Stendek - Vol 12 No 46 - December 1981

Magazine Overview

STENDEK, Año XII, N° 46, published in December 1981, is a quarterly magazine from the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios (CEI) in Barcelona, Spain. The issue focuses on UFO phenomena, featuring detailed accounts of sightings and investigations, alongside discussions on the scientific and economic challenges facing the publication.

Editorial: La crisis también nos afecta

The editorial addresses the financial struggles of STENDEK, emphasizing its commitment to providing a scientifically ponderous and analytical approach to UFOlogy, avoiding gratuitous speculation. The editor calls for support from subscribers and interested parties to ensure the magazine's survival, contrasting its serious approach with the sensationalism often found in popular media. The editorial highlights the magazine's dedication to presenting well-researched information, statistical analysis, and psychological essays within the framework of technical disciplines.

Article: Un extraterrestre muy especial

This article, by Michel Granger, revisits a curious case of a UFO that allegedly crashed in Mexico over thirty years prior. The incident gained renewed attention in September 1980 when ufologist Dennis Pilichis presented two photographs purported to show an extraterrestrial crushed on the ground within its flying craft. The article acknowledges the extraordinary nature of these documents but urges caution, suggesting that a less spectacular but equally interesting explanation might exist. The crash occurred on July 7, 1948, near Laredo, Texas. The object was described as circular, about 27 meters in diameter and 8 meters high, with multiple levels. The creature found inside was calcined, about 1.37 meters tall, with large eye sockets, no ears or nose, and disproportionately long arms with four-fingered hands. The military reportedly took over 500 photos of the scene.

Article: UN MONO EXPERIMENTAL

This section critically examines the Mexican crash case, presenting the findings of the Ground Saucer Watch (GSW) after subjecting the photographic negatives to various technical analyses, including computer enhancement. The GSW concluded that the "extraterrestrial" was likely a misinterpretation of a common laboratory monkey, possibly a resus or orangutan. This conclusion was based on the creature's dimensions (863 mm), apparent resemblance to a monkey, and the lack of distinct features like fingernails. The GSW also noted that the US government might have been experimenting with V2 rockets over populated areas in 1948 and used the extraterrestrial story as a cover-up. The article mentions that between 1945 and 1948, several similar incidents involving monkeys in rocket tests may have occurred, possibly using captured German V2 rockets. The GSW points out that monkeys used in such experiments, like Albert I (a resus monkey launched in June 1948), were typically about 65 cm in length and were housed in capsules of specific dimensions, which differ from the ufologists' claims about the Mexican creature.

Ufologists, however, refute the monkey theory, highlighting that the creature had no tail, unlike resus monkeys. They also argue that the capsule dimensions for monkey experiments do not match the reported size of the crashed object. The article concludes by suggesting that the ufologists' arguments are weak and that they are accustomed to clinging to their beliefs despite official and scientific opposition. It also touches upon the idea that intact extraterrestrial bodies were allegedly kept in liquid nitrogen at Wright Patterson Air Force Base.

Article: ENCUENTRO CON UN AGNOPTENO EN LAS PROXIMIDADES DE JACA

This article, by Colectivo LAU, details a UFO sighting that occurred on September 7, 1976, near Jaca, Spain. The term "agnópteno" is introduced as a Greek translation for UFO. The authors commend a local newspaper, likely the "Noticiero de Aragón," for accurately reporting the witnesses' account without distortion. The witnesses, a married couple named J.L. and I.R., were driving west from Jaca when they observed a luminous, oval object, initially mistaken for the moon, descending from the direction of Monte Oroel. The object, estimated to be 7-8 meters in diameter, hovered about 100 meters from their car, then performed a series of complex maneuvers, including circling the vehicle and moving rapidly towards the Aragón River before separating into two parts and then rejoining. The incident was classified as a Type I (near-landing) sighting under the Vallée classification. The weather was clear, and visibility was normal. The article includes a diagram illustrating the object's trajectory relative to the car and the landscape.

The article also mentions a potential witness, a truck driver named D. Fernando Ascaso, who conversed with J.L. after the event and speculated it might be a flying saucer. The couple continued their journey to Zaragoza, accompanied by another vehicle, in case the phenomenon reappeared.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of STENDEK consistently promotes a serious, scientific approach to ufology, distinguishing itself from sensationalist or speculative content. The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, data analysis, and critical thinking. The editorial highlights the financial challenges faced by such specialized publications and appeals for reader support. The articles present detailed case studies, such as the Mexican crash and the Jaca sighting, with a focus on factual reporting and technical analysis. The magazine appears to be critical of official cover-ups and the dismissal of UFO phenomena by mainstream science, while also cautioning against unfounded theories and paranoia. The recurring theme is the pursuit of truth in the face of skepticism and the struggle for the survival of independent research publications.

Title: Sky Watch
Issue: Año 3, N.º 4
Date: June 1981
Publisher: Ediciones Nord
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of Sky Watch delves into various aspects of ufology, featuring a blend of case studies, analysis of historical art, reviews of international publications, and discussions on the methodology of UFO research.

Un Sputnik en Montalcino

The centerpiece of this issue is an in-depth exploration of a 17th-century painting by Buenaventura Salimbeni, located in Montalcino, Italy. The article, titled "Un Sputnik en Montalcino" by Emy y Roberto Balbi, focuses on a specific fresco depicting a transparent sphere with internal details and antennae, which bears a striking resemblance to the Sputnik satellite. The authors detail the painting's context, its artistic elements, and the potential implications of such an object being depicted centuries before the space age. They compare the painted object to known UFO sightings and the Sputnik satellite itself, noting that the painting's sphere is described as having a bright, luminous ring and internal scenes.

The article also provides a detailed description of Montalcino, a picturesque town in Tuscany, Italy, setting the scene for the artistic discovery. The authors discuss the painter, Ventura Salimbeni, and his family of painters, providing biographical details and noting his work in various Italian cities.

UFO Research and Case Studies

Several articles and reviews cover ongoing UFO investigations and phenomena:

J.L. Case Analysis

The magazine presents an analysis of a case involving a witness named J.L., who reported seeing a UFO over Jaca, Spain. The article details the process of obtaining drawings from the witness and his wife, highlighting discrepancies that may be attributed to the method of questioning or the passage of time. The description of the object includes a large, luminous upper part and a dimmer lower appendage. The investigation also touches upon the sound associated with the sighting, noting a discrepancy with a newspaper report.

References to Truck Driver Fernando Ascaso

Further investigation into the J.L. case involved attempts to locate and interview a truck driver named Fernando Ascaso, who was reportedly a witness. While direct contact was not achieved, references from a newspaper article and local inquiries confirmed his involvement and credibility.

Possible Effects on Witnesses

The psychological impact of the UFO experience on the witnesses is discussed. J.L. reports feeling uneasy during night drives, while his wife's health notably worsened after the event, though she has since recovered.

UFO Activity in China and Russia

Reviews of international publications highlight reports of UFO activity in China, including an extensive report from a Chinese weekly, and case studies from Russia, based on data from F.Y. Zigel and I. Sanarov.

"Fenómenos Solares" and UFOs

An article from the magazine LDLN explores the connection between solar phenomena and UFOs, concluding that these phenomena are real and originate from an external source, potentially improving human technology.

"Isósceles Triangles" Theory

Another article discusses Michel's theory of "isosceles triangles," suggesting that UFO landing sites distributed across a geographical area form precise isosceles triangles, implying a non-random distribution.

International UFO Reporter (IUR) and Frontiers of Science

Reviews of "Frontiers of Science" and the "International UFO Reporter" (IUR) cover various mysteries, including microscopic analysis of "Bigfoot" hairs and reports from the SBEDV in Brazil. The IUR also features articles on the 1897 North American UFO wave, discussing its context, potential errors in transcription, and the reliability of sources.

Apro Bulletin and Leo Sprinkle

The Apro Bulletin is reviewed, mentioning cases like a "mothership" photographed in Arizona and a presentation by Dr. Leo Sprinkle on "Contactees: Captive Collaborators or Cosmic Citizens?"

Challenges for UFO Research Groups

There is a discussion about the survival challenges faced by UFO research organizations, such as APRO and CEI, and the need for rigorous case vetting and depuration of data.

OMNI Magazine Review

OMNI magazine is reviewed for its balanced and skeptical approach to scientific and fictional topics, including a discussion on UFO fraud and the importance of critical analysis.

Componente Psíquica e Informe OVNI

Juan Gascón contributes an article titled "Componente Psíquica e Informe OVNI," which discusses the challenges of communication between investigators and witnesses of UFO sightings. The article explores the concept of the "psychic component" that witnesses involuntarily bring to an observation, suggesting it is intertwined with the visual anomaly and the witness's emotional response. The author proposes a scale to measure the degree of this psychic component's influence on the observation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Sky Watch demonstrates a commitment to rigorous investigation and analysis of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor a critical yet open-minded approach, encouraging the depuration of cases and the pursuit of truth, even when faced with incredible claims. The magazine actively engages with international research and publications, providing a platform for diverse perspectives and ongoing investigations within the ufology community. There is a clear emphasis on historical cases, artistic interpretations of potential UFOs, and the psychological aspects of witness testimony.

Subscription Renewal Notice

The issue concludes with a renewal notice for subscriptions, outlining payment methods and costs for various regions.

This issue of 'Levante' magazine, dated January 9, 1969, features several articles focusing on UFO phenomena, humanoids, and scientific perspectives on extraterrestrial intelligence. The main cover story, "No era un «ovni» lo fotografiado en Araca (Vitoria)" (It was not a 'UFO' photographed in Araca (Vitoria)), by Miguel Peyró García, debunks a purported UFO sighting through photographic analysis. The issue also includes a detailed study on "LOS PEQUEÑOS SERES HUMANOIDES" (The Small Humanoid Beings) by Angel Alberto Díaz, and an exploration of scientific questions surrounding extraterrestrial intelligence by Jacques Scornaux.

The Small Humanoid Beings

Angel Alberto Díaz's extensive article presents a summary of a study on 29 worldwide cases of Close Encounters of the Third Kind involving humanoid beings less than 1.20 meters tall. The study, building on the work of Jader U. Pereira and James Mc Campbell, indicates a significant frequency of these entities. Díaz meticulously details their physical characteristics, noting a generally humanoid form with variations in proportion, particularly a larger head relative to their small stature. The average height is 0.77 meters. Most are described with ovoid or spheroidal heads, often wearing a helmet-like covering that leaves the face visible. Facial features, when described, are typically humanoid with large, deep-set eyes. Their trunks are generally proportional, with a tendency towards broader shoulders. Limbs are also described as proportional, with hands and feet resembling human ones. The beings are often depicted in full-body suits, predominantly in white, grey, greenish, or bluish colors, with footwear sometimes mentioned. Luminosity, sometimes associated with a beam of light or a halo, and sounds, occasionally resembling voices, are noted. Locomotion is typically translational, sometimes aerial, and in rare cases, desmaterialization is reported. Footprints are seldom described. The study highlights that in 83% of cases, multiple beings were observed, usually in groups. Witnesses were typically solitary or in small groups. In about half the cases, a UFO was associated with the beings, with some reports of them entering or exiting the craft. The article also analyzes contacts in relation to Argentine UFO waves, noting that contacts occur during the 'maxima' of these waves and tend to happen at night. The beings' attitudes are categorized as inspection, attempted contact, abduction, attempted communication, non-avoidance of contact, response to aggression, or siege.

Díaz concludes that these beings warrant a distinct classification within the humanoid category globally. Their humanoid aspect, despite small stature, is consistent. The helmet suggests auxiliary equipment. Their practical use of limbs and the near-hermetic nature of their suits, possibly for protection or mission efficiency, are discussed. The tendency for them to act in groups and their generally non-aggressive attitude are noted. The study suggests that beings seek out isolated humans but do not avoid contact with small groups. It is confirmed that these entities utilize UFOs for travel, with a direct correlation between UFO numbers and contact frequency in Argentina. The majority of contacts involve some form of interaction, while a smaller percentage involve avoidance or mere inspection.

The Moon and "Invisible UFOs"

Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos, from the STENDEK Consulting Council, addresses the common perception of UFOs as a heterogeneous collection of events. He argues that the lack of scientific and technical training among the public contributes to the apparent disparity of the phenomenon, leading to misinterpretations of natural and technological stimuli. Ballester Olmos criticizes the tendency to classify unusual apparitions as 'atypical humanoids' without considering psychological explanations like hallucinations or social contagion. He asserts that the investigation of UFO phenomena requires a logical, methodical, and unbiased scientific approach to avoid descending into obscurantism or a subculture manipulated by sensationalism.

The article then focuses on images that frequently appear spontaneously in photographs, particularly when photographing the Moon, which are erroneously identified as 'invisible UFOs'. Ballester Olmos discusses a specific case from the Araca military camp in Alava, Spain, from November 4, 1968. A photographer took three pictures of the Moon, and upon development, two negatives showed a large circular luminous spot with a round body with sharp edges near the lunar image. The third photo showed the Moon obscured by a cloud. The analysis, conducted by the Agrupación Astronómica de Sabadell, concluded that the supposed UFO was actually the Moon itself, with its lunar seas visible under microscopic examination. The shape was not a perfect circle due to the Moon's phase. The larger image was an overexposed Moon, and the smaller one was also the Moon with slight overexposure. The phenomenon was attributed to a reflection of the Moon's light within the camera's objective lens, creating a parasitic image captured on film. This explanation is generalized to other similar photographic cases, emphasizing that the photographer never sees the UFO, and the images arise from photographing the Moon. Ballester Olmos laments that such phenomena can deceive even some researchers, highlighting the need for rigorous evaluation standards to avoid 'incompetence'.

A Question Scientists Ask Themselves

Jacques Scornaux's article, translated by M.a Angeles Riesco, explores the growing scientific interest in extraterrestrial intelligence (IET) and the implications of interstellar travel. He references Aimé Michel's hypothesis that IET might be a part of contemporary scientific thought. Scornaux cites three examples from scientific publications:

1. A 1977 article in 'New Scientist' about the 'Dédalo' probe project to Barnard's Star, questioning why the galaxy hasn't been invaded if interstellar travel is feasible.
2. Another 'New Scientist' piece from June 1977 interviews Gerard K. O'Neill, who proposes space colonization and suggests that humanity will expand across the galaxy within a million years, raising the question of why no evidence of other civilizations has been found.
3. A May 1977 article in 'Science' by Kuiper and Morris discusses the search for extraterrestrial civilizations and the implications of no irrefutable contact, suggesting that advanced civilizations might be deliberately concealing themselves or subtly influencing humanity's development.

Scornaux notes that these articles, appearing in prominent scientific journals, indicate that scientists are indeed asking why IET are not observed and are considering the possibility of a relationship between UFOs and IET.

An Landing in Navarra?

Miguel Peyró García, from C.E.I., reports on a sighting that occurred on the night of Monday, August 25, 1980, around midnight, at the Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer spa in Fitero, Navarra. Approximately forty residents witnessed a round, powerful light emerge from the peaks of the Sierra del Moncayo. The light, described as resembling a car headlight, moved asymmetrically, emitting intermittent flashes. It approached the witnesses to about 100 meters before receding without sound. The object reappeared, crossing in front of the witnesses from right to left, its light now described as conical, like a flashlight beam. The article includes a map of the region, indicating the location of the sighting.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of 'Levante' consistently explores the intersection of UFO phenomena, physical evidence, and scientific inquiry. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical investigation, aiming to debunk misinterpretations and promote rigorous scientific methodology in ufology. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine anomalous phenomena and misidentified natural or man-made objects, as exemplified by the Araca photograph case. The magazine also highlights the growing scientific engagement with the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence, suggesting a shift in academic discourse. The recurring theme is the need for a scientific, evidence-based approach to understanding UFOs and related phenomena, moving beyond sensationalism and speculation.

This issue of STENDK magazine, dated May 1981, focuses on unexplained phenomena, including a UFO sighting, reviews of books on ufology, and detailed accounts of unusual meteorological events.

UFO Sighting in Pamplona

The issue begins with a report from Pamplona, Spain, where a woman described seeing a round object with two powerful blinking red lights passing over her house. She stated it moved in a straight line, was very luminous, and made no noise, leading her to believe it was neither an airplane nor a helicopter. The report notes that the local newspaper also published a similar sighting, corroborating the event and suggesting the object may have traveled approximately 100 km in a straight line from Fitero to Pamplona.

Book Reviews

"Los Ovnis y sus ocupantes" by Roberto E. Banchs

This section reviews Roberto E. Banchs' book, which analyzes the humanoid phenomenon in Argentina. The reviewer, Luis R. González of C.E.I., highlights the book's introduction, which addresses public bias and terminology issues in ufology. The book is divided into three parts: the history of humanoids in Argentina, including investigations and debunked frauds; the analysis of the phenomenon, focusing on cases directly associated with UFOs and noting their nocturnal nature, preference for unpopulated areas, and avoidance of contact; and reflections on the phenomenon, discussing various theories on the origin of humanoids without endorsing any specific one. González recommends the book for its serious analysis.

"Messengers of Deception" by Jacques Vallée

Another book reviewed is Jacques Vallée's "Messengers of Deception." The review, also by Luis R. González, discusses Vallée's evolving perspective on UFO phenomena, moving from the physical and psychological aspects to the social impact. Vallée defines two types of 'contactees': direct and indirect. The review emphasizes Vallée's concerning conclusions about the proliferation of 'contactee' groups, which he believes widen the gap between the public and science, undermine human responsibility, support political unification, can lead to rigid new religions, promote irrational beliefs, and often involve beliefs in superior races and totalitarian systems. The review also touches upon Vallée's idea of possible terrestrial manipulation of the UFO phenomenon.

Archive of Condemned Cases

Albert Adell Sabatés of C.E.I. presents a section on "Objects Fallen From the Sky," focusing on unusual meteorological events. The C.E.I. of Barcelona maintains extensive archives of unidentified flying objects and related phenomena. This section aims to identify phenomena that cannot be explained by conventional science.

Group G: Ice Blocks

This section details nine cases of ice blocks falling from the sky, collected from various traditional newspapers. The cases span from 1969 to 1979 and include locations in Spain, France, Mexico, Argentina, and the USA. The descriptions often highlight the size and weight of the ice blocks, with some weighing up to 200 kg. The article critically examines the sensationalist reporting of these events, questioning the accuracy of witness accounts and the explanations provided by the media. The author provides calculations to demonstrate that ice blocks of such size would likely disintegrate upon impact with the ground due to their high velocity of fall, suggesting that the reported sizes might be exaggerated or that the phenomena have more conventional explanations.

Group H: Unusual Rains

This section, along with accompanying tables, details various unusual rain events. These include:

• Mud rain: Reported in Pamplona (Spain), Tortosa (Spain), and Mallorca (Spain).
• Red mud rain: Reported in Alicante (Spain).
• Reddish mud rain: Reported in Archorena (Argentina).
• Yellowish rain: Reported in Villafranca (Spain), attributed to pine pollen.
• Black rain: Reported in Bilbao (Spain), identified as industrial residue.
• White spots: Reported in Santander (Spain), also identified as industrial residue.
• Greenish-yellow pestilent rain: Reported in Archorena (Argentina).
• Red snow: Reported in Limoges (France).
• Toad rain: Reported in Correns (France), attributed to tornados.
• Fish rain: Reported in Killarney (Australia), attributed to strong winds lifting fish from the sea.
• Aceiteous rain: Reported in Ensenada (Argentina).
• Foam clouds: Reported in Sevilla (Spain), attributed to agitated water and air.
• Blood rain: Reported in Valencia (Spain).
• Set-shaped bubbles: Reported near Mexico City, attributed to saponifiable residues emulsifying with water.

The author generally provides rational explanations for these phenomena, often linking them to meteorological conditions, industrial pollution, or natural processes, and criticizes the tendency to attribute them to extraterrestrial causes or witchcraft.

Letters and Announcements

Erratum

An erratum is published regarding a previous editorial in STENDEK (Issue 44), correcting that the conference presentation by Joaquín Fernandes was read by Antonio Ribera, not Mr. Nadal, and that Ribera also provided an excellent simultaneous translation.

Column of the Reader

An announcement seeks contact with individuals or groups in the Canary Islands dedicated to the scientific study of the OVNI phenomenon in the islands.

Notice to Volunteer Surveyors

Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos requests contact with individuals willing to conduct field research for his project updating the Iberian catalog of close encounters with UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical approach to UFO phenomena and related events. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained occurrences, the editorial stance favors rational explanations based on scientific principles and meteorological data. There is a clear skepticism towards sensationalist reporting and a tendency to debunk claims that lack empirical evidence or logical reasoning. The magazine encourages rigorous investigation and scientific study, as seen in the book reviews and the detailed analysis of meteorological anomalies. The editorial stance appears to be that while the UFO phenomenon is intriguing, many reported cases can be explained by conventional means, and a critical, evidence-based approach is essential to avoid falling into superstition or misinformation.

Title: EL CORREO DEL LECTOR
Issue Date: June 16, 1981
Publisher: STENDEK
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish
Cover Headline: UFOLOGIA CIENTIFICA

This issue of 'El Correo del Lector' focuses on reader contributions and discussions surrounding ufology, emphasizing the need for scientific rigor and objectivity in the field. It includes letters from readers, a literary citation, and a clarification regarding a previous article.

UFOLOGIA CIENTIFICA

The section "UFOLOGIA CIENTIFICA" presents a letter from Josep Rosas, who advocates for a scientific approach to UFO investigation. He stresses the importance of objectivity, rejecting sensationalism and prioritizing genuine information over personal gain. Rosas calls for an end to sensationalist investigations and encourages ufologists to pursue cases that defy natural explanation, thereby increasing the value of their work. He congratulates STENDEK for its commitment to objectivity.

Letters to the Editor

Letter from Josep Rosas

Josep Rosas, from Durango, Vizcaya, expresses his desire to publish his thoughts on the necessity of scientific ufology. He argues that due to the unknown origin, cause, and nature of unidentified phenomena, a scientific approach is crucial. He calls for objective studies, rejecting those that seek only personal benefit or sensationalism. Rosas believes that when a ufologist encounters a case with no natural explanation, it represents a significant achievement.

Literary Citation

Willy Smith, from CUFOS (Norcross, USA), shares a literary citation from the 6th century. He quotes a passage from 'The History of the Franks' by Gregorio, Metropolitan Bishop of Tours, describing an event on January 31, 583, in Tours, France. The passage details a "great ball of fire" that descended from the sky, slid through the air, and then disappeared behind clouds. Smith notes the similarities to modern UFO sightings and suggests that this phenomenon has persisted throughout the centuries, even though Gregorio did not identify it as a UFO.

Clarification (PUNTUALIZACION)

Pedro Redón, Director of STENDEK in Valencia, addresses an article published in issue No. 43 by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos and Juan Antonio Fernandez, titled "Del éxito de las contraencuestas de casos antiguos." Redón clarifies that while he collaborates with the authors and acknowledges the necessity of re-evaluating old cases, he points out that relying solely on press clippings, radio, or television reports, especially those with a significant time lag from the event, should be considered as sources of information but not decisive proof of a UFO's positivity or negativity.

Redón discusses the case of Domingo Arán Gili, whose testimony was crucial but who was untraceable. He states that the case remains negative due to insufficient information, not because it was definitively identified as a falling oil drum, although that possibility exists. He also suggests that a statement by Pepito Balaguer, "I believe, and I am almost sure it was so," is a respectable opinion but not definitive, as Domingo Arán Gili's actual sighting remains unknown. Redón interprets Balaguer's attempt to downplay Arán Gili's case as a potential "smokescreen" to draw attention to his own sighting, as mentioned in note 3 of the article.

He concludes that the case is negative due to unknown characteristics of the observed object (shape, color, size, etc.), the report being based on a press clipping of a rumor, and the testimony of a third party who did not see the UFO.

Letter from Juan Gascón

Juan Gascón, from the AVIU Investigation Team in Sabadell, expresses his disagreement with an article by Luis Hernández Franch in issue No. 43, titled "OVNIS LO QUE SON, LO QUE NO SON." Gascón agrees with some of Franch's classifications of "false UFOs" but disputes others, particularly the inclusion of the S. José de Valderas and Aluche cases in Madrid, and the "Hill" case, as fraudulent.

He argues that the S. José de Valderas case is one of the most exhaustively studied UFO cases in Spain, detailed in the book "Un caso perfecto" by Ribera-Farriols, which includes witness testimonies, photographic evidence, and analyses. Gascón believes this case does not reflect the fraud alleged by Franch.

Regarding the "Hill" case, even acknowledging the ambiguity of hypnotic regression in UFO investigations, Gascón points to the exhaustive study in John Fuller's "Interrupted Journey" and articles in STENDEK (No. 44) by W.D. Nelson and Dr. J.A. Hynek. He notes that Dr. Hynek himself classified the Hill case as "real" (page 13), making it unfounded to label it as a fraud.

Letter from GEPAN (France)

A letter from A. Esterle, manager of GEPAN (Centre National d'Études Spatiales) in Toulouse, dated July 29, 1981, addresses Sr. Don Pedro Redón. Esterle confirms that their study of the Logroño case is complete. He states that acousticians and researchers analyzed the audio recording, confirming previous findings. Regarding the possibility of an intelligent message, the technicians found nothing to support this claim, though they acknowledge that a highly original code might exist beyond their current evaluation standards. The GEPAN team agrees that the sound could have been produced by artificial operations, such as radio maintenance. They conclude that the tape does not appear original and that GEPAN cannot draw any conclusions about the Logroño case.

Letter from Ricard Farell Masagué

Ricard Farell Masagué, from León, responds to STENDEK's invitation for reader opinions. He expresses his surprise and concern that the article by Luis Hernández Franch included the S. José de Valderas and Aluche cases, as well as the "Hill" case, in a list of alleged UFO frauds. Masagué defends the S. José de Valderas case as thoroughly investigated and documented, and the "Hill" case as having been deemed "real" by Dr. J.A. Hynek, making the fraud accusation unfounded.

Letter from Jesús Suárez García

Jesús Suárez García, from León, offers his opinion on the origin of UFOs, responding to a polemic sparked by an article by Luis R. González. García posits that the origin of the phenomenon is not singular. He agrees with Miguel Peyró's argument in "OVNIS? SI, PERO..." that a significant part of the phenomenon is "fundamentally psychic," with the "agent factor being the human collective." This, he suggests, explains the historical behavior and characteristics of UFOs that do not fit an extraterrestrial origin, while also accounting for some that do. García acknowledges that this theory leaves questions unanswered, particularly regarding physical objects left behind by UFOs.

He then explores possibilities for the origin of these physical aspects, drawing from Salvador Freixedo's work: manifestations of other physical inhabitants of this world (subterranean, aquatic, aerial, or selvatic), visits from genuinely extraterrestrial beings, or time travelers. He also suggests that some phenomena currently labeled as UFOs might be natural occurrences unknown to science.

Books Advertised

The issue features advertisements for three books:

• "OVNIS? SI, PERO..." by Miquel Peyró (200 pages, PVP 450 PTA), described as "HACIA UN REPLANTEAMIENTO DE LA NOCION CONTEMPORANEA DE REALICA."
• "Selección de STENDEK" (256 pages, PVP 350 PTA).
• "MANUAL DEL UFOLOGO" by Alberto Adell Sabates (160 pages, PVP 400 PTA).

These are advertised with their page counts and prices, and contact information for the publisher is provided.

TELEX OVNI

This section announces "TELEX OVNI," a bimonthly publication from C.E.I. for its members and STENDEK subscribers. It summarizes UFO observations from national and international press and archives, aiming to keep readers informed about global UFO events. Fifteen issues have been published, containing 250 observations from 1979, 1980, and early 1981. Interested individuals can subscribe for 500 pesetas, with additional charges for airmail delivery to America and Europe.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the call for a more scientific, objective, and less sensationalist approach to ufology. The editorial stance, as reflected in the letters and the magazine's own sections, favors rigorous investigation, critical analysis of evidence, and open discussion among readers and experts. There is a clear effort to distinguish between unsubstantiated claims and well-documented cases, and to explore the historical and psychological dimensions of the UFO phenomenon alongside potential physical or extraterrestrial explanations.