Cuadernos de Ufologia - No 12 - 1985

Magazine Overview

Title: Cuadernos de ufologia
Issue: Nº 12
Year: 1985

This issue of "Cuadernos de ufologia" (Ufology Notebooks) from 1985 is dedicated to exploring the intricacies of UFO investigation, with a particular emphasis on methodology, data analysis, and the definition of the phenomenon. The editorial highlights the positive reception of previous issues and the desire to maintain a regular publication schedule despite economic challenges. The publication aims to provide a "reasonable disquiet" regarding the methodology and definition of the UFO phenomenon, encouraging Spanish ufology to tackle pending issues decisively.

Table of Contents

The issue features a comprehensive table of contents, including:

1. "Towards a Study of the UFO Problem" by Manuel Borraz Aymerich.
2. "On the Depuration of UFO Catalogs, Noise, and Signals" by Dr. Félix Ares de Blas.
3. "An Idea on UFO Investigation" by José Ruesga Montiel.
4. "Dialoguing about Notebooks" by Jesús Suárez García.
5. "Commenting on Some Points" by Luis Alfonso Gámez Domínguez.
6. "The Retrograde of Technological Component" by Juan Marcos Gascón Valldeoabrés.
7. "Revisiting Some Cases: Calella de Mar. More Clues." by L.A. Gámez.
8. "The 'UFO' of Barbate: A Communiqué to Our Community."
9. "More on the Case of 'The Tracks Under the Sea'."
10. "Annex: Meteorites" by Paul Sowiak-Rudej.

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the success of the previous double issue, noting unanimous acceptance from collaborators. It addresses the request for more frequent publications, explaining that while a new issue was not planned until December, the gap has been filled with this more concise edition. The editorial team has made a significant economic effort to present this issue, aiming to foster a "reasonable disquiet" about the phenomenon's methodology and definition. The hope is that these pages will encourage Spanish ufology to confront its pending problems.

Publication Information

"CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA" is presented as an informal publication for a group of UFO investigators, serving as a communication and exchange link. Correspondence should be addressed to José Ruesga Montiel at Pol. San Pablo Barrio E, Bloque, 819-2º B, 41007 Sevilla.

Article Summaries

Towards a Study of the UFO Problem (Manuel Borraz Aymerich)

This article discusses the "semantic parenthesis" surrounding the UFO topic within the scientific community, where it is often ignored or ridiculed due to disinformation and prejudice. While physical evidence is lacking, the author argues that the psychosocial phenomenon of UFOs is undeniable and has been active for over 35 years. The article suggests that UFO phenomenology has diverse facets requiring rigorous investigation by various scientific disciplines. It addresses the "escalada de confusiones" (escalation of confusions), noting that hoaxes and psychopathological cases have limited impact compared to misidentifications of natural or artificial stimuli (like planets or planes) due to perceptual errors, atmospheric conditions, or lack of familiarity. These misidentifications, however, offer valuable insights into perception mechanisms and the reliability of human testimony. The author also touches upon the influence of latent UFO stereotypes formed by rumors and media exposure.

Atmospheric Phenomena (Article excerpt)

This section explores other interesting aspects of the UFO problem, including phenomena that might be characterized as "kugel blitz" or ball lightning. The article notes that a fully satisfactory theory for ball lightning's genesis and dynamics is still lacking, with evidence being observational. It highlights the value of new observations, even with testimonial limitations. The author references V.J. Ballester Olmos, who points out that some UFO cases may correspond to atypical varieties of ball lightning, deviating from established patterns due to potential biases in data collection. A careful study of these UFO reports could shed light on the matter.

Strange Footprints (Article excerpt)

This part details the case of Trans-en-Provence (Var, France) on January 8, 1981, where a witness reported an ovoid metallic object that landed and departed. The analysis of the footprints left behind made this a rare case where the witness's account could be abstracted due to the physical evidence. The article mentions the French National Centre for Space Studies (CNES) and its UFO investigation group, GEPAN, which commissioned laboratory analyses of soil and vegetation samples. These results revealed biochemical effects on plants that diminished with distance from the landing site, but the agent's nature remained undetermined. Ionizing radiation or thermal/hydric phenomena could not fully explain the observed effects, and the case remains open. The author concludes that the "believe or not believe" dilemma becomes irrelevant when faced with such rich study material.

On the Depuration of UFO Catalogs, Noise, and Signals (Dr. Félix Ares de Blas)

Dr. Ares de Blas responds to José Ruesga Montiel's previous article, disagreeing with the approach of depurating UFO catalogs before analysis. Ruesga Montiel favored using pre-depurated catalogs, while Ares de Blas argues for including all cases, even those with "noise," as they are essential for understanding the phenomenon. Ares de Blas frames UFO investigation as a communication process where the research center acts as a receiver of signals mixed with noise. He asserts that noise is unavoidable but can be managed with proper techniques. He uses an analogy of receiving a signal from Jupiter through a noisy channel to illustrate how noise can be statistically overcome. The core of his argument is that "depuration previa" (prior depuration), based on subjective expert opinions, risks eliminating part of the signal and thus falsifying the final image. He contends that eliminating only parts of the noise can distort the results. Therefore, it is less detrimental to have the signal plus all the noise than the signal with mutilated noise. He concludes that depurating catalogs biases the results towards the investigator's prejudices, leading to an image of the investigator's biases or the cultural stereotypes of the region from which the depurated catalogs originate.

An Idea on UFO Investigation (José Ruesga Montiel)

José Ruesga Montiel addresses the challenges faced by UFO investigators, primarily the lack of well-contrasted case files and evaluable documentation due to deficient investigations and flawed methodologies. He notes that while some groups have attempted to address this in recent years, a significant portion of the documentation still pertains to circumstances not intrinsically related to the UFO phenomenon itself but rather to human behavior. He acknowledges the importance of psychological and psychosocial aspects but stresses the need for balance in research orientation. Ruesga Montiel proposes a framework for understanding UFO phenomena by categorizing them into four main areas:

1. Cases driven by physical stimuli, with objective visualisations and sometimes secondary effects on the environment and living beings.
2. Phenomena that appear to be complex psychiatric processes with parameters similar to physical UFO reports.
3. A mixture of events, often conventional physical objects that observers fail to identify, exacerbated by a lack of information and media treatment.
4. Fraudulent cases, deliberately created by witnesses, media, or unscrupulous researchers, motivated by factors other than money.

He argues that points 2, 3, and 4 primarily point to psychosocial phenomena. He questions what sustains interest in the field and what external aspects of UFOs compel serious study, suggesting that UFOs are not a single phenomenon but several, potentially requiring multiple solutions.

Definition of the Phenomenon (José Ruesga Montiel)

Following the categorization of phenomena, Ruesga Montiel asserts that a single definition is insufficient. He critiques the definition of a UFO as simply anything unknown to the observer, deeming it unscientific unless the focus is on social consequences. Such a broad definition would lead to the inclusion of misidentified conventional objects, citing an example of a shepherd misidentifying an animal. He then presents Dr. J. Allen Hynek's definition: "A UFO can be simply defined as the perceived report of an object or light seen in the sky or on the surface of the earth with an aspect, trajectory, and general luminous behavior that does not suggest a logical and conventional explanation, and which is not only disconcerting to the original observer, but remains unidentified after a thorough study of all possible evidence by technically prepared individuals to find a common-sense identification solution, if possible."

Ruesga Montiel finds Hynek's definition also problematic, as it implies that phenomena not known are not phenomena. However, he acknowledges that it at least establishes a material that requires minimal evaluable information. He notes that Ares questions prior depuration due to subjectivity, but offers no alternative solution beyond a specific aspect. Ruesga Montiel concludes that it is crucial to determine if UFO reports document a measurable phenomenon with characteristics distinct from explained cases. He references Hynek's affirmation that this is the case, suggesting that if true, a definition of UFOs can be formulated, unless one opts for multiple definitions based on external aspects. He emphasizes the current moment in Spanish ufology as conducive to exchanging ideas, citing Ziman's view that scientific knowledge is intersubjective and requires human intervention for validation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical analysis of UFO investigation methodologies, the challenges of data interpretation, and the search for a robust definition of the UFO phenomenon. There is a clear emphasis on moving beyond anecdotal evidence and subjective interpretations towards more rigorous, scientific approaches. The publication advocates for the inclusion of all data, including "noise," in the analysis process, arguing that depuration based on subjective criteria can be misleading. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging critical thinking, open discussion, and a systematic approach to understanding UFOs as a complex phenomenon with both physical and psychosocial dimensions.

This issue of "Cuadernos de Ufología" (Vol. 10/11, June-September 1985) features several articles and commentaries discussing UFO phenomena, humanoids, and the methodologies used in their investigation. The publication focuses on critical analysis and the scientific approach to understanding these subjects.

Dialogando sobre Cuadernos: The Fluctuating Nature of UFO Reports

This section, authored by Iván Vázquez Sánchez, delves into a question posed in a previous issue: why do UFO reports fluctuate so dramatically from year to year, given that many are explained by known phenomena like planets, meteors, and aircraft?

Vázquez argues that the explanations for UFO experiences are not necessarily erroneous, nor are conventional objects disguised as UFOs. He reframes the question to ask why, during certain periods, more people confuse and report identifiable objects as UFOs. He proposes that the primary cause for this fluctuation is the level of social sensitivity towards the topic, which is directly influenced by media attention.

He distinguishes between "confusion," "projective transformation," and "projective elaboration" as terms summarizing the misidentification process. Vázquez suggests that the number of confusions might be constant, while the number of reports varies based on external factors.

Dialogando sobre Cuadernos: The Humanoid Phenomenon and Methodological Challenges

This part of the discussion, likely by the same author or a continuation, addresses the study of humanoids, referencing work by Cassiano J. Monteiro and Luis R. González. It highlights the difficulties in studying isolated cases of entities and deciding on their inclusion in studies.

The author proposes focusing first on cases unequivocally associated with the strict UFO phenomenon to establish defining characteristics. Cases of isolated entities should still be collected and studied individually but kept separate until their relationship to the core phenomenon is clearer.

Comentando Algunos Puntos: Critiques of UFO Investigation Methods

Authored by Luis Alfonso Gámez Domínguez, this section critically reviews Iván Vázquez's article. Domínguez questions whether the UFO phenomenon possesses unique characteristics or if it's merely misinterpretations of natural or human-made phenomena.

He challenges J. Allen Hynek's assertion that UFOs are something different and unknown, deeming Hynek's method subjective. Domínguez argues that Vázquez's article assumes the UFO phenomenon has its own identity, whereas it's a complex phenomenon requiring multiple approaches.

Domínguez disputes the idea of inherent constants in UFO sightings, suggesting that factors like visibility at night, rural vs. urban settings, and even weather conditions (climatological benignity, vacation periods) might explain why sightings are reported more frequently in certain conditions. He points to a Spanish study using a scientific method that identifies these conditioning factors.

He further criticizes the concept of "mimetism" in UFO phenomena, which implies an intentionality or intelligence behind it, stating this lacks rational basis. Domínguez suggests that the human need for myths drives the belief in UFOs, comparing them to fairies in medieval times. He advocates for rigorous depuration of cases and a scientific approach, warning against "pseudoreligion" or "pseudocience" in ufology.

La Retrogracia del Componente Tecnológico

Authored by Juan Marcos Gascon Valldecabres, this article critiques Luis González Manso's proposal of a "technological component" as a differentiator for UFO cases. González defined this component as anything identifiable as a machine or complex artifact from the 20th century.

Valldecabres argues that this "technological component" is not a primary element but a sub-component of the observation, influenced by the observer. He states that the witness's testimony can falsify this component due to psychological influences. He believes that the "technological component" is too broad and can be sought in any case, making it an unreliable differentiator.

He asserts that there's no logical functional relationship between "UFO-machine" and a humanoid with a technological component. He suggests that cases of solitary humanoids with non-technological characteristics should not be dismissed. Valldecabres concludes that González's idea, while interesting, is not practically useful due to the fallibility of the technological component.

Revisando Algunos Casos: Calella de Mar. Más Pistas

This section, by L.A. Gámez, revisits a case from Calella de Mar and connects it to a similar event in Bilbao. The article discusses a possible UFO sighting over Gran Bilbao on August 19, 1982, reported by multiple witnesses.

It mentions that the object was seen moving at high speed with many lights. However, the article then presents a counter-explanation: the "supposed UFO" was actually a publicity aircraft with a revolutionary lighting system. The confusion was exacerbated by thick fog that night, preventing clear identification of the message.

The article notes that the publicity aircraft was campaigning for a cleaning product company and had been operating in the area for several days.

Un OVNI Fue Visto Por Miles de Vizcaínos

This article, by Manu Alvarez, details a widely witnessed event on September 4, 1982, in Bilbao. Thousands of Vizcayan residents reported seeing an unknown flying object moving at high speed and emitting strange luminous destellos, described by some as tongues of fire.

The event occurred shortly after 9 PM and was observed by a significant portion of the population in the capital and surrounding areas. The sheer number of witnesses suggests that "something inexplicable" occurred. The article notes the widespread calls to media and police, indicating a lack of immediate explanation.

El OVNI de Barbate: Comunicación a nuestra comunidad

This report, by José Ruesga Montiel, details an incident on July 9, 1985, where a UFO was reportedly sighted over Barbate, Spain. The event was published in the newspaper ABC with a photograph.

Ruesga contacted collaborators and the Barbate Municipal Police for details. The object was described as approximately fifty meters in diameter and was photographed by a young archaeology enthusiast. Juan José Benítez, a journalist and investigator, confirmed it as an authentic UFO, ruling out military aircraft.

According to Benítez, the object was pursued by the Municipal Police, hovering about thirty meters above their vehicle before crossing the town and heading towards Africa. Benítez, a native of Barbate, considers this one of the most important UFO testimonies collected in Spain. The article also mentions that the Gulf of Cádiz is considered a hot zone for UFO sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, the challenges of scientific investigation, and the potential for misidentification. The publication emphasizes a rigorous, evidence-based approach, questioning assumptions and advocating for clear methodologies. There's a clear stance against pseudoscientific approaches and a call for rational analysis, distinguishing between genuine phenomena and psychological or sociological factors. The editorial board appears to favor a skeptical but open-minded approach, prioritizing scientific rigor over unsubstantiated claims.

This issue of The Journal of the Australian Centre for UFO Studies, Volume 5, Number 5, from September-October 1984, focuses on a notable UFO sighting in Spain and a scientific exploration of meteorites. The magazine presents a photograph of an unidentified flying object (UFO) near Barbate, Spain, described as one of the most important testimonies of flying saucers in Spain. It also delves into the challenges faced by the Spanish Navy in detecting Soviet submarines in the Alboran Sea and provides an extensive scientific article on meteorites, covering their origins, classification, and impact phenomena.

The "ovni" de Barbate

The cover story highlights a photograph of a UFO captured off the coast of Barbate, Spain. The image was taken by a local archaeologist who wished to remain anonymous. The incident involved a pursuit by two vehicles from the Municipal Police of Barbate and the reported landing of a UFO near the settlement of Icona "La Mediana" in Huelva. Investigator Juan José Benitez considers this event one of the most significant testimonies of flying saucers in Spain.

Soviet Submarines in the Alboran Sea

Another significant article discusses the difficulty in detecting Soviet submarines in the Alboran Sea. According to a new book on Andalusian geography, the technical and dynamic characteristics of the water in this region are highly conducive to making Soviet submarines undetectable. The book, co-authored by Andrés Garcia Lorca, regional secretary of Alianza Popular, includes a geostrategic analysis stating that at depths below 200 meters, these submarines cannot be detected by the current technical means available to the Spanish Navy and the mixed base at Rota. This follows recent reports from specialized publications about the frequent presence of Soviet submarines, possibly of the "S. M. Alfa" class, in the Alboran Sea.

Meteorites: A Scientific Exploration

The issue features a comprehensive article titled "METEORITES" by Paul Sowiak-Rudej, which explores the scientific aspects of meteorites. The article begins by tracing the historical development of understanding meteorites, from initial skepticism to scientific acceptance.

Meteoroid Behavior and Classification

It explains that the luminous streaks seen in the sky are caused by atoms stripped from extraterrestrial solid bodies (meteoroids) disintegrating as they pass through the atmosphere, forming incandescent trails of hot gas. Meteors are classified into sporadic ones and those occurring in showers at regular intervals, often related to comets. The article details how the Earth's atmosphere resists meteoroid penetration, transforming kinetic energy into heat and light. Bright meteors are termed 'fireballs', while less bright ones are called 'bolides'.

Meteorite Composition and Types

A meteorite is defined as the remnant of a meteoroid that survives atmospheric passage and lands on Earth. The article describes the Hoba meteorite in South West Africa as the world's largest unfractured meteorite. Meteorites are categorized by composition into three main types: siderites (iron), siderolites (stone-iron), and aerolites (stone). Siderites are predominantly metallic, with nickel content ranging from 4-12%. Siderolites constitute only 4% of meteorites and are classified by mineralogy and chemistry. Aerolites are the most common type (85%), further divided into chondrites (characterized by grain structures called chondrules) and achondrites (heterogeneous structures lacking chondrules).

Tektites and Impact Phenomena

Tektites, a silica-rich glass, are also discussed. The fall of a meteorite is often accompanied by light and sound effects. Fireballs may change in light intensity and even disappear due to buffeting by the tropopause, a dense atmospheric layer that slows their descent. The color of a meteor is related to its burning temperature and velocity, with colors ranging from blue (highest velocity) to red. A smoke trail accompanying a meteorite is composed of ionized air and solid particles.

Velocity and Impact

The article examines the velocity of meteorites, noting that while some scientists predict high impact velocities, real-world impacts are often only moderately hot, indicating lower velocities. Explanations for this include the relationship of large meteoroids to asteroids and their orbital paths. The impact of a meteorite on Earth's surface depends on its mass, velocity, mechanical strength, topography, and soil consistency. Meteorite craters are often found in clusters, with examples like the Henbury Craters in Australia and the great Arizona or Barringer Meteorite Crater.

Diurnal and Seasonal Variations

Data on meteorite falls from 1800-1960 is presented, showing a seasonal variation with peaks from April to July and a minimum from September to March. A marked diurnal cycle is also observed, with the peak incidence at 3 pm. The article suggests that these patterns might be influenced by observing conditions or the Earth passing through denser meteoroid swarms.

Bibliography and Appendices

The issue includes a bibliography of cited works and appendices detailing meteorite classifications and a list of meteor showers with their radiant points, declination, and speed characteristics. Appendix 1 provides Prior's classification of meteorites, and Appendix 2 lists various meteor showers with their dates, radiant coordinates, and speed descriptions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO phenomena, military/geostrategic concerns related to submarine detection, and scientific inquiry into extraterrestrial phenomena like meteorites. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting both eyewitness accounts and scientific data, encouraging further investigation and analysis, as suggested by the concluding remarks and the contributor's note.

Notable Quote

"I consider that this work can be valuable for ufology, by presenting an excellent summary of the characteristics of meteorites. To highlight the 'burania law' of meteoroid falls, derived from incidence on Earth."

Speaker: V. J. Ballester clind