Los Identificados- No 06

Magazine Overview

This issue, titled "LOS IDENTIFICADOS" (The Identified), focuses on "casuística ovni con ocupantes en Argentina" (UFO case files with occupants in Argentina), specifically volume VI, "LOS FENOMENOS DE TRANCAS" (The Trancas Phenomena). The cover features a diagram of the incident and is authored by DR. ROBERTO BANCHS.

The Trancas Case: The Final Report

The main article details the events of October 21, 1963, in Villa de Trancas, Tucumán, Argentina. On this day, while Werner von Braun was giving a press conference in Buenos Aires, an extraordinary event unfolded in Trancas. The incident is described as one of the most important in the history of unidentified phenomena, characterized by a prolonged visual sighting and the discovery of physical residues, which are considered strong evidence for unusual phenomena. The case has since become known as "the superclassic of world ufology."

The report is based on a detailed analysis of an investigation that began in September 1971 and was resumed in depth in May 1987. This involved numerous interviews and careful diligence, comparing current testimonies with those from the time of the event. The initial accounts were provided by journalists Arturo Alvarez Sosa and Ventura Murga from "La Gaceta" of Tucumán, followed by writer Eduardo A. Azcuy, Captain of frigate Omar R. Pagani, and Oscar A. Galindez.

The investigation also utilized objective documents, including meteorological records from the Air Force, chemical analysis reports from the University of Tucumán, historical newspaper accounts of simultaneous events, and technical specifications from the Ministry of War. This comprehensive approach aimed to provide reliable and verifiable data.

The unexpected nature of the investigation led to preliminary articles being published in Italy, Spain, and Argentina. Italian ufologist Pier L. Sani commented on the potential for controversy, while Belgian ufologist Min van Utrecht cautioned against sensationalism, noting that ufologists seemed to have difficulty accepting explanations beyond sensational claims.

The investigation focused on several aspects: characteristics of the artifact, the source of lights over the railway tracks, the nature of light beams, thermal increase experienced by witnesses, carbonized residues, and the observation of humanoid occupants.

The Testimony of Jolie del Valle Moreno de Colotti

Jolie Moreno recounts that on October 21, 1963, she and her sister Argentina traveled with their children to their parents' farm, "Santa Teresa," in Trancas. The evening began with the failure of the farm's lighting equipment. Around 9 PM, the domestic worker, Dora Guzmán, reported seeing strange lights over the railway embankment. Initially dismissed, the sisters eventually went to investigate. They observed a cluster of five lights, not less than 100 meters apart, emitting beams in various directions, illuminating the farm. The lights had no discernible shape and appeared like "light bulbs."

As they watched, they saw human-like silhouettes moving around the lights. Yolanda suggested it might be saboteurs, recalling recent rural guerrilla activity. The possibility of "flying saucers" was then raised, referencing a case involving a truck driver named Douglas.

Later, a greenish light appeared, which they initially mistook for a vehicle. Suddenly, a bright light blinded them, revealing an object approximately 8x3 meters with a turret and protrusions. The impact was so strong that Yolanda stumbled. Inside the house, the witnesses observed beams of light that seemed to penetrate the walls and move. The object emitted a machine-like noise and a thick vapor.

The Testimony of Nallibe, Yolanda Moreno Ebaich

Yolanda Moreno corroborates the events, adding that she initially dismissed Dora's claims. However, after Dora's persistent reports of intense lights, Yolanda went to investigate. She saw two lights over the railway tracks and observed figures that appeared human-like moving within the light. She initially thought they were railway workers. The object was described as metallic, with rivets, and emitting a vapor that obscured its lower part. It seemed to hover close to the ground.

She described the object as having six protrusions and six straps, appearing man-made. As the lights intensified, they saw a serpentine pattern of colors, like many windows, rotating rapidly. The object was estimated to be 8-10 meters in diameter, shaped like an inverted soup bowl. Beams of light were directed at the house, illuminating everything as if being analyzed by an intelligence.

Two lights were observed moving along the access road, inspecting the roof tiles. These lights were cylindrical and parallel. One object moved towards the house like a large "aspirin," but retreated when Jolie tried to touch it. Two beams of light, approximately 2 meters in diameter, shone from the objects on the tracks towards the house. The witnesses experienced a sense of intense heat and a machine-like noise.

The Testimony of Argentina de Jesús Moreno de Chavez

Argentina Moreno, who was pregnant at the time, also recounts the events. She initially dismissed Dora's alarm but became concerned when Yolanda reported people moving by the lights on the tracks. She saw five lights on the ground, some possibly hovering. The objects emitted a strange noise, described as a "soft machine, like a motor," and a "chiqui-chiqui-chi" sound. She also noted a "white vapor" and a "flame" from one of the objects.

Argentina considered the possibility that the artifact was terrestrial but was frightened by its unusual nature. She described the light as blinding and intense, with no discernible colorations. She estimated there were at least seven objects, with three near the house and four on the tracks. She noted that the dogs did not bark, but farm animals and poultry became agitated.

Further Observations and Conclusion

The objects eventually moved towards the Cerro Medina, illuminating it. After the objects departed, a "white ash" was found where they had been. Yolanda recognized the precision of the apparatus and its movement as indicative of extraterrestrial origin. The peón Huanca and José Acosta also observed the phenomenon but did not wish to testify.

Argentina described the intense darkness and silence of the night, broken only by the sounds from the objects. She noted that the lights were large and white, and that the heat from the beams was impressive. Dora Guzmán reported feeling burned, but Argentina states she was not hospitalized for burns and was only deeply impressed.

None of the dogs barked during the event, but farm animals and birds became agitated. The issue concludes by noting that the Trancas case is considered a classic in ufology due to the extensive witness testimonies and the physical evidence collected.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, encounters with alleged occupants, the collection and analysis of physical evidence, and the detailed recounting of witness testimonies. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and documentation of unexplained aerial phenomena, presenting the Trancas case as a prime example of such events in Argentina. The publication aims to provide a thorough and objective account, drawing on multiple sources and expert analysis to support its findings.

This issue of LA GACETA, dated October 17, 1967, focuses on the development of army maneuvers in Salta and a significant UFO sighting that occurred in Trancas, Tucumán, on October 21, 1963. The cover highlights the military exercises with images of soldiers and equipment, while the lead articles delve into the details of the UFO encounter and the subsequent investigation.

The Trancas UFO Sighting

The central narrative revolves around the experience of the Moreno family, particularly Argentina, Jolie, Yolanda, Dora, and Mallibe, who witnessed a luminous phenomenon on the night of October 21, 1963. They described a white light beam, approximately two meters in diameter, that descended directly onto their corral without making a sound. The light illuminated the area but did not penetrate the walls. While the witnesses experienced a sensation of heat, the external temperature was noted as normal (around 26.5°C). The event lasted about 40 minutes, though the family suspected it might have been longer. The creatures observed were described as perspiring profusely, leading to them being given dry clothes.

Argentina Moreno expressed significant impact from the sighting, sparking her curiosity and concern about such phenomena. She noted that the experience was so unusual that the family initially agreed not to tell anyone. Her sister, Jolie, sent a telegram to their brother, Antonio, an attorney in Tucumán, about the event, which inadvertently became public knowledge.

The family's husbands, who were army officers participating in the nearby maneuvers, were initially skeptical. This skepticism is a recurring point of frustration for the witnesses.

Investigation of Initial Hypotheses

Pages 2 and 4-5 detail the investigation into the initial hypotheses for the event: accident, railway cuadrilla (work crew), or sabotage. Inquiries with the Central Movement Control (CMC) in Buenos Aires and the Superintendent of Transport in San Miguel de Tucumán revealed no records of unusual railway activity on the night of October 21, 1963. Interviews with railway personnel, including Julio Luna and Antonio E. Brozicevich, confirmed that the night passed without incident and no railway crews were working on the tracks.

The possibility of sabotage was considered due to nascent rural guerrilla activity in the region around that time, but the lack of any actual incident rendered this hypothesis unlikely.

Military Maneuvers Context

Pages 3-5 provide extensive details about the military exercises taking place in Salta and Tucumán. These maneuvers involved units from various provinces and were a significant event. The newspaper 'La Gaceta' covered these exercises extensively, describing troop movements, combat drills, and even simulated combat scenarios. The timing of the UFO sighting during these large-scale military operations is presented as a key element, leading to speculation about a possible connection.

Scientific Analysis of Residue

On the morning after the sighting, police investigated the finca. A request was made to the University of Tucumán for a technician to analyze a powdery substance found in several locations, including the railway tracks near where the object was reportedly seen. The substance was described as a white, impalpable powder, resembling talc. A sample weighing 2.343 grams was collected and sealed.

The chemical analysis, conducted by Walter Gonzalo Tell of the Institute of Chemical Engineering, identified the substance as primarily oxides. The results showed: Oxido básico: Oxido de Calcio (CaO) - 54.02%; Oxido básico: Dióxido de Potasio (K₂O) - 2.39%; Oxido ácido: Dióxido de Carbono (CO₂) - 43.59%. It also listed carbonate forms: Carbonato de Calcio (CaCO₃) - 96.48% and Carbonato de Potasio (K₂CO₃) - 3.51%.

Object Characteristics and Analogies

Page 6 includes a sketch of what is described as a "blinded flying saucer, or a terrestrial vehicle?" The issue delves into the meteorological conditions on the night of the sighting, noting a clear sky with fog, north winds shifting to southwest, and temperatures between 15 and 39°C. Specific readings from Tucumán Aero station between 20:00 and 22:00 hours indicated a cloudy sky, 10 km visibility, calm wind, 26.5°C temperature, 47% relative humidity, and 960 mbar pressure.

Pages 7-9 discuss the phenomenon of "arc light" (arco voltaico), explaining how it is generated by electric currents passing between carbon electrodes. This is presented as a potential analogy for the luminous beams observed. The text details the use of carbon arc projectors, particularly in anti-aircraft searchlights from 1941, and their powerful light beams capable of illuminating distant objects. The article notes that these projectors were used in industrial exhibitions, causing public surprise with their intense beams.

Thermal Anomaly and Psychological Factors

Page 9 addresses the reported thermal anomaly. While witnesses claimed a significant temperature increase, meteorological data showed a stable temperature of 26.5°C. The article suggests that the perceived heat could be attributed to the witnesses' agitation, the enclosure of the house leading to a lack of ventilation, and the general "warm" climate. The psychological state of the witnesses, particularly their fear and nervousness, is also cited as a factor that could elevate body temperature.

Conclusion and Recurring Themes

The issue concludes by suggesting that the explanation for the observed phenomena might involve the use of powerful projectors, potentially related to the military exercises. The article highlights the persistent belief of the Moreno sisters in the reality of their experience, contrasting it with the initial skepticism of their husbands and the general public. The recurring themes are the unexplained aerial phenomena, the role of military activities, the challenges of witness testimony, and the scientific investigation of unusual events.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained aerial phenomena, often linking them to military activities or advanced technology. The editorial stance appears to favor a thorough investigation of such events, giving credence to witness accounts while also seeking rational explanations through scientific analysis and historical context. There is an underlying theme of the public's fascination with the unknown and the potential for extraordinary events to occur in ordinary settings. The article also touches upon the psychological impact of such experiences on individuals and families.

Title: LA GACETA
Issue Date: October 23, 1963
Publisher: LA GACETA
Country: Argentina
Language: Spanish

This issue of LA GACETA features a prominent article detailing a UFO sighting in Trancas, Argentina, and a scientific analysis of related physical evidence.

Chemical Analysis of Trancas Residues

A letter dated October 23, 1963, from the Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Tecnología, addressed to the Director of the Institute of Chemical Engineering, presents the results of chemical analyses performed on samples from the Trancas area, specifically from the Finca de Don Antonio Moreno. The samples, described as a white powder found on railroad tracks, were analyzed by Quím. Walter Gonzalo Tell. The analysis indicated the presence of calcium carbonate (54.02%), potassium carbonate (2.39%), and other components, totaling 100.02%. The letter suggests that these carbonates are likely the result of the incineration of vegetables or organic substances that have been mineralized, indicating that a combustion process had indeed occurred. The superficial disposition of these salts suggests a combustion process due to the detachment of the element that originated them.

The letter further elaborates on the chemical reactions involved, explaining that the formation of these carbonated salts can occur from basic oxides (calcium and potassium) and the acidic oxide (carbon). The process involves the combination of carbon with oxygen to form carbon dioxide, which then combines with calcium and potassium oxides to yield calcium carbonate and potassium carbonate. The analysis shows that if the process had been due to an object of high temperature (850-950 °C), only basic oxides would have been found, with carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere. Therefore, the residues are confirmed as products of a combustion by detachment, likely projected onto the ground through an opening from the originating element, or as suspended particles in gases released from the burning bodies.

"Extraña Aparición de un Grupo de "Ufos" (Strange Appearance of a Group of "UFOs")

This article, published on October 23, 1963, presents the version of a family from the Trancas area regarding the sighting of "UFOs." The family, including witnesses Jolie, Yolanda, and Argentina, reported seeing objects up close. The article describes the alleged artifact as having a metallic appearance, a motor sound, a dome-like shape with large segments and rivets, suggesting it was a "blinded flying saucer" or a "riveted terrestrial vehicle." It bore a strong resemblance to a Sherman tank or other armored vehicle capable of traversing rough terrain.

The object reportedly emitted a thick white gas or mist from its underside, obscuring whether it was airborne or on the ground. After remaining in the area for 40 minutes, it departed, moving at a low altitude. The witnesses reported that the object moved away respecting the terrain's accidents and geography.

Further details from the report of the Navy ('Anexo, item 21') mention that where the "ovni" had been, a patch of lettuce was found flattened, with no signs of burning. This suggests the object may have been supported by the ground rather than hovering.

The article also discusses lights observed on elevated railway embankments near Taco Ralo. The witnesses interpreted these lights as possibly being searchlights or reflectors. The article posits that these lights, along with the unusual troop movements in the area, might have been part of security measures against potential sabotage or attacks, given the context of rural guerrilla activity and the constant passage of troop trains.

Analysis and Conclusion

The article concludes that the observed phenomena in Trancas can be explained in terms of military troop movements in the area. The lights seen were likely Sperry arc searchlights used by the army at that time. The accumulation of carbon dust and other residues produced by the functioning of these projectors is consistent with the carbonated residues found. The anthropomorphic silhouettes observed by the witnesses are interpreted as a group of soldiers maneuvering in the dark. The article suggests that the family's experience was a multiple and emotionally charged event, and that their accounts, while sincere, may have been influenced by their personal experiences and the passage of time.

References

Page 5 and 6 of the document contain extensive references, compiled by Richard W. Heiden, related to UFO phenomena in Argentina and international cases. These references include newspaper articles, magazine publications, and other sources, with a particular focus on the work of Roberts E. Banchs and Theodore R. (Ted) Bluecher.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to cover UFO phenomena with a degree of seriousness, presenting both witness testimony and scientific analysis. The editorial stance, particularly in the analysis of the Trancas incident, leans towards a rational explanation, attributing the observed phenomena to military activity rather than extraterrestrial visitation. The article acknowledges the sincerity of the witnesses but highlights inconsistencies and suggests psychological factors may have influenced their perceptions. The extensive reference list indicates a commitment to thorough research and documentation within the field of ufology.