Anomalia - 1a Epoca - No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: @nomalía
Issue: Nº 3 - 1ª época
Date: September 2001
Publisher: Fundación Anomalía
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of @nomalía, the informative organ of Fundación Anomalía, presents a diverse range of articles exploring anomalous phenomena, scientific inquiry, and the history of ufology. The cover prominently features the headline "Reivindicadas las fotos de Rex Heflin" (The photos of Rex Heflin vindicated) and highlights Antonio Ribera as "UN PIONERO DESAPARECIDO" (A disappeared pioneer).

Editorial

The editorial, titled "El lector existe, está ahí y participa" (The reader exists, is there and participates), emphasizes the importance of having a suitable medium for disseminating the truth about enigmas and the satisfaction derived from readers' engagement. It notes that the magazine aims to be a truthful and updated source of information, with readers increasingly becoming active participants by sharing their opinions and research.

Articles and Features

"El Paseante de Sirio" (The Stroller of Sirius)

This section details an incident where an airport in Barnaul, Siberia, was temporarily shut down due to multiple pilot reports of a UFO. The crew of an Il-76 cargo plane refused to take off, citing the presence of a luminous object as a real safety hazard. Another plane was diverted. The region of Altái is noted for its high number of UFO sightings.

"Astrónomos Norteamericanos e Ingleses Descubren una Evidencia de Vida Extraterrestre" (North American and English Astronomers Discover Evidence of Extraterrestrial Life)

This article reports on the discovery of a solar system 57 light-years away, CM Draconis, with two Earth-sized planets where water might exist. Researchers from SETI, collaborating with NASA and Jodrell Bank, identified these planets. The discovery is considered promising in the search for extraterrestrial life.

"Nueva Observación OVNI en Hessdalen 19/8/2000" (New UFO Observation in Hessdalen 19/8/2000)

Erling Strand recounts an observation on August 19, 2000, where he and companions witnessed a strong flash and a luminous object moving on a hillside near Hessdalen, Norway. The phenomenon remained visible and in motion for about 15 minutes.

"Flammarión, el verdadero precursor del estudio de las anomalías" (Flammarión, the true precursor of the study of anomalies)

Written by Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos, this article honors Camille Flammarión as a key figure in the study of unusual phenomena. It highlights his astronomical work and his extensive writings that cataloged various anomalous events, predating Charles Fort's work. The article notes Flammarión's exploration of phenomena like ball lightning and unusual precipitation.

"Ciencia y pseudociencia en el umbral del siglo XXI" (Science and Pseudoscience at the Threshold of the 21st Century)

Ricardo Campo Pérez reviews a multidisciplinary course held at the University of La Laguna, Tenerife. The course, organized by a group of university professors and doctoral students, aimed to promote critical thinking about paranormal beliefs, including UFOs, and distinguish scientific inquiry from pseudoscience. It covered topics such as the history of science, quantum mechanics, molecular biology, astrobiology, cloning, transgenic organisms, and the psychology of perception, as well as urban legends and ufology.

"El Condesito: Un viaje al corazón del fenómeno ovni" (The Condesito: A Journey to the Heart of the UFO Phenomenon)

This section features an interview with José Miguel Alcíbar Cuello, recipient of the Premio Internacional Zurich for his work "El Condesito." Alcíbar, a biologist, actor, and aspiring PhD in scientific journalism, discusses his multifaceted career and his long-standing involvement in ufology. He emphasizes the creativity inherent in both science and the humanities and argues against their dichotomy. He also touches upon the importance of experience and confidence in any profession.

"The UFO Show"

This article reviews the publication "The UFO Show" by University Galleries. It describes the book as a collection of essays and fiction by notable writers and emerging talents, featuring reproductions of artwork by 19 artists. The book explores the UFO phenomenon as a symbol of the intersection between past and future, through various artistic mediums.

"Bólido sobre Tenerife" (Meteor over Tenerife)

This report from Diario de Avisos describes a spectacular meteor observed over Tenerife on October 13, 2001. The phenomenon, described as a large fireball, was witnessed by students from the University of La Laguna. The article explains that meteors are caused by interplanetary matter friction with the atmosphere and notes that sensationalist sources sometimes misinterpret such events as UFOs.

"Convocados los Premios y Beca 2001 de Fundación Anomalía" (2001 Awards and Scholarship of Fundación Anomalía Announced)

This section announces the call for applications for the 2001 awards and scholarships offered by Fundación Anomalía, including the Premio Internacional Zúrich and Beca Universitas.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rigorous and critical approach to the study of anomalous phenomena, particularly UFOs. It seeks to distinguish between genuine scientific inquiry and pseudoscience, encouraging critical thinking and evidence-based investigation. There is a clear emphasis on historical research, as seen in the articles on Flammarión and the review of "The UFO Show." The publication also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, as demonstrated by the university course and the diverse backgrounds of its contributors. Fundación Anomalía positions itself as a platform for serious research and dissemination of information in the field of ufology and related anomalies.

This issue of OVNIS magazine, dated Wednesday, February 7, 2001, is the 19th issue of Volume 1, published by Fundación Anomalía. The cover headline announces an 'International Encounter OVNIS ¿QUIENES OCULTAN LA VERDAD?' (UFOs: Who Hides the Truth?), featuring Rubén Morales and Alejandro Agostinelli.

International Encounter on UFOs in Buenos Aires

The issue details an international encounter held on February 7, 2001, at Bar Temático La Forja in Buenos Aires. The event featured a debate with an interested public, journalists, and UFO enthusiasts of all tendencies. The panel of foreign speakers included Lic. Luis R. González (Málaga, Spain), Diego Zúñiga (Santiago, Chile), and Jorge Alfonso Ramírez (Asunción, Paraguay). The discussion aimed to be an enlightening exchange of ideas, covering various UFO topics with absolute honesty, and concluded with applause.

Alejandro Agostinelli (journalist) and Rubén Morales (social psychologist) coordinated the event, facilitating communication between the speakers and attendees.

Book Review: OVNIS. 50 Años de Investigación en el Campo de Gibraltar

Marcos Antonio Benítez Campillo reviews the book 'OVNIS. 50 Años de Investigación en el Campo de Gibraltar' by Andrés Gómez Serrano, published by Antakara in October 2000, with a prologue by Juan José Benítez. Benítez Campillo acknowledges Serrano's long-standing dedication to UFO research in Spain, particularly during difficult times. However, he criticizes Serrano's approach, stating that Serrano's work primarily compiles testimonies without rigorous investigation, contrast of opinions, or verifiable data. Benítez Campillo argues that Serrano's conviction that UFOs are solely extraterrestrial in origin compromises his objectivity.

The reviewer expresses disappointment with the book, noting the absence of objective data, precise testimonies, and contrasting opinions, despite Serrano's claims of extensive research. He points out that many cases presented are not new and have been previously published by Serrano himself or by J. J. Benítez. Benítez Campillo also mentions a specific case, 'El OVNI de Bajadilla,' which Serrano allegedly insulted and attempted to discredit a research collective that had investigated it, despite Serrano having initially provided the case to J. J. Benítez.

Benítez Campillo concludes that Serrano's '50 years of investigation' have yielded little new, with the book lacking analysis, verified data, and detailed drawings, essentially rehashing old cases.

Fundación Anomalía Updates

José Ruesga Montiel provides an update on Fundación Anomalía's activities, including recent contributions and ongoing projects. AXA insurance company provided financial support for IT equipment renewal, while Luis R. González and Martí Fló García donated computer equipment. The Provincial Delegation of Public Works and Transport of the Junta de Andalucía donated ICL Ergopro equipment for file management.

In terms of research, the foundation has been investigating various incidents, some of which have been previously published. The commission studying fallen 'aerohidrolitos' (aeroliths) has been revitalized. Public events organized include the International Encounter in Buenos Aires and a course on 'Science and Pseudoscience at the Threshold of the 21st Century' in collaboration with the University of La Laguna.

Fundación Anomalía aims to provide content that allows for new approaches to UFO research, improving quality and results.

Case Study: VENUS: Objeto Volante No Identificado (Venus: Unidentified Flying Object)

Juan Carlos Victorio Uranga presents a case from Álava in 1980 involving a UFO sighting. A married couple and their 21-year-old son reported seeing a red light over the Foronda airport. Initially thought to be an airplane, the light then positioned itself above their car. The object reportedly changed direction, made complete turns, and mimicked the car's movements. The witnesses described it as a strong red circular or disc-shaped object with an apparent size of 20-25 centimeters, visible at approximately 200 meters. The observation lasted over an hour.

Uranga analyzes the case, suggesting that the phenomenon was likely the planet Venus. He points out that astronomical data indicates Venus was visible in the sky at the time and location of the sighting, with a magnitude of -4.4. He explains that the perceived maneuvers, such as pursuit, turns, and changes in apparent size, could be illusions caused by the observers' movement in the car, atmospheric conditions (clouds), and Venus's proximity to the horizon, which would make it appear larger and redder.

Analysis of the French 'Cometa Report' and the IHEDN

Claude Maugé discusses the 'Cometa Report,' presented by Mark Rodeghier, and its relationship with the IHEDN (Institut des Hautes Études de la Défense Nationale). Maugé notes that while Rodeghier presented it reasonably, the report might be seen as an example of 'the grass is always greener on the other side.'

The IHEDN's role, according to its own presentation, is not to advise politicians and military personnel on defense matters but to provide thorough training on national defense, involving various sectors of society. The report itself, published on June 20, 1977, was the result of a committee of IHEDN auditors examining the UFO problem from late 1976 to June 1977. The report mentioned the 1977 World UFO Congress in Acapulco and listed dates for hearings with four experts.

Maugé questions the report's influence on the creation of GEPAN (Groupe d'Études des Phénomènes Aériens Non Identifiés), suggesting that the committee's work was more of a 'final training course' and provided only a few hours of work. He highlights discrepancies in dates and declarations from GEPAN's directors, making it improbable that the committee's recommendations directly led to GEPAN's formation.

Alain Esterle, GEPAN's second director, stated in 1979 that GEPAN was created due to a conjunction of three factors: government interest, public curiosity, and the role of CNES, with several engineers having a long-standing interest in the subject. This interest was reportedly spurred by a significant UFO wave in 1973-1974 and Jean-Claude Bourret's programs, including an interview with the Minister of Defense, Robert Galley.

Maugé also addresses claims that the 'Cometa Report' was an 'official document' or that it was 'created by' the IHEDN. He cites a statement from G.S. Presse Communication, which he dismisses as a publicity stunt to promote a special issue of their magazine VSD. Perry Petrakis's critique of the report is also mentioned, noting that the IHEDN denies any involvement, stating the report was written by General Norlain after he left the institution and does not compromise it. The Elysée Palace could not comment due to vacations, and Matignon (Prime Minister's office) confirmed receiving the document but stated it was not an 'official report' but rather a letter sent on the authors' initiative.

Maugé discusses the report's content, suggesting it aimed to show that UFOs are worthy of interest for scientists and defense specialists. However, he notes its limitations, such as the absence of abduction accounts, which are considered crucial to the problem. General Denis Letty admitted the committee did not aim for an encyclopedia but chose studies that would convince authorities. Maugé questions whether the favorable portrayal of the Roswell incident and the statement that Corso's book 'cannot be dismissed' are effective ways to convince national leaders.

The report also dedicates little attention to cases with physical effects and only briefly mentions statistical considerations, which are described as obsolete.

Official Statements on the 'Cometa Report'

Official responses from the French government regarding the 'Cometa Report' are presented. General Bastien of the Presidency's private staff stated that the 'report,' created by a type 1901 association, had no official category and was sent to the Presidency for informational purposes. Lieutenant Colonel Pierre Bayle, director of the IHEDN's Communication Office, clarified that the declarations made by the report's authors only linked them personally and did not reflect the IHEDN's stance, as the IHEDN possesses no specific information on the matter.

Michel Algrin, spokesperson for the Cometa group, confirmed that COMETA bore no responsibility for the report's misrepresentation and that its publication was intended to prevent distorted versions of the text from circulating.

Content Analysis of the 'Cometa Report'

The author suggests that the 'Cometa Report' succeeded in its aim to demonstrate that UFO phenomena warrant interest from scientists and defense specialists. While acknowledging potential debates about the quality of specific cases, the report is described as presenting a balanced overview, from distant sightings to close encounters.

However, the authors' stated intention to summarize current knowledge on UFOs and scientific work worldwide was not fully achieved, as many aspects were overlooked. Notably, abduction accounts, considered crucial, are absent. General Denis Letty explained that the committee selected studies most likely to convince authorities, which explains the omission of abductions but not necessarily the favorable treatment of the Roswell incident or Corso's book.

The report also gives minimal attention to cases with physical effects and provides only a brief, outdated paragraph on statistical considerations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of OVNIS magazine consistently focuses on UFO investigation and analysis. There is a critical stance towards sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims, as seen in the review of Andrés Gómez Serrano's book and the deconstruction of the 'Cometa Report.' The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous research, objective analysis, and the need for official transparency regarding UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor a scientific and critical approach to ufology, while acknowledging the ongoing mystery and the public's interest in the subject. The magazine also highlights the efforts of organizations like Fundación Anomalía in promoting dialogue and research within the UFO community.

This issue of the magazine, identified by page numbers 38-56, focuses on UFO phenomena, with a particular emphasis on critical analysis of UFO reports and investigations. The cover story, "UNA GRAN PREGUNTA" (A BIG QUESTION), questions the premise of the "Informe Cometa" (Cometa Report), while other articles delve into the state of ufology in Spain and the controversial Rex Heflin UFO photographs.

Analysis of the 'Cometa' Report

The "Informe Cometa" is critically examined, particularly its assertion that UFOs are real and the extraterrestrial hypothesis is the best scientific explanation. The article highlights a contradiction: the report's authors act as if the government is unaware of the phenomenon, despite its potential implications. The author suggests this might be a form of disinformation or a staged revelation. The report's limited mention of French UFO research organizations and its exclusive focus on official bodies like GEPAN-SEPRA are noted, with criticism for neglecting the contributions of independent researchers like Jean-Pierre Petit and Maurice de San. The report's third section, discussing alien motivations and defense implications, is described as mixing interesting points with banal ideas, often presented confusingly and lacking references to prior defense-related UFO studies.

Ufology in Spain

A survey of Spanish ufologists reveals that the field is predominantly male (84%), with a majority being young (21-41 years old). While 48% are from Andalusia, the academic background is varied, with 58% lacking university education and 42% holding degrees. Among those with higher education, there's a balance between humanities and sciences. The article notes that the "extraterrestrial hypothesis" (HET) remains the most popular explanation for UFOs. A significant portion (48%) do not consider public disclosure a priority, despite 86% having published work. Experience in field research (82%) and desk research (78%) is common, but their combination and criteria are not specified. Publications are mainly in bulletins (72%) and esoteric magazines (37%). Radio participation (80%) and congresses (62%) are high, indicating a strong inclination towards dissemination. Many ufologists are also interested in other enigmas like parapsychology, historical mysteries, and conspiracies. The article laments that ufology in Spain has not advanced much since 1988, remaining dominated by individuals with less academic inclinations, where experience and training are undervalued, with an excessive focus on media dissemination.

The Rex Heflin Photographs

The article revisits the case of Rex Heflin, who photographed a UFO on August 3, 1965, near Santa Ana, California. Heflin, a road maintenance engineer, took three photos of a silver, straw-hat-shaped craft and a fourth of a smoke ring. The photos were initially published by the Santa Ana Register six weeks later. Military and civilian investigators interviewed Heflin and examined the original photos. The Air Force's Project Blue Book investigators concluded it was a fraud, despite Captain Reichmuth's opinion that Heflin was not attempting fraud. Dr. James E. McDonald considered it one of the top 100 cases but had doubts about the fourth photo due to visible clouds. The NICAP team suggested differences in the photos might be due to the camera mechanism. The article notes the absence of sequential codes on the Polaroid film, which was later found to be standard for that type of film. The Ground Saucer Watch group later claimed to have found a "thread" supporting the object, deeming it a fraud. However, subsequent analysis techniques have cast doubt on these earlier conclusions. The article also mentions Heflin's later health issues related to lead exposure and his financial struggles.

Other Cases and Personalities

A brief mention is made of a UFO incident in Barnaul, Siberia, where an object reportedly paralyzed an airport. The article also includes a tribute to Antonio Ribera, a pioneer of ufology in Spain, recalling his contributions and the tributes paid to him. It highlights his influence on researchers and his dedication to the field despite personal hardships. The article also touches upon the idea of "duendes" (elves) being used by astronauts to describe spatial phenomena and mentions various acronyms for UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical stance towards UFO phenomena. It questions official reports, scrutinizes investigative methods, and examines the socio-cultural aspects of ufology. There's a recurring theme of skepticism towards sensationalism and a call for more rigorous scientific investigation. The editorial stance appears to favor a balanced approach, acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena while demanding evidence-based conclusions and cautioning against premature acceptance of extraordinary claims. The importance of historical context and the contributions of individual researchers are also emphasized.

This issue of UFO magazine, identified by its page numbers 58-59, delves into two distinct aspects of ufology: a re-examination of a specific UFO case and an exploration of how children perceive and depict UFOs, influenced by media. The content is primarily in Spanish, with a focus on the cultural and psychological impact of UFO phenomena.

The Heflin Case: New Analysis

The first major section discusses the Heflin case, focusing on the analysis of three Polaroid photos. The text highlights that the original photos, which had mysteriously disappeared and later reappeared, were examined using the most modern techniques available. A trio of analysts, identified as Druffel-Wood-Kelson, concluded that the presence of any thread in the photos has been entirely ruled out. Furthermore, the lighting conditions, brightness, and other factors in the photographs are deemed consistent with the witness's declarations. The analysis also suggests that a hazy trail emitted by the UFO in the third photograph could be linked to the smoke ring captured in the fourth photo of the series. Despite these findings, the article notes that it has not yet been possible to determine the size and distance of the object, leaving open the possibility of a model being launched into the air. The author expresses skepticism regarding the witness's credibility due to the peculiar circumstances surrounding the photos' disappearance and reappearance, particularly when the witness faced financial difficulties. The author hopes that the current owners of the originals will allow impartial researchers access to them.

Las Abducciones en la Escuela (Abductions in School)

The second main feature, titled "Las Abducciones en la Escuela," presents an experience developed by Virginia Ruesga Díaz, a Special Education teacher. Over the 2000-2001 academic year, she asked her students, aged 8 to 10, who had psychic disabilities, to draw what they knew about UFOs. The article includes two accompanying images of these drawings. The results are presented as evidence of the "immense power of penetration" that media-disseminated stereotypes about UFOs have on less formed minds. The accompanying text emphasizes that these drawings demonstrate how widely circulated stereotypes, often presented by the media, can deeply influence public perception, especially among vulnerable groups.

Collaboration and Book Reviews

Page 60 of the magazine includes information on how readers can collaborate with the "Fundación Anomalía" through annual donations. Different donation levels are presented, along with the potential for tax deductions in Spain for individuals and companies. Contact information, including a postal address in Santander, Spain, and an email address, is provided.

Additionally, the issue features reviews or advertisements for books related to ufology. One prominent mention is of "Transmutaciones y Transfiguraciones" by Martin S. Kottmeyer and "La Mitopoiesis Ufológica" by Stefania Genovese. These books are presented as part of the "Biblioteca Camille Flammarion" series and are described as exploring "ufological culture" in relation to fears of civilization and the depiction of "ET invasions" in cinema and audiovisual media. A "Premio Zurich 1999" is also highlighted in relation to these publications. A separate section offers a 10% discount on "Reservas" from Fundación Anomalía, with pricing in Euros plus shipping costs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical analysis of UFO evidence, the psychological impact of UFO phenomena, and the influence of media on public perception. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism regarding anecdotal evidence, emphasizing the need for rigorous analysis and scientific scrutiny, while also acknowledging the cultural significance and public fascination with UFOs. The magazine also promotes engagement with ufological research and literature through its support for Fundación Anomalía and book reviews.