Stendek - Vol 04 No 14 - September 1973

Magazine Overview

Title: STEN DEK
Issue: No. 14
Volume: IV
Date: September 1973
Publisher: Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios de Barcelona (CEI)
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

Editorial

The editorial, written by Lluís Marí, marks the beginning of the fourth year of STENDEK. It reflects on the initial motivation to create the magazine in early 1970 to document UFO work in the Iberian Peninsula. The editorial team dedicated months to its development with great enthusiasm, aiming to provide a serious and logical publication, avoiding sensationalism. STENDEK aims to be a platform for information on UFOs, open to all centers and researchers worldwide, particularly those in Spanish-speaking countries, hoping to foster collaboration that may lead to answers to current questions.

Articles and Reports

OVNI SOBRE LAS ISLAS MEDES (UFO over the Medes Islands)

This article by Casas-Huguet reports on a UFO sighting that occurred on July 16, 1973, near the Islas Medes, off the coast of L'Estartit, Gerona. The witness was a commercial pilot flying a small aircraft used for firefighting. At 18:30, while flying at 1,000 meters altitude and approximately 14 km from the islands, the pilot observed an object to his right and slightly ahead. The object maintained its position relative to the aircraft, despite the pilot's attempts to evade it. The pilot described the object as having the shape of a rugby ball with a truncated lower tip, greenish in color, transforming to orange and then reddish towards the top, emitting light. Its size was estimated at about 20 meters high and 10 meters wide. The pilot felt a sense of hypnotic attraction and panic. The object produced a noise superior to the aircraft's engine, described as a continuous, powerful thunder. The pilot also reported intermittent failures of his aircraft's transmitter. The observation lasted 10 to 12 minutes. The article notes that other pilots may have also observed the object and mentions a blackout that occurred in the area on the same date.

OBSERVACION DE UN OVNI ENTRE REUS Y TARRAGONA EL DIA 15.5.68 (UFO Observation between Reus and Tarragona on 15.5.68)

This report details a significant sighting from May 15, 1968, recounted by a high-ranking military officer in communications and electronics. An OVNI appeared between Reus and Tarragona at an altitude of approximately 20,000 feet, prompting the scramble of two F-86 fighter jets from Zaragoza. Radar stations in Roses and Calatayud also detected the object. As the F-86s approached, the OVNI ascended vertically to about 40,000 feet, beyond their reach. Subsequently, two F-104 jets from Torrejón (Madrid) were dispatched. The OVNI again ascended, this time to over 60,000 feet, an altitude unattainable without a special cabin. The pilots described the object as mushroom-shaped with a metallic sheen. Meteorological centers confirmed no weather balloons or similar objects were launched that day. The report also touches upon the possible collaboration between the meteorological center in Roses and a French detachment there.

OBSERVACION OVNI EFECTUADA DESDE UN AVION DE LINEA EN EL TRAYECTO PALMA-CASTELLON EL DIA 25.2.69 (UFO Observation Made from a Passenger Plane on the Palma-Castellón Route on 25.2.69)

This widely reported incident involved the crew of a Caravelle passenger plane on February 25, 1969. The flight, en route from Palma de Mallorca to Castellón, was at approximately 9,000 meters altitude when the crew observed an object at a similar or slightly higher altitude. The object was described as triangular with intense red lights at its vertices, which pulsed and changed color from red to orange to bright white. The color change cycle took about ten seconds. The observation lasted approximately 20 minutes. The object appeared to be moving at high speed, with the pilot making evasive maneuvers. The pilot, identified as J.O.A., stated that they initially considered possibilities like Venus, an airplane, or a balloon, but were certain it was an unidentified object. The crew's conversation with air traffic control was recorded on magnetic tape, and the pilot expressed surprise that the confidential report had become public.

FALSO OVNI EN GALICIA (False UFO in Galicia)

This article by Oscar Rey Brea addresses a sighting reported in the newspaper 'Ideal Gallego' on June 10, 1973, concerning an OVNI over Lugo. The report described it as stationary and emitting a reddish light. The author's companions also witnessed it. A subsequent report on June 11 mentioned a circular, immobile object over Ferrol, which later appeared in the Ventoso area, described as circular with two rings, emitting powerful light, and covered in a bluish veil with 'legs'. However, the article clarifies that this was not a UFO. It describes a polyethylene balloon, approximately forty meters in diameter and one hundred and twenty meters long, transparent, and with a shape resembling a folded mattress. The object was observed for twelve hours and twenty minutes, tracing a complete ellipse. The author emphasizes that despite knowing it was a balloon, they studied it intensely due to its unusual characteristics.

CUANTIZACION DE LA LEY HORARIA (Quantization of the Hourly Law)

This technical article by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos and Miguel Guasp introduces a method to express the degree of similarity between an hourly distribution curve and a reference model. The 'Law of the Times' (Ley Horaria) is a pattern observed in UFO landing cases, particularly Type I, characterized by a low proportion of daytime reports and a peak around 9 PM, with a smaller peak in the early morning. The authors propose a quantitative method to analyze this distribution, aiming to establish the homogeneity and reliability of data sets. The method involves calculating the error between curves and defining a conformity percentage. The article outlines the theoretical concepts and identifies key characteristics of the hourly distribution, such as the most pronounced maximum, the second maximum, the most pronounced minimum, and the percentage of the most pronounced maximum.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO/UAP phenomena, presenting eyewitness accounts, investigative reports, and analytical studies. The editorial stance emphasizes a serious, logical, and non-sensationalist approach to the subject, aiming to provide credible information and encourage scientific inquiry. There is a clear interest in documenting sightings from Spain and other Spanish-speaking regions, while also acknowledging international contributions. The inclusion of technical analyses, such as the 'Law of the Times,' indicates a desire to move beyond mere reporting of sightings towards a more systematic understanding of the phenomenon. The magazine also addresses instances where reported sightings are later explained by conventional phenomena, such as the 'False OVNI en Galicia' case, demonstrating a commitment to accuracy and debunking when appropriate.

This issue of Flying Saucer Review, Volume XVI, Number 1, dated January/February 1970, features a cover headline about "EXTRAÑAS LUCES EN EL CIELO DE BRUJAS (BELGICA)" (Strange Lights in the Sky Over Bruges, Belgium). The magazine delves into a detailed analysis of a UFO sighting and the study of UFO inscriptions.

Analysis of the Bruges Sighting

The article details an incident on February 27th involving Werner Bruyneel, a resident of Assebroek near Bruges, Belgium. Bruyneel observed and photographed a luminous object in the night sky. The initial phase of the observation at 19:25 hours described a yellow light moving slowly, which later turned red. Bruyneel captured several photographs of the phenomenon. Later, around 22:45 hours, he observed a yellow and red point of light again. Using a telescope, he identified it as a group of four yellowish lights forming a cross with a fifth red light in the center. The lights were described as having a fiery orange hue and a delta-like structure. The GESAG group conducted an investigation and analysis of the data.

Calculation of Conformity Degree (Grado de Conformidad)

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a mathematical method for calculating the "Grado de Conformidad" (Degree of Conformity) between a UFO sighting's hourly distribution curve and a model curve. This involves calculating six types of errors (e1 to e6) based on differences in maximums, second maximums, minimums, and percentages. The formula C = 1 - Σei (where n=6) is presented, with specific calculations for each error using differences (d) and a divisor of 72 for hourly differences and 600 for percentage differences. The resulting 'C' value, ranging from 50% to 100%, indicates the degree of similarity between the observed curve and the model.

Discussion of Conformity Limits

The article discusses the interpretation of the 'C' values. A C of 0% would imply maximum error, which is considered unattainable. A C of 50% represents complete randomness, while values approaching 100% indicate high similarity. The authors propose a scale where 50%-60% signifies high randomness, 60%-70% covers absolutely random curves with parallel maximums, 70%-80% shows vague similarity to the hourly law with significant errors, 80%-85% indicates some resemblance and loss of random character, 85%-90% groups very similar curves with minor differences, and 90%-100% represents extraordinarily similar curves, potentially identical to OVNI landing patterns.

Epigraphy of UFOs (Epigrafía OVNI)

Another major section of the magazine, authored by Sebastián Robiou Lamarche, explores the study of "Epigrafía OVNI" (UFO Epigraphy), focusing on inscriptions found on or related to UFOs and humanoids. The author argues that writing is the most precise and enduring medium for communication and historical record.

Classification of UFO Inscriptions

The article distinguishes between epigraphy (study of inscriptions) and paleography (study of ancient writing). It posits that UFO inscriptions present a wide variety in form and style, making classification difficult. The author proposes two main classifications based on origin: Physical (F) and Psychic (P).

#### Physical Origin (F)

This category includes inscriptions observed on UFOs in flight, stationary, or on the ground, without direct contact, but with photographic evidence (F-1 a'). Examples include the San José de Valderas case and inscriptions seen by A. P. Wheler. Inscriptions observed during direct contact with UFOs or entities are also included (F-1 b), with examples like the Antonio Villas Boas case and the Ballard, Washington incident. Cases with both contact and photographs are also noted (F-1 b').

Inscriptions found on materials near UFO landing sites, without direct contact, are categorized under F-3 a. Examples include the San José de Valderas case and the John Reeves sighting in Florida, where symbols were found on paper. Cases involving direct or indirect communication claiming UFO origin are under F-3 b, such as the complex "Ummo case."

#### Psychic Origin (P)

While not explicitly detailed with examples in the provided pages, the classification implies inscriptions received through non-physical means, such as telepathy or channeled messages.

Characteristics of Inscriptions

The author notes that most UFO inscriptions appear to be phonographic, possibly with evolved forms. The Pioneer 10 plaque, featuring a diagram of a man and woman, Earth's position, and mathematical/chemical information, is cited as an example of an intelligently elaborated ideogram designed for universal understanding, contrasting with the idea of sending messages in English.

The article also touches upon the difficulty of classifying inscriptions based solely on form or style, suggesting that origin, time, place, and circumstances are more significant elements for analysis. The author anticipates that comparing UFO inscriptions with those of other types might increase the conformity degree as the elements of strangeness increase.

Bibliography and References

The issue includes an extensive bibliography and references, citing works by Jacques Vallée, Jader Pereira, T. Phillips, David G. López, Carlos Orlando, Miguel Guasp, and J. A. Hynek, among others, covering UFO sightings, landings, and related phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena through detailed case studies, photographic evidence, and analytical approaches, including mathematical modeling (Grado de Conformidad) and linguistic/symbolic analysis (Epigrafía OVNI). The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into the UFO phenomenon, seeking rational explanations and systematic study, while acknowledging the enigmatic nature of many cases. There is a clear emphasis on scientific methodology, even when applied to unconventional subjects. The authors express a desire for further research and complementary studies in the field.

This issue of OVNIS focuses on alleged extraterrestrial communications and writings, exploring various cases and phenomena from the mid-20th century. It delves into the complexities of deciphering and understanding messages purportedly from non-human intelligences, examining the nature of these communications and their potential implications.

The Ummo Case

The article highlights the extensive 'Ummo' case, which began to gain prominence around 1964. Individuals, particularly in Spain, received written communications claiming to be from an extraterrestrial colony from Ummo. These letters, numbering over a hundred in Spanish alone, covered technical, social, and spiritual topics, demonstrating a high level of preparation from their authors. Fernando Sesma, a Madrid resident, was one of the recipients and detailed the Ummo civilization's customs, beliefs, and technological advancements in his books. According to these communications, the first Ummo OVNI landed in Digne, France, on March 28, 1950. The stated mission of these extraterrestrials was to study Earthlings and lay the groundwork for future direct communication. The communications also offered insights into their language, which used syllabic and word-based signs, and a non-decimal numbering system.

Extraterrestrial Writing Systems

The issue presents several examples and discussions of alleged extraterrestrial writing. Figure 10 shows 'Ummita' script as described by Sesma. Figure 11 illustrates the 'ummita' numbering system from 1 to 12, noting it is not decimal. The article discusses two forms of Ummo language: a phonetic one and 'Onyoidaa'. Examples of Ummo words for concepts like telepathy, happiness, and universe are provided.

Further examples of purported alien scripts are presented, including the 'Martian' alphabet of Helena Smith (Fig. 14), studied by Professor Th. Flournoy, who concluded it was a creation of the medium's subconscious. Another script, 'varkulets' from Zagorski (Fig. 15), is attributed to an inhabitant of Ganymede and is claimed to be a cosmic language. The case of Ricardo Martínez Rivera from Puerto Rico is detailed, where he experienced an urge to write strange hieroglyphs (Fig. 16) after witnessing a UFO.

UFO Sightings and Encounters

Several specific UFO incidents are recounted:

• Adamski Case (December 21, 1952): Mentioned in relation to Figure 9, showing a symbol associated with the case.
• M. Homet's Expedition to Brazil (1963): Also referenced in Figure 9.
• Digne, France Landing (March 28, 1950): The first alleged OVNI landing from Ummo.
• Mendoza, Argentina Incident (August 31, 1968): Juan Carlos Peccinetti and Fernando José Villegas reported an object, heard messages, and had their fingers pricked by small beings.
• L. H. da S. Case (April 1959): A Brazilian witness received inscriptions from a humanoid.
• São Paulo Incident: A humanoid provided a notebook with inscriptions.
• Aguiar Case (F. 1, b'): A witness felt compelled to write a message in Portuguese about stopping atomic tests.
• Ricardo Martínez Rivera Case (Puerto Rico): Witnessed a UFO and felt a strong urge to write, producing hieroglyphs. He also described seeing a luminous circular flash.
• Muñotello, Avila, Spain Incident (September 19, 1967): A witness, an aspiring bullfighter, observed a UFO near Muñotello. The object, described as a 'thick disc' with a yellow-gold color, performed complex maneuvers, changed shape, and ascended rapidly. The witness took photographs, some of which are considered potentially valuable evidence.

Analysis and Interpretation

The authors explore the possibility of genuine extraterrestrial contact versus hoaxes or subconscious creations. The case of Helena Smith's 'Martian' language is presented as an example of a potential subconscious creation, while the Muñotello case is considered a potentially valuable observation with collateral evidence if the photographs are rigorously analyzed. The article questions whether all 'telepathic messages' are products of the unconscious or if some represent genuine extrasensory contact.

Book Review: "Teoría de Procesos de los OVNI"

The issue includes a review of Miguel Guasp Carrascosa's monograph, "Teoría de Procesos de los OVNI." The book is praised for its scientific methodology and originality in studying UFO phenomena, suggesting that Ufology can be a part of science. The review recommends the book for enthusiasts and students of the OVNI problem.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of extraterrestrial communication, the diversity of alleged alien languages and scripts, and the analysis of specific UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting cases and evidence for consideration while acknowledging the challenges of distinguishing between genuine phenomena, psychological factors, and potential hoaxes. There is an emphasis on the need for scientific study and a new mentalization regarding UFOs, treating them as a real phenomenon occurring in Earth's environment that warrants systematic investigation.

This issue of the magazine, identified by page number 29, focuses on UFO-related incidents in Argentina. It features detailed reports on two significant cases: the "Calle Case" and the "Puente de Herrera" incident, along with an analysis of related phenomena and a review of popular ufological literature.

The Calle Case: Report from Argentina

This section details an incident involving Eduardo Ignacio Calle, a 20-year-old agricultural student near Oriente, Argentina. On May 14, 1973, at 10:30 PM, while driving his Fiat 1500, his car's engine and electrical system suddenly stopped. Descending to investigate, Calle observed an intense, blinding circular light, similar to a beacon, illuminating the area. The light then ascended vertically about 30 meters, crossed the road, and landed in an uncultivated field belonging to Serapio Meñaca. Calle was able to restart his car and leave the location.

The investigation into the case was initiated by Earle Néstor Alvarez, a correspondent for the newspaper "La Voz del Pueblo." Alvarez connected with Calle four weeks after the event, based on local rumors. The report notes that the initial news coverage was descriptive but contained some inaccuracies.

Eduardo Calle is described as an accessible and clear-headed individual with a mercantile background, which aids in his clear explanation of the event.

The Phenomenon:

The phenomenon itself was not described as a distinct "object" but rather as an intense, circular luminous focus emitting a powerful beam. It appeared to rotate approximately three times every five minutes. The intense light made it difficult to discern the source when it momentarily dimmed.

Electromagnetic Effect (EM):

The report highlights the electromagnetic effect, specifically the paralysis of automobiles and electrical circuits, as one of the most disconcerting aspects of UFO phenomena. This effect is considered to be of such magnitude that it is beyond current technological capabilities. Significantly, Calle's flashlight worked without difficulty when he exited the vehicle, even though the car's systems were paralyzed.

Traces on the Ground:

Upon investigation of the Meñaca property, three distinct circular marks were discovered, not just one as initially assumed. The first mark, located about 60 meters from the road, was the most distinct. It consisted of two concentric rings, the outer one about 15 cm and the inner one about 70 cm in diameter. The area within the inner circle contained numerous small wild mushrooms and greener vegetation, about 15 cm high. The total diameter of this mark was 6 meters, with three "V" shapes, 60 by 20 cm, pointing outwards on its exterior edge, resembling a tripod.

The second mark was found parallel to the road, about 26 meters away, and was slightly smaller with similar characteristics. The third mark was about 8 meters further in, with a diameter of approximately 7 meters. Its border was covered with a substance resembling grape skin, with the outer surface blackened by drying and the inner surface green and moist. Unusually large mushrooms were also found near these circles, which Calle stated were uncommon in the area.

Analysis of the Marks:

The analysis of the marks was conducted 35 days after the event, and 7 days after the investigators became aware of it. No unnatural magnetic alterations were detected. Radiometric analysis of soil samples from the rings, performed by Dr. Rodolfo E. Touzet at the Ezeiza Atomic Center, indicated radioactivity levels below 10 picocuries of gamma emitters, suggesting the material was not significantly radioactive. The dark brown soil samples from the rings contained a large amount of vegetable detritus. This dark color, unlike the lighter surrounding soil, suggested exposure to heat, though not intense or prolonged enough to carbonize all organic matter. Some plant particles remained intact. The interior area of the circles showed a notable contrast, with increased humidity and less affected vegetation compared to the surroundings.

Conclusions about the Marks:

The report concludes that the three marks were likely produced by a single object, not three separate ones. The difference in diameter is attributed to the object maintaining different altitudes. The circles were not formed by the object's full landing but by the effects of its combustion or energy source. The source of the emission was likely located at the object's edges, projecting unidirectionally towards the ground at a 60° angle. The estimated altitudes for the object during the formation of the marks were 2.20 meters for the first, 0.80 meters for the second, and 3.10 meters for the third.

Origin of the Mushrooms:

The appearance of mushrooms in landing sites is noted as a common occurrence in Argentina. The report draws a parallel to a 1968 case near Correa, Santa Fe, investigated by CEFAI. The presence of mushrooms suggests that the OVNI may have modified the soil, creating favorable conditions for their growth. The spores could have arrived via aeolian means or been transported by the OVNI.

PUENTE DE HERRERA 1970 / SAN FRANCISCO SOLANO 1965

This section presents two cases investigated by Fabio Zerpa and Omar Pagani.

San Francisco Solano 1965:

This case involves Ramón Eduardo Pereyra, a 38-year-old merchant from Villa La Florida, Quilmes, Buenos Aires Province. On July 20, 1965, at approximately 8:45 AM, Pereyra was driving on the Donato Alvarez road when he observed a "luminous parachute" falling from the sky. He stopped his car and walked about 500-600 meters into a dense forest. In a clearing, he encountered a small, ovular "little airplane" about two meters in diameter, without wings or propellers. It had a metallic lower part with two small L-shaped landing gears and a plastic semi-sphere on top. Inside, he saw two anatomical seats facing each other, with dashboards similar to those in an airplane or car. A being, dressed in a gray jumpsuit and wearing a monk-like hood, was present. This being was looking at the sky with a "paper" in hand. When the being noticed Pereyra, it quickly ran towards the craft. Pereyra approached, believing them to be accident victims, but the being continued into the craft without responding. The craft then emitted a slight sound, described as "like an acetylene weld," and ascended vertically at high speed, disappearing as a large light.

The being was described as 1.75-1.80 meters tall, wearing a lead-gray jumpsuit and a hood. He also had binoculars, a belt with a silver buckle, a holster on his right leg, and short boots. The being had blond hair, combed back, and a normal face with stronger-than-average features.

Pereyra initially had no preconceptions about UFOs and believed the craft might be terrestrial. However, seven days after the event, he maintained that the beings and the craft appeared normal, but that no terrestrial power could have invented such an ovular, wingless, propellerless craft. After psychic and physical analyses, and intense interrogations, Pereyra maintained his account, being considered an excellent witness to a contact.

Puente de Herrera 1970:

This case is referenced as similar to the Pereyra sighting, occurring on August 16, 1970, in Puente de Herrera, Valladolid, Spain. The report notes that in this instance, the witness saw two humanoids. The seriousness of the witness and the exhaustive investigation, including hypnotic analysis, are cited as evidence of the case's authenticity.

THE GIANT MUSHROOMS IN ARGENTINA (1968)

This section discusses the phenomenon of "fairy rings" or "witch rings" in Argentina, quoting Professor Juan C. Lindquist, head of the Institute of Botany Carlos Spegazzini at the University of Buenos Aires. Lindquist explains that these rings are a natural occurrence caused by the circular development of certain fungi, such as the "hongo esponja" (sponge mushroom), also known as "calvatis lilacina." These mushrooms can grow quite large, up to 50 cm in diameter when young, turning brown and becoming spongy when mature. The rings form as the fungi spread, and when conditions are favorable, they fructify at the periphery, causing the grass within the ring to dry out and the surrounding area to appear greener, thus highlighting the ring effect.

Lindquist confirms that alleged "extraterrestrial" mushrooms brought to him from a field in Carlos Casares were indeed this common species.

RECUERDOS DEL FUTURO Y REGRESO A LAS ESTRELLAS by Albert Adell

This is a review of two books by Erich von Däniken: "Memories of the Future" and "Return to the Stars." Albert Adell describes von Däniken as an intelligent autodidact who seeks answers to scientific enigmas. Adell praises von Däniken's rational approach and logical reasoning in exploring mysteries that conventional science has overlooked or dismissed. The review highlights von Däniken's extensive research across continents, examining ancient artifacts, fossils, and rock paintings to reconstruct humanity's past. Adell commends von Däniken's ability to weave a compelling narrative, not to challenge science, but to offer explanations for human existence from the time of our arboreal ancestors to ancient civilizations. The reviewer suggests that von Däniken may have glimpsed the true history of humanity and that his hypotheses, though unconventional, are presented as the most reasonable and intelligent explanations available.

REVIEWS OF OVNI MAGAZINES IN THE WORLD

This section provides contact information for two UFO-related publications:

• Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI): A bimonthly magazine from Denmark.
• GICOFF INFORMATION: A bimonthly magazine from the Göteborgs Informations Center för Oidentifierade Flygande Föremal (GICOFF) in Sweden.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features detailed case studies of UFO sightings and encounters, emphasizing witness testimony and physical evidence such as ground traces and electromagnetic effects. There is a clear interest in scientific analysis of these phenomena, as seen in the examination of soil samples and the discussion of potential electromagnetic impacts. The publication also explores the connection between UFO phenomena and natural occurrences, such as the giant mushrooms, and reviews popular literature in the field, indicating a broad approach to the study of unidentified aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and open-mindedness towards the possibility of extraterrestrial or unknown aerial phenomena, while also grounding reports in factual analysis and witness credibility.