CENAP Report - No 275

Magazine Overview

Title: CENAP-REPORT
Issue: 6/2001 (CR 275)
Date: September 2001
Publisher: Centrales Erforschungsnetz Außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene (CENAP)
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP-REPORT, a German-language UFO and fringe science journal, dedicates significant attention to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, exploring their profound impact on the Western world and drawing parallels between religious and ideological fanaticism. The magazine also covers UFO sightings, astronomical phenomena, and the controversial Raël movement.

Editorial and Main Themes

The 9/11 Attacks and Their Ramifications

The lead article, "Titelthema: 11.September 2001," by Werner Walter, reflects on the brutal suicide air attacks on New York City and Washington D.C. Walter posits that religious extremists, often highly intelligent and integrated into Western society, can be driven by fanatical belief systems that override logic and reason. He draws an analogy between these "mental extremists" and those within the fringe science and UFO communities who exhibit similar irrationality and dogmatism. The article emphasizes that while not all within the UFO community are extremists, there's a shared tendency towards "unreason, fanaticism, and distorted belief systems" that resist healthy skepticism.

Walter describes the horrific images of the attacks as a "civilian Pearl Harbor" and a "political thriller" escalated to an unimaginable degree. He notes the profound psychological impact, paralyzing many and altering their perception of reality. The attacks are framed as a "declaration of war on the West" and a conflict of civilizations. He expresses his own feelings of grief, powerlessness, and worry about potential retaliatory actions, particularly from the US under President George W. Bush.

The issue delves into the ideological underpinnings of terrorism, particularly the concept of "holy war" (Dschihad). It critiques Osama Bin Laden's interpretation of Islam, arguing that he distorts religious texts to justify violence, contrasting it with the Koran's actual emphasis on peace and individual spiritual effort. The article highlights that many terrorists are not inherently monstrous but are ordinary individuals radicalized by extremist ideologies, often driven by a warped sense of martyrdom and a hatred of Western values and capitalism.

The Nature of Terrorism and Fanaticism

Further analysis explores the historical roots of terrorism, referencing the "Assassins" sect founded by Hassan al-Sabbah in the 11th century. This historical parallel is drawn to illustrate how organized groups have used murder, blackmail, and psychological terror to achieve their goals, often with a disregard for their own lives. The article connects this to modern-day suicide bombers, emphasizing that their actions are not born of desperation but of fanatical religious and nationalist sentiments, coupled with a desire for punishment and madness.

The magazine also discusses the role of media in shaping perceptions and the difficulty of understanding such events from a Western perspective, where the separation of church and state is a norm, unlike in Islam. The article criticizes certain political factions, like the Greens and PDS in Germany, for their perceived naivety or ideological rigidity in responding to the crisis.

UFOs and Fringe Science

Beyond the immediate focus on 9/11, the issue includes a section on UFOs. Werner Walter, the editor and a prominent UFO researcher, is interviewed. He clarifies CENAP's role as an information hub and emphasizes his goal of bringing rationality and demystification to the UFO field, which he believes is often plagued by sensationalism and commercial exploitation. Walter distinguishes between the "hardcore UFOlogy" focused on technical aspects and the more spiritual or esoteric branches, suggesting the latter might appeal more to women. He criticizes the commercialization of UFO topics, arguing that it prioritizes sensational stories over factual research.

Walter addresses the "Solarc 500," a large lighting balloon used by the THW for disaster relief, which some mistook for a UFO. He also discusses the phenomenon of UFO sighting waves, noting that they can be influenced by media attention, astronomical events like the Mars opposition, and socio-cultural conditions, rather than necessarily indicating extraterrestrial activity.

The Raël Movement and Cloning

Another significant article examines the Raël movement and its leader, Claude Vorilhon (Rael). The report focuses on the controversy surrounding the movement's plans to clone humans through its company, Clonaid. Bärbel Laier, a German Raël member, is interviewed, expressing her belief in extraterrestrial messages and the potential of genetic engineering for human advancement, while distancing herself from the more extreme cloning ideas attributed to Rael. The article highlights the movement's blend of scientific ambition with esoteric beliefs and its controversial statements, such as the idea of cloning Hitler.

Other Content

Briefly mentioned are the Mandarom sect in France, facing the demolition of a statue of its guru, and a discussion on the Islamic concept of Dschihad and its misinterpretations by extremists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CENAP-REPORT strongly reflects an editorial stance that is critical of fanaticism, whether religious, political, or within fringe science communities. The magazine advocates for rational analysis, critical thinking, and demystification, particularly in the UFO field. While acknowledging the profound impact of the 9/11 attacks and the complex geopolitical landscape, the editorial consistently returns to the theme of human-driven extremism and the dangers of distorted belief systems overriding logic. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine scientific inquiry and sensationalism or pseudoscientific claims. The magazine aims to inform and educate its readers, encouraging them to approach complex issues with a critical and rational mindset.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated 6/2001 (Issue Nr. 275.6/2001), focuses on UFO phenomena, critically examining various reports and the methodologies used in their investigation. The magazine title is 'CENAP REPORT', and it is published by CENAP.

News im Fall Arnold von 1947 - der "Mutter aller UFOs"

The lead article revisits the 1947 Arnold UFO case, often referred to as the 'mother of all UFOs.' It discusses the description of the objects as 'saucer-like' and flying at approximately 1500 km/h. The author, referencing Lammers, dismisses the F-84F aircraft with swept wings as a possible explanation, noting that this model was introduced in 1950, not 1947, and earlier models had straight wings. The article highlights the importance of new data from aeronautical history and praises readers who contribute their own informed analyses, emphasizing the value of diverse perspectives within the CENAP network.

Ungeahnte Folgen einer Rorschacher «Ente»

This section recounts the story of a fabricated UFO sighting, a 'Rorschach duck,' created by a substitute editor of the 'Ostschweizer Tagblatt' in July 1965. The fake reader letter described a disc-shaped object seen over Lake Constance. The article notes that this 'hoax' was later included in a book about Swiss UFOs by Luc Bürgin, causing embarrassment to the author of the fake letter, who apologized. The author of the article, Ralph A. Ottinger, quotes Goethe and advises caution when consuming such reports.

Die ethischen Grenzen der UFOlogie

This article discusses the case of the Cardenas family from Washington, Texas, who filmed a UFO encounter in December 2000. UFO researcher Santiago Yturria is mentioned for his involvement, suggesting that he may have influenced Patricia Cardenas, leading to her becoming a frequent UFO witness. The article expresses concern that UFOlogists might lead susceptible individuals into a 'UFO hysteria,' questioning the ethics of such practices.

UFO besuchte Supermarkt in Chile und wurde aufgenommen

This report details an incident on May 27, 2001, where a supermarket's surveillance cameras in Puente Alto, Chile, recorded a strange aerial phenomenon. A security guard alerted his supervisor, and footage was captured. The object was described as having red and green lights and moving erratically. However, the article later reveals that this phenomenon was likely Venus, which was prominent in the sky at that time, and that the interpretation as a UFO was a misidentification. The author criticizes the lack of response from UFO updates and highlights how easily natural phenomena can be misinterpreted.

Gigantisches UFO in Cachi, Argentinien, aufgenommen.

This section reports on a UFO sighting in Cachi, Argentina, on June 23, 2001. Journalist Antonio Zuleta filmed what he described as a gigantic UFO, the size of a football stadium, emitting red and green lights. The object reportedly accelerated and disappeared rapidly. The footage was analyzed by UFOlogist Daniel Quiroga Nunez of the 'Red Argentina de Ovnilogía' (RAO), who deemed it a 'mothership.' However, the article notes the lack of other independent witnesses and quotes Richard Hall calling the analysis 'pseudoscience.'

Neue Feuerball-Zwischenfälle in den USA

This article details several reports of bright fireballs observed in the USA during July and August 2001. On July 23, sightings were reported from Virginia to New York, described as bright, orange-white objects that broke apart and caused thunderclaps. These were later identified as space debris or meteors. Similar events were reported in Colorado on August 17 and Maine on August 22. The article notes that authorities, including the FAA and the US Space Command, ruled out aircraft and identified the phenomena as meteors or re-entering space debris. It also mentions a potential physical trace evidence in a scorched cornfield near Williamsport, Pennsylvania, though its connection to a fireball was uncertain.

Amerikaner hielten Weltraum-Müll für Meteoriten

This report discusses an incident on September 6, 2001, where thousands of Americans observed a fiery trail in the morning sky, initially thought to be a meteor. It was later identified as a Russian rocket re-entering the atmosphere after 26 years in space. The article highlights how such events can cause confusion and be mistaken for meteors or even UFOs. It also touches upon the role of media in reporting these events and the official explanations provided by space command.

25.April 2001: Fremde Objekte am Nachthimmel Ohio's

This section describes a sighting in Waynesville, Ohio, on April 25, 2001, where citizens and police officers reported observing strange lights in the night sky. UFO researcher Kenny Young investigated the case. Initial reports described disc-shaped objects with pulsating lights and changing colors. Police officers confirmed seeing round, orange lights. The article suggests that these sightings might be misinterpretations of planets or stars, particularly Venus, Jupiter, and Sirius, and criticizes the tendency to label such phenomena as UFOs without proper investigation.

Bainbridge woman tapes 'UFO'

This report covers a sighting in Bainbridge, Ohio, on August 30, 2001, where a woman named Heather Rice filmed what she described as a 'mothership' surrounded by other objects forming a triangular formation. The 'mothership' was described as round with windows emitting red and green lights. The video was sent to the police, who contacted NASA. However, the article, after conducting astronomical reconstructions, suggests that the observed lights were likely planets, including Venus, Jupiter, and Sirius, arranged in a specific configuration. The 'rotation' effect was attributed to camera artifacts, and the police inquiry to NASA was deemed an overreaction.

Rücksturz in die Vergangenheit... Des Verständnis wegen

This lengthy section delves into the history of belief in the supernatural, occultism, and spiritualism, drawing parallels between these phenomena and UFOlogy. The author argues that many UFO beliefs stem from a similar psychological susceptibility to the extraordinary and unexplainable, citing historical figures like Eusapia Palladino and the practices of spiritual mediums. The article critiques the 'pseudoscience' often associated with UFO research and emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and scientific methodology. It discusses the concept of 'IFOs' (Identified Flying Objects) and the challenges of distinguishing them from genuine unexplained phenomena. The author also touches upon the role of organizations like GEP and MUFON-CES in UFO research, highlighting their differing approaches and the ongoing debate within the field.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of UFO reports, the debunking of hoaxes and misidentifications, and the emphasis on scientific methodology in investigating aerial phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, advocating for rational explanations and cautioning against jumping to conclusions, especially regarding extraterrestrial origins. The magazine promotes a rigorous, evidence-based approach to understanding UFOs, often attributing sightings to natural phenomena, optical illusions, or psychological factors. There is a strong undercurrent of promoting critical thinking and distinguishing between genuine scientific inquiry and unsubstantiated speculation within the UFO community.

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: 275.6/2001
Date: 2001
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated 2001, delves into the historical and psychological parallels between 19th-century spiritualism and 20th-century UFO phenomena. It critically examines the nature of belief, skepticism, and the role of charismatic figures in promoting extraordinary claims.

The Allure of the Unexplained: Spiritualism and its Echoes

The article begins by referencing early spiritualist mediums like Madame Blavatsky and her "Chlor" spirit guide, assisted by Dr. Phinuit, a figure with questionable medical credentials. It highlights the involvement of prominent figures like psychologist William James and the rigorous investigation by Richard Hodgson of the American Society for Psychical Research into Mrs. Piper's séances.

It then shifts to the controversial Dutch researcher Wilhelm Tenhaeff (1894-1981), who led the Department for Parapsychology at the University of Utrecht. Tenhaeff faced criticism for allegedly exaggerating his findings, particularly concerning his promotion of the psychic Gérard Croiset (1909-1980). Journalist Piet Hein Hoebens uncovered evidence that Tenhaeff had sometimes concealed Croiset's use of tricks in his reports.

The concept of "Vril," an imaginary occult essence popularized by Bulwer-Lytton, is mentioned as a precursor to modern pseudo-scientific theories, such as those surrounding "Nazi flying saucers."

UFOlogy and the Shadow of Spiritualism

The magazine draws a direct parallel between the "magical-spiritualist" worldview of the 19th century and the "ungraspable celestial phenomena" of the 20th century, particularly UFOs. It argues that the same underlying psychological mechanisms drive belief in both.

Illobrand von Ludwiger, founder of MUFON-CES and presented as an astrophysicist, is scrutinized for his public support of the medium "Jons Dave" (Herbert Baumann). The article questions the scientific rigor of UFO research when it is intertwined with belief in mediums and the supernatural, citing von Ludwiger's eulogy for Jons Dave as evidence of this blend.

The case of Swedish mystic Emanuel Swedenborg (1688-1772) is presented as another example of a learned individual whose visions led to a unique, albeit unproven, theological system, influencing later figures like Jacob Lorbeer and George Adamski.

Skepticism, Fraud, and the Persistence of Belief

The article emphasizes how easily people can be deceived, especially when presented with theories that align with their pre-existing beliefs. It critiques "promoters of superstition" and "researchers" who validate the "authenticity" of phenomena without sufficient evidence.

Harry Price (1881-1948), a British paranormal investigator, is described as more of an adventurer than a serious researcher, accused of falsification and bluffing. Despite such exposures, the article notes that the faith of followers remains unshaken.

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes, is highlighted as a staunch supporter of spiritualist mediums, even accepting the Cottingley fairy photographs as genuine. His uncritical belief is contrasted with the exposure of Margery Crandon, a Boston medium whose "spirit thumbprint" was revealed to be that of her dentist. Despite this, Doyle continued to support her.

Dr. Joseph Banks Rhine (1896-1980) is mentioned for his work in parapsychology, but also for his later belief in a "telepathic horse" named Lady Wonder, which caused embarrassment among his colleagues.

Sir William Crookes, a respected scientist, is noted for his belief in spiritualism after his brother's death, and for his reluctance to expose fraudulent mediums he encountered.

Gladys Osborne Leonard (1882-1968), a medium, gained fame by relaying a message from Sir Oliver Lodge's deceased son, Raymond. The message described a spiritual realm where clothing and objects were made of "fragrance."

Julius and Agnes Zancig are mentioned for their telepathy act, which the article suggests was a trick, similar to how some UFO photographs are interpreted.

The Fox Sisters and the Birth of Modern Spiritualism

The article details the origin of modern spiritualism with the Fox sisters (Katherine, Leah, and Margaret) from Hydesville, New York, in 1847. They claimed to hear spirit rappings, but later confessed to producing these sounds themselves through joint cracking. Despite their public confessions, the spiritualist movement continued to thrive, with believers attributing their recantation to coercion.

The Psychology of Belief and the UFO Phenomenon

The author argues that the same human tendency to believe extraordinary claims, even in the face of contradictory evidence, fuels both spiritualism and UFOlogy. The "uncritical part of the public" readily accepts such phenomena, often swayed by charismatic figures.

Dr. Gustave Geley (1868-1924) is cited as an example of a researcher who publicly supported a medium (Eva C.) while evidence suggested she was a fraud. His biographer found proof that Geley knew of her deception but chose not to reveal it, thus preserving his ideology and catering to public superstition.

The article draws parallels to Uri Geller, whose spoon-bending abilities were investigated by parapsychologists Hal Puthoff and Russell Targ. Despite evidence of trickery, they published positive findings, which were later criticized as "sloppy and inadequate" by Dr. Ray Hyman.

Georgi Ivanovich Gurdjieff (1877-1949), a Russian mystic and guru, is presented as another charismatic figure who commanded devotion and offered esoteric teachings, often presented with an air of profound significance.

Editorial Note: The Euro and Subscriptions

A note informs readers that from January 1, 2002, CENAP REPORT subscriptions will be priced in Euros. The annual subscription will cost 22 € within Germany and 25 € for European subscribers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the critical examination of belief systems, particularly spiritualism and UFOlogy, and their susceptibility to fraud and self-deception. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, highlighting the psychological factors that lead individuals to accept extraordinary claims without sufficient evidence. The article consistently draws parallels between historical spiritualist phenomena and contemporary UFO reports, suggesting that the underlying human desire for the wondrous and the unexplained remains constant, regardless of the specific manifestation.