Papers d'Ovnis - 2a epoca - No 32

Magazine Overview

Title: Papers d'Ovnis
Issue: N° 32
Date: Abril-Junio 2003
Publisher: Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI)
Language: Spanish

This issue of "Papers d'Ovnis" focuses on presenting previously unpublished UFO sighting reports and exploring the legal and scientific implications of extraterrestrial phenomena.

Casuística Catalana Via Web

This article, authored by Josep Maria Orta, details the online observation questionnaire launched by the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI) in June 1996. The questionnaire aims to collect reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOs). Since its implementation, the system has received over 120 cases, with 53 occurring within Spain and the rest spread across 14 countries, primarily in the Americas. The cases reported date back to 1965, highlighting the system's effectiveness in rescuing older, potentially forgotten reports. The article presents a brief report on 20 cases from the Catalonia region, with full details available to the CEI.

The magazine includes tables showing the distribution of reported cases by Spanish province and by country. The province table lists 53 cases in total, with Barcelona having the highest number (18), followed by Madrid (6) and other provinces with fewer reports. The country table lists 74 cases from various nations, with Mexico leading with 17 cases, followed by Argentina (12) and Chile (9).

Detailed UFO Sightings (Pages 3-6)

Pages 3 through 6 present a detailed log of UFO sightings, including date, time, location (town and province), and a description of the event. These entries provide specific details about the objects' appearance, behavior, size, color, and trajectory.

Notable sightings include:

• April 15, 1965: A metallic, spherical object in Bigues i Riells, Barcelona, appeared suddenly, remained immobile for an hour, moved, and ascended rapidly.
• 1985: Two cylindrical, cigar-shaped objects were observed in Salàs de Pallars, Lérida, flying straight and slowly.
• July 8, 1986: Two ojival-shaped objects with white light were seen in Pallejà, Barcelona, moving rapidly.
• November 29, 1997: An object in Vilassar de Mar, Barcelona, exhibited unusual maneuvers, including high-speed movements and sudden stops.
• July 31, 1996: A bright orange ball of light transformed into a white light and moved erratically at high speed near Vilanova i la Geltrú, Barcelona.
• February 1996: Three objects were sighted near Roses (Pico Paní), Girona, flying in formation at a significant altitude and speed.
• April 5, 1998: A round object of white light, changing to green and red, was observed in Barcelona.
• November 21, 1999: Four conventional fighter jets and a UFO were seen near Pont de Vilomara - Rocafort, Barcelona, with the UFO appearing to follow the jets.
• July 9, 1999: A large, bright orange light was seen near Sitges, Barcelona, described as having two light rays and disappearing suddenly.
• 1999: Three spherical, white lights were observed in Barcelona, appearing after fireworks and moving in formation.

El Derecho Ante la Conquista del Espacio (The Law and the Conquest of Space)

This article by Sebastià Estradé discusses the legal challenges and considerations arising from space exploration and the potential for extraterrestrial contact. It traces the development of international space law from the Sputnik launch in 1957, highlighting the need for regulations beyond atmospheric limitations. The author mentions the role of the United Nations in establishing cosmic law and references figures like Andrew G. Harley and Antoni Pelegrí, who proposed adapting maritime law principles to space. Estradé's own doctoral thesis on cosmic law is also noted. The article touches upon the concept of 'Metalaw' and the legal implications of potential contact with intelligent extraterrestrial life, referencing the Mantell incident as an example of potential liability.

Other Concepts That Can Pose Legal Situations

This section, likely a continuation or related part of Estradé's article, explores legal issues related to space exploration. It discusses the possibility of inhabited planets and the legal framework required for interaction with extraterrestrial beings, emphasizing principles like the Golden Rule and the prohibition of coercion. It also addresses the possibility of extraterrestrial invasions and the need for peaceful agreements with inhabitants of other worlds, advocating for universal cooperation and fraternity.

Nace la Sociedad Española de Exobiología (The Spanish Society of Exobiology is Born)

This news item announces the founding of the Spanish Society of Exobiology in Valencia on June 10th. The society is dedicated to the research and dissemination of life sciences and space. It aims to bridge the gap between science and society, making knowledge accessible to all. A key project of the society is the construction of a radio telescope named "Al-Zarqalluh" after a renowned Spanish astronomer. This instrument will be used for astronomical research and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI).

Aventura Alien (Alien Adventure)

This section appears to be a promotional piece for a film or event titled "Aventura Alien." It describes an IMAX experience that takes viewers into space to encounter extraterrestrial creatures called "Glagoliths." The narrative follows the Glagoliths' search for a new home and their exploration of "Adventure Planet," a theme park.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes the investigation of UFO phenomena, presenting detailed sighting reports and encouraging reader participation through the online questionnaire. There is a strong emphasis on the scientific and legal aspects of UFOs and space exploration, with articles discussing international law, the possibility of extraterrestrial life, and the development of related scientific initiatives like the Spanish Society of Exobiology. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and supportive of research into these subjects, aiming to inform and engage the public.

This issue of *Papers d'Ovnis*, dated April-June 2003 (n° 32), delves into a variety of intriguing topics within the realm of ufology and paranormal phenomena. The cover story, "El Cáncer del Parabrisas" (The Cancer of the Windshield), investigates a mysterious epidemic of damage to car windshields that occurred in Seattle and surrounding areas in Washington state in 1954. The magazine also features an article on "Los Sonidos Marinos Podrían Ser de Barcos Detectores de Hidrocarburos" (Marine Sounds Could Be from Hydrocarbon Detector Ships), discussing a recent geological conclusion about unusual underwater sounds in Mallorca. Another significant piece, "T_rauma," details an art project in Finland aimed at preparing a community for potential extraterrestrial contact. The issue also includes a section "Otros Países, Otros Boletines" (Other Countries, Other Bulletins) which reviews various international ufology publications and their content.

The Cancer of the Windshield

The article "El Cáncer del Parabrisas" recounts the strange events of March 1954 in Seattle, Washington, where thousands of car windshields were found damaged with tiny marks. Initially suspected to be vandalism, the phenomenon spread rapidly, affecting towns like Bellingham, Sedro Woolley, Mount Vernon, and Anacortes. The police launched investigations, but no culprits were found. By April 14, the phenomenon reached Seattle, with over 3000 marks reported on vehicles. Theories ranged from vandalism to tiny bubbles in the glass and even flea eggs. The mayor of Seattle telegraphed the governor and President Eisenhower. An analysis by the University of Washington suggested the marks were caused by cenospheres – minute particles from incomplete coal combustion – carried by the wind. However, this explanation was also met with skepticism, as these particles had been common in Seattle for years without causing such damage. The Sheriff of Whidbey Island, Tom Clark, proposed radioactivity from hydrogen bomb tests as a cause, but Geiger counters found no radiation. The incidents ceased abruptly by April 17. The article also mentions the subsequent discussion of various explanations, including cosmic rays, electronic oscillations, and unusual atmospheric phenomena, with a humorous nod to "gremlins."

T_rauma: Preparing for Extraterrestrial Contact

"T_rauma" describes an art project by Slovenian artist Igor Stromajer in Rauma, Finland, as part of the Raumars artist residency program. The project, which took place from March to May 2003, aimed to mitigate the potential trauma of a sudden revelation of extraterrestrial life. Stromajer argued that aliens are not cold, insensitive beings but possess feelings and communicate differently from humans, which can cause fear. To foster a serene reception, he organized workshops in local schools and universities. The central element of the project involved broadcasting recordings of cosmic sounds, captured by shortwave receivers, through loudspeakers across the city. Stromajer described the resulting atmosphere as "a mixed form of cry," and emphasized the importance of being ready to embrace and love any visitors. He noted that a potential extraterrestrial visit to Rauma would be the most exciting event in 12 years, following the town's UNESCO World Heritage listing in 1991. The project's website is listed as http://www.raumars.org/trauma.

Marine Sounds in Mallorca

An article references a conclusion published in the Mallorcan newspaper *Última Hora* on May 5th, attributing unusual underwater sounds heard by submarinists in Mallorca to ships involved in hydrocarbon detection. Geologist Lluís Moragues suggested that these sounds are caused by small detonations used to map the subsoil for oil or natural gas deposits. This explanation dismissed earlier theories by contact circles that the sounds originated from supposed UFO underwater bases.

Other Countries, Other Bulletins

This section, authored by Luís R. González, reviews several international ufology publications:

• UFO (Italy): The review covers issues #23 (published late 2001) and #24 (December 2001). Issue #23 discusses the results of the first Italian expedition to Hessdalen, the cataloging of "angel hair" phenomena, and references to the "COMETA Report" and Richard Haines' book on the Valentich case. It also includes a review of a book on the 1950 Italian UFO wave, which began after false reports of a crashed saucer in North America, and a historical illustration of an alien autopsy. An article by Pierre Lagrange proposes a non-reductionist sociology of the UFO phenomenon.
• Fortean Times: The review covers issue #158 (May 2002), featuring Graham Hancock's research on submerged ancient civilizations, and issue #159 (June 2002), focused on "The Final Frontier: Death," with articles on incorruptible saints and Welsh legends, but little on UFOs. Issue #160 (July 2002) presents a UFO on its cover related to the Anolaima case of 1969, where a Colombian farmer allegedly died after seeing a UFO, with the possibility of post-mortem abduction raised.
• MAGONIA Supplement: Issue #37 discusses books and includes letters commenting on previous articles. Issue #38 focuses on a 1950s UFO sighting in France, where the witness claimed the pilot controlled the craft with a large rudder, and mentions the infiltration of UFO phenomena into society, citing a British study on excuses for lateness including alien abduction.
• Skeptics UFO Newsletter: Issue #70 (Winter 2001-2002) critiques Dr. Steven Greer's "Project Disclosure," suggesting Greer claims the US government hides alien technology that could have prevented the Twin Towers tragedy. It also discusses George A. Filer's alleged involvement in an incident where an alien was reportedly killed by gunfire at McGuire Air Force Base. The newsletter also addresses a supposed UFO crash in Cape Girardeu, Montana, in 1941, questioning the testimony of the alleged witness.
• The Skeptic: Volume 15, Issue 1 (Spring 2002) features a nostalgic illustration of a 1950s UFO investigation group and an investigation by Paul Chambers into the disappearance of two British pilots in Persia in 1924, debunking alien abduction claims. Issue 2 includes an article by Hilary Evans on flying jellyfish-like creatures from a 1972 American comic book, and a discussion on Raëlians and human cloning. Volume 26, Issue 3 (May/June 2002) of *Skeptical Inquirer* presents an article by Elizabeth Loftus and Melvin I. Guyer on the risks of case studies in science, warning against accepting single versions of events. It also offers a skeptical view on Gray Baker's role in promoting Mothman stories.
• Journal of Scientific Exploration: The review notes that the journal is dedicating less space to UFOs. Issue 1 (Spring 2002) includes an article by Kevin Randle and James Houran analyzing computer analyses of a Roswell photo, suggesting that interpretations of text in the photo are influenced by prior suggestions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of *Papers d'Ovnis* demonstrates a consistent editorial stance favoring critical analysis and skepticism towards sensationalist claims within ufology, while still exploring intriguing cases and phenomena. The magazine actively debunks unsubstantiated theories and highlights research that offers more conventional explanations for anomalous events, as seen in the Seattle windshield damage case and the Mallorca sound mystery. However, it also provides platforms for artists like Igor Stromajer to explore the cultural and psychological impact of potential extraterrestrial contact. The "Other Countries, Other Bulletins" section is particularly indicative of this approach, reviewing publications from various international sources and often pointing out flaws in methodology or evidence. The magazine appears to encourage a balanced perspective, acknowledging the enduring fascination with UFOs while demanding rigorous investigation and evidence-based conclusions. The recurring themes include unexplained aerial phenomena, alleged alien encounters, government cover-ups, and the intersection of science, art, and belief systems in understanding these topics.