CENAP Report - No 242

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr. 242
Date: May 1997
Publisher: CENAP (Central Research Network for Extraordinary Aerial Phenomena)
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, a long-standing German UFO journal, focuses on a tumultuous period in the spring of 1997, marked by significant events in the UFO community and broader cultural discourse.

Editorial and Main Themes

The editorial, penned by the CR-Redaktion, reflects on an exciting period in late June/early July 1997, referencing the Mars 'Pathfinder' mission and the 50th anniversary of the UFO phenomenon, largely tied to the Roswell incident. It notes the resurgence of UFO sightings in Germany and criticizes TV programs, particularly on RTL, for sensationalizing UFO reports.

The central theme of this issue is the "dramatic turn" in the UFO world following the mass suicide of the Heaven's Gate cult in San Diego. The magazine takes a critical and investigative stance, viewing the incident as a consequence of "spiritual cancers" within ufology, exacerbated by media practices. It expresses a moral obligation to analyze this event from the "soup of ufology" and criticizes UFO skeptics for not being "effective enough" and for the media's role in fostering "confusion, fantasies, and errors."

Key Articles and Features

The Heaven's Gate Cult and UFOlogy

The issue extensively covers the Heaven's Gate cult's mass suicide, detailing the events and the cult's beliefs, including their connection to the Hale-Bopp comet. It highlights the deaths of Wayne Cooke and Charles Humphrey, who followed their leader Marshall Applewhite. The article questions the role of UFOlogists and media in shaping such beliefs, referencing books by John Mack and David Jacobs, while noting the absence of critical works like Phil Klass's.

Media Criticism and the UFO Phenomenon

CENAP-REPORT critically analyzes media coverage of UFOs and paranormal topics. It discusses the TV show "Mysteries" on RTL, hosted by Jörg Draeger, criticizing its sensationalist approach and lack of critical depth. The magazine argues that such shows contribute to a "cult of belief" and a blurring of reality, rather than providing objective information. It contrasts this with more balanced reporting, citing an ARD documentary as a positive example.

The Hale-Bopp Comet and Prophecies

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the Hale-Bopp comet, exploring its connection to various prophecies, including those of the Hopi Indians and the Fatima prophecies. It debunks sensationalist claims linking the comet to the end of the world, quoting astronomer Alan Hale's dismissive stance on such speculations. The article also touches upon the historical context of comet sightings and their association with disasters.

Area 51 and UFO Investigations

The issue revisits the Area 51 mystery, featuring an interview with Johannes von Buttlar. Von Buttlar asserts that Area 51 is a highly classified military base focused on secret projects, not extraterrestrial technology, and dismisses claims made by Bob Lazar due to a lack of evidence. The magazine notes the discontinuation of Pro 7's daily mystery show "Talk X" due to low viewership, despite the ongoing public interest in paranormal topics.

UFOlogy and Skepticism

CENAP-REPORT engages with the broader UFOlogy community, discussing the role of organizations like the San Diego UFO Society and San Diego Orion MUFON. It highlights the debate between those who embrace UFOs as extraterrestrial craft and those who approach the subject with skepticism. The magazine advocates for a critical and investigative approach, distancing itself from "UFO spinners" and "occultism."

Personal Accounts and Incidents

The magazine includes personal accounts, such as that of Annette Wessels and Elisabeth Lange, who claim to have encountered UFOs and aliens. It also reports on a dramatic incident during a Werner Walter lecture in Rostock, where an aggressive individual threatened Walter with a knife.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

CENAP-REPORT consistently promotes a critical and skeptical approach to UFO phenomena, emphasizing the need for factual investigation and a clear distinction between evidence-based research and unsubstantiated claims, cult beliefs, and media sensationalism. The magazine positions itself as a voice of reason within the UFO community, actively challenging what it perceives as irrationality, pseudoscience, and the exploitation of public interest in the paranormal. It advocates for media responsibility and ethical reporting on sensitive topics.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated June/July 1997, delves into the intersection of popular culture, particularly mystery television series, with UFO phenomena and conspiracy theories. The cover prominently features the headline "Lustvoll erlebter Grusel im Fernsehsessel" (Lustfully experienced horror in the armchair), highlighting the current boom in "Mystery Series."

US Air Force Jet Disappearance and Conspiracy Theories

The lead article, "Auf der Suche nach dem Warzenschwein" (In Search of the Warthog), by Peter De Thier, reports on the disappearance of a US Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt fighter jet, nicknamed "Warthog," on April 2, 1997. The jet vanished from radar shortly after takeoff over the Rocky Mountains. The extensive search was eventually called off without success. The article notes the rampant rumors and conspiracy theories circulating, including the idea that the pilot, Craig Button, might have deliberately crashed the plane or that it was related to the two-year anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing or the Waco incident. General Frank Campbell, who led the investigation, resigned. The White House dismissed these theories as "ridiculous and completely unfounded."

The Boom in Mystery TV Series

Reinhard Meyer's article, "Lustvoll erlebter Grusel im Fernsehsessel" (Lustfully experienced horror in the armchair), discusses the current trend of "mystery series" on television. Shows like "Outer Limits" (PRO 7), "Pretender," and "Profiler" (VOX) are presented as examples of this genre. The article credits "Akte X" (The X-Files) with popularizing the genre and notes that other series, such as "Dark Skies" (PRO 7), are capitalizing on this success by reinterpreting American history through an alien conspiracy lens. "Poltergeist" on RTL 2 is also mentioned for its blend of mysticism and horror. The author suggests that the current popularity of these shows reflects a societal need to explore realms beyond the materialistic world, finding fascination in the confrontation of old myths with familiar reality.

ProSieben's "Dark Skies" and "Dreamland"

The magazine reviews ProSieben's programming, which included the pilot episode of the American TV series "Dark Skies" and a documentary on "Area 51: Dreamland." While "Akte X" subtly hinted at government conspiracies, "Dark Skies" directly presented a narrative involving MJ-12 and a government cover-up. The pilot episode is described as well-crafted, though with some less-than-stellar special effects. The series is noted for its skillful integration of historical events with UFOlogy, referencing projects like Blue Book, the Betty and Barney Hill abduction, and the Roswell crash. The article points out a historical inaccuracy in the "Dark Skies" depiction of the U-2 aircraft.

The "Trigonier" Incident in Seifhennersdorf

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the events surrounding the anticipated arrival of aliens from the planet Trigon in Seifhennersdorf, Germany. The article "Angesichts irdischer Ausdünstungen drehten Außerirdische ab" (Faced with earthly exhalations, aliens turned away) by Bernhard Honnigfort details how parapsychologists Erika and Wolfgang Ressler had announced that an alien named "Jimmy" from Trigon would land on April 13, 1997, with three million refugees. The event attracted media attention and around 300 onlookers. However, the landing did not occur, leading to disappointment and vandalism by some of the crowd, who threw stones and broke windows. The police intervened. The article also mentions that media outlets like Sat.1 and RTL had reportedly offered significant sums for the broadcast rights, with Sat.1 securing a contract contingent on the landing actually happening.

Further reports, including "Jimmy: Zuviel negative Energie!" and "Ehepaar Ressler: Wir sind stinknormale Leute," chronicle the events from different perspectives. The Resslers claimed that "Jimmy" cited "too much negative energy" as the reason for not landing. The incident is framed as a media spectacle that devolved into a local disturbance, with some participants shouting right-wing slogans. The article "Lausitz kann sich nicht auf Außerirdische verlassen" (Lusatia cannot rely on aliens) by Tilo Berger critiques the event, suggesting it damaged the region's image and highlighting the contrast between the anticipated alien arrival and the local focus on tourism.

UFOlogy and Scientific Skepticism

Several articles discuss the broader landscape of UFOlogy and the scientific community's response. "Wir beamen, aber wie?" (We beam, but how?) examines Lawrence Krauss's book "Die Physik von Star-Trek" (The Physics of Star Trek), which theoretically explores the possibility of teleportation while acknowledging the immense energy requirements and technological challenges. Stephen Hawking is quoted in "Wir beamen, aber wie?" warning about the potential dangers of alien contact. The article "Kreuzritter einer selbstgeschaffenen Wahrheit?" (Crusaders of a self-created truth?) by Jenny Randles critiques the tendency within UFOlogy to foster paranoia and view themselves as "X-Agents" fighting a conspiracy. Randles argues for a more critical and self-reflective approach, suggesting that UFOlogists themselves might be contributing to the "cover-up" by resisting the deconstruction of cases.

Other pieces touch upon the Unarius Academy of Science, a group awaiting alien contact in 2001, and the general public's belief in UFOs and extraterrestrial intelligence in the US. The article "UFOlogen" (UFOlogists) notes the proliferation of UFO-spiritual organizations in the US, attributing their rise to cultural interest in space and science fiction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the tension between popular fascination with UFOs and aliens, often fueled by media sensationalism and conspiracy theories, and the skepticism of the scientific community. There is a clear editorial stance that critiques the more extreme and uncritical aspects of UFOlogy, such as the "Trigonier" incident and the "crusader" mentality described by Jenny Randles. The magazine highlights how media coverage can amplify these phenomena, sometimes blurring the lines between entertainment and genuine investigation. The articles often point out logical inconsistencies and the psychological motivations behind belief in UFOs and alien contact, suggesting a societal need for answers and meaning that is being met by these narratives. The overall tone is one of critical examination, dissecting the cultural impact and psychological underpinnings of UFO beliefs and the media's role in propagating them.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated June/July 1997, delves into the burgeoning UFO phenomenon and its pervasive presence in media and popular culture. The magazine adopts a critical and skeptical stance, aiming to dissect claims, expose hoaxes, and analyze the psychological and societal factors driving interest in the paranormal.

The UFO Cult and Media Influence

The issue highlights the widespread enthusiasm for UFOs, fueled by television, movies like 'Independence Day', and the popular series 'X-Files'. It describes this as a 'UFO cult', particularly among younger demographics, suggesting it serves as an expression of disillusionment with the establishment and a search for alternative truths. The magazine criticizes the 'UFO promoters' for conditioning the public and labels skeptics as 'party poopers' who are seen as agents of the 'UFO-denying establishment'.

The article "Die ich rief, die Geister ..." (I called, the spirits...) explores the growing trend of esotericism and the supernatural, linking it to technological fascination and a desire for the inexplicable. It notes that media outlets are increasingly focusing on paranormal content, with shows like 'X-Files' attracting a significant audience, particularly women. The magazine questions the motivations behind this trend, suggesting it preys on people's desire to believe in something beyond complex reality.

Critiques of Ufology and Specific Cases

CENAP REPORT engages in a critical examination of various UFO research groups and individuals. It discusses a dispute with the DEGUFORUM, specifically H.J. Heyer, accusing him of presenting 'esoteric ravings' and 'conspiracy worldviews'. The magazine refutes Heyer's claims, particularly his dismissal of a 'party balloon' as a UFO, and criticizes his logic and inability to learn from counterarguments.

The formation of the Center for Intergalactic Lifeforms e.V. (CIL e.V.) is mentioned, noting its origins from former CSETI members disillusioned with Greer. The group's stated goals of contacting extraterrestrials and promoting a better world are presented with a degree of skepticism.

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to debunking the 'Lesotho UFO Crash' incident, as reported by UFO-KURIER. The investigation, led by Michael Hesemann, concludes that the documents are fabricated and that the individuals involved, including 'Alexander Stein' and 'J. van Greunen', are part of a deception. The magazine points out inconsistencies in the documents, the lack of corroborating evidence, and the questionable backgrounds of those involved, suggesting it's a scheme to sell information.

The Kenneth Arnold Sighting Re-examined

The issue revisits the foundational Kenneth Arnold sighting of 1947, questioning its authenticity. It suggests that Arnold may have been influenced by contemporary experimental aircraft, such as the Vought XF5U-1, which was publicly demonstrated shortly before his sighting. The article posits that the 'flying saucers' he described could have been misidentified aircraft, and that the 'Boise Boys' connection, where several witnesses hailed from Boise, Idaho, might indicate a coordinated effort or a shared influence.

Media and Skepticism Debates

The magazine features a debate regarding an alleged antisemitic remark made by Werner Walter, a prominent skeptic, concerning Michael Hesemann. The controversy, sparked by an article in 'Unknown Reality', highlights the tensions and personal attacks within the ufology community. CENAP REPORT defends Walter's right to express his opinion, provided it doesn't violate legal boundaries, and criticizes the 'Fair Play' initiative for its perceived bias.

Parapsychology and Scientific Inquiry

An interview with parapsychologist Eberhard Bauer discusses the investigation of paranormal phenomena. Bauer emphasizes the need for critical, unbiased research and distinguishes between genuine phenomena and fraud. He notes the limited number of researchers dedicated to parapsychology and the public's often-misinformed perception of the field. The magazine aligns its approach to UFO research with Bauer's methodology, stressing the importance of examining evidence critically and excluding simple explanations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, CENAP REPORT maintains a consistent editorial stance: a commitment to rational inquiry, skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, and a critical analysis of media portrayals of paranormal phenomena. The magazine champions scientific methodology and warns against the dangers of uncritical belief, esotericism, and conspiracy theories, which it sees as potentially harmful to individuals and society. The recurring theme is the need for critical thinking in navigating the complex landscape of UFOlogy and the paranormal.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated June/July 1997, delves into a variety of UFO-related topics, including a heated debate on media portrayal of UFOs, the history and secrecy of Area 51, and the misidentification of atmospheric phenomena as UFOs.

Debate on 'Independence Day' and UFO Research Methodology

The issue features an exchange of letters between Michael Hesemann and R. Alexander regarding Hesemann's critique of the film 'Independence Day' and his approach to UFO research. Hesemann defends his use of polemics to engage a broader audience and prepare humanity for dialogue with the universe, arguing that scientific discussion is often hindered by entrenched academics. Alexander, however, criticizes Hesemann for relying on subjective interpretations and the biased SPIEGEL magazine, and for using polemics himself, which he believes undermines the seriousness of UFO research and public understanding.

Alexander argues that Hesemann's approach is not conducive to genuine scientific discussion and that the film 'Independence Day' itself, while potentially creating a 'mood,' should not be the basis for polemical arguments. He stresses the importance of distinguishing between a film critique and scientific work.

Hesemann counters that his intention was not an objective description but to highlight the film's underlying ideology, which he links to political rhetoric. He asserts that scientific discussion and political discourse require different approaches, and that without cynicism, US politics are incomprehensible. He believes that emotional responses to films like 'Independence Day' need to be countered on the same emotional level.

Area 51: The Secret Base

The magazine provides an extensive look into Area 51, also known as Groom Lake, a highly classified US Air Force facility in Nevada. It details the base's origins in the 1950s for U-2 spy plane training and its subsequent development for advanced reconnaissance aircraft like the A-12 Oxcart and the SR-71 Blackbird. The article explains how the secrecy surrounding these projects, coupled with the remote location and the need to protect advanced technology from Soviet surveillance, fueled UFO speculation.

It highlights the role of the CIA and USAF in these black projects, the use of the base for testing captured Soviet aircraft, and how the secrecy was maintained through disinformation, such as the 'radar test range' cover story. The article also touches upon the 'Aurora project' and other experimental high-speed aircraft, suggesting they are more likely explanations for some UFO sightings than extraterrestrial craft.

Debunking UFO Sightings: South Africa and Ohio

Two specific UFO incidents are analyzed and explained:

• South Africa (August 28, 1996): An object observed over Pretoria for over an hour was initially reported as a UFO. However, further information revealed it to be a misidentification of the planets Venus and Mars rising in the east just before sunrise. The witness's initial description of it as the 'morning star' was accurate.
• Ohio, USA (February 27, 1997): A witness reported a bright, hovering light over the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant. Investigations by authorities found no evidence of an unusual aerial object, and the light was later attributed to a bright planet or star.

The Balloon Hypothesis: Explaining UFOs

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to explaining how stratospheric balloons have been frequently mistaken for UFOs. It details the history of these balloons, used for meteorological and scientific research since the 1940s, including projects like SKYHOOK and MOGUL.

The article explains that these large balloons, often carrying scientific payloads, can expand to enormous sizes in the upper atmosphere. Their appearance, especially when viewed from a distance or in poor lighting conditions, can resemble disc-shaped or pulsating objects. The magazine cites examples from historical publications and admits that even experienced pilots and radar operators have been fooled by these phenomena.

It highlights specific instances where balloons were mistaken for UFOs, including the case of Captain Thomas Mantell, whose fatal crash was attributed to misidentifying a SKYHOOK balloon. The article also discusses the use of balloons for atmospheric experiments, such as the 'Thunderstorm III' project, which could create the illusion of a UFO being attacked by a rocket.

Other Topics and Correspondences

The issue also includes several letters and correspondences from readers and researchers:

• Critique of Authors: There are discussions and critiques of authors like Erich von Däniken and Hausdorf, with accusations of deliberate lies, exaggerations, and misinterpretations.
• The 'Roswell Alien' Hoax: The magazine addresses the Santilli film and a doctored image circulating online that purported to show an alien from a crashed saucer. It reveals this image was a computer-generated montage, combining elements from 'The Twilight Zone' TV series and the Santilli film.
• Yuri Isaacov Case: The case of Yuri Isaacov, an Israeli UFO contactee, is presented as a potential hoax. Isaacov claimed to have been abducted and exposed to an alien powder. However, investigations suggested he was seeking financial gain, and his claims were met with skepticism by other researchers.
• Professionalism in UFO Research: A discussion among correspondents (Wolfgang S., Mike, Werner) touches upon the definition of a 'professional' UFO researcher, distinguishing between amateurs with investigative skills and those with scientific or technical backgrounds applying their expertise to the field.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO evidence, the role of media in shaping public perception, the importance of scientific methodology in research, and the debunking of misidentified phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor a rigorous, evidence-based approach to UFO research, while acknowledging the public's fascination with the topic and the need for clear communication. There is a strong emphasis on distinguishing between genuine research and sensationalism, hoaxes, or misinterpretations, particularly concerning the 'Independence Day' film and the nature of UFO sightings.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated June/July 1997, focuses heavily on UFO phenomena, scientific balloons, and related conspiracy theories, with a significant portion dedicated to analyzing popular culture representations of these topics.

Cover Story: US Air Force Addresses UFO Fantasies

The cover story, titled "US-Luftwaffe nimmt UFO-Phantasien unter Beschuß" (US Air Force Takes Aim at UFO Fantasies), discusses the US Air Force's latest attempt to debunk the Roswell incident. The article highlights a 231-page report that attributes the 1947 crash to debris from a secret espionage balloon used for monitoring Soviet nuclear tests. The report suggests that witness testimonies were likely confused by later events, such as parachute tests with dummies, leading to the belief in extraterrestrial visitors. The article expresses skepticism towards the official explanation, noting the long history of government cover-ups and the public's continued belief in aliens.

The Skyhook and Moby Dick Balloons

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the National Scientific Balloon Facility and the history of high-altitude balloons. The issue features a diagram of a large 'MYLAR BALLOON' with detailed specifications, including its size, payload capacity, and operational altitude. It discusses the 'Skyhook' research balloon, noting its use in experiments since 1954, and mentions the 'Moby Dick' project, where balloons were used by the CIA for surveillance over the USSR. The article traces the development of these balloons from early materials like Scotch tape and polyethylene to their use in meteorological monitoring and even testing experimental equipment for spaceships.

Historical UFO Cases and Research

The magazine revisits several historical UFO cases and research efforts. It mentions early 'cosmic ray tests' conducted by the Navy using balloons and the confusion surrounding the Mantell incident, where the USAF initially identified a UFO as the planet Venus. The article also touches upon early stratospheric balloon flights by the New York University and the USAF for reconnaissance purposes, as well as experiments involving fruit flies and cosmic ray research. The development of the 'SUPER SKYHOOK' by General Mills is highlighted, along with an experiment testing early spaceship equipment.

UFOlogy and Skepticism

The issue includes a section titled "Die Kritik des Monats" (Criticism of the Month), which critiques the UFOlogy community. The author argues that many supposed UFO cases are actually misidentified known objects (IFOs) and that 'experts' often fail to provide rational explanations, thus perpetuating UFO myths. The article criticizes the tendency to jump to extraterrestrial conclusions without thorough investigation and laments the commercialization and ideological biases within UFO research.

'X-Files' and 'Dark Skies' TV Series

Two popular TV series are reviewed: 'X-Files' and 'Dark Skies.' The 'X-Files' segment discusses criticisms of its later seasons, particularly the perceived decline in quality, increased brutality, and departure from its original mystery format. The article notes the show's immense popularity but suggests that the creative team may be running out of ideas. The 'Dark Skies' review reports on its cancellation in the USA due to low ratings, attributing this to poor scheduling and competition. The article also mentions the producers' attempts to find new projects, including a potential UFO-themed project titled 'Hidden Power.'

Interview with Deep Throat (X-Files Character)

A substantial part of the magazine is dedicated to an interview with the actor playing 'Deep Throat' from 'X-Files.' The interview explores the character's origins, his role as an informant, and the political parallels drawn from the Watergate scandal. The actor discusses the show's political undertones, the authors' tendency to comment on political issues, and his personal views on conspiracy theories like the JFK assassination and the Roswell crash, which he dismisses as products of fantasy.

Other Hollywood News and UFO Sightings

The magazine includes a section on Hollywood movie news, mentioning the Oscar win for 'Independence Day' special effects and discussing the financial challenges of producing high-quality science fiction films. It also touches upon potential TV series adaptations of 'Stargate' and 'Timecop.' A personal UFO sighting from Zurich is described in detail, involving a spherical object with dangling legs observed in the evening sky. The witness, a former balloon and RC model builder, is unable to classify the object.

The Moon's Impact on Astronauts

An article titled "Der Mond veränderte sie alle" (The Moon Changed Them All) reflects on the profound impact of lunar missions on astronauts. It interviews several Apollo astronauts, including Jim Irwin, who became a pastor after his mission, and Alan Bean, who pursued a career as a painter of space-themed art. The article highlights how the experience of seeing Earth from the Moon fostered a sense of perspective and fragility, influencing their lives and careers long after their return.

Roswell Incident: New Explanations and Theories

The issue revisits the Roswell incident with a focus on the latest explanations. It details the US Air Force's ' Roswell Report' which posits that the debris was from a top-secret balloon project for nuclear test monitoring. The article contrasts this with witness accounts of small, alien-like beings and discusses the ongoing debate and skepticism surrounding the official narrative. It also mentions the 'CENAP-ARCHIV' and its skepticism towards UFOs, despite acknowledging the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent nature of UFO mysteries, the role of government secrecy and cover-ups, the challenges of distinguishing genuine UFOs from misidentified objects (IFOs), and the influence of popular culture on public perception of UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, acknowledging the possibility of UFO phenomena while emphasizing the need for rational explanations and debunking unsubstantiated claims. There is a clear skepticism towards sensationalism and a preference for evidence-based analysis, even while exploring the cultural impact of UFO beliefs.