UFO PRESS - No 02 - (Enero 1977)

Magazine Overview

Title: UFOPRESS
Issue: Año I, Numero 2
Date: Enero 1977
Publisher: Servicio de Investigaciones Ufológicas
Country: Argentina
Language: Spanish

Editorial: ¿UNA POLEMICA INUTIL? (An Useless Polemic?)

The editorial addresses a growing debate within ufology, characterized as a struggle between two opposing factions. One faction, led by Jacques Vallée and John Keel, advocates for ufology to be considered a branch of parapsychological research. The other faction vehemently rejects this notion, viewing it as a deviation from serious and objective study. The editorial draws a parallel to past debates, such as those concerning orthotenic alignments in the late 1960s. It quotes Vallée stating that the key to understanding UFO phenomena might lie in its parapsychological effects, while Antonio Ribera argues for fighting against mystical and parapsychological tendencies to safeguard the scientific study of the phenomenon. John Keel is also quoted proposing ufology as a legitimate branch of parapsychological research. René Fouéré is mentioned as finding Jacques Vallée's work, particularly 'El Colegio Invisible,' detrimental for dismissing the extraterrestrial hypothesis and the materiality of UFOs. The editorial concludes that this polemic is likely to be protracted, generating numerous articles but ultimately dying out when both sides realize its futility. It posits that both factions err by having a restricted vision of the investigative method, focusing on a narrow set of phenomenological characteristics that fit their theories while ignoring contradictory evidence. The author suggests that researchers often adapt data to fit their hypotheses, citing examples like John Besson's 'space jellyfish' theory. The piece emphasizes the need for a holistic view in ufological research, asserting that the UFO phenomenon is real, unexplained, and governed by its own laws. It criticizes the 'parapsychological school of UFOs' for explaining some aspects like dematerialization but evading the fundamental laws identified by Vallée. The editorial calls for investigating all facets of the phenomenon collectively and concludes by referencing Professor Oscar A. Uriondo's opinion that comparative studies do not confirm the parapsychological reductionist claim for UFO phenomena. The call to action is to apply the scientific method if ufology is to be considered a science.

Article: CUANTIZACION DE LA LEY HORARIA (Quantization of the Horary Law)

This article, authored by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos and Miguel Guasp, introduces a method for expressing the degree of similarity between a temporal distribution curve and a model curve. The authors note that their previous studies on the 'Horary Law' (or 'Law of the Times'), a distribution of UFO landing cases by time of day, have shown that data considered negative or false significantly differs from this structure. This observation led to the need for a system to rationalize and quantify this rule into simple expressions.

The 'Horary Law,' as discovered and interpreted by Dr. Jacques Vallée, describes a singular distribution pattern in tabulated UFO landing cases. This pattern exhibits remarkable consistency across various datasets. The article outlines three key characteristics of this law for Type I UFO events:
1. A low proportion of daytime reports.
2. A progressive increase in observations during the afternoon, peaking around 9 PM.
3. An almost exponential decrease after the peak, with a smaller secondary maximum in the early morning hours, possibly related to the number of potential witnesses.

To rigorously analyze this phenomenon, the authors developed a method based on its coherence and universality. They devised objective formulas to derive numerical values reflecting the degree of similarity between any given curve and a 'perfect' model curve. This leads to a table correlating found values with the real similarity of each curve to the model, serving as a mechanism to quantitatively establish the homogeneity and reliability of a data group. The methodology aims to reveal new avenues for research.

The article defines a 'satisfactory curve' as one obtained from an extensive worldwide catalog of landing cases (J. F. Vallée, 1971), specifically focusing on 873 cases with reported times. Figure 1 illustrates the distribution of these cases over 24 hours. Table I lists six notable characteristics used in the development of their work: the most pronounced maximum, the second maximum, the least pronounced minimum, and the percentages of each.

The core of their methodology is the calculation of a 'Degree of Conformity' (C), defined by the formula C = 1 - |c|, where |c| represents the error. This value ranges from 0 to 1, with 1 indicating perfect conformity. Due to the complexity of calculating errors between intervals, the authors opt to use the six notable characteristics as representative points for analysis. They assign equal importance (weight) to each of these characteristics, leading to a simplified equation for C based on the sum of errors (eᵢ) for n=6 characteristics: C = 1 - Σ(eᵢ).

The article then details the numerical calculation of these errors. The difference between magnitudes is first determined (d), and then converted into an error value (e) using a proportional rule. For example, the error for the most pronounced maximum (e₁) is calculated by comparing the observed difference (d₁) to the maximum possible difference of 12 hours, resulting in e₁ = d₁/72. Similar calculations are performed for the second maximum, minimum, and their respective percentages, using denominators of 72 and 600 as appropriate.

Finally, the article presents a scale for interpreting the 'Degree of Conformity' (Figure 2), dividing it into zones: high randomness (50%-70%), intermediate (70%-85%), and high conformity (85%-100%). It suggests that a conformity of 0% would imply a complete inversion of the curve, which is practically unattainable. The authors conclude that small conformity values indicate highly dissimilar curves, while values between 50% and 100% are considered significant. They propose that the 'Horary Law' derived from landing cases, which are considered less prone to misinterpretation, provides a reliable representation of UFO activity over time. They suggest that comparing data from other UFO types to this curve could reveal their degree of strangeness and improve the assessment of sample reliability. The authors also note the lack of a system to compare the relative similarity of curves with the same conformity values and suggest this as a future research area.

Bibliography and References

The issue includes an extensive bibliography citing numerous works on UFOs, particularly those by Jacques Vallée, and references to publications like 'Flying Saucer Review,' 'STENDEK,' and 'Data-Net.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific analysis of UFO phenomena, the debate surrounding the classification of ufology (parapsychology vs. science), and the presentation of specific UFO cases and data analysis methods. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of applying rigorous scientific methodology to the study of UFOs, advocating for a comprehensive approach that considers all aspects of the phenomenon rather than adhering to preconceived notions or disciplinary boundaries like parapsychology. The magazine positions itself as a platform for serious, data-driven research in ufology.

This issue of 'LA DEFINICION' (The Definition), authored by Roberto E. Danchs, delves into the conceptualization and definition of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. It also presents a detailed case study of a significant sighting in Argentina.

The Definition of UFOs

The lead article by Roberto E. Danchs addresses the challenge of defining 'Unidentified Flying Objects' (UFOs). Danchs argues that a definition should explain what a term *means*, not what it *doesn't mean*, criticizing negative definitions that try to encompass too many possibilities. He proposes an 'operational' definition that avoids speculative elements. The article traces the historical evolution of terminology, from the ambiguous 'foo fighters' used by Allied pilots during World War II, to 'flying saucers' in 1947, and finally to the USAF's adoption of the term UFO in 1948. The USAF's definition aimed to categorize any aerial object with unusual aerodynamic characteristics or performance that could not be positively identified as familiar.

Danchs notes that the term 'UFO' has acquired a sense of inexplicability, which he believes is a deficiency. He suggests that the scientific community now largely accepts the existence of an original and novel nature for these phenomena. The article mentions various acronyms used historically, such as FAI (Fenómenos aéreos inusuales - Unusual Aerial Phenomena) and MOC (Mysterieux objets celestes - Mysterious Celestial Objects), and critiques terms like VED (vehículos extraterrestres dirigidos - extraterrestrial directed vehicles) for their speculative nature.

The Transverse Waves and the Movement of the UFO Without Noise

This section explores a theoretical model for how UFOs might move without generating noise. It posits that the air or gas surrounding a UFO might not be a solid body but composed of fibers, creating a medium where transverse waves can propagate. The article uses diagrams (Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) to illustrate the concept of transverse waves in a 'fiber' and how a UFO might be enveloped in a 'bag' of these waves. It calculates the potential speed of these waves based on the mechanical resistance and density of the air, estimating speeds between 7100 km/h and 10,000 km/h.

The Incident of June 20

This extensive report details a significant UFO sighting that occurred on June 20, 1975, across five Argentine provinces. The object was first sighted in Catamarca and last observed in the Federal Capital, with an estimated 200 witnesses. The incident, initially met with media speculation and quickly dismissed, is presented as important due to the number, quality, and geographical dispersion of witnesses.

The report includes the testimony of Cesar Augusto Toborda, a National Gendarmerie sergeant, who described a 'bluish fireball' moving rapidly from NW to SE, leaving a phosphorescent white trail. Similar accounts were reported from San Jenaro Norte, Villa Cañas, and Junín. The object was observed by multiple witnesses in the Federal Capital, including personnel at the Sarmiento Railway, the Hippodrome of Palermo, and those in the city center. It was also seen by the crews and passengers of three commercial flights.

A key testimony comes from the Aeropuerto Jorge Newbery control tower. A radio operator from Austral Flight 704 inquired about an object on radar, and shortly after, Austral Flight 10 reported a 'fireball' approaching at high speed. Those in the control tower then visually observed a very luminous, circular or spherical object of bluish-white color moving at a bearing of 150° from 330°. Using binoculars, the witness observed it as a single, spherical object that seemed to spark and leave a trail. Later, two smaller, luminous objects detached from the main one, accompanying it in a parabolic trajectory before disappearing over the horizon. The observation lasted about forty seconds, with the trail remaining visible for several minutes.

The Photographs of Ringuelet

The investigation extended to Ringuelet, near La Plata, where witness Luis Cesar Ramírez provided five photographs of the object. Ramírez reported photographing the object at 7:20 AM, slightly earlier than other reports, possibly due to a faulty watch. The photographs reportedly show three luminous bodies, appearing as one, with a fine white trail. The article suggests these photos, along with other testimonies, strongly support the classification of the object as an unusual meteorite.

Further analysis, including testimony from Dr. Rafael Peredo who saw a similar object in Florencio Varela, allowed for calculations. By comparing the object's position relative to Peredo's location and Ramírez's photographs, the object's diameter was estimated at 400 meters. The time taken to capture the photos (5-7 seconds) and the angular displacement led to a calculated speed of 28,000 to 39,000 km/h. The article notes the consistency of this high speed with the object's rapid transit between Catamarca and Buenos Aires (approximately 1,650 km).

Conclusions

The authors conclude that the object observed on June 20, 1975, moving over 1,600 kilometers between 7:25 and 7:30 AM, could be classified as a meteorite or satellite debris. However, they highlight discrepancies: witnesses along the object's direct path described a rectilinear trajectory, while those to the sides reported a parabolic one. No witnesses described abnormal behavior like sudden changes in speed or color. Some witnesses reported 'sparks' and detachments, corroborated by the photographs. The estimated size (400 meters) and speed (28,000-39,000 km/h) strongly suggest a meteorite or satellite debris.

The issue also briefly mentions two other incidents on the same day: one involving a bright, stationary light observed by fishermen near Santo Tomé, Santa Fe, described as white, ovoid, and with rectangular windows; and another involving a white-yellowish object leaving a fine trail observed by fishermen in Entre Ríos. The authors state they will await further information before connecting these incidents.

Changed Air

This section, authored by Julian Majewki from Warsaw, discusses the concept of 'changed air' in relation to UFOs. It proposes that the air around a UFO might exist in a state of 'changed air,' potentially with a vacuum layer between the UFO's surface and the outer atmosphere. This 'changed air' could form geodesic lines and reduce resistance to movement, explaining silent operation and potential for landings at various altitudes. The article suggests that this phenomenon, possibly related to globular lightning or other natural electrical phenomena, does not require high temperatures. The conclusion is that the existence of 'changed air' near UFOs is probable and could explain various observed phenomena, though it doesn't fully explain interplanetary or interstellar movement.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, emphasizing the need for clear definitions and empirical evidence. It presents detailed case studies, witness testimonies, and attempts at scientific analysis, including calculations of speed and size. While acknowledging the possibility of extraterrestrial origins, the editorial stance leans towards cautious analysis, often concluding with possibilities like meteorites or satellite debris, while also exploring theoretical explanations for UFO behavior such as 'changed air.' The publication appears to be a platform for detailed reporting and theoretical exploration within the field of Ufology, with a particular interest in events occurring in Argentina.

Title: La ruta de los OVNI en la Argentina (The UFO Route in Argentina)
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 1
Date: July 1976
Publisher: UFOPRESS
Country: Argentina
Language: Spanish

This issue of UFOPRESS magazine delves into the phenomenon of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) within Argentina, presenting a detailed analysis of sighting patterns and two significant case studies.

The UFO Route in Argentina

The primary article, authored by Roberto E. Banchs, is based on an extensive compilation of approximately 500 journalistic reports of UFO sightings across Argentina. The study focuses on the temporal and geographical distribution of these events. Banchs notes that while UFOs are not confined to specific hours, sightings become significantly more frequent between 6 PM (18 hours) and midnight (24 hours), followed by a gradual decline. The analysis categorizes these sightings into three main regions based on hourly frequency:

• REGION 1 (15-21 hours): Primarily the Antarctic Sector and Santa Cruz.
• REGION 2 (21-24 hours): Includes the Antarctic Sector, Tierra del Fuego, Santa Cruz, and Capital Federal.
• REGION 3 (21-24 hours): Encompasses Río Negro, Buenos Aires, Entre Ríos, Santa Fe, Corrientes, Chaco, Misiones, Formosa, Santiago del Estero, and Tucumán.
• REGION 4 (0-6 hours): Covers Neuquén, La Pampa, San Juan, and La Rioja.

Further breakdown by province reveals specific hourly patterns. For instance, Buenos Aires province shows the highest index of reports with 240 cases, followed by Santa Fe (64 cases) and Córdoba (54 cases). The article suggests that a hypothetical line drawn across the country, following the chronological order of these regions, reveals a pattern that passes through areas previously identified by ufologists as potential UFO bases or underwater object (UOSNIS) locations, such as the Gulfs of San Matías and San Jorge, the Valle de Loretain in Córdoba, and Cerro Metán in Salta.

The author posits that the high concentration of sightings in certain areas, particularly in the southern regions and extending northwards, suggests a deliberate 'itinerary' or 'route' for UFOs in Argentina. The article also touches upon the lower reporting rates in sparsely populated or geographically isolated areas, contrasting them with regions where the proposed 'line' passes.

The Barra do Piraí Incident

Authored by Irene Granchi, this section recounts the testimony of Geralda J. M. Doria and Noemia de Oliveira Carvalho, two women who reported a close encounter with a UFO in Barra do Piraí, Brazil. After finishing their night shift at a chorizo factory, they were walking home when they witnessed a large, oval object hovering approximately six meters above them. The object was described as luminous, emitting smoke with a strange, unpleasant odor, and oscillating. The women were paralyzed by fear.

Their accounts differ slightly due to their positions relative to the object. Geralda, who was directly beneath the object, experienced a penetrating odor that caused a headache and a persistent thirst, a stark contrast to her previous low water intake. She also reported a sensation of floating and a loss of equilibrium. Noemia, positioned further away, did not experience the odor but was deeply shocked and felt her mind go blank. She described the object as a large, solid, oval 'wheel' that moved up and down, producing light that cast a well-defined shadow.

Both women reported a sensation of altered weight, feeling as if their bodies were lifting. Geralda's vision was affected for weeks, and she continued to experience headaches. Noemia's nervous system was also affected, leading to pains in her arms and legs that hindered her mobility. Despite the trauma, neither sought immediate medical attention. The incident occurred around 1:20 AM, and they returned home by 2:30 AM. Geralda recalled thinking it was 'a Mae do Ouro' (Mother of Gold), a local legend, which seemed to cause the object to descend further.

Antonio Sabio Furtado Vilela, a local journalist, corroborated that the sighting occurred near the Santa Cecilia power plant, an area with a history of unexplained light sightings. Granchi notes the importance of the differing physical and psychological reactions of the two women, attributing it to their individual constitutions and positions relative to the object.

Tragically, a postscript reveals that Noemia passed away on April 30th, and Geralda continued to suffer from headaches and a persistent unpleasant taste in her mouth.

A Sighting in Caxias do Sul

This section details an incident investigated by the CEVET team, occurring at the aeroclub of Caxias do Sul, Brazil, in November 1974. Regis Ivan Berthi, the aeroclub's secretary and director of instruction, along with about ten other people, observed four Brazilian Air Force (FAB) T-33 Xavante jets performing maneuvers.

During the maneuvers, a round, silver, luminous object appeared near the sun, estimated to be ten thousand meters high, while the jets were at approximately six thousand meters. The object had an apparent diameter of twenty meters and moved at an extraordinary speed, estimated by Berthi at 5,400 km/h. No smoke was observed. The object's trajectory was steady, with no oscillation.

Following the UFO's appearance, the FAB jets reportedly departed in the same direction, presumably attempting an intercept. However, the UFO's speed far exceeded that of the jets. Attempts to contact the pilots via radio for three minutes were unsuccessful, despite the radio equipment functioning perfectly.

The aeroclub lacked radar, so no physical confirmation was possible. Berthi described the object as solid, with no emissions or electromagnetic effects. The incident was reported by local press, including Radio San Francisco and the newspaper 'Jornal de Caxias'. The article suggests that the case was 'suffocated' by authorities, with rumors of Berthi being detained for giving interviews, though he denied any military intervention regarding his statements.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFOPRESS strongly emphasizes the analytical approach to UFO phenomena, particularly through geographical and temporal mapping, as seen in Banchs's article. The magazine also highlights the importance of detailed witness testimony, even when it involves distressing physical and psychological after-effects, as demonstrated by the Barra do Piraí case. The Caxias do Sul incident underscores the potential for military involvement and the challenges of official disclosure. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into UFO reports, seeking patterns and corroborating evidence while acknowledging the difficulties in obtaining definitive answers and the impact on those who experience these events. The publication aims to present documented cases and analyses to its readership.