CENAP Report - No 266

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: 266
Volume: 3/2000
Date: May 25, 2000
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, dated May 25, 2000, marks the magazine's entry into the 21st century and celebrates the 25th anniversary of CENAP's activities. The cover features a striking NASA photograph of Earth from orbit, with a portion of a spacecraft visible, and prominently displays the magazine's title and a headline about entering a new century and CENAP's milestone.

Key Articles and Content

CENAP-Report: Satire Causes Stir in UFOlogy

The lead article, "CENAP-Satire schlug voll ein - Verwirrung in der UFOlogie" (CENAP Satire Was a Hit - Confusion in UFOlogy), discusses the reaction to Christian Sommerer's satirical "UFO-Debunking Leitfaden" (UFO Debunking Guide). Sommerer, a CENAP regional investigator, created this online guide as a "real-satire" to highlight and mock the typical arguments and defensive tactics used by UFOlogists. The text cleverly satirized the perceived characteristics of UFOlogists and their criticism of skeptics, particularly CENAP. The article details how the satire was misinterpreted by many in the UFO community as a genuine guide, leading to outrage and bizarre reactions, which Sommerer argues ultimately revealed more about the state of UFOlogy than about CENAP itself. The piece also touches upon the history of animosity and personal attacks directed at UFO skeptics, including CENAP, by some within the UFO community.

"UFO-Debunking Leitfaden" Hits Home

This section elaborates on Sommerer's "UFO-Debunking Leitfaden," explaining its origins and purpose. Sommerer aimed to expose the psychological manipulation and rhetorical techniques used by "UFO promoters" to deflect criticism. He created a caricature of a "debunker" based on stereotypes, which he then used to satirize the UFO community's perception of skeptics. The article notes that the satire was so effective because it was not explicitly labeled as such, leading many to take it as a serious document. It recounts instances of harassment and defamation faced by CENAP and its members, including threats and legal actions, which Sommerer sees as part of a long-standing campaign against UFO skeptics.

The Downward Trend of UFOlogy

Several articles in this issue highlight a perceived crisis and decline within UFOlogy. "UFOlogische Talfahrt: Die letzten negativen Meldungen" (UFOlogy Downward Trend: The Latest Negative Reports) suggests that the boom years of UFOlogy (1990-1996) are over, with declining viewership for shows like "The X-Files" and reduced output from UFO magazines and publishers. Organizations like MUFON and CUFOS are reported to have lost significant membership. Veteran researchers like Jan Aldrich and Larry Hatch are reportedly giving up their work due to a lack of progress and funding. The article also notes the struggles of esoteric publications and the shift towards online content, questioning its long-term viability. Dr. John Mack's new book on alien abductions is also mentioned as having failed to gain the media traction or sales of his earlier work, indicating a potential public fatigue with the subject.

Nazi Esotericism and UFOlogy

"Nazi-Esoterik: Die neue Gefahr von Rechtsaussen" (Nazi Esotericism: The New Danger from the Far Right) and "UFOlogie als Propaganda-Schlacht-Feld" (UFOlogy as a Propaganda Battlefield) explore the disturbing intersection of Nazi ideology, esotericism, and UFOlogy. The report details how right-wing extremists and antisemites are using UFO themes and esoteric beliefs to spread their propaganda, often portraying themselves as victims or as possessing hidden knowledge. The article points to figures like Jan van Helsing and Rainer Feistle, who allegedly promote theories about Nazi UFOs and extraterrestrial connections. It criticizes media coverage for not adequately addressing this issue, allowing these dangerous ideas to spread. The report also mentions the rise of "media men" like Jo Conrad who blend esoteric concepts with political propaganda.

"Vater" der Götter-Kosmonauten wurde 65!

This section celebrates the 65th birthday of Erich von Däniken, the proponent of the ancient astronaut theory. It acknowledges his significant impact on popular culture and his prolific writing career, noting his upcoming "pre-astronautic" theme park. The article also briefly touches upon a past legal dispute involving CENAP and a contactee named Andreas Schneider, where von Däniken reportedly offered to cover Schneider's legal costs.

BR3: MaxQ - Lust auf Parapsychologie?

This segment reviews a BR3 television program called "MaxQ" that explored parapsychology. The author expresses disappointment, criticizing the program for failing to critically examine topics like clairvoyance, healing, and psychic photography. He argues that the show, despite its scientific pretense, promoted pseudoscience and failed to debunk fraudulent claims, contrasting it with the more critical stance CENAP takes.

April Fools' Gag 2000: UFO Crash in Havelland

This article details a reported UFO crash in the Havelland region, which turned out to be an elaborate April Fools' Day prank orchestrated by CENAP members Sascha Schomacker and Tino Günter. The prank aimed to test public reaction to sensational UFO news, mirroring historical April Fools' hoaxes from 1950. The report notes that the public's reaction was largely muted, suggesting a growing skepticism towards such sensational claims.

Astronomers and Their UFO Problem

"Hartgesottene UFO-Ablehner: "Astronomen" und ihr UFO-Problem" (Hardcore UFO Rejectors: "Astronomers" and Their UFO Problem) discusses the perceived friction between astronomers and UFOlogists. The article suggests that while many astronomers are open-minded and enjoy science fiction, some react defensively or dismissively when confronted with UFO topics. It recounts an experience of a CENAP member joining an astronomy mailing list and facing hostility from some members who feared the list would become dominated by UFO believers. The section highlights that while some astronomers are willing to engage with UFO reports critically, others exhibit a strong resistance.

England's Sunday Times Reports a Small Sensation

"Englands Sunday Times berichtet von einer kleinen Sensation" (England's Sunday Times Reports a Small Sensation) covers a report about newly discovered photographs of a British-designed, 1950s flying saucer prototype, codenamed "Project Y." Developed by John Frost, the disc-shaped aircraft was intended for vertical takeoff and high-speed flight but ultimately failed due to instability. The article notes that the project was abandoned as American advancements in jet technology surpassed it. The discovery of these photographs by David Windle is presented as a significant find, shedding light on Britain's early attempts at advanced aircraft design.

Uganda: New Cult Drama

This section briefly reports on a tragic cult event in Uganda where hundreds of members of a doomsday sect died in a mass suicide/murder. The article notes the event received widespread media coverage but highlights the lack of in-depth analysis from major news outlets.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CENAP-REPORT consistently adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards UFOlogy. The magazine actively debunks sensational claims, exposes pseudoscience, and warns against the infiltration of extremist ideologies into the UFO community. There is a strong emphasis on scientific methodology and rational explanation, contrasting with what the authors perceive as the increasingly irrational and dogmatic nature of much of modern UFOlogy. The report highlights the growing disillusionment with the UFO phenomenon and its promoters, suggesting a decline in public interest and a shift towards more critical thinking. The magazine also champions its role in public education and the pursuit of truth, even when facing opposition and misinterpretation from within the UFO community itself.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated 2000, delves into various unexplained phenomena, with a strong focus on alleged UFO sightings and the media's role in reporting them. The cover story, "Menschen im Landkreis von Polarlicht gebannt" (People in the district captivated by polar light), highlights the public's reaction to a spectacular aurora borealis event in April 2000, which was widely mistaken for UFOs or other alarming phenomena.

The Uganda Cult Tragedy

The issue begins by referencing a tragic event in Uganda involving mass suicide motivated by religious fervor, drawing a parallel to the dangers of fanaticism and irrational beliefs, which can extend to various forms of 'belief systems,' including UFOlogy.

UFOlogy as a Belief System

The article critically examines UFOlogy, likening it to other belief systems such as astrology and esotericism. It argues that UFOlogy, at its core, is a form of 'heavenly wonder-belief' and a haven for conspiracy paranoia. The author suggests that UFOlogists often act as proponents of a 'new truth,' disseminating information from 'UFO gurus' and 'UFO popes' without necessarily verifying it through personal experience. Skeptics are often marginalized as 'militant skeptics' or 'ideologically motivated skeptics,' leading to 'belief wars' within the community.

Media and Esotericism

The report notes a shift in media coverage, with some outlets becoming less receptive to esoteric claims. The Sat1 program 'Blitz' is cited for its critical examination of the esotericism market, testing the gullibility of consumers at esoteric fairs. This shift towards rationality is seen as partly influenced by events like the Uganda tragedy.

NASA and UFOs: The 'Smoking Gun'

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the release of new NASA UFO video material in March 2000. This material, allegedly captured during space shuttle missions, was presented at the 9th Annual International UFO Congress. Martyn Stubbs, a cable TV manager, compiled 90 minutes of footage from over 2,500 hours of transmissions. The material reportedly shows two types of phenomena: 'Space Phenomena One' depicting 'spheres' and 'Space Phenomena Two' showing self-luminous objects barely visible to the naked eye.

Dr. Guido Nigro, Director of the SETI radio telescope, expressed being "very impressed" by the footage, suggesting that if it is genuine, it points to a cover-up. However, other experts, including Clare Williams, Chief Astronomer at the Canberra Space Dome & Observatory, and John Locker, a UFO researcher, offer more conventional explanations. They suggest that the objects could be ice crystals, space debris, or reflections, particularly noting that many sightings occur when the shuttle's cameras are focused on nearby objects.

James Oberg, a NASA consultant, also weighed in, stating that the phenomena are not new and have been observed since the beginning of manned spaceflight. He attributes them to ice particles detaching from the shuttle's exterior or other small debris, likening them to 'moon pigeons.' The report criticizes the sensationalized title "Secret NASA Transmissions: 'The Smoking Gun'" as a marketing tactic.

Soviet-Era 'Artificial UFOs'

The magazine also touches upon Soviet-era 'artificial UFOs.' A report from the April 1983 issue of 'Soviet Union Today' recounts an anecdote from cosmonaut Georgi Grechko, who claimed to have "started" UFO sightings by tapping on the station's hull to release ice particles, creating the illusion of flying objects for his colleagues. This is presented as an example of how mundane phenomena can be misinterpreted.

The Aurora Borealis Event of April 2000

The article extensively details the aurora borealis event on April 6, 2000, which caused widespread confusion and numerous calls to police and media outlets across Germany. Many people mistook the celestial display for fires, chemical clouds, or UFOs. The report includes eyewitness accounts, media reactions, and scientific explanations, emphasizing that such natural phenomena can evoke strong emotional responses and lead to misinterpretations, sometimes fueling UFO beliefs.

Skepticism vs. Belief

Throughout the issue, there is a recurring theme of skepticism versus belief. The authors question the motivations of some UFOlogists, suggesting they may be driven by profit or a desire to promote specific narratives. The report highlights the importance of critical thinking and scientific investigation when evaluating claims of unexplained phenomena, while acknowledging the public's fascination with the unknown.

Other Incidents and Conferences

Brief mentions are made of other events, including a UFO conference in Laughlin, Nevada, and a police investigation into a mysterious aircraft crash in Mönchengladbach, Germany, which ultimately yielded no concrete findings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFOlogy as a belief system, the role of media in shaping public perception of unexplained phenomena, and the importance of scientific skepticism. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious inquiry, acknowledging the existence of unexplained events but advocating for rational explanations and a critical approach to sensational claims. The magazine aims to debunk common UFO myths and provide a more grounded perspective on aerial phenomena, while also exploring the psychological and sociological aspects of belief in the extraordinary.

This issue of the International UFO Reporter (IUR) magazine, Volume 24, Number 4, from Winter 1999, focuses on a significant UFO encounter that occurred over Germany in 1976. The magazine also touches upon a more recent incident involving an air traffic hazard.

Aircraft/UFO Encounter Over Germany in 1976

The lead article details a dramatic UFO encounter experienced by a 33-year-old private pilot, identified as D.W., on August 13, 1976. Piloting a rented Piper Arrow PA-28, D.W. was flying in good summer weather over Germany. After landing in Wilhelmshaven for refueling, he took off again and was flying via autopilot at an altitude of approximately 1,200 meters with a speed of 120 knots.

At approximately 5 PM, D.W. observed a strange light approaching from his 9 o'clock position (Northeast). Initially distant, the object rapidly closed in over 3-5 minutes, eventually positioning itself beside his left wing. The object was described as oval-shaped, with a bright yellow center and a flaming orange aura, and was estimated to be about seven times the size of the full moon. It maintained its position alongside the Piper for several minutes.

During this close proximity, the Piper unexpectedly performed two rapid 360° rolls, from which D.W. had to manually recover, losing nearly 200 meters of altitude. He then noticed his compass was spinning clockwise so rapidly that the needle was unclear. The UFO continued to fly alongside.

After regaining normal flight altitude, D.W. contacted Hannover Air Traffic Control to report the incident and the presence of the strange object. The control center confirmed the aircraft and another object nearby and stated that additional aircraft were en route for investigation. Shortly after, two USAF F-4 Phantom jets appeared and intercepted both the Piper and the UFO, flying at speeds estimated between 400 and 500 mph. The UFO then accelerated forward, climbed at a 30° angle, and veered right, crossing the Piper's flight path before disappearing out of sight. The pilot's compass stabilized once the UFO was gone.

D.W. was instructed to divert to Hannover Airport, where he landed about 15-20 minutes later. He was escorted to a separate area and met by five men in business attire who arrived in a military van. He was taken to an underground room where he was interviewed for approximately three hours by a man behind a desk, whom he suspected was American. The interview focused on the sighting, and D.W. was presented with a form in German, requiring him to agree never to publish anything about his UFO experience. He was threatened with the revocation of his pilot's license if he refused to sign, but he ultimately declined.

Leaving the room after dark, and lacking night flying clearance, D.W. had to book a hotel at the airport. The next morning, he found his aircraft undamaged and flew home without incident. Later, he learned from the aircraft owner that parts of the landing gear and engine crankshaft had become strongly and permanently magnetized, necessitating their replacement. The compass was also eventually replaced. Tragically, the rental aircraft crashed and was destroyed at a later date.

The article notes that UFO researcher Richard F. Haines was informed of this case by Illobrand von Ludwiger and met D.W. during a trip to Germany in August 1999. Haines was impressed by D.W.'s knowledge and directness. D.W. expressed regret over not having proof of his 1976 experience and felt a "sense of threat" around him since the interview in Hannover. He observed that UFOs in Germany are often met with public ridicule and can ruin a person's reputation, suggesting that "the best minds in Germany were successfully forced into exile."

The author of the article expresses skepticism about the case, noting its unusual nature for German UFO reports and its similarity to UFO folklore from the USA or Peru. The author questions why the case came through von Ludwiger and MUFON-CES, and finds D.W.'s personal views to be more aligned with American UFOlogy, concluding that "something is not right about this case, it stinks to high heaven."

The article critiques the "scientific UFOlogy" presented, arguing that true science requires reproducibility, significance, observer independence, and falsifiability, not just academic credentials. It concludes that the potential scientific value of the case remains unproven and is merely an anecdote.

It is also noted that the incident occurred during the Cold War, a time when USAF bases were common in West Germany and training missions were frequent. The location was about 90 miles west of the zonal border, making the rapid appearance of the F-4 jets plausible. However, the author reiterates that the pilot's interview by aviation authorities is highly unusual for German UFO cases.

Zeppelinartiger Ballon schreckt sogar Piloten (Zeppelin-like Balloon Scares Pilots)

This short report, referencing a Pro7 Videotext page from May 7, 2000, describes an incident where a seven-meter-long advertising balloon, attached to a 30-meter rope, became an air traffic hazard in Bavaria, Germany. The balloon, described as Zeppelin-shaped, was released by unknown perpetrators during the night near Kinding in the Eichstätt district. Bundeswehr special forces were deployed to search for it, and authorities were investigating the incident. The air traffic control issued a warning to southern Bavarian airports.

Other Mentions

The article references similar past cases, including the "Pfingst-UFO" (Pentecost UFO) from Mindelheim in May 1980 and a similar sighting in Meckesheim in January 1984.

A cartoon at the end of the issue depicts four figures, including an alien, on a platform, with the caption: "SEHEN SIE GENAU HIN! ERKENNEN SIE IHREN ENTFÜHRER?" (Look closely! Do you recognize your abductor?).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, pilot encounters, potential government cover-ups, and the challenges of investigating such phenomena. The editorial stance, particularly in the analysis of the 1976 German UFO case, is critical and skeptical of claims lacking rigorous scientific methodology, emphasizing the need for reproducibility and empirical evidence. The author expresses doubt about the veracity and interpretation of the reported events, suggesting that the case might be fabricated or misinterpreted, possibly influenced by American UFOlogy trends. The magazine also highlights the difficulties faced by individuals who report UFO sightings in Germany, suggesting a climate of ridicule and suppression.