Stendek - Vol 06 No 21 - September 1975

Magazine Overview

Title: STENDEK
Issue: No. 21
Volume: Año VI
Date: September 1975
Publisher: STENDEK, Servicio Informativo C.E.I. (Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios)
Country: Spain (Barcelona)
Language: Spanish

Editorial: The Current Crisis in Ufology

Joan Crexells' editorial reflects on the ongoing crisis in ufology, noting a positive aspect: a shift from mere archival work to an attempt to find constants within the phenomenon. Despite new, perplexing cases that challenge existing frameworks, some constants remain, such as nocturnality, luminosity, the appearance of occupants, and periodic large-scale repetitions (waves). Crexells argues that the phenomenon, while increasingly incongruent in its external aspects (craft and beings), remains fundamentally the same, supporting the extraterrestrial hypothesis. He distinguishes between 'incongruent' and 'absurd,' finding the former more fitting. He suggests that while specific descriptions of craft and occupants vary, the general pattern of the phenomenon follows a common path. He dismisses the idea of UFOs being liquid or flimsy, or occupants asking for cigarettes or having their heads dragging. Differences in witness descriptions are attributed to the short observation time and the difficulty of translating the unknown into conventional language. However, credible testimonies describe incongruent but not absurd events, involving real objects with various characteristics and beings with different appearances. Crexells also raises the question of whether UFOs are seen as they are or if they 'disguise' themselves.

He posits that the phenomenon's rarity might explain why few actively monitor it. He questions the preference for nocturnal and uninhabited areas, given the number of landings near rural zones and sightings of solitary humanoids. While acknowledging that many cases might be misinterpretations or hoaxes, he emphasizes the reality of the phenomenon. He speculates that the visual characteristics (nocturnal, luminous) might be intentional for observation. The purpose of UFO occupants, he suggests, is not to destroy or save but to provide evidence of their existence, possibly through actions like collecting samples or performing incongruent movements. He concludes that UFOs may present themselves with characteristics aligned with current space travel and technology, perhaps to avoid an overwhelming reaction in a future contact scenario. The current situation is likened to a theatrical representation where the Earth is the stage, the visit is unknown, and the outcome of contact is unpredictable.

Articles

"Reflexiones sobre la realidad OVNI" by Antoni Ribera

Antoni Ribera's article expands on his previous work, exploring the true nature of unidentified flying objects beyond the term 'flying saucers.' He establishes several postulates:

• The OVNI phenomenon is real: It occurs in our space-time, leaves physical traces, and has been captured by various apparatuses.
• Independent existence: The phenomenon exists independently of the witness, whose interpretation is shaped by their frame of reference.
• Physical action: OVNIs exert physical effects on the environment, animals, and humans, including the 'EM Effect' (Electromagnetic Effect) with powerful magnetic fields, suggesting advanced technology.
• No hostile or messianic intentions: Earthlings are not of interest to the occupants for hostile or salvific purposes. They are conducting 'prospections' and 'studies.' Cases of 'rapt' or 'abduction' are seen as part of these studies, with occupants being examined out of curiosity or as representatives of the bipedal species.
• Scientific study: Ribera advocates for an objective and scientific study of OVNIs, collecting and cataloging cases, similar to the early days of Parapsychology. He acknowledges that UFOs, like cyclones or meteorites, are not always repeatable in a lab but argues this doesn't diminish their scientific validity.
• 'No-contact' imposed by 'them': The rules of engagement are set by the occupants, not humans.

Ribera dismisses cultist, messianic, parapsychological, and 'Keelian' interpretations, criticizing the Condon report's focus on 'contactees' and its psychological interpretation. He notes that about a third of the Condon report's cases remain unexplained. He also warns against pseudomystical and parapsychological trends in ufology, citing examples like Siragusa and the Peruvian IPRI, and criticizes the idea that the 'psychic component' is the sole explanation for OVNIs. He believes that the solution to understanding the phenomenon will come from prosaic case cataloging and comparative study, essential for establishing ufology as a science.

"Las fotos de Cluj (Rumanía)" by Michel Bougard

This article details a sighting and photographic evidence of a UFO in Cluj, Romania, on August 18th. Emil Bornea, a 45-year-old ex-officer and technician, and his friend Zamfira Matea, 34, were picnicking near the Baciu forest when they observed a large, round, metallic object hovering silently above the trees. Bornea, initially stunned, quickly reacted and took several photographs with his FED-2 camera. The object was described as silvery and immense. It then modified its direction, accelerated, and disappeared. Bornea managed to take two more photos, the last of which, not published at the request of the author, reportedly showed the UFO disappearing vertically. The object was estimated to be around 600 meters high with a diameter of approximately 30 meters, observed at an 85-degree elevation angle. The object's trajectory was initially NE-SO in a straight line, then it turned towards the sun. The analysis of the negatives by an official laboratory in Cluj confirmed no signs of fraud. Two specialists from the Institute of Fine Arts concluded that the object was luminous in itself and not a shadow. The article mentions that Florin Gheorghita, an engineer who received the photos, disseminated them to the press, leading to their publication in the newspaper Scînteia and other Romanian publications. Psychological tests on Bornea were also conducted, reportedly showing his capacity for observation.

Other Articles Mentioned in the Summary:

• "Editorial, por Joan Crexells" (Page 1): Sets the tone for the issue, discussing the state of ufology.
• "Reflexiones sobre la realidad OVNI, por Antoni Ribera" (Page 3): Explores the nature and implications of UFOs.
• "Las fotos de Cluj (Rumanía), por Michel Bougard" (Page 6): Details the Cluj UFO photographic case.
• "La Ufología frente al problema de Palmar de Troya, por Miguel Peyró" (Page 10): Addresses the ufological implications of the Palmar de Troya phenomenon.
• "Encuentro OVNI en el cielo de México, por Fernando Téllez" (Page 16): Reports on a UFO encounter in Mexico.
• "Algunas consideraciones sobre la naturaleza del Fenómeno OVNI, por Miguel Guasp" (Page 29): Offers considerations on the nature of the OVNI phenomenon.
• "Luz móvil sobre el suelo asturiano hacia 1900, por Miguel Peyró" (Page 35): Discusses a mobile light sighting in Asturias around 1900.
• "La Galaxia OVNI" (Page 37): A topic related to UFOs and galaxies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of STENDEK revolve around the scientific investigation of the Unidentified Flying Object (OVNI) phenomenon. There is a strong emphasis on distinguishing between factual evidence and speculative or pseudoscientific interpretations, particularly those involving mysticism, occultism, or excessive reliance on parapsychology. The editorial stance clearly favors a rigorous, evidence-based approach, advocating for the cataloging and comparative analysis of cases. The magazine aims to establish ufology as a legitimate scientific field, free from sensationalism and unfounded beliefs. The articles collectively explore the reality of UFOs, their potential origins, the nature of their occupants, and the challenges in studying them objectively. The publication also highlights specific cases, such as the Cluj photographs and sightings in Mexico and Asturias, as crucial data points for this scientific endeavor. The Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI), the publisher, positions itself as a platform for serious inquiry into these unexplained aerial phenomena.

This issue of a Spanish-language publication delves into the intersection of ufology and alleged religious phenomena, primarily focusing on the events at El Palmar de Troya. The magazine presents a skeptical yet investigative approach, exploring the possibility that purported Marian apparitions were, in fact, UFO sightings. It features detailed case studies, photographic analysis, and witness testimonies, alongside a separate investigation into a UFO encounter in Mexico.

El Palmar de Troya: UFOs or Miracles?

The central theme revolves around the events at El Palmar de Troya, a location in Spain that gained notoriety for alleged divine apparitions. The author, Miguel Peyró García, posits a hypothesis that these events were a manifestation of significant local UFO activity, rather than religious miracles. He dismisses the religious explanations, citing the Cardinal-Archbishop of Seville's denial of divine activity. Peyró García has compiled a voluminous dossier on the phenomena, aiming to offer a plausible explanation.

The Beginning of the Events

The article pinpoints March 30, 1968, as the start of the widely reported 'Marian apparitions.' Four young girls—Ana García González, Josefa Guzmán, Ana Aguilera, and Rafaela Gardo—reported seeing a 'rare figure' near a lentisk tree, initially perceived as a man, then identified as the Virgin Mary. This event attracted a large number of curious and devout individuals to the area.

Photographic Analysis and Skepticism

Page 1 features an analysis by Michel Bougard, translated by Jaime Gil Raso, concerning photographs related to the Palmar de Troya events. Bougard discusses the possibility of photographic trickery, suggesting that if the images were from the same negative, it would require two different negatives to achieve the observed effects. He also considers the possibility of a maquette (model) being used, estimating its size and distance from the objective. However, Bougard concludes that the technical evidence of a hoax is absent, and the photos possess significant elements of authenticity. He notes that such perfect technical execution would require a photography expert and perfect secret agreement among witnesses.

Documented Incidents and Phenomena

Several incidents are detailed throughout the magazine:

• April 8, 1968: An apparition identical to the first one occurred. When a candle was lit, an unusual flash of light extinguished the flame.
• April 11, 1968: The news agency CIFRA reported on El Palmar de Troya, referencing a prior 'Marian activity' nearby.
• April 20, 1968: A group of neighbors' car experienced a malfunction, spinning and becoming destroyed. They attributed their survival to a lentisk branch inside the vehicle.
• May 11, 1968: Don Juan Santana Zabala, an investigator, photographed a strange, ethereal column of gas, invisible to the naked eye, rising from the ground where people were standing. This phenomenon was described as semi-transparent.
• August 15, 1969: During an outdoor mass, observers reported a 'vertiginous dance of the sun' and a 'large silver disc.' Astronomical observatories confirmed the sun had not moved, leading to doubts about the 'sun' phenomenon but not the overall event.

Further Investigations and Related Cases

Page 4 introduces "DOS CASOS INSOLITOS" (Two Unusual Cases) investigated by D. Ignacio Darnaude and the author. One case, on May 24, 1970, involved a pilot near Utrera who reported a 'small reddish luminosity' that suddenly coincided with a bright flash of light, causing his car to lose control. The other case, investigated by the author, occurred in the summer of 1968 and involved a witness who saw a strange, silent, white, and brilliant 'humanoid' figure standing on the ground.

The Mexico Encounter

Pages 8-10 detail an investigation by Fernando Tellez Pareja into a UFO encounter in Mexico. The case involves pilot Carlos Antonio de los Santos Montiel, who, on May 3, 1970, while flying from Zihuatanejo to Mexico City, reported being approached by three unidentified objects. These objects allegedly maneuvered around his aircraft, with one impacting the underside of the plane. The pilot experienced a loss of control, and the Mexico City International Airport was temporarily closed due to the emergency. The dialogue between the pilot and air traffic control is transcribed, highlighting the pilot's distress and the unusual nature of the event.

Analysis of the Mexico Case

The investigation into the Mexico case involved interviews with medical personnel and airport staff, revealing a certain reluctance among scientific and technical circles to acknowledge such phenomena. The author also sought the opinion of a scientific advisor regarding possible medical causes for the observation. The report mentions previous UFO sightings in Mexico, including at the 'Cerro de la Estrella,' 'El Ajusco,' and 'Lago de Pátzcuaro.'

Photographic Evidence and Interpretation

Page 3 includes a photograph of an ethereal cloud emerging from the ground, described as invisible to the human eye and photographed by Don Juan Santana Zabala around May 11, 1968. Photographic analysis reportedly ruled out trickery or developing errors.

Spread of the Phenomenon

The 'Palmar de Troya' phenomenon reportedly spread to other locations, including Sant Vicenç dels Horts and the El Carmel neighborhood in Barcelona. The article quotes from a newspaper report about Sant Vicenç dels Horts, describing a procession and a man named 'El Pintor' who claimed to have a vision of Padre Pío.

Commentary and Broader Context

Pere Redón provides commentary, acknowledging the delicate nature of linking Marian apparitions with UFO phenomena. He notes that while the Palmar de Troya events coincided with the 1968/69 UFO wave, the province of Seville also registered numerous observations. Redón draws parallels with other Marian apparitions, such as Fátima and Garabandal, suggesting that some phenomena observed in those cases could now be classified as UFO observations. He references authors like Paul Misraki and Jacques Vallée who have explored these connections.

Conclusions

The issue concludes that the El Palmar de Troya problem remains relevant seven years later. It suggests that the events, fueled by superstition and religious fervor, continue to be active, with organizations like the 'Obra de protectores del Palmar' perpetuating a narrative contrary to official Church doctrine. The magazine also notes the general public's skepticism towards both religious miracles and UFOs, highlighting the enduring mystery of unexplained phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes are the investigation of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, and the critical examination of religious claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded skepticism, seeking rational explanations for extraordinary events while acknowledging the possibility of genuine, unexplained phenomena, such as UFOs. The magazine encourages readers to consider alternative interpretations beyond traditional religious or scientific frameworks, emphasizing the need for further investigation and open discussion.

This issue of the magazine features a detailed account of an incident involving pilot Carlos Antonio de los Santos Montiel, who reported an encounter with two unidentified objects (UFOs/UAPs) while flying near Mexico City. The main headline, "Maniobra de acercamiento al Aeropuerto" (Approach Maneuver to the Airport), suggests a focus on the pilot's struggle to land safely.

The Incident

The incident occurred on May 3rd, at 12:15 local time. Carlos Antonio, piloting a Piper-Aztec aircraft (XB XAU), was flying at an altitude of approximately 15,000 feet when he observed two objects. These objects reportedly caused his aircraft to ascend to 15,800 feet and reduced his speed. The objects then maneuvered around his plane, with one passing over the cockpit and disappearing towards the Popocatepelt and Iztaccihualt volcanoes. The pilot experienced issues with his landing gear, which he managed to fix after about 40 minutes of circling the airport, using a screwdriver as a lever. He eventually landed safely at 13:34 on a grass strip between runways, where emergency services were waiting.

Pilot's Account and Examination

Carlos Antonio, a 23-year-old pilot with 370 flight hours, was described as serious and credible. He stated he had not seen the objects before the flight and had not previously experienced any mental or physical anomalies. He also denied reading science fiction. Following the incident, he underwent a thorough medical examination by Dr. Luis Amezcúa González, Head of Aviation Medicine at the airport. The examination included general medicine, psychiatry, and neurology tests.

Medical and Physiological Explanations

Captain Augusto Ramírez Altamirano, Head of Air Inspection, suggested that the pilot might have experienced "hypoxia" (lack of oxygen) due to flying above 10,000 feet without an oxygen system. This could have led to hallucinations. Dr. Amezcúa supported this, noting that the pilot had not eaten for 16 hours prior to the incident, leading to "hypoglycemia" (low blood sugar) which, combined with hypoxia, could cause "mirages" or illusions.

However, the Head Nurse of La Raza Hospital, Mª Consuelo Contreras Esquival, expressed skepticism about the hypoxia/hypoglycemia explanation being sufficient to cause such precise hallucinations, especially since the pilot's post-landing examination showed him to be in good condition and able to perform complex maneuvers.

Dr. Tous Colomé, a medical advisor, provided a detailed explanation of hypoxia and its effects, noting that while it can cause symptoms like euphoria, confusion, and even hallucinations, acclimatization and individual physiology play a significant role. He also pointed out that modern commercial aircraft are pressurized to simulate lower altitudes, mitigating these risks.

Radar Corroboration

A crucial aspect of the investigation was the radar data. The "Mayday" call from Carlos Antonio at 12:15 on May 3rd coincided with radar detection. Julio Cesar Interian Díaz, a radar controller, confirmed detecting an "echo" in the same direction and at the same time as the pilot reported the objects. This echo showed a significant maneuver, including a 270° turn at high speed, which Interian described as "incredible" for any known aircraft. The radar lost track of the Piper at 15 miles from the airport, in an area considered a radar blind spot.

Analysis of the Facts

The author, Fernando Téllez Pareja, analyzed the facts, emphasizing Carlos Antonio's credibility and the corroboration from radar data. He dismissed the hypoxia/hypoglycemia hypothesis as the sole explanation, given the radar's simultaneous detection. The investigation also considered the possibility of the objects magnetizing the aircraft's ailerons and landing gear, which would explain the malfunction. The author noted that the pilot's initial inability to hear the response from Air Traffic Control might have been due to interference or the objects' presence.

Conclusion and Commentary

The article concludes that attempts were made to discredit the case by attributing it to hallucinations. However, the radar testimony lent significant weight to the pilot's account. The author acknowledges that many people involved in aviation were reluctant to accept the presence of UFOs and offered explanations based on their knowledge. Carlos Antonio himself faced significant media attention and difficulties in his profession due to the incident.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained aerial phenomena, presenting witness testimonies, expert opinions, and investigative findings. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, seeking to understand such events through scientific and logical analysis, while acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the potential for misinterpretation or unconventional explanations. The detailed examination of physiological factors like hypoxia and hypoglycemia, alongside radar data, highlights a commitment to a thorough, multi-faceted approach to investigating UFO/UAP reports.

This issue of the magazine, dated March 1975, features a cover story titled "Algunas consideraciones sobre la naturaleza del fenómeno ovni" (Some considerations on the nature of the UFO phenomenon) by Miguel Guasp. The issue delves into the philosophical and investigative challenges of understanding UFOs, exploring their reality, perception, and historical context.

The Nature of UFOs: Real or Imaginary?

The central theme of the issue is the debate surrounding the reality of UFOs. Miguel Guasp argues that the phenomenon can be both real and imaginary, and that a deeper understanding requires moving beyond partisan stances. He highlights the lack of a satisfactory "paradigm" and the insufficient organization of data as major obstacles to research. The author criticizes approaches that focus solely on the physical aspects of UFOs, suggesting that this can lead to an "excessive fatigue" without significant progress. He posits that an extreme focus on the phenomenon's empirical reality, limited to observed manifestations, risks being devoid of broader support and could lead to failure.

Guasp emphasizes the need to consider whether the real nature of UFOs extends beyond the intervals of observation. He notes that UFOs can sometimes vanish or dematerialize during observation, making it difficult to ascertain the nature of the entity involved. This leads to the possibility that UFOs might be a projection, either psychic or physical, of certain entities into our space.

He further explores the concept of 'imaginary' entities, clarifying that he uses the term in a mathematical sense, not to denote mental illness. The author suggests that if the 'guiding intelligence' behind UFOs can alter its own nature at will, it can also alter ours without our awareness. This raises questions about how such alterations might affect our capacity for knowledge and our efforts to unravel the mystery.

The Observer and the Observed

The article discusses how the nature of UFO entities might be relative to the observer. It presents a hypothetical scenario where a witness perceives a change in the number of entities, but the entities themselves might not perceive such a change in their own nature. This leads to the idea that the observer's perception can alter their understanding of reality.

Guasp also considers the possibility of UFOs being a product of projection, either psychic or physical. He argues that even a physical projection would still raise questions about the nature of the 'projector space' and the 'projected nature' of the UFOs, thus maintaining the fundamental problem of their nature.

Historical Cases and Folklore

The issue includes a section on a historical UFO sighting from 1900 in Asturias, Spain, involving a "mobile light" observed by Don Felipe Alvarez. This incident, referred to as the "light of Beneros," was already a local legend. The article attempts to classify this case as Type-I according to Jacques Vallée.

Another section, "La galaxia ovni" (The UFO Galaxy), discusses a luminous phenomenon observed in Catalonia on July 16, 1974, similar to events in northern Spain and southern France on June 12, 1974. The official explanation for these events was not provided, but the author speculates it might be related to a French experience in the upper atmosphere. Other similar phenomena are mentioned, occurring on July 7, 1968, and February 23, 1972.

The magazine also touches upon the broader context of UFO literature and beliefs, distinguishing between genuine research and the "infra-literature" and "pseudo-beliefs" that have emerged around the topic. It criticizes the tendency to create folklore and myths, citing examples like "men in black," "Adamski's Venusians," and the "Sutton monster." The author stresses the importance of separating the genuine UFO phenomenon from this "gangue of impurities" to gain scientific recognition.

Research and Future Directions

Guasp points out the difficulties in establishing patterns in the physical aspect of the UFO phenomenon due to a lack of security in the relevance of accumulated data and a small number of specialists worldwide. He advocates for better global organization of data to accelerate research and enable studies on the evolution and definitions of the phenomenon.

The article also raises the question of the UFOs' interest in humanity, suggesting it must transcend human concerns given the long periods of their appearance. It proposes that the UFOs' interest might be related to concepts of time and space, potentially allowing them to access information about our past and future.

Other Sections

The issue includes a "Column of the Subscriber" where readers request specific publications like "STENDEK" and books on UFOs. There is also a section titled "To Our Readers" soliciting news and observations of UFO phenomena from the readership to update the magazine's archive.

Notable mentions include the death of Dr. Edward U. Condon, who directed the Condon Report, and the FBI's publication of an article on UFOs, highlighting the growing official interest.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the ontological status of UFOs (real vs. imaginary), the challenges of empirical research in the field, the role of perception and consciousness, the historical evolution of UFO sightings and their associated folklore, and the potential for a non-human intelligence behind the phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, advocating for rigorous investigation while cautioning against succumbing to pseudoscience and folklore, and emphasizing the need for a more profound understanding of the phenomenon's underlying nature and intelligence.