La Nave de los Locos - No 28

Magazine Overview

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: N° 28
Volume: Año 5
Date: Julio 2004
Publisher: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Country: Mexico
Language: Spanish
Cover Headline: CONTACTADOS

Editorial

The editorial for issue #28 of La Nave de los Locos highlights three main pillars: a new dossier on 'Contactados,' a discussion of recent events that generated debate, and a critical look at UFO phenomena. The 'Contactados' dossier focuses on individuals who proliferated in the 1950s and 1970s, whose messages were characterized by absurd simplicity and obvious alien advice, often accompanied by flimsy evidence. The editorial criticizes the uncritical acceptance of such claims, particularly in media, where ufologists are given platforms to promote their 'pro-alien' fixations without skeptical scrutiny.

Two specific situations are discussed: a photograph allegedly showing an alien in Santiago, Chile, which was given airtime on morning shows and in some press, and the case of UFOs filmed by a Mexican military plane. The latter footage was controversially given to Jaime Maussán, described as a "charlatan" and "seller of flying saucer illusions," over scientists, because a Mexican general claimed not to know the scientists. The ufologist, Maussán, determined the video showed extraterrestrial craft, a conclusion the editorial finds unsurprising.

The editorial expresses a preference for knowledge over the comforting but often baseless ideas promoted by ovnilatry (obsession with UFOs).

Summary of Articles

¿Qué hay de nuevo, ET? (Héctor Chavarría)

This article critiques the belief in UFOs and extraterrestrial contact, framing it as a form of "ovnilatría" that offers a false sense of comfort and irresponsibility. The author argues that the vastness of the universe does not automatically imply we are not alone, nor does it explain why "they" would be interested in us. The idea of superior beings watching over humanity is seen as a way to avoid personal responsibility. The article criticizes those who passively await salvation from aliens and points out how charlatans profit from this hope. It also briefly mentions the case of Marla del Socorro Pérez, who claimed telepathic contact with a Tibetan messenger from extraterrestrials, leading her to pursue esoteric studies and develop "telepathic abilities."

Raël y los Elohim

This section discusses Claude Vorilhon, known as Raël, a former French race car driver who founded a movement based on alleged extraterrestrial contact. According to Vorilhon, he met an ET named Eloha from the Elohim group, who tasked him with creating an embassy on Earth. The Elohim are described as "angels or spirits of light." Their symbol is a Star of David with a swastika in the center. The Elohim allegedly created humans from DNA and monitor their development. The author criticizes Vorilhon's narrative for using "vulgarized ideas from 'Mein Kampf'" and claims that Vorilhon's "cosmic philosophy" was based on plagiarized material. The article notes that followers of Raël continue to raise funds for "the embassy."

Por qué puedo decir que Adamski era un mentiroso (Marc Hallet)

This article presents a case against George Adamski, a prominent UFO contactee. The author categorizes Adamski's followers into three types: the credulous, those who fear admitting they were deceived, and those who know he was a liar but deny it. The article lists several of Adamski's claims, including encounters with Venusians, photographs of flying saucers, space travel, and a meeting with Pope John XXIII, receiving a Vatican medal. The author argues that Adamski's claims are unbelievable, especially when compared to modern abduction accounts. He suggests that in the 1950s, UFO cases were judged more on logic and scientific viability, making Adamski's stories seem more plausible then. The author also recounts his personal experience with May Morlet-Flitcroft, Adamski's former collaborator, whose friendship ended when the author began to uncover evidence of Adamski's deceit.

Despu s del primer supuesto contacto (Marc Hallet)

This section delves deeper into the alleged evidence supporting George Adamski's claims. The author analyzes Adamski's book "Inside the Space Ships" (ITSS), suggesting it was ghostwritten by Charlotte Blodget. The book describes "fireflies" in space, which the author claims were misidentified particles from spacecraft, not a natural phenomenon. Adamski's claim about the Van Allen belt being artificial, made in 1953, is contrasted with later scientific discoveries. The author asserts that ITSS is essentially a science fiction novel, a "remake" of Lucy McGinnis's "Pioneers of Space." He details how the descriptions of space, the moon, the scout ship, and the mother ship are nearly identical in both books. The article also mentions Adamski's "Cosmic Philosophy," published in 1961, which is alleged to be based on earlier writings published by Alice K. Wells.

La medalla vaticana

This section scrutinizes two pieces of "evidence" used to support Adamski's credibility: a Vatican medal and a film by Madeleine Rodeffer. Regarding the medal, the author cites the testimony of May Morlet-Flitcroft and Lou Zinsstag, who claimed Adamski met Pope John XXIII on May 13, 1963. However, the author points out that Pope John XXIII was near death at the time and that Adamski's description of the papal apartment's view contradicts known facts. The medal itself is described as a common tourist souvenir from Milan, not a valuable artifact. The author suggests a written statement from the Vatican Apostolic Library would debunk the claim.

El film Rodeffer

This section analyzes the Rodeffer film, a supposed UFO recording attributed to Adamski. The author recounts receiving a personal copy from May Morlet-Flitcroft and subjecting it to microscopic examination. He discovered evidence of double exposure, indicating the film was faked. The "disk" and a tree branch in the film appear to be superimposed. The author published this finding in his book "George Adamski." He challenges believers to find another explanation. The article also mentions Madeleine Rodeffer's later explanation to Timothy Good that she had agreed to claim the film as her own to make it more credible, but found it so obviously fake that she couldn't exhibit it. Adamski allegedly blamed government agents for inserting fraudulent images to discredit him, leading to the creation of the "Rodeffer film" by removing these "inserted images."

Las fotos de la nave exploradora venusina

This part of the article scrutinizes Adamski's 1952 photographs of a Venusian scout ship. The author questions the expertise of Pev Marley, who vouched for the photos' authenticity, and suggests Marley was misrepresented. Michel Monnerie, a French ufologist, is cited as having studied the photos in detail. The article argues that Adamski's telescope and camera were not suitable for clear telescopic photography. It details a complex, 35-step manipulation process Adamski would have had to perform for each of the four photos, deeming it "completely impossible" within the short timeframe. Adamski's own account of taking the photos is contrasted with the technical details, showing discrepancies. The article also mentions a fifth, previously hidden image showing a dent on the saucer's edge, published in 1990, which further contradicts Adamski's narrative.

En el desierto

This section addresses further claims by Adamski, specifically the "writing from another planet" and footprints left by a Venusian. The author states that an archaeologist had found similar signs in Bolivia, but claims the testimony is unreliable because the archaeologist had read "Flying saucers have landed" before publishing his own work, suggesting he fabricated the evidence to draw attention to his book. Regarding the footprints, a Belgian ufologist claimed they were extraordinary proof of unknown technology. However, the author suggests Adamski could have easily made them himself with sand shoes. The article concludes by referencing Jerrold E. Baker's statement that he received an order to create a fake encounter before Adamski's famous 1952 meeting.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of "contactees," the critical examination of UFO evidence, and the debunking of alleged hoaxes. The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical and rationalist stance, contrasting it with the "ovnilatría" or obsession with UFOs that it views as a form of pseudoscientific comfort and a breeding ground for charlatans. The editorial and articles aim to expose the lack of credible evidence behind many famous UFO claims, particularly those of George Adamski, and to promote a more critical and knowledge-based approach to the subject. The magazine emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor and rational analysis over blind faith and sensationalism.

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: Nº 28
Volume: Año 5
Date: July 2004
Publisher: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Country: Chile
Language: Spanish

This issue of "LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS" features a cover story titled "LOS OVNIS DE MI GENERAL: UN GOLPE PARA LA CREDIBILIDAD CIENTÍFICA" (The UFOs of My General: A Blow to Scientific Credibility), focusing on a controversial decision by the Mexican Secretary of Defense. The magazine also includes extensive articles on UFO contactees George Adamski and Howard Menger, exploring their experiences and the broader implications of their claims.

George Adamski: A Legacy of Contact

The issue begins by discussing George Adamski's claims, noting that while believers point to written testimonies, the stories often rely on Adamski's own accounts. It mentions that many "witnesses" did not see the Venusian themselves but only heard about it from Adamski. George Hunt Williamson is cited as adding that he never saw the explorer ship, and the mother ship was likely a decoy. The article touches upon the drawing by Alice K. Wells in the desert, which resembled a story from "Science Fiction Stories" titled "Kid from Mars" published in 1940. Alice Wells is mentioned as becoming the leader of the George Adamski Foundation after his death.

A list of publications by Marc Hallet about George Adamski is provided, including titles like "George Adamski," "Choc en retour," "Les sectaires d'Adamski," "George Adamski - Dernière synthèse," and "Biographie d'un escroc." The article also references "Adamski and his believers in UFO 1947-1997" and mentions previous writings in "Inforespace" and "OVNI Présence."

Howard Menger: From Outer Space to You

The magazine dedicates a significant portion to Howard Menger, describing him as one of the most imaginative contactees. Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1922, Menger moved to the countryside and claimed to have seen flying saucers frequently with his brother Alton. His book, "From outer space to you," is characterized as a notable work that syncretizes theology and popular beliefs with a UFO-Christian theology, portraying angels and God as advanced beings guiding humanity.

Menger claimed contact with beings from Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. A pivotal childhood encounter involved a beautiful, golden-haired woman on a rock by a stream, who identified herself as a Venusian and spoke of wars, catastrophes, and humanity's destiny. She told him he was chosen and would have to suffer, but also that extraterrestrials were contacting people worldwide.

In 1942, while serving in the Army in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico, Menger was approached by a man in a taxi. This man, with tanned skin and shoulder-length blond hair, was an extraterrestrial companion. Menger initially refused to go with him but later recalled the girl's words about being watched and guided. The article suggests this was a warning to adopt a more human appearance.

Later, Menger encountered another extraterrestrial who explained that the blond-haired man was a companion and that he needed to cut his long braids and adopt a more conventional appearance. This ET also revealed that many Mexicans were already aware of UFOs and that ancient Mexicans had contact with extraterrestrials, receiving secrets and inventions.

Menger's encounters continued, with predictions about his future, including a trip to Hawaii. He also described meeting a female extraterrestrial in a jungle region, who possessed a captivating beauty and a translucent, pastel-colored outfit. This encounter led to a powerful physical attraction, which the ET acknowledged as mutual.

Predictions and Encounters

The female ET predicted Menger would be transferred to Okinawa for combat. He served in the Army, eventually landing in Okinawa in 1945, where he killed Japanese soldiers but sustained eye damage. In the hospital, he noticed a nurse who seemed like an extraterrestrial. Later, he received a telepathic message and met a man in khaki who spoke of the immortality of the soul and the end of the war, predicting Menger's return home by Christmas. This man claimed to be from Venus.

Upon returning to civilian life, Menger became a sign painter. In June 1946, he returned to the forest where he had his first encounter and saw a large, spinning, glowing fireball that transformed into a metallic, bell-shaped craft. He described it as a non-terrestrial machine.

The occupants of the craft wore grey-blue uniforms and had blond hair. The craft landed, and a beautiful woman emerged, wearing a similar translucent, pastel-toned suit. Menger recognized her as the same woman he had seen as a child, who revealed she was over 500 years old, explaining her longevity through adherence to the Creator's laws.

Menger divorced his Venusian wife, Marla, stating their love was intense but they could not remain together as he had a mission on Earth. He recalled their farewell, filled with forced bravery and suppressed tears.

The Saturnian Lineage

Menger's encounter with the Venusian led him to promise he would find her again. Upon arriving on Earth, he entered the body of a recently deceased one-year-old child named Howard Menger, a reincarnation of Sol do Naro, fulfilling a mission.

He married Constance Weber (who adopted the name Marla) in 1958, and they had two children, Eric and Heidi. Constance Weber wrote "My Saturnian Lover," detailing her extraterrestrial origin and relationship with Menger, who was the reincarnation of an important Saturnian figure. They later moved to Florida and focused on their electrical business, Energy Systems Research, Inc.

María del Socorro, a Mexican contactee known as "Marla," is suggested as being inspired by this narrative, though her physical appearance differs from both Menger's terrestrial wife and the described Venusian.

Encounters and Experiences

Menger's mission was to instill fraternity and love in humanity, which he began in 1957. He held meetings on his New Jersey farm, discussing his experiences and spiritual matters. He was known for telling extraordinary stories, sometimes compared to fairy tales. He claimed a Saturnian musician taught him to compose space music, resulting in the album "Music from another planet." He was also informed about good and bad extraterrestrials.

Menger received "space potatoes" from Venusians, grown on the dark side of the Moon, which were five times more protein-rich than terrestrial varieties. He also claimed to have traveled to the Moon, with descriptions and photos of spacecraft similar to Adamski's, including inter-planetary bases. He showed photos of extraterrestrials and their ships, and of himself witnessing landings.

One extraterrestrial warned him about a powerful Earth group using advanced brain therapies on politicians to favor Satanic purposes. His space friends taught him to build their engine, described as an electromagnetic force similar to gravity, which powers their ships.

The "Adamski of the East Coast" and His Tall Tales

Howard Menger, dubbed the "Adamski of the East Coast," recounted incredible stories. He claimed to have been taken to a cabin by a strange power where a Saturnian musician taught him piano and how to compose space music. He also received a dehydrated specimen, described as the finest dehydration ever seen.

He narrowly avoided jail for indecent exposure after examining women's underwear in stores for his space friends. Menger also claimed to have traveled to the Moon, providing descriptions and photographs of spacecraft and lunar bases, similar to Adamski's accounts. He presented images of extraterrestrials and their ships, and of himself during landings.

One image showed a supposed space woman with a shining swan on her belt. This woman warned Menger about a powerful Earth group using advanced brain therapies on politicians to advance Satanic goals. His space friends shared messages like, "Friend, this Earth is the battlefield of Armageddon, and the battle is for the minds and souls of human beings. Prayer, positive thoughts, and caution are your best isolation."

His space friends also taught him to build their engine, which they described as an electromagnetic force, not unlike the one that keeps planets in orbit, a natural law given by their Creator for good purposes.

Skepticism and Retraction

Despite his claims, Menger's extraterrestrial engine likely never functioned due to a fundamental error by his Venusian teachers: mistaking electromagnetic force for gravitational force. He was also caught in lies, such as presenting a collaborator as an extraterrestrial. His own father doubted his stories, calling them illusions and denying the resurrection story. Facing family pressure, Menger closed his business and moved to Florida.

His book, "From Outer Space to You," was published in 1959 by Gray Barker, with an accompanying record of space music. However, Menger reportedly retracted some of his claims on a Long John Nebel program in the early 1960s, suggesting his experiences might have been psychic phenomena and asking for his book to be subtitled "fact-fiction."

Reappearance and Continued Claims

In 1967, Menger and his wife reappeared at a Scientific Congress on Ufology in New York. He spoke hesitantly about a supposed CIA experiment on him and his own doubts about UFOs. However, driven by the audience's desire for sensational news, he continued to describe building a flying saucer based on star friends' plans. He felt more secure addressing an audience of over two thousand UFO enthusiasts.

He recounted an experience in 1956 in High Bridge, New Jersey, where a fireball descended, revealing two men in shiny suits and a tall, blond extraterrestrial who delivered a message of peace, love, and understanding.

The UFOs of the Sedena and Jaime Maussán: A Blow to Scientific Credibility

This section critically examines the Mexican Ministry of Defense's (Sedena) decision to release a video of eleven UFOs recorded by the Mexican Air Force to Jaime Maussán, a controversial ufologist. The article argues that this move, made on May 10, 2004, undermined the credibility of Mexican science.

Martín Fragoso reports that Maussán, referring to the lights in the video, asked scientists not to "destroy the case," which the author interprets as "don't destroy my business." The Sedena's decision to give the video exclusively to Maussán, rather than to scientists, is questioned.

The Gaceta de la UNAM published an article by Rosa María Chavarría titled "Centellas," which suggested the lights were atmospheric phenomena, not extraterrestrial objects. Scientists from UNAM, including José de Jesús Franco, Armando Arellano, Rafael Navarro, and Julio Herrera, called the decision to give the video to Maussán irresponsible. They argued that numerous research institutions could have conducted a more rigorous and ethical investigation.

When asked why scientists were not consulted, General Clemente Ricardo Vega García, Secretary of Defense, claimed he did not know them. This statement is criticized as ignorant and irresponsible, especially considering the potential need for scientific advice in military emergencies. The article points out the irony that the military, ranked highly in public trust, would disregard national scientists while respecting a self-proclaimed "expert" like Maussán.

The UNAM scientific community organized a roundtable to address the situation, proposing sensible explanations for the phenomenon, such as "centellas" or "bola rays." A group of astronomers, divulgators, and scientists issued a manifesto protesting the Sedena's actions. However, the article suggests that the publicity given to Maussán by the Sedena and the media dealt a significant blow to the public image of science in Mexico.

General Vega García, when presented with the hypothesis that this was a media stunt to divert attention from political scandals, indignantly denied it, but the author finds no other easy explanation.

The article concludes by urging the scientific community to redouble its efforts to "control the damage" caused by this event.

Gautier and Zúñiga: Pure Camaraderie

This section briefly mentions a meeting between "La Nave de los Locos" and Rodolpho Gautier, a Brazilian ufologist from OPUS (Organization of Ufological Research). The meeting, held on May 12, involved an exchange of information and opinions on UFOs. Gautier, who was visiting Chile, expressed admiration for the bulletin and agreed to join its staff, promising future articles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena, contactee narratives, and alleged extraterrestrial encounters. There is a critical stance towards the sensationalism surrounding UFOs, particularly when it appears to overshadow scientific inquiry or be driven by personal gain, as seen in the critique of Jaime Maussán. The issue highlights the tension between belief in the extraordinary and the need for scientific rigor, questioning the credibility of both individuals and institutions when handling such phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor a critical examination of UFO claims, emphasizing the importance of scientific investigation and expressing concern over the potential for misinformation and the erosion of scientific authority.

This issue of "Contacto Ovni" from July 2004, titled "La Nave de los Locos N° 28", delves into a critical examination of ufologist Jaime Maussán's claims and methodologies, contrasting them with scientific perspectives. The magazine features articles that scrutinize Maussán's interpretations of UFO phenomena, his understanding of scientific principles, and his role in the public discourse surrounding extraterrestrial life.

Critiques of Jaime Maussán's Claims

The issue opens with a critique of Jaime Maussán's approach to UFO research, questioning his understanding of physics, particularly concerning the speed of light. Physicists Armando Arellano and Shahen Hacyan are cited, explaining that reaching the speed of light would require an infinite amount of energy, a concept Maussán appears to dismiss. The article suggests that Maussán's claims often stem from a lack of scientific understanding, leading him to misinterpret phenomena.

"Patinazos Maussanianos" (Maussanian Stumbles)

This section details several instances where Maussán's statements or interpretations are challenged. In a 1998 interview with "Quo" magazine, Maussán described himself not as a scientist but as a communicator, admitting he doesn't operate with scientific rigor. He also discussed a university encounter where he presented a theory about Carl Sagan being censored for believing in extraterrestrials, which the article implies is unsubstantiated.

The Chiapas Sphere Incident

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to analyzing the case of a sphere that fell in Chiapas, Mexico. While ufologists, including Maussán, presented it as evidence of an extraterrestrial craft, scientific analysis, particularly by Luis Ruiz Noguez, concluded it was space junk. The article details the sphere's characteristics—its metallic composition, temperature exposure, and physical damage—and explains its likely origin as discarded satellite material. Maussán's continued promotion of this object as alien evidence is highlighted as an example of his disregard for scientific findings.

Other Controversial Claims

The issue also touches upon other claims made by Maussán, including the idea of a massive alien ship accompanying the Hale-Bopp comet in 1996, and the presentation of a 'cronovisor' device capable of photographing the past. The article dismisses these as unsubstantiated, often linking them to sensationalism rather than credible investigation.

Science vs. Pseudoscience

The magazine strongly advocates for a scientific approach to UFO research, emphasizing the importance of empirical evidence, rigorous analysis, and peer review. It criticizes the commercialization of the UFO topic, arguing that sensationalist literature and shows detract from serious investigation and alienate the scientific community. The article posits that Maussán, by promoting unverified claims and misinterpreting scientific concepts, contributes to this problem.

The Need for Official UFO Investigation

Milton W. Hourcade, in his section "Elementos de Ovnilogía" (Elements of Ufology), argues for the necessity of official, multidisciplinary organizations to investigate UFO phenomena. He suggests that such bodies, potentially under governmental oversight, could ensure standardized methodologies, data sharing, and rigorous evaluation of cases. Hourcade criticizes the lack of support from established scientific institutions and the tendency for private UFO research to be driven by commercial interests rather than a pursuit of truth.

International Cooperation

Hourcade also emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in UFO research, proposing that organizations like the United Nations could play a role in standardizing investigative practices and facilitating the exchange of information between countries. He notes that past attempts to establish global ufological organizations have not succeeded.

Editorial Stance

The magazine's editorial stance is clearly critical of Jaime Maussán's methods and conclusions, positioning him as a purveyor of pseudoscience who prioritizes sensationalism over scientific accuracy. It champions the scientific method and calls for a more structured, evidence-based approach to understanding unexplained aerial phenomena. The underlying message is that while the topic of UFOs may be of public interest, it requires a level of scientific rigor and objectivity that is often lacking in popular ufology, particularly in the narratives promoted by individuals like Maussán.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes in this issue include the conflict between scientific skepticism and ufological claims, the alleged commercialization of UFO phenomena, and the perceived resistance of the scientific community to engage with the topic. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, advocating for a scientific and rational approach to understanding UFOs, while exposing what it views as the unsubstantiated and often misleading assertions made by prominent ufologists like Jaime Maussán. The magazine aims to educate its readers on the scientific perspective, encouraging them to critically evaluate the information presented by popular media and ufological figures.

Title: La Nave de los Locos
Issue: 28
Publication Date: July 2004

This issue of 'La Nave de los Locos' focuses on UFO phenomena, featuring two primary investigative articles: one concerning a controversial photograph from Chile and another detailing official investigations into sightings around Isla Trinidad, Brazil, during the 1950s.

The Desmadre of the Ufologists: Dog of the Parque Forestal

This article, authored by Diego Zúñiga (Chile), discusses the media frenzy and inter-group disputes among ufologists following the appearance of a photograph allegedly showing an 'extraterrestrial being' in Santiago's Parque Forestal. The photo, taken by civil engineer Germán Pereira on May 10, 2004, was initially presented by the group Cifae. The article critiques the sensationalism and lack of rigor displayed by some ufologists, particularly Eric Martínez, who appeared on TVN's 'Buenos días a todos' program. Martínez claimed one of the horses in the photo was 'attracted' to the 'being' and that the group planned to conduct measurements at the site. The article also mentions the IIEE group's analysis, suggesting the figure might be a distorted image of a dog due to camera movement, a conclusion that the magazine's editorial team supports. It contrasts this with the more speculative interpretations offered by other ufologists, highlighting the tendency to see patterns in random data ('simulacrum'). The piece criticizes the lack of critical thinking and the influence of alien subculture on interpretations.

The UFO of Trinidad Island - II

Authored by Luis Ruiz Noguez (Mexico), this section continues the investigation into an official report from the Brazilian Congress regarding UFO sightings around Isla Trinidad in January 1958. The report details a series of events, including:

• Official Inquiry: Questions posed by congressman Sergio Magalhaes to the Ministry of the Navy concerning the Almirante Saldanha crew's alleged sighting of an object and the subsequent photographic evidence.
• Photographic Evidence: The article notes that photographs were taken by Almiro Baraúna, a photographer with a history of manipulated images, while the Almirante Saldanha was anchored near Isla Trinidad. The Brazilian Navy initially refused to comment but later issued a statement confirming the photos were taken but not offering an opinion on the object's nature.
• Witness Testimonies: The report includes testimonies from various individuals, including Commander Bacellar, who was in charge of the island's garrison. Multiple sightings are described, involving silver, circular objects moving at high speeds and exhibiting unusual maneuvers. One incident involved a meteorological balloon being 'sucked' into a cloud, from which a UFO later emerged without the balloon's instruments.
• US Embassy Involvement: The US Embassy in Brazil, at the request of the Pentagon, sought information from the Brazilian Navy as part of Project Blue Book.
• Project Blue Book Report: The article criticizes a Project Blue Book report on the case, deeming it dismissive and disrespectful towards Brazilian authorities. The report itself is described as a 'simple memorandum' and classified.
• Naval Commander's Actions: Commander Bacellar initiated systematic investigations using radiosondes and took witness statements. He reportedly denied some earlier sightings, including one where a UFO allegedly landed on the island. However, his own detailed reports document several encounters.
• Object Characteristics: Descriptions of the UFOs include silver, oval, or round shapes, with some exhibiting a flattened sphere form with a rotating ring. They were observed to move at high speeds, change direction abruptly, and hover. One object was described as being two to three times the size of a DC-3.
• Photographic Analysis: A photograph taken by a sergeant of the Navy was reportedly confiscated by Commander Bacellar. Enlargements of this photo allegedly showed a spherical shape with a thick ring, though the object appeared out of focus.

Intervenes the US Embassy

This section details the formal request for information from the US Embassy in Brazil to the Brazilian Navy regarding the 'flying saucer' sighting on Isla Trinidad on January 16, 1958. The US Naval Attaché, Captain M. Sunderland, expressed interest due to the number of credible witnesses. The response from the Ministry of the Navy, provided by Rear Admiral Luis Felippe Pinto da Luz, included four photographs as the sole evidence.

The Last Declaration of the Navy

Newspapers reported that the Ministry of the Navy confirmed the 'Trinidad saucer' incident and stated there was no reason to prevent the publication of photos taken by Almiro Baraúna. However, the Ministry maintained it could not opine on the object's nature, as photographs alone were insufficient proof.

Report of Project Blue Book

This section presents a critical view of the Project Blue Book report concerning the Isla Trinidad case, quoting Dr. Hynek's criticism of its dismissive and mocking tone towards the Brazilian government and armed forces. The article implies that the report's prejudice and frivolity were inappropriate for a scientific investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical stance towards sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims within ufology, while also presenting official reports and witness testimonies. The editorial team appears to favor rational explanations, such as photographic distortion or misidentification, as seen in the Parque Forestal article. However, they also document detailed accounts of UFO sightings, particularly the extensive series from Isla Trinidad, suggesting an open-mindedness to the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena, even while advocating for rigorous analysis and evidence-based conclusions. The magazine aims to provide a platform for detailed reporting on UFO cases, often contrasting media hype with official findings and scientific scrutiny.

Title: La Nave de los Locos
Issue: 28
Date: July 2004
Cover Headline: FÁTIMA: ENCUENTROS CERCANOS... ¿DE QUÉ TIPO?

This issue of 'La Nave de los Locos' explores various unexplained phenomena, drawing parallels between religious apparitions and modern UFO sightings, and presenting detailed case studies from different parts of the world.

Brazilian Navy UFO Incident

The issue begins by discussing a controversial UFO sighting involving the Brazilian Navy ship 'Almirante Saldanha'. After photographs of a supposed flying object were published, the 'Diario Carioca' reported that the Saldanha's personnel were under strict orders to remain silent, while 'O Globo' published a story with images from a photographer claiming to have captured images of 'earthenware flying saucers' in Cabo Frío. Federal Deputy Sergio Magalhaes criticized the Navy for failing to obtain sworn statements from witnesses. The article notes that the phenomenon was witnessed by many military personnel, lending it official credibility, and that threats to national security were cited. More reports emerged, including one from a naval officer who saw a UFO off the coast of Espírito Santo a month prior to the Saldanha incident. The crew of the 'Ata Tridente' also claimed to have seen UFOs days before the Saldanha observation but kept it secret.

A commentary by an 'official preparer' suggests that while the photographs, taken under controlled conditions, should have proven the existence of an unidentified flying object, subsequent investigations yielded only frustration. The commentator notes that some Brazilian Navy officers believed the reports, but their further information is unknown. Two explanations are offered: either an external power ordered the Brazilian Navy not to officially verify or deny the incident, or it was a publicity stunt by a dishonest photographer, with the Brazilian Navy being deceived. The commentator finds the latter more plausible given Brazil's penchant for sensationalism and general bureaucratic inefficiency. The photographs themselves are deemed unconvincing, with a confused disk, low contrast, and no shadow effects. The object in the second photograph appears inverted compared to the first and third, and despite reports of high speeds, there is no motion blur, which would be expected with a reasonable shutter speed. The commentator also expresses doubt about spotting a UFO on the arid 'Isla Trinidad', humorously suggesting that Martians prefer comfort.

UFO Photo Controversy and US Response

When the image of the Brazilian UFO was televised and published in US newspapers, the Air Technical Intelligence Center (ATIC), responsible for Project Blue Book, declared it a hoax. Lieutenant Colonel Lawrence J. Tacker, a spokesperson for the Headquarters, stated that the US Navy had determined it to be a deception. The ATIC received letters from US ufologists requesting that the offensive statements towards the Brazilian government and armed forces be retracted. One such letter was from Catherine Carter Golden, dated August 15, 1960.

In response, Lieutenant Colonel Tacker wrote to Mrs. Golden on August 29, 1960, stating that the US Navy had classified the photograph as false and that archival records indicated it was a manipulated photograph or photomontage. He added that no witnesses were present when the photographer developed the negative. P. G. Strong of the CIA, in a letter to G. L. Cary on August 31, 1960, confirmed that the photograph was taken by a freelance photographer known for his trick photographs and that it was not developed in the presence of anyone, contrary to Mrs. Golden's claim.

Fátima: Close Encounters... Of What Kind?

The main article of the issue, titled 'FÁTIMA: ENCUENTROS CERCANOS... ¿DE QUÉ TIPO?', explores the famous Marian apparitions in Fátima, Portugal, in 1917, and draws parallels between these events and modern UFO phenomena. The article posits that while Fátima was interpreted in religious terms, numerous UFO cases worldwide share similar characteristics but are not necessarily viewed through a religious lens.

The article begins by recounting the Fátima apparitions to three shepherd children: Lúcia dos Santos, Francisco Marto, and Jacinta Marto. It describes the 'Lady' appearing as a 'globe' or 'sphere of light', and how Francisco initially only saw her lips move without hearing her words. The apparitions, which occurred from May to October 1917, included prophecies and a miracle of the sun witnessed by thousands.

The 'Little Woman' of El Salto, Chile

To illustrate the similarities between religious apparitions and UFO encounters, the article presents a case from Chile: 'La Mujercita de El Salto'. On November 9, 1968, in El Salto, two sisters, Afrodit (12) and Eugenia Lovazzano El-Far (9), reported seeing a 'great ball of fire' that approached their house. Afrodit described a 'red incandescent star' that changed to a 'clear green gelatinous light' within which was a 'little woman' with a large mouth and pointed ears. The 'little woman' called out to Afrodit, and when the girl tried to flee, she was held by a 'force or suction cup' that lifted her blouse and held her in the air. The force released them near the kitchen door, leaving Afrodit with ear pain and scratches on her waist, as well as hoarseness.

Another 12-year-old girl, Mónica Patricia Lagos, also witnessed the event, describing it as a 'ball of fire, like an illuminated bubble' that moved and then disappeared as if it had exploded. The article notes that the description of the entity's appearance and the initial encounter with a 'light globe' bear resemblance to the Fátima apparitions.

'Aerial Stops' of Oloron and Gaillac: The 'Angel's Hair' Phenomenon

The article then details two cases from southwestern France involving the appearance of unknown objects that left behind 'angel's hair' or 'cobwebs'. The first incident occurred on October 17, 1952, in Oloron, where Yves Prigent, an inspector general, and his family observed a narrow, tilted cylinder emitting a plume of white smoke, followed by about 30 other objects moving in pairs in rapid zig-zag patterns. These objects were described as white, opaque, and well-defined, with a central red sphere surrounded by a yellow ring. The material that fell from these objects, described as 'threads of the virgin' or 'cobwebs', could be examined, and when balled, it became gelatinous and evaporated. When burned, it resembled cellophane.

A similar event took place on October 27, 1952, in Gaillac. Mrs. Daures and several neighbors observed a cylinder emitting smoke, accompanied by 'dishes' that moved in zig-zag patterns. A key difference was that some pairs of 'dishes' descended to an estimated altitude of 300-400 meters. The spectacle lasted about 20 minutes before the objects disappeared. The fallen material exhibited the same properties as that found in Oloron. The article also mentions two similar cases in the United States: one in Jerome, Ohio, on October 22, 1954, where a cigar-shaped object emitted 'angel's hair', and another in Whitsett, North Carolina, on October 27, 1955, involving large quantities of 'angel's hair' and 'resplendent steel balls' from about ten objects.

The Dance of the Sun

The article briefly touches upon the 'Dance of the Sun' phenomenon witnessed in Fátima on October 13, 1917, noting that it was not limited to religious events and that similar aerial phenomena have been reported. It suggests that the 'angel' that appeared to the children in Fátima might have been a UFO.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently draws parallels between religious miracles and UFO sightings, suggesting that the underlying phenomena might be the same, with different interpretations based on cultural and belief systems. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging open-minded investigation into these phenomena, urging readers to approach them without preconceived judgments to better understand the intelligence behind them. The article highlights the persistence of such sightings across different eras and geographical locations, emphasizing that they are not necessarily religious in nature but share common characteristics with UFO encounters.

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: N° 28
Date: Julio de 2004 (July 2004)
Location: Santiago de Chile

This document consists of a list of notes and references for an article by Pierre Lagrange, identified as N° 26/27. The primary focus of these references is the historical Kenneth Arnold sighting and its subsequent media coverage, along with related UFO phenomena and research.

Notes and References for Pierre Lagrange Article

The extensive list of references provides a detailed bibliographic account of the sources consulted for Lagrange's article. These include:

• Primary Accounts and Interviews: References to Kenneth Arnold's own reports and interviews, such as his report to Wright Field in July 1947 and interviews with KWRC radio on June 26, 1947, where he described the objects he saw.
• Published Works: Mentions of books like "The Coming of the Saucers" by K. Arnold and Ray Palmer, and "The Report on UFOs" by Edward Ruppelt. Other cited works include those by Loren Gross, Charles Fort, David Jacobs, and J. Allen Hynek.
• Media Coverage: Specific references to newspaper articles, such as the "East Oregonian" from June 25, 1947, which reported on the sighting. The role of journalists and media in shaping the narrative around UFOs is also highlighted, with a note from Bill Bequette questioning the exact phrasing used by Arnold and suggesting journalistic influence.
• Official Documents and Memoranda: References to Office Memoranda from various entities like SAC (Special Agent in Charge) and the FBI, indicating official investigations or communications related to UFO incidents.
• Academic and Research Papers: Citations of sociological studies and research reports on UFOs, including a paper by Herbert Hackett and a survey of press coverage by H. Strentz.

Key Incidents and Observations

The references point to specific events and details related to the 1947 UFO wave:

• Kenneth Arnold Sighting (June 1947): The core of the references revolves around Arnold's sighting near Mount Rainier, Washington. The description of the objects as "saucer-shaped craft" is discussed, with some sources suggesting this phrasing might have been influenced by journalists rather than Arnold himself.
• Media Acceptance: The text notes that the calculated speed of the objects and Arnold's personality played a role in journalists accepting his account, moving from initial skepticism to giving it credence.
• "Flying Discs" Bulletin: A reference to "Flying Discs", Bureau Bulletin N° 42, from July 1947, suggests contemporary official or semi-official interest in the phenomenon.
• UFO Wave of 1947: Several references, including Ted Bloecher's report, point to the broader context of the 1947 UFO wave.

Object Characteristics

Based on the references, the objects observed by Kenneth Arnold were described as:

• Shape: Saucer-shaped (though the exact phrasing is debated).
• Behavior: Flying in formation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The collection of references strongly suggests a focus on historical UFO cases, particularly the pivotal 1947 Kenneth Arnold sighting. There is a clear emphasis on the documentation and verification of these events through interviews, official reports, and media analysis. The magazine appears to engage with the subject matter critically, acknowledging the role of media in shaping public perception and the challenges in accurately reconstructing events from historical accounts. The detailed bibliography indicates a commitment to thorough research and providing readers with the sources behind the presented information.