Anomalia - 2a Epoca - No 01 - 2002

Magazine Overview

Title: Anomalía
Issue: 1-II época
Volume/Year: 2002
Publisher: Fundación Anomalía
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of Anomalía magazine, dated 2002, serves as a comprehensive introduction to the foundation and its team. It details the Patronato (Board of Trustees), the Equipo @nomalía (Team), and the Consejo Editorial (Editorial Board), listing key individuals and their roles within the organization. The magazine also outlines sections for collaboration, awards and scholarships, and publications.

Key Sections and Content

Patronato de la Fundación Anomalía

The Patronato section lists the governing body of the foundation, including José Ruesga Montiel as President and director of @nomalía, Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos as Vicepresident 1º and Director of Investigations, Julio Arcas Gilardi as Vicepresident 2º and Director of Publications, Matilde González García as Treasurer, and various Vocals (board members) responsible for areas such as databases, legal advice, translators, and external relations. Joaquín Díaz Rodríguez and Martí Flò García are listed as Adjuntos (assistants).

Equipo @nomalía

The Equipo @nomalía section details the core team responsible for the magazine's production. José Ruesga Montiel is listed as Director, José Luis Ramírez Lagares as Adjunct to the direction, Ricardo Campo Pérez as Editor-in-Chief, Antonio Petit Gancedo for Documentation, Julio Arcas Gilardi for graphic coordination, and Matías Morey Ripoll for graphic design. The 'Maquetación' (layout) is credited to José Ruesga Montiel and José Luis Ramírez Lagares.

Consejo Editorial

The Editorial Council comprises Julio Arcas Gilardi (Santander), Ricardo Campo Pérez (Tenerife), Luis R. González Manso (Málaga), and José Ruesga Montiel (Sevilla).

Sumario (Table of Contents)

• The table of contents for this issue includes:
• Editorial
• 'El paseante de Sirio'
• 'Onda Fundación Anomalía' (By José Ruesga Montiel)
• 'Ufología en Cuba' (by neflenin)
• Interview with Matías Morey Ripoll (By José Luis Ramírez Lagares)
• 'Hipnoterapia e Investigación de abducciones' (Translated by Luis R. González Manso)
• 'El Sur' (By José Ruesga Montiel)
• 'Curioso fenómeno en el cielo argentino' (By Rubén Morales)
• 'Caso Los Alcornocales' (By Marco A. Benitez Campillo)
• 'Algunas imágenes del vídeo de Los Alcornocales' (By J. Ruesga and J.L. Ramírez)
• '¿Ovnis o misiles?: juzgue Vd. mismo.' (By Ricardo Campo)
• BIBLIOGRAFÍA (Bibliography)

Para colaborar (To Collaborate)

This section outlines how individuals can support Fundación Anomalía. The foundation aims to conduct significant activities in Ufology. Support can be provided through financial contributions, with various donation categories: 'donante iberoamericano' (minimum 18 euros/year for Iberoamerica), 'donante colaborador' (from 28 euros/year for Spain), 'donante principal' (from 56 euros/year for Spain and EU), 'donante benefactor' (from 84 euros/year), and 'socio promotor' (from 109 euros/year). These contributions offer benefits such as subscription to publications, discounts, IRPF/ISoc certificates, access to databases, and web mentions. Donations are tax-deductible up to 20% for IRPF and 10% for Corporate Tax. Further information is available on their website or via email and postal mail.

Premios y becas (Prizes and Scholarships)

• The magazine lists several awards and scholarships offered or supported by the foundation:
• Premio Internacional Zurich
• Premio Cuadernos de Ufología
• Fondo Ricardo Caruncho
• Beca Universitas

Publicaciones (Publications)

This section directs readers to the website or email for placing orders for publications.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Julio Arcas Gilardi and José Ruesga Montiel, reflects on the constant evolution of communication and expression media, particularly influenced by technological advancements. They acknowledge the challenge of adapting to these changes, especially for those over forty, but emphasize the necessity of embracing new methods. The editorial highlights the magazine's transition to new expression mediums, noting benefits such as increased scope, better color handling, agility, and space-saving features that allow for digital viewing or printing. This shift to 'cyberspace' is intended to expand reach and make the publication accessible to a wider audience, particularly those who might be deterred by the costs of traditional mail distribution. They invite comments and contributions from readers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the organization and operation of Fundación Anomalía, its team, and its various initiatives in the field of Ufology. The editorial stance is one of adaptation and embracing new technologies to disseminate information and engage with a broader audience, overcoming the limitations of traditional distribution methods and costs. There is a clear emphasis on fostering the study and understanding of unidentified aerial phenomena.

Title: El paseante de Sirio
Issue: 1
Volume: 1
Date: 2002
Publisher: Fundación Anomalía
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

Main Articles

'IT IS CRAZY THAT MAN IS ALONE' - The Vatican astronomer admits the possibility of extraterrestrial life

This article features an interview with George Coyne, the Jesuit director of the Vatican Observatory. Coyne expresses his conviction that extraterrestrial life exists, stating it would be 'crazy' to assume humanity is alone in the vast universe. He explains that his team's research has led them to this conclusion, with accumulating data suggesting the possibility of life forms different from Earth's. Coyne asserts that science stimulates faith and does not destroy it. While admitting there is no concrete scientific proof of life beyond Earth yet, he acknowledges that this possibility presents intriguing questions for believers. He notes that some sectors within the Church are hesitant to debate topics that might challenge Catholic doctrine, but insists there is no inherent conflict between biblical accounts of the cosmos and scientific theories like the Big Bang.

THE ANOMALY FOUNDATION IN PUBLIC EVENTS

This section reports on the activities of Ricardo Campo, a patron of Fundación Anomalía. Campo participated in two public events: the Interdisciplinary University Course "Science and Pseudoscience Today" at the University of La Laguna in Tenerife, and a series of conferences titled "We talk about Science on Thursdays" organized by the City Council of La Victoria de Acentejo. Campo's presentations focused on a critical view of ufology, discussing historical UFO episodes, the implantation of extraterrestrial beliefs, and Spanish ufological cases. He also presented a rational perspective on UFO sightings, using spectacular footage of meteors and missile launches to counter manipulated narratives. Other planned conferences in the series cover topics like astrology, divination, and extraterrestrial intelligence.

A GIGANTIC BOLIDE CAUSED ALARM IN GERMANY

This report details a significant celestial event on April 6, 2002, when a large, bright bolide was observed over Bavaria, Germany, around 10:20 PM. The phenomenon, described as a reddish shooting star leaving a green-blue tail, was visible across several European countries, prompting numerous calls to police. Preliminary studies by Pavel Spurny from the Ondrejov Observatory in the Czech Republic, using data from the European Fireballs Network, helped determine the bolide's trajectory. It transformed into a bolide at an altitude of 92 km and reached a magnitude of -18 at 21 km altitude, indicating immense luminosity. Unusually, it was last seen at only 15.8 km, suggesting some of its mass survived atmospheric ablation and may have reached Earth as a meteorite. A farmer's wife reportedly found a fist-sized fragment. Fundación Anomalía contacted Spurny, who confirmed that finding further fragments was difficult due to the impact area being in a high, snow-covered mountain region, though searches were planned to continue.

Onda Fundación Anomalía

This section, written by José Ruesga Montiel, provides an update on the activities of Fundación Anomalía. It highlights recent events, including the passing of two pioneers in the field, Antonio Ribera and Manuel Pedrajo. The foundation received a significant press archive from Manuel Pedrajo's family. The section also details ongoing archival work, including the organization and computerization of archives from CEI Madrid and the 1990s decade, as well as updates to the Andalcat database. The initiation of computerizing Manuel Osuna's archives is also mentioned, with his unpublished work "Hechos insólitos" being finalized in JPG format for a future CD-ROM release. Furthermore, donations to the Fotocat photographic archive are noted, bringing the total close to 3,000 records, with contributions from scholars like Roberto E. Banchs and Philip Klass.

Pinacoteca

This section mentions the increase in artworks related to the foundation's subject matter, with new acquisitions from artists such as José Ruesga Salazar, Fernando Calderón, Lluis Rizo, Y. Amamiya, and José Ruesga Montiel.

Courses and Conferences

Ricardo Campo Pérez, Director of External Relations, participated in university-level events, including the "Science and Pseudoscience Today" Interdisciplinary University Courses and the "We talk about Science on Thursdays" conferences. These events, organized by the University of La Laguna and the City Council of La Victoria de Acentejo, respectively, aim to critically examine contemporary beliefs and pseudosciences.

Publications

This section announces the publication of the third volume in the Camille Flammarion Library: "Transmutaciones" by Martin S. Kottmeyer and "La Mitopoyesis ufológica" by Stefania Genovese. Both works were co-winners of the International Zurich Prize, sponsored by Zurich Insurance Company.

UFOLOGY IN CUBA

This extensive article by Neflenin explores the history and state of ufology in Cuba. It contrasts Cuba's limited UFO-related propaganda with that of neighboring Caribbean countries, noting the scarcity of 'OVNI latría' (UFO worship). Early exposure came from US magazines in the 1950s, echoed by Cuban media. Following the 1959 Revolution, government censorship initially restricted foreign literature, favoring communist bloc publications. This led to a scarcity of pro-ufology material, with occasional foreign magazines and books appearing. The article discusses the 'fourth wave' of UFO sightings in 1962 during the Cuban Missile Crisis. It highlights Oscar Hurtado as a key Cuban proponent of UFOs in the 1960s, who, while passionate, did not conduct scientific analysis but promoted the myth, influenced by Soviet pseudoscientists. The author criticizes a 1973 Bohemia magazine article for presenting a biased view and suggesting CIA disinformation campaigns against UFOs. The article notes the influx of Soviet pseudoscientific ideas in the 1950s and 60s, including theories about extraterrestrial contact and ancient alien influences, citing examples like M. M. Agrest and Alexander Kazantsev. It also touches upon the Cuban government's explanation of luminous phenomena in the sky as rocket launches, while media sometimes labels them as UFOs, possibly to avoid making Cubans feel inferior to the US. The article mentions the discussion of UFOs at the UN in 1975 by Eric Gairy of Grenada. It details the creation of a Soviet UFO research center and the military's interest in the phenomenon. The magazine "Juventud Técnica" is noted for introducing a scientific view of UFOs in the 1980s but also promoting other pseudosciences. The article critiques Cuban media for publishing pseudoscientific ideas without critical analysis, citing examples like Daína Chaviano's works and the film "La nave de los dioses." It also discusses the lack of scientific evidence for claims about the pyramids of Egypt being extraterrestrial technology and the superficial treatment of UFOs in some Cuban books. The Voronezh incident is presented as propaganda that was later debunked by Soviet scientists. The author recounts his own efforts to publish articles against pseudosciences in the Cuban newspaper "Ahora." Despite the lack of hysterical news about UFOs compared to other countries, the article notes an increase in UFO testimonies during Cuba's economic crises, suggesting that pseudosciences often flourish during such times. The article concludes by discussing the scarcity of books on critical thinking and the prevalence of pseudosciences in Cuban libraries, contrasting this with the limited availability of scientific literature. It also touches upon the issue of Cubans attempting to leave the island via precarious sea journeys, attributing disappearances not to alien abductions but to these dangerous attempts to flee.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a critical and skeptical approach to paranormal phenomena and pseudosciences, while acknowledging and reporting on scientific findings and credible research. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between scientific evidence and unsubstantiated claims. The publication seems to advocate for rational explanations and critical thinking, particularly in the context of ufology and related topics. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting scientific literacy and debunking misinformation, as evidenced by the articles on ufology in Cuba and the critique of pseudoscientific narratives. The inclusion of news from Fundación Anomalía suggests a connection to a community interested in these topics, but the reporting within the magazine itself leans towards a skeptical viewpoint.

This issue of 'Entrevista' (Issue 1, Volume 2, dated July 6, 2018) is published by Fundación Anomalía and focuses on ufology and related phenomena. The cover features an interview with Matías Morey Ripoll, a prominent figure in the organization.

Interview with Matías Morey Ripoll

The main feature is an extensive interview with Matías Morey Ripoll, conducted by José Luis Ramírez Lagares. Morey, who holds degrees in law and works as a civil servant, is described as intelligent, discreet, and possessing a great sense of humor. He is the Director of the Thematic Dictionary of Ufology, author of CASUIB, a historian of Balearic ufology, legal advisor, and webmaster for Fundación Anomalía.

Morey explains his diverse interests, stemming from an initial fascination with astronomy and science fiction, which naturally led to an interest in UFOs. He emphasizes that the phenomenon should not be ignored and is amenable to scientific and cultural analysis. He expresses a desire for order, which makes him dislike the idea that UFOs could escape study.

Regarding Fundación Anomalía, Morey highlights the selfless dedication of its members, who sacrifice personal and professional time for a cause that often brings more difficulties than rewards. He specifically mentions Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos as a key influence in his involvement with 'Cuadernos de Ufología'.

Morey describes his experience coordinating the Thematic Dictionary of Ufology as challenging but ultimately rewarding, having taken three years to complete. He downplays awards received for the Fundación Anomalía website, stating that the greatest recognition is seeing the site cited as a primary reference for ufology, indicating their message of quality has resonated.

He reveals plans for a new, second website for Fundación Anomalía, intended for purely academic study, aiming to integrate ufology within the broader framework of contemporary culture and science. He contrasts the stress of high-level conferences with that of courtrooms, noting that while he is accustomed to public speaking due to his civil service role, unusual situations can still cause unease.

Morey expresses satisfaction in contributing to the expansion of Fundación Anomalía online and in recovering parts of the forgotten history of ufology in the Balearic Islands through articles in 'Cuadernos de Ufología' and 'Papers d'OVNIs'.

He concludes by noting the current fragmentation of the UFO phenomenon, with diverse cultural and thematic approaches making communication difficult, except among those who adopt a rationalist methodology. He praises Fundación Anomalía's role in fostering such dialogue through its email lists.

Hypnotherapy and Alien Abduction Investigation

This article, translated by Luis R. González Manso, reports on new guidelines issued by the National Council of Hypnotherapy (NCH) in the UK regarding the treatment of clients claiming alien abduction. It marks the first time a UK hypnotherapy association has published such recommendations. The guidelines emphasize treating clients with respect, using non-directive and non-suggestive regression techniques, and being aware of False Memory Syndrome. Therapists are advised to remain neutral on the existence of alien abductions. The initiative is spearheaded by psychotherapist and hypnotherapist David Howard. The full story appeared in the February issue of UFO Magazine.

El Sur

Written by José Ruesga Montiel, this piece reflects on the Andalusian character, emphasizing a focus on enjoying life and a pragmatic approach to projects. It highlights the contributions of individuals who have supported their projects with a forward-looking vision and dedication, thanking them for their ongoing support.

Curious Phenomenon in the Argentine Sky

This article by Rubén Morales details an event on April 1st where witnesses in several Argentine provinces reported seeing a strange circular cloud with a bright edge and dark center. Radio 10 and the newspaper 'La Capital' covered the sightings. An astronomer speculated it might be confusion with the Magellanic Clouds, while the Director of CONAE suggested it was an incandescent gas ball from an electrical discharge. The Commission of Ufológicas Investigations deduced it was likely related to the exhaust gases from a Soviet satellite launch. Spanish engineer Manuel Borraz and NASA expert James Oberg corroborated this explanation, with Oberg stating he expected such phenomena during clear weather. The article also references a similar event in 1980 that was investigated by CIU.

Case of Los Alcornocales 19990725ECA

Authored by Marcos A. Benítez Campillo, this report details a video recording of an unidentified object made on July 25, 1999, in the Alcornocales Natural Park. The object was described as a static, bright red luminous light, considerable in size. The observer initially thought it might be a maritime rescue flare but was puzzled by its static nature. During filming, the object disappeared. A key anomaly noted was the discrepancy between the visual observation (bright red) and the video recording (white), as well as frame-by-frame analysis revealing inconsistencies in its appearance and disappearance. The author sent copies of the video and report to various individuals and publications, including Josep Guijarro of Karma 7, Alberto Guzmán of EDENEX, and Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos of Fundación Anomalía, who initiated further investigation with Manuel Borraz and José Ruesga. The report includes an analysis of the object's estimated position relative to Gibraltar.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena, investigative approaches, and the broader implications of these topics. The editorial stance appears to favor rational, evidence-based investigation, as exemplified by the work of Fundación Anomalía and the emphasis on scientific analysis. There is also an interest in historical aspects of ufology and the psychological aspects of witness testimony, as seen in the hypnotherapy article. The publication aims to provide a platform for researchers and enthusiasts to share information and engage in constructive dialogue.

This issue of Revista Anomalia, titled "Algunas Imágenes del Vídeo de Los Alcornocales," focuses on the detailed analysis of a video recorded on July 25, 1999, by Marcos A. Benítez in the Los Alcornocales area of Spain. The article is authored by José Ruesga Montiel and José Luis Ramírez Lagares, with significant contributions from investigators Manuel Borraz and Óscar Baquero.

The Los Alcornocales Case: Initial Observations and Investigation

The video captured what appeared to be a celestial body, initially considered a possible UAP. The witness described the object as a static, illuminated circular entity. Early hypotheses suggested confusion with the Moon, but astronomical calculations by Manuel Borraz indicated that the Moon's position did not match the sighting. The witness also noted the object's bright red appearance, which was not initially visible in the video.

Analysis of the Video Footage

José Ruesga Montiel and José Luis Ramírez Lagares, along with José del Valle from the Provincial Delegation of Public Works and Transport, analyzed several frames from the video. They observed that the object displayed a slow apparent displacement, appearing static relative to a tree branch in the foreground. The object was noted to be at a high altitude, and its shape was not consistently spherical, suggesting it reflected sunlight. The reddish hue observed by the witness was hypothesized to be due to atmospheric conditions or the angle of the sun.

Ruling Out Other Explanations

Several possibilities were systematically investigated and ruled out. The Moon was excluded due to positional discrepancies. The possibility of an aircraft was considered, but the object's apparent static behavior and altitude above conventional flight paths made this unlikely. The possibility of a weather balloon was also considered, but its typical East-to-West displacement did not match the observed movement.

The Iridium Satellite Hypothesis

Óscar Baquero, a member of S.I.B., proposed the theory that the phenomenon was a reflection from an Iridium satellite. This hypothesis gained traction as Iridium satellites are known to produce bright flashes, sometimes with reddish hues due to atmospheric scattering of sunlight. Baquero's research, including the use of satellite tracking software (STSPLUS), identified a specific Iridium satellite, Iridium-17, that passed over the area at the exact time and location of the sighting on July 25, 1999.

Confirmation and Conclusion

Detailed orbital data for Iridium-17, including its altitude, inclination, and position, were provided. The data confirmed that the satellite's trajectory and visibility parameters closely matched the conditions of the observed event. The article concludes that the "avistamiento" was indeed caused by the reflection of sunlight off the Iridium-17 satellite. The authors express that this case provides valuable insight for future investigations into similar phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, employing scientific methods and data analysis to explain anomalous phenomena. The case highlights the importance of considering all possible explanations, including natural or man-made objects, before concluding a UAP sighting. The publication emphasizes the collaborative efforts of researchers and organizations like Fundación Anomalía and S.I.B. in unraveling these mysteries.

Title: Anomalía
Issue: No. 1
Volume: 2
Publication Date: March 2001
Publisher: Fundación Anomalía
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

Article: ¿OVNIS O MISILES?: JUZGUE VD. MISMO. (UFOs or Missiles?: Judge for Yourself.)

This article, authored by Ricardo Campo Pérez, delves into the long-standing debate within Spanish ufology regarding the true nature of numerous spectacular aerial observations. It posits that many phenomena, attributed by some to unknown or extraterrestrial craft, are in fact the result of missile and rocket launches by major global powers, including the United States, France, and the former Soviet Union. The article highlights that testimonies of such phenomena, linked to propulsion effects interacting with the upper atmosphere, have existed since the 1960s.

Geographical Focus

The article identifies three primary geographical areas in Spain where these phenomena have been frequently sighted: the northwest (including the Balearic Islands), the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula, and the Canary Islands.

Key Cases and Photographic Evidence

Several specific cases are detailed, with a particular emphasis on those occurring in the Canary Islands, where some of the most striking photographic evidence was captured. These include:

• February 23, 1971: A phenomenon attributed to a Tibere rocket from the Landes Test Center (CEL).
• June 12, 1974: A ballistic missile, also from CEL.
• January 21, 1976: Observations linked to launches by the National Institute of Aerospace Technique (INTA) in mainland Spain.
• March 5, 1979: A case in the Canary Islands that generated significant controversy, involving multicolor concentric circles and a luminous point that formed a gigantic bell-shaped light. Numerous photographs were taken, which ufologists sensationalistically labeled as UFOs.

The author criticizes media for allowing the debate to persist for decades, despite the availability of comparative photographic evidence of rocket launches. He points out that some investigators, like Juan José Benítez and José G. González, have allegedly misrepresented evidence by showing rockets emerging from the sea rather than at high altitude, where their combustion effects are most spectacular.

Detailed Canary Islands Observations (Missile Launch Hypothesis)

The article lists five specific Canary Islands observations that it attributes to ballistic missile launches:

• November 22, 1974: A red glow ascended rapidly and expanded circularly, observed three times.
• June 22, 1976: A light point rose from the horizon, expanding into a large hemisphere, photographed by a foreign tourist.
• November 19, 1976: A luminous point spiraled upwards, expanding to a gigantic diameter.
• March 24, 1977: A reddish object rose quickly from the sea, performed pirouettes, leaving a large glow for ten minutes.
• March 5, 1979: The most spectacular case, with multicolor concentric circles and a luminous point forming a giant bell-shaped light, extensively photographed.

Expert Endorsements and Scientific Confirmation

The article cites experts who support the ballistic missile explanation. Claude Poher, head of the Rocket Division at the French CNES, observed a similar spectacular light show over the Atlantic, confirming it was a submarine-launched rocket. Dr. D.G. King-Hele of the British Ministry of Defence identified similar phenomena as luminous vapor from rockets. Manuel Borraz's study, 'Los Gigantes de Gáldar y los avistamientos canarios', is mentioned for its detailed analysis of these cases. Furthermore, in 1999, Jonathan McDowell, an astrophysicist from Cambridge University, provided technical data for five launches that closely matched the timing of the Canary Islands observations.

Comparative Photographic Evidence

To reinforce its hypothesis, the article presents comparative photographs. It shows images from the Canary Islands incidents (June 22, 1976, and March 5, 1979) alongside images of recognized missile launches. These include:

• A luminous sphere photographed from Maspalomas (Gran Canaria) on June 22, 1976.
• Iridescent lines observed west of the Canary Islands on March 5, 1979.
• A luminous point emerging from the horizon and expanding shortly after.
• The sphere taking the shape of a giant water drop, with gases affected by wind at high altitudes.
• The "swelling" of gases forming a large bell shape.
• The phenomenon in its final phase acquiring colossal dimensions.

Additional photographs of missile launches are presented, emphasizing the identical effects produced by the successive burning of rocket stages at high altitudes, contrasting this with the misleading presentation of rockets emerging from the sea.

Examples of missile launches photographed include:

• February 3, 1998, launch from White Sands, photographed from Phoenix.
• 1997, launch from Vandenberg Air Force Base (California).
• October 28, 1987, ballistic missile launch captured by a Japanese tourist from Los Angeles (California).
• October 2, 1997, launch from Vandenberg (California), observed from Kitt Peak (Arizona).

The article concludes that the visual identity between the Canary phenomena and high-altitude ballistic missile effects is obvious, proving historical falsification by those who perpetuate unexplained mysteries.

Notes and References

The article includes a section of notes and references, citing publications such as:

• 'No eran misiles. Polémica en torno a los avistamientos OVNI de Canarias' by José G. González.
• 'Los OVNIs y la Ciencia' by Plaza y Janés.
• Monograph 1, 'Cuadernos de Ufología', Fundación Anomalía.
• Articles by M. Borraz detailing the cases of 22/6/76 and 5/3/79.
• '¡Identificados! Los OVNIS de Canarias fueron misiles Poseidón' by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos and Ricardo Campo Pérez, published in Revista de Aeronáutica y Astronáutica, March 2001.

Bibliography

A bibliography section lists several books related to UFOs and abductions, including:

• 'Abduction' (novel) by Robin Cook.
• 'Diary of an Abduction' by Angela Thompson Smith, Ph. D.
• 'Scrutate i cieli!' by Giuseppe Stilo.
• 'Out of the Shadows' by David Clarke and Andy Roberts.

Prizes and Grants

Separately, the magazine announces the PREMIO INTERNACIONAL ZURICH (Zurich International Prize), organized by Fundación Anomalía. The prize, worth 1,500 euros, is awarded for unpublished research or theoretical contributions in the field of anomalous phenomena, emphasizing rationality and scientific methodology. The bases detail submission requirements, including written works in Spanish, French, or English, with specific deadlines for 2003 and award announcements by December 31, 2003. The prize ceremony is scheduled for January 2004.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the critical examination of UFO sightings, advocating for a rational, scientific explanation rooted in known technological capabilities, specifically missile launches. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of sensationalist interpretations of unexplained phenomena, aiming to debunk persistent myths by presenting comparative evidence and expert analysis. The magazine promotes a rigorous approach to ufology, encouraging the study of anomalous phenomena through scientific methodology, as evidenced by the announcement of the Zurich International Prize.

This issue of "Premio Cuadernos de Ufología" focuses on awards, grants, and book reviews related to ufology. It details the application processes and criteria for three distinct initiatives: the "Premio Cuadernos de Ufología," the "Fondo Ricardo Caruncho," and the "Beca Universitas." Additionally, it features several book reviews that critically examine various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, its historical context, and the psychological and social factors influencing belief.

Awards and Grants

Premio Cuadernos de Ufología

The "Premio Cuadernos de Ufología" is a diploma award designed to recognize an individual or entity, either Spanish or international, that has significantly contributed to the rational and scientific study of anomalous aerial phenomena. Candidates can be nominated by research centers, collectives, or members of the "Fundación Anomalía" Patronage, though members of the Patronage are excluded from receiving the award. Applicants must submit a mémoire (up to 5 A4 pages, double-spaced) detailing the candidate's merits. Proposals were due by September 30, 2003, with the award to be decided by December 31, 2003, and presented in January 2004. Participation implies acceptance of the bases and decisions of the Patronage.

Fondo Ricardo Caruncho

This fund, established for 2003 with a total of 600 euros, offers individual grants of up to 150 euros. It is open to any Spanish citizen proposing a field research project, survey, witness interview, or analysis of an anomalous phenomenon. Applicants must submit a written proposal to the "Fundación Anomalía," "Fondo Ricardo Caruncho," including personal details, research objectives (max 10 lines), estimated costs, and the requested aid amount. The "Fundación Anomalía" will respond within one month, accepting the proposal fully or partially. Recipients must submit a detailed report, including graphical elements, within three months of receiving the grant. The foundation reserves the right to publish these reports. Any other publications about the research must acknowledge the "Fundación Anomalía's" financial support.

Beca Universitas

The "Beca Universitas" is a non-divisible grant of 900 euros awarded for the best research project within Spanish universities that addresses anomalous phenomena and related subjects from the perspective of natural or social sciences. Eligible candidates include university students (first, second, and third cycle) who have completed at least one academic year or equivalent credits, and university faculty. Members of the "Fundación Anomalía" Patronage and their relatives are excluded. Applicants must submit a mémoire (up to 15 A4 pages, double-spaced) including methodology, curriculum vitae, cost breakdown, bibliography, NIF copy, and written commitments regarding intellectual property rights and submission to the Patronage's decisions. Proposals were due by September 30, 2003, with the award decision by December 31, 2003, and announcement in January 2004. Grant disbursement will be staggered, with at least 25% paid upon announcement.

Book Reviews

"Abduction" by Robin Cook

Reviewed by Luis R. González Manso, this novel is described as a departure from Cook's usual medical thrillers, delving into the "intraterrestrial" origin of UFOs. The reviewer finds the premise absurd and the novel slow, with incoherent situations and predictable characters, failing to capture the reader's attention. The review suggests Cook should stick to his medical expertise.

"Diary of an Abduction" by Angela Thompson Smith

Also reviewed by Luis R. González Manso, this book is presented as a chronological account of the author's experiences and interest in parapsychology and abductions. Despite the subtitle suggesting a scientific analysis, the author, a former nurse and social worker who later obtained a psychology doctorate, reportedly bases her account on "dreams" rather than conscious encounters. The review notes her rapid rise in paranormal circles and her work on remote viewing. It highlights the book's value in revealing the network of abductees and the infiltration of conspiratorial thinking, but criticizes the lack of scientific rigor and the use of pseudonyms that obscure well-known figures like Robert Bigelow.

"Scrutate i cieli!" by Giuseppe Stilo

Reviewed by Ignacio Cabria García, this book is praised as an exhaustive study of the appearance of flying saucers in the written press between 1947 and 1950, particularly in Italy. Stilo, a member of the Italian UFO Study Center (CISU), meticulously documents press reports and analyzes the media's role in internationalizing the UFO phenomenon. The review discusses the speculation surrounding UFO origins, including Nazi inventions and ancient civilizations, but emphasizes the popular hypothesis of Martian origins. Stilo's analysis includes statistical data, exploring known phenomena like meteors, airplanes, and sounding balloons as potential explanations for sightings. The book is considered an essential reference for understanding the social construction of the flying saucer phenomenon in Italy and its global context in 1950.

"Out of the Shadows" by David Clarke and Andy Roberts

Reviewed by "The Observer," London, this book argues that UFOs are a product of collective imagination and Cold War paranoia, rather than extraterrestrial visitors. The authors, after consulting numerous documents, conclude that the UFO craze of the 1950s was fueled by the fear of Soviet atomic power. They suggest that early radar detections, which led to scramble flights, were likely caused by primitive radar technology. The review also reveals evidence that U.S. and British intelligence agencies considered using UFO paranoia as a psychological weapon against the Soviets. The book highlights the high-level government interest in UFOs in Britain during the Cold War, including investigations ordered by Winston Churchill and the involvement of Lord Mountbatten.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of ufology with academic research, awards, and critical analysis. The "Fundación Anomalía" appears to be a central organization promoting research and recognition in the field. The book reviews, in particular, demonstrate a critical stance, evaluating the scientific merit, methodology, and historical context of works on UFOs and alien encounters. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between anecdotal accounts and scientifically verifiable phenomena, with a particular focus on the social and psychological factors that shape beliefs about UFOs, especially in the context of historical events like the Cold War. The editorial stance seems to favor rigorous investigation and skepticism, while acknowledging the cultural significance of the UFO phenomenon.

Title: Anomalia
Issue: 1
Volume: 2
Date: 2001
Publisher: Anomalia
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

Main Article: Out of the Shadows

The article "Out of the Shadows" explores the theory that American and British governments engaged in a systematic cover-up of Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) observations. This alleged cover-up was particularly focused on incidents involving military pilots. Reports were reportedly kept secret, and military personnel were prohibited from discussing them.

However, the article presents a perspective from an individual named Clarke, who believes the primary motivation behind this policy was not to conceal evidence of extraterrestrial contact. Instead, Clarke posits that the governments' intention was to avoid admitting their inability to explain the widespread public hysteria that had been generated around the phenomenon of flying saucers.

The narrative shifts to a more recent revelation, noting that "The Observer" newspaper reported in 2001 that the specific military intelligence unit that had been established to investigate UFO reports had been entirely dissolved. This suggests a potential shift in official attitudes or a winding down of dedicated investigations into the subject.

Cover Description

The cover features the headline "Out of the Shadows" and an image of three stylized books, two red and one white, stacked on top of each other.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue appears to focus on UFO phenomena, government secrecy, and conspiracy theories. The editorial stance, as suggested by the article's content, leans towards exploring alternative explanations for government actions regarding UFOs, such as managing public perception and hysteria, rather than necessarily confirming extraterrestrial involvement. The dissolution of military investigation units is presented as a significant development in the history of UFO research.