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Stendek - Vol 10 No 35 - March 1979
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Title: STENDEK Issue: 35 Volume: X Date: March 1979 Publisher: CEI (Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios) Country: Spain Language: Spanish
Magazine Overview
Title: STENDEK
Issue: 35
Volume: X
Date: March 1979
Publisher: CEI (Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios)
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish
Main Cover Story: OVNIS: UNA NOCHE TERRIBLE
The cover of this issue of STENDEK, a Spanish UFO magazine, features a dramatic black and white illustration depicting four men in a field looking up at a large, luminous, disc-shaped object hovering above them. The headline boldly proclaims "OVNIS: UNA NOCHE TERRIBLE" (UFOs: A Terrible Night).
Editorial: EL BANCO NACIONAL DE DATOS OVNI ES YA UNA REALIDAD
This editorial, written by Pere Redón, announces the establishment of a national UFO database for the Iberian Peninsula. The project, spearheaded by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos and Miguel Guasp from Valencia, has compiled the CATIB (Catalan Iberian UFO Catalog), which is nearing completion. This database aims to consolidate original reports, press materials, and survey information into a comprehensive digital archive. The editorial emphasizes the importance of this initiative for serious and rigorous UFO research in Spain, highlighting the collaboration between the CEI and the Valencia group. It also calls for increased collaboration from members and subscribers to expand the CEI's research efforts.
Article 1: OVNI: Una noche terrible
This article details a UFO sighting that occurred in Gerena, a town in the province of Sevilla, Spain. The investigation was conducted by J. Mateos Nogales, M. Filpo Cabana, G. Andreu de los Santos, and A. Moya Cerpa. The incident took place in August 1973, approximately between 3:30 and 4:00 AM, while seven witnesses were working in a cotton field. They observed a bright light descending a hill, which grew larger and closer, prompting concern. The object was described as having a white light and was much higher than a car but lower than a typical airplane. The witnesses, initially thinking it might be hunters, became increasingly uneasy. One witness suggested it might be a "flying saucer." The object passed directly overhead at a very low altitude. The article notes that the investigation took place five years after the event. The witnesses described the object as having the shape of an eye or an upside-down plate, completely round underneath. It was approximately 35 meters in diameter. The object hovered near a fence where two other individuals were working, but they did not report seeing it. A white mist appeared when the object moved away, obscuring the stars. No unusual smells or heat were detected. The witnesses were frightened but experienced no secondary effects. The article also mentions a subsequent experience by one of the witnesses, David González, who encountered a large unidentified object on his motorcycle.
Article 2: Informe sobre el OVNI visto en La Vecilla (León)
This report, authored by José L. Caso Machicano, describes a UFO sighting near La Vecilla, León, on the night of August 22, 1978. The primary witness was a substitute veterinarian named A.A.A., who was returning from Boñar with a friend. He first observed strange lights in the sky, which he watched for about 10 minutes before continuing to La Vecilla. He then returned to observe the lights again. The owner of Fonda Orejas and her family accompanied him to witness the phenomenon. They observed lights that approached closely, causing them to become frightened and leave. The lights were seen over a collada (hill) separating the Porma and Curueño valleys. The report details the location, describing it as being near kilometer 38 of the C-626 highway, between Otero de Curueño and La Mata de la Riba. The landscape is characterized by low-lying vegetation and scattered trees. The visibility was excellent, with clear stars and the silhouette of distant mountains visible. The witness described seeing an initial group of 8 to 10 orange lights, followed by two white flash lights that appeared to be part of a single, large object. The white lights were larger than the orange ones. The article discusses the possibility of the lights being reflections from the witnesses' car, but dismisses this hypothesis based on the consistent positioning of the lights and their appearance in different observations. The report also mentions other potential sightings in the area, including one in Valdorria and another in Valdepiélago, suggesting the region might have high UFO activity.
Article 3: Observaciones en Rusia en el año 1977
This section briefly mentions observations made in Russia in 1977, but the details are not provided in the scanned pages.
Article 4: Las desapariciones de los OVNI
This article by Roberto E. Banchs discusses the phenomenon of UFO disappearances. The content is not fully visible in the scanned pages.
Article 5: Los objetos volantes como problema de ciencia pura
This article by F. Arejula explores flying objects as a subject of pure science. The content is not fully visible in the scanned pages.
Article 6: Correlación entre desempleo y número de OVNIS
This article by F. Ares and David G. López investigates a potential correlation between unemployment rates and the number of UFO sightings. The content is not fully visible in the scanned pages.
Article 7: Correlación entre observaciones OVNI y población
This article by F. Ares and David G. López examines the relationship between UFO sightings and population density. The content is not fully visible in the scanned pages.
Article 8: Consideraciones sobre la distribución en el tiempo de avistamientos OVNI
This article by José T. Ramírez discusses the temporal distribution of UFO sightings. The content is not fully visible in the scanned pages.
Other Mentions:
- CEI Database: The magazine highlights the ongoing work of the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI) in building a comprehensive database of UFO sightings, particularly focusing on the Iberian Peninsula.
- Consultants: A list of consultants for STENDEK is provided, comprising professionals from various scientific and technical fields, including engineering, physics, medicine, and astronomy.
- Investigators: A list of field investigators accredited by the CEI in the Catalan region is also included.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, their investigation, witness testimonies, and the scientific study of the phenomenon. The editorial stance, as expressed by Pere Redón and the CEI, is clearly in favor of a scientific and rigorous approach to UFO research. The magazine actively promotes the collection and analysis of data, the establishment of databases, and the collaboration among researchers. There is a strong emphasis on distinguishing between factual observations and sensationalism, as seen in the commentary on the La Vecilla case.
This issue of 'Informe' presents a collection of significant UFO (OVNI) observations from the Spanish provinces of Logroño, Navarra, and Alava, along with a case from Aveyron, France. The publication emphasizes factual reporting and detailed accounts, as stated in the editorial preamble by J. L. Guillerma, who highlights the importance of the substance of the reports over literary embellishments.
Case Studies
Case N° 1 - Cuzcurrita (Logroño)
On the night of July 2-3, 1978, D. Miguel Arnáez Sagredo, owner of the 'El Botero' hostel, his family, and several clients witnessed a luminous, almost static object over fields near Cuzcurrita. The object, described as oval and emitting red-yellowish flashes, hovered for over ten minutes before descending behind hills. The witnesses ruled out it being a tractor due to its unusual lights. The report also mentions frequent alterations in car engines in the nearby Fonzaleche area, suggesting a connection to anomalous phenomena.
Case N° 2 - Mendaza (Navarra)
In the early morning of July 30-31, 1978, eight young people from Mendaza observed 'very red flames from below and yellowish' near the road. These flames disappeared, leaving a precisely marked rectangular area of flattened and semi-calcined barley plants, measuring 30 by 10 meters. The event occurred on a windy night, and no noise was perceived.
Case N° 3 - Mélida (Navarra)
On the night of July 30-31, 1978, a French couple, François Coste and María del Carmen Urzaiz, along with their two-year-old daughter, were driving towards Mélida when they encountered a luminous object described as a 'giant tear-drop' that transformed into a 'tremendous luminous beam' of reddish color. The object moved at low altitude, about 200 meters from their car. The experience was terrifying for the wife. Upon reaching Mélida, they saw the object again, stationary in the sky, appearing as a 'giant disk with a missing sector.' The report notes unusual details, such as the driver accelerating and simultaneously turning the car radio to maximum volume, and a potential discrepancy in the reported time of the event versus the distance covered.
Case N° 4 - Elciego (Alava)
On September 8, 1978, around midnight, Don Luis Bezares Rodríguez, an agriculturist, and his family observed a large, luminous object of reddish-yellow color descending over the 'Los Llanos' area west of Elciego. The object was described as diamond-shaped, wider in the center, and estimated to be at least 300 meters in size. The family members provided slightly different descriptions, with the wife and daughter describing it as a 'sun setting behind the mountains' with a fluorescent white center and red exterior. The witness, Don Luis Bezares, was initially skeptical of UFO phenomena but was convinced by this sighting. An investigation of the area revealed no physical evidence, but the witness had previously seen a similar, though smaller and bluer, object in July 1978.
Dossier Especial: Aveyron (France) 1966-1967
This section details an investigation by the 'L.O.L.N.' team into events that occurred in Aveyron, France, between 1966 and 1967. The investigation involved multiple researchers, including Doctor Dupin de la Guérivière and Sr. A. Michel. The report focuses on events witnessed by members of a family on a farm. On June 15, 1966, an elderly woman observed luminous 'fires' that later merged into a larger object. Subsequently, six luminous balls were seen moving in formation, resembling tractors but without noise, before being absorbed by the larger object. The witness described the object as a 'chisme' (thing/gadget). The report notes the difficulty in establishing a precise chronology of events due to the sheer number of occurrences. The investigation aimed to gather testimonies and documents, including drawings based on witness accounts and photographic evidence.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena, characterized by luminous objects exhibiting diverse shapes and behaviors. The publication's stance is clearly that of a serious, fact-based investigation into UFOs, prioritizing empirical evidence and witness testimony over speculation or sensationalism. The editorial approach emphasizes thoroughness, with multiple investigators contributing to the analysis of cases. The challenges of documentation, witness credibility, and the potential for environmental or physical effects are consistently addressed. The article implicitly advocates for a scientific approach to understanding the UFO phenomenon, as evidenced by the detailed case reports and the inclusion of investigative methodologies.
This issue of the magazine focuses on UFO observations in Russia, specifically detailing the significant Petrozavodsk incident of September 20, 1977. The publication includes witness testimonies, media reports, and preliminary scientific analysis of the event.
The Petrozavodsk Incident (September 20, 1977)
The issue begins by recounting the aftermath of a discussion about events following a June 15, 1966 sighting, highlighting the difficulty in establishing a precise chronology. Mr. Chasseigne, who tracks events in the area, noted that the father had seen a 'ball' before June 15, and the grandmother had also seen them.
Interviews with the family reveal further details. The mother, despite being myopic, recalled seeing lights. The father was less interested, while the grandmother mentioned a night when there was 'fire in the haystack' and that the object visited 'more than fifteen times,' with one instance of it approaching the house. She described a 'ball' that would appear for two seconds, then disappear, and that it moved at the pace of a walking man, sometimes cutting off paths.
Further testimony from the father and son describes seeing 'six balls' and an 'obús' (a cigar-shaped object). The father recounts an incident where he went out to check on the livestock and saw a light about 50 meters away, which he approached with a flashlight. The object followed him, and he felt a sense of fear. The son describes seeing the 'obús' with three branches on each side, and a ball at the end of each branch, totaling six balls.
The father describes the object as being about 1.5 meters in diameter, luminous but not illuminating the ground, and not emitting heat. The son's estimate for the object's size was slightly smaller, around 1.2 to 1.5 meters. The object reportedly moved away and then returned.
There's a humorous exchange where the son is jokingly asked if he made the object leave. The father confirms the object had disappeared and reappeared. The son later saw a similar object on the other side of the road, near a path. He went down to investigate and saw the 'obús' again.
The grandmother recalls being called by the father and mother, and though initially hesitant, she eventually went out. She describes seeing 'fire' and being visibly shaken by the memory.
The father and son confirm seeing 'six balls' and the 'obús'. The father states he returned to bed, while the son saw the balls. The father admits to having been scared when the object followed him.
Object Characteristics and Behavior
The object is described as a 'ball' or 'obús,' luminous but not illuminating, and not emitting heat. Its size is estimated to be around 1.5 meters in diameter, with the son estimating 1.2 to 1.5 meters. It moved at a walking pace and could cut off paths. It was observed to approach the house, disappear, and reappear. The object was also described as having 'three branches on each side' with a ball at the end of each, forming a total of six balls.
The Petrozavodsk Phenomenon (September 20, 1977) - Detailed Account
The issue then provides a more detailed account from the newspaper "Sotsialisticheskaya Industriya" (Socialist Industry), dated September 23, 1977. It describes an unidentified natural phenomenon on September 20, 1977, around 4 AM. A huge 'star' appeared, emitting pulsating light rays that illuminated the dark horizon. The 'star' moved towards Petrozavodsk and transformed into a 'medusa' shape, casting numerous fine light beams. After a while, the light shower ceased, and the 'medusa' transformed into a bright semicircle that moved towards Lake Onega. A semicircular hole, red in the center and white on the sides, appeared in its center. The phenomenon lasted for 10 to 12 minutes.
Yu. Gromov, head of the Petrozavodsk Hydrometeorological Observatory, stated that the meteorological service had never seen anything similar. The nature of the phenomenon remained an enigma, as no meteorological anomalies were recorded. The report notes that the newspaper "Izvestiya" also published a similar report on the same date.
N. Milov, a Tass correspondent, reported that the phenomenon was also observed by astronomers in Pulkovo. V. Krat, head of the Central Astronomical Observatory, stated that it was difficult to determine the origin of the object, which crossed the sky from south to north, and that reports from witnesses and observers were being analyzed.
International Media and Further Investigations
The American magazine "National Enquirer" reported on April 18, 1978, that the Soviet government had initiated a secret scientific investigation into the Petrozavodsk incident. The "National Enquirer" described many residents as hysterical and terrified, with dockworkers fearing a nuclear attack. Aleksander Kasantsev, a Soviet science fiction writer, told the "Enquirer" that the UFO's light rays had made holes in window panes, which were taken for examination. A commission from the Russian Academy of Sciences confirmed these holes were caused by the UFO's light, suggesting it was a reconnaissance spacecraft.
Physicist Vladimir Azhazha described the object as descending towards the port and hovering over a ship, estimating its diameter to be around 350 feet (116 meters). A smaller object then emerged from the larger one and submerged in the water, while the main UFO disappeared into the clouds.
Nicolai Milov confirmed the large size and shape of the UFO, noting that the burned holes in the window panes were as small as a hen's egg. He also reported that witnesses behaved strangely and seemed confused, with some becoming hysterical.
Milov also mentioned that UFOs were seen in the Petrozavodsk region 5 to 6 times a month after the main incident, though these were less spectacular. The last sighting was on February 20 of that year.
Yu. Gromov clarified that a small object detached from the main one, and the main object transformed into an ellipse, red in the middle and white on the sides, before moving towards Lake Onega. The hole it made in the clouds disappeared quickly. Gromov confirmed it was not a ball lightning phenomenon.
The "National Enquirer" reported that the investigation was suppressed, with warnings issued against publishing theories about the UFOs. However, the commission had discovered that the holes in the glass and slabs had been melted.
A Tass editor mentioned receiving 1500 letters asking about safety in Petrozavodsk. These letters were confiscated, as were witness reports.
Vladimir G. Azhazha, deputy head of the Submarine Research Section of the Russian Academy of Sciences, presented a report titled "Life in the Cosmos," which included an analysis of the Petrozavodsk case. He described the object as passing over Leningrado in a figure-eight pattern before appearing over Petrozavodsk. A pilot reported being followed by a UFO. The object expanded into a jellyfish shape with eight 'petals' descending like burning rain. Two smaller objects, like electric torches, detached and flew off. The main UFO then descended towards the port and hovered over the "Volgobalt" ship, with an estimated diameter of 105 meters. A smaller object detached and submerged in Lake Onega.
Azhazha considered the object to be a real UFO, possibly occupied by intelligent beings or an energy field. Geofisicist Aleksei V. Zolotov also believed it to be a typical flying saucer. Astronomer Félix Yu. Zigel agreed that the object's behavior was consistent with that of a UFO.
Appendix: Vladimir G. Azhazha's Report
The appendix includes an excerpt from Vladimir G. Azhazha's report, "Intelligence in Space? Facts and Hypotheses," focusing on the Petrozavodsk observation. It reiterates the details of the event, including the time, the object's transformation into a jellyfish shape, and the emission of light rays. It also mentions that the report was published in "Sotsialisticheskaya Industriya," "Pravda," and "Izvestiya."
Personal Comments
The author notes that the son becomes a central witness, initially skeptical but later deeply involved in investigating the phenomenon. The issue also recounts an anecdote about two dogs that chased after the 'balls' when called by their owner, showing no fear.
Books Recommended by STENDEK
The magazine includes a list of recommended books on UFOs, such as "SI, ESTAN" volumes 1 and 2, "Manual del Ufologo" by Albert Adell Sabatés, and "OVNIS. EI Fenómeno Aterrizaje" by Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes are UFO sightings, witness testimonies, and the challenges of investigating such phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into UFO reports, presenting detailed accounts and scientific perspectives, while acknowledging the mysterious and sometimes frightening nature of these events. The publication aims to document and analyze these occurrences, encouraging further investigation and discussion.
This issue of "Investigación" (Research) magazine, dated February 1979, focuses on the phenomenon of UFOs, particularly their mysterious disappearances and the scientific theories attempting to explain them. The cover headline announces the return of the "LA RED NACIONAL DE CORRESPONSALES" (The National Network of Correspondents) to active ufology service in Spain.
La Red Nacional de Corresponsales (RNC)
The RNC, after a period of inactivity due to internal issues, is reactivating its services in February 1979. It recounts its history, starting in the late 1960s, when it served a nascent ufology in Spain, focusing on an area with a high number of UFO sightings. The RNC aimed to foster a sense of teamwork and serious field investigation. Despite facing internal falsehoods and ill intentions, a core group interested in the phenomenon continued their work through private research, specialized group experiences, and cabinet studies. The RNC expresses hope that its renewed efforts will be useful to those dedicated to the study of UFOs and requests collaboration.
Letters to the Editor
A section titled "DE INTERES PARA NUESTROS LECTORES" (Of Interest to Our Readers) encourages readers to inform them about possible UFO sightings by contacting CEI in Barcelona. They will then send out an observation questionnaire.
LAS DESAPARICIONES DE LOS OVNI (The Disappearances of UFOs)
This extensive article by Roberto Enrique Banchs explores the phenomenon of UFOs suddenly vanishing. It contrasts the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH) with the difficulty of detecting UFOs in space, suggesting they might not need to travel vast distances. The article presents numerous examples of UFOs disappearing without a trace, including:
- December 24, 1960, Durango, Colorado, USA: A farmer family witnessed a disk with a dome that glowed, turned green, and vanished like a gas flame.
- Summer 1961, Veronezh, Russia: A cigar-shaped aircraft hovered, became transparent, and disappeared.
- June 3, 1962, Olavarría, Argentina: Residents saw a bright disk that changed color and suddenly vanished.
- Winter 1965, Punta Indio, Argentina: A luminous object tracked by radar disappeared, and the radar echo simultaneously ceased.
- April 17, 1970, Mar del Plata, Argentina: A round object with a greenish halo appeared, hovered, and became invisible.
- August 14, 1947, Villa Santina, Italy: An artist observed a disk land, two short beings emerged, and the craft then ascended, tilted, shrunk, and vanished.
- July 10, 1965, Valensole, France: Maurice Masse witnessed an ovoid machine with short beings nearby; it took off and disappeared.
The article also touches upon theories suggesting UFOs might be from parallel universes, with Dr. J.H. Christenson of Columbia University proposing that UFOs could be inhabitants of such universes. The concept of parallel universes is presented as a recent but developing area of scientific consideration.
Investigation: UFOs and Other Dimensions
This section delves deeper into theoretical explanations for UFO phenomena, particularly their disappearances. It discusses the idea that UFOs might be entities from higher vibrational states or parallel universes. The concept of telepathy and collective unconsciousness, as explored by Carl Jung, is invoked to explain how spontaneous psychic visions or 'phantasmal images' could manifest as UFOs, possibly as 'idealized figures' from a collective archetype.
It is suggested that an unknown, material intelligence might be directing the phenomenon, capable of altering its nature and shifting between real and imaginary planes. The extreme accelerations observed in some UFOs are also considered as a potential reason for their sudden disappearances.
Investigación: UFOs as a Problem of Pure Science
Francisco Aréjula's article argues that the difficulties in understanding UFOs stem more from the concepts and laws governing them than from the phenomenon itself. He critiques existing theories, such as the 'plasma theory' of P. Klass, and the conclusions of the Condon Commission, deeming them insufficient to explain the observed characteristics of UFOs (e.g., their size, metallic appearance, and light emission).
Aréjula proposes a new theory based on a generalization of Einstein's field equations. He suggests that the behavior of UFOs, particularly their apparent lack of inertia and ability to accelerate rapidly, can be explained by a unified field theory that incorporates both gravitational and electromagnetic forces, especially for electrically charged bodies. He presents a formula (1) that generalizes the law of gravitation to include charged particles, suggesting that the apparent 'mass defect' observed in atomic nuclei is a manifestation of this generalized law. This theory, he claims, integrates the physics of UFOs with ordinary physics.
Correlation Between Unemployment and Number of UFOs
Félix Ares de Blas and David G. López present a statistical analysis of the correlation between unemployment rates and the number of UFO sightings in Spain from 1960 to 1976. They constructed a table (TABLA I) using data from various sources, including an article by Leopoldo Gonzalo González on unemployment and their own UFO sighting data. The analysis calculated Pearson correlation coefficients, yielding r = 0.356 for both total UFOs and landings. While these values appear low, the authors refer to a statistical method to assess significance. They conclude that for 17 data points, a correlation coefficient greater than 0.48 is needed for 95% confidence. Therefore, they state that the observed correlation cannot be definitively ruled out as being due to chance.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena from a scientific and investigative perspective, seeking to move beyond anecdotal evidence to theoretical explanations. It highlights the mysterious nature of UFO disappearances and proposes advanced physics theories, including those related to relativity and unified fields, as potential frameworks for understanding these events. The inclusion of statistical analysis suggests an effort to apply rigorous methods to the study of ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader participation and presenting diverse viewpoints, from established scientific figures to those proposing more speculative theories. The magazine seems to advocate for a more comprehensive scientific approach to understanding UFOs, acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the need for further research.
This issue of "investigación" (Investigation) from July 1978, primarily features articles analyzing the correlation between UFO (OVNI) sightings and population data, alongside discussions on the temporal distribution of the phenomenon. The magazine delves into statistical methodologies to understand these relationships, drawing on data from Spain and France.
Correlation Between UFO Sightings and Population
The main article, "CORRELACION ENTRE OBSERVACIONES OVNI Y POBLACION" (Correlation Between UFO Sightings and Population) by Félix Ares de Blas and David G. López of CEI, investigates the relationship between the number of UFO sightings and population density. The authors initially considered the years 1968-1969 as an epiphenomenon due to amplification from events like the moon landing and media coverage, excluding them from their primary analysis. They calculated correlation coefficients (r = 0.64 for total OVNIs and r = 0.724 for landings) and found them to be significant, suggesting a potential link.
Further analysis, referencing the work of Pierre Vieroudy for France, shows a correlation coefficient of r = 0.663 between the number of unemployed and total UFO sightings. For Spain, Vieroudy's data yielded r = 0.51 for total observations and r = 0.628 for landings. The article emphasizes that these coefficients are above the minimum required for statistical significance, supporting the idea of a correlation.
The study then presents detailed statistical data in Table II, comparing UFO observations with unemployment figures in Spain from 1945 to 1970. The authors note that both French and Spanish data show a higher correlation for landings (Vallée's typology I) than for total sightings, suggesting a tendency for landings to occur in less populated areas.
The researchers propose that economic depression and social anxiety might provoke an increase in UFO sightings. They aim to provide a mathematically rigorous answer to whether UFOs have a psychic origin or a physical one, analyzing Spanish case data from 1950-1977 (2,238 cases).
Tables N° 1 and N° 2 provide detailed statistical breakdowns. Table N° 1 shows the correlation between population and total UFO sightings (real and theoretical) for Spanish provinces from 1950-1977, yielding coefficients of r = 0.668 for real observations and r = 0.779 for theoretical ones. Table N° 2 focuses on UFO Type I sightings and population, showing correlations of r = 0.649 for real observations and r = 0.779 for theoretical ones, grouped by region.
The immediate conclusions are that the phenomenon is intimately linked to the population, and that the near-identical coefficients for real and theoretical observations suggest that most reported UFO sightings are based on real, physical events, rather than hallucinations or pure fantasy. However, they acknowledge that certain psychological states might lead people to notice and report events that would otherwise go unnoticed.
Temporal Distribution of UFO Sightings
Another section, "CONSIDERACIONES SOBRE LA DISTRIBUCION EN EL TIEMPO DE AVISTAMIENTOS O.V.N.I.S." (Considerations on the Temporal Distribution of UFO Sightings) by José-Tomás Ramírez y Barberó and the CEI, discusses the historical study of UFO phenomena over time. It references early investigators like Oscar Rey Brea, Aimé Michel, and Eduardo Buelta, who explored cyclical patterns, particularly relating them to the oppositions of Mars (the 'biennial cycle' theory).
This section critiques the 'wave' phenomenon, suggesting that while early theories focused on cyclical waves, the phenomenon might actually be becoming more constant over time. The authors present figures (Fig. V and Fig. VI) illustrating a simulated frequency curve for UFO activity, proposing a constant underlying activity level (y=k) with fluctuations attributed to extrinsic factors (like media attention, psychological predispositions, or misidentifications) rather than intrinsic cyclical patterns. They differentiate between 'non-tabulated' (SZ-1) and 'tabulated' (SZ-2) activity, with the latter being insufficient to represent the real phenomenon.
Bibliographical Notes and Recurring Themes
The issue includes extensive bibliographical notes (Notas Bibliográficas and Notas) citing various studies and publications related to UFO research, including works by the authors themselves and other prominent ufologists. These notes provide context and support for the research presented.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the statistical analysis of UFO sightings, the search for correlations with socio-economic factors (like population and unemployment), and the debate on the temporal distribution of the phenomenon (waves vs. constant activity). The editorial stance appears to favor a rigorous, scientific, and statistical approach to understanding UFOs, leaning towards explanations that involve real physical events influenced by psychological and societal factors, rather than purely psychic or paranormal origins. The researchers emphasize the need for objective data and careful analysis to move beyond speculation.
Title: Investigación
Issue: 49
Volume: I
Date: August 1978
Publisher: Stendek
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish
Editorial Stance and Proposed Research
The editorial, dated Zamora and August 1978, introduces a perspective on the study of UFO phenomena, emphasizing that the origin of many sightings is often extrinsic, stemming from social, economic, and political causes. The core argument is that a more fruitful approach would be to study the 'minima' of tabulated UFO activity, rather than the 'maxima' as has been the traditional focus. The authors propose that these minima in tabulated data likely correspond to maxima in un-tabulated activity, and vice versa. This research, considered highly interesting, would involve quantifying these minima, determining their characteristic periods, and investigating their significance within the broader context of UFO fluctuations.
The editorial stresses that the study of UFOs should not be based on belief or disbelief, but on honest, scientific investigation. The goal is to shed light on the complex and often obscure study of Unidentified Objects by contrasting scientific perspectives.
Notes and References
The 'Notes' section provides an extensive list of references, citing numerous books, articles, and publications related to UFO research. These references include:
- Oscar Rey Brea: His unpublished work 'OVNIS. Sobre su existencia, posible realidad, procedencia y características aparentes'.
- Newspaper articles: From 'PUEBLO' (Madrid) and 'EL IDEAL GALLEGO' (La Coruña) in April 1954.
- Aimé Michel: Works such as 'Lueurs sur les soucoupes volantes' and 'Mysterieux objets celestes'.
- Eduardo Buel-ta Saura: 'La constante frecuencia. Investigaciones estadísticas' from Boletín CEI.
- Jacques Vallée: 'Anatomy of a phenomenon' (A Scientific Appraisal. UFO in Space), 'Les phenomenes insolites de l'espace', and 'Challenge to Science'. The notes also mention Vallée's 'second negative tendency Law'.
- Antoni Ribera Jorda: 'El gran enigma de los platillos volantes'.
- David R. Saunders: 'Research in Progress. (The Shapes of UFO Waves)' and references to MUFON UFO Conference proceedings.
- Carlos Ballester Olmos and Vicente-Juan: 'Notas estadísticas sobre la Oleada de 1950 en España y Portugal' and related essays.
Note (6) discusses the distribution of UFOs in space and mentions the theories of Aimé Michel and Jacques Vallée, noting that these theories have become somewhat outdated.
Profile: Miguel Peyro Garcia
This section introduces Miguel Peyro Garcia, born in Carthage (Tunisia) in 1957. He is described as a scholar and worker in the field of Analytical Psychology. His background includes living in various Spanish cities and extensive field research with groups like CIEFE, RNC, and ADIASA. He is a member of CEI Barcelona and a correspondent for DUIST in Germany. Garcia has published in several specialized UFO and paranormal publications.
His research focuses on the sociological and social problems of Andalusia, and he has collaborated with various collectives in southern Spain. He has delved into the psychic dimension of the UFO phenomenon and the analysis of apparitions and 'contactee' cases in the Iberian context. Currently, he is working on updating a Regional Andalusian archive of UFO observations, compiling African landing reports, and conducting psycho-sociological studies of 'Type-I' global phenomena with high strangeness indices. He is also interested in comparative analysis of UFO cases from different socio-cultural zones, including Soviet observations, and their differences and similarities in relation to social situations. Furthermore, he studies Modern Philology, particularly Eastern and Central European languages, and has published on ancient Libyan and colloquial Arabic.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, statistical analysis of sightings, and the socio-cultural context of these events. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rigorous, evidence-based research, moving beyond anecdotal accounts and belief systems. There is a strong emphasis on data collection, analysis, and the application of scientific methods to understand the 'Unidentified'. The profile of Miguel Peyro Garcia reinforces this by highlighting his academic approach to the subject, integrating psychology and sociology into UFO research. The extensive bibliography further underscores the magazine's commitment to grounding its discussions in existing literature and ongoing research within the field.