Stendek - Vol 11 No 39 - June 1980

Magazine Overview

This issue of STENDEK, identified as Año XI, No. 39, dated June 1980, is a Spanish-language publication focused on UFO phenomena. The cover prominently features the headline "CASI-ATERRIZAJE EN NAVALMORAL" (Near-Landing in Navalmoral) and an illustration of a man observing a bright sun.

Editorial

The editorial, titled "¡NO POLEMIZAREMOS!" (We Will Not Be Polemical!), addresses the persistent criticism and insults directed at the CEI (Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios) and STENDEK. Director Pedro Redón asserts that the organization will not engage in polemics, not out of weakness, but out of respect for the UFO subject itself. He highlights that while they may not possess 'the truth,' they have a methodology, possibly the only one used in Spain, for deciphering the mystery. Redón calls for the scientific community to dignify the UFO topic by moving away from sensationalism and for those who promote unsubstantiated claims to cease doing so. He extends an offer for dialogue with critics.

STENDEK-CEI Structure

The magazine lists its key personnel, including Director Pere Redón and Assistant Director Mª Carmen Tamayo. It also details the "Consejo de Consultores de STENDEK" (Consulting Council of STENDEK), comprising numerous professionals from various scientific and technical fields. Additionally, it presents the "Delegados de STENDEK-CEI en:" (Delegates of STENDEK-CEI in:) various countries, including England, Mexico, USA, Argentina, URSS, France, Poland, and Austria. A "Panel Técnico" (Technical Panel) includes Julio C. Antuña Mendez (Photographer), Antonio Moya Cerpa (Illustrator), and Angel Armendáriz (Archaeologist). The "Investigadores de Campo Acreditados por el CEI" (Field Investigators Accredited by the CEI) section lists members from Catalunya and the Consulting Council.

Investigations and Testimonies

The issue features several detailed reports on UFO sightings and investigations:

¿QUE OCURRE EN EL CERRO CHAMPAQUI?

Authored by Roberto E. Banchs, this section details an incident on July 24, 1978, in Villa de la Merced, Córdoba, Argentina. A couple observed a red light that evolved into an object moving towards Cerro Champaquí. The object then approached them, descending to about 25 meters above the lake, exhibiting a pulsating red light. The witness described it as an oval aeroform with rectangular or square lights. Subsequent investigations in the area revealed it to be a zone of recurrent phenomena, with local residents reporting frequent UFO sightings.

Testimonies regarding Cerro Champaquí:

• Dr. Felix Cochero: Reported that in September 1970, while staying at the Hotel de la Entrada near Villa Ciudad de América, he was informed of daily UFO appearances in Valle de Loretani around 7 PM. He observed a cigar-shaped luminous object hovering, descending vertically, and then ascending diagonally.
• Dante Galliano: An inspector from Santa Rosa de Calamuchita, reported seeing a circular white object lift off and follow his car for a kilometer in May 1978, outperforming his vehicle. Curiously, a Canadian engineer reportedly died in a car accident at the same location two and a half hours later.
• Miquel Rubén Fridel: A resident of Villa General Belgrano, reported seeing a white-blue-orange object descend over Cerro Champaquí twice in June 1978.
• Tomás Judes: A resident near the route 36, mentioned widespread comments that Cerro Champaquí hosts a UFO base.
• Gustavo Greiser: Confirmed reports of campers seeing strange lights descending and ascending from the Cerro Champaquí area.

Additional Sightings and Investigations:

• Luis Ferreyra: A miner, photographed an oval object with a domed top and red lights on May 5, 1979, near Embalse Los Molinos. The object was described as metallic and moved with a pronounced dome.
• Police employee and sister: Reported seeing strange lights in the Villa Alpina and Cerro Champaquí area on the day after Ferreyra's sighting.
• Author's investigation: The author conducted a three-night observation near Embalse Los Molinos and verified the presence of reddish-orange luminous elements that remained stationary. While no significant electromagnetic, thermal, or barometric alterations were detected, the object did not respond to light signals. Photographs were taken using a Minolta 7-S camera.

ABUNDANTES OBSERVACIONES EN CASTILLA Y PAIS VASCO

Authored by José L. Guillerna Grijalba, this section compiles recent observations from November 1978 to May 1979 in Spain:

• Incident near Medina del Campo (November 7, 1978): A couple driving on the Madrid-La Coruña highway reported a bright white light, five times more powerful than a normal car's headlight, passing them at high speed. Their car then experienced engine failure, and their cassette player stopped. They also heard strange noises and saw red, fuchsia-colored cylindrical lights on the ground near their vehicle. The car only functioned correctly after the distributor ('delco') was replaced.
• Humanoids in Alegría de Alava (December 6, 1978): Doña Pilar Martínez de Arregui reported seeing a tractor with unusual lights, which then transformed into a bright white and butane-colored light. The object descended and hovered near her house. She then saw two large, strong figures seemingly wearing one-piece suits. Her husband initially dismissed her concerns.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO sightings, witness testimonies, and the challenges faced by researchers in a field often met with skepticism and criticism. The editorial stance, as articulated by Pedro Redón, is one of serious, methodical investigation, a refusal to engage in polemics, and a call for greater scientific rigor and public acceptance of the UFO phenomenon. The magazine emphasizes the importance of collecting and archiving observations to further the study of UFOs.

This issue of "Informe" focuses on UFO (OVNI) sightings and investigations, primarily in Spain, with a significant article detailing recurring incidents in the Campo Arañuelo region. The magazine presents several case studies from different locations and time periods, including witness testimonies, descriptions of objects, and analysis of the events.

Case Study: Vilviestre del Pinar (Burgos) - Night of January 16, 1979

The principal witness, Carlos Mediavilla Mediavilla, a 27-year-old photographer, reported an observation involving a spherical object of yellow-butane color, from which a smaller, strong red object emerged. The objects engaged in synchronized 'dancing' movements before ascending and disappearing. The witness also heard a soft, motor-like sound. The object's shape was described as round, curved above and below, not like a plate, and lenticular. The light emitted was intense and clear, allowing details to be seen from a distance.

Case Study: Vitoria - 4:30 PM on January 17, 1979

Rufina Ibáñez de Garayo Villarroya described a large, bright, white-silver object resembling a tank without a turret, with a strong yellow-white luminosity on its sides. The object was prismatically rectangular and moved at high speed towards the mountains, disappearing in seconds. Meteorological services confirmed no balloon launches or similar activities at the time.

Case Study: Miendiola (Alava) - 2:15 AM on May 16, 1979

Agustín Sanvicente Díaz de Espada and his wife, Raquel Bezares, observed a mysterious object. Agustín initially saw a bright light that intensified, causing concern. The object was described as circular below and oval above, with a strong red, granate color, and dark areas. It was stationary in the air for about half an hour before disappearing suddenly, not by flying away but by 'turning off'.

Case Study: Mendoza - December 28, 1954

Professor Oscar Adolfo Uriondo reports on an event from the mid-1950s involving a UFO landing. The witness, Sra. María Luisa García Holgado de Amaya, was traveling with a group of Spanish artists when they saw a bright blue light. They stopped to investigate and observed a luminous object, described as having the shape of two superimposed plates, emitting an intense blue light. Two human figures, dressed in dark suits with hoods, were seen near the object. One was standing, the other crouching. They entered the object through a sliding door. The object then ascended vertically and disappeared.

Case Study: Campo Arañuelo (Cáceres) - March 20, 1979

This section details a recurring phenomenon in the Campo Arañuelo region. Three witnesses, Higinio and Antonio Alonso Jiménez, and Agustín Valera Rodríguez, reported being pursued by a UFO. The object initially appeared as an intense white light, then changed to flashing red and green lights. It approached their car rapidly, and they accelerated to escape. The object was described as triangular, with a large red light in the center and intermittent red and green lights around its perimeter. A bright white light was seen on its upper part. The size was estimated to be double that of a car. The pursuit lasted about five kilometers, and no sound was detected.

Case Study: Finca 'La Hilera' - June 29, 1979

Higinio Alonso, Agustín Valera, and their companion Jesús Espején observed a bright light that descended rapidly behind the trees of the 'La Hilera' farm. They saw a large glow above the treetops. The object reappeared and ascended at high speed towards Navalmoral de la Mata. Jesús Espején, who was walking to a nearby farmhouse, later witnessed a small light disappear in the distance.

Analysis and Evaluation

The report discusses the credibility and strangeness of the reported cases. For the Mendoza case, the long delay in reporting and the inability to corroborate with other witnesses are noted as reducing factors in reliability. However, the witness's personality and the private nature of the report are considered positive aspects. The report also highlights specific characteristics of UFO phenomena, such as the bluish luminosity and the peculiar movements of occupants' limbs, which are not easily explained by conventional means.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include detailed witness accounts of UFO sightings, descriptions of various object shapes and colors, and the presence of potential occupants. The magazine emphasizes the importance of investigating these phenomena and presents the information in a structured, analytical manner, aiming to assess the credibility of each case. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into UFO reports, presenting evidence and witness testimonies for consideration.

This issue of "Investigación" (Investigation) is a Spanish-language publication focused on UFO phenomena, featuring scientific analysis, witness testimonies, and methodological proposals for evaluating such reports. The issue is divided into several articles and sections, including detailed case studies and theoretical discussions on the physics and characteristics of UFOs.

Article 1: Case of Jesús Espején (Pages 1-2)

This section recounts the experience of Jesús Espején, who observed a strong, intense light emanating from above the trees near his home. Initially mistaking it for a fire, he soon realized it was a luminous object, described as a large ball of light with intermittent red and green lights. The object was approximately seven to eight meters high, almost touching the treetops. The intensity of the light made it difficult to look at directly, and the surrounding area appeared as if it were daytime. Espején experienced panic and fear, describing the event as something that must be lived to be understood. He recalls the object moving away at high speed with a sound like a "gale." His mother adds that on the same night, they experienced strong winds and a bright light passing by their window, though the sky was clear. The report also mentions that two children had previously reported seeing something similar.

Article 2: UFOs in the Campo Arañuelo Region (Page 2)

This section, based on a report from the regional newspaper "Hoy," discusses the frequent appearance of unidentified flying objects in the Cáceres region, particularly near Navalmoral and Sierra de Gredos. It details an incident on the night of August 19-20, where a "fireball" the size of a football was observed moving from East to West along the Tiétar River. The object changed colors from blue to white to red, stopped near the Almaraz Nuclear Power Plant for a minute, and then continued towards Portugal. The report notes that numerous vehicles had stopped to observe the phenomenon, and the witnesses described it as something strange and not related to aircraft.

Article 3: Analysis of the Environmental Zone of the UFO and its Force (Pages 3-6)

Authored by Julián Majewski from C.E.I. Warsaw, this technical article explores the physics behind UFO phenomena. It discusses the concept of "changed air" around a UFO, relating it to electrical conductivity and the generation of magnetic fields. The author analyzes the environment of an incandescent filament, explaining how it emits electrons and creates a positively charged filament, forming a stable electron cloud. The article delves into Alfvén waves, which can propagate in conductive media like ionized air, and presents a formula for their velocity. It suggests that powerful magnetic fields, possibly alternating, are key to UFO propulsion and maneuverability, potentially creating an "electric field" that allows for movement without conventional propulsion. The author also touches upon the creation of luminous discharges in air without electrodes, using lasers and modulated light, drawing parallels to phenomena like "foo fighters."

Article 4: Standards in the Evaluation of UFO Reports (Pages 7-10)

Written by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos and Miguel Guasp of the Stendek Consulting Council, this section proposes a mathematical and objective methodology for evaluating UFO reports. They introduce four key indices:

• Indice de Calidad de la Información (Q) (Information Quality Index): Measures the validity and quantity of data in a report, ranging from 0 to 1, based on the source of information (direct, indirect, or other).
• Indice de Extrañeza (Σ) (Strangeness Index): Quantifies the anomalous aspects of a sighting, based on seven factors: anomalous appearance, anomalous movements, physical-spatial incongruences, technological tracking, close encounters, presence of beings, and physical traces or effects. The index ranges from 0 (no strangeness) to 1 (maximum strangeness).
• Indice de Credibilidad (π) (Credibility Index): Assesses the reliability of the witness(es), considering factors such as the number of witnesses, their profession, interpersonal relationships, geographical proximity, activity during the observation, and age. This index also ranges from 0 to 1.
• Indice de Certidumbre (C) (Certainty Index): This is the final index, calculated as the product of Q, Σ, and π (C = Q x Σ x π). It represents the overall degree of certainty regarding the veracity and importance of the UFO event, expressed as a percentage.

The authors emphasize the importance of these indices for standardizing the evaluation of UFO cases and providing a more objective assessment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the analysis of witness testimonies, and the development of objective methodologies for assessing the credibility and significance of UFO reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious, scientific inquiry into the subject matter, attempting to move beyond anecdotal evidence to a more structured and quantifiable approach. The articles blend eyewitness accounts with theoretical physics and statistical analysis, reflecting a desire to understand UFOs through a rational and empirical lens.

This issue of "Investigación" (Investigation) delves into two primary areas: the morphological classification of classic UFO phenomena and an analysis of the correlation between UFO sightings and seismic activity in Spain. The magazine features contributions from various researchers and presents detailed data, statistical analyses, and case studies.

Essay on the Classification of Classic UFO Morphology (Ensayo de Clasificación de la Morfología Clásica del Fenómeno OVNI)

Authored by Dr. Angel A. Díaz, this section introduces an attempt to create a provisional classification of the UFO phenomenon based on its classic morphology. The author acknowledges the challenges posed by the phenomenon's characteristics, such as its high luminosity and the often contradictory and imprecise nature of witness descriptions. Daytime observations are highlighted as valuable for better visualization without glare. The study focuses on the relationship between morphological parameters, particularly for objects described as "ellipsoids of revolution." A selection of well-documented cases, primarily based on photographs and precise verbal descriptions, is presented. The list includes 28 cases from various locations worldwide, spanning from 1950 to 1975, including notable instances in New York, Pennsylvania, New Mexico, Austria, New Jersey, Córdoba (Argentina), Streatham (England), Japan, San Francisco (USA), Johannesburg (South Africa), Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Yorkshire (England), Namur (Belgium), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Rio Negro (Argentina), Neuquén (Argentina), España, and Finland.

The study examines specific relationships between observed parameters, denoted as a (diameter), b (height), c (dome diameter), d (dome height), and e (base height). Key relationships analyzed include a/b (diameter/height), a/c (diameter/dome diameter), and d/e (dome height/base height). The findings suggest that UFOs generally present a flattened profile (a/b ratio often greater than 1), with a circular 'wing' or 'ala' being a common feature, though its development varies. The dome's height is often equal to or greater than the base's height (d/e ratio). The analysis indicates a high degree of consistency in these morphological parameters across the studied cases, suggesting a well-defined phenomenon.

Based on these findings, the study proposes a classification system with two main classes: Asymmetrical and Symmetrical, further subdivided into subclasses. The Asymmetrical class appears to be the most prevalent, with Subclass A2b being the most numerous.

Analysis of the Correlation Between UFOs and Seismic Movements (Análisis de la Correlación Entre OVNIs y Movimientos Sísmicos)

This section, authored by Felix Ares and David López of CEI and the Council of Consultants, investigates a potential link between UFO phenomena and seismic activity in Spain. It begins by referencing earlier research, including that of French investigator F. Lagarde, who noted that a significant percentage of French landing cases occurred near fault lines. The study aims to provide a broader perspective using data from 1950-78.

Temporal Distribution Comparison

The analysis compares the temporal distribution of seismic events and UFO sightings in Spain. Table No. 1 shows the total number of earthquakes (magnitude IV or higher) and UFO observations recorded in the Iberian Peninsula between 1950 and 1977. Due to data irregularities in some observatories, the correlation analysis for the entire period was limited to 1968-1977, a period of high UFO activity. Using Pearson's correlation formula, a coefficient of r = -0.069 was obtained, indicating a near-zero correlation, thus suggesting no synchronism between annual seismic activity and the number of UFO observations.

Correlation During Wave Periods

The study further examines the correlation during periods of maximum UFO activity, specifically focusing on the 1968-69 UFO wave. Table No. 2 details monthly seismic events and UFO cases from July 1968 to April 1969. The correlation coefficient for this period was found to be r = -0.021, again indicating a complete lack of synchronism.

UFO Activity Around Seismic Movements

Table No. 3 lists seismic movements (magnitude 5 or higher) in the Iberian Peninsula from 1961-77, along with UFO cases observed within the 12 hours before and after each earthquake. The results were overwhelmingly negative, with only a few instances showing temporal proximity, but with significant differences in distance and time, ruling out any direct interdependence.

Comparative Analysis of Geographical Distribution

The research then shifts to a geographical comparison. Analysis of the 1968-69 UFO wave revealed that areas with higher seismic activity, particularly those related to recent orogeny and fault lines, registered a higher percentage of Type I UFO observations than expected by chance. Specifically, 28% of observations occurred near fault lines. This finding is corroborated by a 1977 study by Tomás Rodríguez and Barberó, which found 34.4% of observations near fault lines. The consistency across different studies and geographical areas (including F. Lagarde's findings for France) suggests a potential pattern, though further research is needed.

The study also notes that the Andalusian region and the Pyrenean-Catalan area are the most seismically active in Spain, and these regions also show a high concentration of UFO observations. The Ebro Depression and the Catalan Coastal Range are also noted for moderate seismic activity and UFO sightings.

Conclusion on Seismology and UFOs

The authors conclude that while there is no demonstrable temporal correlation between seismic activity and UFO sightings, there are "slight indications" that seismically active zones and fault lines are associated with a higher-than-random percentage of UFO cases. They pose the question of whether seismic regions catalyze UFO production or if there is another underlying connection.

Appendix (Apéndice)

This section discusses the proposed classification system, noting that the Asymmetrical class is significantly more represented than the Symmetrical class. It highlights specific subclasses within the Asymmetrical category (A2b, A2a, A3b) as being the most numerous. The authors also discuss the relationship between the diameter of the UFO and its dome (R = a/c), finding that values between 1.2 and 2.0 are common, with an average of 1.90. They suggest that deviations from these values might be due to observation angles.

To Our Readers (A Nuestros Lectores)

This section is a call for readers to submit news clippings and information about local UFO observations to help maintain the magazine's archive. The STENDEK-CEI in Barcelona is provided as the contact address for submissions.

Project "IVAN" (Proyecto "IVAN")

This article details an experiment called "Proyecto IVAN," which aimed to simulate a false UFO wave to study the reactions of the public, press, and investigators. The project involved three phases: media sensitization, fabrication and launch of a "false OVNI" (a static object with lights and flashes designed to simulate movement), data collection from witnesses, and analysis of the results. The goal was to verify if fabricated cases, amplified by media coverage, could induce a genuine-seeming UFO wave.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena with scientific inquiry, particularly in the fields of morphology and statistical analysis. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, seeking empirical data and logical explanations while acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous methodology, as seen in the detailed statistical analyses of UFO sightings and seismic data. The magazine also encourages reader participation in data collection, highlighting the importance of citizen science in advancing the study of UFO phenomena. The articles suggest a belief that UFOs are a real phenomenon worthy of serious investigation, even if the explanations remain elusive. The exploration of potential links between UFOs and natural phenomena like earthquakes reflects a desire to find rational frameworks for understanding these events. The "Proyecto IVAN" article indicates an interest in the psychological and sociological aspects of UFO reporting, including media influence and witness perception.

This issue of "Investigación" focuses on the phenomenon of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and the methods used to study them, particularly in Spain during the late 1970s. The magazine delves into the psychological aspects of perception, the influence of media on public opinion, and the analysis of eyewitness testimony, including the role of drawings in documenting sightings.

Project IVAN: Inducing UFO Waves

The core of the issue details the experimental work of the "Colectivo IVAN" (Investigación y Análisis de Fenómenos Anómalos No Identificados). The group aimed to demonstrate how media manipulation could create or amplify UFO sightings, a phenomenon they termed "induced oleadas" (induced waves).

The Plan of Action

In December 1978, the Colectivo IVAN initiated a campaign in Irún, Spain. They began by sending letters to the local newspaper "La Voz de España" about UFO conferences they had organized. This coincided with a period of increased UFO sightings reported in the press, including one in Basauri.

Fabricating Sightings

To test their hypothesis, the group orchestrated several "false" UFO sightings. On December 22nd, they provided Juan Antonio Lecuona, a correspondent for "La Voz de España," with a story about a 15-meter, bluish object with reddish lights. This fabricated report was corroborated the next day by Ramón Arregui, who contacted Lecuona to confirm the experience.

On December 23rd, they informed Juan Achucarro, a correspondent for "La Voz de Guipúzcoa," about a supposed sighting by four friends camping near "El Molino" in Fuenterrabía. The object, described as discoidal with reddish lights, emerged from the water and moved inland at high speed. This information was relayed by one of the supposed witnesses, Ignacio Ayestarán.

The following day, December 24th, Lecuona was given another report: a couple, Juan Ignacio González and Marta Iruretagoyena, claimed to have seen four discoidal objects flying in formation over the sea near "El Molino," emitting no sound.

On December 27th, a member of the C.E.P. presented a false witness account to Lecuona and Juan Luis Seisdedos, a journalist for "El Diario Vasco." The account described a sighting near the Fuenterrabía lighthouse of an object that appeared as a milky white glow, descending and submerging into the sea.

These staged events, along with other genuine sightings, led to widespread discussion of UFOs in the local media.

The "Alto Errondo" Incident

Also on December 27th, a brief news item in "La Voz de España" reported an experience involving five children (aged 10-15) in the "Alto Errondo" area of San Sebastián. The children reported seeing an object with red and whitish lights, some intermittent. While witness accounts varied, they generally described a powerful, fast-moving object. The Colectivo IVAN later contacted these children and concluded their sighting was likely an airplane, but they used the case for their media campaign.

The "True" Oleada

Following the initial fabricated reports, the Colectivo IVAN found that genuine sightings began to emerge spontaneously, creating what they called a "true" wave induced by their initial efforts. They believed that publicizing UFOs sensitized the public, leading to more reports.

Further Cases and Analysis

On December 25th, a priest, Vicente Ortiz, reported observing an immobile object with intense, long-lasting flashes near the bay of Txingudi and Peñas de Aya. The nature of the phenomenon remained unclear.

Another report came via radio about a couple, Maite Sánchez and her boyfriend, who observed a fast-moving object with rotating red and white lights while descending Mount Adarra near Urnieta. They described it as passing overhead and heading towards San Sebastián.

Fernando Zúñiga, from Irún, reportedly saw four round objects on December 26th, but the witness could not be located.

On the evening of December 27th, Juan Iglesias, Mª Josefa Alvarez, and their three children reported seeing another supposed UFO with two close red lights and a separate green light, described as very powerful. The object moved at high speed in a zig-zag pattern and emitted a faint whistle.

Phase B: Fabrication and Launch of the False OVNI

This section refers back to the initial staged events, emphasizing the deliberate creation of a false UFO phenomenon.

Phase C: Data Collection

This phase involved the collection of data related to the staged event on January 4th. The group used a device with car batteries and synchronized flashes to simulate a UFO. The device was observed from various locations in Irún, including Plaza de San Juan, where an informal survey was conducted.

#### Location and Color Discrepancies

Most witnesses described the object as being near Peñas de Aya, despite it being located below and to the left. Color descriptions were inconsistent, with reports of white, red, blue, and yellow, and some claiming green, possibly due to the combination of yellow and blue. Witnesses unanimously agreed on color changes.

#### Kinetic Effects and Interpretations

Many witnesses perceived the object as oscillating or floating, attributed to the darkness and lack of reference points. The perceived increase and decrease in size were intentional, achieved by adjusting the spacing of the lights. Some witnesses even reported the object "landing" or flying between mountains. The newspaper "Unidad" reported the object circling San Marcial, which the authors attribute to the newspaper relaying rumors without verification.

Most people interpreted the experience as a genuine UFO, likely extraterrestrial, a conclusion the authors suggest was influenced by the prior media campaign.

#### Alternative Explanations

Some opinions suggested the sightings were hoaxes, possibly by Boy Scouts camping nearby, or simply lanterns or fires. A veteran electrician, however, asserted the impossibility of falsifying the flashes.

#### The "Fraternidad Cósmica" Connection

Members of the "Centro de Estudios de la Fraternidad Cósmica" claimed to have predicted the oleada and spent nights waiting for the UFO.

Phase D: Conclusions

1. Induced Oleadas: The experiment demonstrated that media could stimulate UFO testimonies, creating waves through press and radio manipulation. The authors ponder if simulating landings would have resulted in landing reports.
2. Colors: Witnesses generally had poor recall of colors.
3. Movement: Lack of reference points led to impressions of movement, with size changes interpreted as displacement.
4. Flashes: Intense flashes from a dark point were perceived as much more powerful than they were.
5. The OVNI Panacea: Unknown luminous phenomena are quickly labeled as UFOs, implying alien spacecraft.
6. Decay: Media interest wanes with repetitive reporting, leading to the extinction of "real" waves. This saturation can cause UFO phenomena to become dormant for periods, as seen after the 1968-69 surge.
7. News Diffusion: Cases were primarily reported in Basque Country media, with few reaching national scale, suggesting many local cases go unreported.
8. Surprise: Despite numerous sightings, including low-altitude ones, no "investigators" showed up, which the authors found surprising.

"The 12th Planet" and Other Publications

The magazine also reviews several books and publications related to UFOs and related topics:

• "The 12th Planet" by Zecharia Sitchin: This book, based on Sumerian, Assyrian, and Babylonian texts, presents evidence for possible extraterrestrial ancestors of humans, dating their origin to 13,000 years ago. The reviewer anticipates it will spark debate.
• 1978 MUFON USO Symposium Proceedings: Edited by Walter H. Andrus, Jr., this collection includes notable papers by Ted Bloecher on occupant cases, Dr. Illobrand von Ludwiger on future propulsion systems, and J. Allen Hynek's view of UFOs as space-time singularities.
• "Sound and Light Phenomena: A Study of Historical and Modern Occurrences" by Sandra Claflin-Chalton and Gordon J. Macdonald: This publication from The MITRE Corporation explores sonic phenomena, suggesting many reported events might be related to supersonic aircraft operations or geological activity.
• "The Andreasson Affair" by Raymond E. Fowler: Published in 1979, with a foreword by J. Allen Hynek.

The Validity of Drawing Techniques in UFO Communication

Another section, authored by Juan Marcos Gascón, discusses the role of drawings in UFO investigations.

The Human Eye and Perception

It begins by explaining how visual experience is fundamental to understanding the world and how the eye transmits impulses to the brain, which are then processed based on past experiences, instincts, and prejudices.

Symbolization

Symbolization is presented as a natural human resource to express the imperceptible and compensate for the inability to fully comprehend certain phenomena. The psychological power of symbols is highlighted, noting that for ancient Israelites, UFOs might have represented God, while for modern individuals, they represent advanced terrestrial technology or extraterrestrial visitors.

Drawings as Visual Communication

The article emphasizes the importance of drawings in UFO investigations as a form of visual communication. When a witness provides a drawing, it serves as a testimony and a graphic representation of what was observed, complementing written or oral accounts. The authors categorize drawings based on the witness's drawing skills:

1. Witness Lacked Drawing Skills: In most cases, witnesses have limited artistic ability. Their drawings are considered spontaneous and abstract, valuable for their existence but not as precise representations of reality. The investigator must be aware of this limitation.
2. Witness Had Drawing Skills: This is a rare but valuable scenario, as such witnesses can provide more realistic visual accounts.
3. Drawing by a Specialized Artist: If an artist who has not seen the UFO creates a drawing based on witness testimony, they must carefully follow the witness's descriptions to produce an impersonal and accurate representation. Ideally, both the witness's drawing and the specialist's drawing would be archived for complementary information.

StenDek - Lost Issues

A notice requests readers to report any missing issues of the publication "StenDek" due to postal service irregularities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena from a critical and analytical perspective. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, the influence of media, and the psychological factors involved in witness testimony. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensationalism, favoring empirical evidence and reasoned analysis. The staged "induced oleada" experiment highlights a methodology focused on understanding how UFO reports are generated and disseminated, rather than simply accepting them at face value. The inclusion of book reviews and discussions on drawing techniques further underscores a commitment to a multi-faceted approach to studying the UFO phenomenon.

Title: VIMANA
Issue: 1
Date: February 1979 (cover date for 'UFO Investigation' review), March 1979 (cover date for 'Helicopter-UFO Encounter Over Ohio' review). The magazine itself is likely from early 1979 given the context.
Publisher: CEI (Comisión de Investigación OVNI)
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish
Document Type: Magazine Issue

A NUESTROS LECTORES (To Our Readers)

The magazine opens with an appeal to its readers, requesting them to send in press clippings, both local and general, that contain possible UFO observations. The editors express a desire for a wide range of input to aid their research.

Article: Abduction Cases and Critical Analysis

This section discusses a monograph on a case of abduction, described as incredible but well-documented and studied by a group of MUFON investigators. It raises the question of whether abduction cases are exclusively within the domain of psychiatry or psychology, suggesting that these specialists should pay professional attention to such incidents. The article ponders if these events are an objective part of UFO activity, likening humans to 'guinea pigs' in the hands of UFO occupants. As such cases begin to emerge in Spain, the magazine calls for maximum critical capacity and scrutiny to determine, without ambiguity, if witnesses have been influenced by literature on similar incidents. Three alternatives are proposed for the increase in reported experiences: a) a genuine increase in such experiences, b) an increase in reported cases due to greater permissiveness and less ridicule, or c) an increase through sociological 'contagion'. The article suggests that this is fundamentally a task for psychologists within the Council of Consultants, working in cooperation with CEI investigators. The symbiosis of these elements is deemed essential for the validation of any report of this nature.

Book Review: UFO Investigation (A Field Investigator's Handbook)

This review covers 'UFO Investigation (A Field Investigator's Handbook)' by BUFORA, published in February 1979. The reviewer hails it as probably the best manual for field investigators seen to date, describing it as exhaustive and a rich source of ideas and suggestions for interviewers. It is considered a necessary tool for investigators in Spain, especially at a time when efforts are being made to sophisticate scientific, technical, and methodological tools for a more rational approach to Ufology. The book is highly recommended.

Book Review: A Helicopter-UFO Encounter Over Ohio

This review discusses a 122-page report by Jennie Zeidman, titled 'A Helicopter-UFO Encounter Over Ohio', published in March 1979. The report details an extraordinary encounter experienced by the crew of a helicopter commanded by Captain Coyne over the state of Ohio on October 18, 1973. The reviewer states that this is one of the best cases from the American UFO wave of that year and, definitively after reading this booklet, one of the best-studied cases. The review suggests that a careful reading of this book serves as the best antidote against the temptation to adopt non-physical hypotheses for explaining the UFO phenomenon.

PUBLICACION ESPECIALIZADA EN VIMANA: EL FENOMENO OVNI

This section announces Vimana as a specialized publication on the UFO phenomenon, providing information on subscriptions.

A PROPOSITO DEL TITULO (Regarding the Title)

This article explains the origin of the magazine's title, 'Stendek'. The CEI's 'UFO Investigation Commission' sought an original and fitting title for their informative service, finding that existing titles from various international UFO organizations (French, English, American, Italian) had been largely exhausted. They searched their archives for a case from the Iberian Peninsula but found no suitable expressions. Their investigation then expanded globally, leading them to a report from Latin America. The case involved the mysterious disappearance of the Lancastrian Star Dust, a British South American Airways passenger plane, on August 2, 1947, after flying over the Andes. Its scheduled landing was in Santiago, Chile. At 17:41, just before its scheduled landing, the plane transmitted its estimated arrival time, followed by the word "STENDEK", repeated three times, pronounced quickly and unclearly. The Chilean Air Force telegraphist could not understand the word, and the plane was never heard from again. Despite extensive search operations involving skiers, aviation forces, alpinists, and motorized units over a 400-kilometer area, no trace was found. The aircraft carried five crew members and six passengers. The pilot, Captain R. J. Cook, had prior experience flying over the Andes. Warnings were given about potential bad weather. On the day of the disappearance, a strong wind of 45 knots was reported over the Andes, with the area covered in snow and clouds. Cook had reported an altitude of 7,200 meters. The article notes that there is no proof the plane went beyond Santiago to crash into the Pacific Ocean, and given it had passed the bad weather zone, this seems improbable. The article poses the question: Accident? Collision with a UFO? While not affirming either, the authors lean towards the second hypothesis, concluding that the pilot, Mr. Cook, witnessed something extraordinary that he could only explain by repeatedly exclaiming "STENDEK!" The article cites Antoni Ribera's book "El gran enigma de los platillos volantes" as the source for this case.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine strongly advocates for a critical and scientific approach to the UFO phenomenon. It encourages reader participation and emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, particularly involving psychological and sociological analysis. While acknowledging the possibility of genuine, extraordinary events, the editorial stance appears to favor explanations that can be critically examined, such as sociological contagion or the influence of prior knowledge, while still leaving room for unexplained phenomena like the 'STENDEK' case. The reviews of UFO literature suggest a preference for practical, field-oriented investigation methods and empirical evidence over purely speculative or non-physical explanations.