Anomalia - 1a Epoca - No 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of @nomalía, identified as Nº 2 of the 1st Epoch and dated December 2000, is published by Fundación Anomalía. The magazine covers a range of topics related to unexplained phenomena, with a particular focus on a surprising observation of Jupiter and the 'Northrop Report'. The editorial stance, as expressed in the 'Editorial' section by José Ruesga Montiel, emphasizes the importance of participation and the collective effort in making the publication a reality.

Key Articles and Features

Una sorprendente observación de Júpiter

This article by Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos details an observation of Jupiter made on October 6, 2000, by Rubén Megido in Oviedo. Megido captured a video of a bright celestial object, estimated to be much brighter and larger than Venus, which appeared to be rotating and had a gas-like trail. The object was initially mistaken for a planet but was later identified as potentially Jupiter.

El Informe Northrop

This section features an article by Antonio Petit Gancedo, though the specific content of 'El Informe Northrop' is not detailed in the provided scans.

El paseante de Sirio / Bólido sobre la Península Ibérica

Josep M. Trigo i Rodriguez reports on a bright bolide observed on September 4, 2000, over the Iberian Peninsula. The phenomenon, brighter than the moon, was seen from Portugal and possibly Andalusia and Extremadura. The author seeks further observations to determine if it was an artificial satellite re-entry or a meteorite.

Bola de Fuego sobre el Sur de Portugal

Another report from COAA describes a spectacular fireball observed on September 4, 2000, over southern Portugal. It was described as green, blue, and white, producing shadows, emitting sparks, and disappearing with an explosion. The object was much brighter than a full moon and moved slowly.

Nuevamente la presencia OVNI no se hizo esperar (Necochea Incident)

Guillermo Daniel Gimenez details an alleged UFO sighting on January 21, 2000, during a wedding reception in Necochea, Argentina. Guests observed a luminous white-blue object flying silently over the coast. The event was partially captured on video by a professional cameraman.

Nuestros lectores nos escriben: Observación en Lleida 1980-81

A reader named MCG recounts a childhood experience in Lleida, Spain, between 1980-1981, where she observed a luminous, orange, rugby-ball-shaped object passing very slowly and silently at close range. The object was estimated to be about 3 meters in size and disappeared at high speed, leaving an orange trail.

El Incidente de los Bateles (Conil, Cádiz)

Juan Carlos Victorio Uranga presents a critical analysis of the 'Incidente de los Bateles' in Conil, Cádiz, on September 29, 1989. He, as Vice President of GEIFO at the time, investigated the case and concluded it was a fraud, with witnesses mistaking ship workers for humanoids and the ship itself for a UFO.

Mesa redonda en la Facultad de Psicología de la Universidad de La Laguna

This report covers a roundtable discussion organized by Fundación Anomalía. Participants, including psychologists and sociologists, discussed topics such as the myth of using only 10% of the brain, urban legends, and the scientific approach to pseudosciences. Dr. César Esteban offered a skeptical view of astrology, and the author discussed psychological factors influencing UFO perception.

La NASA prueba en Río Tinto un robot que viajará a Marte

This article reports on NASA testing robotic prototypes in the Río Tinto river in Huelva, Spain, due to its similarity to Martian conditions (high iron content, low pH). The tests aim to study potential life forms and prepare for future Mars missions.

Ciclo de Cine de Ciencia Ficción en La Laguna (Tenerife)

This section describes a science fiction film cycle held in La Laguna, Tenerife, from October 16-20, 2000. The event featured films like 'Armageddon', 'Apollo XIII', and 'Contact', with discussions by astrophysicists and experts.

Cartas al Director

This section includes a critique by Iker Jiménez's book 'Enigmas sin resolver', arguing that many mysteries are explained by mundane phenomena like meteors or atmospheric events, and that some cases are exaggerated or misinterpreted.

Hablan los Expertos

This section features brief comments from experts. Carlos González-Cutre, a meteorologist, finds a report from a girl in Lérida insufficient for a serious opinion. V.J. Ballester Olmos, Director of Investigations at Fundación Anomalía, comments on a sighting, suggesting it could be a globular lightning or an atmospheric electricity phenomenon.

Convocados los Premios y Becas 2001 de Fundación Anomalía

An announcement regarding the 2001 awards and scholarships offered by Fundación Anomalía, including details on prizes like the 'Premio Internacional Zurich' and 'Beca Universitas'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a critical and investigative approach to unexplained phenomena. While presenting various UFO sightings and alleged paranormal events, it also includes skeptical analyses and debunks cases where evidence is lacking or explanations are found in conventional phenomena. The editorial emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor, critical thinking, and reader participation in understanding these complex subjects. The publication aims to fill a void in periodic information on ufology and related topics, serving as a platform for discussion and research.

Title: Onda
Issue: 29
Volume: 2
Date: November 27, 1999
Publisher: Fundación Anomalía
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of Onda magazine, published by Fundación Anomalía, focuses on anomalous phenomena, particularly a widely observed reentry of space debris and a UFO sighting. It also details the organization's activities, including its annual meeting and awards.

The Jupiter Satellite Mystery

The issue begins with an account of an observer in Oviedo who filmed what appeared to be four points of light in a symmetrical arrangement. Initially, the observer speculated about a satellite, but the arrangement of lights was unusual. The possibility of the International Space Station was dismissed. Through discussion on the Ortotenia mailing list, involving researchers like Matías Morey and Manuel Borraz, it was determined that the points of light corresponded to the positions of Jupiter's Galilean moons (Ganymede, Io, Europa, and Callisto). Manuel Borraz's analysis of the video, including general shots of the city, allowed for an exact calculation of the object's elevation, confirming it was not exaggerated. The observer also noted that the object appeared to rise nightly and maintain a stable trajectory, further supporting the planetary hypothesis. Professor Josep Mª Trigo of the University of Valencia examined the photograph and concluded it was indeed Jupiter and its satellites, suggesting that any perceived 'gas trail' might be an optical effect from light diffraction.

Pilot's Sighting Over the Pacific

Virgilio Sánchez Ocejo, a commercial pilot with 20 years of experience, recounts an unusual sighting during a flight from Lima to Mexico on July 8-9, 2000. Flying at 35,000 feet over the Pacific Ocean, approximately 500 miles off the coast of El Salvador, he observed several white, bright, static lights on the sea. These lights appeared rectangular and were separated by small distances. Some were partially obscured by thin clouds. He noted that the lights were intense and their brightness was uniform and continuous, not illuminating the sea directly. He contacted air traffic control (Cenamer control), who had no knowledge of these lights. The pilot shared this experience on the Miami UFO Center website, seeking to satisfy his curiosity about the phenomenon.

Fundación Anomalía's Annual Meeting and Awards

The magazine extensively covers the "VII Encuentro Anual del Colectivo Cuadernos" (7th Annual Encounter of the Cuadernos Collective) and the Patronage meeting of Fundación Anomalía, held in Seville from October 12-14, 2000. The event brought together researchers and members of the collective. The meeting involved the renewal of the Patronage's board, with José Ruesga Montiel elected president. New roles were defined, including Vice President and Director of Investigations (Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos), Vice President and Director of Publications (Julio Arcas Gilardi), and Treasurer and Secretary of Publications (Matilde González García). Other key figures like Joaquín Díaz Rodriguez (Secretary), Matías Morey Ripoll (Databases, website, legal advice), Luis R. González Manso (Translators), Antonio Petit Gancedo (Procedure and Quality), and Ricardo Campo Pérez (Media) were also appointed. Martí Flò García served as an external documentalist.

The awards for the year 2000 were also announced. The Premio CdU was given to the publication "Magonia" from the UK for its contribution to the dissemination of anomalous phenomena research. The Premio Internacional Zurich was awarded to D. José Miguel Alcíbar Cuello. Diplomas were presented to D. Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos for his dedication to consolidating Fundación Anomalía's resources, and to D. Julio Arcas Gilardi for his exemplary four-year presidency. The Premio Géminis was awarded to D. Martí Flò García for his work in creating the BIIS (Internal Staff Information Bulletin) and his initiatives for the Cuadernos Collective in 2000.

Several operational and strategic plans were discussed and approved. These included concentrating administrative and financial control in Seville, organizing the foundation's archives, and digitizing periodic publications. Plans were made to invest in the archives for better physical and digital organization. The progress on the Integral Database of Anomalous Phenomena, designed by Antonio Calzada, was presented, with plans for testing and integration. Martí Flò García presented his work on bibliographical rescue, highlighting the need for methods to retrieve cataloged works. Matías Morey was designing the database's thesaurus. The introduction of DTU content in PDF format for easier reading was agreed upon. Morey also reported on the development of the website, including its annexes and mobile telephony integration.

Future publications were planned, including "El Condesito" (2000), "Premios Zurich 99" (2001), and "Beca Universitas 2000" (2001). Morey was to coordinate the institutional design, assisted by Fló, González, Petit, and Campo. Institutional publications for external use were also planned. For 2001, events included a science fiction film cycle, conferences, debates, and presentations of "El Expediente Manises" and "El Condesito" to the media.

The approval of the 2001 budget demonstrated the maturity of the organization, with plans to utilize over 3 million pesetas to achieve its goals. The issue also mentions the support received from various companies and readers.

Reentry of Space Debris: The Millennium's Last Reentry?

The cover story, dated November 27, 1999, investigates the reentry of space debris. The article details numerous sightings of bright lights reported across Spain, Italy, France, and Portugal, starting around 9:15 PM. Witnesses described phenomena ranging from "fireballs" and "UFOs" to "five luminous orange balls" in formation and a "silver ball of great dimensions with a long, rosy tail." The widespread geographical dispersion (over 1,800 km) and the object's characteristics suggested a space debris reentry.

Information was gathered from various sources, including the Italian CISU, the "Diario de Mallorca," and astronomical observatories. The phenomenon was observed from Valdelinares (Teruel) as six blue-white lights in a diamond formation. In the Balearic Islands, bright lights were seen moving from west to east. Two hikers on Puig de Massanella observed a white light followed by smaller lights with a tail. In Sardinia, a "silver ball" was reported, and in Italy, an "enormous comet" split into three pieces. French reports mentioned a red object leaving flame-like lights.

Further investigation by Fundación Anomalía, in contact with European researchers and the Goddard Space Flight Center of NASA, identified the object as 1999-061B, the Chinese "Larga Marcha" rocket booster used to launch the "Shenzhou" space capsule. The booster, weighing 8.4 tons, reentered the atmosphere and disintegrated. The launch occurred on November 19, 1999, from Jiuquan, China.

NORAD data provided details about the reentry, including its orbital period, inclination, and radar cross-section. The trajectory was calculated by Manuel Borraz and confirmed by Alan Pickup, indicating a West-Southwest to East-Northeast path. Witnesses generally agreed on the direction of flight, though some perceived a North-South trajectory due to perspective.

The article notes that reentries typically involve objects burning up at high altitudes, breaking apart, and continuing their descent. The speed reduces significantly as they approach the ground. The radar at Palma airport did not detect the object, suggesting it was above the radar's upper limit.

Military Report on the Phenomenon

The Spanish Air Force's Combat Air Command (MACOM) received a report about the lights observed around 9:15 PM by a SAR helicopter crew on an instructional flight near Rota. The phenomenon was described as "five luminous orange balls, each with its own trail, moving in formation to the east." The report also mentioned radio communications from civilian aircraft (Iberia and Spanair) to Sevilla Control, reporting the same observation, but Sevilla Control had no radar contact. Similar reports were received by military control centers in Torrejón and Barcelona, with civilian aircraft reporting bright lights moving at high speed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Onda magazine strongly emphasizes the importance of rigorous, evidence-based investigation into anomalous phenomena. The editorial stance is one of open-mindedness combined with a critical approach, distinguishing between genuine mysteries and misidentifications or hoaxes. The magazine highlights the growing interest in ufology and the need for new researchers to contribute with fresh perspectives. There's a clear distinction made between serious investigation and sensationalism or commercial exploitation of the subject. The magazine also promotes the work of Fundación Anomalía as a key player in advancing the study of anomalous phenomena in Spain and beyond, showcasing their collaborative efforts, research methodologies, and commitment to disseminating information.

This issue of MACOM, spanning pages 38-57, delves into various aspects of ufology and aviation history, with a particular focus on secret projects and the rational analysis of anomalous aerial phenomena. The main cover story, "El informe Northrop: Aeronaves terrestres tomadas por extraterrestres (1920-1960)" by Francisco J. Máñez, is reviewed, alongside a broader piece titled "Historias Aeronáuticas (que nos hicieron creer en OVNIS)". The issue also features a detailed analysis of the Manises incident, bibliographical reviews of UFO-related books, and a tribute to Father Antonio Felices.

"El informe Northrop: Aeronaves terrestres tomadas por extraterrestres (1920-1960)" and "Historias Aeronáuticas (que nos hicieron creer en OVNIS)"

These articles, authored by Francisco J. Máñez and Antonio Petit Gancedo respectively, critically examine the connection between secret aviation projects, particularly those of Nazi Germany and post-war American developments like the Northrop flying wings, and the emergence of UFO sightings. Máñez's work is described as having a wealth of graphic documentation, though some of his arguments are considered debatable due to the difficulty in verifying data. The review highlights the author's attempt to link German technical advancements from the Third Reich with the post-war appearance of "flying saucers," suggesting a possible cover-up of advanced technology. The critique points out that while Máñez raises numerous interesting points, his generalizations and extrapolations sometimes lack solid argumentation. The author's hypothesis that Northrop's flying wings are the origin of the Kenneth Arnold sighting and the Roswell crash is specifically challenged. The review details the development of the Northrop XB-35 and YB-49, noting that the project was canceled not due to secrecy but because the aircraft was not ready in time to meet the military's need for strategic bombers during the Cold War. The issue also touches upon the Salyut 7-Cosmos 1686 incident and the broader context of post-war conflicts and the fear of nuclear annihilation.

Analysis of "El Expediente Manises"

This section reviews Juan Antonio Fernández Peris's book, "El Expediente Manises," which offers a detailed and meticulous analysis of the famous Manises UFO incident. The review praises Peris for his methodical approach, which aims to debunk the legendary status of the case by dissecting each reported event and connecting them to known phenomena. The author is credited with uncovering "impurities" that challenge the established narrative. The review highlights Peris's defense of the professionalism of the flight crew involved, countering the common ufological argument that elite witnesses might be indirectly criticized by rational explanations. The proposed explanations for the Manises incident include flares from the Escombreras petrochemical plant, astronomical stimuli, and electronic interference from the USS Iwo-Jima affecting a Mirage F-1 fighter jet. The review notes the strong reactions from less critical ufologists to these findings, particularly the explanation involving the petrochemical plant flares, which is supported by substantial evidence.

Other Reviews and Mentions

"Pasaporte a OVNIlandia" by Sergio Sánchez Rodríguez

This book is reviewed by Ricardo Campo Pérez, who describes it as a critical look at ufology, focusing on its social and psychological aspects rather than UFOs themselves. Sánchez's work is praised for its scholarly approach, humor, and exploration of various ufological schools, including para-ufology and skepticism. The review notes that Sánchez navigates the blurry lines between these fields, offering intellectual keys to critical thinking and examining concepts like interstellar travel and abduction.

"UFOS & ABDUCTIONS: Challenging the borders of knowledge" edited by David M. Jacobs

Luis R. González Manso reviews this edited volume, which brings together prominent North American ufologists and academics to draw attention to UFOs and alien abductions. The reviewer notes that while the book aims to convince scientists of the significance of ufology, it is unlikely to change skeptical views, especially since it does not present counter-explanations from skeptics. The book's content covers various aspects, including the academic study of UFOs, scientific perspectives, legal and military implications, the extraterrestrial hypothesis, myths, and the controversy surrounding UFO abductions, including the role of hypnosis. The reviewer finds the experimental data provided by Michael E. Persinger to be of high quality.

Tribute to Father Antonio Felices

The issue includes a tribute to Father Antonio Felices, a Dominican priest who passed away at the age of 75. Father Felices was involved in UFO research in the 1970s with the "Charles Fort" group in Valladolid and was known for witnessing a delta-shaped UFO. Although considered a pioneer by some, his public involvement in UFO research diminished after the 1970s. The tribute notes his speculation that biblical angels might have been extraterrestrials piloting UFOs.

Bibliography and Acknowledgements

The issue features extensive bibliographies for "Armas Secretas y Ufología" and "Proyectos Aeronáuticos Secretos," listing numerous books and articles. It also includes acknowledgments to various individuals and organizations, such as CISU, NASA, and others involved in research and publications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of secret aviation technology, particularly from Germany and the US, with the UFO phenomenon. There is a clear editorial stance favoring rational, evidence-based explanations over sensationalist or purely speculative theories, especially concerning the Manises incident. The magazine appears to encourage critical thinking and a rigorous approach to investigating anomalous phenomena, questioning the established narratives within ufology when evidence suggests otherwise. The issue also highlights the historical context of the Cold War and its influence on perceptions of advanced technology and potential threats.

This issue of CdU, identified as volume 22-23 and issue 26, focuses on ufology, with a particular emphasis on Argentine and Spanish cases and literature. The cover prominently features 'Expediente Manises' by Juan Antonio Fernández Peris, described as a classic UFO observation in Spanish ufology. The magazine also includes a review of 'Guía Biográfica de la Ufología Argentina' by Roberto Banchs, which chronicles the early years of ufology in Argentina.

Book Reviews and Critiques

Guía Biográfica de la Ufología Argentina (Los primeros 25 años/1947-1972)

Authored by Roberto Banchs and published by CEFAI Ediciones, this work is reviewed by Matilde González. The book compiles biographical and bibliographical data of the pioneers of ufology in Argentina from the 1940s to the early 1970s. It is presented as a reference guide for new enthusiasts and includes a list of ufological groups, publications, and a study on the social impact of UFO sightings in South America in 1947. The reviewer suggests that Banchs should continue his work by documenting the 'second generation' of ufologists from the 1970s onwards.

Visitors From Within by Lyssa Royal and Keith Priest

This book, published by Granite Publishing, LLC, is reviewed by Luis R. González Manso. The review criticizes the book's premise, which is based on 'channeled' material from extraterrestrial contacts. The reviewer expresses disbelief in the claims, particularly those concerning 'grays' from Zeta Reticuli and the concept of multidimensional passageways connecting planets. The reviewer finds the material to be nonsensical and questions the psychological state of people who believe in such messages without physical evidence, especially when presented to young children.

Expediente Manises: ¿Nave E.T.?

Authored by Juan Antonio Fernández Peris and published by Fundación Anomalia, this book is highlighted on the cover. It is described as a complete and illustrated documentation of a UFO incident investigated over twenty years. The book is presented as a classic case in Spanish ufology.

Analysis of Ufological Practices

The issue contains critical commentary on the field of ufology. One article argues that while ufologists strive to change the 'paradigm' of current science, they often fail to recognize that the existence of extraterrestrial intelligences is not inherently incompatible with the current paradigm. The core issue, according to the critique, lies in the behavior and actions of these supposed aliens, which are often contradictory and lack clear, indisputable evidence despite millions of alleged abductions over decades. The article points out the absurdity of aliens attempting to remain hidden while simultaneously drawing attention with their UFOs. It also notes that the extraterrestrial hypothesis (HET) predates the concept of UFOs, citing Emmanuel Swedenborg's encounters with beings from other planets.

A significant point of criticism is directed at the lack of scientific progress in ufology over time, with the field remaining pseudoscientific in nature. The article questions whether the lights associated with UFOs are related to propulsion, a desire for notoriety, or air safety regulations. It laments that some ufologists abandon scientific methodology, advocating for legalistic or military intelligence approaches to evidence evaluation. The critique emphasizes the need for improved data collection and analysis methodologies, as well as open information exchange, to foster a more profound and responsible debate.

The issue concludes that while greater scientific interest in UFOs and abductions is desirable, the book by Royal and Priest offers no new arguments and may even be counterproductive by insistently promoting an unproven premise (HET).

Key Incidents and Data

The issue references several specific incidents:

• November 11, 1979: In Valencia, Spain, a radio signal on 121.5 MHz was detected, leading to the investigation of two red lights observed by a pilot. Several aircraft were involved in the search and observation.
• November 17, 1979: Near Motril, Spain, a pilot observed an unidentified object at 4,000 feet moving in a SE direction.
• November 20, 1979: Near Madrid, Spain, a pilot reported seeing two red aircraft that did not appear to be part of converging traffic.
• 1947: The social repercussions of UFO sighting news in South America during this year are discussed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of ufological claims, the distinction between the existence of extraterrestrial intelligence and the evidence for specific phenomena like abductions, and the importance of scientific methodology in investigating anomalous events. The editorial stance appears to be skeptical of unsubstantiated claims within ufology, advocating for rigorous scientific inquiry and data-driven analysis. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between established scientific principles and pseudoscientific speculation, particularly concerning the extraterrestrial hypothesis.