UFO PRESS - No 14 - (Oct 1982)

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO PRESS
Issue: Number 14
Volume: V
Date: October 1982
Type: Quarterly Publication
Publisher: C.I.U.
Country: Argentina

Editorial: The Return of UFO PRESS

The editorial addresses the two-year hiatus in the publication of UFO PRESS, explaining the reasons behind the pause and the decision to resume. It recounts an earlier initiative in early 1981 to unify investigative and editorial efforts of several groups, leading to the publication of two issues of 'UFOLOGIA'. This venture aimed to weather economic difficulties and provide a more comprehensive publication. However, 'UFOLOGIA' did not receive a favorable reception from readers, who criticized its content and presentation. Consequently, the editorial team had to re-evaluate the situation and decided to revive UFO PRESS, initially planning to restart in the last quarter of 1981. Economic conditions, personal issues, and the South Atlantic conflict further delayed the publication of issue number 14.

The editorial reaffirms the magazine's commitment to serious and objective investigation of the UFO phenomenon, prioritizing scientific rigor over sensationalism. It acknowledges that the publication is the result of the marginal work of a small group of individuals and aims to maintain its quarterly periodicity, although this is recognized as a difficult goal. Distribution will initially be free to past subscribers, with a potential request for contributions later to support its financing.

Mysterious Luminous Phenomena in Neuquén

This article by Oscar Adolfo Uriondo details a series of UFO sightings that occurred in Argentina, particularly in the Neuquén province, during 1967 and 1968. The author notes that while 1968 saw a significant wave of UFO reports, a lesser-known 'micro-wave' occurred earlier in the year. These early sightings were primarily reported by members of the Gendarmería Nacional (National Gendarmerie) in the mountainous northwestern region of Neuquén.

Type I Sightings in Pichi Neuquén:

• December 28, 1967: A powerful white light was observed hovering over and then settling on a hill near the Pichi Neuquén Gendarmería post. Several Gendarmerie personnel witnessed the event.
• Following days: Similar luminous phenomena were observed in the same area, varying in color from intense red to white, appearing between 10:22 PM and 10:55 PM.
• January 23, 1968: Gendarmería personnel, including Commander Juan B. Farías, witnessed a luminous manifestation described as a powerful, large light with changing colors, stationary near El Funicular hill. The phenomenon disappeared when shots were fired into the air, reappearing briefly as a reddish light.
• Witness Testimony: Sergeant Major Ramos reported seeing similar glows on 15-20 occasions since December 1967, including a reddish ball of light moving at high speed and low altitude.

Sightings in Chos Malal:

• May 19, 1968: Sergeant Félix Alberto Fernández observed a potent light emerge from the northeast, moving west and increasing in apparent size, described as a circular object emitting a bright blue light and a luminous trail.
• July 17-18, 1968: Neighbors of Chos Malal reported three unidentified objects with a clear sky, described as luminous discs of reddish color, aligned horizontally and appearing to be half the size of a full moon.
• August 1968: A Gendarmería patrol reported an object with an ovoid shape and a mushroom-like top, emitting a reddish light, observed moving erratically over a hill.
• Probable Electromagnetic Effects:
• July 16, 1968: A Gendarmería commission near Los Menucos observed a luminous object crossing their path, moving slowly and descending vertically. During this sighting, the jeep's engine lost power.
• September 6, 1968: Gendarme Jesús P. Videla observed a large light on the Cerro de La Virgen, varying in color from red to orange and silver. During the two-hour observation, the object moved horizontally. Coincidentally, the intensity of the electric light in the guardhouse varied during the sighting.

The article notes that the news of some of these sightings was published in Argentine newspapers like 'LA VOZ DEL INTERIOR' and 'LA RAZON'. The author also expresses gratitude to Antonio N. Baragiola for providing these official reports.

Dr. J. Allen Hynek: The Man, The Scientist, The Ufologist

This article by Guillermo Carlos Roncoroni profiles Dr. J. Allen Hynek, describing him as the leading figure in scientific ufology. Hynek visited Argentina at the invitation of the FAECE group to participate in a congress in Mendoza. His presence attracted numerous ufological groups and researchers committed to a rational approach to the phenomenon.

The author highlights Hynek's human dimension, his superlative presentations that stood out amidst more mystical or extraterrestrial contact claims, and his unwavering stance as a man of science. Hynek's visit to Buenos Aires, sponsored by the magazine, allowed for intensive interaction and discussions. His objective was to establish contact with Argentine groups interested in a scientific approach to UFOs and to lay the groundwork for collaboration with the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS).

During his stay, Hynek met with officials from the National Commission for Space Investigations, including Captain Lima and Commodore Niotti, who were involved in investigating aerial phenomena. A meeting with Argentine ufologists was also organized, where Hynek shared insights into UFO manifestations in the US and the challenges faced by Argentine researchers. The discussion also covered methodological aspects and the need to counter the negative image projected by mystical groups and sensationalist researchers.

Key ideas and opinions shared by Hynek are presented:

• On UFOs: Hynek prefers to speak of 'UFO phenomena' rather than just 'UFOs'. He defines a UFO report as valid only when it involves credible individuals whose reports have been exhaustively analyzed without finding a plausible explanation.
• On the Nature of the Phenomenon: He suggests that UFOs might exhibit a dual nature, acting as both physical and non-physical entities, drawing a parallel to the dual nature of light (waves and particles).
• On the Reality of the Phenomenon: Hynek acknowledges the reality of the UFO phenomenon, referencing French ufologist Aimé Michel's description of it as 'the festival of the absurd,' but asserting that serious researchers have no doubt about its existence.

To Our Readers

This section encourages readers to send in news clippings, photocopies, or handwritten accounts of UFO sightings reported in provincial newspapers and publications. The magazine aims to maintain its archive and use these reports as a starting point for further investigation, benefiting both the archive and interested parties.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the return of UFO PRESS after a significant break, emphasizing its renewed commitment to scientific and objective ufological research. The editorial stance is clearly one of rational inquiry, distinguishing itself from mystical or sensationalist approaches to the UFO phenomenon. The issue highlights specific case studies from Argentina, particularly in Neuquén, and features a prominent figure in scientific ufology, Dr. J. Allen Hynek, reinforcing the magazine's dedication to serious investigation and evidence-based reporting.

This issue of Revista OVNI, dated December 12, 1980, focuses on 'The Reality of the UFO Phenomenon.' The cover features a headline and subheadings that introduce discussions on the paranormal and intriguing aspects of UFOs, alongside a photograph of three men, identified as Dr. Hynek and the author (left) and March (right).

The Paranormal Aspects in the OVNI Phenomenon

The article begins by quoting an expert who, after years of research, concludes that the UFO phenomenon is complex, involving physical aspects like ground traces, engine stoppages, burns, radar captures, and photographs, but also paranormal and psychological elements. The CUFOS (Center for UFO Studies) is mentioned as conducting scientific research into the physical aspects, but not shying away from the paranormal, such as materialization, dematerialization, shape-shifting, or fusion of UFOs. The author expresses a personal reluctance to discuss 'psychic' aspects due to public aversion but stresses the importance of studying these phenomena if evidence supports them.

The Most Intriguing Aspects of the OVNI Phenomenon

Three key aspects are highlighted for analysis: the phenomenon's speed, its perception by radar, and the short duration of its manifestations with few witnesses. Witnesses often report high speeds, but the phenomenon seems to go nowhere specific. Radar only detects UFOs at low altitudes, raising questions about their presence in the upper atmosphere. The brief duration and limited number of witnesses distinguish UFOs from conventional vehicles like airplanes.

Ufology as a Science

While not officially recognized as a science, ufology is presented as approaching scientific status. The discipline relies on sciences like astronomy, physics, medicine, and mathematics. The core task is to determine what is real and what is imagination, accepting that even seemingly absurd claims must be investigated.

The Importance of the Witness in OVNI Manifestations

For a long time, ufologists neglected the witness, who is the primary source of evidence. While physical evidence is sought, the witness's observation is paramount. The article notes that many witnesses have nothing to gain and may even lose by reporting sightings. It's estimated that 90% of observations are misidentifications of IFOs (Identified Flying Objects), often due to an unconscious desire to see other intelligences or a lack of critical judgment when observing conventional objects like planes or dirigibles. The witness is likened to a voltmeter, providing essential data.

The Role of Speculation in OVNI Research

UFO investigators need imagination alongside scientific knowledge. Speculation is vital, but researchers must avoid emotional biases and exclusive viewpoints. The advice is to think for oneself and not rush to adopt theories without thorough examination.

The Role of the Ufologist

Ufologists should have scientific training and approach their work methodically. Their focus should be on unraveling the phenomenon, not on convincing skeptics. Separating fact from fiction and understanding events as they occurred are primary tasks.

The Extraterrestrial Hypothesis

The extraterrestrial hypothesis is considered, but the vast distances involved make it practically unacceptable with current technology. The article poses the question of what technology would be required to bridge such distances, noting that it is currently unknown.

A Possible Guiding Intelligence for the OVNI Phenomenon?

If reports are true, an intelligence might be directing the phenomenon, but its nature (physical, disembodied, or computer-generated) remains an open research question.

Solving the OVNI Problem

It's possible that a solution to the OVNI problem may not be found with current scientific understanding, similar to how Lord Kelvin could not conceive of the Sun's age beyond 10 million years before nuclear energy was understood. However, this doesn't mean research should cease.

Hynek on the OVNI Phenomenon

J. Allen Hynek recounts his initial skepticism in 1948, believing UFO sightings were misinterpretations. However, the consistent flow of information from over 140 countries, showing striking similarities, convinced him that these reports contained a message. He felt the phenomenon was signaling a change in our current belief systems.

Hynek Seen by Hynek

The author describes Dr. Hynek as a vital, open, and sympathetic individual with a good sense of humor. As a scientist, he is meticulous and avoids rash statements. As a ufologist, he humbly admits his initial lack of attention to the subject while advising the US Air Force. Hynek is dedicated to establishing an international entity for UFO research and deserves support.

Groups of Investigation in the USA

NICAP, once a leading organization, is now a shadow of its former self, with only its archives remaining. MUFON is described as the best-organized group, with state representatives. CUFOS is a scientific research center focusing on difficult problems, collaborating with MUFON. Other smaller groups exist but have little impact.

The Future of Ufology

The future of ufology depends on involving scientifically trained individuals with recognition in their fields, such as lawyers, physicists, or economists. It's crucial to move away from untrained amateurs and establish international standards for scientific ethics and information. BUFORA took a step in this direction in 1979.

To Our Readers

The magazine requests readers to send in news clippings about UFO sightings from provincial newspapers and publications to update their archives. This information is crucial for initiating investigations into cases.

Globular Rays: Description of Some of Their Characteristics

This section, authored by Félix Ares de Blas, details the characteristics of globular rays, which are often confused with UFOs. The article draws from works by Aragó, M.E. Mathias, and Warren D. Rayle.

Introduction

The article aims to help UFO enthusiasts distinguish globular rays from actual UFOs by describing their characteristics. It notes that while many professionals have been consulted, vague and confusing answers have been received, leading the author to compile information himself.

Types of Rays

• First Class Rays: Narrow, precise light streaks, not always white, that serpentine rather than travel in straight lines.
• Second Class Rays: Light occupies immense spaces, less white and vivid than first-class rays, sometimes red, blue, or violet. They can illuminate cloud contours or emanate from within clouds.
• Third Class Rays: Visible for seconds to minutes, slow enough to be tracked by the eye. They appear as spheres or globes of fire, differing from the more fleeting first and second class rays.

Sources

The study is based on two fundamental works: "La foudre et sa forme globulaire. Exposé critique" by M.E. Mathias (1935) and "Ball Lightning Characteristics" by Dr. Warren D. Rayle (1966).

Other Recommended Readings

Readers interested in the topic are advised to read articles by Sebastián Robiou Lamarche on potential ambiguities with UFOs and Julián Majewki on changes in air near UFOs. The Library of Congress has published bibliographies on the subject.

Personal Note

The author credits his friend David G. López for introducing him to photocopies of a book that led to the development of his 'plasmoncito' theory.

Characteristics of Globular Rays

• Frequency of Observation: Contrary to the belief that ball lightning is rare, Dr. Warren's survey of 4,400 NASA employees suggests it is quite frequent. The frequency of ball lightning is estimated to be between 0.1 and 1 times that of ordinary lightning strikes. Rosary lightning is much rarer.
• Duration: The most frequent duration is 5-6 seconds, but reports exist of durations over 30 seconds. McNally reports an average of 4 seconds, while Stekol'nikov, Worobiow, and Mathias cite durations from fractions of a second to 20 minutes, based on earlier observations.
• Diameter: Average diameters reported include 14 inches (35.56 cm) by Rayle, 10 inches (25.4 cm) by McNally, and 10-12 cm by Stekolnikov. Mathias notes that 25% of cases are between 20-30 cm, with some reaching up to two meters in diameter.
• Main Forms: Rayle and McNally describe spherical or near-spherical shapes. Mathias notes that while the resting state is spherical, air resistance can cause ovalization, leading to shapes like spheres, ellipsoids, or eggs. Some globes have luminous or smoky appendages, or vaporous 'sails.' Professor Galli describes prismatic and flattened cosmic rays, while Stelkol'nikov mentions ball or pear shapes.
• Color: Rayle reports favorite colors as orange and yellow, often combined. McNally adds white, blue, and bluish-white. Earlier theories divided rays into pure (red, yellow, orange, white) and impure (blue, green, violet, etc.). Combinations of colors are common, with some reports of entirely black or dazzling white globes.
• Odor: Some rays have no odor. When present, witnesses describe smells similar to burnt sulfur (SO2) or burnt gunpowder (H2S).
• Movements: Maximum estimated speeds vary, with many below 35 km/h, 17% below 100 km/h. Minimum speeds are often below 8 km/h or 25 km/h. Movement is often horizontal, with some vertical movement. Some globes move against the wind. Rotation (spin) is reported. Some appear to follow cars and planes. They can stabilize at low altitudes, roll on the ground, or ascend from the ground. They can move erratically, change direction sharply, or move backward. Some emit a grave sound, compared to a buzzing insect.
• Brightness: 60% of respondents report brightness strong enough to be seen in daylight. 11% found them as bright as ordinary lightning, while others reported difficulty seeing them in daylight. Some are described as black, opaque, or having a dull glow within a cloud.
• Sound: Mathias notes that many disappear silently, while others explode violently with a sound similar to ordinary lightning. Some emit a grave sound.

Globular Rays in Water

The phenomenon is not limited to land; it occurs in seas and rivers. A case is described of a globular ray crossing a river, emerging on the opposite bank, and exploding in a wheat field. Other cases involve large ball rays emerging from the sea or descending from clouds to penetrate deep into the sea.

Excavator Globular Rays

These rays rotate rapidly, acting like a drill to excavate regular, circular holes in the ground. They can also create horizontal furrows.

Some Observations

Remarkable cases include rays breaking into others, 'sucking' on church roofs, passing through glass without breaking it, entering aircraft cockpits, and exploding violently. Mathias's book notes that marine globular rays could destroy ships, a fear that has since been realized. The article cites a Nature report from September 1976 detailing eight similar cases, including one where a luminous buoy traveled along a supertanker's bridge before disappearing, followed by the ship's explosion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific approach to the UFO phenomenon, encouraging rigorous investigation and the analysis of all available evidence, including witness testimony. It highlights the importance of distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misidentifications, with ball lightning being a key example of a natural phenomenon that can be mistaken for a UFO. The publication advocates for open-mindedness, critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge, even when dealing with complex or seemingly inexplicable events. There is a clear stance against sensationalism and a call for serious, evidence-based research, emphasizing the need for international cooperation and standardized methodologies in ufology.

Title: UFO PRESS
Issue: 21
Date: January 1978
Publisher: COMISION DE INVESTIGACIONES UFOLOGICAS
Country: Argentina
Language: Spanish

This issue of UFO PRESS delves into the phenomenon of ball lightning, proposing it as a potential explanation for certain unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs) and their associated ground traces.

Ball Lightning as a UFO Explanation

The lead article, authored by Felix Ares de Blas, explores the characteristics of ball lightning and its possible connection to UFO reports. Ares de Blas begins by discussing a marine globular lightning phenomenon, noting that its rapid departure might be mistaken for a UFO. He then shifts to his own responsibility, presenting a hypothesis that globular lightning could explain some "Nests of UFOs" (Nidos de OVNIs).

He describes how a rotating, precessing ball of lightning, similar to a spinning top, could interact with the ground. If the lightning is dry, it might have a strong perforating power, creating drilled holes. However, if it is surrounded by water vapor, it acts as a damper, causing the ball to spin in increasingly larger circles on the ground, resulting in a flattened circular surface. The phenomenon might end with an explosion. The resulting surface could show various effects depending on the lightning's energy and moisture content, ranging from torn and scorched roots to flattened or burned grass mixed with earth.

Ares de Blas acknowledges that this explanation might not be popular with "Misteriófilos" (those obsessed with mysteries) but hopes it will be useful for those who study UFOs in a dispassionate manner, potentially explaining "nests" and even some underwater UFOs.

Occurrence and Characteristics

Further discussion on ball lightning, prompted by a suggestion from Ma del Carmen Tamayo, addresses whether it requires stormy weather. The article clarifies that ball lightning can occur on clear days, though it appears to be more frequent during storms. A reference to Dr. Warren D. Rayle's work indicates that out of 112 tabulated cases, a significant portion occurred during different stages of thunderstorms, with some having no apparent relation to storms.

Notes and References

The issue includes extensive notes and references, citing various authors and publications related to lightning and UFO research. These include works by François Aragó, Warren D. Rayle, J. Rand McNally, I.S. Stekolnikov, Julian Majewki, Erik Bergaust, Sebastian Robiou Lamarche, H. Ginsbug, W.L. Bulkley, and Jacques Vallée. The references cover scientific studies on lightning, its effects, and UFO observations.

Reader Correspondence (Correo de Lectores)

The "Correo de Lectores" section invites readers to submit inquiries on topics related to ufological research and the content published in UFO PRESS. It also serves as a channel for readers to update their contact information.

Collaborations (Colaboraciones)

UFO PRESS announces its ongoing commitment to providing a platform for independent ufological researchers and groups to share their work. The publication outlines guidelines for submitting articles, emphasizing originality, personal field research (in-situ), and a focus exclusively on UFO-related themes such as case studies, statistical analysis, evaluation, theory, investigative practice, and essays. Submissions should be typed, accompanied by illustrations, and include a note authorizing publication. All submitted works are evaluated by the Editorial Committee to ensure they align with UFO PRESS's objective of serious and objective investigation of Unidentified Flying Objects.

Publication Information

UFO PRESS is described as a quarterly publication edited and distributed by the COMISION DE INVESTIGACIONES UFOLOGICAS, a non-profit civil entity dedicated to the scientific investigation of anomalous aerial phenomena in Argentina. Its activities are financed by member contributions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme in this issue is the scientific investigation of anomalous phenomena, specifically exploring natural explanations like ball lightning for UFO reports. The editorial stance is one of objective, serious, and evidence-based research, encouraging contributions from independent investigators who adhere to these principles. The publication aims to foster a rigorous approach to ufology, distinguishing between natural phenomena and potentially unknown aerial objects.