El Ojo Critico - No 62 - Ago 2009

Magazine Overview

Title: EL OJO CRITICO
Issue: N° 62
Date: August 2009
Publisher: GRUPO FÉNIX
Country: España

This issue of 'EL OJO CRITICO' (The Critical Eye), a Spanish publication focused on investigative research into paranormal and unexplained phenomena, presents a diverse range of articles. The cover prominently features a striking illustration of a grey alien and highlights a special report on UFOs and pilots, along with an in-depth look at J.J. Benítez. The issue also includes an exclusive interview and discussions on declassified military documents.

Key Articles and Features

"Fallece en Madrid la 'secretaria de UMMO'"

This article pays tribute to Hilde Menzel, who passed away in August 2009. Authored by José Juan Montejo, a prominent figure in UMMO case research, the piece details Menzel's life, her role as secretary for Fernando Sesma, and her co-founding of the "BURU" (Sociedad de Amigos de los Visitantes del Espacio) in 1954. Menzel, a German national who lived most of her life in Spain, was an early participant in Madrid's ufological scene. The article recounts her continued involvement with ufology, including her collaboration with the German publication UFO-Nachrichten and her participation in a 1979 RNE radio program. Montejo emphasizes Menzel's unwavering belief in the extraterrestrial origin of UFOs and her critical stance towards other contactee movements, such as the UMMO case itself and Billy Meier.

"ESTOS SON LOS DOCUMENTOS OVNI NO DESCLASIFICADOS"

This investigative piece, presented as an exclusive from EOC, claims to reveal for the first time the existence and nature of specific UFO-related documents from the Spanish Air Force that have not been declassified. The author, referencing a source codenamed 'Pedro,' explains how military personnel with administrative roles have had access to these classified files. The article details how certain documents, including witness names and details of investigations, were deliberately omitted from the officially declassified versions. It lists several specific instances and document references, suggesting that these omissions are suspicious and potentially intended to protect certain individuals or avoid controversy. The author argues that the claim that all official UFO documents have been declassified is incorrect.

"LAS 'MINAS' UFOLOGICAS DE LOS CENTROS DE CONTROL"

This section highlights the findings of investigator Alejandro González, who, during his military service at the Gando air base in Gran Canaria, discovered numerous annotations in air traffic control logs detailing unexplained aerial phenomena. These entries, dating from the late 1980s to the late 1990s, describe various UFO incidents observed by controllers. The article presents a list of these sightings, noting their potential significance for understanding UFO activity within Spanish airspace.

"Ha muerto Pilar Salarrullana"

Pilar Salarrullana, a former senator and politician from La Rioja, passed away in June 2009. The article details her academic background in Modern Humanities and her career as a teacher. It highlights her significant work investigating religious sects in Spain, including her role in establishing working groups and commissions on the subject. Salarrullana faced threats and legal challenges from groups like Scientology due to her critical stance. The piece also touches upon her political career, her decision to leave politics due to the personal cost of defending herself against lawsuits, and her later return to the theme of sects through fictional writing.

"Antonio Hortelano: El sacerdote espía UN 007 EN EL VATICANO"

This extensive profile details the extraordinary life of Father Antonio Hortelano, a 90-year-old Redemptorist priest who claims to have been involved in espionage for the Vatican and the Mossad, and who was also allegedly targeted by the KGB. The article describes his early life, his religious vocation, and his extensive travels, particularly in Latin America. Hortelano recounts his missions for the Vatican, including one to communist Hungary, where he was detained by the KGB. He explains his connection to the Mossad through his Jewish heritage. The piece delves into his critical views on liberation theology, his interactions with various political figures and dictators, and his opinions on the Catholic Church's handling of issues like the UMMO case and the ETA terrorist group. He also shares his perspectives on various Popes and offers suggestions for Church reform.

"Entrevista exclusiva con Antonio Luis Moyano "YO AYUDÉ A IKER JIMÉNEZ A SER FAMOSO""

In this exclusive interview, Antonio Luis Moyano, an investigator of occult themes, discusses his entry into the field of mystery journalism. He recounts how an image of a UFO and an article about Flight 19 sparked his interest. Moyano details his early collaborations with the magazine ENIGMAS, which he credits with fostering a new generation of mystery investigators, including Iker Jiménez. He describes ENIGMAS as a crucial platform for disseminating research from both established and emerging figures in the field.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and investigative approach to its subject matter. There is a strong emphasis on scrutinizing official narratives, particularly regarding UFO phenomena and declassified documents. The publication appears to favor detailed research, witness testimonies, and historical analysis. The editorial stance seems to lean towards skepticism regarding sensational claims, while remaining open to exploring unexplained phenomena with a rigorous, evidence-based methodology. The inclusion of personal accounts, such as the tribute to Hilde Menzel and the profile of Father Hortelano, adds a human dimension to the often-technical subject matter. The magazine also demonstrates a willingness to challenge established institutions, including the military and the Church, when their actions or policies are deemed questionable.

This issue of EL OJO CRÍTICO, identified as issue number 62, delves into various aspects of the paranormal and ufology, featuring a prominent cover story about a fraud accusation against Sixto Paz.

Cover Story: Sixto Paz Denounced for Fraud

The main headline announces that a former member of Misión Rama, Rakel Nalvaiz, has filed a complaint against the Peruvian contactee Sixto Paz in the courts of Zaragoza. Nalvaiz, who had been a member of Misión Rama for over fifteen years, claims to have been a victim of fraud. She alleges that after organizing events for Paz, including 'mystical hiking trips' and 'Alerta OVNI' sessions, she was left responsible for handling the funds collected from attendees. The complaint details how she provided her bank account for donations and subsequently faced demands from the tax authorities for unpaid taxes on these earnings, which Paz had not declared.

The article details Nalvaiz's experience, including her role in organizing events and her eventual realization of the financial implications. The legal proceedings are outlined, noting that the complaint was filed with the National Police and subsequently with the Court of Instruction in Zaragoza. Despite Nalvaiz providing documentation, the court ultimately decided to dismiss the denunciation.

Interviews and Personal Accounts

Antonio Luis Moyano on the Paranormal and Ufology

Antonio Luis Moyano, a journalist and writer, shares his perspectives on various paranormal topics. He discusses his involvement in supporting Iker Jiménez's early career, highlighting the contributions of individuals like Jesús Callejo, Julio Barroso, and Lorenzo Fernández to Jiménez's success in radio and television. Moyano also touches upon his own experiences, including his publication in the magazine ENIGMAS and his personal definition of success.

He addresses the skepticism surrounding paranormal phenomena, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and the role of skeptics like ARP and the Skeptical Circle in fostering democratic discourse. Moyano recounts his experience infiltrating destructive sects for three years, an ordeal that he plans to detail in a future book.

Regarding ufology, Moyano expresses a particular fascination with the UMMO case, which he has dedicated two chapters to in one of his books. He also discusses the Cottingley fairy photographs and their connection to the UMMO case, both involving elaborate hoaxes.

Moyano expresses a sense of disillusionment with the commercialization of the mystery world, stating that he has become more skeptical over time. He critiques the persistent presentation of certain paranormal topics as unresolved mysteries when they have long been explained by divulgators like Martin Gardner.

J.J. Benítez: An Intimate Interview

In an interview titled "J.J.: 'I would like God to be a woman' BENITEZ MORE INTIMATE THAN EVER...", J.J. Benítez shares his personal views and experiences. He describes his transition from journalism to investigating UFOs, stating he has seen luminous, silent, spherical, or disc-shaped craft and estimates that 80% of the approximately 3,000 extraterrestrials he has cataloged appear human.

Benítez discusses his famous 'Caballo de Troya' saga, admitting to having earned and spent a considerable amount of money. He expresses a desire to have lived during the time of Jesus. He also shares his thoughts on the nature of God, suggesting a preference for a female deity and humorously describing his communication with the divine via a 'modest fax'. Benítez defines happiness as embracing each day as a gift and identifies intolerance as his main pet peeve.

He reveals a fear of women and shares a romantic anecdote about sneaking into a hotel room to leave violets for his future wife. Benítez also reflects on mortality, preferring a gentle end, and mentions a valuable possession: a silver ring from the Red Sea decorated with binary code, which he uses as a connection to God.

Pilots and Anomalous Aerial Phenomena

This section presents an analysis of UFO testimonies from pilots, considered 'perfect witnesses' due to their training and psychological stability. The article highlights the challenges pilots face in reporting sightings, as they risk discrediting themselves. It references the case of Kenneth Arnold, who coined the term 'flying saucer', and other notable pilot encounters.

Anastasio Povedano, Secretary of the Commission for the Investigation of Air Traffic Incidents, expresses skepticism about pilots mistaking natural phenomena for UFOs, emphasizing their rigorous training and psychological equilibrium. He notes that while pilots are trained to report incidents, they are unlikely to report UFO sightings due to the potential negative consequences.

The article cites the case of Commander Javier Lerdo de Tejada and the 'Manises Incident', where his family later used his UFO sightings to discredit him during a divorce proceeding. It also mentions the case of Commander Juan Ignacio Lorenzo Torres, who reported a UFO resembling a 'balloon with two lateral globes' and the experience of General Lemos Ferreira, who described a luminous object changing colors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of ufology, paranormal phenomena, conspiracy theories, and the skepticism surrounding them. EL OJO CRÍTICO appears to adopt a stance that encourages critical examination of these topics, providing platforms for both believers and skeptics to voice their perspectives. The editorial focus is on presenting exclusive reports, interviews, and investigations into unexplained events, often highlighting the personal experiences and challenges faced by those involved in the field. There is a clear emphasis on investigative journalism and uncovering hidden truths, as suggested by the cover story and the various interviews that delve into controversial or less-known aspects of paranormal research.

This issue of "TEMAS OCULTOS ENIGMAS" is dedicated to the topic of "OVNIS Y PILOTOS" (UFOs and Pilots), featuring a collection of testimonies and case studies primarily from Spain. The magazine explores the experiences of pilots who have encountered unidentified aerial phenomena during their flights, highlighting the credibility and unique perspectives of these witnesses.

Case Studies of Pilot Encounters

The issue presents several detailed cases:

Case 2: A Solid 'Cloud' Three Kilometers in Size

On March 11, 1979, multiple pilots, including Comandante Carlos García Bermúdez, Martín L. Sedó, and Alfonso Barrena, reported an anomalous lenticular cloud-like object. Described as solid and compact, it measured approximately 3 kilometers in diameter and moved against the wind. Pilots avoided it, considering it too dangerous to fly through, suggesting it was more than a mere atmospheric phenomenon.

Case 3: A 'Mother Ship' at Barajas Airport

On March 10, 1979, Comandante Jose Antonio Silva, an experienced Iberia pilot, reported an opaque object, roughly the size of a Jumbo jet, during his approach to Barajas Airport. The object accompanied his aircraft, and later, according to air traffic control radar, it stabilized and released three smaller objects before ascending rapidly at an estimated speed of ten times the speed of sound.

International Phenomenon and Pilot Experiences

The article notes that while the first Spanish pilot encounter was not widely publicized, hundreds of Spanish pilots have since reported UFO incidents. Comandante Javier Arraiza, Head of Iberia's Flight Crews, shared his awareness of numerous pilot encounters, emphasizing the tension and fear involved when facing the unknown, with the primary concern being passenger safety.

Case 4: A Gigantic 'Ship' in the Sky

On September 26, 1976, near the Canary Islands, a Varig and an Iberia aircraft independently observed a phenomenon that rapidly grew to occupy two-thirds of their windshield. Described as a massive craft with smaller lights, it was an impressive sight.

Case 5: A 'Manned' Sphere on a Collision Course

On November 11, 1980, Comandante Gregorio Ramos reported a green sphere approaching his Iberia 727 on a collision course. The object, described as a green soap bubble with a shadow-like figure, forced Ramos to dive to avoid impact. It then disappeared at a speed estimated to be 3-4 times that of a commercial aircraft.

Case 6: The UFO Illuminated the Passenger Cabin

On September 17, 1968, Comandante Julián Rodríguez Bustamante reported an unidentified object approaching his commercial flight between Tenerife and Las Palmas. The object flew alongside the aircraft for several minutes, illuminating the cabin and passengers, before accelerating away. Air traffic control also reported seeing the object.

Case 7: The Best UFO Case in Spanish Ufology

On November 4, 1970, during joint maneuvers with the USAF, two Spanish fighter pilots, Captain Carvalho and Captain Saez Benito, were tasked with identifying an unidentified radar echo. They encountered a metallic, egg-shaped object with windows that exhibited superior aerodynamic capabilities, outmaneuvering their Sabre jets. The official report for this case reportedly disappeared mysteriously.

Combat Pilots: The Perfect Cases

The article highlights that combat pilots, due to their training, equipment, and access to radar, are considered highly credible witnesses. However, their cases are often less accessible. The tragic death of three fighter pilots in 2009 is mentioned, questioning the infallibility of combat pilots or their equipment. The stringent selection and training process for fighter pilots are detailed, emphasizing their ability to make split-second decisions under extreme conditions.

Other Notable Cases and Incidents

• A case from 1991 involving a pilot who reported an object that hovered and then ascended vertically, performing impossible maneuvers.
• A photograph from Costa Rica in 1971, claimed to be of a 'flying saucer', remains unexplained.
• The article discusses the difficulty in identifying UFOs, even with advanced military technology, as some objects do not emit heat signatures detectable by heat-seeking systems.

MUFON's Status and the Role of Media

The magazine includes a section questioning the current state of MUFON (Mutual UFO Network), citing a perceived decline in attendance, lack of young members, and financial concerns. It contrasts this with the rise of the internet and social media, which have accelerated information exchange in the UFO field.

"The Ghost of the Road of Death" in Chile

A separate section details the "El Camino Maldito" (The Cursed Road) in Chile, a dangerous stretch of highway known for its high accident rate. It recounts an incident where a photograph taken after a fatal accident appeared to show a spectral figure, identified by some as one of the deceased victims. The article analyzes the photograph, concluding that it is likely a composite image with a rational explanation rather than a paranormal one.

Book Reviews and Related Topics

• A review of Laura Castellanos' book "Ovnis: historia y pasiones de los avistamientos en México," which explores the phenomenon from a cultural and transgressive perspective.
• A report on the presentation of Magdalena del Amo-Freixedo's book "Déjame nacer," which discusses abortion and its alleged connection to a "culture of death" and international control agendas.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the credibility of pilot testimonies in UFO sightings, presenting them as highly reliable witnesses due to their training, experience, and access to sophisticated equipment. The magazine highlights the challenges in investigating these phenomena, the skepticism faced by witnesses, and the potential for advanced technology or unknown craft. There is a recurring theme of unexplained aerial phenomena impacting aviation and military operations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFOs, presenting evidence and testimonies without necessarily endorsing supernatural explanations, while acknowledging the profound impact these events have on those who experience them. The magazine also touches upon the intersection of UFO phenomena with popular culture, media influence, and societal beliefs.

This issue of "El Ojo Crítico" features a cover story titled "CASTANEDA O EL OCASO DEL NAGUAL" by Carlos Fernández, a martial arts professor. The magazine also includes articles on psychophony, exopolitics, and various mystery-related news items.

Personal Experience with Carlos Castaneda

Carlos Fernández recounts his personal experience attending Carlos Castaneda's courses in Los Angeles in 1995. He describes Castaneda as a charismatic but somewhat theatrical figure, more like an actor than the mystical sorcerer he was often portrayed as. Fernández notes Castaneda's jovial demeanor, his distinctive physical appearance, and his tendency towards playful banter. He contrasts the image of the "eternal youth" associated with Castaneda's teachings with the more grounded practices of Qi Gong and Tai Chi, which he himself practices. Fernández attended seminars at UCLA, where hundreds of people gathered daily. He mentions his initial encounter with Concha Labarta, who introduced him to Tensegrity and facilitated his involvement in Castaneda's seminars. He describes the seminars as a blend of physical exercises and lectures, sometimes feeling more like a fitness event than a mystical gathering. He also touches upon the marketing aspect of Castaneda's organization, with merchandise like "Killers of self importance" t-shirts being sold. Fernández expresses a growing sense of disillusionment, likening the experience to observing a cult from the inside.

Psychophony: The Untold Story

This section investigates the history and authenticity of psychophony, the phenomenon of recording voices from the paranormal realm. It begins with Friedrich Jürgenson's claim in 1959 to have recorded his deceased mother's voice. The article questions whether Jürgenson's initial account was entirely accurate, noting his later admission that his search was intentional. It explores the possibility of auditory hallucinations and the role of suggestion in interpreting faint sounds. The text also discusses the work of Konstantin Raudive, another pioneer in psychophony, who claimed to have recorded voices of historical figures like John Kennedy and Hitler. The article highlights skepticism from parapsychologists regarding the scientific rigor of these early investigations, pointing out potential sources of error such as radio interference and unconscious ventriloquism. Experiments in laboratory settings, like those at the University of Copenhagen, are mentioned as suggesting that recorded sounds might originate from subvocalizations or other natural phenomena. The article concludes that, despite some intriguing cases, psychophony has not met the stringent scientific standards required for acceptance, and many claims remain difficult to believe.

Exopolitics and UFO Disclosure

This article critically examines the exopolitics movement and its efforts to achieve government disclosure of UFO information. The author, Robert L. Salas, expresses frustration with the movement's methods, which he believes have been largely ineffective and have contributed to public confusion. He criticizes groups that focus on speculation and personal fame rather than presenting credible evidence. Salas argues that the government's indifference and the proliferation of unsubstantiated claims have hindered serious investigation. He contrasts the exopolitics approach with the efforts of individuals like Gary McKinnon, who attempted a more direct route to uncovering government secrets. Salas calls for a more intelligent and evidence-based approach to disclosure, emphasizing the need for federal investigation and the presentation of well-documented cases to gain the attention of scientists and the public.

Other Sections and News Items

"El misterio a los juzgados"

This brief news item reports on a lawsuit filed by a well-known Spanish writer and investigator against a publisher for defamation related to a book that mocks mystery-related topics. The author is seeking damages and the withdrawal of the book.

"20 números de Da Vinci"

This short piece congratulates the magazine "Da Vinci" on reaching its 20th issue, acknowledging its discreet but consistent presence in the market despite not gaining widespread recognition among researchers.

"Mundo Misterioso en la red"

This item announces that two dozen episodes of the radio program "Mundo Misterioso," hosted by Bruno Cardeñosa and Manuel Carballal, are now available online. The episodes cover various topics, including UMMO, the CESID, and Spanish satanism.

"Pope y la reunión de Francia"

Nick Pope is interviewed regarding rumors of a meeting of ufologists and military personnel in France, with speculation that France might release an official report on UFOs. Pope expresses skepticism about these rumors, citing past unfulfilled expectations.

"Cardeñosa salta a TV"

Bruno Cardeñosa, who took over the radio program "La rosa de los vientos" after the death of Juan Antonio Cebrián, is now set to present a new TV program titled "Lo que se del miedo" on Antena-3 Neox.

"AFK regresa a las ondas..."

This note informs readers that the best programs from Andreas Faber Kaiser's "AFK" are now available online, thanks to the efforts of his followers.

"Garrido en red... mas ateo"

Moisés Garrido, described as an atheist and apostate, has launched a blog called "La sombra de Chárvaka" which critically examines religious and metaphysical postulates, focusing on the Catholic Church and mystery topics.

"Nuevo proyecto gráfico"

Carlos Guitierrez and Olga Canals have launched a new online project called "Steps around the World," which aims to showcase the world through its landscapes and can be supported by user-submitted photos.

"Una revista diferente en Euskadi."

This section highlights a unique publication from Euskadi that offers in-depth monographic reports and field research, distinguishing itself from other similar publications. The magazine is celebrating its first anniversary.

"¿Vuelven 4 Cs a La Rosa?"

Following the death of Juan Antonio Cebrián, there are negotiations for Manuel Carballal to join the discussion panel on the radio program "La Rosa de los Vientos," potentially adding a new "C" to the panel.

"Barroso ficha por "Ya te digo""

Julio Barroso, a veteran mystery divulgator, has joined the radio program "Ya te digo" on Europa FM, where he will host a segment on mysteries.

"Investigador asesinado en Chile"

Josep Rubau Solés, a Spanish writer and entrepreneur known for his book "¿Quién mató a Cristobal Colón?", was found murdered in his residence in Pichilemu, Chile. The article details the circumstances of his death and his investigative work.

"3 años de FdM."

This piece congratulates "Foros del Misterio" (FdM) on its third anniversary, recognizing its significant growth in registered users and its contribution as a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts in the mystery field.

"La foto:"

This section presents a collage of photos of various well-known figures in the mystery world, suggesting that many of them started their careers at a young age. Readers are invited to identify them.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine "El Ojo Crítico" consistently explores topics related to mystery, the paranormal, and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to question and investigate claims rather than accepting them at face value. While acknowledging the fascination with these subjects, the publication often highlights skepticism, scientific scrutiny, and the potential for misinterpretation or deception. There is a clear emphasis on personal experiences and investigative journalism, but with a cautious approach to sensationalism. The magazine also seems to support the work of independent researchers and publications within the mystery community, as evidenced by its coverage of other magazines, radio shows, and online forums.

This issue of 'Ufología CRÍTICO' (Ufology CRITICAL) focuses on the "Exopolitica-09: Chronicle of an Impossible Summit" conference held in Sitges, Barcelona, on July 25-26, 2009. The magazine also features articles on human rights concerns related to the USS Bataan and an in-depth analysis of the psychology of deception detection.

Exopolitica-09: A Chronicle of an Impossible Summit

The conference, attended by approximately 1,000 people, brought together figures such as Nick Pope, Stephen Greer, Brian O'Leary, Michael Salla, Klaus Dona, Stephen Bassett, Robert Dean, and Paola Harris. Javier Sierra served as the event's director, with the organization and simultaneous translation being praised. The article notes that while most of the presentations leaned towards science fiction, "mashed-up conjectures," and unprovable conspiracy theories, Nick Pope offered interesting data on the declassification of British UFO files, and Klaus Dona presented "Artifacts of Unknown Civilizations." However, the author, David Cuevas, expresses disappointment with the lack of solid evidence presented by most speakers, criticizing the content as "superfluous verbiage that adds nothing new to the cosmos."

Following Robert Dean's presentation, several individuals spontaneously took the stage to share "dubious tales of Martian contactees," with one even attempting to enter a trance. The author observes that while some audience members applauded, others appeared incredulous. Paola Harris's presentation on "the institution of contact protocols" is also mentioned, though its meaning remains unclear to the author. The event also featured numerous commercial stands selling books, merchandise, and other items, including books by Rael and authors like Ballester Olmos.

Stephen Greer, director of the Disclosure Project, explained that the US possesses an "anti-UFO weapon" that has downed several UFOs and warned of an impending "interstellar war," urging everyone to become "intergalactic ambassadors."

A particularly poignant part of the congress was the posthumous tribute to Fernando Jiménez Del Oso, Andreas Faber-Kaiser, and Antonio Ribera. The tribute featured Pilar Cores (Del Oso's widow), Sergi Faber (Andreas's son), Nuria (Ribera's daughter), and Javier Sierra, whose presentation was highly moving. Miguel Celades and Pepón Jover, the organizers, presented recognition plaques to the honorees' families. The author concludes this section with a Spanish idiom, "mucho arroz pa'tan poco pollo" (much rice for so little chicken), signifying a disappointing outcome despite high expectations.

Human Rights Concerns: The USS Bataan

This section addresses Amnesty International's concerns about the presence of the US Navy ship USS Bataan in the Port of Palma de Mallorca. The ship has been identified as one of the "prison ships" used for the illegal detention and interrogation of individuals in the context of anti-terrorism measures. The article highlights the cases of nine individuals allegedly held illegally on the ship in early 2002, including Ibn al-Shaykh al-Libi, who reportedly died under suspicious circumstances in Libyan custody, and Australian David Hicks.

Amnesty International calls on the Spanish government to clarify the ship's activities in Spanish waters and to investigate whether other US vessels linked to "floating prisons" have docked in Spain. The organization also denounces the Spanish government's alleged failure to implement effective control measures to prevent Spanish airports, military bases, and ports from being used for illegal activities like secret detentions and extraordinary renditions.

Additional information is provided on the case of Ali Abdul-Hamid al-Fakhiri (Ibn al-Shaykh al-Libi), a Libyan citizen detained in Pakistan in November 2001. He was allegedly a member of the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group and a leader at an Afghan training camp. Reports indicate he came under CIA control in January 2002 and was transferred to the USS Bataan before being moved to Egypt and later to a secret US detention center in Afghanistan. He was reportedly held in isolation in Tripoli, Libya, and died under suspicious circumstances in Libyan custody.

A Possible Explanation for the "Best UFO Photo of the Year"

This brief article discusses a photograph of an unknown object, captured by Dr. Lamas during Holy Week, which gained international attention and was dubbed "the best UFO photo of the year" by Latin American media. However, an alternative explanation proposed by ufologist Ana Luisa Cid and analyzed by engineer Humberto Villafuerte suggests the image might be due to the camera's shutter speed, capturing the movement of a butterfly's wings, which could resemble a saucer shape.

The Investigator's Library

This section reviews several books:

• MANSON: Retrato de una "familia" by Vincent Bugliosi and Curt Gentry: A book about the Charles Manson case, originally published in Spain as "Manson, retrato de una familia."
• EL INCIDENTE DE WHITE SANDS by Doctor Daniel Fry: A testimony from a "scientist" at White Sands who claimed to have encountered a UFO on July 4, 1950. The book is described as a classic of UFO contactee literature.
• CURANDEROS: Viaje hacia el milagro by Pepe Rodríguez: A journalistic investigation into the world of healers and alternative medicine.

Psychology of the Witness: How to Know if Witnesses Are Lying

This extensive series of articles, authored by Jaume Masip, critically examines the scientific understanding of deception detection, particularly non-verbal communication. The author contrasts popular beliefs and "self-help" book claims with rigorous psychological research.

Popular Wisdom vs. Scientific Knowledge on Non-Verbal Deception Detection

Masip begins by addressing the critique that social psychology studies "common sense" topics. He argues that while many believe they intuitively understand non-verbal communication and deception, scientific research reveals a significant gap between these beliefs and reality. The author criticizes opportunistic "self-help" books that exploit readers' naivety with unsubstantiated theories, often written by individuals with questionable expertise.

He highlights that the popular notion of "body language" is often oversimplified, with gestures being assigned fixed meanings. Masip points to Allan Pease's "The Body Language" as an example of a popular book that, despite its claims, does not accurately reflect scientific findings.

The article also discusses the issue of "professional intrusion," where individuals from unrelated fields claim expertise in psychology and communication, leading to the spread of misinformation.

The Difficulty of Detecting Lies

Masip argues that the ability of humans to discriminate between truthful and deceptive messages is extremely limited, with accuracy rates often hovering around 50-60%, not significantly better than chance. This limitation persists even among professionals whose work requires them to assess credibility, such as police officers, judges, and psychologists. Contrary to popular belief, professionals do not possess superior lie-detection skills compared to lay observers.

Furthermore, people tend to overestimate their ability to detect lies, showing a confidence level significantly higher than their actual accuracy. The author also notes that while some variables can influence accuracy, the overall precision remains low.

Indicators of Deception: Looking into the Eyes and Telling the Truth

Many popular books suggest that detecting lies is simple, relying on easily observable behavioral cues. However, Masip states that scientific research contradicts most of these popular beliefs. For instance, the idea that liars avoid eye contact is a near-universal stereotype but is not supported by empirical evidence. While some popular beliefs about liars' behavior (e.g., speaking with a higher pitch, longer pauses) have some limited support, the vast majority of perceived indicators are inaccurate.

Masip emphasizes that the effectiveness of behavioral cues is highly context-dependent. Factors such as the motivation of the deceiver, the purpose of the deception, the length of the response, and prior preparation can all influence the meaning and discriminative power of these cues. He concludes that there are very few universal indicators of deception, and most are highly specific to particular situations.

Is There Any Hope? (In)Capacity to Detect Lies

Masip presents a sobering picture: humans are poor lie detectors, our confidence in our judgments is often misplaced, and our beliefs about deception are largely erroneous. He discusses various training programs designed to improve deception detection skills, noting that while some training can lead to statistically significant but very small improvements in accuracy, the overall effectiveness is limited. The author suggests that the focus of much training on indicators of lying, rather than on a balanced approach to detecting both truth and lies, may contribute to this limitation.

Conclusions

Masip summarizes the key findings: human ability to discriminate between truth and lies is extremely limited; people are overconfident in their judgments; popular beliefs about deception indicators are largely inaccurate; and even professionals often rely on flawed assumptions. He concludes that detecting deception is far more complex than commonly portrayed in popular media and self-help literature. The article stresses the importance of relying on rigorous scientific research for accurate information on deception detection, especially for professionals who make critical judgments based on credibility assessments.

Notes

The notes section provides references and elaborates on specific studies and concepts mentioned in the articles, including details on polygraph accuracy, verbal content analysis (CBCA), reality monitoring (RM), and the limitations of non-verbal indicators.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's editorial stance appears to be critical of unsubstantiated claims within the UFO and exopolitics communities, as evidenced by the critique of the Exopolitica-09 conference. It also champions rigorous scientific inquiry, particularly in the field of psychology and deception detection, contrasting empirical findings with popular beliefs and the often-misleading content of "self-help" literature. The inclusion of human rights issues related to the USS Bataan suggests a broader concern for social justice and accountability. The magazine aims to provide a critical and evidence-based perspective on topics often shrouded in speculation and misinformation.

This issue of EXCLUSIVA EOC focuses on debunking the viral "angel" video from Campdevanol, Spain. The article details how the video, initially presented as a paranormal phenomenon, was in fact a sophisticated publicity stunt.

The "Angel" of Campdevanol: How it was Made

The article begins by describing the immense popularity of the video, which was recorded on June 11, 2006, in the forest of Campdevanol (Gerona) and garnered over 8 million downloads from platforms like YouTube and Metacafe. It quickly became an internet sensation, with various websites and media outlets discussing its mysterious subject, variously identified as a Chupacabra, spirit, demon, or angel. The video gained international attention, with the title "follen ángel in Catalonia" circulating globally.

Surprisingly, in the summer of 2009, three years after its initial release, the "angel" of Campdevanol reappeared on paranormal forums and blogs. The article reveals that the phenomenon was a staged publicity campaign by the clothing brand Diesel, created by graphic designer David Resplandi and Cocobongo Artworks. The project leveraged the expertise of special effects veteran Jose Manuel Meneses, known for his work on films like "El laberinto del fauno" and "Hellboy," and make-up artist Paula Bosch. They were responsible for transforming Pere Abelló Boix, an actor from Barcelona, into the "fallen angel" that captivated millions of internet users.

The authors of the recording, Damian (David Resplandí) and GHX (Gerard Garcia), presented themselves as young Catalan "investigators" specializing in psycho-imaging and TCI (Trans Communication). They had allegedly been producing and uploading psycho-images to their website and YouTube six months prior to the "angel" recording, but without significant success. Their attempt to gain further fame by featuring the video on Iker Jiménez's program "Cuarto Milenio" backfired. Jiménez and Carmen Porter, based on analyses by Guillermo León, concluded that the video was "a complete fraud." However, the video's popularity continued to grow exponentially online, particularly outside of Spain, due to the nature of internet hoaxes.

The article notes that various members of the Movimiento Escéptico Organizado (MEO) and advertising agencies have previously attempted similar deceptions with comparable results, referencing past issues of EOC (nº 58 and 59).

The process of creating the hoax is illustrated with accompanying images:

1. Pere Abelló being prepared by Paula Bosch, who is shown depilating and applying white make-up to his entire body.
2. J. M. Meneses and P. Bosch attaching a prosthetic that simulates torn wings to Pere Abelló's back.
3. The application of eye drops (colirio) to Abelló's eyes to accommodate special contact lenses that create a spectacular bright-eyed effect.
4. In the Gerona forest, P. Bosch is seen touching up the "blood" on the angel's torn wings. To the left are David Resplandi and Gerard García, identified as the authors of the deception.

III Ciclo de Conferencias - SIPE

The second page of the magazine promotes the "III Ciclo de Conferencias" organized by the Sociedad de Investigaciones Parapsicológicas y Exobiológicas (SIPE). The event, held on Saturday, October 24, features talks by Carlos Gutierrez Tutor on "El Aragón mas misterioso," Carlos Gabriel Fernández on "¿Las voces del más allá?", and Salvador Freixedo on "La granja humana."

The conferences are scheduled to take place at the Centro Cívico Rio Ebro in Zaragoza, with sessions from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event also includes a tribute to two prominent thinkers and investigators of anomalous phenomena in Spain. The magazine recommends attending this event.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes a skeptical viewpoint, focusing on debunking paranormal claims and exposing hoaxes. The editorial stance is critical of sensationalism and highlights the role of the internet in both disseminating misinformation and facilitating exposure of such deceptions. The magazine actively promotes critical thinking and investigative journalism in the realm of paranormal and exobiological claims.