CENAP Report - No 251

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP REPORT, Nr. 251, dated July/August 1998, is titled 'Mysterious Worlds...' and delves into the 'UFO Forum in CR...' and the question 'UFOs for Science?'. It is a German-language publication from CENAP, an organization dedicated to the critical investigation of UFO phenomena.

Editorial and Publication Details

The magazine is published by CENAP, with Werner Walter serving as the editor-in-chief and publisher. Hansjürgen Köhler is responsible for case investigations and dispatching the CENAP REPORT (CR). The publication is described as Germany's oldest and most comprehensive UFO journal, appearing bi-weekly. The issue details the financial aspects of producing the CR, noting that the subscription fees do not cover printing costs, with Werner Walter personally subsidizing each issue. The cover artwork is also co-financed by two individuals from Mannheim. The magazine acknowledges postal delivery problems with previous issues (Nr. 249 and 250) and advises readers to contact Hansjürgen Köhler if their copies do not arrive.

Feature Articles and Themes

The central theme of this issue revolves around the concept of 'Mysterious Worlds' and the human fascination with the unknown, linking it to myths, legends, and the modern fascination with UFOs. The articles critically examine various alleged phenomena, often exposing them as hoaxes, misidentifications, or products of media manipulation.

The Nature of Monsters and UFOs

An article titled 'Geheimnisvolle Welt...' (Mysterious World...) explores how myths and legends of monsters have evolved and been replaced by the UFO phenomenon in modern times. It discusses how the human psyche often embellishes stories, turning ordinary creatures into monsters. The author draws parallels between the elusive nature of cryptids like the Loch Ness Monster and UFOs, noting the lack of concrete evidence and the tendency for 'proof' to be blurry or easily faked. The article touches upon the psychological need for belief and how this can lead people to embrace pseudoscientific explanations.

Debunking UFO and Paranormal Claims

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to exposing hoaxes and debunking specific cases. Several articles detail photographic 'evidence' that has been revealed as fraudulent:

• Paul Villa UFO Photos: Photos from 1963 and 1965 allegedly showing a flying saucer were analyzed by Ground Saucer Watch and declared a hoax, with the object being a small model close to the camera.
• Bigfoot Hoax: The famous Patterson-Bigfoot film from 1967 is revealed to be a hoax, with the costume created by John Chambers for a documentary and later used in the film. The article points out that this deception fooled many researchers for decades.
• West Virginia UFO Photo Hoax: A UFO photo from May 1995 in West Virginia was found to be a copy of a Billy Meier photo published in 1987, debunking the claim of a new sighting.
• Nashville UFO Photos: Four photos received anonymously, purportedly showing an 'invisible spacecraft' photographed in Nashville in 1989, were exposed as staged using stage lighting, similar to effects seen at rock concerts.
• Valley Photos: Six photos from September 1996 allegedly showing a capsule-like object were analyzed by MUFON and determined to be a model suspended by fine threads, not a genuine UFO.

The magazine also discusses the phenomenon of 'crop circles,' acknowledging that while the methods of their creation (by humans) became known in the early 1990s, artists continue to produce them, and 'researchers' profit from them.

The Psychology of Belief and Deception

Several articles delve into the psychological aspects of belief in UFOs and paranormal phenomena. The magazine suggests that many people are driven by a desire for belief, spirituality, and individuality, making them susceptible to pseudoscientific claims and 'gurus.' It criticizes the 'grenzwissenschaftliche Bereiche' (fringe science areas) for often being based on illusion and manipulation, rather than rigorous scientific investigation. The authors argue that the UFO community, like other paranormal belief systems, often resists skeptical analysis and attacks those who expose the hoaxes.

Media and Scientific Integrity

The issue questions the integrity of media reporting and scientific research in the context of UFOs and paranormal topics. It points out instances where scientific findings have been misrepresented or fabricated for personal gain. The magazine highlights how sensationalism and the desire for 'wonders' can override critical thinking, leading to the acceptance of flawed evidence.

Specific Cases and Analysis

• Loch Ness Monster: The article discusses the enduring myth of the Loch Ness Monster, noting that even alleged photographic 'evidence,' like the famous Wilson photo, was later revealed to be a hoax.
• Yeti and Bigfoot: These cryptids are presented as examples of legends that have been embellished and sometimes fabricated, with alleged artifacts often turning out to be fakes or misidentified natural objects.
• Santilli Alien Autopsy Film: The magazine references the controversy surrounding this film, noting that even those involved in its promotion have later distanced themselves from its authenticity.

Editorial Stance

CENAP REPORT adopts a strongly skeptical and critical stance towards UFO phenomena and related fringe science. The magazine aims to expose deception, debunk hoaxes, and promote a rational, evidence-based approach. It criticizes the tendency within the UFO community to embrace sensational claims and to attack skeptics rather than critically examining the evidence. The publication emphasizes that many UFO 'researchers' and promoters benefit financially or socially from perpetuating these myths.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism, the debunking of UFO and paranormal claims, the psychology of belief, and the role of media and deception in shaping public perception. CENAP REPORT's editorial stance is clearly that of a critical investigator, aiming to separate fact from fiction and to expose what it views as widespread fraud and self-deception within the UFO and paranormal communities. The magazine advocates for scientific rigor and critical thinking, warning readers against accepting sensational claims without thorough examination.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated July/August 1998, focuses heavily on debunking UFO claims and exposing hoaxes within the UFOlogy community. The magazine adopts a critical and skeptical stance, aiming to separate factual accounts from fabricated stories and media manipulation.

The Gulf Breeze Case and Media Manipulation

The issue dedicates significant attention to the controversial Ed Walters case from Gulf Breeze, Florida. It highlights how a book published by Droemer Knaur in 1990, titled "UFOs - Es gibt sie" (UFOs - They Exist), promoted Ed Walters' photos as authentic, citing an analysis by photo expert Dr. Bruce Maccebee. However, the article suggests this 'scientific assessment' was compromised by Maccebee's financial interest in Walters' book, which became a bestseller. The magazine criticizes the media for uncritical reporting that fueled the case's popularity, leading to public disappointment when the case was later exposed as a potential hoax involving double exposures and plastic models.

The report details how the Gulf Breeze case threatened to divide the UFO community, with opinions becoming more radical. It also mentions that even long-time readers of 'CR' (presumably a publication associated with CENAP) were disappointed by the debunking of this case, which they considered one of the best pieces of evidence.

The article also touches upon the publisher's decision to continue promoting the book, even in a paperback version years later, suggesting a successful six-year-long marketing of a 'hoax' that deceived hundreds of thousands.

The Unreliability of UFO Photography

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the unreliability of photographic evidence in UFO cases. The article cites Dr. Willy Smith, who noted that the unofficial UFO photo specialist at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Dr. Robert Nathan, had dismissed Ed Walters' material as a hoax created with models. Conversely, Dr. Maccebee had declared it authentic.

Smith's article, circulated via the Paranet Information Service, also criticized MUFON chief Walt Andrus for allegedly hindering independent investigations into the Ed Walters photos and keeping the original images from public scrutiny. Several prominent UFO researchers, including Budd Hopkins, Donald Ware, and Dan Wright, are mentioned as proponents of the Gulf Breeze case, while others like Ray Fowler, Walter Webb, Richard Hall, and Marge Christensen were reportedly not heard.

Smith also points out that Andrus surrounded himself with individuals willing to follow his lead, such as Dan Wright, whom Smith describes as a 'bureaucratic employee' with ambitions within MUFON. Smith criticizes Wright's lack of UFO knowledge and experience, despite his position.

The article further discusses the issue of 'fake' UFO photos, citing the example of the 1966 Willamette Pass photo, which was later revealed to be a blurred road sign after decades of speculation.

Media Hysteria and Hoaxes

The magazine contrasts the handling of UFO stories with more serious news, like the Vietnam War. It notes that while UFO reports are often treated with amusement by moderators, serious news is presented with concern.

The Alex Birch Case

The case of Alex Birch, a schoolboy from Sheffield, England, who in 1962 claimed to have photographed UFOs, is presented as a prime example of a UFO hoax. Birch's story gained widespread attention, leading to his invitation to high-ranking officials and the founding of BUFORA (British UFO Research Association). His father even publicly advocated for the acceptance of UFOs. However, ten years later, Alex Birch admitted the photo was a fabrication. The article criticizes the media and UFOlogists for not scrutinizing the grainy images more closely at the time, with explanations like 'temperature inversions' or 'ice particles' being dismissed by enthusiasts.

The 'UFO-Angst' Stewardess

A brief report mentions a stewardess named Tuula T., who allegedly had an unusual fear of UFOs and died by suicide. Her friend claimed she often spoke of being abducted by a UFO.

Meteorite Explanations

Several brief news items from newspapers like 'BILD am SONNTAG' and 'Vorpommern-Blitz' explain sightings of mysterious lights as meteorites, debunking UFO claims.

International UFO Research and Media Coverage

A report from Washington (dpa) highlights a call by an international team of nine physicists for serious investigation into unexplained phenomena, including UFOs. The study, published in the 'Washington Post', criticizes the lack of interest from scientists due to fear of ridicule. Peter Sturrock, the team leader from Stanford University, stated that researchers have shown 'remarkably little interest' due to a lack of curiosity and fear of being mocked.

The study suggests that phenomena like burn marks from witnesses, radar-detected objects, and strange lights should be investigated. The researchers believe it would be beneficial to carefully examine UFO reports for unusual phenomena currently unknown to science. The conferences involved scientists from leading US universities and researchers from France and Germany.

The 'Greifswald-UFO' Event

The magazine reports on a UFO event that gained international attention as the "Greifswald-UFO." This phenomenon, observed on May 15, 1993, over the Greifswalder Bodden, involved lights in the sky. A similar event was observed on August 20, 1990, near Usedom by vacationers from Leipzig. The report calls for witnesses, particularly those who might have video footage or information from residents or military personnel.

'Akte X' and the Decline of UFO Merchandising

The "Kurzmeldungen" (Short News) section notes a decline in the popularity of 'Akte X' (The X-Files) and its related merchandise in Germany. The 'Akte X' magazine from EHAPA-Verlag was discontinued due to low sales, attributed to competition and a general decrease in interest.

The article suggests that the market for 'Akte X' products is saturated and too expensive for the average consumer, even for dedicated fans.

'The Anglo-Files' Article

Within the 'Akte X' magazine, an article titled "Die Anglo-Akten: Die englischen Forscher des Paranormalen, Peter Hough und Jenny Randles" is highlighted. Jenny Randles, reflecting on her 25 years of research experience, states that most UFO reports are explainable. She emphasizes the importance of ruling out all possible explanations and working under the assumption that a case is explainable. Randles criticizes the tendency to use the term 'paranormal' as a 'magic formula' to avoid in-depth investigation.

Randles also comments on conspiracy theories, suggesting that those in power may know something but are not willing to admit their doubts, as it might imply incompetence. She believes governments are not genuinely interested in the origins of UFO phenomena.

Peter Hough offers a sociological perspective, suggesting that UFO experiences, abductions, and near-death experiences might be different manifestations of a fundamental phenomenon. He posits that people often judge things by their outward appearance, viewing them as 'games, charades, and things for our entertainment,' which are metaphors for something else.

Randles advises aspiring paranormal researchers to be prepared for a short 'lifespan' in the field, as many become disillusioned when they realize that their subjects cannot be proven. She cautions against taking 'Akte X' too literally and believing in vast conspiracies.

UFOs as Entertainment and the 'UFO-Kurier'

The magazine criticizes the 'UFO-Kurier' for celebrating a story about a supposed UFO traveling at 24,000 mph over the North Sea. The editor, Werner L. Forster, is quoted as saying that the 'burden of proof is getting heavier' and that this case is an 'irrefutable phenomenon.' The article dismisses this as 'esoteric-oriented UFOlogy' and a 'world of wishful thinking.'

Resistance to Criticism

The issue details a conflict between CENAP and Wladislaw Raab of the Independent Alien Network. Raab, who publishes the 'UFO-Report,' is accused of being resistant to criticism and of making sarcastic remarks about CENAP. When CENAP tried to discuss a specific abduction case, Raab reportedly hung up the phone and refused further contact.

UFOs in Chemnitz Exhibition

A report details a UFO exhibition held at the ACC-Chemnitz shopping center from October 27 to November 8, 1997. The exhibition, organized by Rahf Consulting and Gerhard Cerven, aimed to present 'Pro and Contra' arguments regarding UFOs. The reviewer, Gerd Schmid, found the organization of exhibits lacking and many questions unanswered. While acknowledging the exhibition was aimed at laypeople, he felt more detailed information was needed. The exhibition included lectures on UFOs, with speakers presenting various viewpoints, including skepticism.

Gerhard Cerven, a key organizer, is described as a fluent speaker who sometimes expressed skepticism and pointed out potential fraud. The report also mentions a children's UFO drawing competition.

Gerhard Cerven's Death

Tragically, the issue reports the death of Gerhard Cerven, who passed away voluntarily due to financial burdens. He is remembered as an activist who tried to move UFOlogy forward in Northern Germany.

'Otti - jetzt ein Ufo-Experte' (Otti - Now a UFO Expert)

This section features a German actor and cabaret artist named Otti (Ottfried Fischer) who is involved in a UFO-themed TV series called "Akte F" (File F) for ZDF. Fischer expresses a pragmatic view on UFOs, stating that if aliens exist, they might be active. He also humorously suggests he would keep a UFO if he found one, finding the idea of meeting an alien unsettling.

Other Short News Items

Brief reports cover an 'Iridium-Satellit' sighting in Mannheim, a 'UFO-Alarm' over England explained as a meteorite, and a stewardess's death linked to UFO fear.

The 'UFOs: Das Film-Archiv' Video

The magazine reviews a video compilation titled "UFOs: Das Film-Archiv, Teil eins: 1950-1989." It criticizes the collection for containing mostly blurry lights and poorly structured objects, with only a few recognizable 'classic' UFO footage like the 'Christmas tree ball UFO' or Adamski's saucers. The reviewer concludes that the material is unsuitable for serious debate and that 50 years of UFOlogy have produced little substantial photographic evidence.

Conspiracy Theories and Government Secrecy

The article touches upon conspiracy theories, particularly those involving government cover-ups of UFO phenomena. It questions the likelihood of such widespread conspiracies, especially given the apparent lack of official interest in prosecuting individuals who allegedly reveal state secrets related to UFOs.

The Vietnam Sarin Gas Hoax

A significant portion of the magazine details a hoax reported by CNN and Time about alleged illegal US operations and the use of Sarin gas against American deserters in Laos during the Vietnam War. The report highlights how the media presented ex-soldiers and officials as credible sources, with Pentagon denials only strengthening the accusations. However, the story was later revealed to be a complete fabrication, leading to apologies from CNN and Time, who admitted to being deceived.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards UFO claims, the unreliability of photographic and video evidence, the role of media in sensationalizing and manipulating UFO stories, and the exposure of hoaxes and fraudulent claims within the UFOlogy community. The editorial stance is clearly critical and investigative, aiming to debunk popular myths and encourage a more rational approach to the study of unexplained aerial phenomena. The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous research, critical thinking, and the separation of fact from fiction, often drawing parallels between UFO hoaxes and other media-driven deceptions.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated July-August 1998, focuses on the critical analysis of UFO phenomena as presented in media, particularly television documentaries and news reports. It highlights the magazine's long-standing commitment to providing a counter-narrative to sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims within the UFO community.

CENAP REPORT: A Critical Voice in UFO Research

The editorial section reflects on the 250th issue of the CENAP REPORT (CR), noting its limited availability in mainstream newsstands but its significant, albeit controversial, standing within the UFO community. The CR was founded in March 1976 by Werner Walter and Hansjürgen Köhler with the aim of offering critical perspectives on UFO research, contrasting with the prevailing UFO-Nachrichten. The authors, associated with CENAP and GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), express a shift from initial UFO euphoria to a more critical stance, emphasizing detailed case investigations and alternative background information over popular literature. They observe that the public often prefers to have their existing worldviews confirmed, leading to a disregard for critical UFO material. The CENAP REPORT is described as a comprehensive, though sometimes unorganized, source of information that supports UFO research and historical understanding.

Media Criticism: The Vertuschung (Cover-up) on TV Continues

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to critiquing television programming related to UFOs. Philip J. Klass's article, referenced from the Skeptical Inquirer, discusses a Sci-Fi Channel program titled "Roswell: Coverups and Close Encounters." Klass accuses producer David Doyle of perpetuating a cover-up by not fully revealing the truth about the Roswell incident. The article details how Klass's own interviews and documents were selectively used or edited out, leading to a distorted presentation. The program is criticized for using "Top Secret" stamps and documents as mere visual fodder without explaining their content, thereby misleading the audience.

Another segment, "Welcome to the World of Illusion of Authenticity" by C. Eugene Emery Jr., further examines how television networks, particularly Fox, manipulate viewers by presenting "evidence" that is not rationally supported. The "Alien Autopsy" special and the "UFOs: The Best Evidence (Ever Caught on Tape)" program hosted by Jonathan Frakes are singled out for their use of questionable video material and biased commentary, designed to suggest the reality of UFOs and alien encounters without providing proper context or critical analysis. The article points out how expert opinions that contradict the sensationalist narrative, such as Carl Sagan's, were omitted or distorted.

Werner Walter's Personal TV Horror

Werner Walter recounts his negative experiences participating in a talk show produced by Schwarzkopf-TV for Jörg Pilawa's program, which was ostensibly about UFOs and aliens. Walter describes the production as prioritizing speed and profit over substance, with a "casting agency" approach to selecting guests. He details how the show featured staged scenarios, including a "couple" who were clearly already together, and a "Hesemann critic" hired to debate Michael Hesemann. Walter expresses his frustration with the lack of genuine discussion and the show's focus on entertainment rather than factual inquiry, labeling it "cheap theatrical nonsense."

RTL2: No Trace of Objectivity in the Ether

This section critically reviews an RTL2 reportage titled "ZOOM - X-tra: Besuch aus dem All" (Visit from Space). The program is accused of promoting pre-astronautic theories and sensational claims, using suggestive commentary and selectively edited footage. Experts like Illobrand von Ludwiger are presented, promoting ideas about alien civilizations visiting Earth and influencing human history. The article criticizes the program for blurring the lines between science fiction and documentary, and for presenting speculative theories as established facts. It notes that while the program claimed to present evidence, it failed to provide conclusive proof and often relied on misinterpretations of data.

UFOs for Science?

This part of the magazine discusses a "secret conference" reported in Esotera magazine, suggesting that UFO research was gaining scientific recognition. However, the authors express skepticism, questioning whether the scientific community is being misled by proponents of UFO phenomena. They analyze the efforts of groups like MUFON-CES and the Society for Scientific Exploration (SSE) to push for scientific acceptance of UFOs, highlighting their reliance on anecdotal evidence and questionable cases. The article contrasts the SSE's call for scientific study with the historical context of previous UFO investigations, such as the Condon Report, which concluded that most sightings could be explained by conventional means.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the pervasive sensationalism and lack of objectivity in media portrayals of UFO phenomena, the challenges faced by critical researchers in a field often dominated by speculation and belief, and the ongoing debate about whether UFOs warrant serious scientific investigation. The editorial stance is clearly critical of unsubstantiated claims and media manipulation, advocating for a more rigorous, evidence-based approach to understanding the UFO phenomenon. The magazine positions itself as a vital source of critical analysis in a landscape often filled with pseudoscientific narratives.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, Nr. 251, dated July/August 1998, features a prominent section titled "UFO FORUM," dedicated to the scientific investigation of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). The magazine delves into the efforts of a panel of scientists, led by astrophysicist Peter Sturrock, to revive serious scientific inquiry into the UFO phenomenon. The report highlights the media's recent attention to this topic, including coverage by CNN and ABC, and the involvement of institutions like Stanford University.

The Sturrock Panel and the Call for Research

The article details the background and motivations behind the Sturrock Panel's initiative. Peter Sturrock is presented as a key figure, advocating for a more rigorous and official scientific approach to UFO research. The panel aims to break away from past dismissals and encourage the scientific community to re-examine UFO sightings. They seek to establish a framework similar to the French GEPAN/SEPRA model, hoping for a global transferability of such research.

Sturrock expresses a desire to see the 50-year-old UFO problem addressed, stating, "I can only hope that it will not be ignored for another 50 years." The panel acknowledges that while they do not exclude the possibility of extraterrestrial spacecraft, their findings thus far have revealed no conclusive evidence for them. They emphasize the need for official, state-sponsored programs, similar to those in France and Chile, to advance the research.

Media Engagement and Public Opinion

The report notes the strategic timing of the Stanford University press release, coinciding with CNN's "Space Odyssey" week. This media push aimed to generate public interest and discussion. CNN even featured a live interview with Peter Sturrock. The coverage on ABC, particularly through reporter Buck Wolf, connected the topic to "The X-Files," framing Sturrock's work as the "first independent UFO investigation in nearly 30 years" since the Condon Study. ABC also engaged its internet audience with a poll asking whether scientists should engage in UFO studies.

Public opinion, as reflected in online polls by ABC and USA TODAY, showed a significant interest in a new scientific review of UFO evidence, with a majority favoring such investigations. The article suggests that the public's fascination with the UFO phenomenon stems from a lack of clear explanations for many perceived mysteries.

Challenges and Skepticism in UFO Research

The "UFO FORUM" acknowledges the inherent difficulties and the often-ridiculed nature of UFOlogy. The article points out that many UFO articles are rejected by scientific journals due to the perceived absurdity and the tendency for UFOlogists to be seen as eccentric. To counter this, Sturrock co-founded the "Society for Scientific Exploration" to create a forum for "anomalistics" – the study of phenomena at the fringes of science, including UFOs.

The report touches upon the historical resistance from the scientific establishment, often attributing UFO sightings to psychological factors or perceptual biases rather than physical phenomena. The article contrasts this with the need for a scientific approach that considers all possibilities, including those from the realm of fringe science.

Historical Cases and Methodological Approaches

The article references the Trans-en-Provence case from 1981 as a significant example, where a UFO sighting was accompanied by physical evidence such as pressed earth and plants showing signs of unnatural aging, possibly caused by microwave radiation. However, it also notes that such explanations are not definitive and that all possible chemical and physical influences should be considered.

The Sturrock Panel, partly funded by Laurence S. Rockefeller, is cautious about "photographic evidence," emphasizing the need for "sufficiently secured credibility" to rule out hoaxes. They are leaning towards instrumental UFO surveillance, acknowledging the challenge of the unpredictable nature of UFO sightings. The panel also notes that purely automated "sightings" without human eyewitnesses may not be optimal, as instrument artifacts can lead to misinterpretations.

Historical Parallels and the Nature of Evidence

The report draws parallels between the current UFO research efforts and historical investigations into spiritualism and parapsychology. It mentions figures like Karl Friedrich Zöllner, an astronomer who became deeply involved in spiritualist experiments, and Sir William Crooks, a physicist who hosted séances. The article critiques the tendency for scientific investigations into anomalous phenomena to focus solely on psychology and perception, rather than natural sciences.

It also discusses the case of magician Harry Houdini, who actively debunked fraudulent mediums, contrasting his approach with that of writers like Sir Conan Doyle, who believed in supernatural phenomena. The article suggests that both the scientific community and UFO researchers can fall prey to biases and misinterpretations, highlighting the importance of a critical and open-minded approach.

The Role of Anomalistics and Future Directions

The "UFO FORUM" aims to move beyond purely psychological explanations and explore the physical aspects of anomalous phenomena. The article suggests that by examining cases with physical measurements, such as traces, radar data, and photographic evidence, a clearer understanding might be achieved. The panel's focus on cases with physical evidence, rather than isolated eyewitness accounts, is seen as a way to narrow down the scope of investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific validation of UFO research, the challenges posed by skepticism and lack of funding, and the importance of rigorous methodology. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious optimism, supporting the call for scientific inquiry while acknowledging the complexities and potential pitfalls of the field. The article advocates for an open-minded yet critical approach, drawing lessons from historical investigations into anomalous phenomena and emphasizing the need to consider all evidence, including that from fringe science.