Stendek - Vol 06 No 22 - December 1975

Magazine Overview

Title: STENDEK
Issue: No. 22
Volume: VI
Date: December 1975
Publisher: Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI)
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of STENDEK, a quarterly informative service from the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI), delves into various unexplained phenomena. The cover prominently features the headline "muertes misteriosas de animales en puerto rico" (mysterious animal deaths in Puerto Rico), accompanied by an image of a young goat. Internally, the magazine focuses heavily on UFO (OVNI) activity, particularly a series of sightings in the Albesa region of Spain during June 1975.

Editorial: The Hypothetical Congress

The editorial, penned by Pere Redón, discusses the challenges of organizing a ufology congress. Redón notes the difficulty in finding a general interest topic for the magazine and uses the example of a reportedly semi-failed symposium in Brazil to illustrate the complexities. He proposes a hypothetical international seminar or congress, emphasizing the need for genuine interest in the subject, sufficient economic resources, and a cohesive line of thought and work. Redón highlights that while interest in UFOs is undeniable, the other two requirements are often lacking. He stresses the significant costs associated with international events, including invitations, travel, and accommodation. A key challenge identified is the selection of relevant and credible representatives from Iberian ufology, suggesting that organizers must choose individuals with substance rather than just a large number of attendees. The editorial also touches upon the importance of selecting a national coordinator or moderator who is widely recognized within the field. Redón concludes by stating that a successful congress should aim to foster dialogue, friendship, cooperation, and a common working line among diverse personalities in ufology, many of whom may not have had prior opportunities to interact.

Articles and Reports

Actividad OVNI en Albesa, por Pere Redón y Miquel Jaume
This article details several UFO sightings that occurred in Albesa, a region near Lérida, Spain, within a single month (June 1975). The authors emphasize the special interest in these cases due to their concentrated geographical area and the similar characteristics of the observed phenomena. They thank subscribers Francesc Fortuny and Benvingut Badia for their assistance in the investigation. The report notes that the witnesses were generally simple people from an agricultural area, and their reactions were understandable given the local context. The observed phenomena were described as not having a natural appearance, seeming to be made of "solid light," and were categorized under Dr. Hynek's "nocturnal lights" but observed at a low altitude.

The Witnesses: The article describes the witnesses as sincere and simple, providing straightforward accounts of events. It also notes a certain "flying saucer psychosis" in Albesa during June due to the multiple sightings, though it clarifies that some reported sightings were misinterpretations of natural phenomena like Venus.

The Observations: Two sightings were initially reported in the local press, with others emerging through direct investigation. The article details specific dates and witness accounts:

• May 29: D. Ramon Castelles and his wife observed a strong, sudden luminosity about 4 meters behind their car while working late in their field. The light, described as a "solid light," was about one meter in diameter, had luminous threads hanging from its lower part, and emitted a glow that prevented seeing the source. It remained stationary for about ten minutes before rising and disappearing.
• June 1: The witness, Josep Burguès, was returning to Albesa when he stopped his car due to a suspected mechanical issue. He then saw what he described as a "large luminous glow," much more powerful and larger than car headlights. It changed position suddenly and moved rapidly, covering the distance to Albesa in less than seven minutes. He described it as having an oval shape and emitting a large stream of light.
• June 15: A witness named Tadeu, working in a pear field with his tractor, observed a luminous disk that was almost perfect with sharp edges, producing strong illumination. He estimated its height at about 120 meters, noting that it was large enough for three times the height of a nearby 60-meter chimney to fit between the object and the ground. The object was completely immobile and did not change in luminosity or tone. After a few moments of surprise, Tadeu became fearful and hid his tractor among the trees. When he emerged, the disk had disappeared.
• June 29 (near Albesa): D. Josep C. observed a luminous semi-circumference about two meters high and three meters at the base in a neighboring field. He found the object very beautiful and described its colors as blue, red, violet, and white, with red predominating on the curved edge and white on the base. The object remained static for about five minutes and then disappeared. He noted the profound silence of the night, which was not interrupted by any noise.
• June 29 (near Vilanova de Segrià): A young couple, D. Josep M. and his wife Montserrat, were traveling between Alfarrás and Albesa when Montserrat noticed what she described as a "larger star than the others." It grew in size to appear half the size of the full moon. The color was brilliant white, without a halo or discernible contours. They stopped the car to observe it better, but it began to decrease in size, leading them to believe it was moving away.

The authors conclude that these cases, while not highly spectacular, are significant due to the unusual activity in a small geographical area over a short period. They attempted to relate the phenomena to known causes, including electrostatic phenomena from a nearby hydroelectric dam and atmospheric conditions like heavy rain, but found no logical explanation. They consider it highly improbable that such sightings would repeat so frequently without prior observation.

• Other Articles:
• "OVNIs en la isla de Pascua, por Antoni Ribera" (UFOs on Easter Island)
• "Más sobre Palmar de Troya, por Manuel Manén" (More on Palmar de Troya)
• "Aterrizaje en Tolosa (Argentina), por Roberto E. Banchs" (Landing in Tolosa, Argentina)
• "OVNIs y muertes misteriosas de animales, por Sebastián Robiou Lamarche" (UFOs and Mysterious Animal Deaths)
• "El caso Feliciano Vidal, por Miquel Guasp" (The Feliciano Vidal Case)
• "Curva satisfactoria de distribución mensual, por Tomás Ramírez y Barberó" (Satisfactory Monthly Distribution Curve)
• "La Universidad invisible de los OVNIs, por Joan Crexells" (The Invisible University of UFOs)
• "La Galaxia OVNI" (The UFO Galaxy)

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings and the broader study of unexplained phenomena, including mysterious animal deaths. The editorial stance, as expressed by Pere Redón, is one of cautious inquiry and a desire for rigorous organization and analysis within the field of ufology. The magazine aims to present witness accounts and investigative findings, acknowledging the complexities and challenges inherent in such research. The CEI positions itself as a platform for interdisciplinary study and exchange of information within the ufological community.

This issue of STENDEK focuses on UFO phenomena, with the main feature being "ovnis en la isla de Pascua" (UFOs on Easter Island) by Antoni Ribera. The magazine also includes an article on an "aterrizaje en Tolosa (Argentina)" (landing in Tolosa, Argentina) by Roberto E. Banchs, and a brief mention of "Las Fotos de Cluj (Rumania)". The cover prominently displays the title and author of the main article.

Ovnis en la Isla de Pascua by Antoni Ribera

Antoni Ribera recounts his experiences during the "Operación Rapa Nui" expedition to Easter Island in March-April 1975. This expedition, the first Spanish archaeological-submarine mission to the island, aimed to study its monuments and inhabitants. Ribera notes that while the presence of UFOs was confirmed by several islanders, the idea of extraterrestrial involvement in the construction of the Moai is considered more nebulous, with possible interpretations linked to the ancient cult of the bird-god Manu-tara.

Ribera debunks the theories of extraterrestrial builders for the Moai, attributing their construction to the use of 'pu maari' (rope holes) and a pulley system at the Rano Raraku quarry. He mentions a significant volcanic eruption around the 4th century AD, attributed to Rano Aroi, which devastated the island and ended the civilization of the Hanau eepe (long-ears), builders of the Moai. The island was later resettled by the Polynesian Hanau momoko (short-ears), led by Ariki Hotu-Matua.

The article highlights a peculiar phenomenon on Easter Island: a "great magnetic disturbance" located on the North coast, near Maunga Terevaka and Rano Aroi. This anomaly, also found in places like Nazca, Peru, and Canigó, France, is strong enough to interfere with aircraft navigation systems. Ribera speculates if it could be due to a buried nickel-iron meteorite.

Ribera then details several UFO observations on Easter Island, all occurring within a specific triangle formed by Rano Raraku, Hanga Conu (Bay of La Pérouse), and Maunga Pui. He presents testimonies from locals, including Rafael Haoa and a young man using the pseudonym "Itaraera".

"Itaraera" reported three observations:
1. A luminous object seen near the Rano Raraku volcano in the summer of 1972, emitting flashes of light and with smaller objects appearing to exit and enter it.
2. The same object was later observed over Maunga Pui, indicating rapid movement.
3. A marine sighting off the North coast, described as a large, luminous object moving at sea level with great speed, emitting a white light like mercury.

Another witness, the author himself, reported seeing a dazzling light on the South coast near Poike in August 1973, which disappeared suddenly. No traces were found.

Ribera also mentions a historical observation by Padre Sebastián Englert in 1935 or 1936, involving an object falling into the sea near Hanga Roa, creating a large wave.

Más sobre Palmar de Troya by Manuel Manén

This section addresses the topic of "lens flares" in photography, prompted by an article in STENDEK about the Palmar de Troya UFO case. Manuel Manén explains that luminous circular shapes seen in photographs, such as those from Palmar de Troya, the Moon, and artificial fires, are optical phenomena caused by light reflecting off camera lenses. He emphasizes that these are not evidence of UFOs and should be critically examined, distinguishing them from genuine unidentified aerial phenomena.

Aterrizaje en Tolosa (Argentina) by Roberto E. Banchs

Roberto E. Banchs reports on a UFO landing incident that occurred on November 26, 1974, in Tolosa, a suburb of La Plata, Argentina. The witnesses were members of the Perique and Nicolini families.

The incident began with a loud sound, described as similar to many jet planes. Shortly after, a bright, ash-colored light illuminated the interior of the house. The object, observed from the patio, was described as a sphere or dome with a flat, red base, approximately 1.80 meters in diameter and 2.00 meters high, moving rapidly towards the NNE.

Mrs. Rosario Segura viuda de Perique described the object as an "egg or elongated orange globe" that was transparent and emitted an orange luminescence. The witnesses reported no audible sound from the object itself.

Four days later, unusual marks were discovered in the garden of the neighboring Deluchi family. These marks consisted of a circular ring, 3.40 meters in diameter and 0.05 meters wide, with triangular marks extending from it. Analysis of the soil revealed a significant excess of calcium oxide (CaO), indicating a high-temperature process, possibly combustion. The marks were described as calcined and covered with a silvery powder.

Banchs evaluates the reliability of the witnesses, assigning a score of 2.76/5 and a degree of strangeness of 7/9. He discusses the challenges of interpreting brief observations and the discrepancies in witness descriptions, attributing them to factors like visual acuity and distance. He notes the similarity to a case in Coldwater, Kansas, USA, in 1954, where a humanoid entity was seen near a discoidal artifact that left triangular footprints.

Las Fotos de Cluj (Rumania)

This is a brief note correcting a previous publication error, referencing an article about photos from Cluj, Romania, that appeared in STENDEK No. 21, pages 6-9, and was originally published in Revista INFORESPACE, No. 13 (1974), pages 22-26.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the phenomenon of UFOs, presenting eyewitness accounts, scientific analysis, and historical context. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into UFO reports, while also critically examining potential misinterpretations, such as optical illusions (lens flares) and distinguishing them from genuine unexplained phenomena. The magazine also shows interest in the intersection of UFOs with archaeology and ancient mysteries, as exemplified by the Easter Island features.

This issue of STENDEK, dated March 1976, is dedicated to the phenomenon of mysterious animal deaths and mutilations, often correlated with UFO sightings. The magazine features a detailed work by engineer Sebastián Robiou Lamarche, divided into two parts, with the first part presented here. The publication aims to shed light on these unexplained events.

Introduction to Animal Mutilations and UFOs

The article begins by establishing a connection between UFO appearances and the mysterious deaths of animals. It references the famous case of 'Snippy,' a horse found mutilated in Alamosa, Colorado, in 1965, which was linked to UFO activity in the region. The text notes a significant wave of UFO sightings in the US and Latin America in 1973, followed by an increase in European sightings in 1974. Mirroring this pattern, 1974 saw a rise in reports of mysteriously dead animals across several US states, including Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Minnesota. The article cites APRO Bulletin and an article in Fate magazine for further details.

More recent reports from March 4, 1975, in The New York Times highlighted numerous animal mutilations in northern Texas and Oklahoma, prompting an investigation by Oklahoma's governor. A key finding from autopsies conducted by professors at the University of Minnesota was that animals were often missing organs like ears, tongues, noses, or reproductive organs, with the mutilations described as 'masterful.' The animals were also found to be completely devoid of blood, as if desiccated.

Mysterious Animal Deaths in Puerto Rico

Between February and July 1975, Puerto Rico experienced numerous animal deaths under circumstances similar to those observed in other regions, coinciding with UFO cases. The magazine's investigation involved dozens of interviews, laboratory studies, and months of analysis. The article presents a summary of this work, hoping to offer new insights into the UFO phenomenon.

Specifically in Puerto Rico, the town of Moca became a focal point for these events starting in late March 1975. The phrase 'El Vampiro de Moca' (The Vampire of Moca) became popular. The media widely covered these cases, with El Vocero newspaper urging a government investigation. Initially, snakes were considered a possible cause, but a herpetologist from the University of Puerto Rico ruled this out. Authorities then suspected a disturbed human, promising a swift capture, though no one was ever charged.

Further investigation by a federal veterinarian in March 1975 could not explain the 'strange wounds.' This led to speculation about 'vampire bats,' a theory also dismissed by Dr. Juan A. Rivero. The police superintendent stated he did not believe in vampires but offered no alternative explanation.

Observations on Animal Deaths

Several observations were made regarding these incidents:

1. Timing: Deaths occurred at night, preferably in the early morning hours.
2. Lack of Noise: Property owners, even when sleeping nearby, did not hear any alarm from their animals.
3. Witness Accounts: Some owners reported hearing a 'loud screech' or 'flapping' like a giant bird, and a few claimed to have seen a 'strange animal' fleeing the scene.
4. Wounds: While wounds were evident, in some cases, they seemed insufficient to cause death.
5. Wound Characteristics: The wounds appeared to be made by a sharp, pointed instrument, destroying organs or bones. They varied in size, from 1/4 inch in birds to over an inch in goats. Notably, there was no blood around the wounds, and they remained open.
6. Neck Injuries: Many animals had completely broken necks.
7. Organ Mutilation: The mutilation of organs was observed in several cases.
8. Selective Deaths: In some instances, only one species of animal in a corral was affected, while others remained unharmed.
9. Statistical Analysis: Poultry (aves de corral) accounted for the highest percentage of deaths (57.80%), followed by ducks, goats, and rabbits. If poultry, ducks, rabbits, and geese are grouped, they represent 82.58% of the total, indicating a strong predilection for these types of animals.
10. Location: Cases occurred in both rural and suburban areas.
11. Witness Sightings of Strange Animals: Some owners reported seeing 'strange animals,' described as hairy, legless, or large, bird-like creatures fleeing the scene. One witness described an animal with 'lots of feathers, a fat, long neck, larger than a goose,' weighing about 50 pounds.
12. Official Inaction: Most cases were investigated by the police, but no results were publicly released.

Enigmatic Cases

Héctor Vega Rosado Farm Case (Moca, Puerto Rico, March 18, 1975): This highly publicized case involved two goats found dead with puncture wounds. The following day, 10 goats were dead, 7 injured, and 10 missing. The wounds were around the neck and forelegs. Investigations found no unusual radioactivity.

Buenaventura Bello Case (San Juan, Puerto Rico, April 5, 1975): Mr. Bello found his 10 geese and three ducklings dead in a circle. Each goose had two 1/4-inch puncture wounds, and feathers were removed. One goose had its upper part completely severed. His dogs exhibited unusual fear and refused to go into the yard for days. X-rays and an autopsy revealed puncture wounds that penetrated over an inch, destroying internal organs, with the wounds healing without bleeding.

International Parallels

The article notes a similar case in Torre Benagalbón, Málaga, Spain, where a mysterious animal, described as a wolf or wolf-dog, killed over forty animals, draining them of blood without consuming them. The similarities in circumstances and animal characteristics between this Spanish case and those in Puerto Rico are highlighted.

The Feliciano Vidal Case (Bunyol, Spain)

This section details an incident involving Feliciano Vidal, a humble farmer who reported witnessing a powerful, bright light descending from the sky on July 29, 1975. The light illuminated his house and the surrounding area, causing him temporary paralysis and blindness. He described the light as resembling 'twenty torches' shining from above. He also noted the unusual behavior of his animals, a donkey and a dog, prior to the event.

Fourteen days later, on August 13, Vidal reported seeing the moon with 'four points,' an anomaly that only he and one other person among his companions could perceive. The author suggests that while the duration of the event was brief, it possessed a 'highly strange flavor.' The case is presented as a contrast to typical UFO sightings, where the witness is a casual observer; in Vidal's case, the animals' nervousness alerted him to the unusual event.

Call to Readers

The magazine issues a call for highly interested individuals in Barcelona to collaborate with their OVNI archive section, requiring a typewriter. They also seek individuals in Puerto Rico to assist with active work for CEI and STENDEK, excluding current translators.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the unexplained deaths and mutilations of animals, their potential connection to UFO phenomena, and the lack of official explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting detailed accounts and encouraging further investigation into these mysterious events. The magazine aims to inform its readers about these phenomena, drawing parallels between incidents in different locations and highlighting witness testimonies and preliminary findings from investigations.

This issue of STENDEK, identified as issue number 29 and dated October 1975, focuses on the theme "la universidad invisible de los ovnis" (The Invisible University of UFOs). The magazine delves into various aspects of UFO research, including statistical analysis, witness testimony, and theoretical frameworks.

Statistical Analysis of UFO Sightings

The article "curva satisfactoria de distribución mensual" (Satisfactory Curve of Monthly Distribution) by José – Tomás Ramírez y Barberó presents a statistical study of UFO sightings in Spain from 1950 to 1974. The author analyzes data from various researchers, including J. Vallée, T. Phillips, J.U. Pereira, C. Poher, and J. Clark, and contributes his own analysis of 25 years of Spanish sightings. The study aims to establish a monthly frequency curve, termed the "CURVA SATISFACTORIA," to serve as a model for future research. The data, totaling 3670 cases, is presented numerically in CUADRO I and graphically in FIGURA I. CUADRO II provides these figures as percentages, and the "MEDIAS" section shows average monthly percentages. The analysis reveals a tendency for UFO activity to concentrate in certain months, with a maximum accumulation in the second half of the year, particularly in October (15.5%) and August (11.0%), and minimums in January (5.1%) and February (4.2%). The curve shows a steeper decline after the first maximum.

Jacques Vallée's "Witness Theory"

The article "LA UNIVERSIDAD INVISIBLE DE LOS OVNIS" discusses Jacques Vallée's work, specifically his "Teoría del Testigo OVNI" (Witness Theory). This theory suggests that witness behavior and the reporting of sightings differ based on the characteristics of the observation. Vallée proposes an "Índice de Extrañeza" (Estrangement Index or I.E.), based on Dr. Hynek's work, which categorizes sightings by their complexity and the probability of them being reported. The theory outlines seven levels of I.E., from a simple luminous point (1/10 probability of being reported) to temporal gaps with loss of reality (0 probability of being reported). The article highlights Vallée's interest in higher I.E. cases (6 and 7), such as "rapt" experiences, while acknowledging the potential for misinterpretation and fraud in such accounts. The author notes that Vallée's work, along with that of others, contributes to a more holistic understanding of the UFO phenomenon, moving away from compartmentalized theories.

Research and Collaboration

The magazine features several sections highlighting ongoing research and collaboration within the ufology community. A letter to readers ("A NUESTROS LECTORES") expresses interest in collecting news about UFO sightings from provincial newspapers to maintain the magazine's archive. The "LA COLUMNA DEL SUBSCRIPTOR" section provides contact information for readers interested in purchasing back issues, exchanging books, or connecting with other UFO enthusiasts. It also includes listings for those selling UFO-related archives and libraries.

News and Events

• Several news items are reported:
• The magazine thanks the Belgian organization S.O.B.E.P.S. for including CEI and STENDEK in their list of "Principal groups in the world."
• Journalist Juan José Benítez, known for his articles on UFOs in "La Gaceta del Norte," visited Barcelona to discuss potential collaborations, including a book and a film script on the UFO theme.
• The "I Simposio Internacional de Ufología" was held in Curitiba, Brazil. While the organization was criticized for being deficient, presentations by Dr. Hynek and General Alfredo Mendoça Uchoa were highlighted as saving the event.
• Antoni Ribera's new book, "¿De veras los OVNIs nos vigilan?" (Do UFOs Really Watch Us?), which explores potential UFO representations in prehistoric cave paintings, is mentioned.
• Dr. J. Allen Hynek has resigned from his directorship at Northwestern University to dedicate himself fully to the "Center for UFO Studies," of which he is a founder.
• A meeting between Dr. Jacques Vallée, Antoni Ribera, and Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos took place in Sant Feliu de Codines (Barcelona) to discuss UFO phenomena and the "Center for UFO Studies."

Book Reviews and Notes

The "NOVEDADES LIBROS OVNI" section announces new books: "Le Collège Invisible" by Jacques Vallée and "La nueva Oleada de los Platillos Volantes" (The New Wave of Flying Saucers) by A.T.E. Ediciones. The "NOTAS" section provides detailed references for the cited works and research, including publications by Jacques Vallée, T. Phillips, J.U. Pereira, C. Poher, J. Clark, Oscar A. Uriondo, and others.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific and statistical investigation of UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on data collection, analysis, and the development of theoretical frameworks to understand witness accounts. The magazine promotes collaboration among researchers and encourages readers to contribute to the collective knowledge base. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, seeking to demystify the UFO phenomenon through rigorous study while acknowledging the complexities and potential for misinterpretation. The value of a holistic approach to UFO research, as advocated by figures like Jacques Vallée, is consistently highlighted.