La Nave de los Locos - No 29

Magazine Overview

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: N° 29
Volume: Año 5
Date: Noviembre 2004
Publisher: La Nave de los Locos
Country: Argentina
Language: Spanish

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" is dedicated to the theme of "Contactados 2," focusing heavily on the controversial case of Billy Meier and presenting a critical analysis of his claims and evidence. The cover features an illustration of aliens and the magazine's title.

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the past year, noting the absence of certain expected events but highlighting a case that exposed the weak methodology of some ufological figures. It acknowledges that the topic of "contactados" pushes the boundaries of belief and states the magazine's commitment to exploring these territories. The editorial specifically mentions the case of Billy Meier, acknowledging his enthusiastic supporters but questioning the coherence of his story. It also announces a demystification of the Carlos Díaz case and new reflections on the Raelian movement. The issue also includes coverage of the Isla Trinidad case and "garadiábolos," along with book reviews. The editors express pride in providing a critical voice in the media, filling a space that would otherwise remain vacant.

Articles and Features

Billy Meier, El Contactado de los Fraudes Fotográficos

This extensive article by Luis Ruiz Noguez (Mexico) critically examines the claims of Billy Meier. It begins by referencing a 1964 article from the Statesman in New Delhi, which reported on Meier's claims of visiting three planets and photographing UFOs. The article details Meier's early life, his claims of living in caves, and his alleged photographic evidence of UFOs, which varied in shape and form. Meier also claimed to have traveled to other planets and encountered beings similar to humans who communicated telepathically. However, he was expelled from India for vagrancy and accused of selling doctored UFO photos. The article traces Meier's return to Switzerland, his accident in Turkey, and his subsequent marriage. It highlights his move to Hinwill, Switzerland, where he continued to develop his contactee narrative. Meier claimed to have had contact with extraterrestrial entities since a previous incarnation, specifically mentioning Sfath and later Asket, who allegedly guided him to photograph his spacecraft in India. The article also touches upon the Pleiadian civilization's origins and their alleged interactions with humanity.

The Life in Hinwill

This section details Billy Meier's life in Hinwill, Switzerland, where he lived with his family. It mentions his financial situation, his work as a bird breeder, miner, and watchman, and his efforts to supplement his income by raising chickens. Meier's advertisement in the German magazine Esotera led to the formation of a paranormal interest club. His activities attracted the attention of ufologist Ilse Von Jacobi, whose article in the magazine Quick in 1976 brought Meier widespread publicity. Neighbors expressed skepticism about Meier's claims, with some calling him a "Spinner" (crazy). Despite the skepticism, Meier continued to report sightings and alleged encounters, with neighbors observing unusual lights and Meier's nocturnal activities.

The First Contacts

This section delves into Meier's early claims of extraterrestrial contact. It mentions his alleged contact with Sfath, an entity with a soft and harmonic voice, starting in 1942. Later, contact was established with Asket from the universe DAL, who allegedly instructed Meier to travel east to gain hidden knowledge. Asket reportedly allowed Meier to photograph his spacecraft for the first time near Mehrauli, India. The article also describes Meier's first contact with Semjase in 1975, who explained the origins of the Pleiadian civilization. Semjase claimed that the Pleiadians originated in the Lira constellation and migrated due to war. The article suggests that Meier's narrative about the Pleiadians destroying and re-inhabiting Earth is a way to explain their presence.

The Response of the Ufologists

This section presents a strong critique of Billy Meier's case from various ufologists and researchers. Jim Lorenzen, contacted by his European colleagues, learned that Meier's case was considered a hoax, with Meier allegedly laughing at those he had deceived. Lorenzen also noted that sworn testimonies supporting Meier's claims were actually refuting them. He criticized the lack of verifiable evidence, suggesting that Meier used models and discarded poor photos. Wendelle Stevens refused to provide original photographs for further investigation. At the APRO convention, Lorenzen declared the Meier case a fraud. Walter Andrus of MUFON also concluded that the case was a total fraud perpetrated for financial gain, citing evidence of a balloon in some photographs. George Earley of Fate magazine called Meier's book "UFO... contact from the Pleiades" a "well-presented nonsense." The article highlights the persistent failure of Stevens and his collaborators to provide concrete proof, leading to widespread criticism.

Tulio: A Stellar Metal

This section discusses Meier's attempts to provide physical evidence for his claims. He presented metallic samples allegedly used in the construction of Pleiadian spacecraft to investigator Wendelle Stevens. These samples were analyzed by Marcel Vogel, a chemist at IBM. The analysis revealed the presence of various elements, including tulio in a small golden triangle. However, the results were deemed inconclusive or comparable to standard solder by Vogel. The article notes that Genesis III Publishing published these findings without Vogel's approval, presenting them as extraordinary. It also mentions that similar samples analyzed at the University of Arizona were identified as "tal de crisol," a low-temperature alloy used for soldering.

My Husband Falsified

This section details further instances of alleged fraud by Billy Meier. It mentions reports of small UFO models being found in Meier's barn. One of Meier's closest friends discovered that photographs supposedly showing the aftermath of a future San Francisco earthquake were actually taken from a Geo magazine article depicting an artist's concept. Meier's explanation that the artist had a vision of the future was deemed absurd. The article also notes that Major Colman von Keviczky of the ICUFON discovered more of Meier's frauds, including UFO models and a photograph of an alleged extraterrestrial named Asket, which was identified as a model from a 1970s American television show.

Photographic Analysis

This section focuses on the photographic evidence presented by Billy Meier. It describes how Martin Sorge, a chemist and author, gained the trust of Meier's wife, Popi, and obtained some of her husband's allegedly fire-damaged transparencies. These photos appeared to show a model suspended from a plate or superimposed. Sorge attempted to replicate these effects by building a model and using photographic techniques like double exposure. He concluded that Meier had experimented with models and that his photos were not genuine. The article also mentions Jim Dilettoso's efforts to have Meier's photographic evidence analyzed by experts like Dr. Robert Nathan of JPL. However, access to the original photos was denied, and subsequent analysis of copies yielded no definitive proof.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" adopts a strongly skeptical stance towards UFO contactee claims, particularly focusing on the Billy Meier case as a prime example of alleged fraud and deception. The recurring themes include the critical examination of evidence, the exposure of hoaxes, the role of skepticism in ufology, and the financial motivations behind some contactee narratives. The editorial stance is clear: to present a rational debate on ufology and related phenomena, challenging unsubstantiated claims and encouraging critical thinking among readers. The magazine positions itself as a source of dissenting voices and critical analysis in a field often prone to sensationalism and unverified assertions.

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos N° 29" from November 2004, published by "Dossier Contactismo," focuses heavily on debunking alleged UFO cases and examining the practices of ufologists and related movements. The primary focus is the purported "contactee" case of Carlos Díaz, promoted by Mexican ufologist Jaime Maussán, which the magazine argues is a deliberate and elaborate fraud. The issue also includes a section on the Raelian movement.

The Fraudulent Case of Contactee Carlos Díaz

The article begins by detailing the skepticism of a Dr. Nathan regarding photographic evidence provided by a Mr. Stevens, suggesting the negatives were intentionally degraded. Nathan's analysis of film sequences, including a hovering object and a disappearing/reappearing craft, leads him to believe they are models, possibly suspended by wires or poles, indicating a carefully constructed hoax.

Further attempts at photographic analysis, including by Jim Dilettoso, indicated the photos were faked, noting discrepancies in the sky's blue color. Stevens' explanation of saliva causing color loss is dismissed. The article highlights the importance of examining original negatives, a step often bypassed in these cases. Dilettoso engaged researchers Eric Eliason (US Geological Survey) and Dr. Michael Manlin (Arizona State University) to analyze the photos. Eliason suggested it was a model, but lacked originals for definitive proof. Manlin found the data insufficient for detailed analysis but saw no obvious errors at the visible level, though he couldn't rule out a hoax.

The article criticizes Dilettoso's methods, suggesting he aimed to prove the case rather than debunk it. The GSW (German Society for UFO Research) analyzed copies of second-generation originals and concluded they were falsifications, not proof of extraordinary flying craft. Meier's methods, including models, double exposures, and double development, are cited as common falsification techniques.

An addendum notes that in 1983, Wendelle C. Stevens pleaded guilty to child abuse charges.

The Revelation of Carlos Díaz's Identity

On December 20, 1993, a TV talk show hosted by Nino Canún featured a debate on UFOs, during which Carlos Díaz's identity as the "mysterious young man from Tepoztlán" was revealed. Díaz, a professional cameraman, claimed to have had a 12-year experience of contact, emphasizing themes of love and ecology, similar to Billy Meier's narrative. He stated his initial interest in photography began in 1979, with his first UFO photo taken near Ajusco, Mexico City, depicting a luminous object.

Jaime Maussán promoted Díaz's case extensively, claiming his films were authenticated by NASA and Japan. The article questions Maussán's expertise, noting his involvement in UFOs began only two years prior to the article's writing (from June 1991). The "Grupo Sol," an organization analyzed by the magazine as a "brand patito" (low-quality) institution, supported Maussán's claims, suggesting the UFOs were made of "bio-engineered genetic material" or "plasma," a term they misinterpreted from a scientific context.

Analysis and Criticism

Jim Dilettoso, who works for a company supplying products to NASA, provided analyses on NASA letterhead, though he noted these were personal opinions. He claimed Díaz's UFO was 35-50 meters in size, absorbed light rather than emitting it, and was made of pure energy or plasma. This led to a debate with a TV guest who questioned how an object absorbing energy could emit light. Maussán struggled to answer, eventually retracting his statement.

The article criticizes the "analysis" provided by "Grupo Sol," who claimed the UFO was a "living cell" based on a misunderstanding of the term "plasma." They suggested the UFO was composed of plasma and that living cells bombarded with infrared rays exhibited similar energy signatures. The magazine argues this is a nonsensical interpretation.

International Connections and Further Doubts

Carlos Díaz also attended a UFO conference in Balaguer, Spain, accompanied by Giorgio Bongiovanni. The article reiterates that Díaz's evidence consists of crude, falsified photos and videos. It notes that Díaz has suffered three epileptic attacks, which could cause hallucinations or vivid experiences, but this does not excuse the fraudulent nature of his photos.

The authors, along with other researchers, requested Díaz to investigate his case but received no response. The article concludes that the case is an obvious, crude, and childish deception by inexperienced individuals, and that believing it requires a similar credulity as believing in Santa Claus.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exposure of UFO hoaxes, the critical examination of photographic and video evidence, and the skepticism towards self-proclaimed contactees and ufologists who prioritize sensationalism and commercialization over rigorous investigation. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, aiming to debunk fraudulent cases and highlight the lack of credible evidence in such claims. The magazine emphasizes the importance of scientific analysis, original evidence, and critical thinking in the field of ufology, contrasting this with the methods employed by figures like Jaime Maussán and groups like "Grupo Sol."

Raëlians: The Naked Truth

This section introduces the Raelian movement, founded by Claude Vorilhon (Raël), who claims to have been contacted by extraterrestrials called "Elohim." The movement gained notoriety for its company Clonaid and its promotion of cloning. Raël's history involves an alleged abduction of his mother and his own conception by extraterrestrials. The core beliefs include the Elohim creating humanity and Raël being the last in a line of prophets. Science plays a key role in their philosophy, aiming to improve human life. A major goal is the establishment of an extraterrestrial embassy in Israel by 2030. The movement has around 50,000 followers globally, with a significant presence in France, the US, Canada, and Switzerland. A notable aspect of their practice is "sensual meditation," which involves nudism and a rejection of traditional family structures, advocating for sexual freedom. The article mentions that the Raelian movement also has about fifty followers in Chile.

Title: La Nave de los Locos
Issue: 29
Date: November 2004

This issue of La Nave de los Locos delves into various topics related to ufology, paranormal phenomena, and skepticism, featuring an interview with a member of the Raelian movement, an investigation into a purported cryptid, and a critical analysis of UFO case investigations.

Marina Cocolios and the Raelian Movement

The magazine features an interview with Marina Cocolios, the 24-year-old daughter of Raelian bishop Brigitte Bosselier. Cocolios discusses her experience participating in a 'Playboy' photoshoot with other Raelian women, describing the session as entertaining and respectful of their philosophy. She explains the Raelian belief that nudity is natural and that bodies are temples, stating, "Raël teaches us that no part of the body is dirty. We should not be ashamed of ourselves."

Cocolios also touches upon the Raelian movement's critique of the Catholic Church, calling the Pope an "assassin" for his stance on issues like homosexuality, abortion, and condom use in Africa. She highlights the Raelian emphasis on embracing technology for human betterment, including cloning and genetic modifications, and contrasts this with what she perceives as outdated societal values.

She mentions that Sinead O'Connor and Hugh Hefner are honorary members of the Raelian movement due to their actions challenging societal norms and promoting openness. The article notes that Fernando Rojas is the Chilean representative of the group and shares similar views, including embracing nudity.

The 'Garadiábolo' Creature

Another section details the story of Alfredo García Garamendi, who claims to have encountered and killed a creature he called a 'garadiábolo' in Puerto Rico. The article recounts Garamendi's previous capture of a similar specimen in 1972, which he sent for analysis. Dr. William Eger, a professor of Ichthyology, suggested it might be a primitive type of chimera fish related to sharks and rays. Later, men in black allegedly confiscated a specimen. Garamendi wrote a book about the 'garadiábolos', believing they were from "another dimension" rather than another planet.

However, the article, citing Mexican investigator Luis Ruiz Noguez, debunks the 'garadiábolo' as a fabricated entity. Noguez explains that these creatures are typically made from manipulated fish parts, such as stingrays, and are sometimes sold as items for witchcraft. The article notes that similar 'Jenny Hanivers' were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries, also made from fish parts.

The UFO of Isla Trinidad Case

The issue revisits the controversial UFO case of Isla Trinidad, focusing on the US Air Force's determination that it was a fraud. Luis Ruiz Noguez presents correspondence, including a letter from Lieutenant Colonel Lawrence J. Tacker of the USAF to Sr. May, responding to the APRO's claims of possessing metallic samples from the alleged UFO. The US Navy had evaluated the sighting and concluded it was a fraud, a conclusion the Air Force upheld.

A telegram from Coral Lorenzen of APRO indicated her refusal to send alleged UFO debris to the Air Force for evaluation. The article highlights Tacker's perceived intransigence and the NICAP's strategy of having subordinates confront the Air Force while Major Donald Keyhoe published bestsellers.

A letter from NICAP to Lt. Col. Tacker questions the Air Force's basis for declaring the Isla Trinidad case a fraud, especially given that the sighting and photographs were authenticated by Brazilian authorities and sent to the press by the President of Brazil. NICAP questions whether Brazilian authorities, including the President and high-ranking naval officials, could be accused of fraud and asks if US experts have conducted comparable evaluations.

The article implies that the US Air Force's declaration of fraud was poorly substantiated, especially considering the detailed evidence provided by Brazilian sources that remained unexplained by the US Air Force.

Introduction to Skepticism

Eric McMillan contributes an essay titled "Introduction to Skepticism," defining skepticism as an approach to critical thinking that demands evidence and reason for all beliefs. It does not deny the possibility of knowing things but requires questioning beliefs and practices based on available evidence. The essay categorizes subjects of skeptical inquiry into three groups: paranormal beliefs and practices (e.g., ghosts, astrology, psychics, UFOs), pseudosciences (e.g., homeopathy, creationism, astrology), and "diffuse areas" (e.g., religions, cults, conspiracies, placebo effects).

McMillan emphasizes that skepticism focuses on testable scientific claims and often targets paranormal and pseudoscientific practices that cause societal harm. The essay suggests that while some skeptics may make exceptions for certain experiences, the core principle is to critically examine evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a critical examination of paranormal claims and UFO phenomena, often presenting skeptical viewpoints or debunking purported mysteries. The Raelian movement is featured as a subject of interest, highlighting its unconventional beliefs and practices. The editorial stance appears to favor rational investigation and evidence-based conclusions, as demonstrated by the critical analysis of the Isla Trinidad case and the debunking of the 'garadiábolo' creature. The inclusion of an essay on skepticism further reinforces this theme of critical inquiry.

This issue of "DOSSIER CLÁSICOS DE LA UFOLOGÍA" (Classics of Ufology Dossier), issue number 29, dated November 2004, focuses on classic UFO cases and the debates surrounding them, particularly the 1958 Trindade Island sighting. The magazine presents a critical examination of evidence, skepticism, and the methodologies employed in ufological research.

The Trindade Island Case: Menzel vs. Hall

The central theme of this issue revolves around the highly publicized UFO sighting on Trindade Island in February 1958. The case gained significant attention due to photographic evidence and multiple witnesses. The magazine details the correspondence between Dr. Donald H. Menzel, an astronomer and astrophysicist known for his skeptical stance on UFOs, and Richard Hall, Secretary of NICAP (National Investigations Committee On Aerial Phenomena).

Menzel's Skeptical Analysis

Dr. Menzel, in a letter dated October 26, 1958, expresses his reservations about the Trindade Island case. He questions the authenticity of the photographs, asking for details about the camera, lenses, and amplification used. Menzel points out that many UFO reports omit significant data and are often embellished with sensational claims. He suggests that the "brilliance" reported might be solar reflection and that apparent speed changes could be due to variations in reflective surfaces. He also questions the definition of "maneuvering at variable speeds," suggesting it might refer to tangential movement. Menzel highlights the lack of crucial details, such as the apparent angular diameter of the object, and suggests that the photographs might be a result of lens flares or other optical illusions, possibly even a photomontage. He emphasizes the need for rigorous scientific investigation and criticizes the lack of competence among some UFO investigators.

In a subsequent letter dated November 27, 1958, Menzel offers a tentative explanation, considering the possibility that the object was an airplane enveloped in mist or vapor, creating a Saturn-like appearance. He notes that the propellers of an aircraft would be visible under such conditions. He reiterates the need for more data, including meteorological reports, lens specifications, and photographic amplification details, to conduct a thorough evaluation.

Hall's Defense and Further Investigation

Richard Hall, representing NICAP, initially sought Menzel's opinion on the case. While Menzel provided a skeptical analysis, Hall continued to investigate. In a letter dated December 12, 1959, Hall informs Menzel that he has contacted geophysicist James E. McDonald to gather meteorological data relevant to the Trindade Island area. Hall acknowledges that the case, as presented, is not a "good" UFO report and requires more effort to collect facts. He expresses concern that if Menzel's hypothesis of an airplane is confirmed, it could cast doubt on other similar "Saturn-type" cases.

McDonald's Input

James E. McDonald, in his response to Hall, states that he does not have access to meteorological data for the equatorial region of Brazil. However, he agrees that the photograph is of low quality but reveals a large angular diameter of the object. McDonald also dismisses the idea of condensation trails from an airplane, finding them physically improbable under the described conditions. He suggests that condensation trails can form from the wingtip vortices of aircraft in humid air, but finds no resemblance to the object in the photograph. He requests a clearer copy of the photograph for further analysis.

The Role of Almiro Baraúna and Coral Lorenzen

The issue also touches upon Almiro Baraúna, the photographer of the Trindade Island images. It is mentioned that Baraúna was present during the development of the photographs. The magazine notes that Coral Lorenzen of APRO (Aerial Phenomena Research Organization) received a package containing four photographs of the Trindade object and related correspondence from a former Brazilian Navy officer. Initially skeptical, Lorenzen eventually considered the material authentic and published it, contributing to the case's notoriety. The article questions the possibility of a photomontage, but suggests that Baraúna would have had to create a mockup of the UFO and photograph it against the landscape, a complex scenario that would require significant foresight and coincidence.

Other Cases and Themes

The Woman from Outer Space (Hawaii)

This section details the story of a woman found in Honolulu, Hawaii, who claimed to be an interstellar traveler. Identified only as "Ah," she had no known past or identity, and her origins were a mystery. Despite efforts to trace her background, none were found. She was eventually placed in a mental health facility, with doctors suspecting schizophrenia.

Pilot Encounters with "Flying Saucers"

The magazine includes accounts from pilots who reported seeing "flying saucers." H. A. Shanklin describes an experience flying over Kansas City where he saw what he believed to be silver discs. However, he later realized these were reflections of water puddles on the ground, caused by the sun and the aircraft's movement. Another pilot recounts seeing similar "discs" over mountains in Colorado, which he initially thought were interplanetary craft but later identified as reflections of the setting sun on transparent objects.

The Ufologists vs. Skeptics Debate in Brazil

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a historical event in Brazilian ufology from September 2004. A challenge was issued between ufologists, represented by Ademar Gevaerd (president of CBPDV), and skeptics, led by Kentaro Mori (editor of CeticismoAberto). The debate was to be mediated by InterPsi, a group from the Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo. The proposal involved Gevaerd selecting a case with the best evidence for extraterrestrial life, which would then be analyzed by a skeptical community and independent scientists. However, Gevaerd abruptly withdrew from the challenge, citing reasons such as not feeling obligated to prove UFO existence, not being the sole representative of Brazilian ufology, and lacking time. Wellington Zangari of InterPsi expressed surprise and disappointment at Gevaerd's withdrawal, deeming it immature and irresponsible. Mori, representing the skeptics, considered the episode closed, noting Gevaerd's refusal to acknowledge his error.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the tension between scientific skepticism and ufological belief. It highlights the importance of rigorous investigation, critical analysis of evidence, and the potential for misidentification and optical illusions. The editorial stance appears to favor a scientific approach, questioning unsubstantiated claims while acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena. The issue emphasizes that many reported UFO sightings can be explained by conventional means, such as atmospheric conditions, reflections, or misidentified aircraft. The debate between ufologists and skeptics is presented as a crucial aspect of understanding the field, with an underlying theme that the burden of proof lies with those making extraordinary claims.

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: 29
Date: November 2004
Content Type: Magazine Issue

Key Articles and Features

John Mack, the Ufologist Psychiatrist, Dies in London

This article reports on the death of John Edward Mack, a renowned Harvard psychiatrist who dedicated himself to the investigation of abductions. Mack passed away unexpectedly in London on September 27, 2004, after being hit by a motorist. The author expresses sorrow, noting Mack's creative activity, critical stance on his country's actions, and unfinished projects. While acknowledging that Mack might not have been the most objective investigator, the piece highlights his enthusiasm and tendency to over-rely on questionable witnesses and hypnosis for "lost memories." Mack authored several books on UFOs, including "Abduction: Human Encounters with Aliens" and "Passport to the Cosmos." He was involved in a controversy with Philip Klass after a "Time" magazine investigation questioned his methods. Despite criticisms, the article suggests Mack was a valuable individual, and his fight against militarism and contemporary paranoia are presented as the most significant aspects of his life.

Betty Hill, the Grandmother of Abductees, Dies of Cancer

The magazine reports the death of Betty Hill on Sunday, October 17, 2004, known as "the grandmother of abductees" in the UFO community. She was famously the first alleged alien abductee to achieve international fame by narrating her story, which also involved her husband Barney. Their experience was later documented in the book "The Interrupted Journey" by journalist John G. Fuller, based on hypnotic testimonies. Betty Hill had been battling lung cancer and undergoing chemotherapy. She was 85 years old at the time of her death. She was widowed in 1969 after her husband Barney suffered a stroke. Betty Hill frequently appeared in the media and in UFO literature, recounting her experience, which she believed was real. Her testimonies also covered poltergeist incidents and other paranormal matters. A TV movie based on her story, "The UFO Incident," premiered on October 20, 1975. In 1995, Betty published "A Common Sense Approach to UFOs," showing a more critical stance on the subject than her followers.

Homage to Antonio Ribera

This section pays tribute to ufologist Antonio Ribera, recalling his contribution to the field. It mentions a debate on ufology that took place on July 7th at the Universidad Tecnológica Metropolitana in Santiago, Chile, where Rodrigo Fuenzalida participated. The debate involved panelists discussing whether UFOs are a manifestation of extraterrestrial activity. Dr. Mario Dussuel represented the "believer" side, while Rodrigo Fuenzalida argued that UFOs represent an unknown phenomenon but not necessarily extraterrestrial. A person named Sánchez suggested that ufology had become a belief system akin to a religion. Ernesto Escobar moderated the debate, which was characterized by respectful disagreement.

Book and Publication Reviews

El Escéptico Nos. 1-16 (CD Rom): This review highlights a CD compilation of the first 16 issues of "El Escéptico," a Spanish rationalist publication. The CD allows users to print articles and is available for purchase or free with a subscription.

Papers d'Ovnis Nº 36: This issue features an analysis of a UFO sighting in Mexico, with hypotheses suggesting it might have been used as a distraction. It also includes articles on Salvador Dalí's connection to ufology and news on the Sepra crisis.

Australasian Ufologist Vol. 8 / Nº 3: The review notes that this Australian magazine, while sometimes featuring "delirious" material, offers interesting information and articles for UFO enthusiasts. It includes a translation of a conversation about Mexican oil well fires, which were presented as UFOs, and photographs demonstrating techniques for falsifying images.

Magonia Supplement Nº 52: This supplement from "Magonia" features an article by Martin Kottmeyer discussing the Earth's stool from the Apollo 11 mission and a text by Antonio Ribera about the Virgin of Guadalupe. It also includes a piece by Philip Klass on the "Operation Mainbrace" UFO incident.

PENSAR Nº 4: This issue of "PENSAR" from the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal focuses on "INVASION. INDIGO," discussing the Indigo phenomenon and its connection to extraterrestrial contact.

CDU Suplemento Internacional Nº 9 - Fundación Anomalia: This supplement from "Fundación Anomalia" covers various UFO-related topics, including alleged "garra" (claw) marks found in Brazil and a Harvard University study on the "abduction" phenomenon. It also mentions the case of John Mack.

El Escéptico Nº 17: This issue of "El Escéptico" discusses UFOs, abduction, and the concept of "The Skeptic's Dictionary." It includes articles on the implications of UFOs, the work of ufologist Roy Chambers, and a critical look at the phenomenon.

@nomalia Nº 4: This issue of "@nomalia" is a compilation of articles on UFOs and related topics, including a piece on the Mexican UFO and a review of "OVNIS de Barra de Tijuca."

Magonia Nº 85: This issue focuses on UFOs, including "writings" from alien spacecraft and automatic messages. It features an article about the Pelícano UFO case in Mexico and discusses various pages with UFO-related content.

Más Criaturas del Señor by Omar López Mato: This book review describes a work that combines fantasy and science, exploring incredible biological anomalies and legends with scientific explanations. The reviewer notes the author's intention to exorcise "demons" and promote tolerance. The book covers topics like human anomalies, medical curiosities, and historical accounts of unusual individuals.

Águilas de Fuego by Jorge Anfruns Dumont: This review discusses a book that follows the style of ufologist Juan José Benítez, blending personal reflections with UFO phenomena and historical mysteries. The reviewer critiques the book's ambiguous presentation of fact and fiction, suggesting it allows the author to avoid direct criticism.

The Skeptic's Dictionary by Robert Todd Carroll: This review describes a dictionary that aims to provide a collection of beliefs, amusements, deceptions, and dangerous delusions related to skepticism. It covers various topics within ufology and the paranormal from a skeptical perspective.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features articles on UFO sightings, abductions, and paranormal phenomena, often presenting a critical or skeptical viewpoint alongside more credulous accounts. There is a strong emphasis on reviewing books and publications within the ufology and skepticism communities. The editorial stance appears to favor rational inquiry and critical analysis, as evidenced by the inclusion of "El Escéptico" and "PENSAR" reviews, while still acknowledging the enduring interest in UFOs and related mysteries. The magazine also engages in debates and discussions within the ufological community, as seen in the UTEM event coverage.

Title: La Nave de los Locos
Issue: No. 29
Date: November 2004
Location: Santiago, Chile

This issue of La Nave de los Locos delves into skepticism and ufology, featuring a review of Robert Todd Carroll's "The Skeptic's Dictionary" and an interview with ufologist Óscar García.

Review: "The Skeptic's Dictionary" by Robert Todd Carroll

The article begins by discussing Robert Todd Carroll, director of the Philosophy Department at Sacramento City College in California and author of "Becoming a critical thinker: A guide for the new millennium." It highlights that his dictionary is specifically for skeptics.

The review questions whether Carroll would agree with Michael Shermer's statement about avoiding labels, noting that the brain is organized to categorize things linguistically, forcing the use of identity-based language. It also touches upon Carroll being called a "destroyer of hopes" by critics.

Carroll himself warns that "if there is no skepticism within you, this book is not for you." He suggests that a true believer's only interest in the dictionary would be to "condemn it" and "burn it" without reading it. The dictionary is described as a collection of strange beliefs, the skeptical eye of Carroll, a challenge for believers, and an arsenal for skeptics.

Several notes provide references to the book and related articles, including reviews from New Scientist and Skeptical Inquirer, and online resources like skepdic.com.

Interview: Óscar García Visits Chile

The second major section features an interview with Óscar García, a former member of the editorial committee of the Mexican magazine "Perspectivas Ufológicas." Although currently retired from active UFO research, García met with representatives of "La Nave de los Locos" to exchange views on current ufology.

García's background includes being the editor of "Contacto OVNI" during its most skeptical phase and co-directing an issue with Luis Ruiz Noguez that was critically focused on the Ray Santilli muñecopsia. He also managed the cultural magazine "Planeta X" before leaving communications for independent work.

During the interview, García expressed interest in the "Caso Valdés" and humorously recalled his past in ufology, including long debates on Nino Canún's TV programs in the early 90s.

He shared his opinions on Chilean affairs, finding the perceived insecurity in Chile amusing. García posited that UFO phenomena originated in the space age and predicted that with the rise of internet communications, these phenomena and legends will increasingly manifest in the digital realm.

García had previously met with Sergio Sánchez, one of the directors of "La Nave de los Locos," in Mexico City in the mid-90s.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly advocates for skepticism and critical thinking, as evidenced by the review of "The Skeptic's Dictionary." The magazine also engages with contemporary ufology, exploring its evolution and the impact of technology like the internet. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to question phenomena and seek rational explanations, while still acknowledging the ongoing interest in UFO reports and cases.