CENAP Report - No 244

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, issue number 244, dated July 1997, is a German-language publication focused on UFO phenomena. The cover prominently features the title "CENAP-REPORT" and highlights historical UFO milestones: 1897 (Airships), 1947 (Flying Saucers), and 1997 (Flying Triangles - 100 Years of UFOs). The main cover image depicts a UFO with U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army markings hovering over Earth, with the caption indicating it's a composite of a NASA Apollo XI mission photo combined with a USAF-AVRO-Car. The issue's main headlines include "UFOs: Worldwide Sightings," "Taft: UFO Photo Competition," "Abduction News in CR," and "Aliens in Cinema + TV."

Editorial and Publisher Information

The magazine is published bi-weekly in Germany. Werner Walter is listed as the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, with his address in Mannheim. Hansjürgen Köhler is the Case Investigator and distributor, also based in Mannheim. The CENAP hotline number is provided. CENAP is described as Germany's oldest and most comprehensive UFO journal, established in 1976. It is an independent, non-commercial organization that critically analyzes reports of unidentified flying objects. CENAP is integrated with the GWUP (Society for the Scientific Investigation of the Paranormal) and has been recommended by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Interior as a point of contact for UFO reports. They also offer a UFO information service to astronomical institutions and collaborate with international organizations, maintaining a UFO video archive.

Main Articles and Features

UFO Sightings: What Flashed Over the Palatinate?

This section begins by discussing a crop pictogram found in Altrip near Ludwigshafen, reported to have been created on the night of July 4th-5th. The formation was approximately 50 meters long and contained several circles. The article notes that the creation date might be inaccurate, as information about it was already circulating on July 4th. It also mentions that RTL Regional Television reported on it. The author, Werner Walter, visited the site and found the formation to be somewhat amateurish, with evidence of stakes used to flatten the crop. He also discovered a wooden stake, sharpened and twisted, suggesting a tool used in its creation.

The article then shifts to a series of UFO sightings reported in the Pfalz and Odenwald regions around July 5th, 1997. Witnesses described a strange light in the northern sky, sometimes accompanied by green flashes, which appeared to be hovering and moving slowly. One witness attempted to follow the object by car but found it was always moving away, suggesting intelligent control. The object was observed moving with a star constellation, which the witness found unusual.

On July 11th, the BILD newspaper reported on a sighting in Weilersbach (Kaiserslautern district) of a bright, blinking object. A police patrol confirmed the sighting, estimating its distance at about 10 km and its altitude at approximately 400 meters. The object emitted red and green lights and had a bright white spotlight that moved.

The Star Capella: A UFO Over the Kurpfalz?

Several news outlets, including BILD and the Pirmasenser Zeitung, reported on the Weilersbach sighting. Werner Walter of CENAP identified the object as the star Capella, explaining that its bright, twinkling appearance, with colors like blue, green, and red, is due to atmospheric light refraction. He noted that Capella is the second brightest star after Sirius and is 41 light-years away. The article includes a photo of the star Capella and a sky map. It also mentions that Jimmy Carter, a former US President, once mistook Venus for a UFO. The article concludes that the 'UFO' was likely the star Capella, visible in the northeastern sky.

UFO Over Barmbek: Thousands Believed They Saw a UFO

This article addresses reports from Hamburg about a blinking object seen in the night sky over Barmbek. Werner Walter again identified this as the star Capella, explaining that its bright light and apparent 'jumping' are caused by atmospheric distortions. He noted that Capella is visible for about a month and its colors are due to light refraction near the horizon.

UFOs Over the Osthafen: Frankfurt Rundschau

This section discusses a weekend event in Frankfurt called "Spaceship Daimlerstraße," organized by the Mousonturm and the Institute for New Media (INM). The event featured a rocket launch, interactive computer games, and a performance by dancer Anton Skryzpiciel. It also included an interview with UFO researcher Werner Walter, who has been investigating UFO phenomena for 20 years and runs a UFO hotline. Walter explained that many reported UFO sightings are actually misidentifications of objects like hot air balloons or, more recently, 'Sky Trackers' (powerful lights used at events). He mentioned that the number of UFO reports has increased significantly with the popularity of such lights.

Bückeburg: Contact with UFOs by Candlelight

This article details an incident in Bückeburg where two girls, Sabine Schwarz and Anna Großmann, claimed to have seen a UFO and attempted to communicate with it using candles. They reported a white-red blinking light that reacted to their candle movements. The story attracted media attention, including from RTL and Sat1. Werner Walter was contacted for his expertise. The girls described the object changing shape from a circle to a triangle and having a colorful light ring. Their mother also witnessed the event. The article notes that other residents did not report seeing anything unusual, and suggests that the phenomenon might have been related to 'Sky Trackers' or other atmospheric effects, despite the girls' conviction that it was an extraterrestrial encounter.

Always Greifswald: The Greifswald Case

This section revisits the Greifswald case from August 24, 1990. The author expresses frustration that UFOlogists are still debating the case, despite extensive coverage in CENAP, TV, and a book titled "UFOs: The Truth." The article criticizes Dr. Helmut Lammer of MUFON-CES for his approach, particularly his reliance on a specific witness and his dismissal of CENAP's findings. Lammer is quoted as saying that the phenomenon was not explainable by natural science, while Walter suggests it could be explained by ground-to-air rockets. The article also mentions footage from the "Mysteries" TV show on RTL, which featured the Greifswald case and showed new film material. The physicist I.v.Ludwiger is quoted as disagreeing with the 'military illumination' explanation. The Gröchel family's footage of lights over the Baltic Sea is discussed, and the article contrasts the objective film documentation with subjective interpretations, particularly those of Bernhard Grochel.

UFO Stimulus: MON

This section includes a report from Hobart G. Baker about mistaking the moon for a UFO in 1974. Baker describes seeing a large, glowing, hemispherical object that he initially identified as a UFO. He later realized it was the moon, distorted by atmospheric conditions. He emphasizes how easily one can be mistaken and how important it is to have a scientific explanation for such phenomena. Baker notes that such misidentifications are common and that he has documented many cases, including a trucker mistaking the moon for a 'gigantic tennis ball UFO.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CENAP-REPORT are the misidentification of astronomical objects (primarily stars like Capella) as UFOs, the role of media in sensationalizing UFO reports, and the critical, investigative approach of CENAP. The magazine consistently aims to provide rational explanations for reported phenomena, often pointing to atmospheric effects, misinterpretations of known objects, or technological sources like 'Sky Trackers.' There is a clear stance against unsubstantiated claims and a preference for evidence-based analysis. The editorial tone is critical of sensationalism and highlights the importance of scientific investigation in understanding UFO reports. The magazine also seems to engage in debates with other UFO research organizations, such as MUFON-CES, questioning their methodologies and conclusions.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated September/October 1997, delves into various UFO phenomena, with a particular focus on the media's role in sensationalizing sightings and the critical analysis of eyewitness accounts and official explanations. The cover prominently features "UFO-Alarm" with the bold statement, "What we have here, is the real thing - they are here."

Greifswald Phenomenon

The magazine revisits the Greifswald UFO sighting, referencing a new film from a Berlin family that shows formations of lights similar to the famous Luchterhand film. The film reportedly shows lights descending from a formation, a detail not present in previously known footage. The article questions the explanation provided by Mr. Ludwiger and notes that Siegfried Streubel from MUFON-CES considers the observed phenomena to be genuine and the witnesses credible. However, the authors express skepticism towards MUFON-CES, particularly regarding their alleged investigations in France and their lack of response to the CENAP REPORT's own critical stance.

Phoenix Lights and Media Coverage

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the "Phoenix Lights" incident from March 13, 1997. The magazine acknowledges an error in its previous assessment, where it had classified the lights as a formation of balloons. It details how the event, initially overlooked by the media, suddenly became a major news story after USA Today published an article. Major US television networks like CBS, NBC, and CNN covered the story extensively. The article criticizes the media for not being more thorough in their research and for not presenting a balanced view, especially by not including the skeptical perspective of CENAP REPORT and its associates.

The official explanation from the Air National Guard is presented: the lights were flares from military aircraft during a routine exercise over the Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range. Despite this explanation, many witnesses, including amateur astronomer Mitch Stanley, reported seeing the lights. The article also touches upon the sensationalism surrounding the event, with some UFOlogists linking it to the Roswell incident and speculating about extraterrestrial involvement. The role of 'Marsologist' Richard Hoagland is mentioned, who suggested a connection to a planned NASA announcement about life on Mars.

Analysis of Object Characteristics

The magazine discusses various characteristics attributed to UFOs, including their shapes (disc, cylinder, V-formation, cluster of lights), colors (bright, orange, white, red-orange, green), and behaviors (hovering, descending, maneuvering, releasing smaller objects, changing color, emitting sparks). It notes that some sightings involved objects that appeared to be releasing flares or smoke, and that electromagnetic effects, such as watches stopping, have been reported.

Colorado's Gigant-UFO

The issue features a detailed account of a sighting by Tim Edwards in Salida, Colorado. Edwards reportedly filmed a large, silver, disc-shaped object that appeared to release smaller glowing discs. He captured several hours of video footage between September and October 1995. The object was described as cigar-shaped and was observed for about 75 minutes before moving rapidly towards the southwest. The analysis of the video by Village Labs, founded by Jim Dilettoso, suggested it was an "Alien Visitation Craft." The article also notes Edwards' subsequent psychological distress and obsession with the phenomenon.

Other Sightings and Explanations

Several other sightings are discussed:

• Devon Sightings (UK): A report from the English UFO Magazine about a "British UFO Wave 1996" mentions sightings of a "silver disc" in Devon, which was later speculated to be a weather balloon or a re-entry.
• Cornwall Sighting (UK): A video captured by the Godfrey family showed a bright, star-like object developing a wide tail, initially thought to be a re-entry or bolide, but later investigations ruled out military re-entry.
• New Daylight Video: Mike DeVarennes from Scottsdale, Arizona, filmed a hovering object, possibly a balloon.
• Denver Sighting (USA): Bob Hetsko filmed a bright, orange-to-green light descending rapidly, which he found anomalous compared to conventional aircraft.
• Sydney Blimp Incident (Australia): An illuminated advertising blimp caused a mass UFO hysteria in Sydney, with hundreds of calls to the UFO hotline.
• St. Petersburg Sightings (Russia): Reports of "UFO parades" with formations of lights, described as red-orange and powerful, were observed. These were later explained by some as flares from military exercises.

Skepticism and Critical Analysis

The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance, questioning the sensationalism surrounding UFO reports and the interpretations offered by some UFOlogists. It criticizes the tendency to jump to conclusions and highlights instances where seemingly unusual phenomena have mundane explanations, such as flares, balloons, or aircraft. The article by Peter Krassa regarding the Roswell incident is also critiqued for its perceived lack of factual orientation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the influence of media coverage, the importance of factual investigation, and a general skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims. The editorial stance is one of urging caution, demanding evidence, and questioning the narratives presented by both ufologists and official sources when they appear to lack rigor or transparency. The magazine emphasizes the need for a more factually oriented approach to UFO research, contrasting it with what it perceives as sensationalism and a "will to believe."

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated September/October 1997, delves into a variety of UFO-related topics, presenting a mix of witness accounts, investigative analysis, and news from the UFO community. The cover story, "Das Bombardement aus dem Weltall" (The Bombardment from Space), discusses the threat of asteroids and comets to Earth and the potential need for nuclear weapons for defense. The magazine also features a significant portion dedicated to the controversial case of Tim Edwards and his UFO footage, alongside other reported sightings and analyses.

The Tim Edwards Case and UFO Filming

The report details the experiences of Tim Edwards, who began filming UFOs, particularly near the sun. His story gained traction, leading to commercialization efforts like 'Alien-Beer' and insurance against alien invasions. Edwards shared his UFO video material with Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell, who did not react. The narrative highlights the scrutiny Edwards faced, with Peter Davenport of NUFORC criticizing his 'sun material.' Edwards also encountered John Bro, another filmmaker of 'sun UFOs.'

Edwards' family observed a cigar-shaped object on Highway 17, capturing thirteen photos. He attempted to contact NORAD and other research centers, but met with little success. Edwards presented his material at an international UFO congress, where he was interviewed by Michael Hesemann. His interactions with MUFON's Walt Andrus were reportedly dismissive.

Later analysis, particularly from a Hesemann commercial video, cast doubt on Edwards' 'sun UFOs,' suggesting he filmed against the sun, with the objects being possibly insects or lens flares. The report notes Edwards' partial blindness and its potential impact on his judgment.

The Giancarlo Cecconi Case: An Italian UFO Encounter

This section details a sighting by Italian Air Force Marshal Giancarlo Cecconi on June 18, 1979. While flying a Fiat G-91 R reconnaissance aircraft, Cecconi was asked to investigate an unknown target. He managed to take 82 photos of a black, cylindrical object hovering in the air. The object was described as having a small white spot or dome on its surface. Despite initial investigations and media attention, the Italian Ministry of Defense eventually classified the object as a 'cylindrical balloon made of black foil.' However, the UFOlogist Antonio Chiumiento, who interviewed Cecconi, felt the released photos did not fully represent what the pilot had seen.

UFOs in the News and Public Perception

Several news snippets highlight public interest and reactions to UFO phenomena. A report from the "Rhein-Neckar-Zeitung" mentions a "hotline to 'UFO Experts'" at CENAP, where Werner Walter provides information and seeks natural explanations for unusual aerial phenomena. Another article from the "Berliner Zeitung" discusses the 'Rael Sect' and its plans for human cloning, linking it to beliefs about extraterrestrial origins.

A "Wiesbadener Kurier" article reports on a "UFO Hysteria" in Rehau, where police had to calm down ten UFO enthusiasts who mistook stars and aircraft lights for a UFO landing. The "Nürnberger Nachrichten" also covers this event, with police humorously logging that the UFO enthusiasts and the patrol were "beamed back to their starting bases."

Government Declassification and Misidentification

An article from the "Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung" titled "Außerirdische Besucher als Spionageflugzeuge enttarnt" (Extraterrestrial Visitors Unmasked as Spy Planes) discusses a CIA study. This study suggests that many reported UFO sightings, particularly during the Cold War, were actually misidentified American reconnaissance aircraft like the U-2. The CIA allegedly used this phenomenon to its advantage as part of psychological warfare, as the public's belief in UFOs could distract from Soviet aerial threats.

The report mentions Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting of 'flying saucers' and how the CIA exploited the public's fascination with UFOs. The U-2 aircraft, with its reflective silver exterior, flying at high altitudes, was often mistaken for UFOs. The article also notes that other spy planes like the SR-71 Blackbird may have contributed to similar misidentifications.

Erich von Däniken's UFO Park and Other Reports

Erich von Däniken, the author known for his theories about ancient astronauts, plans to build a "Mysteries of the World" amusement park in Interlaken, Switzerland, by the year 2000. The park aims to recreate ancient sites and alleged alien encounters.

TAFF UFO Photo Contest and Witness Accounts

The Pro7 television show "TAFF" launched a UFO photo contest, inviting viewers to submit their evidence. The report includes several submissions, such as Sven Mühlmann's account of a triangular object, Stefanie Jeske's photos from Formentera, and a report from Chris Dimperl about a photo analyzed by the Belgian military academy. Wolfgang Hermann submitted photos taken with a telescope, and A.M. Lucas described strange 'flying objects' observed in Sereetz.

Two anonymous senders describe a close encounter with a bright, diamond-shaped object that appeared to approach them rapidly. One witness reported a rocket-like object passing very close, leaving a smell similar to a burnt electric motor and causing a sunburn-like effect on their skin. This incident led to an investigation by authorities, who seemed to be monitoring UFO-related activities.

Asteroid and Comet Threats

Another article, "Das Bombardement aus dem Weltall," discusses the threat posed by asteroids and comets to Earth. It highlights the Peekskill meteorite impact in 1992 and the Tunguska event in 1908. Christian Gritzner, a scientist at the Institute for Space Research, concludes that early detection and deflection, possibly using nuclear weapons, are crucial for planetary defense.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently touches upon the theme of misidentification of aerial phenomena, whether they are military aircraft, natural occurrences, or hoaxes. There's an underlying skepticism towards sensationalized UFO claims, balanced with an acknowledgment of genuine unexplained sightings. The magazine seems to present a range of perspectives, from those who believe in extraterrestrial visitation to those who seek rational explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to examine evidence carefully while acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding UFOs. The report also highlights the psychological impact of such beliefs and the potential for exploitation.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated September/October 1997, focuses on UFO phenomena, photographic evidence, and alleged alien implants. It features reader submissions, expert analyses, and critiques of media coverage.

Reader Submissions and Photographic Evidence

The magazine highlights several reader-submitted photographs. One contributor, who wishes to remain anonymous, shares a photo taken in September 1995, describing how a single object split into two disk-like objects before disappearing rapidly. Despite an initial dismissal by a research institute as 'balloons,' the contributor finds this explanation unsatisfactory due to the object's maneuverability.

Rosmarie Wicki from Steffisburg, Switzerland, has compiled a photo documentation of 'phenomenal photos,' including potential UFOs and celestial images. She believes cosmic radiation is visible on her photos, suggesting it's a form of communication from extraterrestrials, possibly to warn of natural disasters. She expresses frustration that her submissions are often rejected by publications focusing only on 'scientific' or 'sky objects.'

The TAFF UFO Photo Contest

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the TAFF (a German TV program) UFO photo contest. The contest invited viewers to submit UFO pictures, with the best ones to be reviewed by UFO expert Rolf-Dieter Klein. The magazine details the contest's progression, including interim results and the eventual winner.

Klein, described as a 'professional UFO hunter,' reportedly found natural explanations for most submissions. However, he was stumped by a photo from Stefanie Jeske from Düsseldorf, taken on July 29, 1995, over Formentera, Spain. This photo was awarded a prize, including a weekend trip to Berlin for the IFA (International Funkausstellung). The CENAP REPORT, however, claims to have identified this object as a large weather balloon from Italy, suggesting Klein's expertise was flawed due to a lack of thorough investigation and reliance on external information.

Other notable photos discussed include a 'Russia photo' (deemed a trick), a 'UFO-Nessy' created with video editing, and a 'flying triangle from Belgium,' which was reportedly classified as 'real' by students at a Belgian military academy.

Alien Implants and Abductions

The issue extensively covers the topic of alleged alien implants. It discusses the work of Derrel Sims, an ex-soldier and self-proclaimed 'Alien Hunter' from Houston, Texas, who specializes in abductions. Sims claims to have collected numerous physical 'proofs' of alien interaction, including various types of implants.

Dr. Roger Leir, a podiatrist and UFOlogist, is also featured for his work in surgically removing alleged alien implants. The magazine details cases where Leir, assisted by Sims, removed objects from patients who believed they were abducted. These implants were described as metallic, dark, or needle-like, and were found in locations without prior scarring. Leir's findings were subjected to laboratory analysis, with some results suggesting the materials were not of terrestrial origin.

The magazine also touches upon the work of John Mack and David Pritchard, who have shown interest in abduction phenomena and alleged implants. The discussion includes the idea that implants might be used for tracking or monitoring abductees.

Media Critique and Skepticism

CENAP REPORT is critical of how media outlets, particularly Pro7, handle UFO topics. The magazine accuses Pro7 of manipulating viewers, citing the 'Roswell-Abend' programming as an example where a previously explained UFO photo (Stefanie Jeske's) was presented as unexplained.

The magazine also highlights the skepticism surrounding UFO research, noting that some individuals label Derrel Sims as a 'deluded showman.' It points out the difficulty in obtaining credible evidence and the tendency for some researchers to be dismissed or ridiculed.

Specific Cases and Analysis

The Stefanie Jeske Photo: The magazine asserts that the 'mysterious' photo from Stefanie Jeske was a weather balloon released in Italy on July 29, 1995, over the Balearic Islands. They claim to have received multiple video recordings and witness accounts confirming this identification, suggesting that Klein's failure to identify it was due to arrogance and ignorance.

The Brigitte Lansky Photo: This photo, initially presented as a 'flying sailor's cap,' is revealed to be a hoax. Lansky reportedly created a model, inspired by a previous 'Schilling photo,' and photographed it to replicate a UFO image.

Implant Analysis: The magazine discusses the analysis of a 'wire-like object' removed from an abductee's nasal area. SEM analysis indicated it was primarily composed of carbon and oxygen, with a gelatinous sheath. Its identity, function, and purpose remain unknown.

The 'Green Fireball' Incident: An anonymous witness reported seeing a large, green fireball descend near the Rocketdyne facility in Simi Hills, California. Military personnel were present, and the witness was told the area was secured due to a 'vehicle' that had landed and was being repaired.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO evidence, the skepticism surrounding UFO claims, and the critique of media sensationalism. CENAP REPORT positions itself as a source of more in-depth, critical analysis, often challenging the conclusions of mainstream UFO researchers and media outlets. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards easy explanations and a demand for rigorous, scientific investigation, while also acknowledging the persistence of unexplained phenomena and the psychological impact of alleged abductions.

This issue of CENAP REPORT (Nr. 244, September/Oktober 1997) focuses on UFO phenomena, alien encounters, and contemporary science fiction films and television series. The magazine features articles on UFO investigations, the psychology of abduction experiences, and reviews of popular media.

Dr. Roger K. Leir as UFO Researcher

The article highlights the work of Dr. Roger K. Leir, an UFOlogist and surgeon specializing in alien implants. It references an article in the MUFON UFO Journal detailing UFO sightings in Southern California during the winter of 1996, particularly in Camarillo, Ventura County. These events led to extensive research by MUFON. A specific case from November 29, 1996, describes a bright object observed by a horse breeder family for 30 minutes. The object moved slowly and exhibited unusual behavior, including apparent separation of smaller objects and a 'dissipation' effect. Subsequent sightings occurred, with MUFON members documenting the events. The investigation involved technical analysis of video footage, which suggested the object was of solid nature and not a conventional aircraft. Computer analysis indicated a speed of 4,000 to 6,000 mph, leading to the conclusion that the object was unidentifiable. The article notes that while civilian satellites were checked, military involvement was not disclosed by NASA.

A Critical Look at the Camarillo Case

The report questions the thoroughness of the Camarillo investigation, drawing a parallel to a similar incident in Stuttgart that was later identified as a weather balloon. It criticizes the MUFON practitioners for not recognizing this possibility and suggests that the case might have been weak for a lead article. The article also touches upon John Mack's admission of lacking UFO knowledge when starting his abduction research, contrasting it with Dr. Leir's prior UFO expertise.

Alien Hunter Sims

This section profiles Derrel Sims, an individual described as an 'Alien-Hunter' with a purported MIB-like biography. Sims claims to possess psychic abilities gained from an 'intergalactic war' with a leader named 'Mondoz'. His methods, including identifying abductees through handwriting analysis and a 'Symbolic Profiling' system, are presented. The article notes that Sims runs a 'secret abductee group' and uses hypnosis. HUFON President Donna Lee was reportedly 'identified' as an abductee through his methods. The report also mentions an investigation by a private detective hired by Rebecca Schatte, which uncovered tax problems for Sims and alleged fraudulent business dealings. Sims's background as a former MP is also briefly mentioned.

Abduction Experiences: Good or Bad?

A forum discussion at the Project Awareness UFO Conference in Tampa, Florida, addressed the question of whether alien abductions are beneficial or detrimental. Participants, including Dr. Roger Leir, Linda Moulton Howe, Colin Andrews, John Carpenter, Budd Hopkins, and Dr. Courtney Brown, offered varied perspectives. Dr. Leir deflected the question, while Linda Howe admitted confusion. Colin Andrews remained uncertain about crop circle origins. John Carpenter suggested viewing abductions as 'dates'. Budd Hopkins expressed skepticism about benevolent 'star brothers', and Dr. Brown suggested the situation was more complex than a simple good/evil dichotomy, noting potential for advanced spiritual development in abductees.

The Abductor: Who are they?

Dr. Helmut Lammer of the Space Research Institute proposed in an article that 'military involvement in UFO abductions' might be the reality, suggesting that alleged abductees are actually abducted by terrestrial military or intelligence agencies using advanced technology to simulate alien encounters. These 'MILAB' operations, he posits, are part of a dark US government agenda for mind-control or genetic experiments, potentially linked to the SDI program. The article notes that this concept was also featured in the MUFON UFO Journal.

Abductions and FPPs (Fantasy-Prone Personalities)

This section discusses the concept of 'Fantasy-Prone Personalities' (FPPs), identified by psychologists Sheryl Wilson and Theodore Barber. FPPs are described as individuals who often report false pregnancies, experience fantasies as real, have strong childhood memories, possess supernatural abilities, and frequently report out-of-body experiences and sightings of otherworldly beings. The article draws a parallel between these characteristics and alleged abduction experiences, suggesting that FPPs might be more susceptible to such claims.

The Role of Sleep Paralysis and Brain Stimulation

Susan Blackmore, a psychology lecturer, suggests that sleep paralysis plays a significant role in abduction experiences. She explains that during REM sleep, muscles are paralyzed, and waking during this state can lead to a feeling of being crushed or suffocated, often accompanied by dreams of sexual arousal. Blackmore also discusses experiments involving the stimulation of the temporal lobes of the brain, which can induce intense hallucinations, including visions, voices, and feelings of levitation, as described by neurologist Michael Persinger. US psychiatrist Kenneth Ring also views temporal lobe stimulation as a potential neurological mechanism behind near-death experiences and abductions.

Religious Aspects of Abductions

John Whitmore, a religion scholar, notes the 'unusual richness of religious details' in abductee reports, highlighting moral, metaphysical, and apocalyptic elements. He compares abduction experiences to 'conversion experiences' found in various religious traditions, suggesting that the study of abductions could offer insights into religious concepts.

Science Fiction Film and TV Reviews

The magazine includes several reviews of contemporary science fiction films and TV shows:

• "The Cape": A TV series that is not highly regarded, with its main appeal being NASA's authentic space footage.
• "Dark Skies": Mentioned as having ended, and not as thrilling as "The X-Files".
• "The X-Files": The upcoming movie is discussed, with anticipation for its release and the promotional tour by stars Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny. The article speculates that the movie might mark the end of the series.
• "The Lost World": A sequel to a dinosaur spectacle, noted for its impressive effects but ultimately deemed not essential.
• "The 5th Element": Criticized for its perceived lack of substance and comparison to 'Mary Poppins' and 'Flash Gordon', despite starring Bruce Willis.
• "Men in Black" (MIB): Praised for its blend of comedy, drama, and action, and its innovative use of computer-generated aliens interacting with live actors. The film's success is attributed to its ability to capture the public's imagination and the director's (Barry Sonnenfeld) understanding of the need for cinematic experiences that cannot be replicated on television.
• "Godzilla" (1998): Roland Emmerich's ambitious production is highlighted, emphasizing the advanced computer graphics and practical effects used to create the giant monster. The article notes the significant investment in visual effects and the trend towards larger-than-life cinematic spectacles.
• "Species 2": Briefly mentioned as a potential sequel.
• "Ringworld": Larry Niven's series is noted as being in production.
• "Alien 4" (Alien Resurrection): The film is discussed, focusing on the cloned Ripley and the concept of cloned aliens. The article expresses hope that it will not be a disappointment like "The 5th Element".
• "Raumschiff Orion": The potential for a new TV series is discussed, with details about its planned setting and characters. However, financial disagreements between Emmerich's company and Pro7 reportedly led to the project's collapse.
• "The Visitor": A new Sci-Fi series from 20th Century Fox about a World War II pilot abducted by aliens.
• "Akte X" (Season 3, "The Abduction"): Criticized for being a compilation of previously aired episodes.

Contact

The film "Contact", based on Carl Sagan's novel and starring Jodie Foster, is discussed. It is described as a more human drama than a pure sci-fi spectacle, focusing on the theme of intelligence from distant worlds. The film is noted for its scientific approach and its attempt to portray a realistic contact scenario. The article mentions the cast, including Matthew McConaughey, John Hurt, James Woods, Tom Skerrit, David Morse, and Rob Lowe.

Radio Astronomy and SETI

The potential for "Contact" to boost interest in radio astronomy and SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) is mentioned. The article touches upon the ongoing efforts to listen for extraterrestrial messages and the debate about whether humanity's own radio transmissions might inadvertently attract attention.

The Future of Cinema

Roland Emmerich reflects on the future of filmmaking, predicting that in 20 years, individuals will be able to create films of comparable quality to current blockbusters from their homes. He emphasizes the increasing importance of computer graphics and visual effects in attracting audiences.

Am Rande angemeckert (On the Sidelines, Grumbled)

This concluding section offers a critical commentary on the approaching year 2000, dismissing widespread doomsday predictions as unfounded. It argues that the media, particularly Hollywood, sensationalizes events and promotes mysticism to generate profit. The article contrasts this with the optimistic outlook of "Raumschiff Enterprise" and notes the blurring lines between reality and fiction in contemporary media, particularly in shows like "The X-Files". The author calls for a more guided approach to information consumption in the digital age.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, alien abductions, the potential involvement of military forces in these phenomena, and the cultural impact of science fiction. The editorial stance appears critical of sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims, while also acknowledging the public's fascination with these topics. There is a clear emphasis on investigative journalism and a desire to separate fact from fiction, even within the realm of speculative entertainment.