CENAP Report - No 252

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, dated August/September 1998, is titled 'UFOs: THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT' and focuses on the intersection of UFO phenomena with popular media, particularly television. The cover highlights the magazine's 25-year commitment to UFO research in Mannheim, aiming to counter public misinformation. It features a striking image of lights in the sky and lists several classic UFO encounters and TV shows as key topics.

Editorial Stance and Introduction

The editorial, 'Lieber Leser' (Dear Reader), addresses the ongoing debate about institutionalized UFO research, referencing researcher Peter Sturrock's call for state-funded investigations. While acknowledging the potential for UFOs to gain more serious consideration, the editorial expresses skepticism about whether state-funded research would necessarily be superior to the dedicated efforts of amateur researchers. It also touches upon the complexity of the UFO phenomenon and the prevailing 'closed-mindedness' in the field.

UFOs on TV: Planetopia and Taff-Special

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a critical review of UFO-themed television programs. The article 'UFOs bei Planetopia auf Sat1' analyzes a segment on the science magazine 'Planetopia' that explored 'UFOs: Delusion or Reality?'. The author criticizes the program's focus on conspiracy theories and alien abductions, suggesting that the producers sought sensationalism rather than a balanced presentation of the core UFO phenomenon. The review notes that CENAP was contacted for input but felt their scientific perspective was not adequately incorporated.

Another segment, 'UFOs im TV: Planetopia, Taff-Special', continues this critique, dissecting a 'Taff-Special' program. It highlights the use of sensationalized language, computer graphics, and rehashed footage from older UFO documentaries. The article points out the program's reliance on sensational claims and its tendency to present UFO sightings as established facts, often without critical examination. The role of programs like 'Akte X' in fueling public fascination with the unexplained is also discussed, with concerns raised about the blurring of fiction and reality.

Media Criticism: The 'Akte X' Phenomenon

The article 'Akte X - Der Film' and related sections delve deeply into the cultural impact of 'The X-Files' franchise. CENAP-REPORT expresses frustration that media outlets, despite being contacted, failed to provide links to CENAP's website for more background information on UFOs. The magazine argues that 'Akte X' taps into a public desire for the mysterious and unexplained, contributing to a 'mystery virus' and a 'loss of reality' for some viewers. It criticizes the sensationalist approach of Pro7's promotional events and specials, noting that even the show's creators acknowledge the potential for viewers to misinterpret the fictional content as fact. The magazine also details its own attempt to offer media criticism to Pro7, which was apparently ignored.

Analysis of Specific UFO Cases and Individuals

The issue examines several classic UFO cases, often with a critical lens:

• The Bob Lazar Story: The program's use of 'trick material' and its presentation of Lazar's claims are questioned. Rudolf Henke provides a skeptical perspective, noting Lazar's legal troubles and the lack of verifiable evidence.
• UFO Abductions: The segment touches upon the idea of alien abductions and implants, with commentary from George Spöttle and Johannes Fiebag. The role of psychological factors in interpreting such experiences is discussed.
• Nick Pope: The article scrutinizes the portrayal of Nick Pope, a former official in the British Ministry of Defence, in media reports. CENAP-REPORT argues that his role was misrepresented as more significant than it was, and that his claims about UFOs being a national security threat are exaggerated. The magazine points out inaccuracies in his accounts, such as the Bentwaters incident, and suggests that his views were shaped by his limited tenure and a desire to sensationalize.
• The Rendlesham Forest Incident: This incident is mentioned in relation to Nick Pope's involvement, with the magazine suggesting that Pope's account is based on limited information and that his role was misrepresented.
• The Trent Photo (McMinnville, Oregon, 1950): This iconic UFO photograph is analyzed. While Popular Mechanics presented it as significant evidence, CENAP-REPORT notes that Philip J. Klass identified a potential shadow pattern suggesting a morning sun angle, contradicting the reported time of the sighting. Bruce Maccabee's counter-argument is also mentioned.
• Sheraz, Iran (1978): A photograph taken in Iran is discussed, noting its similarity to the secret Tactic Blue aircraft and the US military's interest in the incident.
• Bentwaters, England (1980): This case is presented with details about a 10-meter machine causing electronic malfunctions and leaving a landing trace. Nick Pope's account is cited, but the magazine implies skepticism about the interpretation.
• Zanesville, Ohio (1966): Two UFO photos taken by an amateur astronomer are discussed, with their credibility linked to descriptions provided by police and sheriff's deputies.
• Hillsdale, Michigan (1966): Another photographic case is presented, with claims that it influenced Allen Hynek's views on UFOs.

Media's Role in UFO Perception

CENAP-REPORT strongly criticizes the media, especially television, for its role in shaping public perception of UFOs. The magazine argues that sensationalism, speculation, and a lack of rigorous investigation are common, leading to a distorted understanding of the phenomenon. It suggests that media outlets prioritize ratings and sales over accuracy, creating a 'pseudo-scientific' environment. The article highlights how media narratives can create 'UFO myths' that are difficult to debunk.

Scientific Skepticism and UFO Research

The magazine features interviews and commentary from skeptical researchers, including Prof. Dieter Herrmann of the GWUP. The discussion around the Drake Equation, used to estimate the number of extraterrestrial civilizations, is presented, with Herrmann emphasizing the speculative nature of many of its variables. The article also touches upon the challenges faced by scientists in studying the UFO phenomenon, including the risk of being ridiculed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CENAP-REPORT consistently adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards sensationalized UFO reporting in the media. It champions rigorous, evidence-based research and criticizes the tendency of television programs and popular magazines to prioritize entertainment and speculation over factual accuracy. The magazine positions itself as a source of reliable information and a counterpoint to media-driven misinformation, emphasizing its 25-year commitment to 'UFO research from Mannheim - Against public misinformation'.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated August/September 1998, focuses on UFO research and investigations, featuring articles on Uruguay, France, the UK, and the USA. The magazine adopts a critical and skeptical stance, aiming to debunk sensational claims and promote scientific inquiry.

UFO-Forschung in Uruguay

The article details the official UFO research unit in Uruguay, CRIDOVNI (Centro de Receptacion y Investigaciones de Denuncias de Objetos Voladores No Identificados). Established in 1979 by the President and Air Force, CRIDOVNI has investigated approximately 800 UFO reports, with only 1.5% remaining unexplained. The unit emphasizes a 'facts only' approach, focusing on scientific investigation rather than belief in extraterrestrial spacecraft. They are skeptical of abduction claims and the 'alien spaceship' interpretation of UFOs, rejecting the ETH (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis) due to a lack of scientific evidence. The CRIDOVNI team consists of civilians and military personnel who presented their work at an Argentinian UFO congress, impressing attendees with their rigorous methodology.

Classic: Trans-en-Provence

This section examines the well-known Trans-en-Provence UFO incident from January 8, 1981. The article discusses the French UFO research group GEPAN (Groupe d'Études des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés), founded in 1977. GEPAN, initially headed by physicist Prof. Claude Poher, aimed to investigate UFO phenomena. The case of Renato Niccolai, who reported a small disc-shaped object landing on his property, is analyzed. Soil samples showed unusual calcium content and plant analysis indicated accelerated aging. However, later investigations by Vallée and others raised doubts about the case, suggesting potential misinterpretations or even fabrication. The article highlights inconsistencies in Niccolai's testimony and the possibility that his neighbor, Morin, influenced him to report the incident. It also touches upon other French UFO cases, like Valensole, and questions the reliability of 'best cases' when they contain negative characteristics.

Rendlesham: New Developments

The article revisits the Rendlesham Forest incident, a classic case in British ufology. It criticizes sensationalized accounts, particularly those involving government cover-ups and alien encounters. The author points out that key witnesses like Col. Halt denied many of the sensational claims, attributing them to individuals like Larry Warren. Recent research by James Easton suggests rational explanations, such as misidentified lighthouses or military aircraft, for the observed phenomena. The report highlights that the British Ministry of Defence did not conduct a thorough investigation. The article also debunks the 'alien autopsy' film, citing evidence that the 'tent scene' was staged by a UK company.

Roswell: A New Witness!

This section features Lorenzo Kent Kimball, a former medical support officer at Roswell Army Air Field in 1947. Kimball refutes claims of alien autopsies at the base, stating that no operating room existed and that the stories of alien autopsies and caskets are fabrications. He asserts that the base hospital was only equipped for outpatient treatment and that any serious cases were transferred to a regional military hospital.

Roswell: The Party Continues...

The article reports on the 1998 Roswell UFO festival, noting the significant number of visitors despite a slight decrease from the previous year. The event aims to boost tourism and local economy. The director of the Roswell Convention and Civic Center plans to focus more on space exploration experiences in future events to attract visitors. The article also mentions a research trip by UFO historians Jan Aldrich, Loren Gross, and Wendy Connors to the International UFO Museum and Research Center, where they meticulously copied archival documents.

New Developments in Greifswald

This section discusses a UFO sighting in Greifswald, Germany, from August 20, 1990, and a similar event on May 15, 1993, near Usedom. The sightings involved irregular, formless light groups over the Baltic Sea. While initial explanations suggested parachute flares, the article explores witness testimonies and video footage, noting similarities to the Greifswald event. It highlights the difficulty in obtaining clear, continuous video evidence and the challenges in verifying such sightings. The report also mentions a press release seeking witnesses for the Greifswald and Usedom events, but notes that media coverage was limited and inaccurate.

Press Release: UFO Researchers Seek Witnesses for Germany's Largest "UFO Event" over Greifswald Bodden

This press release from CENAP seeks witnesses for the Greifswald UFO event of August 20, 1990, and a similar sighting on May 15, 1993. It describes the phenomena as irregular light groups over the sea, with some lights showing red emissions. The release appeals to residents of the Greifswald Bodden area and former military personnel for information and video recordings. It also mentions the limited and inaccurate media coverage of the event.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the importance of official investigations, and the debunking of sensationalized claims. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for scientific rigor, evidence-based research, and a cautious approach to witness testimonies. The magazine aims to separate fact from fiction in the field of ufology, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and seek rational explanations.

This issue of CENAP REPORT (Nr. 252, August/September 1998) focuses on UFO phenomena, radar anomalies, and the ongoing debate within the scientific community and among researchers regarding their investigation. The magazine features witness accounts, analysis of photographic and video evidence, and discussions on the role of government and scientific institutions in UFO research.

Witness Accounts and Sightings

The issue presents several witness accounts from Germany. A report from Barth mentions lights seen in connection with the Barth airfield, initially attributed to Warsaw Pact exercises, but later suggested to be 'secret terrestrial military aircraft.' Another witness, Frl. Hanke, recalls seeing lights in 1990 that she initially thought were fireworks, but later recognized as UFOs from an ARD broadcast. Dieter Moor describes seeing 'slowly separating' bright, reddish, Y-shaped objects in the sky over Rügen. Gudrun Köpp recounts her daughter's sighting of a UFO on August 20, 1990, near Greifswald, which was later dismissed due to a newspaper report about a hot air balloon.

Roman B. reports a triangular or V-shaped light phenomenon observed in November 1992 near Bresewitz and Pruchten, notable for its proximity to a former military area. The issue also includes details on spectacular video recordings from St. Petersburg, Russia, from February 1997, showing 'linear light chains' during military exercises, analyzed for their formation and light characteristics.

UFO-Scene: Intern

Colman von Keviczky (1909-1998)

The magazine reports the passing of Colman von Keviczky, a prominent UFO researcher and founder of the Intercontinental U.F.O. Galactic Spacecraft Research and Analytic Network (ICUFON). Von Keviczky was known for his belief that UFOs were part of an extraterrestrial 'task force operation' and that the Reagan Star Wars program was a defense against them. His work and his organization's efforts to bring UFO issues to the attention of governments are discussed, including his past correspondence with CENAP.

Skybeamer Discontinued

Conrad Electronic has reportedly discontinued the sale of 'Skybeamer' products. While the exact reasons are not stated, it is suggested that commercial failure and a high volume of complaints may have contributed to this decision. This news is welcomed by proponents of the 'Campaign for Dark Skies.'

The Crisis Deepens

The article notes a decline in the sales of 'X-Files' merchandise and a general struggle for survival within the 'UFO movement.' Even the magazine 'UFO Times' has reduced its publication format. The 'First World Congress on Forbidden Archaeology' in Berlin, despite a strong speaker list, attracted only about 200 attendees, indicating a potential loss of public interest or financial constraints.

Werner Walter Targeted

Joachim Koch, associated with the 'International Roswell Initiative,' publicly criticized UFO researcher Werner Walter of Germany, labeling him the most influential 'debunker' in Germany. Koch accused Walter of dismissing UFO cases without proper investigation and of damaging serious UFO research. The article defends Walter and criticizes Koch's accusations as unfounded and opportunistic.

UFO Thema: UFO-Wissenschaft

The Sturrock Report and Scientific Investigation

The issue discusses Peter Sturrock's call for the scientific community to engage with UFO phenomena. The article explores cases involving significant light emissions, with researchers attempting to estimate their 'optical light output.' The debate centers on whether UFO sightings represent genuine anomalous phenomena or can be explained by conventional means.

Radar Anomalies

Several radar cases are examined, including those from France and Switzerland. The challenges of correlating radar data with visual sightings are highlighted, particularly the limitations of civilian radar systems and the difficulty in obtaining military radar data. The article mentions the Paris case from January 28, 1994, where a large object was detected by radar and visually observed, but notes that a definitive explanation remains elusive.

UFOs in the News

Reports indicate that the 'UFO Study' initiative has gained momentum, with groups planning greater efforts for congressional hearings. A poll by Southern Focus for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution suggests that a significant portion of the American population believes UFOs are real and that aliens may have visited Earth. The article also touches upon the role of Paul Hoversten from USA Today and Steven Greer of CSETI in promoting these efforts.

Sarah McClendon's Advocacy

Sarah McClendon, a veteran White House correspondent, has also been advocating for congressional hearings on UFOs. She believes that government secrecy surrounding the topic poses a danger. The article mentions efforts by groups like Stargate International to gather signatures for a petition for such hearings.

The Pandora's Box of UFOs

The article suggests that the 'Pandora's Box' of UFO phenomena has been opened, with media outlets like 'Bild der Wissenschaft' and 'USA Today' reporting on the issue. Steven Greer's CSETI is mentioned as actively pushing for congressional hearings, claiming to have ex-government officials willing to testify. The article expresses concern that Greer's past 'ET contact' claims might undermine his credibility and that of the broader UFO research movement.

CSICOP's Skepticism

The Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal (CSICOP) has responded to the calls for increased UFO research with skepticism. Professor Paul Kurtz of CSICOP questions the need for government funding, stating that many UFO cases have been investigated without it and that the SSE report might be a PR stunt. CSICOP argues that many SSE panel members are biased 'pro-UFO' advocates and that the focus should remain on rigorous scientific investigation rather than promoting 'paranormal' topics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the persistent public interest in UFOs, the challenges faced by UFO researchers in gaining mainstream scientific acceptance, and the role of government secrecy and potential cover-ups. The magazine appears to support the idea that UFO phenomena warrant serious investigation, while also acknowledging the need for critical analysis and debunking of hoaxes. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of empirical evidence and scientific methodology, even while exploring the more speculative aspects of the UFO field. The editorial stance seems to favor a more open-minded yet scientifically grounded approach to the UFO phenomenon, critical of both excessive skepticism and unsubstantiated claims.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated August/September 1998, is a German-language publication focused on UFOlogy and related phenomena. The cover boldly proclaims 'The Last 25 Years Were So Bad...', accompanied by a visual montage of previous CENAP REPORT covers, hinting at a critical and perhaps disillusioned perspective on the history of UFO research and its public perception.

Articles and Content Analysis

BBC Online Network Snippet

A small section from the BBC Online Network's Sci/Tech section is reproduced, featuring a headline 'UFOs mystify scientists' from July 1, 1998. It includes a brief note that 'Too many UFOs are synonymous with flying saucers' and links to related stories about the Roswell incident and UFO evidence.

Bock zum Gärtner gemacht (Bock Made a Gardener)

This article critiques the Austrian magazine 'Profil' for its coverage of UFOs in its July 6, 1998 issue. 'Profil' had published a column titled 'Not just giggling,' which acknowledged that serious scientists believed UFO phenomena warranted serious scientific discussion. The article highlights that 'Profil' featured the Hamburger UFO-Meldestelle GAP Germany and its chairman, Martin Buschmann, who had researched 'hundreds of reports of encounters of another kind.' However, the CENAP REPORT article dismisses GAP and Buschmann, suggesting they are in the 'kindergarten of UFOlogy' and that Buschmann is unaware that science has previously investigated UFOs and burned its fingers. It also criticizes the 'Profil' article for falling for a German press agency report about GAP's findings, which stated that most cases leaned towards psychology. The author draws a parallel to Dr. Allen Hynek, who wavered in his UFO assessments and unsuccessfully fought for UFOlogy to be recognized as an academic discipline.

The Sturrock Paper and Scientific Skepticism

The article delves into the controversy surrounding a scientific panel's report on UFOs, likely referencing the work of Professor Peter A. Sturrock of Stanford University. It discusses how the American Report framed the issue and quotes Seth Shostak from the SETI Institute, who found nothing new in the SSE report to warrant scientific attention, stating that if there were significant findings, the scientific community would have already engaged. The SETI Institute's official stance, as presented, is that it does not investigate UFO sightings or abductions, focusing solely on the search for extraterrestrial intelligence and citing the lack of physical evidence.

The article then discusses a report by Christoph Drösser in the German weekly 'Zeit' (July 9, 1998), which was critical of UFO researchers and the way they might have 'tricked' researchers. Drösser had contacted CENAP and accessed their homepage and dossiers. He also interviewed Dr. Günter Reitz from the German Aerospace Center (DLR), who was part of a preparatory meeting for the SSE. Reitz expressed surprise that the results of this meeting appeared on the front page of the Washington Post. The article suggests that the research presented did not meet scientific standards and that skeptical scientists lacked sufficient background knowledge. It is revealed that the draft of the Sturrock paper was heavily criticized in a San Francisco meeting, with scientists feeling pressured to support the UFO community, though some, like Jay Melosh, claimed to have resisted this pressure.

Wendy Connors' Response to CSICOP

Wendy Connors, associated with the Project Sign Research Center, responded to CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal) on July 7, 1998. She expressed surprise at CSICOP's rapid reaction to the SSE announcement, questioning how they could respond so quickly with 'rational and logical' analysis. The article interprets Connors' reaction as a critique of CSICOP's leadership and their deep involvement in UFO-related topics. However, the author of the CENAP REPORT article suggests that Connors' criticism reveals the slow pace and lack of professionalism in the UFO field itself, and that she unfairly accuses CSICOP's leader, Klass, of not applying scientific methods or seeking truth.

Media Coverage and UFOlogy

The article criticizes the media's handling of UFO topics, citing examples from 'Profil,' 'Zeit,' and the Swiss magazine 'Facts.' It suggests that media outlets often sensationalize UFO reports or present a biased view, sometimes influenced by wealthy individuals like Rockefeller, who is described as an 'eccentric multi-millionaire' who convened a panel of 'uninformed scientists' and 'notorious ufologists.' The article points out that skeptics were not invited to a workshop organized by Sturrock, which the magazine interprets as a deliberate exclusion to avoid a critical debate and to prevent the event from being exposed as a 'circus.' Matthew Nisbet of CSICOP is quoted comparing this to a trial where only the prosecution's views are heard.

Public Opinion on UFOs

The article includes responses from an Atlanta Journal-Constitution survey on UFOs. Douglas O. Winter believes that governments would be reluctant to admit the existence of UFOs for fear of public demands for action. Mike Swartz speculates about the purpose of alien spacecraft visiting Earth, humorously comparing humans to a food source. Jeffrey B. Krieger criticizes human arrogance in believing they are the only intelligent life in the universe.

CENAP's Historical Perspective

A visual section on page 3 presents a retrospective of CENAP REPORT's past 25 years, with titles like '25 Years of Propaganda,' '25 Years of Influence by the CIA,' '25 Years of Lies Against UFOs,' '25 Years of Suffering for Ufologists,' and '25 Years of Hate Against the Truth.' This strongly suggests that CENAP views its history as a continuous struggle against misinformation and suppression regarding UFOs. The final caption, '...AND THE NEXT 25 YEARS WILL PROBABLY ALSO BE NO WALK IN THE PARK...', indicates a pessimistic outlook for the future of UFO research and disclosure.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critique of mainstream media coverage of UFOs, the perceived resistance of the scientific establishment to UFOlogy, the alleged manipulation of information by various organizations and governments, and the historical struggle of UFO researchers against skepticism and suppression. The editorial stance is clearly critical of how UFOs are treated in public discourse and by scientific bodies, advocating for a more open and serious investigation of the phenomenon, while simultaneously expressing disillusionment with the progress made over decades. The magazine positions itself as a voice fighting against 'lies' and 'hate' directed at the truth of UFO phenomena.