La Nave de los Locos - No 18

Magazine Overview

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: 18
Volume: 3
Date: September 2002

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" is dedicated to "ALGO SOBRE LA UFOLOGÍA ARGENTINA" (Something About Argentine Ufology), providing a historical overview of the subject in Argentina.

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the socio-economic crisis in Argentina but asserts that discussing ufology is still relevant, given its significant development in the country. It contrasts the current political situation with the "military" regime of the past, highlighting the difference between a corrupt government and a gangster government that resorts to torture and murder. The editorial emphasizes that Argentina has a rich history of ufological inquiry, influenced by both Spanish and other Latin American ufology. It mentions influential books and magazines like "Cuarta Dimensión" and "UFO Press" that have shaped research and discussions globally. The issue aims to present a historical account of Argentine ufology, acknowledging its contribution to the country's social history.

Articles and Content

UFOLOGÍA ARGENTINA: UN POCO DE (SUPERFICIAL) HISTORIA (Argentine Ufology: A Little Bit of (Superficial) History) by Sergio Sánchez R.

This article traces the early history of ufology in Argentina, noting its rapid expansion following Kenneth Arnold's sighting. It highlights an Argentine sighting from July 11, 1947, and discusses early press interpretations, some of which viewed UFO reports as a potential strategy by the Truman administration to instill panic and justify military action. The article mentions Orville Wright's opinion that such reports aimed to create a war climate. It notes the emergence of extraterrestrial hypotheses after initial speculation about secret weapons and post-war hallucinations. The piece also points to the appearance of early ufological books in Argentina in 1953, such as "¿Vienen de otro mundo los platos voladores?" by James Dawson, and Jorge A. Duclout's work, which introduced concepts of "psychic experiments" and contact with entities.

UFOLOGÍA ARGENTINA DE LOS SETENTA (Argentine Ufology of the Seventies) by Adalberto Ujvari (Austria)

Ujvari recounts his personal journey into ufology, starting in the late sixties after attending a conference by actor-turned-ufologist Fabio Zerpa. He describes Zerpa's commercialization of the UFO phenomenon through his organization ONIFE. Ujvari mentions being guided by prominent ufologists like Aimé Michel and Dr. Jacques Vallée, and engaging in discussions with various groups, including Apolo. He notes the proliferation of UFO groups during this era. Ujvari also mentions his collaboration with Gustavo Fernández on a book project titled "La Investigación Científica del Fenómeno OVNI" (The Scientific Investigation of the UFO Phenomenon), which unfortunately was never published due to the disappearance of the Mexican publishing house.

Historical Review of the Seventies

The article includes a historical-humorous review of the ufological situation in the seventies, recounting lived experiences. It highlights the television program "Matinée" on Canal 11 in Buenos Aires on August 17, 1973, which featured Francisco García, a self-proclaimed "deep investigator of UFOs" and "commander of the Martian forces on planet Earth." García engaged in a debate with a man named González, who claimed to be from Jupiter and presented a narrative of a cosmic war between Martians and Jupiterians. The debate included claims about Martian abilities to transform and the Jupiterian confederation's plans to attack Martian colonies.

Anticipated UFO Sighting in Chascomús

Following the television debate, Francisco García announced that fifty alien spacecraft would appear over Chascomús, Buenos Aires Province, on Saturday, August 20, 1973. A large crowd gathered at a fisherman's pier, with media present, but the anticipated UFOs did not materialize. The article humorously describes the crowd's disappointment and García's subsequent explanation that a solar explosion had prevented the spacecraft from approaching.

The Case of Eustaquio Zagorski (Ziretz Zem)

On June 19, 1974, a conference organized by the magazine "Atom" featured a panel discussing extraterrestrial manifestations. During the event, Normando Busefi defended Francisco García and Eustaquio Zagorski. Zagorski, a Hungarian nationalized Argentine, is presented with a fantastical backstory, claiming to be Ziretz Zem from a spaceship, adopted by a Hungarian couple, and eventually becoming a favorite of the Tsar of Russia before returning to Argentina. His story involves a journey to Ganymede and contact with "transparent inhabitants."

Contact from Ganymede and Busefi's "Evidence"

Normando Busefi, as a delegate from Ganymede, invited attendees to a "mystical-spiritual communication experience with extraterrestrial beings." The event, held in Buenos Aires, involved Busefi presenting "proofs" in the form of two hundred cassette tapes, allegedly containing testimonies of contactees and UFO experiences. One testimony describes a young woman who developed singing abilities after a UFO sighting, accompanied by "electric currents" and visions.

Gustavo M. Fernández's TV Pitch

The article also touches upon Gustavo M. Fernández's unsuccessful attempts to pitch his research on ortotenic lines and intelligent alien relays in Argentina to television producers. A producer rejected his proposal, citing the preference for sensationalist content like Francisco García's Martian claims, which guaranteed higher ratings, over rigorous scientific investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly focuses on the history and development of ufology within Argentina, highlighting its unique trajectory and key figures. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical engagement, acknowledging the socio-political context while championing the importance of exploring the UFO phenomenon. There's a clear distinction made between rigorous investigation and sensationalism, with a critique of those who prioritize entertainment over factual analysis. The magazine seems to value historical documentation and the diverse approaches within ufology, from the scientific to the more mystical or contactee-oriented perspectives, while maintaining a rational and critical outlook. The recurring theme is the rich and often controversial history of UFO research in Argentina, presented through a collection of articles and historical accounts.

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" (The Ship of Fools), number 18, published in September 2002, focuses on the landscape of ufology in Argentina. The cover prominently features the title "O.V.N.I.S. Los extraterrestres entre nosotros" (UFOs: The Extraterrestrials Among Us), suggesting a deep dive into the phenomenon within the country.

Editorial Stance and Key Themes

The magazine appears to advocate for a more rigorous and scientific approach to UFO investigation, differentiating between genuine researchers and those driven by sensationalism or commercial interests. It highlights the unique characteristics of Argentina that may contribute to a high frequency of sightings. Themes explored include the history of ufology in Argentina, personal testimonies of contactees, the methodology of studying UFO phenomena, and the role of specific locations like Capilla del Monte.

Key Articles and Content

The Argentine Ufological Scene

The issue begins with a narrative that critiques the superficiality of some UFO claims, contrasting them with more serious investigations. It touches upon the public's fascination with the sensational aspects of UFOs, often at the expense of factual analysis. The article discusses the evolution of ufology in Argentina, noting the efforts of pioneers who applied scientific methods to the study of UFOs at a time when the topic was considered taboo by mainstream science. Figures like Óscar Galíndez, Óscar Uriondo, and Roberto Banchs are mentioned for their early contributions.

Methodological Considerations

A section titled "CUESTIÓN DE MÉTODO" (Question of Method) emphasizes the importance of a defined methodology, rigorous documentation, and critical analysis of evidence. It contrasts the work of dedicated researchers with those who merely collect newspaper clippings or seek publicity. The article laments that despite advancements, the field still struggles with mistification and commercialization, with many "investigators" acting more as disseminators than analysts.

Pioneers and Newcomers

The magazine pays tribute to the pioneers of Argentine ufology, such as Ariel Ciro Rietti, founder of the Comisión Observadora De Objetos Voladores No Identificados (CODOVNI) in 1952. It recounts the early days of UFO investigation, including the challenges of being taken seriously and the limited resources available. The text also mentions Pedro Romaniuk, Ing. Casimiro Schang, and Eduardo Azcuy as significant figures from earlier eras.

The Capilla del Monte Phenomenon

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to Capilla del Monte, a town in Argentina known for its association with UFO sightings and New Age tourism. The article "EL SANTUARIO EXTRATERRESTRE" (The Extraterrestrial Sanctuary) by Rubén Morales explores how the town has become a hub for alternative tourism, attracting individuals interested in ecological concerns, indigenous wisdom, and extraterrestrial encounters. It contrasts the early, austere experiences of contact groups with the more comfortable, modern tourism that has emerged.

Personal Testimonies and Contactees

Several personal accounts are featured, most notably from Carlos Salerno, a former police sergeant and firefighter who lives in Capilla del Monte. Salerno describes his experiences as a "contactee" with extraterrestrial beings, whom he refers to as "guides" from the RAMA mission. He details how he and his group receive messages through psychography and voice, and how these communications have influenced their lives, including dietary changes and a shift in philosophy. Salerno emphasizes a silent, non-fanatical approach to investigation and a belief in free will.

The RAMA Mission and Extraterrestrial Beings

Carlos Salerno explains the RAMA mission as a philosophy of life aimed at bringing "light to the Earth." He describes the extraterrestrial beings as part of a "Confederation of Worlds of the Galaxies" and notes their diverse physical characteristics. He clarifies that sightings of these beings are often of a transparent, projected nature rather than physical forms.

The Uritorco Hill and Extraterrestrial Bases

The Uritorco hill near Capilla del Monte is identified as a significant contact zone and the site of an extraterrestrial base, referred to as HRKAS. The article debunks the myth of a secret city called ERKS beneath the hill, clarifying that HRKAS is the actual extraterrestrial base. It also mentions potential underground connections between Uritorco, Malargüe, and Peru.

Critiques and Skepticism

While presenting numerous accounts, the magazine also includes critical perspectives. The article discusses the tendency for some individuals to invent "lies" to attract attention or tourists, particularly in places like Capilla del Monte. A young local, Pablito, dismisses UFO claims as a fabrication by the mayor to boost tourism. The magazine also features a news item about David Teran, who confessed to murder believing he could obtain an "extraterrestrial enzyme" to travel with aliens.

Book Reviews and News

The issue includes reviews of ufological literature, such as "Los OVNI y la evidencia fotográfica" by Guillermo Roncoroni and Gustavo Álvarez, which is described as an important work on photographic evidence despite its age and some naive aspects. It also mentions the Italian book "UFO Impact!" by Pino Morelli, which analyzes the portrayal of UFOs in media, and the publication of the European Journal of UFO and Abduction Studies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the pursuit of a more scientific and less sensationalist approach to ufology in Argentina. There is a strong emphasis on personal testimonies and the experiences of contactees, particularly in the context of Capilla del Monte and the Uritorco hill. The magazine acknowledges the historical development of UFO research in the country, honoring its pioneers while also critiquing the current state of the field, which is seen as sometimes plagued by commercialism and unfounded claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, valuing evidence and methodology, while remaining open to the possibility of genuine extraterrestrial contact.

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: Nº 18
Date: September 2002
Publisher: DOSSIER UFOLOGÍA ARGENTINA

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" presents a dual focus, dedicating significant space to the analysis of UFO photography and an in-depth exploration of Philippine psychic surgery.

UFO Photography: Evidence and Deception

The magazine begins by examining the study of extraterrestrial phenomena, with authors Álvarez and Roncoroni expressing a desire for it to be recognized as a science taught in universities. They acknowledge the inherent uncertainty of photographic evidence, calling it "the most uncertain and flimsy of the evidence" (p. 53). The article details common errors and tricks used to deceive ufologists, such as reflections, photomontages, and retouching negatives. It presents examples of fake photographs, explaining how they were debunked, and criticizes ufologists who continue to present them as real.

A key principle emphasized is that "an OVNI photograph can never be taken as definitive proof of their physical existence, unless obtained by 'ad hoc' equipment and duly controlled by investigators of recognized probity" (p. 76). This cautionary note is crucial for discerning genuine evidence from fabricated material.

The second part of the UFO photography section reviews classic photographic cases. It highlights the investigation of the "Las Grutas" case by the authors, noting that Juan José Benítez had previously covered it. While acknowledging the authors' serious approach, the article points out a general credulity regarding witness testimony, suggesting a lack of skepticism towards potential fraud. The case was ultimately left unexplained.

Other cases discussed include the incident in Santa Ana, California, involving Rex Heflin, which Project Blue Book deemed a fraud, a conclusion later supported by Ground Saucer Watch's discovery of wires used to suspend the supposed UFO. However, Álvarez and Roncoroni considered the case still open. The magazine also translates an article by John Gray from "Flying Saucer Review" on these photographs.

A significant point of contention arises in chapter IV of the second part, where the authors defend the authenticity of photographs from Oregon (November 22, 1966). They assert, in capital letters, that "this photograph is concrete proof that an object can disappear and reappear in another location" (p. 161). The article finds this defense peculiar, given the authors' supposed ability to discern fraud. It suggests the OVNI in question was merely a blurred image of a road sign.

The fifth chapter of the second part presents a translation of the Condon Report's analysis of the McMinnville (Trent) photograph from May 11, 1950. Despite the photo's lack of a definitive explanation, Robert Sheaffer's work is noted for raising significant questions about the witnesses' credibility.

The third and final part of the UFO photography section provides general data on classic UFO photographs for quick reference. The article notes that few Spanish-language books focus on photographic evidence, making this publication significant. Despite some flaws, the work of Roncoroni and Álvarez is acknowledged as valuable, attributing some of the perceived naivety to the optimistic ufological context of the time. The piece concludes by mentioning Guillermo Roncoroni's departure from ufology after the death of his mentor, Joseph Allen Hynek.

A Meteorite Over Australia

Separately, the magazine reports on a celestial event over Australia. Scientific sources confirmed that a "fireball" observed on the night of September 5th, which caused two strong explosions, was a meteorite. Chris Tinniy, an astronomer at the Anglo-Australian Telescope, stated that witness descriptions led to this conclusion. The exact cause of the explosions—whether from atmospheric contact, fragmentation, or impact—remains unknown. The report mentions the rarity of observing such a large meteorite over populated areas.

Philippine Psychic Surgery: Tradition and Business

The main feature of this issue is an extensive article by Ignacio Cabria (Spain) titled "CIRUJANOS PSÍQUICOS FILIPINOS ENTRE LA TRADICIÓN Y EL NEGOCIO" (Philippine Psychic Surgeons: Between Tradition and Business). The article delves into the phenomenon of psychic surgery, where practitioners claim to perform operations with bare hands, without anesthesia, and leave no scars.

Origins and Controversy

Since the 1970s, mystery magazines have documented these procedures, attracting patients globally seeking cures for incurable diseases or esoteric knowledge. Critics, however, denounce this practice as scientific fraud and a scam, with some "surgeons" charging high fees for what are described as "sleight of hand" tricks.

The article aims to provide a broader perspective beyond the dichotomy of reality versus fraud, examining psychic healing within its cultural context. The author recounts observing renowned healers like Jun Labo and Álex Orbito, as well as less-known practitioners in rural areas.

Psychic surgery in the Philippines is a relatively modern phenomenon, primarily concentrated in the Pangasinán region, Baguio, and Manila. The article notes significant differences in the environment and patient perceptions across these locations. In Pangasinán, rural populations see it as a connection to spirits and traditional medicine, while in Baguio and Manila, foreign tourists often believe in the manifestation of psychic energies.

The origins trace back to 1905 with Juan Alvear founding the Unión Espiritista Cristiana de Filipinas, based on Allan Kardec's spiritist doctrine. In the 1940s, Eleuterio Terte gained popularity for performing "operations" using a knife but leaving no scars.

Defenses and Skepticism

In the 1970s, psychic surgery gained popularity among paranormal investigators, with many traveling to the Philippines to witness the alleged miracles. A 1973 mission by therapist Sigrun Seuteman concluded there was no fraud. However, other researchers like Lyall Watson and Christian de Corgnol defended its reality, even while acknowledging cases of fraud.

Explanations for the physical mechanism vary. German physicist and parapsychologist Alfred Stelter proposed cellular structures separating and rejoining via electromagnetic power. Others, like Stanley Krippner, suggested the "opening" might occur in a "bioplasmic body" rather than the physical one.

Defenders of psychic surgery include Donald McDowall and Claudio María Domínguez. Filipino investigators like Jaime Licauco acknowledge that some surgeons are fraudulent but represent a small minority. Licauco explains that if a healer believes they are extracting blood clots, then blood clots will appear, regardless of the actual substance.

The Role of Fraud and Belief

Skeptics consistently point to tricks, such as the use of animal blood or simple colorants, chicken livers, or ordinary stones, to simulate the extraction of tissue. James Randi and Óscar González Quevedo have detailed these tricks.

Alejandro Agostinelli has denounced the fraud involved in the practices of healers like Laporga and Orbito. James McClenon likens psychic surgery to shamanic practices, where trance is simulated to create powerful imagery, and beneficial results are attributed to the placebo effect or psychosomatic healing.

Skeptics describe the tricks in detail: pressing fingers into soft tissue to simulate penetration, using hidden blood bags, and producing "meat" from palangana or towels. The author notes that healers often hide their palms and may rinse their hands in hidden basins before "extracting" materials. In some "clinics," viewing angles are restricted to prevent observation.

Some liquid extracted does not resemble blood, and in one instance, blood from a patient's eye differed in color from that extracted from the abdomen.

Cultural Roots of Faith Healing

The article then explores the cultural underpinnings of faith healing in the Philippines, linking it to traditional medicine and religious beliefs. Pre-Hispanic Filipino culture involved a complex pantheon of spirits and deities. Early missionaries documented healers known as "katalonans" and "babaylans" who treated chronic illnesses attributed to sorcery or offended spirits.

William Henry Scott suggests that many modern psychic surgery tricks, like "extracting bones or stones," were practiced by ancient babaylans. The concept of "bisa," a supernatural power stemming from purity of heart and good deeds, is central to Filipino folk medicine. Healers believe this power flows directly from God.

Traditional healers are categorized into empirical (bone setting, massage) and magical-religious (divination, spiritual cures). The latter involves "magluluop" specialists.

While some have been called shamans, the term "faith healer" is preferred for contemporary babaylans. Many traditional healers rely on empirical methods or a mix of empirical and magical-religious approaches.

The article outlines key characteristics maintained from traditional healers to psychic surgeons:

• A family history of healers.
• Visitations from supernatural beings providing healing instructions.
• Dedication to healing after recovering from illness.
• Belief that their activity is God's will.
• Training under an experienced specialist.
• Maintaining good relations with spirits to retain power.
• Receiving voluntary payment, as medical skills are a divine gift.
• Divination as a core part of healing.
• Extraction of harmful substances from the body, a practice dating back to ancient traditions.
• Religion as the central motive for healing, with psychic surgeons acting as mediums for the Holy Spirit.
• Reintegration of the soul or "energy" into the patient's body.

Modernization and Commercialization

The article discusses the modernization of faith healing, influenced by scientific medicine, modern occultism, and the New Age movement. The language used by healers incorporates terms like "energies," "bioplasma," and "astral body."

The commercialization of psychic surgery, driven by international popularity and health tourism, has created a distance from traditional medicine. While ancient healers were respected, modern psychic surgeons are often controversial figures. Many Filipinos doubt their abilities and honesty, with fraud demonstrations widely disseminated. Rural populations often stick to traditional healers, viewing psychic surgery as a heterodox practice associated with Baguio and Manila.

However, the creation of psychic surgery is not solely a market invention. It represents a syncretism of traditional medicine, spiritist doctrine, and scientific medical imagery, creating a new symbolic representation of healing. The officiant adopts a shamanic role, simulating altered states of consciousness and using illusionist techniques for suggestion. The incorporation of scientific language and New Age spirituality caters to a growing health market.

Symbolic Representation and Patient Expectations

According to Joaquín Cunanan, a former vice-president of the Unión Espiritista Cristiana de Filipinas, healers "open the body primarily to dramatize the healing for the benefit of the patient" (Valentine, 1975, p. 186). The belief in healing and the emotional impact on the patient are considered key factors. Some academics suggest that healers aim to appear similar to surgeons, inventing processes to extract materials and thus demonstrating that the operation occurs within the framework of modern surgical ideology.

Patients expect a cheaper, local version of Western medical operations. These techniques allow native healers to offer a semblance of advanced modern medicine. The survival of traditional beliefs is attributed to their ability to explain medical-religious phenomena to less "sophisticated" Filipinos in rural areas.

Fraud and the Placebo Effect

While no psychic surgeon admits to using tricks, they acknowledge the prevalence of fraud in the profession. The article notes that even if psychic surgery involves fraud, it can still result in healing due to the placebo effect. The efficacy of healing is thus contextualized within the patient's beliefs and the magical-religious framework of traditional Filipino medicine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently questions the authenticity of extraordinary claims, particularly in the realm of UFO photography and psychic surgery. It highlights the importance of critical analysis, skepticism, and the examination of evidence. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational and scientific approach, while acknowledging the cultural and psychological factors that contribute to belief in these phenomena. The magazine aims to dissect claims, expose potential fraud, and provide a balanced perspective, even when discussing controversial topics like psychic surgery, by grounding the discussion in cultural context and historical evolution.

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: Nº 18
Date: September 2002

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" (The Ship of Fools) delves into various aspects of the paranormal and unexplained, with a strong focus on cryptozoology, ufology, and the analysis of pseudoscientific claims.

The Hidden Animals: Cryptozoology as Metaphor

The issue opens with an article by Sergio Sánchez R. titled "LOS ANIMALES OCULTOS LA CRIPTOZOOLOGÍA COMO METÁFORA" (Hidden Animals: Cryptozoology as Metaphor). The author explores how cryptozoology, the study of creatures that may or may not exist, draws heavily from legend and folklore. He discusses the persistent search for elusive beings like Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster, noting the frequent reliance on dubious photographic evidence and anecdotal accounts. Sánchez R. highlights that while many seemingly outlandish stories have a basis in reality, the true fascination lies with improbable, fantastical creatures such as dragons, questioning their universal presence in human imagination and suggesting a possible link to primal, reptilian brain functions. The article also touches upon the personal impact of such mysteries, referencing the author's childhood obsession with the Yeti. It posits that cryptozoology offers a way to cope with human arrogance in exploring every corner of the planet, suggesting that hidden, exotic creatures still inhabit unknown regions, acting as a terrestrial 'beyond'. This perspective explains the unconscious sympathy for reports of pterodactyls, ape-men, and sea serpents, setting the stage for a new section dedicated to these hidden animals.

Encountering UFOs in Spain: Martí Fló and the CEI

Milton W. Hourcade contributes an article detailing his meeting with Martí Fló of the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI) in Barcelona. Hourcade recounts their conversation, which touched upon the current state of ufology in Spain. He notes that the CEI, once active, has become less so due to unfavorable times for such activities, with fewer reported cases. However, the group continues to publish "Papers d'Ovnis," a bi-monthly bulletin. The article mentions the Fundación Anomalía as a significant hub for ufology in Spain, led by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos. Hourcade also shares insights into other ufological events and figures, including a symbolic gathering on Montserrat related to Rafael Farriols and his work on the 'Ummo' phenomenon. The discussion also covers the challenges faced by organizations like CIOVI in Uruguay due to economic difficulties and a general lack of investigation into cases, despite past efforts to educate the public about UFOs.

A Career in Pseudosciences?

David Fisher's article, "¿HAS CONSIDERADO HACER CARRERA EN LAS PSEUDOCIENCIAS?" (Have You Considered a Career in Pseudosciences?), humorously explores the potential for individuals to pursue careers in fields often dismissed as pseudoscience. Fisher points to government support for unconventional ideas, such as 'free energy' devices and anti-gravity machines, citing a NASA-funded project. He suggests that students of physics might find more promising and lucrative careers in these areas, where the criteria for success are less stringent and media attention is more readily available. The article satirizes how pseudoscientific claims can lead to patents, book deals, and even movie contracts, contrasting this with the struggles of mainstream scientists. It highlights examples like Stanley Meyer's water-powered car and the controversy surrounding cold fusion, illustrating how individuals associated with such claims can gain public recognition, even if later discredited.

More Evidence: Canary Islands UFOs Were Missiles

This section reports on further evidence supporting the claim that UFO sightings in the Canary Islands during the 1970s were actually Poseidon missiles. Building on a previous article in the Revista de Aeronáutica y Astronáutica, R. Campo presents photographic evidence showing phenomena identical to those observed during missile launches. The article also announces the launch of "La Gazette fortéenne," a new French publication aiming to be a significant voice in the Fortean field, similar to "Fortean Times" and "The Anomalist."

Signs: The Signals Aren't Right

Diego Zúñiga C. reviews M. Night Shyamalan's film "Signs" (Señales), critiquing its deviation from expectations for a film of its genre. Zúñiga argues that while the film touches upon themes of alien invasion and extraterrestrial encounters, it lacks the depth of iconic films like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." He notes the film's reliance on the idea that mysterious events are presented as fact, citing "The Mothman Prophecies" as an example. The review highlights the film's focus on media coverage of events, suggesting a connection to the anxieties surrounding the 9/11 attacks. Zúñiga also points out the film's exploration of irrational belief and how it can be influenced by external sources, such as books on extraterrestrials. The article concludes by examining the film's underlying message about faith and the potential for salvation, while also noting that some viewers found it disappointing.

News Briefs

Guinness World Record: A brief report mentions Barry Maunder, who received 11,000 mistaken calls due to an error in the Guinness Book of Records' contact information. Maunder has been receiving these calls for six years.

Chilean UFOs in "Cuadernos de Ufología": This section announces the publication of issue 28 of "Cuadernos de Ufología," which features a significant dossier on ufology in Chile, prepared by "La Nave de los Locos" team. The dossier includes contributions from prominent Chilean ufologists and aims to elevate the subject's profile internationally.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of the unexplained, folklore, and popular culture. There is a critical yet engaged approach to ufology and pseudoscientific claims, often questioning the validity of evidence while acknowledging the cultural impact and psychological appeal of these subjects. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational examination of phenomena, as seen in the critique of "Signs" and the discussion of pseudoscientific careers, while also recognizing the enduring fascination with mysteries and the unknown, as exemplified by the cryptozoology article. The magazine seems to aim at providing a platform for diverse voices within the ufological and paranormal communities, while maintaining a degree of critical distance.

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: Nº 18
Volume: Año 2
Date: Septiembre de 2002
Publisher: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Country of Publication: Chile
Language: Spanish
Price: $400

This issue of 'La Nave de los Locos' is a bilingual publication (Spanish and Italian content, though the review is in Spanish) focusing on ufology and related phenomena. It features reviews of two significant works: Paolo Toselli's book "11 Settembre. Leggende di Guerra" and the Cuban magazine "Signos," a special issue dedicated to UFOs.

Review: "11 Settembre. Leggende di Guerra" by Paolo Toselli

The magazine opens with a review of Paolo Toselli's book, "11 Settembre. Leggende di Guerra," published by Avverbi edizioni in 2002. Toselli, a renowned Italian ufologist, shifts his focus from psychological and sociological interpretations of UFO phenomena to urban legends. This book, published just seven months after the 9/11 attacks, aims to catalog the vast number of rumors, false news, urban legends, jokes, and nonsensical stories that circulated globally following the events. The reviewer notes that many of these accounts resonate with those found on the CSICOP website. The article highlights that periods of conflict or pre-conflict are particularly conducive to such narratives, as they provide a sense of meaning in chaotic times. The internet is identified as a key medium for the rapid dissemination of these stories, including dubious photographic evidence. Toselli's book, despite its modest 160 pages, effectively documents these ephemeral tales. The first seven chapters present various urban legends, including threats of similar or worse attacks, apocryphal prophecies of Nostradamus, the famous photograph of a tourist with the plane about to hit the World Trade Center, and supposed remedies for anthrax. The final chapters discuss the whereabouts of Osama Bin Laden and Mullah Omar, and the supposed survivors from the 83rd floor of the towers. The book concludes with a bibliography and an index.

The reviewer, Matías Morey from Spain, praises the book, stating that it is a "delight" for urban legend enthusiasts, especially those emerging from an unexpected and exceptional event. He acknowledges that the book's focus on Italian media might limit its scope but suggests this provides a more accessible perspective for Spanish-speaking readers. Morey concludes that the book is destined to become a mandatory reference for bibliographies on urban legends and the 9/11 attacks, surpassing many commercially motivated works.

Review: "Signos" (Monographic issue on UFOs)

The second major review covers "Signos," a Cuban publication from Havana, issue number 45, dated 2000 and spanning 324 pages. Although "Signos" is a magazine dedicated to various cultural topics, this particular issue is a monographic exploration of UFOs, hence its inclusion in a book review section due to its book-like format. The reviewer expresses surprise at a Cuban publication focusing on the "great myth" of extraterrestrial visitors. The magazine is lauded for its unique perspective, shaped by societies that, due to economic and political isolation, maintain a complex relationship with globalized media, particularly American productions about aliens and abductions.

"Signos" is praised for offering a distinct view of ufological topics, even those discussed for decades. The reviewer notes the inclusion of both credulous and skeptical viewpoints, all presented critically. The publication is commended for its intellectual level, especially compared to some less substantial UFO-related works in Spanish. The issue contains a wide range of information, making it a valuable resource for readers.

• Key articles highlighted include:
• "Rostros en la oscuridad" by Carlos Alé Mauri: An introduction to ufological arenas, emphasizing the philosophical implications of materialism and the social nature of injustice.
• Astroarchaeological articles (Paleocontact): These articles approach the "astronaut gods" theme with an attractive style and unusual references.
• "Arcano Aborigen" by Carlos García Rodríguez: A study of Cuban rock art, with speculations linking it to extraterrestrial contact.
• "Vida extraterrestre: la filosofía del encuentro" by Ercilio Vento: Speculates on the future verification of extraterrestrial life.
• "¿OVNIs renacentistas o renacimiento de los OVNIs" by Jorge R. Bermúdez: A speculative but conscious work.
• "Los platillos voladores, los extraterrestres y yo" by René Batista Moreno: A personal journey through ufology, including Cuban cases.
• Other articles cover the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, the probability of life in the universe, and the challenges of interstellar contact.
• "El viaje informático y el contacto entre civilizaciones. Una hipótesis" by Enrique del Pozo García: Proposes that information "bubbles" might replace physical interstellar travel.

The review also mentions articles like "OVNIs y OMNIs: mito y realidad de la vida extraterrestre" by Óscar Álvarez Pomares, which offers a sensible perspective, and a reproduction of Michael Grosso's text, "¿Son los OVNIs una creación mental?"

Further articles include Bruno Henríquez's essay on "Ciencia, pseudociencia y ciencia ficción en el fenómeno OVNI," and Aníbal Escobar Ardiles' review of "Miradas del cine de los extraterrestres." Notably, the issue reproduces Orson Welles' famous "War of the Worlds" broadcast, which caused widespread panic.

Rafael Soriano Rodríguez's article, "Los sonidos terrestres del más allá," explores the connection between music and ufology, using Gustav Holst's "The Planets" as a starting point. The article concludes with a philosophical reflection on the potential nature of extraterrestrials and the ambiguity of human perception.

Other Content

The issue also includes a "Next Issue" preview for number 19, focusing on Argentine ufology, and information about the magazine's registration, address, and contact details. The price is listed as $400.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are urban legends, particularly those surrounding the 9/11 attacks, and the broader topic of UFOs and extraterrestrial life. The magazine showcases diverse perspectives, from academic analysis to speculative theories and personal accounts. The editorial stance, as stated in the disclaimer, is that the editors do not necessarily endorse the views of their collaborators, emphasizing a platform for varied opinions within the ufological and paranormal discourse. The publication is described as a bimonthly bulletin, independently edited and non-profit.