Papers d'Ovnis - 2a epoca - No 20

Magazine Overview

Title: Papers d'Ovnis
Issue: No. 20
Date: April-June 2000 (2nd Epoch)
Publisher: Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI)

This issue of *Papers d'Ovnis* explores the origins of life, the nature of UFOs, and the history of the CEI. It features an interview with prominent ufologist Jacques Vallée and discusses the 'Area 51' from a satellite perspective.

Articles and Content

¿Tiene la vida un origen extraterrestre? (Does life have an extraterrestrial origin?)

This article, authored by Jordi Ardanuy, delves into the scientific theories surrounding the origin of life on Earth. It suggests that comets, meteorites, and interstellar dust may have been crucial in providing the necessary organic molecules and water to make Earth habitable. The formation of the solar system and the early Earth are discussed, with a focus on how these celestial bodies could have seeded our planet. The article references the Stanley L. Miller experiment, which demonstrated the creation of amino acids from simple molecules, and the hypothesis of a 'primordial soup.' It also highlights the work of Joan Oró and Christopher R. Chyba, who support the idea of an extraterrestrial origin for life's building blocks, citing the presence of organic compounds in comets like Halley and Hale-Bopp. The concept of panspermia, the idea that life could be transferred between planets, is also explored, referencing the controversial findings in the Martian meteorite ALH 84001.

El Último de los Románticos: Jacques Vallée

This section features an interview with Jacques Vallée, conducted by John Whalen and presented by Pere Redón. Vallée, a respected investigator in the field of UFOs, shares his perspectives on the phenomenon. He describes his early interest sparked by detecting anomalous objects while working as an astronomer. Vallée discusses his book "Ciencia Prohibida" (Forbidden Science) and reiterates his belief that UFOs are real and physical, though currently inexplicable. He suggests they might be "windows" to other dimensions, manipulated by intelligences beyond our current understanding. Vallée expresses a preference for viewing UFOs as a physical mystery rather than solely as extraterrestrial visitors, as this challenges our understanding of reality. He touches upon the role of technology in investigating UFOs, including the creation of databases and the use of artificial intelligence to filter out natural explanations. He also mentions the possibility of electromagnetic effects on witnesses and the analysis of photographic evidence of anomalous objects.

"Objetos No Identificados" (O.N.I.) - Resumen de Investigaciones (II)

Authored by Eduardo Buelta, this is the second part of a study summarizing investigations into Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). Buelta analyzes key aspects of the phenomenon, including its origin, the nature of the beings involved, their activities, and their potential plans. He posits a strong correlation between UFO sightings and the oppositions of Mars, suggesting a connection to the red planet as a potential origin or staging point for UFOs. The article discusses the habitability of Mars and Venus, and the possibility of intelligent life there. Buelta also speculates on the nature of the beings, describing them as having a humanoid structure and advanced technology, but still subject to natural laws and energy limitations. He outlines a hierarchical structure of UFO activity, from small craft operating near Earth to larger 'motherships' in orbit and potential bases on the Moon.

Pasión, Muerte y Resurrección: Historia del CEI (VIII): La Década de los Noventa

Written by Martí Flò, this installment continues the history of the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI). It details the challenges faced by the organization during the 1990s, including financial difficulties due to high rent for their premises. The article mentions the temporary cession of their local to other groups and the eventual need to consider donating their extensive archive. It highlights the launch of the *Papers d'OVNIs* bulletin and the CEI's involvement in various events and collaborations. The section also notes the passing of Joan Crexell, a key figure in the CEI and the *Papers d'Ovnis* publication, and discusses the impact of his death on the organization.

Álbum de Artefactos Voladores Insólitos (II)

Authored by Dr. A. Font Sallarès, this section presents a collection of unusual flying objects throughout history. It begins by discussing the human desire to fly and the historical attempts to achieve flight using animals, referencing ancient myths and legends. The article describes early accounts of flying machines, including a Persian legend of King Ke-Kaous using cranes to lift his palanquin and a 14th-century French miniature depicting a monarch being carried by griffins. It then shifts to more modern attempts, mentioning an inventor in Baltimore who designed a flying apparatus powered by ten eagles.

Otros Países. Otros Boletines (Julio 1999)

Authored by Luis R. González, this brief section likely reviews UFO-related publications or news from other countries in July 1999.

Más Sobre los Aerohidrolitos

Authored by Jordi Ardanuy, this article appears to be a follow-up or further exploration of the topic of 'aerohidrolitos' (aerial phenomena, possibly related to atmospheric or unusual aerial objects).

El «Área 51», a Vista de Satélite

This short piece, attributed to 'Prensa' (Press), likely discusses information or images related to Area 51 as seen from satellite imagery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, mystery, and the unexplained, particularly concerning UFO phenomena and the potential extraterrestrial origins of life. There is a clear interest in scientific investigation, historical accounts, and the challenges faced by organizations dedicated to studying these subjects. The CEI, as the publisher, appears to maintain an open but critical stance, encouraging research while acknowledging the complexities and often inexplicable nature of the phenomena discussed. The editorial stance seems to favor rigorous inquiry and the dissemination of information, even when it challenges conventional understanding.

Title: Papers d'Ovnis
Issue: 20
Date: April-June 2000
Publisher: CENTRO DE ESTUDIOS INTERPLANETARIOS
Country: SPAIN
Language: Spanish

This issue of *Papers d'Ovnis* presents a diverse collection of articles exploring historical attempts at flight, contemporary UFO phenomena, and scientific investigations into unexplained events.

Historical Flight Inventions

The magazine revisits early concepts of flight, starting with the mythical Persian King Ke-Kaous (1200) who allegedly flew on a throne aided by four cranes. It then details more grounded, albeit often eccentric, inventions.

The Eagle-Powered Flyer (1865)

An American inventor proposed a device using ten eagles to lift a 100kg weight. The design featured a central metallic cabin for the pilot, surrounded by an outer ring where the eagles would be harnessed. Control was to be achieved by manipulating reins connected to the eagles' heads and wings, allowing for directional and altitude adjustments. The article notes the immense difficulty of capturing and training ten large eagles.

Besnier's Flying Machine (1678)

Besnier designed a simple flying apparatus consisting of two poles with square wings attached to their ends, resembling small windmills. He attached these to his shoulders and secured them to his ankles via a string. The movement was intended to be alternating, with one wing going up while the other went down. Besnier reportedly tested this by jumping from progressively higher platforms, eventually breaking his leg.

The Marquis de Bacqueville's Seine Crossing (1742)

The Marquis de Bacqueville, described as an optimistic but eccentric man, attempted to fly across the Seine River in Paris using large wings attached to his arms and legs. He launched himself from his house roof, reportedly covering about three hundred meters before falling into a boat below, sustaining a fractured femur. The article suggests the account of him landing safely might be nationalistic exaggeration.

Bourcart's Flapping Wings (1863)

Bourcart designed a flapping-wing aircraft inspired by Bernier's concept. It had a wing surface area of 16 m² and weighed approximately 50 kg. The wing axes were positioned over the shoulders, and movement was generated by straps connected to the feet, leaving the arms free. The inventor suggested running to achieve lift. Two individuals trained for weeks to synchronize movements and balance before attempting a test flight, reportedly covering 200 meters in length and 1.50 meters in height.

W. P. Quimbi's Flying Suit (1871)

In Wilmington, W. P. Quimbi patented a flying suit that was more suited for costume parties than actual flight. It featured small wings powered by arm and leg muscles. A notable feature was a system of strings connecting the feet to the wings, distributing tension evenly. The addition of a tail gave the wearer the appearance of a bird, but the author expresses doubt about its ability to achieve flight.

UFO Reports and Investigations

The magazine also covers various UFO-related news and investigations from different publications.

Skeptics Ufo Newsletter (July 1999)

This issue highlighted a new book confirming US military satellites detected two types of 'UFOs': 'Slow-Walkers' (supersonic bombers) and 'Fast-Walkers' (hypersonic objects, possibly meteorites or satellites). It also discussed Tim Cooper's alleged dissemination of falsified MJ-12 documents and Steven Spielberg's planned TV mini-series on abductions.

MUFON UJO Journal (May & June 1999)

The May 1999 issue featured a supposed abduction filmed by factory security cameras, where a worker disappears after a flash and reappears hours later. The article criticizes the lack of verifiable data. The June 1999 issue continued the critique of MJ-12 documents and discussed investigations into the Roswell crash site. It also reported on the alleged abduction of a moose observed by 14 loggers.

UFO Historical Review (Issue 4)

This publication examined the coincidence between the July 1947 'flying saucer' wave in the US and a prolonged meteor shower, suggesting a possible link. It also discussed the alleged downing of a fighter jet by a UFO over Sheffield in 1997.

Fortean Times (Issue 125 & 126)

Issue 125 focused on the total solar eclipse of August 11, 1999. Issue 126 featured an article on a Spanish werewolf case and discussed the Raëlian sect's cloning projects. It also reviewed Frank Stranges' book 'The Stranger at the Pentagon,' detailing encounters with 'Valiant Thor.'

Abduction Watch

This publication criticized the tactic of comparing those who disbelieve in UFO abductions to Holocaust deniers, calling for a change in strategy. It also mentioned a claim that Dr. Roger Leir removed an implant from an AIDS patient, leading to the disappearance of the disease.

European Journal of UFO & Abductions Studies (EJUFOAS)

This new publication aims for a rigorous level of articles, including hypotheses on 'electromagnetic contamination' as a cause for abduction reports and a project to catalog 'ball lightning' observations.

International UFO Reporter (Vol. 24)

This issue included an article on a supposed Adamskian-type UFO crash in the Argentine Pampas in 1950 and a detailed report on the alleged shooting down of a fighter jet by a UFO over Sheffield.

Scientific Investigations

Aerohydrolytes (Ice Blocks)

Following reports of ice blocks falling in Spain, research published in *Geotimes* suggests these 'aerohydrolytes' are formed from supercooled water vapor in the upper atmosphere, possibly indicating atmospheric changes. The study refutes cometary origins and highlights the chemical and isotopic heterogeneity of the fallen blocks.

'Area 51' Satellite Images

Satellite images of the 'Area 51' base, acquired by TerraServer from Russian Kometa satellite data, were published. The high-resolution images revealed roads, buildings, and terrain features, sparking discussion about the base's current status and the implications of public access to such data.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of historical invention, scientific inquiry, and unexplained phenomena. There's a critical stance towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly regarding UFO evidence like the MJ-12 documents and purported alien artifacts, while still presenting a wide range of reported events and theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, tempered with skepticism and a demand for verifiable evidence. The publication also highlights the international nature of UFO and anomalous phenomenon reporting, featuring news from Spain, the US, and the UK.