Los Identificados- No 12

Magazine Overview

This issue, titled 'LOS IDENTIFICADOS' (The Identified Ones), with the identifier 'XII', presents a collection of UFO (OVNI) cases involving occupants, specifically focusing on incidents in Argentina. The cover features a striking illustration of a grey alien's head and prominently displays the name 'DR. ROBERTO BANCHS', suggesting his involvement as an author or editor.

The Case of Ventura Maceiras: Rejuvenation in Tres Arroyos

The central article details the extraordinary experience of Ventura Maceiras, a 73-year-old caretaker from Tres Arroyos, Buenos Aires Province. On December 30, 1972, Maceiras reported an encounter with a UFO and its occupants. The incident, however, went beyond a mere sighting, as Maceiras claimed it led to a significant rejuvenation of his physical health, practical skills, and intellectual capacity.

The report notes prior alleged sightings in Tres Arroyos, suggesting the area might be a route or stop for 'flying saucers'. One antecedent involves a retired man who saw an entity in his living room. This entity, described as tall and thin with a metallic green-blue suit, a helmet, and a device on its belt, vanished after a brief, silent interaction. The witness, initially startled, later found himself in better health.

Another similar account comes from the manager of a bar in Tres Arroyos, who described a tall individual with a penetrating gaze who entered the public restroom and then disappeared.

Maceiras's own account is presented in detail. He describes being near his home when a UFO landed. The craft, approximately 20 meters in diameter, emitted a bright light and a humming sound. He observed two beings inside, described as tall, wearing suits and helmets, with eyes and noses similar to humans. They carried devices on their backs, which Maceiras speculated might be for oxygen or parachutes. He attempted to communicate with them, offering mate, and observed symbols on their equipment, including a seahorse and indecipherable letters.

Following the encounter, Maceiras reported experiencing a tingling sensation in his legs, followed by a strong headache and other physical discomforts. However, remarkably, he claimed new teeth began to grow, his hair regrew, his eyesight improved significantly (allowing him to discard his glasses), and he developed enhanced intellectual and artistic abilities, including a newfound understanding of philosophy, theology, and astronomy, and the ability to solve complex mathematical problems. He also claimed to have acquired healing faculties.

Further encounters are described, including one on February 24, 1973, where an extraterrestrial identifying himself as 'Arnoil' from the planet 'Prunio' appeared and conversed with Maceiras about his planet and its customs before vanishing. A psychic, G.A. Protta Troncoso, had reportedly predicted this visit.

The article also touches upon Maceiras's claims about the extraterrestrials' origins, mentioning planets like 'Saurnio' and 'Arnei', and even 'Nebulon' and 'Pluton'. He expressed a dire prophecy about the Earth's future, foreseeing atmospheric anomalies and the Sun's eventual dimming, leading to an ice age.

Despite the extraordinary claims, the article includes a critical analysis, questioning the sustainability of Maceiras's story. It points out the short duration of the sighting, the implausibility of observing interior details from his perspective, and the absurd nature of some descriptions, such as the astronauts' equipment. The analysis suggests that Maceiras might have been influenced by prior news reports and imaginative individuals.

The Case of Jorge Roberto Herrera: A Contact in Salta

Another significant case presented is that of Jorge Roberto Herrera, a 23-year-old engineering student from Córdoba. On March 13, 1973, while traveling near Salta, he witnessed a UFO land. An anthropomorphic entity emerged, moved without visible limbs, and then the craft took off and disappeared. Herrera approached the landing site and found himself inexplicably displaced 15 meters from his original position, standing on a mark on the ground. He experienced a general malaise and was admitted to a clinic in Salta.

His account, presented on a television program and published in 'Quarta Dimensión', describes the object as a white aluminum craft that descended and then became coppery as it took off. The entity was about 1.60 meters tall, robust, with a large head, wearing a white suit and a helmet with a green visor. It had short arms and feet that were part of the suit. Herrera felt a tingling and warmth during the observation. After the object departed, he felt unwell, experiencing nausea and a general malaise. He was hospitalized, received injections, and underwent tests. His medical records indicated digestive bleeding and melena, and later, his blood showed a 20% presence of an unidentified substance, with his fingernails turning blue.

Analysis and Conclusions

The article critically examines both cases. Regarding Ventura Maceiras, the author concludes that his story is unsustainable, citing a lack of common sense in his subsequent encounters and the fantastical nature of his claims. The analysis suggests that Maceiras may have been 'suggested' by media reports and imaginative interpretations.

For Jorge Roberto Herrera, the article notes that while the initial report focused on the UFO and the entity, medical professionals suspected possible alcoholism or exposure to toxic agents. However, subsequent information from the hospital revealed no evidence of such conditions, but rather a presumptive diagnosis of digestive hemorrhage and the presence of an unidentified substance in his blood.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the theme of UFO encounters with occupants, presenting detailed witness testimonies. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these accounts, but also critically analyzing them, questioning their veracity, and exploring potential psychological or sociological influences. The inclusion of scientific and medical perspectives, even if critical, suggests an attempt at a balanced, albeit skeptical, approach to the phenomenon. The recurring theme is the transformative or impactful nature of these encounters on the witnesses, ranging from physical and mental rejuvenation to illness and disorientation.

This issue of the magazine, identified by volume '12' and issue '-13-', features a cover headline "AZUL, BA: A TODAS LUCES" and is dated August 13, 1994. It is published by 'La Zona' in Argentina and is in Spanish. The issue delves into two primary UFO encounters and a related medical case study.

Medical Case Study: Jorge Roberto Herrera

The issue begins by discussing the case of J.R. Eecrera (also referred to as Jorge Roberto Herrera), who sought medical attention after experiencing an indisposition. Upon returning to Córdoba, he underwent further examinations at the Hospital de Clínicas. Approximately five months later, he was informed of a 20% increase of an unidentified substance in his blood, significantly above the normal 8%. The article speculates that this substance could be gammaglobulins, which are crucial for immune response and can be elevated in conditions like alcoholic psychosis or during a persistent conflict leading to a crisis.

In the "CONSIDERACIONES FINALES" section regarding Herrera's case, it is revealed that his "explanation" was not due to extraterrestrial phenomena but rather a digestive hemorrhage that manifested on March 11, three days before a related incident. The psychopathological analysis is limited due to the dependence on the amount of blood lost. A globular analysis performed after his recovery yielded no significant results. Radiological findings are also not indicated. The article suggests that if the cause was an ulcer, it might have been triggered by significant prior psychological pressure. This hypothesis does not exclude a manifestation of chronic alcoholic impregnation syndrome, as suggested by doctors in Salta, indicating a complex personality imbalance. Herrera's experience is described as occurring in a state of mental confusion, disorientation, and a feeling of being lost. The case is ultimately characterized as an "essentially hallucinatory fantasy," though further study is encouraged.

UFO Sighting: Azul, BA (August 13, 1994)

The main article, "AZUL, BA: A TODAS LUCES," details a significant UFO sighting on August 13, 1994. A group of people returning to Azul in two cars observed a cluster of pulsating lights—red, yellow, orange, and white—about 16 km from the city, near the De Uriarte family's fields. They stopped their vehicles to observe the phenomenon, which appeared as an "oval" shape about a hundred meters from the road. Some witnesses decided to approach on foot but retreated when the lights seemed to move closer.

Testimonies:

• Julio Courreges: Initially hesitant to share his account, Courreges eventually spoke about the event. He reported seeing lights that appeared like a "carousel" and later described them as an "oval" shape. He noted that the lights were intense and intermittent.
• Noemí C. de Garciarena: She corroborated the sighting, describing the lights as intense, predominantly red and yellow, with orange and green hues, flashing rhythmically. She also reported seeing "people" moving between the lights, describing them as tall and thin, like "noodles." She felt a sense of unease and fear.
• Graciela and Julia Courreges (daughters of Julio): Graciela described the lights as powerful and large, illuminating the field. She noted a light smoke or haze emanating from below and saw "people" walking among the lights. Julia, initially less impressed, later recalled seeing "people" walking towards them.
• Bettiana Garciarena (daughter of Noemí): She described the lights as potent and large, with varied colors and a quadrangular aspect. She also mentioned a light, enveloping smoke and "people" walking among the lights, noting their normal but slow movements.
• Guillermina Azpaja: She appeared anxious and described being scared while observing from inside the car. She saw "people" walking towards them, dressed in tight-fitting outfits.
• María Rita Baldini: She described the lights as flashing on and off rhythmically, appearing to spin. She noted they lacked a defined shape and that smoke emerged from the ground.

Analysis:

The article discusses the psychological impact of the sighting, suggesting that the witnesses' belief in extraterrestrials played a role in their interpretation. The "Psicología de la Gestalt" is invoked to explain how the mind organizes visual stimuli into coherent forms, such as the "plato" (saucer) shape described by the witnesses. The explanation offered by the farm owners, that the lights were from vehicles used by young people working on the farm, is presented as a plausible alternative, consistent with the witnesses' descriptions of lights and movements.

UFO Encounter: Zapala, Neuquén (May 14, 1952)

This section details a dramatic encounter reported by Aurelio Adriano Lilli, a young man from Córdoba, on May 14, 1952. While traveling alone on his motorcycle near Zapala, his vehicle stopped. He then observed a luminous sphere descending towards him. He described it as a "flying saucer" with pulsating lights and a strong whistling and buzzing sound. The object, estimated to be about 25 meters in diameter, landed on the ground, leaving behind three rectangular marks and scorched earth. Lilli reported seeing movement within the object's dome and described the experience as terrifying.

Investigation:

An investigation into Lilli's account was conducted years later, in February 1989. Lilli, then 24 years old, worked as a police agent and radio operator in Zapala. He described the object as round and flat, with a lenticular shape, and a dome on top. He noted colored lights within the dome and speculated it might be made of plastic. He felt a strong sense of fear and a need to approach the object. The article highlights Lilli's emotional state, describing his written account as a rapid flow of words reflecting his thought process. The investigation aimed to clarify the nature of the observed phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings and related phenomena, presenting eyewitness testimonies alongside attempts at scientific and psychological analysis. The editorial stance appears to favor a critical examination of such events, acknowledging the subjective nature of perception while also considering the possibility of genuine, unexplained occurrences. The inclusion of both recent and historical cases, along with medical and psychological perspectives, suggests a comprehensive approach to the study of UFOs and anomalous phenomena.

This issue of "A.I.A. Investigaciones Ovni" (Vol. 1, Nro. 11, 1996) is dedicated to "LOS IDENTIFICADOS" (The Identified), presenting a compilation and analysis of UFO sightings and related phenomena in Argentina. The magazine aims to critically examine reported cases, often suggesting conventional explanations or psychological factors, while also documenting intriguing testimonies.

Case Analysis: Aurelio Lilli Sighting

The issue prominently features the case of Aurelio Lilli, who reported seeing a UFO near Zapala. The article details a psychological assessment of Lilli, describing him as having a manic-depressive personality with rigid intellectual functioning, hypervigilance, and defensive sensitivity. His dominant mechanisms are identified as reaction formation and isolation, with internal tensions and difficulties in controlling emotions. The assessment suggests a possible constitutional dysthymia with alternating episodes and hyperemotional responses, possibly linked to organic dysfunction or a decline in his sense of reality.

Lilli's account describes seeing lights that he initially mistook for a truck, followed by a more intense light that descended. He experienced fear and suspicion, but also a sense of excitement. The object, described as a "flying saucer," landed, and Lilli approached it. The article suggests that the object might have been a helicopter, specifically the Sikorsky S-55, a utility transport used by the Argentine Air Force between 1960 and 1968. The S-55's capabilities and operational use in border areas, where military units are located, are highlighted. The article notes that the sighting occurred in a border area with frequent military overflights.

Helicopter Characteristics and Misidentification

The magazine elaborates on the characteristics of helicopters that might lead to misidentification. These include:

• Movement: Circling before landing, hovering at low altitudes, and vertical take-off, mimicking UFO maneuvers.
• Sound: The distinctive whirring or "whistle" of rotors, which can be perceived as unusual.
• Lights: The presence of landing lights, anti-collision lights (often red and intense), and navigation lights (green, red, white) that can flash or destell.

The article compares Lilli's description of lights (flame-like, green, white flashing) to those of aircraft. It also discusses the description of a "dome" and internal "levers," relating it to the cockpit of a helicopter like the S-55. The estimated size of the object (25 meters) is compared to the rotor span of the S-55 (18.94 meters). The article notes that a perceived anomaly in the object's shape (horizontal axis in the middle of its mass) might be a transposition error, a phenomenon observed in subjects experiencing emotional disturbance or varied disorders.

Other Reported Incidents

The issue also presents a series of other reported UFO incidents in Argentina, categorized as "INFORMES NO CONSIGNADOS" (Unfiled Reports) due to insufficient data or potential unreliability. These include:

• 1950, Santiago del Estero: A witness reported a large, silver disc with strange lights and figures inside.
• 1956, Buenos Aires: A "contactee" case involving a tall being, a journey on a craft, and examinations.
• 1961, Río Salado, Buenos Aires: A witness saw a disc-shaped object with lights and figures.
• 1962, Ugarteche, Mendoza: Strange sounds and a large, silent craft were observed.
• 1962, General La Madrid, Buenos Aires: A metallic craft with a human-like figure.
• 1965, San Miguel, Mendoza: A mysterious artifact, possibly from a satellite, with small, uniformed individuals.
• 1965, San José de Jáchal, San Juan: A luminous, circular craft with beings.
• 1968, Caucete, San Juan: A bright light and a robot-like figure.
• 1978, Sarandí, Buenos Aires: A spherical object with a parachute-like structure.
• 1978, Arroyo Corto, Buenos Aires: An object descending like a parachute.
• 1979, Sierra Pintada, Mendoza: A fleet of UFOs reportedly seen.
• 1979, Santiago del Estero: Four individuals emerged from a landed craft.
• 1982, Comodoro Rivadavia: Beings with human-like features and large heads observed near a failing military transport.
• 1985, Olavarría, Buenos Aires: Two dark-clothed beings observed near a golf course.
• 1990, Loreto, Santiago del Estero: An armored apparatus descended, releasing small beings.
• 1991, Victoria, Buenos Aires: A witness reported an experience involving a luminous craft and beings with slanted eyes.
• 1994, Río Tercero, Córdoba: Reports of an unidentified flying object and a tall, metallic figure.

References and Acknowledgements

The issue includes references to various publications and sources, such as "El Mundo," "La Razón," "Buenos Aires Herald," "Flying Saucer Review," and "Clarín." It also acknowledges the contribution of Mr. Aurelio Lilli for his testimony and thanks personnel from the National Library and National Aeronautics Museum.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the analysis of UFO sightings, the potential for misidentification with conventional aircraft (particularly helicopters), and the psychological profile of witnesses. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical investigation, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the persistent nature of UFO reports. The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous analysis and data collection, distinguishing between well-documented cases and those based on rumors or unverified accounts. The inclusion of psychological assessments suggests an interest in the subjective experience of witnesses and how it might influence their perceptions.