CENAP Report - No 272

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: CR 272, Ausgabe 3/2001
Publisher: Centrales Erforschungsnetz Außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene (CENAP)
Date: March 2001

This issue of the CENAP REPORT, a German private UFO journal, is heavily dominated by the impending re-entry of the Russian space station MIR, which occurred on March 23, 2001. The magazine dedicates significant space to analyzing the event, its media coverage, and the public's reaction, particularly the fear of a 'UFO-hysteria'. Werner Walter, the editor-in-chief, uses the MIR event as a central theme to explore various facets of UFOlogy, including misidentifications, the role of media, and the often-problematic intersection of UFO research with esotericism and conspiracy theories.

Aktuelles Zeitgeschehen im CR (Current Events in CR)

Do Swidanija MIR, der Countdown des Niedergangs (Goodbye MIR, the Countdown to Demise)

This extensive article details the final days and re-entry of the MIR space station. It describes the global attention, the mixed emotions in Russia (from mourning a national symbol to acknowledging its dilapidated state), and the political and nationalistic undertones surrounding its demise. The article touches upon the station's history, its scientific and military applications, and the financial difficulties that led to its end. It also highlights the public's emotional response, with some seeing the MIR's end as a symbol of Russia's diminished global standing. The author contrasts the public's grief with the stark reality of the station's operational status and the potential for its debris to cause damage, though downplaying the immediate threat to populated areas.

Re-Entry Phenomena and UFO Sightings

The magazine extensively discusses the visual spectacle of the MIR's re-entry, comparing it to previous re-entry events of satellites and spacecraft like Skylab. It lists several historical 'UFO-flotten-alarm' (UFO fleet alarm) incidents in Germany since 1967, suggesting that many such reports might be related to re-entering objects. The article critiques media sensationalism, particularly from BILD newspaper, which amplified fears of a 'UFO-hysteria' surrounding the MIR crash. It also analyzes how the media's use of computer animations and sometimes poor-quality footage of re-entries can contribute to public confusion.

National Jagd auf einen UFO-Experten (National Hunt for a UFO Expert)

This section presents several accounts of alleged UFO sightings, often occurring around New Year's Eve or other public events. The author, Werner Walter, systematically attempts to debunk these sightings, frequently attributing them to misidentified phenomena such as miniature hot-air balloons (MHB), weather balloons, or even Venus. He expresses frustration with individuals who insist on their sightings being genuine UFOs and criticizes the tendency within the UFO community to embrace sensational or esoteric explanations.

UFOlogie gegen Rechts (UFOlogy Against the Right)

This article delves into the controversial intersection of UFOlogy with right-wing ideologies and esotericism. Walter criticizes certain figures and publications within the UFO community for promoting conspiracy theories, including the 'Nazi flying saucer' myth, and for allegedly using UFOlogy as a platform for propaganda. He argues that the esoteric and conspiratorial elements within UFOlogy create a fertile ground for such ideologies to take root. He calls for a more critical and fact-based approach to UFO research, distancing it from pseudoscience and political extremism.

The Osprey Tiltrotor Aircraft

An article discusses the Bell-Boeing V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, highlighting its experimental nature, technical challenges, and crashes. Despite its potential as a revolutionary transport for military purposes, the project has faced significant criticism and setbacks. The author likens the Osprey's struggles to the persistent myths surrounding 'flying saucers' and suggests that the dream of a 'UFO-VIP shuttle' remains just that – a dream.

Area 51 and UFO Beliefs

A brief mention is made of an article from Süddeutsche Zeitung about Area 51 and UFO believers in Nevada, describing a group searching for UFOs and the community of Rachel, Nevada, which is associated with UFO culture.

The 'Visionary Impulse' and UFO Sightings

This section explores the idea that a 'visionary impulse' can lead to increased UFO sightings. It presents an account of a sighting of 'circling light phenomena' by Anne Reißig in Hamburg, which was initially unexplained but later analyzed by the author. The article suggests that societal factors and psychological predispositions can influence how people interpret unusual aerial phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The CENAP REPORT consistently adopts a skeptical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. Werner Walter, the editor, emphasizes the importance of scientific investigation, critical thinking, and the debunking of misidentifications. He is highly critical of sensationalism in the media and the tendency within parts of the UFO community to embrace esoteric, conspiratorial, and pseudoscientific explanations. The magazine aims to educate the public and demystify UFO reports, often by providing rational explanations for sightings. There is a strong concern about the entanglement of UFOlogy with right-wing ideologies and the promotion of unsubstantiated theories. The editorial stance is one of rigorous investigation, aiming to separate fact from fiction in the realm of unexplained aerial phenomena.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, identified as number 272.3 from 2001, delves deeply into the complex and often controversial intersection of Nazi Germany, esoteric beliefs, and UFO phenomena. The publication critically examines the persistent myths surrounding Nazi 'wonder weapons' and secret technologies, particularly the concept of flying saucers.

Nazi 'Wonder Weapons' and the Gold Rush

The issue begins by touching upon the legendary Nazi gold reserves that disappeared after World War II, noting the 'Gold Rush' by American expeditionary units. It also highlights the search for advanced German aircraft and rocket technology. The concept of 'Wunderwaffen' (wonder weapons) is presented as a propaganda tool used to maintain German morale. Real examples like the Me-262 jet fighter and the Me-163 rocket-powered interceptor are mentioned, alongside rumors of propeller-less aircraft with new propulsion systems capable of speeds up to 900 km/h.

The narrative then shifts to the post-war era, where both superpowers continued to develop conventional jet and rocket aircraft. However, the focus turns to secret projects in the aerospace industry concerning 'Spaceplanes' capable of flying at the edge of the atmosphere. These developments are framed as extensions of existing jet and rocket technology, known only to a select few specialists.

The Esoteric and Occult Background

A significant portion of the report is dedicated to the 'esoteric-occult background' of these theories. It traces the origins of some ideas to groups like the Thule-Gesellschaft and the Vril-Gesellschaft, which allegedly explored alternative energies and propulsion systems based on 'mediumistic transmissions'. The text mentions supposed ancient texts describing Aldebaran and its inhabitants, along with construction plans for a 'Jenseitsflugzeug' (otherworldly aircraft).

The Vril-Gesellschaft is said to have focused on building a 'Vril-Levitation-Triebwerk' (Vril-Levitation Engine) based on antigravitation. Legends claim a 'Jenseitsflugzeug' was built and stored in Augsburg in 1924, followed by the 'RFZ 1' in 1934, which supposedly served as the basis for the VRIL flying saucer myth. Another group, the 'Schwarze Sonne' (Black Sun), is mentioned with its special department 'SS14', which allegedly developed a 'Thule engine' for the 'Hounebou 1' flying saucer. The SS runes and the swastika are presented as symbols of Nazi power rooted in mystical speculation.

The report links these ideas to the Theosophy and racist 'root race' theories of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, noting their influence on the New Age movement. It criticizes how esoteric publications and groups often blend Christian-mystical ideas with esoteric concepts, creating a foundation for Nazism. The text also points out the tendency for individuals to seek out 'secret knowledge' and unique worldviews, sometimes leading to psychological vulnerability and the embrace of 'irrational doctrines'.

Nazi UFOs and Conspiracy Theories

The issue explores the popular legend of Hitler escaping to Antarctica via submarine or 'Reichs-Flugscheiben' (Reich flying saucers) to build a new 'world power'. The current UFO sightings are interpreted by some as reconnaissance craft of these hidden Nazis. The report highlights how this narrative, combined with the search for Nazi gold, has fueled fantastic speculations and enduring myths, comparable to the search for the Holy Grail or the Loch Ness Monster.

It criticizes the way these ideas are presented, often without factual basis, and how they can be exploited by certain groups. The text notes that many people are drawn to these stories because they offer an alternative to mainstream narratives and provide a sense of possessing 'secret knowledge'.

The Role of Media and Popular Culture

The publication examines how Hollywood films, such as 'Indiana Jones', have popularized Nazi occult fantasies, making them accessible and appealing to a wide audience, particularly the younger 'videoclip generation'. The report suggests that this generation may not grasp the political and historical implications of these themes, readily accepting fantastical interpretations over reality.

It also discusses the role of specific publications and media outlets in promoting these ideas, including the 'National-Zeitung' and its advertisements for 'Hugin' and 'Geheime Wunderwaffen' (Secret Wonder Weapons). The report criticizes the promotion of books and videos that blend Nazi ideology with UFO lore, arguing that this can be a subtle form of right-wing propaganda, reaching individuals who might otherwise be unreceptive to overt Nazi messages.

Critiques of UFOlogy and Hesemann

A significant portion of the report is dedicated to a critical analysis of Michael Hesemann, a prominent figure in German ufology. The author accuses Hesemann of promoting right-wing and anti-Semitic ideas under the guise of UFO research. Hesemann's association with figures like Billy Meier and his promotion of certain books and theories are scrutinized. The report questions Hesemann's stance on 'anti-fascism' and his past editorial decisions, suggesting a conflict between his stated ideals and his actions.

The author criticizes Hesemann's promotion of esoteric and occult themes, arguing that they serve as a vehicle for right-wing propaganda. The report also touches upon Hesemann's defense of figures like Franco, whom he described as a 'believing Catholic' who did not propagate anti-Semitism, while ignoring the dictator's human rights abuses.

The publication expresses concern about the influence of religious fundamentalism and the tendency to view historical events through a lens of 'Christian-conservative fundamentalism'. It argues that this perspective can hinder scientific inquiry into UFO phenomena.

The MIR Re-entry and UFO Sightings

The issue includes a section discussing the re-entry of the MIR space station on March 22, 2001. This event, widely covered by media, included reports of unusual light formations observed in the sky. The author analyzes these sightings, suggesting they could be misinterpreted as UFOs, particularly by those unfamiliar with the phenomenon of atmospheric re-entry. The report presents eyewitness accounts and media coverage of the MIR re-entry, highlighting how such events can fuel UFO speculation.

A personal account from a taxi driver in Halver, Germany, who reported seeing a strange, hovering object in the summer of 1999, is also included. The driver initially described it as a 'flying coal oven' but later considered it a 'light formation' or 'ball lightning', ultimately concluding it was not a spaceship.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent myths surrounding Nazi secret technologies and UFOs, the influence of esoteric and occult beliefs on these narratives, and the critical examination of how these ideas are promoted and disseminated, particularly through media and specific ufological circles. The editorial stance is highly critical of the conflation of UFO research with right-wing ideology, anti-Semitism, and unsubstantiated conspiracy theories. The publication advocates for a rational, scientific approach to UFO phenomena, distinguishing it from irrational beliefs and propaganda.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, number 272.3/2001, delves into the ongoing debates and differing methodologies within the UFO research community, particularly highlighting the friction between CENAP and organizations like DEGUFO and MUFON-CES. The publication expresses a sense of disillusionment with the state of UFO discourse, suggesting a persistent lack of serious investigation and a tendency towards unsubstantiated claims.

The CENAP-UFO Jubilee and the 'UFOs over Russia' Project

The issue begins with a reflection on a 'CENAP-UFO Jubilee,' marking 25 years of research. As part of this, a special PDF compilation titled "UFOs over Russia" was released, containing over 150 pages of research by Christian Sommerer and the author. This project aimed to provide a comprehensive look at Russian UFO cases. However, the author notes a negative reaction from a forum member named Krull, who dismissed the report without reading it, deeming the cases presented as not 'exciting' enough and not the 'big cases' he expected.

UFO Perceptions at DEGUFO and MUFON-CES

The report scrutinizes the UFO-related activities and viewpoints of DEGUFO and MUFON-CES. It revisits a UFO sighting in Barnaul, Russia, from January 2001, which was later reported by George A. Filer. The object was described as a small light sphere that appeared nightly and was filmed for 1.5 hours, showing 'dancing' and 'hopping' movements. The newspaper 'Svobodniy Kurs' reported on this. James Oberg noted that Barnaul airport's runway is oriented west.

Peter Hattwig of DEGUFO questioned the CENAP report on the Barnaul sighting, finding the explanation of Venus too simplistic. CENAP provided historical UFO cases to support its stance. Hattwig's colleague, Andreas Haxel, eventually acknowledged the Venus explanation after checking with an astronomy program. Hattwig, however, criticized CENAP, stating that it is not difficult to distinguish a star from a mysterious light and questioning how often CENAP has misidentified UFOs as Venus or other stars. The report points out the irony that Jacques Vallée, who stated that Venus is often mistaken for a UFO, is frequently cited positively by DEGUFO when it suits their pro-UFO agenda.

The article details a past attempt by Hattwig to subscribe to CENAP's CR, which would have provided him with more comprehensive information before he published his 'editorial' in the DEGUFORUM. The author suggests Hattwig's editorial was a form of 'CENAP-bashing' due to incomplete information.

Criticism of DEGUFO's Case Evaluations

The report criticizes DEGUFO's handling of anonymous UFO reports from the internet, particularly a case from Wilnsdorf in May 1985 involving a large object (approx. '600m in diameter') with eight lamps on its underside. DEGUFO's evaluation suggested it could have been a balloon with spotlights, a conclusion the author finds absurd and indicative of a forced attempt to appear critical.

The VdS Seminar and Ideological Differences

The issue mentions the VdS seminar "UFOs - Facts and Fiction" held in Heilbronn on April 28, 2001. Hattwig declined the invitation, stating he did not want to get upset, which the author interprets as a sign of immaturity and a tendency to avoid confronting differing viewpoints.

Kurt Diedrich's Perspective on Skepticism

The article references an article by Kurt Diedrich in the magazine "Zeitschrift für Anomalistik," which discusses "Belief, Skepticism, and Taboos: On Dealing with a Sensitive Topic." Diedrich suggests that "true UFO skeptics," who aim to free people from belief in UFOs, often fail because their explanations are too naive. He posits that this approach can inadvertently convince the undecided that there must be something to UFOs if people are so vehemently defending against their existence.

Illobrand von Ludwiger's Theories and MUFON-CES

Illobrand von Ludwiger is presented as a proponent of the theory that UFOs are "time machines with visitors from the distant future." He argues that UFOs are primarily military phenomena, limiting civilian researchers' access to data. The report contrasts this with the author's view that UFO phenomena are not inherently military and that reports from civilian and military sources are similar. Ludwiger's assertion that most reports are unidentifiable and that explanations by researchers like Klass, Oberg, and Sheaffer are not generally accepted by UFO proponents is also discussed.

On April 13, 2001, Illobrand von Ludwiger updated the MUFON-CES website and sent an email attacking UFO articles in the new "Zeitschrift für Anomalistik." He criticizes Prof. G. Eberlein's sociological view that UFOs are a socio-psychological phenomenon rather than objective occurrences. Ludwiger insists that sociologists and linguists are studying a different phenomenon than natural scientists. The author questions this distinction, arguing that both physical and socio-psychological approaches are necessary to understand the UFO phenomenon.

Ludwiger's claim that socio-psychological perspectives are mere "speculation" is challenged. The author argues that UFO sightings are embedded within their social and cultural context. Ludwiger's assertion that only 3-5% of reported UFOs are not authentic, with 95-97% being genuine UFO sightings, is highlighted.

MUFON-CES Chairman's Statements

The report quotes the MUFON-CES chairman stating to Edgar Wunder that authors are not dealing with the phenomenon of unidentified flying objects but rather with the observers and peripheral aspects. The author strongly disagrees, asserting that the reporters are the source of information and not a peripheral aspect.

Mental Attitudes and Research Approaches

The article discusses differing 'mental attitudes' among researchers. It cites the view that "natural scientists who wanted to clarify the existence of UFO phenomena through long-term observations of airspace with corresponding instruments delivered clear evidence for the occurrence of UFOs." This refers to the work of Rutledge in Piedmont, USA, and Havik and Strand in Hessdalen, Norway. However, the author questions where this evidence is.

Ludwiger's statement that "the facts are quite different" is noted. He also claims that the UFO phenomenon has always been military, not scientific, and that civilian researchers lack access to military data. The author counters that the UFO phenomenon acts independently and is not stamped as military. They argue that there is no difference between civilian and military sighting reports.

Ludwiger's Reversal and Parameters for Competence

The report notes a surprising reversal in Ludwiger's stance, as he now states that military air traffic controllers are trying to understand UFOs and their physical interactions with the environment. This contradicts his previous stance that they were indifferent. Ludwiger also claims that sociologists overlook the "physical evidence for the objective existence of the UFO phenomenon." The author points out that this lack of recognition is widespread.

Ludwiger's criteria for recognizing competent UFO researchers include readers of the Condon Study, the NICAP volume "The UFO-Evidence," Hynek's books, Vallée's work, the Sturrock survey, and "The UFO Handbook" by A. Hendry. The author implies that, by these criteria, they are competent but differ in that they see only anecdotal evidence, not physical proof, which is why Ludwiger does not engage with them.

Critiques of Hynek and UFO-Proponents

The author dismisses Ludwiger's claim that Hynek stated most reports are unidentifiable and that explanations by Klass, Oberg, and Sheaffer are not generally consensual. The report argues that UFO proponents reject such explanations because they threaten their worldview.

Dr. Eberhard Förster and UFOs in the GDR

A letter from Dr. Eberhard Förster is presented, arguing that the "hundreds of thousands of UFO sightings, dozens of direct contacts with extraterrestrials, and hundreds of people who remember abductions by extraterrestrials" constitute an attack on natural science and physics. Förster believes that physics is wrong, not the eyewitness accounts. An article by Förster titled "UFOs in the GDR" reveals that he experienced a professional setback in 1993 and has since been preoccupied with topics like world religions, UFOs, and pseudo-astronautics, using esotericism to 'switch off' from the real world.

The DEGUFO Worldview

The author concludes that in the DEGUFO world, everything stemming from the members' imaginations is considered true, while real natural science and physics are dismissed as nonsense from a bygone era.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing debates and conflicts within the UFO research community, the critique of organizations like DEGUFO for their methodologies and explanations, and the defense of CENAP's research approach. The editorial stance is critical of unsubstantiated claims and simplistic explanations, advocating for rigorous, evidence-based investigation while acknowledging the challenges posed by skepticism and entrenched beliefs. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine scientific inquiry and what the author perceives as ideological adherence within parts of the UFO community.