Cuadernos de Ufologia - No 08 - 1984

Magazine Overview

Title: CdU
Issue: Nº 8
Volume: AÑO II
Date: December 1984
Publisher: CdU
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish
Cover Headline: UFOLOGÍA

Editorial: Balance de dos años en activo: la búsqueda de la Ufologia española

The editorial reflects on the two years of operation of CdU, acknowledging challenges but expressing satisfaction in achieving some objectives. It highlights the formation of a select group of scholars dedicated to the publication, emphasizing that their effort and continuity are key to success. The editorial notes that while many readers collaborate, there's a need for more active participation from collaborators. CdU is presented as a bulletin for and by scholars, requiring economic and documentary support from its community. It positions CdU as the sole communication medium for pre-scientific ufology in Spain, primarily featuring works by national scholars. A significant goal for the future is to enhance the translation of works by prominent foreign investigators to broaden the understanding of international ufology for Spanish speakers. The editorial also touches upon the constructive criticism received, which has led to improvements, and defends the publication of explained cases, stating it's not an overreach but a necessary part of thorough research.

The editorial further discusses the challenge of a low number of new sightings and the ongoing work on promising Spanish ufology projects like Type-I and the Cathars. It stresses that CdU does not aim for universal agreement but for synchrony in research methods, advocating for objectivity and a search for truth, as espoused by Don Manuel Lora Tamayo. The publication encourages a grounded approach, combining imagination with practicality. It laments the closed-mindedness of some individuals but asserts that CdU represents the sentiment of a majority committed to serious work, open to dialogue for a better ufology. The editorial expresses confidence in the maturity of the Spanish ufology community and its potential to shape the future of the field with a serious and dedicated approach, rather than false triumphalism. It acknowledges ongoing problems but believes that with conviction and the support of over fifty individuals, failure is unlikely unless due to discouragement. The editorial concludes by urging continued support and wishing readers a prosperous 1985.

Critica Bibliografica: GALERIA DE CONDENADOS by Antonio Ribera

This section reviews Antonio Ribera's book, "Galería de Condenados," published by Editorial Planeta. The reviewer expresses surprise at the book's content, noting Ribera's skillful and engaging writing style that draws the reader in. The review highlights Ribera's stated desire to shed the label of 'ufólogo' after nearly thirty years, asserting his identity as a writer and human being first. However, the reviewer points out a contradiction, as Ribera, while claiming to distance himself from ufology, discusses UFOs extensively within the book, even mentioning his intervention in the House of Lords on the topic. The book covers a wide range of subjects including UFOs, ghosts, Ouija, precursors of the unusual, reincarnation, the Piris Reis maps, psychophotography, monsters, psychics, and Charles Fort. The reviewer finds the treatment of these topics to be brief and lacking depth, often focusing on well-known cases. The value of the book, according to the reviewer, lies in understanding Ribera's personal stance on these marginalized topics. The reviewer disagrees with several of Ribera's opinions, such as the extraterrestrial origin of UFOs, the Martian connection, the authenticity of the Dionisio Llanca case, and the interpretation of the Nazca lines. The reviewer also criticizes Ribera's view on Monturiol's discoveries, attributing them to provincialism and lack of economic resources rather than scientific blindness. While acknowledging Ribera's right to express his views, the reviewer concludes that the book is entertaining and recommended for those seeking to engage with concrete facts critically, but it is not a foundational text in ufology and not among Ribera's best works. The reviewer laments Ribera's renunciation of his 'ufólogo' status, as he has always expressed his opinions on ufological matters in his previous works.

Dialogando: MADRID 13/10/82 (Un caso negativo que no por serlo carece de interés) by José Ripoll Campos

This section discusses a negative UFO case reported in CdU nº 4, originally presented by J.M. Gascón. José Ripoll Campos comments on the case, finding the number of investigators excessive for a single incident. He finds the investigation by J.L. Caso ingenious but somewhat lacking in realism. Campos points out that the case occurred in autumn 1982, coinciding with the migration of 'anatidae' (waterfowl), and suggests that the object's direction (E-NO) was unusual for such migrations. He proposes a more grounded explanation: the 'misterious object' was likely an ultralight aircraft maneuvering over the area for propaganda purposes during an election rally (PCE in Plaza de las Ventas). Campos suggests verifying this hypothesis with the Subsecretaría de Aviación Civil. He criticizes Gascón for disqualifying those who do not accept 'rational, logical, or common explanations,' arguing that this is anti-ufology. However, Campos agrees with Gascón that an honest investigator should be satisfied with their work regardless of the outcome.

Cambios en el Horario Civil by Manuel Borraz Aymerich

This article presents a table detailing changes in civil time (advancement and retardation) from 1918 to 1978. The data was compiled after consulting relevant organizations, including the INSTITUTO Y OBSERVATORIO DE LA MARINA DE SAN FERNANDO, Cádiz. The table lists specific dates and hours for these time adjustments, providing a historical overview of civil time changes in Spain.

Mejorar la Encuesta OVNI: Objetivo Prioritario

This section, authored by José Ruesga Montiel, discusses the challenges in ufological research, particularly the lack of substantial, quantifiable data in 'unidentified' cases, which hinders study and discussion. It highlights the difficulty of reinvestigating old cases, often rendering information unusable. The author proposes a more refined questionnaire base as a fundamental guide for any surveyor, aiming to gather more complete and accurate data. He references previous work by Ramón J. Vega Fernandez on assimilation-retention tests. The article then introduces a commentary by Antonio Bueno Ortega, a physician from Cardenete, Cuenca, regarding a potential survey for cases involving physiological effects on witnesses. Ortega suggests a system based on a general practitioner's approach, dividing questions into three groups: pre-incident health status, common symptoms across body systems, and 'Hippocratic' questions for clarification. The goal is not solely diagnosis but to gain an interesting and approximate view, collecting more and better information than current methods.

Miscelánea Ufológica

This section appears to be a continuation from an 'Anexo' (Appendix) and discusses "La Vision de Martin." It references a work by G. Lenotre, "Martin le visionnaire," and suggests that Martin, through his visions, may have come to believe in the fables and lies he disseminated, possibly driven by a rivalry of extravagances. The author suggests this enters the realm of mental alienation, which has implications for ufology. The section also includes bibliographic references to Lenotre's work and an article from Nostradamus Hebdo.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CdU revolve around the pursuit of a more scientific and rigorous approach to ufology in Spain. The editorial strongly advocates for this scientific methodology, emphasizing objectivity, critical analysis, and the importance of international collaboration through translation. There's a clear stance against sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims, favoring a grounded, evidence-based approach. The magazine positions itself as a platform for serious researchers and scholars, aiming to elevate the field of ufology. The book review of Ribera's work further underscores the debate between a purely scientific perspective and a more personal, interpretive approach to unexplained phenomena. The case study discussion highlights the importance of rational explanations and critical evaluation of evidence. Overall, the editorial stance is one of promoting a disciplined, methodical, and collaborative effort to understand the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of "INVESTIGACION" (Investigation) focuses on a detailed case study of a reported UFO sighting that occurred on January 1, 1981, in the vicinity of La Hoz, a village in the Valle de Valderejo, Alava, Spain. The main article, titled "DE COMO UNA KOGUERA NOCTURNA CONFUNDIO A UN TESTIGO SUGESTIONABLE, Y ESTE, A LA VEZ, A SU SEÑORA" (How a Nocturnal Bonfire Confused a Suggestible Witness, and He, in Turn, His Wife), delves into the investigation of this event.

Medical Questionnaire for UFO Cases

Page 8 begins with a section titled "TEST MEDICO PARA CASOS OVNI CON EFECTOS FISIOLOGICOS" (Medical Test for UFO Cases with Physiological Effects). This questionnaire, addressed to Dr. Antonio Bueno Ortega in Cardenete (Cuenca), comprises 12 questions designed to gather information about a witness's health status before, during, and after a potential UFO encounter. The questions cover pre-existing illnesses, medication use, changes in symptoms, and specific physiological effects related to various body systems (cardiorespiratory, digestive, genito-urinary, neuromuscular, osteo-articular, hematological, metabolic) as well as other symptoms like burns, vision alterations, and auditory disturbances. It also asks for the witness's opinion on the cause of the symptoms and their duration.

Following the questionnaire is a section on "CAMBIOS EN EL HORARIO CIVIL" (Changes in Civil Time), detailing the dates and hours when daylight saving time was advanced or set back between 1979 and 1984. Contact information for inquiries is provided: Albareda, 28, bajos, HOSPITALET (Barcelona).

Case Investigation: La Hoz, Alava

The main investigative report details the reinvestigation of a supposed UFO incident that occurred on January 1, 1981, near La Hoz. The initial report came to investigator José Luis Guillerna Grijalba through contacts within the cycling team "Kelme." The primary witnesses are identified as Isidro Arce Ostiategui and his wife, María Luisa Martinez Alonso. The event took place on the outskirts of La Hoz, near the Peña de Castrillo, an area situated in the foothills of the Sierra de Arcamo, about 58 kilometers west of Vitoria.

Initial Investigation and Witness Background

Guillerna's group initially interviewed the witness, but a heavy snowfall prevented them from examining the alleged landing site and any physical traces. Despite this, Guillerna leaned towards a UFO hypothesis, noting Isidro Arce's persistent efforts to investigate the site despite adverse weather conditions. The author of this article, acting as an investigator-correspondent for the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI), conducted a more thorough re-investigation on February 8, 1983, interviewing the couple for two and a half hours. Further on-site work was planned for better weather conditions.

Isidro Arce Ostiategui, born in 1950, is described as having basic education, being a former amateur cyclist, and currently working as a lathe operator. He rarely reads but has encountered UFO news in the press. He is described as sincere, talkative, serious, and somewhat fearful of being perceived as mentally unbalanced. His wife, María Luisa Martinez Alonso, born in 1954, is more introverted, illiterate but can read and sign, and dedicates her time to household chores and their two daughters. They live in a humble dwelling in Ariznavarra, Vitoria, with Isidro's parents.

The Observation

On the night of January 1, 1981, around 1:00 AM, after celebrating New Year's Eve, Isidro Arce and his wife left their home to go to another nearby house. The night was dark, cloudy, with no moon or stars visible. It was windy and raining, with temperatures around 3 degrees Celsius below zero. Dogs were barking incessantly.

As they walked, María Luisa noticed a "light spot" that caught her attention. Initially dismissed by Isidro, he soon confirmed its existence. He first considered it a bonfire lit by hikers, then the headlights of a car, but ultimately thought it might be a UFO, as he had read about them in the press. Arce described observing a white light arc, fixed and fluorescent, with a superior red outline of a rosy hue. He found it "very pretty" and unlike anything he had seen before. The red arc was bordered by small white flashes or a "white mist." The phenomenon appeared attached to a small crest on the Peña de Castrillo, about 300 meters north-northwest of the village, at an elevation of about 60 degrees.

María Luisa estimated the light's size as "one and a half buildings" and "three times the full moon when it's on the horizon." After about ten minutes of observation from the street, they reached their destination. María Luisa went to bed, while Isidro watched the light for another hour from a ventilation window in the bathroom, facing the Peña de Castrillo.

Development of the Event and Subsequent Investigation

Isidro observed the light for about an hour without any change, initially expecting it to take off. He eventually went to bed, informing his wife that the phenomenon was still there. The dogs continued to bark.

The next morning, January 2, around 11:00 AM, after the rain had stopped, Isidro returned to the site to see if anything remained. About 50 meters beyond where he had seen the light, he discovered two series of "circular" burns on the grass, which appeared flattened and whitish "like ash." In total, he found twelve such marks, which he distributed into two groups (seven and five) believing they might correspond to a landing gear. These marks had a depth of "about two fingers" and, according to the witness, "went towards the North."

Later, the author conducted an "in situ" investigation. He found traces of burns on the posterior slope of the Peña de Castrillo, in the area where Isidro Arce had found the marks. These burns were mostly rounded and appeared to be from bonfires. While some were scattered, a group of older, almost imperceptible traces were found about 40 meters north of a small crest on the summit. These could have been the "huellas" (tracks) the witness found, as their approximate size and shape, when viewed from a distance, could give the impression of two distinct sets of marks.

Analysis and Conclusion

The author concludes that the phenomenon observed was most likely a bonfire. The location is a common resting spot for hikers, shepherds, and others, and there is evidence of repeated bonfires in the area. The light observed could have been the glow of a fire, possibly lit by a vagabond for warmth, with its source hidden behind the crest. The atmospheric refraction caused by rain and wind, combined with the glow, could have created the visual impression of an arched light with different colors and flashes, possibly mistaken for sparks or smoke.

Arce, having read about UFOs, may have interpreted the visual effect as a UFO, leading to his expectation of an aerial takeoff that did not occur. His wife, influenced by his interpretation, became frightened. The author posits that the circular marks found were simply the result of bonfires, some of which were from animal dung, which flattens over time. The arrangement of these marks, as described by Arce, was likely a psychological interpretation by the observer, given the lack of precise measurement tools.

The author also addresses the barking dogs, suggesting it was a natural reaction to the harsh weather conditions (humidity, cold, and wind). The article emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough on-site investigations for UFO cases and not definitively classifying an event as a UFO until all possible explanations have been exhausted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the critical analysis of UFO sightings, emphasizing the need for rigorous investigation and the consideration of mundane explanations. The editorial stance promotes a scientific and evidence-based approach to ufology, advocating for on-site research and careful evaluation of witness testimony. The article highlights how psychological factors and pre-existing knowledge can influence the interpretation of observed phenomena. It also underscores the importance of distinguishing between genuine anomalous phenomena and misinterpretations of natural or man-made events.

This issue of UFO magazine, identified as number 18 and volume 6, was published on June 17, 1984. The magazine focuses on UFO phenomena and related topics, with a particular emphasis on scientific investigation and analysis.

Articles and Features

Case Study: UFO Pursued by a Military Aircraft

This section details an incident that occurred near Port de la Selva, in the Catalan region of Alto Ampurdan, Gerona, Spain, around April 18, 1977. Two young witnesses, J.B. and S.F., who preferred to remain anonymous, reported observing a disc-shaped object flying at low altitude and high speed from the sea. The object was described as silent, with a matte metallic grey color, approximately 20 meters in diameter and 5 meters in height. It moved in a straight line from North to South, without leaving a trail. Shortly after the object appeared, a military jet, possibly an F-4 C Phantom, appeared and pursued it. The jet flew at a slightly higher altitude and emitted a black, sooty smoke from its reactors. The incident lasted about 15 seconds. The witnesses were compelled to take cover due to the jet's roar and heat. The object and the jet disappeared over a hill. The weather on the day of the sighting was clear and sunny, with temperatures between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius. The location of the sighting is situated near the military radar installations of Air Surveillance Squadron (EVA) No. 4, which controls the airspace of the Pyrenees and the western Mediterranean.

Analysis: The Study of the Humanoid Phenomenon (Part I)

Authored by Cassiano José Monteiro and translated by José Ruesga Montiel, this article introduces a study on "Humanoids in the Iberian Peninsula." The preliminary catalog contains 121 cases, with the aim of conducting an in-depth study of positive and negative cases. The authors, in collaboration with Luis R. Gonzales, have developed a work titled "The Humanoid Phenomenon in the Iberian Peninsula." This article presents an adaptation of the introductory part of that study, with future articles to cover the results and conclusions. The authors call for researchers with humanoid cases to contact them for analysis. They define the "Humanoid Phenomenon" as a term less committed to preconceived ideas about UFO origins, allowing for a serious and scientific analysis. The study distinguishes between restrictive definitions (human-like beings associated with UFOs) and lactal definitions (entities, often humanoid, generally associated with the UFO phenomenon). The authors opt for a broader, less restrictive definition to accept all unexplained cases, including isolated humanoids, to better understand the phenomenon. They emphasize the importance of acknowledging "anormalities" to avoid distorting reality and hindering analysis.

Chemical Effects in the Bioenvironment: Analysis of a Phenomenon

Authored by José Miguel Alcibar Cuello, this section discusses the significance of olfactory sensations of substances in the environment immediately following a UFO landing. The theoretical and experimental study of these chemical anomalies is presented as important for understanding the nature of the UFO phenomenon and for providing congruent explanations for biomedical aspects.

Letters to the Editor (Correo del Lector)

This section features correspondence from readers. One letter from Xavier Roca Genis, a collaborator, praises the editorial's emphasis on unity and constructive criticism within the ufology community. He advocates for dialogue with those who investigate the phenomenon using different principles. Another letter from Xavier Roca Genis supports the line of work and content presented by CdU, emphasizing a constructive debate without critical confrontation.

Announcements

An announcement seeks the addresses of researchers or groups specializing in UFO cases with photographic evidence, particularly those with serious studies on authenticity. Correspondence should be directed to Jesús Suarez Garcia in León.

Catalog of Humanoid Observations in the Iberian Peninsula and Adjacent Islands (Up to 1981)

This extensive list provides details of 121 registered humanoid observations, including date, location, province, country, time, and source of information. The data spans from 1934 to 1981, with numerous entries from Spain and Portugal.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rigorous, scientific approach to ufology. It emphasizes the importance of detailed case studies, witness testimony, and collaborative research. The editorial stance favors open dialogue and constructive criticism within the community, while also advocating for a broad and inclusive definition of phenomena to facilitate comprehensive analysis. There is a clear effort to move beyond mere speculation and towards a more evidence-based understanding of UFOs and related phenomena, such as humanoids and their potential environmental impacts.

Title: CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA
Issue: 35
Volume: 3
Date: 1984
Publisher: Instituto de Investigación y Estudios Brobiológicos
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish
Cover Headline: MISCELANEA UFOLOGICA

This issue of "CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA" is dedicated to exploring the complex and often subtle chemical effects associated with UFO phenomena, presenting a blend of scientific inquiry and ufological investigation. The magazine features a detailed article on the "CHEMICAL EFFECTS IN THE BIOENVIRONMENT," examining the proposed mechanisms by which UFOs might influence the atmosphere and human senses.

Chemical Effects in the Bioenvironment

The central theme of this issue revolves around the "feed-forward" mechanism of exogenous chemical effects in the bioenvironment. The article outlines a sequential process: the initial physical-chemical interaction of a UFO with its surroundings, leading to alterations in air composition; the subsequent penetration of these agents into the witness's system, primarily through absorption and stimulation of olfactory receptors; and finally, the manifestation of physiological and neurological symptoms, which can range from simple sensations to more severe conditions.

The Role of Ozone (O3)

A significant portion of the analysis is dedicated to ozone (O3) as a potential culprit behind these reported chemical effects. The article explores the hypothesis that UFOs, as physical entities emitting electromagnetic radiation, can trigger the formation of ozone in the atmosphere through the interaction of this energy with oxygen molecules. This process is described as a physical-chemical genesis, distinct from theories suggesting ozone as a byproduct of UFO propulsion systems. The text references studies and observations that link the presence of UFOs to phenomena such as blue hazes and specific olfactory sensations, often described as pungent or irritating, which are characteristic of ozone.

Other Chemical Hypotheses

Beyond ozone, the publication also considers the possible involvement of other chemical compounds, namely sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen monoxide (NO). The properties of these gases, including their odors and stability, are discussed in relation to UFO sightings. The article notes that SO2 can be formed by the combustion of sulfur or sulfides, while NO can be generated by electrical discharges or UV energy acting on air.

Physiological and Chemical Mechanisms

The issue delves into both the physiological and physical-chemical aspects of these phenomena. It references research by R. Herzog on the physiological mechanism of ozone action, which involves a reflex increase in bronchial musculature tone. The physical-chemical mechanism of ozone genesis is explained through the interaction of UV radiation with oxygen molecules, referencing atmospheric composition data and the role of the stratospheric ozone layer.

Case Data and Bibliography

Page 1 of the scanned document presents a detailed table listing numerous UFO sightings from 1976 to 1981, primarily in Spain and Portugal. Each entry includes a date, location, and often a reference to a newspaper or publication where the sighting was reported, along with a code that may indicate the type of observation or the reporting agency (e.g., CEAFI, INS, OSP). This extensive catalog serves as empirical data supporting the discussions on chemical effects.

The issue also includes a comprehensive bibliography, citing various publications and research papers related to UFOs, atmospheric science, and physiology. This underscores the magazine's commitment to grounding its discussions in existing research.

Organizational Information and Collaboration

Several pages are dedicated to information about ufological organizations and calls for collaboration. "MISCELANEA UFOLOGICA" introduces itself as a new section aimed at facilitating communication among collaborators, allowing them to share information, bibliographies, and data. It also highlights the work of CIU-CUFOS Buenos Aires, an entity dedicated to the investigation and dissemination of UFO phenomena, and its publications like "UFO PRESS," "INTERNATIONAL UFO REPORTER," and "BOLETINCIU." The magazine emphasizes the importance of reader contributions and financial support for its continued publication, framing "CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA" as an expression of the ufological community.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the potential chemical and physiological impacts of UFOs on the environment and humans, and the importance of community collaboration in ufological research. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous inquiry, attempting to apply scientific principles and methodologies to understand the more elusive aspects of UFO reports, such as the reported chemical and olfactory effects. The magazine positions itself as a platform for serious study and encourages active participation from its readership to advance the field.

MAGONIA, issue 16, published by INTERNATIONAL UFO REPORTER in July/August 1984, is a Spanish-language magazine focused on ufology. This issue is notable for its diverse content, ranging from practical advice for UFO researchers to analysis of geopolitical events with potential UFO connections, and historical case studies.

Key Articles and Content

Subscription and Collaboration (Page 1)

The first page presents a subscription form for CIU-CUFOS (Comision de Investigaciones Ufologicas), encouraging collaboration by associating new subscribers. It details personal information required, areas of interest, and the annual subscription cost. A separate address is provided for subscriptions in Spain.

ANEXO: Editorial and Community (Page 2)

This section, titled 'ANEXO', addresses the significant amount of material published by V.J. Ballester Olmos. It explains the origin of the 'ANEXO' as a means to publish works that might otherwise remain private, fostering a collective effort among ufologists. The editorial emphasizes the importance of community and shared contributions to advance the field of ufology in Spain, which has historically suffered from internal divisions.

Miscellanea Ufologica (Page 3)

This section features several short items:

• Book Recommendation: V.J. Ballester Olmos recommends "THE NATURE OF LIGHT AND COLOR IN THE OPEN AIR" by F. Mannaert, available from Dover Publications.
• Book Search: A list of sought-after books on UFOs is provided, including titles by Antonio José Alés, F. Aréjula, Fernando Sesma, A. Ribero, and M. Lleget.
• Call for Collaborators: A national project to study landing (CONI) cases seeks collaborators in various Spanish provinces to conduct local surveys.
• Media and OVNI (UFO) Information Request: A request for information on radio and television programs, documentaries, films, and series related to UFOs, aiming to compile a comprehensive table for public knowledge.

Radio and Television Interference from UFOs (Page 4)

Authored by Jan E. Herr, this article discusses the presence of radio frequency interference (RFI) in UFO sighting reports. It highlights the scarcity of useful information in existing reports and emphasizes the importance of obtaining detailed data, such as the peak frequency and strength of the interference. APRO has prepared a list of questions for investigators to systematically gather information about RFI cases, covering instrument details, frequencies, signal strength, and correlations with the object's behavior.

Filming and Videotaping UFOs (Page 5)

Written by R. M. L. Baker, Jr., this article offers practical advice for photographers and videographers aiming to capture anomalous images. It provides 15 tips, including stabilizing the camera, including background elements, using zoom lenses consistently, conserving film, marking locations, noting settings, obtaining witness details, and conducting control photographic episodes for calibration. The author also requests information on any unusual film footage or video tapes for potential photogrammetric analysis.

Tracing the Traces (Page 6)

Maurizio Verga presents preliminary notes on a study of physical traces associated with UFO events. The article discusses how physical traces are considered tangible proof of a phenomenon interacting with reality, often used by 'extraterrestrialists' to support the 'spacecraft' hypothesis. Verga critically examines the reliability of trace evidence, noting that its interpretation is complex due to natural phenomena, psychological factors, and the possibility of hoaxes. He argues that many investigation reports lack scientific rigor due to subjectivity and emotional involvement, making definitive conclusions difficult. The article concludes that while a small residue of well-investigated trace reports suggests a physical basis for the phenomenon, further research requires a shift from belief to understanding.

Soviet Missiles and Submarines (Pages 7-8)

This section reports on confirmed missile launches from Soviet submarines near the Canary Islands. The incident is linked to a previous event in 1979 and involves a Soviet submarine equipped with nuclear warheads that collided with a cargo ship in the Strait of Gibraltar. The articles discuss the geopolitical implications, the importance of the Strait for naval intelligence, and the differing stances of Spain and the Soviet Union regarding the incident. The detection of Soviet submarines in the Mediterranean is highlighted as a critical intelligence priority for the US.

La Vision de Martin (Pages 9-10)

This is a detailed historical account of Thomas Martin, a cultivator from Gallardon, France, in 1816, who claimed to have received messages from a celestial being, identified as the angel Raphael. The narrative describes Martin's attempts to warn King Louis XVIII of a conspiracy, his subsequent institutionalization, and his interactions with various authorities. The article draws parallels between Martin's experiences and those of modern UFO contactees like George Adamski, noting similarities in the visionary's claims, the reactions of followers, and the eventual questioning of the phenomenon's authenticity. The author, a sociologist, analyzes the psychological and sociological aspects of such cases, suggesting that while the 'visionary' experiences might be rooted in psychological phenomena, the study of these cases offers insights into the dynamics of belief systems and community formation around alleged contactees.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rigorous and analytical approach to ufology. There is a clear emphasis on scientific methodology, evidence-based research, and critical thinking, as seen in the articles on physical traces, media analysis, and the questioning of historical visionary accounts. The publication also highlights the importance of community collaboration and information sharing within the ufological field, while simultaneously cautioning against unsubstantiated claims and the dangers of subjective interpretation. The inclusion of geopolitical events with potential UFO links suggests an interest in the broader implications of the phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging detailed investigation and analysis rather than blind acceptance of extraordinary claims.