Cuadernos de Ufologia - No 05 - 1984

Magazine Overview

Title: CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA
Issue: N° 5
Volume: ANO 2
Date: MARZO 1984 (March 1984)
Publisher: José Ruesga Montiel
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of "Cuadernos de Ufologia" is presented as a non-commercial publication that summarizes the activities of an informal group of UFO investigators. Its purpose is to serve as a link for union and the exchange of criteria among its members. The publication clarifies that it does not necessarily identify with the opinions expressed in signed articles, which remain the responsibility of their respective authors.

Editorial and Content

The editorial section, titled "EDITORIAL", reflects on the publication's journey and the response received after distributing issue No. 4. The coordinator, José Ruesga Montiel, expresses gratitude for the encouraging and even critical feedback, noting that it validates the initiative taken by a small group of Spanish researchers. He acknowledges that those interested in "CdU" and what it represents are a minority within the broader UFO-interested community, a fact that must be accepted. Ruesga Montiel emphasizes the need for active contribution from collaborators through their work and comments to advance the investigation. He highlights Spain's significant level of registered UFO cases, suggesting that while past efforts may have lacked clear coordination, valuable elements exist within the community to foster a pre-scientific Ufology.

The issue features a detailed "SUMARIO" (Table of Contents) listing various articles and sections:

1. Editorial: The introductory piece by the coordinator.
2. Colaboradores actuales: A list of current contributors.
3. Dialogando por J.M. Cascón: A discussion, likely related to a specific case.
4. El caso de Alegria de Alava: This section is further broken down:
* Aclaraciones en torno a la validez del testimonio adicional por L.A. Gámez Dominguez: An analysis of the validity of additional testimony in the Alegría de Alava case.
* Más sobre el caso de Alegria de Alava por José Ruesga Montiel: Further discussion on the same case by the coordinator.
5. Reflexiones en torno a criterios y analogias por Manuel Borraz: Reflections on UFO investigation criteria and analogies.
6. Los Alcazares de Junio 1979: Una reflexión sobre la "cuestión opinática" por F.J. Sarabia: A reflection on the "opinatic question" related to the Los Alcazares incident.
7. Correspondencia del lector: Letters from readers.
8. Anexo: Supplementary material, including references to UFO INFO MATION SERVICE-CUFOS, EARTH-QUAKE LIGHTS, and MAGONIA, 14, 1983.
9. Aterrizaje desvelado por medio del planisferio celeste y el sentido común, por J.A. Fernandez Peris: An analysis of a landing case using celestial charts and common sense.

Case Study: Alegría de Alava

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "El caso de Alegría de Alava" (The Alegría de Alava Case), with multiple contributions:

• "Dialogando (Sobre el caso de Alegría de Alava)" by Juan M. Gascon Valldecabres: This article responds to previous analyses by L.R. González and J. Ruesga. Gascon Valldecabres addresses the drawing of the object, clarifying details about its shape (circular, dome, and base) and size estimates. He disputes González's interpretation of the witness's testimony regarding the object's dimensions and apparent size, offering his own calculations and reconstructions based on field observations. He argues that the witness's drawing, showing an elevation of 30 degrees, should be considered evidence in favor of the testimony, not against it, as it aligns with the object being partially observed from above. Gascon Valldecabres also prompts González to investigate the exact date of the observation based on TV programming.

• "El caso de Alegría de Alava - Aclaraciones en torno a la validez del testimonio adicional" by Luis Alfonso Gámez Domínguez: This article focuses on clarifying aspects of doña Maribel Musitu Etxezarreta's testimony, specifically addressing points raised by Luis R. González. Gámez Domínguez analyzes two possible scenarios proposed by González for how the witness might have observed the phenomenon: multiple trips to the clothesline or a single trip. He argues that doña Maribel's account suggests a single observation while attending to domestic duties, and that the light did not immediately capture her attention because the object was already inert on the ground. He concludes that while the stimulus might have been real, the impression it made differed between witnesses. Gámez Domínguez also points out the importance of considering the psychological profile of the principal witness.

• Response by Juan M. Gascon Valldecabres: In a separate section, Gascon Valldecabres addresses arguments presented by Ruesga regarding the Alegría de Alava case. He critiques Ruesga's reliance on the husband's behavior as evidence of the wife's hallucination, arguing that the husband did not investigate the claim. Gascon Valldecabres suggests that the incongruities in the testimony might relate more to the UFO phenomenon itself than to the witness's perception. He concludes that a psychiatric evaluation is unlikely, and the case should be pursued through continued investigation.

Other Sections and Contributors

• Normas Mínimas para Originales: Guidelines for submitting articles, specifying that they should be typewritten, single-spaced, and not exceed six pages. Original drawings should be in black and white, and photographic illustrations must be original copies from negatives, not photocopies.

• Ayuda Anual de Mantenimiento: Information on annual support contributions for the publication, with different tiers for students, normal subscribers, and "protector" members.

• Colaboradores Actuales: A comprehensive list of individuals contributing to the magazine, including names like José Miguel Alcibar Cuello, Julio Arcas Gilardi, Felix Ares de Blas, Manuel Borraz Aymerich, and many others. International collaborators from Portugal (Casiano José Monteiro) and Argentina (Mario Luis Bracamonte Baez) are also mentioned.

• Anexos: The "Anexo" section includes references to UFO INFO MATION SERVICE-CUFOS, EARTH-QUAKE LIGHTS, and the publication MAGONIA (issue 14, 1983). Another annex details observations in Castilla and the Basque Country by José Luis Guillerna Grijalba.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around detailed case analysis, particularly the Alegría de Alava incident, emphasizing the importance of rigorous investigation, critical evaluation of witness testimony, and methodological approaches to Ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting serious, collaborative research within a community of dedicated, albeit perhaps minority, enthusiasts. There is a clear effort to establish a pre-scientific framework for Ufology, encouraging contributions and fostering an exchange of ideas. The publication aims to be a platform for Spanish UFO researchers, while also acknowledging international connections.

This issue of CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA, identified as issue number 4 and dated December 1983, is largely dedicated to a discussion and analysis of the 'Alegria de Alava' case. The publication is from Spain and is in Spanish. The cover headline prominently features the case title, 'MAS SOBRE AL CASO DE ALEGRIA DE ALAVA', with an article by José Ruesga Montiel.

Analysis of the Alegria de Alava Case

José Ruesga Montiel, in his article, aims to complement his previous commentary and the works of Marcos Gascón and Gámez on the Alegria de Alava case. He clarifies that his discussion is not based on the husband's attitude, as Gascón might suggest, but on the witness's reaction to an event that, in principle, is considered anomalous. Ruesga points out the witness's fluctuating interest and the contradiction between her initial statements and later declarations.

He insists on the substantial differences between the accounts provided by Guillerma and Gascón, noting that the sequential development of events is not as clear as Gascón presents it. Regarding the husband's attitude, Ruesga agrees with Gascón's observation that the husband did not validate his wife's testimony, but suggests that even a brief comment to the investigator could have prevented Gascón's dismissive remark.

Ruesga highlights several factors supporting his commentary, drawing from Gascón's own article. These include:
1. The witness's prior knowledge of the subject through previous readings.
2. Gascón's expressed disbelief in details like the railway sleepers and the woodworm on cabbage leaves, as well as the description of a hut.
3. The lack of physical evidence to justify an alleged landing.
4. The additional testimony from a neighbor, which Gascón considers evidence of a real stimulus, a point Ruesga does not dispute.

Ruesga also references a second witness's testimony, which Gascón based on a TVE program. Ruesga suggests that the TVE broadcast might have been altered due to the referendum results on December 6th (Constitution Day), a possibility that warrants consideration by investigators.

He refutes Gascón's analogy to Pink Floyd, stating that judging a testimony as 'type-I' (unidentified) is based on the object being unidentified, not on the nature of the testimony itself. Ruesga emphasizes that the goal is to determine the credibility and extraordinariness of the account, and whether it represents a real event or a perception embellished by the witness.

He acknowledges that analyzing the psychic component of the case is difficult, but argues that any commentary should aim to improve the investigation's documentation, not to personally criticize the investigators, whom he praises for their initiative and seriousness.

References

The article cites several references, including:
1. José Ruesga Montiel's own comments on basic problems in ufology.
2. José Luis Guillerna Grijalba's article on an 'Oleada en el Norte de España' (Wave in Northern Spain), specifically mentioning the 'Alegria de Alava' case.
3. J.M. Gascón Valldecabres' article on the Alegria de Alava case as an example of a basic problem in ufology.
4. Gascón's previous work.
5. Gascón's further comments on the Alegria de Alava case.
6. Luis R. Gonzalez's article 'Abrimos el diálogo' (We open the dialogue) on the Alegria de Alava case.

Catalog of Humanoid Observations in the Iberian Peninsula

A significant portion of the issue features a 'CATÁLOGO DE OBSERVAÇÕES DE HUMANOIDES NA PENÍNSULA IBÉRICA' (Catalog of Humanoid Observations in the Iberian Peninsula), compiled by Cassiano José Monteiro and published in 1983. This catalog includes observations from the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, and the Azores, and is presented as an edition by the Portuguese UFO committee, CNIFO.

Reflections on Criteria and Analogies in Ufology

Another section, titled 'REFLEXIONES EN TORNO A CRITERIOS Y ANALOGIAS' (Reflections on Criteria and Analogies), discusses the application of UFO (OVNI) criteria. It clarifies that 'OVNI' is applied to a 'depurated' case, free from negative cases, to focus on conceptual structures. The article examines the operational definition of OVNI, referencing A. Hynek's definition and the concept of 'tanteo inicial' (initial probing) by researchers. It notes that OVNI is an 'exclusionary' label, saying little about the content, and that the casuistry might reflect multiple phenomena.

The section on 'CASUISTICA: BAJO EL SIGNO DE LAS RELACIONES' (Casuistry: Under the Sign of Relationships) explores how UFO cases are grouped based on relationships and affinities. It describes a structure where 'classic' observations form the core, with more atypical cases and incidents on the periphery. The article acknowledges the limitations of this approach, including incomplete data and the potential for arbitrary associations based on investigator bias.

'EL ESTUDIO EXHAUSTIVO DE LAS ANALOGIAS' (The Exhaustive Study of Analogies) argues for the importance of analyzing relationships between cases, despite limitations. It stresses the need to delimit established relationships to avoid over-generalization and to identify distinct phenomena contributing to the casuistry.

The article uses the analogy of a person collecting data on 'objects with 4 legs' (dogs and tables) to illustrate how initial assumptions can lead to misinterpretations. It suggests exploring concepts like 'intelligence' and 'materiality' in UFO cases, and considering 'wild analogies' – unexpected relationships that might offer insights.

It also touches upon the definition of OVNI by Hynek, distinguishing between 'pre-OVNI' (broad sense), 'quasi OVNI' (restricted sense), and 'OVNI verdadero' (strict sense), referencing an article in the Belgian magazine 'Inforespace'.

The Observation of Los Alcázares, June 1979

A separate article, 'LA OBSERVACION DE LOS ALCAZARES DE JUNIO 1979: UNA REFLEXION SOBRE LA "CUESTION OPINATICA"' (The Observation of Los Alcázares, June 1979: A Reflection on the 'Opinion Question'), details an investigation into a reported UFO sighting.

Knowledge of the Observation

The author received a personal communication about a professor's letter describing a student's UFO observation in the Mar Menor area during the summer of 1979. The letter included a drawing and a questionnaire. The author contacted the professor for further details.

Methodology Employed

Three surveys were conducted. The first was part of the professor's letter, and the subsequent two were administered three months apart. The author decided to preserve the witness's original phrasing, despite potential clarity issues, to avoid altering the testimony. The witness, Encarna, was described as distrustful and reserved, requiring the professor to build rapport.

Geographical Situation and Other Data

Los Alcázares is located on the shores of the Mar Menor, a shallow sea separated from the Mediterranean by La Manga. Geologically, the area consists of sedimentary rocks. The region is primarily a summer resort, with a significant population increase in July and August, coinciding with the reported sighting.

First Survey: The Account

The witness described being in the water when she saw the object. Initially mistaking it for a can, she felt a cramp when she stepped on it. Upon looking again, she saw a large object with colorful lights that flashed on and off. She mentioned seeing cables in the water and holes in the ground, and that the object seemed to move and splash water.

She also described a black lever on the object and a faint humming sound when the lights flashed. The object was white and slightly yellow. She noted that the object was present the next day but disappeared later. She also mentioned seeing a small boat with two men who fell into the sea, and that the object was 'cracked by electricity'.

Clarifications on Witness's Phrases

• The author provides clarifications for certain phrases used by the witness:
• "pude ver la mitad" refers to the lower half, with the object close to the ground.
• "La cría salió como se había metido" means she emerged without signs of drowning or severe fright.
• The noise being 'muy flojo' (very faint) is corrected to 'muy fuerte' (very strong), attributing the discrepancy to a writing error.
• "Rajado por la electricidad" is an analogy for electrical sparks.
• "Parecía que el mar se derrotaba" means the sea was moving and appeared wavy.

Las Preguntas (The Questions)

The survey included questions about the date of the sighting (June 1979), whether she was alone (no, people were present), distance from the beach (far), depth of the object (deep), if others saw it (yes, an old man), if she told anyone (no), if she saw it again (yes, a bit further away), who she went with (a friend), if she saw it leave (yes), where the cables were (underwater), and their appearance (white and thick).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue demonstrates a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. It emphasizes rigorous investigation, careful examination of witness testimony, and the importance of methodology. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, advocating for evidence-based analysis while acknowledging the complexity and potential for genuine anomalies within the field of ufology. The publication also engages with theoretical aspects of ufology, such as defining terms and analyzing case relationships.

This issue of "CdU" (likely "Cuadernos de Ufologia") from February 26, 1984, number 4, focuses on the analysis of UFO/UAP cases and investigative methodologies. It features contributions from various researchers and includes correspondence from readers.

Case Study: Zafra Landing (1968)

The article "ATERRIZAJE DESVELADO POR MEDIO DEL PLANISFERIO CELESTE Y EL SENTIDO COMUN" by J.A. Fernandez Peris details a case from October 14, 1968. Manuel Morán Canseco, a mechanic, along with his son and nephew, observed a luminous object described as a "semicircumference of about 10 m in diameter," with a strong red color and blue light on the sides. The object was initially perceived as static and silent on the ground, about 300m away. When the witnesses attempted to approach, the object appeared to move further away in stages, covering distances of 1000m and then 400m, without the witnesses perceiving the actual movement. The observation lasted approximately two hours. The author emphasizes that numerical data like distance and size in such cases are often rough estimations and prone to error, especially at night. The context of October 1968 is noted as a period of high UFO interest due to media such as the TV series "Los Invasores." The analysis suggests that the apparent movement was likely due to misjudgment of distance and visual perception errors, concluding that the phenomenon was a light seen for a prolonged period, with changes in perceived position due to the witnesses' attempts to approach.

Case Study: Underwater Object (Los Alcázares)

Pages 19-21 present a detailed questionnaire and analysis of a case involving a child witness, Encarna Gonzalez Verdu, who was 11 years old at the time of the interview and 10 when the event occurred in June of the previous year (likely 1983, given the interview context). The incident reportedly took place in Los Alcázares. The witness described an object underwater, comparing it to a truck wheel, flat and round on top, and black. She also mentioned a lever and holes created by cables. The object was reportedly at a depth of two meters. The witness initially thought it was a stone and felt an electric shock when touching it. Her friend also entered a hole created by the cables. The object was described as having many lights of various colors (white, blue, red). The witness also reported hearing a loud, hoarse noise when the water splashed. The analysis highlights contradictions in the witness's responses across multiple interviews, suggesting the need to study the witness's credibility. The witness's account is presented through a series of questions and answers, covering the object's appearance, behavior, and the events surrounding it.

Reflections on Investigation and Credibility

Page 22 features "REFLEXIONES" by J.A. Fernandez Peris, discussing the "cuestión opinática" – the pluralism of ideas and opinions in UFO research. The author argues that evaluating cases based on third-party opinions can lead to unproductive debates. He proposes two stances for classifying a UFO event: one that requires demonstrable strangeness, and another that accepts a "presumed UFO event" even without manifest strangeness. He advocates for the latter, suggesting that even explicable events might not be fully explained and should not be excluded from study. The article also touches upon the difficulty of distinguishing between real and false information (INCDT - "Información no confirmada de terceros") and the importance of field research versus "desk research."

Publications and Correspondence

Pages 23-25 include a review of Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos's book "OVNIS: EL FENOMENO ATERRIZAJE." The issue also contains correspondence from Mario Luis Bracamonte Baez of Argentina, who critiques an article in "CdU nº 4" regarding negative cases. Baez argues that cases should not be automatically disqualified as "anti-ufology" and that even seemingly negative reports can open new questions. He suggests the Zafra case, while not entirely fluid, is "dudoso" (doubtful) rather than negative. Page 25 provides "NOTA DE INTERES," announcing representatives for Spain for "IL GIORNALE DEI MISTERI" (SUF) and "MUNDO OVNI" (COR), encouraging collaboration.

Editorial Structure and Future Content

Page 25 also outlines the fixed sections for future issues of "CdU": EDITORIAL, DIALOGANDO, ENCUESTA, ANALISIS, INFORMACION GENERAL, CORRESPONDENCIA DEL LECTOR, and ANEXO. It notes that issue number 6 and part of 7 are already completed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed analysis of specific UFO/UAP cases, the critical examination of witness testimony, and the methodological challenges in UFO research. The editorial stance appears to favor a thorough, critical approach to case analysis, acknowledging the complexities of witness perception and the importance of open-minded investigation, while also emphasizing the need for rigorous evaluation and the potential for misinterpretation of phenomena. The publication encourages collaboration among researchers and aims to provide a platform for diverse perspectives within the field of ufology.

This issue of UFO INFORMATION SERVICE, dated June 1983, with a cover date of March 1984 from Valencia, Spain, focuses on rigorous analysis of UFO phenomena and related scientific topics. It features articles by V.J.Ballester Olmos, David J. Hufford, and R.J. Nation, alongside a book review and a call for volunteers.

Article: Astronomical Explanations for UFOs

The issue begins by examining possible astronomical explanations for UFO sightings. It systematically rules out the Moon and planets (Venus, Mars, Jupiter) as visible candidates for a specific sighting on a given date. The article then focuses on stars, suggesting that the star Sirius, due to its rising position and typical bluish flashes, could be mistaken for a UFO. This hypothesis is presented as explaining the observed low elevation, flashes, silence, and inaccessibility of the phenomenon. The author emphasizes the importance of using astronomical ephemerides and a planisphere for accurate analysis, highlighting how such tools can prevent misinterpretations.

Article: The 'Old Hag' Phenomenon and David J. Hufford's Book

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a review of David J. Hufford's book, "The Terror that Comes in the Night." This book is described as a major study of 'bedroom-invaders' or the 'old hag' phenomenon. The experience is characterized by a terrifying sense of presence, an hallucinatory figure, paralysis, and a choking sensation, often occurring in a hypnogogic or hypnopompic state. The review notes that while the experience can feel like it happens in a waking state, other people might witness the victim lying rigid. The article discusses how folklorists and psychologists have attempted to explain this phenomenon, often resorting to 'cultural source hypotheses' or dismissing the experiences as misinterpretations or lies. Hufford tentatively suggests a physiological basis involving sleep paralysis and REM state intrusions. The review praises Hufford's open-minded approach, which includes considering connections to ghosts, haunted houses, UFOs, and out-of-body experiences, making it highly recommended for its objective treatment of the subject.

Article: Earth Quake Lights (EQLs)

Another major section of the magazine explores the phenomenon of Earth Quake Lights (EQLs), also known as 'Rayo en Bola' (Ball Lightning) and 'Luces de Terremotos.' These luminous manifestations, often overlooked by ufologists, are presented as potentially related to seismic activity. The article references a study by R.J. Nation, published in "THE JOURNAL OF THE AUSTRALIAN CENTER FOR UFO STUDIES." It details observations from historical earthquakes, including a significant event in Japan on November 26, 1930, which generated around 1500 reports of EQLs. Despite extensive study by seismologists like Terada and Musya, a definitive explanation remained elusive. The article discusses the potential for EQLs to serve as a warning method for earthquakes, noting that they might be visible at the moment of fracture. Several theories are presented:

• Piezoelectric Effect: Pressure on quartz-containing rocks during an earthquake could cause a piezoelectric discharge, potentially igniting escaping gases or creating light.
• Low Level Air Oscillations: Energetic air vibrations triggered by geological conditions could lead to atmospheric electrical phenomena.
• Chemiluminescent Gas Reactions: The release of unknown gases through micro-fractures in the Earth's crust could react with atmospheric gases to produce light, similar to ozone and ethylene reactions.
• Electromagnetic Emission: Studies have detected unusually high electromagnetic emissions prior to large earthquakes, suggesting a link to EQLs. Observations in China and Russia also noted lights associated with seismic events.
• Model Theory: A model involving a control conductor at the fault zone, created by pressure and heat, suggests that a conductor could attract electrical charges and discharge them into the atmosphere as lightning-like phenomena.

The article acknowledges the difficulty in proving or disproving these theories and highlights the need for more sophisticated instrumentation and data collection to further study EQLs. It also notes the human factor, including the potential for impaired judgment during stressful events like earthquakes.

Other Content

• Book Listings: The magazine includes extensive lists of publications available for purchase from C.U.F.O.S. Publications and UFO Information Service, covering a wide range of UFO-related topics, including vehicle interference, physical traces, historical cases, and exobiology.
• Request for Volunteers: A "SOLICITUD" section appeals to readers for help in developing a catalog of Iberian UFO landing cases. Volunteers are sought to provide names of correspondents in specific Spanish provinces to facilitate case collection.
• Letter to the Editor: A brief extract from a letter by Vladimir Godic criticizes a previous article in the ACUFOS Journal, deeming it unconstructive and irrelevant to a scientific publication.
• Book Review: A review of Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos's book "Investigación OVNI" is presented, praising it as an extraordinary scientific investigation that differentiates inexplicable phenomena from mere confusions or sensationalism. Dr. Allen Hynek is quoted, calling the book a valuable guide to the mystery of UFOs for the Spanish-speaking world.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical and scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the importance of rigorous methodology, and the exploration of potential explanations from both astronomical and geophysical fields. The editorial stance clearly favors a disciplined approach to ufology, emphasizing the need to 'winnow the cases' and move beyond a 'hesitant pre-scientific discipline.' There is a strong emphasis on using scientific tools and data, such as astronomical ephemerides and seismological studies, to understand anomalous events. The magazine also shows an interest in fringe science and unexplained phenomena, as evidenced by the coverage of Earth Quake Lights and the review of Hufford's work on the 'old hag' phenomenon, while maintaining a critical and analytical perspective.