UFO PRESS - No 06 - (Ene 1978)

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO PRESS
Issue: Number 6
Volume: II
Date: January 1978
Publisher: SERVICIO DE INVESTIGACIONES UFOLOGICAS
Country: Argentina
Language: Spanish

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the First National Ufology Congress held in Barcelona on December 3-4. It cites an article by Joan Crexell published in STENDEK, which criticized the congress for mixing serious scientific investigators with amateurs and charlatans, stating that such congresses were of little interest for the advancement of UFO studies. The editorial also highlights the magazine's commitment to providing a platform for independent ufological groups and researchers in Argentina, whose work often lacks commercial interest for other publications. It thanks readers for their support and encourages submissions.

Articles

OVNI DETECTADO POR RADAR (UFO Detected by Radar)

This article, translated from French and published in LES EXTRATERRESTRES (July 1977), details radar observations of unidentified objects in France by military aviation control. On the night of December 13-14, 1976, radar detected multiple tracks moving at high speeds. The objects were tracked between 10 and 15 nautical miles from the radar. Attempts to get an altitude reading were difficult, but one measurement estimated an object at 35,000 feet (10,500 m). The article explains that these detections were considered unusual because nighttime air traffic for civilian and military planes is scarce. The speeds calculated were between 6,700 and 10,000 Km/h, making it unlikely they were conventional aircraft. The article concludes that if a witness had seen something, it would have appeared as luminous points at high altitudes or as a low-altitude overflight.

CONSTANTES BASICAS EN LAS OBSERVACIONES DE OVNI (Basic Constants in UFO Observations)

This study, presented at an AIAA meeting in Pasadena, California in 1975, by Dr. Claude Poher and Dr. Jacques Vallée, analyzes thousands of UFO reports. Poher, from the French National Center for Space Studies, and Vallée, a researcher in computation and member of the Center for UFO Studies, present their findings. They propose that a significant proportion of reports come from genuine witnesses, that the objects possess characteristics distinct from known phenomena, that UFOs are of significant scientific interest, and that systematic investigation is possible. Their conclusions are based on years of research, including access to official archives from the US Air Force and French Air Force, as well as private organizations. The study presents computerized statistical results and correlates geomagnetic disturbances with UFO observations. The introduction notes a large increase in luminous phenomena sightings. The authors examine whether reports can be explained by identifiable phenomena, considering meteorological conditions and atmospheric transparency. They found that UFOs are less frequently reported during adverse weather and that most sightings occur under clear or partially cloudy skies. Statistical analysis of 308 unexplained French cases suggests that the optical characteristics of UFOs are consistent with real physical phenomena observed through atmospheric transparency.

LA OLEADA DE 1975 EN LA PENINSULA IBERICA (The 1975 Wave in the Iberian Peninsula)

This section briefly mentions the 1975 'wave' of unidentified flying objects, noting its recurrence and the renewed scientific debate it sparked following the closure of the US Air Force's Project Blue Book.

ENCUENTRO EN UNA CARRETERA (Encounter on a Highway)

This article is listed in the table of contents but its content is not provided in the scanned pages.

Cover Story

"Las observaciones de mr. Wheeler" (Mr. Wheeler's Observations) is featured on the cover, accompanied by an illustration of a UFO.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, presenting both detailed case studies (like the radar detection in France) and more analytical, scientific approaches (like the Vallée and Poher study). There is a clear emphasis on scientific investigation and the need for open-mindedness towards unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance supports independent researchers and aims to provide a platform for their work, particularly within Argentina. The magazine also critiques the organization and outcomes of ufology congresses, suggesting a preference for more focused, informal research exchanges over large, public events.

This issue of OVNI, identified by its cover headline 'BAJO QUE CONDICIONES SE DETECTA EL FENOMENO A CORTA DISTANCIA.' (Under what conditions is the phenomenon detected at close range?), delves into a statistical analysis of unidentified flying objects. The publication is identified as STENDEK, Servicio Informativo C.E.I., a quarterly publication from the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios, based in Barcelona, Spain. The issue features articles and data analyses related to UFO sightings, focusing on various parameters such as duration, distance, time of day, location, witness demographics, and potential correlations with physical phenomena like magnetic field variations.

Analysis of UFO Characteristics

The issue presents a statistical study of 1000 UFO cases, determining that 50% included estimated duration, with many sightings lasting between 5 minutes and 15-20 minutes. A curve illustrating this distribution is presented (Figure 3), contrasting it with the distribution of identifiable objects. The study notes that this duration distribution is a global result, supported by statistics from French and non-French cases (Figure 4).

Another key parameter analyzed is the distance between observers and the phenomenon, calculated by triangulation. This parameter is typically computed when multiple observers, often from military or special units, have witnessed the same event (Figure 5). The authors highlight the challenge of finding a phenomenon that simultaneously satisfies three criteria: visibility, duration, and distance, suggesting that no known identifiable phenomenon fits these patterns.

The temporal distribution of 'Type 1' encounters (close encounters) is examined, showing a distinct pattern throughout the day. Reports are generally low during the day, increasing around 5:00 PM, peaking around 9:00 PM, and then declining to a minimum around 1:00 AM, with a secondary peak around 3:00 AM. This pattern is partly attributed to the reduced number of potential observers during nighttime hours when most people are at home (Figure 7 and 8).

Location and Witness Demographics

The issue also investigates the geographical distribution of UFO sightings. In France, observations were found to be less frequent in densely populated areas, with approximately 70% of sightings occurring in deserted or isolated regions (Figure 10). This suggests that if UFOs are caused by real objects, a multiplier factor related to population density might be necessary.

Regarding the witnesses, a catalog of 923 Type 1 cases from 1868-1968 reveals that 878 incidents enumerate the number of witnesses. Over half of the cases involve solitary witnesses. The age distribution of witnesses is analyzed for 147 cases, showing a notable gap between the ages of 20 and 40. This gap is hypothesized to be due to individuals in this age group being more susceptible to ridicule or professional repercussions for reporting UFO sightings (Figure 12).

Correlation with Physical Phenomena

A significant section of the magazine explores the possibility of correlating UFO observations with measurable physical events, specifically electromagnetic phenomena. Researchers utilized a global network of geomagnetic stations, including one in Chambon-la-Foret, France. An analysis of magnetic records from October 1954, a period with high UFO activity, revealed an interesting correlation between UFO sightings and magnetic field variations. The study estimates that a UFO observed 40 km away could cause a magnetic perturbation of about 10 gammas (peak-to-peak) in the vertical component, suggesting a powerful magnetic field produced by the phenomenon.

The authors conclude that the utilized method of correlating magnetic disturbances with UFO sightings is promising for objective study. They recommend expanding this analysis with more reports and multiple geomagnetic stations to confirm the possibility of detecting UFOs through magnetic perturbations.

Special Report: The 1975 UFO Wave in the Iberian Peninsula

Another article, titled 'La oleada de 1975 en la península ibérica' (The 1975 wave in the Iberian Peninsula) by José Tomás Ramirez y Barberó, presents a statistical overview of UFO fluctuations in the region during 1975. The study, based on 195 cases from the Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios catalog, aims to provide a clear and accessible view of the UFO phenomenon's activity. The authors acknowledge that the data might appear dated but emphasize their commitment to accuracy over sensationalism. They express gratitude to the C.E.I. for their data contribution and dedication to UFO research.

The analysis of the 1975 wave indicates numerous and regularly distributed sightings throughout the year in the Iberian Peninsula. The fluctuation was not significantly different from the previous year, which saw the 'Spanish Spring Flap.' The article also notes a higher number of cases from Portugal, possibly due to increased data exchange between ufologists of both neighboring countries. The authors support the theory that UFO presence is constant and elevated, with major waves or 'flaps' representing only the 'ice-berg' peaks of this underlying activity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the statistical analysis of UFO sightings. The publication emphasizes a rigorous, scientific approach to understanding the phenomenon, moving beyond sensationalism to present data-driven insights. The editorial stance appears to be one of objective investigation, aiming to uncover the nature of UFOs through systematic data collection and analysis. The Centro de Estudios Interplanetarios is highlighted for its contribution to this objective research, providing data and support to independent ufologists. The issue consistently underscores the importance of statistical patterns in duration, distance, time, location, and witness characteristics, as well as exploring potential links to physical phenomena like magnetic fields.

This issue of UFO PRESS, identified as NUMERO 7 and dated 1975, delves into a statistical analysis of Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) sightings, primarily focusing on data from Spain. The magazine explores temporal patterns, potential correlations with environmental factors, and the reliability of witness testimonies. It also presents detailed accounts of specific UFO encounters.

Statistical Analysis of UFO Sightings in Spain (1975)

The issue begins with a detailed statistical breakdown of 195 UFO sightings in Spain during 1975. Figure I presents the hourly distribution of these cases, showing peaks at specific times of the day. Figure II illustrates the monthly frequency, indicating a tendency for a higher accumulation of reports in the second half of the year, a pattern that appears to repeat consistently. The article notes a significant parallelism between the monthly distribution of UFO sightings and curves related to atmospheric clarity and meteor showers, suggesting a potential correlation.

Further statistical analysis, presented in Figure III (weekly frequency) and Figure IV (comparison of OVNI observations, atmospheric clarity, and meteor showers), reinforces these observations. The authors discuss the potential significance of these correlations, acknowledging that while logical, they require further investigation. They also touch upon the 1950-1960 decade, where sightings seemed correlated with Mars oppositions, a pattern that later altered, leading to speculation about random occurrences versus planned actions by foreign intelligences.

The study examines the weekly distribution of sightings, noting that while some researchers believe Wednesday is a significant day, the authors disagree, attributing it to sociological factors rather than the phenomenon itself. They argue that the human calendar is arbitrary and does not align with natural or cosmic cycles. The article highlights the 'Hourly Law' ('Ley Horaria') proposed by Dr. Jacques Vallée, suggesting that UFO phenomena exhibit a statistically non-random pattern consistent with this law, which is described as a Poisson distribution dependent on multiple random variables.

Geographical and Geological Correlations

Figure V displays the distribution of 154 UFO sightings by province in Spain. Initially, the geographical distribution appears random. However, when analyzed chronologically, a potential penetration and exit direction along the NE-SW diagonal of the Iberian Peninsula is suggested. Type-1 sightings (landings) seem to accumulate in the SW (exit) direction, while other types are more prevalent in the NE (penetration) direction.

The issue also investigates the correlation between UFO sightings and population density, referencing Dr. Vallée's tendency laws. It posits that Type-1 sightings correlate directly with population density, whereas other types correlate inversely. A table lists the 154 cases by province, with Huelva reporting the highest number of sightings (18).

Geological correlations are also explored, with 154 cases categorized by geological terrain: 53 cases (34%) in fault lines, 99 cases (71%) in anticlines, and 69 cases (50%) in synclines. While the high percentage in anticlines might seem significant, the authors caution that these figures are proportional to the geological distribution of the peninsula, and only the 34% in fault lines might be a small indication, though not definitively proven.

The authors express skepticism about correlations between UFO phenomena and other events like magnetic anomalies, thermal springs, or earthquakes, suggesting that the lack of correlation in 1975 in the Iberian Peninsula might simply mean these events did not occur concurrently.

Sociological Aspects of Sightings

Focusing on the sociology of sightings in Spain in 1975, the study finds that at least two witnesses are present in two-thirds of the cases, increasing the perceived reliability. In over half the cases, more than two witnesses are reported. The identity of witnesses is known in three-quarters of the cases, and more than half of these witnesses were adults between 21 and 59 years old. All social and professional categories are represented among the witnesses, with approximately 9% being highly qualified intellectually and professionally.

The article concludes these statistical notes with the hope that they will be useful to those dedicated to understanding what is termed the "greatest mystery of our century."

Specific Case Studies

The Wheeler Incident of February 1954

Translated from Swedish, this section details an encounter by Mr. Wheeler, a mechanical engineer, on a foggy night in California. He observed a voluminous, grayish object, appearing as two 8-meter diameter plates joined together, hovering on a roadside. The object had a hatch approximately 90 cm high with 20 cm high markings. It emitted no light or sound, had a perfectly smooth surface, and no visible seams. The vehicle's motor and headlights were affected. The object then ascended, causing pebbles to roll down the slope, and disappeared.

The Wheeler Incident of August 1956

In August 1956, in San Luis, Arizona, Wheeler was working when he perceived an object at an altitude of about 700 meters. Initially thought to be a bomber, the craft changed direction and exhibited unusual behavior. Wheeler observed a disc-shaped object emitting smoke and descending. He noted it resembled the coil of a large electric motor, with orange-colored tubes. The object appeared almost transparent. After hovering, it ascended rapidly. Subsequently, a second, similar orange-colored craft appeared, and both ascended together and disappeared.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the statistical analysis of UFO sightings, the search for patterns and correlations (temporal, geographical, geological, and sociological), and the assessment of witness reliability. The magazine adopts a rigorous, data-driven approach, employing statistical methods to analyze a significant number of cases. While acknowledging potential correlations, the editorial stance appears cautious, emphasizing that many observed patterns are not definitively proven and require further, more extensive studies. The issue highlights the complexity of UFO research and the ongoing effort to understand this phenomenon as a potentially real, albeit unknown, occurrence.

This issue of UFO PRESS, identified as STENDEK № 19, focuses on "La clasificación OVNI del dr. J. Allen Hynek" (The Classification of UFOs by Dr. J. Allen Hynek). The publication is from SIU and features content in Spanish.

Dr. J. Allen Hynek's UFO Classification System

The main article details Dr. J. Allen Hynek's new system for classifying UFO phenomena, as presented in his book "The UFO Experience," recently translated into French as "Les Objets Volants Non Identifiés: mythe ou réalité?". Hynek, director of the Astronomical Research Center at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, has studied UFOs for over 20 years, including his involvement with the U.S. Air Force's Project "Blue Book". He is presented as a credible, non-sensationalist authority on the subject.

Hynek's motivation for developing a new classification is to identify cases that represent genuinely new phenomena requiring novel explanations. His system is based on the distance between the witness and the UFO, a departure from Dr. Vallée's classification which focused on the distance to the Earth's surface.

Hynek's classification is divided into two main categories:

Distance Observations

• This category includes:
• Luces Nocturnas (LN) / Night Lights: The most frequently reported cases, often explained as meteors, airplanes, planets, stars, or projectors. However, cases reported by multiple credible witnesses describing inexplicable behavior, appearance, or trajectory are considered.
• Discos Diurnos (DD) / Day Discs: Observations of disk-shaped or ovoid objects in daylight. These are less frequent than Night Lights but yield a slightly higher percentage of interesting cases upon critical examination.
• Radar Opticos (RO) / Radar Optics: Incidents where a radar capture coincides with a direct visual observation of the object. The article notes that a lack of follow-up investigations and the "Theorem of Project Blue Book" (which assumes existing explanations are sufficient) limit the data in this category.

Close Observations

• This category is further subdivided into:
• Encuentros Cercanos de primer Tipo (EC1) / Close Encounters of the First Kind: Cases where there is no reported interaction between the UFO and its environment or the observer.
• Encuentros Cercanos de Segundo Tipo (EC2) / Close Encounters of the Second Kind: Cases where the UFO leaves evidence of its passage, such as ground or vegetation marks, effects on animals (burns), or effects on humans (paralysis, wounds, death). The significance lies in the occurrence of these effects rather than their possibility.
• Encuentros Cercanos de Tercer Tipo (EC3) / Close Encounters of the Third Kind: Defined by the presence of moving beings, such as occupants, humanoids, or ufologists, whose appearance and behavior vary.

Evaluation of Cases

Dr. Hynek proposes two evaluative indices for UFO observations: the Index of Strangeness (IE) and the Index of Probability. The Index of Strangeness measures the uniqueness of a case; the more details that defy common sense, the higher the IE. Consequently, EC2 and EC3 cases would have a high IE, while LN and DD would have a low IE.

The Index of Probability relates to factors confirming the witness's account. These include the internal harmony of the statement, consistency among multiple descriptions of the same event, the witness's conviction, and subjective estimations by the interviewer. The article acknowledges the difficulty in obtaining objective data like lie detector tests, psychological tests, or medical opinions, suggesting reliance on the maximum available data from the witness's testimony.

Physiological Effects and Independent Corroboration

The issue includes an account of a witness named Wheeler who experienced significant physiological effects after encountering two UFOs. These effects included a strange cold air current, burning eyes, blurred vision, vomiting, and a three-year bout of diarrhea, with unexplained red marks on his abdomen. California's best doctors could neither fully cure him nor explain the marks.

In a separate section, it is mentioned that when Stanton Friedman showed Betty Hill the symbols Wheeler had described, she immediately identified them as signs she had seen on the logbook of the UFO on which she was taken.

Hypotheses and Notes

A hypothesis is presented to explain the smoke emitted by a UFO following a bomber: the bomber may have jettisoned some fuel, and the following UFO was inadvertently sprayed with it.

Several notes clarify specific points:
1. Clarifies that the upper and lower parts of the objects, compared to two plates by Wheeler, did not present an acute angle.
2. Locates San Luis approximately 20 km south-southwest of Yuma.
3. Discusses the ambiguity in interpreting whether a blue light was seen through orange tubes or surrounding them, favoring the latter as more plausible.

Contributions

The final section provides guidelines for submitting future contributions to UFO PRESS. Articles should exclusively address UFO topics within scientific evaluation categories such as casuistry, theory, and investigative practice. Casuistry articles must be based on personal investigations. Submissions should be typewritten, double-spaced, and accompanied by illustrative materials like photographs, drawings, or diagrams. Authors must provide a signed authorization for publication. The SIU reserves the right to publish contributions even if they meet the specified requirements.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the scientific approach to understanding UFO phenomena, exemplified by Dr. J. Allen Hynek's systematic classification. The editorial stance favors rigorous investigation, objective analysis, and the identification of genuinely anomalous cases, while acknowledging the challenges in data collection and verification. The publication encourages contributions based on personal research and adheres to a structured format for analysis and presentation.