CENAP Report - No 243

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr. 243, 6/97 (August/September 1997)
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, a German UFO journal, focuses on the apparent withdrawal of US government agencies, particularly NASA and the CIA, from UFO investigations. The cover boldly proclaims "The US Government is Getting Out!" and highlights that NASA, USAF, and CIA are rejecting UFOs, with a mention of a "Roswell Conference" and "Heaven's Gate and its consequences."

US Government Exits UFOs

The lead article discusses how 1997 marked a significant year for US government agencies regarding UFOs, suggesting a move to divest themselves of the topic after 50 years. The issue details NASA's official stance, as found on their website, stating they have no factual knowledge of UFOs or evidence of extraterrestrial life. NASA's previous involvement included the High Resolution Microwave Survey (HRMS) program to search for extraterrestrial signals, which was halted in 1993 due to budget cuts. The article also notes NASA's relatively small budget within the US federal government.

NASA's Early Interest in UFOs

The magazine delves into NASA's historical interest in UFOs, referencing a 1967 management instruction from the John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC) regarding the processing of reports of sightings of space vehicle fragments and other unidentified objects. This instruction aimed to establish procedures for handling such reports, including contacting military bases for assessment. The article suggests that this directive might have been influenced by the need to track potential Soviet space technology and re-entry debris, rather than a direct investigation into extraterrestrial phenomena.

CIA's Role in UFO Study (1947-1990)

This section examines a CIA study that traced the agency's involvement in UFO investigations from the late 1940s to 1990. The study indicates that the CIA had substantial interest in UFOs until the early 1950s, viewing them as a potential national security threat, especially during the Cold War. Sightings, particularly radar contacts, prompted investigations and the formation of study groups. However, the CIA's interest waned, and by the 1950s, they were primarily focused on explaining sightings as conventional phenomena or misidentifications, while maintaining a low public profile to avoid creating the impression that UFOs were real.

The article highlights the CIA's focus on national security interests and their coordination with the USAF's Project Blue Book. It also mentions the possibility that the Soviet Union might have used UFO reports as a tool for psychological warfare, potentially to overwhelm US warning systems and facilitate a surprise attack.

Astronaut Sightings and Phenomena

Several articles discuss UFO-like phenomena observed by astronauts and in space. One piece addresses astronaut Ulrich Walter's experience of light flashes during his space missions, attributing them to high-energy particles impacting the eye, possibly exacerbated by weaknesses in the Earth's magnetic field over regions like Argentina. Another section questions whether the Russian space station MIR had a UFO encounter in 1992, presenting footage of a cylindrical object. However, the article suggests this could be space debris or a detached panel from the station.

Further reports cover alleged UFO sightings during Space Shuttle missions STS-37 and STS-51, with the magazine attributing these to water droplets or ice crystals within the spacecraft, debunking claims of extraterrestrial craft.

James Oberg Interview

Aerospace expert James Oberg criticizes both the Russian space agency and NASA. He discusses his work at NASA's Mission Control and his role in space shuttle projects. Oberg clarifies that he never witnessed a takeover of NASA by the NSA or CIA, noting that restrictions primarily apply to military projects. He also debunks claims about Maurice Chatelain being a NASA communications chief, describing him as a former contractor who was dismissed for pursuing personal interests.

RAND Corporation Report

The issue mentions a 1968 RAND Corporation report titled "UFOs: What to Do," which was declassified and made available due to public interest. RAND has previously stated that they do not produce UFO reports for external distribution, suggesting that any internal reports were for specific purposes and not part of a broader government cover-up.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CENAP-REPORT consistently adopts a critical and investigative stance towards UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained sightings, the magazine often provides rational explanations or highlights official government positions that downplay or dismiss extraterrestrial origins. There's a recurring theme of debunking sensationalist claims and separating fact from fiction, particularly concerning government involvement and astronaut testimonies. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards extraordinary claims, favoring scientific explanations and official reports, while still acknowledging the public's enduring fascination with UFOs. The magazine aims to inform its readers about official government documents and scientific analyses related to UFOs, often contrasting these with more speculative theories within the UFO community.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated August/September 1997, focuses heavily on the historical involvement of US intelligence agencies, particularly the CIA and USAF, with the UFO phenomenon. The cover story, "CIA's Nightmare: Saucers Landed Before the Capitol!" highlights the perceived threat and secrecy surrounding UFO investigations.

Early CIA and USAF Involvement

The report details how in the early 1950s, the CIA, under figures like H. Marshall Chadwell, became concerned that the Soviet Union might be using UFO reports for psychological warfare or to disrupt US defense systems. Chadwell urged the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI) and the National Security Council (NSC) to establish a dedicated UFO investigation unit. This led to the formation of the Robertson Panel in 1952-1953.

The Robertson Panel, composed of scientists, reviewed UFO evidence and concluded that most sightings had rational explanations and did not pose a threat to national security or indicate extraterrestrial origins. They also warned that excessive UFO reporting could create mass hysteria and disrupt government functions. This led to a decrease in the CIA's active interest in the subject.

The U-2 Program and UFO Sightings

In November 1954, the CIA initiated the U-2 reconnaissance project. The high-altitude flights of these silver aircraft, especially during sunrise and sunset, led to numerous UFO sightings reported by pilots and air traffic controllers. The USAF, to protect the secret nature of the U-2 program, often attributed these sightings to natural phenomena or ice crystals, contributing to a form of cover-up.

The Roswell Incident and the 1997 USAF Report

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the Roswell incident and the USAF's 1997 report, "Roswell-Report: Case Closed." The report aimed to debunk the popular UFO mythology surrounding the 1947 event.

According to the report, the debris recovered near Roswell was from a U.S. Army Air Forces balloon-borne research project code-named MOGUL. The alleged sightings of "alien bodies" were attributed to anthropomorphic test dummies used in high-altitude balloon experiments designed to test parachute recovery systems for astronauts. The report emphasized that many of the relevant documents were not classified and had been publicly available for years.

This explanation was met with skepticism by many UFOlogists, who argued that the test dummy experiments occurred years after the 1947 incident. The magazine notes that the Roswell incident had become a significant part of UFO lore, driving tourism to the town and fueling a "UFO cult."

Media Coverage and UFOlogist Reactions

The magazine analyzes media coverage of the 1997 USAF report, including reports from CNN, NBC, RTL, and ABC. While the USAF presented its findings as conclusive, many UFOlogists, such as those from MUFON and the Fund for UFO Research, criticized the report as a cover-up or an insult to public intelligence. Figures like Donald Keyhoe and Dr. Leon Davidson had previously pressured the CIA for information regarding the Robertson Panel.

Later Developments and CIA's Stance

The report touches upon the CIA's continued, albeit minimal, interest in UFOs, often in the context of potential Soviet technological developments or counter-intelligence aspects. By the 1970s and 80s, the CIA's focus shifted towards more traditional scientific studies, and they largely ceased active UFO investigations, considering the matter 'settled' since the 1950s.

Notable Cases and Research

The magazine briefly mentions other UFO-related research, including the French GEPAN investigation into a UFO landing case in Trans-en-Provence, which found physical evidence like phosphates and zinc, suggesting a significant event occurred.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout the issue are government secrecy, intelligence agency involvement in UFO investigations, the struggle to reconcile official explanations with public belief, and the media's role in shaping the UFO narrative. The editorial stance appears critical of the official explanations, highlighting the skepticism of UFOlogists and suggesting that the truth remains elusive or intentionally obscured. The magazine emphasizes the historical context of the Cold War and the need for national security as driving factors behind the handling of UFO information.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated August/September 1997, focuses heavily on the 50th anniversary of the Roswell UFO incident, exploring the ongoing debate, the official explanations, and the cultural impact of the event. The magazine presents a critical look at the phenomenon, questioning the motives and credibility of various sources.

The Roswell Incident: 50 Years On

The lead story, "Der Glaubenskrieg um das Roswell-Ufo" (The War of Faith over the Roswell UFO), details the heightened excitement in Roswell, New Mexico, leading up to the 50th anniversary. The town is preparing for an influx of "UFO pilgrims" from around the world, with hotels fully booked and special events planned. The article highlights the commercialization of the incident, with souvenirs, tours, and even 'alien-themed' merchandise.

Official Explanations vs. UFOlogist Beliefs

The magazine contrasts the official U.S. Air Force (USAF) report, which claims the Roswell debris was from a weather balloon and the alleged alien bodies were test dummies, with the persistent beliefs of UFOlogists. The USAF report, released in a 231-page document, is presented as an attempt to "close the case." However, UFO enthusiasts, including ex-physicist Stanton Friedman, dismiss this as a continuation of the cover-up, demanding that the "flying saucer" be revealed.

MUFON's Stance

The Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) is presented as a vocal critic of the government's handling of the Roswell incident. A press release from MUFON accuses the Pentagon of a "cover-up of the cosmic event" and cites the Brookings Report from 1961, which suggested withholding evidence of extraterrestrial life from the public.

The Commercialization of Roswell

The article "Roswell at the heart of U.S. alien nation" by Mark Leibovich of the Mercury News is referenced, noting how Roswell has transformed into a "Kook City" and a hub for UFO-related tourism. The town embraces the legend, with events like "UFO Encounter" and "Alien Encounter" drawing large crowds. Tours to the alleged crash site and sales of 'authentic' debris samples are common.

Other UFO-Related Topics

The issue also touches upon other aspects of the UFO phenomenon:

• Alien Types: The magazine discusses two main types of alleged extraterrestrials: "Greys" (small, hairless, with large heads and black eyes) and "Nordics" (taller, blond, human-like).
• UFOlogy as Religion: The article "Der Faktor Glauben und Religion" (The Factor of Belief and Religion) suggests that UFOlogy has become a quasi-religion for many, with adherents often exhibiting a strong, unshakeable belief system similar to religious faith.
• The 'Alien Encounter' Conference: Pastor Jim Suttle of Calvary Chapel in Roswell organized a conference to discuss the UFO phenomenon from a Christian perspective, suggesting that UFO narratives are used by Satan.
• Astronauts' Views: Astronauts like Gordon Cooper and Edgar Mitchell are mentioned for their statements on UFOs, with Mitchell calling for a serious UFO investigation by Congress.
• The 'Extraterrestrial Highway': The article "Wo die US-Regierung gekaperte Ufos versteckt" (Where the US Government Hides Hijacked UFOs) discusses the "Extraterrestrial Highway" in Nevada and the theories surrounding Area 51, including claims of secret experiments with aliens and recovered UFOs.
• The Travis Walton Abduction: The story of Travis Walton, who claims to have been abducted by aliens for five days, is recounted, with him sharing his experience at a UFO conference in Berlin.
• UFOs in the News: Various newspaper clippings are presented, showing how UFO sightings and the Roswell incident were reported in different publications, often with skepticism.
• The 'Heavens Gate' Cult: The issue briefly mentions the "Heavens Gate" cult, linking it to the dangers of extreme beliefs.
• UFOs and Religion: The article "Wenn Ufos kommen, hilft nur noch beten" (When UFOs Come, Only Prayer Helps) discusses a UFO conference in Berlin where attendees shared personal experiences and beliefs, with some seeing Jesus Christ as protection against alien abduction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the enduring mystery and cultural impact of the Roswell incident, the skepticism surrounding official explanations, the commercialization of UFO phenomena, and the psychological and sociological aspects of belief in extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be critical and analytical, questioning the claims of UFOlogists while acknowledging the persistent public fascination with the topic. The magazine seems to lean towards debunking or at least questioning many of the more sensational claims, often highlighting the lack of concrete evidence and the role of belief and media influence.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated August/September 1997, delves deeply into the complex and often controversial world of UFO phenomena, government secrecy, and the ongoing quest for disclosure. The magazine adopts a critical and analytical stance, scrutinizing claims, debunking sensationalism, and examining the motivations behind various UFO research initiatives.

Key Articles and Themes

The 'Alien Interview' and its Aftermath

The issue dedicates significant attention to the 'Alien Interview' video, a piece of footage that has sparked considerable debate. The article questions its authenticity, highlighting the poor film quality and the conflicting statements from various individuals involved, including Michael Hesemann and Sean David Morton. Hesemann initially suggested the footage might align with the South African UFO crash of 1989 but later expressed doubts about its veracity, suggesting it could be a fabrication or a misinterpretation of events.

Steven Greer and CSETI's Project Starlight

A major focus is on Steven Greer and his organization, CSETI (Center for the Study of Extraterrestrial Intelligence), and its 'Project Starlight.' The magazine details Greer's efforts to push for government disclosure of UFO information through congressional briefings and a proposed UN symposium. The article outlines Greer's 'Close Encounters of the Fifth Kind Initiative,' which aims to establish direct contact with extraterrestrial civilizations using 'non-linear' methods. However, the magazine also presents criticisms of Greer's approach, including accusations of commercializing the UFO phenomenon and making exaggerated claims. The high cost of CSETI membership ($1,000) is also noted.

Critiques of UFOlogy

CENAP REPORT is highly critical of what it perceives as the unscientific and sensationalist aspects of UFOlogy. It laments the tendency for the field to be populated by 'UFO Kooks' and 'Saucer Wackos' who promote wild speculations and 'adventure stories' rather than rigorous investigation. The magazine contrasts this with the methods of 'real science,' which it states relies on confirmation and further research, unlike the 'rumor mill' that often characterizes UFOlogy. The issue also touches upon the commercialization of UFO experiences, citing examples of individuals selling books and videos based on alleged encounters.

Specific Cases and Incidents

• The issue references several specific cases and incidents:
• A report of a UFO landing and being transported to Area 51.
• An alleged alien interview in January 1990.
• A UFO crash in South Africa in 1989.
• A UFO encounter by a Navy pilot off the coast of Iceland in February 1951.
• An incident at Edwards AFB in October 1965.
• A wave of UFO sightings in Bonnybridge, Scotland, starting in 1994.
• CSETI's investigation in Bonnybridge in October 1996.
• A CE-5 encounter near Stirling, Scotland.
• The observation of a triangular craft near Loch Lomond, Scotland.
• An incident at McGuire AFB in 1978 involving a non-human entity.

The GOES-9 Satellite Anomaly

The magazine discusses the GOES-9 satellite anomaly, where an unusual object was detected. While some UFOlogists immediately speculated about alien involvement, the article explains that it was likely a scanner dropout or a data artifact, a common occurrence in satellite imagery.

The 'Hale-Bopp' Comet and Esotericism

The issue touches upon the public's reaction to the Hale-Bopp comet, noting how it fueled various doomsday predictions and UFO-related speculations. It criticizes the tendency to link astronomical events with occult or pseudoscientific explanations, particularly highlighting the 'Transition 3000' publication and its claims about disease-carrying fluids within the comet.

The 'Transition 3000' Publication

The magazine scrutinizes 'Transition 3000,' an organ of an 'international news agency for fringe science,' edited by Thomas Tankiewicz. It criticizes the publication's commercial approach and its reliance on 'Technical Remote Viewing' (TRV) for information, questioning the validity of such methods and the high cost of subscriptions.

Criticism of Media and UFOlogists

CENAP REPORT expresses frustration with how the media often handles UFO topics, sometimes sensationalizing them and at other times dismissing them. It also criticizes UFOlogists who, in the magazine's view, contribute to the field's poor reputation through unsubstantiated claims and a lack of critical self-reflection. The article notes that even within the UFO community, there are differing opinions and criticisms, such as those voiced by MUFON regarding Greer's actions.

The 'Ambassadors to the Universe' Event

The issue mentions an upcoming 'Ambassadors to the Universe' training event in England, organized by CSETI, which focuses on 'remote sensing' and 'field research.' The high cost of this event ($2,100) is highlighted.

James Oberg's Critique

James Oberg, a UFO researcher, is mentioned for writing an open letter to Greer, questioning the need for government protection for whistleblowers in the UFO field, arguing that such individuals can already speak freely without repercussions.

Richard J. Boyland's Claims

Richard J. Boyland is presented as another figure making bold claims about UFO cover-ups and predicting formal alien landings, suggesting an 'era of open extraterrestrial contact' is imminent.

The Roswell 50th Anniversary Event

The magazine notes the upcoming 50th-anniversary events for the Roswell incident in Berlin, including a UFO congress and the presentation of 'Roswell Declarations.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is a critical examination of the UFO phenomenon and the community surrounding it. CENAP REPORT positions itself as a voice of reason and skepticism, aiming to separate factual evidence from speculation, sensationalism, and commercial interests. The magazine consistently questions the credibility of claims, the methods used in UFO research, and the motivations of prominent figures in the field. There is a strong emphasis on the need for scientific rigor and a rejection of what is perceived as 'esoteric nonsense' or 'pseudo-science' within UFOlogy. The editorial stance is one of cautious inquiry, advocating for transparency and disclosure while remaining highly critical of unsubstantiated claims and what it views as the commercialization and sensationalization of the UFO topic.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated August/September 1997, features a cover story titled "Verwirrt, krank, verzweifelt" (Confused, Sick, Desperate) focusing on the alleged suffering of Russian space heroes. The issue delves into various UFO-related topics, including alleged alien encounters, cults, and conspiracy theories, with contributions from authors like Travis Walton and Johannes von Buttlar.

UFO-Entführungsbericht: Travis Walton

The article discusses the C.E.T.I. project and an upcoming UFODAY event in Berlin, organized by Joachim Koch, aiming to provide broad information rather than commercial profit. It also touches upon the interest from Rainer Holbe and Mario Ringmann.

Don Ecker meldet sich: Wer ist verantwortlich?

Don Ecker of UFO Magazine questions who is responsible for the Heaven's Gate mass suicide. He criticizes UFO promoters like Art Bell and Ed Dames for sensationalizing stories and presenting inaccurate information. Ecker recounts Dames's past claims, including predictions of a UFO event in New Mexico and aliens migrating from a dying planet, which later proved false. He also mentions Art Bell's guests, such as Hale-Bopp 'companion' promoter Lee Shargel, and the discussion of the mass suicide in San Diego.

Ecker recommends studies on cults, such as Christopher Evans's "Kulte des Irrationalen" and James R. Lewis's "The Gods have landed new Religions from outer space." He also points to CR 113, "Noch eine Sekte: IUEL." Ecker calls for those in the UFO scene who are misleading people to stop calling themselves serious researchers and admit they are providing entertainment. He expresses frustration with media outlets that sensationalize UFO information without critical questioning, citing Art Bell's role in promoting 'craziness.' The article mentions a call from Dwight Schultz about a MUFON meeting featuring Guy Kirkwood, a former USAF pilot who claimed to be part of a secret UFO intercept squadron.

Konspirativ-paranoid angesetzte Glaubenssysteme

This section discusses apocalyptic and conspiratorial belief systems on the internet, referencing the Jonestown massacre and the Waco incident. It highlights the evolution of 'destructive cults' that are extravagant, radical, and anti-clerical. The article contrasts these with the actions of David Koresh and the Heaven's Gate cult, noting how their beliefs, influenced by UFOs and extraterrestrial salvation, contributed to their tragic ends. It also mentions Giorgio Bongiovanni and Eugenio Siragusa, who claimed contact with extraterrestrials and angelic beings, and the controversial stigmatization of Bongiovanni.

Michael Hesemann is quoted discussing the need for a 'clear, ruthless clarification of the UFO mystery' to prevent such events. He argues that UFO research should not be a substitute religion and warns against false prophets who mislead believers. Hesemann suggests that the lack of a foundation in 'serious religion' and awareness of the 'UFO phenomenon's reality' makes people vulnerable to cults. The article also touches upon the concept of 'Ashtar Sheran' channeling and criticizes the commercialization of UFO research, particularly by publications like M2000, which Hesemann is associated with.

UFO-Rausch in Spanien: Rush-hour am Himmel

This article details a 'Night of UFO Hunters' event in Spain where numerous UFO sightings were reported. Participants used radios and telescopes to scan the skies for unidentified flying objects. The reports included oval objects with blinking lights and s-shaped flight paths. The article notes the skepticism of some, with one expert suggesting Jupiter as a possible explanation for a sighting, while others, like Bruno, the chief ufologist, urged calm due to the overwhelming number of calls.

Der Außerirdische: Verhör im Militärstützpunkt

This section presents a report about a supposed alien interrogation video, allegedly smuggled out of Area 51. The video shows a small, grey-skinned being with large, insect-like eyes. The interrogation is described as telepathic. The article questions the authenticity of the video and mentions Bob Lazar's claims about alien beings held in underground facilities at Area 51. It also touches upon the historical context of UFO sightings and the US Air Force's stance on UFOs, stating they stopped investigating in 1969 and that most sightings were explained as aircraft or weather phenomena.

Herr von Buttlar, was ist mit den Außerirdischen?

Johannes Freiherr von Buttlar, an author and UFO researcher, expresses his belief in extraterrestrial life and UFOs. He discusses the significance of 'Area 51' and its 'S-4' facility. He recounts his own experience of being threatened with being shot down while attempting to fly over Area 51. He mentions the 1947 Roswell incident and the alleged recovery of alien bodies and wreckage by the 509th Bomb Group. Von Buttlar also refers to the testimony of Dr. Jesse Marcel Jr., whose father was involved in the Roswell recovery, describing unusual metallic fragments.

Das Leid der russischen Raumfahrt-Helden

This article details the psychological and physical toll of space travel on Russian cosmonauts. It highlights the case of Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space, who reportedly suffered memory loss and disorientation after his flight. Walentina Tereschkowa, the first woman in space, is described as having experienced severe health problems, including bone density loss and bleeding, after her mission. The article also mentions that she was pressured to have a child with fellow cosmonaut Adrian Nikolajew to study the effects of space travel on offspring.

Scientology und ihr Alien-Geheimnis

This section explores the alleged alien secrets within the teachings of Scientology, founded by L. Ron Hubbard. It suggests that the organization's higher ranks are privy to information about aliens and a galactic federation. The article claims that Hubbard's teachings describe 'Tetans,' malevolent entities that inhabit humans, and that Scientology courses offer the only salvation from this 'cosmic original sin.' It mentions a controversy in the Swedish parliament regarding Scientology's 'sacred scriptures' and the organization's efforts to prevent their disclosure.

UFO-Flitzer

This article investigates a reported UFO sighting by Aer Lingus pilots near Stansted, UK, in June 1996. The pilots described a 'red aircraft with blue and white stripes' that narrowly missed their plane. Investigations by air traffic control and the British Civil Aviation Authority found no record of any aircraft in the area at that time, leading to speculation about a possible model aircraft or even a UFO. The incident was also reported by BBC and The Daily Telegraph.

News von der UFO-Ranch

This report discusses the failure of the National Institute of Discovery Science (NIDS) project on a ranch in Uintah County, Utah, which was established to investigate alleged UFO phenomena. After months of observation, scientists found no evidence to support the claims of UFO activity or cattle mutilations.

Da fiel was vom Himmel!

This section discusses the re-entry of a Delta II rocket stage into Earth's atmosphere. The event created a spectacular fireball visible across five states. Debris from the rocket, identified as a capsule-shaped tank, landed on a property in Texas. The article notes that while the re-entry was widely reported, the landing of the space debris received less attention. It also touches upon the potential danger of falling space debris.

Ein Billy Meier-Vertrauter packt aus!

A comic strip satirizing a Billy Meier confidant who claims to have seen UFOs and that photos are real, but insists on being a rational, critical observer before heading off to see Hale-Bopp.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently questions official narratives and promotes a skeptical yet open-minded approach to UFO phenomena. It highlights perceived cover-ups by governments and military organizations, while also critiquing sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims within the UFO community itself. There is a recurring theme of distinguishing between genuine research and what is perceived as 'entertainment' or 'pseudoscience.' The editorial stance appears to favor critical investigation and transparency, urging media to present information responsibly and question extraordinary claims. The magazine also shows an interest in the psychological and societal impacts of belief systems, including cults and conspiracy theories, and their intersection with UFO phenomena.