Stendek - Vol 10 No 38 - December 1979

Magazine Overview

This issue of STENDEK, a Spanish ufology publication, is identified as Volume X, Issue 38, dated December 1979. The cover features the title 'STENDEK' and a striking black and white illustration of a car being pursued by a luminous object, with the headline 'PERSEGUIDOS POR UN OVNI' (Pursued by a UFO).

Editorial: Reflexiones en torno al asunto UMMO

The editorial, titled 'Reflections on the UMMO Affair,' addresses the renewed interest in the UMMO case, sparked by analyses of photos from San José de Valderas by William Sapulding and Claude Poher, both suggesting the photos are fake. The editorial also notes the publication of two new books on the UMMO reports: 'El misterio de UMMO' by Antonio Ribera and 'OVNIS? Si, pero...' by Miguel Peyró. The author agrees with Ribera that the UMMO story should be brought into the open. The editorial posits that the UMMO case is likely a large-scale hoax, possibly motivated by a desire for revenge against society after a negative personal experience with UFO believers, or as a social experiment to study the dynamics of UFO enthusiasts. It suggests the 'UMMO' case grew beyond its creators' initial intentions, becoming an independent phenomenon. The editorial references an analysis by the collective IVAN of letters in the book 'Un caso perfecto' by Ribera and Rafael Farriols, which suggests statistical anomalies in the letters, hinting that 'Antonio Pardo' might be a pseudonym.

Article: Perseguidos por un OVNI Durante Noventa Minutos

This article details a case investigated by G. Esteban and C. Gargoiko from STENDEK-CEI, concerning a young couple, Arantxa and Javier, from San Sebastián. On April 6, 1977, at approximately midnight, while driving on Carretera Nacional 232 towards Vinaroz, they were pursued by a luminous object for about ninety minutes. The object, initially appearing as a reddish light about 1/8 the size of the full moon, followed their car. As Javier accelerated, the object moved closer, stopping when he braked. Its size was described as enormous, capable of covering the road's width. The object maintained a position relative to the car, sometimes directly above, sometimes at a distance. The witnesses, who had no prior interest in UFOs or parapsychology, described the object as spherical with a luminous, slightly reddish appearance and a darker base. It mirrored their movements and seemed to understand their actions. The pursuit continued even after they entered Vinaroz and headed towards a campsite, where the object eventually disappeared.

Article: El Caso Miguel Herrero Sierra: "Análisis de un contacto"

Authored by Javier Parra Alvarez from STENDEK's Council of Consultants and Amelia de Francisco, this article presents a detailed investigation into the case of Miguel Herrero Sierra, a 34-year-old driver from Alcalá de Henares (Madrid). On December 18, 1977, while driving his van near Tendilla (Guadalajara) for fishing, his vehicle's lights suddenly went out. After checking the fuses and finding them intact, he moved the van off the road. He then observed a large shadow and a powerful light directed at his van. Approaching the source, he realized it was not a truck but a large, unidentified object. He reported an intense, pine-like odor and experienced nausea. Two beings, dressed in white, approached him and guided him into the craft. Inside, he described a circular cabin with consoles and screens, illuminated by a soft white light. He encountered ten beings, who looked identical to humans, except for a mirrored scar on one of them, who identified himself as 'Mayor Martin.' Herrero spent approximately three hours on the craft, though he only recalls about ten to fifteen minutes. The beings claimed to be from a parallel reality, visiting Earth for thousands of years. They explained that their craft could dematerialize and rematerialize, and that they did not carry weapons as they could create a magnetic field to repel threats. The article explores the concept of parallel realities and anti-matter, questioning the logic of Herrero's 'negative' or parallel counterpart. It suggests the encounter might have been staged or theatrical, noting the beings' knowledge of Herrero's name and the unusual behavior of his 'parallel' counterpart.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of STENDEK focuses on UFO phenomena, presenting both detailed witness accounts and analytical perspectives. The editorial stance appears critical and analytical, particularly regarding the UMMO case, which it suggests is a hoax. However, it also emphasizes the importance of bringing such information to light for public scrutiny. The magazine aims to provide a platform for researchers and investigators to analyze and discuss complex cases, as seen in the detailed breakdown of the Miguel Herrero Sierra encounter, which includes psychological and philosophical analysis. The publication seems to lean towards a scientific and rational approach, even when dealing with extraordinary claims, as evidenced by the detailed descriptions and attempts to find logical explanations or identify potential flaws in the narratives.

This issue of STENDEK, dated March 1978 (issue 31), revisits and re-evaluates UFO landing cases, primarily focusing on incidents in Gallarta, Vizcaya, and a separate case in Cullera, Valencia. The articles present detailed witness testimonies, investigative findings, and psychological analyses, ultimately questioning the veracity of some of the reported events.

The Gallarta Case: A Re-examination

The main focus is on the alleged UFO landings witnessed by Juan Sánchez Ruiz in Gallarta between February and March 1977. The report meticulously details four distinct landing events, providing descriptions of the craft, their maneuvers, and the sounds associated with them. The first landing involved an 8-10 meter diameter disc with a humming sound. The second, slightly larger (10-12 meters), featured rectangular windows and a distinct landing gear. The third landing described a 20-25 meter craft with a rotating light and a 'tanquetilla' (small vehicle). The fourth and largest reported craft was approximately 50 meters in diameter.

Initial Investigations and Witness Testimony

Initial investigations included visiting the site of the alleged landings, an area described as an old refuse dump. The witness, Juan Sánchez Ruiz, a 52-year-old man from Córdoba, married with eight children, initially came forward through his son-in-law, José Luis Lucas, who was reportedly involved with a group called 'Centro Estudios de Fraternidad Cósmica'. The witness's account was initially presented as factual, with the presence of numerous footprints on the ground being a key piece of evidence cited by some media outlets.

Psychological Analysis and Doubts

However, as the investigation progressed, significant doubts arose. The article highlights contradictions in the witness's story, such as the varying descriptions of the sounds and the impossibility of seeing certain details of the craft from his vantage point. A psychological investigation was conducted, involving interviews and various tests (Rorschach, Wais, Bender). The analysis suggested that Juan Sánchez Ruiz suffered from personality conflicts, deep insecurity, and a desire for attention. The report strongly leans towards the conclusion that the entire story was a conscious fabrication.

The Role of Adrián Tramón

Further investigation revealed that the mysterious footprints could be explained by the actions of Adrián Tramón, an operator of a small backhoe loader used for material transport. Tramón, who knew Sánchez, admitted that he had indeed made the footprints while working, stating, "If Juan says he saw something, I don't know, maybe it's true, but what is certain is that I made the footprints." This explanation addressed one of the most significant pieces of 'evidence' for the landings.

Official Documents and Media Hype

The article also touches upon the media frenzy surrounding the case, with press, radio, and television reporting it as irrefutable proof of extraterrestrial existence. It mentions alleged 'official documents' from the Spanish Ministry of the Air, which, upon further inquiry, were found to be unofficial but indicated that the Ministry had indeed investigated the case.

The Cullera Case: A Different Encounter

Separately, the issue presents a case from Cullera, Valencia, from August 1971, involving a witness named Vicente. Vicente, then 18 years old, reported a close encounter with a luminous object that ascended rapidly from near the ground with a strong, grave sound. This event is described as a 'Type I' encounter according to Jacques Vallée's classification. The investigation involved accompanying the witness to the site and conducting interviews. The report suggests that this case, unlike the Gallarta one, might be more credible due to the witness's apparent lack of desire for publicity and the detailed, consistent nature of his account.

Conclusion: Fraud in Gallarta

The authors conclude that the Gallarta case was a deliberate fraud, orchestrated by the witness, possibly influenced by his son-in-law. They question the credibility of sensationalized UFO reports and the methods of some self-proclaimed investigators. The article ends with a reflection on how such cases, easily debunked, can gain widespread media attention.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO sighting reports, the importance of rigorous investigation, the role of psychological factors in witness testimony, and the potential for fraud and media sensationalism in the UFO field. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, emphasizing the need for evidence-based analysis and a critical approach to witness accounts, particularly when they are sensationalized by the media. The magazine appears to advocate for a more grounded and scientific approach to understanding UFO phenomena, distinguishing between credible reports and fabricated ones.

This issue of DOSSIER ESPECIAL, dated August 1979, focuses on UFO phenomena, featuring a cover headline about "AVEYRON [Francia]" from the years 1966-1967 and an investigation by the "L.O.L.N." team. The magazine includes a variety of articles, reports, and commentaries on UFO sightings, investigations, and conferences.

The Los Ríos Case (Dominican Republic)

The issue details a significant UFO sighting in Los Ríos, Dominican Republic, on November 20, 1978. The witness, Señora Martínez, along with her sister María, her 10-year-old daughter, and two domestic helpers, observed a bright light in the sky that moved erratically. The light emitted blue lights and descended behind a hill. Subsequently, two small, yellowish and reddish lights appeared, moving towards the witnesses. The beings were described as "two conical beings, twice the size of a normal man, dressed in translucent sheets over their bodies," with lights located at the abdomen level. The event lasted approximately 45 minutes and reportedly affected the electrical system of the zone. The witnesses were highly distressed, with the child being the only one to refer to it as a "flying saucer." The investigation was conducted by members of CEDIOVNI.

Aveyron Investigation (France)

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a counter-investigation of the "Bolas de Aveyron" (Aveyron Balls) case, originally published by "Lumières dans la Nuit." This investigation, conducted by members of LDLN (Pratx Michel, Vidal Jean-Luc, and Couzinié Maurice), aimed to clarify the events that began on June 15, 1966, at an old farm in Aveyron, France. Witnesses, including a grandmother and father, reported seeing luminous "balls" and a "shell." In early 1967, the son observed a "saucer with two domes." The counter-investigation focused on the psychological profile of the main witness (the son), who made extraordinary claims, including predictions of catastrophic events and extraterrestrial contact. The investigators found his statements to be fantastical and expressed doubts about the veracity of his account. A second part of the investigation involved seeking external testimonies, which yielded negative results, with interviewees stating they had never seen anything abnormal. The father's testimony later contradicted his son's earlier claims, reducing his observations to only two instances.

First London International UFO Congress

Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos provides commentary on the First London International UFO Congress, held on August 26-27, 1979. Organized by the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA), the congress aimed to standardize aspects of UFO research internationally, including definitions, classification systems, and data processing. BUFORA, described as a "loose organization," has a network of investigators and publishes the BUFORA Journal. The congress featured presentations from various international researchers.

Key speakers and topics included:

• Robert Digby (BUFORA): "The UFO Odyssey," discussing problems faced by UFO investigators.
• Lawrence Dale (BUFORA): "Current BUFORA Investigations," detailing the center's work.
• Leo Sprinkle (University of Wyoming): Discussed psychological implications in UFO studies.
• Peter Hill (BUFORA): Presented on the card system for case analysis and "From Data to Information."
• Edoardo Russo (Centro Unico Nazionale, Italy): Detailed the 1978 Italian UFO wave.
• Norman Oliver (BUFORA Journal): Unable to attend due to illness; Roberto Pinotti (Notiziario UFO) spoke about Italian government UFO documents.
• J. Bernard Delair (Contact UK): Discussed UFO data processing and classification systems (Groups A, B, C, D).
• Per Andersen (University of Arhus): Presented "Proyecto Datos OVNI," a system for processing UFO data.
• J. Allen Hynek (Center for UFO Studies): Introduced a new, more comprehensive classification system for UFO phenomena.
• Erol Faruk (UK University): Analyzed soil samples from the Delphos, Kansas landing case.
• Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos: Presented on close encounters in Spain, UFO landings, and the sociological aspects of UFO sightings.

The congress also included working party meetings where debates arose regarding the use of terms like "OVNI" (UFO) and "reporter." A consensus was not reached on establishing a single, universal classification system, with participants agreeing to develop their own systems based on their specific research needs.

Recommended Publications

The issue lists several recommended publications, including volumes of "SI: ESTAN," "MANUAL DEL UFOLOGO" by Alberto Adell Sabatés, "OVNIS SI, PERO..." by Miguel Peyró, "OVNIS: EL FENOMENO ATERRIZAJE" by Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos, and "MANIFIESTO OVNI" by Sebastián Robiu Lamarcha.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, the challenges of classifying sightings, and the importance of rigorous scientific methodology. The articles emphasize the need for effective data filtering and analysis to distinguish genuine unexplained phenomena from conventional explanations. The editorial stance appears to favor a serious, scientific approach to UFO research, as evidenced by the discussions at the London congress and the detailed investigative reports. There is a clear emphasis on critical analysis and avoiding speculation or sensationalism, particularly in the Aveyron case investigation.

This issue of "foto ovni" (photo UFO) focuses on the analysis of UFO incidents, with a prominent section dedicated to the Niotti case and the detailed examination of a photograph taken in Yacanto, Argentina, in 1960. The magazine also features reports on other sightings and discusses the methodologies used in UFO research, particularly the role of psychology.

The Niotti Case: Analysis by Ground Saucer Watch

The article details the investigation into the UFO incident experienced by Vicecomodoro Hugo Luis Niotti in July 1960. The case was revisited in 1977 and 1978 with a more exhaustive analysis of the original photograph using advanced computer techniques by Ground Saucer Watch (GSW). The GSW, directed by Mr. William Spaulding and collaborating with Drs. Bruce Massabee, David Rutland, and Fred Adrian, employed sophisticated digital analysis methods, similar to those used for space photography, to ensure high reliability.

The analysis involved several phases: edge enhancement, digitization, color contouring, cursor profiling, and pixel distortion for distance calculation. The GSW's conclusions, based on this analysis, highlighted several unusual characteristics of the object's image. The circular portion of the UFO's base was found to be not perfectly concentric, exhibiting an elliptical configuration. Its density was uniform, suggesting a flat surface and a possible energy source. A conical appendix was also identified, appearing slightly faint due to atmospheric conditions like mist or haze. The object's size was estimated to be between 3.6 and 4.5 meters in diameter at the base, and its distance from the camera between 100 and 150 meters. The analysis found no evidence of photographic manipulation or that the object was a known aircraft or probe. The conical appendix was noted to have a metallic appearance.

The magazine also references previous analyses by the Argentine Air Force's photographic department, which had also concluded the authenticity of the incident. The GSW's findings largely corroborated these earlier assessments, placing the Niotti photograph among the most reliable UFO cases documented in Argentina.

Other UFO Incidents and Reports

The issue includes a report on a UFO sighting in Ibiza, Spain, on March 4, 1977. Witnesses S.R., W., and I.L. described a large, disc-shaped object with a dome, approximately 15 meters in diameter, that emitted a strong wave of heat and changed color from luminous orange to incandescent white. The object landed slowly, and three human-like figures in white suits emerged, explored the area for about 15 minutes, and then returned to the craft before it ascended at a 45-degree angle towards the west without any audible noise. The witnesses regretted not having a camera to document the event.

Another section discusses an incident in Aveyron, France, on the night of June 13, 1966. During a local festival, a dimly luminous "ball" was observed near a farm. It disappeared and reappeared, exhibiting intelligent behavior by changing course to avoid interception. Two dogs reportedly pursued it without apparent fear. Three witnesses from the same family, described as sincere, reported seeing the object for nearly three hours at a distance of 1,800 meters, along with six smaller balls. While acknowledging the possibility of misinterpretation due to distance, the report suggests a potential UFO manifestation.

Psychological Aspects of UFO Investigation

Javier Parra Alvarez, a consultant for STENDEK, contributes an article on the importance of clinical psychology in UFO investigation, particularly for "Type I" cases, which typically involve one or two witnesses. He emphasizes that these cases are primarily psychological, with little to no physical evidence. Alvarez criticizes the superficial psychological assessments often conducted, advocating for more rigorous methods like factorial analysis and comprehensive test batteries. He also discusses the use of hypnosis as an exploratory tool, cautioning against its uncritical application.

Alvarez proposes a structured approach to psychological investigation, starting with a recorded interview of the protagonist, followed by analysis of their personality and psychological characteristics. He stresses the need for authentic clinical psychology professionals to ensure serious and scientific diagnoses in UFO research.

Letters and Information

The "columna del lector" (reader's column) features correspondence from individuals seeking to connect with other UFO enthusiasts, exchange information, and acquire back issues of "STENDEK" and specific UFO-related books. It also includes information about the "TELEX-OVNI" service, a monthly bulletin from CEI compiling UFO news from international press.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the rigorous analysis of UFO evidence, particularly photographic evidence, and the critical examination of witness testimony. The magazine demonstrates a commitment to scientific investigation, employing advanced techniques like computer-aided photo analysis. There is also a clear emphasis on the psychological dimension of UFO experiences, highlighting the need for professional psychological expertise. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, seeking to validate genuine phenomena while remaining critical of unsubstantiated claims, as seen in the nuanced conclusions regarding the Aveyron and Ibiza cases and the detailed breakdown of the Niotti photo analysis.

This issue of "investigación" (Volume VIII, December 1977, issue 35) focuses on the analysis of UFO distribution in the Iberian Peninsula between 1951 and 1977, authored by Félix Ares and David López of CEI. It also includes articles on psychological testing and the confusion between aircraft lights and UFOs. The magazine's primary objective is to identify constants or external conditioning factors of the UFO phenomenon.

Analysis of UFO Distribution in the Iberian Peninsula (1951-77)

The first major article, "ANALISIS DE LA DISTRIBUCION DE LA CASUISTICA IBERICA A LO LARGO DEL AÑO (PERIODO 1951-77)" by Félix Ares and David López, examines the monthly distribution of UFO sightings in Spain from 1951 to 1977. The study reveals a consistent pattern: a pronounced maximum during the summer, peaking in August, and a significant minimum during winter, especially in February. Relative maxima are observed in spring and autumn, with April and October being notable months.

This distribution, though irregular, shows remarkable constancy across different decades (1951-60, 1961-70, 1971-77). The authors suggest that these variations are largely due to extrinsic factors influencing the probability of observation. Key influencing factors identified include:

• Visibility and Weather: Since UFOs are often observed at high altitudes, conditions like visibility and cloud cover directly impact observation. Thus, sightings increase during periods of good weather.
• Vacations: The summer vacation season leads to increased time spent outdoors, greater travel, and more enjoyment of nature, all of which enhance the probability of observation. The study notes that during the 1951-60 period, when vacations were more of a luxury, the summer maximum was less pronounced. The economic boom in Spain during the 1961-70 period made vacations more accessible to the working class, further boosting summer sightings. The 1971-77 period saw the rise of "spring vacations," coinciding with Semana Santa, potentially explaining the notable increase in April sightings.
• Media Influence: The article speculates that the pronounced August maximum might be influenced by media attention, possibly through the "summer serpent" phenomenon (a term not fully explained but linked to a decrease in political and social news).

Figure N° 1 illustrates the monthly distribution of observations, while Figure N° 2 shows the distribution across the four seasons. Table N° 1 provides monthly case counts for different periods, and Table N° 2 shows the average number of clear days per month across Spain, highlighting a correlation between clear days and UFO sightings.

Distribution of Type I Casuistry

Figure N° 3 (continuous line) details the distribution of "Type I" casuistry (likely referring to a specific classification of UFO sightings) throughout the year. This distribution shows an absolute parallelism with the overall casuistry (Types I-V), with the exception of July, which exhibits a relative minimum instead of a maximum.

Conclusions on Distribution

The authors conclude that the observed irregularities in UFO distribution are constant and primarily attributable to external factors affecting observation probability. They posit that the phenomenon itself might have a completely uniform distribution throughout the year if these observational biases were removed. The definition of UFO used here encompasses all reported sightings, without judging their physical causality.

Psychological Aspects and Tests

Several sections delve into psychological aspects relevant to UFO research:

Apartado II: Clinical Projective Tests

• Rorschach Test: Considered one of the most complete projective psychological tools, offering high precision and breadth with minimal subjectivity in interpretation. It serves both nosological (diagnostic) and psychodynamic purposes.
• TAT (Thematic Apperception Test): Involves subjects creating stories from presented cards, aiding in the assessment of the subject's conscious and unconscious fantasy capabilities.
• Karen Machover Test: Useful for correlating with other tests and for psychodynamic analysis.

Apartado III: Clinical Tests Used in Psychiatry

• WAIS (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale): A valuable test measuring spatial, manipulative, and verbal factors, indicating intelligence and intellectual deterioration, as well as memory.
• Bender-Gestalt Test: Helps identify symptoms of possible organic syndromes, such as brain lesions, alcohol intoxication, or other drug-induced conditions or hallucinations.

Apartado IV: Complementary Tests

• Characterology Test: Analysis of psychological graphology.

Apartado V: Narcoanalysis

This technique involves intravenous injection of drugs like sodium amytal, nembutal, evipan sodium, and pentotal sodium. It induces a state similar to intoxication, increasing suggestibility and memory recall, making it useful for uncovering repressed information. While not a definitive truth-finding method, its use with a polygraph by a skilled professional is considered potentially valuable.

Apartado VI: Hypnosis

Hypnosis is presented as a popular but controversial method. While some psychologists doubt the credibility of information obtained under hypnosis, there's no definitive proof to dismiss it. Its most useful application in UFO research is in regression therapy for alleged "contactees" to recover memories not accessible in a conscious state. The article recommends that multiple hypnotists, unaware of each other's involvement, conduct these sessions to prevent undue influence on the witness's account.

The Lights of Airplanes and Their Confusion with UFOs

Authored by Manel Manen Rosell of C.E.I., this section addresses the common confusion between aircraft lights and UFOs, particularly at night. It details the characteristics, function, and distribution of aircraft exterior lighting:

1. Landing Lights (Faros de Aterrizaje): Typically located near the fuselage or on the front landing gear, these are retractable, directional, and parabolic, with powers ranging from 200 to 500 W.
2. Position/Navigation Lights (Luces de Posición o de Navegación): Essential for collision avoidance, these include at least three lights on the wings (red on the left, green on the right) and tail (white). They flash at 60-80 interruptions per minute or can be steady, using 12-14 W or 20 W lamps.
3. Identification, Recognition, and Anti-Collision Lights: These are usually red, high-intensity lights on the lower and upper fuselage, producing flashes with a power of 40-70 W. The combination of these lights, depending on the aircraft's position, can create various visual effects that may lead to misidentification.

The article emphasizes the need to understand these aircraft lighting characteristics to avoid misidentifying them as UFOs.

The Permanence and Variability of the Phenomenon

This section discusses the long-standing presence of UFOs, citing cave paintings and historical accounts like Roman "flaming swords" and 19th-century dirigibles. However, it notes that the phenomenon's forms have evolved, often anticipating existing technology, which challenges the simple extraterrestrial hypothesis (ET). The article suggests that theoretical laws and constants derived by ufologists have become obsolete, as UFOs no longer adhere to predictable patterns like "waves" or correlations with planetary positions.

The complexity of cases has also increased, moving from simple landings with tracks to phenomena involving paranormal effects and "abductions." The author questions the ET hypothesis, particularly the idea of explorers or conquerors, and suggests a potential connection between UFOs, parapsychology, and spiritualism, proposing the term "Paraufology."

Letters to the Editor and References

An "A NUESTROS LECTORES" section encourages readers to send in press clippings of possible UFO observations. A letter from Antonio Pardo emphasizes the need to reveal the "UMMO" case, believing "Antonio Pardo" holds most of the keys and that the psycho-sociological study conducted has immense value. The issue also includes a list of references for the articles, citing works by William Spaulding, Claude Poher, Antonio Ribera, Miguel Peyró, Frank Edwards, and Jacques Vallée.

Important Information

An announcement details a planned trip to Peru (Ica, Nazca, Machu Pichu) in July 1980, organized by STENDEK readers, with an initial price of 100,000 ptas. per person.

Another notice seeks a collaborator for field research in the province of Cáceres, Spain.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the statistical analysis of UFO sightings, the influence of external factors on observation, the psychological aspects of UFO investigation (including various diagnostic and investigative techniques), and the evolving nature and complexity of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous, data-driven inquiry, acknowledging the limitations of current hypotheses (like the simple ET hypothesis) and exploring broader connections with parapsychology. There is a clear emphasis on scientific methodology, even when dealing with controversial subjects like hypnosis and narcoanalysis, and a call for transparency and the sharing of information.

Title: investigación
Issue: 45
Issue Date: September 1978 (raw date: 16)
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of "investigación" focuses on the alleged UFO sighting in Navalmoral de la Mata, Cáceres, Spain, during September 1978. The article details the media frenzy, witness accounts, and the eventual debunking of the event as a hoax, while also exploring the psychosocial aspects of such phenomena.

The Navalmoral de la Mata UFO Case

The article begins by noting that in the second half of September 1978, a singular UFO observation case captured the attention of major media outlets, including television. This news left the public perplexed and led to various speculations.

Media Coverage

Two major Spanish newspapers, ABC (September 15, 1978) and ABC de Sevilla (September 17, 1978), published headlines such as "PUEBLO CACEREÑO EN VELA POR LA PRESENCIA DE UN 'OVNI'" (Cáceres Town on Alert Due to the Presence of a 'UFO'). The reports described an object appearing daily over Navalmoral de la Mata at precisely 5:45 AM, emitting intermittent red, yellow, and green lights, and disappearing shortly after sunrise. The object was said to be about the size of three stars and emitted no noise, yet its presence woke the entire town.

The initial sighting was reportedly made by a couple whose window was open. The husband asked his wife, who worked for TVE, "What is that?" She was also awake for unknown reasons, which they later attributed to the UFO's presence. The next day, neighbors alerted them to the object's appearance, leading to numerous witnesses.

Some residents stayed up all night to witness the object, which followed a consistent trajectory, appearing from one side and disappearing from the same side. The townspeople attempted to contact the Cáceres observatory, but it could not assist as it was not meteorological. No official complaints were filed; instead, residents contacted the newspaper, finding it more convenient. The object was described as distinct from a star or planet, and not an airplane or weather balloon. A similar sighting was reported in Murcia during the same summer.

An EFE news agency report, published in numerous national and regional newspapers, also covered the event under the headline "OVNI" EN NAVALMORAL DE LA MATA.

Eyewitness Accounts and Local Reaction

A group of press photographers, television crews, and curious onlookers gathered in vain in the early morning hoping to see the object. Witnesses claimed the UFO was about the size of three stars, flashed blue and red lights, appeared from the Northwest at 5:45 AM, and disappeared towards the North. The publication of this news in a Madrid newspaper sparked widespread interest, as the phenomenon was previously unknown to most of the population.

The article clarifies that it is false that the entire town of Navalmoral de la Mata was awakened by the UFO; however, over twenty people claimed to have seen it. The exact origin of the news is unclear, but the UFO became a major topic of conversation. Descriptions varied: some reported a strange light, brighter than a star, with blue and reddish flashes, appearing just before dawn and disappearing gradually or suddenly. Opinions were divided, with some believing it to be extraterrestrial, while others dismissed it as a mere bright star or dismissed the entire event as rumor.

The article notes that with each dawn, controversies multiplied, and positions became more diffuse. A sense of psychosis grew, especially as the news spread beyond the local area. The event gave Navalmoral an unprecedented level of relevance.

A significant event was planned for Saturday, the 16th, with a Spanish Television team intending to film the UFO at dawn on Sunday above a granite rock formation called 'Piedra Caballera'. Many gathered, but nothing unusual occurred.

Detailed Observation by the Author

The author recounts a personal observation on Monday night at 9:35 PM in the Perchel neighborhood. Attracted by the commotion, the author witnessed two white, brilliant lights appearing in the Southwest. One light initiated a rapid, rotating movement around the other, which remained static. This was followed by a rapid horizontal and vertical balancing movement. The lights then merged into one and disappeared.

At 9:36 PM, the lights reappeared, one of them red. They engaged in a "crazy dance" with undulating and irregular movements. At 9:42 PM, the red object turned white and pursued the other, merging again, with the resulting light turning intensely red. At 9:43 PM, the observation ceased for a few seconds before the object reappeared, splitting into two and rapidly moving in opposite directions until they disappeared.

At 9:45 PM, one light reappeared, followed by a second one below it. They began ascending and descending at high speed, then described concentric circles in opposite directions. At 9:50 PM, they merged again into a single object that appeared to approach the observers, its light intensifying like a spotlight. The spectacle ended unexpectedly when the object went dark and did not reappear.

This observation lasted fifteen minutes. The author, even as a skeptic, was left confused, acknowledging that something strange had occurred. Many residents stayed awake, with binoculars and even a small telescope, scanning the sky. Any shooting stars were counted as UFOs, and passing airplanes were closely followed.

The Deception

By Tuesday, UFOs were the main topic of conversation. People shared old stories and alleged past observations. Regional newspapers sold out quickly, solidifying the belief that UFOs had visited Navalmoral.

However, by Tuesday evening, rumors began to circulate that the entire event was a hoax, a prank by university students on vacation. The explanation, provided by the main promoter of the idea, was simple: two battery-powered lanterns attached to a long string, manipulated with practiced skill from a hilltop. The perceived approach or departure was achieved by varying the intensity of the lights. This, combined with psychological predisposition and extreme darkness, created the desired effect.

The Aftermath and Conclusion

Despite the explanation, many residents of Navalmoral resisted believing it, clinging to the extraterrestrial hypothesis. This, along with the fact that many people learned of the hoax later, led to a wave of subsequent local observations.

The local newspaper "15 DIAS" published a report in October stating that despite the general conclusion of a hoax, sightings continued in Navalmoral, with residents reporting strange flying objects with no explanation. The article in "investigación" suggests these were merely misinterpretations of everyday events, citing an example where strange lights turned out to be car headlights on the road to Valdehúncar.

The case of Navalmoral continued to generate anecdotal news even after being forgotten. The article mentions a report from "El Alcazar" on February 13, 1979, about Vicente Albeza, who led a group attempting telepathic contact with extraterrestrial intelligences, and who had a life-changing experience on September 15th at 5:25 AM. He described seeing a spectacular light illuminate a mountain, visible from the entire town, followed by a row of ten lights that changed color and appeared suddenly without a trajectory, before disappearing after about fifteen minutes. This experience lasted for five days, with the lights forming a 'V' shape and eventually a straight line over the town. He called it a marvelous and fantastic experience.

The author concludes that the reported events are a valuable illustration of the psychosocial phenomenon surrounding UFOs. It demonstrates how, in a situation of subconscious longing, an everyday event, amplified by imagination and sensationalist press, can create a surprising entanglement. The nearly sixteen thousand inhabitants of Navalmoral de la Mata were witnesses to this.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine "investigación" appears to focus on unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, and presents a critical yet open-minded approach. The editorial stance seems to be that while genuine unexplained events may occur, many reported sightings can be attributed to psychological factors, media influence, and hoaxes. The article meticulously details the Navalmoral case, from initial media reports and eyewitness accounts to the eventual debunking, emphasizing the psychosocial dynamics at play. The magazine also provides contact information for various UFO research organizations worldwide, suggesting an interest in global UFO activity and investigation.

Themes: UFOs, mass hysteria, media influence, psychosocial phenomena, hoaxes, eyewitness testimony, investigation.

Tags: UFO, Navalmoral de la Mata, Cáceres, 1978, UFO sighting, mass hysteria, media coverage, psychosocial phenomenon, extraterrestrial, investigation, witness accounts, object characteristics, newspaper report, EFE, ABC, hoax, lanterns, lights, television, photography.