CEFANC Boletin Informativo - No 03 (Fenomenos Aereos) - Jul 1980

Magazine Overview

Title: Fenómenos Aéreos
Issue: Número 3, Año 1
Date: Julio-Set. 80 (July-September 1980)
Publisher: CEFANC (Centro de Estudios de Fenómenos Aeréos No Convencionales)
Type: Quarterly publication for the dissemination of scientific information.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Alejandro C. Agostinelli, announces that the publication will henceforth be known as "Fenómenos Aéreos." It apologizes for delays and pledges to improve quality and periodicity. The editorial emphasizes the financial challenges of such publications, which are often self-funded. A core mission of the bulletin is to provide a platform for all researchers dedicated to the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, regardless of their background, promoting equity and seriousness. The editor notes that many "amateurs" in Argentina's UFO research community are passive observers rather than active investigators. He quotes Jacques Vallée, stating that "the dissemination of good UFO reports is the only thing that can help us make progress towards an understanding of the phenomenon." The editorial calls for greater communication and collaboration among national UFO researchers to consolidate dispersed information and overcome the challenges of systematic investigation.

Key Articles and Features

SUMARIO (Table of Contents)

• The table of contents lists several articles, including:
• EDITORIAL
• SIETE FOTOGRAFIAS Y UN TESTIGO: EL CASO LORENZUTTI (Seven Photographs and a Witness: The Lorenzutti Case)
• ALGO SOBRE RELATIVIDAD (Something About Relativity)
• DETECTORES MAGNETICOS (Magnetic Detectors)
• NOTICIAS (News)
• EL CASO NUÑEZ (The Nuñez Case)
• PATOLOGIAS UFOLOGICAS (Ufological Pathologies)
• BIBLIOGRAFICAS (Bibliographical)
• NOTICIAS (News)

CEFANC Information

The bulletin provides information about CEFANC, describing it as a non-profit organization dedicated to the rational and objective study of unconventional aerial phenomena and the dissemination of such information through its quarterly bulletin. It invites researchers to submit their notes and works for publication. The postal address is provided: Casilla de Correo 26, Sucursal 25, 1425 Capital Federal, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Reproduction of content is permitted provided the author, bulletin name, number, and postal address are credited, and a copy is sent to the publication.

Staff and Advisors

• The issue lists the editorial staff and advisors:
• Director Ejecutivo: Alejandro Agostinelli
• Director Editorial: Juan C. Zabalgoitia
• Secretaria: Marcela Padl
• Coordinadora: Liliana Della Líbera
• Traductoras: Sonia Fajdi, Marcela Paúl
• Ilustraciones: Carlos Ferguson
• Jefe Investigaciones: Alejandro Chionetti
• Investigaciones: Rubén Valle, Javier Plecel, Gustavo Schweitzer, Rubén N. Romano
• Asesores: Prof. Oscar A. Uriondo (Ufología), Ing. Luis Iriarte (Astronautica), Ing. William Komus (Ciencias Exactas), Lic. Víctor Ciapparelli (Psicología), Adrián Legaspi (Astronomía).

CASUISTICA NACIONAL: EL CASO LORENZUTTI - SIETE FOTOGRAFIAS Y UN TESTIGO

This article, authored by Alejandro César Agostinelli, details the Lorenzutti case. It begins with an introduction stating that the case came to light through an Argentine magazine, describing a sequence of photographs allegedly showing a UFO over Palermo, Buenos Aires. The investigation focuses on Norberto Marino Lorenzutti, a 14-year-old witness and photographer at the time of the incident.

II.- EL SUCESO (The Event):

Lorenzutti's account describes him taking photos of a hamster on his father's balcony on October 26, 1978. At 4:30 PM, he observed a UFO outside his parents' bedroom window. He took a first close-up shot, then accidentally triggered the flash against the glass. He took a third photo as the UFO moved west. Later, at 6:45 PM, the UFO reappeared, hovering over buildings opposite his balcony. He took four more photos as it moved east. He noted that people generally don't look at the sky.

III NUESTRA PRIMERA APROXIMACION AL CASO (Our First Approach to the Case):

Initial attempts to contact Lorenzutti were difficult. After several failed attempts to arrange personal meetings, the investigators decided to visit his family. The witness's mother, Lía Vodanovich de Lorenzutti, provided details. She initially didn't believe her son but was convinced when she saw the photos. She mentioned submitting the photos to "Clarín" newspaper, but Norberto refused to go to the office for publication. She also recounted taking the photos to various publications like "Radiolandia 2000," "Siete Días Ilustrados," and "Cuarta Dimensión," the latter of which published them, calling them "the best sequence of the year." The mother noted that Norberto had changed significantly after the event, becoming more introverted. She also expressed frustration that the photographer had copyrighted the photos, preventing further publication.

IV.- LA ENCUESTA: EL TESTIGO Y SU RELATO (The Survey: The Witness and His Account):

Investigators finally managed to interview the 16-year-old Lorenzutti at his home. He described the event briefly: he was in his parents' room, saw something, took photos, then moved to another room and took more photos when the object reappeared. The interview revealed inconsistencies and a lack of detailed information from the witness. He avoided answering questions about the object's appearance and behavior, stating it was similar to what was seen in the photos. He relied heavily on the photographic sequence and seemed uninterested in the event, which the investigators found peculiar.

ANALISIS FOTOGRAFICO DE LAS TOMAS DEL CASO LORENZUTTI (Photographic Analysis of the Lorenzutti Case Shots):

Authored by Juan Carlos Zabalgoitia, this section analyzes the available photographic material.

• Positives:
• The object's consistent shape and approximate size across four photos suggest it's not an emulsion fault.
• The object's high altitude rules out it being thrown from a nearby window. The camera's slow shutter speed would have captured movement if it were.

• Negatives:
• The object is out of focus, despite being at the same distance as the buildings in the background, which are in focus.
• The first set of photos was taken through a window, casting doubt on authenticity.
• The object lacks distinct illuminated and shadowed areas, unlike the buildings, suggesting it wasn't exposed to sunlight.
• In the second set of photos, the object and background buildings appear closer, possibly due to the photographer moving closer to the window.

II. EXPLICACIONES (Explanations):

The analysis concludes the photos are a trick, using a small cutout figure of the UFO pasted onto a windowpane. The figure could be made of paper, adhesive material, plastic, or celluloid. The background buildings served as the landscape. This technique would create the illusion of the UFO hovering over the buildings.

III. CARACTERISTICAS DEL OBJETO (Object Characteristics):

Calculations based on the published photos estimate the real size of the pasted object to be approximately 46 mm.

IV. ANALISIS COMPARADO (Comparative Analysis):

• The author conducted a similar experiment years prior, creating hoax photographs. The resulting images shared similar flaws with the Lorenzutti photos, including:
• Object out of focus: While the object was out of focus, it shared the same focus as the background buildings.
• Shot through a glass: The experiment involved shooting through glass.
• No illuminated area on the object: The "UFO" lacked distinct illuminated and shadowed areas, unlike the buildings.
• Camera proximity: The distance between the camera and object was not altered.

V. CONCLUSIONES (Conclusions):

The analysis of the proposed photographs and their results indicate that the "UFO" has the same defects as the Lorenzutti case. The investigation suggests that while the object might have been out of focus, it shared the same focus as the background. The photos were taken through glass, and the object lacked distinct illuminated and shadowed areas. The distance between the camera and object was not altered. The article concludes that the Lorenzutti photographs are likely fraudulent, with the witness testimony also presenting inconsistencies. Impersonal factors were analyzed, yielding a credibility index of 0.38 and a certainty index of 14.36%, indicating low confidence in the event's authenticity. The article also questions the likelihood of a single witness for a daytime UFO sighting in a populated area, especially during a period of increased UFO reports.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine, "Fenómenos Aéreos," is dedicated to the scientific investigation and dissemination of information regarding unconventional aerial phenomena. It advocates for a serious, rational, and objective approach, encouraging collaboration among researchers. The editorial stance is critical and analytical, as demonstrated by the detailed debunking of the Lorenzutti case, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based research and cautioning against sensationalism and unverified claims. The publication aims to elevate the quality of UFO research in Argentina by providing a platform for rigorous study and discussion.

This issue of 'ALGO SOBRE RELATIVIDAD' (Something About Relativity), the first note, published in 1979, explores the intersection of Einstein's theory of relativity with UFO phenomena and magnetic detection. Authored by Adrián R. Legaspi, the magazine delves into fundamental physics concepts and presents several case studies of alleged UFO encounters.

Relativity and the Speed of Light

The article begins by establishing the importance of relativity for future space travel and addresses a misconception about exceeding the speed of light. It clarifies that, according to Einstein's theory, no physical object can surpass the speed of light, approximately 300,000 km/sec. The concept of relative velocities is explained using the example of a train, highlighting how speeds add up. However, the physics of light propagation presents a challenge to this simple addition principle. The text touches upon the historical concept of 'ether' as a medium for light waves and the Michelson experiment, which aimed to detect this ether but ultimately failed to provide definitive answers about the speed of light and simultaneity.

UFO Cases and Magnetic Phenomena

The issue then shifts to UFO sightings, particularly those associated with magnetic anomalies. Several cases are detailed:

• Vins-sur-Caramy, France (April 14, 1957): A metallic object landed, causing a nearby traffic signal to vibrate violently. A compass placed near the signal deviated significantly.
• Kansas City, Missouri (November 10, 1975): An unusual light, described as a distant, illuminated 'cucumber,' was photographed. Subsequent analysis of magnetometer data revealed significant magnetic disturbances.
• Yuma, Arizona (May 5, 1953): A chemist observed a solitary cloud that transformed, revealing rings around a central object. This observation is compared to the Faraday effect, suggesting a link to strong magnetic fields.

Magnetic Detectors and Their Limitations

The article discusses the development and use of magnetic detectors for UFOs, noting that their association with UFOs stems from observed magnetic field fluctuations. It highlights that these detectors primarily register strong magnetic fields, not necessarily UFOs themselves. The effectiveness of such devices is questioned, with some being deemed ineffective or overly sensitive. The text also points out the danger of assuming all UFOs are linked to magnetism, given the wide variety of reported UFO appearances.

The Nuñez Case: A Teleportation Incident

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to 'EL CASO NUNEZ' (The Nuñez Case), presented as a case of alleged 'teleportation.' Francisco and Tito Nuñez reported that their car levitated and transported them to an unknown city with tall buildings and a wide avenue, bathed in a reddish glow. They described a sensation of cold and pleasantness during this event, which lasted about 10-15 minutes before they reappeared on a road near Mendoza. The investigation into their claims is discussed, noting the difficulty in verifying their story due to its unusual nature and potential for misinterpretation. The report also mentions a mysterious bearded man who allegedly spoke of 'them' coming to pick them up again and warned them to remain silent.

Scientific Investigation and Challenges

The magazine touches upon scientific efforts to study UFOs, referencing Dr. Claude Poher's work correlating UFO reports in France with geomagnetic fluctuations. It also mentions the Project Starlight International, which analyzed UFO filmations and associated magnetic variations. The high cost of advanced technology for such research is noted, along with a call for contributions. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for more scientific approaches to understanding the UFO phenomenon, while also acknowledging the potential for psychological factors and misinterpretations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the fundamental principles of relativity, the nature of light and time, and the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs). The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific inquiry, attempting to reconcile observed anomalies with established physical laws while remaining open to the possibility of extraordinary events. The magazine encourages critical thinking and further research into these complex subjects, highlighting the limitations of current detection methods and the need for rigorous analysis of witness testimonies and physical evidence.

This issue of "Fenómenos Aéreos" (Aerial Phenomena), issue number 26, dated June 1980, published by CEFANC (Centro de Estudios de Fenómenos Aéreos No Convencionales), focuses on the psychological aspects of UFO research, particularly the concepts of 'ufofilia' and 'ufología' as pathologies.

"Patologías Ufológicas" by Rubén O. Morales

The main article, "Patologías Ufológicas" (Ufological Pathologies) by Rubén O. Morales, presents ufofilia and ufología not as fields of study, but as diseases. Morales describes ufofilia as a highly contagious condition that begins with an interest in UFOs and related topics, leading the affected individual to read extensively, subscribe to magazines, join groups, and attend audiovisual presentations. In severe cases, it can lead to giving lectures and writing books.

Morales outlines the evolution of this 'mal' (illness). It can either disappear spontaneously, granting immunity, or become chronic, leading to 'ufofilia perenne' where the individual continues to engage obsessively with UFO topics, losing analytical capacity. In rarer cases, ufofilia can transform into ufología, a more profound and incurable condition.

Regarding treatment, Morales states there is no advisable medication. He suggests that if ufofilia is the first variant (spontaneous disappearance), one should wait for it to pass. If it's the second variant (perennial ufofilia), rest and isolation are recommended to prevent contagion, as affected individuals may deny their condition or confuse it with ufología.

Profilaxis (Prophylaxis)

To prevent ufofilia, it is advised to remember its contagious nature, with books, magazines, and direct or indirect contact serving as vehicles for the 'virus'. Avoiding contact with affected individuals and their related materials is recommended.

La Ufología (Ufology)

If ufofilia is a temporary ailment, ufología is presented as a serious, incurable condition. An affected individual imperatively seeks contact with other 'ufólogos' and research groups, often integrating only to take on leadership roles. Despite recognizing the limited possibility of finding definitive solutions, they persist in writing, publishing, investigating, and planning research networks. They criticize 'ufófilos' and 'ufófilos perennes' while envying their popularity.

Los Investigadores (The Investigators)

Morales reflects on his own experiences starting in 1973, noting a shift in his views on UFOs and 'ufólogos'. He initially categorized investigators into serious scientists and charlatans, but later concluded that the line between sanity and dementia is blurred for all. He identifies common characteristics among UFO investigators, including egocentrism and a tendency to dismiss established ideas.

He criticizes the lack of collaboration and the formation of stable research groups in Argentina, citing the failures of organizations like FE.CI.RA. and the FAECE. He notes that the idea of a 'national network of investigators' has been proposed for years without materializing, attributing this to egocentrism and personal ambition.

El Dedo en la Llaga (The Finger on the Wound)

Beyond egocentrism, Morales suggests that UFO addicts exhibit psychic behaviors that seem to be a common pattern. He posits that ufology is a visible expression of an underlying pathology in certain individuals, which psychiatrists may not be interested in studying. He also suggests that the abandonment of UFO research by many former investigators might be due to the extinction of this 'ufological pathology', possibly triggered by external life changes.

Morales concludes this section with a provocative question: "Do UFOs exist? Or aren't they also a product of ufological pathologies?" He urges the reader to reflect by looking in the mirror.

Bibliográficas (Bibliographies)

"Los Ovnis y sus Ocupantes" by Roberto Enrique Banchs

Reviewed by Alejandro Chionetti, this book is described as the first comprehensive study on humanoids in Argentina. Banchs categorizes cases into positive and negative, emphasizing the importance of in-situ studies for accurate statistical results. The book also explores the possibilities of the origin of humanoids, presenting ideas with transparency and clarity.

"Messengers of Deception" by Jacques Vallée

Chionetti reviews Vallée's work, noting its return to scientific rigor, reminiscent of his earlier works like "Anatomy of a Phenomena." The book examines the complex phenomenon of 'contactees' and pseudoreligious movements surrounding UFOs. Vallée's research is described as a bird's-eye view of the 'contact-men' and 'ufosacralizers,' attempting to summarize their diverse characteristics and the 'Sistema' (System) they represent. Chionetti finds Vallée's approach rationalist but acknowledges the difficulty in objectively explaining the UFO phenomenon. He notes that the book, originally published in 1979, was expected to be translated into Spanish in 1981.

Novedades y recomendaciones (News and Recommendations)

This section lists several publications:

• "Manifiesto Ovni" by Sebastian Robin Lamarcha (Puerto Rico).
• "OVNIS: EL FENOMENO ATERRIZAJE" by Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos.
• "EL MANUAL DEL UFOLOGO" by Alberto Adell Sabates, a compendium of investigation techniques.

These can be obtained from STENDEK-CEI in Barcelona, Spain, which is highly recommended as the best Spanish-language magazine on the topic.

Additionally, CEFANC has released a preliminary report on a UFO phenomenon observed nationwide on June 14, 1980, titled "Informe preliminar sobre el estudio realizado por el CEFANC del fenómeno espacial observado en todo el país el 14 de junio de 1980." It is available for $10,000 Argentine pesos.

NOTICIAS (News)

AGNOPTENOLOGIA

An article from STENDEK issue 40 (June 1980) by Engineer Félix Anegde Blas proposes the term 'AGNOPTENOLOGIA' to refer to the study of UFO phenomena. The author argues that 'Ufología' is a ridiculous term, while 'UFOLOGIA' (its translation) is more serious, having been invented by Brown or Smith. He criticizes the mix of English and Greek ('UFO' + 'LOGIA') as unprofessional and suggests 'AGNOPTENOLOGIA' as a dignified alternative, meaning 'Treatise on something that flies and is unknown to us'. The article invites opinions on this proposed term.

SUSCRIBASE (Subscribe)

Information on how to subscribe to "Fenómenos Aéreos," with annual subscription rates for Argentina, Latin America, and the rest of the world. Subscriptions can be sent to Rubén Oscar Valle at CEFANC in Buenos Aires.

BOLSA DE PEDIDOS (Requests)

This section lists individuals and organizations seeking to exchange ideas, cases, correspondence, and bibliography related to UFO phenomena:

• Guillermo Daniel Gimenez (Necochea, Argentina) seeks idea and case exchange.
• Héctor R. Barone (Bahía Blanca, Argentina) seeks correspondence and material exchange.
• The Centro de Estudios de Fenómenos Aéreos Espaciales (CEFE) (Olavarría, Argentina) seeks correspondence and information exchange.
• Rubén N. Romano (Buenos Aires, Argentina) seeks to buy and exchange UFO-related bibliography.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the psychological and pathological aspects of UFO research, questioning the sanity and motivations of investigators. The magazine promotes a critical and analytical approach to the UFO phenomenon, advocating for more rigorous terminology and research methodologies. There's a clear emphasis on the need for organized research and collaboration, while also highlighting the personal challenges and potential psychological toll on those involved in the field. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to demystify and understand the UFO phenomenon through a lens that considers both external evidence and internal psychological factors.