Stendek - Vol 07 No 26 - December 1976

Magazine Overview

This issue of STENDEK, a publication from the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (C.E.I.), is identified as Año VII No 26, dated Diciembre 1976. The magazine is directed by Pere Redón, with Maria del Carmen Tamayo as Assistant Editor, Josep Serra Planas as Layout Artist, and Salvador Barroso and Germán Montfort as illustrators. The cover prominently features the headline "agrupaciones e investigadores ovni : un gran esfuerzo en comun" (UFO groups and investigators: a great common effort), suggesting a collaborative theme. The cover also displays a collage of other UFO-related publications, including "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT", "CANADIAN UFO REPORT", "SKYLOOK", and "ufo nyt".

Editorial: Subjective Elements in the Study and Investigation of the UFO Phenomenon

The editorial, authored by Casas-Huguet, emphasizes the importance of subjective elements in the study of the UFO phenomenon. It outlines several desirable qualities for researchers, including a genuine and profound interest in understanding the phenomenon's essence, continuity of interest, a comprehensive yet detailed vision, a strong work ethic, mental openness, and a combination of intellectual rigor, scientific knowledge, and critical attitude. The editorial cautions against sensationalism, improvisation, and personal promotion. It concludes that with these personal prerequisites, it is possible to achieve positive results in deciphering the reality behind the UFO phenomenon.

Article: Case Type I in the Canary Islands

This article, by Ramón Simó Costa of C.E.I., details a significant UFO event that occurred in Gran Canaria, Spain. The report, based on national and local press coverage, describes an incident on June 22, 1976, around 10 PM, near the areas known as "Piso Fime" and "El Hornillo" between Gáldar and Agaete. A taxi driver, Francisco Estevez, and his passenger, Santiago del Pino, encountered a strange, round, transparent object, approximately two stories high, hovering about fifteen meters away. The object was described as having a grey or sky-blue border and an oval shape on top. Dr. Francisco-Julio Padrón León, a respected local doctor, provided a detailed testimony. He described seeing two very tall figures, dressed in bright red, with pointed, fin-like extremities instead of fingers, and wearing what appeared to be diving helmets. The object emitted a blue gas and ascended, its size increasing dramatically. The taxi's radio stopped working during the encounter. The object then moved at high speed towards Las Nieves and Tenerife. The article also mentions that the television in a nearby house went dark during the event. The farmer José Gil González reported that on June 24, 1976, a circular area of about thirty meters in his onion field was found flattened and scorched, with the plants appearing to have been subjected to high temperatures, while the rest of the field remained normal. This incident is presented as a potential trace evidence linked to the UFO sighting.

Article: Modern Techniques for Nocturnal UFO Detection

Authored by José-Tomas Ramirez and Barbero of C.E.I., this article discusses potential modern techniques for detecting UFOs at night. The text is partially illegible, but it seems to explore methods that could enhance observation and data collection.

Article: Who's Who

This section, by Dr. David M. Jacobs, is a brief mention, likely a profile or directory entry, but the content is not detailed in the provided scans.

Article: The Humanoids in Argentina (Part 1)

This extensive article by Roberto Enrique Banchs delves into the complex topic of humanoid entities associated with UFO phenomena. Banchs acknowledges the difficulty in studying this aspect due to ingrained skepticism and the sensationalism often surrounding it. He highlights the importance of analyzing the witnesses' personality structure. The article reviews previous research efforts, including studies by M. Carrouges (43 cases), the English magazine FSR (hundreds of cases), Ballester Olmos (biometric data), J. Pereira (Argentine landings), and W. Buhler (1975 essay on 40 Brazilian cases). Banchs establishes two main categories for his analysis: Type 1, referring to "landings or semi-landings with perception of occupant entities," further divided into A (simple perception of entities) and B (entities that appear to interact with the witness). Cases involving solitary entities without object observation, folklore-like accounts, or those with questionable credibility are excluded. The study aims to analyze a dataset of significant cases, focusing on objective descriptions and observable behaviors.

Table I - List of Significant Cases

This table provides a chronological listing of 22 significant UFO cases from Argentina, spanning from 1950 to 1973. Each entry includes a case number, classification (A or B), date, time, and geographical location. The data is presented as part of the research for the "Humanoids in Argentina" article.

Distributional Characteristics of UFO Reports

This section, part of the research on Argentine UFO cases, analyzes the distribution of reported incidents. It covers:

1. Annual Distribution: Despite a small sample size, an irregular pattern is observed, coinciding with Argentine "waves" except for 1963 and 1969. A triennial periodicity is suggested for 1962, 1965, and 1968, with 1968 accounting for 31.8% of reports.
2. Monthly Distribution: A significant frequency occurs between June and August, peaking in July (22.7%), followed by October (18.1%). January-February and April-May show minimal reports.
3. Daily Distribution: Mondays and Saturdays show the highest activity (23.8%).

To Our Readers

This section is a call for reader contributions. Stendek is interested in receiving news clippings about UFO sightings from various newspapers to update their archive. They request originals, photocopies, or typed copies of local observations, emphasizing that readers are uniquely positioned to provide this information, which is crucial for their investigations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, humanoid encounters, and the methodology of UFO research. The magazine promotes a serious, analytical approach to the phenomenon, encouraging collaboration among investigators and readers. The editorial stance emphasizes the need for rigorous study, objectivity, and a genuine interest in uncovering the truth behind UFOs, while cautioning against sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims. The publication actively seeks to build a comprehensive archive through reader participation.

This issue of Revista OVNI, dated 1978, focuses on the analysis of UFO sighting data and presents a significant case study involving photographic evidence.

Article: 4. Distribución Horaria (Hourly Distribution)

This section analyzes the temporal distribution of UFO sightings, adjusting data to a standard time zone for homogeneity. It notes that while some reports lack exact timing, the majority provide sufficient data for analysis. The findings indicate that UFO activity is minimal during the day, increasing considerably in the afternoon, and peaking between 2 and 3 AM, before abruptly decreasing. This pattern is compared to earlier studies, suggesting a shift towards later hours for observations of higher strangeness (Types I and II). The author acknowledges that some of these observations might be influenced by misinterpretations of astronomical objects but emphasizes the value of detailed, selected work to avoid such distortions. The article posits that UFOs tend to appear nocturnally or in the early morning when fewer people are awake.

Article: 5. Distribución Geográfica (Geographical Distribution)

This part of the study examines the geographical distribution of UFO incidents. It confirms that sightings are uncommon in densely populated areas. The data reveals that a significant majority (81.2%) of reports originate from rural zones, with only 18.2% coming from urban areas. This distribution is presented as clear evidence, not attributable to psychological contagion.

Article: V. CARACTERISTICAS DE LOS TESTIGOS (Characteristics of Witnesses)

1. Cantidad, edad y sexo (Quantity, Age, and Sex)

This section analyzes a sample of 22 significant 'landing cases' involving occupants, identifying at least 43 individuals. It notes that 18.6% of these cases involved a single witness. For general sightings, 40% had only one witness, while cases with two or more witnesses accounted for 27.2% and 31.8% respectively. The study confirms that reports come from individuals of both sexes, with women participating as witnesses in approximately 41% of events. Age distribution is also noted as similar across genders, with a low proportion of reports from very young witnesses.

2. Profesión u ocupación (Profession or Occupation)

Despite difficulties in assessing witness intelligence, the study categorizes witnesses' professions and cultural backgrounds. It concludes that there is no specific predisposition towards any particular type of witness. Observers come from diverse social and cultural backgrounds, with a notable proportion having good to regular intellectual formation, especially considering the rural nature of many sightings.

Article: VI. CONDICIONES DE LA OBSERVACION (Conditions of Observation)

1. Actividad de los testigos (Witness Activity)

Witness testimony is considered variable, influenced by objective and subjective factors. The study notes that witnesses were generally engaged in ordinary activities when the phenomena captured their attention. A significant 47.6% of witnesses were traveling in a vehicle (car, van, or truck) at the time of observation.

2. Distancia al objeto (Distance to the Object)

In 72.7% of cases, the minimum distance between the witness and the object is known. This distance rarely exceeded 150-200 meters, with 62.5% of cases being within 50 meters, indicating close proximity. The study explores the relationship between the number of witnesses and their proximity to the object, noting that 'single witnesses' had a higher chance of closer approaches. It questions whether these statistical results are due to chance, psychological stimuli, or a controlled phenomenon.

Article: VII. CARACTERISTICAS DE LOS OBJETOS (Characteristics of the Objects)

This section discusses the characteristics of the observed objects. It states that UFOs typically appear singly, with group appearances being rare (two cases). The objects are generally described as discoidal with a self-luminous metallic aspect, sometimes featuring transparent parts like 'domes' or 'windows'. The duration of sightings is noted, with only four cases providing specific information. The dimensions of the objects are estimated to be between 2 and 10 meters in diameter, calculated with reasonable precision due to their proximity to the landscape.

Article: ISLA DE LA TRINIDAD

This extensive article details a significant UFO case that occurred in mid-1952, involving photographic evidence and numerous witnesses. The event took place near Ilha de Trindade, Brazil, involving the Brazilian naval ship "Almirante Saldanha".

The Incident

The expedition, which included divers, a geologist, a journalist, and a photographer, was on board the "Almirante Saldanha". On January 16, 1958, around 12:15 PM, while the ship was preparing to leave the island, a strong noise was heard, and a brilliant object was seen approaching the island. Photographer Almiro Barauna managed to capture several photos of the object.

Photographic Evidence and Analysis

Barauna took seven photos in total. The initial photos (clichés 1 and 2) were taken as the object approached the island. The object then disappeared behind a mountain and reappeared, moving towards the sea at high speed. Barauna managed to take two more photos, including the seventh (cliché 4), the last on his film. The object remained silent but caused electrical equipment on the ship to malfunction. The ship itself stopped three times due to technical failures. The photos were later developed in a makeshift darkroom on board. An examination of the film revealed that the photos corresponded to the object observed, which some witnesses compared to the planet Saturn. The negatives were sent to the Aerophotographic Service of Cruzeiro do Sul for examination, where they were deemed to be beyond suspicion and without fraud.

Witness Testimony and Official Involvement

Approximately 48 visual witnesses observed the object. Commander Carlos Alberto Bacellar, who was on board, did not personally see the object as he was in his cabin, but he witnessed the excitement and the subsequent official examination of the photographs. Barauna was interviewed by naval authorities at the Ministry of the Navy, where he provided his testimony and negatives. The authorities confirmed the authenticity of the documents.

Object Characteristics

The UFO was described as having a metallic, dark ash color. Its contour and front part showed a condensation of greenish or phosphorescent vapor. It moved in a balancing manner, likened to a bat. The object's luminosity was notable, though it was unclear if it was self-generated or reflected. The sky was overcast, and the sun was not visible.

Article: Books Section

This section provides a bibliography of UFO-related books, divided into those published in Spain and those in foreign languages. It lists titles by authors such as Jacques Vallée, Henry Durrant, Faber Kaiser, Donald E. Keyhoe, A. Ribera, Xavier Colom, J.C. Borret, Favio Zerpa, V. Zalbidea, J. Lizar, and J. Poittier for Spanish publications. For foreign language books, it includes titles by David Saunders, J. G. Dohmen, F. Lagarde, Roberto Pinotti, Henry Durrant, J. Allen Hynek, and W. Buhler, covering publications from the US, France, Italy, and Germany.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the statistical analysis of UFO sightings (temporal and geographical distribution), the characteristics of witnesses and their observations, and the detailed examination of a specific UFO case with photographic evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation, emphasizing the importance of authenticating evidence and analyzing witness testimony objectively. The magazine aims to present factual data and well-documented cases, distinguishing them from mere speculation or misinterpretations.

This issue of Stendek, dated April 1976, focuses on UFO observations, with a prominent article titled 'Observaciones ovni en la comarca de Huesca' (UFO observations in the Huesca region), which is a continuation of a previous publication.

Ilha da Trindade Case

The issue extensively covers the UFO incident on Ilha da Trindade, Brazil, which gained significant attention in early 1958. The article details the experience of photographer Almiro Barauna, who captured several photographs of a mysterious object. Barauna recounts undergoing tests to assess his credibility and describes how his photos were analyzed by military officials. He notes that the object was estimated to be moving at speeds between 900 and 1000 Km/h, with a diameter of approximately 40 meters and a thickness of 8 meters.

The news of the sighting was published in the Brazilian press, including 'Ultima Hora,' 'Correio da Manha,' 'Diario da Noite,' and 'O Journal.' The article mentions a statement from Commander Paulo Moreira dda Silva of the Hydrographic Service of the Navy, who ruled out the object being a weather balloon or a US-made guided missile, noting its greenish color unlike their red balloons.

A deputy, Sergio Magalhaes, presented several questions to the Minister of the Navy regarding the incident, seeking official clarification and investigation. The Ministry of the Navy eventually issued a statement confirming that they did not oppose the disclosure of the photos, which were taken by Barauna in the presence of many witnesses from the crew of the 'Almirante Saldanha.' However, the Ministry stated that photos alone were not sufficient proof to determine the object's nature.

The article also highlights other observations around Ilha da Trindade in late 1957 and early 1958, including sightings of oval and round silver objects, and a more detailed account from January 6th where Commander Bacellar witnessed a weather balloon incident followed by a bright, half-moon shaped object.

Expert opinions on the photos are presented, including Dr. Donald H. Menzel, who believed the photos were faked, and John T. Hopf, an aerial photography specialist, who analyzed the clichés and concluded they were likely taken under cloudy conditions and showed a solid object with defined contours, consistent with the Navy's size estimates. Hopf also noted that the object was not luminous and that the shutter speed was sufficient to capture a distant, fast-moving object.

Huesca UFO Observation

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed report of a UFO observation that occurred on March 31, 1976, on the N-125 highway near Huesca, Spain. The witness, identified as B.C., a technically trained individual, reported seeing reddish-orange lights that evolved into a large, metallic, submarine-shaped object flying parallel to his car at a low altitude (estimated between 12 and 25 meters). The object, described as approximately 20-25 meters long and 8-10 meters high, followed the car for about 4 kilometers over a period of approximately 4 minutes. The witness experienced fear and accelerated towards Huesca. Upon reaching a gas station, the object reportedly ascended vertically at high speed. The witness also claimed to have seen the object absorbing large, white discs from its rear.

Reflexiones sobre el Paralelismo Funcional

Another article, 'Reflexiones sobre el Paralelismo Funcional entre "Lo Magico" y "Lo Extraterrestre"' by G. Esteban Sanz, explores the idea that the extraterrestrial hypothesis (H.E.T.) is essentially a modern manifestation of ancient magical beliefs. Sanz argues that the abilities attributed to extraterrestrials—such as flight, healing incurable diseases, and predicting the future—parallel those of mythical magicians, witches, and sorcerers. He suggests that the concept of 'extraterrestrial' is a way to express these old beliefs in contemporary, 'scientific' terms, making 'everything possible' within the H.E.T. framework. The author also touches upon the myth of psychic powers and parapsychology, noting their parallel development and convergence with the extraterrestrial hypothesis.

Reader Contributions and References

The issue includes a 'COLUMNA DEL LECTOR' (Reader's Column) with individuals seeking contact with other UFO enthusiasts, requesting specific back issues of 'Stendek,' and inquiring about UFO-related books. A list of references is provided, citing various books and publications on UFOs, including works by Richard Hall, Coral E. Lorenzen, Loren E. Gross, Jacques Vallée, and Ion Hobana.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the investigation and analysis of UFO phenomena, with a particular focus on photographic evidence and witness testimony. The magazine presents detailed case studies, including the well-documented Ilha da Trindade incident and a recent observation in Spain. There is a clear interest in exploring the scientific and psychological aspects of UFO sightings, as evidenced by the article comparing UFOs to magic. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the subject, presenting evidence and expert opinions while also encouraging critical thinking and discussion, as seen in the reader contributions and the analytical articles.

This issue of the magazine, dated December 1976, focuses on the "Beautiful Phenomenon of Vandellos," a significant UFO sighting. It also delves into the technical aspects of UFO detection and the organizational challenges within the UFO research community.

The Beautiful Phenomenon of Vandellós

The lead article, "EL BELLO FENOMENO DE VANDELLOS" by Ramon Simó Costa, discusses a case involving a nebulous object observed near Vandellós. The author begins by cautioning against accepting any hypothesis that claims to explain everything, likening such claims to magic. He references a book by Angel Franchetto, "OVNIS, desde el cielo a la tierra," which suggests that Uri Geller is programmed by extraterrestrials.

The article then details the Vandellós sighting, describing how nebulous shapes are often associated with UFOs. It recalls Aimé Michel's account of a luminous, blue-violet cloud in Vernon, France, from which disc-shaped, mirror-like objects emerged before the entire formation disappeared.

The specific case involves D. Vicente Ballester Marín, his wife, and son, who witnessed a nebulous phenomenon on March 22, 1975, between Cambrils and Hospitalet del Infante, Tarragona, Spain, between 12:45 and 13:45. Mrs. Ballester, an amateur photographer, captured images of the phenomenon. Mr. Ballester Marín, a drawing teacher and painter, was captivated by the object's unusual beauty. The compact, isolated mass moved slowly towards the coast. Six smaller nebulous blocks detached from the main mass and followed it.

Meteorologist Oscar Rey Brea, consulted for his opinion, suggested the phenomenon was likely orographic clouds, possibly lenticular, influenced by the day's weather conditions, including land wind and an approaching front, as well as the mountainous terrain. He noted that such clouds are transient. While acknowledging the possibility of a meteorological explanation, the article notes that the persistence of the shape in the photographs was somewhat unusual. The author concludes that the case can be considered closed from a meteorological standpoint, but expresses admiration for the Ballester family's opportunity to witness such a beautiful and unusual natural phenomenon.

Modern Techniques for Nocturnal UFO Detection

An article by José-Tomas Ramirez y Barbero explores modern techniques for maximizing nocturnal vision, relevant for UFO detection. It categorizes these techniques into two main systems: those based on near-infrared (IR) light and those based on amplifying natural nocturnal light. These systems are further divided into active and passive techniques.

Active Techniques: Near-Infrared (IR) Equipment

Near-IR equipment uses projectors with filters that emit IR radiation, which is then converted into a visible image by a transformer tube. The article explains the electromagnetic spectrum and focuses on the near-IR range (0.75 to 4-5 microns). It describes how IR illumination allows objects to be detected by the energy of the photons, which can 'kick out' electrons from certain substances. A typical IR vision system includes a projector, a telescope with a transformer tube, and a fluorescent screen. These systems can be used for observation and detection, with semi-active or METASCOPIOS devices offering quick localization of IR sources. However, a drawback is their detectability and susceptibility to damage from intense light.

Passive Techniques: Low-Light Level Equipment

Passive systems, also known as "Low-Light Level" equipment, focus on amplifying scarce light from objects illuminated by moonlight or starlight. The article emphasizes the importance of high sensitivity and spectral response for human eye perception, noting that at very low lux levels, the eye cannot perceive objects or colors. Passive systems use image intensifier tubes, which amplify incoming light through a series of steps involving a photocathode, electron acceleration, and a phosphor screen. These systems can magnify the image and are designed to be less detectable than active systems. They have been improved with automatic light controls to prevent damage from intense light. The article distinguishes between direct observation devices and those coupled with TV cameras.

Other Techniques Under Study or Development

Laser Light Intensification: This active technique is limited in duration but can provide a solution when speed is critical. However, current IR capabilities are considered insufficient for improvement.

Thermal Infrared: Cameras working in the far-IR range are still under study. They detect heat radiation emitted by objects based on their temperature. While promising for long-distance passive detection, technical difficulties in creating operational materials remain.

The 'Carreras Effect'

Authored by F. Arejula, this section discusses a specific UFO behavior observed and described by a witness named Carreras. The phenomenon, termed the "Carreras Effect," involves a UFO descending obliquely or gliding backward, contrary to its direction of travel. The author posits that UFOs are "hypercharged" systems whose mass and inertia depend on their potential energy. When a UFO discharges electrostatic energy, its mass increases, causing it to fall until equilibrium is restored.

If the atmosphere is calm, the UFO's movement is uniform. However, if the UFO encounters wind, it experiences an effect similar to an airplane being lifted. Because a UFO is weightless (as per point 'a' in the article), the resulting upward force from the wind would be significantly greater, potentially causing it to flip. The natural defense described is to counteract this by increasing its mass through a downward discharge (point 'b'), causing it to fall or glide. This gliding fall, as depicted in a diagram, is directed backward, away from the wind's direction. The author suggests this effect is significant for analyzing more complex cases and that the observed UFO was likely trying to escape a storm and navigate difficult wind conditions.

Participation of Private Groups in UFO Investigation and Resulting Frustration

This article, reproduced from the French magazine "Lumières dans la nuit" (LDLN) and authored by Claude Poher, addresses the role and challenges of private UFO research groups. Poher highlights the vast amount of information available on the UFO phenomenon and the difficulties in conducting thorough research.

He categorizes individuals involved in UFO research into four groups: the general public (often misinformed), members of private groups (better informed but with limited scientific training), professional researchers (dedicated scientists whose UFO work is outside their official capacity), and other professional researchers.

Poher emphasizes that UFO research is more a vocation than a job, requiring immense dedication, often involving 12-15 hour workdays for professionals. Those who also have personal lives (families, jobs, hobbies) can only dedicate a few hours a week to UFO research. For France, this amounts to only a few hundred hours of research annually, despite the need for tens or hundreds of thousands of hours to complete a study.

He illustrates the scale of the problem with his personal experience, having collected around 9,000 cases and estimating that it takes five minutes per case to process, requiring 750 hours before even starting the primary investigation. With an additional 3,000 cases expected, this task alone consumes significant time.

Private groups like LDLN play a crucial role in collecting and transmitting observational data to professional researchers. However, the "distance" between these groups and the professionals leads to frustration among the surveyors. Their work may seem insignificant, and they often do not receive feedback. Poher acknowledges this situation is inevitable if researchers are to prioritize direct investigation over extensive correspondence. He appeals for patience, rigor, and objectivity from these groups, understanding the difficult conditions under which UFO research must be conducted. He concludes that this is a collective effort requiring commitment within the limits of efficacy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings, attempting to provide explanations ranging from meteorological phenomena to advanced technological possibilities. There's a clear emphasis on scientific inquiry and the challenges of rigorous research, particularly concerning the time and resources required. The editorial stance appears to favor a methodical, evidence-based approach, while acknowledging the profound beauty and mystery of unexplained aerial phenomena. The frustration of dedicated researchers, both professional and amateur, is a recurring theme, highlighting the significant obstacles in the field.

This issue of "galaxia ovni" (UFO Galaxy) is dated October 1976 and is the 39th issue. The cover prominently features the Spanish slogan "la publicidad directa es la mas efectiva" (direct advertising is the most effective) and a call to action: "HABLE DE STENDEK A SUS AMIGOS" (Talk about STENDEK to your friends), suggesting a commercial tie-in or advertisement within the magazine.

Contents

Scientific Discoveries and Conferences

The magazine reports on the discovery of a new molecule in space, identified as HNC, a form of hydrogen cyanide with nitrogen at its center. This molecule, unstable on Earth, was discovered by Americans and Australians and synthesized in Germany. It is considered potentially significant as a link in the propagation of animated acids that could lead to life.

Additionally, the issue highlights a conference held in San Sebastián by D. Manuel María Correia, a Spanish astronomer working at the University of Washington. His talk, titled "Possibilities of Life in the Universe," was organized by the Ateneo Guipuzcoano and attended by a large audience.

UFO Congress in Poitiers

Approximately 300 people attended a "Congress of Information on UFOs" in Poitiers, France, on June 16-17. The event was presided over by Jean-Claude Bourret, a journalist from TF3. The congress featured specialists such as Jacques Vallée, Patrick Aimédieu, Jean Goupil, Pierre Guérin, Pierre Kohler, Maurice Vuitton, Jean Pierre Petit, Auguste Néessen, and Captains Cochereau and Kervandal of the Gendarmerie Nationale. Key topics discussed included evidence for UFO existence, humanoids, witness testimonies, Gendarmerie investigations, and extraterrestrial hypotheses. The public had an opportunity to interact with the speakers, though many questions remained unanswered.

General Carlos Castro Cavero's Stance on UFOs

In an interview with journalist Juan José Benítez of "La Gaceta del Norte," General D. Carlos Castro Cavero, then Chief of the Air Zone of the Canary Islands, expressed his personal conviction that UFOs are extraterrestrial craft. He revealed that he had personally witnessed a UFO years prior in the sky over Sádaba, Zaragoza, and ruled out conventional explanations due to its movement and luminosity. When asked about government silence, he suggested it stemmed from a reluctance to speculate on intangible phenomena. Officially, he stated his belief aligned with the Ministry of the Air, but personally, he was convinced of the extraterrestrial origin of UFOs. He also disclosed that the Spanish Air Force had investigated over twenty UFO cases, all of which were deemed inexplicable by competent professionals.

Historical UFO Sightings

The magazine recounts a significant UFO sighting from the early 17th century that caused panic in Lyon, Nîmes, and Montpellier, France. This account is based on a small work published in Lyon in 1621, titled "The Terrible Signs Appeared Anew in the Sky of the Cities of Lyon, Nîmes, and Montpellier and the Great Fear of the People." The anonymous author describes an object seen over Lyon as resembling a "battalion of gendarmes on horseback" and a star that acted like a "second sun." In Nîmes, a similar object was observed as a "very bright great sun," compared to "fiery chariots surrounded by very luminous stars." In Montpellier, residents reported "a quantity of burning fires in the form of torches." These events lasted from 9:10 PM to 3:00 AM. The author interpreted these phenomena as divine signs portending victory for King Louis XIII over his enemies.

Dr. David M. Jacobs Profile

An article introduces Dr. David M. Jacobs, a professor of history at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, born in Los Angeles in 1942. His doctoral thesis at the University of Wisconsin was on "The UFO Controversy in America, 1896-1973." He is the author of "The UFO Controversy in America," published by Indiana University Press, which is described as the first positive and academic book on the subject, covering the history of UFO phenomena in the US, including the Robertson Panel, USAF positions, NICAP movements, and Congressional hearings. The book is considered essential for scientific ufologists. Dr. Jacobs has also written for the "APRO Bulletin" and serves as a history advisor for that organization. He was a historical consultant for the television program "UFOs: Past, Present and Future" and has lectured on history at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, also appearing on radio and television to discuss UFOs.

CEI General Assembly

The issue also includes a report on the General Assembly of the CEI (Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios), where a new Board of Directors was elected. The new board consists of J.M. Casas-Huguet (President), Francesc Melis (Vice-President), Pere Redón (General Secretary and Treasurer), Xavier Prat (Vice-Secretary), and council members Miguel Soler, Carmen Graells, Ramón Simó, Madel Carmen Tamayo, and Gabriel Santpere.

Reader Engagement

A section titled "DE INTERES PARA NUESTROS LECTORES" (Of Interest to Our Readers) encourages readers to share any possible UFO sightings with the CEI, promising to send them an observation questionnaire to gather details.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, scientific inquiry into the unknown, and historical accounts of unexplained aerial events. There is a clear interest in both contemporary sightings and historical records, as well as the scientific and official perspectives on UFOs. The inclusion of statements from a high-ranking military official like General Castro Cavero lends significant weight to the topic. The magazine appears to promote ufology as a serious field of study, evidenced by the profile of Dr. David M. Jacobs and the emphasis on academic research and investigation. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting information from various sources, including scientific, historical, and official, while encouraging reader participation in reporting sightings.