La Nave de los Locos - No 33

Magazine Overview

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" (The Ship of Fools), number 33, dated November 2005, is a special tribute to Philip Klass, a highly influential UFO skeptic who had recently passed away. The magazine, in its 6th year of publication, is dedicated to rational debate on ufology, parapsychology, and other related topics.

Editorial

The editorial emphasizes the distinctiveness of this issue due to the death of Philip Klass, described as the greatest UFO skeptic of recent times. It notes that Klass, despite being often disliked by ufologists, consistently presented his views through his "Skeptics UFO Newsletter" and books, significantly influencing the UFO community. The magazine acknowledges Klass's support and willingness to answer their questions, expressing a sense of debt to his legacy. The editorial also touches upon the proliferation of pseudoscience and highlights the importance of skeptical inquiry, referencing the First Ibero-American Conference on Critical Thinking held in Argentina. The issue also covers other topics, including a report from CIFOV debunking a supposed UFO wave attributed to Venus sightings, an article by César Parra on psychiatry, and Alejandro Agostinelli's thoughts on 'brainwashing'. The editorial concludes by mentioning the continuation of new sections like reader letters and photos.

Articles and Features

"Una vida por los OVNIS" (A Life for UFOs) by Diego Zúñiga: This article reflects on Philip Klass's life and career, his support for "La Nave de los Locos," and his dedication to UFO investigation. It details his early life, education as an electrical engineer, and his transition to journalism. Klass's early interest in UFOs was sparked by the "Incident at Exeter" book. He was a founding member of CSICOP and a prolific writer, known for his meticulous research and rational explanations.

"Frente a los OVNIS" (Facing UFOs) by Philip Klass: This is a selection of Klass's writings, offering his perspective on ufology. He argues that unlike pseudosciences, the study of UFOs has not led to an accumulation of knowledge over time. He suggests that many sightings can be explained by misidentifications of conventional phenomena like planets, meteors, or missile launches. Klass also expresses skepticism about government conspiracies to hide UFO information.

"OVNIS. Identificados" (UFOs. Identified) by Philip J. Klass (1968): This article, originally published in 1968, presents Klass's early arguments that UFOs do not exist as extraterrestrial spacecraft, but rather can be explained by natural phenomena. He critiques the sensationalism surrounding UFOs and the tendency for people to believe extraordinary claims without sufficient evidence. He also discusses the origin of the term 'flying saucers' and the common descriptions of occupants.

"Los libros de P. Klass" (P. Klass's Books) by Diego Zúñiga: This section likely reviews or discusses the books authored by Philip Klass, providing insight into his investigative methods and conclusions.

"Informe francés sugiere defenderse de los OVNI" (French Report Suggests Defending Against UFOs) by Philip Klass: This article likely discusses a French report or study related to UFOs and potential defensive measures or explanations.

"El clásico caso JAL 1628 de Alaska... iExplicado!" (The Classic Case JAL 1628 from Alaska... Explained!) by Philip Klass: Klass offers his explanation for the well-known JAL 1628 UFO incident, likely debunking extraterrestrial origins.

"Las abducciones que Convencieron a Hopkins" (The Abductions That Convinced Hopkins) by Philip Klass: This article likely examines the abduction claims investigated by Budd Hopkins, presenting Klass's skeptical analysis.

"Encuesta a diversos ufólogos es clarificadora" (Survey of Various Ufologists is Clarifying) by Philip Klass: Klass presents the results of a survey he conducted among ufologists, likely highlighting divergent views or reinforcing his skeptical stance.

"Hombrecillos gordos" (Fat Little Men) by Manuel Borraz: This article likely discusses the common descriptions of alien beings, possibly from a critical or skeptical perspective.

"INTRODUCCIÓN AL ESCEPTICISMO" (Introduction to Skepticism) by Eric McMillan: This piece serves as an introduction to the principles and importance of skepticism, likely in the context of evaluating extraordinary claims.

"Los nuevos exorcistas" (The New Exorcists) by Alejandro Agostinelli: This article likely explores the modern phenomenon of exorcism, possibly linking it to psychological or psychiatric explanations.

"Los 31 años de "Demonio y Psiquiatría" (César Parra): This article by César Parra reflects on the 31st anniversary of a work titled "Demonio y Psiquiatría" (Demon and Psychiatry), likely examining the intersection of these two fields.

"Diario de un expositor" (Exhibitor's Diary) by Diego Zúñiga: This personal account by Diego Zúñiga offers insights into his experiences as an exhibitor, possibly related to UFO or paranormal topics.

"Otro aviovni se paseó por cielo porteño" (Another UFO Flew Through the Buenos Aires Sky) by CIFOV: This report from CIFOV details a specific UFO sighting in Buenos Aires, likely presenting a debunking or skeptical analysis.

"Recibimos" (We Receive) by Diego Zúñiga: This section likely contains reader contributions, letters, or comments.

Photos: A section dedicated to photographs submitted by readers or related to the articles.

Letters: A section for correspondence from readers.

Books (Sergio Sánchez): A book review or commentary section by Sergio Sánchez.

Philip Klass's Career and Contributions: The magazine extensively details Klass's career, starting from his engineering background to his journalism at "Aviation Week & Space Technology." It highlights his meticulous approach, his founding of the "Skeptics UFO Newsletter" (SUN) in 1989, and his challenge of a $10,000 prize to anyone who could prove they were abducted by extraterrestrials. His numerous awards and the naming of an asteroid after him are also mentioned. The article notes his involvement with CSICOP and his role in debunking cases like the Gulf Breeze photos and the JAL 1628 incident.

Klass's Later Years and Passing: The magazine recounts Klass's health struggles, including spinal surgery and prostate cancer, which led to the cessation of his "Skeptics UFO Newsletter" in 2003. It details his passing on August 9, 2005, at the age of 85, and mentions his wife, Nadya Ganev Klass, and other surviving family members. The article notes the negative reactions from some UFO proponents after his death.

Klass's Skeptical Philosophy: The magazine emphasizes Klass's dedication to rational inquiry and his role as a "ground investigator." It quotes him stating that most people who report seeing UFOs have simply seen something unfamiliar, usually at night. His approach is characterized as scientific, careful, and intelligent.

The "Ufos. Identified" Book: The magazine discusses Klass's book "Ufos. Identified," referencing the James Lucci photo and Klass's initial interpretation of a plasma-like object, which he later corrected after discovering the subjects had admitted to a hoax. This case reportedly taught Klass to be wary of such claims.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is the celebration and remembrance of Philip Klass's significant contributions to skeptical inquiry in ufology. The magazine consistently promotes a rational, evidence-based approach to understanding UFO phenomena, contrasting it with what it terms pseudoscience and sensationalism. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of critical thinking and rigorous investigation, positioning Klass as a paramount figure in this endeavor. The magazine aims to provide a platform for reasoned debate, as evidenced by its title and the selection of articles that often debunk or critically examine UFO claims.

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" (The Ship of Fools), number 33, dated November 2005, is dedicated to the books of Philip Klass, a significant figure in ufology known for his investigative and skeptical approach. The magazine highlights Klass's prolific writing career, which spanned 29 years and included seven books, numerous collaborations, and articles for various magazines and newsletters.

Philip Klass's Books and Contributions

The issue details five of Klass's strictly ufological books, one aimed at children, and another on aerospace. His work is characterized by a rigorous, scientific methodology, often debunking popular UFO cases and exposing potential hoaxes or misidentifications.

UFOs. Identified (1968)

Klass's first book on UFOs proposed the plasma hypothesis for unexplained aerial phenomena. However, he later retracted this explanation, acknowledging a fraud related to the James Lucci photo and recognizing plasma as not a universal panacea for UFO phenomena. *Time Magazine* described it as a "rational and intelligently written book."

Secret Sentries in Space (1971)

This book, unrelated to UFOs, focused on secret spy satellites operated by the US and Soviet Union during the Cold War, highlighting their role in international stability. *Saturday Review* called it "the clearest available look at the role of the military in space reconnaissance."

UFOs Explained (1974)

Considered one of Klass's most important and influential skeptical works, this book meticulously analyzes iconic cases like the Trent photos, meteors with "windows," the Pascagoula abduction, and the Delphos landing. *Astrosociety.org* praised Klass as "the greatest investigator of UFO reports in the United States."

UFOs. The Public Deceived (1983)

This is presented as a key text in Klass's bibliography, where he explains why he believes the famous Travis Walton case is a hoax. The book also scrutinizes various ufological topics, including the reliability of "trained" observers, and presents his "ten ufological principles." *The Los Angeles Times* described it as "methodically destroying the best cases from past decades."

UFO Abductions. A Dangerous Game (1989)

In this book, Klass explores the dangers of the "abduction game," analyzing classic cases like Betty and Barney Hill and Travis Walton. He questions the methods of abductologists and dedicates the book to those who might suffer mental burdens from "fantasies of a few."

The Real Roswell Crashed-Saucer Coverup (1997)

Klass argues that the real cover-up of the Roswell incident was perpetrated by authors and ufologists who promoted the myth of an extraterrestrial craft in US possession. He uses evidence to demonstrate why this is impossible, emphasizing science and logic.

Bringing UFOs Down to Earth (1997)

This final book by Klass aimed to instill critical thinking in younger readers. It presents well-known UFO cases as mere confusions. A Spanish translation exists: "Explicando los OVNIS."

Analysis of Specific Cases

The Classic JAL 1628 Alaska Case... Explained!

This section delves into the 1986 JAL 1628 incident, where a 747 crew reported a UFO sighting. Klass, using FAA-released data including radar recordings and interviews, argues that the sighting was likely a misidentification. He suggests the "undulating lights" could have been reflections of moonlight on ice crystals, and the "gigantic UFO" could have been the planet Jupiter. He also points out discrepancies in witness accounts and the lack of corroboration from other aircraft in the vicinity.

The Abductions That Convinced Budd Hopkins

This article examines the case of "Sean McIntyre," who reported a "missing time" experience in 1961 involving his car being lifted and then returned. Budd Hopkins, initially skeptical, was convinced by this case, which involved elements typical of abduction narratives. However, Klass notes that Hopkins did not verify the story directly and chose not to include it in his initial book, "Missing Time," due to its implausibility and lack of independent verification.

Credulous French Report Suggests We Must Defend Ourselves from UFOs

This piece critiques a 90-page French report titled "UFOs and Defense. What Should We Be Prepared For?" by the "Cometa" group. Klass argues that the report, despite its claims of historical importance, ignores the fact that France's own Gepan/Sepra agency, created based on a similar recommendation over 20 years prior, has failed to produce reliable evidence of extraterrestrial UFOs. Klass refutes Cometa's explanations for cases like Lakenheath, RB-47, and Teheran, offering his own prosaic explanations from his books. The report concludes that UFOs are likely extraterrestrial and controlled by intelligent beings, recommending studies for potential ET attacks and investigating a supposed US government cover-up.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently highlights Philip Klass's role as a critical investigator who prioritizes scientific evidence and logical analysis over sensationalism. The articles emphasize his dedication to debunking UFO myths and promoting critical thinking among readers. The editorial stance aligns with Klass's skeptical viewpoint, presenting his work as a valuable counterpoint to more credulous ufological literature. The recurring theme is the importance of rigorous investigation and the scientific method in understanding unexplained phenomena, with a particular focus on exposing potential fraud and misinterpretation in UFO reports.

Title: La Nave de los Locos
Issue: Nº 33
Volume: Año 6
Date: Noviembre de 2005

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" (The Ship of Fools), a bimonthly bulletin from Chile, delves into a variety of topics related to the paranormal, skepticism, and controversial phenomena. It features articles on alien abductions, alleged UFO cover-ups, critiques of alternative medicine, and the psychological practice of deprogramming.

Budd Hopkins on Alien Invisibility

The issue opens with a discussion of Budd Hopkins' theories on alien abduction, particularly his concept of 'invisibility technology.' Hopkins posits that extraterrestrials may possess the ability to render themselves, their craft, or abductees invisible to certain observers. He recounts a lecture given in New York in 1999 where he presented this idea, citing cases from various international locations. Hopkins argues that the lack of witnesses to daytime abductions suggests an inherent invisibility factor. He illustrates this with a case involving a schoolboy in Manhattan who described an alien abduction in broad daylight, where his teacher, 'Madre Teresa,' was also taken aboard a craft. Hopkins emphasizes that the absence of witnesses to this event supports his theory of selective invisibility.

Spanish UFO Cases and Philip J. Klass's Skepticism

The magazine presents two Spanish cases: one from Los Alcázares, Murcia, in April 1966, where a soldier reported seeing two small green humanoids, and another from Sant Feliu de Codines, Barcelona, in September 1967, where two witnesses described a similar-looking humanoid creature. The article questions the reliability of the Los Alcázares case due to its second-hand nature and delayed reporting. It also explores the possibility of misidentification, such as owls or badgers, while noting the unusual green color described.

Philip J. Klass, a prominent ufologist, is featured discussing a supposed 'Majestic Twelve Special Operations Manual (SOM1-01).' Klass asserts that this manual is a fraud, despite its 'TOP SECRET/MAJIC EYES ONLY' classification. The document, allegedly related to the recovery of crashed UFOs and alien occupants, was reportedly received by Don Berliner. However, Klass highlights that several respected ufologists, including himself, have publicly declared it a fake.

Ufologist Survey and the 'Alien Autopsy' Fraud

A survey conducted by Michael Lindemann for 'CNI News' reveals that only 15% of 32 ufologists believe significant progress has been made in understanding the UFO phenomenon in the 1990s, with 42% citing 'some progress' and 21% stating 'no progress.' The most significant case mentioned by respondents was 'lights in the sky' over Illinois on January 5, 2000. Ufologists like Jan Aldrich express concern about sensationalism in UFO reporting.

Robert Kiviat, producer of the television program "Alien Autopsy: Fact or Fiction?", admits that the film depicting an autopsy of an alien recovered from Roswell was a fraud. He revealed this in a later program, "The World Greatest Hoaxes: Secrets Finally Revealed." Kiviat explained that the 'doctors' in the film were a technician and a local butcher, and that the widely distributed 'alien autopsy' footage was likely filmed by a German company.

Critiques of Alternative Medicine

Eric McMillan's chapter "Introduction to Skepticism" critically examines various forms of 'magic medicine,' categorizing them as religious, non-religious paranormal, or pseudoscientific. The article warns that people are often deceived by false claims of miracle cures, risking their health and finances. It cites the case of faith healer Peter Popoff, whose fraudulent practices were exposed by James Randi, and discusses how followers of alternative therapies often claim their treatments would be accepted if not for medical establishment opposition. The Bristol Cancer Help Centre in England is presented as an example where a scientific study published in The Lancet in 1990 indicated that patients receiving their 'holistic' treatments had higher relapse rates and lower survival chances compared to a control group.

Penny Brohn, a founder of the Bristol Centre, is criticized for downplaying her use of conventional Tamoxifen treatment for breast cancer while promoting alternative therapies in her book. The article stresses the importance of rigorous scientific testing, such as double-blind, controlled experiments, to validate any medical treatment, noting that alternative therapies often fail such tests.

Deprogramming: The 'New Exorcists'

Alejandro Agostinelli writes about 'deprogramming,' a psychological shock technique used by anti-cult groups to forcibly convert individuals away from religious or ideological groups perceived as sects. The practice, which originated in the US and Europe, aims to break the influence of alleged mind control by creating a state of psychological distress. The article describes deprogramming as a form of forced resocialization, often involving kidnapping and confronting the individual with evidence that refutes their group's beliefs. Ted Patrick, a pioneer of this technique, is described as having used shock tactics, including insults and creating uncomfortable situations, to force individuals to question their beliefs. The article notes that deprogramming has faced legal challenges and criticism for its coercive nature, with some arguing that religious conversion is a more gradual and complex process than the 'brainwashing' alleged by deprogrammers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards extraordinary claims, particularly in the fields of ufology and alternative medicine, and a critical examination of controversial practices like deprogramming. The editorial stance appears to favor scientific evidence and rational inquiry, challenging unsubstantiated beliefs and exposing potential fraud and manipulation. The bulletin positions itself as an independent publication without commercial interests, aiming to present diverse perspectives while maintaining a critical and analytical approach.

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" (The Ship of Fools), number 33, dated November 2005, features a prominent cover story titled "LOS 31 AÑOS DE 'DEMONIO Y PSIQUIATRÍA'" by César Parra (Chile). The magazine delves into the complex and often controversial relationship between the concepts of demonic possession and psychiatric illness, exploring historical cases, medical perspectives, and the evolution of understanding mental health.

Deprogramming: Remedy or Illness?

The issue critically examines the practice of deprogramming, a technique used to persuade individuals to leave cults or new religious movements. Sociologist Eileen Barker suggests that deprogramming is often unnecessary and can be counterproductive, potentially keeping individuals within a group longer than if left alone. She notes that while it might seem to 'return' individuals to their previous lives, it can also undermine their confidence in their own decision-making abilities and foster a sense of being brainwashed. David Bromley, another sociologist, points out that the effectiveness of deprogramming decreases with the age of the individual and the duration of their membership in a group. Success rates are significantly higher for those who were members for less than two months compared to those who stayed for over four years.

The article highlights that deprogramming aims to 'reprogram' individuals by altering their beliefs and social networks, often restoring values that parents or deprogrammers deem positive. However, experts argue that this approach oversimplifies the complex factors involved when someone embraces new convictions. The underlying premise that 'programming' exists and can be reversed is questioned, with critics suggesting that the optimism of deprogrammers overlooks the intricate web of influences shaping an individual's faith.

Furthermore, the article discusses the legal and ethical debates surrounding deprogramming. It suggests that even if successful, the process can leave individuals with a diminished capacity to draw their own conclusions and a reduced trust in their ability to make decisions. Unlike those who leave groups voluntarily, deprogrammed individuals may be convinced they were victims of brainwashing, absolving them of responsibility for their past actions.

When Motivation is Ideological

An anecdote from Rosario, Argentina, illustrates a different facet of the debate, where a Hare Krishna devotee encounters a self-proclaimed 'sect hunter' who uses aggressive rhetoric to challenge his beliefs. While not a classic deprogramming case, it touches upon the ideological motivations that can drive such encounters and the potential for manipulation.

The Psychology as a Weapon of Social Control

Alejandro Frigerio's article, "LA PSICOLOGÍA COMO ARMA DE CONTROL SOCIAL" (Psychology as a Weapon of Social Control), explores how the definition of 'deviant' behavior shifts across societies and historical periods. In a scientific worldview, behaviors considered deviant are often labeled as illnesses, with medicine becoming a significant agent of social control. The article criticizes the pseudoscientific theory of 'brainwashing' and its application to religious groups, arguing that it allows for procedures that would be condemned if applied to political or ethnic minorities. It emphasizes the need for concrete evidence of criminal acts rather than relying on biased psychological assessments.

Frigerio argues that the medicalization of alternative religious groups expands the jurisdiction of psychiatry and has concerning consequences. He points out that the belief in 'brainwashing' can justify interventions that lack empirical support and that accusations of deviance should be based on proven facts, not pseudoscientific arguments.

"Demonio y Psiquiatría": 31 Years Later

César Parra's extensive piece revisits Armando Roa's seminal 1974 book, "Demonio y Psiquiatría," which explored the historical case of Carmen Marín, an alleged demonic possession in Santiago in 1857. The article connects this historical context to the cultural impact of the film "The Exorcist" in 1973, which reignited interest in possession and exorcism. Roa's work is presented as a bridge between theological and psychiatric perspectives, analyzing the case through historical documents and psychiatric insights.

The article details the evolution of understanding mental illness in Chile, from the 19th century when it was often attributed to demonic influence and treated with religious rituals, to the emergence of psychiatric institutions like "La Casa de Orates." It highlights key figures such as Lorenzo Sazié and Ramón Elguero, discussing their methods and contributions to the nascent field of psychiatry in Chile. Sazié's approach, though criticized, involved confinement and harsh treatments, while Elguero advocated for a more eclectic use of various medical treatments, including moral treatment.

Roa's book is structured into five chapters, with the first three being his original analysis and the last two containing transcriptions of historical accounts, including the case of Carmen Marín. The article discusses how Roa, while acknowledging the historical context of religious explanations for mental illness, ultimately frames it within a scientific and medical paradigm. The shift in understanding mental illness from demonic possession to a natural disease, with the physician taking over the role of interpreter, is a central theme.

Personal Reflections on Critical Thinking

A section of the magazine includes a personal diary entry by Diego Zúñiga, an exhibitor at the First Ibero-American Conference on Critical Thinking in Buenos Aires. Zúñiga recounts his experiences at the conference, detailing the presentations, interactions with fellow speakers and attendees, and his reflections on skepticism, pseudosciences, and the economic situation in Chile and Argentina. The diary provides a more personal and anecdotal perspective on the themes of critical inquiry and the dissemination of ideas.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical stance towards phenomena often relegated to the fringes of mainstream discourse, such as deprogramming, cults, and historical accounts of possession. It emphasizes the importance of scientific inquiry, sociological analysis, and historical context in understanding these complex issues. The editorial stance appears to favor rational explanations and a critical examination of both pseudoscientific claims and the potential for misuse of psychological and medical frameworks for social control. The recurring theme is the tension between belief systems (religious, ideological) and scientific or rational explanations, and how these interact within societal structures and individual lives.

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: 33
Date: November 2005

This issue of "La Nave de los Locos" delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, with a strong emphasis on photographic evidence, misidentification, and critical analysis. It features reader contributions, reviews of related publications, and discussions on prominent figures in the ufology community.

Articles and Features

El Corcho Volante (The Flying Cork)

This section presents a photograph sent by a Brazilian reader, allegedly showing a UFO. The image was captured by a friend of the sender and only noticed upon downloading the photos to a computer. The magazine suggests the object is likely a cork from a bottle thrown into the air. When presented with this explanation, the sender did not respond.

Superman en el Salvador

A reader submitted a photograph taken in El Salvador, allegedly showing a UFO. The reader claims it would be the first known UFO sighting in his country. The magazine explains that such apparitions in photos are often caused by insects or birds passing quickly in front of the camera lens, which are only noticed upon later review of the image.

Una Mancha Sobre el Puente (A Spot on the Bridge)

Reader Claudio Roa was photographing a landscape in Angol when he noticed a small, almost imperceptible spot on the image after reviewing it on his computer. The photo was analyzed and found to have no pixel alteration, indicating it was not digitally manipulated. The magazine suggests such spots are often misinterpreted as UFOs, but could simply be a distant bird or a speck on the camera lens.

La Calma Tras la Tormenta (Calm After the Storm)

Bruno Larraín, working for Codelco, took a photograph after a storm near Río Blanco, Portillo. Upon reviewing the image, he noticed strange marks. The magazine consulted investigator Rubén Morales, who suggested that the sunlight might have been hitting the lens laterally, highlighting particles deposited on it, which would explain why other photos taken from different angles were clear.

¿Tienes un E-mail? (Do You Have an E-mail?)

This section features reader correspondence.

• OVNI del Porte de un Estadio (UFO the Size of a Stadium): A reader recounts an experience from 1978 when, as an eight-year-old, they witnessed a light descend from the sky near Doñihue, Chile, which grew larger than a stadium before disappearing behind hills. The experience left a lasting impression.
• J. J. Es Mi Medicina (J. J. Is My Medicine): A reader expresses disdain for fraudulent books on psychology and medicine, criticizing a page that allegedly analyzes the book "Ricky B."
• Paremos a Maussán (Let's Stop Maussán): A reader expresses frustration with Jaime Maussán's repeated presentation of alleged "extraterrestrial evidence" that has been proven to be fraudulent. The reader criticizes Maussán for labeling any aerial anomaly as a "ship" or "extraterrestrial visitor" and for dismissing scientific explanations.
• Sixto Paz, un Ejemplo (Sixto Paz, an Example): A reader praises Sixto Paz Wells, stating they have followed his conferences for years and found him to be consistent and logical in his words and conduct.
• Artículos que no llegaron (Articles That Didn't Arrive): Nicolás Berasain inquires if the magazine is only interested in publishing articles that align with its views, and if it would consider publishing articles that are neither tendentious nor skeptical, but rather explore different epistemological levels.
• Confío en la Nave (I Trust the Ship): A reader expresses more trust in "La Nave de los Locos" than in politicians, appreciating its stance against "single thought" promoted by mass media.

El Maestro de la Confusión entra en escena otra vez (The Master of Confusion Appears Again)

This article, by Marcelo Moya and Marcos González (CIFOV), discusses a recent UFO sighting in the Quinta Región, Chile, which was videotaped and broadcast on TVN-Red Valparaíso. The phenomenon changed colors and remained static before disappearing. The author of the recording reported his daughter crying upon seeing her parents' frightened reaction. However, the article identifies the phenomenon as the planet Venus, which was particularly bright at the time. It notes that such bright celestial bodies are often mistaken for UFOs due to a lack of knowledge. The article also references a similar "wave" of sightings originating from Talca, also attributed to bright celestial bodies.

Reviews

• Cons-Ciências N° 2: A review of a 426-page publication from Portugal summarizing presentations from an international forum on Science, Religion, and Consciousness. It features contributions from notable figures like Christian de Duve and Jacques Vallée, covering topics such as the origin of the world, mind-body dualism, religious experiences, and extraterrestrial life. The content is primarily in English, with some Portuguese.
• EL ESCÉPTICO Nº 19: A review of the magazine "El Escéptico" from Spain, which has resumed its regular publication. It covers articles debunking common hoaxes, such as the moon landing myth and the "faces of Mars." A cover story addresses the trend of parents refusing vaccinations for their children, citing a fear of "natural" living and "toxic chemicals."
• CDU SUPLEMENTO INTERNACIONAL / N° 11: A review of the "Cuadernos de Ufología" supplement from Spain. It highlights an article by B. D. Grinberg on the secret "Skyhook" program and its connection to UFOs, as well as a historical review of the 1954 UFO wave in Italy. It also mentions Michael Swords' critique of Edward Condon's report and notes on the CIA, U2 bombers, and UFOs.

Libros (Books)

• Luces en los Cielos (Lights in the Sky) by Ricardo Campo Pérez: This book review discusses Ricardo Campo Pérez's work, which aims to provide a critical and demystifying look at UFOs. The reviewer praises the book for its clear explanations and its approach to situating the UFO problem within a broader context, differentiating it from media sensationalism. The book is described as a critical analysis of the UFO phenomenon, encouraging critical thinking and caution against irresponsible claims made by some commercial publications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking and skepticism regarding UFO phenomena, while also providing a platform for reader experiences and discussions. There is a clear effort to debunk common misconceptions and misidentifications, often attributing sightings to natural phenomena, lens artifacts, or media influence. The editorial stance encourages readers to question extraordinary claims and to seek rational explanations, while acknowledging the enduring fascination with the unknown. The inclusion of reader mail and diverse reviews suggests an open, yet discerning, approach to the subject matter.

Title: LA NAVE DE LOS LOCOS
Issue: No. 33
Date: November 2005
Location: Santiago, Chile

This issue features a review of Ricardo Campo's book, "Luces en los cielos" (Lights in the Skies), presented as a comprehensive guide to ufology for the general public. The reviewer, Sergio Sánchez R., praises the book for its clarity and its contribution to understanding UFO phenomena while debunking pseudo-enigmas.

Chapter 1: The Inevitability of Enigmas

The review begins by referencing J. J. Benítez's tendency to present UFO cases as insoluble enigmas. Campo, however, is noted for his more grounded approach, which the reviewer agrees with. The chapter likely sets the stage for a more analytical and less sensationalist exploration of the topic.

Chapter 2: A Guide to Aerial Phenomena

This chapter is described as an "enviable guide" to aerial phenomena, both natural and artificial, that can lead to misidentifications and generate UFO waves. The reviewer lists several examples discussed in Campo's book: Venus, meteors, atmospheric refractions, globular lightning, lenticular clouds, space debris re-entries, sounding balloons, and other sources of potential misinterpretation. A specific case mentioned is the "OVNI de Canarias" (UFO of the Canary Islands) from March 5, 1979, which generated significant media attention. The review notes that critics, including those who are not necessarily ufologists, established that this phenomenon was caused by the combustion gases of a "Poseidón" missile. This explanation, however, was not well-received by the public or by ufologists who promoted the extraordinary nature of the event.

Chapter 3: UFOs, Commercial Media, and Skepticism

This chapter critically examines the role of commercial media in the investigation of UFOs and their tendency to foster ignorance. The reviewer shares Campo's frustration with the "false ecumenism" of television, which presents all opinions at the same level, blurring the lines between reasoned arguments and delirium. The review quotes Campo on the misuse of "freedom of expression" by charlatans, stating, "There is no worse solution for the science versus pseudoscience debate than to appeal to 'freedom of expression,' a principle that charlatans habitually use" (p. 137). This is characterized as a "politically correct" bleat that echoes through the globalized world.

Chapter 4: UFOs as a Manifestation of Contemporary Culture

Considered the best chapter by the reviewer, this section analyzes UFOs as a reflection of contemporary culture, its paradoxes, and its obsessions. Ricardo Campo uses cinematic examples such as "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and "Independence Day." The latter is aptly described as a "propagandistic film." The review highlights Campo's analysis of the "ideological vision" imposed by "Independence Day," pointing out its subliminal message that it is a product of the USA for the USA. The reviewer elaborates on this, suggesting the intention extends to the Americanized world and Europe, where the "Empire" promotes its image as a world leader. The reviewer adds a malicious observation that the saviors are not just Americans but specifically Jewish Americans, citing subtle affirmations in the film that reveal this, such as a character confessing "Nobody is perfect" when asked if they are Jewish. This is interpreted as pure "globalist propaganda," reinforcing the idea of a "single thought" that always prevails.

Synthesis and Recommendation

In summary, Campo's book is presented as a "delicious manual" for navigating the complex world of ufology, aimed at the general public but also beneficial for those with long-standing interest in the topic. "Luces en los cielos" is highly recommended for its generous use of examples from actual cases and for summarizing the progress made in ufology. It shows how many "pseudo-enigmas" have been dispelled, allowing for a serene evaluation of the true nature of sensational testimonies and news over more than half a century. The reviewer expresses a desire to see more books like Campo's on bookstore shelves, competing for space.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine, through its review, adopts a critical stance towards sensationalist journalism and the uncritical promotion of pseudoscientific claims, particularly in relation to UFO phenomena. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, media responsibility, and the analysis of cultural influences, such as those found in cinema, that shape public perception. The editorial stance appears to favor skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims while acknowledging the genuine interest and progress in the field of ufology when approached with critical thinking.