Stendek - Vol 03 No 10 - September 1972

Magazine Overview

Title: STEN DEK
Issue: N° 10
Volume: Año III
Date: September 1972
Publisher: Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI), Barcelona
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Editorial

The editorial, written by Casas-Huguet, addresses the tragic suicide of two individuals in Terrassa who believed they were called by extraterrestrials. The author expresses sorrow and uses this event to caution against the dangers of fantasizing about UFOs without scientific seriousness and objectivity, warning of potential psychological and public credibility issues.

Key Articles and Reports

"LOGROÑO: UN OVNI PENETRA EN UNA HABITACION"

This article, authored by Albert Adell and Pere Redón, details an investigation into a UFO sighting by Javier Bosque, a student in Logroño, on the night of June 21-22, 1972. It is described as one of the best-studied cases in Spain, having reached the investigators without significant hindrance. The CEI received a detailed report from their Logroño correspondent, José Luis Cerrolaza González, which allowed for a comprehensive investigation. The article notes that other witnesses in the area claimed to have seen similar objects, including one at the Agoncillo Air Base. The investigation is described as arduous due to the need to locate witnesses through third parties.

The incident itself involved Javier Bosque, a 20-year-old student of priesthood, who was in his room reading.

He observed an intense light and a luminous object, described as metallic, ovoide, about 30-40 cm in diameter, and emitting great luminosity. The object entered his room, hovered, and emitted a light ray that affected his radio and tape recorder. The object then ascended and exited through the window. Bosque managed to record the sounds produced by the object.

"Observaciones Ibéricas de julio y agosto de 1972"

This section compiles several UFO sighting reports from Spain and Portugal:

• July 7, Rubí, Barcelona: Don Diego Zambrano Domènech observed a bright, rosaceous, oblong object moving at high speed. His neighbor confirmed the sighting.
• July 15, Vimioso, Portugal: The local population witnessed a UFO with a very bright light, moving at high altitude and extraordinary speed, heading from Northeast to Southeast.
• July 16, Santa Marta, Badajoz: José Megías Díez saw an intense illumination on the horizon, described as a large, bright object.
• July 21, La Coruña: Several people reported an object of a reddish, cone-truncated shape that hovered, transformed into a saucer, and then a straight line before disappearing.
• August 19, Vigo, Pontevedra: Witnesses described a metallic, silver object with red flashes, cigar-shaped, moving at regular speed without a trail at considerable height. It was observed for about fifteen minutes.

"Personalidad del Testigo"

This section provides a detailed psychological and personality analysis of Javier Bosque, the primary witness in the Logroño case. He is described as a sincere, intelligent, and balanced 20-year-old student of priesthood. The analysis, conducted by a graphologist, highlights his positive moral and intellectual traits, including humility, clarity, analytical skills, and a well-channeled will. No negative characteristics were found.

"El Objeto No Identificado"

This part of the article presents the description of the UFO as narrated by Javier Bosque in a question-and-answer format. Bosque describes the object as "inédito" (unprecedented), ovoide, approximately 0.50 meters in diameter and 32-34 cm in height. He emphasizes that it was not discoidal and that he could not determine its exact volume. He also notes the object's precise movements and its ability to emit a light ray.

Other Sections

• Sumario (Table of Contents): Lists the articles and their page numbers, including the editorial, various sighting reports, and articles on extraterrestrials and explanations for UFOs.
• Composición del Consejo Directivo: Lists the members of the Directive Council of the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios for the 1972-1973 biennium.
• STENDEK, Servicio Informativo CEI: Provides information about Sten Dek as a quarterly publication of the CEI, its founding date, registration details, and contact address in Barcelona.
• Correspondence and Exchange: Information on how to send correspondence and offers to exchange publications with other similar journals.
• Disclaimer: States that the opinions expressed in signed articles do not necessarily represent the views of the CEI.
• Collaboration: Mentions the collaboration of the CEONI group from Valencia.
• Advertisement: A call to readers to share their UFO observations with STENDEK.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, their investigation, and witness testimony. The editorial stance, as expressed by Casas-Huguet, emphasizes the need for scientific rigor and objectivity in studying the UFO phenomenon, cautioning against sensationalism and the potential negative psychological impacts of unchecked fascination. The magazine aims to document and analyze UFO events while maintaining a serious and credible approach to the subject.

This issue of STENDEK, identified as issue 13, delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, featuring detailed witness accounts, statistical analyses of physical evidence, and explorations into parapsychological theories. The content is primarily in Spanish, with a focus on cases and research relevant to the Spanish-speaking world, particularly Spain and the Dominican Republic.

Article: Witness Testimony of a UAP Encounter

The issue begins with an extensive interview detailing a personal encounter with a UAP. The witness, referred to as 'Javier', describes an object observed at close range (two meters away). He emphasizes that the object possessed volume, describing its shape as similar to a 'croquette' and explicitly stating it had no flat or straight parts. The object's surface was perceived as completely smooth, metallic, and vibrating at a very high frequency, likened to an electromagnet. The witness could not discern any markings, reliefs, or dark lines on its surface. He also described a luminous beam emitted by the object, which he compared to a laser. This beam emerged slowly and with a peculiar, almost mechanical movement, interacting with a transistor and a tape recorder on a nightstand.

The witness's account is presented in a question-and-answer format, allowing for detailed exploration of the object's characteristics, behavior, and the witness's subjective experience. He recounts the beam's interaction with the transistor, causing it to move slightly, and its subsequent retraction. The witness expresses certainty about the object's volume and the nature of its surface and movements. He also touches upon the psychological impact of the event, noting his initial nervousness but eventual calm as he focused on recording the phenomenon.

Article: Parapsychological Aspects of the Encounter

Following the detailed description of the UAP encounter, the magazine explores the psychological and potentially parapsychological dimensions. A particular focus is placed on a persistent idea that occupied the witness's mind during the event: 'Measure Time, Measure Time'. This sensation, felt in the frontal part of his brain, is explored through three hypotheses: 1) a subconscious capture of spatial-temporal units, 2) a subconscious need to measure inductions, and 3) the possibility of a telepathic induction. The authors suggest that the 'analytical mind' region of the brain is vulnerable to hypnotic phenomena, and that the idea might have been induced, with the witness accepting it without direct analysis.

Article: Constants in Landing Trace Reports

This section, authored by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos, analyzes data compiled by Ted Phillips regarding UFO landing traces. The article critiques the idea that UFOs are simply misidentified conventional objects due to poor observation. It presents statistical data, including Figure 1, which shows the number of reported cases within various distance intervals between the witness and the OVNI. The analysis highlights that a significant percentage of sightings occur at relatively close distances (44% within 250 feet), suggesting that if these were conventional objects, they could often be identified.

Further analysis, presented in Figures 2 and 3, focuses on the estimated diameters of UFOs and the areas affected by landing traces. Figure 3, showing the distribution of UFO diameters, indicates a peak in the 10'-30' range. Figure 4, detailing the dimensions of landing trace areas, reveals that 86.6% of cases fall within the 3'-35' range. The authors conclude that the dimensions of UFOs and their landing traces are of the same order of magnitude, suggesting a correlation and ruling out random phenomena. They posit that this information is novel and useful for understanding the nature of the phenomenon, emphasizing that the reports originate from firsthand observations.

Article: The Strange Case of Arroyo Hondo

Authored by Ing. Sebastián Robiou Lamarche, this article details a specific event that occurred in Arroyo Hondo, Dominican Republic, on March 29, 1972. The event took place during an open-air mass officiated by Father Rafael Marcial Silva, attended by over a thousand people, including many sick individuals. During the service, doña Luciana Peláez de Suero, who claimed to heal through divine inspiration, entered a trance state. The priest then witnessed a luminous phenomenon behind a dark cloud, described as a 'lunar' light and a bright yellowish glow. This phenomenon ascended and descended, culminating in a beam of light that interacted with a transistor and a tape recorder. The event lasted about a minute, with no audible sound other than the exclamations of the witnesses. The article notes that the weather conditions were normal, with a clear sky and a visible moon.

The author discusses the complexity and inconsistency of the UFO phenomenon, noting the wide variety of reported object shapes and alleged occupants, as well as their unpredictable behaviors. He suggests that the phenomenon's characteristics are not dependent on the witness or location but stem from its own unknown origin, leaning towards a physical explanation. The article also touches upon the controversy surrounding doña Luciana's alleged healing abilities and the public's reaction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the need for rigorous investigation and analysis of UFO phenomena. There is a clear leaning towards physical explanations rather than purely psychological ones, although the role of the witness's psyche and potential parapsychological influences are explored. The magazine highlights the importance of physical evidence, such as landing traces and detailed witness descriptions, as crucial for advancing the study of UAPs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the complexity and often contradictory nature of the evidence, while striving to find coherent patterns and explanations. The recurring theme is the persistent mystery and the ongoing search for understanding the true nature of these unexplained aerial phenomena.

This issue of "Mundo OVNI" (Issue 24, Volume VI, dated February 1972) delves into the complex world of UFO phenomena and their potential connections to parapsychology. The cover, featuring a drawing of a crowd observing a celestial event, is headlined "LOS EXTRA-TERRESTRES (y VI)" by Jader U. Pereira. The magazine explores various facets of UFO encounters, from statistical analyses of occupants and objects to the psychological and potentially parapsychological interpretations of sightings.

Analysis of the Arroyo Hondo Phenomenon

The issue begins with an analysis of a phenomenon that occurred during a religious ceremony in Arroyo Hondo. Two primary possibilities are considered: either the phenomenon was a mere coincidence, or it was directly linked to the religious act and the presence of a woman named Doña Luciana. The article notes that some witnesses reported seeing the "face of Christ" within the phenomenon, suggesting it might have been more than a simple physical event or collective hallucination. The phenomenon is compared to other similar cases, such as the "cloud cigars" and the peculiar "nubecita" (little cloud), and its characteristics are likened to behaviors observed in other reported cases. The analysis explores whether the phenomenon was a physical creation by non-human beings or by the attendees themselves, invoking forces beyond current understanding. It also references a case from Nandor Fodor's "Encyclopaedia of Psychic Science" involving a "cloud of fire" observed by a large crowd during an outdoor meeting.

Statistical Data on UFO Occupants and Objects

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to statistical data compiled by Jader U. Pereira, focusing on "LOS EXTRA-TERRESTRES (y VI)". This section provides detailed breakdowns of UFO occupants' characteristics and the physical attributes of the objects themselves.

Occupant Characteristics:

• Attitude towards Witnesses: Statistics show varying attitudes, with "Amistosa" (Friendly) being the most frequent (37 cases), followed by "De acercamiento" (Approaching, 24 cases), "De huida" (Fleeing, 27 cases), "De hostilidad" (Hostile, 19 cases), "De observación" (Observational, 17 cases), and "De indiferencia" (Indifferent, 13 cases).
• Attitude towards Location: Data indicates occupants collecting materials (26 cases), observing (5 cases), or showing indifference or familiarity (3 cases).
• Interactions among Occupants: No instances of fighting were reported; mutual assistance occurred in 4 cases, and one member obeyed the rest in 5 cases.
• Attitude towards the Object: In 4 cases, occupants were seen inspecting their craft.

Occupant Height: Statistics are provided for occupant heights, with a significant number falling into the "small" category (70 cm to 1.60m, 123 cases, 62%), further subdivided into 70 cm to 1.20m (59 cases, 30%) and 1.25m to 1.60m (18 cases, 9%). "Small" occupants (under 1.65m) accounted for 46 cases (23%), normal height (1.65m to 1.85m) for 43 cases (22%), tall (2m to 3m) for 28 cases (14%), and giant (4m to 5m) for 3 cases (1.5%). A single "microscopic" occupant (15 cm), described as robot-like, was also noted.

Skin Color: Of 77 cases where skin color was specified, 20 were described as white or pale, 8 as normal, 7 as dark, 4 as black, and 2 as grey. Tanned or bronze skin was reported in 8 cases. Other colors included yellow (7 cases), red (4 cases), purple (1 case), bluish (1 case), and green (7 cases). Some were described as "hairy" (7 cases) or having "metallic hair" (1 case).

Object Dimensions and Shapes:

• Shapes: The most common shape reported was the "disk" (54 cases). Other shapes included "cigar" (12 cases), "vertical rocket" (2 cases), "globe or sphere" (10 cases), "egg" (9 cases), "flat or platform" (2 cases), "bus" (1 case), and "cone or pera" (3 cases).
• Dimensions: Detailed statistics are provided for the diameters and lengths of these objects, ranging from 1.50 meters to 140 meters. A significant majority (79.5%) of objects had dimensions between 1.50 and 15 meters.

Evolution of Types: The article suggests that the types of occupants and objects have remained relatively stable over the years, indicating a consistent classification.

The Lérida Photographs: A UFO Explained

This section, authored by CEONI, critically examines photographs published by the "Diario de Lérida" on February 6, 1972, which allegedly depicted a luminous trail caused by a UFO. The initial report was brief, and CEONI requested original copies for study. Photographer Antonio Taboas Souza provided five copies. The photographs, when analyzed by the Observatory of the University of Valencia, were deemed to resemble astronomical captures, possibly of the planet Venus, due to its luminosity and position. The analysis, signed by Alvaro López, director of the Observatory, noted the difficulty in confirming the object due to the lack of terrestrial references in some photos. The article suggests that the lack of detailed reporting and corroboration from witnesses points towards a potential hoax or prank. Further, two additional photos published on April 11, 1972, by the same newspaper, were also analyzed and found to be similar, with one building in the background. CEONI concludes that these cases represent a "misinformation, lie, or joke" that detracts from genuine UFO reports.

Possible Ambiguities about UFOs: Parapsychology

Authored by Ing. Sebastián Robiou Lamarche, this section explores the intersection of parapsychology and UFO phenomena. It begins by recounting the case of Mlle. Helena Smith, who claimed to have communicated telepathically with Martians and described their world and language. The article posits that parapsychology, a relatively young science dealing with phenomena like telepathy, clairvoyance, and spiritualism, offers potential explanations for such cases where conventional psychology falls short.

Parapsychological Phenomena: The article lists and briefly explains various parapsychological phenomena, including:

• Telepathy: Communication at a distance without a physical medium.
• Clairvoyance: Seeing at a distance without a physical medium.
• Levitation: Suspension of the body or objects against gravity.
• Precognition: Seeing the future through dreams, visions, etc.
• Xenoglossia: Speaking foreign languages unknown to the speaker.
• Telekinesis/Telergy: Moving objects at a distance without physical means.
• Apparition: The presence of ectoplasmic or phantasmogenic formations.

It is suggested that many of these phenomena, previously attributed to divine or demonic forces, are now understood as stemming from the human subconscious or a universal consciousness. The article highlights that the human subconscious can create complex realities, as demonstrated by Mlle. Smith's "Martian language," which was later found to be derived from French sounds. The author questions whether all telepathic contact cases with extraterrestrials are creations of the subconscious, especially spontaneous ones. The distinction is made between purely telepathic contact (feeling the presence without seeing) and personal-telepathic contact (direct interaction with a being). The complexity of apparitions and the potential for mediums to materialize objects and figures are also touched upon.

The Role of the Subconscious: The article emphasizes the power of the subconscious in creating perceived realities. It suggests that while some UFO phenomena might be physical, others, particularly those involving telepathic communication or encounters with beings, could be manifestations of the subconscious mind or latent human potential. The idea of a universal consciousness linked to human inconscients is explored, citing William James and Carl Jung. The article concludes that the subconscious can create diverse situations that our conscious mind rationalizes, and that the apparent Martian language of Mlle. Smith was an elaborate construction of her own subconscious.

Types of Contact: Two main types of contact are identified: purely telepathic and personal-telepathic. The former involves sensing an extraterrestrial without visual contact, often similar to spirit guide phenomena, where the subconscious plays a significant role. The latter involves direct interaction, which falls into the realm of parapsychological apparitions, where mediums might create figures or even materialize objects and people from ectoplasm.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Mundo OVNI" consistently explores the multifaceted nature of UFO phenomena, moving beyond simple sightings of physical craft. A recurring theme is the potential for psychological and parapsychological explanations, particularly the role of the human subconscious in shaping perceived reality. The magazine adopts a critical yet open-minded stance, presenting statistical data alongside theoretical discussions. It aims to educate readers about the complexities of UFO research, distinguishing between genuine reports and potential hoaxes or misinterpretations. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, encouraging readers to consider a wide range of possibilities, including those that challenge conventional scientific understanding, while maintaining a critical eye for evidence and logical consistency. The inclusion of parapsychology suggests an editorial belief that the study of UFOs requires an interdisciplinary approach that embraces phenomena beyond the purely physical.

This issue of the magazine, titled 'PASAPORTE A MAGONIA*', features a collection of articles exploring the intersection of UFO phenomena with parapsychology. The primary focus is on understanding the complex relationship between these two fields, presenting various case studies and theoretical perspectives. The magazine highlights that UFOs are a prominent myth of the 20th century and that their apprehension can have serious consequences, even leading to tragic outcomes like suicides.

Humanoid Sightings and Non-Physical Behavior

The magazine delves into the diverse nature of humanoid appearances, emphasizing those with non-physical characteristics and telepathic abilities. It cites examples from 'The APRO Bulletin' and 'UFOs over the Americas,' including a case in Itaperuna, Brazil, where a humanoid with gray hands and face appeared transparent. Another case from Peru describes a humanoid in the form of an amoeba. J. A. Keel's work is referenced for a case where a humanoid passed through walls as if walking through glass. A notable account from Mrs. Cynthia Appleton describes seeing a figure appear like a television image, communicating telepathically about a world of peace and harmony.

Precognition and Telepathy Linked to UFOs

Precognition is presented as another parapsychological phenomenon connected to UFO cases. The case of Mrs. Rita Malley is detailed, where she witnessed a red, disc-shaped object while driving with her daughter. During the encounter, voices seemingly from the UFO indicated that a friend was having an accident miles away, which was later confirmed. This incident is cited as an example of precognitive knowledge gained through a UFO vision, potentially involving telepathy from the UFO entities or the witness's subconscious.

Poltergeist Phenomena and UFOs

The article explores the potential relationship between poltergeist phenomena and UFO sightings. It notes that UFO 'oleadas' (waves) sometimes precede poltergeist activity in the same area, or occur simultaneously. While not definitively proving a single source, the authors suggest that UFO appearances can affect human psychology, leading to parapsychological phenomena like poltergeist activity. An example from 'Flying Saucer Review' describes poltergeist events in Wooler, Ontario, Canada, following a UFO sighting.

Strange Rains and Other Anomalies

Several unusual phenomena are linked to UFOs, including 'strange rains' of various objects like stones, frogs, insects, blood, and even plants. An 1875 work by Flammarion is cited for compiling such cases. A more recent case from San Martín, Argentina, details mysterious stone falls that seemed to pass through solid structures. The phenomenon of levitation, or objects suspended in defiance of gravity, is also mentioned, along with 'transportation,' where objects or bodies change physical location.

Teleportation and Mysterious Appearances

Teleportation is discussed as an enigmatic phenomenon, with the case of Dr. Gerardo Vidal being transported from Argentina to Mexico with his car mentioned. The article also touches upon the appearance of a Spanish soldier in Mexico City in 1593, who had been on duty in Manila the previous night, highlighting the mystery of how such displacement could occur.

UFOs, Healing, and Stigmata

This section addresses the less common but significant aspect of UFO encounters leading to healing or the appearance of stigmata (marks on the body). The case of a Dr. 'X' is referenced, who reportedly experienced a UFO phenomenon, was cured of two ailments, and subsequently developed stigmata and poltergeist-like experiences. The article notes that figures like Edgar Cayce, José Pedro de Freitas, and Antonio Agpaoa are known for their psychic healing abilities. The appearance of stigmata is discussed, with both divine and psychological explanations considered, including the influence of strong emotions.

Observations Around the World

Several brief reports from different countries detail specific UFO sightings and related phenomena:

• Argentina: A luminous, rotating object was observed near Anchoris, Mendoza, causing car engines to stall and resulting in headaches for the witnesses.
• Brazil: A UFO landed at Agua del Juruba, Paraná, leaving behind circular marks in the ground. A farmer and his son witnessed the object, and military personnel investigated the marks.
• Italy: Two meteorologists in Verona observed a cigar-shaped object moving at high speed. Additionally, landing traces of a UFO, characterized by a circular scorched area, were found near Verona.

Ancient Chronicle and UFOs

The issue includes a section titled 'LEYENDO UNA CRONICA ANTIGUA' (Reading an Ancient Chronicle), which presents an extract from the 'Chronicon Monasterii B. Mariae de Benifassar,' dating back to the late 14th century. The text describes a 'marvelous sign like a star emitting great rays' that appeared in the year 1264. The article speculates whether this could be an ancient sighting of a flying saucer, though it acknowledges it might have been a comet.

Book Review: 'Pasaporte a Magonia'

The magazine concludes with a review of Jacques Vallée's book 'Pasaporte a Magonia,' translated by Antoni Ribera. The review highlights the book's exploration of the exuberant universe of fantastic popular traditions and its attempt to bridge the gap between fantasy and myth. It emphasizes the OVNI phenomenon as the myth of the 20th century and discusses Vallée's perspective that UFOs should be studied within their global context and as products of non-terrestrial intelligences with unknown motivations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are the interconnectedness of UFO phenomena with parapsychological events, the diverse manifestations of UFOs and associated entities, and the complex, often mysterious nature of these occurrences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various cases and theories without necessarily offering definitive conclusions, encouraging readers to analyze the facts and consider the profound implications of these phenomena for understanding the universe and human consciousness. The magazine aims to explore the 'ambiguous zone' where UFOs and parapsychology meet, challenging conventional understanding.