Stendek - Vol 08 No 30 - December 1977

Magazine Overview

Title: STENDEK
Issue: Vol. VIII, No. 30
Date: December 1977
Publisher: Servicio Informativo C.E.I. (Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios)
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of STENDEK, a quarterly publication from the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios, focuses on UFO statistics, specific case studies, and the sociological interpretation of the UFO phenomenon.

Contents

The magazine opens with a tribute to Oscar Rey Brea, a meteorological advisor and UFO enthusiast who passed away. The editorial highlights his contributions, including his observations of UFOs and his work in correlating UFO sightings with planetary oppositions. It also mentions his analysis of the San José de Valderas photographs, which he declared as not authentic.

Statistics of UFO Cases in Spain and Portugal (1945-1975)

A prominent feature is a statistical table detailing the provisional number of UFO cases in Spain and Portugal from 1945 to 1975, broken down by month and year. The table shows a significant number of cases, with a sum of 110 in January and 83 in February, and a total of 112 for the months of June and July, and 179, 156, 118, and 20 for the remaining months.

El humanoide de Quebradillas

This article, authored by Sebastián Robiou Lamarche, reports on a sighting of a humanoid in Quebradillas, Puerto Rico, on July 12, 1977. The witness, Adrián de Olmos Ordoñez, described a small, 3.5-foot-tall being with a green, 'inflated' suit and a metallic helmet. The humanoid was observed moving towards a lamppost, appearing to seek energy, before fleeing when a light was turned on. It then ascended into the trees, emitting lights from a backpack-like device. The incident attracted significant local attention, with police investigating but finding no explanation. The article also notes the discovery of a footprint and a broken branch on a mango tree, potentially related to the event. A neighbor reported seeing a luminous object fall in the same area two days prior, and a rancher reported his cattle becoming inexplicably agitated on the night of the sighting.

El retorno de un mito

Authored by G. Esteban and C. Gargoiko, this article delves into the concept of UFOs as a modern myth. The authors, using radio broadcasts to gather experiences, discuss how certain UFO cases, particularly those involving landings or quasi-landings, can be seen as manifestations of a 'UFO myth.' They differentiate their definition of myth from classical dictionary definitions, viewing it as a complex, systematic imaginary production that reflects collective sentiments and structures. They argue that society creates its own myths, which may be new or reinterpreted traditional ones, and that future anthropologists might find similarities between modern UFO myths and ancient ones. The article references Mircea Eliade and G. Sorel in its theoretical framework. It also touches upon the influence of media in shaping public perception of UFOs, citing the 1968-1969 UFO wave coinciding with the space race and the Moon landing as an example of a sociologically driven phenomenon. The authors suggest that understanding the 'mythical' aspect of UFOs is crucial for comprehending their physical behavior and patterns.

Case Study: Azpeitia Sphere

This section presents a case reported by Fernandez Goenaga, describing a phenomenon that occurred about 30 years prior in Azpeitia, Gipuzkoa, Spain. A white sphere, approximately one meter in diameter, was observed hovering close to the ground and then rapidly disappearing. The phenomenon was also witnessed by others in the region, with some describing it as a sphere and others as a 'horse-shaped' object. The article notes the rich mythology of the Basque region, particularly the figure of the goddess Mari, who is associated with various forms, including fireballs and horses, and whose myth is still alive in the region. The authors draw a parallel between the reported UFO sightings and the manifestations of the goddess Mari, suggesting a potential 'rebirth' or 'metamorphosis' of the ancient myth into the modern UFO phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the UFO phenomenon from multiple angles: statistical analysis, detailed case reports, and sociological interpretations. There is a clear interest in the cultural and psychological aspects of UFO sightings, viewing them not just as physical events but as phenomena deeply intertwined with societal beliefs and narratives. The publication seems to adopt a serious, investigative approach, aiming to inform and stimulate discussion within the ufological community. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the complexities and mysteries surrounding UFOs while seeking rational explanations and understanding their broader cultural significance.

This issue of UMMO, dated May 14, 1977, is primarily dedicated to a detailed analysis of UFO sightings and the controversial UMMO case, with the central thesis being that these phenomena constitute a "major hoax." The publication features extensive technical and photographic analysis, alongside discussions on the mythological underpinnings of UFO beliefs.

The UMMO Case: A Hoax?

The article "LAS OBSERVACIONES DE ALUCHE Y SAN JOSE DE VALDERAS. ASI COMO EL ASUNTO UMMO: ¡UNA MAGNA SUPERCHERIA!" by Claude Pohér, from the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales, forms the core of this issue. Pohér presents a rigorous examination of the UMMO documents and photographic evidence, particularly from San José de Valderas. He concludes that while approximately 50% of the information in the UMMO documents is accurate, the rest is demonstrably false. The technical level required to create these documents is estimated to be that of early university science students, suggesting it's unlikely to be the work of a single individual due to the variety of skills and cultural context implied.

Analysis of San José de Valderas Photographs

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the photographic evidence from San José de Valderas. Pohér, with the assistance of specialized engineers from the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales, meticulously analyzed original negatives. The study aimed to verify the authenticity of the photographs, which were claimed to perfectly capture an unusual flying object approximately 13 meters in diameter.

#### Arguments in Favor of the Photographs' Veracity:

• Illumination: The lighting on the landscape and the object in the clichés suggests a single photographic event, without superimposition or successive exposures, indicating the object was photographed simultaneously with the landscape.
• Coherence: The lighting is consistent with the claimed date and time of the observation.
• Timing: The time elapsed between the first and last clichés is compatible with the reported duration of the observation.
• Atmospheric Diffusion: Calculations based on atmospheric diffusion, derived from photometric measurements of the landscape, are consistent with a large object at a moderate distance.
• Luminosity: The dome of the object appears more luminous than the sky, even in shadow, suggesting a significant energy emission (hundreds of MW for a small, close object, or a few KW for a larger one).
• Object Characteristics: The five available clichés show variations in the object's position and apparent diameter, consistent with the witnesses' accounts of its trajectory.

#### Arguments in Favor of a Hoax:

• Object Positioning: The object is consistently located near the lateral edge of the frame, not centered, which is deemed incompatible with a 'mid-flight' or 'psychologically excited' shot, suggesting a staged setup.
• Camera Position and Angles: The camera's low position relative to the ground (maintained for 13 clichés despite significant rotation and lateral displacement) and the inconsistent horizon angles are considered incompatible with natural shooting conditions, requiring 'abnormal' focusing precautions.
• Single Photographer: Evidence suggests only one photographer was involved, as landscape elements in purported photos from a second photographer (Antonio Pardo) align too perfectly, implying the same camera position.
• Object Size and Proximity: Analysis of the photographic 'flou' (blur) suggests the object was a small, nearby model (approximately 3.50m away, with a diameter of about 20cm), not a distant, large craft.
• Translucency and Markings: Photometric comparison indicates the object is translucent, similar to opal plastic, with a symbol drawn on it, like a marker or ink drawing on a translucent model.
• Luminosity of the Dome: The luminosity of the dome is compatible with a circular, translucent, polished surface illuminated by sunlight, consistent with a model.
• Energy Emission Inconsistency: The luminous energy emitted by an opaque object is incompatible with the hypothesis of ionization or excitation of ambient air.
• Model Reproduction: Pohér claims to have accurately reproduced all aspects of the clichés using a simple model constructed from two plastic plates and a camping cup lid, costing about 130 pesetas.

The UMMO Documents and the

This issue of the magazine, identified by page number 22 and a section identifier 24/1, focuses on a chronological review of UFO sightings in the Basque Country and surrounding provinces from 1975 to 1977. It also extensively covers the 1st National Congress of Ufology held in Barcelona on December 3-4, 1977. The publication appears to be from the CEI (Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios) or a related organization, with contributions from journalists and researchers in the field.

Chronological Review of UFO Cases (1975-1977)

The article begins by noting that UFO sightings can be influenced by climatic conditions, current events, and public emotional state. It highlights that during periods of political activity and abundant news, UFO reports tend to decrease, but conversely, when news is scarce, reports may increase. The period between 1975 and 1977 is described as having favorable factors for UFO observations, with one witness leading to another, resulting in a surge of reports that has since subsided.

The author, José Luis Guillerna Grijalba of CEI in Vitoria, presents a chronological account of significant observations, some of which have been previously published in the magazine, while others are new. All cases are located in the Basque Country or neighboring provinces.

Key Incidents Detailed:

• February 19, 1975: Near Golernio (Condado de Treviño), a red, oval object with a fixed light was observed moving east with slight deviations. The author and his wife witnessed this.
• March 28, 1975: Near Maestu, a 'cloud' of pasty white color that illuminated intermittently and changed position three times was seen by mountaineers. When they tried to get a better view, the sky clouded over, and upon clearing, only a small luminous point was visible.
• April/May 1975: In Aguilar de Codés, a baker observed a luminous orange, spherical object hovering near trees. As he drove past, the object rose vertically without sound, bathing the area in amber light. It remained static for hours before disappearing.
• September 1975: Near Genevilla, a woman on her bicycle saw an oval object with a bright red perimeter and a black interior. She was frightened and heard voices.
• October 18, 1975: Near Logroño, a large red object with its own luminosity and two flashing white lights was observed over the church tower of Herramélluri. It was estimated to be about 150 meters long and disappeared slowly.
• October 19-23, 1975: Journalist D. Juan José Benítez reported on witnesses who saw a gigantic flying object, described as 'like a bottle with its neck cut off', measuring over 200 meters, over the Peñas de Dima (Vizcaya). A similar object was seen over Castillo-Elejabeitia shortly after, suggesting the possibility of a large mothership in the region.
• October 5, 1975: Near Pamplona, a flying saucer about three meters in diameter was observed pursuing a car.
• Late October 1975: Near Trespaderne (Burgos), a circular object about three and a half meters in diameter was sighted by a family.
• Late October 1975: On Monte Pagasarri, near Bilbao, several young people observed a large circular object with yellowish-white lights at a great height.
• Late October 1975: Near Estella (Navarra), a reddish disc about eight meters in diameter pursued a car at night, illuminating the surroundings despite the rain.

1st National Congress of Ufology (December 3-4, 1977)

The second major part of the issue focuses on the 1st National Congress of Ufology held in Barcelona at the Palacio de Congresos de Montjuich. The congress is described as 'unfortunate and precipitated'. The organizing committee included pioneers of ufology like Antoni Ribera and Eduardo Buelta, alongside newer generations of serious researchers such as Félix Ares de Blas, David G. López, and Pere Redón. However, the inclusion of Francisco de A. Rovatti, who specializes in parapsychology and has no known bibliography on UFOs, is questioned. The list of committee members is described as a 'hodgepodge' of directors, popularizers, and parapsychologists.

The article suggests that the congress might have been organized with a focus on popular appeal and economic benefits, rather than solely on serious research, as a purely scientific approach might have been too complex and costly for the general public and enthusiasts seeking sensationalism.

The Congress Structure and Presentations:

Out of seventeen speakers, only seven are considered to have reached a superior level and contributed significantly to the UFO problem. These include:

• "Bases para una modelación teórica del Fenómeno OVNI" (Bases for a theoretical modeling of the UFO Phenomenon) by Félix Ares de Blas, David G. López, and Angel Salaverría.
• "Nuevas aportaciones sobre la cinta Javier Bosque" (New contributions on the Javier Bosque tape) by Albert Adell.
• "Posibilidad e imposibilidad del Paradigma procesal" (Possibility and impossibility of the Procedural Paradigm) by Miquel Guasp.
• "La Ufología en la década de los 70" (Ufology in the 1970s) by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos.
• "Las técnicas estadísticas, una herramienta para la Ufología científica" (Statistical techniques, a tool for scientific Ufology) by Captain José-Tomás Ramírez y Barberó.
• "Aportaciones al problema de la propulsión de los OVNI" (Contributions to the problem of UFO propulsion) by Miquel Alcover.

One presentation on 'Pictorial material from Cantabrian caves and its relation to the UFO phenomenon' by members of CIOVE is acknowledged for its effort, though the authors do not necessarily agree with its premise.

Other presentations were deemed to have contributed nothing (like that of Carlos Murciano), were philosophical (Calderón, Rovatti), or covered well-known topics. Antoni Ribera's defense of aspects of the UMMO subject, despite a study by Dr. Charles Poher, is also mentioned. Explosive speculations from personal communications, including accusations of CIA agents present, are dismissed as gratuitous and stupid.

The article concludes that many attendees felt their time was wasted, hoping for serious researchers to break the monotony with their findings. The overall sentiment among scientific investigators was one of disappointment, leading to the conclusion that such congresses were not beneficial for the advancement of UFO study. Instead, the focus shifted to the value of periodic, informal meetings for work and exchange of ideas.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers UFO phenomena, presenting both case studies and analyses of events within the ufological community. The editorial stance appears to favor serious, scientific investigation while acknowledging the role of public perception and media influence. The critique of the National Congress of Ufology suggests a preference for rigorous research over sensationalism and amateur speculation. The publication also seems to be a platform for disseminating information and fostering discussion among researchers, as indicated by the call for interest in a potential publication of congress papers.

This document is a special dossier titled "EL CASO DEL Dr. X (SEGUNDA PARTE)", focusing on the investigation of a UFO sighting that occurred on November 2, 1968, in the southeast of France. The investigator is Aime Michel. The issue also includes a compilation of various UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings and incidents that occurred in Spain between 1975 and 1977, as reported in the magazine "STENDEK" and "La Gaceta del Norte".

The Dr. X Case Investigation (November 1968)

The dossier details the investigation into the case of "Dr. X", a witness who observed a UFO on November 2, 1968. The investigation, led by Aime Michel, involved a physicist and psychologists. Dr. X provided a detailed account of the event, including his initial astonishment, followed by perplexity, and finally fear as the object approached. He described the object as having a gigantic size and exhibiting fascinating movements with red portions.

Michel consulted with astronomers from the Meudon Observatory and psychologists and hypnotherapists in Paris. Three hypnotic sessions were conducted with Dr. X, with the last experiments not yet concluded. The phrases from these sessions are recorded on magnetic tape.

The investigation aimed to publish the physical aspects of the case to encourage other ufologists. The article presents measurements and calculations regarding the object's dimensions and movements. The object's length was estimated at approximately 65 meters, with a thickness of around 16 meters. The illuminated area on the ground had a diameter of 17 meters. Calculations were made to determine the apparent diameter of the object as seen by the witness, comparing estimated values with calculated ones, revealing potential overestimations by the witness.

Michel also discusses the "Teorema de Tales" (Thales's Theorem) in relation to calculating the object's apparent diameter and distance. The calculations suggest discrepancies in the witness's estimations, with some overestimations noted.

Compilation of Spanish UFO Incidents (1975-1977)

The document then shifts to a compilation of numerous UFO sightings and incidents reported in Spain:

• November 3, 1975 (Valmaseda): Witnesses observed a spherical or circular UFO at 14,000 meters altitude, emitting a strong white light.
• November 26, 1975 (Puerto de Piqueras, Soria): Two truck drivers saw a large, bright, silent ball flying over pine trees.
• February 4, 1976 (Basauri, Vizcaya): A bright, elongated light was observed, which hovered briefly before ascending at high speed.
• February 13, 1976 (Monte Umbe, Vizcaya): Two UFOs were sighted with a shape described as "Don Quixote's helmet".
• Late January 1976 (Near Monte Umbe, Vizcaya): Another object with similar characteristics was sighted.
• February 19, 1976 (Mañeru, Navarra): Five children witnessed a large object land, deploy landing gear, and a tall humanoid emerge. A bright light temporarily blinded one of the boys. Footprints measuring 45 cm were found.
• March 8, 1976 (Puerto de Opacua, Alava): A priest and two friends observed a formation of about thirty luminous points flying at high altitude, which were later approached by jet fighters.
• Late July 1976 (Yurre, Vizcaya): A young woman, Isabel Pujana Yurrebaso, reported being pursued by a bright, disc-shaped object for about 500 meters. The object was estimated to be 12 meters in diameter. The experience caused her significant distress.
• Late July 1976 (Santa Cruz de Campezo, Alava): A couple, Da. Angeles Monje Belandia and D. Santiago Díaz, observed a strange light moving in the fields, described as half an orange in color.
• August 1, 1976 (Buya, Bilbao): A ten-year-old boy, Lorenzo Alvarez Vázquez, reported seeing two small beings (1.20-1.30m) in silver tunics with round green eyes.
• August 13, 1976 (Islallana, Logroño): D. Jesús Santibañez Ramírez saw a spherical object, the size of a balcony, producing a large glare.
• October 18, 1976 (Lujua, Vizcaya): Da. Juana Llona Sangroniz observed a luminous ball of butane color descending and then ascending rapidly. Later, three luminous balls, about two meters in diameter, descended in a V formation. Physical evidence of tripod landing gear marks was found, suggesting an object weighing around 1000 kgs.
• December 29, 1976 (Arrúbal, Logroño): D. Anastasio Martínez del Pozo observed a powerful white fluorescent light emanating from a UFO that stabilized and then moved away, leaving a green-yellow trail. The object was estimated to be about five meters in diameter, and its landing gear left semi-spherical footprints.
• January 6, 1977 (Near Arrúbal, Logroño): The same witness observed an elongated red object at high altitude.
• February 28, 1977 (Larraño to Latierro, Alava): Several witnesses observed an ovoidal object, about one meter in length, of yellow-orange color, leaving a phosphorescent green trail.
• March 5, 1977 (Alto de Iturrieta, Alava): The investigator and a collaborator observed a red luminous object moving uniformly across the sky.
• March 16 & 21, 1977 (Apellániz, Alava): Two Guardia Civil officers observed luminous balls and a disc-shaped object, described as orange-colored. They noted the objects had no similarity to conventional aircraft.
• February-March 1977 (Gallarta, Vizcaya): Reports of over eighty UFO footprints and sightings of giant disc-shaped objects on the ground and in low flight.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The dossier highlights a significant number of UFO sightings in specific regions of Spain, particularly in the Basque Country and surrounding areas. A recurring theme is the presence of humanoids, with descriptions ranging from "very tall" to specific heights (1.30m in Bilbao). The article notes that while some witnesses are not considered ideal, their reports are still valuable. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and documentation of these phenomena, encouraging further study and the sharing of information. The compilation suggests an "oleada" (wave) of UFO activity in Spain, with various types of craft and encounters reported, including landings and physical evidence.

The magazine also includes a call for lectures on the OVNI phenomenon and a request for English translators, indicating an active community and interest in international collaboration.

Finally, an announcement from "Project Starlight International" introduces Dr. Daniel H. Harris as its new Director of Research, emphasizing the professionalization of UFO investigation and the interest in communicating with scientists from various disciplines.

This issue of "Investigación" (Investigation) from September 1977, published by STENDEK, focuses on UFO phenomena, particularly their relationship with astronomical factors and detailed case analyses. The cover headline, "LA RELACION LUNA-OVNIS EN ESPAÑA DURANTE 1975" (The Relationship Between the Moon and UFOs in Spain During 1975), sets the theme for a significant portion of the content.

Detailed Analysis of a UFO Encounter

The issue presents a meticulous examination of a specific UFO event, likely involving two objects, through diagrams and calculations. The analysis, attributed to the witness 'Dr. X', details the objects' movements, speeds, and trajectories. A key diagram illustrates the distance covered by two objects, labeled 'objeto de la derecha' (object on the right) and 'objeto de la izquierda' (object on the left), along with a 'objeto unificado' (unified object). Speeds are indicated, such as 135 m/s, 128 m/s, 114 m/s, 86 m/s, 49 m/s, 34 m/s, and 71 m/s, and a graph plots speed against distance. The text explains that average speeds are known with limited certainty and emphasizes that only horizontal segments represent actual space traversed. The hypothetical extension of curves allows visualization of maneuvers, but the continuity of the graph is not guaranteed due to the instantaneous acceleration and deceleration capabilities of UFOs.

Observations from photograph no. 5, with a distance of 1.425 meters and an apparent diameter of 24 mm, yield a relationship of 1.26. The text notes a constant underestimation of apparent diameter, which remains perceptible throughout the phenomenon.

Key points from the analysis include:
1. Upon seeing the first illuminated zone, both objects accelerate.
2. Upon seeing two illuminated zones, another maneuver begins, involving a decrease in speed.
3. The objects increase speed again until they merge.
4. The combined object's acceleration continues until its trajectory intersects a line perpendicular to the witness's house facade.
5. The object then decelerates and approaches.

The analysis highlights the complex and coherent variation in the objects' movements, relating it to the topography of the movements and a feedback loop perceived by the witness.

The text further discusses calculations of object speeds based on the witness's sense of duration. Dr. X, a musician, was tested for his time estimation accuracy, showing an error of 8 seconds in 275 (3%) when performing tasks in reality versus imagination. Experiments consistently yielded similar results, with variations in timing between photographs being minimal (tenths of a second).

Table 1 provides data on distances and speeds for objects between photographs 3-4, 4-5, 5-6, and 6-7. Table 2 details movements between photos 1-2 and 2-3. The analysis suggests that the objects moved towards the left, with the right object slightly to the right and behind the left one when the witness appeared on the terrace.

Between photos (1) and (2), the objects executed a primary maneuver to position themselves equidistant from the witness, pointing at him with their lateral antennas. From (2) to (3), they moved parallel to the left, with the left object accelerating sharply to keep pace with the right object, maintaining equidistance. From (3) onwards, two light zones became visible on the ground. The left object changed course to converge with the right object's trajectory. This convergence continued until fusion at point (5). The right object's trajectory was rectilinear, and the parallel movement was indiscernible. From (4) onwards, a pronounced approach of the two objects was observed, leading to their fusion.

In (5), the unified object changed trajectory but continued accelerating until (6). In (6), the object crossed a line perpendicular to the house facade at the witness's location, immediately decelerating and changing trajectory to face the witness before stopping.

The conclusion emphasizes the complex mutual coherence of these events, which was not detectable by the witness but emerged through calculations, despite minor estimation errors by the witness. The precision and self-awareness of Dr. X in recording his impressions are noted.

UFOs and Lunar Cycles in Spain (1975)

Another major section, authored by José Tomás Ramirez and Barberó of CEI, explores the relationship between lunar cycles and UFO sightings in Spain during 1975. It begins by noting the predominance of nocturnal UFO observations globally.

The study identifies several conditioning factors for night vision, categorized as external (astronomical, meteorological, topographical, and OVNI-related) and internal (human circadian rhythms and perception).

Astronomical factors considered include solar luminosity, moon phases, and star positions. Meteorological factors encompass cloudiness, atmospheric transparency, fog, and precipitation. Topographical factors include terrain configuration and vegetation. OVNI-related factors include observation duration and object luminosity.

Internal factors relate to human physiology and psychology, such as sleep-wake cycles, endocrine activity, temperature, and the sense of sight, hearing, and psychological aspects like fear and isolation.

The authors adopt the NATO classification for night conditions, defining four levels based on lux measurements: Level 1 (10-1 lux), Level 2 (10-3 lux), Level 3 (10-4 lux), and Level 4 (no visibility).

They argue that lunar phases and clarity are particularly important for UFO observers, as night illumination is closely tied to the lunar calendar. The period around the full moon, specifically between the last two nights of the waxing crescent and the first two nights of the full moon, shows the highest illumination.

Data from 1975 in Spain indicates that out of 195 reported UFO cases, 174 (89.2%) occurred at night. The monthly distribution of these nocturnal sightings is presented graphically.

When these 174 cases are categorized by night levels (Level 1: 78 cases, 44.8%; Level 2: 59 cases, 33.7%; Level 3: 37 cases, 21.4%), a clear pattern emerges.

Further analysis distributes the 174 cases according to lunar phases: Waxing Crescent-Full Moon (70 cases, 40.2%), Full Moon-Waning Crescent (62 cases, 35.6%), Waning Crescent-New Moon (26 cases, 14.1%), and New Moon-Waxing Crescent (16 cases, 9.1%).

Preliminary conclusions suggest that UFO phenomena in Spain during 1975 were predominantly nocturnal and directly proportional to lunar clarity. The maximum number of observations occurred during the waxing crescent-full moon period, with a minimum during the new moon-waxing crescent phase. These relationships appear independent of the UFOs' own luminosity.

Discussion on UFO Landing Distribution

Another article, by José Ruesga Montiel, revisits the distribution of UFO sightings, referencing previous studies by Dr. Vallée and Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos. It discusses the concept of an "inverse law" where UFO landing distribution is inversely proportional to population density. However, Montiel presents findings that challenge this law, particularly for the Spanish context.

He notes that for France and Argentina, the inverse relationship holds, but for Spain, especially during the 1968-69 wave, the opposite seemed true, with higher concentrations of sightings in densely populated, industrialized zones. This led to a debate with Félix Ares de Blas about whether the law was direct or inverse, and whether it applied to random phenomena.

Montiel's study of 177 cases in Andalusia shows that Sevilla (94 cases) and Granada (24 cases) had the highest number of sightings. Further analysis, considering geographical distribution without provincial limits, identified specific areas within Sevilla and Granada with high population density as hotspots for sightings.

He concludes that the phenomenon does not elude areas of high population density, with 95 out of 170 cases (55%) occurring in cities, contradicting the strict inverse density law.

Other Mentions

The issue also includes a brief mention of a case from Lima, Peru, where a flying saucer's violet rays reportedly cured a customs official of myopia and rheumatism. Another note refers to Dr. X's recovery from a war injury sustained in Algeria.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine "Investigación" consistently explores UFO phenomena with a scientific and analytical approach. This issue demonstrates a commitment to detailed data analysis, mathematical calculations, and statistical correlation, particularly concerning astronomical factors like lunar cycles and observational conditions. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and challenges conventional theories when empirical data suggests otherwise, as seen in the discussion on population density and UFO sightings. There is a clear emphasis on witness testimony, but it is consistently subjected to analytical scrutiny and cross-referenced with calculated data to establish coherence and reliability.

This issue of "investigación" focuses on the statistical analysis of UFO cases in Spain and Portugal during the period 1945-1975. It presents a comprehensive summary of data compiled from major Spanish ufological archives, aiming to provide a global overview for researchers.

Statistical Analysis of UFO Cases (1945-1975)

The main article details a provisional statistical study of UFO cases in Spain and Portugal. It highlights that a significant number of cases occur in densely populated areas, such as cities and roadside locations, and that the concept of 'cortijos' (farmsteads) also contributes a notable number of cases. The study notes that the percentage of cases within urban areas increases when considering press references.

Factors Influencing Case Significance

The research addresses the need to understand which types of observations are most significant. The data is distributed according to a specific coding system used in the study.

Geographical Distribution and Time of Day

A key finding is that the majority of cases align with types IV and V according to Vallée's classification. While densely populated areas show a higher number of cases, this is not solely due to population density but also because 90% of objects seen below 300 meters are situated around large population centers. The study then delves into the timing of these sightings, analyzing 66 cases where the time was known. The data indicates that the peak activity occurs between 7 PM and 11 PM. Cases observed below 300 meters are more frequent during hours with fewer potential witnesses and often involve only a single observer, suggesting a need to consider 'time of sighting' and 'number of witnesses' for a true understanding of these events.

Witness Testimony Analysis

The analysis of witness numbers reveals that the highest frequency of cases involves a single witness (21 occasions), followed by cases with two witnesses (14 occasions). This, combined with the hourly data, provides crucial insights into the phenomenon.

Interpretation of Findings

The issue references Ballester's idea that the distribution of aerial objects is globally random, but close encounters are selective and tend to avoid populated areas. The author agrees that objects at high altitudes are more likely to be observed by more witnesses, whereas lower altitudes reduce the observable area. The study synthesizes its findings into two main points:

1. The Iberian casuistry is more frequent in highly populated areas, suggesting a generally random phenomenon, though the possibility of it being 'directed' is not dismissed. Undefined cases require very specific treatment.
2. 'Close encounters' (objects below 300 meters) require consideration of 'time of sighting' and 'number of witnesses' to be properly understood within the context of the UFO phenomenon, despite their relation to population density.

New Publications

This section reviews several recent publications related to ufology:

• "Ungewöhnliche Gravitations-Phanomene" (Unusual Gravitational Phenomena): A collective volume from the MUFON-CES group, primarily in German, focusing on UFO propulsion and methodology. It highlights chapters on electromagnetic and gravitational effects, and new theories of gravitation.
• "Report on a Survey of the Membership of the American Astronomical Society Concerning the UFO Problem" by Peter A. Sturrock: This report indicates that 53% of astronomers surveyed have a positive attitude towards UFO study, and 80% are willing to help resolve the enigma. It also notes that 65 UFO cases were reported by members of the society, suggesting that UFO observation is not limited to a special category of people.
• Articles: Several articles are listed, including "A Technological Approach to UFOS" by Ray Stanford, a statistical study on humanoid sightings, and "Decomposition d'un doute."

Profile: Miguel Guasp

This section profiles Miguel Guasp, described as a key figure in the "Escuela Valenciana de Ufología." Guasp, with a background in Physics and Astrophysics, has dedicated his work to studying the "fundamental problem" of UFOs: how, when, and where they appear. His bibliography is characterized by its coherence and depth, all aiming to understand this core aspect of the phenomenon. He has collaborated with various organizations and publications, including the Institute of Parascience and the Italian publication UPAIR.

Ongoing Projects

Guasp is currently involved in two major projects: the definitive compilation of the "Catálogo Ibérico de casos OVNI (CATIB)" and the development of a coherent model for the UFO phenomenon. These projects aim to provide researchers with valuable resources and a deeper understanding of UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes a data-driven, statistical approach to understanding the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous scientific inquiry, seeking to demystify UFOs through careful analysis of sightings, witness testimony, and geographical and temporal factors. There is a clear effort to integrate findings from various sources and to contribute to a more organized and comprehensive body of ufological knowledge. The magazine also highlights the importance of new research and publications in the field, aiming to keep its readers informed about the latest developments and perspectives in ufology.