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NOUFA - No 67
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This issue of Noticiero Ufológico Autónomo, number 67, dated October 2019, is published by Editorial Dunken and focuses heavily on ufology, with a particular emphasis on encounters between pilots and UFOs in Argentina. The cover prominently features this theme, along with…
Magazine Overview
This issue of Noticiero Ufológico Autónomo, number 67, dated October 2019, is published by Editorial Dunken and focuses heavily on ufology, with a particular emphasis on encounters between pilots and UFOs in Argentina. The cover prominently features this theme, along with articles on historical sightings and the influence of figures like Erich von Däniken.
Editorial: La Fotografia
The editorial, dated 2009 and related to the European Exopolitics Summit in Barcelona, reflects on the media's approach to UFO topics. It criticizes programs, particularly those from the United States like those on History Channel, for exploiting the mystery of UFOs for financial gain, often disregarding the work of serious researchers. The editorial also touches upon the recent acknowledgment by US naval officials of 'unexplained aerial phenomena' from 2017 videos, questioning if this signifies a new strategy in addressing the phenomenon. The passing of Claudia Cabezas García is also mentioned, prompting reflection on existence and mystery.
Ufologia: Pasión por los Ovnis
This section explores the intense public interest in UFOs during the 1970s and 1980s, noting how the phenomenon was often misunderstood, linked to conspiracies, or dismissed as mere fantasy. It discusses how governments allegedly attempted to discredit the topic through misinformation and contradictory reports. The article also touches upon how some 'specialists' exploited the public's fascination, sometimes creating new theories that contradicted earlier findings. It also discusses the psychological impact on witnesses, including the emergence of paranormal faculties or altered perceptions after close encounters, and the role of the mind in shaping these experiences, comparing them to concepts like Tulpas.
Erich von Däniken: El Mensajero de los Dioses
This article, authored by Rafael Videla Eissmann, focuses on the controversial theories of Erich von Däniken, who proposed that ancient myths and artifacts are evidence of extraterrestrial visitation in Earth's past. The article likely examines his claims about ancient astronauts influencing human civilization.
Año 1665: ¿Ovnis, espejismo... o qué?
This piece investigates a historical record from 1665 concerning a supposed UFO sighting, exploring potential explanations for the event.
A PROPOSITO DE SERIE "PROYECTO LIBRO AZUL"
This section seems to be a series related to Project Blue Book, featuring a biography of Joseph Allen Hynek, a mention of the History Channel series on Project Blue Book, and excerpts from 'Piratas Ancestrales' and a blog by José Antonio Caravaca about celestial objects and their occupants.
Criptozoología
This part of the magazine delves into the study of cryptids, creatures whose existence is not scientifically proven. It includes articles on 'Culebrones Jurásicos' (Jurassic giant snakes), and the mystery of the Loch Ness Monster, questioning if it could be a giant eel.
Leyendas y Crónicas de Chile
This section presents legends and chronicles from Chile, including a mention of a strange village.
Parapsicología
This part of the magazine explores phenomena related to parapsychology, such as 'mala sombra' (bad shadow) and photographic evidence of paranormal events.
El Sacapuntas de Julián Lenguaraz - Humor Ufológico
This is a humorous take on ufology, likely featuring cartoons or witty observations by Julián Lenguaraz.
Última Hora
This section provides brief news updates, including a mention of Claudia Cabezas García's passing.
Historical UFO Cases and Phenomena
The magazine presents a compilation of various UFO sightings and related phenomena throughout history:
- 1961: Actress Maria Shell reported seeing two white UFOs in Death Valley.
- 1978-11-09: Captain Nello Valentino witnessed a red light rising from the sea, causing radio interference.
- 1978-11-22: A gigantic UFO was detected over Chile at high speed.
- 1978-11-28: An object shaped like an inverted jug with lights was observed near Guadiamar, Spain.
- 1980-05-22: Red luminous points, later identified as objects, appeared in the sky over Zaragoza, Spain.
- 1980-06-02: A pear-shaped object with flashes was sighted in Santander, Spain.
- 1980-07-06: A large black disc with lights was seen moving over Montserrat, Spain, followed by similar objects.
- 1952: Van Tassel began receiving messages from 'Space Brothers'.
- 1967-07-18: Reverend Anthony de Palo reported a mysterious encounter involving a voice and a being.
- Soviet Union: A scientist died after being pushed by a woman who claimed a voice from space ordered her actions.
- 1860: Llevellyn Drury received 452 pages of text from unknown entities.
- 1950s (Vatican): Father Ernetti reportedly recorded a mysterious voice mentioning him by a private nickname.
- 1949: Esoterist Alice Bailey published 'The Esoteric Healing', allegedly dictated by a hidden hierarchy.
- Telepathic Voices: The issue discusses instances of people claiming to hear voices, including a case where a young man claimed telepathic orders led him to kill his father.
- Voices from Unknown Entities: The magazine explores various accounts of voices from non-human sources, including alleged messages from extraterrestrials, spiritual guides, and even 'angels or demons'. It discusses the psychological profiles of individuals who claim to receive such messages, often noting traits like introversion, low self-esteem, and a desire for uniqueness.
- Voices by Implant: The case of Dave Bader is mentioned, who reportedly had a small object implanted in his jaw that emitted voices identified as extraterrestrial.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings (particularly in Argentina), historical unexplained events, the influence of figures like Erich von Däniken, and the broader spectrum of unexplained phenomena including cryptids and parapsychology. The editorial stance, as expressed in the editorial section, is critical of sensationalist media coverage of UFOs and advocates for a more serious and ethical approach to the subject. There is a clear interest in exploring both historical accounts and contemporary reports, while also acknowledging the psychological and societal factors that may influence witness testimony.
This issue of the magazine, identified as number 14 and published in 1989, is titled 'ENCUENTROS ENTRE PILOTOS Y OVNIS EN ARGENTINA' (Encounters Between Pilots and UFOs in Argentina) and is authored by Carlos Ferguson. It delves into the phenomenon of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and their interactions with pilots, primarily focusing on cases from Argentina but also drawing comparisons with international data.
Key Themes and Content
The magazine presents a comprehensive compilation of UFO sightings and encounters, with a particular emphasis on those involving pilots. It aims to contrast and confront data from Argentina with reports from other regions to identify consistent patterns in the phenomenon.
Cataloging UFO Events
Carlos Ferguson initiated the creation of the 'Primer Catalogo Ovni Aeronáutico Argentino' (First Argentine Aeronautical UFO Catalog) in 2007, documenting events since 1947. This catalog is continuously updated. The author also served as a civilian advisor on UFOs to the Argentine Air Force Commission in 2011, further deepening his research.
The Significance of Pilot Witnesses
The issue highlights why pilots are considered exceptional witnesses. They possess high levels of training, personal motivation for careful observation, extensive flight experience aiding in the assessment of unexpected situations, and the ability to communicate with ground personnel. Their professional reputations depend on careful consideration of all alternatives before reporting an unknown object. Modern aircraft, especially military ones, are equipped with sophisticated instruments that aid in identification.
Documented Cases and Statistics
The magazine presents numerous documented cases, including:
- Sightings from Various Dates and Locations: Examples include a 1995 sighting over El Hierro, Canary Islands, witnessed by over 300 people; a 1995 incident in Torriente, Cuba, involving a farmer and a landed object; a 1995 event in El Arillo, Spain, where a UFO immobilized a car; a 2009 sighting in Brailav, Ukraine, associated with illness and radioactivity; a 2009 photograph of a UFO over Lago Graiger, USA; a 2009 report from Indio, USA, describing a shape-shifting object; a 2009 encounter in Fortaleza, Brazil, with an artist depicting reptilian occupants; a 2009 sighting of tubular objects in Mexico; a 2009 video of a light over the Great Pyramid in Egypt; and a 2009 photograph of a cylindrical object in Wallall, England.
- Argentine UFO Catalog (CADOA): This catalog includes events involving Argentine civilian, commercial, and military pilots, as well as foreign pilots interacting with Argentine airports. It also covers cases involving other aeronautical personnel and airport officials.
- Geographic Distribution: Cases span various Argentine provinces.
- Witness Statistics: 70% of identified witnesses are not anonymous, a figure consistent with French and international studies. A significant finding is that 86% of cases involve two or more witnesses, refuting claims that UFO observers are always solitary.
- Duration: The average duration of sightings is 35 minutes.
- Object Shapes: Discoidal shapes are most common (48%), followed by spherical (33%) and elongated (14%).
- Object Diameters: The average diameter is estimated at 15 meters.
- Altitude and Speed: Average altitude is 2,550 meters. Speeds are often described as anomalous, with some reports indicating velocities exceeding Mach 3 (4,000 km/h) and speeds significantly faster than reaction aircraft.
- Electromagnetic Effects: Cases include electromagnetic interference with aircraft instruments and radar captures.
- Official Involvement: The magazine lists cases involving the Argentine Air Force (15), Argentine Navy (10), Federal Police (1 helicopter), and Gendarmería Nacional (2).
- Photographic and Filmic Evidence: 13 cases include photographic documents, and 3 include film.
Notable Cases
- Yacanto, Córdoba (1960): A pilot captured a photograph of a conical, opaque object approximately 6 meters wide and 7 meters high, moving silently and accelerating rapidly.
- Punta Indio Naval Air Base (1965): Radar detected "impossible echoes" of UFOs that exhibited extraordinary maneuvers, including matching aircraft speed and escorting them. Some radar altitudes reached 40,000-50,000 feet, and speeds occasionally exceeded 5,000 km/h. A notable incident involved a pilot attempting to intercept a UFO.
- Bariloche, Río Negro (1995): A commercial pilot and 23 observers witnessed a discoidal object with green and orange lights. The UFO performed an "impossible" 90-degree turn at high speed (Mach 3), observed by multiple witnesses and a military sanitary plane.
Pilot Declarations
Several declarations from pilots and air traffic control personnel emphasize the anomalous nature of the phenomena, describing speeds far beyond known aircraft capabilities and intelligent flight patterns.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently presents UFO phenomena as a serious subject worthy of global social study, driven by the passion of individuals dedicated to its investigation. It challenges skeptical viewpoints by presenting extensive data and witness testimonies, particularly from trained observers like pilots. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the anomalous nature of UFOs and their potential to challenge conventional understanding of physics and technology. The recurring theme is the extraordinary nature of UFOs, their advanced capabilities, and the need for continued investigation, especially concerning their interactions with aviation. The magazine emphasizes that the phenomenon is not new, with historical accounts and consistent patterns observed across decades and continents. It suggests that the cause of the enigma lies deeper than mere effects, possibly related to the limitations of human understanding and prejudices when contemplating extraterrestrial civilizations.
This issue of the magazine, identified by the number 21, focuses on UFO phenomena, with a particular emphasis on pilot testimonies and historical cases from Argentina and Iran. The cover features a striking title, "OVNIS EN LOS CIELOS DE ALÁ" (UFOs in the Skies of Allah), with subtitles "LUCES, NAVES Y HUMANOIDES DESDE LA GUERRA CIVIL" (Lights, Craft, and Humanoids Since the Civil War) and "OVNIS EN ANDALUCIA - ESPAÑA" (UFOs in Andalusia - Spain). The issue number is 44. The publication date is implied by the content related to the Iranian incident as September 1976, though the source is listed as IIEE Chile and published in 2004. The magazine presents a collection of documented sightings and encounters, aiming to shed light on unexplained aerial phenomena.
Key Incidents and Testimonies (Argentina)
The magazine meticulously lists a series of UFO sightings primarily from Argentina, spanning from the early 1960s to the late 1990s. These accounts are often provided by credible witnesses, including military personnel and commercial pilots, whose professional reputations are at stake.
- April 1964, Córdoba: Comandante Jacinto Amuedo de Austral described an object that was unlike any known aircraft or balloon.
- June 1965, Punta Indio: Personnel at the Naval Aerodrome observed objects that would escort their aircraft before disappearing.
- November 1965, Resistencia: Comandante Domingo Longo had a profound experience, stating it was a UFO and the greatest impression of his life.
- June 1968, Punta Arenas, Chile: Comandantes Raúl Guardabasi and Ulises Tiviroli of Aerolíneas emphasized the reality of UFOs, dismissing explanations like weather balloons due to the object's erratic movements.
- June 1968, La Guardia, Catamarca: Pilot Jorge Suter expressed amazement at the anomalous aircraft's maneuvers and speed, stating he had never witnessed anything like it in his piloting career.
- October 1973, Comandante Espora Naval Airport: Radar technician Héctor Benítez and others observed an object that did not conform to conventional aircraft and moved away at an incredible speed.
- July 1973, Mar del Plata: Pilot Abel Néstor Sosa, familiar with flying phenomena, stated this object was completely unknown.
- July 1976, Viedma: Meteorologists Walter Gallo and Edgardo Barbero noted a significant atmospheric pressure drop, attributing it to the presence of unidentified objects.
- November 1979, Mar del Plata: Herberto Contreras, an air traffic operator, unequivocally identified the sighting as a UFO.
- August 1983, Neuquén: Lic. Juan José Carrasco, head of the Meteorological Tower, concluded it was a UFO and not a meteorological phenomenon.
- September 1984, Reconquista: Pilot Carlos Sorini, with over 6,500 flight hours, stated that no conventional aircraft could perform the observed maneuvers.
- August 1985, Ceres: Major Jaime Wilkinson of the Argentine Air Force stated the appearance of these objects could not be attributed to meteorological phenomena.
- July 1995, San Carlos de Bariloche: Commanders Jorge Polanco and Gaitán described impossible maneuvers performed by the UFOs, beyond the capabilities of any conventional aircraft.
- November 1995, Córdoba and Rosario: Comandante Arturo Garrafo reported seeing something unprecedented.
- July 1999, Dolores: Pilot Francisco Aranciaga stated he had never seen anything like it in his experience and believed it was not a conventional object.
UFOs in Iran: The Ayatollah Khomeini Era
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a reportage on UFOs in Iran during the 1970s, specifically focusing on an incident in September 1976. The article, by Raúl Núñez, draws from declassified military reports obtained through the Freedom of Information Act. The incident began around midnight on September 19, 1976, when citizens in Tehran reported unidentified objects over the city. These were described as similar to large birds or strange helicopters. The duty officer at Mehrabad control tower also observed a luminous, unknown object. At 01:30, an Iranian Air Force F-4 Phantom jet scrambled from Shahroki base, located about 210 km away. Upon approaching the targets, the F-4 pilot experienced a complete loss of communication and radar functionality, forcing an immediate return to base. The report details that the electronic operator on board detected a radar contact at 27 nautical miles, with the object moving on the screen at a high rate of approach. The object was described as having the size of a Boeing 707, intense luminosity, and varied colored lights (blue, green, red, orange) that blinked continuously, forming a shape close to a rectangle. When the F-4 attempted to get closer, the object moved away, maintaining the distance. A critical part of the report mentions a second, smaller object detaching from the main UFO and heading towards the F-4 at high speed. The pilot attempted to fire an AIM-9 missile, but the armament control panel and communication systems failed. The pilot executed an evasive maneuver, and the larger UFO returned to base. Meanwhile, a smaller UFO was detected heading towards land at high speed, with a strong explosion heard. A large illuminated area, approximately two to three square kilometers, was observed. The pilot later experienced UHF interference upon landing at Mehrabad. A commercial aircraft also reported similar communication issues. The tower at Mehrabad identified a cylindrical object, the size of a missile, with lights, which has never been satisfactorily explained.
Civilian testimonies from this event are also included. Pilots from the two F-4s involved were reportedly taken by helicopter to the area where the smaller UFO allegedly impacted or exploded. A ground inspection found nothing abnormal, but a clear acoustic signal was detected, accompanied by a bright light. The article notes that skeptic Philips Klass attributed the events to radar maintenance deficiencies and pilots mistaking stars or meteors for UFOs, a simple explanation that the author questions.
The report also briefly mentions another case from February 28, 1953, in Beirut, Lebanon, where an engineer and several witnesses observed a fleet of UFOs.
UFOs in Andalusia, Spain
The magazine also includes a section on UFOs in Andalusia, Spain, dating back to the Civil War. It highlights a case from July 15, 1975, near Bollullos, where young people reported seeing a strange oval object with flashing lights near electrical posts. Experts were perplexed by the incident. Another case from January 1, 1975, near Benacazón, involves a labrador reporting a star-like object that descended, and later, a marriage and another person witnessed similar mysterious objects. The article notes that these sightings occurred near a military base and an area acquired by the Army. It also references a series of articles published by the newspaper ABC of Seville decades ago on UFO sightings in southern Spain, which inspired the book "Ovnis en Andalucía" by José Manuel García Bautista.
Analysis and Conclusions
In the conclusion, the magazine emphasizes that the witnesses in these cases are highly qualified and objective, describing situations similar to those reported by ground observers. The article highlights that for aerial professionals (civilian, commercial, and military), their personal reputation is a significant factor, making their accounts of extraordinary experiences even more compelling. A comparative study with ground observers indicates that pilots have the highest qualification for reporting events, refuting the idea that they are merely common observers. The magazine presents quotes from notable ufologists and researchers, including Lic. Angel Díaz, Prof. Oscar Uriondo, and Dr. Richard Haines, who praise Carlos Ferguson's book "Encuentros entre pilotos y Ovnis en Argentina" for its scientific rigor and contribution to the field.
Dr. Richard Haynes, an expert ufologist and engineer, is described with his extensive background in aerospace research at NASA, including work on theoretical and applied studies of human factors in space programs and spacecraft design.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the credibility of witness testimonies, particularly from pilots and military personnel, the advanced capabilities of observed UFOs, and the persistent mystery surrounding these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into UFOs, presenting documented cases and expert opinions without dismissing the possibility of extraterrestrial origins or other unknown factors. The magazine advocates for open-mindedness and rigorous analysis, aiming to dignify the study of unidentified flying objects and challenge skeptical viewpoints. The publication also highlights the work of Carlos Ferguson as a dedicated researcher in the field.
This issue of "OVNIS EN ANDALUCIA" (UFOs in Andalusia) is a compilation of articles exploring UFO phenomena, ancient astronaut theories, and historical encounters, primarily focusing on Spain. The magazine features a cover story on Erich von Däniken, a prominent figure in the ancient astronaut theory, and includes reports on specific UFO sightings and related research.
UFOs in Andalusia: Historical Cases
The magazine presents several historical UFO cases from Spain. One notable account is from the Spanish Civil War, where on February 5, 1938, soldiers defending the position of Peñón de la Mata in Granada reported seeing a metallic object resembling a "Mexican hat" with a wheel-like underside. The object was described as having a mate aluminum color and moved slowly before disappearing.
Another significant case detailed is the "Dioniso, Los Seres y El Lucero" (Dioniso, The Beings, and The Star) incident from 1996 in Los Villares, Jaén. Dionisio Ávila encountered a shining artifact and two slender beings in silver suits who gave him a spherical stone described as a "lucero" (star), which bore the inscription "IOI". García Bautista notes this case as summarizing the absurdity of the UFO phenomenon.
The issue also recounts "El Ataque a Sevilla" (The Attack in Seville) from January 28, 1976. Miguel Fernández Carrasco reported being pursued by humanoids from a flying "telephone booth" that emitted red and white light rays. The object allegedly projected a "beam of light" that injured him. The case led to an investigation by the Seville court but was eventually dismissed due to lack of evidence.
Erich von Däniken: The Messenger of the Gods
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the theories of Erich von Däniken. An event in London on October 15, 2016, commemorating the 15th anniversary of his book "Chariots of the Gods?", is highlighted. The article explores von Däniken's central ideas, proposing that ancient myths and legends refer to extraterrestrial visitors, or "gods," who influenced human development through genetic manipulation and by imparting knowledge.
Von Däniken's theory suggests that these extraterrestrials, or "cosmic travelers," were responsible for the creation of Homo sapiens by performing genetic mutations on hominids. He posits that these beings are not metaphysical but real, leaving traces in myths, religions, and archaeological evidence. His concept of "PaleoSETI" (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence in Antiquity) is also discussed as a methodology for investigating these ancient encounters.
The article mentions von Däniken's view that the "creation of man in the image and likeness of God" found in various traditions implies multiple creators, not a single deity, referencing the plural "our image" in Genesis 1:26.
Von Däniken's work suggests that extraterrestrials may have introduced genetic code into humans millions of years ago, which could activate over generations, leading to consciousness or "awareness" of this alien influence. He also theorizes about the potential return of these "gods" in various forms.
Ancient Artifacts and Symbols
The magazine includes images of ancient artifacts and symbols that von Däniken interprets as evidence of extraterrestrial contact. These include representations of winged beings from Mesoamerica (Aztec), India (Garuda), Sumeria (Annunaki), and Egypt (Ma'at). The article also shows enigmatic elongated skulls from Tiahuanaco, Paracas, and Sonora, which are presented as potential evidence of non-human influence.
Images of the sepulchral slab of Pakal in Palenque, Mexico, are shown, interpreted as depicting a journey to the cosmos. The article discusses the "message of the gods," suggesting it could be encoded in indestructible forms, such as human genes, which can be deciphered by future generations capable of molecular biology research.
Historical Sighting: The 1665 Battle
An article titled "AÑO 1665 - ¿OVNI, ESPEJISMO ... O QUÉ" (Year 1665 - UFO, Mirage... Or What?) details an event from April 8, 1665, where fishermen near Barhöfft (then Sweden, now Germany) witnessed a battle between UFOs. Following the battle, a dark, round object, described as a "sombrero grande de un hombre" (large hat of a man) and resembling a "dark moon," hovered over the church of San Nicolás. The witnesses reportedly fell ill in the days following the event, experiencing trembling, headaches, and pain.
Scholars like Erasmus Francisci in 1689 and more recently, Chris and Martin Aubeck Shough, have investigated this case. The Aubeck and Shough investigation explored explanations such as Fata Morgana, but concluded that the description of the object remaining stable throughout the night made a mirage unlikely.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores the intersection of UFO phenomena, ancient history, and alternative theories about human origins. The editorial stance appears to favor the investigation of these phenomena, particularly through the lens of ancient astronaut theories, as championed by Erich von Däniken. There is an underlying theme of challenging conventional scientific and religious explanations for historical mysteries and human development. The magazine highlights the work of researchers like García Bautista and the controversial but influential ideas of von Däniken, suggesting that a deeper understanding of our past may lie beyond established paradigms.
This issue of UFO magazine, identified by its issue number 41, delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, historical cases, and scientific investigations. The content spans from alleged celestial battles in the 17th century to modern paleontological discoveries and controversies surrounding UFO-related media.
Historical UFO Cases and Investigations
The magazine begins with an account of a purported celestial battle witnessed by fishermen, described by Erasmus Francisci and accompanied by a 1680 engraving. This event, occurring in 1665, involved a large flock of starlings forming unusual shapes and what appeared to be a naval battle in the sky, complete with cannon fire and smoke. The description notes the lack of aeronautical terminology at the time, leading to objects being described as ships.
Joseph Allen Hynek: A Pioneer of Ufology
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to Joseph Allen Hynek, an American astronomer who played a crucial role in UFO research. His biography highlights his tenure at Northwestern University, the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, and as a scientific advisor to the US Air Force. Hynek's involvement began around 1947-1948, coinciding with the sighting by pilot Kennett Arnold. Initially skeptical, Hynek was tasked with providing conventional explanations for UFO sightings. However, his work on projects like Grudge and Blue Book led him to conclude that a portion of the cases remained unidentified. The article details his development of the 'Diagram of Strangeness-Probability' (IE), a method to classify UFO encounters based on their unusual characteristics and the credibility of witnesses. The text also touches upon the controversial aspects of Project Blue Book, suggesting that the need for definitive explanations sometimes led to rushed conclusions.
Media Controversies: Project Blue Book Series
The issue addresses the controversy surrounding the 'Project Blue Book' television series. Argentinian journalist and producer Alex Chionetti claims that A&E Networks and The History Channel appropriated his documentary concept without credit. Chionetti, who had collaborated with Hynek, expresses disappointment with the series' quality and its alleged historical inaccuracies, including misrepresentations of Hynek's life and cases.
Cryptid Discoveries
Under the 'Criptozoologia' section, the magazine reports on the 'Corpse of Tecolutla'. In 1969, fishermen in Tecolutla, Mexico, discovered a large, black carcass on the shore. The creature, estimated to weigh 35 tons, had a distinctive white stripe. Unfortunately, the carcass was partially looted by locals before scientists could fully examine it, hindering official recognition. Theories suggest it could be a rare type of whale or a cryptid.
Paleontology: Jurassic Serpents
The article 'Culebrones Jurásicos' (Jurassic Sea Serpents) discusses recent paleontological findings regarding the origin of snakes. Research led by Michael W. Cadwell, utilizing fossils from the UK, Portugal, and the US, suggests that snakes emerged much earlier than previously believed, possibly during the Middle Jurassic period, around 167 to 143 million years ago. This extends the known fossil record of snakes by nearly 70 million years. The article details the discovery of new genera such as Eophis, Portugalophis, and Diablophis, and discusses the evolutionary significance of their cranial features.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, scientific inquiry, and historical accounts. There is a clear interest in presenting both well-documented cases and more speculative topics like cryptids. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation, as exemplified by the detailed discussion of Hynek's scientific approach, while also acknowledging the limitations and controversies that often accompany such research, particularly in media portrayals. The inclusion of diverse topics suggests a broad scope within the ufology and unexplained mysteries genre.
This issue of "LEYENDAS Y CRONICAS DE CHILE" (Legends and Chronicles of Chile), dated 2006, presents a collection of articles exploring paranormal phenomena, cryptids, and unexplained events. The magazine features a prominent cover story on the Loch Ness Monster, alongside personal testimonies and investigative reports.
The Loch Ness Monster: A Giant Eel?
The lead article, "LARGO ESTUDIO SEÑALA QUE EL MONSTRUO DEL LAGO NESS PODRÍA SER UNA ANGUILA GIGANTE" (Long Study Indicates the Loch Ness Monster Could Be a Giant Eel), discusses a comprehensive study conducted by geneticist Neil Gemmel from the University of Otago. Gemmel analyzed 250 water samples from Loch Ness and found a significant amount of eel DNA. This led him to discard hypotheses involving Jurassic-era reptiles like plesiosaurs, as well as other large fish such as catfish, sturgeon, or Greenland sharks. While the study does not reveal the size of the eels, the quantity of DNA found makes the possibility of giant eels in the lake plausible. Gemmel noted that this theory had been previously mentioned in 1933. The article also mentions other theories about the monster, ranging from prehistoric marine reptiles to aquatic birds or even wind effects on waves. The study also identified DNA from humans, dogs, sheep, deer, badgers, foxes, and moles, contributing to a valuable database of the lake's inhabitants. A 2006 investigation by a Scottish paleontologist had previously suggested 'Nessie' might have been an elephant from a traveling circus.
UNA ALDEA EXTRAÑA (A Strange Village)
This section presents a testimony from Don Fabián Benavides Gómez, compiled by Raúl Gajardo Leopold. The story recounts an experience from the 1950s when the narrator and his cousin, while searching for lost cattle, stumbled upon an unusual village. They were met at a golden gate by jovial men, women, and children dressed in distinctive attire. The men wore golden sandals and skirts, while the women and children wore similar garments. The villagers, described as tall, fair-skinned, and appearing to be of similar age, invited them into a large cave where they met their leader. Through gestures, the leader seemed to understand their situation and dismissed them. They were escorted back to the golden gate, and upon looking back, the landscape had seemingly closed up. Months later, they revisited the area but nothing unusual occurred. The narrator reflects on how legends are born around campfires and acknowledges that strange events do occur in remote places.
PARAPSICOLOGIA: UNA MALA SOMBRA (Parapsychology: A Bad Shadow)
This article details an experience reported by Juan D. Fernández González from Algeciras, Spain, in 2005. While working as a night watchman on a construction site in Casares, Málaga, at approximately 4:35 AM, he heard loud footsteps outside his cabin. Upon investigation, he found nothing amiss. Returning to his cabin, he heard a tremendous commotion as if materials were falling. Investigating further, he entered a dark stairwell and saw a strange, moving shadow on the wall. His flashlight inexplicably turned off, and the shadow remained. He managed to take a photograph that showed the shadow with transparent profiles, denser in the center. Overcome by fear, he requested a transfer and later quit his job, indicating the experience was profoundly disturbing.
EVIDENCIA FOTOGRÁFICA (Photographic Evidence)
This section discusses paranormal investigation programs that were common on radio in the 1990s, covering parapsychology and ufology. It focuses on a program hosted by Antonio José Ales, who formed an investigation team. Equipped with sophisticated photographic and recording equipment, they visited a castle in Guadalajara province, Spain, rumored to be haunted. They set up various instruments, including infrared, ultraviolet, and ultrasonic sensors. At 2 AM, a log in the fireplace inexplicably fell. Twenty minutes later, alarms upstairs were triggered. As the team rushed upstairs, Antonio José Ales took photos blindly. A member of the group then shouted about seeing something, and Ales fired his camera in that direction. He perceived a faint luminosity that grew and eventually took the form of a woman moving down a corridor and disappearing. The entire event lasted about 30 seconds. Magnetophones also activated on their own. Subsequent photo development revealed images of the spectral figure. A local legend stated that seeing the ghost was a death omen, but the group survived, though they rarely spoke of the incident afterward.
Experiencias extraídas del libro: "Ciudadanos del Limbo" (Experiences extracted from the book: "Citizens of the Limbo")
This part of the magazine promotes the book "Ciudadanos del Limbo" by Juan Díaz Montes, specifically referencing pages 61, 62, and 63. It also mentions the availability of a dossier on "El enigma del chupacabras – Introducción a la Criptozoologia" by Raúl Núñez, both in PDF format. Contact information for obtaining these materials is provided.
EL SACAPUNTAS (The Pencil Sharpener)
Written by Julián Lenguaraz, this piece critiques the state of ufology in Chile. Lenguaraz observes a surge in UFO-related groups but notes a lack of foundational knowledge and historical interest. He criticizes the blending of the fantastic with alternative spiritual and health currents, and covert commercial promotions. He recounts an organizer openly stating that vigils are also used for finding partners, which he found disconcerting. Lenguaraz concludes that while young people are enthusiastic, they are often disoriented, and that UFOs are even being used for dating purposes.
ULTIMA HORA: Claudia Cabezas Garcia - Descansa en Paz (Breaking News: Claudia Cabezas Garcia - Rest in Peace)
This section is an obituary for Claudia Cabezas García, a 'Skywatcher from Chile'. The editorial team of NOUFA CHILE expresses their shock and sadness at her passing on Sunday, September 22nd. Although they did not know her personally, they followed her on Facebook and social media and shared an interest in the "unidentified." They had been in contact with her through the IIEE (presumably an organization) but never had the chance to exchange impressions. They express hope that she may have gained access to unattainable mysteries in her new state and wish her a good journey. They extend their condolences to her family and loved ones.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained, the paranormal, and the mysterious. The magazine presents a mix of scientific inquiry (DNA analysis for the Loch Ness Monster), personal testimonies of strange encounters, and investigative reports on alleged hauntings and apparitions. There is a critical perspective on the current state of ufology in Chile, highlighting a perceived lack of depth and a tendency towards superficiality. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards unexplained phenomena, while also encouraging critical thinking and historical awareness, particularly in the field of ufology. The inclusion of an obituary suggests a sense of community among those interested in these subjects.