CENAP Report - No 245

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: Nr. 245
Date: October/November 1997 (Cover date: 8/97)
Publisher: CENAP (Centrale Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene)
Language: German

This issue of CENAP REPORT, Germany's oldest UFO journal, is dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the Roswell incident, dubbed the 'UFO Circus'. The magazine, published bi-weekly, aims to critically analyze and disseminate information on UFO phenomena.

Editorial and Publication Details

The issue is published by Werner Walter, who also serves as Editor-in-Chief, with Hansjürgen Köhler handling investigator roles and distribution. The publication is based in Mannheim, Germany. The editorial notes that this is the 245th issue and that, despite planning for 64 pages, they had to expand to 96 pages due to the sheer volume of UFO-related reports, particularly from 1997, which was a significant year for UFO coverage. They express concern about the financial strain of these larger issues, hinting at a return to 64 pages in the future.

Cover Story: Roswell - The UFO Circus!

The cover prominently features a composite image of a U.S. Air Force saucer and the Earth, with headlines referencing historical UFO events (1897 Airships, 1947 Flying Saucers, 1997 Flying Triangles - 100 Years UFOs). The main story, 'Der Roswell-CR! Der UFO-Zirkus!', highlights the 50th anniversary of the Roswell incident in July 1997. The article describes Roswell as having become a 'pilgrimage site for UFOlogy', attracting thousands of visitors for a 'group dynamic community experience'. It notes that Roswell, alongside other locations like Marfa, Texas, and Elmwood, Wisconsin, has become a focal point for UFO ideology and belief.

The article criticizes the commercialization of the event, with local businesses offering 'Alien Margaritas' and souvenir merchandise. It quotes Robbie Rogers from the Roswell Inn and Jeanette Miller from the Chamber of Commerce, who anticipate significant revenue from the influx of tourists. The piece also touches upon the media frenzy surrounding the anniversary, with CNN and other news outlets providing extensive live coverage.

The Current Situation: The Party Remains on Track...

This section discusses the media's portrayal of the Roswell anniversary. An AP report by Martha Mendoza is mentioned, focusing on Frank Kaufmann (alias Steve MacKenzie), a key witness who came forward years after the event. The article notes that the Roswellian economy benefits from the 'legend', and that even the USAF's report, intended to debunk the incident, has only fueled further interest.

Reuters reported on July 1, 1997, about thousands of UFO fans and researchers flocking to Roswell for the anniversary. The film 'ID4' and 'The X-Files' are cited as contributing to Roswell's notoriety. The article mentions the sale of commemorative coins and UFO-themed merchandise.

UFO Experts Divided

Another Reuters report highlights the division among UFO experts. While many agree in mocking the Pentagon's official stance, they are also in conflict with each other, questioning each other's details and theories. The article points out that many involved have books or videos to sell and are invited to UFO events for speaking fees, leading to infighting. It states that there is a lack of physical evidence to support any claims.

The article notes the convergence of several factors that amplified the Roswell event in 1997: the American Independence Day holiday (July 4th) providing a long weekend, the Mars Pathfinder mission launch, and the general public interest in UFOs fueled by media like 'The X-Files'.

Media Coverage and Commercialization

CNN's extensive live coverage from Roswell is highlighted, contributing to the 'greatest mystery' of the US government. The article describes the town as having transformed into a hub for UFO enthusiasts, with businesses capitalizing on the event. Examples include the 'Alien Encounters '97' event, a mix of a village fair and a UFO convention. Visitors are drawn to the 'ground zero' of alleged alien landings.

The 'Roswell' Film and its Impact

The film 'Roswell' (1994), which aired on Showtime, is mentioned as having initially irritated Roswell residents but later became a catalyst for turning the event into a major attraction. Visitor numbers increased significantly from 1994 onwards, peaking in 1997.

Personal Accounts and Theories

Visitors like John Sealbing from Fullerton, California, shared personal experiences, including a dream about being abducted. Jerry Belcher from Minneapolis described his visit as part of a 'cosmic road trip'. The article also mentions the San Jose Mercury News report on the 'Journey to the center of the unearthly', featuring interviews with visitors and locals.

The 'Mythos' of Roswell

Several individuals, including George Stewart from the Roswell Inn, emphasize that the 'mythos' of Roswell is what truly lives and works there, transcending mere facts. The article notes that the commercial aspect is undeniable, with events and merchandise catering to the UFO phenomenon.

Non-Terrestrial Material?

A section titled 'NICHT-IRDISCHES MATERIAL?' (Non-Terrestrial Material?) discusses claims of recovered alien debris from the 1947 Roswell crash. Paul Davids is mentioned as sponsoring a presentation of alleged scientific test results on these fragments. Dr. Russel Vernon Clark, a chemist, is cited as having conducted isotopic tests that reportedly showed 'significant deviations' from terrestrial compositions, suggesting an extraterrestrial origin. However, the article also notes that Clark left the press conference abruptly, and other researchers, like Dennis Stacy, expressed skepticism about the evidence, calling it 'embarrassing' and detrimental to serious UFO research.

Media Frenzy and Tourism

The article details the extensive media presence in Roswell, with numerous TV crews and journalists covering the anniversary. The town's mayor, Thomas Jennings, acknowledges the economic benefits, while also noting that Roswell is often grouped with other controversial events like Waco. He highlights other aspects of Roswell, such as its connection to astronaut Edgar Mitchell and its mozzarella production.

UFOlogins and Skeptics

Susan Waner from Los Angeles identifies herself as a 'UFOlogin' and explains her presence as a way to show solidarity with the UFO community. She recounts a personal UFO sighting from 31 years prior. The article also mentions the division between those who believe in the crash and those who consider it a hoax, with 55% believing aliens crashed and 45% thinking it was a hoax, according to a CNN poll.

Media Speculation and Entertainment

Various media outlets are discussed for their coverage of the Roswell anniversary. CNN, MSNBC, and other networks provided extensive reporting. The article notes that the media's focus on the event, even if sensationalized, contributes to the public's perception of something significant happening.

The 'Roswell Incident' Anniversary Events

The article describes the various events and attractions during the 50th anniversary, including UFO museums, merchandise sales, and themed attractions. The 'Alien Encounters '97' event is characterized as a blend of a local fair and a cosmic UFO convention. The article also mentions the 'Hangar 18' show, a Hollywood-style reconstruction of the Roswell legend.

Media and the Roswell Myth

Several newspapers and TV critics are quoted, discussing the media's role in shaping the Roswell narrative. The article suggests that fiction is increasingly overshadowing facts in media portrayals. The 'Roswell' film is seen as a significant factor in popularizing the event.

Media Coverage of the Mars Mission vs. Roswell

There's a comparison between the media coverage of the Mars Pathfinder mission and the Roswell anniversary. While the Mars mission was a significant scientific event, the Roswell anniversary generated a comparable, if not greater, level of media attention and public fascination, particularly in the US.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the commercialization of UFO phenomena, the media's role in shaping public perception, the division among UFO researchers, and the enduring power of the Roswell legend. CENAP REPORT maintains a critical yet informative stance, providing extensive coverage of UFO-related events and investigations while encouraging a discerning approach from its readers.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated October/November 1997, focuses heavily on the 50th anniversary of the Roswell UFO incident, dubbed 'Roswell UFO Encounter 97'. The magazine details the massive influx of tourists, media frenzy, and commercialization that transformed Roswell into a global spectacle.

The Roswell Phenomenon: A Commercialized Spectacle

The town of Roswell experienced an unprecedented surge in visitors, with estimates ranging from 30,000 to over 100,000 people. The International UFO Museum and Research Center, along with other UFO-themed attractions, benefited greatly from this event. However, the report notes a division within the UFO community, with concerns raised about the commercialization overshadowing serious research. The article highlights the proliferation of UFO-related merchandise, books, and even 'alien-written' publications, leading some to feel that the 'serious side' of UFOlogy was being lost.

Erich von Däniken, a prominent UFO-historian, was a significant figure at the event, though his presentation reportedly faced criticism. The event also featured debates between researchers like Karl Pflock and Kevin Randle, with Pflock's logical presentation being contrasted with Randle's perceived struggle to convince the audience.

The Mayor of Roswell, Thomas Jennings, viewed the UFO week as a major economic driver, akin to the 'Super Bowl', estimating around 50,000 visitors. Despite the economic benefits, the article suggests not all citizens were pleased with the 'Alien-Nation' status.

Media Coverage and Public Perception

Media coverage was extensive, with outlets like CNBC, CNN, and The New York Times reporting on the event. The report notes that the media often sensationalized the story, with some articles being compared to tabloid journalism. The pervasive theme was that Roswell had become a 'business opportunity', with the 'Roswell-story' being a significant source of income for the town.

Diverse Opinions and Skepticism

While many embraced the festive atmosphere, skepticism was also present. Jesse Marcel Jr. expressed uncertainty about the extraterrestrial origin of the material his father showed him, admitting he had no scientific basis for his belief. Visitors like Wayne LeRoy found the crash site visit to be a way to connect with the incident, calling it potentially the most historically significant place on the planet. Others, like Karl Pflock, questioned the event's significance, referring to it as celebrating 'nothing'.

Religious and Philosophical Interpretations

The article touches upon the religious and philosophical aspects of UFO belief. Some preachers, like Chuck Missler, viewed aliens as 'fallen angels' and predicted a major confrontation between Christians and aliens. Conversely, abductees like Leah Haley believed aliens were peaceful. The idea of a mass alien landing leading to a drastic change in human religions, military, and economic systems was also discussed.

The 'Mars Effect' and Shifting Focus

Towards the end of the issue, the report notes a shift in public attention from Roswell to the Mars mission, with the landing of the Pathfinder and its rover generating significant global interest. This event, described as a 'wonder spectacle', briefly overshadowed the UFO narrative, highlighting the public's fascination with space exploration.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the commercialization of the Roswell incident, the media's role in shaping public perception, the diversity of opinions within the UFO community (from fervent believers to skeptics), and the cultural impact of the Roswell story. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical observation, acknowledging the phenomenon's cultural significance and economic impact while also highlighting the concerns about sensationalism and the potential neglect of serious research. The article also implicitly contrasts the 'party atmosphere' of Roswell with the more scientific pursuit of space exploration, as seen with the Mars mission.

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue Date: October/November 1997
Issue Number: 245
Language: German

This issue of CENAP REPORT delves deeply into the UFO phenomenon, with a strong emphasis on the 50th anniversary of the Roswell incident in 1997. It explores the media's role, the commercialization of the event, and the ongoing debate between believers and skeptics. Additionally, it touches upon contemporary space exploration, particularly Mars missions, and presents various UFO-related news and research.

The Roswell Phenomenon: 50 Years On

The central theme of this issue is the 50th anniversary of the Roswell incident. The magazine highlights how the event, initially reported as a crashed flying saucer, has evolved into a massive pop culture phenomenon. Martha T. Moore of USA Today is quoted as saying, "It's almost as if the country has fallen in love with Mars," reflecting the widespread fascination.

The issue details the media frenzy surrounding the anniversary, with numerous news outlets, including MTV and Time Magazine, covering the story. The economic impact on Roswell, New Mexico, is significant, with the town experiencing a boom in tourism due to the UFO festival. Stan Crosby, a festival coordinator, notes the influx of visitors and the media attention, stating that the event has brought considerable revenue to the town.

However, the magazine also presents a strong skeptical viewpoint. Phil Klass, a UFO skeptic and author, is featured, along with his research that questions the validity of many UFO claims. The article "Roswell: Der Zusammenbruch" (Roswell: The Collapse) discusses how key figures and documents are leading to a re-evaluation of the Roswell incident. Kent Jeffrey, a prominent UFO investigator, publicly admitted he was mistaken about a crashed alien spacecraft in Roswell, attributing the event to a secret military balloon project (MOGUL). Walter Haut, the former press officer who issued the original Roswell crash press release, also recanted, stating it was exaggerated and likely a balloon.

Several articles discuss the alleged evidence and testimonies related to Roswell, often debunking them or questioning their authenticity. The role of researchers like Michael Hesemann and Stanton Friedman is also scrutinized, with criticisms of their methods and claims.

Mars Exploration and Other UFO News

Beyond Roswell, the issue touches upon current space exploration. The NASA Global Surveyor probe is mentioned as having successfully entered Mars orbit, with the goal of mapping the planet in high detail. The Pathfinder mission, which landed on Mars earlier in the year, is also referenced.

Another article, "Spur im Sand - wer fuhr denn da auf dem Mars herum?" (Track in the Sand - Who Drove on Mars?), discusses a mysterious track found on Mars, with NASA suggesting it was made by the "Sojourner" rover or possibly geological formations, while dismissing claims of alien activity.

A Spanish UFO researcher, Salvador Diez, claims to have photographic evidence of an "Alien City" located on the seabed near Mallorca. He believes these UFOs are not from other planets but from an underwater alien civilization.

Media and Skepticism

The magazine frequently critiques the media's handling of UFO topics, accusing some outlets of sensationalism and contributing to a decline in journalistic standards. The article "Der Niedergang der journalistischen Standards" (The Decline of Journalistic Standards) laments the focus on superficiality and the lack of critical analysis in media coverage.

Conversely, the issue also highlights the work of researchers who are dedicated to a scientific and objective approach to UFO investigation. Phil Klass is presented as a prominent figure in this regard, advocating for evidence-based research and debunking unsubstantiated claims.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the enduring fascination with the Roswell incident, the commercialization of UFO phenomena, the role of media in shaping public perception, and the ongoing tension between belief and skepticism in the UFO community. The editorial stance appears to favor a critical and evidence-based approach to UFO research, often questioning sensationalist claims and highlighting the work of debunkers and skeptics.

The magazine seems to be critical of what it perceives as a decline in journalistic integrity and a rise in unsubstantiated beliefs, particularly concerning UFOs. It champions scientific rigor and objective analysis, while acknowledging the public's continued interest in the unexplained.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated October/November 1997, delves deeply into the Roswell UFO incident, presenting a critical and often skeptical perspective. The magazine questions the prevailing narratives, scrutinizes the evidence, and explores the media's role in shaping public perception. It features in-depth analysis, interviews, and opinions from various figures within the UFO community and beyond.

Critiques of the Roswell Narrative

The issue opens with a critique of the uncritical acceptance of UFO stories, citing the Roswell incident as a prime example. Kal Korff is presented as a key figure challenging the popular Roswell narrative. His work, particularly his book 'Roswell UFO Crash Update: Exposing the Military Cover-Up of the Century,' is highlighted for its attempt to 'clarify the truth behind one of the most famous UFO cases.' Korff's approach emphasizes the quality of evidence and witness testimony over quantity, leading him to identify only a few credible witnesses out of many.

The article details the controversy surrounding Korff's work, including accusations of KKK-like methods and Nazi comparisons from Michael Hesemann. It also touches upon the inconsistencies in witness testimonies, particularly Loretta Proctor's changing accounts, and the tendency for alleged witnesses to claim 'photographic memories' that conveniently align with the UFO narrative.

The 'Alien Autopsy' Film Controversy

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the 'Alien Autopsy' film. Bob Kiviat and Kal Korff investigated the film, with Korff acting as a 'forensic ufologist.' However, the investigation became contentious, with Korff feeling sidelined by Ray Santilli and his associates. The article suggests that the film was hyped into a 'man-made mystery,' fueling a frenzy within the UFO community. Doubts are raised about the film's authenticity, with analysis of the film stock and alleged dating methods being questioned.

Skepticism and Debunking Efforts

Stan Friedman is presented as a prominent UFOlogist who expresses frustration over media coverage, particularly an article in US News and World Report that downplayed the Roswell incident. Friedman also criticizes other UFO researchers and their work, indicating a deep division within the community. The article also notes Friedman's past collaborations and subsequent disputes with other researchers like Randle and Schmitt.

Kent Jeffrey, initially a proponent of the International Roswell Initiative, is highlighted as having 'jumped ship' and become a skeptic. His shift in stance is met with strong criticism from some UFOlogists who accuse him of being a 'debunker' and a 'saboteur' aiming to infiltrate and damage the UFO movement. Jeffrey's own explanation is that he found no evidence to support the extraterrestrial nature of the Roswell crash, concluding it was 'case closed.'

Military Perspectives and Official Statements

Several former military personnel, including Ex-Colonels Walter Klinikowski, Walter Vituanac, and George Weinbrenner, issued a joint statement in June 1997. They asserted that, despite media attention and public perception, there was no evidence of an extraterrestrial spacecraft crash at Roswell in 1947. They stated that their positions within the Foreign Technology Division (FTD) at Wright-Patterson AFB would have made them aware of any such event, and they affirmed their commitment to truth and transparency.

These statements are contrasted with the persistent belief in a government cover-up held by many UFO enthusiasts. The article notes that even when presented with official documents, such as a memo from Colonel H.M. McCoy of the Air Intelligence, which discussed the possibility of 'inland-origin' objects, believers continue to insist on an extraterrestrial explanation.

The Commercialization of Roswell

The magazine extensively discusses how Roswell has become a significant tourist destination, driven by the UFO legend. The town has embraced its UFO fame, with museums, events, and merchandise capitalizing on the incident. Local businesses acknowledge that tourism is vital for the town's economy, and the Roswell myth is seen as a profitable venture, regardless of its factual basis.

Media coverage, from Hollywood films like 'ID4' and TV shows like 'The X-Files' to news reports, is shown to have amplified the Roswell myth. The article points out that the legend gained traction in the late 1970s and 1980s, long after the alleged event, suggesting that media sensationalism played a crucial role in its popularization.

Media and Public Perception

The issue highlights how media outlets, including TIME Magazine and various newspapers, have covered the Roswell incident. While some articles present the official explanations and skeptical viewpoints, others acknowledge the enduring power of the myth and the public's willingness to believe. The article notes that the 'will to believe' is a strong factor in the continued perpetuation of the Roswell legend.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards sensational UFO claims, the critical examination of evidence, the influence of media on public perception, and the commercial exploitation of the Roswell myth. The editorial stance is clearly critical of unverified UFO narratives, advocating for a rational and evidence-based approach. The magazine seems to align with the view that the Roswell incident, as popularly understood, is largely a manufactured myth, fueled by media sensationalism and a public desire to believe in the extraordinary.

The issue also touches upon the internal conflicts and divisions within the UFO community, with researchers often accusing each other of being debunkers or purveyors of misinformation. The overall tone suggests that while the Roswell incident remains a potent cultural phenomenon, its factual basis is highly questionable according to the perspectives presented.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated October/November 1997, delves into the world of ufology with a critical and skeptical perspective. The cover story, "Tassen im Tiergarten," discusses the "Ufoday" event in Berlin and the broader UFO community's engagement with the 50th anniversary of the Roswell incident. The magazine features articles scrutinizing UFO events, researchers, and the industry itself.

Roswell in Crisis and the 'Ufoday' Event

The issue opens by detailing the impact of the Heaven's Gate tragedy on UFO events, leading to reduced sponsorship. Deon Crosby of the International UFO Museum and Research Center in Roswell had to scale back plans for the 'Roswell UFO Encounter '97' due to a lack of advertising partners for a planned TV special. Despite this, tens of thousands were still expected for the week-long event, which included speakers like Erich von Däniken and Linda Moulton Howe, and a forum on alien abductions.

The "UFO-Day in Old Germany" event in Berlin, announced as the largest UFO event in the German-speaking world, is critically reviewed. Thousands were expected, with a lineup of UFO speakers and entertainers. However, the event faced issues, including media access being denied to press representatives unless they paid, and the overall impact was less significant than anticipated. The promotional hype for the event is contrasted with the reality of its scale and media coverage.

CENAP's Skeptical Stance

The magazine highlights CENAP's long-standing role as a skeptical organization, collecting UFO reports since 1976 and consistently finding no evidence of extraterrestrial visitors. The article "Die Mannen vom 'Centralen Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Phänomene' (Cenap)" details their work and frustration with the public's continued fascination with invasion films and conspiracy theories like 'Akte X'. CENAP's critical stance is further emphasized by their harsh press releases attacking the "supernatural nonsense" at the Tempodrom event.

UFOlogy and its Commercialization

The issue explores the commercial aspects of ufology, noting the sale of UFO-related merchandise at events. The article "Waren die Götter kleine wuschelige Wesen?" questions the nature of reported alien encounters, touching on themes of alien implants and the psychological aspects of belief. It also critiques the tendency for UFOlogists to invent elaborate theories, sometimes bordering on conspiracy.

Critiques of UFO Conferences and Researchers

Several articles offer sharp critiques of UFO conferences and prominent figures. Andy Roberts' report on the "CIA" conference in Lytham highlights the uncritical acceptance of conspiracy theories by attendees and the questionable claims of speakers like Marcus Allen and Derrel Sims. Roberts dismisses Sims' claims about implants as unsubstantiated.

Nick Pope, formerly of the Ministry of Defence, is also discussed, with his book "Open Skies, Closed Minds" being described as potentially one of the worst UFO books. Simon Lewis's presentation on triangular UFOs and alleged structures on the moon is met with skepticism.

The article "Auf UFO-Cons, da kann man was erleben..." details the experiences of attendees at UFO conferences, often finding them to be filled with uncritical believers, conspiracy theorists, and commercial opportunists. The article "Hier scheint die Redaktion keinen Durchblick zur Differenzierung zwischen UFOlogie und UFO-Forschung zu haben" criticizes the blurring of lines between ufology and UFO research, and the self-serving nature of some within the community.

The 'Armageddon Evacuation to Siberia' Theory

A peculiar report from Russia details the "Millennium-Fieber" and a theory presented by Vladimir Sobolyov of the Rerikh Academy. Sobolyov predicts a cosmic Armageddon and an impending 30-degree tilt of the Earth, advocating for an evacuation of humanity to Siberia with the help of 'flying saucers' from a 'fourth dimension'. This theory, based on prophecies and analyses of Nostradamus, was presented at an international congress of ufologists and astrologers.

CENAP's Defense and Editorial Stance

CENAP defends its critical approach against accusations of being "fanatical opponents" or "militant skeptics." They assert that their methodology is based on scientific principles and the demand for evidence for extraordinary claims. The magazine criticizes the tendency within ufology to dismiss rational explanations and embrace unsubstantiated theories, particularly those related to conspiracy and alien cover-ups.

The Decline of the UFO Industry?

The issue speculates on a potential decline in the UFO industry, citing the cancellation of the "Dialog mit dem Universum" conference due to low registration, the flop of the Berlin UFO meeting, and the discontinuation of publications like "Challenge" and the "Die UFO-Akten" novel series. The article suggests that the market is saturated with similar content, and the public's interest may be waning, or shifting towards other forms of mystery entertainment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO claims, the distinction between ufology and scientific investigation, the commercialization of the UFO phenomenon, and the persistent belief in extraterrestrial visitation despite a lack of concrete evidence. CENAP's editorial stance is consistently skeptical, advocating for rational explanations and scientific rigor in the study of unexplained aerial phenomena. They position themselves as informed researchers within the UFO field, aiming to debunk misinformation and expose the flaws in unsubstantiated theories.