UFO PRESS - No 16 - (Abr 1983)

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO PRESS, identified as Volume VI, Number 16, was published in April 1983. It is a quarterly publication from Argentina, edited and distributed by CIU-CUFOS Buenos Aires. The cover prominently features the headline "EL CLAMOR DEL SILENCIO" (The Clamor of Silence), suggesting a focus on the apparent decrease in UFO sightings.

Editorial Staff and Contributors

The Comité de Dirección includes Guillermo Carlos Roncoroni, Alejandro César Agostinelli, and Alejandro Enrique Chionetti. Elba Alicia Acosta serves as the Secretaria de Redacción. The issue lists several Colaboradores: Emilio Caldevilla, Heriberto Janosh, Rubén Omar Morales, Alan David March, and Rubén Oscar Valle.

Table of Contents (Sumario)

The Sumario outlines the articles within this issue:

• EDITORIAL: EL CLAMOR DEL SILENCIO by Alejandro C. Agostinelli (Page 3)
• EL CASO VOMMARO by Alejandro Chionetti (Page 7)
• EL CASO IBARLUCEA (Page 13)
• CONSTRUCCION DE UN DETECTOR DE MENTIRAS by Rafael Huerta Cuitiño (Page 16)
• HYNEK EN BUENOS AIRES by Guillermo C. Roncoroni (Page 21)
• LOS UFOLOGOS by Luis R. González (Page 25)
• SECUESTROS REALES E IMAGINARIOS by Dr. J. Allen Hynek (Page 29)
• EL CONGRESO DE ROSARIO by Guillermo C. Roncoroni (Page 32)

Cover Story: El Clamor del Silencio

The editorial, "El Clamor del Silencio," by Alejandro C. Agostinelli, addresses the noticeable decrease in UFO news, particularly in Argentina. Agostinelli questions the reasons behind this silence, suggesting that the way UFOs appear and the circumstances surrounding them are as important as the sightings themselves. He references Roberto Risoli's observations on UFO waves, particularly the Italian wave of 1978, and Risoli's conclusion that psychological explanations like collective suggestibility are insufficient to explain global phenomena when underlying human conditions remain stable. Agostinelli notes that while Argentina's 1978 UFO activity was less intense than Italy's, it gained popularity, amplified by mass media. He points out that the 1978 wave in Argentina occurred amidst social and political tension, including the border conflict with Chile and the anticipation of the movie 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind.' The article also touches on the influence of mass media in sensationalizing UFO reports, potentially leading to 'ufological paranoia.' The author contrasts the 1978 Italian wave's abrupt end with the Argentine wave's more gradual decline. He mentions the 1980 KOSMOS 1188 satellite case as a notable event and discusses how the media's focus on national problems in 1982 led to a decline in UFO coverage.

The Vommaro Case: A Teleportation?

Authored by Alejandro Chionetti, this article details the case of Carlos Vommaro, a 22-year-old man who experienced a strange event on the night of February 11, 1980. While driving home from his girlfriend's house, he encountered a luminous, L-shaped object with a rectangular light nearby. The object was described as having nebulous, luminous edges and a brighter 'star' at its vertex. Vommaro experienced a period of lost consciousness, waking up about an hour later, approximately 15 kilometers from where he last remembered being, with his car showing no damage. He reported the incident to the police in Cervantes, who were skeptical. The case is presented as potentially involving 'teleportation' and is linked to other events from the same night. The article includes geographical context of the region (Alto Valle de Río Negro) and a diagram of the incident site.

Other Articles

• El Caso Ibarlucéa (Page 13) - Content not detailed in the provided OCR.
• Construcción de un Detector de Mentiras (Page 16) by Rafael Huerta Cuitiño - Content not detailed.
• Hynek en Buenos Aires (Page 21) by Guillermo C. Roncoroni - Likely discusses the visit or work of Dr. J. Allen Hynek in Buenos Aires.
• Los Ufólogos (Page 25) by Luis R. González - An article about ufologists.
• Secuestros Reales e Imaginarios (Page 29) by Dr. J. Allen Hynek - This article by the renowned ufologist likely explores themes of real and imagined alien abductions.
• El Congreso de Rosario (Page 32) by Guillermo C. Roncoroni - Reports on a conference held in Rosario.

Cover Image Description

The cover features the stylized logo "UFO PRESS" at the top. Below it is a photograph of four men in suits standing in front of a modern, angular architectural structure with a circular emblem on the wall. The number "16" is prominently displayed in large, bold numerals at the bottom left.

Notes and References

The issue includes a section of "NOTAS" (Notes) that cite various sources, including:

• Roberto Risoli's article "Il silenzio degli UFO" (1979).
• Paolo Mercuri & Edoardo Russo's "Psicosi da UFO" (1970).
• Juan Sasturain's article on mass culture and extraterrestrial events in Clarín (1978).
• Personal correspondence with Willy Smith (1982).
• Pedro Redón's article "La actividad OVNI durante la primera mitad de 1981" (1981).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the analysis of UFO phenomena, particularly in Argentina. There's a focus on the 'silence' or perceived lull in UFO reports and an attempt to understand its causes, ranging from sociological factors and media influence to psychological aspects. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the enduring mystery of UFOs. The inclusion of the Vommaro case suggests an interest in detailed witness accounts and potentially extraordinary events like teleportation. The publication also engages with international ufological discourse, referencing figures like J. Allen Hynek and international UFO waves.

This issue of UFO PRESS, identified as Volume 3, Issue 16, published in 1982, focuses on unusual phenomena and investigative tools. The cover headline poses the question, 'WHIRLWIND CAUSED BY A UFO?', setting the stage for the main investigative piece.

The Ibarlucea Case: Whirlwind or UFO?

The central article details an event that occurred on December 11, 1981, in Ibarlucea, a town located 10 kilometers northwest of Rosario, Argentina. The incident involved witnesses Juan R. Vergara (31) and Mauricio R. Godoy (38), caretakers of a residential property called 'Narices Frías'. While preparing for a dinner, they heard a strange, deep noise and observed a violent agitation of nine eucalyptus trees, each about 50 meters tall. These trees, which had been still moments before, began to shake as if caught in a whirlwind, with their tops inclining inwards, giving the impression they might topple. This phenomenon lasted less than a minute. The witnesses described feeling as if they were enveloped by a wave of hot air, comparing it to opening an oven door. Surprisingly, when they checked the tables prepared for the dinner, everything was in its place.

Shortly after, the owner of the establishment, Jorge Capra, arrived. He anxiously asked his employees if they had seen what he and his friend Elio Mico had observed from their car while driving towards the property, about a kilometer away. Capra and Mico reported seeing two intense golden lights that had been positioned over the eucalyptus trees. Vergara and Godoy, however, stated they had not seen any aerial phenomena, only the inexplicable commotion of the trees and the intense heat.

Further investigation revealed that other independent witnesses corroborated the presence of a 'strong light, like a fluorescent tube', hovering over a eucalyptus tree for a few seconds, and that the object departed towards the West. Among these witnesses were two police officers from the Ibarlucea police station. It is suggested that Vergara and Godoy might not have distinguished the object due to their viewing angle, which required them to look up between 60 and 70 degrees.

The field investigation was conducted six hours after the event. Examination of the eucalyptus branches revealed no anomalies, although Vergara later noted a broken branch that he believed appeared after the phenomenon. The property owner did not consider it safe to retrieve the branch due to recent rainfall.

Consultation with the SIM (Meteorological Information Service) indicated that the meteorological conditions at the time were optimal (30°C, clear sky, no wind), making the occurrence of a climatic phenomenon highly improbable.

Witness Testimony: Before and After

This section explores the background of Carlos Vommaro, a key figure in a related incident. It mentions that Vommaro had previously observed unusual phenomena, including a flattened moon-shaped object in 1976 with friends and family, which caused them to be frightened. He also recalled seeing 'stars that lit up' in his youth while hunting partridges with friends. Vommaro's dreams are described as not involving UFOs or strange things, though he experienced nightmares in the months following a traumatic incident on February 11, 1980. These dreams often involved swimming in a pond and being attacked by an invisible enemy, or being in a green lagoon attacked by a crocodile, or facing 'bullies' in a fight.

The article also references an incident involving Fattorel on February 18, 1982, noting that while Fattorel's case gained notoriety, Vommaro's case went unnoticed by the press. The incident involving Vommaro, described as 'teleportation', occurred on February 11, 1980, and his Ford Falcon car engine also failed that day, though it was deemed normal.

In the winter of 1981, Vommaro and friends, in the same Ford Falcon involved in the 'teleportation', witnessed an intense orange glow near General Roca. They initially thought it was a bus but then observed a dome-shaped orange object descending rapidly, like a setting sun or a deflating balloon. The phenomenon lasted only a few minutes, leaving a faint glow.

Vommaro reportedly feels fear regarding the events of three years prior and notes that his fears and memories have been significantly reawakened since the incident involving Fattorel. The author suggests that Vommaro's subsequent reactions might stem from a sense of guilt, possibly related to events preceding the incident, which remains unknown but is speculated to involve a disruption within his family, particularly his maternal-paternal relationship.

Despite the unusual nature of Vommaro's testimony, the authors express no doubt about its veracity, citing his personality and the consistency of his story under numerous interrogations.

Construction of a Lie Detector

This section presents a technical article by Rafael Huerta Cuitiño on building a lie detector circuit. The author describes it as an economical and reliable electronic circuit suitable for UFO investigations, particularly for events with high degrees of strangeness or low credibility. The circuit functions as a non-linear ohmmeter, designed for maximum sensitivity to relative changes in skin resistance. It uses two transistors (NPN-PNP) and requires calibration for each individual using potentiometers for polarization and sensitivity. Copper disc electrodes are attached to the subject's fingers to detect changes in skin resistance. The article provides detailed schematics (Figure 1 and Figure 5), a list of components, and practical construction notes, including the use of a uniprint board and a power supply.

Figure 2 illustrates the adjustment of the needle (5 k potentiometer), and Figure 3 shows the power supply schematic. Figure 4 displays a 'uniprint' board. The author explains that the circuit's sensitivity can be adjusted, and the instrument's needle should move significantly when the subject is excited or lying. The article concludes by stating that while the circuit might seem complicated, following the instructions and diagrams should resolve most difficulties. It also invites readers to contact the publication with any issues.

A second part of the lie detector article is presented, focusing on a circuit using an integrated operational amplifier (A741). This version is described as more sensitive and symmetrical, requiring two batteries. It aims for a total amplification of at least 10,000, with a further operational amplifier achieving 250,000 amplification. The potentiometers allow adjustment of amplification between 0 and the maximum.

Next Issue Preview

The magazine previews its next issue (Issue 17), which will include articles such as 'DISCUSSION OF THE EXTRATERRESTRIAL HYPOTHESIS' by Dr. J. Allen Hynek, 'LANDING WITH FOOTPRINTS IN MENDOZA' by Daniel Rojo and Daniel Moreno, 'THE TREVELIN LANDING' by Guillermo Carlos Roncoroni, and 'THE LUMINOUS SPHERE OF CHAPADMALAL' by Alejandro C. Agostinelli.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes witness testimony as a primary source of evidence in UFO research, particularly in the detailed accounts of the Ibarlucea incident and Carlos Vommaro's experiences. The magazine also demonstrates a commitment to providing technical information, as evidenced by the detailed construction guide for a lie detector. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, while also employing scientific and technical approaches to investigate and validate claims. The inclusion of future article previews suggests a continued focus on a wide range of UFO-related topics, from theoretical discussions to specific case studies and investigative techniques.

This issue of the magazine, dated December 1982, focuses on the visit of prominent ufologists Dr. J. Allen Hynek and Dr. Willy Smith to Buenos Aires, Argentina. The cover headline is 'HYNEK EN BUENOS AIRES', and the article is authored by Guillermo C. Roncoroni. The magazine's content delves into the activities and impact of this visit on the field of ufology in Argentina.

Hynek and Smith's Visit to Buenos Aires

The article details the itinerary and objectives of Dr. Hynek and Dr. Smith's visit in mid-December 1982. Their primary goals were to establish contact with researchers and the press, and crucially, to organize the local branch of the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS). The visit was intended to lay the groundwork for the future of ufology in Argentina.

Travel to Rosario and Initial Meetings

On Saturday, December 11th, Alejandro Agostinelli and the author traveled to Rosario to meet Hynek and Smith. They had previously arranged to meet there as a prelude to the activities in Buenos Aires. Alejandro Chionetti had already arrived in Rosario days earlier to attend a congress organized by FAECE. Upon arrival, they met Hynek and Smith and had a working lunch to coordinate the final details for the Buenos Aires visit. During this lunch, Carlos Jacks, a Paraguayan ufologist, was also present. Hynek and Smith discussed the FAECE congress and announced their decision to appoint Agostinelli and Chionetti as official CUFOS representatives in Buenos Aires. They emphasized the need for closer ties to facilitate information exchange and reciprocal participation in research projects. Carlos Jacks was appointed as the CUFOS representative for Paraguay. The agenda for the Buenos Aires visit from December 12th to 15th was also set.

In the afternoon, they attended the closing session of the Third International Congress of Extraterrestrial Science, organized by FAECE. This provided an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and discuss the progress of the congress and ufological research in general. That evening, members of CIU present in Rosario (Agostinelli, Chionetti, and the author) held a meeting to evaluate joint projects with Hynek and Smith and review organizational details for the upcoming activities in Buenos Aires.

Return to Buenos Aires and Planning Sessions

On Sunday, December 12th, they returned to Buenos Aires. The three-hour journey was filled with discussions about their shared research interests, despite Hynek and Smith's evident exhaustion from lack of sleep. After arriving in Buenos Aires and having a quick lunch, they finally had a chance to rest. In the afternoon, a planning meeting was held with Alan March, focusing on adapting their computerized system for CUFOS's global needs, the future organization of CUFOS in Buenos Aires, and the Spanish edition of the 'International UFO Reporter'. The article suggests that the fruits of these meetings would become visible in the coming months.

That evening, a significant meeting took place at Eduardo Azcuy's residence. Attendees included Prof. Oscar Sardella, Captain Omar Pagani (who had been in charge of official UFO phenomenon investigations for the Argentine Navy for over a decade), Architect Roberto Banchs, Alan March, Alejandro Chionetti, Hynek, Smith, and the author. For over four hours, they discussed the characteristics, possible origins, and nature of UFO phenomena, reiterating the importance of a strict and rigorous scientific method, free from prejudiced stances.

Media Day and CNIE Visit

Monday, December 13th, was dedicated to media outreach. Several news outlets had expressed interest in interviewing Hynek and Smith. In the morning, they visited the newspaper 'La Prensa', where Ms. Enriqueta Muñiz conducted an interview scheduled for publication on December 16th. In the afternoon, they visited Canal 9 (for the program 'Semana 9'), 'La Razón' newspaper, and ATC. An attempt to record a segment for the program 'El Hombre en el Espacio' at ATC was unsuccessful due to production issues. That evening, a meeting with UFO researchers (Demaría, Janosch, and Morales) was planned but only partially realized due to the visitors' exhaustion.

On Tuesday, December 14th, after confirming their flights to Montevideo, they visited the National Commission for Space Investigations (CNIE). They were received by Captain Ing. Carlos A. Lima. The meeting, which lasted over two hours, focused on CNIE's interest in unidentified aerial phenomena and their investigation methods. The possibility of a joint research project with CNIE was discussed, with a proposal to be presented soon. They also discussed the aerial manifestation of June 14, 1980, which had particularly interested Captain Lima. The conclusions of their study on this incident were to be published in 'UFO PRESS'.

Conference and Departure

In the afternoon, after a brief rest, Hynek and Smith prepared for an evening conference. Hynek decided to deliver the conference in Spanish, despite his limited knowledge of the language, as a gesture of consideration for the Argentine public. Initially, the conference was planned for an auditorium with a capacity of 250 people, but due to high public interest, it was moved to the Convention Hall, which could accommodate over 1000 attendees. The event was a resounding success, both in terms of attendance and audience reception, as indicated by a survey. At the end of the conference, the audience had the opportunity to ask questions, but most could not be answered due to time limitations.

On Wednesday, December 15th, Hynek and Smith departed for Montevideo, where they were expected to engage in an equally intense schedule, organized by Milton W. Hourcade, president of CIOVI. The visit of Hynek and Smith to Buenos Aires was deemed highly successful, providing a significant boost to the efforts of serious ufologists and reinforcing the importance of their work. The establishment of a CUFOS branch in Argentina was seen as a major endorsement from Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a leading authority in scientific ufology. The article concludes with acknowledgments to the authorities of the Centro Cultural General San Martín for their collaboration.

The UFOlogists: An Obstacle to Ufology?

This section, authored by Luis R. González, explores the role and potential pitfalls of investigators and witnesses in UFO reports. It begins by discussing the dual nature of reality and how subjective experiences can be perceived as real.

The Witness and the Investigator

The article emphasizes the critical role of the witness as the primary source of UFO reports. It notes that recent investigations, such as one analyzing over 1200 reports, have revealed that more than 90% of sightings have natural explanations. The book 'The UFO Handbook' by Allan Hendry is cited for its detailed analysis of these findings.

However, the author shifts focus to the influence of the investigator, or ufologist, on the report. He questions whether a ufologist is merely an expert in aerial anomalies or a scientist investigating an unknown field. The author suggests that many ufologists, even those who study UFOs seriously, may approach the phenomenon with an emotional predisposition that hinders objective analysis. Allan Hendry is quoted as saying that a ufologist often functions as an 'amateur investigative journalist'.

Challenges in Ufological Investigation

González outlines four key weaknesses in ufology:

1. Interdisciplinarity: The phenomenon is too complex for any single field of expertise to fully grasp. This makes everyone involved, regardless of specialization, somewhat ignorant.
2. Physicists and Engineers: When physicists or engineers interpret UFO data, they are accustomed to precise instruments that 'play fair'. They may too readily accept human testimony without questioning potential distortions.
3. Emotional Bias: Individuals entering the emotionally charged field of UFO research tend to lower their critical guard and accept things they would not in their own specialized fields.
4. Impatience: There's a desire for immediate answers rather than working for posterity. When faced with problems, some ufologists resort to new, speculative theories instead of refining their methodologies.

The author argues that while a normal, repetitive physical phenomenon might be clarified through repeated analysis, the UFO phenomenon is different. Investigators can inadvertently or intentionally distort witness accounts. Three examples are provided:

A) Research by Dr. Elisabeth Loftus at the University of Washington showed that if a witness receives false or erroneous information from an investigator, it becomes impossible to ascertain the truth.
B) The way a report is written can obscure the true nature of the object. An example is given of a description that, while seemingly unusual, could be explained by conventional aircraft.
C) Questionnaires with closed-ended questions can perpetuate preconceived notions about UFOs, focusing on specific shapes or effects rather than allowing for broader observations.

The article also touches on the issue of 'Identified Flying Objects' (IFOs) that are sometimes mistaken for UFOs, such as those appearing over power lines or producing electromagnetic effects.

The Role of UFO Groups

González criticizes UFO groups for their possessiveness of archives and their tendency to attack 'competitors'. He argues that instead of aiding the development of 'proto-science', these groups have become an obstacle. He describes typical Spanish UFO groups as having extensive organizational structures, often with 'extraterrestrial' in their names, and primarily engaging in collecting press clippings. Many reports are poorly investigated, leading to flawed conclusions. Some articles are purely for dissemination, accepting information uncritically from books and perpetuating misunderstandings.

Recommendations for Ufology

The author suggests that ufologists should focus on rigorous investigation, eliminating the 90% of cases with conventional explanations, and working to reduce the emotional 'aura' surrounding the phenomenon. He acknowledges that this approach might be less appealing than sensational theories.

Overcoming Obstacles

González identifies other obstacles, including the tendency to favor 'flying saucer' shapes and the belief that all UFOs have a common explanation. The most dangerous emotional barrier, he states, is the tendency to elevate UFOs above mundane concerns, attributing all discrepancies to 'ufonauts' and placing the burden of proof on skeptics. This can lead to UFOs becoming a matter of belief or religion.

In conclusion, the author stresses the need for a radical change in how the phenomenon is approached to achieve a genuine understanding of its reality.

Correspondents

This section lists the magazine's correspondents in Argentina and abroad. In Argentina, correspondents are listed from various cities including Junin, Mar del Plata, San Luis, San Juan, Bahía Blanca, Catamarca, Resistencia, Tucumán, La Plata, Rosario, Balcarce, Arrecifes, and Mendoza. International correspondents are listed from Switzerland, France, Poland, USA, Spain, Italy, Mexico, Belgium, Australia, Denmark, Germany, Portugal, Chile, Uruguay, Bolivia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Brazil, and Costa Rica.

UFO Phenomena: First Academic Journal

An advertisement for 'UFO Phenomena', described as an 'INTERNATIONAL ANNUAL REVIEW DEVOTED TO THE SCIENTIFIC STUDY OF UFO PHENOMENA', published by EDITECH PUB. HOUSE in Bologna, Italy, is included.

Real and Imaginary Abductions

This article, authored by Dr. J. Allen Hynek, discusses the nature of reality and its perception, particularly in the context of alleged UFO abductions. Hynek agrees with Dr. Lawson's assertion that individuals who claim to have been abducted by UFOs often experience it as a 'real' event, and that people's actions are determined by their perception of reality.

Lawson's Experiments and Hypnosis

Hynek addresses Dr. Lawson's experiments, where subjects were hypnotized and instructed to imagine being abducted by UFOs. Lawson found significant similarities between these imagined experiences and reported 'real' abductions, leading him to question whether all abduction cases might be imaginary. Hynek, while acknowledging Lawson's scientific approach, suggests that this conclusion is premature.

Hynek explains that hypnosis greatly enhances suggestibility. He recounts an experiment where subjects were instructed to see a UFO, and while they later claimed to have seen one, they were unable to draw it, and their descriptions varied. He also mentions Kreskin's experiment, where subjects were convinced they saw a UFO, but their drawings were elementary and contradictory, and they later denied seeing one.

Distinguishing Real from Imagined Abductions

Hynek argues that the similarities found by Lawson are only in the hypnotic trance recall. He points out that 'real' abduction cases often involve a conscious memory of the UFO's presence *before* the alleged abduction, which is absent in laboratory-created cases. He states that he only takes abduction cases seriously if they are preceded by a consciously perceived and remembered UFO presence.

Subconscious Contamination

Hynek suggests that the similarities observed might be due to 'subconscious contamination'. He posits that our subconscious is saturated with information about UFOs from movies, books, and media. He proposes that future experiments should be conducted with subjects from cultures less exposed to such media to test this hypothesis.

Multiple Witnesses and Physical Evidence

Hynek also considers cases involving multiple witnesses who share a detailed, complex hallucination. He finds this aspect particularly intriguing for psychological research. He notes that Lawson also considers 'Type 1 and Type 2' close encounters as potentially imaginary. However, he highlights that 'Type 2' encounters involve physical marks, and if the reality of these marks can be established, then these encounters are undeniably real. He references Ted Phillips' catalog of over two thousand reports of physical effects, suggesting that if even one case is proven, it validates these encounters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rigorous, scientific approach to ufology, emphasizing critical analysis and the elimination of emotional bias. It highlights the importance of well-documented evidence and distinguishes between credible sightings and those that may be misinterpretations or fabrications. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, seeking to demystify the phenomenon rather than sensationalize it. The establishment of a CUFOS branch and the engagement with international figures like Dr. Hynek underscore a commitment to advancing ufological research on a more scientific footing.

This issue of HUM® magazine, identified by its issue number 31, focuses heavily on the events and discussions surrounding the Sixth National Congress of Ufology and Third International Congress of Extraterrestrial Science held in Rosario, Argentina, from December 8-12, 1982. The magazine is published by GESON S.A. in Argentina and is in Spanish.

The Rosario Congress: A Critical Review

The article, authored by Guillermo C. Roncoroni, provides a detailed, albeit critical, account of the Rosario Congress. Organized by the Argentine Federation of Studies of Extraterrestrial Science (FAECE), the congress was preceded by three less successful experiences in other cities. FAECE's Rosario delegation had sent out press releases highlighting "special guests" like Drs. Hynek and Smith, Antonio Ribera, and James Hurtak. However, only some of these confirmed their attendance, with Hynek and Smith being particularly significant contributors.

The general level of the presentations on December 8, 9, and 10 was described as "quite poor," with notable exceptions being the presentations by Hynek, Smith, and Oscar Alemanno. Dr. J. Allen Hynek spoke on the implications and limitations of the extraterrestrial hypothesis. Willy Smith delivered three presentations: one on intensifying photographs using computers, another on the Australian pilot Valentich case, and a third on the implications of the case of Mrs. Betty Cash. Antonio Ribera revisited his theories on Martian oppositions and their potential link to UFO sighting waves.

Other presentations included Oscar Alemanno's on the "occupant phenomenon in Argentina" and María Emilia Doyhenard Tecera's research on the Manteiga case. James Hurtak presented "Prologue to a new future," Carlos del Frade discussed "The reality of the Men in Black," AOA showed audiovisuals on UFOs in Ancient Egypt, and Dr. Brigiler presented on "Methodology for inducing the fourth state."

Pedro Romaniuk, described as the spiritual mentor of FAECE, gave an emotional presentation titled "End of extraterrestrial concealment, contact with the Pleiades," based on Wendelle Stevens' book about Eduard Maier's experiences. However, the article notes that the photographs supporting Maier's claims have been widely debunked as sophisticated hoaxes.

Closing Session and Criticisms

The closing session on Saturday was held at the Auditorio Fundación and was open to the public. The attendance was massive, and the venue's poor ventilation and hot summer weather made it an uncomfortable experience. The session included presentations by the group IVE (Rosario) on "Divagations about the Universe," and a presentation by Di Lorenzo and Villegas on the "La Aurora Ranch Case" that was hampered by technical issues. Dr. J. Allen Hynek's presentation on the need for a scientific approach to UFO research was highlighted as the best of the day.

Following Hynek, there was a break, after which Prof. Italo Díaz presented a physical-mathematical basis for space travel. Fabio Zerpa then defined UFOs as "extraterrestrial ships directed by humanoid entities," a definition the author found unoriginal. Antonio Ribera concluded the presentations by recounting the case of Próspera Muñoz.

The congress concluded with the awarding of diplomas, plaques, and medals.

Analysis of FAECE and Ufological Research

The author expresses a critical view of FAECE and its congresses. While acknowledging the organizational efforts were impeccable, the magazine argues that FAECE has become primarily an event-organizing body, neglecting actual research. The author posits that a meeting of three to four researchers with a shared objective and methodology would be far more productive than large, multi-tendency congresses. The cost of organizing such congresses, estimated in thousands of dollars, could instead fund significant field research. The magazine also notes that CIU-CUFOS Buenos Aires does not participate in FAECE due to disagreements with the organization's mystical-esoteric tendencies and its focus on organizing useless congresses.

New Publication: INFORME OVNI

The issue announces the launch of a new ufological publication in January 1983, titled "INFORME OVNI." This periodical is edited and distributed by the Organization Bonaerense del Estudio del Fenómeno OVNI (O.B.E.F.O.) and directed by Gustavo O. Domínguez, Sergio E. Bernasconi, and Juan Acevedo Díaz. The first 24-page issue includes a history of O.B.E.F.O., an investigation of a UFO sighting in Mar del Plata, and notes on the lack of direct contact with UFOs. HUM® wishes O.B.E.F.O. success and offers its editorial and investigative collaboration.

Editorial Stance and Themes

The magazine's editorial stance is critical of large, disorganized ufological gatherings, advocating instead for focused, scientific research. It emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between verifiable evidence and speculative theories, particularly concerning alleged alien abductions versus sightings. The magazine champions a scientific approach to ufology, questioning mystical or esoteric interpretations. Recurring themes include the challenges of defining what constitutes "real" in the context of UFO phenomena, the need for rigorous investigation, and the critique of organizations that prioritize event management over substantive research. The issue also touches upon the philosophical implications of reality as perceived by physicists, common sense, and psychologists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of HUM® magazine strongly advocates for a scientific and rigorous approach to ufology. It criticizes large congresses, like the one in Rosario, for prioritizing organization and attendance over genuine research and for harboring mystical or esoteric tendencies. The magazine champions focused investigations by smaller groups of dedicated researchers. It also highlights the difficulty in distinguishing between genuine UFO experiences and psychological projections or hoaxes, emphasizing the need for critical evaluation of evidence. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a call for a more grounded, evidence-based methodology in the study of UFO phenomena. The magazine also expresses a desire to move beyond abduction cases, which require hypnotic regression, to focus on direct sightings that can be more readily investigated.