Cuadernos de Ufologia - No 16 - 1986

Magazine Overview

Title: CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA
Issue: Number 16
Volume: Año IV (Year IV)
Date: September 1986
Publisher: Equipo RNC (RNC Team)
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

Editorial Stance and Content

The issue opens with an editorial reflecting on the challenging nature of ufology, particularly for amateur researchers, noting its struggle to establish scientific foundations over 38 years and its tendency towards speculation rather than concrete study. The editorial expresses a sense of disappointment but also a persistent hope that a collective effort, grounded in scientific methodology, can still yield positive results. It emphasizes the need for committed collaboration and participation.

Key Articles and Features

Obituary for Dr. J. Allen Hynek

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the passing of Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a prominent figure in ufology, who died on April 27, 1986. The article notes that Hynek succumbed to a brain tumor and passed away peacefully. It acknowledges his lifelong efforts to bring UFO investigation into the scientific sphere and suggests that his legacy will be honored by continuing the work. The issue includes a new work by Dr. Willy Smith titled "EL PROYECTO UNICAT" (The UNICAT Project) as a tribute to Hynek's work.

The UNICAT Project

This section details the UNICAT project, described as a high-quality UFO case database. Unlike simpler catalogs like UFOCAT, which may contain many dubious entries, UNICAT employs strict selection criteria to include only cases with a high probability of being genuine UFOs. The project aims to be a dynamic database, with ongoing updates and corrections, in contrast to static catalogs. The article discusses the evolution of UNICAT, from its initial purpose to its current state as a comprehensive project involving a database and statistical analysis of the information it contains. It highlights the challenges of data correlation and interpretation due to the vast amount of information collected.

Time Distribution Analysis

Another key focus is the temporal distribution of UFO sightings. The article compares findings from previous studies, such as those based on the Vallee catalog, with the data from UNICAT. Previous research indicated two main peaks in sightings: around 8-9 PM and around 3 AM. UNICAT's analysis, however, shows some differences, including a peak around 8 PM and a persistent, though rounded, peak at 3 AM, as well as a less marked peak at 11 AM, which was not present in earlier studies. The article explores potential reasons for these discrepancies, including the possibility of a more robust dataset in MAYBECAT (a secondary catalog) or inherent similarities due to the human element in data collection.

Dynamic Parameters in UFO Research

The issue also introduces the concept of "dynamic parameters" in UFO research. These are defined as characteristics or properties that are consistently observed across different UFO cases. The initial list of parameters, established by Dr. Hynek based on his experience, has been significantly expanded within the UNICAT project. The article outlines the ten categories into which these parameters are divided, including basic description, luminous characteristics, dynamic parameters themselves, witnesses, intelligence, interaction with witnesses and the environment, entities, evidentiary elements, and miscellaneous items. The number of fields in the UNICAT database has grown to 234 to accommodate these parameters.

Other Content

The issue also lists various collaborators, translators, and advisors involved in the publication. It includes a section on "DE INTERES" (Of Interest) noting that several past issues are sold out and providing details on annual maintenance contributions for the publication. Additionally, it mentions that the issue includes works authorized by Upiar Research In Progress and requests authors to adhere to submission guidelines.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA reflects a commitment to rigorous, data-driven UFO research, exemplified by the UNICAT project. There is a clear emphasis on moving beyond mere speculation towards a more scientific approach, acknowledging the difficulties and limitations inherent in the field. The passing of Dr. J. Allen Hynek serves as a poignant reminder of the pioneers in ufology and the ongoing need for dedicated research. The editorial stance appears to be one of persistent, albeit cautious, optimism regarding the potential for understanding the UFO phenomenon through systematic analysis and collaboration.

This issue of CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA, dated March 1986, features a significant analysis of UFO data from the UNICAT Project. The primary focus is on the statistical examination of UFO characteristics and their temporal distribution, with contributions from Dr. Willy Smith.

Time Distribution of UFOs

Figure 2 presents a graph illustrating the time distribution of UFO observations. The graph shows two lines, labeled '86' and 'M', plotting the percentage of observations against the time of day. The data suggests peaks in observation frequency during certain hours, though the specific meaning of '86' and 'M' is not fully elaborated in this section.

Parameter Analysis and Correlations

The core of the issue delves into the analysis of various parameters used to describe UFO behavior. Initially, the study notes that the majority of parameters correspond to the dynamic behavior of UFOs. A determination of frequencies for these parameters was made in 1984 with 400 cases, and again in June 1985 with a different set of 400 cases. The relative frequencies remained largely consistent, indicating statistical reliability.

Table 1 lists the number of cases and their corresponding percentages for seven parameters:

• HV (hovering): 191 cases (47.75%)
• US (UFO silent): 185 cases (46.25%)
• AA (anomalous acceleration): 94 cases (23.50%)
• TT (tree tops): 90 cases (22.50%)
• VA (vertical ascent): 84 cases (21.00%)
• TS (tremendous speed): 82 cases (20.50%)
• FT (fast takeoff): 79 cases (19.75%)

All these parameters appeared with frequencies above 20%. The analysis then explores the correlations between these parameters.

Figure 3 visually represents the correlations between parameters using a hexagonal diagram. The numbers within the circles indicate the number of cases that share those parameters, while the numbers on the lines represent the number of cases common to adjacent parameters. The study found surprising numerical correlations, which were not expected given the seemingly independent nature of the parameters. For instance, the number of common cases between HV and US was 97, indicating a significant overlap.

Table 2 attempts to differentiate known phenomena (aeroplane, meteor, helicopter, rocket, planets) from UFOs based on the presence of these parameters. It notes that while known phenomena exhibit 3-4 parameters, AA, HV, and US do not appear simultaneously in any of them.

Table 3 presents correlations between four parameters at a time, showing the number of cases where specific pairs of parameters occur together, as well as the number of cases where all four parameters are present. The study highlights that the central numbers, representing the simultaneous occurrence of four parameters, are often of similar magnitude, while the side numbers (correlations between pairs) vary.

Conclusions

The authors emphasize that the consistency of these strong correlations, given the initial arbitrary selection of parameters and cases, makes a random or imaginary explanation highly improbable. They conclude that there must be a common factor linking these parameters and observations, which is the UFO phenomenon itself.

Two key points are reiterated:

• The systematic study has demonstrated the reality of the UFO phenomenon, making it impossible to achieve these results based on imagination.
• The phenomenon exhibits characteristics that clearly distinguish it from natural phenomena or human technology, marking it as a novel phenomenon worthy of scientific attention.

The analysis is ongoing, with the expectation that further correlations will emerge, helping to identify significant parameters and guide future research towards establishing a paradigm for ufology.

An operational definition of a UFO is proposed: "AN OBSERVATION OF AN ANOMALY RESULTING IN A COMBINATION OF THE PARAMETERS THAT CHARACTERIZE IT THAT DOES NOT CORRESPOND TO ANY KNOWN NATURAL PHENOMENON, NOR TO ANY PRODUCT OF HUMAN EFFORT."

The issue concludes with a corollary: "THE UFO PHENOMENON IS A NEW PHENOMENON."

Errata

Page 8 contains a "FE DE ERRATAS" (List of Errata), correcting spelling and grammatical errors in previous paragraphs and pages of the publication, including words like "diseño", "analizar", "señalar", "años", "montaña", "viajó", "diseñado", "raramente", "mañana", "dado", "inserción", and "frecuencias".

Dialogue: UFO Waves - A Philosophical Question

Pages 9 and 10 feature a section titled "DIALOGANDO" (Dialogue), which includes an article by Dr. Willy Smith responding to a piece by ufologist Vicente-Juan Ballaster Olmos. Smith expresses disagreement with Ballaster's views on "Modulación sosial de las oleadas" (Social modulation of waves). Smith argues that while opinions are debatable, his goal is to contribute to a "pre-SCIENCE" of UFOs. He discusses the nature of UFO reports, suggesting that many are subjective or anecdotal. Smith critiques the idea that UFO reports are rare, stating that simply asking people can yield cases. He also touches upon the difficulty of distinguishing between explained and unexplained UFO cases (OVNI vs. OVI) and the concept of a latent level of UFO cases that may not be reported.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the rigorous statistical analysis of UFO data to establish the phenomenon's reality and distinct nature. The editorial stance, particularly from Dr. Willy Smith, is one of advocating for the scientific study of UFOs, treating them as a genuine and novel phenomenon that warrants serious investigation. The publication emphasizes the importance of data-driven conclusions and the search for a unifying explanation for UFO sightings, moving beyond anecdotal evidence towards a more structured understanding.

Title: Cuadernos de Ufología
Issue: 20-21
Date: December 1985
Publisher: José Ruesga Montiel
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish
Price: 1,000 ptas. (Giro postal) / $ 8.00 (Giro postal 6 cheque)

This issue of Cuadernos de Ufología delves into critical analyses of UFO phenomena, focusing on the influence of media, the scientific validity of abduction claims, and the nature of atmospheric electrical phenomena.

The Nature of UFO 'Waves' (Oleadas)

The article "La oleada que resulta conocida..." by Juan-Marces Gascón Valldecabre, dated Vitoria, Alava, August 16, 1986, discusses the phenomenon of UFO 'waves' or 'oleadas.' It posits that these waves are not necessarily indicative of an actual increase in UFO activity but are largely a result of media coverage and the predisposition of both information professionals and witnesses. Two key variables are identified: the media's tendency to include impactful UFO news in their agendas, and witnesses' willingness to report their experiences when they perceive societal interest. The author argues that the media's involvement creates an artificial increase in reported cases, which then self-eliminates as the 'rare' becomes 'normal.' The article contrasts this with local events, like the 'flap' in the Sierra de Chiva (Valencia) from May to August 1978, which was not reported by mass media and was discovered by the Agrupación Valenciana de Investigaciones Ufologicas (AVIU) through extensive fieldwork in August 1980. This local case, where sightings were attributed to the planet Venus, highlights how media attention can inflate the perceived significance of events.

The article also references a graphical representation (attributed to Ballester) illustrating the dynamics of UFO case reporting, showing how media divulgation (z1) leads to the correlation of witness and media interest (z2), resulting in an increase in reported cases (z3), followed by a decline in media interest (z4) and a subsequent decrease in reported incidents (z5). The author concludes that new cases are not created but rather made known in greater proportion than normal, and that these cases would occur regardless of media support.

Critical Analysis of Abduction Cases

Several articles critically examine famous abduction cases, questioning their authenticity and the methodology of ufologists. Luis Alfonso Gámez, in "LAS ABDUCCIONES: I \"DEMASIE PA'L BODY, COLEGA\" I," argues that the debate surrounding the abduction of Próspera Muñoz is a sign of ufology's self-disqualification. He traces the history of abduction narratives, noting that before 1965, they were largely unknown, with the Antonio Villas Boas case being an exception. The Hill case in September 1961 is identified as a catalyst for the expansion of abduction stories, which Gámez suggests became a lucrative industry. He points out discrepancies in the Hill case, suggesting that Betty Hill's experience might have been influenced by observing the planet Jupiter, and that Dr. Benjamin Simon believed the abduction narrative to be a fantasy or dream.

Another article discusses the case of Dionisio Llanca, investigated by ufologist Fabio Zerpa, which was deemed authentic by Zerpa and Antonio Ribera but considered a fraud by Guillermo Roncoroni and Roberto E. Banchs. The article notes that Zerpa allegedly concealed a report by clinical psychologist Hector A. Solari that disqualified Llanca as a reliable witness.

The case of Travis Walton is also scrutinized. While the GSW and NICAP considered it a fraud, the APRO and "The National Enquirer" supported its authenticity. Travis Walton passed a polygraph test, and the case was awarded by "The National Enquirer." However, psychiatrist Jean Rosenbaum, who interviewed Walton, believes the story is based on psychological factors and that Walton assimilated details from the Hill case documentary. Furthermore, Philip J. Klass discovered that initial polygraph results were negative, information allegedly suppressed by the APRO and "The National Enquirer." The article concludes that these cases demonstrate fraudulent attitudes from both witnesses and some investigators.

The author questions the focus on ethereal abductions when physical reality cannot be proven and when some renowned abductions have been proven fraudulent. The commercial exploitation of alleged phenomena by 'tricksters' and ufologists is highlighted. The case of Próspera Muñoz is presented as an example where the source of information (Antonio Ribera) has a history of promoting fraudulent cases, thus undermining its credibility.

Considerations on Allan Hendry's 'The UFO Handbook'

Dr. Félix Ares de Blas, in "ALGUNAS CONSIDERACIONES EN TORNO A LA OBRA DE ALLAN HENDRY," reviews Allan Hendry's "The UFO Handbook." Hendry investigated 1,307 UFO cases over a year, identifying 88.6% as explainable, 2.8% as exceptions, and 8.6% as unidentified. The article calculates that Hendry spent an average of 1.66 hours per case, which is considered surprisingly efficient. The author expresses admiration for Hendry's work but also reflects on the possibility that more time and knowledge could lead to more explanations, or that some cases might remain truly unexplained, representing a residue of the unknown, as in all scientific fields.

Centellas (Ball Lightning)

"CENTELLAS" by Luis Luis Nogues from MEXICO describes the phenomenon of 'centellas' (ball lightning). These are luminous spheres, varying in size from centimeters to meters in diameter, which can appear in various colors, though violet and green are rare. They materialize instantaneously and can appear continuous or intermittent. Centellas can travel along conductors or through the air, lasting from seconds to minutes, and may vanish gradually, abruptly, or explode. The article lists numerous alternative names for this phenomenon, including globular lightning, fire ball, ball of fire, electric meteor, foo-fighter, UFO, flying saucer, and OVNI.

The physical properties of centellas are detailed, including their diverse shapes (spherical, oval, cylindrical, teardrop, ring), colors, and sizes. Cylindrical centellas are less frequently reported but are larger, with a length-to-diameter ratio of 2:1. Teardrop shapes are generally smaller than 20 centimeters. Data from Brand, Norinder, McNally, and Rayle on the diameters of centellas are presented graphically, showing average diameters of 15, 25, 35, and 55 centimeters across different studies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is a critical and skeptical approach to ufology. The editors and contributors question the validity of many widely accepted UFO cases and the methods employed by ufologists. There is a strong emphasis on the role of media in shaping public perception of UFO phenomena and a call for more rigorous scientific investigation. The magazine appears to advocate for a rational, evidence-based approach, distinguishing between genuine scientific inquiry and what it perceives as pseudoscientific speculation and commercial exploitation within the field of ufology. The editorial stance is clearly one of skepticism towards sensationalist claims and a preference for verifiable data and logical explanations.

This issue of "CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA" (pages 30-37) focuses on the multifaceted nature of UFO phenomena, blending scientific inquiry with psychological and sociological analysis. It features articles on ball lightning, the human factor in UFO sightings, and a detailed case study of a supposed UFO encounter.

Ball Lightning: Characteristics and Phenomena

The issue begins with an exploration of ball lightning, noting that more recent studies tend to report larger average diameters. It cites research by Singer, Hobana, Weverbergh, Barry, Brand, and Mathias regarding the size, structure, and color of these phenomena. Barry categorizes ball lightning into three types: solid (matte or reflective surface, translucent envelope, green or violet, 30-50 cm diameter), rotating (combination of colors, bright interior with darker poles or translucent envelope), and flame-like (spherical or oval, less than 40 cm or over 1 meter diameter, red or red-yellow color).

Color descriptions vary among researchers, with red and red-yellow being frequently mentioned, alongside yellow, white, green, and violet. Purple and violet are associated with cylindrical shapes. Barry's findings indicate 60% are red or red-yellow, 15% yellow, and less than 2% blue, contrasting with earlier reports. Color changes are rare, reported by only 1% of observers, and typically involve a shift to white.

The issue also touches upon associated phenomena, including unpleasant odors (ozone, sulfur, nitric oxide, hydrogen sulfide) and heat. Rayle suggests that while only 25% of observers report odors, considering proximity, all ball lightning might be accompanied by smell. Singer notes that ball lightning disappearing without explosion radiates intense heat. Russian researchers estimate temperatures of 14,000°K, while others suggest 4,000°K, with calculations based on Wein's law and Planck's equation yielding temperatures between 4,000-5,000°K, and even as low as 200°C.

The Human Factor in UFO Cases: A Psychosociological Analysis

Paolo Toselli's article, "EXAMINANDO LOS CASOS OVI: El factor Humano (V)" (Examining UFO Cases: The Human Factor V), translated by Manuel Borraz Aymerich, delves into the psychosociology of current UFO cases. Toselli argues that the widespread belief in UFOs stems from a "loss of the faculty to call things by their proper name." He observes that ordinary phenomena like balloons, meteors, or re-entering satellites are frequently misidentified as UFOs, with media outlets often amplifying these claims without critical examination.

Toselli questions why these interpretive errors repeat, suggesting that while ignorance of natural and artificial aerial objects contributes, it doesn't explain all cases. He highlights the paradox of stars, which are always in fixed positions, suddenly being reported as UFOs. The article introduces the concept of "habituation" – becoming accustomed to familiar surroundings, thus not noticing them – and applies it to ufology. An "external element" introduced into a pre-established perceptual field might be experienced as strange or anomalous.

A significant example cited is a police report of a "flying saucer" that turned out to be a discarded aluminum cattle trough. The officer, new to the area, mistook the reflective object for a landed craft. Toselli suggests that habituation alone is insufficient to explain the high number of UFO cases. He also points to the state of relaxation experienced during repetitive tasks, which can lead to perceptual distortions and an increase in internal stimuli, making solitary drives or conditions near sleep conducive to misinterpretations.

Mechanisms of Confusion and Cognitive Biases

The issue further explores mechanisms of confusion, referencing Peter Kor's work. Kor suggests that individuals with a strong belief in or desire to see alien visitors may interpret ambiguous events through the lens of their expectations. This can lead to the construction of an "investigation" to recreate a situation or mood, often resulting in the illusion of an alien encounter.

Case Study: "UN FALSO OVNI SOBRE EL PESQUERO 'MANOLO CID'"

A detailed case study, "UN FALSO OVNI SOBRE EL PESQUERO 'MANOLO CID'" (A False UFO over the Fishing Boat 'Manolo Cid'), by ANGEL RODRIGUEZ ALVAREZ and ANGEL CARRETERO OLMEDO, analyzes an alleged UFO sighting reported by the crew of a fishing boat near Zahara de los Atunes, Spain. The incident, reported in "GACETA DEL NORTE" in March 1978, involved the ship's engineer, ANTONIO ABELLAN GUERRERO, observing lights that he responded to with luminous signals. The object allegedly positioned itself near the ship's mast, emitting two large, round lights, causing the sea and boat to agitate.

Journalist J. J. BENITEZ interviewed the crew, including Captain SE RIVERA and ANTONIO ABELLAN GUERRERO, and identified the object as a UFO. However, the authors of this article, after investigating, identified the object as a helicopter from the Armada (Spanish Navy) on a police mission in the Strait of Gibraltar. The helicopter, upon receiving the signals, approached the boat and activated two bright white halogen lights, which blinded and terrified the crew.

The authors argue that the crew's predisposition, particularly Guerrero's, to see something unusual, combined with the panic induced by the bright lights, led to the misidentification. They question how experienced individuals could mistake such a familiar object. The article also notes that the reported effects – sound, sea agitation, boat movement – are consistent with a helicopter operating at low altitude. They estimate the object's altitude to be around 15-20 meters, explaining why the lights appeared to touch the mast.

The article concludes that the incident, dated between June and October 1976, is a negative Type I case, meaning it was identified as a helicopter. They express doubt about the reported distance and the potential danger to the boat and crew, noting that pilots confirmed 15-20 meters as a possible distance depending on conditions. The authors lament that the journalist who initially reported the story failed to conduct proper verification.

Miscellany and Editorial Stance

The "MISCELANEA" section includes opinions and communications from collaborators. Roberto Banchs Lloret contributes "Evaluación y determinación confiabilidad-extrañeza" (Evaluation and Determination of Reliability-Strangeness), critiquing a system proposed by V.J. Ballester Olmos and M. Quasp for evaluating UFO reports. Banchs argues that their method is flawed, lacks scientific rigor, and is based on a pseudo-argument that conflates the idea with its practical application. He suggests a lack of honesty in their approach.

Another item, "Huellas de un «OVNI» en un viñedo de Ciudad Real" (UFO Traces in a Vineyard in Ciudad Real), reports on a vineyard owner in Alameda de Cervera who claimed to have found three triangular holes, 30-40 cm deep, containing burnt vine shoots, which he attributed to UFO activity. Neighbors who examined the site reportedly confirmed the traces were "abnormal" and not produced by human means or known machinery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena, emphasizing the importance of scientific methodology, psychological factors, and rigorous investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, advocating for rational explanations and the identification of misinterpretations and hoaxes. The magazine encourages reader participation and the submission of information, while maintaining a critical approach to the subject matter.

Title: ARCHIVO CANARIO
Issue Date: September 6, 1986
Content Type: Magazine Issue

Research Project on UFO Phenomena in the Canary Islands

This section details a comprehensive ufological study focused on the Canary Islands, initiated in January 1978 by the Valencian Association of Ufological Investigations (AVIU). The project, led by José Vicente Alós Rodrigo (President) and Luís de Manuel Garijo (Technical Engineer), has been ongoing for over 10 years and has already compiled approximately 300 reported cases of possible "OVNIs" (UFOs).

Information about this work was previously published in STENDEK magazine (issue 36, June 1979). Currently, the project is in the final stages of data collection and is undertaking the individual analysis of each report. A significant part of this process involves computerizing a large number of parameters for each case to create a comprehensive catalog.

Upon completion, the researchers intend to meticulously analyze the collected casuistry to identify any constants that might illuminate the UFO problem in the Canary Islands and, more broadly, the enigma of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs).

Call for Collaboration

The researchers are appealing to all individuals, investigators, and interested parties to contribute to their study. They are requesting reports, survey results, press clippings, and any other information related to UFO observations in the Canary Islands. Specifically, they ask for indexes detailing the date and location of cases, along with references to the available documentation (e.g., newspapers and publication dates, witness accounts, questionnaires, direct investigations, photographs, or recording materials).

AVIU will cross-reference this information with their own records and will request original or copied documentation if it is not already in their archives. Any materials sent will be reimbursed for their value plus shipping costs.

Correspondence regarding this ufological work should be addressed to:
SR. JOSE VICENTE ALOS RODRIGO
C/TERUELN 2-98
VALENCIA-46008.

Publication "Cdu" and Financial Appeal

A separate section, written by José Ruesga Montiel, addresses the publication "Cdu" and its financial challenges. Montiel, the coordinator, explains that the publication has experienced significant delays throughout the year, with issue 13-14 covering the end of 1985 and the beginning of 1986, and issue 15 being released in September 1986 after considerable delay.

He notes that the publication of the double issue 13-14 severely depleted their funds, creating a problem for launching issue 15. Despite this, Montiel personally contributed to ensure issue 15's release. However, he was forced to suspend mailings to those who had not renewed their annual support and temporarily halt international shipments.

Thanks to the renewed annual support from some collaborators, issue 16 has been made possible. Montiel emphasizes that for "Cdu" to continue publishing, a collective effort is needed, including the renewal of annual support. He has calculated the new annual support cost at 1,400 pesetas (350 pesetas per issue), considering increased costs for paper, reproduction, and postage.

Montiel expresses his hope that collaborators will generously support "Cdu," even by increasing their contributions, to secure its future. He warns that without this support, he may not be able to continue covering the personal expenses he has incurred, making the future of "Cdu" uncertain.

He concludes by expressing confidence in receiving the necessary support to consolidate "Cdu," which, despite its humble presentation, has been positively valued both in Spain and internationally.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme is the dedicated, long-term research into UFO phenomena, emphasizing meticulous data collection, analysis, and the pursuit of understanding. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry and a call for collective participation in ufological research. There is also a strong emphasis on the importance of supporting specialized publications like "Cdu" to ensure the dissemination of such research.