Stendek - Vol 12 No 43 - March 1981

Magazine Overview

Title: STENDEK
Issue: No. 43
Volume: Año XII
Date: March 1981
Publisher: STENDEK-CEI
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish
ISSN: B-21.354/72

This issue of STENDEK, a Spanish-language magazine focused on UFOs and related phenomena, presents a variety of cases and analyses. The cover features the magazine's title and two images, one of which is described as a POLARIS missile enhanced by computer. The issue includes reports on photographic analysis, witness testimonies, and investigations into alleged UFO sightings.

Article 1: Analysis of a UFO Photograph in Mallorca

This article details a computer-assisted analysis of a single, poor-quality reproduction of a photograph taken in Mallorca. The photograph, received folded and with limited accompanying data, was subjected to various analyses including color contouring, pixel analysis, and high-resolution filtering. The findings indicate that the image is not a fraud or a montage. It is described as a faint image, not a solid object or light source, and is considered diffuse. The analysis suggests the image is a reflection within the camera's emulsion, not a distant object. Specifically, it is identified as having characteristics common to a "reflection" or "lens flare," aligning with the position of the sun at sunset. The report speculates that the phenomenon observed could be a "sun dog" or "subsol," an atmospheric effect involving ice crystals in clouds. The original negatives are reportedly held by the Ministry of the Air.

Article 2: The Case of Lago Ercina

This report by Luis Caso Machicado investigates an incident at Lago Ercina, Asturias, Spain, in July 1979. The author interviewed two witnesses: Amador González, the hotel manager, and a Judge of Instruction. Both witnesses reported seeing lights on the night of July 15th or 16th. González described a strange light rotating in a circle, approximately the size of a full moon, with three brighter points and a pale red color, similar to a car's taillight. He stated the object remained stationary in the air for about an hour. The Judge, however, described the object as a bright star-like light moving in a straight line at high speed, which he identified as an artificial satellite. The author found González's account more credible after a second interview, noting that the Judge had been reluctant to discuss the event, possibly due to his position. The case is classified as a "NL" (nocturnal light) type UFO due to its low "strangeness index." An additional anecdote recounts a client at the hotel who claimed to be meeting extraterrestrials.

Article 3: A Luminous Sphere Caused Loss of Consciousness

This article, by Sebastián Robiou Lamarchenn, details an extraordinary event experienced by a reputable engineer in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, in March 1980. The engineer reported seeing a luminous, metallic, red sphere, approximately twice the size of a basketball, rotating rapidly. The sphere changed color to yellow and then orange, and from its interior, a cable-like object emerged and slowly moved towards him. Upon contact, he lost consciousness for about 45 minutes. He experienced a burning sensation for three days. Medical examinations revealed no physical anomalies. The author notes the similarity to the experience of Javier Bosque in 1972 and discusses the possibility of "hypnotic suggestions" or audio-hypnosis related to the sounds heard. The concept of a "solid light" is also mentioned, comparing it to other reported phenomena. No physical trace was found at the site.

Article 4: UFO Observations Near Lleida

This section, by Xavier Lafarga Maduell, presents a chronological list of UFO observations in a 25 km radius around Lleida, Spain, dating back to 1952. The area is described as agricultural. The article highlights several specific sightings, including one from January 1, 1979, involving three young relatives who observed a strange light rotating in a circle near Lleida. They described it as having three fixed points of brighter light and a pale red color, similar to a car's taillight. The report notes that the area is affected by the A-2 highway and has a small, semi-abandoned airfield. The article also mentions the Sed river, the Secá reservoir, and the Urgel canal as geographical features.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on unexplained aerial phenomena (UAP/UFOs) and related events. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and analysis, employing scientific methods like computer enhancement and witness interviews. There is an openness to phenomena that defy conventional explanation, as seen in the classification of the Lago Ercina case as a "NL" type UFO. The magazine also touches upon the psychological aspects of witness experiences and the potential for atmospheric explanations. The inclusion of a list of delegates and consultants suggests a network of researchers and collaborators.

This issue of STENDEX, a publication focused on UFO phenomena, features a collection of detailed witness testimonies and investigative reports primarily concerning sightings in the Lleida region of Spain, with a particular focus on the town of Aspa. The issue delves into the concept of 'mimetic' UFOs, exploring how their reported forms evolve over time and relate to contemporary technology and cultural perceptions.

Case Studies and Witness Testimonies

The magazine presents several detailed accounts of UFO encounters:

The 'Pursuit' near Aspa (March 1979)

Three individuals recount being followed by a rhombus-shaped object after leaving Lleida late at night. The object maintained a consistent trajectory, appearing to accompany their vehicle. Initially mistaken for an airplane or satellite, its persistent presence and unusual movements led the witnesses to stop and observe it more closely. They described it as emitting a 'butane' colored light with beams directed towards the ground. The object's behavior was dynamic, changing its course, ascending, descending, and repositioning itself rapidly, causing the witnesses significant fear and prompting a high-speed drive to Aspa.

The 'Strange Thing' near Juneda (March 1979)

Joaquín Alins, a known local courier, reported an incident while driving near Juneda. He and his passenger observed a luminous object, described as a 'strange thing,' cross the road at high speed. Alins emphasized that it was not a car or motorcycle, and the event was so brief that he could only register its luminosity and silent passage.

The Masot Family Sighting (Late January 1980)

In Aspa, the Masot family witnessed a mysterious light emanating from an object positioned above a tree. The object, described as a half-sphere with a reddish hue, emitted white, luminous rays that illuminated the tree as if it were daytime. The witnesses estimated the object's size to be considerably larger than the tree. The object later moved away, leaving only a single luminous point before disappearing entirely. The family reported seeing other strange lights in the area on subsequent nights.

Joan's Close Encounter (April 4, 1980)

Joan, a 27-year-old aparejador, recounts a terrifying experience where he was followed by an object described as an elliptical ball of light. The object emitted horizontal lights and appeared to be approximately 4 meters in length, with its total dimension including the lights reaching about 12 meters. Joan's car, a SEAT 127, was dwarfed by the object when it came close. He experienced intense fear and drove at high speed to reach his home in Aspa, where he reported the incident to his family. The account notes that Joan was initially skeptical of UFOs but his personal encounter changed his perspective.

The 'Mimetic' Nature of UFOs

An article by Luis R. González explores the 'mimetic' characteristic of UFOs. This concept suggests that UFOs exhibit a form of mimicry, adapting their appearance to reflect the technological advancements and cultural narratives of their time. The article traces this evolution through historical accounts like the Indian 'vimanas,' medieval 'aerial battles,' 19th-century 'airships,' and 20th-century 'flying saucers,' culminating in more varied and 'baroque' forms. It also touches upon the 'biological mimetism' of the occupants, evolving from mythological figures to more human-like or even non-humanoid beings.

Other Observations and Theories

The issue also includes a report about paracaidismo (skydiving) events in Alfés, Lleida, to differentiate them from potential UFO sightings. The author notes a potential 'collective psychosis' in Aspa, where residents might be interpreting ordinary celestial phenomena, such as the planet Venus, as UFOs due to a heightened awareness following multiple reported sightings. A peculiar anecdote about a child mistaking a shepherd for a 'horned man' is also presented as a possible misinterpretation of events.

Publications and Services

The magazine includes a section recommending UFO-related publications, such as "SI: ESTAN," "MANUAL DEL UFOLOGO," and "OVNIS SI, PERO...". It also announces a new information service called "TELEX-OVNI" and provides subscription details for the STENDEK-CEI bulletin.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are detailed witness accounts of unexplained aerial phenomena, the investigation into the nature and behavior of these objects, and the psychological and cultural factors that may influence perceptions of UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, presenting evidence and testimonies for consideration while also exploring potential explanations, including misidentification and collective phenomena. The magazine aims to document and analyze UFO reports, encouraging readers to submit their own observations.

This issue of "Investigación" focuses on the critical analysis of UFO phenomena, questioning the veracity of sightings and exploring potential explanations ranging from misidentification to deliberate hoaxes. The magazine adopts a skeptical yet investigative stance, aiming to clarify common misconceptions and present evidence-based conclusions.

The Nature of UFO Phenomena

The first article, "dencia desconocida... Y si todo el fenómeno OVNI fuera un gigantesco engaño...", posits that the UFO phenomenon has evolved from being dismissed as lunacy to becoming almost a religion, all without revealing its true nature. It suggests that UFOs adapt their behavior to public ideas, leading to more prolonged contacts, "abductions," and even telepathic messages of love, mirroring religious narratives. The author finds this "guided" aspect of the phenomenon suspicious, comparing it to a professor leading students to a false conclusion.

Absence of Close-Up UFO Photos

The article "A PROPOSITO DE LA AUSENCIA DE FOTOS CERCANAS DE OVNI" by Jacques SCORNAUX, a doctor of sciences, addresses the lack of clear photographs of UFOs on the ground. It argues that the circumstances of landings—often in remote areas, at night, or when witnesses are engaged in work—make photography improbable. While acknowledging that some photos exist, they often lack detail. The author also questions the estimated number of close encounters, suggesting it might be overestimated, and emphasizes the need for rigorous investigation.

Re-investigating Old UFO Cases

"DEL EXITO DE LAS CONTRAENCUESTAS DE CASOS ANTIGUOS" by Vicente-Juan BALLESTER OLMOS and Juan Antonio FERNANDEZ highlights the importance and challenges of re-investigating old UFO cases. They recount their experience with the supposed 1950 landing in Camarasa, Spain. The initial newspaper report described a flying object submerging in a lake. However, their investigation, conducted 30 years later, revealed through witness testimony (Pepito Balaguer, former secretary of the electric company) that the event was likely a hoax, involving a metallic object, possibly a drum of oil, that sank. This case serves as an example of how old reports can be clarified through diligent re-enquiry.

The 'Affaire Llanca' Revisited

"MAS (y punto final) SOBRE EL 'AFFAIRE LLANCA'" by Arq. ROBERTO E. BANCHS revisits the case of Dionisio Llanca, a truck driver who claimed an encounter with extraterrestrials. The author reiterates their previous conclusion that the case was a hoax, citing evidence of a serious cerebral lesion in Llanca that was not initially revealed. The article further analyzes Llanca's low intellectual coefficient, suggesting it makes him prone to fantasy and fabrication. The author also points to the potential influence of hypnotic or narcoanalytic tests, conducted by investigators with a pre-existing belief in UFOs, which could have induced or shaped Llanca's testimony.

Identifying Misidentified Objects

"OVNIS.- LOS QUE SON Y LOS QUE NO SON (II)" by Luis Hernández Franch explains how various conventional objects are often mistaken for UFOs. These include:

• Weather Balloons (Radio Sondas): Spheres filled with helium that ascend to high altitudes, sometimes appearing mysterious due to their reflective surfaces.
• Rockets: Small devices used for meteorological purposes that can perform unusual maneuvers.
• Artificial Satellites: Reflective objects that move steadily across the sky, often mistaken for UFOs, especially when bright. They do not twinkle like stars.
• Airplanes: Their lights (landing, position, identification) can create varied patterns, especially at night, leading to misidentification.

The article also discusses how atmospheric conditions, such as turbulence or the moon's reflection, can create optical illusions that lead observers to believe they are seeing a UFO.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a critical and evidence-based approach to UFO research. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, the potential for misidentification and hoaxes, and the influence of psychological factors on witness testimony. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards sensational claims, favoring scientific explanations and debunking unsubstantiated reports. The publication encourages further research into historical cases to refine the national UFO database.

This issue of "Investigación" focuses on the scientific exploration of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), presenting a collection of articles that aim to analyze the phenomenon with rigor and critical thinking. The magazine features contributions from various experts and researchers in the field.

Article 1: LOS OVNIS Y LA CIENCIA (Introducción a la Ufología científica)

This section reviews the book "LOS OVNIS Y LA CIENCIA" by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos and Miguel Guasp, presented as a significant contribution to ufological research in Spain. The book, prefaced by Dr. Richard Haines of NASA, is divided into two parts. The first part, "La evidencia del fenómeno OVNI," documents and analyzes significant UFO cases, including the debunking of a supposed UFO sighting near the Canary Islands as a missile launch. It also discusses close encounters of the first, second, and third kind, asserting that despite rigorous investigation, some UFO phenomena remain inexplicable. The second part, "El contexto científico," delves into methodology, discussing the nature of reality and imagination, and the scientific approach to UFOs. The authors advocate for the extraterrestrial hypothesis as the most positive explanation for UFO phenomena, providing arguments to counter common objections. The review highlights the authors' extensive research and their success in reconciling scientific methodology with the study of UFOs.

Article 2: Personal Sightings and Analysis

This article presents three personal accounts of UFO sightings by the author. The first describes two white, blurry shapes seen at high speed over a road at night, initially attributed to Venus but later considered potentially related to UFOs. The second details an observation during the day of an object leaving a gas-like trail with unusual, sharp angles, which was later reported in the press as a lost space exploration rocket. The third account describes a red, fire-like ball with a horizontal trajectory observed at dusk in the Caribbean, moving slowly before disappearing into the sea. The author also discusses the difficulty in determining the size, distance, and speed of unfamiliar objects and mentions the 'Foo Fighter' phenomenon. The article critiques the tendency for some well-known UFO cases to be debunked upon closer examination, citing examples like the San José de Valderas and Aluche cases, and dismisses certain sensationalist claims like the UMMO planet inhabitants and 'Men in Black' encounters.

Article 3: OVNIS: ¿NAVES DE MUSEO?

This article, by Joan Crexell i Playá, discusses the book "El desafío mundial" by Jean-Jacques Servan Schreiber, which explores the rapid advancement of microprocessors and technological change. The author draws parallels between technological progress and the unchanging appearance of UFOs since 1947. He questions whether UFOs represent an optimal design for atmospheric navigation or if their static appearance is a deliberate strategy. The article explores the idea that UFOs might be expeditions that have become stranded, or that they are adapting to our level of technology to avoid causing collective trauma. It suggests that understanding the UFO phenomenon requires more than just accumulating case data; it requires logical reasoning and exploring the implications of technological evolution.

Article 4: ¿O.V.N.I., OVNI u ovni?

Authored by Félix Ares de Blas and Juan Carlos Imar Irazoqui, this article examines the different ways the term 'OVNI' is written and the implications of these variations. It distinguishes between O.V.N.I. (respecting the acronym for Unidentified Flying Object, with an agnostic stance), ovni (lowercase, a vulgarized term often implying extraterrestrial spacecraft), and OVNI (intermediate, broader meaning). The authors argue that the common perception of 'ovni' is that of a manned extraterrestrial vehicle, contrasting with the strict definition. They also discuss the term 'FENOMENO OVNI' (UFO Phenomenon), indicating a broader scope.

Article 5: CARACTERISTICAS FUNDAMENTALES DEL FENOMENO OVNI EN ESPAÑA

This article by David G. López and Félix Ares de Blas analyzes the characteristics of UFOs reported in Spain between 1950 and 1978. Based on 2514 cases, it profiles the typical UFO observed. Key findings include the predominance of soft, rounded shapes over angular ones, a consistent distribution of shapes over time, and a decrease in discoid shapes (moving away from the 'flying saucer' concept) while point-like and undefined shapes increased. This evolution is attributed to the broadening concept of UFOs and the influence of mass media.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFOs, the critical analysis of evidence, and the exploration of various hypotheses, with a particular focus on the extraterrestrial hypothesis. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous, evidence-based research and a cautious approach, distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misidentifications or hoaxes. The magazine promotes the idea that ufology can be a serious scientific discipline when approached with appropriate methodology and critical thinking.

This issue of "investigación" (Volume N.º 39, dated June 1980) focuses on the detailed analysis of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), presenting statistical data and interpretations based on Spanish case studies from the period 1950-1978. The magazine aims to provide a rational and scientific approach to the phenomenon, distinguishing it from mere speculation or belief.

Color Distribution of UFO Phenomena

Table N.º 2 analyzes the frequency of colors reported in UFO sightings over three periods: 1950-1960, 1961-1970, and 1971-1978, along with a total for 1950-1978. The study highlights the predominance of reddish, yellowish, and white colors. A notable increase in 'metallic' colors was observed during the 1950-1960 period, which the authors attribute to the misinterpretation of jet aircraft, particularly in 1950.

Dimensions of UFOs

Section 3 discusses the difficulty in determining the dimensions of UFOs due to subjective witness reports and observations often made at great distances. The analysis is limited to close-range sightings (Type I) to mitigate these issues. Out of 270 Type I reports from 1950-1978, only 156 provided dimensional data. Figure N.º 1 and Table N.º 3 present the results, showing that the predominant dimension is less than one meter (26.92% of observations). The number of sightings gradually decreases with increasing size, with a relative peak around 9-11 meters, which is noted as an unusual feature. The authors suggest this anomaly might be due to a conventional bias in subjective measurements, such as rounding to the nearest ten.

Table N.º 3 categorizes observed UFO dimensions in Spain into ranges from '0 to 1 meter' up to 'More than 30 meters', with corresponding case numbers. The text also proposes a classification of 'ships' into five types: 'Sondas' (under 1 meter), 'Pequeñas' (1-5 meters), 'Standard' (10 meters), 'Grandes' (around 30 meters), and 'Portadoras' (gigantic, fusiform objects from which smaller ones emerge).

Sound Phenomena Associated with UFOs

Section 4 examines the auditory aspects of UFO observations. Out of 2514 reports, only 410 mentioned sound. Of these, 290 reported no sound. Among the 120 that did report sound, the distribution was: 47 cases of high-pitched sounds, 38 cases of low-pitched sounds, and 35 cases of 'other' sounds. The 'other' sounds were described with various analogies, such as alarm clocks, squeaking rats, hurricane wind, or refrigerators. The general scarcity of sound is emphasized, noting that even for Type I sightings, acoustic perceptions were reported in only 13.5% of cases.

UFO Evolution and Classification

Section 5, "Evoluciones," introduces Jacques Vallée's classification of unidentified phenomena into five types:

• Type I: Objects found on or near the ground, sometimes associated with radioactive, thermal, or electromagnetic effects, or leaving ground traces.
• Type II: Objects observed in the sky, static or in motion, with a cylindrical or fusiform shape and large dimensions.
• Type III: Objects in flight exhibiting movements not feasible for conventional aircraft, such as jerky movements, sudden accelerations/decelerations, and zig-zag patterns.
• Type IV: Objects in anomalous flight following a continuous trajectory without apparent anomaly, suggesting conventional aircraft capabilities.
• Type V: Anomalous aerial objects with an indefinite and immaterial appearance (light sources) that cross the sky rapidly or produce instantaneous luminous phenomena.

The article presents the distribution of 2514 Spanish UFO observations from 1950-1978 according to this classification: Type I (10.73%), Type II (1.33%), Type III (22.56%), Type IV (59.56%), and Type V (5.82%). The authors acknowledge that Types IV and V have a lower reliability index but are still numerous. The section also notes the frequent occurrence of UFOs seemingly 'pursuing' vehicles, with 27 such incidents recorded in Spain.

Speed of UFOs

Regarding the speed of UFOs, the article notes the subjectivity of witness accounts but provides a distribution based on available data:

• Static: 11%
• Very slow movements: 14%
• Airplane-like speeds: 5%
• Faster than airplane speeds: 7%
• Flashing, very rapid: 19%
• Variable (sometimes fast, sometimes slow or static): 33%
• Unspecified: 11%

Physical and Psychophysiological Effects

Section 6 details the physical and psychophysiological effects accompanying UFO observations. These are categorized into three types:

1. Mechanical Effects: Primarily related to ground traces, including:
* 7 cases of 'tripod' footprints (three circular or rectangular marks).
* 26 cases of flattened or burned vegetation, with 9 instances of circular affected areas.
* 7 cases of irregular footprints of uncertain identification.
The correlation between footprints and UFOs is questioned, with fraud not being ruled out.

2. Electromagnetic Effects: These include the alteration or stoppage of gasoline-powered automobiles (33 cases) and, less frequently, diesel vehicles (2 cases). Interference with radio (16 cases) and television (3 cases) was also reported, along with presumed power outages coinciding with UFO observations (9 cases). The explanation for automobile ignition issues is linked to strong magnetic fields from the UFO or atmospheric ionization affecting the fuel-air mixture.

3. Psychophysiological Effects: Beyond natural nervousness (acknowledged in 227 observations), notable effects include:
* Fear ranging from apprehension to panic (69 occasions), with 4 cases requiring medical treatment due to severe shock.
* Temporary paralysis of the motor system (15 cases).
* A tingling sensation with hair standing on end (10 cases), often associated with paralysis.
* Intense heat sensation during observation (12 cases), with one instance of a slight splash on the face.
* Eye pain due to dazzling light (10 cases).

Duration of Observation

Section 7 analyzes the duration of UFO observations, which is considered important for assessing witness reliability and understanding the phenomenon's intrinsic characteristics. Table N.º 4 and Figure N.º 2 present data from 928 cases in Spain (134 Type I). The findings indicate:

1. The highest percentage of observations (31.9% for Type I, 25.4% for others) lasted between 1 and 5 minutes.
2. A significant percentage of observations were shorter than 1 minute.
3. Observations lasting over 15 minutes accounted for 27.6% of Type I cases and 33% of other types.
4. Type I cases were less represented in both very short and very long observation durations compared to other types. This is attributed to the inclusion of phenomena like meteorites and shooting stars in the latter categories.

The Occupants (Tripulantes)

Section 8 addresses the controversial topic of UFO occupants. Thirty-two Spanish cases reported occupants, though nearly 50% were confused or lacked detail. Researcher Vicente J. Ballester classified Spanish and Portuguese cases (36 in total) as follows:

• Short stature (under 1.20 m): 53%
• Normal stature (up to 2 m): 40%
• Tall stature (over 2 m): 7%

These percentages align with global studies by Jarder U. Pereira and James McCampbell. The article notes that the number of witnesses in these cases is often very small, with one notable exception in Granja Torrehermosa involving around thirty observers, who were mostly children and described green beings with antennae.

The text also discusses the Fátima apparitions, suggesting a connection between Marian apparitions and UFO phenomena, attributing both to a single, neutral 'Para-physical Intelligence' rather than a divine or malevolent entity. The article criticizes the reluctance of religious institutions to publicly acknowledge the UFO aspect of these events due to potential conflicts with dogma.

Letters to the Editor and Bibliography

The issue includes letters from readers. One letter from Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos (Valencia) discusses changes to a system for evaluating UFO reports developed by himself and Miguel Guasp, offering to send updated copies to interested researchers. Another letter from Alejandro César Agostinelli (Buenos Aires) discusses the methodology of UFO research and the need for critical analysis. A letter from Julián H. Kaneko (Ginebra) argues for a unified explanation of religious and UFO phenomena, proposing the term 'AGNOPTENOLOGIA' for the academic study of UFOs.

The bibliography lists several works related to UFOs, including studies on landings, physical effects, and specific cases like the 'Llanca' case, which is dismissed as fraudulent.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a rationalist and scientific approach to the UFO phenomenon. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous methodology, critical analysis, and statistical data, while cautioning against unsubstantiated claims, hypnosis-induced testimony, and the conflation of UFOs with religious or supernatural beliefs. The editorial stance is to investigate UFOs as a phenomenon worthy of study, distinct from the often-sensationalized 'ufology' which it equates with myth and faith. The publication encourages readers to report sightings and contribute to ongoing research.

This document is a letter to the editor of the magazine "Stendek", specifically addressing issue number 38, dated July 14, 1980. The letter is from José Alberto, a self-proclaimed UFO enthusiast and subscriber, who is commenting on an article titled "The Extraterrestrial Hypothesis" written by Luis R. González.

Critique of "The Extraterrestrial Hypothesis"

José Alberto begins by stating his interest in UFOs and his relative bio-informational status on the subject. He then proceeds to offer several criticisms of González's article.

Origin of UFOs

Alberto's primary critique is that González errs by considering UFOs as originating from a planet. He introduces an alternative hypothesis from Henry Durrant's book "Premières Enquêtes sur les Humanoides Extraterrestres." According to this hypothesis, UFOs might originate from "Wandering Worlds" (Mundos Errantes), which are artificial constructs from the center of the galaxy condemned to wander space perpetually. These worlds could be attracted to any star, eventually reaching a fixed orbit, thus making vast stellar distances less of an obstacle for the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (HET).

Speed and Energy

Alberto references the "Postulate of Plantier," suggesting it would allow UFOs to achieve great speeds and cover long distances. He also points out that González seems to overlook the possibility of innumerable energy sources, either unknown or not yet utilized by humans. As an example, he mentions hydrogen, which is ubiquitous in the universe and is beginning to be used by humans.

Time and Distance Perception

Addressing the issue of distances, Alberto believes most people relate them to time, imagining a 100-year journey. However, he posits that "ovninautas" (UFO occupants), if they exist, might have much longer lifespans than terrestrial beings, rendering a century insignificant to them. Furthermore, he suggests that these "Wandering Worlds" might travel at speeds close to the speed of light. Consequently, according to the Theory of Relativity, the occupants might not perceive time in the same way.

UFO Sightings and Types

Alberto then tackles the second part of González's article, "The Great Number of Sightings." He argues that González overlooks how a single UFO could be observed multiple times by different groups, leading to an inflated number of reports. For instance, 10 observations by 15 people each could result in 150 different accounts, which, due to minor errors in dates or times, might be mistaken for 150 distinct observations.

Regarding the variety of UFO types, Alberto quotes González stating that there are so many types that one could almost claim each has a distinct shape. Alberto counters that this overlooks the fragility of human testimony and the logical existence of numerous UFO forms, drawing a parallel to the variety of automobile models on Earth. He also notes that the same object can appear to have different shapes depending on the viewing angle.

Extraterrestrial Behavior and Motivation

Alberto touches upon the topic of UFO occupants, suggesting that much has already been discussed, particularly in comparison to the diversity of terrestrial races. He addresses González's accusation of "Egocentrism" regarding whether humans possess something that attracts extraterrestrials, stating that this is not for humans to judge. He also proposes that humans might not be the primary objective of extraterrestrial incursions.

Alberto criticizes González for using terrestrial patterns to describe extraterrestrial behavior, even classifying them as rational and irrational. He also points out that in the section "The permanence and variability of the phenomenon," González repeats the same errors without attempting to prove them, leaving his personal opinion to be inferred.

Editorial and Publication Information

The letter is dated from Lisboa, July 14, 1980. The magazine "Stendek" is published by the "CENTRO DE ESTUDIOS INTERPLANETARIOS" (Center for Interplanetary Studies). The publication's address is Balmes, 86, entlo. 2.ª, Barcelona - 8, Spain, with a phone number (93) 215 87 96.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue, as evidenced by the letter, is the exploration and debate surrounding the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (HET) and the nature of UFO phenomena. The magazine appears to be a platform for discussing various theories, including those related to the origin of UFOs, their propulsion systems, the perception of time and distance in space travel, and the interpretation of sighting data. The editorial stance, as reflected in the content being critiqued, seems to lean towards presenting and analyzing specific hypotheses, while the letter writer advocates for a more nuanced and critical approach, questioning assumptions and offering alternative explanations based on scientific principles and speculative theories.