Stendek - Vol 01 No 01 - June 1970

Magazine Overview

Title: STEN DEK
Issue: 1
Volume: I
Date: June 1970
Publisher: Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI), Barcelona, Spain
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Editorial Stance and Introduction

The inaugural issue of STEN DEK, the informative service of the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI), sets a serious and scientific tone for its UFO investigations. The editorial, penned by Màrius Lleget, highlights the fluctuating nature of public interest in UFOs, distinguishing between 'popular' UFOs (those of general curiosity) and 'objective' or 'scientific' UFOs (those unexplained by the Condon Commission). Lleget stresses the need for prudence and rigorous statistical analysis in studying this complex phenomenon, criticizing the tendency to equate UFO study with spiritualist sessions or unfounded speculation. He notes that while his 1967 book 'Mito y realidad de los Platillos Volantes' aimed to gauge public opinion, nearly 90% of the responses received were fantastic, suggesting a need to differentiate between popular psychosis and genuine investigation. The CEI's approach is to work with seriousness and method, utilizing imagination but prioritizing cold, objective statistical data to restore the study of UFOs to its lost prestige.

The magazine is a quarterly publication, founded in October 1958 and registered under number 154, section 1.a. Its social headquarters are at Balmes, 86 entresuelo 2.a, Barcelona. Correspondence should be sent to CEI, Apartado 282, Barcelona, Spain. The publication welcomes exchanges with similar publications.

Key Articles and Features

A propósito del Título (Regarding the Title)

This article, by Joan Crexells and Pedro Redón, explains the origin of the magazine's name, STENDEK. The CEI's UFO Investigation Commission sought an original title. They found inspiration in a report from the disappearance of the British South American Airways' Lancastrian Star Dust aircraft on August 2, 1947, over the Andes. As the plane was about to land in Santiago, Chile, its pilot, Captain R. J. Cook, transmitted a final message that ended with the word 'STENDEK' spoken rapidly. Despite extensive searches, the aircraft and its crew of five and six passengers were never found. The article suggests that the pilot may have seen something extraordinary, explaining it with the exclamation 'STENDEK!' The case remains unresolved, with the authors leaning towards a UFO-related hypothesis.

Investigacion sobre Aterrizajes de OVNIs en la Peninsula Iberica (Investigation into UFO Landings in the Iberian Peninsula)

By Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos of CEONI, this article aims to draw the Spanish reader's attention to the phenomenon of UFO landings in the Iberian Peninsula. The author emphasizes the difficulty in studying UFOs due to their elusive nature, lack of reproducibility, and the need to rely on observer reports. The study, which began in October 1969, focuses on cases in Spain and Portugal (excluding the Canary Islands, Azores, and African possessions). As of mid-May, 88 landing cases had been cataloged, with an additional six awaiting confirmation. The article notes a significant disparity in reported landings between Spain (12 cases before 1960) and Portugal (only two), suggesting that Portuguese data might be underreported due to public reluctance or censorship. A table (N.º 1) illustrates the distribution of landed UFO cases across Spanish provinces, with 18 provinces having two or more cases, 16 having one, and 14 having none. The author also mentions resolving the controversy surrounding the Serra de Gardunha landing, which was confessed to be a hoax by the principal author.

Observaciones Ibéricas de Enero a Junio 1970 (Iberian Observations from January to June 1970)

This section compiles UFO sightings reported in Spain during the first half of 1970:

• January 5, Santa Fe, Granada: Witnesses reported a large, immobile white light, later turning reddish, observed for over half an hour, appearing to be on the ground. The object's intense luminosity and distance prevented shape identification.
• March 27, Elche, Alicante: A Swiss resident reported seeing a large red ball with a yellowish tail, similar in size to the rising sun, which hovered for several minutes before disappearing. The report notes this might have been Comet Bennet.
• May 3, Barcelona: A witness reported a silent, circular, bright white object moving without fluctuations or a trail. The object appeared suddenly and disappeared to the northwest. The witness ruled out conventional explanations like aircraft, sounding balloons, or satellites due to its characteristics (size, altitude, silence, sudden appearance). The object was observed for about 30 seconds at an apparent speed of 540 km/h.
• May 10, Avilés, Asturias: An unidentified object described as siphon-shaped with a blue head and red vertical stripes was observed hovering before disappearing.
• May 11, Morón de la Frontera, Sevilla: News was received about strange footprints appearing on a farm. Due to space constraints, a detailed report could not be included in this issue but was promised for the next.

Other Content

• Portada (Cover): Features a photograph of one of the 'Las Arrubias' footprints.
• Editorial: Discusses the nature of UFO phenomena and the scientific approach required for their study.
• A propósito del título: Explains the origin of the magazine's name.
• Notes: Provides details on Antoni Ribera's book 'Mito y realidad de los Platillos Volantes' and data on UFO observations in the Iberian Peninsula.
• Llamada a los Socios... (Call to Members...): An appeal to members, correspondents, and researchers to contribute news, studies, and articles to the informative service.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme is the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena. The editorial board, particularly Màrius Lleget and the CEI, advocates for a rigorous, data-driven approach, distinguishing between genuine sightings and popular misconceptions or hoaxes. There is a strong emphasis on collecting and analyzing statistical data to lend credibility to the study of UFOs. The magazine aims to be a comprehensive source of information on UFO events, particularly within the Iberian Peninsula, and encourages active participation from its readership. The issue also touches upon the historical context of UFO sightings, referencing past events and publications. The editorial stance is one of cautious, scientific inquiry, seeking to demystify the subject while acknowledging the reality of unexplained aerial phenomena.

This issue of Revista de OVNIs, identified as Volume 1, Issue 01, published in November 1969, is presented by CEONI (Círculo de Estudios sobre Objetos No Identificados) of Valencia. The magazine's primary focus is on detailed investigations into UFO phenomena, particularly landings and sightings, with a strong emphasis on witness testimony and physical evidence. The issue features a prominent cover story detailing a UFO landing case and includes a significant statistical compilation of historical sightings.

ATERRIZAJE DE UN OVNI EN "LAS ARRUBIAS", NAVARRA

The main article recounts the UFO landing incident that occurred on the night of November 25, 1969, in the area known as "Las Arrubias," near Beriain, Navarra, Spain. The primary witness was Dr. Ricardo Sáez, a Doctor Ingeniero specializing in electro-technics and mechanics. Notably, Dr. Sáez was previously a skeptic of the UFO phenomenon.

The incident is highlighted for several reasons: it occurred during a period with fewer significant observations, it involved irrefutable evidence and testimony, and the witness was a qualified professional. Dr. Sáez was driving on a familiar rural road when he observed a luminous, lenticular object, estimated to be about 8 meters in diameter, resting on the ground in a cultivated field. The object had a yellowish fluorescent color and appeared metallic, with clearly defined contours. It was supported by several legs, though the exact number could not be ascertained. Dr. Sáez described the legs as appearing articulated.

The observation lasted between 10 and 15 seconds. The object ascended vertically and rapidly, diminishing in size until it vanished. Dr. Sáez reported no sound during the event, which occurred in absolute silence. The object landed precisely above the source of a small spring.

Following the sighting, Dr. Sáez refused to revisit the site, but the investigation was conducted by a group of technicians and engineers, friends of the witness. The examination of the landing site took place 8-9 days later, despite varied weather conditions including rain and snow, revealing that the marks left by the object were still perfectly visible.

The physical evidence included three ovular footprints approximately 65 cm in diameter and two smaller ones around 50 cm. The vegetation where the object rested was transformed into brittle charcoal. The marks were described as exceptionally clear, resembling those made by an incandescent press. The area showed unevenness between the marks, with some up to 10 cm deep. The witness also noted that surrounding snails turned white and crumbled upon touch.

Further investigation by an agricultural technician confirmed that the damage was not caused by agricultural burning or cleaning. The landowner confirmed he had not visited the field since October and had not performed any burning.

Our informant, who examined the site, noted that the area had been visited by hundreds of people, making it difficult to discern details. He also mentioned that the relief of the area was irregular, with differences in height between the footprints of up to 60 cm, potentially explaining why some marks were less distinct. He provided photographic evidence (diapositives) and samples of the carbonized grass, which he believed were crucial for reconstructing the object's geometric structure.

The article concludes by stating that this case is one of the most thoroughly investigated and explained landing incidents, making it significant for any serious study of the UFO phenomenon.

Relación provisional de 53 posibles casos de observación de OVNIs en la Península Ibérica e Islas Baleares durante 1950

This section presents the first part of a study on the Iberian UFO wave of 1950, described as the first major wave on the peninsula. The study was conducted by members of the CEI's UFO Investigation Commission, who solicit further information from related centers regarding sightings in neighboring countries.

• The list includes 53 cases, detailing:
• Number (01-53)
• Date (ranging from November 28, 1950, to April 28, 1950, with some entries only specifying the month or day)
• Time (ranging from early morning to night)
• Location (cities, towns, and provinces in Spain and Portugal, including the Balearic Islands)

• Examples of locations include:
• Santa María de Corcó, Barcelona, Spain
• Lisboa, Portugal
• Ciudad Real, Spain
• Granollers, Barcelona, Spain
• Gandía, Valencia, Spain
• Guijuelo, Salamanca, Spain
• Sevilla, Spain
• Barra do Douro, Portugal
• Altos de Gantxuriketa, Guipúzcoa, Spain
• Miranda de Ebro, Burgos, Spain
• Cáceres, Spain
• Zaragoza, Spain
• Madrid, Spain
• Jaén, Spain
• Barcelona, Spain
• Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands

• An explanation of the codification used in the list is provided, including:
• N.O. (Número de Objetos observados): Number of objects observed.
• T.O. (Tiempo que duró la Observación): Duration of the observation.
• E.C. (Estado del Cielo): Sky condition.
• E.A. (Efectos Acompañantes al objeto): Accompanying effects.
• Te. (Testigos): Witness details (name, profession, vehicle).
• V. (Velocidad del objeto): Object's speed.
• A. (Altura del objeto): Object's altitude.
• F. (Forma del objeto): Object's shape.
• T. (Tamaño del objeto): Object's size.
• L. (Luminosidad del objeto): Object's luminosity.
• B. (Brillo del objeto): Object's brightness.
• C. (Colorido del objeto): Object's color.
• D. (Dirección del objeto): Object's direction.
• M. (Movimientos o evoluciones del objeto): Object's movements or evolutions.
• R. (Ruido producido por el objeto): Noise produced by the object.
• N. (Notas complementarias y explicativas): Complementary and explanatory notes.

• Specific case details are provided using this codification, for example:
• Case (01): Observed at 0900 in Santa María de Corcó, with N.O.=1, T.O.=2 hours, A.=low altitude, F.=circular, M.=maintained practically stationary, Te.=numerous.
• Case (03): Described as a disc with a vivid color, nucleus central and bluish, moving slowly, disappearing into the infinite. Witnessed by Francisco Cuéllar, a national teacher.
• Case (04): Described as spherical, later flat, high altitude, regular speed, no noise. Witnessed by Ramona Costa, her mother, her son Antoni, and others.
• Case (11): Described as a large ball of smoke with something opaquely shining inside, approximately 1 meter in size. It was observed coming from the opposite direction and appeared to 'throw itself' at the car, causing the windshield to break upon impact. The witnesses were Julián Nieto and Gregorio Ruiz.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, detailed witness testimony, and the collection of physical evidence in UFO studies. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into the phenomenon, encouraging further research and collaboration. The inclusion of statistical data and historical case analyses suggests a commitment to building a comprehensive understanding of UFO sightings. The quote from Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos, "For my part, I prefer to think that the respectability of Science depends not on the nature of the problem but on the way it is treated," encapsulates this approach, advocating for a scientific and methodical approach to even controversial subjects like UFOs.

This issue of *Phénomènes Spatiaux*, dated the first quarter of 1970, focuses on a remarkable UFO sighting that occurred at a hospital in Canada. The magazine presents a detailed investigation into the event, alongside reports of other contemporary UFO observations from around the world and a historical account.

UN OVNI SE AVENTURA EN UN HOSPITAL CANADIENSE

The lead article details an extraordinary encounter at the Cowichan District Hospital in Duncan, British Columbia, Canada. The incident, which took place around January 5, 1970, involved nurse Doreen Kendall and other hospital staff witnessing a UFO hovering approximately 50 feet (15 meters) above the ground. The craft, described as circular and brilliant, was reportedly occupied by two beings of human appearance.

Dr. P. M. H. Edwards, a linguistics professor and consultant for APRO, conducted an extensive survey of the event. He interviewed Ms. Kendall, a woman described as intelligent and capable, who provided a detailed account of the sighting. She observed the craft, which she initially mistook for a helicopter, and its occupants through a hospital window. The beings were described as having a striking physical appearance and wearing fitted uniforms. One occupant was seen operating a control panel with illuminated indicators, which Ms. Kendall noted seemed to respond to hand proximity rather than physical manipulation.

Ms. Kendall's account was corroborated by five other hospital employees who saw the object, though only she observed the occupants. The craft was described as metallic, silver, with a central band of lights and a 'collar of lights'. It emitted no sound and displayed unusual maneuverability, including tilting and inclining.

Following the initial sighting, Ms. Kendall reported experiencing a persistent luminous light that seemed to escort her car between Ladysmith and Duncan on subsequent nights, though this phenomenon ceased after a week.

Dr. Edwards' investigation also included details about the witnesses' backgrounds, emphasizing Ms. Kendall's mechanical aptitude, which might explain her detailed observations of the control panel. The article notes the unusual nature of the occupants' apparent awareness of being observed and their reaction to Ms. Kendall's gaze.

Other UFO Observations

The issue also compiles several other UFO sightings from early 1970:

• Brazil: On January 6, 1970, in Lins, the police chief and an agent observed a round, silver object with a blue-yellow halo ascend vertically.
• U.S.A.: On February 10, 1970, in San Mateo, California, a 15-year-old boy reported seeing a disk-shaped object, about 25 feet in diameter, with red and blue lights hovering over electrical transmitters.
• Chile: On February 16, 1970, Don Javier Eizaguirre, a radio expert, observed a metallic, salmon-colored object, elongated like a cigar, with a 2-meter long tail of red and bluish color. The object emitted a noise similar to a car exhaust.
• Argentina: Around May 16, 1970, a formation of UFOs was photographed over Bahía Blanca, emitting luminous signals.

"Foo-Fighters" en la Cataluña del Siglo XIV?

This historical section recounts an event from February 21, 1345, in Manresa, Catalonia, Spain. During a period of drought, a mysterious light, described as the Holy Trinity, appeared in a church and then moved to the Puig del Carme. This phenomenon led to the suspension of an excommunication and the eventual resumption and completion of a canal project, transforming the region into fertile land. The event is still commemorated annually as the "Festa de la Misteriosa Llum".

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently reports on UFO sightings, often with detailed witness accounts and investigations, suggesting a serious interest in the phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting evidence and witness testimonies for the reader to consider. There is a clear emphasis on gathering factual information, as seen in Dr. Edwards' detailed survey and the collection of reports from various sources. The inclusion of both contemporary sightings and historical accounts indicates a broad scope of interest in anomalous aerial phenomena. The magazine also highlights the role of organizations like APRO and GEPA in documenting and researching these events.