CENAP Report - No 239

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr. 239
Volume/Date: 2/97 (February/March 1997)
Publisher: CENAP (Centrale Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene)
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0942-0721
Price: DM 70,-- (annual subscription)

This issue of CENAP-REPORT delves into the portrayal of UFO phenomena in television, particularly in Germany, and critically examines the media's role in shaping public perception. It features articles analyzing specific TV programs, interviews with UFO researchers and former astronauts, and discussions on alleged government cover-ups.

Editorial and Publisher Information

The CENAP-REPORT is described as Germany's oldest and most comprehensive UFO journal, published bi-weekly. The publisher and editor-in-chief is Werner Walter, based in Mannheim, Germany. The issue also lists Hansjürgen Köhler as a case investigator and CR-distributor. CENAP itself is presented as a private, non-commercial organization dedicated to receiving, analyzing, and evaluating UFO reports since 1976. It is integrated into the GWUP (Society for the Scientific Investigation of the Paranormal) and has served as an advisory body for DARA (German Aerospace Agency). CENAP aims for public education through media and scientific institutions.

"Akte X" and the Lost Generation

A significant portion of the editorial addresses the TV series "Akte X" and its perceived impact on a younger generation. The editorial criticizes an article in "Akte X" magazine (Nr. 3) that reportedly misrepresented Werner Walter and CENAP's stance, suggesting they reject the possibility of extraterrestrial contact. The CENAP editorial clarifies that while they do not reject the possibility, they find no substantiated reason to confirm it, distinguishing this from sensationalized media portrayals. The editorial expresses concern that the entertainment-driven UFO concept is becoming normalized, potentially leading to a misunderstanding of reality.

UFO-Krimistunde in der ARD: Tatort am 12.1.1997

This section reviews the ARD crime drama episode "Tatort: Tod im All," which aired on January 12, 1997. The episode, which attracted nearly 7 million viewers, featured a plot involving a UFO abduction and a missing UFO author. The article notes the episode's competition with Pro7's dinosaur-themed program. It highlights the character of Commissioner Lena Odenthal, played by Ulrike Folkerts, who approaches the case with skepticism. The review acknowledges the episode's attempt to incorporate UFO themes and praises its production, despite its fictional nature. The article also mentions an accompanying internet chat with the lead actress, which was reportedly overwhelmed with traffic.

Viewer comments on the "Tatort" episode are included, expressing appreciation for its suspense, humor, and intelligent handling of the UFO theme. Some viewers found it a refreshing departure from typical UFO films, while others noted the difficulty of switching between "Jurassic Park" and "Tod im All." The episode is praised for its self-irony and its ability to make the paranormal seem more accessible.

Germany: UFOs als TV-Event!

This section frames the increasing presence of UFOs in television as a significant cultural event in Germany. It notes the success of programs like ARD's "Fun-Show UFOs: Und es gibt sie doch" in 1994, which garnered nearly 8 million viewers, and contrasts this with the lower ratings of critical RTL2 and Pro7 programs featuring UFO segments. The article suggests that television has become a powerful medium for shaping public opinion, often prioritizing entertainment over scientific accuracy. It argues that the scientific community and qualified personnel are often sidelined in favor of sensationalized narratives about the paranormal.

Pro7: Ganz schön taff...

This article discusses a "TAFF-Spezial" episode on UFOs that aired on Pro7 on January 16, 1997. The program featured an interview with Bob Dean, a former NATO officer who claims to have evidence of extraterrestrial existence and a government cover-up. Dean alleges that the Pentagon and White House have silenced him. The segment also included footage of alleged UFOs and crashed spacecraft. The article expresses skepticism about Dean's claims, suggesting they are part of a pattern of sensationalism. It also touches upon other UFO-related films and media, such as "Mars Attacks!" and "Independence Day."

UFOs sind Real - I've Seen UFOs, Says NASA Astronaut

This section focuses on statements made by former astronaut Gordon Cooper regarding his UFO experiences. Cooper, a veteran of the Mercury program, publicly called for the government to release UFO information. He recounts seeing a gleaming, greenish object during his 1963 space mission that was detected by radar. Cooper also describes an incident where a camera crew filmed a saucer-shaped object landing and taking off near Edwards AFB. He claims that the film was sent to Washington and never returned. The article highlights Cooper's assertion that the government has been engaged in a massive cover-up for fifty years and that other astronauts share his belief. It also mentions his early experiences with UFO sightings as a USAF test pilot in Germany.

Cooper's statements are contrasted with other reports, including one from MUFON's Florida newsletter, which suggested Cooper had not personally witnessed a UFO as an astronaut, only knowing of a sighting by colleague James McDivitt. The article also references a National Enquirer report from January 14, 1997, where Cooper allegedly made stronger claims about a government cover-up.

That's Entertainment! Das UFO-Coverup im TV

This article, written by Philip J. Klass, critiques the way television networks, including NBC, Fox, CNN, and CBS, present UFO phenomena. Klass argues that these programs often ignore evidence that contradicts a pro-UFO stance and instead promote narratives of crashed saucers, alien abductions, and government conspiracies. He points to the success of such programs in attracting large audiences, suggesting that the media has a vested interest in perpetuating these stories. The article cites examples like the "Audi 5000" unintended acceleration case and the Pepsi-Cola needle incident, where initial reports of widespread problems were later attributed to driver error or false claims, yet the media's initial sensationalism had a significant impact.

Klass criticizes the lack of disclaimers on these programs, which often present controversial topics as factual. He notes that even respected news programs like "48 Hours" and Larry King's show have featured UFO segments that are heavily biased. The article suggests that the media's focus on entertainment and profit leads them to avoid critical or skeptical perspectives, thereby reinforcing the public's belief in the paranormal and government cover-ups.

Media's Role in Shaping UFO Beliefs

This section further elaborates on the media's influence, particularly concerning the "X-Files" phenomenon. It argues that the show's blend of science (Scully) and government investigation (Mulder) creates a new, normalized concept of the paranormal for the public. The article suggests that the show, along with other media portrayals, fosters a belief in conspiracies and hidden truths, making skepticism seem out of place. It contrasts this with the scientific approach, which is often marginalized. The article also touches upon the marketing of UFO-related content, noting that entertainment industries generate significantly more revenue than scientific endeavors.

Government Cover-up and Media Manipulation

The article discusses the alleged government cover-up of UFO information, citing examples of how media outlets have allegedly downplayed or omitted evidence that contradicts the prevailing UFO narrative. It mentions an instance where top-secret documents related to the Roswell incident were allegedly not shown in a "Unsolved Mysteries" episode. Similarly, a Larry King "UFO Coverup? Live From Area 51" special is criticized for featuring predominantly pro-UFO proponents and only brief segments from skeptics like Carl Sagan and the author. The article suggests that media producers actively withhold information that could reveal the government is not concealing crashed alien spacecraft.

Disney's "Tomorrowland" and UFO Propaganda

The article criticizes Disney's "Tomorrowland" attraction and its associated ABC television special, "Alien Encounters and Extra-TERRORestrial Experience." It argues that these productions are designed to normalize the idea of alien encounters and government conspiracies, using fabricated UFO footage and emphasizing the Roswell incident. The article points out that even the President is implied to be kept in the dark about UFO secrets, citing a memorandum that purportedly states the FBI has no jurisdiction over such matters. The author expresses concern that Disney, having acquired ABC, will continue to use these platforms to promote UFO narratives and their "Tomorrowland" theme park.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CENAP-REPORT revolve around the pervasive influence of media, particularly television, in shaping public perception of UFOs and the paranormal. The magazine adopts a critical and skeptical stance, questioning sensationalized media portrayals and advocating for a more scientific and evidence-based approach. It highlights the perceived disconnect between the entertainment industry's profit motives and the pursuit of objective truth. The editorial stance consistently emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and the need to distinguish between entertainment and reality, particularly when dealing with complex and controversial topics like UFOs and alleged government cover-ups. The issue implicitly argues that while the possibility of UFOs exists, the current media landscape often distorts the facts for commercial gain.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated February/March 1997, focuses on UFO and UAP sightings and investigations primarily within Germany. The magazine highlights the perceived decline in journalistic rigor, with "X-factor" ratings and profit motives overshadowing thorough reporting.

"UFOs in Deutschland - Die UFO-X-Files des CENAP aufgeschlagen!"

This section introduces the issue's theme of UFO phenomena in Germany, suggesting it will delve into previously unexamined cases.

Der schwebende Container (The Floating Container)

This article details a sighting by Petra G. in Kleinmachnow, East Germany, around August 1986. While watching television with her daughter, she observed a large, bright, silent object hovering low over the area. She described it as resembling a container with windows, emitting a bright white-yellow light that made its outlines difficult to discern. The object moved from south to north and then vanished abruptly. Her neighbor also witnessed it. Petra G. has since followed UFO-related news closely.

The object was estimated to be 100-200 meters away and flew at an altitude of only about 100 meters, close to the houses. It did not have any blinking lights. The witness compared it to a "railway car." The event is compared to the Radevormwald case from 1984, which was later attributed to a US helicopter.

Lichtbalken auf der Insel Reichenau? (Light Beam on Reichenau Island?)

This report recounts a sighting by Martina G. and her mother, Christiana G., on Reichenau Island in March 1993. Around 7:25 PM, they experienced a strong wind from the direction of the woods, and then saw a "flying part" emerge from above the trees. The object was described as moving silently, with the wind and a quiet humming sound accompanying it. The object's size is difficult to estimate, but it caused nearby birch leaves to flutter.

Martina G. described the object as rectangular, approximately 150-180 meters long and 50-80 meters wide, with a continuous light strip across its middle and two large, bright white lights on its sides. Two lights on the crossbar blinked rhythmically. The lights were not blinding. Her mother attempted to photograph it but couldn't due to ongoing house renovations. Her father also saw the object. The object moved towards Allensbach-Hegne. The witness, who has read several UFO books, found the experience particularly memorable.

The article notes that the object's disappearance was sudden, as if "swallowed by the earth." The weather was clear, dry, and windless. The witness compared the object to a "railway car." The event is linked to the Radevormwald case, which was attributed to a US helicopter.

Seltsamkeiten am Himmel führen zur UFO-Hysterie (Oddities in the Sky Lead to UFO Hysteria)

This section introduces a case involving Kathrin J. from Bornsdorf, near Finsterwalde. Kathrin J., born in 1970, reported unusual aerial phenomena. Initially, she and her friends observed a strange object in the sky in October 1993. They attempted to communicate with it using a lighter and flashlight, and the object responded with multi-colored lights. This led to a group of friends becoming intensely interested in UFOs, meeting nightly to observe the sky.

On February 8, 1994, during a gathering at Kathrin J.'s house, a "dreamlike fireworks" display was observed, followed by a triangular flying object with red, blue, green, yellow, and purple lights. It flew silently overhead and then disappeared. Later, a round, self-luminous sphere, about 20 meters in diameter, was seen hovering low over the ground, emitting a blue light beam. The women were too afraid to approach the beam. Kathrin J. reported that strange events began occurring in her house, including her young child seeing "two uncles" who gave him candy and left him with faint scars. The child also became ill. Kathrin J. believes she may have been abducted by UFOs previously and is willing to undergo hypnosis.

Further details from Kathrin J. describe an object approaching from Weissack, which was multi-colored and flew very low. She also reported hearing voices in her head, which she initially dismissed but later found others experienced as well. This led to a group believing they were in contact with extraterrestrials who were trying to alleviate human fear.

Erst ein Fliegendes Dreieck... (First a Flying Triangle...)

This article analyzes the Bornsdorf sightings. It questions whether the initial object was a flying triangle or something else. The object seen on February 8, 1994, was described as a round, self-luminous sphere, possibly rotating, about 20 meters in diameter, and emitting a blue light beam. The witness's sketch later depicted a flying saucer with windows. The origin of the blue light beam is uncertain.

The article suggests that the isolated location and Kathrin J.'s personal circumstances (young mother, unemployed, single parent) might have contributed to her heightened suggestibility and tendency to interpret events in a UFO context. The possibility of misinterpreting planetary lights, such as Jupiter, is raised as a potential explanation for some sightings.

...dann eine klassische Fliegende Untertasse! (...Then a Classic Flying Saucer!)

This section continues the Bornsdorf case, introducing Madeleine B., another witness. She also saw the initial "fireworks" and a triangular object with colored lights. She describes the object as moving slowly towards the northeast, with a bright beam of light descending from it. She also heard a faint "hissing" sound. The object was described as being about the size of the full moon, and the women were about 70 meters away.

The article notes that the witness's description of the object's size was relative to the full moon, not the 20-meter estimate given by Kathrin J. The witness also mentioned a possible explanation of a "supernatural phenomenon."

Seltsamer Vogel bei Mittelsaida (Strange Bird near Mittelsaida)

Jan R. from Langenau reported an observation on January 26, 1995, near Mittelsaida. While driving, he saw an unusual light phenomenon in the sky, described as blue, red, and white lights. He slowed down to observe it. A large red sphere detached from the light cluster and descended rapidly before stopping abruptly at an estimated height of 200-300 meters. The remaining blue and white object then moved at high speed parallel to the road. The underside was blue, and no engine noise was heard. The object was described as having the shape of a triangle due to a rapidly blinking red light in the center.

An investigator, Klaus Rümmler, visited the witness and suggested that the "light cluster" might have been a bird of prey, such as a goshawk, illuminated by headlights. He noted that the hexagonal shape described by the witness matched drawings of a goshawk hunting. The red light seen on the height could have been a wind turbine.

Unterwegs bei Bamberg (On the Road near Bamberg)

Rainer S. from Bamberg reported an observation on May 16, 1995. While driving on the A3 towards Bamberg, he saw two colored lights at treetop height. He initially thought it was a rescue helicopter but noted the unusual movement. The lights, one pink and one blue, moved in an oval pattern between the road and trees. A red flashing light was located below them, giving the object a triangular appearance. The witness described the lights as approximately 1.50 meters in diameter.

Hamburg: Seltsames Tageslicht-Video (Hamburg: Strange Daylight Video)

Hansjürgen Köhler received a Hi-8 video from Adam P. in August 1995, recorded over Hamburg. The video shows a bright point of light that, when viewed through binoculars, appeared as a triangle of three lights. The witness also reported seeing other objects flying past at high speed. He questioned whether these were UFOs or military inventions. The video itself is described as poor quality, with the object appearing as a faint, swimming point of light. The witness believes in the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation.

CENAP contacted Hamburg air traffic control, who had no record of unidentified flying objects on that date. The possibility of a weather balloon with a reflector was considered but deemed unlikely due to the timing. The witness's belief in extraterrestrial visitation is noted.

Celle: Ein seltsamer Bumerang am Himmel (A Strange Boomerang in the Sky)

On December 23, 1994, around 10:30 PM, Hediwg (born 1941) and her employee Christa W. observed a boomerang-shaped object emitting a bright, nebulous light. It moved in a rapid zig-zag pattern and disappeared quickly. The witness contacted the local newspaper and police but received no confirmation from other sightings.

The observation lasted less than 30 seconds. The object was described as self-luminous and appeared to be about the size of a large star or one-quarter of the full moon. It moved horizontally at a moderate height. The witness had no prior UFO literature and had a reserved attitude towards the topic.

Wirres Objekt über Reutlingen (Confused Object over Reutlingen)

Mila C., born in Ukraine in 1937, reported observing an unknown flying object on February 9, 1996, near Reutlingen. She described it as having three long, cold white lights resembling searchlights, emanating from a fireball. The fireball pulsed with strong firelights every 3-4 seconds. A tail, possibly energetic substance, followed the UFO. She believed it was an extraterrestrial craft influencing human development. The observation lasted about 15 minutes and occurred around 9 PM. She felt drawn to the window to observe it. The object was estimated to be 1700-1800 km away and 170-180 times larger than an airplane. She experienced significant fear during the sighting.

Ein astronomisches doppeltes Lottchen? (An Astronomical Double Lottery Ticket?)

This section details an observation by W. Baumbach from Mannheim on December 29, 1995. He observed the Orion constellation and noticed three additional "belt stars" below the usual three. These extra stars were the same size and brightness as the original ones but disappeared after about 8 minutes. The witness, who is farsighted and needs glasses for reading, could not explain the phenomenon and sought an astronomical explanation.

UFOs in the News

Russische Spezialisten bauen „Fliegende Untertasse“ (Russian Specialists Build "Flying Saucer")

This news brief reports that Russian specialists at the Saratov aircraft factory are developing a "flying saucer" named "Equipe." It is described as a mushroom-shaped craft that uses an air cushion principle, allowing it to fly at altitudes between three meters and ten kilometers, with speeds ranging from 120 to 700 km/h. It can carry up to 600 tons and accommodate 18 people. The Federal Service for Forest Management has expressed interest in purchasing 300 units for forest fire monitoring.

Gesprächskreis geplant (Discussion Group Planned)

This brief mentions that Dutch psychologist Klaas H. de Vries plans to form a self-help group for extraterrestrials in The Hague. He claims to be from the planet Sirius and is seeking other "aliens" for exchange. The group would meet bi-weekly. The article notes a significant response from people claiming to be extraterrestrials in the Netherlands.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, witness testimonies, and the investigation of these phenomena. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of open inquiry, presenting various cases with detailed descriptions and attempts at explanation, while also acknowledging the psychological and potential misinterpretational aspects of some sightings. The editorial stance seems to be one of documenting and analyzing these events, even when explanations are elusive or unconventional. There's a subtle critique of sensationalism and a desire for factual reporting within the UFO field.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated February/March 1997, delves into a variety of UFO and paranormal phenomena, with a strong focus on events in Israel and the controversial topic of alien abduction insurance.

UFO-WAHN in Israel: Thousands Climb Onto the Roofs

The lead story details a widespread UFO hysteria in Israel, where thousands of Israelis reportedly expected the arrival of extraterrestrials. This anticipation led to people climbing onto rooftops, some even celebrating with 'UFO parties'. The article mentions reports of alleged alien encounters and abductions, including a 62-year-old man claiming to have been abducted by 'little green men'. The phenomenon was amplified by media coverage and the timing of the release of the movie 'ID4'. The article also touches upon the role of Uri Geller, a parapsychologist, who claimed to have used his psychic abilities in service of the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad and the CIA, and suggested he could influence political negotiations.

Insured Against UFO Abductions

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the topic of alien abduction insurance. The German TV channel Pro7 is highlighted for its report on 'Alien Insurance', which gained traction due to a perceived increase in UFO sightings and public fear. The article introduces Gerti Schwark, a yoga teacher who claims to have had sexual encounters with aliens, and Beate Bschorr, an 'alien expert'. The report also features an interview with 'Marlon' from the Sirius system, channeled through Beate Bschorr, who dismisses the insurance policies as not being based on 'serious grounds'.

The focus then shifts to the case of Joseph Carpenter (also known as Joe Tagliarini), who claimed to have been abducted by aliens and subsequently received a £1 million payout from an insurance policy sold by Lloyd's broker Simon Burgess. The article scrutinizes this claim, presenting evidence that suggests it might be a hoax orchestrated by Burgess and Tagliarini for publicity and financial gain. It details how Burgess, known for promoting bizarre policies, marketed alien abduction insurance, with Carpenter being the first to claim a payout. The story is presented as a potential 'out-of-this-world PR stunt' for the insurance company.

Further investigation by The Sunday Times reveals that Joe Tagliarini and Simon Burgess were business partners and that the 'alien abduction' story was likely a fabrication. The article questions the validity of the evidence, such as a supposed alien claw, and notes that the insurance company, GRIP, might have accepted the claim due to Carpenter assigning them the rights to his video recordings.

UFOs Over Israel

This section revisits the UFO wave in Israel, noting that the country has a history of 'miracles'. It highlights the increasing number of UFO sightings, with experts suggesting 'aliens' as the only explanation. A music video is mentioned as a peak of this 'epidemic'. The article details the experience of Yossi Ronen, a singer who claims to have been abducted and used as a 'human guinea pig' by aliens. The report also touches upon other alleged phenomena in Israel, such as 'phantom hitchhikers' who transform into monstrous creatures.

UFO in America is a Phenomenon!

The magazine reports on a remarkable meteor event on October 3, 1996, which appeared to enter Earth's atmosphere twice. This phenomenon was observed over New Mexico, West Texas, and later California. The article also covers a UFO sighting by two airliners near Long Island, New York, involving a dark object with green lights. Another incident describes a green fireball observed over Italy, seen by thousands, including air traffic controllers.

UFOs from Long Island

This section details the sighting of a UFO by two airliners near Long Island on November 16, 1996. The object, described as a dark shape with four green lights, crossed the flight path of a Pakistan International Airlines Boeing 747 and a TWA flight. Radar contact was reportedly made by air traffic control centers. The article also mentions other UFO sightings in the area and a pilot's report of a 'flying object' near Rome.

Dark Skies

This segment discusses the British TV series 'Dark Skies', comparing it to 'The X-Files'. It describes the show as featuring two agents investigating conspiracies related to UFOs and aliens, set against a backdrop of the 1960s. The article notes that 'The X-Files' itself might be losing viewership due to a change in tone and the increasing brutality in its episodes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the widespread reporting and public fascination with UFO sightings, the potential for hoaxes and media manipulation in the paranormal field, and the commercialization of UFO phenomena through insurance and media coverage. The magazine appears to be critical of sensationalism and outright deception, while still presenting a wide array of reported incidents and claims for the reader to consider. There's an underlying skepticism towards claims that lack solid evidence, as seen in the investigation of the alien abduction insurance scam and the debunking of the 'alien body' found in Israel.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated February/March 1997, focuses heavily on the intersection of popular culture, particularly the TV series 'Akte X' (The X-Files), and the public's fascination with paranormal phenomena, UFOs, and aliens. The magazine features a prominent article about Pro Sieben's upcoming talk show 'Talk X', which is positioned as a spin-off of 'Akte X', aiming to delve into unexplained mysteries.

Pro Sieben's 'Talk X' Show

The lead article announces Pro Sieben's new talk show, 'Talk X', set to premiere on February 17th. Positioned as a companion to the popular 'Akte X' series, 'Talk X' is described as the first broadcaster to launch a talk show directly related to a mystery series. The show will explore phenomena that defy rational explanation, such as 'mass murder by lightning strike, extraterrestrials, and a monster à la Loch Ness.' The show's moderator, Andrea Kiewel, acknowledges the 'science fiction' label for her series, explaining it as dealing with 'fictions and speculative science.' She emphasizes that the show is for entertainment and not to be taken as literal truth, stating, 'I have never tried to sell all of this as truth... Anyone who wants to believe the content is uninformed.'

Chefredakteur Gerd Berger and editorial director Chris Bohlmann are cautious about using the term 'esotericism,' preferring to distance themselves from charlatans and cults. They state that Pro Sieben is consulting with the seminar organizer 'Frankfurter Ring' to ensure the show's credibility. The tone of the show is described as relaxed, with the motto 'bending spoons is more fun than washing spoons.'

Expert Opinions on Belief in the Supernatural

The magazine includes a section titled 'Expert Opinion: Is it harmful to believe in the supernatural?' featuring brief statements from various individuals:

• Ranga Yogeshwar (Moderator, 'Quarks & Co', WDR): Believes that things like Bach flower remedies and dowsing rods are humbug. He warns that belief in the irrational can undermine democracy and be harmful to health if one relies on miracle healers.
• Walter von Lucadou (Parapsychological Consulting Center, Freiburg): States that belief in the supernatural is human. However, it becomes harmful if one becomes addicted to it and structures their entire life around it. He believes the supernatural exists but should not be blindly trusted.
• Hansjürgen Köhler (UFO Reporting Center CENAP, Mannheim): Expresses concern that the supernatural has become a form of substitute religion, warning that they have encountered families whose members have drifted into supernatural cults.

Viewer Reactions to 'Akte X'

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to reader letters and reactions, particularly from young viewers influenced by 'Akte X'. These letters reveal a deep engagement with the show's themes, often tinged with fear and anxiety:

• Melanie L. (13, Wuppertal): A big 'Akte X' fan, she and her father believe in UFOs. She admits to being afraid at night and sleeping with the light on due to fear of aliens.
• Julia V. (12, Lorsch): Watches 'Akte X' but finds it scary, fearing that aliens might operate on her.
• Kurt D. (Moers): Has been watching 'Akte X' since age 12 and wants to become a UFO researcher. He believes 'the truth is out there' and questions if humanity will have defenses against potential alien threats like those depicted in 'Independence Day'.
• Miloje A. (Ratingen): Interested in the Bermuda Triangle and secret alien bases. He questions why aliens abduct humans for study and fears being abducted himself, seeking advice on how to prevent it.
• Harald T. (14, Vienna): Has been interested in UFOs since age 10 but faces a dilemma between pursuing a vocational career or becoming a UFO researcher, as he was told there are no jobs in UFO research.
• Klaus N. (Mannheim): His son Peter is an 'Akte X' fan and wishes to become a UFO detective.
• Marlene A. (Leutershausen): Applies for an 'Akte X' office assistant position, highlighting her computer skills and familiarity with the 'para-area,' especially UFOs.
• Nico P. (Hamburg, almost 15): Seeks a school where he can learn more about these topics, feeling that adults dismiss his interest and that he is looked at askance.
• Frau Goscha (Rheinland): Expresses concern that her thirteen-year-old son, Paul, is becoming too immersed in 'Akte X', leading to nightmares and fear of monsters and aliens.

The magazine notes that while WDR's 'Quarks & Co' touched upon the question of life in space, it avoided the core UFO/Alien issue, as did a B3 program on 'Kosmos'. The article laments the conditioning of young people into the paranormal sphere through media.

Santilli's Roswell Alien Found Again?

This section discusses a web contribution by Roel van der Meulen from June 1994, which featured a black-and-white image suggesting a UFO crash. The image reportedly included a creature resembling the alien from the 'Santilli' film's autopsy scene. The author of the web post could not recall the source of the image, which he had apparently downloaded from the internet.

Carl Sagan: Rest in Peace

The magazine pays tribute to the renowned scientist Carl Sagan, who passed away on December 20, 1996, after a battle with cancer. The article draws from a message by Stanton Friedman, a UFO researcher and contemporary of Sagan.

Friedman recounts his long-standing acquaintance with Sagan, noting their shared educational background at the University of Chicago. While Sagan pursued astronomy and became a prominent science communicator through his 'COSMOS' TV series, Friedman entered industry. Sagan is credited with shaping public perception of the universe and encouraging scientific discourse. Friedman highlights Sagan's willingness to address fringe topics, including UFOs, noting his participation in conferences and discussions on the subject.

However, Friedman also points out a divergence in their views, particularly regarding UFOs. He mentions that Sagan, while sometimes offering explanations for UFO phenomena without deep investigation, maintained a critical stance. Friedman recalls debating with Sagan, even during Sagan's illness. He notes that Sagan's public position on UFOs became more negative in the late 1970s, possibly due to the association with more sensational aspects like abductions and conspiracy theories, which a scientist might wish to avoid.

Despite their disagreements, Friedman acknowledges Sagan's role in popularizing science, fostering critical thinking, and opening people's eyes to the vastness of the cosmos. He expresses a wish for more dedicated individuals like Sagan, though he sees no immediate successor of comparable stature.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the public's fascination with UFOs and the paranormal, heavily influenced by popular media like 'Akte X'. The magazine explores both the entertainment aspect of these topics and the genuine concerns and anxieties they can evoke, particularly in younger audiences. There's a clear editorial stance that separates entertainment (like 'Talk X' and 'Akte X') from factual reporting, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and avoiding sensationalism or cult-like adherence to beliefs. The tribute to Carl Sagan underscores the importance of scientific rigor while acknowledging the broader questions about life in the universe that Sagan himself explored.