CENAP Report - No 262

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: 262
Date: October 1999 (Cover date 7/99)
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of the CENAP REPORT, Germany's oldest and most comprehensive UFO journal, marks the publication's entry into the 21st century and its 25th year of activity. The cover prominently features a NASA photo from the Gemini XII mission and headlines that highlight the 1973 UFO wave, the Pascagoula abduction case, and a critical look at UFO sightings and ufologists.

Editorial and Organizational Information

The CENAP REPORT is published by Werner Walter, who also serves as Editor-in-Chief. Hansjürgen Köhler handles case investigations and dispatch. The magazine is published bi-weekly. CENAP is described as a private, non-commercial, and ideologically independent organization established in 1976, dedicated to receiving, analyzing, and evaluating reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) with a critical stance. CENAP is associated with GWUP (Society for the Scientific Investigation of Para-Sciences) and the Forum Parawissenschaften. It has been recommended by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Interior as a contact point for UFO reports and previously served as a consultant for the German Aerospace Agency (DARA). CENAP also offers a specialized UFO information service to astronomical institutions and acts as an active "UFO working group" for the VdS (Association of Friends of Astronomy).

The editorial section, "Stürmische Zeiten im Herbst 1999!" (Stormy Times in Autumn 1999!), notes a change of address for the North German regional representative, Sascha Schomacker. It also reports the resignation of Carsten Bade, a former CENAP representative, who allegedly claimed CENAP did not conduct UFO research. Webmaster Josef Schädel has also left, resulting in the defunct www.alien.de/cenap-Seite and the deactivated email address [email protected]. The editorial expresses regret over the low attendance at the Cröfelbach II conference by Pro-UFO proponents, suggesting a divide between UFOlogists and UFO phenomenon investigators, likening them to "cats and mice."

Feature Article: The Pascagoula Abduction Case (1973)

The central focus of this issue is the 1973 UFO wave, with a detailed examination of the Pascagoula incident. The article recounts how in the autumn of 1973, a significant UFO wave occurred in America, described as a near-hysteria. The Pascagoula case, which gained worldwide fame, involved two shipyard workers, Charles Hickson (42) and Calvin Parker (19), who claimed to have been abducted by aliens on October 11th while fishing near Pascagoula, Mississippi. They described being taken aboard a flying saucer by "silvery-gray" beings with "pointed ears" for examination.

The article details the immediate aftermath, including the men's fame, their hiring of an agent (Joseph Colingo), and the media frenzy. It highlights the conflicting descriptions of the UFO's size and shape across various interviews and media appearances, ranging from oval to cigar-shaped, and its size estimates varying from 10 feet to 30 feet in length. Hickson's description of the aliens is also detailed: over five feet tall, with no necks, wrinkled skin like an elephant's hide, long arms, and crab-like claws for hands. They moved in a flowing manner, and their heads had small conical protrusions instead of ears and noses, with slit-like mouths.

Investigator Phil Klass's book "UFOs - Explained" (1974) is mentioned as an early analysis of the event. The article also discusses the involvement of Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a former Project Blue Book consultant, and Professor Dr. James A. Harder, who interviewed the witnesses and expressed belief in their experience. Hynek stated, "There is no doubt for me that these two men had a very frightening experience." Harder concluded, "It was definitely something here that was not earthly."

The role of the lie detector test is extensively analyzed. While Hickson passed a test administered by Scott G., Phil Klass later investigated the operator's qualifications, finding him to be inexperienced and questioning the test's validity. Klass also noted the availability of more qualified polygraph examiners in the region who were not consulted.

The article touches upon the financial aspects, with agent Colingo reportedly seeking significant sums, including potential film rights, and the possibility of a "million dollar" deal. The lack of independent witnesses despite the proximity to a busy highway and a toll booth is noted.

Debunking the 1973 UFO Wave

Beyond the Pascagoula case, the issue systematically debunks numerous other UFO sightings reported during the 1973 wave. These include:

• Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia: A reported UFO chase that led to a jeep overturning was explained as a sighting of a bright light.
• Nashville, Tennessee: A sighting of a shape-changing object was identified as a star.
• Manchester, Georgia: A glowing object was identified as a normal emergency street signal lamp.
• South Carolina: A widely reported UFO landing turned out to be a helium-filled balloon.
• Longview, Texas: "Strange objects" at an airfield were identified as snow geese.
• San Jose, California: Reports were identified as a bright meteor.
• Renfroe, Alabama: A UFO in a tree was identified as a weather balloon.
• Greenwood, Delaware: A bright orange disc was a prank involving lamps and a generator.
• Baton Rouge, Louisiana: A glowing object over a stadium was a hot air balloon.
• Dayton, Ohio: A report of a UFO killing cows was unsubstantiated, with police unable to find the carcasses.
• Columbus, Ohio: A sighting of "creatures" in aluminum suits with antennas turned out to be teenagers in costumes.
• New York/Long Island: A long, glowing UFO was identified as a commercial advertising blimp.

The article emphasizes that the USAF's closure of Project Blaubuch in 1970 meant there was no longer a government agency to provide official explanations, leading media to seek out independent experts like Dr. Hynek, whose opinions were widely published.

UFO Sightings: The Magic Moment

This section details an observation by a crew from the Radebeul Observatory on September 4, 1999. They witnessed an unusual object described as an orange-red, glowing disc, approximately -2 to -3 magnitude, moving rapidly westward. The object was observed with binoculars and a Maksutov telescope, appearing as a disc with a smaller light point above it. The object's brightness and apparent size decreased as it moved towards the horizon. The observers ruled out conventional aircraft due to the lack of navigation lights and its trajectory, and also considered it unlikely to be a military aircraft or a meteor. The observation was initially puzzling, but the article suggests it might be a "miniature hot air balloon," a common misidentified object (IFO).

Other Cases and Analysis

Another case from Toulouse, France, in 1957 describes an orange, red-orange, yellow-red object seen by multiple witnesses, including astronomers. This case, like others, was not definitively explained at the time and is presented as an example of how even qualified observers can encounter unexplained phenomena.

A 1964 incident near Wake Island Airport involved a flickering, reddish light observed by a US aircraft crew. It was described as a "red fireball" that hovered erratically before disappearing. The Pentagon's Project Blaubuch classified it as one of its 700 "unidentified cases."

The article stresses the importance of thoroughly investigating conventional explanations (IFOs) before resorting to exotic hypotheses. It criticizes the lack of comprehensive IFO knowledge among many UFO researchers and highlights CENAP's ongoing efforts to educate researchers through its journal and the Journal for UFO Research.

Unusual Observation near Krefeld

On September 4, 1999, Michael von Broich and his partner observed a strange, bright, milky disc-like object moving erratically in the northwest sky near Krefeld, Germany. They initially considered Venus but ruled it out due to its movement. The object was observed with binoculars and a telescope. The report suggests this might be another instance of a misidentified object, possibly a "miniature hot air balloon."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes a critical and skeptical approach to UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained sightings, the CENAP REPORT prioritizes rigorous investigation and the elimination of conventional explanations (IFOs) before accepting more exotic hypotheses, such as extraterrestrial visitation. The magazine aims to educate its readers and researchers on IFOs and to provide a platform for detailed case analysis. The editorial stance is one of scientific inquiry, seeking objective evidence and debunking sensationalism. The recurring theme is that many reported UFO sightings, even those by credible witnesses or professionals, can be explained by mundane phenomena, hoaxes, or misidentifications, and that the field of ufology is often plagued by sensationalism and a lack of rigorous methodology.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated October 1999, delves into various UFO sightings and related phenomena reported in Germany. It features detailed analyses of individual cases, expert opinions, and discussions on the psychological and sociological aspects of UFOlogy.

Weather Balloons as a Common Explanation

The magazine extensively explores the theory that many reported UFO sightings are actually misidentified weather balloons. Several articles detail how the visual characteristics of weather balloons, such as their shape, movement, and the way they reflect light, can create the illusion of a 'flying saucer' or other anomalous objects. Specific cases from Krefeld and Rostock are analyzed, with meteorologists like Wolfgang Pfisterer from the Stuttgart Weather Service explaining the technical aspects of balloon launches and their behavior in the upper atmosphere. The article highlights how factors like perspective, atmospheric conditions, and the detachment of measuring equipment can contribute to misinterpretations.

Case Studies and Eyewitness Accounts

Several specific incidents are presented:

• Krefeld Incident: An observer described a circular object with sharp contours and a smaller black object moving within it, which later split into two. This is explained as a weather balloon.
• Rostock Incident: An amateur astronomer reported a round, transparent object resembling a balloon that appeared to explode. This is also attributed to a weather balloon from the German Weather Service in Greifswald.
• Oldenburg & Schondorf Incidents: Reports from Oldenburg describe a 'red-orange, glowing fireball,' while a witness in Schorndorf saw a pulsating, red-orange object. Both are suggested to be related to atmospheric phenomena or possibly miniature hot-air balloons.
• Odenwald Incident: A couple reported seeing a bright, neon-colored object ascending from a meadow. Investigations revealed this was likely caused by a 'Skybeamer' light projection from a local festival, creating an optical illusion.
• Biblis Incidents (1980): Historical reports of UFO sightings near the Biblis nuclear power plant are revisited. Initial reports of 'flying saucers' were later explained as a miniature hot-air balloon launched during a New Year's Eve party, demonstrating how even seemingly compelling sightings can have mundane explanations.

The 'Skytracker Effect' and Optical Illusions

The concept of optical illusions, particularly the 'Skytracker effect,' is explored as a significant factor in UFO misidentifications. The Odenwald case is a prime example, where the terrain and the projection of lights from a festival created the illusion of an object ascending from a meadow. The article emphasizes the importance of on-site investigations during daylight to understand the geographical context and potential visual distortions.

Skepticism and the 'Debunker' Phenomenon

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the conflict between UFO believers and skeptics. The article discusses the role of 'debunkers' and criticizes organizations like CSICOP and GWUP. It presents Stanton Friedman's critique of debunkers, highlighting their alleged tendency to dismiss facts, attack individuals, and rely on proclamation over investigation. The magazine argues that this 'psychological warfare' aims to discredit UFO research and protect the established UFOlogy narrative.

Internal Conflicts within UFO Research Organizations

The issue details internal strife within UFO research groups, particularly the dissolution of the Independent Alien Network (IAN). Conflicts arose over research methodologies, with disagreements between members like Chris Dimperl and Wladislaw Raab, and external researchers like Roland Horn. The article suggests that these internal disputes and the focus on 'wing battles' hindered serious research.

GUFORA and the Shift in UFOlogy

The formation of GUFORA (German UFO Research Association) by former IAN members is discussed. The magazine notes that GUFORA aims to provide advice and investigate UFO sightings, alien contacts, and paranormal phenomena, seeking 'scientific solutions.' However, the article expresses skepticism about their approach, particularly in light of past failures in explaining simple cases.

Psychological Aspects of UFO Belief

The magazine explores the psychological motivations behind UFO belief, suggesting that some individuals are drawn to the exotic nature of UFO hypotheses and conspiracy theories to find meaning or belonging. It touches upon the idea that the 'magic moment' of a sighting can be a powerful experience, but also that the interpretation of these experiences can be influenced by pre-existing beliefs and societal narratives.

Investigative Methodology

The importance of thorough investigation, including interviewing witnesses separately, conducting on-site visits, and cross-referencing information with official sources (like weather services and police), is repeatedly stressed. The article advocates for a rational and evidence-based approach to UFO research, distinguishing it from sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the rational explanation of UFO sightings through mundane phenomena like weather balloons and optical illusions, the critique of unsubstantiated UFO beliefs, and the importance of rigorous investigative methods. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical towards sensationalist UFO claims, advocating for a scientific and evidence-based approach while acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena. The magazine positions itself as a critical voice within the UFO community, aiming to separate fact from fiction.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated October 1999, delves into critical analyses of the UFO phenomenon, with a strong focus on debunking sensationalism and promoting scientific rigor in research. The magazine's stance is clearly one of skepticism towards many UFO claims, emphasizing the importance of identifying Identified Flying Objects (IFOs) and questioning the methodologies and motivations of prominent UFO organizations and researchers.

MUFON-CES and Illobrand von Ludwiger: A Critical Examination

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to scrutinizing the activities of MUFON-CES and its leader, Illobrand von Ludwiger. The article criticizes von Ludwiger's involvement with mediums and his perceived shift towards less scientific methods, despite his public image as a proponent of scientific UFO research. A case study from Vienna details a negative experience where a witness felt deceived by MUFON-CES's approach, involving a medium rather than a scientific investigation, leading to significant personal costs and a feeling of being exploited. The article also highlights a controversy between von Ludwiger and Edgar Wunder, a former editor of 'Der Skeptiker,' regarding the publication of a 'Gegendarstellung' (counter-statement), underscoring the deep divisions and personal conflicts within the UFO community.

The 'IFO Factor' and the Need for Research Standards

The magazine repeatedly emphasizes the 'IFO factor,' arguing that many reported UFO sightings are actually misidentifications of conventional objects or phenomena. It criticizes the 'will to believe' that drives many UFO enthusiasts, leading them to ignore rational explanations. The authors stress the need for higher research standards, distinguishing between genuine scientific inquiry and what they term 'UFOlogy kindergarten' or 'fandom.' They argue that a lack of proper training and a tendency to sensationalize cases hinder objective understanding.

Robert Bigelow: UFO Patron and Space Entrepreneur

The issue profiles Robert Bigelow, a wealthy businessman with a significant interest in UFO research. Bigelow has invested millions in UFO investigations through his National Institute for Discovery Science (NIDS) and has a history of purchasing ranches where UFO sightings were reported. The article also details his ambitious plans to build a space hotel through his company Bigelow Aerospace, highlighting his dual role as a UFO enthusiast and a visionary entrepreneur.

Case Studies and Debunking Efforts

Several specific UFO incidents are discussed, with the magazine aiming to provide rational explanations or highlight the lack of credible evidence. These include:

• The Greifswalder Bucht Sightings: The article dismisses claims of UFOs in this area, attributing them to wishful thinking and misinterpretations of media reports.
• The Vienna Incident: A detailed account of a witness's negative experience with MUFON-CES, involving a medium and alleged exploitation.
• The Heathrow Near-Miss: A report of commercial pilots sighting an unidentified object near London Heathrow is presented, with the British Civil Aviation Authority concluding it was likely a re-entry of a Russian rocket motor, despite some UFO proponents suggesting a government cover-up.
• The Pacific Northwest UFO Swarm: Thousands reportedly witnessed 'flaming' UFOs in formation. The official explanation provided by NORAD was the re-entry of a Russian rocket motor, though some UFO enthusiasts dismissed this as a cover-up.
• The Swissair Encounter: A brief mention of a 1997 incident near New York.

The magazine consistently points out the limitations of eyewitness testimony and the importance of corroborating evidence, often highlighting how official investigations or scientific analysis lead to conventional explanations.

The Decline of UFO Interest in the Media

The article notes a declining public interest in UFOs, citing the rebranding efforts of the National Enquirer and a general shift in media focus towards more 'real' human stories. This trend is seen as a challenge for the UFOlogy field, potentially pushing it further into niche or fringe status.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are the critique of unscientific UFO research, the dangers of wishful thinking and belief systems in understanding anomalous phenomena, and the importance of objective investigation. The editorial stance is one of critical skepticism, advocating for a rational and evidence-based approach to the UFO question. The magazine positions itself as a voice of reason attempting to 'cleanse' the field of pseudoscience and sensationalism, even if it means alienating some within the UFO community. The authors express a desire to raise the standards of UFO research from what they perceive as a 'kindergarten level' to a more mature, scientific discipline.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated October 1999, focuses on the phenomenon of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and explores various explanations, particularly the increasing number of re-entering rocket boosters and space junk being mistaken for UFOs. The magazine delves into specific cases, analyzes witness testimonies, and consults experts in the field.

Tampa Home Video Shows Details of Large Triangle Craft

The lead story discusses an incident on September 2, 1999, when the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported a "Breaking News" story about a large, cylindrical object seen over Sydney, Australia. This was later identified by Ross Dowe of the National Space Center as a Russian rocket booster stage returning to Earth. Peter B. Davenport of the American National UFO Reporting Center confirmed that several Russian rocket booster re-entries were expected in early September.

On September 8, 1999, the St. Petersburg Times reported on "Mystery lights" over Florida, which turned out to be a rocket booster re-entry. Tim Beachy, a 38-year-old pilot and electronics technician, described seeing a glowing object with a sparking trail moving slowly across the sky near Plant City. Henry Clifford, a security guard, also witnessed the event, noting it was not a shooting star and lasted for at least 15 seconds, with a reddish glow and a white-blue trail.

The incident generated numerous calls to local police, the FAA, and the Kennedy Space Center. Billy Fuchs of WFLA-AM 970 received about 40 calls. The US Space Command in Colorado Springs identified the sightings as the remnants of a commercial satellite launched by the Russians. Army Major Mike Mirmingham explained that about 60 to 80 artificial objects re-enter the atmosphere annually, but most are not seen because they occur during daylight over unpopulated areas or water.

Fox TV in Tampa, Florida, broadcast an amateur video of the event, which Ignatius Graffeo, operator of the UFOSEEK homepage, interpreted as a "massive, powerful Flying Triangle" rather than a re-entry. A poll on his website showed that out of 71 UFOlogists surveyed, 55% believed it was a triangle craft, while only 7% identified it as a re-entry. Graffeo speculated about the intelligence of the pilot controlling the object.

Re-Entrys and Space Junk

The article "Zurück in die reale Welt" (Back to the Real World) explains the difficulty in predicting re-entry points due to the "hop" effect of objects entering the atmosphere, which can alter their trajectory significantly. The deviation can be up to 3,000 miles. A Space Command spokesperson stated that over 16,000 re-entries have occurred without any reported harm to humans.

NASA spokesperson George Diller confirmed that both American and Russian space programs are now designed to de-orbit large booster stages to reduce space debris. This practice is expected to lead to an increase in re-entry-related UFO reports.

Jonathan McDowell, a Harvard astrophysicist, noted that Russian rocket launches regularly produce "showers of debris." However, he also pointed out that the USA, India, and the European Space Agency contribute to space junk. The article lists several re-entries in September 1999, including debris from US rockets launched in 1972 and 1994, a US booster from 1993, and a US Navy navigation satellite from 1964. McDowell anticipates a significant increase in space junk, including the potential controlled re-entry of the Russian space station MIR over the Pacific.

Satellite Formations and UFOs

Roland Horn reports on an observation by Alfred Schwablitzky and his wife on August 14, 1999, near Dortmund, Germany. They witnessed three satellite-like objects moving steadily from north to south, forming a consistent speed and a shape resembling an isosceles triangle. The objects were white, star-sized, and moved faster than satellites. The formation was visible for 45 seconds.

While Schwablitzky initially considered a hang glider, the characteristics did not match. The article suggests this observation might be related to the US Navy's "ELINT" project, known as "White Cloud," which uses a specific type of satellite to locate enemy warships. These Naval Ocean Surveillance System (NOSS) satellites often fly in a triangular formation.

Similarly, an amateur astronomer named Armin in Erlangen, Germany, observed a similar formation on September 4, 1999. He saw three objects moving closely together from NW to SO, forming an isosceles triangle with a brightness of 2-3 magnitudes.

Hot Air Balloon Mistaken for UFO

The issue recounts the story of Doris and Peter Strelzyk, who escaped from East Germany in 1979 using a homemade hot air balloon. Their nighttime flight was reported to the police by observers who described a "dancing fiery glow in the sky," leading to fears of a UFO invasion. Police contacted NATO surveillance, but no radar contacts were made. Patrol cars were dispatched to search for the alleged UFO, eventually finding the Strelzyks and their balloon, revealing they were DDR refugees, not extraterrestrials.

The Totally Extraordinary UFO: Rabbit Balloon Scare

The Frankfurter Rundschau reported on a UFO scare in Niederkalbach, Germany, on September 23, 1999. Residents reported a "rabbit-head-shaped" object, which caused concern and led to a police helicopter search. The mystery was solved when a family found a deflated balloon in their garden. The balloon's long ears had drooped, making it resemble a human body, leading to the initial UFO reports.

Upcoming Meteor Showers: The Leonids

The magazine announces the upcoming Leonid meteor shower, expected to be spectacular. Scientists David Asher and Rob McNaught predict up to 1,200 meteors per hour, with the peak in Europe anticipated on the morning of November 17, 1999.

Editorial Notes and Future Content

The editors note that the issue is filled with 64 pages of content, leaving no room for their usual "Magin-Cartoons." They express hope that much of the remaining material can be included in the next issue. They also mention an upcoming event, "Cröffelbach II," which may be covered in the next report. Finally, they clarify that CR distribution is handled by Hansjürgen Köhler, and any issues with receiving the magazine should be directed to him, not Werner Walter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the re-interpretation of UFO sightings as mundane phenomena like space debris and atmospheric events, and the critical examination of UFOlogy. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards extraordinary claims, favoring scientific explanations and debunking sensationalism. The magazine aims to provide factual reporting and analysis, distinguishing between genuine mysteries and misidentified objects or events.