La Nave de los Locos - No 02

Magazine Overview

'La Nave de los Locos' issue number 2, dated May 2000, is a Spanish-language magazine focused on ufology and related phenomena. The issue is dedicated to a special report on FIDAE 2000, an international aviation exposition held in Chile that included a ufological seminar. The magazine aims to provide a rational debate on ufology, parapsychology, and other topics.

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the ufology scene in Chile during April, which was described as a 'fiesta' due to the presence of renowned international investigators. The magazine covered the event extensively, promising to deliver behind-the-scenes details. It also addresses the arrival of the 'chupacabras' phenomenon in Chile, noting its delayed appearance and the various theories surrounding it. The issue concludes the special on 'La otra ufología mexicana' (The Other Mexican Ufology) with an interview featuring two skeptical representatives from Mexico. The editors express their hope to improve the quality of the bulletin and utilize it as a space for critical discussion within the enigma world.

Articles and Features

Y los Marcianos, ¿Cuándo? (And the Martians, When?)

This article by Diego Zúñiga C. recounts the author's experience at the FIDAE 2000 ufology seminar. He describes the anticipation for the event, the presence of key figures like J.J. Benítez, Antonio Huneeus, Jean Jacques Velasco, and Richard Haines. The author notes the public's strong interest in Benítez, referring to him as a 'guru'. The seminar featured discussions on various UFO-related topics, including Haines's 'Fractal Energy Exchange Mechanism' theory and Velasco's presentation on French UFO cases.

PERO ANTES, HAGAMOS HISTORIA (But First, Let's Make History)

This section details the background of the FIDAE seminar, including the initial plans for a 'Hangar OVNI' (UFO Hangar) which was ultimately not realized. It also touches upon internal issues within the ESIO group. The article highlights the exclusive Thursday session for 'chosen' attendees and the main conference sessions on Friday and Saturday.

Y EN EL SALÓN DE LA JUSTICIA... (And in the Hall of Justice...)

This part of the report describes the atmosphere and presentations within the seminar hall. It mentions the presence of prominent Chilean ufologists and the opening remarks by Gustavo Rodríguez and Ricardo Bermúdez. Richard Haines's presentation on 'Fractal Energy Exchange Mechanism' is discussed, along with the subsequent Q&A session.

EL VERDADERO "HANGAR OVNI" (The True "UFO Hangar")

This section critiques the 'OVNI 2000' stand at FIDAE, which featured displays of UFO models and artwork, including a 'Roswell alien' and 'giant UFOs'. The author expresses skepticism about the presentation, particularly regarding the theory that extraterrestrials may have transported the Moai statues on Easter Island, a theory presented by Patricio Borlone.

CONTINÚA EL SEMINARIO (The Seminar Continues)

Antonio Huneeus presents on the 'Briefing Document', a compilation of significant UFO cases. The article also touches upon the work of Pedro Muñoz in tracing UFO flight paths and the concept of 'ortotenias'.

The Chupacabras and Ancient Aliens

Several articles focus on the 'chupacabras' phenomenon, discussing its arrival in Chile, its connection to globalization, and a biological perspective. J.J. Benítez presents his theories on 'Astronauts in the Stone Age', suggesting that ancient civilizations may have had extraterrestrial contact and that zoomorphic deities could be alien beings. His presentation is characterized by speculation and a perceived lack of scientific rigor.

Haines's Presentation

Richard Haines discusses UFO cases involving pilots and presents statistics from his AIRCAT project, recommending the creation of government-funded UFO investigation groups.

Velasco's Presentation

J.J. Velasco presents on French 'high strangeness' cases, such as 'Trans-en-Provence'. The article notes the challenges in Chilean ufology, where the focus is often on 'ET Hypothesis' and the belief that UFOs are extraterrestrial spacecraft.

Apéndices

The issue includes several appendices:

• Apéndice 1: PONENCIAS EN CEFAA: Discusses presentations by Chilean ufology groups at a CEFAA meeting prior to FIDAE, highlighting perceived shortcomings.
• Apéndice 2: LOS UFÓLOGOS UNIDOS, JAMÁS SERÁN...: Summarizes the conclusions of a workshop between Chilean ufologists and international guests, affirming the existence of Anomalous Aerial Phenomena (AAPs) and the need for scientific approaches.
• Apéndice 3: ¡¡¡MARCIANITOS, MARCIANITOS!!!: A humorous dialogue about the expectation of seeing 'little martians' at the seminar.
• Apéndice 4: LA HISTORIA DE LA FIDAE: Provides historical background on the FIDAE (Feria Internacional del Aire y del Espacio) exposition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a critical yet engaged stance towards ufology. It champions a rational debate and scientific investigation, often contrasting this with sensationalist approaches prevalent in the field, particularly in Chile. The editorial team expresses a desire to elevate the quality of their publication and provide a platform for critical analysis. Recurring themes include the nature of UFOs, the possibility of extraterrestrial contact, the interpretation of ancient mysteries, and the challenges faced by serious ufological research in distinguishing between speculation and evidence. The magazine seems to lean towards a skeptical but open-minded perspective, questioning unsubstantiated claims while acknowledging the enduring mystery of UFO phenomena.

'La Nave de los Locos', issue number 2 from May 2000, is a special edition from FIDAE, focusing on ufology. The magazine features interviews and articles exploring various aspects of UFO phenomena, including investigations, skepticism, and sensationalist reporting.

Conversations with Richard Haines

The magazine opens with a conversation with ufologist Richard Haines, who was interviewed by Diego Zúñiga C. Haines discusses his views on the best ufological researchers, highlighting specialists in different areas such as Bruce Maccabee (photography), Ted Phillips (second-type encounters), Dominique Weinstein (pilot encounters), and himself (fifth-type encounters). He also mentions Dr. Steven Greer and Dr. Leo Sprinkle in relation to abduction research. Haines emphasizes that good investigation requires information gathering and logical analysis. He also touches upon his collaboration with Willy Smith's UNICAT project, describing it as a valuable contribution despite its limitations.

Richard Haines's Favorite Books

Haines shares his favorite ufological books: Jacques Vallée's 'Anatomy of the phenomenon', Allen Hynek's 'The UFO experience', and his own book, 'Observing UFOs'. He notes that 'Observing UFOs', though old and out of print, remains a useful reference.

The 'Virgin Witness' and Contaminated Information

Haines expresses his belief that the concept of a 'virgin witness' is becoming increasingly rare due to the pervasive influence of mass media, including cable TV and the internet, which have created a global culture and 'contaminated' the subject of UFOs.

Accusations and Defenses at FIDAE

A tense moment at the 'Seminario OVNI' at FIDAE involved Roderick Bowen accusing the Air Force of withholding information on UFO cases. Ricardo Bermúdez, president of CEFAA, vehemently denied these accusations, calling them conspiratorial speculation and stating that such secrets did not exist.

Astronaut Refutes Sixto Paz

An article reports on a letter from Captain Edgar Dean Mitchell, Apollo XIV astronaut, published in the Argentine newspaper 'La Nación'. Mitchell categorically denied the authenticity of a video presented on a TV program, which claimed to show astronauts Armstrong and Aldrin encountering extraterrestrials on the Moon in 1969. Mitchell stated that the video was a fraud and that he had no contact with Sixto Paz Wells, who claimed to have obtained the material from NASA through him.

Conversation with Antonio Huneeus

Another significant section features an interview with Chilean ufologist Antonio Huneeus, conducted by Diego Zúñiga C. Huneeus is described as the most well-known Chilean investigator internationally, having been part of the 'Briefing Document' team, engaged in debates with Budd Hopkins, and debunking numerous hoaxes. He is also a columnist for 'Fate' magazine.

Ufology in Chile

From his international perspective, Huneeus believes that ufological investigation in Chile is progressing well, moving towards a more solid and concrete direction, away from the sensationalist 'Maussan' style of ufology.

Discussion on Budd Hopkins and Hypnosis

Huneeus recounts a past dispute with Budd Hopkins, stating he helped provide information for an investigation into a case. However, he expresses skepticism about Hopkins's methodology, particularly regarding the use of hypnosis, which he considers a delicate subject.

The End of the 'Virgin Witness'

Huneeus reiterates his view that the 'virgin witness' no longer exists due to the global saturation of information through media like television and the internet. He believes that remote areas are no longer isolated from this contamination.

Plagiarism in Ufology

The magazine highlights a case of alleged plagiarism where an article by Cristián Riffo in his book 'Manual del investigador OVNI' was found to be identical to an article published in the magazine 'Stendek' in the 1980s. Huneeus describes this as plagiarism and criticizes such practices as dishonest and foolish, even if the text is slightly altered.

The Other Mexican Ufology

This section, conducted by Sergio Sánchez R., features interviews with Oscar García and Luis Ruiz Noguez, who represent a skeptical approach to ufology in Mexico. They discuss the 'Maussan' ufology and contrast it with their own critical perspective.

Critique of Astroarchaeology

García and Ruiz criticize astroarchaeologists like Erich von Däniken and Charroux, pointing out the lack of verifiable references in their works. They specifically debunk the existence of the 'Papiro de Tulli', calling it a fabrication based on unverified information. They also question the feasibility of verifying claims about the 'Palenque astronaut' due to the extensive resources required.

The Sensationalist Press and 'Reporte OVNI'

Sánchez discusses the sensationalist Mexican magazine 'Reporte OVNI', directed by Zita Rodríguez, which published outlandish stories, including one about a UFO dropping food to hungry people in Sudan. Óscar García explains how he infiltrated 'Contacto OVNI', a successor magazine, and briefly directed it to inject a more critical perspective, facing resistance from sensationalist ufologists.

'Contacto OVNI' and Pluralism

'Contacto OVNI' is credited with presenting both sensationalist and serious viewpoints, allowing readers to choose their preferred position. However, the magazine also notes that some paranormal literature, like 'El retorno de los brujos', tends to present only arguments supporting paranormal explanations without critical counterpoints.

The 'Hunucmá' Case and a Hoax

Luis Ruiz Noguez recounts how he orchestrated a hoax by submitting a fabricated story about an extraterrestrial encounter in Hunucmá, Mexico, to 'Reporte OVNI'. He did this to expose the lack of culture and critical thinking of the director, Zita Rodríguez, who published the story without verification. The story, which Ruiz claims was a continuation of a science fiction tale by Héctor Chavarría, details a gruesome physical disintegration of a character named David Zuckerman after an alleged encounter with a light ray.

The Decline of Intellectual Ufology

Ruiz and García lament the decline of intellectual rigor in Mexican ufology, noting that the current generation of ufologists lacks the historical knowledge and critical thinking of earlier generations who engaged with international researchers and intellectuals like Vallée and Hynek.

Future of Ufology and Skepticism

Looking towards the year 2000, Ruiz expresses hope that the failure of apocalyptic prophecies will lead people to become more critical and less susceptible to sensationalist claims. Óscar García states he is retired from ufology, no longer believing in UFOs or extraterrestrials, and notes that many social and natural scientists avoid the field due to its perceived charlatanry. He suggests that the need to believe in something offers an escape from the harshness of everyday reality.

A Mysterious Footprint in Northern Chile

An article describes a triangular footprint, noted for its heart-like shape, discovered in northern Chile near Bolivia. While some attribute it to the electromagnetic energy of UFOs, the report acknowledges it could be a natural phenomenon or human-made, but finds the extraterrestrial explanation more exciting for many.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently contrasts sensationalist ufology with more critical and investigative approaches. There is a clear emphasis on debunking hoaxes, questioning unsubstantiated claims, and promoting a more rigorous methodology in UFO research. The editorial stance appears to favor skepticism and evidence-based analysis, while acknowledging the enduring public fascination with the unexplained. The interviews with Haines and Huneeus, as well as the discussions with García and Ruiz, underscore the importance of critical thinking and the challenges posed by misinformation and sensationalism in the field of ufology.

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: N° 2 / Mayo de 2000
Publisher: La otra ufología mexicana
Country: Mexico
Language: Spanish

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" delves into paranormal phenomena, primarily focusing on UFO sightings, alien encounters, and the popular myth of the Chupacabras, with a critical perspective on media influence and the credibility of ufological research.

"LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS" - Testimonies and Investigations

Terror in Hunucmá: A Reader's Testimony

The issue begins with a chilling account from Luis Ruiz N., detailing the alleged death of David Zuckerman in Hunucmá, Mexico, following an encounter with a mysterious light. Zuckerman's body was found almost decomposed, emitting guttural sounds. Ruiz N. suggests that further investigation, including exhumation, might be necessary and appeals to organizations like the magazine's readership for help, as ordinary citizens would not be taken seriously. This account was originally published in "Reporte OVNI" and "Perspectivas Ufológicas".

John Mack's Disappointment with "Passport to the Cosmos"

The article discusses Harvard psychiatrist John Mack's disillusionment with the reception of his new book, "Passport to the Cosmos: Human Transformation and Alien Encounters." Unlike his previous book, "Abduction: Human Encounters with Aliens," which garnered significant media attention, the new book has had scarce sales. The review from "Kirkus Reviews" is quoted, suggesting that the book portrays abductees as believing extraterrestrials are divine messengers. Mack's book is performing better than David Jacobs' "The Threat" on Amazon.com, but still ranks relatively low.

Abductions by Mail: A Case of Deception

Óscar García recounts an experiment conducted in 1993 involving Héctor Chavarría, a ufologist. During a TV program, García and others created a mock UFO using ashtrays and a thread to demonstrate how easily video evidence could be faked. This "OVNI Arbita" was filmed and presented as authentic. Later, García sent a fabricated abduction story, inspired by "Comunión" and the Linda Napolitano case, to Zita Rodríguez of "Reporte OVNI" magazine. The intention was to expose the magazine's lack of critical research by seeing if they would publish a false story. The article implies that Rodríguez published the story without proper verification, thus confirming their suspicions about the magazine's credibility.

The UFO of Tetepilco: A Personal Account

Fabiola López shares a personal account of repeated encounters with beings she describes as small, grey, with large black eyes, and a sticky appearance. These encounters began in her childhood and resumed when she was 30. She describes being taken to a round, illuminated room where she felt powerless and like a slave. She also recounts an incident where a small red fireball entered her room. López claims to have photographed a UFO, hoping this would serve as proof of her experiences, which she believes are real despite their extraordinary nature.

"Soledad" and the Paranormal on TVN

This section discusses a segment on the TVN program "Buenos días a todos," featuring a woman named "Soledad" who claims to be haunted by a ghost. The report highlights the sensationalist presentation, with the witness shown from behind and accompanied by eerie music. The ghost allegedly attempts to drown her and leaves her with scratches. Her son also claims to see a child ghost. The article criticizes the program's focus on paranormal claims without critical investigation, mentioning that the same reporter has also investigated the Chupacabras and the Calama triangle.

The Chupacabras: Myth vs. Reality

This extensive section critically examines the Chupacabras phenomenon, particularly in Chile. It begins by noting that some ufologists consider the Chupacabras a serious entity of alien origin. However, the article strongly argues against this, presenting evidence that the "attacks" on livestock were primarily caused by feral dogs and other wild animals, such as pumas. The media's role in sensationalizing the story and perpetuating the myth is highlighted, with numerous newspaper articles and TV programs contributing to the public's fear and belief. The article points out inconsistencies in witness descriptions and the lack of any concrete evidence for the creature's existence. It also touches upon the idea of the Chupacabras being an extraterrestrial pet. The section concludes by advocating for a rational approach to such phenomena and allowing the myth to fade.

Biological Disquisition on the Chupacabras

Sergio Sánchez R. offers a biological perspective on the Chupacabras, expressing skepticism towards anthropomorphic aliens presented by ufologists. He questions the biological plausibility of a bipedal predator like the Chupacabras, contrasting it with known quadrupedal mammalian predators. Sánchez R. uses his "rational prejudice" to dismiss claims about extraterrestrials, including the Roswell incident and the Santilli autopsy, suggesting that biological inconsistencies make such claims unbelievable.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" consistently adopts a skeptical and critical stance towards paranormal claims, particularly those related to UFOs and the Chupacabras. The editorial team appears to prioritize critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and debunking sensationalism. They highlight the media's role in amplifying myths and the importance of distinguishing between genuine phenomena and fabricated stories or misinterpretations. The magazine seems to advocate for a more grounded and rational approach to investigating unexplained phenomena, questioning the credibility of certain ufological sources and publications.

Title: La Nave de los Locos
Issue: 2
Volume: 1
Date: May 2000
Publisher: Editorial El Triunfo
Country: Chile

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" presents a diverse collection of articles exploring various facets of ufology and paranormal phenomena, often with a critical or skeptical lens.

Articles and Content

The Chupacabras and Skepticism

The issue opens with a discussion on the Chupacabras, referencing the popular belief and then introducing the skeptical perspective. Georges Cuvier's principle of correlating physical characteristics is humorously applied to a student dressed as a demon, highlighting the absurdity of illogical connections. Boris Campos is mentioned for his theory that the Chupacabras is an extraterrestrial, possibly a pet left behind by 'grays'. The article contrasts this with a more grounded approach, suggesting that such claims require careful examination.

Easter Island: Ancient Airport or Human Achievement?

Sergio Sánchez R. critically examines the theory that Easter Island served as an ancient extraterrestrial airport, popularized by Erich von Däniken. The author recounts his childhood fascination with the Moai and the ancient astronaut hypothesis. However, he presents evidence and arguments suggesting that the construction and transportation of the Moai were feats of human ingenuity, not alien intervention. He details the archaeological findings, including quarries, tools, and transport routes, and discusses the ecological crisis that likely impacted the island's inhabitants. The article concludes that while Easter Island holds mysteries, extraterrestrial explanations are unnecessary and speculative.

"El OVNI-Arca de Noé" Book Review

This section reviews the book "El OVNI-Arca de Noé" by Jorge Anfruns D. & Nwobniwla. The reviewer describes the book as a lengthy interview with a character named "Nwobniwla," who claims to possess revelations about humanity's past and future, including prophecies about the "Final Judgment" and the nature of God as an extraterrestrial being. The reviewer is highly critical of the book's content, labeling it a "gigantic galimatías" (gibberish) and a "sensationalist pamphlet" filled with pseudo-biblical numerology and unsubstantiated claims. The reviewer also criticizes Anfruns for endorsing such material and for his past promotion of questionable ufological claims.

"Recibimos" Section: Skeptical Dossier and Book Reviews

This section features a review of "Fenómenos extraños y dossier escéptico" (Strange Phenomena and Skeptical Dossier), a Spanish magazine. The reviewer praises the graphic material and content but notes the hard-line skepticism presented, exemplified by articles from Luis Alfonso Gámez and Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos. The article "La mente contra la naturaleza" by Jorge Alcalde is criticized for its portrayal of parapsychology as mere superstition, with the reviewer pointing out that even scientific methodology, as described by Thomas S. Kuhn, involves the use of ad hoc hypotheses, challenging the ideal of pure rationality in science. Miguel Ángel Nieto's text on "Esotéricos Reunidos S.A." is highlighted for its critique of Spanish occult operators and the profit-driven nature of tele-divination and phone astrology. The dossier also covers topics like UFOs, spiritism, cryptozoology, and astroarchaeology, generally aligning with skeptical viewpoints. However, an article by César Vidal Manzanares on biblical miracles is described as tendentious and biased, with the reviewer accusing Vidal Manzanares of selectively interpreting evidence to support a pro-ecclesiastical stance.

CEFAA Meeting Summary

Diego Zúñiga C. reports on a CEFAA (Committee for the Study of Anomalous Aerial Phenomena) meeting in Chile. The meeting featured a presentation by physicist Sergio Dagash on a theory of gravitational bases for cinematic effects, which the author found to be overly speculative and lacking in concrete contributions to research or critical thinking. The event also included other ufologists and a mention of Boris Campos's controversial claims about alien blood-feeding. The author notes the mix of ideas and the general atmosphere of Chilean ufology.

The "Linda Cortile" Abduction Case

Luis R. González Manso analyzes the "Linda Cortile" abduction case, questioning its connection to Garfield Reeves-Stevens' novel "Nighteyes." The article details the events as reported by Budd Hopkins, including the alleged abduction, witness accounts from supposed government agents, and the discovery of an implant. Skeptics, including David Jacobs, Walter H. Andrus, and Jerome Clark, are mentioned for their involvement in examining the case. The author highlights the similarities between Cortile's story and the novel, suggesting that the case might be influenced by or even based on the book. Hopkins's response to these criticisms is noted as brief and dismissive.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" consistently adopts a critical and often skeptical stance towards paranormal claims, particularly those related to UFOs and ancient astronauts. While acknowledging the existence of mysteries and the allure of extraordinary explanations, the magazine prioritizes grounded analysis and empirical evidence. It frequently contrasts sensationalist theories, often associated with figures like Erich von Däniken and Budd Hopkins, with more rational and scientific perspectives. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging critical thinking and questioning unsubstantiated claims, even while exploring the broader landscape of ufological inquiry. The magazine also highlights the work of skeptical organizations and publications, suggesting a leaning towards debunking rather than promoting paranormal phenomena. The inclusion of book reviews and summaries of events like the CEFAA meeting further contributes to this analytical and sometimes critical approach to the subject matter.