CENAP-REPORT

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP REPORT, titled "Nr. 247 1/98," is dated January/February 1998 and is published by CENAP, a German organization dedicated to the critical investigation of UFO phenomena. The cover features a striking composite image of Earth with a flying saucer, and the main headline announces an invitation to a research project titled "How UFOs Came to Germany!" The issue aims to be a "thick number," indicating a substantial amount of content.

Editorial and Project Announcement

The editorial section, written by Werner Walter, addresses the "UFO student folk" and "CR readers," acknowledging the start of 1998 with significant events that necessitated breaking from the regular volume to present new information. The core announcement is a call for a comprehensive research project titled "How UFOs Came to Germany." This project aims to shed light on the origins and spread of the UFO phenomenon in Germany, inviting contributions from UFO researchers, groups, and individuals with access to archives and libraries. The project seeks to actively involve readers in uncovering historical information.

Historical Cases and Theories

The Mantell Case: UFO History

The issue dedicates a significant portion to the "Mantell Case," detailing the tragic death of Captain Thomas Mantell in January 1948 while pursuing an unidentified flying object. The article critically examines the official explanation that Mantell mistook the planet Venus for a UFO, suggesting it was a cover-up. It also explores the possibility that the object was a secret U.S. Navy stratospheric balloon project called SKYHOOK. The case is presented as a pivotal event that significantly influenced the public's perception of UFOs and contributed to conspiracy theories.

"Flying Saucers" or "Thunderstorm Bombs"?

Another section explores the theory, popularized by a Swedish scientist Carl Benedicks, that flying saucers might be a manifestation of ball lightning. The article details Benedicks' research, which drew parallels between the reported characteristics of UFOs (glowing, metallic appearance, rotating, high speed, silent flight) and those of ball lightning. The case of Captain Mantell's crash is revisited as a potential example supporting this theory, suggesting that the object Mantell pursued was a ball lightning phenomenon that exploded, causing his death.

The Roswell Incident and Media Evolution

A substantial part of the magazine is dedicated to analyzing the Roswell incident and its media portrayal. The article discusses the USAF's official report, "The Roswell Report: Case Closed," which concluded that the recovered debris was from a MOGUL balloon project, not an extraterrestrial spacecraft. It critically examines the testimonies of witnesses, suggesting that many accounts of "alien bodies" emerged decades after the event and might be misinterpretations of high-altitude balloon tests involving dummies, or even fabricated. The role of media, including books, TV series, and films, in shaping the Roswell narrative is highlighted.

High-Altitude Balloons and Misinterpretations

The magazine details the history of high-altitude balloon projects, such as Project MOGUL and SKYHOOK, conducted by the U.S. Air Force and Navy. It explains how these balloons, particularly those made of polyethylene, could have been mistaken for UFOs due to their unusual appearance, especially during sunrise or sunset. The article suggests that many UFO sightings, including those in the Roswell area, could be attributed to these classified projects, leading to misidentifications and fueling public speculation.

Media Analysis and Skepticism

The issue also touches upon the media's role in reporting on UFO phenomena, criticizing sensationalism and the tendency to accept pseudo-scientific explanations. It highlights instances where journalists and researchers have presented theories like ball lightning or misidentified balloons as definitive explanations for UFO sightings. The magazine emphasizes the importance of critical analysis and the need for experienced investigators to counter misinformation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

CENAP REPORT maintains a critical and skeptical stance towards UFO phenomena, aiming to provide a factual and analytical approach. The magazine emphasizes historical research, the examination of official reports, and the debunking of sensationalist claims. It encourages reader participation in research projects to uncover the truth behind UFO sightings. The recurring themes include the analysis of historical UFO cases, the investigation of potential misidentifications, the critique of government explanations, and the examination of how media influences public perception of the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance is one of rigorous investigation and a commitment to presenting evidence-based conclusions, even when they challenge popular beliefs.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated January/February 1998, delves into the persistent phenomenon of UFO sightings, primarily focusing on historical cases and their explanations. The magazine critically examines reports, often suggesting that many perceived UFOs were actually high-altitude balloons, while also exploring the possibility of government cover-ups and the role of media in shaping public perception.

Key Articles and Reports

The Balloon Explanation

The issue extensively discusses how numerous UFO reports from the mid-20th century were later identified as stratospheric research balloons or weather balloons. Examples include the London sighting on July 7, 1954, initially explained as a research balloon from Bristol University, and a similar incident over Paris-Orly in 1956, also attributed to a balloon probe. The report highlights that these balloons, often equipped with radar reflectors, could appear anomalous on radar and to observers, leading to confusion and speculation.

Anomalous Sightings and Official Responses

Several cases are presented where official responses were perceived as inadequate or evasive. The 1954 London sighting, despite the balloon explanation, left many disappointed, with one postman quoted as saying, "No matter what they say, it was a flying saucer." The report notes that the British Air Ministry's explanation was met with skepticism. Similarly, a radar anomaly over Paris-Orly in 1956 was initially described as a "mysterious machine" before being identified as a balloon probe. The speed and maneuverability attributed to some objects, such as one observed over Paris-Orly that reportedly moved at speeds up to 2,400 km/h and even 3,600 km/h, further fueled the mystery.

International Incidents

The magazine covers incidents from various countries:

• Chile (1985): A strange object sighted over the mountains of Chile caused a sensation, with local newspapers reporting technical problems. It was later identified as a stratospheric balloon used for the "NOAA" experiment.
• Sweden (Undated): Swedish air defense forces reportedly sighted a large, glowing object at high altitude, which could not be intercepted by fighter jets, leading to speculation of an unknown balloon or meteorological phenomenon.
• Puerto Rico (1969): A slow-moving object observed in the early morning was approached by F-104 jets. Described as gigantic, it was later identified as a neoprene balloon probe.
• Germany (1976): A UFO flap over Germany, particularly around Cologne, involved sightings of a "white to silver point" in the sky, with some observers describing it as triangular. It was later identified as a weather balloon.
• Germany (1966): Reports from Stuttgart, the Black Forest, and Lake Constance described an "unknown flying object" that changed shape and appeared silvery. Investigations involving aircraft were initiated, but the object was eventually identified as a stratospheric research balloon.
• Spain (1968): A pyramid-shaped object was sighted over Spain, detected by radar and observed by a pilot. It was later identified as a balloon.
• Austria (1972): A bright, luminous object sighted over Neunkirchen caused traffic to halt. While initially declared a UFO, it was later identified as a weather balloon.
• Switzerland (1973): A "pyramid stump" shaped object was sighted near the moon, later identified as a stratospheric research balloon.
• Germany (1979): A cone-shaped metallic object, partially melted, was found in a field near Nienburg. It was speculated to be part of a Soviet spacecraft, but the incident was quickly handled by authorities, suggesting a cover-up.

The 'Roswell Incident' and Cover-up Theories

The issue touches upon the Roswell incident, suggesting that many of the activities in the Roswell area in the late 1940s involved the recovery of balloon payloads and experimental materials, rather than extraterrestrial craft. The article posits that UFO researchers may have misinterpreted these events, contributing to the enduring Roswell legend. It also discusses the role of organizations like the CIA and NSA in handling reports of fallen space objects, often under the guise of "national security," and the potential for international agreements to be circumvented.

Skepticism and Scientific Investigation

The magazine presents the skeptical viewpoint through organizations like CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal). It highlights their efforts to debunk UFO claims and criticizes the media for sensationalizing UFO stories. The article mentions a CSICOP conference in Tucson, Arizona, which aimed to provide a more rational perspective on UFO phenomena. The role of scientists like J. Allen Hynek is discussed, noting his involvement in projects like STARGAZER, which utilized high-altitude balloons for research, and his eventual skepticism towards many UFO claims.

Model UFOs and Hoaxes

A section discusses model UFOs, such as the "free flight model" from COX, which can be used to create realistic UFO hoaxes. This points to the ease with which photographic evidence can be fabricated, further complicating the UFO investigation.

NICAP and MUFON

The issue clarifies that the original National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP) is defunct and warns against imposters using the name online. It also touches upon internal dynamics within MUFON (Mutual UFO Network), referencing a critique of an anti-Roswell article and the organization's focus on satisfying members' desire for UFO-related content, even if it means prioritizing belief over rigorous debunking.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent nature of UFO sightings, the tendency for official explanations to be met with skepticism, the role of high-altitude balloons in misidentifications, and the potential for government cover-ups related to national security. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, aiming to demystify UFO phenomena by providing rational explanations while acknowledging the public's fascination and the complexities of the subject. The magazine emphasizes the importance of scientific investigation and warns against sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims, particularly in the context of the Roswell legend.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated January/February 1998, delves into the state of UFOlogy, focusing on organizational challenges, the commercialization of the field, and a critical examination of a major UFO conference.

MUFON's Struggles and Commercialization

The report begins by detailing the internal issues within MUFON, the Mutual UFO Network. Dennis Stacy, the editor-in-chief of the MUFON UFO Journal, is stepping down due to criticism from the 'New Age' wing of the UFO movement. Antonio Huneeus is taking over this role, and has even released a UFO calendar for 1998, entering into competition with Wendelle C. Stevens' calendar. Phil Klass also reported on these leadership shifts in the Skeptics UFO Newsletter. The MUFON UFO Journal included a questionnaire to gauge reader interest, as MUFON has experienced a significant drop in membership, losing 15% and falling to around 4,300 members. This decline mirrors that of the specialized Arcturus Book-Shop, which also saw a 15% drop in sales. The article highlights that American UFO organizations often employ paid staff, unlike their European counterparts which are typically run by volunteers. Dr. Robert M. Wood, MUFON's Director of Research, is noted for his positive review of Corso's book, which he believes will become a key UFO literature, despite Wood's past affiliation with McDonnell Douglas.

Further details emerge about MUFON-LA's activities, with Don Waldrop, a musician and composer, heading the branch. Waldrop also works as a hypnotist and 'therapist' for 'experiencers' who claim alien encounters. The report questions the reliance on such methods within UFO research.

Critique of UFOlogy and the Gütersloh Conference

Richard Hall, writing in the UFO Magazine, criticizes the lack of scientific rigor in UFO research, particularly within some MUFON regional groups, which he feels are more focused on parapsychology and other non-UFO related topics. He laments the prevalence of rumors and unsubstantiated claims, leading to a distorted public image of UFOlogy.

The issue extensively covers the UFO conference held in Gütersloh from October 10-12, 1997, organized by the Ventla-Verlag successor. The conference featured speakers like Eva Groenke, Howard Menger, H.C. Petersen, Oscar Magocsi, Reiner Feistle, and Karin Nagel, with themes ranging from 'aliens incarnating on Earth' to 'my journey to the moon'. The report notes the spiritual and esoteric slant of the event, with offerings like 'spiritual buffets' and 'morning meditations'.

Media coverage of the conference is analyzed, including a report by RTL EXTRA that staged a UFO sighting using a painted plate to mock UFO enthusiasts. The report details how experts at the conference were easily fooled by this fake, interpreting it as a genuine extraterrestrial craft. This incident is presented as evidence of the gullibility within the UFO community and how media can exploit it.

Several newspaper articles from the time are quoted, including from the Westfälische Anzeiger, Neue Westfälische, and WAZ, which covered the Gütersloh event. These articles often highlight the more sensational or esoteric aspects, such as Omnec Onec, a self-proclaimed visitor from Venus, and Howard Menger's claims of alien contact. Skeptics like Werner Walter and astronomer Joachim Prölß are quoted, dismissing UFO beliefs as a 'modern illness'.

The Sarbacher Affair and UFOlogy's Decline

The report revisits the 'Sarbacher affair', concerning alleged government recovery of alien UFOs. It scrutinizes claims made by Whitley Strieber and Philip J. Corso, pointing out contradictions in their accounts regarding Dr. Robert Sarbacher's involvement and knowledge. T. Scott Crain Jr.'s analysis in the MUFON UFO Journal is also discussed, questioning Sarbacher's role and the veracity of his statements.

UFO-Boom Ending?

The issue suggests that the UFO phenomenon might be waning. Phil Klass's Skeptics UFO Newsletter is cited, reporting a 15% sales decline for the Arcturus Book-Shop and a similar membership loss for MUFON. In Britain, UFO groups are also experiencing membership drops. The report attributes this decline to several factors: the proliferation of small, short-lived groups; the over-saturation of the market with conferences and speakers; the reliance on big-name American UFOlogists; and internal conflicts within the UFO community. A significant drop in UFO reports is noted, with the Mannheimer UFO-Hotline receiving very few calls. The decline is also reflected in the book market, with a lack of new UFO titles and the discontinuation of Bastei's 'Die UFO-Akten' series.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CENAP REPORT adopts a highly critical and skeptical stance towards much of the UFOlogy community, particularly its more esoteric, spiritual, and commercialized aspects. The editorial team appears to value rigorous scientific investigation and dismisses claims lacking verifiable evidence. They highlight instances of alleged deception, gullibility, and the commercial exploitation of public interest in UFOs. The report suggests that the UFO phenomenon, while captivating, is characterized by a lack of concrete progress and a tendency towards wishful thinking and pseudoscientific claims, leading to a potential decline in public interest.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated January/February 1998, focuses on the evolving nature of UFO research, the credibility of witnesses and researchers, and recent UFO sightings. It critically examines the Sarbacher memo and its implications, discusses the changing depiction of aliens in popular culture, and reports on various UFO-related events and investigations.

The Sarbacher Memo Controversy

The issue delves into the Sarbacher memo, a document allegedly from a scientist involved in UFO projects. The memo claimed that alien beings were 'insect-like' and that prominent scientists like John von Neumann and Robert Oppenheimer were involved in UFO meetings. However, interviews and research suggest Sarbacher had limited direct knowledge, admitting he had no connection to recovery teams and only heard about UFO matters second-hand. His statements were reportedly made privately and not as official positions. The article questions the reliability of these claims, noting contradictions with other descriptions of aliens and suggesting Sarbacher may have exaggerated his involvement for personal gain.

Credibility in UFO Research

Kevin D. Randle's book 'A History of UFO Crashes' is discussed, highlighting his belief in the Roswell crash involving an extraterrestrial craft. However, Randle is also quoted criticizing the UFO research community for its lack of objectivity and its tendency to dismiss findings that don't align with their beliefs. The article points out that even skeptics can provide valuable data and that a healthy dose of skepticism is necessary. The issue also touches upon the internal struggles within MUFON, with a member expressing frustration over the journal's content and threatening to withdraw his support.

Alien Depictions: A Historical Shift

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the changing appearance of aliens in UFO reports over the past 50 years. The article notes that while various types of aliens were reported in the past, the 'little grey' humanoid with large eyes has become the dominant archetype, heavily influenced by Hollywood films like 'Communion' and Steven Spielberg's 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind'. The film's success and its marketing as a pseudo-documentary are cited as major factors in popularizing this image.

Recent UFO Incidents and Investigations

The issue reports on several recent UFO sightings and investigations:

• Brazil: Operation Plate, led by Colonel Uyrange Bolivar Soares Nogueira de Hollanda Lima, documented UFO sightings in the Amazonas region. Sadly, Colonel Uyrange passed away shortly after sharing his experiences.
• Brazil: An eight-meter diameter 'UFO nest' was found near Guartingueta, Sao Paulo.
• Chile: The formation of CIFAE, a UFO investigation committee by the Chilean Air Force, is reported, aiming to study UFO phenomena with military and civilian cooperation.
• Germany: A lawyer reported a precise, rectangular, rotating light object that paralleled his car on the Autobahn A2. He conducted tests, including turning off his headlights, which confirmed the object was not a reflection.
• Germany: A driver in Bavaria reported a race with a bright, rotating, flying saucer-like object that flew alongside his car for 8 km.
• USA (Ohio): A video was recorded of a bright light object accompanied by aircraft, which was later suggested to be planets like Saturn or Jupiter. The investigation noted the witnesses' familiarity with UFO literature.
• USA (Ohio): A woman reported multiple UFO sightings and landings, but her reports to government agencies were met with disinterest. An investigation suggested her sightings were likely misidentifications of stars and aircraft.
• USA (Roswell): The town of Roswell is considering trademarking its name to capitalize on the global attention generated by the UFO crash. A small computer company, American Computer Company (ACC), claims to have a component from the Roswell UFO and is pursuing patent rights.

UFOlogy and Skepticism

The article highlights the ongoing tension between believers and skeptics in the UFO community. It criticizes some UFOlogists for their uncritical acceptance of claims and their reliance on anecdotal evidence. The influence of popular culture, particularly Hollywood films, on shaping perceptions of aliens and UFOs is also a recurring theme.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently questions the validity of UFO claims, emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific investigation and objective evidence. It appears critical of sensationalism and unsubstantiated theories within the UFO community, while acknowledging the genuine mystery surrounding some unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance leans towards a cautious, evidence-based approach, often debunking sensational claims by identifying misidentifications or potential hoaxes. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine research and what is perceived as 'UFO-show-biz' or 'ufological superstition'. The magazine also highlights the role of government secrecy and the public's right to information regarding UFO phenomena.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated January/February 1998, delves into UFO phenomena, media sensationalism, and a disturbing sect incident. The publication critically examines how media outlets shape public perception of UFOs and highlights cases where seemingly unusual events are explained by earthly phenomena.

Case Study: Thomas Rebohl's UFO Sighting

The issue extensively discusses the case of Thomas Rebohl, a Telekom customer advisor who reported being followed by a large, rotating, luminous disc on the B 12 highway near Mühldorf, Germany. Initially, Rebohl was convinced he had encountered an extraterrestrial craft, stating he had never believed in UFOs before but now knew they existed. He described the object as a "huge, rotating disc" about a hundred meters in diameter, moving parallel to his vehicle for about eight kilometers. His wife also witnessed the event and was terrified.

The CENAP REPORT, however, presents a counter-narrative, suggesting that such sightings are often misinterpretations of light effect devices, such as 'sky-beamer' or laser projectors used at discos. The magazine cites police investigations and expert opinions, including that of Hauptkommissar Johann Bohnert, who found Rebohl's account credible but suggested a possible explanation involving light effects. The report criticizes media coverage, particularly by TV programs like TAFF and Brisant, for sensationalizing the event, using misleading imagery (like Area 51 footage and 'flying saucer' photos), and framing Rebohl as a believer in aliens rather than a witness to a potentially explainable phenomenon. The magazine argues that this sensationalism fuels the 'UFO myth' and misleads the public.

The Sonnentempler Sect Incident

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the 'Sonnentempler' sect, led by Berlin-based psychologist Heide Fittkau-Garthe. The sect, composed of wealthy and educated individuals, primarily from Hamburg, believed that on a specific date (January 8, 1998), a UFO from Sirius would arrive to transport their souls to another world, thus allowing them to escape an impending apocalypse. The Spanish police, alerted by a concerned relative, intervened just before the planned mass suicide on Mount Teide in Tenerife. Thirty-one sect members were arrested, and Fittkau-Garthe was detained for instigating suicide. The report links this incident to other similar cult tragedies, such as those involving the Peoples Temple and the Order of the Solar Temple.

Media Criticism and UFOlogy

Werner Walter of CENAP strongly criticizes the media's role in perpetuating the UFO myth. He argues that sensationalized reporting, often driven by a desire for ratings and circulation, distorts genuine, albeit sometimes unusual, observations into 'science fiction' narratives. This, he contends, leads to public confusion and the creation of 'UFO cults' that are based on misinformation. The magazine emphasizes its role as a media critic, aiming to provide a more factual and less sensationalized perspective on UFO phenomena.

Public Opinion on UFOs

The issue includes data from a Gallup poll conducted in September 1996, surveying US adults' beliefs about UFOs and extraterrestrial life. The poll indicated a slight decrease in the percentage of people who had heard of or read about UFOs compared to previous years, but a slight increase in those who claimed to have seen a UFO. A significant majority believed the US government knows more about UFOs than it reveals. The report contrasts these beliefs with beliefs in other paranormal phenomena, noting that UFOs are more widely believed in than ghosts or astrology.

Mimi Hynek and CUFOS

The magazine also features an article about Mimi Hynek, the late wife of renowned UFO researcher Allen Hynek. It highlights her significant, though often overlooked, contributions to the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS), which she helped found and operate from their home. The article details her role in managing the center's operations, publications, and finances, emphasizing her dedication and the personal sacrifices she made.

Other Cases and Reports

Briefly mentioned are other UFO-related incidents and reports, including a farmer in Croatia who claimed to have spoken with aliens, and a report of a UFO sighting over Bottrop, Germany, which was later identified as a laser show. The issue also includes a list of German newspapers that monitored UFO-related news in the US zone.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO sightings, the powerful and often misleading influence of mass media on public perception, and the debunking of sensationalized claims. CENAP REPORT maintains a skeptical yet open stance, seeking rational explanations for phenomena while actively critiquing how such topics are presented to the public. The editorial stance is clearly one of media criticism and a call for more responsible and factual reporting on UFOs and related subjects.