shuttle flight, which NASA claimed showed ice crystals. Kashner disputes this, stating it's physically impossible and has ruled out meteors, satellites, and space debris. He concludes the objects were UFOs, with six to eight pieces observed, one accelerating from 0 to 4000 km/h in one second.

Astronaut Testimonies

Maurice Chatelain, former communications chief for the Apollo missions, is cited revealing that Gemini-4 pilot James McDivitt photographed a UFO. Astronauts Frank Borman and James Lovell also allegedly captured UFOs. Chatelain claims every Apollo flight had 'pursuers,' and astronauts were under strict gag orders. Walter Schirra (Mercury 8) reportedly gave UFOs the code name 'Santa Claus'. Lovell allegedly reported seeing 'Santa Claus' after emerging from behind the Moon. Chatelain also claims that during the Apollo 11 moon landing, two UFOs hovered over the spacecraft before Neil Armstrong's descent, and Edwin 'Buzz' Aldrin photographed them.

Media and UFOs: A Sensational Mix

The magazine critiques the media's handling of UFO topics, noting Pro7's 'ALIEN DAY' programming, including the Travis Walton abduction film. It also mentions 3Sat's discussion on extraterrestrial life and Erich von Däniken's promotion of UFO topics. The article points out the sensationalism in talk shows and the influence of UFO sightings on science fiction films, particularly the 'flying saucer' trope.

'UFOs - The Truth' Book Launch

A significant section is dedicated to the upcoming book 'UFOs - Die Wahrheit' (UFOs - The Truth) by Werner Walter, with a foreword by Prof. Dr. Harry Ruppe. The book, available in September for DM 39.80, is described as the first commercial UFO book from the 'Neo-UFO-Researchers' of CENAP, GEP, and GWUP. The article frames this as a 'David vs. Goliath' situation in the book market and encourages readers to support it by purchasing copies for themselves and friends, or by gifting them to journalists and media outlets.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently questions the sensationalist reporting of UFO phenomena in the mainstream media, while also presenting evidence and testimonies that suggest a genuine mystery exists. There's a critical stance towards 'UFO-believers' and 'conspiracy theorists' but an open approach to investigating claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, aiming to separate fact from fiction in the complex world of UFOlogy. The issue suggests that the time is ripe for a deeper exploration of UFOs, as evidenced by the book launch and the media's renewed interest, partly fueled by films like 'Independence Day' and series like 'The X-Files'.