UFO PRESS - No 20 - (Abr-Jun 1984)

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO PRESS
Issue: 20
Volume: VII
Date: April - June 1984
Publisher: Comisión de Investigaciones Ufológicas (CIU), delegation of the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS) in Buenos Aires.
Type: Quarterly Publication

This issue of UFO PRESS, number 20 and volume VII, published in April-June 1984, is dedicated to exploring a "new ufology" that is emerging, particularly from France. The editorial, titled "The ideal antidote for reformist ufoaddicts," sets the stage for an examination of contemporary thought in the field, aiming to present new currents of thought that have been developing over the past decade.

Editorial

The editorial section, penned by Alejandro Agostinelli, introduces the issue's focus on a "new ufology" originating from France. It highlights the work of French ufologists who are challenging the "pseudo-scientific orthodoxy" and seeking new methodologies for studying UFO phenomena. The editorial emphasizes the need for bold questioning and a willingness to move beyond established arguments. It notes that while Aimé Michel was a precursor in French ufology, a new generation is now emerging, characterized by audacious questioning and a desire to push the boundaries of serious study. These new ufologists are described as being willing to explore connections between ufology, spiritualism, and paranormal sciences, advocating for a logical approach and common sense rather than rigid adherence to protocols.

The editorial also touches upon the "arteriosclerosis" that can afflict those who contaminate ufology with fantasies, contrasting it with a more scientific and evolving approach. It suggests that ufology is still a science in formation and should be treated as such, moving beyond emotional appellations towards a more rigorous understanding.

Articles and Sections

Essays:

• "The Law of Babel" by Thierry Pinvidic: This essay discusses Michel Monnerie's book "¿Y si los OVNIS no existieran?" (What if UFOs didn't exist?), which proposed a socio-psychological hypothesis for UFO phenomena. The article highlights the ensuing polemic between defenders of the extraterrestrial hypothesis and the "new ufologists." Pinvidic argues that the current state of ufology, with its competing models, leads to confusion, likening it to the biblical Tower of Babel, where different languages prevent understanding. He warns against the "modeling" trend and suggests that while many pieces of the puzzle are being played with, the complete picture is not yet discernible.
• "What Ufology Should Not Have Been" by Michel Piccin: This article, though not fully transcribed in the provided pages, is listed in the summary and likely critiques past approaches to ufology.
• "The Real Phenomenon, Questioned" by Claude Mauge: Also listed in the summary, this piece by a psychoanalyst suggests a critical examination of the phenomenon itself.

Opinion:

• "Towards a New Form of Ufology" by Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos: This article, also listed in the summary, discusses the future direction and evolution of ufological studies.

Survey:

• "UFO 'Lifts' a Car in the USA" by T. Scott Crain Jr.: This section details a specific UFO sighting involving a car being lifted.

Forum:

• "World Ufology and Its Behind-the-Scenes" by Lars K. Lassen: This article, listed in the summary, likely provides insights into the international ufology scene.

Polemics:

• "Smoke Screen" by William Smith: This piece is listed in the summary and suggests a debate or controversy within ufology.

Bibliography:

• "Readings at the Foot of the Staircase: UFO Investigation" by José Ruesga Montiei: This section reviews literature related to UFO investigations.

Further Discussion on UFOs:

The issue delves into the complexities of defining and studying UFOs. It questions whether a problem truly exists and explores various hypotheses, including physical and socio-psychological explanations. The article "¿USTEDES HAN DICHO 'OVNI'?” (HAVE YOU SAID 'UFO'?) presents a series of questions and answers that highlight the difficulties in establishing a clear definition and methodology for ufology. It points out that 33 years of debate have led to "neighborhood fights and intellectual debates," suggesting a need for a new approach.

The text lists numerous potential physical manifestations and effects associated with UFOs, such as animal reactions, optical phenomena, electromagnetic interference, ground traces, and radar echoes. It also notes characteristics that distinguish UFOs from conventional phenomena, such as a lack of correlation with astronomical events and their distribution patterns.

However, the article also emphasizes the socio-psychological component, noting the influence of emotional reactions, the role of media in conditioning public perception, and the impact of cultural myths. It acknowledges that the phenomenon is both physical and socio-psychological, presenting a significant challenge to analysis.

The issue further explores the problems within ufology, including the lack of denunciation of hoaxes, the difficulty in identifying whether sightings are UFOs or something else, the unreliability of human testimony and language barriers, the absence of a clear "UFO label," the lack of tangible proof, and the influence of the interviewer. It concludes that the essence of the topic is problematic because it focuses on the "strange" rather than a specific, defined manifestation.

"Message to the Reader"

This section apologizes for the delay in the publication of the current issue, attributing it to the improvisational nature of the journalistic work undertaken in free time and financial constraints. It reminds subscribers that their annual subscription covers four issues of UFO PRESS and two other publications, with the subscription expiring after the fourth number. Due to the delays, several previously announced articles have been excluded, and sections like "Humor and Ufological Mail" have been postponed to issue 21.

The section also previews titles for the upcoming issue, including "Unusual Observation in Mendoza" by Roberto E. Banchs, "The Incredible Story of Mr. Platner" by Alejandro Agostinelli, and "Abandoning the Illusion of a 'Contact'" by Juan Schobinger. A "novel supplement" is also promised.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the evolution of ufology, particularly the emergence of a "new ufology" from France that advocates for more critical, analytical, and less dogmatic approaches. The editorial stance appears to favor this reformist perspective, encouraging readers to engage with these new ideas and contribute to a more rigorous and open study of UFO phenomena. There's a clear critique of what is perceived as stagnant or overly orthodox thinking within the field, advocating instead for intellectual freedom, common sense, and ingenuity.

The issue also highlights the inherent difficulties in studying UFOs, acknowledging both physical and socio-psychological aspects, and the challenges posed by the phenomenon's elusive nature and the subjective interpretations it elicits. The editors position UFO PRESS as a platform for disseminating these evolving ideas and fostering a more dynamic ufological discourse.

This issue of UFO PRESS, titled ENSAYOS TEORICOS, issue number 11, published in 1984, delves into critical analyses of the field of ufology. It features prominent articles by Michel Piccin and Claude Mauge, who challenge established ufological paradigms and advocate for a more rigorous, scientifically-grounded approach. The magazine explores the evolution of ufological thought, the limitations of current research, and proposes new theoretical frameworks.

Article: "lo que la ufología no hubiera debido ser" by Michel Piccin

Michel Piccin, in an enthusiastic discourse delivered at the annual congress of the French Federation of Ufology (FFU) in Lyon in April 1983, expresses his disillusionment with the current state of French ufology. He enumerates reasons for his elegant withdrawal from the "ufological caste," citing a lack of genuine originality and an over-reliance on technology as potential explanations for phenomena. Piccin questions whether any truly original, unidentified phenomenon exists that cannot be attributed to human technology. He criticizes the prevailing ufological activity of merely collecting testimonies and publishing repetitive content, often framed by a mantra of openness and collaboration that he finds superficial.

Piccin contrasts the semantic study of UFOs with medical semiology and diagnosis, suggesting a difference in approach. He dismisses modeling without analytical support and scientifically unproven hypotheses as mere rhetoric, comparing current ufological discourse to endless debates about the sex of angels. He advocates for piecing together fragments of truth, as suggested by Rostand, rather than forcing hypotheses. He acknowledges the value of exploring various hypotheses, including extraterrestrial, Psi plasma, and archetypes, but stresses that these do not constitute an exhaustive explanation.

He points to contemporary scientific research, such as the study of the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen paradox and the fractal model of the universe, suggesting that these might offer new perspectives on causality and the nature of reality. Piccin concludes that after thirty years of investigation, the fundamental questions remain, and that a comprehensive understanding may take a century or more.

Piccin reflects on his early steps in ufology, initially seeking material evidence of phenomena but finding only infighting among ufologists. He describes filtering ufological knowledge and observing debates on flying saucer propulsion and the origin of extraterrestrials, which he likens to discussing the sex of angels. He notes the immersion in parapsychology, sociology, and dreams, questioning if he was lagging behind or if others had already explored these areas. He observes that each individual seemed to be distilling their own truth.

He states that he has never encountered definitive proof of an original phenomenon that could not be a product of our technology. He likens current ufology to a runner in a hundred-meter race wearing lead shoes. While actively participating in investigations, he refuses the label of "ufologist," distinguishing himself from those who readily accept or self-assign the title, often based on superficial or nonsensical statements.

Piccin expresses a desire to help accelerate the progress of ufology by collaborating with those genuinely seeking clarity. He warns younger researchers against falling into the trap of the "Platillo Circus," being exploited by merchants of the strange, or absorbed by ufological sects. He emphasizes that this "neo-ufology," if it emerges, must avoid the pitfalls of its predecessor, which he suggests was never meant to be what it became.

He concludes by reminding readers that ufology, from an external perspective, began with groups like "friends of space visitors" and culminated, on April 27, 1983, with GEPAN, suggesting a need to move beyond such frameworks to achieve useful results.

Article: "el fenómeno real, cuestionado" by Claude Mauge

Claude Mauge presents a critical examination of the arguments supporting the reality of UFO phenomena. He begins by referencing Pierre Guerin's 1977 assertion that the existence of an original UFO phenomenon is proven by three arguments:

1. Existence of cases that appear trustworthy and irreducible to known phenomena: Mauge acknowledges this argument's apparent validity but notes that the number of truly inexplicable cases is far lower than claimed by ufologists like Aimé Michel (22 million) or Claude Poher (90 million). He estimates that 80-90% of cataloged cases are either explained, doubtful, or impossible to evaluate. He cites an example from UFOCAT concerning French cases in September-October 1954, where only one or two out of 29 cases with traces were considered valid, and even then, the attribution of traces to UFOs was questionable. Mauge estimates that truly acceptable cases, with reliable witnesses and appropriate investigation, number only in the thousands or less.

2. Analogies between cases: This argument is weakened by the "indistinguishability" between UFOs and OVIs (Identified Flying Objects), as discussed later.

3. Consistency emerging from statistical analysis: Mauge questions the value of these analyses if 80-90% of cases are identified or doubtful, suggesting that the apparent consistency is an artifact.

He then addresses other arguments in favor:

• Coherent explanatory models (e.g., HET - Extraterrestrial Hypothesis): While acknowledging that HET is not purely ufological and is based on exobiological arguments, Mauge points out that it struggles with cosmic distances and the anthropo-psychological component of UFO phenomena. He questions the reliability of HET research when based on dubious cases, such as McCampbell's use of Vallée's landing catalog. He also notes that non-reductive models present epistemological challenges, altering paradigms, being less economical, and not being falsifiable.
• Material evidence of extraterrestrial technology: Mauge dismisses supposed UFO fragments and evidence from crashed UFOs as demonstrating a lack of critical sense in the investigators. He finds photographic and radar evidence scarce and inconclusive.
• Remaining arguments: Mauge categorizes the remaining arguments as reflecting ufologists' presumptions or being "arguments from authority." He critiques the idea that official circles' ambiguous attitudes prove something is hidden, suggesting it might simply mean they don't understand the phenomenon either. He also notes that both detractors and believers can exhibit anthropocentrism or a need for transcendence.

Mauge concludes that the only argument worthy of consideration is the apparent existence of a few thousand trustworthy, strange cases. However, he asserts that the arguments against the reality of UFOs with unique characteristics are growing stronger.

Arguments "Against" by Claude Mauge

Claude Mauge presents counterarguments to the reality of UFO phenomena:

1. The "Indistinguishability" between UFOs and OVIs: Mauge argues that it is difficult to differentiate between UFO and OVI cases, as they share similar narratives and details. He notes that many cases once considered inexplicable have been subsequently explained satisfactorily. However, he concedes that this "indistinguishability" alone is not definitive proof against the reality of UFOs with unique characteristics.

2. Ufological Circles: Mauge acknowledges that most ufologists are intelligent and honest but often possess rudimentary scientific knowledge (e.g., in geophysics or psychology) and lack critical skills. He points to examples like Stanton Friedman, Pierre Guerin, and their analyses of photographs, as well as the tendency to mix UFO themes with unrelated topics like the Bermuda Triangle, Loch Ness Monster, and theories of ancient astronauts, suggesting that while these might be related, the evidence is weak.

3. Implicit Postulates of Ufology: Mauge identifies several implicit assumptions underlying ufological research:
* The residue postulate: Equating an unexplained case with an inexplicable case, a true UFO, and often an extraterrestrial vehicle.
* The fox syndrome: Where an investigator, after offering a conventional explanation, "proves" that a small detail indicates the solution is incorrect, thus pointing to a true UFO.
* The postulate of case unity: The ufologist or witness reinforces the unity of a case by combining independent details.
* The principle of objective cause or witness confidence: If there's no objective reason to doubt a witness or object, the anomaly is always attributed to the object.
* The postulate of UFO/OVI independence: No interaction exists between UFOs and OVIs, making OVI studies irrelevant to understanding UFOs.

Mauge suggests that many ufologists are trapped in a belief system where elements reinforce each other, with the extraterrestrial myth playing a fundamental role. He concludes that the combination of indistinguishability and the lack of rigor among ufologists renders most UFO literature written since 1947 of little value.

A Synoptic Diagram of the "Three States" of the UFO Phenomenon

A diagram illustrates the progression from "pre-OVNI" (any observation qualified as UFO) through "identification by expert" or "no-identification by expert(s)" to "hecho OVNI=OVI" (identified UFO) or "casi-OVNI" (unexplained observation). The "casi-OVNI" can be explained by "progress of science" to become a "verdadero-OVNI" (true UFO), or remain unexplained, forming the "fenómeno OVNI en el sentido restringido" (UFO phenomenon in a limited sense). The "fenómeno OVNI en el sentido amplio" encompasses all "pre-OVNI" cases, while the "fenómeno OVNI en el sentido estricto" refers to true UFOs.

Initiation of a Psycho-Sociological Model

This section outlines a model based on:

• Similarities between UFO phenomena and human mental products: This includes analogies with science fiction, folklore, near-death experiences, religious apparitions, altered states of consciousness, shamanism, witchcraft, and the historical lineage of the extraterrestrial myth.
• Studies on perceptual and cognitive processes: Pioneering work by J. Meerloo and M. Monnerie is mentioned, with more recent research by M. Jiménez (GEPAN) based on Bruner's perceptual model. P. Toselli's studies on sociological and cultural influences on perception are also highlighted, distinguishing three levels of transposition: "confusion," "projective transformation," and "elaborative projection."
• Analysis of information transmission chain: This involves the witness, ufologists, official circles, and media. The section notes the widespread belief in UFOs based on surveys and the role of public diffusion of cases in UFO waves, comparing some episodes to "collective delirium."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly advocates for a critical and scientific approach to ufology, moving away from anecdotal evidence and speculative theories. It questions the validity of many established ufological claims and emphasizes the need for rigorous investigation and the application of scientific methods. The articles suggest that many phenomena previously attributed to extraterrestrial visitors may have more mundane explanations rooted in psychology, sociology, or misinterpretation. The overall stance is one of skepticism towards the current state of ufology, while remaining open to genuine scientific inquiry into unexplained phenomena.

This issue of UFO PRESS, number 21, published in November 1983, focuses on theoretical essays and a significant case study. The cover prominently features the title "Ufología mundial y sus entretelones" (World Ufology and its Behind-the-Scenes), suggesting a broad scope of coverage.

Theoretical Essays on Ufology

The issue begins with a theoretical discussion on the meaning of UFOs, referencing Carl Jung and suggesting that UFO experiences, including contacts and abductions, might be seen as a protection against madness. The author posits that despite the existence of numerous credible cases that challenge psycho-sociological hypotheses, the idea of UFOs as a natural phenomenon (like those studied by Persinger) offers a solid and fruitful working hypothesis. However, it is cautioned that this remains a belief system, similar to the HET (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis).

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the evolving methodology of ufology, advocating for a qualitative and drastic change in mentality for researchers entering the 21st century. The author, Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos, argues that the field is currently mired in near obscurity due to poor investigative procedures and the sensationalism prevalent in the editorial world, which exploits public curiosity. He calls for a more systematic and scientific approach, drawing parallels to how scientific progress occurs through the study of anomalies that challenge existing paradigms.

The essay emphasizes that researchers must keep pace with scientific advancements, particularly in areas like sensory perception and geophysical phenomena, which can explain many reported UFO sightings. A solid foundation in basic sciences is deemed crucial. The author criticizes the premature adoption of the extraterrestrial hypothesis, arguing it can bias investigations and lead to the acceptance of flawed testimonies. He suggests that a more objective stance will clarify the current chaotic landscape of UFO information and potentially reduce the number of seemingly inexplicable cases.

Case Study: UFO Lifts a Car in the USA

A detailed report, based on research by T. Scott Crain Jr., Lynn Anderson, and Bruce Courter, describes an incident involving Catherine Burk, a 67-year-old retired receptionist from Pennsylvania. On the evening of October 15, 1983, while driving her Chevrolet Malibu, she reported a bright, silver, disc-shaped object with a rounded protuberance underneath, approximately 7 meters in diameter, flying at about 10 meters above the road. The object passed over her car, lifting the right side of the vehicle about a meter off the asphalt for 2 to 3 seconds. During this event, the car's lights flickered, and she was unable to control the steering wheel. The entire observation lasted about 15 seconds, after which the object disappeared towards the northeast.

Following the incident, Ms. Burk experienced significant distress and subsequent medical issues, including partial hearing loss, back problems, and severe headaches, requiring treatment at the Hospital de la Merced in Altoona. She is described as a religious and active churchgoer who has not read UFO books or watched science fiction films, leading investigators to believe her account is genuine. She believes the object was a government vehicle but cannot explain its actions. Investigators are monitoring her physical condition and attempting to identify the object, but no other witnesses have been found.

International Ufology Congress

The issue also includes a report by Lars K. Lassen on his attendance at the Third International Congress of BUFORA and the meeting of the Provisional International Committee for UFO Investigation (PICUR) in High Wycombe, England, in August 1983. Lassen, who was responsible for foreign case investigations for SUFOI in Copenhagen, saw this as an opportunity to make international contacts and gain a broader understanding of the global ufological community.

Bibliography and Resources

An extensive bibliography of 23 references is provided, covering a wide range of topics related to ufology, including psychological aspects, physical traces, and scientific approaches. Several key works are cited, such as "Investigación OVNI" by V. J. Ballester Olmos, "The Flying Saucer Syndrome" by Jost Meerloo, and "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions" by T. S. Kuhn. The article also mentions the availability of technical bibliographies and the importance of scientific documentation for investigators.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the need for a more scientific and objective approach to ufology, the psychological impact of UFO experiences on witnesses, and the importance of rigorous investigation methods. The editorial stance clearly favors a rational, evidence-based approach, urging researchers to move beyond unsubstantiated hypotheses and sensationalism. The magazine aims to provide a platform for serious discussion and research in the field of ufology, encouraging a systematic pursuit of knowledge.

This issue of UFO PRESS, covering issues 31 through 40, focuses on the proceedings of the PICUR Committee meeting and the BUFORA international congress. The content is primarily in Spanish, with a strong emphasis on ufological research and discussions.

PICUR Meeting and ICUR Formation

The issue begins with an account of the PICUR Committee meeting held in Lane End, UK. Per Andersen, representing PICUR from Denmark, and the author traveled to London and then High Wycombe, finding private accommodation to avoid the official congress hotel prices. The meeting, the third for the International Committee, was attended by prominent ufologists such as Dr. J. Allen Hynek (USA), Robert Digby (Great Britain), Stanton Friedman (USA), and others from Sweden, Canada, Australia, and Denmark.

Robert Digby, director of BUFORA, took charge of the meeting's preparation due to the illness of PICUR's president, Peter Hill. The difficulty in convening all members, spread across continents, was noted, with apologies from Joaquim Fernandes (Portugal) due to economic issues and Alexander Keul (Austria) who was completing his psychiatry degree. Keul's research on the psychological conditions of UFO witnesses suggested many suffer from mental ailments, highlighting the need for further medical and psychological studies.

Dr. Hynek, as president emeritus, discussed unresolved issues regarding PICUR's representation structure, whether members participated as individuals, group representatives, or country representatives. The idea of a World Ufological Association (AMU) was raised, with Hynek suggesting PICUR could coexist as a forum for organizations while AMU would be individual-based. Hynek was appointed president of AMU during a trip to South America in December 1982, positioning him to prevent conflicts between the two groups.

Peter Hill, the committee's president, could no longer continue, leading to the election of a successor. Bertil Kuhlemann (Sweden), also director of UFO INTERNATIONAL (PICUR's official publication), was elected the new president. Bjarne Hakansson (Sweden) and Robert Digby (Great Britain) were elected secretary and treasurer, respectively. Kuhlemann emphasized the need for international collaboration as ufology transitions to a global level, anticipating increased resource acquisition and a potential reduction in potential investigators.

Following Kuhlemann's speech, attendees divided into two groups to define objectives for the next two to three years. Three key points emerged for PICUR to address: Standards (Terminology, Data Collection/Reliability, Field Investigations, Communications, Public Relations), and the creation of a Textbook/Reference/Manual on scientific standards in data, methodology, and technological aspects.

The need for clear standards in ufology was stressed to ensure the quality of research and communication. Dr. Hynek proposed the translation of summaries of foreign articles, noting that many organizations struggle to understand foreign publications. A textbook was deemed necessary due to a scarcity of qualified researchers in methodology. The goal was to train members of UFO groups with a uniform approach worldwide.

However, the author expressed skepticism about achieving a manual and global standards within two to three years, citing the lack of progress on field investigation and international cataloging standards since a 1981 decision. The hope was that the newly elected president would stimulate progress.

The meeting also discussed and adopted, with modifications, a proposed constitution from the English group FUFOR/UK, renaming the committee to THE INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE FOR UFO RESEARCH (ICUR).

Data Processing and International Standards

In the evening, a session focused on data processing, specifically the coding system developed by Project URD (Sweden), which was seen as a basis for international standards. Per Andersen and the author raised objections to the system's assumption that UFOs are extraterrestrial vehicles, deeming it unacceptable. The system's documentation was also found insufficient. Modifications were suggested to create an excellent system for an international catalog, with implementation expected in early 1984, though the author remained skeptical.

BUFORA Congress Sessions

The congress officially opened at The Lorch Foundation. Dr. Hynek presented on his relationship with the US Air Force and the reasons why established science dismisses UFOs, attributing it to the concept of UFOs being replaced by interpretations, specifically the idea of extraterrestrial vehicles. He recalled how 19th-century scientists rejected the idea of meteorites as 'rocks falling from the sky'.

Hynek reiterated his skepticism about UFOs being extraterrestrial vehicles, citing arguments against the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (HET), including the inability to detect UFOs entering or leaving Earth's atmosphere and their seemingly isolated appearances in time and space. He also critiqued the nonsensical behavior of alleged extraterrestrials and their apparent comfort in Earth's conditions.

Dr. Harley Rutledge presented 'Project Identification,' an initiative to conduct a scientific field study of UFO phenomena using advanced equipment. Rutledge, director of physics at Southeast Missouri State University, had compiled 157 sightings involving 178 'UFOs,' with 46 objects deemed 'technologically incredible.' The author expressed disappointment with Rutledge's presentation, finding it lacking in solid evidence and questioning the university's support for such work.

Peter Warrington, director of Manchester Research Association, discussed radar observations of UFOs, emphasizing the need for skepticism and noting that radar limitations often reduce the certainty of observations. He highlighted that many radar 'angels' are immediately explainable and that radar systems often cannot measure object altitude accurately.

A hypnosis session presented by lawyer Harry Harris featured interviews with three witnesses who reported a UFO encounter and lost 20 minutes of memory. The author noted Harris's reputation for eliciting similar accounts from witnesses under hypnosis and expressed skepticism about the objective nature of the findings.

Jenny Randles, director of investigations for BUFORA, presented on 'window areas' – geographical locations with concentrated UFO activity, such as Warminster, Kolmården, and Hessdalen. She suggested that abundant UFO reports might be influenced by the presence of investigators and media attention, acting as a stimulus. She also touched upon Persinger and Devereux's theories about fireballs caused by seismic activity.

Randles also discussed close encounters of the third kind (CE3), suggesting they might be misinterpretations of ordinary UFO sightings or hallucinations, possibly influenced by investigators. She proposed that perception lies on a spectrum between subjective and objective, a mix of real stimuli and imagination.

Stanton Friedman presented his case for the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (HET), referencing government documents from the 1940s and 50s and secret entities. He argued that retired military personnel are the best proof of HET, though no direct proof was presented at the conference. He also recounted incidents like Roswell and Zeta Reticuli.

Paul Norman discussed the 'Bass Strait flap' between Australia and Tasmania, focusing on well-known cases like Valentich. The author found Norman's conclusions poorly justified, particularly his comparison of a King Island UFO photo with an image from 'The Edge of Reality.'

Bertil Kuhlemann's presentation focused on measurable and immeasurable properties of UFO phenomena, including a general introduction to measurement concepts. He emphasized the importance of defining what can be measured and how, suggesting that answering these questions would be a significant achievement. He also presented 'printouts' from his computer analysis of Swedish UFO cases, though the author found the statistical basis questionable.

Alí F. Abutaha, a specialist in communication satellites, presented a controversial thesis on the existence of life on the sun, based on thermodynamic principles and the concept of a 'cosmic life line.' He suggested that water could exist in liquid form on the sun, making life possible, citing the presence of ionized atoms and compounds like water and methane. The author countered that water cannot remain liquid above 371 degrees Celsius.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are the challenges and progress in international UFO research, the establishment of scientific standards, the critical evaluation of witness testimony, and the ongoing debate surrounding the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, acknowledging the phenomenon's existence while demanding rigorous scientific investigation and cautioning against unsubstantiated theories. There is a clear emphasis on the need for structured methodologies and reliable data collection.

This issue of UFO PRESS, identified as number 41 and dated January-March 1984, is a Spanish-language publication focusing on ufology. The cover prominently features a debate around the 'natal trauma hypothesis' and its scientific validity, framing it as a potential 'smokescreen' in UFO research.

Articles and Content

The Hessdalen Phenomenon

The magazine discusses the numerous UFO sightings reported in Hessdalen, Norway, since December 1981. Organizations like UFO Sweden and UFO Norway have been investigating this area, which has gained international attention. However, CENAP cautions that significant evidence of truly exceptional events is lacking, despite some observations remaining unexplained. The article notes that many 'proofs' offered by investigators are photographic, with the objects often not visible to the photographer. Jann Fjellander presented slides of luminous points in dark skies, suggesting that prolonged observation could lead to automatic UFO perceptions, a concept he linked to Jenny Randles' idea of a 'window area' that becomes real once the public is aware of it. The article humorously notes the establishment of a hot dog stand in Hessdalen as a consequence of its UFO fame.

Geological Connections to UFOs

Paul Devereux, author of "Earthlights," presented a paper on the possible relationship between UFO sightings and seismic activity. The phenomenon of piezoelectricity, discovered by Pierre and Marie Curie, is mentioned as a potential source of luminous phenomena connected to geological pressure. Devereux's research, supported by studies in England, suggests that many British UFO sightings occur near seismic fault lines. He cautiously suggests that while extraterrestrial craft cannot be entirely ruled out, most reliable reports may be explained by geological phenomena.

Dr. Michael Persinger of Laurentian University and Dr. Bryan Brady of the U.S. Bureau of Mines are cited for their work on the geological origins of UFO-like phenomena. Persinger's analysis of thousands of UFO observations indicated a correlation with impending earthquakes. Brady's experiments demonstrated that crushing quartz rocks can produce sparks. Devereux and his colleagues replicated these experiences, finding connections within caves, mines, and mountainous areas.

Critique of the 'Natal Trauma Hypothesis' (HTN)

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a polemic surrounding the 'natal trauma hypothesis' (HTN), primarily promoted by Dr. Alvin H. Lawson. Willy Smith critically analyzes Luis R. González's response to his earlier critiques. Smith argues that the HTN lacks scientific value and may serve as a distraction, consuming researchers' time and effort that could be better spent on more productive avenues of UFO investigation. He emphasizes the difference between a hypothesis and a theory, stating that the HTN fails to meet the basic criteria for scientific acceptability: it does not explain most of the accumulated evidence, cannot make specific, testable predictions, and is not falsifiable.

Smith points out that the HTN largely ignores physical and psychological aspects of UFO phenomena, focusing only on CE III and CE IV encounters. He contends that if the HTN were correct, abduction experiences would be far more common, independent of historical periods, which is not the case, as UFO phenomena are predominantly reported in the latter half of the 20th century. Therefore, Smith concludes, the HTN is not a valid hypothesis and warrants no further attention.

BUFORA Congress and Ufological Research

The magazine reports on the Third International BUFORA Congress, noting its high level and the quality of some presentations, though some were deemed less suitable. The congress was organized well, but concerns were raised about high prices and the remote location, which made it less attractive. The 'exclusivity' of such events limits public and ufologist attendance, resulting in a lower turnout than expected. The article highlights the importance of personal contacts for exchanging ideas but warns against the risk of congresses becoming ends in themselves, diverting focus from the core research.

Despite these criticisms, BUFORA congresses are recognized as the most important international forums for UFO research, documentation exchange, and discussion among investigators.

Book Reviews and Publications

Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos's book "Investigación OVNI" is reviewed positively. The book, which includes a prologue by Dr. J. Allen Hynek, is praised for its analysis of survey methods in Spain and its approach to reinvestigating and identifying initially cataloged UFO cases. Ballester Olmos advocates for better methods to gather data on highly unusual cases and acknowledges the work of deceased researchers. The review highlights the book's didactic approach, its emphasis on the scientific method, and its clear presentation of new survey techniques. It also notes a critique of those who commercialize ufology.

Another section mentions "UFO PRESS" as a specialized magazine published in Buenos Aires, covering UFO cases, surveys, and theoretical essays. It is distributed quarterly via subscription and includes the monthly "Boletín CIU" and the Spanish edition of the "International UFO Reporter."

Other Mentions

Bertil Kuhlemann provided a summary of an ICUR meeting, expressing optimism about the committee's future viability. Hilary Evans presented on 'liars and madmen,' analyzing reasons for witness inaccuracy, a topic that raised doubts for the author.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO PRESS exhibits a strong commitment to rigorous scientific investigation within ufology. The editorial stance is critical of unsubstantiated hypotheses, particularly the 'natal trauma hypothesis,' which is dismissed as unscientific and a potential diversion. There is a clear emphasis on empirical evidence, testable predictions, and the application of the scientific method to UFO phenomena. The magazine also highlights the importance of international collaboration and the exchange of information among researchers, while cautioning against the commercialization and sensationalism that can plague the field. The connection between unexplained aerial phenomena and natural geological processes is explored as a more scientifically grounded avenue of research.

PARSEC REVISTA is a science fiction magazine published monthly by Ediciones Filofalsía. The magazine aims to keep readers up-to-date with the genre by featuring important science fiction authors, including previously unpublished stories in Spanish, and providing information on the latest book editions from Argentina and Spain. It also includes a reader's mail section.

Distribution and Availability

The magazine is primarily distributed in kiosks within Capital Federal, Argentina. For readers outside of Capital Federal, it is available through subscription. Those interested in purchasing or subscribing are encouraged to contact the editorial office.

Featured Content and Authors

The cover prominently displays the names of numerous science fiction authors featured in various issues. These include:

• George R.R. Martin
• Cordwainer Smith
• William F. Nolan
• F. M. Busby
• Eduardo Abel Giménez
• Gilbert Thomas
• Harry Harrison
• Eduardo Julio Carletti
• Robert Sheckley
• Mario Leverd
• Lee Killough
• Edward Bryant
• Jack Haldeman II
• Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.
• Anne McCaffrey
• John Brunner
• Dean Koontz

This indicates a focus on both established and contemporary science fiction writers.

Publisher Information

Ediciones Filofalsía is the publisher, located at Av. Juan B. Justo 3167, (1414) Capital Federal, Argentina. Contact telephone numbers provided are 855-3472 and 854-9982.

Ufology Connection

A second page of the scanned document displays the logo for the "Comisión de Investigaciones Ufológicas" (CIU), suggesting a potential connection or overlap in readership or editorial focus with ufology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's editorial stance appears to be dedicated to promoting science fiction literature, particularly in the Spanish-speaking world, by offering a platform for both original and translated works. The inclusion of the Ufology commission's logo hints at an interest in related speculative or unexplained phenomena, a common theme within some science fiction circles.