CEFANC Boletin Informativo - No 01 - Ene 1980

Magazine Overview

Title: CEFANC
Issue: Nro 1, Año 1
Date: January-March 1980
Publisher: Centro de Estudios de Fenómenos Aéreos No Convencionales (CEFANC)
Country: Argentina
Language: Spanish

This inaugural issue of CEFANC's quarterly bulletin, "Boletín Informativo," establishes the organization's mission: to conduct a rational and objective study of conventional aerial phenomena and disseminate this information. The bulletin invites contributions from researchers and requests readers to report unusual aerial phenomena, assuring absolute confidentiality.

Editorial

The editorial board introduces the bulletin as the official informative organ of CEFANC. They outline the principles of an ideal publication: periodicity, consistency, responsibility, objectivity, and documentary quality. While acknowledging that economic factors may impede achieving these ideals, they commit to starting with available resources and striving for maximum objectivity and rigor in their investigations. The future content will focus exclusively on UFOs and related aspects. The editorial also solicits collaboration from ufologists and centers, encouraging opinions and suggestions to enhance the publication's quality.

Articles and Features

Las Fuerzas Armadas y los OVNI (The Armed Forces and UFOs)

Authored by Martha B. González, this article discusses an inquiry made by the investigator to the National Executive Power seeking an official response regarding UFOs. It highlights that while some may dismiss the phenomenon, ignoring it does not make it disappear. The author contrasts two types of individuals: the informed investigator who seeks truth through information and doubt, and the 'mechanical' individual, conditioned by an egocentric society, who rejects anything that challenges their worldview. The article notes that the phenomenon persists despite attempts to deny it, citing instances of UFOs stopping engines, evading radars, and being witnessed by numerous people. It suggests that UFOs are a global socio-psychological issue that competent organizations should address and not conceal from the public. The piece mentions past 'flashes' of official opinion in Argentina, including the Navy's acknowledgment of concern in 1962 and the Aeronautics Service's request for meteorological data. It emphasizes that serious UFO investigation requires individual initiative, collective planning, teamwork, critical thinking, and the support of the armed forces.

Cálculo del Índice Ponderal en Catálogos OVNI (Calculation of the Ponderal Index in UFO Catalogs)

Written by Juan Carlos Zabalgoitia, this article presents a methodological approach to cataloging UFO cases. It addresses the problem of assigning different weights to various pieces of evidence, distinguishing between a newspaper article and an on-site investigation. Using the CEFAI 1973 catalog as an example, the author proposes a mathematical method to give each case an appropriate 'importance' or 'quality' score. This involves a system of coefficients (ponderal coefficients) based on factors such as the number of witnesses, their profession/occupation, age, and the source of information. The article details a scoring scale for each factor and explains how these are combined to create a 'ponderal sum' or 'quality criterion' (Criterio K). The author acknowledges the subjective nature of choosing these coefficients but suggests that researchers can adapt the method to their own studies.

El Caso Bigand (The Bigand Case)

Reported by Mario A. Morales, this article details an investigation into a suspected UFO landing near Bigand, Santa Fé, Argentina, on April 13, 1979. The incident occurred in a field called 'Los Maizales,' on the property of Pedro Cellotto. The investigators found a distinct ovoid area, approximately 9x8 meters in diameter, where the soy plants (about 40 cm high) were not burned but had turned an opaque yellow due to dehydration. The plants retained their natural fuzziness, indicating the dehydration was not caused by burning. The ground showed no alteration. The plants within the ovoid were inclined about 60% towards the North. The article debunks a false report in the newspaper 'La Tribuna' and clarifies that neither Manuel Cellotto nor Pedro Cellotto witnessed the object. However, there were reports of strange lights over the nearby city of Casilda. Samples of the affected plants were analyzed by Ing. Agrónoma Emilce Prado, who suggested a bacteria-fungus, possibly of the 'pseudónoma' type, as the cause, though she leaned towards this hypothesis. The article notes that the ground itself showed no alteration.

Hongos en Aterrizajes: Una Frágil Evidencia (Fungi in Landings: Fragile Evidence)

Authored by Alejandro César Agostinelli, this theoretical piece explores the phenomenon of fungi appearing in alleged UFO landing sites. The author notes that UFOs often leave physical evidence that encourages scientific investigation, and landing traces are a significant area of study. He discusses the appearance of 'fairy rings' or 'witch rings' in fields, which are a known natural phenomenon caused by certain types of fungi. The article explains that the visible mushroom (fruiting body) is only a small part of the fungus, with the main body (mycelium) extending underground. It cites Roberto E. Banchs' book, which demystifies claims about 'extraterrestrial fungi,' stating that while unusual growth patterns can occur, they are generally known species. The article suggests that while the presence of fungi in landing sites might seem like fragile evidence, it warrants consideration, especially when local witnesses recall nothing unusual during their years in the area. The possibility of spores being transported by wind or the UFO itself is raised.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, the challenges of gathering credible evidence, and the importance of a scientific and objective approach. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rigorous, evidence-based research, encouraging contributions from the ufological community while maintaining a critical perspective. There's a strong emphasis on distinguishing between speculation and verifiable facts, and on the need for official acknowledgment and transparency regarding UFO investigations. The issue also touches upon the potential involvement or awareness of military and governmental bodies concerning UFOs.

This issue of "Investigación" (Investigation), dated 1979, focuses on the complex and often mysterious phenomenon of UFOs (Unidentified Flying Objects), exploring various cases, theories, and research methodologies. The magazine delves into the intriguing possibility of a connection between UFO activity and the appearance of unusual fungi at alleged landing sites, as well as examining historical accounts that may describe extraterrestrial craft.

The 'Ezequiel's Ship' Case

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "VUELVE LA NAVE DE EZEQUIEL" (The Ship of Ezekiel Returns) article by Gustavo M. Fernández. This piece investigates the biblical description of the prophet Ezequiel's encounter with what is interpreted as an extraterrestrial vehicle. The article highlights the work of Erich Von Daniken and Josef Blumrich, a NASA scientist, who reconstructed a possible design of Ezequiel's 'ship' based on the biblical text. This reconstruction is then compared to photographs of a UFO sighted over Cocoyoc, Mexico, in 1973. The comparison reveals striking similarities in the described shapes and features, such as tentacles or extensions that could serve as landing gear.

The article details the Cocoyoc incident, where a couple and their maid witnessed a UFO and took photographs. It also touches upon other related cases, including one in Centeno, Argentina, in 1967, where an oval object landed, and unknown fungi were discovered. Another case in Correa, Argentina, involved 25 circles with large fungi. The text acknowledges the difficulty in definitively proving these connections, noting that witness accounts can sometimes be influenced by subsequent discoveries.

UFO Sightings and Traces

The magazine presents several case studies of UFO sightings and their associated physical traces. The Centeno and Correa cases in Argentina are discussed in detail, focusing on the discovery of unknown fungi in circular patterns left by alleged UFO landings. The article notes that these fungi were of a variety unknown to local farmers and appeared outside their normal growing seasons.

Another section discusses a case in Necochea, Argentina, where witnesses reported luminous flashes before a circle was found. The Cocoyoc case from Mexico is revisited, with detailed descriptions of the UFO and its landing traces, including the photographs taken. The article also includes a comparative diagram illustrating the similarities between Blumrich's reconstruction of Ezequiel's craft and the Cocoyoc UFO.

International Cases: Spain

The issue features a report on UFO activity in Spain, specifically in the regions of Villoslada (Logroño) and Montenegro (Soria) in April 1979. This report, translated from French by María Inés Vázquez and written by Fernando Cerdá Guardia, details an extraordinary series of events. Witnesses, including a group of young people in cars, observed unusual lights and phenomena. One account describes three horizontal lights that appeared over a mountain, with two disappearing and the third moving before vanishing. Another witness, José Felix, recounts seeing a reddish light that disappeared when illuminated by a flashlight, only to reappear higher up, accompanied by a loud, unusual cry. Eugenio, an elderly skeptic, also reported seeing a strange, red light.

Ufology and Scientific Investigation

Beyond specific case reports, the magazine explores the broader field of ufology and the challenges of scientific investigation. An article titled "ALGO MAS SOBRE EL P. S. I." (Something More About P.S.I.) by Adalberto Ujvári discusses the need for a more systematic and technological approach to studying UFOs. It highlights the limitations of relying solely on witness testimony and suggests the development of specialized equipment for detection and data collection. The article mentions the Association for the Understanding of Man (AUM) in Austin, Texas, and its research division, Project Starligth International (P.S.I.), which aims to apply advanced technology to UFO research.

The text emphasizes that UFO phenomena are inherently subjective, based on the reports of individuals who have witnessed unusual aerial phenomena. The credibility of these witnesses is crucial for the verisimilitude of the events. The article advocates for an "active ufology" or "technological ufology" that employs scientific methods, including statistical analysis, data processing, physics, biology, and chemistry, to systematically approach the study of UFOs.

Methodological Considerations

Another section, "CALCULO DEL INDICE PONDERAL..." (Calculation of the Weight Index...), discusses the importance of using objective measurements where possible and subjective assessments when necessary in analyzing UFO cases. It suggests a method for organizing and analyzing a large number of cases.

Bibliography

The issue includes bibliographical references for the articles, citing various publications and authors related to UFOs, including "OVNIS," "Anillos de hadas" (Fairy Rings), and works by Roberto E. Banchs and Claude Bourtembourg.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the potential link between UFO landings and the appearance of unusual fungi, the comparison of ancient religious texts with modern UFO sightings (particularly the Ezequiel case), and the reporting of contemporary UFO incidents in different parts of the world, with a focus on Spain. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the mystery surrounding UFOs while advocating for rigorous scientific investigation and the careful evaluation of evidence and witness testimony. The magazine aims to present documented cases and explore plausible explanations, even if they challenge conventional understanding.

Title: BOLETIN UFOLOGICO
Issue: N° 1
Volume: N° 1
Date: August 1, 1979
Publisher: UFO PRESS
Country: Argentina
Language: Spanish

This issue of Boletin Ufologico delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, featuring articles that blend scientific inquiry with speculative thought.

Articles and Content

The Return of Ezekiel's Ship

The issue opens with a continuation of a story, "VUELVE LA NAVE DE EZEQUIEL" (Ezekiel's Ship Returns), which discusses the concept of time dilation. It posits that a traveler returning to Earth after a space mission might have aged only a few years, while millennia could have passed on Earth. This is framed within the context of biblical prophets and further elaborated with reference to Albert Einstein's theories on time contraction due to speeds exceeding that of light. The article poses a question about a Mexican couple, the Jiménez, who might have witnessed the return of a man who left Earth before the birth of Christ, suggesting this is a profound question that remains open.

UFO Presence in Cameros

Another section, "PRESENCIA DE OVNIS ENTRE..." (UFO Presence Among...), highlights a peculiar "coincidence" observed in the Cameros region of Spain. Local inhabitants report the frequent presence of two individuals who claim to be involved in 'charging rats' for their eradication, noting that these specific rats are found only in Asia and this region. These rats are apparently sought after for pharmacological purposes. The article points out that these individuals also collect stones and soil samples. The author notes having encountered similar 'investigators' in UFO-influential zones in Spain before and suggests that this aspect warrants deep consideration for its potential connection to the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging that it might be a "fantastic" speculation.

International Exchange and Information

An announcement states that the article is translated into French and available to foreign researchers. Following this, a section details the operations of UFO PRESS, describing it as an Argentine publication specializing in the UFO phenomenon, published quarterly.

O.V.N.I. (U.F.O.) Analysis

Under the heading "O.V.N.I.:", the publication asserts that the UFO phenomenon is a product of technology integrating physical and psychic phenomena, primarily affecting societal cultural variables through the manipulation of physiological and psychological parameters of witnesses. It features a quote attributed to Dr. Jacques Vallée: "The UFO phenomenon is the product of a technology that integrates physical and psychic phenomena and that primarily affects the cultural variables of our society through the manipulation of the physiological and psychological parameters of the witnesses."

A section titled "PARA TENER EN CUENTA:" (To Keep in Mind:) includes a statement by Dr. Jacques Vallée and Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos, emphasizing that as the phenomenon is increasingly understood to be strange, research methodology should adapt to the phenomenon, not the other way around.

Exchange and Collaboration

Notices for "INTERCAMBIO" (Exchange) and "ECHANGE" (French) and "EXCHANGE" (English) invite similar publications to exchange bulletins, indicating a desire for collaboration and information sharing within the ufological community.

Bolsa de Pedidos (Order Bag)

This section is inaugurated to promote the exchange of information among researchers and groups. It specifically requests all types of reports related to the UFO phenomenon and its connection to Argentina's past, including geographical data, pictographs, petroglyphs, archaeological survey maps, and photographs, for the compilation of a book. The contact for this is Lic. Kartha González in Florida, Province of Buenos Aires, Argentina.

General Information: Russian Scientist on UFOs

A news item from "La Prensa" dated March 27, 1980, reports on a Russian scientist, Lev Guindilis, secretary of the Department of the Soviet Academy of Sciences. Guindilis unequivocally states, "I have no doubt about the existence of these objects," citing the Academy's mission to search for non-terrestrial artificial space signals. He reveals that over 20% of cases observed by the Academy remain scientifically unexplained, while about 80% of sensationalist reports can be explained by atmospheric or aerial phenomena. The report also mentions the "Salyut 6" space station being followed by a "flotilla of artificial satellites," a detail allegedly confirmed by Ibero-American military sources. Guindilis urges global scientific cooperation to study these phenomena, calling it a "duty to terrestrial society."

Boletin Ufologico Publication Details

Details are provided for "BOLETIN UFOLOGICO," described as a bimonthly publication that is not an official organ of any organization and is distributed solely by subscription. Its address is Nazarre 4540, 1417 Buenos Aires, Argentina.

CEFANC - Center for Studies of Unconventional Aerial Phenomena

A section displays the logo and name "CEFANC" with the subtitle "CENTRO DE ESTUDIOS DE FENOMENOS AEREOS NO CONVENCIONALES" (Center for Studies of Unconventional Aerial Phenomena).

Errata for Boletin C.E.F.A.N.C. N° 1

An errata section addresses translation errors in a note by Fernando Cerdá Guardia concerning "Presencia de OVNIs entre Villoslada y Montenegro," stating the published article did not fully convey the original idea. It also corrects the authors of the phrase "Para tener en cuenta" on page 22 to Dr. Jacques Vallée and Dr. J. Allen Hynek. Additionally, it clarifies that the cover photograph was a simulation of an observation by the P.S.I. team.

Bolsa de Pedidos (Order Bag) - Continued

This section reiterates requests for "rare" books on UFOs, ancient and current (in Spanish), as well as on fairies, gnomes, elves, duendes, Marian apparitions, sea monsters, and yeti. It also seeks exchanges of old and out-of-print UFO books in Spanish for Mexican and Spanish publications from the period 1950-1967. Contact for these requests is José Luis Di Rosa in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific and investigative aspects of UFO phenomena, the potential for extraterrestrial contact, and the nature of unexplained aerial events. There's a strong emphasis on international collaboration and information exchange within the ufological community. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various perspectives and encouraging further research, while also acknowledging the speculative nature of some of the topics discussed. The publication aims to be a platform for sharing research, reports, and literature related to UFOs.