Stendek - Vol 12 No 45 - September 1981

Magazine Overview

This issue of STENDEK, titled "STENDEK", identified as issue number 45 and volume XII, was published in September 1981. The cover prominently features the headline "APROXIMACION A LA CASUISTICA OVNI EN EL PAIS VALENCIANO" (Approximation to UFO Casuistry in the Valencian Country). The magazine is published by Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI) and is in Spanish.

Editorial and Content Overview

The editorial, penned by Pere Redón, discusses a notable and unusual decrease in UFO sightings during the first half of 1981, a trend observed globally. This scarcity is compared to the second half of the 1950s, with Redón expressing concern and reflecting on the potential end of an era. He notes that this phenomenon is not limited to Spain but is occurring in other countries as well, leading to a crisis of support for UFO research.

The magazine features a detailed article titled "APROXIMACION A LA CASUISTICA OVNI EN EL PAIS VALENCIANO" by Joan A. Fernández, Roberto Jorge, and Luis Manuel. This article outlines the methodology for investigating UFO cases in the Valencian region, emphasizing the importance of field work, personal investigation, and the use of various information sources like personal research, press, and questionnaires. The authors highlight the contribution of the CEI in providing a catalog of UFO observations in the Valencian Country. They discuss geographical division criteria, opting for the 'comarca' (county) as the most suitable territorial unit for their study. The article also touches upon other statistical parameters and the necessity of rigorous field work.

Several specific case studies are presented:

• The Turís Case (July 25, 1979): This case involves a farmer, Federico Ibáñez Ibáñez, who reported seeing a white, egg-shaped object approximately 2.50 x 2.50 meters, resting on two 'patas' (legs). Two beings, about 90 cm tall, with white clothing and black feet, emerged from the object and ran towards it. The object then took off, leaving circular indentations in the ground. The investigation by the AVIU team confirmed the witness's account, and soil samples showed no signs of radioactivity or intense heat.
• Encounter near Manises (July 23, 1977): Enrique Campos Tent, an 18-year-old, reported seeing a hairy, bipedal creature with large white eyes and claws near a dam. The creature ran into the water and disappeared. This case is presented as an example of humanoid sightings not directly associated with UFOs.
• Daytime Disc Sighting in Valencia (March 1954): Vicenta L. Cerezo and her friends reported seeing a large, disc-shaped object with a dome, resembling a 'municipal police hat', hovering and rotating. The object emitted a humming sound similar to a swarm of bees and moved rectilinearly before disappearing.
• Cheste Incident (July 16, 1974): Ramón Muñoz Cervera, a police officer, reported hearing a loud whistling sound and seeing a bright, luminous object flying low over the town. The object was described as having a white ring and orange lights from 'windows', emitting intense light and sound.

The magazine also includes sections on the CEI's consulting council, accredited field investigators, and delegates in various countries. It details subscription information and contact details for STENDEK and CEI.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the global decline in UFO sightings, the methodology of UFO investigation, and the presentation of specific case studies from the Valencian region. The editorial stance is one of serious inquiry and concern regarding the apparent decrease in UFO phenomena, suggesting a need for historical perspective and continued research despite the challenges. The importance of rigorous field investigation and the analysis of witness testimonies are strongly emphasized.

This issue of Stendek magazine, number 44, dated May 1981, focuses on the state of UFO investigation in Spain and presents several case studies. The cover story, titled 'EL EQUIPO EN LA INVESTIGACION OVNI' (The Team in UFO Investigation), is authored by José Ruesga Montiel of the National Network of Correspondents and the Coordinator of Studies on the UFO Phenomenon.

The Team in UFO Investigation

José Ruesga Montiel discusses the evolution of UFO research in Spain over the past thirty years, noting that it has largely been the work of private individuals rather than official institutions. He highlights the need for a more global approach to the phenomenon. Since 1968, several groups have emerged, contributing to the current landscape of ufology in Spain. These groups are categorized as:

1. Private Investigators: Individuals dedicated to field research, such as Antonio Ribera.
2. Major Groups: Two main groups with a scientific methodology, though with differing views on reports: the Stendek Consultant Council (linked to CEI Barcelona) and the Coordinator of Studies on the UFO Phenomenon (linked to CIOVE, I.I.E.E., and R.N.C.). This category also includes private investigators like Pedro Valverde, José Luis Hermida, and Enrique de Vicente.
3. Smaller Groups: Focused on specific local areas, maintaining collaboration with larger groups. Examples include groups from Gerena, Olivares, Sanlucar la Mayor, and IUFO Córdoba.
4. Younger Groups: Less experienced but potentially useful for national team efforts, covering overlooked areas.
5. Contactees and Others: A category of individuals and groups with questionable affiliations, making serious study difficult.

The author emphasizes the importance of teamwork and collaboration to uncover the truth about the OVNI enigma, suggesting that the official scientific community may not readily embrace UFO studies, placing the responsibility on researchers.

Case Studies and Analysis

Valencia, September 1965

An account is given of a sighting by Luis Hernández in Valencia, who observed an orange, UFO-like object with a colored trail flying south-north at high speed. The object disappeared quickly, and a sulfurous smell lingered for a few minutes. The case is characterized as typical of a bolide due to its color, appearance, trajectory, and fugacity.

Cheste, 1978

In May and June 1978, residents of Cheste mistook the planet Venus, appearing unusually large and bright, for a UFO. This led to a brief period of public concern, which was later identified as a 'small psychosis' by sociologists. The investigation confirmed that Venus was indeed in the observed direction and at the reported times.

Analytical Study of Catalogs

The magazine outlines the third phase of a study, focusing on the analytical study of resulting catalogs. This involves two parallel directions:

1. Analysis of Positive Cases: To identify potential constants in the phenomenon's behavior.
2. Analysis of Negative Cases: To identify differentiating variables that distinguish genuine UFO manifestations from errors or misidentifications. This aims to isolate the 'error factor' in catalogs.

This third phase will be conducted when a sufficiently large sample of cases is available for reliable conclusions.

Epilogue

The research team has been engaged in case compilation and purification for approximately two years. Given the study's pilot nature and significance in Iberian ufology, a call is made for interested individuals to participate actively by joining the team or collaborating. Contact information for Joan A. Fernandez Peris in Valencia is provided.

Villa Carlos Paz Case (II)

This section revisits a classic case from Villa Carlos Paz, Argentina, focusing on the details of a sphere and a coherent beam observed by María Elodia Pretzel on June 14, 1968.

Details of the Sphere and Coherent Beam

The Sphere: The entity held a sphere in its left hand, approximately 20 cm in diameter. It had a glassy appearance with numerous truncated cones on its upper surface, from which celeste light beams emanated, merging into a single white beam about 15-20 cm away. The sphere appeared to be a sensor or detector, reportedly 'turning off' when the witness's father approached.

The Coherent Beam: The light beams from the cones formed a tubular beam of 20 cm diameter with well-defined edges. This beam was directed forward or backward from the entity. It maintained a constant diameter and was permanent, not intermittent. The beam's luminosity was more intense than the light from the entity's feet and right hand. Due to the sphere's movement, the beam swept across sectors of the room and the exterior, even passing through the motel's front glass.

Complementary Details

Several other observations were made:

• The phenomenon was completely silent, with the witness only hearing a voice in her ears.
• No particular smell, cold, or heat was perceived.
• No alteration in the motel's electrical energy was noted.
• The motel had no guests at the time.
• No footprints were found.
• No parallel phenomena were observed in other motel objects.
• The witness described the entity as material, 'of flesh and bone,' with clearly defined toes.
• The witness did not perceive the entity as unstable like a TV image.
• She was not wearing a watch but noted no irregularity in her alarm clock.
• No abnormal plant growth was observed later.
• The witness was not under the influence of alcohol and had no personal problems.
• No unusual marks or discolorations appeared on her skin.

Other Witnesses?

Around the same time, a neighbor, Candida Alvarez Paz de Ramírez, observed a whitish luminosity in a vacant lot near the motel. She initially thought they were her garden lights but later learned they were not.

Radioactivity?

Students Federico Carlos Scholtsi, Marcos Alfredo Fossa, and Carlos Alberto Palacios conducted radioactivity tests at the motel using a Geiger-Müller counter. They recorded normal background radiation and higher levels in the areas the entity had traversed. However, a later certification by CADIU suggested that the elevated radiation levels were likely due to naturally radioactive materials (uraniferous areas) used in the motel's construction, rather than the phenomenon itself.

Personality of the Witness

María Elodia Pretzel (now Mrs. Lorenzatti) is described as affable, cultured, and not prone to science fiction. Her testimony is considered firm, convincing, and detailed. Her doctor and his psychologist wife corroborated her account, ruling out hallucinations due to the duration and detail of her experience.

Destination of the Police Summary

The police initiated a summary (nº 291/68) for an 'Unidentified Object.' However, the expediente was transferred to 'Military Aeronautics Argentina' upon their special request, suspending the police investigation. This suggests the incident might have been considered a minor infraction under local law if it were a prank.

Reflections on the Material Nature of the Phenomenon

The author concludes that the anthropomorphic manifestation in Carlos Paz was material, ruling out psychological (hallucination) or parapsychological hypotheses.

#### Suggestive Behaviors

Three behaviors support the material nature:

1. The entity opened the door to enter the dining room, indicating it had to overcome the physical obstacle.
2. When leaving, the entity lowered its head to avoid hitting the door frame, suggesting a physical presence.
3. The witness described the entity as concrete and material, with visible toes through its suit.

#### Improbability of a Prankster

The possibility of a prankster is deemed improbable due to the sophistication of the entity's 'costume' and the difficulty of replicating the luminous effects and other phenomena (like the coherent beam resembling a laser) with known technology. The sudden movements, voice in the ears, and other sensory distortions are hard to explain as mere tricks.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the importance of rigorous, scientific methodology in UFO research, advocating for collaboration among different groups and individuals in Spain. It highlights the need to analyze both positive and negative cases to filter out 'error factors' and arrive at a clearer understanding of genuine UFO phenomena. The magazine promotes a serious, objective approach, aiming to elevate ufology to a recognized field of study, acknowledging the challenges posed by less credible reports and the potential skepticism from the scientific establishment. The editorial stance is one of promoting diligent, evidence-based investigation and encouraging participation from readers to build a comprehensive understanding of UFOs.

This issue of "Ovnis-Un Desafío a la Ciencia" (UFOs-A Challenge to Science), dated July 1980, focuses on the phenomenon of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related topics. The cover prominently features Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a renowned scientist and ufologist, with the title "El Hombre, el Científico, el Ufólogo" (The Man, the Scientist, the Ufologist). The magazine is published by CADIU in Argentina.

The Carlos Paz Incident and Comparative Ufology

The issue begins by detailing an incident in Carlos Paz, Argentina, involving a witness named María Elodia. She described an encounter with an entity, which displayed remarkable tranquility and slow movements. The entity was described as having a non-familiar face and stature, leading to speculation about its origin, as no local resident matched the description. The article discusses the hypothesis that physiological effects experienced by witnesses might be due to psychological trauma rather than the phenomenon itself, citing the work of Christiane Piens. It further elaborates on the concept of "sofronization" (a modification of consciousness) as proposed by Guy Vanackeren and Francis Windeys, suggesting it could amplify subconscious functions and create illusions.

However, the author respectfully dismisses the idea that María Elodia's experience was merely a prank, arguing that such psychological states are not easily triggered. The article then moves into a comparative ufology section, highlighting eight significant aspects of the Carlos Paz phenomenon that relate to other incidents.

• These include:
• Slow Descent: Comparing María Elodia's experience of slow falls to the Kelly-Hopkinsville incident in the USA (August 21, 1955), where entities fell slowly as if floating. The article speculates on the forces behind these "retarded falls," referencing Jean Goupil's hypothesis of a repulsive magnetic field.
• Sphere in the Left Hand: Noting that the entity in Carlos Paz carried a sphere in its left hand, similar to an encounter reported by Luftolde Rodríguez in Santa Isabel, Córdoba, Argentina (September 28, 1972).
• Light Beams from Hands and Feet: Describing light beams emanating from the entity's extremities, similar to an incident reported by Dora Egger de Torres in Laguna Paiva, Santa Fe, Argentina (June 24, 1968), involving two beings emitting luminous beams.
• Unconscious Teleportation: María Elodia's experience of suddenly finding herself at the counter without remembering walking there is compared to an incident involving Jorge Roberto Herrera near Jujuy-Salta, Argentina (March 13, 1973), where an entity disappeared, and the witness found himself further away than he remembered walking.
• Intermittent Itching: María Elodia experienced itching after the event, which is compared to the incident of Atilio Brunelli in Arroyo y Montecristo, Córdoba, Argentina (July 16, 1972), who experienced a localized, growing numbness.
• Coherent Light Beam: The sphere carried by the Carlos Paz entity emitted a coherent light beam, a detail consistent with many UFO reports worldwide.
• Disappearance of the Entity: The manner in which the entity disappeared is noted as unusual, drawing parallels to other reported sudden disappearances of entities and UFOs.
• Parapsychological Aspects: The incident is linked to parapsychological manifestations, including Psi-Kappa (telekinesis) and Psi-Gamma (telepathy), suggesting that UFO phenomena might involve such aspects.

The article categorizes interpretations of UFO phenomena into three lines: a) Parapsychological monism, b) Ufological monism, and c) Ufological-parapsychological dualism, favoring the latter.

Interview with Dr. J. Allen Hynek

The second major section of the magazine features an extensive interview with Dr. J. Allen Hynek, conducted by Guillermo Carlos Roncoroni for CEI and the magazine STENDEK. The interview covers Hynek's background, his transition from a skeptic to a leading ufologist, and his views on the phenomenon.

Hynek recounts his initial skepticism as an astronomer for the USAF in 1948, believing most sightings were misidentifications. However, the consistent flow of information from over 140 countries, showing remarkable similarities, led him to change his mind. He emphasizes that the phenomenon is announcing a change in scientific paradigms.

During his visit to Argentina, Hynek met with UFO research groups and officials from the National Commission for Space Investigations. He stressed the importance of scientific methodology, ethical standards, and combating the negative image often associated with UFO research due to mystical groups and sensationalist investigators.

• Key points from Hynek's discussion include:
• Defining the Phenomenon: Hynek prefers to speak of the "UFO phenomenon" rather than just "UFOs," defining it as the "proven and controlled content of reports from individuals who claim to have seen something unusual," but only after rigorous analysis by experts.
• Nature of UFOs: He suggests that UFOs might possess a dual nature, acting as both physical bodies and non-physical entities, drawing a parallel to the dual nature of light (wave-particle duality).
• Reality of the Phenomenon: Hynek firmly believes in the reality of the UFO phenomenon, despite its often absurd-seeming aspects.
• Paranormal Aspects: He acknowledges that while CUFOS focuses on physical aspects, paranormal elements (materialization, shape-shifting) cannot be ignored, even if they are difficult to comprehend.
• Intriguing Aspects: Hynek highlights three intriguing aspects: the phenomenon's great speed but seemingly aimless movement; its detection by radar only at low altitudes; and its short duration with few witnesses, distinguishing it from conventional vehicles like airplanes.
• Ufology as a Science: He argues that ufology, while not yet an official science, is approaching that status by defining its subject matter and employing scientific methods from various disciplines.
• Importance of the Witness: Hynek stresses that witnesses are the primary evidence for UFO manifestations, likening them to voltmeters that detect the phenomenon. He notes that 90% of observations are IFOs (identified flying objects) due to psychological factors like wishful thinking.
• Role of Speculation: He believes imagination and speculation are crucial in ufology but warns against emotional attachment to a single theory.
• Extraterrestrial Hypothesis: While acknowledging its interest, Hynek finds the extraterrestrial hypothesis practically unacceptable due to the immense distances involved.
• Guiding Intelligence: He suggests that the phenomenon might be directed by an intelligence, but its nature (physical, non-physical, or computational) remains unknown.
• Solving the UFO Problem: Hynek posits that a solution might lie beyond current scientific knowledge, similar to Lord Kelvin's initial inability to comprehend the Sun's age before the discovery of nuclear energy.
• Research Approach: He advocates for protecting research from "lunatic" groups and unqualified "experts" who hinder serious scientific inquiry.
• UFO Research Groups in the USA: He mentions the decline of NICAP and the prominence of MUFON and CUFOS, with CUFOS focusing on more difficult problems.
• Future of Ufology: Hynek believes the future depends on involving scientifically trained individuals and establishing international standards.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific and rational approach to the study of UFOs. It emphasizes rigorous investigation, critical analysis of evidence, and the importance of witness testimony. The editorial stance is one of open-mindedness towards the phenomenon while cautioning against pseudoscience, mysticism, and sensationalism. The publication aims to provide a serious platform for discussing UFOs as a legitimate area of scientific inquiry, as exemplified by the detailed coverage of Dr. J. Allen Hynek's work and perspectives. The recurring theme is the challenge UFOs pose to conventional scientific understanding and the need for a dedicated, methodical approach to unraveling their nature and origin.

This issue of the magazine focuses on the continuation of the Imjärvi case, featuring articles by Anders Liljegren and Luis R. González. It delves into the detailed accounts of alleged encounters with humanoids and UFOs by witnesses Aarno Heinonen and Esko Viljo, while also critically examining the broader field of ufology, including instances of fraud and misinterpretation.

The Imjärvi Case Continues

Anders Liljegren provides an introduction reflecting the diverse positions within the CEI (Center for UFO-Information), emphasizing the need for serious investigation of contactee phenomena without preconceived notions. He highlights the growing strength of the contactee movement and the sociological effects noted by Jacques Vallée. Liljegren also stresses the importance of distinguishing between a witness's testimony and their interpretations, and the difficulty in establishing credibility once the boundary of believability is crossed.

Luis R. González then presents the continuation of the Imjärvi case, translating articles from 'AFUs Nyhetsblad' (nos. 18 and 19, 1980). The case gained global attention in 1970 due to reports of Aarno Heinonen and Esko Viljo encountering a small humanoid while skiing, followed by physiological issues suspected to be radioactive poisoning. These initial reports were detailed by Sven Olof Fredrickson of GICOFF.

First Encounters and Details

Heinonen's accounts, as relayed through correspondence and translated articles, describe multiple encounters. On May 5, 1972, he reported hearing sonic signals and a female voice instructing him to meet her. He encountered a woman in a bright yellow suit with long hair, who spoke Finnish and identified herself as being from a peaceful green land. She mentioned three types of humanoids: small ones, those like herself (around 140 cm), and a taller race. She claimed the 1970 encounter with the small humanoid lasted three minutes, not seconds, and that she was 180 years old.

Heinonen also described a second encounter on June 18, 1972, where the same female voice gave him new instructions. He met her alone, and she showed him her vehicle, a silver disc about five to seven meters in diameter, hovering low above the ground. The woman was described as beautiful, with pale skin, large blue eyes, and wearing a two-piece suit. Her speech was rapid and tense, and she held a silver sphere with antennas.

The 'Man' in Viljo's House and Other Incidents

On June 25, 1972, Heinonen and Viljo reported seeing a 140 cm tall humanoid figure in Viljo's kitchen, dressed in a grey suit with white stripes. The figure appeared and disappeared, followed by dull thuds and a bright light. This incident is noted as bordering on traditional PSI phenomena.

Aarno Heinonen also recounted an encounter in March 1972 in Heinola with a male humanoid over two meters tall, who gave him a green pen. He later regretted giving this pen to a Finnish investigator.

Extraterrestrial Communication and Purpose

In a letter dated November 21, 1972, Heinonen shared information allegedly received from humanoids. He stated that humanoids possess a great culture, with a scientific level 5000-7000 years above ours. He claimed they were responsible for past ice ages by altering solar rays and that they are now working to clean Earth's atmosphere with a new device, delineating a triangle over Imjärvi for this purpose.

"Controlled" and Extraterrestrial Implants

Regarding the 1970 incident, Heinonen was told by humanoids that he had been 'inoculated' with an extraterrestrial object via radiation, which became part of his body and functions as a transmitter-receiver, allowing humanoids to know his thoughts. Esko Viljo reportedly had a similar implant in his forehead but was sidelined by the extraterrestrials. Heinonen also claimed to have developed extrasensory powers, citing an instance where he helped the police identify a thief.

The Floating Woman and a Mysterious Stone

On September 4, 1972, Heinonen encountered the 'woman humanoid' again. She descended from a cloud, spoke to him, and he noted her phosphorescent yellow suit and shoes that projected a 'ray' allowing her to walk without touching the ground. He also lost his camera during this encounter, suspecting he had done something forbidden by trying to photograph her.

Aarno collected a white, ovoid stone with a deeply engraved symbol, which he believed possessed strange power. He claimed he could contact the humanoids at will using this stone.

On New Year's Eve 1972, Heinonen was instructed to throw the stone into a lake. The next day, he encountered a large, handle-less red axe that suddenly appeared and disappeared. He then proceeded to throw the stone into a nearby lake.

Heinonen's Disappearance and Potential Abduction

On Good Friday 1973, Heinonen was scheduled to meet Tapani Kuningas, editor of 'Ufoaika'. Heinonen did not show up at the agreed time and place. Later, he reappeared with his private UFO diary, unable to explain his absence. He later explained that he had seen two dark figures in the area where the January 1970 case occurred. He also reported being followed by a 'black cloud' and experiencing a brief memory loss, finding himself on a mountain in a round room with camera-covered walls.

About Fraud, "Repeaters", and Other Things

Luis R. González then shifts focus to the issue of fraud in ufology. He argues that while ufology may be considered a 'proto-science,' its continuous work of purification, as described by Jerome Clark, characterizes true ufologists. He aims to inform Spanish-speaking readers about discovered frauds.

Historical Cases of Fraud

The article revisits several historical cases, including:

• The Hamilton Case (1897): Allegedly linked to mysterious animal deaths, this case was revealed as a hoax by Mr. Hamilton and a local newspaper editor.
• Merkel, Texas (1897): A story about a ufonaut cutting an anchor to a church was found to be a recycled local news report.
• Aurora, Texas (1897): The alleged crash of an aircraft was a hoax perpetrated by a local businessman for publicity.
• Tunguska Explosion (1908): While speculative, the prevailing explanation is now considered to be a cometary impact, with no abnormal radioactivity found.
• Gallípoli Abduction (1915): This case, considered the first 'abduction,' has been questioned due to internal discrepancies and the discovery that soldiers reported missing were found in a forest, not a cloud.
• French Wave of 1954: Gérard Barthel and Jacques Brucker's research has debunked many cases from this wave.

Photographic Hoaxes

The article highlights several famous photographic hoaxes:

• A color photo from April 2, 1966, by a Melbourne businessman, later identified as a hoax.
• The Rex Heflin photo from August 3, 1965, where sophisticated computer analysis revealed a model suspended by a thread.
• A photo from Calabozo, Venezuela (February 13, 1966), confessed by its author to be a fraud.
• A formation of UFOs photographed in Salem, Massachusetts (July 16, 1952), determined to be a reflection of interior lights on a window.
• All photos attributed to astronauts have been declared false or explainable by terrestrial causes.

The Famous "Flying Saucer" Photograph Hoax

The article details how Alex Birch, at age 14, falsified a famous photograph of flying saucers in 1962. Using a pocket camera, he photographed three flies on a windowpane, making them appear as UFOs, which was later broadcast on television and published in books.

Other Cases and "Repeaters"

The article mentions other questionable cases, such as those from Girard and Springfield, and discusses the 'Mundo desconocido' report about alleged UFO debris in Earth's orbit, which was dismissed by tracking stations. It also touches upon the concept of 'repeaters' – individuals who report numerous UFO sightings, questioning whether this indicates genuine experiences or a desire for attention.

The Arizona Freezer Hoax

One of the most famous UFOs of the last twenty-five years, the one that allegedly 'landed in the Arizona desert from Venus' in 1952, has been revealed to be a hoax involving an old bottle freezer. This was discovered by a British man ten years after George Adamski's death.

Conclusion on Fraud

González concludes that while some may dismiss ufology due to fraud, the continuous effort to identify and expose these hoaxes is a characteristic of true ufologists. He notes the proliferation of 'repeaters' and questions their experiences, citing Dr. J. Allen Hynek's skepticism about individuals with limited statistical knowledge having numerous sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently questions the veracity of UFO reports, highlighting the prevalence of fraud, hoaxes, and potential psychological factors. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, urging readers to approach UFO phenomena with skepticism and a demand for objective evidence, while acknowledging the enduring fascination and the need for continued investigation. The Imjärvi case itself is presented with detailed accounts but also with an underlying tone of caution regarding the witness's credibility and the possibility of misinterpretation or fabrication.

This issue of Stendek, dated June 7, 1981, focuses on the complex relationship between UFO phenomena and psychological or paranormal elements, under the cover headline "¿Contactado?" (Contacted?). The magazine explores the idea that the 'psychic component' in UFO cases is statistically significant and warrants serious investigation.

The Psychic Component in UFO Phenomena

The lead article, "¿Contactado?", questions whether UFO sightings are solely due to psychological imbalances or if they represent a genuine phenomenon with paranormal aspects. It references the work of Antoni Ribera, who argued against the idea that psychic components are statistically minimal in UFO cases. Jacques Vallée is quoted suggesting that for every purely physical UFO case, another with paranormal elements and similar credibility can be found. The article highlights that neither UFOs nor psychic phenomena are officially recognized, making their connection a difficult point of study. Examples like the Betty Hill case, with its associated poltergeists, telepathic calls, and psychic healings, and the New Berlin case, involving OBEs and premonitions, are cited to illustrate the 'paranormal environment' often found around witnesses.

Other cases mentioned include the luminous photos from a forest in Cluj, Romania, and individuals like Mr. Massé, who claims to sense the presence of 'them,' or witnesses from Delphos and Imjärvi who exhibited paranormal powers or experienced 'astral journeys,' as in the case of the young witness from Aveyron. The author notes that the psychic component is often evident only in passing, suggesting it might be under-investigated or self-censored. Out of seven 'classic' cases published in Stendek's "Dossier OVNI," five (New Berlin, Delphos, Aveyron, and Imjärvi) showed a psychic component, leading to the conclusion that analyzing paranormal effects is essential for serious UFO research.

SETI and the 'Cat-Flap' Effect

The magazine then shifts to the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI). It discusses a 1978 symposium in Maryland titled "Significance of our failure to discover extraterrestrials." Key questions raised were: If our civilization is typical, why don't we exist in the future? And if many technological civilizations exist, where are they and their activities?

Aimé Michel's "'Cat-Flap' effect" is presented as a thought-provoking idea. If we assume we are the most advanced beings in the galaxy, we must confront the consequence that 'someone' or 'something' might have been present on Earth since its inception, possibly influencing evolution and the emergence of humanity. This implies a need to imagine what this ancient presence might be like, given how much knowledge has changed in just a century.

The 'Caso Llanca' and Ufological Criticism

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to defending the "caso Bordeu" or "caso Llanca," involving Dionisio Llanca, an Argentine truck driver. The case was presented by Fabio Zerpa and epilogued by the author. The investigation, involving extensive medical and narcoanalytic examination of Llanca over 40 days, is highlighted as exceptionally thorough.

Architect Roberto E. Banchs is criticized for his skepticism towards the Llanca case, despite its internal coherence and Llanca's hypnotic recall of typical abduction scenarios. Banchs' arguments, suggesting Llanca had a brain lesion causing visual hallucinations and a low IQ, are countered. The author questions how someone with such alleged impairments could legally drive a truck in Argentina, implying that rigorous psychometric tests should have prevented this. The author argues that Banchs' own point—that Llanca's low psychic level makes it unlikely he could fabricate such a story—actually supports the case's authenticity, as the details were extracted through hypnosis by a medical team, not fabricated by Llanca himself.

The author expresses strong conviction in the Llanca case as a genuine abduction and plans to include it in an upcoming book on abductions. He laments the tendency of 'Latins' to criticize their own countrymen's work.

A note from David Webb is included, referencing his inclusion of the Llanca case in his 1976 compendium "1973 - YEAR OF THE HUMANOIDS." Webb points out surprising similarities between the Llanca case and those of the Hills, Shirmer, and others, and notes that this period coincided with a Martian opposition, a detail that has recurred in other UFO events. The note criticizes the ufological community for being too focused on 'Made in USA' phenomena and for getting lost in pseudo-scientific and parapsychological interpretations.

Letters to the Editor (El Correo del Lector)

This section features correspondence from readers.

One reader, Esteban F. Comas, responds to a previous letter by H. Kaneko. Comas questions the Catholic Church's need to recognize UFO authenticity, suggesting it could lead believers astray. He finds the connection of UFOs to religious events like Fátima problematic, as it implies the use of 'artifacts' by divine beings. Comas also discusses the idea of 'paraphysical intelligence' versus 'God,' stating that such definitions are relative to personal beliefs. He acknowledges that while the Catholic Church is taken seriously, the public often mocks UFOs, though he argues history shows Christianity has faced significant controversies. He posits that UFOs, miracles, parapsychology, and religious events might be manifestations of the same reality, but emphasizes that their mysterious nature is still largely unknown.

Another reader, writing from Verges on June 7, 1981, expresses interest in UFOs and the supernatural, referencing a letter from Mr. H. Kaneko in a previous issue. This reader also touches upon the Catholic Church's stance on UFOs, suggesting that acknowledging them could be detrimental to religious doctrine.

Book Reviews/Promotions

The issue includes advertisements for several books related to UFOs:

• "¿OVNIS? Si, PERO..." by Miguel Peyro (200 pages, 450 PTA)
• "HACIA UN REPLANTEAMIENTO DE LA NOCION CONTEMPORANEA DE LA REALIDAD" (Towards a Reassessment of the Contemporary Notion of Reality) by Gabriel y Galin (256 pages, 350 PTA)
• "MANUAL DEL UFOLOGO" (Manual of the Ufologist) by Alberto Adell Sabates (160 pages, 400 PTA)

These books are presented as selections from Stendek or published by Editorial 7 1/2, s.a.

Telex OVNI

This section announces the continuation of "Telex OVNI," a bimonthly publication by C.E.I. for members and subscribers of Stendek. It summarizes UFO observations from national and international press archives, aiming to keep readers informed about global UFO events. Fifteen issues have been published, covering approximately 250 observations from 1979, 1980, and early 1981. Subscription details are provided, including the cost (500 pesetas) and payment methods.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of UFO phenomena with psychological, paranormal, and even religious aspects. There's a clear editorial stance supporting the serious investigation of UFOs, particularly cases with alleged paranormal or abduction elements, and a willingness to challenge skeptical viewpoints. The publication seems to advocate for a broader, more open-minded approach to understanding these phenomena, even when they challenge established scientific or religious paradigms. The inclusion of reader letters suggests an engagement with diverse opinions within the UFO community.