Cuadernos de Ufologia - 2a Epoca - No 08

Magazine Overview

Title: Cuadernos de Ufología
Issue: 8, 2nd Epoch
Date: May 1990
Publisher: C.d.U.
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of "Cuadernos de Ufología" delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, with a strong emphasis on cases within Spain and historical precedents. The editorial, "LOS 'E.C.' Y LA UFOLOGIA IBERICA" by José Ruesga Montiel, highlights the need to improve the quality and rigor of UFO event records in Spain. It acknowledges the dedicated work of a few researchers, particularly Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos, and calls for a more cohesive and advanced approach to ufological investigation in the 1990s, moving beyond outdated methods.

Articles and Features

Editorial

José Ruesga Montiel's editorial, "LOS 'E.C.' Y LA UFOLOGIA IBERICA," stresses the importance of enhancing the level of UFO event records in Spain. He praises the efforts of dedicated scholars like Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos and calls for a collective effort to elevate the standards of UFO research, suggesting that continuing with 25-year-old methodologies is a waste of time. The editorial also introduces a dossier on the ecology of UFO landings, aiming to contribute to the field and encourage more meticulous on-site data collection.

"El Gran Espectáculo Extraterrestre" by Ignacio Cabria

This article reflects on a week in June 1989 that seemed to mark a shift in public perception of UFOs, moving from invasion narratives to a more benign "vigilant civilization" concept. It notes the significant public draw of UFO-related events, particularly the monthly gatherings at Montserrat, which attract larger crowds than formal scientific conferences. The author discusses a TV3 program that debated the idea of extraterrestrial observation, featuring guests like Andreu Ripoll (ESA Astronaut Training Center), Antonio Ribera, and Captain Jordi Soler (Iberia pilot). The article touches upon the controversy surrounding the term "myth" in relation to UFOs and promises further discussion.

"Pendleton, 24-26 de Junio 1947..." by Pierre Lagrange

This extensive article, spanning multiple pages, examines the pivotal 1947 sighting by Kenneth Arnold and the subsequent emergence of the "flying saucer" phenomenon. Lagrange details his research methodology, which involves extensive interviews with witnesses, journalists, pilots, ufologists, and scientists, as well as consulting historical documents and photographs. He emphasizes understanding how individuals differentiate between the credible and the fabricated, rather than solely focusing on defining what constitutes a UFO. The article reconstructs the first three days following Arnold's observation, including his initial attempts to report the sighting to the FBI and his interactions with various individuals.

"OVNIS en la U.R.S.S." by Bronislaw Rzepecki

This section, though its content is not fully detailed in the OCR, is listed as an article discussing UFOs in the Soviet Union.

"El OVNI de la ilusión" by José Ruesga Montiel

Another listed article, focusing on the "illusionary UFO."

"LOS PAPELES DE ARNOLD"

A section dedicated to documents related to Kenneth Arnold.

"Difracción de la luz" by Luis Ruiz Noguez

An article exploring the phenomenon of light diffraction.

"FORUM: Auroras boreales, tifones y... OVNIS" by Carlos Batet

This forum piece discusses potential connections between auroras, typhoons, and UFOs.

"A propósito de 'Un ensayo para una definición de OVNI'" by Jesús Suárez García

A commentary on an essay attempting to define what a UFO is.

"A propósito de un opúsculo científico" by Oscar Alberto Alemanno

Another commentary on a scientific pamphlet.

"DOSSIER: Ecología de los aterrizajes OVNI" by V.J. Ballester Olmos

This is a significant dossier that appears to be a detailed study on the physical traces and environmental aspects associated with UFO landing events. It aims to provide a comprehensive analysis and encourage thorough on-site investigations.

"Cohetes fantasma sobre Escandinavia"

An article discussing phantom rocket sightings over Scandinavia.

"Voronezh y Conil: o la fiebre de los 'mass media'" by José Ruesga Montiel

This article examines the media frenzy surrounding UFO events in Voronezh and Conil, likely analyzing how mass media influences public perception.

"Rastros luminosos en el cielo: Operación Naja" by V.J. Ballester y M. Borraz

This piece focuses on luminous traces in the sky, specifically related to "Operation Naja."

"Globo sonda interceptado por cazas..." by Joan Plana Crivillén

An account of a sounding balloon being intercepted by fighter jets.

"EL SHOW DE GARRAF"

This article describes a mass UFO gathering event at Garraf, near Barcelona. It details the experience of attendees, including the "peregrinos" of C.d.U., who participated in a "third kind encounter" event organized by Radio 4. The event involved a large caravan of cars, music, and attempts at cosmic invocation, though the extraterrestrials did not appear. The author notes the spectacle and the social aspect of these gatherings, comparing them to popular festivals.

"LOS ENCUENTROS DE MONSERRAT"

This section details the monthly UFO observation gatherings led by Luis José Grifol at Montserrat. It describes the event as a "monthly pilgrimage to the UFO Lourdes" and notes the mix of attendees, including enthusiasts, contactees, and even skeptics and pranksters. The article discusses Grifol's dedication and the special significance of the 11th day of the month for him, linked to past UFO cases. It also touches upon the social dynamics and the potential for misinterpretation of natural phenomena like meteorites as UFOs.

"ENCUESTA DE 'TV-3'"

This section presents the results of a telephone survey conducted by TV3 regarding the question: "Are extraterrestrials observing us?" The results show a near split, with 49% answering "Yes" and 44% answering "No." The survey also provides breakdowns by agreement level, age, sex, and geography.

"UNA ULTIMA NOTA SOBRE LAS 'ALERTAS OVNI'"

This article discusses the evolution and proliferation of "UFO Alerts," which are mass gatherings organized to observe UFOs. It attributes their growing popularity to commercial interests of radio stations, the adoption of these events by a new generation of ufologists, and a general societal trend towards viewing UFOs as linked to extraterrestrials. The author suggests that these events are becoming less about serious investigation and more like simulated spectacles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the need for rigorous, evidence-based ufological research. There's a critical stance towards sensationalism and a call for a more scientific and cohesive approach to the study of UFO phenomena. The publication also highlights the social and cultural aspects of UFO belief, including mass gatherings and media influence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging detailed investigation while maintaining a critical perspective on unsubstantiated claims. The magazine aims to serve as a platform for Spanish ufologists while also engaging with international cases and perspectives.

This issue of "UFO-The Magazine" (Issue 14) delves into the foundational Kenneth Arnold UFO sighting of June 24, 1947. It meticulously reconstructs the events surrounding the sighting and its immediate aftermath, with a particular focus on the role of journalism in shaping public perception and terminology.

The Kenneth Arnold Sighting

The narrative begins with Kenneth Arnold's observation on June 24, 1947, while working for the U.S. Forest Service, searching for a missing plane near Mount Rainier and Mount Adams in Washington State. He described seeing nine bright objects flying at an incredible speed, estimating their altitude at 10,000 feet. Arnold initially thought they might be wild ducks or experimental jet aircraft before realizing their unusual nature. He compared their movement to a "saucer skipping across the water."

Journalistic Dissemination and Evolution of Terms

Arnold's account was first reported by Nolan Skiff, associate editor of the East Oregonian, who, initially skeptical, was convinced of Arnold's honesty. Skiff's article, titled "Impossible! Maybe, But Seein' is Believin' Says Flyer," appeared in the paper. William Bequette, another journalist present, then relayed the story to the Associated Press (AP) in Portland. The AP dispatch, dated June 25, described "nine brilliant objects in the shape of a saucer flying at "incredible" speed and at an altitude of 10,000 feet."

The article highlights how the media, particularly the East Oregonian, transformed Arnold's description from "saucer-like objects" into "flying saucers" and "flying disks." This linguistic shift, occurring in a small Oregonian press office, marked the birth of the "Flying Saucer" phenomenon in 1947.

The Role of the Journalist and Eyewitness Testimony

The text emphasizes the critical role of journalists like Bequette and Skiff in constructing the narrative. It analyzes the interview with Arnold conducted by Ted Smith for KWRC radio, noting that Arnold himself recounted his experience, becoming the primary source. The author posits that the interview, while important, also serves as a lesson in sociology and history, examining how events are constructed and perceived.

Arnold's testimony is presented as a case study in eyewitness accounts. The article defends Arnold's credibility, noting his detailed descriptions, his process of elimination of hypotheses, and his willingness to swear to his account. It criticizes the tendency to dismiss such accounts as irrational or to focus on the witness rather than the phenomenon itself.

Later Interpretations and Debates

The issue explores subsequent attempts to explain Arnold's sighting. One notable example is Hans van Kampen's theory, published in 1987, which suggests the objects were secret Republic F-84 Thunderjets. The author critically examines this theory, comparing Arnold's drawings with F-84 profiles and noting discrepancies in the documentation used by van Kampen, particularly regarding the inclusion of a drawing not present in Arnold's original report.

The article also touches upon the broader debate surrounding UFOs, including the psychological and sociological factors influencing interpretations. It critiques the approach of some historians and ufologists who claim to know more than the original witnesses or who dismiss accounts as mere illusions or errors.

The Historian's Approach

The author advocates for a cartographic approach to studying UFO phenomena, suggesting that instead of judging past events with present-day conceptions, historians should focus on describing and understanding the context and perspectives of the time. This involves analyzing the interactions between various actors – witnesses, journalists, military personnel – and understanding how their narratives are constructed.

Addendum and Notes

The "Addendum" section addresses the criticism that pointing out errors or inaccuracies in witness accounts can be misconstrued as accusations of irrationality. The author argues that distinguishing between practical operational errors and differences in thought (rational vs. irrational) is crucial.

The "Notes" section provides references and further context, including details about Arnold's article for Ray Palmer's "Flying Saucers" magazine, the definition of an "actor" in this context (including non-human elements like aircraft and mountains), and the evolution of the debate from witness testimony to psychological and sociological analysis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes include the power of media in shaping narratives, the challenges of eyewitness testimony, the evolution of terminology in the UFO field, and the methodologies for historical analysis of such events. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, emphasizing a detailed, contextualized approach to understanding UFO phenomena, valuing primary sources, and questioning simplistic explanations or dismissals of witness accounts. The author advocates for a sociological and historical perspective rather than purely psychological or technological explanations.

This issue of "Los Papeles de Arnol" (The Papers of Arnol) is a Spanish-language publication focused on UFOs and anomalous aerial phenomena. It features a collection of reports, investigations, and news items from various locations, primarily focusing on incidents in the Soviet Union, but also including cases from Spain, England, and Hungary. The magazine appears to be a compilation of research and witness accounts, aiming to document and analyze these phenomena.

Symposio Sobre el Rayo en Bola (Symposium on Ball Lightning)

This section announces a proposed symposium in Budapest, Hungary, from June 26-29, to be organized by Dr. George Egely from the Central Institute for Physics Research in Budapest and Professor Y.H. Ohtsuki from Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan. The symposium's agenda includes topics such as the properties of ball lightning, theoretical models, experimental simulations, and a potential round table on UFO close encounters. Dr. Egely is also open to organizing the round table.

El "Efecto de los Circulos" (The "Effect of the Circles")

This article reports on a seminar organized by the Polytechnic University of Oxford in England on June 23, 1990, directed by Dr. Derek Elsom of the Centre for Tornado Research. The seminar focused on analyzing the nature of circular tracks found in English fields, which meteorologist Terence Meaden interpreted as a form of low-density plasma vortex with high rotational velocity. The article acknowledges the information provided by advisors V.J. Ballester Olmos and Francisco Oliver, contributing to the study of ufology.

Estudio Multidisciplinar (Multidisciplinary Study)

This is a personal appeal from an individual seeking to conduct a multidisciplinary study of UFO phenomena with limited resources and contacts. The author requests communication from anyone willing to share hypotheses from their research, especially unusual and original ones, to be included in a serious work. They also seek correspondence with researchers who have documented cases of UFOs and their alleged occupants disappearing, or who have information on sightings, alerts, concentrations, and contacts, particularly for a provincial TV program in Granada.

Phantoms Conference

This brief note announces a conference titled "Fantasmas del Cielo - Ufología en los 90" (Ghosts of the Sky - Ufology in the 90s) organized by the British group "Independent UFO Network (IUN)" in Sheffield, England, on July 14-15. It mentions English-speaking researchers and guests, including Budd Hopkins, John Keel, Paul Devereux, Jenny Randles, and Perry Petrakis. The proceedings are expected to be published in a special issue of the IUN magazine "UFO Brigantia".

OVNIS EN LA UNION SOVIETICA (UFOs in the Soviet Union)

This extensive section, attributed to Bronislaw Rzepecki (Coordinator UFO Research Group - Poland), explores the state of UFO research and sightings in the Soviet Union. It notes that despite the "perestroika" era, there hasn't been a significant increase in actual sightings but rather in publications. Previously, Soviet ufologists faced repression, but now there are about 50 UFO groups. The article details several significant Soviet UFO incidents:

• January 30, 1985: An airline crew reported a UFO between Rostov and Tallin. While initially classified as a UFO, investigations by the Leningrad Commission on Anomalous Geophysical Phenomena, led by V. Troitskij, suggested it was an experiment with atmospheric chemicals, though the object reappeared later.
• February 1985: An engineer, Siergiey Orlov, and his companion witnessed a luminous sphere that caused their train to accelerate rapidly. The sphere remained near the train for over an hour, observed by station employees, before disappearing.
• January 29, 1986 (Dalniegorsk): Residents observed a red spherical object that crashed into a rocky hill (Hill 611). Witnesses reported a bright, powerful light. Members of the Dalniegorsk UFO group found evidence of high temperatures, destroyed plants, and small spheres of lead and steel, along with "nets" of carbonaceous material. These materials were studied by scientists at the Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Tomsk, who found they contained nearly all elements of the periodic table, with some elements disappearing when heated in a vacuum.
• April 24, 1989 (Charowsk): A.D. Golowackaja witnessed a rectangular, silver object about 12 meters long emitting a powerful beam of light, revealing four tall, human-like figures inside. The witness felt fear and retreated indoors.
• March 26, 1989 (Charowsk): V.P. Prudnikov, a school vice-director, observed an unusual object resembling a mushroom or crab, with a greenish-yellow aura, near his car. Investigators found two depressions and damaged vegetation at the site.
• September 27, 1989 (Voronezh): Three students reported a pink/scarlet sphere, about 10 meters in diameter, that hovered, ascended, and descended before landing. A door opened, revealing a three-eyed humanoid figure in a silver spacesuit. The sphere then landed, damaging an elm tree, and two more humanoids emerged.
• Undated (Tomskaya Oblast): A military base sentry reported a white disc with a red light in the center, hovering at 200 meters. A beam of light from the object struck a powder magazine. The object then ascended in short hops.
• April 24, 1989 (Charowsk region): Olga Kozlowa and her sister observed a large, rocket-shaped object with an orange light trail. It changed direction and headed towards Charowsk. Similar objects were reported in Babayevo.
• June 4, 1989 (Kiev): Residents Viera Prokofievna and Alexandra Stiepanova encountered three identical beings in silver clothing with large eyes and reddish-gold hair in a park. The beings spoke Russian with a strange accent and claimed to be from another planet.
• June 6, 1989 (Konancewo): Schoolchildren observed a yellowish star approach and transform into a large sphere that landed. A headless figure in dark clothing with long arms emerged. The sphere disappeared, and the figure walked towards the village before vanishing. Later, three spheres and three beings landed, then disappeared.
• June 26, 1989 (Lesozavodsk): A strange creature described as floating and emitting noises caused panic. It left silvery, vanishing tracks. A car reportedly passed through the creature, leaving both covered in "silver paint" that disappeared.
• August 16, 1989 (Perm region): G. Szaroglazov observed two bright, egg-shaped objects hovering at high altitude. One descended and disappeared. Another report from the same region describes a "third kind" encounter where a woman saw a dark, headless figure approaching rapidly, which then disappeared.

The section concludes by stating that these are just some of the known Soviet observations and that more interesting sightings will be covered in future articles.

Efectos Fisicos en Dalniegorsk (Physical Effects in Dalniegorsk)

This article details the Dalniegorsk incident of January 29, 1986. Residents observed a red spherical object flying silently. The object reportedly crashed into Hill 611, emitting a bright, luminous ray. Members of the local UFO group found evidence of high temperatures, destroyed plants, and small spheres of lead and steel, along with "nets" of carbonaceous material. These materials were studied by scientists at the Siberian Division of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Tomsk. Analysis revealed that the "nets" contained almost all elements of the periodic table, with gold and silver disappearing when heated in a vacuum, while titanium and molybdenum remained.

Observacion en Mallorca (Observation in Mallorca)

This report describes an observation on February 14, 1990, by Antonia Busquet and Miguel Mateu near Sineu, Mallorca. They witnessed a "window" formed by four bright rectangles, and later a second, triangular object that illuminated tree trunks as it approached. This object landed behind pine trees. A third object, diamond-shaped with illuminated edges and a flashing sphere in the center, also landed nearby. The witnesses noted the absence of any sound, which would be expected from helicopters.

Ovni Filmado en Gerona (UFO Filmed in Gerona)

On March 5th, Miguel Angel Chamorro Balaño filmed several unidentified objects in Gerona. He first observed a spherical, orange object about the size of a tennis ball. When he went to film it, it was too far away. He then observed another similar object moving in zig-zags. He managed to capture about 10-15 seconds of video. Unconfirmed sources reported six similar objects seen in formation in Olot, Gerona.

Encuentro Cercano en Zuera (Zaragoza) (Close Encounter in Zuera)

This report describes an event between April 2nd and 6th, 1990, near Zuera, Zaragoza. A car mechanic testing a repaired car on a quiet road observed a large, pear-shaped object land on the ground. After a few minutes, the object took off at high speed.

Noticias de la URSS: "Bio-Informenergo 89" en Moscú (News from the USSR: "Bio-Informenergo 89" in Moscow)

This article covers the National Conference "Problems of Energy and Information Exchange in Nature" held in Moscow from November 29 to December 2, 1989. Organized by the SNIO (Union of Scientific Engineering Societies), the conference included over 1,500 participants and was divided into four sections: theoretical ENIO, extrasensory phenomena, biolocation methods, and ufology/poltergeist phenomena. The ufology section was led by Dr. Vladimir G. Azhazha (UFOC). Reports included discussions on UFO encounters in the USSR in 1989 and the need for collaboration. V. Phomenko presented a hypothesis that poltergeists might be technological tests by an advanced civilization.

El Ovni de la Ilusion (The UFO of Illusion)

This personal account by José Ruesga Montiel describes an observation on August 10, 1989, on the beach in Rota, Cádiz. He and others observed a near-spherical, white object hovering statically above the Naval Base. After 25 minutes, the object disappeared. The author initially identified it as a meteorological balloon with instruments, which detached its orange parachute. Despite this, many onlookers speculated it was a UFO. The author notes that local press reported it as a weather balloon, but rumors of a UFO video from Andalusia persist, suggesting potential misidentification and exploitation of public interest.

Moraleja (Moral)

This concluding section reflects on the Rota incident, stating that it is common for public misinformation, the desire to see something marvelous, and opportunism to combine, discrediting serious UFO research. The author emphasizes that not everything that flies is a UFO and stresses the importance of objectivity to maintain credibility.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, alleged alien encounters, and the scientific investigation of anomalous aerial phenomena. There's a strong focus on incidents within the Soviet Union, highlighting the impact of glasnost and perestroika on UFO research and reporting. The magazine also emphasizes the importance of scientific analysis, witness testimony, and the need for objectivity in distinguishing genuine phenomena from misidentifications or hoaxes. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into UFOs, while also cautioning against jumping to conclusions and acknowledging the possibility of mundane explanations, as seen in the Rota incident.

This issue of FORUM magazine, identified by issue number 37, delves into the complex and often ambiguous relationship between atmospheric phenomena and Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). The cover headline, "AURORAS BOREALES, TIFONES Y... ¡ OVNIS !", by Carlos Batet, sets the stage for an exploration that bridges scientific inquiry with public perception and historical accounts.

Scientific Investigations and Conferences

The magazine reports on a conference where various researchers presented their findings. Gennady M. Zadneprovsky, scientific secretary of the ENIO Committee, discussed research into extraordinary and psychophysical phenomena abroad, cautioning against the misuse of extrasensory abilities for reconnaissance or combat. Mark A. Milkhiker highlighted the use of regressive hypnosis with UFO witnesses and contactees. Vladimir I. Avinsky reviewed information on ancient paleo-contacts. E. Ermilov presented results from a study on Poltergeist phenomena conducted in Gorky, in collaboration with several other researchers. The article suggests that the cause of these phenomena might be spontaneous or related to the revitalization of "magical" phenomena using invisible substances.

Further presentations included scientific findings on structures established by Professor Boris I. Iskakov, based on synergy and electromagnetic leptons conceived by Dr. Anatoly F. Okhatrin. Igor V. Mirzalis discussed the connection between anomalous phenomena and folklore. Vladimir I. Lunev's report focused on methodological aspects of studying anomalous phenomena, while M. Levin presented astrology as a tool for informational energy exchange. Specific reports covered Paleoufology (Avinsky V.I.), contact with extraterrestrials (Ageenkova E.K.), detection of anomalous phenomena (Lunev V.I.), and the characteristics of physical energy fields (Nikolaev G.V.). Pokholkov Y.P. and Lunev V.I. evaluated the current state and future prospects of scientific research into anomalous phenomena in the USSR. Petukhov A. presented a statistical analysis of letters received by the AY Committee, and Phomenko V.N. discussed methods for investigating UFOs and other anomalous phenomena. A. Kuzovkin and A. Semenov presented on the "spectrum of the UFO phenomenon," with Kuzovkin suggesting the possibility of invisible life forms presenting as unidentified phenomena.

Public Opinion and Surveys

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a survey conducted by the Instituto Opina, S.A., for "La Vanguardia." The survey revealed that a majority of respondents take the topic of extraterrestrial life and UFO existence more seriously than superstitions. 66.3% of Spaniards are convinced of intelligent life on other worlds, and over half expect a visit. However, a third of those surveyed believe governments officially deny the existence of UFOs, making proof difficult. The survey also indicated gender differences, with 71% of men and 62% of women considering the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Notably, eight out of ten young people, compared to four out of ten adults, expressed belief in their existence. The survey involved 1,000 individuals over 18 years old, with a margin of error of ±2.76% at a 95% confidence level.

Atmospheric Optical Phenomena

The magazine features detailed articles explaining various atmospheric optical phenomena, often drawing parallels to UFO sightings.

Corona

Luis Ruiz Noguez (Mexico) explains the "Corona" as a luminous circle seen around the Moon or Sun when viewed through thin clouds. It is caused by the diffraction of light by uniform water droplets or ice crystals in the atmosphere. The colors of the Corona are blue near the light source and red further away, with purity comparable to a rainbow. The size of the rings is inversely proportional to the size of the droplets. It is distinguished from a halo, which is produced by ice crystals and has an opposite color distribution.

Aureola (Halo)

The "Aureola" is the inner portion of the corona, consisting of bright circles with colors ranging from whitish-blue to reddish-brown. It can vary considerably in size and sometimes reaches 5 degrees. It is caused by light scattering through a medium with particles larger than the wavelength of light.

Bishop's Ring

This phenomenon, also known as "Anillos del Obispo," was first described after the 1883 eruption of Krakatoa. It is a large corona seen around the Sun and Moon, caused by volcanic dust particles, with an angular radius of approximately 28 degrees, indicating particles with radii around 0.00182 millimeters. The article notes that such rings have become more common due to atmospheric pollution.

Brocken Spectre (Espectro de la Montaña) and Glory (Gloria)

The "Espectro de Brocken" is the phenomenon where an observer sees their shadow cast on a cloud or fog bank, surrounded by colored rings. This occurs when the observer is positioned with their back to the sun. The "Gloria" is similar but observed from aircraft or balloons, appearing as a luminous halo around the aircraft's shadow. It is also known as the "Pilot's Arch" or "Circulos de Ulloa." The article mentions that these phenomena are caused by the scattering of light by water droplets.

Heiligenschein (Holy Light)

This phenomenon appears as white, colorless rings around shadows projected on damp grass or soil. It is caused by the backward scattering of light by spherical particles, similar to how animal eyes reflect light. The article questions whether this, like the Glory, might have ufological connotations.

Iridescent Clouds

Iridescent clouds are described as irregular, colorful borders, often red or green, seen around the sun at certain angles. They are thought to be fragments of the Corona.

Tornadoes and UFOs

The magazine explores the potential connection between tornadoes and UFOs. It notes that tornadoes are powerful atmospheric vortices that can leave distinctive circular marks on the ground, similar to those reported from UFO landings. Russian physicists have studied tornadoes as "plasma systems," suggesting a link to the plasma state of matter. The article poses numerous questions about the capabilities of tornadoes, including their potential to cause desiccation, carbonize vegetation, alter magnetic fields, affect human physiology, and even interfere with electronic devices. It questions whether these effects could be mistaken for UFO activity.

Scientific Definitions and Challenges

Jesús Suárez García's article, "A PROPOSITO DE 'ENSAYO PARA UNA DEFINICION DE OVNI' (1)," discusses the challenges in establishing a scientific definition of UFOs. It emphasizes that scientific knowledge requires consensus and clear, unambiguous communication between observers and researchers. The article critiques a study that, despite extensive research, yielded virtually no concrete definition of a UFO, highlighting the need to precisely delimit the object of study before developing a scientific investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, there is a recurring theme of questioning the established scientific paradigm and its reluctance to fully embrace or investigate anomalous phenomena like UFOs. The articles suggest that many unexplained aerial phenomena might be atmospheric in nature but also leave open the possibility of more exotic explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider various possibilities and to critically evaluate both scientific explanations and anecdotal evidence. The magazine highlights the ongoing debate between those who attribute phenomena to known natural causes and those who suspect more extraordinary origins, emphasizing that much about the cosmos remains unknown and mysterious.

This issue of FORUM magazine, identified as Volume XVIII, Issue 41, published in 1990 by CEFAI in Argentina, focuses on the intersection of ufology and scientific methodology. The cover prominently features the headline "A PROPOSITO DE UN OPUSCULO 'CIENTIFICO'" (Regarding a 'Scientific' Booklet), indicating a critical examination of research within the field. A quote from Mario Bunge, "Those who do not wish for the verifiability of knowledge to be demanded should refrain from calling their own beliefs 'scientific'," sets a critical tone for the issue.

The Challenge of Scientific Ufology

The lead article, "A PROPOSITO DE UN OPUSCULO 'CIENTIFICO'" by Oscar Alberto Alemanno, critiques the work of Dr. Roberto E. Banchs, particularly his booklet "Los Ovnis con ocupantes en Argentina 1949-1988." Alemanno argues that Banchs' approach, while extensive in its data collection, lacks the rigor necessary for scientific validation. A key point of contention is Banchs' decision to withhold detailed case information until a future book publication, which Alemanno views as an impediment to scientific verification, consultation, and critique. He emphasizes the importance of open communication and independent verification, citing epistemologist Mario Bunge, who states that communication of results multiplies the possibilities of confirmation or refutation, and independent verification offers the maximum technical and moral guarantees.

Alemanno contrasts Banchs' stance with the scientific method, which requires that findings be verifiable. He questions the scientific validity of conclusions drawn from research that restricts further investigation. The article also touches upon the difficulty of establishing a common terminology and objective study in ufology, suggesting that without these, effective scientific communication and knowledge acquisition are impossible.

Case Studies: UFO Landing Traces (Ecología de los Aterrizajes OVNI)

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a dossier titled "Ecología de los Aterrizajes OVNI" (Ecology of UFO Landings), authored by V.J. Ballester Olmos. This section focuses on "Encuentros cercanos de 2ª clase" (Close Encounters of the 2nd Kind), specifically those involving physical traces left on the ground or vegetation in Spain and Portugal. The author aims to create a comprehensive photographic inventory of these physical evidences.

The introduction to the dossier explains that if UFOs are physical phenomena, they must exert verifiable effects on the environment. The study inventories cases where anomalous phenomena have produced physical traces such as marks, perforations, burns, flattening, dehydration, deposits, and footprints. The work is presented as a historical compilation of these cases, with a focus on photographic evidence and diagrams.

The author notes that the inventory is geographically limited to peninsular Spain (including the Balearic Islands) and Portugal, excluding the Canary Islands. The motivations for this work are threefold: to provide an informative and documentary resource for researchers, to enable inferential analysis of the data for new insights into the phenomenon, and to encourage other researchers to contribute additional material.

The dossier presents a table summarizing UFO landing cases, categorized by LANIB (purportedly unexplained) and NELIB (explained), with counts for Spain and Portugal. It highlights that unexplained landing cases constitute about 17% of total UFO reports in the Iberian Peninsula, and those with material traces represent 22% of unidentified close encounters.

The article emphasizes that the value of "UFOs that leave traces" cases depends on the availability of visible proof. Even with physical evidence, the possibility remains that the traces are unrelated to the phenomenon or were fabricated. The subsequent sections provide a chronological listing of these cases with summaries and bibliographic references.

Selected Case Examples:

• July 1939, Zahara de los Atunes, Barbate (Cádiz), Spain: A 7-year-old witness reported an 18-meter diameter object landing, from which two beings emerged. Later, two regular holes and a damaged tree were found.
• July 1, 1953, Villares del Saz (Cuenca), Spain: A shepherd observed a metallic, ovular object land, and three small, human-like beings emerged. The site showed footprints and four holes forming a perfect square.
• May 5, 1954, Fregim, Amarante, Douro Litoral (Portugal): A child witnessed a half-sphere shaped object with a conical turret ascend vertically. Investigators found an irregular area of ground where vegetation did not grow.
• December 6, 1954, Altos de Gainchurrizqueta, Irún (Guipúzcoa), Spain: A cyclist observed a parallelepiped object land. The site revealed flattened grass, human-like footprints, and metallic pieces.
• March 1955, Vilanova de la Roca-Montornés de Vallés (Barcelona), Spain: An architect reported a gray, dome-shaped object with a ring landing. The location showed scorched grass and tripod-like tracks.
• August 28, 1957, Nazaré, Extremadura (Portugal): Two witnesses observed a lenticular object descend and land. The site exhibited an area where vegetation failed to grow for two years.
• October 16, 1959, El Cobre, Algeciras (Cádiz), Spain: A witness saw a luminous object hover, with two human-like beings emerging. The site contained a circle of wilted grass.
• July 1964, Las Rozas (Madrid), Spain: An economist observed a conical object land. The site displayed flattened vegetation in a circular pattern.

Epilogue and Conclusion

In the epilogue, Alemanno reiterates his stance on Banchs' work, stating that it cannot be considered scientific in its current presentation as it does not contribute objective knowledge to ufology. He expresses a desire for Banchs to soon release the evidence supporting his conclusions. The article concludes with a quote from I.G. Guerasimov, emphasizing that the relativity of knowledge implies that different interpretations of facts do not necessarily mean one is true and the other false, but rather highlight the difficulty in achieving objective understanding. Scientists, Guerasimov notes, advance through different paths, sometimes in dramatic collisions, towards comprehending the principle of relativity in our knowledge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the rigorous application of the scientific method to the study of UFO phenomena, the importance of verifiability and open communication in research, and the detailed cataloging and analysis of physical evidence from UFO landing cases. The editorial stance is critical of research that lacks transparency and hinders independent verification, advocating for a more robust, scientifically grounded approach to ufology. The magazine champions the meticulous documentation of UFO-related physical traces as a crucial component of advancing the field.

This document, titled "DOSSIER," presents a compilation of UFO/UAP (Unidentified Flying Object/Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings and related physical evidence reported in various locations across Spain. The entries span from June 1966 to March 1974, detailing specific incidents with dates, locations, witness accounts, and descriptions of the phenomena and any resulting traces.

Key Incidents and Reports

Cistella, Gerona (June 27, 1966) Witnesses observed a disk-shaped object with concentric circles, followed by two hexagonal cylinder-shaped objects that merged into a single body and ascended rapidly. In the area where the objects appeared to originate, a young apricot branch was found uprooted, and potato leaves in a 9-meter diameter zone were found to have dried out.

Porcieda, Potes, Cantabria (August 1966) A group of people, initially investigating damage attributed to wild boars, heard a noise and saw a "cheese-shaped" object with a variable glow. Days later, a circular flattened area was discovered with a deposit of dust, parallel drag marks, and a cylindrical perforation. The area also showed signs of broken bushes.

5 km. Palma de Mallorca, Baleares (July 1967) A young girl reported being awakened by an intense light and seeing two child-sized beings with large heads and eyes. Two marks appeared on the exterior wall of her house, which reappeared even after painting.

San Martín de Tous, Barcelona (September 11, 1968) A witness driving a car observed an orange dome-shaped light on a hill. Four gray, "eight"-shaped forms were seen moving towards the light, which then ascended. The witness later observed an ovoid object, approximately 4 meters long and 2.5 meters wide, which emitted multicolored lights and moved away at high speed. The following day, three footprints and a swirl of flattened grass were found on the hilltop.

Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Cádiz (October 11, 1968) A 9-year-old girl saw a bright red light near a fig tree, accompanied by a loud "rat-like" sound. She felt hypnotized. The next day, a 1.5-meter diameter circle of disturbed earth was found, with small footprints and letters "M," "W," and "E" imprinted in the soil. These findings were photographed by the Civil Guard.

Matadepera, Barcelona (January 29, 1969) An elderly woman heard a loud noise and observed a pear-shaped object, about 3 meters long and 2.5 meters high, moving at low altitude. Days later, four parallel perforations were found in the ground, with smaller ramifications. The perforations were approximately 3 cm deep and 55 cm long.

Villalba de los Alcores, Valladolid (July 24, 1970) A 15-year-old witness observed a mushroom-shaped object emitting strong white luminosity, which ascended vertically. In the vicinity, areas with numerous carbonized bushes were found.

Herrera de Duero, Valladolid (August 16, 1970) A witness reported interference with her television reception, then saw a silver discoidal object, about 4 meters wide, supported by three legs. A human-like being, approximately 1.80 meters tall, was observed nearby. The object then ascended. The next morning, a uniform shine was visible on the cement where the object had been, along with black, boot-shaped footprints.

Nuez, Zamora (August 23, 1971) A driver observed a yellow light source that approached rapidly at about 1 meter above the road before ascending. The dust on the dirt road appeared to be swirled in the area where the light had been.

Aznalcóllar, Sevilla (September 12, 1971) A guard observed an elongated object land about 350 meters away, and approximately 50 human-like beings descended. The witness was followed by two of these beings. Footprints were found the next morning.

Talavera La Real, Badajoz (October 1973) A truck driver observed a luminous object, triangular in shape, hovering about 50 meters above the ground. The object then ascended and disappeared. The following day, the ground in the area where the object had been was found to be burnt over a diameter of about 15 meters.

El Campillo, Aznalcóllar, Sevilla (March 20, 1974) A commercial agent reported seeing a large, metallic, fusiform object, 170 meters long, with three smaller objects entering it. One of the smaller objects pursued the agent's vehicle for 15 minutes. Subsequent investigations by ufologists and official reports yielded differing conclusions regarding the nature of the observed phenomena, with some suggesting natural explanations for vegetation damage and ground markings, while others noted areas of "calcined" vegetation and specific ground perforations.

Valdehijaderos, Salamanca (March 21, 1974) A truck driver observed a luminous object, ellipsoidal and 10-12 meters in diameter, supported by three legs. A second, darker object was nearby. Two 2-meter tall beings wearing fitted suits were observed. The object ascended. Later that day, three landed objects and four beings were observed. One being inserted a "T"-shaped object into the ground, while another inserted a "horseshoe"-shaped object into a hole. Three days later, a 2 cm deep indentation and two excavations were found in the area.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this compilation are the diverse shapes and behaviors of reported aerial objects, the presence of unusual lights and sounds, and the frequent occurrence of physical traces left on the ground. The document also touches upon encounters with non-human beings and the challenges in interpreting and verifying such phenomena, with differing conclusions sometimes presented by witnesses, ufologists, and official reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of documentation and presentation of reported cases, providing references for further study without explicit endorsement or dismissal of the phenomena.

This issue of DOSSIER, spanning pages 61-70, presents a collection of detailed reports on Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) and Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) sightings and associated physical traces, primarily from Spain and Portugal, between March 1974 and June 1977.

Incident Reports

March 30, 1974: Hombreiro (Lugo), Spain A married couple witnessed an ovular object emitting a dazzling greenish-yellow light at low altitude over a meadow. The object ascended and moved horizontally before disappearing. Subsequent investigation by researchers revealed flattened vegetation and a group of footprints forming an isosceles triangle. Three of these footprints measured 20 cm in length, 5 cm in width, and 7 cm in depth, with a 2-meter base. An additional two footprints, 15 cm long and 13 cm wide, were found 40 meters away.

May 24, 1974: San Clemente (Cuenca), Spain An employee of a municipal slaughterhouse observed an oval object, approximately 4 meters long and 3 meters high, with a dark green color and a horizontal row of square 'windows'. The object was supported by three or four legs. It ascended vertically with a rotational movement, causing stones and earth to be ejected, and emitting four 'plumes' of smoke with a sulfurous odor. A half-hour later, a shepherd investigated the landing site and found a circular area of 1 meter in diameter with dried yeros and two holes, 25-30 cm in diameter and 50 cm apart. These holes contained two or three orifices, 4 cm in diameter, penetrating obliquely. Outside this area, two orifices, 10 cm in diameter and over 1 meter deep, were found 1.50 meters apart, forming a rhomboid shape with the other two. The walls of these holes were calcined, suggesting temperatures between 2,000°C and 3,000°C. Cracks and earth clods were observed around the larger holes, and smoke was seen emanating from the orifices. Analysis of samples showed no abnormal radioactivity.

November 1974: Frómista (Palencia), Spain A 28-year-old doctor and his friend observed an elipsoidal object suspended about 1 meter above a field on several occasions. The object had colored lights around its perimeter and a metallic appearance, measuring 0.50 meters long and 0.30 meters high. During one observation, the witnesses stopped their car 20 meters from the object. When they opened the door, they were struck by a green ray from the UFO, illuminating the car and its occupants. They quickly drove away. Later, they observed that a persistent green hue covered their clothes, exposed skin, the car's exterior, and the interior of the opened door. This coloration disappeared after several minutes.

January 1, 1975: Quintanaortuño (Burgos), Spain Four young men, serving military service at the Engineering Academy in Burgos, observed a high-speed parabolic descent of an intense light. They saw a luminous 'cone-trunk' shaped body suspended 2 meters above the ground, with a height of 2 meters and a base of 3 meters, emitting yellowish light and 'luminous jets' towards the ground. The phenomenon then extinguished, and four other aligned bodies lit up. Investigators later found a burned grass area, 30-40 meters long and 4 meters wide, appearing recently burned. An official report from the 1st Air Region stated that 'nothing unusual was observed on the normal terrain'. However, subsequent investigations by Julio Malo on March 5 and April 12, 1975, noted that the grass had regrown, except for small areas that were carbonized and flattened but intact. These areas were distributed irregularly in two surfaces, 60 x 12 meters and 30 x 12 meters, separated by a 15-meter strip. The burned surfaces varied in size, with two larger ones about 50 meters apart (0.60 x 0.31 m and 1 x 0.31 m) and numerous smaller ones ranging from 0.17 x 0.17 m to 0.21 x 0.30 m.

January 21, 1975: San Roque (Cádiz), Spain The owner of an electromechanical workshop, aged 45, heard a 'chirping' sound while driving and observed a powerful white light occupying the entire width of the road about 15 meters away. The object was semicircular with wing-like extensions, measuring 6.5 meters in length and 2.5 meters in height. The car's engine stopped, and the lights remained on. After a minute, the UFO ascended vertically and then moved laterally at an 'incredible' speed. Later, the witness and a journalist returned to the site and found the grass near the road's shoulder flattened in one direction.

July 1975: Torre la Higuera-El Rocio (Huelva), Spain A lawyer, accompanied by two peasants, observed a strange light about 2 meters in diameter with orange color and small lights around its perimeter. The UFO descended to about 10 meters from the car, causing the engine to stop. It then hovered 1 meter above the ground before ascending rapidly and disappearing. Marks, apparently caused by the phenomenon, were left on the car's body and remained visible for a long time.

July 17, 1975: Los Villaesteres, Pedrosa del Rey (Valladolid), Spain An farmer, aged 49, heard an intense buzzing sound and observed an object floating 0.60 meters above the ground. The object was a vertical cylinder with an inclined 'hat' and a horizontal 'V' shaped support. It had a 'brighter than aluminum' color, measuring 3 meters in height and 2.5 meters in width. The UFO circled the tractor, getting closer with each pass. It emitted a bright light that momentarily blinded the witness. A powerful whistle was heard, and a rear-view mirror was found to have a small, 5 mm diameter hole with irregular chipping. Analysis of the mirror showed no metallic traces or abnormal radioactivity. The witness later suffered weight loss, appetite loss, decreased hearing and vision, and eventually died of 'cervical arthrosis complicated by a progressive brain tumor', after experiencing hemiplegia.

August 24, 1975: Nueva Jarilla, Jerez de la Frontera (Cádiz), Spain The manager of a farm, his wife, and three children observed a powerful light suspended 3-4 meters above the ground about 800 meters away. They approached to within 100 meters of the UFO, which appeared to raise 'a great cloud of dust'. The witnesses became nervous and drove away at high speed. The next day, the witness noted a zone of 'toasted earth and scorched grass' about 4 meters in diameter where the UFO had been. Analysis of soil and grass samples a month and a half later revealed no abnormal radioactivity.

January 28, 1976: Benacazón (Sevilla), Spain An agricultural worker, aged 24, encountered an object shaped like a 'telephone booth', 4 meters high and 2 meters wide, with a dark green color, hovering 5 meters above the road on a tripod. Two human-like beings, 2 meters tall, emerged from the object. They placed an object in the witness's hand which burned him, causing him to drop it. The beings re-entered the craft, which ascended rapidly. The object then emitted a luminous flash that caused the witness to lose consciousness. Upon regaining consciousness, he found himself at his home, covered in soot and dirt. He reported being burned and having a 'great psychomotor excitement'. Analysis of stains on his trousers revealed mineral oil, vegetable or animal fat, and carbon.

August 23, 1976: Esparragosa de Lares (Badajoz), Spain A herdsman observed a round object with very bright colored lights moving silently at 5 meters altitude and 500 meters distance. A 47-year-old shepherd and his son saw an 'egg-shaped' object with 'many orange lights', 2.5 meters long, which ascended from the ground and hovered 1 meter above the area before ascending and disappearing. The site where the object had allegedly landed was found to be burned.

September 1, 1976: Almusafes (Valencia), Spain A 62-year-old worker observed a white light moving at low speed and altitude. It descended next to a 100-meter-distant orange grove. After landing, the light turned red, revealing a dark, spherical 'apparatus' 2 meters in diameter. A being, 1.90 meters tall, human-like and corpulent, wearing a helmet and a 'silver suit', emerged. After about 10 minutes, a 'streak of fire' ascended at high speed, and the being and object disappeared. Later, the witness found small, round holes arranged in a line at the landing site.

October 18, 1976: Lujúa (Vizcaya), Spain A 62-year-old seamstress heard a vibrating sound and saw a 'luminous ball' of strong 'butane' color descending from 2 km. The sound recurred, and she saw three 'luminous balls' descending about 50 meters away and 3 meters high, with blue, white, and off-white colors. Investigations in late October found a 'considerable number of branches with burned tips' on trees bordering a meadow. In November, nine indentations were found in the meadow, arranged in series of three, forming isosceles triangles. These indentations had varying depths and dimensions, with the largest triangle having sides of 1.14 m and 1.44 m, and others measuring up to 2.26 m.

January 4, 1977: Carapito, Beira Alta (Portugal) A dog trainer observed an elipsoidal object with a dome, about 6-7 meters in diameter, suspended 10 meters above the ground. He also saw an immobile, human-like figure, 1.80-2 meters tall. The UFO emitted a 'brilliant flash' and disappeared instantly, as did the figure. The witness suffered severe headaches. Later, two sisters observed a dark 'box', 2.5 meters high and 1 meter wide, with a dark head, about 60 meters away. The younger sister suffered nervous shock, leading to a subsequent cardiac condition. Investigators found a small radioactive zone (20-30 roentgens) near where the figure was seen, and a circular area where the earth was compressed and grass did not grow.

June 26, 1977: Arenas de San Pedro (Avila), Spain A 45-year-old constructor observed an object in a vineyard about 300 meters away. His wife, son, and a neighbor also saw it. The object had a 'dazzling' light and was about 3 meters in wingspan. Two beings, about 3 meters tall and dressed in 'khaki', were with the object. They covered the object with a 'tarpaulin' and entered it, after which it disappeared 'rolling' over a hill. The observation lasted 6 minutes. The ground in the vineyard where the object had been was disturbed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of DOSSIER focuses on detailed, factual reporting of UFO/UAP sightings and their physical consequences. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and documentation, presenting witness accounts, measurements, and findings from various sources, including official reports and independent investigators. Recurring themes include the physical traces left by objects (flattened vegetation, footprints, burned areas, ground impressions), electromagnetic effects (rays, flashes, interference), and the presence of unusual lights and craft shapes. The publication aims to provide a comprehensive record of these phenomena, often citing specific references for further research.

This document, titled "DOSSIER," presents a compilation of UFO/UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings and associated physical trace evidence reported in Spain and Portugal between 1977 and 1980. It functions as a catalog of cases, providing details on witness accounts, object characteristics, and the physical evidence left behind.

Case Reports

August 28, 1977 - Cogolludo (Guadalajara), Spain A 17-year-old student reported a suffocating heat and a bright light. He observed an ovoid object, described as "like a squashed nut," approximately 2 meters long and 1.5 meters high, with a pulsating white halo. The object ascended slowly and silently. Later, the ground where the object had been was found to be hot, and a circle of flattened grass was discovered, along with regular holes about 5 cm deep and 8 cm in diameter.

January 6, 1978 - Santo Domingo da Caparica, Armada, Estremadura, Portugal A construction technician and his friend witnessed a bright blue light descend vertically over a wooded area. They saw a figure about 2.30 meters tall, wearing a white suit and helmet, near a static object estimated to be 25-30 meters long and 5-6 meters high. The next day, they found an 8-meter diameter area with flattened grass.

February 19, 1978 - Aznalcóllar-El Alamo (Sevilla), Spain A forest ranger observed a brilliant, dark, round object with concentric rings of orange, blue, and green descending vertically. After the object disappeared, he inspected the landing site and found a scorched broom plant and a leveled circle of ground about 2 meters in diameter.

March 4, 1978 - Valdehúncar (Cáceres), Spain A family saw an orange, ovoid object, about 10 meters in diameter, hovering. It descended slowly, then ascended rapidly. The following morning, they found dried bushes and superficially burned grass in a 2-meter radius area.

August 26, 1978 - Arroes, Villaviciosa (Asturias), Spain A 15-year-old student heard a noise and saw a bright white light. The next morning, she found a star-shaped footprint in the meadow, with flattened grass and sunken ground. The grass took over two months to regrow normally.

October 15, 1978 - Jaraba (Zaragoza), Spain A witness photographing eagle nests heard a whistling sound and felt his hair stand on end. His camera and watch felt hot. He observed a spherical object, about 5x3 meters, with antennas, and two beings approximately 1.90 meters tall. A small funnel-shaped hole, about 20 cm in diameter and 8-10 cm deep, was found.

November 24, 1978 - Gerena (Sevilla), Spain Two bricklayers and two friends hunting saw a red light in a grove. They approached and saw an object about 3 meters high and 4-5 meters long, with a red light on top and colored lights in the center. They also observed a human-like being about 2 meters tall. Later, three footprints, each 42 cm long, were found.

July 1, 1979 - Sangonera la Verde (Murcia), Spain Four youths on motorcycles saw a light on a mountain. An hour later, they saw a being about 2 to 2.5 meters tall, wearing a white jacket and dark trousers. The object then ascended. Days later, two deep, oblique footprints, 39.5 cm long and 14 cm wide, were discovered. Later, three indentations 1 meter in diameter were found.

July 25, 1979 - Turís (Valencia), Spain An agricultural worker observed a "half-egg" shaped object, about 2.20 meters high and 2.50 meters wide, supported by four legs. Two small beings, about 90 cm tall, entered the object, which then ascended vertically. Four footprints were discovered, forming a rectangle, with a lobular circular shape and a central casquet.

August 1979 - Górliz (Vizcaya), Spain Two friends in a campsite saw a human-like being about 1.20 meters tall, walking like a monkey. They then saw three more identical beings. A luminous circular object appeared shortly after.

December 24, 1980 - Ayamonte (Huelva), Spain A 73-year-old woman and her husband observed a circular light, about 1-2 meters in diameter, red-yellowish in color, suspended at a height of 2-3 meters. Later, four irregularly distributed holes, 25 cm deep, were found in the area.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The dossier consistently presents reports of unexplained aerial phenomena and their physical consequences. The recurring themes include the visual observation of unusual objects and beings, the presence of physical traces on the ground (such as flattened vegetation, indentations, and footprints), and the often inconclusive results of scientific analysis of these traces. The editorial stance appears to be one of documentation and reporting, presenting witness accounts and investigative findings without overt skepticism or sensationalism, allowing the details of each case to speak for themselves. The use of references suggests a basis in existing reports or investigations.

This issue of "Cuadernos de Anomalía" (Issue 81) focuses on documented UFO/UAP (Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena) cases and related historical events, primarily from Spain and Scandinavia. It presents detailed accounts of sightings, physical traces left behind, and official investigations, alongside analysis and commentary.

UFO Sightings and Physical Traces in Spain

The magazine details several specific incidents:

Nájaras, Vejer de la Frontera (Cádiz), July 1982

A cattle rancher's motorcycle stopped inexplicably. He then witnessed two tall beings in metallic suits, described as walking like "astronauts on the Moon," approach him. The object they were associated with ascended silently. J.J. Benítez reportedly found flattened grass in a circle approximately 12 meters in diameter at the site.

Aiguafreda (Barcelona), September 2, 1984

A 37-year-old housewife and her son observed an orange object, the size of a full moon, descending vertically. The object was obscured by a mound, from which a "grandiose glow" emerged. The sighting was also witnessed by neighbors. The next morning, the witness found three circular marks, 5 cm deep and 1.5 meters in diameter, along with scorched branches and stones forming a circle. A ufologist found footprints approximately 32 cm long and 13 cm wide.

Las Medianas, Los Cabezudos, Almonte (Huelva), April 20, 1985

Three siblings (ages 10-15) observed a strong orange spherical light, appearing larger than a full moon, at a distance of about 250 meters. It moved away at high speed. The following morning, they discovered a circular burnt area, approximately 5.75 meters in diameter, with two triangular protrusions. This area was hot and caused vegetation to disappear or become completely calcined. Within this area, three shallow perforations formed an equilateral triangle. Soil analysis revealed notable calcination, higher carbon and sulfur content, increased alkaline-earth metals, lower pH, and reduced silica compared to control samples.

Higuera de la Serena (Badajoz), June 26, 1987

Three friends saw a yellow light, the size of a full moon, descend and hover over an olive tree about 4 meters above the ground and 25 meters away. The object, a sphere 15 meters in diameter, emitted a faint hum. Two human-like beings, 2.5 meters tall, emerged and approached the witnesses, who fled. The UFO ascended rapidly. A month later, investigators found that the upper leaves of the olive tree showed signs of dehydration.

Mallen (Navarra), February 4, 1990

A hunter observed a light near Tudela that grew from the size of a "five-duro coin" to about 300 meters in diameter. It was described as a sphere with a phosphorescent white exterior and a more intense white interior. The phenomenon lasted only seconds. Days later, investigators found an area about 40 meters long and 15-20 meters wide with flattened bushes and thistles, their roots exposed and slightly calcined.

"Ghost Rockets" Over Scandinavia (1946)

This section, drawing from an "Intelligence Review" document (Issue No. 47, January 9, 1947) from the U.S. War Department, discusses the phenomenon of "Ghost Rockets" reported over Northern Europe in 1946.

Initial Reports and Descriptions

Flying missiles were first reported over southern Sweden in late May 1946, dubbed "Ghost Rockets" by the press. Sightings increased significantly in June and July, extending to Finland, Denmark, and Norway. Most reports came from untrained observers, leading to varied descriptions. Common descriptions included "a ball of fire with a tail" or a "shiny cigar-shaped object." Altitudes ranged from treetop height to 160,000 feet, and speeds were described as very high, from 65 mph to "lightning fast." Most were described as flying horizontally, though some reports mentioned diving into water or exploding.

Pilot's Report

A Swedish Air Force pilot reported seeing a dark, cigar-shaped object, about 50 feet long and 3 feet in diameter, flying horizontally at 200 feet altitude and an estimated 400 mph. The object maintained a constant altitude, following terrain contours. The report notes the difficulty of a wingless object maintaining such an altitude over mountainous terrain, suggesting the pilot might have missed seeing wings.

Official Investigations and Censorship

Official investigations began in June 1946. The Swedish Defense Staff initially suggested the objects were Soviet missiles launched from Peenemünde but provided no proof. A partial censorship was imposed on the press in August, restricting details. Communist newspapers ridiculed the claims, suggesting the missiles might have originated from the United States. The Swedish authorities' attitude shifted, with later communiqués suggesting celestial origins (meteors) rather than missiles, possibly to downplay the issue and avoid political complications with the Soviet Union.

Conclusions on "Ghost Rockets"

The article concludes that while the Soviets were known to be developing guided missiles like the V-1, the evidence for "Ghost Rockets" being such missiles was weak. It suggests that only a few low-flying V-1 type incidents might have occurred, while high-altitude sightings were likely meteors or fireworks. The Swedish Defense Staff may have exploited the situation for political reasons.

Statistical Analysis of Traces

An analysis of 52 cases reveals that physical traces were often discovered immediately or within hours of the event (54%), with another 23% found within days. The remaining cases had delayed discovery or unknown discovery times. In 60% of cases, independent investigators or journalists confirmed the traces; in 33%, no independent confirmation existed.

Vegetation damage was categorized into burning/charring, drying/dehydration, flattening/trampling, and inhibited growth. The analysis also notes the variety of shapes and sizes of ground traces, including circular, square, rectangular, and irregular areas, as well as specific marks like holes and drag marks. The article mentions that radioactivity measurements were negative.

Other Cases and Commentary

Voronezh and Conil

The article briefly touches upon the Voronezh (1989) and Conil (1989) cases, noting the media's extensive coverage and the reliance on testimonies, particularly from children in Voronezh. It highlights the contradictions and lack of independent confirmation in the Voronezh case and the unusual parallel in timing and theme with the Conil sightings of strange beings. The author expresses skepticism about the Voronezh incident, calling it a simple anecdote based on children's stories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and the challenges posed by media sensationalism and potential government obfuscation. It highlights the need for detailed, verifiable evidence in UFO cases and questions whether all reported phenomena stem from a single source, suggesting a multiplicity of causes, including natural phenomena and possibly misidentified advanced technology. The editorial stance appears to favor critical analysis and a cautious approach to extraordinary claims, while acknowledging the persistent nature of the UFO phenomenon and the need for continued research.

This issue of "CUADERNOS DE UFOLOGIA" (Issue 91) delves into two significant UFO-related events: a perplexing encounter in Conil, Spain, and the 'Operation Naja' phenomenon, which involved a widely reported aerial anomaly later identified as a French missile test. The magazine presents detailed witness testimonies, critical analysis from investigators, and reviews of relevant ufological literature.

The Conil Incident: A Witness Account

The issue begins by recounting a story from Conil, Spain, involving five young witnesses whose ages ranged from 14 to 22. The spokesperson for the group was Juan Bermúdez, the 29-year-old brother of one of the witnesses, Loli. The events took place on a beach known for its solitude, near Playa de los Bateles. For several days in late August, the witnesses observed an intense circular light with four central spotlights on the horizon, and another light vertically above the beach, which they believed were communicating.

On September 29, the beach was empty. The witnesses, equipped with binoculars, observed two beings emerge on the sand. These beings moved slowly and awkwardly, their faces described as completely white, with shaved heads, lacking distinct features, like unworked plaster masks. The witnesses felt panic and ran away. They then observed the two beings lie down and create a mound. A second luminous ball appeared, moving between them. One witness, Pedro, using binoculars, described a three-meter-tall being, dressed entirely in black, with a large head and white skin, who was hairless.

Following this, the two beings who had been on the sand transformed into a man and a woman, dressed casually, and walked towards the town like tourists. The three-meter-tall being then moved rapidly towards the sea, appearing to slide on the water, before disappearing. As this happened, the lights also went out.

Investigator's Doubts and Alternative Explanations

The magazine's investigator expresses considerable skepticism regarding the Conil incident. The investigator questions Pedro's actions, noting that he ran off without sharing his binocular observations and that no one else corroborated his sighting of the three-meter-tall being. The investigator suggests that the described beings could have been a couple on the beach, and the 'lights' could have been related to the presence of two British ships, the C.S. Monarch and others, which were conducting submarine cable installation work in the area from September 23 to October 2. The timing of these operations, which could have occurred at night, is highlighted as a potential explanation for the observed lights, possibly being confused with the ship's lights or work activities.

The investigator points out that the witnesses' attitude was not objective, and their predisposition towards the extraordinary may have led them to magnify ordinary events. The description of the beings' faces is also questioned, given the lack of natural light. The investigator concludes that the story lacks a strong basis and that the witnesses, influenced by the phenomenon and being overly credulous, may have amplified a series of unrelated events.

Operation Naja: A Missile Test Explained

The second major section of the magazine focuses on 'Operation Naja,' a phenomenon observed across Catalonia, Spain, and parts of Europe on March 21, 1989. Numerous people reported seeing a UFO, described as a small, bright white light moving vertically at high speed, emitting gas, and leaving a phosphorescent cloud. This event was also witnessed in Switzerland, France, and Italy.

Photographs of the phenomenon were captured, showing a light ascending from near the Pyrenees, becoming static, and then accelerating incredibly. The resulting luminous cloud persisted for about half an hour. The mystery was solved when the French Ministry of Defense confirmed that an S-3 missile had been launched from the Centre d'Essais des Landes near Biscarrose on March 21, 1989, around 7:30 PM.

The article explains that the S-3 is a medium-range, surface-to-surface ballistic missile. The launch trajectory was designed to be over the Atlantic, but the ionized trail was visible from southern France. The timing of the launch, near sunset, was intended to facilitate optical observations. The luminous trail, illuminated by the sun at high altitudes, appeared as a bright white streak against the darkening sky. As the sun set, the trail's appearance changed, leading to various interpretations, including a malfunctioning object or even a flying saucer.

The article emphasizes that such events, including missile tests and other aerospace activities, are common and should be considered by ufologists when evaluating sightings. The 'Operation Naja' is presented as an example of how a mundane event can be misinterpreted as a UFO due to lack of information and a predisposition to believe in the extraordinary.

Book Reviews

The issue also features reviews of two books:

1. "Examining the Earthlight Theory: The Yakima UFO Microcosm" by Greg Long: This book is praised for its rigorous and methodical investigation of a series of sightings in the Yakima Native American Reservation, Washington, USA. The remote location and the fact that observations were made by professional lookouts are highlighted as factors lending credibility. The book examines 'earthlight' theories and finds tectonic force theories inadequate. It also draws parallels with other cases, suggesting that UFOs are a real phenomenon beyond mere psychosocial fantasies.

2. "CES OVNIS QUI FONT PEUR" ("Those UFOs That Scare Us") by Jean Sider: This book is described as a comprehensive work that goes beyond typical UFO reports. Sider investigates government secrecy, alleged cover-ups, and the phenomenon of cattle mutilations, linking them to UFO activity. The book also discusses alleged extraterrestrial interactions with humans, including genetic manipulation theories. The reviewer notes Sider's cautious approach, avoiding definitive conclusions, and his critical examination of various UFO theories and alleged government disinformation campaigns, such as the 'Grudge 13' report and the Majestic-12 documents.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and investigative stance towards UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained events, it strongly emphasizes the need for rigorous investigation, the consideration of mundane explanations (such as military activities, natural phenomena, and misidentification), and the skepticism towards sensationalist claims. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational, evidence-based approach to ufology, often highlighting how media sensationalism and witness predispositions can contribute to the UFO narrative. The magazine also touches upon themes of government secrecy and disinformation in relation to UFOs.

This issue of "Cuadernos de Ufología" (Issue 7) features a cover story detailing a military interception of a suspected UFO in Spain in 1968, which was later identified as a meteorological balloon. The magazine also includes a section for reader letters, offering diverse perspectives on ufology, and a detailed technical report on the aircraft involved in the incident.

Letters to the Editor

European UFO Encounters and the Need for Spanish Participation

A letter from Perry Petrakis in Aix, France, addresses the future of European UFO encounters, aiming to "construct a ufological Europe." He stresses the importance of participation from Scandinavian countries and Eastern Bloc nations. Petrakis expresses a desire for Spain's involvement and suggests that if significant progress isn't made, these European encounters might disappear due to the excessive work not being justified by the results. He requests that this discussion be raised in Spain's "public square," specifically mentioning "C.d.U."

Critique of Skepticism and a Call for Deeper Research

Another letter, from Rafael Casares Ferrer in Granada, congratulates the magazine on its informative work, acknowledging the difficulty of publishing on such marginal topics as ufology. Ferrer distinguishes between "skeptical" (which he renames "incredulous") theories and those that remain open to phenomena like H.E.T. (Hypothesis of Extraterrestrial Technology) and H.P.S. (Hypothesis of Psychosocial Origin) without being credulous. He criticizes the tendency in Spain to defend theories rigidly, arguing that this often focuses on partial aspects of the phenomenon. Ferrer suggests that future editions should include more in-depth monographic articles on how to conduct research, providing necessary scientific data and news of international discoveries, perhaps once a year, presented in a more pedagogical manner.

The Voronezh Case and Ufological Challenges

A letter from V.D. Musinsky in Yaroslav, USSR, responds to a previous communication, expressing suspicion about the Voronezh case. Musinsky notes discrepancies such as radioactivity levels within the margin of error of the meter, some counters only working when owned by their proprietors, terrestrial origin of materials found, natural growth of grass in ground depressions, and significant differences in reported hole diameters. He mentions that local newspapers provided the information, and Voronezh has become a personal 'nightmare' due to the volume of inquiries from many countries.

The Gulf Breeze Case and Ufological Divisions

Willy Smith from the UNICAT Project in Longwood, Florida, USA, expresses disillusionment with ufology due to personal attacks he has received for calling the Gulf Breeze case a fraud. He notes that some ufologists and organizations like MUFON and CUFOS defend the case, leading to a "war without quarter" against those who oppose it. Smith observes a global trend away from scientific approaches towards "political ufology," where opinions often overshadow facts, and individuals seek prominence rather than solutions. He notes a division in the USA between those pursuing serious ufology and those focused on making money from the topic. He is preparing a critical article on the common characteristics of "political ufologists" worldwide.

Appreciation for "C.d.U." and a Call for Continued Support

Luis Pachecho from Rosario, Argentina, praises the clarity of a note by Luis Ruiz Noguez and the precision of Ballester's contribution on the Voronezh events. Pachecho requests a "corrigendum" for two errors in a previous FORUM note: the date range should be 1949-1988, not 1949-1968, and a photograph on page 43 incorrectly identifies a person. He also commends the magazine for its design and layout, particularly issue number 7. Pachecho highlights the interesting clarification by Adalberto Ujvari regarding a note on UMMO, and the publication of the "La Nueva Ufopatía" dossier. He also notes the article "La Ufologia argentina en el divan" and a mention of Alejandro's report on the FAECE Congress.

The Importance of Initial Stimulus in UFO Understanding

Angel Luis Chinea Felipe from Tenerife, Canary Islands, expresses appreciation for the magazine's work. He transcribes excerpts from Claude-Mariè Vadrot's book "Les nouveaux ruses" regarding the increasing embrace of superstitions in Russia and a reported case of a woman regaining life with psychic powers. Felipe then delves into the concept of the "initial stimulus" in understanding UFO phenomena, aligning with the HPS (Hypothesis of Psycho-Sociological) approach. He argues that while the psychosocial focus of "new ufology" is valuable, the initial stimulus is vital for a holistic comprehension. He questions why ufologists might fear admitting that explanations like Menzel's or Klass's could be correct, and criticizes the automatic rejection of "official" explanations, comparing it to childish rebellion. Felipe concludes that many have matured and now understand the necessity of "official science" for progress.

A Call for Collaboration and Support

Another letter from Mexico, by Luis Ruiz Noguez, expresses support for the magazine. He acknowledges his limited ability to contribute directly as a translator or investigator but pledges to promote the publication. He expresses his appreciation for the immense work involved and the realization of a long-awaited publication.

Cover Story: Globo Sonda Interceptado por Cazas Militares al Ser Confundido con un OVNI

This article details an incident on September 6, 1968, involving two F-86F Sabre fighter jets and a military radar detecting an unidentified object over Navarra and La Rioja, Spain. The pilots initially classified it as a UFO due to its anomalous appearance and high altitude. A "F-104 G Starfighter," piloted by Captain Miguel Ruiz Nicolau, was dispatched to intercept it. Upon closer inspection at an altitude of 19,500 meters, the object was identified as a meteorological balloon. Captain Ruiz Nicolau managed to take several photographs of the balloon before it exploded and fell to the ground around 13:10 hours. The F-104 returned to its base after a mission lasting 1 hour and 20 minutes. The article includes technical data on the F-104 G Starfighter and notes that the meteorological balloon had been launched from France and was carried by wind currents.

Additional Document: Data and Timelines

This section provides a breakdown of the known data and estimations related to the F-104 interception incident. It includes:

• Known Data: Sightings of the balloon in Calahorra (11:45-12:30) and Logroño (13:00-13:10), total flight time of the F-104 (1 hour 20 minutes), and the distance from Torrejón to Navarra (250 km).
• Estimations: Calculations for supersonic and subsonic flight times of the F-104, including ascent, descent, and maneuvers.
• Approximate Timings: A reconstructed timeline of the F-104's mission, from scramble takeoff at 12:10 to landing at 13:30.
• F-104 G Starfighter Data: Specific details about the aircraft involved (C.8-11), including its model, factory number, USAF serial number, Spanish designations, and its service period in Spain (1965-1972) under American loan before being transferred to Turkey.

Sources

The article cites personal communication with M. Ruiz Nicolau, articles from "Air Sonic" magazine, and national newspapers from September 7, 1968, as well as an encyclopedia of aviation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a strong emphasis on the scientific approach to ufology, with several contributors criticizing what they term "political ufology" and the rigid adherence to skeptical viewpoints. There's a clear call for more rigorous, data-driven research and a willingness to consider unconventional hypotheses without succumbing to credulity. The magazine appears to champion open-mindedness combined with critical analysis, encouraging readers to engage in informed debate and support the publication's continuity. The editorial stance seems to be one of promoting serious, scientific investigation into UFO phenomena while acknowledging the challenges and divisions within the ufological community.