Papers d'Ovnis - 2a epoca - No 33

Magazine Overview

Title: Papers d'Ovnis
Issue: Nº 33
Date: Julio-Septiembre 2003
Publisher: Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI)
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of Papers d'Ovnis, published by the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI), focuses on the historical development and current state of UFO case archives, the passing of a prominent ufologist, classic humanoid encounters, and an analysis of the 1950 UFO wave in Spain.

The Archives of Casuistry: Past, Present, and Future?

The lead article is a transcription of a talk-colloquium held at the CEI on June 27th, discussing the evolution of UFO case archives. Initially compiled from newspaper clippings and questionnaires, these archives have been digitized and are now largely surpassed by the internet. The participants, including Martí, Jordi, and Pere, reflect on the early days of collecting information, the challenges of organizing it, and the development of standardized protocols within organizations like the CEI. Carmen Tamayo recounts her involvement in the 'Operación Antiquites' project in the late 1960s, which involved meticulously collecting newspaper articles about UFO sightings from various Spanish newspapers. She details the laborious process of manually copying information, highlighting the dedication required before widespread photocopying became feasible. The discussion also touches upon the role of agencies like 'Agencia Camarasa' in providing newspaper clippings and the eventual dissolution of such services. The participants lament the decline in the quality and reliability of information found in some commercial UFO magazines, citing issues of self-referencing, invented details, and a lack of proper sourcing, which they believe hinders serious investigation.

Obituary: Gordon Creighton

The issue marks the passing of Gordon Creighton, a significant figure in ufology. Born in 1908, Creighton had a distinguished career in diplomacy, serving in various international posts before becoming a leading authority on unidentified flying objects. He was a regular contributor to and later editor of 'Flying Saucer Review' from 1955 until his death in July 2003 at the age of 95. The article notes his conviction that extraterrestrials were visiting Earth and that governments were not being transparent about the phenomenon. Creighton believed that governments took the UFO issue more seriously than they admitted, possibly possessing crashed alien craft and even bodies. He understood the government's reticence, fearing public alarm and potential hostility from alien visitors. His interest in UFOs began in 1941 with a sighting in China. The article also briefly mentions his diverse interests, including religions, and his personal life, noting he was preceded in death by his son and daughter.

News and Other Sections

Humanoids: Encounters with Unknown Entities

This section reviews the book 'Humanoides: encuentros con entidades desconocidas' by Javier García Blanco. The reviewer praises the book for its inclusion of a bibliography and footnotes, a rarity in Spanish ufology literature. The book systematically presents classic humanoid cases from international ufo-logy, including well-known incidents like the Flatwoods, Villares del Saz, Quarouble, Kelly-Hopkinsville, Socorro, Valensole, Cussac, Point Pleasant (Mothman), and Falkville cases. The reviewer notes that while García Blanco acknowledges the difficulty of finding new data in old cases, he has made an effort to present information and skeptical explanations. The book's visual presentation, with maps and graphics, is considered adequate, though the sourcing of images is criticized for being insufficient, a common issue in Spanish publications regarding copyright.

Some Ideas About the 1950 Wave

This article discusses the 1950 UFO wave in Spain, which primarily occurred in March and April. Juan Carlos Uranga suggests that media coverage in late 1949, including articles about flying saucers and interplanetary vehicles, may have influenced the wave's timing. Ignacio Cabria points to the influence of Donald Keyhoe's hypothesis about Martian origins for UFOs, popularized around Christmas 1949, and the subsequent news of a supposed UFO crash in Mexico. Pere Redón proposes a connection between the wave and a US cartographic survey of Spain conducted by US reactors, possibly related to the establishment of US military bases in Spain, formalized in a treaty in September 1953. The article also includes an excerpt from a 1950 article by Camilo José Cela titled "Los platillos volantes o un mundo con astigmatismo," which uses the UFO phenomenon as a metaphor for humanity's collective myopia and astigmatism.

UFO Sighting Near Castrojeriz

A personal account describes a sighting near Castrojeriz, Spain, on August 24th. The witness, Javier, and his mother observed a strange, bright light that moved in circles and approached their car before taking on a triangular shape and hovering over a nearby forest. The experience left them terrified.

More Unidentified Objects

A brief report from Deià, Spain, describes a married couple witnessing luminous objects with unusual movements and light emissions over the coast on September 18th and 19th. The couple, long-time residents, expressed surprise at the phenomenon.

20th Anniversary of Cuadernos de Ufología

This section commemorates the 20th anniversary of 'Cuadernos de Ufología,' a publication founded by José Ruesga Montiel in March 1983. Initially a bulletin serving as a communication medium for a dwindling community of Spanish ufologists, it evolved into a book-format magazine and eventually contributed to the formation of Fundación Anomalía. The article highlights the publication's role in fostering discussion and uniting researchers in the field.

Letter to the Editor: Reply from Iker Jiménez

Iker Jiménez responds to a comment made by Sr. Martí Flo regarding his participation as an advisor in the film "Platillos Volantes." Jiménez clarifies that his involvement was as a volunteer, providing information and documents related to cases like Tarrasa and Lérida. He refutes the accusation that he aimed to discredit ufologists like Antoni Ribera or Màrius Lleget, stating that he has always treated the subject with respect and that such accusations are unfounded and will be addressed legally.

Letter to the Editor: Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos

Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos writes in response to his article "¿Porqué no pueden existir los 'OVNIS'?" published in 1968. He clarifies that the article's intention was not to deny the existence of UFOs, but rather to highlight the complexity of the phenomenon and challenge the 'official science' explanations, thereby arguing for the existence of UFOs.

Letter to the Editor: UFO Sighting in Sierra Norte de Sevilla

This letter critiques an article about UFO sightings in the Sierra Norte de Sevilla, questioning the credibility of anonymous military witnesses and the author's reliance on their testimony without providing sufficient details about their identity, experience, or the circumstances of the sighting. The author also questions the calculation of object dimensions and the lack of radar detection, suggesting potential issues with the report.

UFO Sighting in Gipuzkoa

A brief report details an anonymous witness's report of a UFO over Gipuzkoa, Spain, on July 10th. A DYA (roadside assistance) unit pursued the object, which was described as a light that grew and shrank in size. An astronomer suggested it might be Jupiter, but the witness emphasized its rapid movement and unusual characteristics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous research, proper sourcing, and critical analysis in ufology. There is a clear stance against unsubstantiated claims and a call for transparency from both researchers and official bodies. The magazine values historical documentation and the preservation of UFO case data, as evidenced by the discussion on archives and the tribute to Gordon Creighton. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging its complexities and the need for credible evidence, while also being critical of sensationalism and poor research practices within the field.

This issue of Papers d'Ovnis, dated July-September 2003, features a prominent interview with Professor Cristián Fernández, coordinator of the "Ufología en los Colegios" (Ufology in Schools) workshop in Chile. The magazine also includes a section reviewing "Otros Países, Otros Boletines" (Other Countries, Other Bulletins), detailing content from various international ufological publications.

Interview with Professor Cristián Fernández

Professor Cristián Fernández discusses the "Ufología en los Colegios" initiative, noting that children approach UFO phenomena with a different, more open perspective. He explains that these workshops are functioning in various educational establishments across Chile, with one notable example in Peumo, Sixth Region. Fernández shares his personal interest in ufology dating back to before university and how he has pursued his own investigations. He recounts his experience leading a workshop, initially fearing negative reactions from parents and colleagues who might view ufology as unscientific or anti-Christian. However, the students have shown great commitment and curiosity. He mentions having conducted night vigils with students, emphasizing patience and observation, though no anomalous phenomena were directly witnessed during those specific events. The future project for the workshop is to form a ufological club.

'Cuadernos de Ufología' Celebrates 20 Years

A section reflects on the 20-year history of "Cuadernos de Ufología," highlighting its evolution from a basic idea to a significant institution in ufology. The publication acknowledges the contributions of past members, including Pedro Redón and the late Ricardo Caruncho, and expresses hope for the future, particularly with the involvement of younger researchers. The text mentions that "Cuadernos de Ufología" has diversified to include a CD-ROM publication called "@nomalia."

Other Countries, Other Bulletins

This section provides summaries and reviews of recent content from various international ufological journals and newsletters:

• International UFO Reporter (Vol. 26, No. 4): Discusses a 1952 Salem photo, previously thought to be a glass reflection, and mentions alleged alien corpses preserved in formaldehyde. It also covers cases from the US and Canada, noting an increase in unexplained cases in Canada in 2001.
• The Skeptic (Vol. 15, No. 2): Features a gallery of paranormal images, including a 1972 American comic depicting flying jellyfish attacking radar antennas, an idea once proposed to explain UFOs but now discredited. It also touches upon the Raëlian movement and human cloning.
• Fortean Times (No. 160): Features a classic flying saucer image and an investigation into the death of Arcesio Bermúdez in Colombia in 1969 after seeing a UFO. The article notes the enduring mystery of his death and the subsequent disappearance of his remains.
• Fortean Times (No. 161): Focuses on conspiracy theories surrounding the 9/11 attacks. It also revisits the case of George Adamski and mentions Philip K. Dick's concept of "VALIS" (Vast Active Living Intelligence System).
• Fortean Times (No. 162): Explores conspiracy theories related to the 9/11 attacks. It includes a report on a possible 1868 abduction in Australia where the witness received a formula for water propulsion bombs. It also discusses the influence of Charles H. Fort on comics and mentions UFOs and cattle mutilations in Argentina, as well as ball lightning theories.
• Fortean Times (No. 163): Covers cattle mutilations in Argentina and an article on ball lightning. It also references Steven Spielberg's inclusion of UFOs in his films and his early work on UFO-related themes.
• Skeptical Inquirer (Vol. 26, No. 4): Reviews an article by Elizabeth Loftus and Melvin I. Guyer on the risks of type-case science, using the example of a supposed child abuse case. It also discusses urban hysteria, comparing the "Monkey Man" attacks in India to the "Spring-Heeled Jack" phenomenon and the "Mad Gasser of Mattoon" case.
• Skeptical Inquirer (Vol. 26, No. 5): Reports on the Fourth World Congress of Skeptics in California. It discusses theories about extraterrestrial visitation in the 1940s and the subsequent decline of such reports. The issue also notes the decrease in abduction reports and the popularity of crop circles.
• European Journal of UFO and Abductions Studies (EJUFOAS): Features the second part of an article on flying saucers and military intelligence during the Cold War. It includes reports on UFO sightings in Turkey and their possible connection to tectonic lights, as well as statistics on Canadian UFO incidents. The journal also discusses the "HET" theory and the existence of supercivilizations, and presents cases from Dagestan and Roswell, debating the "Mogul" explanation.
• Journal of Scientific Exploration (Vol. 16, No. 3): Includes an article on Martian exploration and reviews of bibliographical works, including a mention of William R. Corliss's Sourcebook Project.
• Phénomèna (No. 46): Discusses the "Ummo daughters" story and the "Snippy" case, related to cattle mutilations. It also covers aeronautical technology that could be confused with UFOs and the death of William Cooper.
• Magonia Supplement (No. 39): Features commentary on automatic writing contactees from the 1920s and book reviews.
• Magonia Supplement (No. 40): Dedicated to book reviews, including a review of Jay Rayner's "Star Dust Falling," which recounts the story of a plane crash in the Andes that became linked to UFO mysteries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a diverse range of perspectives within ufology, from the educational initiatives aimed at engaging young people to the rigorous skepticism applied by publications like "The Skeptical Inquirer." There is a clear interest in historical cases, ongoing investigations, and the critical analysis of evidence. The magazine also highlights the international nature of ufological research, showcasing contributions and discussions from various countries. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging both believers and skeptics, while emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and evidence-based analysis. The decline in abduction reports and the ongoing debates about cover-ups and explanations are recurring themes, suggesting a mature and evolving field of study.