CENAP Report - No 267

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: 4/2000 (CR 267)
Date: 2000
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, a long-standing German UFO journal, marks the transition into the 21st century and celebrates the 25th year of CENAP's activities. The cover features a NASA photo from the Gemini XII mission in 1966, showing a small object photographed outside the capsule, identified as a 'UFO'. The issue's table of contents promises a diverse range of articles, from UFOs in orbit and the research of parapsychologist Hans Bender to the theories of physicist Burkhard Heim and the mystery of ball lightning.

UFOs aus dem Orbit (UFOs from Orbit)

This article by Christian Sommerer explores how space technology can cause UFO alarms. It discusses a joint study by Lockheed and Houston Aviatons that investigated phenomena attributed to space activities. These include luminous effects from strontium or barium clouds ejected by rockets, strange shapes from rocket exhaust, and satellite debris re-entering the atmosphere. The article notes that while many such events are explained by natural causes, they are often sensationalized in the UFO community. It also touches upon claims by some UFO writers that astronauts have frequently encountered UFOs during their missions, citing examples like the 'Roswell Incident' and a video from the Space Shuttle Discovery.

The article details a study by F.D. Beatty and J.G. Baron analyzing footage from the Apollo 12 mission. The study aimed to identify an object seen outside the Gemini XII capsule. Hypotheses included external or internal spacecraft parts, or reflections. The analysis of the images, though limited by quality, considered various possibilities. The study also reviewed similar cases, noting that such appearances are not singular events. Explanations ranged from discarded docking rings to crystallized urine particles mistaken for UFOs. The study concluded that these phenomena were likely normal results of space maneuvers or rocket firings, providing critical UFO researchers with a basis to debunk sensational claims.

Hans Bender & Co. - The Research of 'Professor Haunting'

This section, also by Christian Sommerer, focuses on the parapsychological work of Professor Hans Bender. It begins by defining parapsychology as the attempt to explain phenomena like telepathy and occult occurrences. The article traces Bender's career, noting his birth in Freiburg in 1907 and his establishment of the Institute for Border Areas of Psychology and Psychohygiene (IGPP) in Freiburg. Bender's early work included an article on 'Experimental Visions' in 1938. His research gained public attention in the 1960s when he investigated a haunting in a Rosenheim law firm, attributing it to extreme psychological stress in a young employee. This case reportedly established his reputation as 'Professor Haunting'.

The article discusses the concept of 'psychic overexertion' often used to explain phenomena like poltergeists, particularly in adolescent girls. It critiques the lack of clear medical and psychological documentation in such cases, suggesting the possibility of deliberate deception. Bender's academic career included teaching positions in Bonn and Strasbourg. The article highlights his founding of the IGPP, which attracted individuals like Burkhard Heim, seeking refuge from perceived persecution.

Bender's major works include 'Parapsychology: Its Results and Problems' (1953). The article speculates that this early publication might have been a form of escapism from the trauma of World War II. A significant part of Bender's research involved 'instrumental transcommunication' (ITC), attempting to communicate with the deceased using tape recorders and radio equipment. This was inspired by Friedrich Jürgenson, who reported hearing voices of the deceased on tape recordings since 1959. Bender's institute conducted experiments to analyze these phenomena, with some analyses suggesting paranormal influence. The article recounts an anecdote from December 28, 1959, where Jürgenson and others heard voices on a tape recording that seemed to respond to their conversation, including what sounded like 'Poskala' and 'tanto partis'. The voices were interpreted in various ways, sometimes relating to personal situations.

Despite initial scientific interest, the article suggests that Jürgenson's later claims, including hearing Hitler's voice, became increasingly questionable, bordering on psychological disturbance. The article notes Bender's eventual admission that the paranormal voices on tape had become an internationally discussed curiosity, leaving him with ambivalent feelings about his work.

Burkhard Heim - The Einstein of MUFON-CES?

This article by Christian Sommerer examines the theories of physicist Burkhard Heim, who, despite his significant contributions to theoretical physics, remains largely unknown in mainstream science. Heim's work, particularly his 'unified field theories', gained attention within ufological circles through Illobrand von Ludwiger, chairman of MUFON-CES. Heim's theories, described as '30 years ahead of the USA', propose a twelve-dimensional 'Hyperraum' and the concept of 'Syntropie' (counteracting entropy). These theories are linked to phenomena such as telepathy, remote viewing, and psychokinesis.

However, the article reveals that Burkhard Heim himself has publicly distanced himself from UFO research, requesting that he not be cited in connection with it. This stance is seen as a significant setback for proponents like von Ludwiger. The article explores Heim's background, including a severe accident in 1944 that resulted in the loss of his hands, hearing, and most of his eyesight. Despite this, he pursued theoretical physics, earning a degree from the University of Göttingen. His theories, published in works like 'Elementarstrukturen der Materie', are characterized by a strong connection to esoteric concepts, including reincarnation and supernatural healing.

The article also discusses Heim's association with individuals like Andreas Resch, a promoter of his theories, and Markus Schmieke, who founded the 'Tattva Viveka' journal. The 'Protosimplex' group, named after Heim's concept of fundamental units of matter, supported his work. The article concludes that while Heim's theories are intellectually impressive, their strong integration of unproven paraphysical components places them firmly in the realm of esotericism rather than mainstream physics.

Kugelblitze - Dichtung und Wahrheit (Ball Lightning - Fiction and Truth)

This analysis by Gerald Hofmann investigates the phenomenon of ball lightning. The article notes that ball lightning has long been shrouded in myth, captivating both esotericists and serious scientists, yet remaining largely unexplained. It recounts several anecdotal accounts of ball lightning, including a case from 1921 where a ball lightning phenomenon reportedly entered a bathroom, rolled around, and disappeared into a sink, melting a chain. Another account from 1791 describes a ball lightning appearing near a girl, going under her skirt, and exploding.

The article presents a scientific explanation proposed by New Zealand scientists John Abrahamson and James Dinniss. They suggest that when a lightning strike hits the ground, the heat releases tiny, energy-rich silicon particles. This silicon vapor reacts with oxygen, glows, and dissipates. The wind can then carry these luminous particles, explaining how they might penetrate enclosed spaces like a 'Faraday cage'. The article contrasts this with more speculative theories, including those involving burning marsh gas, atmospheric 'masers', or antimatter. It concludes that ball lightning is likely a terrestrial phenomenon, not of extraterrestrial origin.

Max Q: WAS IST DRAN AN UFOS? (Max Q: What's the Deal with UFOs?)

This article, a continuation from a previous issue (CR 264), discusses the challenges in UFO investigation. It references Alexander Keul's visit to the Belgian SOBEPS organization and his conversation with Jean-Luc Vertongen, who noted that witnesses of bizarre sightings often end up in psychiatric care, questioning the literal interpretation of their accounts. The article also cites Bill Chalker's contribution on 'Physical Traces', referencing Captain Ruppelt's statement that the Blue Book project never recovered any non-terrestrial hardware. Chalker emphasizes the problem of forgeries in UFO research, a challenge also faced in Australia. The article mentions the MUFON-CES catalogs from the 1970s, which presented various UFO-related facets.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CENAP-REPORT demonstrates a consistent editorial stance favoring critical investigation and scientific skepticism, particularly concerning UFO phenomena and parapsychology. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena and intriguing theories, the magazine emphasizes the need for empirical evidence and rational explanations. It actively debunks sensationalist claims and highlights the potential for misinterpretation of natural events. The recurring theme is the separation of scientifically verifiable facts from speculation and esotericism, even when prominent figures like Burkhard Heim are involved. The magazine aims to provide readers with a more grounded understanding of these complex subjects, encouraging critical thinking and a discerning approach to information.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated 2000, delves deeply into a critical examination of the field of UFOlogy. It scrutinizes the methodologies, evidence, and claims made by prominent figures and organizations within the UFO community, often contrasting them with skeptical viewpoints and scientific principles.

Critique of UFOlogy and Key Figures

The report launches a strong critique against what it perceives as the unscientific nature of much UFO research. A central figure under scrutiny is Illobrand von Ludwiger, a German UFO expert and author. The article questions his research methods, his claims about the low percentage of identified flying objects (IFOs), and his pursuit of government funding for UFO research. Ludwiger's assertion that "the greatest problem is source research" is highlighted, alongside criticism of his dismissal of 'militant ideological skeptics' and his acceptance of potentially flawed evidence.

J. Allen Hynek, a renowned figure in UFO research, is also a significant focus. The report re-examines his work, particularly his role in Project Blue Book and his later establishment of the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS). Criticisms are raised regarding his classification of cases, his handling of witness testimony, and his perceived shift from scientific rigor to a more accommodating stance towards UFO phenomena. The article points out instances where Hynek's explanations or classifications are questioned, such as the Socorro case and the Charlottesville sighting.

Analysis of UFO Cases and Evidence

Several specific UFO cases are analyzed in detail to illustrate the report's arguments. The Plauen incident, involving sightings of lights over the city, is presented as an example of how a phenomenon might be misinterpreted and how follow-up investigations can be flawed. The Saguaro incident, involving a photograph of a night light, is dissected to show how CUFOS allegedly mishandled evidence, potentially misidentifying a bolide or aircraft as an unknown object. The report also discusses the Fehrenbach case, where a UFO model was allegedly presented as genuine evidence.

The article emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between genuine UFOs and IFOs, arguing that many UFO researchers fail to adequately account for mundane explanations. It highlights the role of psychological factors, such as expectation, imagination, and memory biases, in shaping witness accounts. The concept of "perception psychology" is presented as crucial for understanding why people misinterpret aerial phenomena.

Skepticism and Scientific Method

A recurring theme is the contrast between the approach of UFOlogists and that of scientific skeptics. The report champions the scientific method, emphasizing reproducibility, significance, objectivity, and falsifiability. It criticizes the UFO community for often prioritizing belief and anecdotal evidence over rigorous scientific investigation. The article suggests that many UFO organizations are more interested in keeping the UFO mystery alive for financial or ideological reasons than in solving it.

Media and Public Perception

The role of media in shaping public perception of UFOs is also addressed. The report notes how certain media outlets, like the German television program 'MaxQ', can inadvertently sensationalize UFO reports, contributing to public fascination and the proliferation of unsubstantiated claims. The influence of popular culture, such as science fiction films, on witness interpretations is also mentioned.

Specific Incidents and Investigations

• Plauen Incident (May 21, 1994): A woman reported seeing lights and unusual interactions, described as a MUFON-CES A-class object, hovering over the city. The report questions the investigation and the subsequent questionnaire action.
• Belgian UFO Wave (November 5, 1990): Sightings of various aerial objects were reported, later attributed to a Russian space vehicle re-entry. The report discusses how these re-entry phenomena can be misinterpreted.
• Illinois Sighting (January 5, 2000): Police officers reported seeing an arrowhead-shaped object with lights. The report suggests this could be a 'Stealth Blimp' or a similar experimental aircraft.
• Charlottesville Sighting (March 30, 1982): Nannette Morrison reported a UFO, which was later identified as a Boeing 737 by a witness who heard the aircraft's engines.
• Saguaro Incident (March 1977): A photograph of a night light was taken. The report argues that CUFOS misidentified this as a UFO, when it was likely a bolide or similar phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critique of UFOlogy as a pseudoscience, the importance of applying scientific methodology to aerial phenomena, the psychological factors influencing perception, and the tendency for misidentification. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for rigorous investigation and a critical approach to UFO claims. The report suggests that the UFO phenomenon is largely a product of human psychology, flawed research, and media sensationalism, rather than evidence of extraterrestrial visitation. The authors express a desire to bring clarity and scientific reasoning to a field they believe is often mired in speculation and belief.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated 2000, focuses on various phenomena, including a notable UFO sighting, potential extraterrestrial artifacts on celestial bodies, and a new toy marketed as a UFO.

Millstadt UFO Sighting

The primary article details a UFO sighting that occurred on January 5, 2000, near Millstadt, USA. Police officer Craig Stevens of the Millstadt Police Department reported observing a V-shaped object with white lights and red blinking lights. The object was described as being like a two-story house and was last seen moving southwest over Lebanon. The Scott Air Force Base stated they had no reports of sightings, and the control tower was not staffed at the time. Stevens reported being inundated with questions from media, scientific institutes, UFO experts, and a former FBI agent. He and another officer appeared on the Art Bell radio show to discuss the event.

Unconfirmed reports emerged suggesting that individuals claiming to be government employees were asking witnesses to remain silent to the media. There were also unconfirmed claims of Air National Guard jets attempting to intercept the object. The article notes that the closest likely base for F-15s would be the Missouri ANG. Unconfirmed reports also suggested someone had recorded the sighting on video.

NIDS Investigation

Two members of the Las Vegas UFO Research Organization (NIDS), John Velier (former FBI agent) and Roger Pinson (former police officer), investigated the case. NIDS spokesperson Colm Kelleher stated that the case was likely a genuine UFO sighting and that a full report would be available on their website within two weeks. Kelleher also commented that many UFO sightings are misidentifications of normal phenomena like rocket launches, meteor showers, or weather balloons, and some are hoaxes. He mentioned receiving calls from bored radio hosts looking for stories.

Kelleher reported on January 18, 2000, that the NIDS received information about the sighting just two hours after it occurred. The case attracted significant media attention, leading to more witness reports. The original police report is available online, as are sketches and a Polaroid photo of the event taken by Officer Craig Stevens. A 7-minute transcription of the police radio traffic from the St. Clair County Police Dispatcher was published in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch on January 25, 2000.

Police Radio Transcript Analysis

The police radio transcript reveals a conversation between dispatchers and officers. A trucker reported seeing a flying object described as a two-story house with white and red blinking lights. An officer from Lebanon reported seeing a bright white light east of the city, changing color, and not looking like a plane or the moon. He contacted Scott AFB to inquire about aircraft. Another officer in Millstadt sighted the object, describing it as large and V-shaped, moving towards Lambert Field. One officer humorously hummed the theme tune to 'Twilight Zone' over the radio. An officer from Dupo described the object as very high, appearing white to the naked eye but with various colors when viewed through binoculars. The Millstadt officer estimated the object to be 500 feet above him and large.

Alternative Explanations

Amateur astronomer Bob Young suggested on March 25, 2000, that the Polaroid photo taken by Officer Craig Stevens might actually depict the constellation Lyra (or Harp) with the star Vega. He noted that the camera might have malfunctioned due to low temperatures, but Young believes it worked correctly. He posits that the photographer might have introduced this explanation because the photo only showed points of light, not a clear 'machine'. Young compared the photo to star charts and Burnham's Celestial Handbook, finding a near-perfect match with the Lyra constellation. Phil Klass had previously suggested in his Skeptics UFO Newsletter that the January 5th incident might be a Venus-related phenomenon. The article discusses how the bright planet Venus could appear as a bright light, and how an object appearing from the direction of Lyra could be mistaken for a plane. The possibility of the lights being a constellation is considered, though the author finds the probability low given the object's described characteristics and the lack of similar detailed descriptions from other witnesses. Officer Barton also reported seeing a 'flying triangle', which could indicate an aircraft.

Space Phenomena

Mars: Monolith on Phobos?

The issue discusses a potential artifact on Phobos, Mars' moon, captured by the Mars Global Surveyor probe. UFOlogists are interested in an image available online that shows a structure resembling the 'Blair Cuspids' found on Earth's moon by a Lunar Orbiter probe in the 1960s, which inspired Arthur C. Clarke's monolith in '2001: A Space Odyssey'. However, like the 'Face on Mars', these structures are likely natural geological formations illuminated by specific lighting conditions. Lan Fleming of the USGS classified a formation on Phobos (image SP255103) as a rounded boulder-monolith, casting a long shadow due to the low sun angle.

Jupiter: Life on Europa?

Russian scientists, specifically astrophysicist Boris Rodonov, claim to have evidence of a 'highly-developed civilization' on Jupiter's moon Europa, which allegedly sends 'excursionists' to Earth. Rodonov bases his claims on scientific data and photographs from NASA's 'Galileo' probe, identifying artificial structures like pipelines, tunnels, and dome-shaped formations on Europa's surface.

New Stimulus in Scandinavia

"Mystiska himlafenomen kan vara Björns ballonger" (Mysterious Sky Phenomena Could Be Björn's Balloons)

This section reports on a new miniature hot air balloon available in Scandinavia since autumn 1999, which has caused UFO alarms, particularly in Sweden. A Norwegian company named 'Planet-Pluto' offers a toy that is made of a semi-transparent, metallized foil and has a small burner, making it appear like an orange UFO when viewed from below. The product is intended for the mass market and is being sold by IKEA in Scandinavia. More information is available online.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CENAP REPORT consistently explores UFO sightings, potential extraterrestrial phenomena, and scientific investigations into these topics. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting various perspectives and evidence, including skeptical explanations and potential misidentifications, alongside reports of unusual phenomena. The magazine encourages readers to examine the evidence themselves, as seen in the provision of URLs for further investigation. There is a clear interest in space exploration and the possibility of life beyond Earth, but also a grounded approach to analyzing reported sightings, often seeking natural explanations or identifying hoaxes.