CENAP Report - No 257

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: Nr. 257
Date: February/March 1999
Publisher: CENAP (Centrale Erforschungsnetz außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene)
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP-REPORT marks the 25th anniversary of UFO research by CENAP, an organization dedicated to the critical investigation of unidentified flying objects and related phenomena. The magazine emphasizes a scientific and skeptical approach, aiming to counter public misinformation and promote rational understanding.

Key Articles and Features

CENAP – The Next Generation This section introduces a new wave of young investigators joining CENAP, bringing fresh energy and enthusiasm to the field. The editorial welcomes these newcomers, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, dedication, and continuous learning in their voluntary work.

Dragon-UFO over Sylt This article details a reported UFO sighting on the island of Sylt, where a witness described a triangular, reddish-brown object with unusual flight characteristics. Through detailed investigation, Sascha Schomacker, a regional investigator for CENAP, identified the object as a delta kite, likely illuminated by a flashlight. The article highlights how seemingly mysterious phenomena can often be explained by mundane objects and conditions, especially in the context of recreational activities like kite flying.

Aliens on TV – Everywhere This piece critically examines the proliferation of UFO and alien-themed content in television programming at the time. The author notes a significant increase in such shows across various channels, including "Unheimliche Begegnung der dritten Art," "Aliens – Die Rückkehr," and episodes of "Der Bulle von Tölz" and "X-Files." The article expresses concern that this media saturation, often lacking proper context or critical follow-up, contributes to a "UFO-mania" and fosters unrealistic beliefs about extraterrestrial life. CENAP, through its press releases and hotline, aims to provide a counter-narrative and encourage critical thinking.

UFOs for Science This article likely discusses the ongoing efforts by CENAP to bring a scientific approach to UFO research, encouraging the public to report sightings for investigation and analysis. It touches upon the organization's goal of clarifying the UFO topic through media engagement and public discussions.

Regional Investigations and New Representatives

• Carsten Bade in the Ruhr Area: The issue introduces Carsten Bade as the new regional representative for the Ruhr area. Bade, a student, takes on the task of collecting and analyzing UFO reports from his region, aiming to provide serious investigation in contrast to sensationalized accounts.
• Tino A. Günter in Havelland: Tino A. Günter is presented as the new regional representative for the Havelland region. His work involves investigating UFO sightings, often debunking them through rational explanations. An article details his investigation into a mysterious light in the Brieselanger Wald, which he concluded was caused by car headlights. Günter emphasizes his goal of seeking natural explanations for reported phenomena.
• Nordwest-CENAP Axis: Mirko Mojsilovic from the Hamburg UFO Interest Group proposes forming a 'Nordwest-CENAP Axis' with Sascha Schomacker to cover the North German region.

The Brieselanger Wald Light Case This detailed account follows the investigation of a mysterious light reported in the Brieselanger Wald. Initially described as an uncanny green light that moved erratically, the investigation led by the author and corroborated by other reports, concluded that the phenomenon was likely caused by car headlights and blinkers. The article explores the psychological aspects of witness accounts and the potential for misinterpretation, especially when influenced by local legends or sensationalized media.

"If a Ship Falls from the Sky" This article features Carsten Bade, a young UFO investigator for CENAP in the Ruhr area. Bade expresses his interest in astronomy and space exploration since childhood, which led him to UFOs. He clarifies that his focus is on "enlightenment instead of new mysteries," aiming to debunk sensational claims and find rational explanations for sightings. He joined CENAP to contribute to this mission and serves as a regional point of contact for UFO reports.

"Did You See a UFO?" This section includes an interview with Tino Günter, a 20-year-old UFO investigator for CENAP in the Havelland region. Günter explains his role in critically examining UFO sightings, aiming to provide scientific explanations. He discusses his interest in the topic, his work with CENAP, and his approach to investigating reports, which involves collecting detailed information and using a rational mindset.

Media Criticism and UFOs Werner Walter, the editor-in-chief of CENAP REPORT, is quoted criticizing the media's role in promoting a "UFO-mania." He argues that the constant barrage of UFO-themed films and TV shows creates unrealistic expectations and misinformation among the public, particularly younger generations. CENAP's "SOS-UFO-Hotline" is highlighted as a resource for the public to ask questions and report sightings.

"The Bull of Tölz" and UFOs on TV This segment reviews the TV series "Der Bulle von Tölz" and its episode "Tod aus dem All," which satirically depicted the UFO phenomenon and its believers. The article notes that the show, along with other media portrayals, contributed to the public fascination with UFOs, sometimes blurring the lines between entertainment and reality. The author suggests that such media content often exploits the public's interest for ratings and commercial gain.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is the critical and scientific investigation of UFO phenomena. CENAP REPORT consistently advocates for rational explanations, media literacy, and debunking sensationalism. The magazine positions itself as a source of reliable information, contrasting its approach with the often speculative and entertainment-driven coverage of UFOs in mainstream media. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards extraordinary claims, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based research and public education to counter misinformation.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated February/March 1999, is titled "Moderne Mythen - Die größten Schwindel!" (Modern Myths - The Biggest Swindles!). It critically examines various UFO-related phenomena, media portrayals, and alleged evidence, often exposing them as hoaxes or misinterpretations. The magazine adopts a skeptical stance, aiming to separate fact from fiction.

Television Critiques

The issue begins with a review of the German television series "Der Bulle von Tölz: Tod aus dem All" (The Cop from Tölz: Death from Space), which is described as a satirical take on UFO themes, poking fun at pseudoscientific claims and charlatans. The review notes the show's ironic commentary on the UFO craze and its portrayal of a UFO conference in Bad Tölz.

Another segment discusses the cancellation of the RTL series "Operation Phoenix" due to low ratings, with the network chief suggesting that UFO phenomena are not suited for the German market, unlike in the USA. The magazine expresses prior skepticism about the series, finding its reliance on urban myths insufficient.

The Decline of UFOlogy

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the perceived decline of UFOlogy. It highlights efforts to support the International UFO Reporter (IUR) and the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS), indicating financial difficulties. The issue also mentions problems with the US Postal Service losing copies of the IUR. Furthermore, it criticizes an upcoming UFO congress in Düsseldorf, Germany, for featuring speakers like Illobrand von Ludwiger and Johannes Fiebag, suggesting a lack of credibility and a descent into 'New Age mysticism'.

UFO Documentaries and Media Coverage

The magazine reviews several UFO-related television programs and documentaries:

• "20,000 Riddles of the Skies": A new weekly UFO documentary series on the English Channel 4, produced by Union Skyline, featuring footage of flying triangles, Colonel Andre Amond's encounter, and radar tracking of Belgian UFOs. It also touches upon NASA space shuttle footage and unexplained events on the moon reported by Apollo astronauts.
• US Television Documentaries: The issue mentions a "Learning Channel" documentary titled "UFOs: 50 Years of Denial?" and an ABC News report on "Jimmy Carter's UFO Encounter." These programs are noted for presenting fantastic imagery and interviews with figures like Joe Firmage, Edgar Mitchell, and Gordon Cooper, who discuss the Roswell case.
• "The Evidence on Earth": A follow-up to a previous documentary, focusing on UFO sightings by pilots, air traffic controllers, and military personnel.
• "So Weird": An Action series on the Disney Channel aimed at children and teenagers, featuring a 14-year-old girl investigating UFOs, aliens, and paranormal phenomena.

Debunking Hoaxes: "The Greatest Myths on Earth"

A major focus of the issue is the Fox TV network's special program "The Greatest Myths on Earth to be exposed in the All-New Special World's Greatest Hoaxes: Secrets Finally Revealed." This program aimed to expose various UFO and paranormal hoaxes, including:

• Billy Meier's UFO Photos: The program reportedly featured Billy Meier admitting to faking some of his images, while still claiming the majority were genuine Pleiadian spacecraft. The magazine notes that Meier labels other contactees as 'swindlers, liars, and cheats'.
• Roswell, MJ-12, and the KGB UFO Crash: These topics were also slated for exposure.
• The 'Alien Autopsy' Film: The program presented evidence that the famous 'Alien Autopsy' film, often linked to the Roswell incident, was a 1994 video production, not from 1947. The magazine details how the film was created using actors, including the son of one of the producers, and staged in a tent. It criticizes Ray Santilli, the film's proponent, for his deception.
• The Patterson Bigfoot Film: The program revealed that the iconic Bigfoot footage from 1967 was a hoax, with the 'creature' being a person in a costume, identified as Jerry Romney.
• Loch Ness Monster: Films purporting to show the Loch Ness Monster were also debunked as hoaxes, with demonstrations of how such footage could be faked.

UFO-Related Websites and Initiatives

The magazine lists several websites and initiatives related to UFO research:

• MUFON-CES: The German branch of MUFON-CES has an online presence.
• GEP-Internet Domain: A new domain, http://www.ufo-forschung.de, is mentioned.
• The Adamski Foundation: Has launched its own website.
• Condon Report: The National Capital Area Skeptics (NCAS) has made the "Scientific Study of Unidentified Flying Objects" available online.
• SKYNET: An impressive UFO video website created by collectors.
• Project GUFONE: A global initiative for exchanging UFO video news.
• UFO-News-Ticker: CENAP's own online news ticker.

Specific UFO Cases and Sightings

• Ring-UFO over Chile: This phenomenon from September 1998 is reported as explained by James Oberg, attributed to the launch of a Russian military satellite.
• UFO Debris in Chile: A Chilean prospector reportedly found three 'chunks of unknown material' weighing 3 kg after a UFO sighting. The material is described as unusual, composed of up to 22 elements, and resistant to heat and acids.
• UFO Satellite Images: Chilean television broadcasted images from the Geostationary Orbital Environmental Satellite 8 (GEOS-8) showing a large, disk-shaped object over the Pacific Ocean.
• Atwater, USA UFO Crash: A report of a strange, star-shaped hole in the ice of Tadd Lake, Minnesota, initially speculated to be from a UFO crash, was later attributed to natural causes or debris from aircraft.
• UFO Debris Business: The issue exposes the business of selling alleged UFO crash debris, citing Ron Ruiz who sold purported UFO fragments for $69,000, which were later identified as slag from a metal smelting process.
• UFO Wave in Peru: Several UFO sightings in Peru are reported, with amateur video footage showing unidentified flying objects.
• Nick Pope's UFO Experience: Former UK Ministry of Defence UFO investigator Nick Pope claims he and his girlfriend were abducted by aliens in Florida, a story he kept secret for years.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence of hoaxes and misinformation within the UFO community and the media's role in sensationalizing these claims. CENAP REPORT consistently adopts a critical and skeptical approach, aiming to debunk alleged UFO phenomena and expose fraudulent evidence. The editorial stance is one of promoting critical thinking and demanding verifiable proof, contrasting with the often uncritical acceptance of extraordinary claims by the public and some researchers. The magazine highlights the financial motivations behind some UFO claims and the psychological factors that contribute to belief in such phenomena.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated February/March 1999, delves into a variety of topics related to unidentified flying objects (UFOs), extraterrestrial life, and the intersection of science, media, and popular culture. The magazine presents a mix of news, analysis, and critical commentary on these subjects.

Film and Television Reviews

The issue begins with a look at upcoming film and television attractions. "Moviestar" discusses the new TV series "The Sentinel" and "Supernova", noting their reliance on familiar sci-fi tropes. The highly anticipated "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace" is highlighted, with its premiere date and the expected merchandise boom.

Roland Emmerich's "Godzilla" is mentioned in the video section, noting its release and its dubious distinction of winning a "Golden Raspberry" for worst film of 1998, despite its commercial success.

Planetary Protection and Extraterrestrial Contamination

A significant portion of the magazine addresses the question of protecting Earth from potential extraterrestrial diseases. James Oberg's report on an ABC News segment discusses the risks associated with bringing samples from celestial bodies, such as Mars and comets, back to Earth. The article references Carl Sagan's 1994 concerns about quarantining extraterrestrial samples and the formation of an "International Committee Against Mars Sample Return" to advocate for a dedicated space-age quarantine station.

Recent Fireball and UFO Sightings

The issue details several recent sightings of fireballs and unusual aerial phenomena. On January 8, 1999, a "ghostly blue-green" fireball was observed over southern Alaska, accompanied by a loud explosion. On January 10, a green fireball was seen over Pittsfield, New Hampshire. On January 21, a fireball was captured near the Czech-Polish border. On February 2, a blue fireball was reported along a 640 km stretch from California to Nevada. On February 12, a bright light with "small wings" was seen in northern California. A blue-white light phenomenon over Ohio and West Virginia on February 14 caused significant public attention, with many reporting it as a UFO. The magazine also references "flying cigar" and "UFO mothership" sightings in northern Italy in late December 1998.

The MJ-12 Documents Controversy

The "MJ-12 Murks" section revisits the controversial MJ-12 documents, which allegedly detail a secret government group dealing with UFOs. The article notes the resurfacing of these documents by Dr. Robert Wood and his son Ryan, and criticizes their anonymous origins and dissemination to specific UFOlogists, suggesting a pattern of creating "ufological pop stars."

Media and UFOlogy

Several articles critically examine the role of media in shaping perceptions of UFOs. The "Late Show" film by Helmut Dietl is discussed, with actors Thomas Gottschalk and Harald Schmidt criticizing the television industry's sensationalism and manipulation of reality. The magazine suggests that this media environment mirrors the way UFO phenomena are often presented, with a focus on sensationalism over factual investigation.

Scientific Skepticism vs. UFO Belief

A significant theme throughout the issue is the tension between scientific skepticism and the belief in UFOs and extraterrestrial life. Physicist Ralf Wambach is featured, advocating for a scientific approach to unexplained phenomena and highlighting the work of the "Gesellschaft zur wissenschaftlichen Untersuchung von Parawissenschaften" (GWUP). He emphasizes that many reported UFO sightings can be explained as misidentifications (IFOs) of conventional objects or natural phenomena.

Michel Monnerie from France is quoted, arguing that the focus in ufology should be on the human element – why people believe they see UFOs – rather than on the existence of UFOs themselves. He suggests that the complexity of UFOlogy often leads to a "cocktail" of magazine articles, unverified anecdotes, and amateur investigations.

The article "Vom 'Willen-zum-Glauben' als Forschungsersatz" (From the 'Will to Believe' as a Substitute for Research) critically analyzes the psychological and sociological factors that drive UFO belief. It argues that media influence plays a significant role in creating and perpetuating UFO waves, and that the lack of concrete, scientific evidence makes the field prone to speculation and "bluff."

UFO Research and SETI

The "Neue Strategie für die Suche nach E.T." (New Strategy for the Search for E.T.) section discusses the ongoing efforts in the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI). Jill Tarter, a NASA astronomer, is featured, emphasizing the vastness of the universe and the likelihood of other intelligent life. The article touches upon the history of SETI, including the work of Frank Drake and the Cocconi-Morrison article, and mentions the challenges faced by SETI programs due to funding cuts.

Specific Case Analyses and Critiques

The issue includes detailed analyses of specific UFO cases and photographic evidence. Klaus Webner's account of his experiences with trick photography and his debunking of the "Rudi Nagora-Fotoserie" highlights how easily UFO photos can be faked and how UFOlogists may be predisposed to accept such evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CENAP REPORT revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the influence of media and popular culture on belief systems, and the contrast between scientific investigation and speculative ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated UFO claims, emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific evidence and critical thinking. The magazine highlights the psychological and sociological aspects that contribute to UFO belief, suggesting that many reported sightings are misidentifications or products of imagination and media influence. There is a clear effort to debunk sensationalist claims and to promote a more grounded understanding of unexplained aerial phenomena, while still acknowledging the ongoing scientific search for extraterrestrial intelligence.

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: Nr. 257
Date: February/March 1999
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP REPORT delves into the complexities and controversies surrounding UFOlogy, questioning the nature of evidence, the influence of popular culture, and the role of skepticism within the field. It argues that while most UFO sightings are easily explainable (IFOs), the remaining cases hold significant potential for understanding the phenomenon, provided they are approached with rigorous investigation.

The Nature of UFO Evidence and Misperception

The article begins by posing fundamental questions about UFOs: Is there an external influence compelling belief, and does the combination of factors create a distortion of reality? It emphasizes that even seemingly straightforward UFO cases can be misperceptions, citing an example of a couple in Shropshire/Cheshire who, despite their credibility, mistook the moon for a UFO. This highlights the importance of distinguishing between subjective experience and objective reality, a crucial aspect often overlooked in UFOlogy.

The Role of Fandom and Speculative Literature

A significant portion of the report critiques the 'fandom' of UFOlogy and the speculative literature that caters to it. The author argues that fans often seek information that confirms their existing worldview, becoming 'addicted' to sensational stories and prioritizing myth over facts. This leads to a 'knowledge deficit' and a reluctance to engage with critical analysis. The speculative literature is described as self-congratulatory, presenting absurd narratives as 'authentic documents' and creating a fantastical world that is 'gänsehautfördernd plausibel' (shiver-inducingly plausible). This literature is accused of promoting a 'new era of research' with 'standard-worthy books' that are 'scientifically revolutionary,' yet often repackage old ideas.

The article criticizes the use of phrases like 'truths that seem almost impossible' and 'overwhelming evidence' and 'secret facts' as tired clichés. It suggests that this type of material is often promoted as the 'best of the last years,' contributing to a 'fantastic world' populated by the 'greatest and best' authors, which is essentially a 'self-satisfaction machine' for the fandom.

Skepticism and Internal Conflicts

The report touches upon the challenges faced by skeptics within the UFO community. It notes that large UFO events often exclude skeptical voices, and critics are frequently met with hostility or outright dismissal. The author cites the experience of Robert Sheaffer at the Alien Discussion-Conference at MIT, where he was perceived as speaking to a 'hostile audience.' The article suggests that the UFO community prefers to remain insular, unwilling to engage with dissenting opinions.

It also highlights internal conflicts and rivalries within the UFO field, particularly concerning the Area 51 narrative. Figures like Bob Lazar are both revered and criticized, with Stanton Friedman labeling Lazar a fraud. The article mentions Campbell's 'Desert Rat' newsletter, which published a 'list of enemies' identifying individuals perceived as 'charlatans' who exploit the Area 51 story, often misinterpreting military exercises as UFO activity.

The 'Dreamland-Akte' and Area 51

The article includes a section titled "Die Dreamland-Akte" by David Darlington, which focuses on the Area 51 phenomenon in the USA. It describes events like the 'Ultimate UFO Seminar' in Rachel, Nevada, characterized by a carnival-like atmosphere with wishful thinking and storytelling. Figures like Bob Lazar, John Lear, and others are mentioned in the context of this subculture. The report notes the bizarre claims made by individuals presenting themselves as extraterrestrial ambassadors or having special knowledge, such as claims of being from Venus or the Pleiades.

Critique of UFOlogy's Scientific Standing

The author questions whether UFOlogy has problems being taken seriously or accepted as scientific research. The core issue, according to the article, is that 'extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence,' a standard that UFOlogy often fails to meet, despite numerous extraordinary claims being made.

Cartoons and Satire

The issue includes satirical cartoons that further critique the state of UFOlogy. One cartoon features Dr. Hans Zwieback, who claims to only accept 'hard and verifiable evidence,' such as dreams, as proof. Another depicts Mike Hasenmann asserting that the discovery of an imprint 'Made in Hong Kong' on a 'Salli-Alien' proves its extraterrestrial origin, sarcastically illustrating a flawed scientific method. A physicist character states, "I am a physicist. You know the literature. I am right." Another cartoon satirizes the commercialization of UFO interest, with a sign for 'UFOS - The Latest State of Research' and a T-shirt for sale, alongside a book that is explicitly stated to contain no research and not be up-to-date.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFOlogy as a field, the distinction between genuine investigation and speculative fantasy, and the importance of skepticism. The editorial stance is clearly critical of the uncritical acceptance of UFO narratives and the commercialization and sensationalism that often surround the topic. The report advocates for a more rigorous, evidence-based approach to understanding anomalous phenomena, while acknowledging the allure and persistence of the UFO myth.