La Nave de los Locos - No 01

Magazine Overview

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: N°1
Volume: Año 1
Date: Abril 2000
Publisher: Los editores
Country: Chile
Language: Spanish

This issue, titled "La Nave de los Locos," presents a rational debate on ufology, pseudosciences, and related topics. The editorial emphasizes a critical and skeptical approach, aiming to fill a void in the market for anomalous phenomena by offering a serious, unbiased, and in-depth exploration rather than sensationalism. The magazine seeks to create a connection between editors and readers, fostering dialogue and the exchange of opinions on enigmatic subjects.

Special Section: "LA OTRA UFOLOGÍA MEXICANA"

This special section features contributions from Sergio Sánchez R., Luis Ruiz Noguez, and Óscar García, focusing on the state of ufology in Mexico. The cover story, "LA OTRA UFOLOGÍA MEXICANA," sets the tone for a critical examination of the field.

"LA OTRA UFOLOGÍA MEXICANA" by Sergio Sánchez R.

Sergio Sánchez recounts his trip to Mexico with the aim of meeting skeptical ufologists and obtaining material for the magazine. He describes his initial optimism and subsequent challenges in finding contacts, eventually connecting with Luis Ruiz Noguez and Óscar García from the "Sociedad Mexicana para la Investigación Escéptica." Sánchez shares an excerpt of his conversation with Ruiz Noguez and García, where they discuss the prevalent sensationalism in Mexican ufology.

Ruiz Noguez and García explain that Mexican ufology is divided into generations. While the first generation, represented by Pedro Ferriz, was more divulgative, the current, third generation is characterized by extreme sensationalism and delusion, lacking the cultural and scientific background to critically assess claims. They note that ufologists are easily deceived, readily accepting fraudulent stories. Ruiz Noguez shares his personal experience of being tricked by ufologists and expresses his disillusionment. He also touches upon the idea that while science is important, the magical and irrational aspects of reality should not be entirely dismissed, though he acknowledges Ruiz Noguez's disagreement on this point.

Ruiz Noguez criticizes the "falacia residual" (residual fallacy) used by ufologists, where unexplained cases are presented as proof of extraordinary phenomena. He argues that the vast majority of UFO reports can be explained by conventional means, and the remaining small percentage does not automatically validate the existence of UFOs. He also discusses the persuasive, rather than expository, tactics used by ufologists, such as appeals to authority and conspiracy theories.

"¿PUEDE EL ESTUDIO DE LOS OVNIS SER UNA CIENCIA?" by Luis Ruiz Noguez

Luis Ruiz Noguez argues that ufology cannot be considered a science, nor even a science in formation. He refutes the common ufologist tactic of comparing their field to historical scientific heresies that were later accepted. Noguez asserts that true scientific advancements are based on evidence and progress, not on unverified anecdotes or claims of extraterrestrial visitation. He highlights that ufologists often request special exemptions from scientific procedures, refusing to provide verifiable data or prove their claims. He criticizes the reliance on the "residual fallacy" and cites Hudson Hoagland's observation that unexplained cases do not constitute proof of anything, but merely indicate a lack of explanation.

Noguez further elaborates on the "falacia del residuo," stating that even if 5% of UFO reports remain unexplained, it is highly probable that they too have conventional explanations, similar to the 95% that are identified. He points out that in Mexico, 100% of reported cases are often treated as genuine UFOs. He contrasts the scientific method with the persuasive tactics of ufologists, who employ marketing and advertising techniques rather than scientific reasoning. Noguez also mentions Joseph Allen Hynek's later retraction of some UFO cases after reviewing original evidence, contrasting this with the general ufologist tendency to embellish or modify stories.

Noguez questions the nature of evidence presented by ufologists, such as witness testimonies, photographs, videos, and alleged fragments of alien craft. He argues that these are not scientific proofs, comparing them to anecdotal accounts of mythical creatures or substances that have been debunked. He uses the analogy of "green crows" to illustrate how ufologists cling to unverified evidence and dismiss rational explanations, often invoking conspiracy theories when their claims are challenged.

"Una Historia en la UFOLOGÍA" by Óscar García

Óscar García shares his personal journey with ufology, beginning as a fervent believer in extraterrestrial visitation and gradually adopting a skeptical stance over fifteen years. He recounts his early years of devouring ufological literature and his later disillusionment as he found inconsistencies and a lack of congruence in the claims. García describes watching a televised debate between Luis Ruiz and Jaime Maussán, feeling detached from his past involvement in ufology. He reflects on the "brotherhood" among ufologists worldwide, noting how interconnected they are despite their small numbers.

García also shares an anecdote about visiting Budd Hopkins, an abductionist author, in New York. He concludes that his relationship with ufology was akin to a love-hate relationship, providing him with valuable experiences, friendships, and career opportunities, but ultimately leading to a realization that the phenomena were human constructs. He compares this to a past romantic relationship that ended with disillusionment but is now remembered with fondness.

Other Articles and Sections

• "Flammarión: el verdadero precursor del estudio de las anomalías" by J. V. Ballester: This article likely explores the early work of Camille Flammarion in studying anomalous phenomena.
• "Película de la NASA: las primeras impresiones" by L. Cortez: This section offers initial thoughts on a NASA film related to UFOs.
• "Libros: 500 años de OVNIs en México": A book review or discussion about the history of UFO sightings in Mexico.
• "Mea culpa: Ejercicios de autocrítica" by D. Zúñiga: An article focusing on self-criticism within the field.
• "Internet, libros, breves, y más.": A section likely covering news, book reviews, and brief items related to ufology and related topics.
• "Recibimos...": A section for reader contributions or correspondence.
• "Stendek: otro Mito ufológico" by Juan G. Prado: This article appears to be a critique of another ufological myth or figure named Stendek.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards ufology, the critique of sensationalism and lack of scientific rigor in the field, and the exploration of anomalous phenomena from a rational and critical perspective. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting critical thinking and evidence-based analysis, distinguishing between genuine scientific inquiry and pseudoscientific claims. The magazine aims to challenge conventional ufological narratives and encourage readers to question unsubstantiated beliefs. The emphasis on "La Otra Ufología Mexicana" suggests a desire to present a different, more grounded approach to the subject within the Mexican context.

Title: La Nave de los Locos
Issue: 1
Volume: 1
Date: April 2000
Publisher: La Nave de los Locos
Country: Mexico
Language: Spanish

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" delves into the critical state of ufology, particularly in Mexico and Chile, questioning the methodology and claims of many within the field. The magazine aims to provide a more grounded and analytical perspective on UFO phenomena, moving away from sensationalism and towards a more intellectual approach.

The Nave of the Locos: A Critical Perspective on Ufology

The editorial section, "La Nave de los Locos," expresses a disillusionment with the current state of ufology. The author feels that the field has become a matter of morbid curiosity and entertainment, rather than serious investigation. The proliferation of sensationalist media, like the TV series "The X-Files," is seen as contributing to a public perception that is easily swayed by unsubstantiated claims. The author argues that extraterrestrials are not currently present on Earth and that common sense is sufficient to debunk many UFO claims, especially as technology advances and makes photo and video manipulation easier. The piece criticizes the ufologists' tendency to live in their own "reality," often driven by a desire to believe they are not alone in the universe, which blinds them to the lack of concrete evidence.

Debate and Disconnection

A section discussing a debate highlights the author's feeling of disconnection from the ufological community. The author finds the discussions "stupid" and the convictions of followers of figures like Jaime Maussán "absurd." Many details, names, and places mentioned in current ufological discussions are no longer remembered or of interest to the author, who now feels inclined to mock such claims rather than engage with them seriously. The author expresses regret for not participating in a particular program to counter the "stupidities" being presented, noting that while others became tired, Maussán continued to speak tirelessly. The author also expresses pride in Luis Ruiz's participation.

"500 Años de OVNIS en México" Review

This section reviews the book "500 Años de OVNIS en México" by Héctor Escobar Sotomayor. The reviewer praises the work as a highly recommendable effort to approach the true history of Mexican ufology, moving beyond the sensationalism often associated with figures like Jaime Maussán. Escobar, a psychoanalyst and aspiring doctor of philosophy, is described as a representative of a new generation of critical Mexican ufologists. The review notes Escobar's Chilean origin and his family's move to Mexico after the 1973 coup. The book details significant UFO waves in Mexico, such as the March 1950 wave, and highlights the role of sensationalist press in constructing these narratives. It also covers the 1965 flap, the peak of Mexican ufology in the 1970s, the case of pilot Carlos de los Santos, and the infamous "Puebla case" of a crashed UFO. The review quotes Escobar's description of the confusion and contradictory reports from witnesses in Puebla, including fantastical elements like two-meter beings and an alien-football match. Escobar's work is commended for its balanced perspective, addressing issues like the discrimination of explainable events, humanoid cases, and landing phenomena, all while considering the psycho-social context. The reviewer concludes by strongly recommending and praising Escobar's prudent and sensible approach.

"MEA CULPA: Ejercicios de Autocrítica" by Diego Zúñiga C.

Diego Zúñiga offers a critical self-examination of Chilean ufology, arguing that it has become stagnant and hindered by a focus on trivial or unbelievable cases. He contends that Chilean ufology is not taken seriously internationally, despite claims of being a leading country in sightings. Zúñiga criticizes the tendency of Chilean ufologists to inflate their country's importance and to rely on sensationalism rather than intellectual analysis. He points out that many international researchers are unaware of Chilean cases, with the exception of potentially fraudulent ones. The article suggests that Chilean ufology lacks a solid intellectual foundation and serious research groups, often resorting to "exporting" poor cases. Zúñiga also notes that the topic of UFOs is not a popular concern, and research groups are small and often more interested in self-promotion than in genuine investigation. He criticizes the reliance on anecdotal evidence, such as conversations with people who claim to have seen lights or aliens, over reasoned debate and analysis. The article touches upon the influence of figures like Jorge Anfruns, who allegedly promotes the idea of systematic alien visitation to Chile. Zúñiga argues that the perceived importance of Chile in ufology is largely a product of "chauvinism" and a desperate attempt to find significance in numbers rather than quality ideas.

The Isolation of Chilean Ufology

Zúñiga further elaborates on the isolation of Chilean ufology, suggesting that it has become a spectacle driven by media ratings, leading to the promotion of figures like Jaime Rodríguez and Sixto Paz. He criticizes the lack of collaboration among groups, with many prioritizing personal recognition over sharing information. The article notes that the field has lost its former credibility and is no longer a significant voice. The author attributes this to a nationalistic tendency to overstate achievements, focusing on numbers rather than superficial ideas and poor explanations. The article includes notes clarifying terms like "ovni" and "OVNI," and referencing specific cases and individuals.

Budd Hopkins and the Abduction Phenomenon

This section, authored by Luis R. González M., focuses on the origins of abduction myths and the work of American painter and ufologist Budd Hopkins. It traces the history of abduction narratives, starting with the Hill couple's case in 1966 and the influence of John Fuller's book. The article highlights the shift in abduction narratives with Budd Hopkins's 1981 book, "Missing Time," which introduced a more sinister and malevolent portrayal of aliens. Hopkins, a painter with a background in art, became interested in UFOs after a sighting in 1964. His research into abduction cases, often using hypnosis, led him to believe in a systematic alien program involving human encounters and examinations. The article details Hopkins's methodology, including his use of hypnosis and psychological testing of witnesses. It mentions his work with "Kathie Davis," which led him to the theory of an alien hybridization program. Hopkins's efforts to create self-help groups for abductees and his recruitment of wealthy patrons are also discussed. The article notes the emergence of competition, particularly from Whitley Strieber's book "Communion," which achieved significant commercial success, overshadowing Hopkins's own work.

Hopkins's Influence and the Spread of Abduction Narratives

The article continues to explore Budd Hopkins's influence on the abduction phenomenon. It describes his strategy of using statistics to counter criticism regarding hypnosis and his critique of the "natal trauma hypothesis." Hopkins's use of psychological tests on witnesses, despite their cost, aimed to establish the normalcy of abductees. The article points out that Hopkins's work established key characteristics of the abduction phenomenon, such as the concept of "lost time" and the idea that abductions are not isolated incidents but recurring events in a witness's life. The introduction of the "gray" alien with oblique, pupil-less eyes is attributed to one of Hopkins's witnesses, Stephen Kilburn. The article also touches upon the physical evidence presented in cases, such as circular marks on the ground, referencing the Delphos case. It notes that Hopkins's research into the "Cash-Landrum" case, involving alleged health problems from radiation exposure after observing a UFO, also highlighted the importance of witness reactions.

Hopkins's work is credited with popularizing the idea of alien implants and his research into the sexual aspects of the phenomenon, including alleged alien-human sexual encounters and the concept of hybrid "children." The article mentions his disciples, such as David Jacobs and John Mack, who continued his research and popularized abduction narratives through their own books. Hopkins's role in securing funding from wealthy individuals like Lawrence Rockefeller and Robert Bigelow is also highlighted. The emergence of competition, particularly from Whitley Strieber's book "Communion," is presented as a significant event that further propelled abduction narratives into mainstream consciousness, especially with the deregulation of television in 1986.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical stance towards sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims within ufology. It advocates for rigorous investigation, intellectual analysis, and a grounded approach to understanding UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be that while the topic of UFOs may be intriguing, much of the current discourse is driven by myth, personal belief, and a desire for extraordinary explanations, rather than by evidence. There is a strong emphasis on distinguishing between genuine research and pseudoscientific or religiously-tinged interpretations. The magazine seems to champion a more skeptical yet open-minded approach, encouraging critical thinking and a rejection of what it perceives as the "charlatanism" and "farcical" elements prevalent in the field, particularly in Latin America.

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: 1
Date: April 2000
Focus: Ufology, paranormal phenomena, skepticism, and scientific investigation.

Main Articles and Themes

Budd Hopkins and the Abduction Phenomenon

The magazine critically examines the work of ufologist Budd Hopkins, particularly his promotion of the Linda Cortile abduction case as the 'case of the century'. It highlights how sensationalist media, like talk shows, have proliferated stories of abductions, often featuring investigators and abductees. Hopkins's network of therapists and hypnotists, coordinated through foundations, extended across North America. The article notes the controversy surrounding the alleged witnesses in the Cortile case, who turned out to be bodyguards, and the subsequent publication of Hopkins's book 'Witnessed'. The piece also touches upon Hopkins's later claims about extraterrestrial 'selective invisibility' and his comparisons of skeptics to Holocaust deniers.

NASA UFO Films and Scientific Inquiry

A review of UFO Magazine's report on over 25,000 hours of NASA shuttle video footage is presented. The magazine acknowledges that these films have captured previously unknown phenomena, such as electrical storms above clouds and unidentified circular metallic objects moving rapidly. While the initial report promoted these findings as 'historic' and 'definitive proof', the article adopts a more cautious stance, suggesting that these phenomena could be either unknown natural occurrences or objects of extraterrestrial origin, both warranting scientific study. The analysis discusses two types of phenomena: rapid movements leaving a trace and 'globular' objects exhibiting intelligent behavior.

Historical Figures in Anomaly Research

The magazine pays tribute to Camille Flammarión, an astronomer considered a pioneer in the study of unusual natural phenomena. His work, including 'La Pluralité des mondes habités' and 'La atmósfera', documented various anomalous events like blood rain, earth rain, and ball lightning, laying groundwork for later researchers like Charles Fort. The article contrasts Flammarión's rigorous approach with the more sensationalist aspects of modern ufology.

Critique of Chilean Ufology and Manuals

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a critical review of Cristián Riffo Morales's 'Manual del investigador OVNI'. The reviewer, Sergio Sánchez R., strongly criticizes the manual for its sensationalism, chauvinism, and uncritical promotion of controversial figures like J. J. Benítez. The manual's reliance on dubious photographic 'evidence', including alleged photos from Billy Meier and Ed Walters, is particularly condemned as a compilation of 'trickery'. The article also points out similarities between sections of the manual and previously published works by other authors.

Media Influence and Pseudoscientific Reporting

The issue discusses the impact of mass media on the perception of paranormal phenomena. The TVN program 'Buenos días a todos' is criticized for its sensationalist 'haunted house' reports, which feature subjective accounts and are 'investigated' by mediums. The article also touches upon the 'media paradox', where the extraordinary is presented as the norm, influencing public opinion. A brief note highlights a Spanish toy alien that expands in water, raising concerns about potential health risks for children.

Skeptical Perspectives and Research

The magazine features a review of 'Skeptical Inquirer' magazine, highlighting an article by Nobel laureate Gerard't Hooft. Hooft argues that modern physics, particularly quantum mechanics, does not legitimize paranormal claims but rather restricts the possibilities for scientific scrutiny of the paranormal. He denounces 'pretexts' used to link paranormal phenomena to physics, emphasizing that there is no bridge between quantum interpretation and paranormal assertions. Another article by John Ruscio discusses the 'media paradox' and how media shapes social reality.

Online Resources and Publications

Two websites are reviewed: Fundación Anomalía (Spain), an entity dedicated to the rational study of anomalous aerial phenomena, offering critical articles and a bookshop; and Informe Alfa (Argentina), an online magazine promoting a common-sense, logical, and open-minded approach to ufology and parapsychology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

'La Nave de los Locos' adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards sensationalist ufology, while still acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena worthy of scientific investigation. The magazine emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, rigorous research, and distinguishing between credible evidence and pseudoscientific claims. It highlights the role of media in shaping public perception and warns against the uncritical acceptance of controversial figures and unsubstantiated 'evidence' within the UFO community. The editorial stance favors a rational, scientific approach to understanding anomalous phenomena.

Title: La Nave de los Locos
Issue: No. 1, Year 1
Date: April 2000
Publisher: La Nave de los Locos
Location: Santiago, Chile

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" presents a variety of articles and analyses, with a central focus on debunking a prominent UFO myth. The publication aims to provide a critical and investigative perspective on paranormal phenomena and related topics.

Article: STENDEK: OTRO MITO UFOLÓGICO (Stendek: Another Ufological Myth)

Author: Juan Guillermo Prado

This article meticulously debunks the long-standing myth surrounding the disappearance of the British Lancaster Star Dust aircraft in the Andes in 1947. Ufologist Antonio Ribera had popularized the theory that the plane, carrying 11 people and allegedly 70 bars of British crown gold, vanished due to UFOs. Ribera's account, published in his book "Objetos desconocidos en el cielo" (1961), included a supposed enigmatic phrase heard by witnesses before the disappearance: "Stendek."

Prado's investigation reveals that the accident was real, but Ribera's narrative was far from the truth, leading to the myth and even the naming of a prestigious ufological magazine, "Stendek," by the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI).

The truth emerged due to the "greenhouse effect" causing the slow melting of a glacier on Mount Tupungato (6,860 meters high). In 1998, Carlos Moiso and his son Alejo Augusto, pilots and mountaineers, learned of sightings of aircraft wreckage at 5,550 meters on the Tupungato slopes. They suspected it was the lost Lancaster.

Their initial attempts to reach the site in 1998 were thwarted by storms. However, during the summer of the following year, they undertook a difficult ascent, navigating loose rocks, unstable moraines, and ice formations. They found a piece of the fuselage, the landing gear, human bones, and three torsos with mummified skin.

The legend of the 70 gold bars remains uncertain, possibly just a campfire story. The search for this gold was a recurring theme in the 1950s whenever rumors of an air disaster surfaced.

Finally, on February 22, 2000, an expedition from the Argentine Army recovered the crew's remains, bringing down nine bags containing three torsos, a woman's hand, and numerous bones. Prado notes that the aircraft wreckage was likely looted long ago, possibly in the years following the accident, as evidenced by the discovery of several empty wallets.

Prado questions why Antonio Ribera would invent such a "delirious fabrication," suggesting that within the often absurd world of ufology, it's probable that some will claim the plane was not just lost, but actively shot down by extraterrestrials.

Other Content and Editorial Notes

The issue also includes a brief mention of other articles and authors, such as Irwing Tessman and Jack Tessman on the efficacy of prayer, and contributions from Robert Baker, Ragnar Levi, Tom Byrne, Matthew Normand, and Martin Gardner. A column by ufologist Robert Scheaffer, titled "ET, You've Got Mail," is highlighted for its commentary on the impressive state of internet ufology.

A postscript announces a symposium in Minneapolis (March 19-20, 2000) titled "The Skeptical Inquirer: the new paranatural paradigm," featuring speakers like Paul Kurtz, Joe Nickell (on alien abductions), Victor Stenger (on "paraphysics"), and Eugenie Scott (on "scientific creationism"). The editors express a desire to access and share the proceedings.

The publication "La Nave de los Locos" itself is explained as representing the medieval concept of a "ship of fools" – a journey without purpose, symbolizing the drift in a hyper-technified world. It's presented as an exercise in historical nostalgia, a symbol of drift, and a way to pay homage to parody and mystery.

Information is provided on how to subscribe to the bulletin via email at [email protected].

Upcoming Issue Preview

The next issue is slated to feature a special report on FIDAE (an air show), an in-depth investigation into a 1985 UFO sighting in Chile and Argentina, and a look at ufological histories from ancient times.

Editorial Stance

The editors explicitly state that they are not responsible for the opinions expressed in the bulletin, except when they are the authors themselves. This indicates a commitment to presenting diverse viewpoints, even if they are controversial or speculative, while maintaining a degree of editorial distance.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the critical examination and debunking of UFO myths, exemplified by the "Stendek" case. The publication champions skepticism and investigative journalism in the realm of paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of intellectual curiosity combined with a rigorous approach to evidence, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims. The name "La Nave de los Locos" itself suggests an exploration of unconventional ideas and a recognition of the often-absurd nature of some beliefs, while also serving as a metaphor for the journey of inquiry.