CENAP-REPORT

Magazine Overview

This issue of CENAP REPORT, CR 283, Ausgabe 2/2003, published by the Centrales Erforschungsnetz Außergewöhnlicher Himmelsphänomene (CENAP), focuses on significant events and phenomena with potential extraterrestrial connections. The cover prominently features the "Columbia Tragedy" and poses the question of an "Invasion?" in the context of the "UFO-Summer 2002" and the "SIGNS" phenomenon.

Editorial Introduction by Werner Walter

Werner Walter, the editor and publisher, begins with a personal note about recovering from a broken wrist, which delayed the compilation of this issue. He reflects on his 30-year "UFO-Research career," which began with a sighting in 1973. Walter expresses a critical but open stance towards UFO phenomena, acknowledging that while he doesn't expect exotic phenomena beyond human involvement, he remains open to surprises. He notes that the current issue might contain information that has already surfaced in the media, hinting at significant developments. He also pragmatically mentions the possibility of a new Iraq war occurring sooner than a widespread UFO wave.

The Columbia Tragedy and UFOs

The issue dedicates significant space to the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster on February 1st, 2003. It recalls NASA's search for UFO phenomena around shuttle missions and mentions that NASA planned to investigate strange white light spots observed by some viewers. A Reuters report from January 23rd, 2003, details astronauts observing an unknown red arc in the Earth's atmosphere, described as a "huge glowing horizontal line." The article explores potential explanations, including 'Red Sprites' and 'Blues Flashes' associated with thunderstorms, referencing meteorological explanations. The disaster itself is described in detail, including the loss of communication and reports of debris. The article contrasts the event with the Challenger disaster of 1986, noting the impact on the American psyche. It mentions that many observers, including a 17-year-old named Phillip Russel, initially thought the debris might be from extraterrestrial craft. The article also touches upon the NASA investigation and the public's response to submitting photos and videos. It notes that the Columbia's re-entry phenomena were visually striking, far more so than the controlled MIR re-entry in 2001, and that the disaster shattered hopes for space tourism. The article then delves into UFO reports related to the Columbia incident, citing an "UFO Roundup" report about a "Spherical UFO Videotaped Following Columbia," where an amateur astronomer observed a bright pulse and a small object accompanying the shuttle. Speculation arises about whether this could be related to a supposed UFO crash in Iraq in 1998, with theories suggesting the Columbia might have been shot down to send a message before the Iraq war. The article dismisses these as far-fetched, suggesting that what was observed was likely debris or plasma condensation.

UFO Summer 2002 - In the Sign of SIGNS

This section, a continuation from CR 282, discusses the "SIGNS" phenomenon, likely referring to the movie 'Signs' and its connection to crop circles. It begins by referencing the 1991 confession of Doug and Dave as crop circle makers, which initially diminished the phenomenon's mystique. The article notes that magazines like PM and Tempo have demonstrated how crop circles can be created by humans, challenging the notion of extraterrestrial origin. It criticizes the tendency of some enthusiasts to ignore rational explanations in favor of mystical interpretations, likening it to "building a religion on old socks." The article mentions experiments, such as one in Kassel in 1996, where a stone's weight appeared to increase in a crop circle, attributed by some to "altered gravitation" and "curvature of space-time continuum," while the author suggests a lack of scientific rigor. The article also touches upon the idea that crop circles might be a form of 'hoax' or 'disinformation' to distract from other issues.

Crop Circles: Art, Hoax, or Extraterrestrial?

The magazine explores the phenomenon of crop circles in detail, particularly in Germany and the UK. It highlights the growing trend of 'land art artists' creating complex designs, with John Lundberg of 'Circlemakers' being a prominent figure. Lundberg views crop circles as art and a way to generate public interest and myths, rather than fakes. The article contrasts this with the 'esoteric faction' that insists on a mystical explanation. It details the process of creating crop circles, including design, tools (like the 'stomper' plank), teamwork, and site selection. The economic impact of crop circles on tourism and local communities is also discussed, with farmers benefiting from visitors. The article questions the 'scientific' claims made by some researchers, such as those involving 'electromagnetism' or 'plasma vortices,' and criticizes the tendency to ignore human creation. It mentions specific incidents, like a crop circle in Merzig, Germany, which was later revealed to be the work of Harald Hoos and Florian Brunner, former members of the German Crop Circle Research Society (FGK). The article also touches upon the internal conflicts within the FGK between skeptics and proponents of esoteric theories.

UFO-Alarm in Japan and Other Incidents

An incident in Western Japan on February 7th, 2003, is reported, where witnesses described a large, flaming fireball that broke into pieces, leading to UFO speculation. The article also mentions the KGB UFO files released in 1991, which gained attention in Italy. A prediction by Dr. Donald A. Johnson of a "worldwide UFO wave" in March 2003 is discussed, with skepticism expressed regarding its basis in mere "number-crunching."

Schönwalde Crop Circle Investigation

An investigation into a crop circle in Schönwalde, Germany, is detailed. Experts, including dowsers and those using Geiger counters, reported unusual energy readings and electromagnetic charges. While some witnesses, like Heinz Gedrat, attributed the circle to an extraterrestrial landing, others, including the farmer Georg Gratzias, viewed it more pragmatically, noting the damage to the crops and the economic benefits from tourism. The article mentions the presence of "silicon particles" found at the site, which some interpreted as evidence of alien spacecraft. However, the article also notes that the crop circle was likely created by humans, possibly as a prank or for artistic purposes, and criticizes the media's sensationalist coverage.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, a recurring theme is the critical examination of UFO and crop circle phenomena. The magazine consistently questions claims of extraterrestrial involvement, often highlighting human ingenuity, hoaxes, and the role of media and popular belief in shaping perceptions. There is a clear distinction drawn between 'UFOlogy' (often portrayed as speculative and esoteric) and 'UFO-FORSCHUNG' (scientific research). The editorial stance appears to favor rational explanations and scientific investigation, while acknowledging the enduring human fascination with the unknown and the power of myth and belief. The magazine criticizes the tendency of some enthusiasts to dismiss evidence that contradicts their beliefs and highlights the commercialization and sensationalism surrounding these phenomena. The issue emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and the blurring lines between genuine research and pseudoscientific speculation.

This issue of CENAP REPORT, dated 2/2003, focuses extensively on the phenomenon of crop circles, analyzing events from 2002 and the surrounding media landscape. The magazine critically examines the claims and counter-claims surrounding these formations, featuring interviews, reports, and analyses from various perspectives, including researchers, skeptics, and artists.

Crop Circles in Germany: Schönwalde and Beyond

The issue details the discovery of a crop circle in Schönwalde, Germany, on July 13, 2002. The formation, approximately 45 meters in diameter, featured smaller circles and a four-leaf clover symbol. Landowner Georg Gratzias reported damage to his wheat field and implemented an entry fee for visitors. The article explores the speculation surrounding the circle's origin, including theories of electromagnetic influence and extraterrestrial activity. The presence of silicon particles and unusual soil conditions are noted.

Another German incident is mentioned from Brandenburg, where farmer Gratzias expressed frustration with the time and effort involved in dealing with crop circles.

International Crop Circle Cases

The magazine also reports on a crop circle incident in Greece, near Koziakas, where farmer Athanassios Tsioukas claimed a large, round flying object destroyed part of his wheat field. The object was described as having small holes and descending slowly.

The Role of Media and Public Perception

A significant portion of the report is dedicated to the media's role in shaping public perception of crop circles. The release of the film 'Signs' is highlighted as a major catalyst for renewed interest and media coverage. The article critiques how media outlets often sensationalize the phenomenon, sometimes presenting speculative theories as fact. The influence of documentaries and news reports on public belief is examined, with a particular focus on how 'mystery' is perpetuated.

Skeptics vs. Believers: The Debate Unfolds

The issue presents a clear divide between those who believe crop circles have extraterrestrial or paranormal origins and those who attribute them to human activity. Researchers like Harald Hoos and Florian Brunner are presented as proponents of the human-made theory, having documented their own crop circle creation process. They argue that many so-called 'mysteries' are simply the result of artistic endeavors and media manipulation. Conversely, figures like Andreas Müller are portrayed as continuing to seek 'supernatural' explanations, even when faced with evidence of human creation.

Hoaxes and Artistic Creation

The report extensively discusses the concept of crop circles as human-made art. The early claims of Douglas Bower and David Chorley in the UK are revisited, who demonstrated how they created circles using simple tools. More recent examples include the work of artists like Rod Dickinson and John Lundberg, who openly admit to creating complex formations for publicity stunts and artistic expression, sometimes for financial gain. The article details how these artists use techniques like stompers (boards used to flatten wheat) and GPS for precision.

Scientific Investigations and Theories

Various scientific and pseudo-scientific theories are discussed, including plasma vortices, electromagnetic anomalies, and alleged biological changes in the wheat. The report often debunks these theories by pointing out natural explanations or the lack of rigorous scientific evidence. The limitations of laboratory analysis and the challenges of distinguishing between natural phenomena and human-made effects are also explored.

The 'Pizza Circle' Incident

A notable event detailed is the 'Pizza Circle' incident, where the German TV show Stern TV commissioned Friedemann Ohms to create a crop circle based on a salami-pizza. This was done to demonstrate how easily such formations could be faked and to expose the credulity of some 'crop circle experts' and the public. The incident sparked considerable debate and criticism from those who preferred to maintain the mystery.

The Kornkreis-Forscher Community

The internal dynamics of the crop circle research community are also touched upon. The FGK (Forschungsgemeinschaft Kornkreise) is mentioned as an organization that has seen a shift from rational analysis towards more metaphysical and esoteric viewpoints. The challenges of reconciling scientific skepticism with deeply held beliefs are highlighted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of crop circle claims, the debunking of sensationalist media reports, and the exploration of the psychological and social factors that contribute to belief in paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to demystify crop circles by exposing the human element behind their creation and the media's role in perpetuating myths. The magazine emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and rational investigation when confronted with claims of the unexplained.

Title: CENAP REPORT
Issue: 283.2/2003
Date: 2003
Publisher: CENAP
Country: Germany
Language: German

This issue of CENAP REPORT delves into the complex world of crop circles and UFO sightings, with a particular focus on media involvement and skeptical analysis. The magazine aims to provide rational explanations for phenomena that often capture public imagination.

The Crop Circle Debate: Media Manipulation and Scientific Scrutiny

The lead article discusses the controversy surrounding crop circles, highlighting a specific incident involving the German television program SternTV. In October 2002, a crop circle was allegedly created near Schönwalde, Brandenburg, for a segment on the show. The report claimed that silicon crystals, identified as a byproduct of aluminum production, were found in the formation, leading to speculation about gravitational anomalies and even extraterrestrial involvement. The article suggests that this event was a deliberate attempt to sensationalize the phenomenon and that the "crop circle makers" (Brunner and Hoos) were used to create a narrative that aligned with certain theories, while also being blamed for imperfections.

The author criticizes the media's portrayal of crop circles, noting how some television programs and magazines focused on entertainment value over factual reporting. The SternTV report is described as the "last journalistic attack on the perfect world of crop circles," after which media interest reportedly waned. The article also touches upon the creation of two formations in mustard fields near Palmpohl/Niedersachsen in 2002, one of which resembled the emblem from the movie "Signs."

Reader Sightings and Skeptical Explanations

Another significant section addresses reader reports of UFO sightings, particularly those published in the RHEINPFALZ newspaper. UFO researcher Hansjürgen Köhler, active with CENAP for 29 years, is featured, emphasizing his role in finding natural explanations for these sightings. Köhler's analysis often reveals that reported "unidentified flying objects" are actually common astronomical phenomena, such as the planets Jupiter and Venus appearing close together in the sky, or man-made objects like balloons, kites, and even party balloons.

• Several specific cases are detailed:
• The "Oggersheim UFO-Fall" from February 3, 2002, was explained as three models flown by a kite builder from Darmstadt.
• Sightings from 1976 near Sembach airport remain unexplained.
• Reports of a "white disc flying in a large circle" were attributed to a disco spotlight.
• A "red light flying without sound" observed in Bad Dürkheim was identified as an Esbit-powered party balloon.
• A "fireball" that split into two parts was likely a meteorite or a shooting star.

Köhler's work is presented as a systematic effort to demystify UFO reports, with a success rate that suggests few, if any, truly extraterrestrial encounters.

The Role of Media and Public Perception

The magazine explores the broader impact of media coverage on the public's understanding of UFOs and crop circles. It notes how sensationalized reporting can create a distorted picture and how some individuals may develop a quasi-religious belief system around these phenomena. The article suggests that while it's important to allow people to explore their beliefs, it's also crucial to present factual information without destroying their personal worldviews. The magazine highlights the challenge faced by researchers like Köhler, who must balance providing explanations with respecting the beliefs of enthusiasts.

Editorial Stance and Future Outlook

Werner Walter, the editor, reflects on the year 2002 as a significant one for the crop circle phenomenon, noting increased public awareness due to well-researched television reports. He acknowledges that while the formations themselves might not be spectacular, the surrounding human reactions and interpretations are where the true fascination lies. Walter also mentions that planned topics, including new UFO photos from the NASA/ESA SOHO probe and early UFO events from winter 2002/03, had to be postponed due to the Columbia disaster.

The issue concludes with a humorous comic strip from MUFON (Munich UFO Network), satirizing the methods of some UFO researchers, such as using "bio-resonators" to measure UFO landing sites and "psycho-feedback" to confirm witness reports. The comic humorously concludes that ETs are from Mars and Venus.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO and crop circle phenomena, the role of media in shaping public perception, and the importance of scientific skepticism and rational explanation. CENAP REPORT, through its articles and the contributions of researchers like Hansjürgen Köhler, consistently advocates for a grounded, evidence-based approach to these subjects, often debunking sensational claims by identifying natural or mundane causes. The editorial stance is clearly one of skepticism towards extraordinary claims, prioritizing verifiable facts and logical reasoning over speculation and belief.