NOUFA - No 49

Magazine Overview

This issue of NOUFA, the "NOTICIERO UFOLÓGICO AUTONOMO" (Autonomous Ufological Newsletter), identified as number 49 and volume BP, was published on June 1, 2017. The cover prominently features "EL MONSTRUO DE FLATWOODS" (The Flatwoods Monster) and highlights other historical and anomalous topics.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Raúl Núñez, addresses reader inquiries about the magazine's evolving thematic focus. Núñez reassures readers that unidentified flying objects (UFOs) will not be abandoned, but the publication aims to collect new and less-common cases. He argues that UFOs are not a passing fad but a transcendental phenomenon linked to human evolution, present throughout history in various forms. The editorial acknowledges the difficulty in answering fundamental questions about the phenomenon's origin, purpose, and nature. It also notes the successful incorporation of cryptozoology and 'fantastic zoology' topics, as requested by readers, and the inclusion of historical chronicles, particularly those from Chile, blending history, superstition, and religiosity. The editorial emphasizes that NOUFA's shift in focus from its Spanish origins to Chilean content is due to the limited accessibility of certain publications in Chile, aiming to present cases previously unknown to the national ufology community. The goal is to expand knowledge, driven by curiosity.

Table of Contents

The table of contents outlines the issue's diverse content:

• Portada (Page 1)
• Editorial (Page 2) - By Raúl Núñez
• Índice-Temario (Page 3)
• CRONICAS DE LA HISTORIA (Pages 4-7) - Inés de Suárez: Strange appearances, superstitions, witchcraft.
• UFOLOGIA (Pages 8-13): 1. A classic case: The Flatwoods Monster. 2. The UFO seen by John Lennon. 3. Texts by Jesuitas del Reino de Chile: Anomalous Aerial Phenomena. 4. Strange circles in Carmen de Areco, Argentina.
• CONSPIRACIONES (Page 25) - Lethal drones for the United States police.
• SECTOR DE OPINIONE (Pages 26-27) - Extract from a book by Raúl Núñez.
• ZOOLOGIA FANTASTICA (Pages 28-29) - Winged cats.
• CRIPTOZOOLOGIA (Pages 30-32) - Was Nessie photographed in Scotland in May?
• CINE DE FICCION (Pages 33-34) - The incredible shrinking man – Year 1957.
• CONVERSANDO CON (Pages 35-37) - Interview with Chilean writer Benedicto Cerdà.
• RELATOS CORTOS – CUENTOS (Page 38) - The Devil's pulpería.
• BIBLIOGRAFIA: LIBROS EXTRAÑOS Y/O FUERA DE CONTEXTO (Pages 39-40) - Who Killed Cristóbal Colón? by Josep Rubau Solés.
• Revelaciones (Page 41) - LA PROCESION.
• SOBRE APARICIONES MARIANAS – ESPERANDO EL MILAGRO (Pages 42-45) - Authors: Francisco Cabrera and Pilar Galvín.
• La sorprendente conexión entre Nuestra Señora de Fátima y el Islam (Pages 46-47) - Author: Philip Kosloski.
• CURIOSIDADES ANOMALAS (Page 48) - The cursed opal Castiglione, The phrase.
• HUMOR UFOLOGICO (Page 49) - Year 1975.
• Colaboradores de este número 49 (Page 50) - Who are we?

Inés de Suárez: Strange Appearances, Superstitions, Witchcraft (Pages 4-7)

This section details the life of Inés de Suárez (Plasencia, Spain, 1507 - Chile, 1580), a founder of Santiago, Chile, alongside Pedro de Valdivia. It covers her early life, marriage to Juan de Málaga, and her journey to America in search of him. After learning of his death, she received land in Cuzco, where she met Valdivia. The article describes their subsequent relationship and her participation in Valdivia's expedition to Chile in 1539. It highlights her bravery during the defense of Santiago against indigenous attacks, particularly her decisive action of beheading seven indigenous leaders to demoralize the attackers. The text also touches upon her alleged paranormal abilities and connection to witchcraft, citing opinions from Gastón Soublette and referencing Isabel Allende's novel "Inés del Alma Mía." The section concludes by discussing her later life, marriage to Rodrigo de Quiroga, and death around 1580.

UFOLOGIA (Pages 8-13)

The Flatwoods Monster

This article focuses on the well-known Flatwoods Monster incident that occurred on September 12, 1952, in Flatwoods, West Virginia, USA. It describes how a group of young people, including Kathleen May and several boys, witnessed a fiery object descend, followed by the appearance of a tall, humanoid creature with a red face, bulging eyes, and a green, glowing body. The encounter reportedly caused panic, with witnesses experiencing a strong, metallic odor and observing flattened grass and skid marks. Newspaper clippings from the time, including reports from the "Braxton Democrat," are included, detailing the event and the skepticism of local authorities.

The UFO seen by John Lennon

This brief mention refers to a UFO sighting reportedly witnessed by musician John Lennon on August 23, 1974.

Texts by Jesuitas del Reino de Chile: Anomalous Aerial Phenomena

This section appears to be a historical account of anomalous aerial phenomena documented by Jesuits in Chile.

Strange circles in Carmen de Areco, Argentina

This entry indicates a discussion about crop circles or similar formations found in Carmen de Areco, Argentina.

Other Sections

• Conspiraciones: Discusses lethal drones used by US police.
• Sector de Opinione: An excerpt from a book by Raúl Núñez.
• Zoología Fantástica: Explores the topic of winged cats.
• Criptozoología: Investigates the possibility of Nessie being photographed in Scotland.
• Cine de Ficción: Reviews the 1957 film "The Incredible Shrinking Man."
• Conversando Con: An interview with Chilean writer Benedicto Cerdà.
• Relatos Cortos – Cuentos: Features a short story titled "La pulpería del Diablo."
• Bibliografía: Reviews "Who Killed Cristóbal Colón?" by Josep Rubau Solés.
• Revelaciones: Discusses "LA PROCESION."
• Sobre Apariciones Marianas – Esperando el Milagro: Explores Marian apparitions and miracles, authored by Francisco Cabrera and Pilar Galvín.
• La sorprendente conexión entre Nuestra Señora de Fátima y el Islam: An article by Philip Kosloski on the connection between Our Lady of Fátima and Islam.
• Curiosidades Anómalas: Covers topics like the cursed opal Castiglione and a notable phrase.
• Humor Ufológico: A section dedicated to UFO-related humor from 1975.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are diverse, encompassing historical mysteries, paranormal phenomena, ufology, cryptozoology, and even fictional accounts. The editorial stance, as expressed by Raúl Núñez, is one of open inquiry into anomalous phenomena, particularly UFOs, while also acknowledging and exploring other intriguing subjects like cryptozoology and historical enigmas. The magazine aims to provide a platform for new cases and perspectives, catering to a readership interested in the unexplained and the historical underpinnings of such phenomena, with a particular focus on Chilean content.

This issue of "Fenómenos Aéreos Anómalos" (Anomalous Aerial Phenomena), published in 1994, focuses on historical accounts of UFO sightings and encounters, particularly those documented in Jesuit writings from Chile. The magazine explores the intersection of historical records, witness testimonies, and ufological investigations.

The Reported Encounter Investigation (Flatwoods)

The issue details the investigation into the reported encounter in Flatwoods, USA. Following the initial sighting, authorities, including the sheriff, were largely skeptical. However, some witnesses reported finding an area where the grass was flattened in a circular pattern. Ufologists and biologists like Ivan T. Sanderson and Gray Barker visited the site, confirming the flattened grass and a slight depression in the ground, though no photographs were taken. Gray Barker interviewed A.M. Jordan, who reported seeing a long, elongated object emitting red fireballs before hovering and crashing. Jordan's grandson, Neil Nunley, provided a similar description but noted a discrepancy, possibly due to different viewing angles.

Despite skeptical explanations, witnesses remained firm in their accounts. Investigators, including William and Donna Smith of "Civilian Saucer Investigation L.A.," gathered more testimonies. These included a mother and daughter who encountered a creature resembling the one described, emitting a horrible odor, a week before the Flatwoods incident. The daughter was hospitalized for three weeks due to the encounter. Another witness, the mother of Eugene Lemon, reported her house being violently shaken and her radio going silent for 45 minutes around the time of the incident. The local education board director also reported seeing a flying saucer take off on the morning after the creature was sighted.

Further unusual incidents occurred the following night, with a resident reporting a "brilliant orange" object circling over Flatwoods. Investigator John Keel also observed the Flatwoods incident and found other witnesses who had seen the "monster" and strange objects. Ufologist Ivan Sanderson collected soil samples and witness reports, but his findings were not made public.

Witness Illnesses

Those who encountered the creature reported similar symptoms, including irritation of the nose and throat, vomiting, and convulsions, attributed to exposure to a mist or smoke emitted by the creature. A doctor described the symptoms as similar to mustard gas victims, though also common in hysteria induced by traumatic events. The dog that first approached the creature reportedly vomited and died two days later.

1952 A Year of UFO Sightings

The year 1952 was marked by numerous UFO sightings worldwide, with the United States being particularly affected. This period of heightened public anxiety, possibly exacerbated by the atomic bomb, led to widespread sightings, including over military and nuclear facilities. The U.S. Air Force responded by having "Project Blue Book" investigate witnesses and collect data, and by dispatching fighter jets to pursue and identify unidentified aerial objects.

Conclusion

Skeptics proposed that the object was a meteor and the creature was an owl. However, the witnesses' accounts of the object hovering, circling, and making a soft landing contradict the typical behavior of a meteor, which travels in a straight line and creates a loud noise and a large crater upon impact. The owl explanation is also refuted by investigators like Stanton Friedman and Frank Feschino, Jr., who point out the creature's estimated size (12 feet or 3.5 meters) and its glowing blue eyes that emitted light beams, as well as its red face and pointed hood-like headdress, which are inconsistent with an owl's appearance.

Was the Flying Object a Meteor?

Skeptics and the U.S. Air Force suggested the object was a meteor. However, witness testimonies describe it hovering and circling before landing, unlike a meteor's typical straight trajectory and impact. No crater or debris was found.

Was the Creature an Owl?

This explanation is dismissed by UFO investigators. The creature's estimated height of 12 feet (3.5 meters) and its unusual features, such as glowing blue eyes and a red face with a hood, are inconsistent with an owl.

Strange Beings

The article notes that the Flatwoods monster is not the only strange being described by witnesses, referencing the case of Jomel and Ayora and posing questions about their origins and potential interdimensional nature.

The John Lennon UFO Sighting

Russ Kellet, an expert on the Llandrillo UFO case, acquired a drawing attributed to John Lennon, depicting his alleged UFO sighting in New York in 1974. Lennon reportedly described seeing a "cone-shaped flying object" while on his apartment balcony with his girlfriend, May Pang. He was fascinated by the event, incorporating it into song lyrics. Kellet, a collector of UFO material, purchased the drawing, believing it to be authentic. May Pang, however, has disputed the drawing's authenticity, stating it does not resemble Lennon's style and that she possesses the only drawing he made of the event. Kellet maintains that Lennon created multiple sketches of the encounter.

Lennon's quote suggests that widespread acceptance of UFOs would challenge the status quo and lead to radical personal and societal changes.

Jesuit Texts from the Kingdom of Chile and Anomalous Aerial Phenomena

This section explores historical accounts of anomalous aerial phenomena found in the writings of Jesuit priests in Chile from the 17th to 19th centuries. Authors like Alonso de Ovalle, Diego de Rosales, Manuel Lacunza, Felipe Gómez de Vidaurre, and Juan Ignacio Molina documented events that align with modern ufology.

A Mysterious Character

Some authors suggest that extraterrestrial beings may have contacted humanity in ancient times, influencing civilization's development. The book "Intelligent Life in the Universe" by I. S. Shiklovsky and Carl Sagan posits that ancient myths, like that of Oanes (a being described as half-man, half-fish), could be evidence of such contact.

A Battle in the Sky

Alonso de Ovalle's "Histórica relación del reino de Chile" describes a celestial battle witnessed in the sky near the Villarrica Volcano in the early 17th century. Two armies, one led by a valiant captain on a white horse, engaged in a battle that lasted for three months. Following this, a furious volcanic eruption occurred, causing widespread destruction. The text also mentions a "fierce beast" with twisted horns, whose vision inspired interpretations of apocalyptic prophecies.

The article questions whether this "fierce beast" was natural or artificial, noting that it was not identifiable with known species. It suggests that the Jesuit's account was likely based on genuine observations, as any fabricated story could have led to prosecution by the Inquisition.

Fireballs

Alonso de Ovalle also recorded observations of "fire globes" after a 1663 earthquake in Carelmapu and a 1751 earthquake in Concepción. These phenomena, described as fiery spheres emitting strange sounds, are considered by some researchers to be linked to the activity of enigmatic spacecraft.

Jesuits like Felipe Gómez de Vidaurre and Juan Ignacio Molina also described "fire globes" originating from volcanoes, moving across the territory, and disappearing into the sea. These descriptions bear similarities to modern UFO sightings.

Extraterrestrial Life

Manuel de Lacunza y Díaz, a Jesuit priest, explored the possibility of extraterrestrial life in his posthumously published work "La venida del Mesías en Gloria y Majestad." He suggested that stars are solar systems with planets, implying the existence of other inhabited worlds. This idea predated modern astronomical discoveries by over a century.

The article concludes by encouraging future researchers to delve into historical colonial literature for more clues about anomalous aerial phenomena and unidentified flying objects.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are historical UFO sightings, unexplained aerial phenomena, and the interpretation of these events through witness testimony, investigative research, and historical documents, particularly those from Jesuit sources in Chile. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these phenomena, presenting evidence and theories without definitively dismissing any possibilities, while also acknowledging skeptical viewpoints. The magazine highlights the long history of such accounts, suggesting that they are not a recent invention but rather a persistent aspect of human experience and observation across different cultures and time periods.

This issue of Noticiero Ufológico Autónomo (NOUFA), issue number 27, dated March 30, 2014, delves into various unexplained phenomena, from alleged UFO sightings and crop circles to cryptozoological reports and the controversial use of technology in law enforcement.

Carmen de Areco UFO Circles

The magazine reports on a significant event in Carmen de Areco, Argentina, where three large, perfectly formed circles appeared in a field, causing a stir and leading to speculation of UFO activity. Intendente Marcelo Skansi described the circles as "large and perfect in circumference." Local media and investigators, including Andrea Pérez Simondini from CEFORA, collected grass samples for analysis to determine if chemical agents or extraterrestrial activity were responsible. The INTA (National Agricultural Technology Institute) offered a more mundane explanation, with agronomist Mario Bragachini suggesting that such formations could be created using agricultural machinery equipped with GPS guidance systems, possibly involving herbicides like glyphosate or diesel. He noted that the circles weren't perfectly round and showed signs of wind drift, consistent with spraying. The article also references similar incidents, such as the 1991 confession of two farmers in the UK who admitted to creating crop circles, and a 2000 incident in Els Omellons, Spain, which was later attributed to human activity. Skeptics like Christian Sanz are mentioned, who highlight the potential for hoaxes.

Cryptozoology: Winged Cats and the Loch Ness Monster

The issue features a section on cryptozoology, including reports of "winged cats." Several instances are detailed: a cat in China with bone-filled wing-like growths, another in China with ear-like appendages, a cat found in Turkey in 2008, and one from Oxford in the 1930s. The article notes that winged cats were revered in ancient Egypt. It also touches upon superstitions, mentioning a case in Russia in 2004 where a winged cat was killed by locals who believed it was a messenger of Satan. The article cites zoologist Dr. Karl Shuker as an expert in the field and outlines veterinary explanations for such anomalies, including genetic mutations, skin conditions, or matted fur.

Separately, the magazine reports on alleged sightings of the Loch Ness Monster. British tourist Hayley Johnson claims to have filmed an "unsettling image" of the creature in Urquhart Bay, Loch Ness, on May 1st. Gary Campbell, president of the Loch Ness Monster Fan Club, expressed relief and excitement over the sighting, noting a recent lull in reports. Another report details Rob Jones filming what appears to be the Loch Ness Monster while traveling in Scotland.

Drones for Law Enforcement

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the controversial topic of armed drones for police use in the United States. The parliament of Connecticut is considering legislation that would permit police to equip autonomous drones with lethal weapons for crime prevention, such as locating individuals, reducing criminals, or disabling explosive devices. This initiative is described as pioneering, with a strong vote in favor within the judicial committee. The article contrasts this with Dakota del Norte's earlier legalization of drones with non-lethal technologies. Civil liberties advocates, like the American Civil Liberties Union, are protesting the move, arguing it does not enhance security. Despite concerns, proponents argue that such technology is necessary to keep law enforcement abreast of technological advancements and will be used in "very limited cases."

Bibliography and Editorial Notes

The issue includes a bibliography listing several historical and geographical works related to Chile, authored by figures such as Francisco Enrich, Felipe Gómez de Vidaurre, Manuel Lacunza, Juan Ignacio Molina, Alonso de Ovalle, Juan Guillermo Prado O., Luis Altamirano C., Diego de Rosales, Miguel Rafael Urzúa, and Gerónimo Vivar. The magazine also features an introduction to the book "Galeria Heterodoxa" by Raúl Núñez, which explores strange occurrences and folklore, particularly within Chile. Núñez emphasizes his investigative approach, which involves direct interviews and on-site research rather than relying solely on internet sources. He discusses the prevalence of strange phenomena and the human tendency to either believe or dismiss them, suggesting that many unexplained events remain a mystery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of the unexplained, the intersection of technology and mystery, and the critical examination of phenomena often dismissed by mainstream science. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded yet analytical stance, presenting various perspectives, from eyewitness accounts and speculative theories to scientific and skeptical explanations. There is a clear interest in documenting anomalous events and encouraging further investigation into the unknown, while also acknowledging the possibility of hoaxes and natural explanations. The editorial stance seems to favor presenting a wide array of controversial topics, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions.

This issue of "Cine de Ciencia Ficcion" (Science Fiction Cinema) from 1987, identified as issue number 31 and volume 2, features a cover story on "The Incredible Shrinking Man" and an interview with Chilean writer Benedicto Cerdà. The magazine also touches upon the enduring legend of the Loch Ness Monster and reports on the unsolved murder of author Josep Rubau Solés.

The Incredible Shrinking Man (1957)

The magazine provides a detailed review of the 1957 science fiction film "The Incredible Shrinking Man," directed by Jack Arnold and based on Richard Matheson's novel "The Shrinking Man." The plot centers on Scott Carey, who, after being exposed to a mysterious mist, begins to shrink uncontrollably. The review highlights the film's realistic portrayal of Scott's psychological and physical struggles as he adapts to his diminishing size, facing challenges from everyday objects and creatures that become life-threatening. The narrative emphasizes the themes of obsession, irascibility, euphoria, depression, and the constant threat posed by his changing environment. The review draws parallels to Franz Kafka's 'The Metamorphosis' and underscores the profound sense of danger and the overwhelming feeling of being a 'freak' as Scott's life deteriorates and he fights for survival in a world that is both familiar and terrifyingly alien.

The Legend of Nessie

The issue revisits the mystery of the Loch Ness Monster, referencing a recent filming by tourist Roy Jones. The footage reportedly shows an elongated, vertical form with its head and neck emerging from the water near a boat. The witness, while not a believer in monsters, expressed curiosity about the phenomenon. The article also touches upon the historical context of Nessie sightings, dating back to the 6th century, and the popularization of the term "monster" in 1933. The infamous "Surgeon's Photograph" from 1934, allegedly taken by R.K. Wilson, is discussed, along with the later confession by Marmaduke Wetherell's stepson that the photo was faked using a toy submarine. Despite these explanations, the legend continues to attract tourists.

Interview with Benedicto Cerdà

A substantial part of the magazine is dedicated to an interview with Chilean writer Benedicto Cerdà, conducted by Pedro Rivas R. Cerdà, born in Alhué, Chile, discusses his literary journey, which began in 2003. He explains that his enthusiasm for writing emerged later in life, driven by a need for catharsis during his parents' illnesses. He initially wrote poetry and anti-poems before moving to short stories and narrative. Cerdà reveals that his novel "Cuando vuelvan los flamencos" (When the Flamingos Return), published in 2013, was inspired by his impact from the world of UFOs, and he describes it as a UFO-themed satire. He shares his positive experiences with some publishers, like Editorial y Librería Occidente, but also recounts a negative experience with a Spanish publisher who delayed the release of his book for years. Cerdà expresses his views on the Chilean literary scene, noting a lack of opportunities for new writers and a prevalence of "pseudo writers." He also touches upon the declining reading habits among young people and expresses his opposition to the Value Added Tax (IVA) on books in Chile.

The Murder of Josep Rubau Solés

The magazine reports on the unsolved murder of Spanish author and real estate agent Josep Rubau Solés, who lived in Pichilemu, Chile. Rubau Solés, aged 76, was found dead in his country house, with initial investigations suggesting a robbery as the motive. He had recently published a book titled "¿Quién mató a Cristóbal Colón?" (Who Killed Christopher Columbus?), in which he proposed hypotheses about the explorer's life. The article notes that despite years passing since the murder in 2009, the investigation remains open with no definitive culprits identified. The magazine expresses a sense of "black hand" influence behind the lack of resolution.

Short Stories and Other Content

The issue also includes a short story titled "La Pulpería del Diablo" (The Devil's Store) by Roberto J. Schreder. The story recounts a personal experience of fear and the supernatural while riding a horse near an old, supposedly haunted pulpería. The author notes that animals like horses and dogs often seem more sensitive to such phenomena than humans. Another section, "Bibliografía," reviews books outside the usual context, highlighting Rubau Solés' book and his murder.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the intersection of science fiction and reality, the enduring power of myths and legends (like the Loch Ness Monster), the challenges faced by authors in the publishing industry, and the exploration of mysteries, both fictional and real. The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity and critical examination, as seen in the film reviews, the interview with Cerdà, and the reporting on the Rubau Solés case. The magazine seems to encourage readers to question and explore the unknown, whether through cinema, literature, or unexplained phenomena.

This issue of Umbral Cero, Volume 2, Number 5, published in 1975, focuses on paranormal, religious, and anomalous curiosities. The cover headline, "LA PROCESIÓN," introduces a personal account of a ghostly encounter. The magazine also features a historical compilation of Marian apparitions, explores the connection between Fátima and Islam, and recounts the legend of a cursed opal.

La Procesión

The article "LA PROCESIÓN" by Vimana Al Couz Bertrand recounts a personal experience of a museum guide in Valparaíso, Chile. The guide, a man of about 75 years, shared an extraordinary event he witnessed in 1958 while serving as director of a fiscal institution in San José de Maipo. At approximately 3 AM on a cold June night, he saw from his second-floor bedroom window a procession of figures dressed in white hooded robes, similar to the Ku Klux Klan, emerge in the ground-floor interior hallway. To his astonishment, the procession reached a white wall at the end of the hallway and simply passed through it, disappearing as if absorbed by the solid surface. He woke his wife to witness the phenomenon, and they were both terrified, unable to explain what they saw. The guide kept this experience secret for many years to protect his professional reputation. The exact location is not revealed but is described as being in the patrimonial sector of San José de Maipo.

Sobre Apariciones Marianas: Esperando un Milagro

This section, authored by Francisco Cabrera and Pilar Galvin, discusses the human need for miracles and divine intervention, particularly in times of hardship. It references the appearance of a Christ image in Cádiz in 1993, known as "El Cristo del Cerro del Moro," which intensified this need. The article then shifts to other reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary, including events in Pedrera, Seville, and San Fernando, Cádiz, in 1995. The San Fernando incident involved people claiming to see the Virgin on the Cerro de los Mártires. The authors investigated this, interviewing a woman who described seeing a white ball of light surrounded by smaller red ones, which they attributed to optical deficiency from looking at the sun.

The text further explores the influence of "videntes" (seers) like Carmen López from Pedrera, noting how her name and messages spread. It touches upon the organization behind these phenomena, mentioning the distribution of "estampitas y mensajes" (holy cards and messages) and the use of computer equipment for dissemination. The authors recount their own visit to the Cerro de los Mártires, where they observed people in prayer with ecstatic expressions. They also describe a man who claimed to be a "vidente" and delivered an "apocalyptic sermon." The article notes the peculiar behavior of some individuals looking at the sun, possibly influenced by a "Santón de Baza" in Granada. It also describes people collecting stones from a dry tree trunk, believing they smelled of roses, and mentions healers offering their services. The authors humorously explain the "scent of roses" by noting the proximity of aromatic plants and a woman who opened a bottle of "holy water" that contained roses.

Las Apariciones Mas Destacadas de la Primera Mitad del Siglo XX

This section provides a chronological list of significant Marian apparitions reported between 1914 and 1945. Key events include:

• 1914: German soldiers at the Battle of the Marne reportedly saw a projection of a woman in white stop their advance.
• 1917: Three shepherd children in Fátima, Portugal, witnessed the Virgin Mary appear floating in the air.
• 1918: Three children in Muzillac, France, experienced 65 apparitions of the Virgin Mary.
• 1925: The Virgin Mary appeared with the child Jesus to Sister Lucía in Tuy.
• 1926: A 6-year-old girl in Marlemot, France, saw the Virgin Mary crying.
• 1928: In Ferdrupt, France, the Virgin Mary was seen in white with luminous rays from her hands.
• 1931: Witnesses in Ezquioga, Spain, saw the Immaculate Conception and Mater Dolorosa with angels.
• 1932: Five children in Beauraing, Belgium, saw the Virgin Mary in white with a golden crown.
• 1933: Mariette Beco, aged 12, saw the "Mother of Heaven" in Banneux, Belgium.
• 1933: In Flanders, Belgium, the Virgin Mary appeared to Maurice Vandembroeck, dressed in blue with a crown of stars.
• 1936: Emelda and Adeline Pietcquin, Belgium, saw the Virgin Mary surrounded by angels.
• 1937: Four young girls in Heede, Germany, saw the Virgin Mary with the child Jesus and a golden crown.
• 1938: A French peasant, Jeanne Louse Ramonet, saw a "young lady in a dress of a marvelous blue color."
• 1939: In Donegal, Ireland, inhabitants saw the Virgin Mary enveloped in light on a cliff.
• 1940: Bärbel Ruess, Germany, saw the "Queen of the Rosary."
• 1943: In Grinakalnes, Latvia, the Virgin Mary was seen over a church with a luminous crown.
• 1944: Adela Roncalli, Italy, experienced eight apparitions of the Virgin Mary.
• 1945: A 10-year-old girl in Codosera, Badajoz, Spain, saw the Virgin Mary dressed in black with seven swords piercing her heart.

La Sorprendente Conexión entre Nuestra Señora de Fátima y el Islam

Authored by Philip Kosloski, this article explores the subtle connection between the apparitions of Our Lady of Fátima and Islam. The town of Fátima, Portugal, is named after a Muslim princess, Fátima bint Muhammad, who was a daughter of Mahoma and is highly revered in Islam. The article suggests that the Virgin Mary's appearance in a town named after such a significant figure in Islam is a deliberate choice, serving as a promise and a sign of hope for the Muslim people. It highlights that Muslims honor Mary, the mother of Jesus, and that she is mentioned in the Quran. The text quotes Miguel Ángel Ayuso, who sees this connection as a potential bridge for interreligious dialogue, and Fulton Sheen, who believed the Virgin chose the name Fátima as a sign of hope for Muslims. The article notes that the sanctuary of Fátima attracts both Christian pilgrims and a significant number of Muslims who come to see the place named in honor of a revered woman in Islam.

Cartas al Director

This section includes correspondence from readers. Pedro Avilés from Bucaramanga, Colombia, inquires about an article on the apparitions of the Virgin of Fátima and the three shepherd children. The editorial response acknowledges that the topic has been covered in previous issues and on their website, and notes the current issue's focus on Marian apparitions due to recent events involving Pope Francis. Matías Yévenes from Chaitén, Chile, offers to share local legends, stories, and myths. The editors express eagerness to receive his writings, encouraging individuals to share their experiences that they may have kept hidden due to fear of ridicule or lack of a platform.

Curiosidades Anómalas: El Ópalo Maldito de Castiglione

This piece recounts the legend of a cursed opal ring associated with the House of Savoy. The story begins with King Alfonso XII of Spain falling in love with Virginia Doini, Countess of Castiglione, who was 20 years his senior. Despite their mutual affection, Alfonso XII married his cousin, María Mercedes de Orleans. In retaliation, the spurned countess sent Alfonso XII a wedding gift: a gold ring with a large opal. Five months after their marriage, Queen María Mercedes died. Alfonso XII then gave the ring to his grandmother, María Cristina de Borbón-Dos Sicilias, who also died shortly after. The ring was then passed to Alfonso's sister, María Isabel, who died a year later from the same mysterious illness. The curse continued with Alfonso's sister-in-law, María Cristina de Orleans, who also died. Finally, King Alfonso XII himself wore the ring and died at the age of 28. His second wife, Queen María Cristina de Habsburgo-Lorena, aware of the ring's history, had it blessed and set into a gold chain to be placed on the statue of the Virgen de la Almudena, the patron saint of Madrid, thus ending the supposed curse.

La Frase

A quote attributed to Gabriel García Márquez is presented: "It is not true that people stop pursuing dreams because they get old, they get old because they stop pursuing dreams."

Humor Ufológico

This section features a comic strip titled "PSICOSIS" by Pratico, published in Umbral Cero, Year 2, No. 5, Argentina, 1975. The comic depicts a series of panels illustrating a humorous take on psychological states or perceptions, possibly related to UFO phenomena or general anxieties.

¿Quienes Somos?

This section explains the mission and philosophy of NOUFA, a publication originating from Chile. It contrasts the Chilean ufological landscape with that of Spain, noting the lack of specialized media and the general indifference of the Chilean public towards enigma and UFO topics. NOUFA aims to provide an independent platform for expressing individual viewpoints on these subjects, free from censorship and taboos. It criticizes the sensationalist and superficial approach often taken by mainstream media and some "ufologists" who prioritize spectacle over substance. The text emphasizes the importance of recovering communication among researchers and encourages individuals to embrace their experiences, even negative ones, as valuable lessons. It acknowledges the challenges faced by those dedicated to these topics, including societal pressures and skepticism, and calls for a return to the romanticism of earlier days to maintain enthusiasm for the UFO phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are paranormal experiences, religious apparitions (particularly Marian), the intersection of faith and mystery, and the exploration of unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance of Umbral Cero, as expressed in the "¿Quienes Somos?" section, is one of independence, uncensored thought, and a commitment to presenting information without taboos. The publication seeks to provide a platform for genuine investigation and discussion of enigmas and UFOs, distinguishing itself from sensationalist media and encouraging open dialogue among researchers and readers.