UFO PRESS - No 13 - (Octubre 1979)

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO PRESS
Issue: Number 13, Year IV
Date: October 1979
Publisher: SERVICIO DE INVESTIGACIONES UFOLOGICAS
Country: Argentina
Language: Spanish

Editorial: The Nature of Scientific Investigation

The editorial, titled "EDITORIAL," expresses a strong critique of individuals who present themselves as "scientific UFO investigators." The Director argues that true scientific work is done in silence and humility, citing Dr. Luis Federico Leloir as an example of a scientist who achieved great things despite precarious economic conditions. In contrast, the editorial criticizes those who seek public attention through audiovisual presentations, conferences, and media appearances, suggesting their primary motivation is financial gain or ego gratification rather than genuine scientific inquiry. These individuals, referred to as "scientific ovnilogos," are accused of using self-praise and public applause to mask their shortcomings or psychological issues. A true scientist is defined as technically qualified and adhering to the scientific method, not as a failed actor or an ignorant person self-assigning titles. The editorial laments that the UFO phenomenon has been dominated by these individuals, who have cast a shadow of discredit over the field, hindering objective scientific interest. The author calls for a collective effort to eliminate this stigma and encourage serious investigation.

The editorial also touches upon the need for a responsible attitude to clarify the reality of the UFO phenomenon for both the scientific community and the public. It states that the organization's objective for 1980 will be to identify and address those who, consciously or unconsciously, contribute to the chaos and confusion surrounding UFOs. Paradoxically, the "scientists" previously mentioned are described as becoming defensive and offensive, using various tactics to counter justified criticism and accusing the organization of "sectarianism." This leads to the concluding cautionary phrase: "Distrust those who wear sheep's clothing, for inside they are ferocious wolves..."

Table of Contents (Sumario)

This issue of UFO PRESS includes:

• OVNI: ENTRE EL MITO Y LA RELIGION (UFO: Between Myth and Religion) by Emilio Francisco Caldevilla
• AVISTAJE EN MENDOZA (Sighting in Mendoza) by the C.I.C.E. Group (Las Heras - Mendoza)
• LOS UFOLOGOS (The Ufologists) by Miguel Peyro García
• AVISTAJE EN BASE NAVAL PUERTO BELGRANO (Sighting at Naval Base Puerto Belgrano) by C.D.P.
• EL INCIDENTE DE MANSFIELD: NUEVAS APORTACIONES (The Mansfield Incident: New Contributions) by Jennie Zeidman
• LA DISTRIBUCION TEMPORAL DE LOS AVISTAJES DE OVNI (The Temporal Distribution of UFO Sightings) by José-Tomás Ramírez y Barberó
• EXTRAÑO FENOMENO MARINO EN GOLFO SAN JORGE (Strange Marine Phenomenon in Gulf of San Jorge) by Guillermo Carlos Roncoroni

Additionally, the issue includes bibliographic commentaries and supplements: "BOLSA DE PEDIDOS" (Order Bag) and "RESUMEN DE INCIDENTES OVNI EN ISLA DECEPCION PERIODO JUNIO-JULIO DE 1965" (Summary of UFO Incidents on Deception Island, June-July 1965).

Article: OVNI: ENTRE EL MITO Y LA RELIGION (UFO: Between Myth and Religion)

Emilio Francisco Caldevilla's article respects the extraterrestrial hypothesis (HET) as a working hypothesis but aims to address the fantastical environment and misinterpretations that have surrounded the UFO phenomenon. The author criticizes "pseudo-investigative" tendencies that hinder serious and objective study, diverting time, money, and intellectual effort into "useless divagations." The article notes that many serious researchers are bothered by the speculation from merchants and charlatans, and by the public perception that UFOs are products of mental illness or a means of financial gain. The core of the article explores how the lack of scientific understanding has led to the phenomenon being shrouded in myth, which has, in many cases, evolved into a form of religion. Myths are described as convictions based on minimal evidence, born from a moment of ignorance where unexplained phenomena are attributed to supernatural beings or forces. The article draws a parallel between ancient Greek mythology and the UFO phenomenon, suggesting that just as the Greeks relocated Olympus to a more inaccessible place when their gods weren't found, people tend to preserve illusions by placing them in remote or unattainable realms. The author acknowledges the enduring influence of Greek mythology on arts and literature.

The article further discusses the HET, noting that while it has many adherents, it doesn't fully explain the phenomenon. It suggests the HET's popularity stems from its seductive nature in the space age and its ability to explain certain aspects. However, the author points out that all theories presented so far have failed to adequately interpret the phenomenon's behavior. The article traces the history of UFO investigation, mentioning Kenneth Arnold's sighting and the early association with spiritualism and the term "flying saucers," which, along with George Adamski's claims, initially undermined the phenomenon's credibility. This led to ridicule and a departure of serious researchers, with others exploiting the enigma for personal gain. The article critiques the rise of "contactees" and "hallucinated" individuals who claimed direct communication with extraterrestrials, and the subsequent formation of organizations promoting the HET, often using new acronyms like VED. This has created a state of confusion that requires psychological and sociological study.

Article: LA OPINION PUBLICA Y EL PROBLEMA DE LOS OVNI (Public Opinion and the UFO Problem)

This section examines public perception of UFOs, using public opinion as a measure of the phenomenon's significance. It references a December 1973 survey conducted by CEFAI in Buenos Aires among university graduates. The survey asked about the nature of UFOs, with the following results: 62% believed they were extraterrestrial spacecraft, 15% abstained from judgment, 13% considered them illusory, 6% thought they were natural phenomena, and 4% believed they were secret weapons. The author suggests that these responses are based on personal conviction, intellectual formation, and media influence, noting the surprising result that a culturally capable segment of the population equated UFOs with popular beliefs about their origin.

Article: EL PAPEL DE LA LITERATURA ESPECIALIZADA (The Role of Specialized Literature)

This part of the magazine discusses the literature surrounding UFOs. While some data may be scientifically analyzed, much of the specialized literature, particularly books, focuses on compilation or simple copying of spectacular incidents rather than in-depth study. Scientifically rigorous works are often deemed "boring" and not commercially viable, leading to rejection by publishers. Other authors link UFOs to ancient mysteries and imagination, achieving commercial success but contributing little to understanding the phenomenon. The article emphasizes that contemporary manifestations of UFOs are key to their elucidation. Specialized bibliographies and publications play a crucial role in shaping the amateur's (or layman's) understanding, serving as the primary accessible source of information. However, this role is often not fulfilled adequately. A quote from "Les dossier des Civilisations Extraterrestres" by Francois Biraud and Jean Claude Ribes is presented, warning that specialized UFO literature ranges from well-intentioned but unscientific communication to outright lies, urging readers to use critical thinking to avoid being deceived by fantasies that can lead to intellectual anesthesia.

The article notes that while this critique might seem harsh, there are exceptions, such as works by researchers like Hynek, Vallée, and Ballester Olmos. However, these works often receive less attention from the general public, who are more drawn to "inquieting and hallucinatory stories of 'little green men.'" Other authors are described as producing massive amounts of information, but their subjective opinions are presented as fact. The article concludes that anyone consulting specialized literature should possess strong critical judgment to avoid being influenced by preconceived ideas and adopting erroneous positions on the UFO phenomenon.

Article: LA LITERATURA RELIGIOSA (Religious Literature)

This section addresses the issue of objectivity in UFO information dissemination and the limited diffusion of scientific studies. It focuses on a specific aspect: how the UFO phenomenon has become intertwined with individuals who exploit public credulity or have psychiatric disorders. These individuals produce various materials (books, publications, bulletins) that are generally accessible. The article criticizes "cosmic or extraterrestrial brotherhoods" for aiming to discredit the phenomenon through their publications, acting as mystical sects rather than research centers. Their claims are often dismissed as nonsensical, but they gain followers among those with similar mental disorders, contributing to the perception that the phenomenon and its study are "for crazy people." The literature categorized as "religious" includes autobiographies, interplanetary travel accounts, prophecies, and expositions on messages, forming a "true Babel." These accounts are not verifiable and depend on the author's conviction and the reader's "faith" and "illumination." The article quotes passages that describe extraterrestrials observing humanity with horror due to our "savagery" and anticipating their arrival to bring culture and peace, and another that suggests the year 2000 will see a significant event. The author implies that such narratives, while appealing to a sense of wonder, can be considered "aberrant."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO PRESS consistently emphasizes the need for rigorous, objective scientific investigation into the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance is critical of sensationalism, self-promotion, and unsubstantiated claims, particularly those that promote the extraterrestrial hypothesis without sufficient evidence or critical analysis. The magazine advocates for a clear distinction between genuine scientific inquiry and speculative or pseudoscientific approaches. There is a strong concern about the public's perception of UFOs being distorted by myth, religion, and commercial interests, which hinders serious study. The publication aims to provide a platform for more grounded research and to educate its readers on how to critically evaluate UFO-related information, warning against the influence of "religious" or fantastical literature that can lead to erroneous conclusions.

This issue of UFO PRESS, identified as issue number 11, delves into the complex relationship between the UFO phenomenon, myth, and religion. It explores how the idea of extraterrestrial origins for UFOs has evolved into a new form of belief system, often referred to as the 'extraterrestrial religion.' The magazine features articles that analyze this phenomenon, discuss witness testimonies, and critique the field of ufology.

The Extraterrestrial Religion and Myth

The article "LOS SACERDOTES, EL MITO, LA RELIGION Y... ETCETERA" posits that the theory of extraterrestrial origin for UFOs has created something akin to a myth that has transformed into a new religion for many. This 'extraterrestrial religion' is characterized by organized groups and sects that profess a 'religious faith' in the extraterrestrial origin of UFOs. Members often focus on who has had the most 'contacts' or received the most 'astral messages,' speaking of the 'infinite goodness of the brothers of the cosmos.' The authors express concern that media sensationalism gives undue importance to 'contactees' and charlatans, thereby strengthening these beliefs in popular culture. They question why such arguments are not refuted, suggesting that indifference only serves the opposing side.

The text draws a parallel between this new religion and traditional ones, identifying elements such as 'dogmas of faith' (extraterrestrial ships), 'sacred scriptures' (books about flying saucers), 'priests' (writers of these books), 'martyrs' (those who died studying the subject), 'miracles' (technological feats by extraterrestrials), and 'icons' (inexplicable ancient structures like Baalbeck and the Easter Island Moai). The fundamental 'dogma' of this new religion is the 'HET' (Hypothesis Extraterrestre), which is described as a magical hypothesis that explains everything 'per se.'

A news item highlights the dissolution of a religious congregation in Chile called 'Paz y Amor,' whose postulates were allegedly dictated by UFO occupants. The 'archbishop' of this group, Opazo, claimed to have regular contact with UFOs, which he described as perfect ships from advanced planets.

UFO Sightings and Investigations

This issue includes detailed reports of UFO sightings. One report, "AVISTAJE EN MENDOZA," details an incident on July 24, 1978, in Guaymallén, Argentina. Carlos William Brandi, a 19-year-old, and his taxi driver, Adolfo Modesto Nievas, witnessed a luminous object. The object, described as having the shape of a mushroom hat and being about 50 meters in diameter, displayed unusual characteristics. It hovered at an altitude of approximately 20 meters, caused the taxi's engine to stop, and extinguished all lights in the vicinity. The object then ascended rapidly and disappeared. The incident left both witnesses deeply affected, with Nievas suffering a nervous breakdown and Brandi experiencing a severe physical reaction.

Another detailed account, "AVISTAJE EN BASE NAVAL PUERTO BELGRANO," by C.D.P., describes a sighting on May 29, 1978, by Marcelo Perez, a 17-year-old student. The object, observed at a distance of about 20 meters, was dark and brilliant silver, with two white-blue lights. It exhibited rapid movements, stopped suddenly, and then moved with speeds estimated between 30 and 50 km/h. It performed a maneuver involving oscillation and an ascending arc before disappearing at high speed. The witness reported no electromagnetic effects.

The World of Ufologists

Miguel Peyró García's article, "LOS UFOLOGOS," analyzes the landscape of ufology and the individuals involved. He notes that the aspiration of many ufologists is to present a positive view of the UFO problem to the public. The field, which began as a state commission, has become a more specialized and sometimes commercialized area, with numerous private companies and professionals entering the scene. Peyró García categorizes ufologists into three main groups:

1. Disseminators: Professionals who aim to make a living from their UFO-related activities, often through sensationalist books and public talks, resembling 'showmen' more than researchers.
2. 'Scientific' Individuals: Those who attempt to apply a scientific approach, often focusing on case studies and frequently adhering to the extraterrestrial hypothesis. North American ufologists in this group often criticize the alleged 'law of silence' by the US government regarding UFOs.
3. The Hope: A group seen as the true hope for UFO studies, often comprising individuals who previously worked in 'scientific' fields and have adopted a more intuitive and free approach, sometimes exploring disciplines not traditionally connected with ufology.

The author criticizes the commercialization and exploitation of the UFO phenomenon, where personal ambitions, fame, and ego satisfaction often overshadow genuine research. He points out the tendency for ufologists to engage in self-promotion, creating detailed 'curriculum vitae' of their work and publications.

However, Peyró García acknowledges the existence of true ufologists who work discreetly, analyzing and studying the available material. He contrasts them with the more self-serving 'ufólogos' who may exploit these genuine researchers.

Future Publications and Editorial Notes

The magazine announces its next issue will include articles on astronomical correlations, a sighting in Córdoba, standards for evaluating UFO reports, and a landing incident in Mendoza. It also mentions regular sections like bibliographic comments and a 'Bolsa de Pedidos' (Order Section).

The publication "OVNIS: SI PERO..." by Miguel Peyró García, part of the 'SI ESTAN' Collection from Editorial 7 1/2 S.A., is advertised for 500 pesetas.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of UFO phenomena with religion and mythology, the psychological and sociological aspects of belief systems surrounding UFOs, and the analysis of the ufology field itself. The editorial stance appears critical of sensationalism and self-promotion within ufology, while acknowledging the genuine interest and the potential for serious research. There is a clear emphasis on the transformation of the UFO phenomenon into a quasi-religious belief system and the need for rigorous investigation rather than mere speculation or commercial exploitation.

Title: UFO PRESS
Issue: 21
Volume: 6
Date: August 1977

This issue of UFO PRESS features a detailed investigation into the Mansfield, Ohio UFO incident of October 18, 1973, alongside articles on UFO calculation methods and temporal distribution of sightings.

CALCULO DEL DIAMETRO DEL OVNI (Calculation of the UFO's Diameter)

This section provides a step-by-step method for calculating the diameter of a UFO based on witness testimony and geometric principles. It begins with a witness report of an apparent diameter of approximately 60 cm (the distance between outstretched palms). Using a defined value 'a' of 60 cm and a distance 'b' from the observer's eye to the imaginary line connecting the fingertips of 70 cm, the distance 'D' from the observer to the UFO is calculated using the Pythagorean theorem, resulting in 28.3 meters. The UFO's diameter 'A' is then determined through the relationship of ratios between height and base in similar triangles, yielding a result of 24.3 meters.

INDICE DE EXTRAÑEZA (Strangeness Index)

This brief note indicates that a strangeness index value of 6 was adopted, based on a table published in the August 1977 edition of UFO PRESS.

PLANO DE LA BASE NAVAL PUERTO BELGRANO (Map of Puerto Belgrano Naval Base)

This section includes a detailed map of the Puerto Belgrano Naval Base, likely providing geographical context for potential sightings or investigations in the region.

FORMA DEL OBJETO VOLADOR NO IDENTIFICADO (Shape of the Unidentified Flying Object)

This section presents a drawing of an unidentified flying object, described as having a specific shape. It is followed by a discussion on the 'INDICE DE CONFIABILIDAD' (Reliability Index).

INDICE DE CONFIABILIDAD (Reliability Index)

This subsection outlines the adoption of specific values (n=1, p=3, e=3, f=4) to calculate a reliability index, resulting in a value of C=1.68. A diagram titled 'DIAGRAMA DE EXTRAÑEZA - CONFIABILIDAD' (Strangeness - Reliability Diagram) illustrates the relationship between strangeness (E) and reliability (C), showing observed (Vo) and ideal (Vi) values for a vector V (importance coefficient). The ideal value (Vi) is 10.3, while the observed value (Vo) is 6.2, resulting in a percentage relationship of 100 to 60.2.

EL INCIDENTE DE MANSFIELD: NUEVAS APORTACIONES (The Mansfield Incident: New Contributions)

This is the main article of the issue, authored by Jennie Zeidman, which revisits the controversial Mansfield, Ohio UFO incident of October 18, 1973. The incident involved a helicopter crew (Major Lawrence J. Coyne, pilot; Lt. Arrigo Jezzi, co-pilot; Sgt. John Healey; and Robert Yanacsek) who reported an encounter with a metallic, cigar-shaped object.

Background and Initial Controversy

The article notes that five years after the event, controversy persisted. The helicopter crew had won a $5000 prize from the National Enquirer for the 'most scientifically valuable report of 1973.' However, Philip Klass, director of Aviation Week & Space Technology, publicly dismissed the case, suggesting it was a fireball or bolide from the Orion meteor shower and that the crew should return the prize money. Klass, known for his skepticism, claimed his 'rigorous investigation' led him to this conclusion.

Dr. J. Allen Hynek's Involvement

Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a renowned astronomer and former consultant for the Air Force's Project Bluebook, became involved. After meeting with the crew and FAA officials in January 1974, Hynek was convinced the object was not a meteorite. He asked Jennie Zeidman (his technical assistant on Project Bluebook) to re-examine the case.

Zeidman's Investigation

Zeidman conducted extensive interviews with the helicopter crew and their families, reconstructing the event through recorded conversations and on-site discussions. She also consulted astronomical literature and experts. Her investigation aimed to provide a detailed, second-by-second analysis, which she felt was lacking in Klass's assessment.

Refuting the Meteorite Theory

Zeidman's research strongly contradicted Klass's meteorite theory. She highlighted that meteorites typically last only seconds, not the minutes reported in the Mansfield case. Furthermore, Klass had not interviewed all witnesses and appeared to lack basic astronomical knowledge.

The Encounter Details

The article details the encounter from the helicopter crew's perspective. They initially observed a solitary red light moving south, which became brighter and appeared to be following them. Despite attempts to contact air traffic control, they received no response. The object then appeared directly in front of the helicopter, described as dark, oval, or cigar-shaped, with a slight dome. It had a red nose light, a white light at the rear, and a brilliant green light underneath. A green beam of light emanated from the object, penetrating the helicopter's cockpit and illuminating the interior.

Anomalous Helicopter Behavior

During the encounter, the helicopter experienced anomalous behavior. Despite the pilot's control inputs, the aircraft ascended rapidly (1000 feet per minute) and its magnetic compass spun erratically. The object eventually moved away, and the helicopter stabilized.

Ground Witness Testimony

In addition to the helicopter crew, the article presents testimony from the C. family (Mrs. C., Charles, Camille, Curt, and Karen), who observed a similar event from the ground. They reported seeing two sets of lights, one uniform red and the other flashing, which merged. The larger, green object illuminated their car and the surrounding area. Their account corroborated the presence of an unusual aerial object.

Conclusion on the Mansfield Incident

Zeidman concludes that the evidence strongly indicates the object was neither a meteorite nor a conventional aircraft. She suggests the C. family's testimony likely confirms the encounter. The article criticizes Klass's continued adherence to the meteorite theory despite contradictory evidence, framing him as an adversary of UFO research.

LA DISTRIBUCION TEMPORAL DE LOS AVISTAJES DE OVNI (The Temporal Distribution of UFO Sightings)

Authored by José-Tomás Ramírez y Barberó, this article examines the historical trends and patterns in UFO sightings. It discusses the work of early investigators like Oscar Rey Brea, Aimé Michel, and Eduardo Buelta, who attempted to correlate UFO sightings with astronomical phenomena, particularly cyclical patterns related to planetary positions.

Early Theories and Cycles

The article highlights the hypothesis that UFOs appear in 'waves' or 'oleadas,' with cycles of approximately 26 months. Rey Brea predicted waves in 1952 and 1954. Later, it was suggested that the volume of UFO observations was inversely proportional to the distance of planets in opposition. This theory of biennial cycles was considered valid for the 1950-1960 decade.

Evolution of Theories

However, the article notes that since 1960, these cyclical patterns have been significantly altered, making them less reliable for predicting UFO activity. It mentions other notable figures in UFO research such as Vallée, Saunders, Ribera, and Ballester Olmos, acknowledging their contributions to the rational study of the phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a stance that encourages rigorous investigation into UFO phenomena, presenting detailed case studies and analyses. It contrasts skeptical viewpoints, such as Philip Klass's, with the findings of researchers like J. Allen Hynek, who advocate for a more open-minded approach to unexplained aerial phenomena. The publication seems to favor detailed witness accounts, scientific analysis, and the exploration of potential explanations beyond conventional ones, while also acknowledging the limitations and evolution of UFO research theories over time.

This issue of Boletín Ufológico, published by C.E.I. and dated August 1978, focuses on the statistical analysis of UFO phenomena and presents a detailed report of a marine UFO sighting. The publication is in Spanish and originates from Spain.

Statistical Analysis of UFO Phenomena

The issue begins by discussing the evolution of ufological concepts, moving from early speculative ideas to more rigorous methodologies. It highlights the work of Dr. David R. Saunders, who proposed three different modalities for UFO 'waves' based on their temporal distribution. Saunders' 'negative posture' hypothesis, which suggested a constant underlying activity with fluctuations, is explored.

Miguel Guasp, a ufologist from the Valencian school, is credited with an essay that attempts to reconcile the 'wave' hypothesis with constant activity. Guasp suggests that a baseline level of activity always exists, but it experiences fluctuations, leading to apparent 'waves' due to better observation or increased reporting. He posits that these 'waves' are not necessarily the primary driver of the phenomenon but rather a result of extrinsic factors.

Oscar Rey Brea's statistical investigation from 1948-1976 is presented, coinciding with Eduardo Buelta's diagrams. These diagrams illustrate the cyclical nature of UFO activity, particularly in relation to Mars oppositions, suggesting a biennial periodicity.

Dr. J. Allen Hynek's view that UFO reports are numerous enough to warrant evaluation is mentioned. The article also references research by Ares de Blas, G. López, and Salaverría, who concluded that after removing extrinsic factors, the UFO phenomenon's distribution over time is practically flat, with only minor, unexplained irregularities.

Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos is presented as an advocate for the 'wave' hypothesis, viewing it as a fundamental characteristic of UFOs. Conversely, Francesco Izzo, director of UPIAR, offers a perspective that aligns more with the idea of a constant, underlying activity.

The authors of the article propose their own viewpoint: that the UFO phenomenon is becoming increasingly CONSTANT over time, represented by a horizontal line (y=k). This 'MEASURE OF REAL UFO ACTIVITY' suggests that apparent waves are primarily caused by extrinsic factors, such as reporting biases, rather than intrinsic to the phenomenon itself. The article distinguishes between tabulated and non-tabulated UFO activity, suggesting that the latter, though less visible, is more representative of the real phenomenon.

Strange Marine Phenomenon in Golfo San Jorge

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed account of an unusual marine event that occurred in Caleta Olivia, Golfo San Jorge, Argentina, in July 1975. The incident was witnessed by four individuals (identified as A, B, C, and D) who were out on a fishing trip.

Around 1:30 AM on July 16th, one of the witnesses spotted a luminous form submerged about 100 meters northeast of the pier. The object, described as greenish-yellow, appeared to be a few meters below the surface. Initially static, it began to move slowly southward along the coast. Witnesses estimated its length at about 10 meters and its width at 3-4 meters, with a tapering, ahusada shape. The object moved without disturbing the water's surface and eventually disappeared into the distance after about twenty minutes.

Following the sighting, the fishing activity ceased, and the witnesses noted a drastic decrease in fish biting. In the days that followed (July 16th-19th), residents of Caleta Olivia observed a large number of dead fish and seabirds along the coast. Initial theories involving an oil spill were dismissed by Yacimientos Petrolíferos Fiscales. Furthermore, fishing boats had to venture much further out into the Golfo San Jorge to find fish, indicating a significant depletion in the coastal areas.

The witnesses, proprietors of a hotel and a home goods store in Caleta Olivia, were interviewed separately and appeared credible. The report notes that other residents of Caleta Olivia were unaware of the specific sighting, though they confirmed the widespread presence of dead marine life.

Other Sightings in the Area

The article touches upon the Golfo San Jorge region being considered by some as a site for an 'underwater extraterrestrial base.' However, the authors deem this sensationalist, preferring to characterize the area as one with recurrent marine phenomena closely related to UFO manifestations.

Historical sightings in the region are mentioned, including those by Vicente and Hugo Bordolf in 1953 and 1955, involving luminous objects disappearing into the water. In September 1964, luminous spheres were observed emerging from and submerging into the depths. Other incidents include an event involving Carlos Corosan in March 1966 near Puerto Deseado and sightings by Ernesto Romeo Suárez in June and July 1950.

Bibliographic Commentary

A section provides a bibliographic commentary on Pedro Romaniuk's book, 'Discos Voladores - La Tierra y El Hombre.' The review is critical, describing Romaniuk's views as pessimistic and pseudoprophetic, linking UFO presence to human apocalyptic visions and a supposed mutation in Argentina. The commentary disputes Romaniuk's assertion that the 1978 UFO wave was exclusive to Argentina and questions his socio-economic analysis. While acknowledging some research on the 'Bolivia crack' incident, the review finds Romaniuk's explanations ultimately unsatisfactory.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the statistical analysis of UFO sightings, the debate between 'wave' phenomena and constant activity, and the presentation of specific case studies, particularly the marine incident in Golfo San Jorge. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational, evidence-based approach to ufology, emphasizing investigation over belief. The authors advocate for studying the minimums of UFO activity rather than just the maximums and suggest that many apparent fluctuations are due to extrinsic factors. The publication also highlights the importance of rigorous research and the contributions of various international ufologists.

Title: UFO PRESS
Issue: Octubre - Diciembre '79
Publisher: SIU UFO PRESS
Country: Argentina
Language: Spanish
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of UFO PRESS, published by SIU UFO PRESS in Argentina, covers the period of October to December 1979. It features reviews of two significant books related to the unexplained and a detailed report on UFO sightings in Antarctica during June and July 1965.

Book Reviews

'El Sudario' by Robert K. Wilcox

The magazine reviews 'El Sudario' by Robert K. Wilcox, a book that, despite not being directly about UFOs, is highly recommended. Wilcox, a journalist specializing in religious topics, is praised for his objectivity and dedication. The book provides a comprehensive and updated overview of the investigations into the Shroud of Turin, including interviews with leading sindonologists and a wealth of investigative and photographic material. The review highlights its excellent presentation, easy readability, and rich illustrations, recommending it for those interested in the enigmas of civilization.

'OVNIS: SI PERO...' by Miguel Peyró García

Another book reviewed is 'OVNIS: SI PERO...' by Miguel Peyró García, a member of the Scientific Consultants Council of the C.E.I. in Barcelona. The review hails it as a groundbreaking work that culminates new paths in scientific UFO research, particularly those initiated by young European researchers in the 1970s. Peyró García is noted for his impeccable and often sarcastic style, navigating various aspects connected to the UFO phenomenon. The book challenges the extraterrestrial hypothesis (HET) multiple times. It delves deeply into the psychology of the phenomenon and the conclusions of other researchers. Peyró García's definition and classification of ufologists are described as 'anthological.' The book also addresses related topics like Marian apparitions and interprets phenomena like Men In Black and the 'moth-man' as ways the UFO phenomenon increases confusion among researchers. The review notes that Peyró García's conclusions, particularly in the fourth part, might be seen as extreme by some, but he views the multifaceted nature of the phenomenon as a distinct root. He posits that the UFO phenomenon exists and manifests itself, supported by the observation of its own manifestation, with its intentionality directed at the observer. The book argues that the phenomenon is globally absurd in its morphology, characteristics, and messages, offering its own explanation that aligns with the technical and cultural context of the times. The review concludes that Peyró García's work goes beyond the extraterrestrial explanation, suggesting the phenomenon is fundamentally psychic, rooted in the collective human consciousness and its socio-psychological unconscious, projected onto witnesses. The reviewer, Alejandro Chionetti, considers it a magnificent and anthological book, possibly the most important published in Spain in the last 20 years, and one that opens new paths in UFO research.

UFO Sightings in Antarctica (June - July 1965)

The issue details six UFO sightings that occurred in June and July 1965 in the Antarctic region, primarily around Isla Decepción and other bases.

AVISTAJE A (June 7, 1965)

At the Argentine naval detachment Decepción (ARA), a static, bright yellow light with defined edges, approximately 1.5 cm in apparent size, was observed for 5 seconds at a distance of 2000 meters. The sky was cloudy with drizzle, and no stars were visible.

AVISTAJE B (June 9, 1965)

Another sighting at the Argentine naval detachment Decepción (ARA) involved a static, bright yellow light with defined edges that disappeared instantaneously after 4 seconds. A low-intensity sound was perceived two seconds later. The sky was cloudy with drizzle.

AVISTAJE C (June 20, 1965)

At Base Pedro Aguirre Cerdá (Chile - FACH), a brilliant object, brighter than a star, was observed for 25 minutes. It turned orange and had defined edges, appearing solid. It performed several rapid zigzag evolutions, flashing and changing color. Its apparent size was that of an airplane at 10,000 feet. It disappeared behind a hill.

AVISTAJE D (July 2, 1965)

At Base "B" of the British Antarctic Survey, a red and green object with defined edges was observed for 15-20 minutes. It appeared static initially, then performed zigzag evolutions with successive accelerations and immobilizations. The object was observed through binoculars and its size was not appreciated. The sky was clear.

AVISTAJE E (July 3, 1965)

At Base Pedro Aguirre Cerdá (Chile - FACH), a white object with defined edges and a solid appearance moved at a constant speed in a rectilinear path, oscillating slightly, for 20 minutes. The sky was clear.

AVISTAJE F (July 3, 1965)

At the Argentine naval detachment Decepción (ARA), a circular (lenticular) object with blurry edges, a reddish center, and a halo of changing colors (yellow, orange, green, blue, white) was observed for 62 minutes. It evolved at low speed, stopping, oscillating, flashing, disappearing, and reappearing. It was observed through binoculars and a theodolite. Witnesses described it as "a Bunsen burner flame with the indicated colors and the shape of a rugby ball."

Collaborations

The magazine includes a section on 'Colaboraciones' (Collaborations), providing guidelines for submitting articles for publication in UFO PRESS. These guidelines specify that submissions should exclusively address the theme of the UFO phenomenon, be the result of investigative work, be typed double-spaced, and include photographs or diagrams. Authors must provide authorization for publication, and SIU UFO PRESS reserves the right to publish the submissions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical review of literature concerning the unexplained, particularly UFO phenomena, and the presentation of historical UFO sighting data. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous investigation and a willingness to explore unconventional interpretations, as seen in the positive review of Peyró García's psychological approach to UFOs, while also maintaining a critical eye towards sensationalism or unsubstantiated claims, as indicated by the initial critical commentary on a book not reviewed in detail.