Anomalia - 2a Epoca - No 12 - 2011

Magazine Overview

This document presents issue number 12 of the magazine @nomalía, published in 2011. The magazine is associated with Fundación Íkaros and is noted as potentially being its final issue, coinciding with its 12th anniversary. The content covers a range of topics related to ufology, skepticism, and related phenomena.

Editorial and Key Articles

The Editorial is written by José Ruesga Montiel, who also contributes an article titled 'Imagen en Cafarnaum, Israel, 1980'. This article discusses a case that exemplifies how individuals may be guided by questionable motives. Montiel's editorial also touches upon the nature of evidence and belief, stating, "An image is worth a thousand words, if it can truly be believed. But no image is worth more than the word of the one who invokes it, especially when all else fails."

Francesco Marciliano shares his insights in 'Seis cosas que aprendí viendo "Alienígenas"' (Six things I learned watching "Aliens").

Matías Morey Ripoll is a significant contributor, with articles such as 'Dossier: 12 años de @nomalía' (Dossier: 12 years of @nomalía), which reflects on the magazine's history. He also contributes 'Índice de artículos', 'Índice de materias', 'Índice de autores', 'Fundación Íkaros, hasta la vista', 'Crónicas', 'Escépticos en ETB' (Skeptics on ETB), and '¿Estamos solos?' (Are we alone?).

Other notable articles include '¿Qué fue de los aerolitos?' (What happened to the aerolites?) by Matías Morey Ripoll, 'El paseante de Sirio' (The Walker of Sirius) by AA.VV., 'Destino: Chris Aubeck' by Matías Morey Ripoll, 'Onda Fundación Íkaros' by José Ruesga Montiel, 'E.T., según Katy Perry' (E.T., according to Katy Perry) by Matías Morey Ripoll, and 'Voyager: una historia de amor' (Voyager: a love story) by Tony Phillips.

Magazine Structure and Staff

The magazine's structure includes sections for Patronato, Equipo @nomalía, Consejo editorial, and Publicaciones. The Patronato of Fundación Íkaros lists José Ruesga Montiel as President, Julio Arcas Gilardi as Vicepresident and Director of Publications, and Matías Morey Ripoll, Pedro Ojalvo González, and Joaquín Díaz Rodríguez as Vocals and Secretary, respectively.

The Equipo @nomalía (Team @nomalía) includes José Ruesga Montiel as Director, José Luis Ramírez Lagares as Adjunto a dirección, Antonio Petit Gancedo for Documentación, Julio Arcas Gilardi for Coordinación gráfica, and Matías Morey Ripoll for Diseño gráfico y maquetación.

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

Publications

The magazine highlights two key publications:

• Anuario CdU: Described as the official publication of Fundación Íkaros, it is an annual magazine of approximately 250 pages featuring extensive articles and dossiers by prominent Spanish and foreign authors. It is distributed free to donors of Fundación Íkaros but can also be purchased separately.
• @nomalía: This is presented as the first digital publication on ufology in Spain, released semi-annually. It covers the most current aspects of the OVNI phenomenon. Thanks to its CD ROM format, it includes multimedia content with graphic and sound documents.

Themes and Stance

The magazine appears to cover a broad spectrum of ufology and related topics, from specific case studies like the one in Cafarnaum to broader discussions on skepticism and the history of phenomena. The mention of "Escépticos en ETB" suggests an engagement with skeptical viewpoints. The overall tone, particularly in the editorial, emphasizes critical thinking and the importance of reliable information, even when dealing with extraordinary claims. The potential cessation of the magazine after 12 years is a significant point, marking the end of an era for this publication in the Spanish ufology scene.

This issue of the magazine @nomalía, dated Number 12, 2011, features a cover story titled 'Imagen en Cafarnaum, Israel, 1980' (Image in Capernaum, Israel, 1980). The publication is from Fundación Íkaros and is in Spanish.

Article: Imagen en Cafarnaum, Israel, 1980

The article, written by José Ruesga Montiel, critically examines a photograph taken in Cafarnaum, Israel, in 1980. The author expresses his reluctance to engage with the work of journalist J.J. Benítez, whom he accuses of using low-quality rhetoric and insults against those who disagree with his UFOlogy postulates. Ruesga Montiel states he is responding not because he is preoccupied with Benítez, but because he dislikes the idea that people might believe Benítez's partial account of the event is the truth.

The controversy stems from Benítez's reproduction of a photograph from the case in his book 'Mis ovnis favoritos' (My Favorite UFOs), which Ruesga Montiel claims was never authorized. The photograph in question was taken by a colleague, María Isabel Infantes, on September 7 or 8, 1980, near the ruins of ancient Capernaum on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. While taking several photos, Infantes did not observe anything unusual.

Upon returning to Seville, Infantes showed the photos to colleagues. One photo revealed a strange column of intense luminosity not present in other shots. Initially, the impression was that it was a reflection inside the autocar where the photo was taken. However, Infantes insisted they had exited the vehicle, and no glass was between her and the trees visible in the photo.

To clarify, the negative was given to professional photographer Jesús Pinillos. He concluded that it was not a reflection but a real luminous column that had practically burned the emulsion. However, he noted it was a development anomaly on the negative. Pinillos returned the negative, which had been cut from the roll, damaged by a clip, leaving marks not present in the initial enlarged copy. He apologized for the carelessness.

Further analysis was conducted by sending the negative to Agfa-Gevaert, S.A. in Seville. Their report, dated February 6, 1981, signed by D. Francisco García Pérez, stated that the photo was not taken through any glass or object obstructing the lens. They attributed the shadows resembling buildings in the sky to a final wash and deficient drying process during development. The report concluded with an inability to determine the causes of the images and recommended computerized analysis.

In a personal letter to Benítez on February 8, 1981, Ruesga Montiel shared these findings, including the possibility of a divine manifestation. He noted the strangeness of the image and the specialists' insistence that it wasn't taken through glass. The conclusion was that the negative had not been manipulated or faked.

In 1982, Jiménez del Oso requested collaboration for a television series, 'La Puerta del Misterio'. During this period, Ruesga Montiel and his team reviewed archives, contacted witnesses, and prepared to film. When it was Ruesga Montiel's turn to discuss the Cafarnaum photo, he expressed his doubts about the nature of the 'reflections'. Benítez reportedly reacted negatively, and the recorded segment was not aired, despite the video being later commercialized.

Ruesga Montiel notes that Benítez's book reiterates the same arguments and personal attacks, distorting the truth. He asserts that the doubt about the phenomenon being caused by an external entity, rather than a reflection of the autocar's flash on the glass, was present from the beginning.

Using computer analysis, including Photoshop, Ruesga Montiel's team enhanced the photograph. They identified that the 'luminous columns' were likely the same reflection, slightly shifted due to the camera's movement when the flash was triggered. The analysis suggested the photo was taken from inside the autocar, with the flash, and that the witness's memory might be unreliable due to extensive travel.

The article concludes that the witness and companions did not perceive anything abnormal at the time, only noticing the luminous column upon developing the photos. The sequence of negatives showed no correspondence with a phenomenon, nor defects in washing and drying. The professionals who initially analyzed the negative lacked context as it was cut from the roll.

Ruesga Montiel reiterates that the negative was not manipulated or faked, and the image captured was a different situation than what was initially reported. The investigation's lesson is to contrast information with evidence, even without assuming bad faith from witnesses. He quotes Manuel Osuna: 'If the criterion is that a case cannot be reviewed when serious suspicions arise, I would greatly regret such a stance.' He also laments that Benítez used the damaged photo from the Pinillos studio, which did not reflect the real image, and that Benítez prioritized discrediting an opponent over seeking permission.

Article: Dossier: 12 años de @nomalía

This section, authored by Matías Morey Ripoll, is a dossier celebrating 12 years of @nomalía. It includes links to an index of articles, a subject index, and an author index.

Article: Seis cosas que aprendí viendo "Alienígenas"

Francesco Marculiano writes about lessons learned from watching the television series 'Alienígenas' (Ancient Aliens). He poses fundamental questions about humanity's origin and evolution, noting that while some look to science and evolution, others turn to the Bible, and some simply watch shows like 'Alienígenas'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance appears to be one of critical investigation and skepticism towards sensationalist claims, particularly in the field of ufology. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous analysis, evidence-based conclusions, and media accountability. The critique of J.J. Benítez highlights a concern with how UFO phenomena are presented and interpreted in popular media, advocating for a more nuanced and truthful approach. The publication also celebrates its own history and provides resources for readers to explore its content further.

This issue of @nomalía, number 12 from 2011, features a critical look at the popular television series "Alienígenas" (Aliens) in its cover story, "Seis cosas que aprendí viendo 'Alienígenas'" (Six things I learned watching 'Aliens'). The magazine also includes articles on the 'aerolite' phenomenon in Spain, a debunked UFO video from Jerusalem, and an editorial discussing the closure of Fundación Íkaros.

"Seis cosas que aprendí viendo 'Alienígenas'"

The article satirically outlines six 'lessons' learned from watching the History Channel series "Alienígenas." The author argues that the show, while presented as a documentary, lacks actual documentary research and offers no real answers about human origins. The six points are:

1. Ancient civilizations did nothing on their own: According to the show, all major ancient constructions and achievements are attributed to ancient astronauts, who supposedly intervened to guide humanity.
2. If you shout it loud enough, it's true: The show bypasses scientific inquiry by posing questions like 'Why did they come?' and 'What did they leave behind?' instead of 'Did they visit us?' Assertions are presented without evidence, and the show's 'experts' often engage in speculative discussions.
3. Every building was a spaceship landing pad: Any structure with stairs, a flat surface, or elevation is interpreted as an alien landing site, regardless of its historical context.
4. The word 'expert' means 'guy who appears on screen now': The show features a panel of individuals with titles like 'ufologist,' 'alternative history writer,' and 'plumber/unemployed commentator.' Giorgio A. Tsoukalos is highlighted as a prime example, with his distinctive appearance and pronouncements.
5. History Channel forgot its own name: The article notes the channel's shift from historical content (like WWII) to reality shows such as 'Pawn Stars' and 'Aliens,' suggesting a decline in historical programming.
6. Maybe we'll never know. But, well, we do know: The author concludes that the lack of solid evidence for ancient astronauts is presented as the best evidence by the show, which can then request more seasons to rehash the same questions.

The article criticizes the show's methodology, its reliance on speculative 'experts,' and its redefinition of historical sites as alien landing grounds. It also points out the show's tendency to frame questions in a way that assumes alien visitation.

"¿Qué fue de los aerolitos?" (What happened to the aerolites?)

This article by Matías Morey Ripoll investigates the phenomenon of 'aerolites' – large ice blocks that appeared in various parts of Spain in January 2000. The event generated significant media attention and a scientific investigation by the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC). While the CSIC's conclusions pointed towards a rare and complex meteorological phenomenon, the article notes that the studies sponsored by Fundación Íkaros suggest no known precedent exists that isn't of aeronautical or conventional meteorological origin. A geologist, Jesús Martínez-Frías, and collaborators maintain a hypothesis of an unusual phenomenon, but it lacks broad support. The article mentions that ten years later, a Spanish television program briefly revisited the event, helping to recall one of the most surprising incidents recorded in the country.

"El paseante de Sirio" (The Walker of Sirius) - Article on UFOs and Anomalies

This section compiles media reports on UFOs and anomalous phenomena. It includes a report from 'La Gaceta (Tucumán)' dated 15/02/2011, which debunks a video supposedly showing a UFO over Jerusalem. According to ufology critic Robert Sheaffer, the video was a digital fabrication, with the UFO image inserted using editing software. The video, posted on YouTube, showed a white light descending and ascending over the Dome of the Rock. Despite its popularity, it was confirmed as a hoax.

Another brief report from 'Magonia' dated 26/07/2011 mentions that New Hampshire placed a commemorative plaque at a site considered the scene of the first abduction. This section serves as a roundup of various media accounts related to the unexplained.

Editorial

The editorial, signed by José Ruesga Montiel, announces the difficult decision to dissolve Fundación Íkaros. The foundation, which had been active for many years and aimed to preserve the history of ufology in Spain, faced significant financial challenges. Despite efforts and appeals for support, the withdrawal of sponsors and the economic crisis led to the decision to cease operations. The foundation's assets, including its library, archives, and publications, are being transferred to the Central de Cantabria library to ensure their preservation and accessibility. The editorial expresses regret over the economic difficulties that ended what was considered the most significant project in Spanish ufology. It also mentions that the 'Cuadernos' publication will continue in a web format, accessible for free, thanks to the remaining members of the board.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine exhibits a critical stance towards sensationalist media, particularly the TV show "Alienígenas," and speculative ufology. It emphasizes the importance of evidence-based analysis and debunks hoaxes, as seen in the Jerusalem UFO video case. The editorial also reflects a somber tone regarding the cessation of Fundación Íkaros, highlighting the challenges faced by organizations dedicated to niche subjects like ufology in the face of economic hardship. The publication values historical accuracy and critical thinking, contrasting it with the speculative nature of shows like "Alienígenas."

This issue of @nomalía, titled "El paseante de Sirio" (The Sirius Walker), published in 2011, delves into various aspects of unexplained phenomena, historical cases, and scientific discoveries related to space.

The Betty and Barney Hill Incident

The issue prominently features the Betty and Barney Hill abduction case, commemorating it with a plaque placed by the Historical Heritage Division of New Hampshire. The article recounts how, in September 1961, the couple experienced a close encounter with a UFO while driving and subsequently reported lost time. Under hypnosis three years later, they recalled being taken aboard a craft and subjected to physical examinations by "grey-blue" beings with large almond-shaped eyes, which have since become iconic in ufology. The case gained wider attention through John G. Fuller's book "The Interrupted Journey" and a subsequent television movie. The article notes that subsequent abductions often follow the pattern described by the Hills. A 50th-anniversary UFO Weekend event was planned at the Indian Head Resort.

Obama Administration's Stance on Extraterrestrial Life

A separate section reports on the US government's official position regarding extraterrestrial life, stemming from public demands for transparency. The White House, via a communication, confirmed that "no evidence exists" of life beyond Earth or of any extraterrestrial contact. Phil Larson, an advisor from the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, solemnly stated that the US government possesses no credible evidence of extraterrestrial presence or contact, nor any information suggesting such evidence has been concealed. However, he clarified that research into the possibility of extraterrestrial life continues, citing NASA's Kepler mission and the Mars Science Laboratory as examples of ongoing scientific exploration. He also mentioned that while statistically it's possible for other planets to harbor life, the chances of contact are extremely small due to vast distances.

Russian Alien Discovery

An intriguing report details an incident in Petrozavodsk, Russia, where a woman named Yegorovnam claimed to have found the dead body of an alien creature measuring about sixty centimeters. She reportedly kept the body in her freezer for over two years, taking photographs as proof, before it was taken by individuals claiming to be from the Russian Academy of Sciences for study. The article leaves the exact nature and origin of the creature unresolved.

Kepler Telescope's Exoplanet Discoveries

The magazine highlights significant astronomical findings from NASA's Kepler mission. Kepler has confirmed its first exoplanet in the "habitable zone" of a star similar to our Sun, named Kepler-22b, located 600 light-years away. This planet, approximately 2.4 times the radius of Earth, is the smallest found orbiting in a star's habitable zone. The mission has also identified 1094 additional candidate planets. The article discusses the ongoing scientific congresses analyzing Kepler's data and the importance of finding planets with conditions suitable for liquid water, a key indicator for potential life.

Unusual Police Investigations

A report from Wales details how the Dyfed Powys Police spent 240 hours in 2011 responding to requests under the Freedom of Information Act, many of which were considered frivolous. These included investigations into Bigfoot sightings, zombie reports, and even requests for astrological signs of car thieves. The Chief Constable, Ian Arundale, expressed frustration over the time and resources diverted from legitimate police work. The article also touches upon Spain's police procedures regarding information requests, noting that only the judicial authority can provide such information.

Chris Aubeck and Pre-Arnoldian Ufology

Another section introduces Chris Aubeck, a British author residing in Madrid, who specializes in "pre-Arnoldian" ufology—the study of anomalous events before 1947. Aubeck is co-author of "Wonders In the Sky: Unexplained Aerial Objects from Antiquity to Modern Times" and creator of the Magonia Exchange mailing list. The article notes his historical and ufological research, including his experiences in Extremadura, Spain, and his unique perspective on the phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of @nomalía consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, historical accounts, and scientific inquiry. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation into anomalous events, while also presenting official denials and scientific progress. There's a clear interest in historical UFO cases, the search for extraterrestrial life, and the public's right to information, balanced with the practical challenges faced by authorities and the scientific community. The magazine aims to inform readers about both classic UFO lore and cutting-edge astronomical discoveries, alongside more unusual societal phenomena.

Title: Onda Fundación Íkaros
Issue: 12
Volume: 2011
Date: December 2011
Publisher: Fundación Íkaros
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of Onda Fundación Íkaros, published in 2011, serves as a reflection on the activities and eventual closure of Fundación Anomalía, a significant entity in Spanish ufology. The magazine also features an analysis of contemporary cultural phenomena, specifically Katy Perry's music video 'E.T.', and provides an extensive index of past articles from the publication @nomalía.

Editorial: The End of an Era

The editorial, penned by José Ruesga Montiel, reflects on the 15-year journey of Fundación Anomalía. Established in 1994, the foundation aimed to consolidate and disseminate the research and knowledge generated in ufology over the preceding decades, serving Spanish scholars. Montiel recounts the initial unexpected hostility and lack of support encountered, even from within the ufological community. He details how the foundation, despite facing accusations and insults, persevered by investing personal funds, time, and effort. The editorial highlights the foundation's contributions, including publishing books, translating foreign works, establishing awards, developing a database, and unifying historical archives. The closure of the foundation is presented with a mix of sadness and pride, emphasizing that their legacy, comprising personal libraries, archives, work, time, money, and illusions, is being transferred to the Biblioteca Central de Cantabria.

Article: E.T., según Katy Perry

This article, written by Matías Morey Ripoll, analyzes Katy Perry's music video for her song 'E.T. (Futuristic Lover)'. It notes that while extraterrestrial themes are not uncommon in contemporary music, this song and video stand out for reaching a mainstream audience. The video is described as a high-budget production that departs from Perry's usual comedic elements. It presents a dystopian future where a mechanical planet is inhabited by the last male representative of humanity. Perry's character, an alien goddess, revives and humanizes this figure, bringing hope to a world of "scrap metal." The article draws parallels to common societal critiques of materialism and technological advancement, suggesting the video taps into a universal desire for salvation from external forces, echoing themes of redemption and the "eternal feminine."

Index of Articles from @nomalía

A significant portion of this issue is dedicated to a comprehensive index of articles previously published in @nomalía magazine. This index is organized by article number and covers a wide range of topics within ufology, including:

• New projects and research: "Nuevos tiempos, nuevos proyectos," "El Sur," "Caminos que se hacen al andar."
• Specific sightings and cases: "Mesa redonda sobre ufología en la Facultad de Informática de la Universidad Politécnica de Madrid," "El incidente de Los Bateles (Conil, Cádiz)," "Una sorprendente observación de Júpiter," "Avistamiento en la madrugada del 8 al 9 de julio de 2000, durante un vuelo de Lima a México," "El incidente de Jaca."
• Bibliographical reviews: Numerous entries cover books on UFOs, abductions, and related phenomena, such as "The Field Guide to UFOs," "UFO. Enciclopédia dos fenômenos aeroespaciais anômalos," "Challenging the Borders of Knowledge," "Visitors from Within," "The Golden Age of UFOs," and "Scientific Ufology."
• Interviews and profiles: "Entrevista a José Miguel Alcíbar Cuello," "Entrevista a Matías Morey Ripoll," "Entrevista a Julio Arcas Gilardi."
• Historical and cultural analyses: "La política francesa sobre los ovnis y el Informe Cometa," "Deidades de bricolaje y mesías por correo," "Flammarión, el verdadero precursor del estudio de las anomalías."
• Reviews of media: "Ciclo de cine de ciencia-ficción en La Laguna (Tenerife)," "Hablemos de cine."
• Obituaries and tributes: "Cynthia Hind nos ha dejado," "Ha fallecido el padre Antonio Felices," "Antonio Ribera: in memoriam."

The index spans multiple issues and volumes of @nomalía, providing a detailed reference for readers interested in the magazine's extensive coverage of ufological topics over time.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the legacy and closure of ufological organizations, the analysis of cultural expressions related to extraterrestrial themes, and the archival function of cataloging past research. The editorial stance, as expressed by José Ruesga Montiel, is one of reflection, pride in past accomplishments despite adversity, and a commitment to preserving the knowledge gained. The analysis of Katy Perry's video suggests an engagement with contemporary culture and its intersection with ufological concepts. The extensive index underscores the publication's dedication to documenting and providing access to ufological literature.

This document is an index of articles and bibliographies from the magazine @nomalía, covering issues numbered 4 through 12. The index is organized by subject matter and lists numerous entries related to ufology, science fiction, extraterrestrials, and various anomalous phenomena. It provides authors and specific issue numbers for each entry, offering a comprehensive overview of the magazine's content.

Content Breakdown

The index features a wide array of topics, including:

• Abductions: Numerous entries related to abduction experiences and literature.
• Geographical Focus: Articles and bibliographies concerning UFO phenomena in specific regions like Andalucía, Canarias, Argentina, Chile, China, and various parts of Spain (e.g., Catalunya, Comunitat Valenciana, Asturias, Aragón).
• Scientific and Anthropological Perspectives: Entries on astrobiology, anthropology, astronomy, and the scientific aspects of UFOs and extraterrestrial life.
• Science Fiction and Cinema: A significant number of entries dedicated to science fiction literature, films, and their relation to UFO themes.
• Bibliographies: An extensive section listing bibliographical references across numerous issues, covering a vast range of subjects within ufology and related fields.
• Specific Cases and Events: Mentions of specific cases and events, such as the Manises UFO incident, the Necochea UFO activity, the French wave of 1954, and various historical UFO reports.
• Interviews and Editorials: Features interviews with notable figures like Óscar Aibar and Frank Drake, alongside regular editorials and recurring columns like "El paseante de Sirio."

Key Contributors and Recurring Sections

Several authors and contributors are frequently cited, including:

• Luis R. González Manso: Appears extensively in the bibliography sections.
• José Ruesga Montiel: Contributes to editorials, recurring columns, and specific articles.
• Matías Morey Ripoll: A prolific contributor, particularly in later issues, covering a wide range of topics and bibliographies.
• Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos: Contributes articles and bibliographies, often focusing on scientific and historical aspects.
• Manuel Borraz Aymerich and Carlos León Martínez: Co-authored articles on comparative ufology.

Recurring sections include "Editorial," "El paseante de Sirio," "Onda Fundación Anomalía," and extensive "Bibliografía" entries.

Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on ufology, extraterrestrial phenomena, science fiction, and related anomalies. The extensive bibliographies suggest a commitment to providing readers with a broad range of resources and research materials. The inclusion of interviews, case studies, and critical analyses indicates a multifaceted approach to exploring these subjects. The magazine appears to cater to an audience interested in the scientific, cultural, and speculative aspects of UFOs and the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

This issue of Anomalía magazine, number 12 from 2011, focuses on two main topics: the closure of Fundación Íkaros and an exploration of the Voyager Golden Record.

Fundación Íkaros, hasta la vista

The lead article, "Fundación Íkaros, hasta la vista" by Matías Morey Ripoll, announces the cessation of activities for Fundación Íkaros (formerly Fundación Anomalía). Established in 1996, the foundation aimed to foster the rational study of the UFO phenomenon and preserve the documentary heritage of ufologists. The article notes that the decision to close was made at a meeting in Toledo on December 10, 2011, due to economic reasons and a lack of clear future prospects. Despite the closure, the foundation's assets will be transferred to the Central Library of Cantabria, and its spirit is intended to continue online through a digital version of 'Cuadernos de Ufología'.

The article highlights a video created by the foundation's patronato members—Julio Arcas, José Ruesga, Pedro Ojalvo, and Matías Morey—which reviews the foundation's origins, the possibility of continuing ufology in the current era, the future of rationalist perspectives online, and advice for those wishing to follow the path the foundation forged. The video was filmed in Toledo, described as an emblematic setting for the end of this chapter in sensible Spanish ufology.

Voyager: una historia de amor

The second major article, "Voyager: una historia de amor" by Tony Phillips, delves into the story behind the Golden Record carried aboard the Voyager spacecraft. The article begins by imagining future extraterrestrial encounters with the probes, noting their silent, cold state but the potential for the Golden Record to communicate Earth's story.

Launched in 1977, the Voyager probes (Voyager 1 and 2) were designed to explore the outer planets and eventually leave the solar system, serving as interstellar ambassadors. Before their launch, NASA tasked Carl Sagan and his team with preparing a message for potential extraterrestrial civilizations. This endeavor is described as a high-stakes 'fire drill' for 'First Contact'.

The content selected for the record included music, photographs of Earth and its inhabitants, and an essay on terrestrial sounds, all supported by audio. The challenge was to find a durable medium. Magnetic tapes were deemed unsuitable due to degradation from space radiation and magnetic fields. Radio astronomer Frank Drake suggested a phonograph record, which was considered more robust and decipherable by an advanced civilization. A copper disc coated in gold was chosen for its thermal and magnetic properties, with the capacity to last for hundreds of millions of years.

The selection process for the record's content was extensive. The music was limited to approximately 90 minutes due to the chosen playback speed of 16 2/3 revolutions per minute, a compromise to balance fidelity with storage capacity. Western music selections included Beethoven's 5th Symphony and Chuck Berry's 'Johnny B. Goode'. Legal issues arose, such as the inability to include The Beatles' 'Here Comes the Sun' because the band members, though approving its inclusion, did not own the copyright.

Bureaucratic hurdles also presented challenges, including the inability to obtain a simple 'Hello' greeting from delegates of the United Nations. Sagan eventually turned to the foreign language departments of Cornell University, where professors and students contributed greetings in 55 human languages. The record also includes a 'whale language' and a poetic greeting from the UN Secretary-General, along with the brainwaves of a young, enamored woman, which the article suggests might be the most curious element for extraterrestrials.

In total, the Voyager spacecraft carried 118 photographs, 90 minutes of music, greetings in 55 languages, a whale language, an audio essay, and the brainwaves of an enamored woman.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Anomalía reflects on the legacy of ufological organizations and the challenges they face in the modern era, particularly concerning funding and the transition to digital platforms. It also explores humanity's place in the cosmos through the lens of the Voyager Golden Record, emphasizing the desire to communicate and leave a lasting impression on potential extraterrestrial life. The magazine maintains a rationalist perspective, evident in its approach to ufology and its focus on scientific endeavors like the Voyager mission.

This issue of @nomalía magazine, Number 12, published in 2011, features a collection of articles exploring themes related to ufology, skepticism, and humanity's place in the universe. The magazine, published by Fundación Íkaros, presents a diverse range of content, from personal reflections on space exploration to critical analyses of media coverage on anomalous phenomena.

Voyager: A Love Story

The lead article, "Voyager: una historia de amor," recounts the fascinating story behind the inclusion of Ann Druyan's electroencephalogram (EEG) on the Voyager Golden Record. The idea, proposed by Druyan and approved by Carl Sagan and others, was to capture human thought patterns for potential decipherment by advanced civilizations millions of years in the future. Druyan volunteered for the recording, which took place on June 3, 1977. Poignantly, two days prior, she and Carl Sagan had fallen in love, a profound experience that influenced her subconscious during the EEG session. The resulting recording, compressed into one minute, is described as a burst of exploding fireworks, symbolizing the euphoria of love. Druyan expresses that her feelings of being a 27-year-old woman madly in love are preserved on the record, offering a powerful sense of joy that transcends the fear of death.

The article also touches upon the broader implications of the Voyager probes, suggesting that if extraterrestrials find them, they will encounter a diverse collection of human culture, but the most profound connection might be with the thoughts of Ann Druyan. It also notes the possibility that humanity itself might eventually recover the probes, turning them into time capsules from 1977. Arthur C. Clarke's suggestion to include a personal note on the Golden Record, "Please leave me alone; let me continue my journey to the stars," is also mentioned.

Crónicas: Expediente OVNI

This section reviews the television report "Expediente OVNI" (UFO Case File), broadcast on October 30, 2011, on the Spanish channel 24 Horas as part of the "Crónicas" program. The author, Matías Morey Ripoll, notes that the documentary is a rare example of recent Spanish programming daring to address ufology. However, he criticizes its indiscriminate combination of testimonies from contactees, researchers, witnesses, publicists, scientists, sociologists, pilots, and even healers. This "ceremony of confusion" is seen as disorienting rather than informative. The article questions whether there isn't a better way to approach such anomalous topics, suggesting that other articles in the same issue of @nomalía offer more exemplary approaches. Despite the criticism, the report is acknowledged for potentially offering some salvageable elements, such as marketing techniques used in ufological viral videos and explanations of national myths like the Manises case by Juan Antonio Fernández Peris and Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos. The latter also discusses the declassification process of UFO information from the Spanish Air Force. The 42-minute report is deemed long, with too much "chaff" and a lack of engaging content, though it concludes with a somewhat ironic suggestion to seek solace in Hellín if public television quality disappoints.

Escépticos en ETB: Are There Any Out There?

This article discusses the television series "Escépticos" (Skeptics) aired on ETB, the Basque public television channel, in the autumn of 2011. The series, directed by José A. Pérez and presented by Luis Alfonso Gámez, a journalist known for his skeptical stance, aims to expose and dismantle common societal beliefs lacking scientific backing, such as homeopathy and miracle products. The episode reviewed, titled "¿Hay alguien ahí afuera?" (Are there any out there?), broadcast on October 17, 2011, focused on the belief in extraterrestrial visits. The program is described as having an unusually engaging tone, reviewing contemporary opinions and beliefs about extraterrestrials and confronting them with academic criteria. The author notes that the program's dichotomy might be perceived as elitist or overly focused on the anthropological aspect of alien encounters, potentially limiting the scope of the phenomenon. However, its originality and the correctness of its postulates are acknowledged. The participation of Julio Arcas, vice-president of Fundación Íkaros, and actor Nacho Vigalondo is highlighted for their contributions on the cultural perspectives of the UFO phenomenon. The article expresses cautious optimism about a potential second season but remains realistic about the general quality of television content.

¿Estamos solos? (Are We Alone?)

The final article, "¿Estamos solos?", discusses the Euronews program "Space," sponsored by the European Space Agency (ESA), which covers scientific and technical advancements related to space and astronautics. In 2010, "Space" produced a documentary on possible extraterrestrial visits to Earth, which is presented to the readers. The documentary features interviews with Yvan Blanc, director of GEIPAN (the French official body studying unidentified aerial phenomena), David Clarke, who spearheaded the declassification of British Ministry of Defence UFO files, and Pascale Ehrenfreund, an astrobiologist. The article notes that beyond the interviewees' statements, the report is of interest for debunking the notion that public organizations like the ESA do not pay attention to these topics. It aims to present the current state of the question, excluding the input of charlatans or overly enthusiastic amateurs who may lack neutrality regarding the potential presence of aliens.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of @nomalía revolve around the investigation of anomalous phenomena, particularly UFOs and the possibility of extraterrestrial life, contrasted with a strong undercurrent of skepticism and a demand for scientific rigor. The editorial stance appears to favor a critical and evidence-based approach, as seen in the reviews of "Expediente OVNI" and "Escépticos." While acknowledging the public's fascination with these topics, the magazine emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between credible research and unsubstantiated claims. The inclusion of Ann Druyan's personal story with the Voyager record adds a humanistic and philosophical dimension, exploring love and consciousness within the context of cosmic exploration. The publication consistently promotes a thoughtful and analytical perspective on subjects often shrouded in speculation.