CENAP Report - No 261

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: 261
Volume/Date: 6/99 (September 1999)
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, Germany's oldest and most comprehensive UFO journal, delves into the significant events and phenomena surrounding the total solar eclipse of August 11, 1999, while also addressing UFO investigations and other anomalous occurrences. The magazine maintains a critical and scientific perspective, aiming to debunk superstition and promote rational understanding.

Editorial and Cover Story: The 1999 Solar Eclipse

The cover story, "Himmelszeichen: Im Bann der Schwarzen Sonne" (Celestial Signs: Under the Spell of the Black Sun), focuses on the profound impact of the 1999 solar eclipse. The report details how the event, described as a "once-in-a-century event," evoked strong emotional responses, ranging from awe to fear. It highlights the contrasting reactions: the scientific community's explanation of the eclipse as a celestial-mechanical phenomenon versus the interpretations by esotericists, astrologers, and religious groups who saw it as a sign of the end times.

The article criticizes the Catholic Church's response, which involved using religious texts and rituals to counter the fear generated by the eclipse, and contrasts this with the more rational approach advocated by figures like Bishop Ulrich Fischer of the Evangelical Church in Baden. The report also touches upon the 'Segenskoffer' (blessing suitcase) offered by the church, which it views as a substitute for genuine understanding.

It discusses the historical context of interpreting celestial events as omens, referencing biblical passages and the concept of 'demons' as explanations for natural phenomena in ancient times. The article draws parallels between religious mysticism and pseudoscientific beliefs, suggesting that both stem from a lack of scientific understanding and a desire for explanations beyond the mundane.

The report emphasizes that the fear surrounding the eclipse was largely fueled by media sensationalism and the pronouncements of 'end-time prophets' and 'charlatans.' It notes that while scientific explanations were widely available, many people were still swayed by irrational fears and superstitions.

CENAP's Role and Activities

The "Impressum" section details CENAP's mission as an organization dedicated to the investigation of unusual celestial phenomena since 1976. It highlights CENAP's association with the GWUP (Society for the Scientific Investigation of the Paranormal) and its past role as an advisory body for the German Aerospace Agency (DARA). CENAP also offers a specialized UFO information service to astronomical institutions and actively collaborates with national and international organizations through a global network.

The editorial section, written by the CENAP team, addresses readers directly, inquiring about their experiences with the solar eclipse. It mentions that while there was little other UFO news, a notable case from Upper Bavaria is presented, focusing on the ufological community's reaction rather than the object itself. The editorial notes a general lull in UFO reports, even from news clipping services.

The Philadelphia Experiment

While not a primary focus, the "Philadelphia-Experiment" is listed as a topic, suggesting it is covered within the issue, likely in relation to paranormal or unexplained phenomena.

UFO Cases and Investigations

"Jagdszenen aus Oberbayern" (Hunting Scenes from Upper Bavaria) indicates a report on a specific UFO case. The article "UFO-Ermittler erwarten Großalarm" (UFO Investigators Expect Major Alarm) from the Stuttgarter Zeitung, dated August 6, 1999, discusses CENAP's expectation of increased calls from concerned citizens during the solar eclipse due to the visibility of planets. Werner Walter, founder of CENAP, is quoted explaining that the eclipse can cause hysteria and that CENAP, with ten collaborators, aims to clarify such events.

The Arche Noah Analogy

This section explores the myth of Noah's Ark as a parallel to the search for evidence in anomalous phenomena. It discusses the historical context of flood myths and the scientific challenges in finding concrete proof, drawing a direct analogy to the difficulties faced in UFO research. The article critiques the uncritical acceptance of anecdotal evidence and the conflict between belief and scientific fact, citing the example of the search for Noah's Ark on Mount Ararat and the "Mars face" phenomenon.

It questions the literal interpretation of the Bible, suggesting that many biblical accounts are embellished legends or fabrications. The report highlights the historical shift from unquestioning faith to critical inquiry during the Enlightenment, noting that religion has been on the defensive since then. The article posits that the psychological mechanism of belief, particularly in the face of the unknown, is similar in both religious and pseudoscientific contexts, including UFOlogy.

Psychological and Sociological Dimensions of Belief

The report delves into the psychological and sociological aspects of belief systems, particularly in relation to paranormal phenomena and religion. It argues that the human need for mystical experiences and the desire for certainty drive belief, often overriding rational thought and scientific evidence. The article critiques the tendency to seek 'wonders' and 'miracles,' suggesting that this often leads to the acceptance of pseudoscientific claims and the rejection of scientific explanations.

It discusses how fear and anxiety, amplified by media and certain belief systems, can lead to irrational behavior, as seen during the solar eclipse. The report contrasts the emotional impact of such events with their scientific explanations, emphasizing that the psychological dimension of experiencing phenomena like the solar eclipse is powerful and can be more influential than rational understanding.

Media Coverage and Public Reaction to the Solar Eclipse

The issue extensively covers the media's role in reporting on the solar eclipse. It notes the significant market share captured by television broadcasts covering the event, with channels like ARD and ZDF dedicating substantial airtime. The report highlights the public's overwhelming interest, with millions tuning in and newspapers selling out.

It contrasts the media's efforts to provide scientific explanations with the continued prevalence of sensationalist and apocalyptic predictions from figures like Paco Rabanne, who predicted disaster. The report also touches upon the phenomenon of 'end-time' cults and esoterics who sought to capitalize on the event.

The article describes the widespread public participation, with many people traveling to witness the eclipse and sharing the experience as a collective event. It notes the contrast between the scientific explanation of the eclipse and the deeply emotional and almost mystical experience reported by many observers.

The "Light-Team" Seminar

A section titled "Lichtgestalten - allein (üb)erlebt" (Light Beings - Experienced Alone) describes a seminar organized by a group called the "Light-Team" to experience the solar eclipse. The seminar, which included meditations and lectures on astrology and astronomy, was poorly attended, with only one person pre-registering for a 520 Mark seminar. The organizers, who had prepared for 980 participants, were disappointed by the low turnout, attributing it possibly to the program's cost or content. Despite the financial loss, the organizers claimed to have gained energy from the cosmic event.

Personal Experiences and Reflections

Several personal accounts of experiencing the solar eclipse are included. One couple described having "two hours of incredibly good sex" during the eclipse, while others expressed feelings of helplessness and a profound realization of their smallness in the face of nature's power. The report also includes quotes from politicians and public figures, such as Minister President Stoiber, who described the event as "magnificent, sublime, and uplifting."

The article emphasizes the transformative nature of the experience, with many observers describing it as a "magic moment" that transcended rational understanding. The collective experience of the eclipse is portrayed as a unifying event that fostered a sense of shared humanity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the contrast between scientific rationality and irrational belief, the power of media in shaping public perception, and the psychological impact of extraordinary events. CENAP-REPORT consistently advocates for a critical, evidence-based approach to understanding phenomena, whether they be celestial events, UFO sightings, or religious claims. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of pseudoscientific and superstitious interpretations, while acknowledging the profound emotional and psychological impact that such events can have on individuals and society. The magazine aims to educate and inform its readers, encouraging them to question claims and seek rational explanations.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated September 1999 (Issue Nr. 261), focuses heavily on the public's reaction to the total solar eclipse of August 11, 1999, and its intersection with fears of the apocalypse, UFO sightings, and esoteric beliefs. The cover headline, "Astro-Spectacle Fuels Doomsday Sentiments Among Some People," immediately sets the tone, suggesting that the astronomical event triggered anxieties and apocalyptic interpretations for a segment of the population.

The Solar Eclipse and Public Reaction

The lead article, "Astro-Spectacle Fuels Doomsday Sentiments Among Some People," by Sigrid Ditsch, explores how the solar eclipse affected people's moods. Albert Lampe, a representative for worldviews at the Archdiocese of Freiburg, notes that while many were preparing for the event, some, particularly "very devout people of Christian persuasion," interpreted biblical passages, like those in the Book of Revelation, as divine prophecies. The article highlights the fear generated by apocalyptic visions, fueled by contemporary visionaries and prophets who predicted disasters ranging from earthquakes to gas catastrophes. Astrologer Elisabeth Teissier is mentioned as having predicted dire events for August 11th. However, Lampe also points out that younger generations tend to see the eclipse as an 'event' rather than a cause for fear, attributing deeper anxieties to the 'generation that experienced the fears of the Cold War.' He contrasts this with centuries past, when such events were more terrifying due to a lack of scientific explanation. Church representatives, like Bishop Dr. Ulrich Fischer, acknowledge these fears, attributing them to the disruption of the familiar and offering spiritual comfort. Pfarrer Richard Ziegert and Dr. Jan Badewien are listed as contacts for those seeking guidance.

Global Reactions to the Eclipse

The magazine details the global impact of the solar eclipse, noting the massive crowds that gathered in prime viewing locations across Europe. In Germany, trains and roads were overwhelmed, with some passengers being turned away. Austria also experienced significant traffic jams. The "Kurier" newspaper in Austria reported "Jubel and Apprehension Under a Black Sun," highlighting traffic chaos and the apocalyptic interpretations that arose. In England, the Daily Telegraph ran the headline "Two minutes to last a lifetime," describing the event as a "total eclipse in history." The article mentions Gage Williams, who had predicted the Armageddon, and the "eerie silence" observed during totality. Despite the lack of a doomsday event, businesses were disappointed by the influx of "SoFi-Touris" (solar eclipse tourists). The article also touches on the "eclipse fever" gripping the country and mentions astronomer Dr. David Hughes' "amazing experience."

Esotericism and Doomsday Prophecies

Beyond the eclipse, the issue delves into various esoteric and New Age interpretations of impending doom. The article discusses the influence of figures like Matthew Dumbrell, who claimed to be chosen by God to announce the apocalypse. It also references Paco Rabanne and Elisabeth Teissier as "false prophets." The magazine notes that while some saw the eclipse as a celebration, others, like the "Druid" Ed Prynn, engaged in rituals at reconstructed Stonehenge. The article critiques the commercialization of such events, suggesting that what once deeply affected people has now become a tourist attraction.

UFOs and Conspiracy Theories

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to UFO phenomena and related conspiracy theories. The "TV-Weltuntergang" section discusses a Pro7 talk show where guests debated the end of the world, with some promoting apocalyptic prophecies and others offering more grounded perspectives. Ulf, a shaman, criticized the fear-mongering, while Pastor Wolfgang Behnk countered the more extreme views. The article highlights the role of figures like Ellen, who claimed prophetic visions, and the controversial claims of Uriella and the Fiat Lux sect, who believe in a "cleansing" of the Earth and the evacuation of believers via UFOs.

Critiques of UFO Research and Media

The magazine takes a critical stance on UFO research, particularly concerning alleged photographic evidence. The case of Erwin Hoffmann, who presented numerous UFO photos, is thoroughly investigated. The article reveals that many of his "sensational" photos were traced back to Japanese science-fiction films, specifically "Befehl aus dem Dunkeln." Despite this exposure, the magazine notes that some publications, like the UN, were hesitant to fully condemn Hoffmann, suggesting a desire to avoid discrediting the broader UFO research field. The article also criticizes the sensationalism in media coverage of UFOs, arguing that it often prioritizes conspiracy theories over factual reporting.

Specific UFO Cases and Reports

Several specific UFO-related incidents are detailed:

• Baldham UFO Photos: Erwin Hoffmann's photos, initially presented as evidence of UFOs, are exposed as being from a science-fiction film. The magazine details how readers identified the source and how Hoffmann's claims were debunked.
• Finnish UFO Incident: A story about a Finnish Air Force F-18A Hornet encountering a UFO is investigated and found to be unsubstantiated, with no records or witnesses in Finland supporting the claim.
• Clark C. McClelland's Claims: The article discusses claims by Clark C. McClelland, a former NASA employee, about UFO encounters and a possible cover-up, referencing his work with NICAP and his allegations of "mobbing."
• French IHEDN Report: A report from the French "Institute for High Defence Studies" (IHEDN) is discussed, which allegedly confirms the reality of UFOs and suggests a Roswell-like crash. However, the magazine, citing Perry Petrakis, critically analyzes the report, suggesting it may be influenced by commercial interests and conspiracy theories.
• Mercury Capsule Recovery: The recovery of Virgil Grissom's "Liberty Bell 7" Mercury capsule after 38 years is reported, noting that the NASA never searched for it due to cost, and Grissom's near-fatal experience during its sinking.
• "Der Clown" TV Series: A brief mention of the TV series "Der Clown" filming at a former coking plant, which is used as a base for aliens in the show, destroying a UFO.
• UFOs in the News Snippets: Several short reports cover a UFO sighting over Rome causing panic, a land sale in Hong Kong advertised as a UFO landing site, and a researcher's claim that planetary alignments during the solar eclipse could be mistaken for UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of astronomical events with apocalyptic fears, the persistent fascination with UFOs and extraterrestrial life, and the critical examination of media sensationalism and esoteric interpretations. The magazine adopts a skeptical yet investigative stance, aiming to debunk hoaxes and expose misinformation while acknowledging that some phenomena remain unexplained. There's a clear editorial leaning towards rational explanations and a critique of those who exploit public anxieties for personal gain or commercial purposes. The magazine seems to advocate for a grounded, evidence-based approach to understanding these complex topics, contrasting it with the widespread "UFO-mania" and doomsday prophecies prevalent at the time.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated September 1999, delves into various UFO-related topics, with a strong emphasis on debunking sightings and critically examining popular legends. The cover story, "Moderne Legenden: Vom hohen Roß gefallen...." (Modern Legends: Fallen from Grace...), focuses on the alleged scandals surrounding UFO researcher Jacques Vallée, questioning his credibility and research methods, particularly concerning the "Philadelphia Experiment."

Debunked Sightings: Weather Balloons and Misidentifications

The issue features several articles that attribute UFO sightings to misidentified weather balloons. One report from Utphe, Germany, describes a citizen's alarm at seeing two silver objects falling from the sky, which were later confirmed to be weather balloons released by the German Weather Service. Another case from Enzersfeld, Austria, details a farmer finding crop circles in his wheat field, which he initially feared were alien-related but were presented in the context of other UFO phenomena.

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to analyzing a sighting in Oberbayern, Germany, involving Josef Schedel and Chris Dimperl. Initially reported as a potential UFO, the object was later identified as a weather balloon, with detailed explanations of how such balloons can create unusual visual effects, including 'smoke clouds' and 'sparkling' or 'golden glimmering' as they descend and burst. The article criticizes the initial reporting and the tendency of some UFO investigators to dismiss weather balloons as explanations too quickly.

Another case from Canton, Ohio, USA, describes two women seeing 'dancing lights' that they believed were not balloons, but which were later identified as balloons carrying ashes released during a memorial service. The magazine emphasizes the importance of understanding 'IFO' (Identified Flying Object) phenomena, particularly weather balloons, to properly investigate UFO reports.

The Philadelphia Experiment: Legend vs. Reality

A major focus of this issue is the "Philadelphia Experiment," a widely discussed alleged military experiment from 1943. The article critically examines the story, tracing its origins through various authors and publications, including Charles Berlitz and Morris K. Jessup. It highlights the role of Carlos Allende (or Carl M. Allen) as a key witness and commentator, whose letters to Jessup are central to the narrative. The authors express strong skepticism about the experiment's reality, suggesting it may be a fabrication or a misinterpretation of events, possibly influenced by a magician's suggestion to the Navy.

The article scrutinizes the credibility of the witnesses and researchers involved, pointing out inconsistencies in historical records and the lack of verifiable evidence. It suggests that the story may have been amplified by sensationalist authors and the UFO community's desire for extraordinary explanations. The role of individuals like Gray Barker and James Moseley in promoting and perpetuating these legends is also discussed.

UFOlogy: Critiques and Methodological Concerns

CENAP REPORT expresses significant criticism of the methods and attitudes prevalent in the UFOlogy community. The magazine argues that many UFO investigators are too quick to jump to extraordinary conclusions, often neglecting basic research and the identification of mundane phenomena (IFO's). The issue of 'personal ego' and 'face-saving' among researchers is raised, suggesting that a reluctance to admit errors or misidentifications hinders genuine scientific inquiry.

The article criticizes the tendency to mix fantasy with reality, leading to 'pseudo-mysteries.' It highlights the importance of a critical, evidence-based approach, contrasting it with what is described as 'fandom' or cult-like adherence to certain theories or personalities within the UFO community.

Regional News and Initiatives

The issue also includes brief regional reports. Tino Günter is mentioned for his work in the Havelland region, and Christian Sommerer is introduced as a new regional UFO investigator for Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. There is also a mention of a TV critique of a show called "Quatsch dich reich" (Talk Yourself Rich) which parodied UFO-themed talk shows.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the debunking of sightings through rational explanations (primarily weather balloons), and a deep skepticism towards sensationalist narratives and unsubstantiated claims within the UFO community. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting rigorous, evidence-based investigation and distinguishing between factual observation and speculative interpretation or outright fabrication. The magazine advocates for a more scientific and less ideologically driven approach to the study of UFOs, emphasizing the need to 'separate the wheat from the chaff' (IFO's from genuine unknowns).

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: Nr. 261
Date: September 1999

This issue of CENAP REPORT, published in September 1999, delves into historical accounts of unidentified aerial phenomena, with a strong focus on early 20th-century sightings that were often attributed to balloons or airships. The magazine presents a collection of newspaper clippings and reports from various locations, primarily the United States and Germany, offering explanations and context for these historical events.

Early Airship and Balloon Sightings (1908-1908)

The report begins by examining early aerial phenomena reported in the United States in 1908. A report from the Herald describes an 'airship' seen in Forrestville, which witnesses characterized as a machine resembling a gas bag with a frame and propeller. The Berkshire Eagle reported an officer seeing a balloon near Pittsfield, Massachusetts, which turned out to be a manned balloon launched by enthusiast Van Sleet. Another report from the same paper mentions a 'stray balloon' seen in the early morning, again attributed to Van Sleet and Dr. S.S. Stowell, highlighting that at the time, any artificial object in the sky was termed an 'airship'. These early reports indicate a public fascination with aerial devices, with balloon flights being widely reported.

Further accounts from 1908 include a report from the Brockton Enterprise about a large, manned balloon with a powerful light hovering over Bridgewater, Massachusetts. This balloon was observed by workers and later moved towards Kingston. The Manchester Union reported an 'unknown balloon' over New Hampshire on November 2, 1908, which possessed a light described as searchlight-like and exhibited erratic movements, leading to speculation about its stability. Associated Press attempted to identify the balloon's origin without success.

'Flying Saucers' and Official Explanations (1950s-1970s)

The magazine then shifts to later decades, examining reports of 'flying saucers'. A 1950 AP report from Ankara, published in the Frankfurter Rundschau, mentions hundreds of Turks believing they saw a 'flying saucer' after a parade, which the meteorological office explained as white observation balloons.

In 1954, the Kasseler Post reported on pilot Georg Schmidt's observation of a 'flying saucer'-like phenomena near Kassel, Germany. Schmidt described a violet, round or elliptical object moving at approximately 100 km/h at an altitude of 2,000 meters. He suggested it might be a balloon, possibly a US Air Force weather balloon, explaining its shape changes due to atmospheric effects. The Kölnische Rundschau and Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung reported on a shiny, silver object seen over London in July 1954. This object was identified by the University of Bristol and the British Ministry of Aviation as a large experimental balloon used for cosmic ray research. Despite official explanations, some witnesses, like a postal worker quoted, insisted it was a 'flying saucer', perhaps controlled by 'little green men'.

A significant section discusses the prevalence of radiosondes as explanations for UFO sightings. According to a 1954 report citing the UN Organization for Meteorology's Secretary General, Dr. Swoboda, '76 percent of all reported 'flying saucer' sightings are actually radiosondes'. These are described as unmanned balloons released daily by hundreds of radio stations.

Further reports from Germany in the 1950s and 1960s detail sightings that were often attributed to balloons. A 1954 report in the Mannheimer Morgen discusses a 'mysterious object' seen over the city, which investigations revealed to be a radiosonde. The Frankfurter Rundschau also reported on a 'flying saucer' in Mainz, identified as a weather observation balloon at 27,000 meters.

In 1962, the Gmünder Tagespost published two articles about a sighting over Schwäbisch Gmünd. A citizen reported an object resembling a bright star that later appeared as a 'flying saucer', which then vanished, followed by a jet. Subsequent reports indicated multiple witnesses saw the object, and some also reported seeing jet aircraft in the vicinity. The article speculates whether the object was an 'attack target for jet fighters'. Another report mentions six jet aircraft appearing where the 'flying saucer' had been, and a separate sighting of a strange, blinking object observed by night hikers.

Military Explanations and Target Balloons

The magazine touches upon military practices that might explain some UFO reports. It mentions that the German and American Air Forces release target balloons for jet fighter practice. Pilots are tasked with locating and shooting down these balloons, which often disintegrate upon the first burst of machine-gun fire. The article suggests that some seemingly spectacular daylight UFO sightings, where military aircraft are seen approaching or engaging UFOs, might actually be these target balloon exercises, which have a harmless character.

UFO Landing on the Autobahn (1974)

A report from the Kölner Express in 1974 describes a driver who crashed into a guardrail after seeing a silvery shimmering 'UFO' land on the Kassel-Hamburg autobahn near Hannover. The driver, terrified, believed it was a landing from Mars. However, the 'UFO' was identified as a weather probe.

Comic Strip: UFO Quiz Show

The issue concludes with a humorous comic strip titled 'UFO-Quiz Show on RT-SATZ'. The show features a candidate named Wladimir Raas and a host named Werner Walter. Raas is asked a series of questions about historical events (dinosaur extinction, Titanic sinking, Vesuvius eruption) and contemporary issues (CIA black money, Man in Black), to which he consistently answers 'Werner Walter'. The final question asks what 'dumb ufologists' are most annoyed about, and Raas answers 'Werner Walter'. The host then remarks that the world isn't complicated if one has simple answers, implying a satirical take on simplistic explanations for complex phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the historical tendency to misidentify common aerial objects, particularly balloons, as mysterious phenomena like 'airships' or 'flying saucers'. The magazine presents a critical perspective, often providing official or scientific explanations that demystify the sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of debunking sensationalism and promoting rational explanations, while acknowledging the public's enduring fascination with the unknown. The inclusion of the comic strip further reinforces a lighthearted, yet critical, approach to UFO lore.