Cuadernos de Ufologia - No 17 - 1986

Magazine Overview

Title: CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA
Issue: 17
Volume: V
Date: 1987
Publisher: José Ruesga Montiel
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of "Cuadernos de Ufologia" (Ufology Notebooks), number 17 of Volume V, published in 1987, is coordinated by Jose Ruesga Montiel. The cover prominently features the "EXPO '92 SEVILLA" logo alongside a striking graphic of a UFO amidst fire and lightning, and a portrait of a man. The magazine is presented as a commercial publication and an informal exchange between researchers of the UFO phenomenon.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Jose Ruesga Montiel, reflects on the past year and expresses satisfaction at overcoming a significant hurdle in the publication's continuity. He acknowledges the support of friends and collaborators, noting that many have contributed to the consolidation and improvement of the publication. Montiel highlights that "Cuadernos de Ufologia" is considered the best ufological publication in Spanish and comparable to European ones, despite its presentation shortcomings. He encourages those who have not yet contributed to join the effort to build a distinct ufology focused on open dialogue and authentic investigation, rather than rigid stances. The editorial also apologizes for the delay in releasing this issue, attributing it to the need for reflection and responses from collaborators. It concludes with best wishes for the new year and a poignant remembrance of departed collaborators, particularly Luis Hernández French, who passed away on December 11th after a battle with cancer, and is honored for his fight for a distinct ufology.

Contents and Articles

The issue features a comprehensive "SUMARIO" (Table of Contents) listing numerous articles and contributions:

• Editorial: Discussed above.
• Comunicación: General communication.
• UNICAT, by Dr. J. Allen Hynek and Dr. Willy Smith: This article, appearing in issue 16, is discussed further in later articles.
• OVNI en el interior de una casa (UFO inside a house), by Juan Marcos Gascón Valldecabrés: A case study of a UFO sighting within a domestic setting.
• Proyecto: E.M., Ovnis y fenómenos físicos (Project: E.M., UFOs and physical phenomena), by Joaquín Abenza: Explores potential physical aspects related to UFOs.
• Modulación social de las oleadas (Social modulation of waves), by Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos: Examines how social factors influence the reporting and perception of UFO waves.
• A los ufólogos de Madrid (To the ufologists of Madrid): A communication addressed to the Madrid ufology community.
• ¿La abducción, clave del fenómeno OVNI? (Abduction, the key to the OVNI phenomenon?), by Antonio Ribera: Investigates the role of abduction experiences in understanding the UFO phenomenon.
• Examinando los casos O.V.I. El Factor Humano (IV) (Examining OVI cases. The Human Factor (IV)), by Paolo Toselli: Continues an analysis of UFO cases, focusing on the human element.
• Inmenso Ovni detectado por radar en la zona de Tarrasa y Sabadell (Barcelona) la noche del 29 al 30 de Noviembre de 1985 (Immense UFO detected by radar in the Tarrasa and Sabadell area (Barcelona) on the night of November 29-30, 1985), by Joan Plana Crivillen: Reports on a specific radar detection incident.
• CIFE: Boletín Interno (CIFE: Internal Bulletin): An internal update from the CIFE organization.
• Dialogando: El ufólogo Ripoll estaba equivocado (Dialogue: Ufologist Ripoll was mistaken), by Juan Marcos Gascón Valldecabrés: A discussion or critique of a ufologist's views.
• Miscelanea (Miscellany): A section for various short items.
• ANEXO: Actitud de las autoridades españolas sobre los OVNIS (ANNEX: Attitude of Spanish authorities on UFOs), by V.J. Ballester, J.A. Fernandez, and J. Plana Crivillen: An appendix detailing the official stance of Spanish authorities regarding UFOs.

Special Sections and Tributes

UN RECUERDO EMOCIONADO PARA LOS QUE NOS DEJARON EN EL TRANSCURSO DE ESTOS CINCO AÑOS (An emotional remembrance for those who left us in the past five years): This section lists deceased collaborators, including Manuel Osuna Llorente, Alberto Adell Sabates, Isidro Gutierrez Soto, J. Allen Hynek, and Luis Hernández Franch, with their respective dates of passing.

NUESTRA PORTADA: Homenaje póstumo a Luis Hernández Franch (Our Cover: Posthumous tribute to Luis Hernández Franch): The cover itself serves as a tribute to the late collaborator.

AVISO IMPORTANTE (Important Notice): An announcement regarding an increase in annual aid by 250 pesetas due to rising costs, and a request for collaborators to include an additional 200 pesetas when sending aid via checks or money orders, emphasizing the non-commercial nature of "Cau" (likely referring to the publication).

INSISTIMOS EN LA NECESIDAD DE RESPETAR LAS NORMAS PARA LOS ORIGINALES REMITIDOS PARA SU PUBLICACION (We insist on the need to respect the norms for originals submitted for publication): A reminder about submission guidelines, requiring DIN A-4 format and typed manuscripts.

Detailed Article Analysis

"La "Ley Horaria" y la Tercera posibilidad" (The "Hourly Law" and the Third Possibility), by Luis Alfonso Gámez Domínguez (Pages 3-7):
This article critically examines Willy Smith's article "El Proyecto UNICAT" from issue 16. Gámez Domínguez discusses the UNICAT project's goal of scientifically proving the OVNI phenomenon as new. He questions the statistical arguments and deductions presented, particularly those concerning "dynamic parameters." He notes that many parameters have high frequencies of appearance and relate to movement, which is not inherently exceptional. Gámez argues that the correlation between parameters is not as surprising as presented, as they often describe aspects that are sequentially related in UFO reports. He suggests that the UNICAT database, intended to contain high-quality cases, might still be subject to conventional explanations, fraud, or misinterpretation. He critiques the idea that consistent results are inexplicable if random, suggesting that myths and stereotypes can create perceived patterns. Gámez also points out the absence of a comparative "IFOCAT" database for "depurated" cases. He concludes that the UNICAT results are not definitive proof of a unique OVNI phenomenon and that the use of terms like "negative case" can downplay the significance of explained cases.

ESTADISTICA Y VALORACIONES (Statistics and Valuations), by Manuel Borraz (Pages 8-10):
Borraz also reviews Willy Smith's "El Proyecto UNICAT." He finds some of the valuations "unfortunate." Borraz agrees that the UNICAT project aims to prove the OVNI phenomenon as new through scientific methods but argues that the statistical results presented are not conclusive. He focuses on the "dynamic parameters," noting that their high frequency of appearance is not surprising and that their correlation might be due to their sequential nature in reports. Borraz questions the assumption that these correlations are proof of a unique phenomenon, suggesting that they could arise from confusions, fraud, or the inherent tendency of myths and stereotypes to create patterns. He highlights that the UNICAT database is meant to contain "high quality" cases, but acknowledges that no case is perfect and conventional explanations are always possible. Borraz criticizes the article for dismissing the possibility of fraud or imagination and for the phrase "there is something that relates them... which can be nothing else than the OVNI phenomenon that has provided the information." He also notes that parameters like "OVNI cemiendose" (UFO hovering) and "OVNI silencioso" (silent UFO) appeared in early, famous frauds like the Maury Island incident and are typical of confusions with astronomical stimuli. Borraz further argues that equating the "OVNI" category with "planet" or "aeroplane" is abusive and leads to methodological errors. He suggests that the term "reports about OVNIs" is more accurate than "OMWIs." He points out that the table of parameters might be incomplete and that parameters like "absence of noise" (US) could be present in reports of conventional aircraft. Borraz concludes that the UNICAT approach overlooks the possibility of fraudulent OVNI events and that the use of "negative case" labels minimizes the value of explained cases. He emphasizes that the presented results do not offer proof or allow for conclusions about an authentic, original OVNI phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the analysis of specific cases, statistical approaches to ufology, and the critical evaluation of research methodologies. There is a strong emphasis on rigorous, scientific inquiry and a call for open dialogue and a departure from dogmatic stances within the ufological community. The editorial stance, as expressed by Jose Ruesga Montiel, is one of persistent effort towards improving the publication's quality and contributing to a more authentic and scientifically grounded understanding of UFOs, while also honoring past contributors and acknowledging the challenges faced by such publications.

This document is a communication from CIFE (Centro de Investigaciones de Fenómenos Extraños), identified as issue number -8- of their publication, dated December 23, 1985. The main focus is on the progress and status of their research project, "Proyecto EM," which aims to study electromagnetic phenomena associated with UFOs.

Proyecto EM: Status and Collaboration

The article begins by stating that CIFE initiated an ambitious project to study UFO-related electromagnetic phenomena, disseminating the call for collaboration through "Cuadernos de Ufologia" and their internal bulletin. The goal was to create a collective work by researchers intrigued by these phenomena. However, months later, CIFE admits that the response in terms of the number of collaborators has been scarce. Despite this, they express satisfaction with the high "technical" and "human" quality of the individuals who have responded.

The communication aims to inform interested parties about the current phase of "Proyecto EM." It highlights the early contributions received:

• Joan Plana Crivillen from Sabadell, a Catalan investigator and member of CEI and CIFE, submitted a highly documented report on a large-dimension UFO detected by radar in the Tarrasa area. This report, which contains significant electromagnetic (EM) case studies, was published in CdU and is currently under technical review and comparison with similar cases.
• Vicent Moros, a ufologist from Valencia and CIFE member, provided a list of fourteen cases from his archives that exhibit EM effects, accompanied by extensive commentary and bibliography.
• José Ruesga, the coordinator for CdU from Seville, contributed several articles published in CdU that were not in CIFE's archives, deemed of great interest for the study of EM phenomena. These include:
• "OVNIS Y ALTERACIONES EN SISTEMAS ELECTRICOS" by R. Huerta and J. Martín.
• "RADIO & TELEVISION INTERFERENCE FROM UFOS" by Jean E. Herr.
• "FILMING AND VIDEOTAPING" by R.M.L. Baker Jr. These foreign articles were translated and incorporated.

Beyond direct collaborations, CIFE also receives offers of assistance, particularly in accessing archives and consulting with other researchers. Vicente J. Ballester Olmos of Valencia is cited as a well-known example.

CIFE acknowledges that the project has only taken its first step and emphasizes the need for more researchers to join, more documentation for in-depth analysis, and specialists from various scientific and technical disciplines to provide expertise.

CIFE expresses its commitment to contributing all its resources, however limited, to enable Spanish researchers to produce scientific work of respectable international standing. They recognize that some colleagues are already working individually but stress that collective efforts will be far more fruitful.

An urgent call is made for meetings among project participants to organize the division of tasks, establish commissions, and create new archives. CIFE reiterates its call for concrete actions and achievements.

Until sufficient information is gathered to develop reliable statistics and detailed case studies that allow experts to formulate initial hypotheses, CIFE pledges to continue its efforts in soliciting collaboration.

CIFE concludes by expressing hope for responses and offering cooperation to those who require it. The communication is signed by Joaquín Abenza Moreno, President of CIFE, with CIFE's address provided as Apartado postal 94, 30600 Archena (Murcia).

Case Study: The Buya Incident (1976)

This section delves into a specific case, "BUYA : !QUE VIENE EL 'COCO'!" (Buya: The 'Bogeyman' is Coming!), which has two main objectives: to present the results of an investigation into a supposed Type-I observation (humanoids) in the Buya neighborhood of Bilbao in 1976, and to offer commentary related to this and similar events to assess the current state of the discipline studying unidentified flying objects.

Antecedents

The incident was first reported in the Bilbao press on August 4, 1976, by the newspaper "LA GACETA DEL NORTE." The article, titled "DOS EXTRATERRESTRES SE LE APARECIERON A UN NIÑO EN BILBAO" (Two Extraterrestrials Appeared to a Child in Bilbao), was written by Kepa Bordegaray. It detailed how a ten-year-old boy, Lorenzo Alvarez Vázquez, claimed to have witnessed two strange beings on the night of Sunday, August 1, 1976, while returning home to the Buya neighborhood.

Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos provided this article to CIFE for investigation, given their geographical proximity. The investigation took place on April 20, 1985, when researchers traveled to Buya to interview the witness. However, the witness's mother refused permission, and Lorenzo himself claimed not to remember the event or wish to discuss it. Consequently, the investigators interviewed neighbors, gathering useful information that, combined with their own assessments, led to a plausible explanation documented in a working report, which forms the basis of this article.

The Incident

Based on the journalistic account and on-site data, the supposed "apparition" is summarized as follows:

On Sunday, August 1, 1976, at 11:00 p.m., ten-year-old Lorenzo Alvarez Vázquez witnessed two humanoid beings as he returned home in Buya. The beings were described as short, between 1.20 and 1.30 meters tall. One was seated on a motorcycle, while the other hid behind a lamppost. Lorenzo observed them closely for a few minutes, noting their unusual features: green eyes and noses, and silver tunics. The beings remained still for five minutes, then momentarily focused a light on Lorenzo. Frightened, Lorenzo ran to a neighbor's house for help. Two neighbors accompanied him back with a compressed air rifle. At the location, they observed nothing unusual, though Lorenzo felt one of the beings gestured as if to point the weapon before hiding behind bushes. Lorenzo exhibited nervousness and nightmares in the following days, behaving unusually, which neighbors attributed to seeing "something strange" but did not give much importance to.

Additional details about Buya are provided: it's a peripheral neighborhood of Bilbao, about 3 km away, with a population of under a thousand, characterized by its hilly terrain and predominantly immigrant population.

Detailed Analysis

The inability to conduct a direct interview with the witness forces speculation about the nature of the observed phenomenon. The analysis examines the "dark points" of the narrative:

• Witness's Age and Personality: Lorenzo was ten years old. Without knowing his personality, psychology, or aptitudes, it's difficult to assess his reliability. However, his young age suggests he might have been impressionable, especially given the circumstances.
• Darkness and Lack of References: The event occurred at night, a time when visual stimuli can be easily confused due to the absence of clear references. Darkness is identified as a primary conditioning factor.
• Familiar Environment: The proximity of the event to Lorenzo's home, a familiar place, might have intensified his reaction to an unusual occurrence, especially since he was alone.
• Witness's Reaction: The sudden fear and flight for help are considered a natural reaction to a startling event, especially for a child.

The analysis scrutinizes the press report's claims:

• Serene Posture: The beings' passive posture (one hiding, the other on a motorcycle) is noted.
• Height Estimation: Despite the street's incline, Lorenzo estimated their height as comparable to or less than his own (1.30m), which contradicts the visual effect that tends to exaggerate dimensions.
• Unusual Features: The description of "tremendously shocking" features (green eyes and noses, silver tunics) is highlighted.
• Duration and Light: The five-minute observation and the momentary light are noted. Lorenzo's feeling of being drawn towards the beings is also mentioned.

The report emphasizes that the witness's description is not corroborated and accepting it literally would mean validating personal, subjective impressions that might have been embellished by the journalist.

Two main points of strangeness are identified:

1. The hidden nocturnal activity of the beings: What were they doing there?
2. Their apparent monstrosity: The strange morphology suggests an uncertain origin.

While these questions are linked to the beings' nature, the event itself offers no objective validity. There is no proof that it occurred exactly as Lorenzo described. The quality of UFO information depends on the circumstances of the sighting and the witness's nature. Therefore, there is reason to doubt (though not reject) the testimony of a child who believed he saw strange beings in the dark.

Considering the inexactness of certain details in Lorenzo's account (duration, the being remaining until help arrived, the description of the beings' posture and features), the investigators suggest that the true event, while possibly real, was subjectively and unconsciously embellished by the witness, leading to its extraordinary classification.

Conclusions

The investigators found no indication to doubt the stimulus that caused Lorenzo's misinterpretation but do question the testimonial experience itself. A combination of factors likely led to an otherwise normal event becoming surprisingly implausible. The experience is interpreted as a simple occurrence, but the inability to conduct a proper investigation limits the analysis of cause-and-effect relationships.

The most plausible explanation is a confusion or misinterpretation of an intelligible stimulus under different conditions. Therefore, this case is proposed to be classified as "PROBABLE CONFUSIÓN" (Probable Misinterpretation) in the NELIB (Catalog of Negative Reports in the Iberian Peninsula).

Final Commentary: Corolario

This section discusses the journalistic treatment of the news. In the mid-1970s, sensationalist and commercial articles were common in "La Gaceta del Norte." "Extraterrestrial ship sightings" were frequently reported with large headlines, and survey reports of sightings appeared regularly. This activity, characterized by insulting publicity, was carried out by known reporters and their "disciples," who adopted a "clear and irrational tone." The article about the Buya incident is presented as a prime example. The journalist's title and commentary are criticized for being gratuitous and sensationalist, suggesting Vizcaya was a frequent landing site for extraterrestrials.

The author questions the motivation behind such reporting, suggesting it was driven by sales and reader engagement, creating a cycle of extraordinary narratives leading to increased sales and more stories. This is described as a sociological process aimed at profit and popularity.

Returning to the Buya case, the author adopts a skeptical perspective, stripping away the journalist's embellishments. Several questions arise:

• What does the Buya event have to do with the UFO phenomenon?
• What are we trying to study?
• Are we falling into the same error as the journalists, labeling everything mysterious as a UFO?
• Are we moving away from the original subject matter?
• Are we substituting pseudoscience for science, faith for method, irrationality for pragmatism?

The author questions the sudden trend of seriously considering abduction cases as "raw material" for "investigation." They also question the effort to collect cases like Buya and group them with similar incidents from popular media, often signed by individuals of dubious credibility. The validity of statistical studies based on erroneous information, press clippings, and unconfirmed news is also challenged.

The article concludes by asserting that the study of unknown flying objects is still in the data collection phase. Its objective should be to analyze UFO cases based on scientific methods, focusing on obtaining real knowledge about the phenomenon. Only then can it be considered a "protocience." Currently, it is described as being halfway between religion (faith) and pseudoscience (irrationality). Ufology can only move beyond being an "-ism" to become a "-logy" by overcoming prejudices, discarding absurd hypotheses, and working soberly, methodically, and scientifically.

The article is attributed to Luis Alfonso Gámez Domínguez, Luis Miguel Ortega Gil, and Fco. Javier Pereda Suberbiola, members of the collective ARIFO, dated Bilbao, December 23, 1985.

Notes

Several notes are provided, referencing other publications and personal communications that support the information presented in the article, including details about the Buya case and related research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing research project "Proyecto EM" by CIFE, the importance of scientific methodology in ufology, and a critical examination of sensationalist media reporting on UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rigorous, scientific investigation, advocating for collaboration and caution against premature conclusions or uncritical acceptance of anecdotal evidence. There is a strong emphasis on distinguishing between genuine scientific inquiry and pseudoscience or mere sensationalism.

Title: CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA
Issue: VI (Volume VI)
Date: December 1986
Publisher: UNICAT Project
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of "CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA" features several articles focusing on the analysis of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) cases, with a significant emphasis on the human factor, psychological interpretations, and conventional explanations.

Articles and Content

UFO PRESS SIGUE EN LA BRECHA This section announces the continuation of the "UFO PRESS" magazine, which had previously disappeared. It highlights that the magazine has been relaunched with a new presentation and format. It also lists several individuals who are coordinating efforts to distribute the magazine to interested Spanish readers, including Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos, Fernandez Peris, Luis Gonzalez, Ciòve, Rihera, Pedro Ardon (CEI), and Luis A. Gamez. The goal is to keep Ufology distinct and evolving.

GUEJAR SIERRA: una critica (Guejar Sierra: A Critique) Authored by Dr. Willy Smith of the UNICAT Project, this article critically analyzes a single-witness UAP case from Guejar Sierra, Spain (case number 791110). The author notes the case's moderate strangeness and doubts the circumstantial evidence, focusing on potential conventional explanations.

Abstract: The analysis of a single-witness case with moderate strangeness and dubious circumstantial evidence, emphasizing the possibility of conventional explanations.

Introduction: The case of Guejar Sierra was selected for inclusion in UNICAT due to its high credibility index (36%), despite being a single-witness event. The author notes a discrepancy between the reported duration of the incident (3-5 seconds) and the amount of information narrated, which UNICAT experience suggests might indicate a misinterpretation.

Case Summary: A bus traveling towards Granada at night, with only two passengers and the driver, encountered an object that descended rapidly at a 60-degree angle and hovered over an electrical post for approximately 3 seconds before moving away at high speed. The total duration was no more than 5 seconds. The object was described by the driver as a "bowl upside down on a plate."

Object Description: The object was grey and metallic, like "a sheet of zinc," emitting white luminosity bright enough to illuminate the post. It had two small lights, one violet and one orange. The witness estimated its dimensions as 3 meters in diameter and 2 meters in height, with the lights located on the dome. During the 3 seconds it was visible, the object performed three pendulum-like swings. The driver also noted a temporary loss of engine power and dimming of the headlights.

Discussion: The brief duration of the sighting is not statistically unusual for UNICAT cases. However, the detailed description provided by the witness, especially considering the report was made 5 years later, is noteworthy. The case was also investigated by associates of J. J. Benitez and appeared in his book "INCIDENTE EN MANISES" (1980), with some discrepancies noted. The author questions whether the witness may have embellished the memory over time.

The possibility of the incident being caused by ball lightning is discussed and dismissed. The object's material aspect and metallic color contrast with the typically luminous and colored nature of ball lightning. Furthermore, ball lightning usually occurs during electrical storms, which were absent on the night of the incident; the sky was clear.

The article explores the loss of vehicle power, attributing it to a potential electromagnetic effect from the UAP. However, the author expresses doubt, especially since the bus was a Diesel model, and electromagnetic effects are more commonly associated with internal combustion engines. The brief duration of the power loss (3 seconds) could also be explained by a momentary distraction of the driver.

The origin of the luminosity is also examined. While the investigators stated it was unclear, it's logical to assume it came from the object itself, illuminating the post. The witness described the luminosity as homogeneous and metallic grey.

Proposed Conventional Explanation: The author suggests a conventional explanation involving a defect in the electrical power line. The line was supplying power to Guejar Sierra, likely carrying at least 440 volts. The incident occurred as the bus exited a curve, and it's possible a malfunction in the electrical line caused an intermittent luminous flash. This flash, originating from a point above the post, could have illuminated the steep mountainside behind it. If there was a rocky formation or dense vegetation there, the driver might have perceived it as an object, especially given the angle of vision (60 degrees above the horizontal) and the brief duration of the flash. The perceived oscillation of the object could be due to the changing perspective and the stroboscopic effect.

Conclusions: The proposed explanation, based on conventional terms, accounts for all details of the incident, including the witness's perception of the object's movement and the temporary effect on the vehicle's systems. The author concludes that while not definitively proving a conventional cause, it offers a plausible alternative to a UAP explanation.

EXAMINANDO LOS CASOS OVI - El factor Humano (y VI) (Examining UAP Cases - The Human Factor (Part VI)) Authored by Paolo Toselli from Italy, this article delves into the psychological and symbolic aspects of UAP experiences.

Conclusion: The author posits that many components of what he defines as the "latent UAP image" have a considerable symbolic content. This implies that a person may read specific "UAP models" into a case because this "UAP image" is already present in their mind before the encounter.

Influence of Pre-existing Beliefs: Citing researcher Bertrand Meheust, Toselli notes that much of UAP phenomenology was described in novels published before World War II. This suggests that the staging of UAP events may correspond to deeply ingrained symbols in the human unconscious. Therefore, witness descriptions might be more influenced by their conscious and unconscious memories and interpretations than by the actual observed phenomena.

Underestimation of Witness Capabilities: The author criticizes ufologists for systematically underestimating witnesses' capacity for "invention" and the possibility of projecting unconscious content.

Summary and Conclusions: The article emphasizes the crucial role of the human witness. UAP reports are conditioned by numerous factors affecting observation and communication, which are difficult to quantify. UAP cases serve as excellent "standard samples" for studying how individuals perceive, remember, and communicate events. The author poses the question: "Why and how did they occur?"

Conscious and Unconscious Processes: The work explores conscious and unconscious processes that lead individuals to perceive specific "UAP models" in a case. Factors like the witness's psychological and physiological state, mental predisposition, environmental context, and other concepts are applied to understand how the "latent UAP image" emerges into conscious awareness.

Internal and External Factors: A UAP experience arises from a specific internal and external situation, often involving individuals already prone to such experiences. Each particular experience results from a confluence of psychophysiological, physical, and sociological factors that generate a level of transposition, confusion, projective transformation, or projective elaboration.

Subjectivity and Interpretation: The outcome is largely dependent on the subject's idiosyncrasies, logical condensations of language, and transfers. This is likened to a "ufological transposition" of a stimulus, similar to inkblot tests like the Rorschach. The initial stimulus merely provides an opportunity for the symptom (the phenomenon) to manifest.

Normalcy of the Process: The author suggests that given the thousands of UAP cases, this process appears quite normal, perhaps too normal, implying it might not be limited solely to the UAP phenomenon.

CENTELLAS (II) (Sprites (Part II)) Authored by Luis Ruiz Noguez from Mexico, this article continues the discussion on sprites, focusing on their physical characteristics and behaviors.

Color and Temperature: The article provides approximate temperatures for yellow (5800 A), red (6300 A), and white (10000 A) sprites, noting that these may not always follow Planck's law, as other mechanisms like bioluminescence or chemiluminescence could be involved.

Sound: There is a contradiction regarding sound. Some authors report sprites disappearing with an explosion, while others describe them as silent. Rayle calculates that only 25% of observers report sound, attributing this to distance. Sprites are said to produce a buzzing sound similar to bees.

Movements: Various types of movements are described: cloud-to-cloud, cloud-to-ground, ground-to-cloud, horizontal trajectories near or on the ground, spiral and random trajectories, and stationary positions. Some authors suggest wind effects, but others report stationary or slow-moving sprites even in windy conditions. Rapid rotation of spheres is contrasted with their translational speed, which can range from 2 to over 100 kilometers per hour.

Duration: The average lifespan of sprites is 5 to 10 seconds, though some reports mention durations of up to 80 seconds, 9 minutes, or 15 minutes. Longer-lasting sprites are associated with stationary phenomena and blue or blue-black colors.

Decay: Sprites have two decay modes: explosive and silent. Explosive decay is more frequent, especially for red and yellow sprites. Witnesses sometimes report a color change before explosion. The surrounding area is usually not damaged, suggesting implosion. Silent decay involves a decrease in brightness and diameter.

Residues: A small percentage of observers mention residues after explosion, such as smoke, mist-like substances, tar, or soot. "Virgin's hair"-like residues that disappear quickly have also been found.

Density: While no exact measurement exists, descending movements suggest higher density than air, while ascending movements suggest lower density. This does not imply they have the same composition as air.

Radiation: Some theories propose a nuclear explanation involving reactions with oxygen and nitrogen isotopes, producing particles and gamma rays with energies of approximately 0.5 MeV. This could generate significant radiation levels at close distances. The luminous efficiency of sprites is also discussed, requiring thousands of watts for a bright appearance in daylight.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical analysis of UAP cases, emphasizing the importance of the human factor, witness psychology, and the potential for conventional explanations. The magazine appears to advocate for a rigorous and scientific approach to Ufology, distinguishing it from sensationalism. There is a clear stance against accepting UAP reports at face value without thorough investigation and consideration of alternative explanations. The publication also seems to aim at providing a platform for researchers and enthusiasts to share their findings and perspectives, as evidenced by the continuation of "UFO PRESS" and the call for reader contributions.

General Interest Section: This section provides information on ordering back issues of "CdU" (Cuadernos de Ufologia), noting that most numbers are sold out but can be reproduced for a fee. It also announces plans for special editions on specific topics: the Case of Alegria de Alava and a debate on abductions, inviting interested parties to contact the editorial office. Suggestions for other monographic topics are also welcomed.

This issue of "Phenomena" (Volume 1, Issue 16, dated October 1988) is a Spanish-language publication from CEI, focusing on UFOs and related phenomena. The main cover headline announces articles on "Abductions, Deadly Triangles, and Manichaeism." The issue delves into the scientific and historical aspects of ball lightning, its potential connection to UFOs, and presents a catalogue of Spanish UFO cases.

Ball Lightning: Physics and Theories

The article begins by discussing the luminous efficiency and persistent electroluminescence of ball lightning, suggesting that electroluminescent air is a likely component. Experiments indicate that an input power of several hundred watts could maintain observable brilliance beyond its normal lifespan of 0.5 to 1 second. The power required to sustain the metastable excitation is estimated to be between 1 and 2 KV/cm, with atmospheric field decay potentially explaining its dynamic behavior.

A significant portion is dedicated to the magnetic field aspect of ball lightning, referencing a 1811 account where a sacristan could not ring church bells due to its presence. Calculations based on this incident suggest a magnetic field of at least 150 G was produced. The article models the bell as a rotating disk in a magnetic field, generating an electrical potential (V) given by the formula V = (NHA) x 10^-8, where N is angular velocity, A is disk area, and H is magnetic field strength in Gauss. Energy dissipated as electrical current is calculated as E = 2v²/R (Watt-sec), with a factor of 2 included for disk rotation.

Further calculations by Blair estimate the energy required for bell ringing to be 100 W-sec, assuming a 10 kg force. Using a bell diameter of 70 cm, a resistance of 3.5 x 10^-6 ohms, and bronze resistivity of 18 x 10^-6 ohm-cm, the magnetic field is calculated to be approximately 150 Gauss. The article notes this is an approximation, not accounting for parasitic currents or the bell's actual shape.

Barry's calculation for the total energy of ball lightning is presented as E = ∫f(r) 4πr² dr, where f(r) is the radial energy density distribution. If uniform, E = f(r)V, where V is the sphere's volume. The energy distribution can be defined by E/V = cte.

A historical case from the Daily Mail (October 3, 1936) describes a ball lightning that cut a telephone wire, burned a window frame, and boiled 4 gallons of water. Goodlet estimated the ball lightning's diameter at 15 cm. Calculations for heating water from 20°C to 90°C, considering 18 liters and the specific heat of water, yield an energy requirement of 1.26 x 10^6 J. If the ball lightning had a 15 cm diameter, its volume was 1767 cc, resulting in an energy density of 170 J/cc. This is slightly less than required for water evaporation (2257.1 J/cc for 454 cc evaporated).

The energy density of ball lightning is reported to vary from 2 x 10^-3 J/cc to 2.4 x 10^7 J/cc, suggesting multiple phenomena might be involved.

Ball Lightning vs. UFOs

Barry notes that ball lightning has been confused with celestial objects like the Moon, meteors, and St. Elmo's fire. Several authors have linked ball lightning to UFOs, including Shapiro, Paw-U, Mankin, Callahan, Benedicks, Klass, López, Ruiz, Makarov, Bergier, Altschuler, and McCampbell.

German writer Freder van Holk suggests UFOs might be impact points of directed wave beams reflecting off the ionosphere, explaining their rapid movement and luminosity due to ionized gases. McCampbell posits that the similarities between ball lightning and UFOs lead to their confusion in UFO literature.

According to Makarov, many observed UFOs are results of ball lightning. Felix Ziegel suggests UFOs could be stratospheric plasmas formed by ionized particles from Earth's crust. Other authors, like Singer and Ritchie, consider them secret Soviet weapons.

Dolbear reported deaths caused by ball lightning, and Cerrillo discussed cases of electrocutions in Mexico. The oldest known death attributed to ball lightning was Dr. G. W. Richman in 1752. Numerous authors have reported damage to objects, and even aircraft collisions with ball lightning. Geddes and McIntosch studied window damage, while López investigated fires caused by them.

Despite causing damage, ball lightning has also transported fragile objects like mirrors and caused unusual effects such as public nudity and burning pubic hair without other harm.

It is estimated that ball lightning occurs as frequently as normal lightning, with about 10^7 events per day globally. Approximately 5% of the world's population has observed them. Studies by McNally and Rayle support their existence, with positive responses from AEC and NASA personnel.

Rayle's research revealed a surprising similarity in the frequency of ball lightning and ordinary lightning sightings. About 44% of those reporting ball lightning also reported physical traces of lightning, suggesting they often occur near lightning strike points. However, ball lightning has also been observed independently of thunderstorms, during volcanic eruptions, windstorms, tornadoes, and cyclones.

Anderson and others noted intense electrical fields in volcanic clouds. Freier found strong electrical fields from dust particle friction. Funder also reported intense electrical fields from similar causes.

Atmospheric conditions for ball lightning include around 20°C temperature and near 100% humidity. They occur more frequently in high-altitude areas and primarily between July and August. Over 100 photographs of ball lightning and rosary-like lightning exist.

Hundreds of theories attempt to explain ball lightning, grouped by Singer into 13 categories, including agglomerative, Leyden jar, chemical, nuclear, dust models, ionic-molecular, vortex, electric discharge, luminous spheres, plasma, plasmoids, and natural electromagnetic radiation.

Hypotheses of hallucinations, optical illusions, and positive afterimages (phosphenes) have also been proposed. Humphreys and Schonland suggest they are optical illusions, while Szpor, Trowbridge, and Argyle believe they are effects of intense luminosity. Argyle, citing Rayle, suggests ball lightning might be phosphenes produced by lightning flashes, explaining reports of them passing through walls.

Spanish UFO Cases Catalogue

The latter part of the issue presents a provisional catalogue of Spanish UFO cases with official intervention, compiled by Joan Plana Crivillén of CEI. This catalogue aims to provide an approximation of the material contained in "RESERVED MATTER" files held by Spanish authorities.

The author invites collaboration to critically analyze these cases and expand the catalogue. The introduction explains a coding system used to categorize cases based on official intervention (official intervention, doubtful/negative with official intervention, possible official intervention, doubtful/negative with possible official intervention).

The catalogue lists numerous sightings with dates, times, locations (province and zone), and codifications such as "Cohete prueb" (rocket test), "Globo sonda" (sounding balloon), "Rayo en bola" (ball lightning), "Submarinista" (submarinist), "Venus/EA", "Caida de ray" (lightning fall), "Cohete Tiber", "Defecto de f" (defect of f), "Fraude/EA", "Misil SLEM/E", "Meteoro/GC", and "Fotos dudosa" (doubtful photos).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly suggests a connection between ball lightning and UFO phenomena, presenting scientific theories and historical accounts to support this link. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, encouraging critical analysis and collaboration among researchers. The inclusion of a detailed catalogue of Spanish UFO cases with official involvement highlights a focus on documented evidence and official records within the ufological community.

This issue of Revista UFO presents a comprehensive catalog of unexplained aerial phenomena (UAP) sightings and related incidents, primarily focusing on observations made in Spain and Portugal. The catalog spans a significant period, from 1947 to 1984, detailing specific dates, times, locations, and types of observations.

Catalog of Sightings

The main body of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed listing of reported UAP events. Each entry includes:

• Date and Time: Precise or approximate dates and times of the observation.
• Location: Geographic details including provinces, specific towns, or regions.
• Zone/Description: Further context about the location, such as proximity to airfields, military bases, or geographical features.
• Coding: A series of codes (e.g., OA, LN, DD, EC1, EC2, DR, etc.) that classify the nature of the sighting, such as lights, discs, radar contacts, or close encounters, and whether there were associated effects or beings.

Notable locations mentioned include the Gulf of Vizcaya, Villafría (Burgos), the Mediterranean Sea near Formentera, Granada, Badajoz, Portalegre (Portugal), Tamos (Santander), Palma de Mallorca, Tarragona, Reus, Nuez (Zamora), El Aaiún (Sahara), Tenerife, and various points across Spain.

Official Intervention Bodies

The magazine also clarifies the roles of official intervention bodies, including:

• EA: Ejército del Aire (Air Force)
• ET: Ejército de Tierra (Army)
• FN: Fuerzas Navales / Armada (Navy / Armada)
• GC: Guardia Civil (Civil Guard)

Abbreviations and Codes

To facilitate understanding of the catalog entries, the issue provides extensive keys for abbreviations and codes:

• Horario (Time of Day): MD (Madrugada - Dawn), TA (Tarde - Afternoon), DD (De día - Daytime), MA (Mañana - Morning), AN (Anochecer - Dusk), DN (De noche - Night).
• Codificación de las Observaciones (Observation Coding): This section explains codes like LN (Nocturnal lights), DD (Discs or objects seen during the day), EC1 (Close encounter without security effects), EC2 (Close encounter with security effects), EC3 (Close encounter with presence of associated beings), DR (Radar detection without simultaneous visual capture), OA (Observation from an aircraft in flight), OT (Observation from the ground), ON (Observation from ships or submarines), and IAM (Intervention in cases involving military aircraft).
• Cuerpos de Intervención Oficial (Official Intervention Bodies): As listed above.
• Siglas y Abreviaturas Varias (Various Acronyms and Abbreviations): Includes terms like Punto aéreo (Aerial point), Awy (Airway), EVA (Air Surveillance Squadron), and SLBM (Submarine-launched ballistic missile).

A crucial note explains that a period (.) after a date indicates that the date is approximate, with the exact day or month not precisely known.

Doubtful and Negative Cases

A separate section, "Casos Dudosos y Negativos con Posible Intervención" (Doubtful and Negative Cases with Possible Intervention), lists incidents that were either deemed less credible or had potential conventional explanations. These are categorized with codes such as 'Motocicleta' (Motorcycle), 'Globo sonda' (Weather balloon), 'Probable fraude' (Probable fraud), 'Caída de rayo' (Lightning strike), 'Error Luna-n' (Moon error), 'Bólido/EA' (Bolide/EA), 'Psicológica' (Psychological), 'Venus/EA' (Venus/EA), 'Fraude/EA' (Fraud/EA), 'Dudoso/EA' (Doubtful/EA), and 'Meteoro/EA' (Meteor/EA). These entries also provide dates, locations, and provinces.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the systematic documentation and classification of UAP sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and cataloging, providing detailed information and analytical tools (codes, abbreviations) for researchers and enthusiasts. The inclusion of 'doubtful' cases suggests an effort to differentiate between genuine unexplained phenomena and misidentifications or hoaxes. The magazine aims to be a reference resource for UAP data within its geographical and temporal scope.