UFO PRESS - No 22 - (Agosto 1985)

Magazine Overview

Title: REVISTA UFO PRESS
Issue: 22
Volume: VIII
Date: August 1985

This issue of Revista UFO PRESS, published by the Comisión de Investigaciones Ufológicas (CIU) in Argentina, addresses the perceived lull in UFO activity and explores its implications for the field of ufology. The magazine features editorials, investigative reports, and contributions from various ufologists.

Editorial: "¿ALGO BIEN?" by Alejandro Agostinelli (Page 3)

Alejandro Agostinelli, the Director of UFOPRESS, reflects on the magazine's decision to 'professionalize' five issues prior. He acknowledges both the positive and negative consequences of this move. While graphic improvements were partially achieved due to resource limitations, other enhancements aimed to attract new readers and offer existing subscribers better quality for the same price. The editorial process now involves a more considered selection of articles, focusing on specific aspects of the UFO phenomenon and attempting to balance uniformity with flexibility in choosing contributors. Agostinelli notes that the inclusion of humor has been successfully integrated without sacrificing a rational approach to the subject. He observes reader feedback, with some dissatisfaction regarding changes that disrupted the 'status quo,' but also increased participation, particularly with the introduction of the 'correo ufológico' (ufological mail) section.

Editorial: "¡shhhh!" by Alejandro Agostinelli (Page 4)

Agostinelli poses critical questions about the current scarcity of UFO sightings, not just in Argentina but globally. He wonders if this is due to the phenomenon itself or psychological/sociological factors, and whether the phenomenon has 'exhausted itself.' He states that the magazine is not yet equipped to provide definitive answers but is actively gathering data. The editorial expresses concern not about the 'silence' of UFOs, but about its consequences: discouragement and a decline in interest, leading to a gradual disappearance of the subject from public attention. Agostinelli emphasizes UFOPRESS's commitment to an independent, objective, and critical treatment of the UFO phenomenon, free from theoretical biases. He also asserts a moral stance against 'prostibulario' ufologists who exploit the subject for commercial gain, vowing to expose such practices.

Editorial: "¿ATRASO DIJO?" by Guillermo Carlos Roncoroni (Page 5)

Guillermo Carlos Roncoroni, in an editorial presented as a response to a mysterious letter received in winter 1985, discusses the challenges of continuing UFO investigations due to a lack of new reports. He argues against abandoning the field due to what might be a temporary downturn. Roncoroni proposes a task of reviewing past UFO incidents, particularly those with unique characteristics, to deepen the investigation. He clarifies that this review should not be aimed at refutation, although he notes that most reinvestigated incidents tend to be refuted. He stresses that UFO investigation goes beyond mere case surveying and requires exploring new avenues and lines of thought. The editorial is framed by the mysterious letter, which suggests a critical juncture for ufology and implies that the magazine's future direction might be impacted.

Editorial: "UFOPRESS" (Page 6)

This editorial, written from the perspective of UFOPRESS itself, addresses its own irregular publication schedule. It admits to being a quarterly magazine that often takes seven months or more to be released, attributing this to the material provided by its contributors. It acknowledges that this inconsistency has sometimes caused distrust among new readers but asserts that the magazine's core credibility has been maintained. UFOPRESS expresses frustration with the stagnant state of ufology in Argentina, refusing to be a victim of circumstances or a scapegoat for the field's issues. It demands more considerate treatment from its directors and intermediaries, emphasizing that the magazine is a collective effort involving subscribers and unpaid contributors. UFOPRESS calls for a resolution to these issues promptly, threatening to cease publication if clear answers are not provided for its next issue.

Investigation: "SUPUESTO SECUESTRO EN WINIFREDA" - Informe Preliminar (Pages 7-10)

This section details the preliminary investigation into the 'Caso Platner,' an alleged UFO abduction that occurred on August 9, 1983, in Winifreda, La Pampa, Argentina. The protagonist is Julio Platner, a cattle merchant. The report begins with Platner driving home after a business meeting when he witnesses a bright light and hears a sound resembling a truck's turbine, causing him to lose consciousness.

He regains consciousness in a spherical room, described as having padded walls, with four anthropomorphic entities observing him. These beings are described as approximately 1.60 meters tall, with large, unmoving eyes that appear to have a secondary 'pupil' overlay. One entity, perceived as female, approached him. The entities wore a grey-green, form-fitting suit that seemed to be their skin. Platner's voice was inaudible to them, and they communicated telepathically, conveying a message: "Your case, if you want to tell it, tell it. Some will believe you, others won't." He also felt an urge to remain calm.

Platner noted the room was silent and the temperature normal. He felt no physical contact from the entities, even when one placed a hand on his shoulder. He attempted to move but felt a barrier, like glass, preventing him. He discovered he was missing his jacket, sweater, and watch, though his shirt remained on. The entities then approached him, and one took his left hand. Another presented a transparent tube with a flexible end and a 'sphere.'

The investigation is presented as ongoing, with the CIU members considering a special volume dedicated to the case due to its complexity and potential significance within Argentine ufology. The report emphasizes that this is a preliminary account, and conclusions are reserved for future publications, pending further investigation and analysis of the witness's psychology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the state of ufology, particularly the perceived decline in reported sightings and its impact on the field. There's a strong emphasis on critical, rational, and independent investigation, contrasting with what the editors perceive as commercial exploitation of the UFO phenomenon. The magazine positions itself as a platform for serious ufological research, committed to objective reporting and ethical standards. The editorial stance is one of concern for the future of ufology, a call for rigorous investigation, and a critique of unprofessional practices within the community. The publication itself, UFOPRESS, is presented as a struggling but dedicated entity striving to maintain its quarterly publication schedule despite challenges.

Title: UFO PRESS
Issue: 11
Date: August 11, 1983
Content Focus: UFO phenomena, witness accounts, scientific investigation, and opinion pieces.

The Winifreda Encounter: Blood Extraction and Teleportation

The issue details a remarkable account from Julio Platner, who describes an encounter with a "feminine entity" and other beings. The entity maintained open contact with Platner's hand while a "syringe-like" instrument was used on his wrist. The being then moved the instrument to his inner arm, extracting blood that filled the tube halfway. Platner noted small "whirlpools" within the blood. Following this, he was ordered to stand, experiencing a sensation of not having solid ground beneath his feet, yet maintaining equilibrium. After the blood extraction, the beings suddenly disappeared.

Approximately forty minutes later, Platner regained consciousness inside his Fiat 125 van, seated in the driver's position. He found his watch and clothing intact, including his jacket, which was zipped up. He noted this was unusual due to a defect in the zipper. The van's key was in the ignition, and the engine, which had been off, started without issue. Platner drove for about 17 km to a gate he had been asked to close by someone named Fisher. He recognized the location and, despite the car facing the wrong direction, turned into the correct path. He then remembered Fisher's request and stopped to close the gate, preventing animals from escaping. It was at this point that Platner realized what had happened and examined his arm, noting a "pinprick" mark where the instrument had been, from which blood was still oozing.

He continued driving to Nervi S.A. in Winifreda, where he worked, arriving around 8:30 PM. He did not mention the incident to his colleagues and stayed until 9 PM before going home.

The Jáchal Incident: A Refutation of a Landing

This section investigates a news report from April 24, 1975, by the TELAM agency, which described the discovery of giant mushrooms, calcined bushes in a circle, and three-legged metallic marks at a supposed UFO landing site in Jáchal, about 160 km northwest of San Juan. The object was initially mistaken for a tractor.

Subsequent analysis of samples, including the mushrooms, was conducted by the Gendarmería Nacional. The report, signed by Comandante Mayor Antonio Félix Castelli, concluded that the findings were not extraordinary and did not link to a UFO landing. The mushrooms, while large, were not of an unknown species. The stony material was common to the area, and the patina observed could be attributed to combustion residue from a vehicle. The report stated that the incident had received excessive publicity, likely due to local ignorance or overactive imagination, with workers associating the traces with a tractor seen the previous day.

Daniel Cabrera, a correspondent for CITE (Center for Technological Space Investigations), interviewed Castelli, who reiterated that the mushrooms were not extraterrestrial. Cabrera also visited the site and confirmed the presence of the marks, but could not locate children who reportedly saw lights.

Scientific Investigation of UFOs: Stages and Statistics

This article outlines a four-stage model for the scientific investigation of UFOs:

1. Field Investigation (Encuesta o Investigación de Campo): This involves data collection from witnesses, akin to a reporter's work, gathering information about an unidentified incident.
2. Analysis of Information (Análisis): This stage involves examining the collected data to determine the nature of the event, including gathering additional information (meteorological, astronomical, etc.) for comparison.
3. Statistical Analysis (Análisis Estadístico): Cases are cataloged and compared with similar incidents to identify patterns and develop statistics. This helps in understanding the global manifestations of the phenomenon.
4. Theoretical Formulations (Formulaciones Teóricas): This theoretical stage aims to develop descriptive and predictive models based on statistical analysis.

The article notes that while the first three stages are generally implemented in Argentine ufology, the field investigation is often disorganized and limited by resources. The analysis of denunciations is also constrained by the quality of the initial investigations. The reliability of statistical analysis is directly dependent on the quality of the base information.

It discusses the use of statistics in ufology, including representing data, identifying constants, and constructing models. The "negative population law" by Jacques Vallée is mentioned, suggesting that UFO reports are inversely proportional to population density. Studies in France, Argentina, Italy, and other countries are cited as supporting this law. The distribution of sightings by hour is also discussed, with two peak periods identified.

Opinion: "Yo Soy Hetista" and Critiques of Psychologism

Gustavo Fernández declares himself a "Hetista," a term he simplifies from "partidario de la hipótesis extraterrestre" (supporter of the extraterrestrial hypothesis). He expresses admiration for authors like Erich Von Daniken and Charles Berlitz and mentions collaborations with publications like "Mundo Desconocido" and "Contactos Extraterrestres."

Fernández criticizes what he calls "psychologism" in ufology, where UFOs are explained away as psychological phenomena. He argues that this approach creates convoluted explanations that are less plausible than the extraterrestrial hypothesis itself. He also critiques the idea that UFOs are merely misidentified conventional objects, suggesting that the "unidentified" portion of sightings could indeed be extraterrestrial.

He defends the idea that extraterrestrial craft could enter Earth's atmosphere, citing astronaut reports and the potential for small craft to evade detection. He also touches upon the idea of "monitoring hypotheses" in relation to HET.

Fernández, who identifies as a student of Psychology and parapsychology, expresses frustration with psychologists who attempt to explain paranormal phenomena through their discipline, while simultaneously acknowledging that ufologists sometimes turn to parapsychology for answers. He asserts that parapsychology is not the ultimate solution to understanding UFOs.

He concludes by calling for a recognition of the "Hetista" movement and inviting others to join their cause.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the extraterrestrial hypothesis (HET) as a primary explanation for UFO phenomena. It features detailed witness accounts, such as the blood extraction and teleportation incident, alongside investigative reports that attempt to scientifically analyze sightings, like the Jáchal case. The publication also engages with theoretical aspects of ufology, including statistical analysis and the "hetista" perspective, while critically examining alternative explanations like psychologism. The editorial stance appears to favor the extraterrestrial hypothesis and advocates for rigorous, albeit sometimes unconventional, investigation methods.

Title: UFO PRESS
Issue: 21
Volume: 9
Date: January 1981 (1/81)
Publisher: UFO PRESS
Country: Argentina
Language: Spanish

This issue of UFO PRESS INVESTIGACION focuses on the scientific and statistical approaches to understanding UFO phenomena, exploring the complexities of observation, data analysis, and the potential for computerization in the field.

Statistical Analysis of UFO Phenomena

The issue begins by discussing monthly UFO reports, noting a high percentage of cases during May-August, valid for both the southern and northern hemispheres. This challenges the notion that UFOs are solely related to good, warm weather. Comparative studies between genuine UFO (OVNI) and misidentification (OVI) cases reveal significant differences in spatial and temporal distribution. These distinctions make it improbable to attribute the OVNI phenomenon to natural causes, implying it is a real phenomenon rather than imaginary. Notable studies mentioned include those by the Battelle Memorial Institute and Alan Hendry on US casuistry.

Further studies by Ballester Olmos and ARGENCAT compared different populations of UFO reports. They found that while reports of 'close encounters' were inversely proportional to population density, 'nocturnal lights' reports showed the opposite trend.

Claude Poher's research on magnetic anomalies produced by UFOs is also highlighted. His study of French cases found a high correlation between detected magnetic disturbances and UFO observations in the area, even determining that the intensity of these disturbances was inversely proportional to the distance from the observation site to the station.

Fred Merritt's study, based on casuistry compiled in the UFOČAT of CUFOS, classified landing reports into five groups after analyzing similarities in landing traces and descriptions of associated objects and humanoids. One group was eliminated as representative of globular lightning or other atmospheric effects.

The works of Miguel Guasp Carrascosa, focused on determining a procedural paradigm, and Captain José-Tomás Ramírez y Barberó, an authority on statistics in ufology, are also mentioned.

Dr. David Saunders' research on global casuistry is presented, noting that quinquennial waves (1947, 1952, 1957, 1962, 1967, 1973) are characterized by negative distributions, growing slowly to a peak before declining. This contrasts with waves triggered by publicized sightings, which peak immediately and decline slowly as public interest wanes. Saunders also linked the temporal aspect of UFO reports to their spatial location. His work allowed for the prediction of the 1978 wave of reports and its spatial location in South America and South Africa, suggesting the potential for a predictive model of major UFO wave appearances.

The Computer Applied to UFO Investigation

This section emphasizes that the statistical studies mentioned are only a fraction of the numerous works undertaken by ufologists worldwide. These studies have verified an order within the apparent chaos of UFO manifestations. However, they have often been conducted without coordination, relying on the will and capacity of individual researchers. The authors express conviction that standardizing and coordinating these efforts would yield beneficial and immediate results.

Compiling and statistically processing UFO reports is time-consuming unless the investigator has adequate technical means, such as a data processing system. The era of electronic data processing is here, and the benefits of using computers for statistical analysis of UFO reports are becoming apparent. Ufologists in many countries have been working for years on computerized UFO report catalogs. Projects like URD, led by Bertil Kuhlemann in Sweden, IBERCAT by Ballester Olmos for Spain and Portugal, and ARGENCAT for Argentina, are highlighted as examples. The need for a global compilation of UFO reports, consolidating information from existing national and regional databases into a single database, is deemed essential. The UNICAT project, led by Drs. Willy Smith and J. Allen Hynek, is presented as a significant undertaking in this direction, requiring support from the ufological community.

UFO "Simulated" Test

This extensive section details an experiment designed to critically assess the problem of observation and its potential falsifiers. The research, conducted in Rosario, Santa Fe, on November 18, 1984, involved 15 participants who were unaware they were part of an experiment.

Test Design

The experiment recreated conditions of a UFO observation in a darkened room with ambient sounds. Participants were shown a brief, ambiguous luminous phenomenon, followed by a five-second projection of a "characteristic" UFO image, approximately 45 cm on screen at a distance of 3.50 meters. The appearance was described as unpredictable and fleeting.

Description of the Phenomenon

After the projection, participants were asked to complete a questionnaire about their observation, which took 45 minutes. The process involved forming subgroups for discussion, presenting initial hypotheses, comparing responses to identify coincidences and divergences, re-projecting the image for comparison, and formulating provisional conclusions.

Analysis of the Survey

The analysis revealed several key findings regarding the participants' reports:

• Date: 12 out of 15 participants correctly identified the date, but three made errors of one to two days.
• Time: The UFO appeared at exactly 11:10 hours. Witnesses tended to estimate time in fifteen-minute intervals. Some participants provided 'imaginary' times (e.g., 20:00, 21:00).
• Distance: Participants showed a wide dispersion in estimating distances, ranging from 5 to 2000 meters. Many estimates were subjective due to the lack of reference points.
• Size/Dimensions: Most participants estimated the object's size (7 reports), while others based it on visual projection (4 reports). There was significant dispersion in these estimates as well.
• Duration: The actual duration was less than 5 seconds. However, participants' estimates varied widely, from 1 to 60 seconds, indicating a considerable margin of error.
• Shape: Descriptions of the object's shape were diverse and often contradictory, including spherical, mushroom-shaped, inverted soup plates, hat-shaped, lenticular, semicircular, truncated cone, and round.
• Color: The object's color was described differently, with some participants reporting colors not present in the projection (e.g., green). The colors mentioned for the object and its 'prolongations' (haces, supports, legs) included black, red halo, orange, white, and green. Only two observers correctly identified the object's color as orange.
• Sounds: Nine participants registered sounds like birds chirping, wind, or a murmuring sound. One heard a "buzzing or unknown echo," and another reported "dull noises like motors."
• Other Details: Some witnesses added details not perceptually present, such as "cloudy object background," "halo of sparks or smoke," or "three turrets on top," which the authors attribute to "projective elaboration" or "projective transformation" influenced by cultural and social knowledge.

Conclusions

The study concluded that the acceptability of a UFO report depends not only on the interpretation of the phenomenon but also on the consistency of the description and the reliability of the source. While not dismissing the possibility of fraud or pathology, the research highlighted how easily human observers can err or falsify reality, consciously or unconsciously, shaping their narratives based on pre-existing expectations. The experiment, though limited in sample size, suggests that in natural conditions, observational levels might be even less precise. The findings underscore the importance of improving data quality and the reliability of information processed in ufological research. The test provides valuable, qualitative confirmation for hypotheses about UFO perception, emphasizing that even multiple testimonies, including those from trained individuals, may not accurately reflect sensory input, with few approaching true representation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes a scientific and analytical approach to UFO phenomena. It advocates for rigorous statistical analysis, data collection, and the application of scientific methodology. There is a strong belief in the reality of the phenomenon but a critical stance towards unverified claims and the unreliability of subjective testimony. The importance of accurate data, standardization of research methods, and the potential of computerization are recurring themes. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, seeking to move beyond anecdotal evidence towards verifiable data and robust analysis. The simulated test highlights the inherent difficulties and biases in human observation, urging for greater critical evaluation of witness accounts.

This issue of UFO PRESS, identified as number 31, is primarily in Spanish and focuses on investigative journalism related to UFO phenomena. The cover prominently features the headline 'la paranoia de la salvación extraterrestre' (the paranoia of extraterrestrial salvation), suggesting a critical or skeptical examination of the topic. The magazine appears to be based in Argentina, as indicated by postal addresses and content references.

Key Articles and Themes

The Nature of Witness Testimony and Perception

The issue delves into the complexities of UFO sightings, emphasizing the challenges in interpreting witness accounts. It highlights that observers often describe what they believe they saw rather than what was objectively present, influenced by emotional reactions and pre-existing beliefs. The text discusses how the 'unidentified' nature of objects forces human perception to categorize them within familiar frameworks, leading to subjective interpretations. The article points out the wide range of reported distances (5 to 2000 meters) and sizes (1 to 20 meters) for UFOs, noting the inherent difficulty in accurate measurement without a fixed reference point.

Auditory aspects of sightings are also explored, with some witnesses reporting unusual sounds or a complete absence of ambient noise during an encounter. The psychological and physical reactions of witnesses are examined, suggesting that emotional responses often overshadow rational analysis.

Critiquing UFO Narratives

A significant portion of the magazine critically analyzes common UFO narratives and theories. The article 'la paranoia de la salvación extraterrestre' questions whether extraterrestrials are coming to save humanity, suggesting that such ideas are often rooted in wishful thinking or misinterpretations of natural phenomena. It dismisses many sensational claims, including those about extraterrestrials abducting humans or being responsible for natural disasters, attributing some to misidentification or even political motives.

The magazine also touches upon the idea of humans being 'property' of extraterrestrials, a concept it finds overused and lacking substance. It contrasts the scientific approach with belief-driven interpretations, noting that scientific conviction is often replaced by faith when definitive evidence is lacking.

UFO Research and Methodology

The issue includes a data table ('PLANILLA DE DATOS') that attempts to systematically record details of 15 different UFO sightings, covering aspects like date, time, distance, size, duration, shape, color, and witness psychological reactions. This suggests an effort towards more structured research within the publication.

However, the magazine also expresses skepticism about the reliability of witness accounts and the methodology of some UFO researchers. It criticizes the tendency to conflate UFOs with natural phenomena or to attribute unexplained events to extraterrestrial causes without sufficient evidence.

Media Criticism and Internal Dynamics

UFO PRESS engages in self-reflection and criticism of the broader ufology media landscape. The 'CRITICA DE MEDIOS' section discusses the launch of a new magazine, 'EVIDENCIA OVNI,' edited by Carlos Daniel Ferguson, a former collaborator. The article details the origins of this new publication, its financial struggles, and the editorial differences that led to its separation from other publications, including UFO PRESS itself. It highlights a history of disputes and rivalries within the Spanish-speaking UFO community.

The magazine also addresses reader feedback in the 'BUZÓN OVNI' (UFO Mailbox) and 'CORREO UFOLOGICO' (Ufological Mail) sections. Readers comment on the quality of articles, the magazine's presentation, and specific points raised by contributors. One reader questions the assertion that Earth is unique in its conditions for life, while another defends the inclusion of humor in the magazine, arguing that the incomprehensible nature of some UFO phenomena lends itself to jest.

Specific Cases and Theories

Several specific theories and cases are mentioned or alluded to:

• The 'somos propiedad' (we are property) idea: This concept, suggesting humans are owned by extraterrestrials, is discussed and largely dismissed as a worn-out trope.
• UFOs and natural phenomena: The relationship between UFO sightings and events like earthquakes is examined, with a debate on causality.
• Extraterrestrials as angels or demons: Different authors offer contrasting interpretations of the nature of alleged extraterrestrial visitors.
• 'A propósito de los avistajes masivos' (Regarding massive sightings): An article that discusses various cases, including the identification of a satellite (Kosmos 1186) as a potential explanation for some sightings.
• Juan Schobinger's contribution: An article by Juan Schobinger is discussed, with some readers finding his assertions about immaterial beings and the mythological nature of UFOs difficult to accept. The editorial note clarifies that his contribution was solicited and that his expertise in archaeology is acknowledged.

Editorial Stance

UFO PRESS generally adopts a critical and analytical stance towards UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained events and the public's fascination with them, the magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, critical thinking, and avoiding sensationalism. It promotes a balanced approach, encouraging readers to question narratives and distinguish between evidence-based analysis and speculative theories. The publication seems to value diverse perspectives, as evidenced by its willingness to present contrasting viewpoints on the same topic.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes in this issue include the unreliability of witness testimony, the psychological underpinnings of belief in UFOs, and the critical examination of popular extraterrestrial narratives. The magazine appears to champion a more grounded and skeptical approach to ufology, contrasting with more credulous publications. Its editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to think independently and to be wary of unsubstantiated claims, while still acknowledging the enduring mystery and public interest surrounding UFOs. The publication also seems to engage in internal debates and critiques of the ufology community itself, fostering a sense of intellectual discourse.

This issue of UFO PRESS, identified as number 21 and dated July-September 1984 (Volume VII), is a Spanish-language publication from Argentina. It features a mix of reader correspondence, editorial notes, critical reviews of other ufological publications, and a report on the author's travels and encounters with ufologists across Europe.

Reader Correspondence and Editorial Notes

The issue opens with a letter from Sebastián Chami of Capital Federal, Argentina, who expresses interest in obtaining archival UFO material and offers to pay for photocopies. The editorial team uses this as an opportunity to explain why they cannot easily fulfill such requests. They cite the lack of a centralized archive, with materials dispersed among CIU members, and the need for more thorough investigation of some cases before publication. They also acknowledge the financial difficulties the CIU faces in establishing a central office.

Another reader, Oscar Bertotto from Capital Federal, writes to express his satisfaction with issue 21, noting the maintained seriousness and improved presentation of the magazine. He indicates his intention to resubscribe and requests information on costs and payment methods. He also offers constructive criticism, suggesting that 16 pages of humor might be excessive and could risk alienating colleagues with differing views.

The editorial response to Bertotto's critique is firm, stating that their criticisms will always be directed towards those who deserve them, identifying enemies of ufology as corrupt, subversive, agents of chaos, and proponents of hate and violence who threaten Western and Hynekian lifestyles.

Reviews of Ufological Publications

Magonia

The magazine reviews Magonia, edited by John Rimer from the UK, with an annual subscription of 3.00 pounds sterling. The review highlights Magonia's independent stance dedicated to examining anomalous phenomena and their societal impact. It notes the publication's serious approach, including a study of Nostradamus's prophecies and a historical review of dubious events. The review praises Magonia for its critical attitude towards folklore, fairies, and lake monsters, contrasting it with more simplistic or mechanistic views. It acknowledges the influence of Jacques Vallée, while also noting the publication's evolution and its focus on 'spontaneous phenomena' over laboratory analysis. The review compares Magonia's format to UFO PRESS but describes its presentation as more sober.

Psitt!

Psitt!, a critical information bulletin edited by the Group of Studies and Research in Parapsychology (G.E.R.P.) in France, is also reviewed. The bulletin is described as having a mixed level of content but generally positive. It covers topics ranging from UFOs to parapsychology, with a particular emphasis on 'psycho-social hygiene' for those involved in these fields. The review mentions articles on experimental demonstrations of Psi phenomena, parapsychology in cinema, and book reviews, noting the presence of Argentine ufology in its coverage.

Polemics and Debates

Ballester vs. "10"

This section details a debate surrounding the book Investigación OVNI by Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos. The magazine recounts a letter from Ballester Olmos accusing editor Oscar Diez of a biased and directed critique. Ballester Olmos requests the inclusion of favorable opinions from international scholars to demonstrate the book's positive reception. The article reminds readers that previous issues of UFO PRESS had already featured positive reviews of the book, including one by Ballester Olmos himself and another by José Ruesga Montiel.

Oscar Diez then provides his clarification, stating that his critique was constructive and honest. He asserts his right as a reader to offer critical opinions and suggests that Ballester Olmos should consider the broader reader reception rather than solely relying on the opinions of 'expert and positive' ufologists. Diez reiterates that while he finds the book a valuable tool for ufologists, he disagrees with its dialectics, models of action, and definitions, which he felt compelled to criticize. He denies any 'burda maniobra' (crude maneuver) or 'complot' (plot) behind his commentary.

Forum: Reflections on Ufology Abroad

Alejandro Agostinelli reports on his recent trip to Europe, where he engaged in discussions with prominent ufologists in Spain, Italy, France, and Denmark. He details encounters in:

• Valencia, Spain: With Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos, Luis R. González, and Joan Fernández Peris, discussing Spanish ufology.
• Milan, Italy: With Roberto Farabone, who explained his views on the Italian UFO scene and the publication UFO PHENOMENA.
• Cermenate, Italy: With Maurizio Verga, an expert on UFO sightings in Italy, and his use of computer applications in UFO research.
• Turin, Italy: With Edoardo Russo, Gian Paolo Grassino, and Paolo Fiorino, discussing the internal politics of the Italian UFO network, particularly the Centro Ufológico Nacional directed by Roberto Pinotti.
• Paris, France: With Lars Lassen (from Denmark), discussing Danish ufology and the organization SUFOI.
• Paris, France: With Jacques Scornaux, Claude Mauge, Michel Coste, and Michel Piccin, where language barriers were overcome by a Frenchwoman named Françoise Jazón. Discussions covered critiques of established ufologists, interpersonal disputes, and methodological approaches.

Agostinelli dedicates this report to his father, Jorge, and his friend Julio Jorge Lodos.

CIU and the Ufological Thought Conference

This section announces the cancellation of the 'Jornadas del Pensamiento Ufológico' (Ufological Thought Conference) scheduled for April 1-3, 1985, in Buenos Aires. The organizing committee (Roberto E. Banchs and Daniel A. Perissé) decided to cancel the event. The CIU, which had initially sponsored the conference along with CEFAI (Centro de Estudios de Fenómenos Aéreos Inusuales), officially disassociated itself from the organization in February of that year, leading to the formation of an independent organizing committee.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue reflects a strong emphasis on critical analysis within ufology, evident in the reviews of Magonia and Psitt!, and the polemic between Diez and Ballester Olmos. The magazine positions itself as a platform for serious, scientific, and rigorous investigation, contrasting with what it perceives as less substantive or overly critical approaches. The editorial stance is one of defending a particular style of ufology, characterized by intellectual honesty and a critical examination of phenomena and methodologies, while also identifying and opposing perceived 'enemies' within the field. The issue also highlights the international nature of ufological research through Agostinelli's travelogue and the inclusion of international perspectives in the reviews.

Title: Clepsidra
Subtitle: FILONTASIA-FANTASOFIA
Issue: 1
Publication Frequency: Quarterly (every three months)
Publisher: TALLER DE EDICIONES INDEPENDIENTES
Country of Publication: Argentina
Dimensions: 21 cm width, 22.5 cm height, 120 pages
Price: 6,40 for six months, 12,80 for one year.
Distribution: Exclusively via subscription, not sold in kiosks or bookstores.

Content and Contributors

Clepsidra positions itself as a young magazine that respects its readers' intelligence, offering a space for fantasy, science fiction, and reflection. The first issue features a diverse range of content including stories, essays, notes, and poetry. The magazine highlights a significant list of contributors, many of whom are well-known in the science fiction and fantasy genres, including Theodore Rozsak, Luis Benítez, Cecilia Polisena, Reynaldo Jiménez, Daniel Joanen, Eduardo Zeballos, Leonardo Sacco, Daniel Rubén Mourelle, Santiago Espel, Fernando Savater, Carmen Bruna, Ray Bradbury, Tarik Carson, Frederik Pohl, Clifford Simak, and Ursula Le Guin.

The magazine emphasizes its focus on 'the other' and provides a platform for speculative fiction and related themes. The section "Parsec" is dedicated to science fiction.

Subscription and Contact Information

Subscriptions can be made for six months (6,40) or one year (12,80). Payments should be sent via money order to TALLER DE EDICIONES INDEPENDIENTES, Thorne 630, -1406- Capital, Argentina. Interested individuals are advised to write or call first at 432-2765. The magazine is described as a place for the 'unfindable'.

Discussion on the Jornadas del Pensamiento Ufológico

An article addresses the 'Jornadas del Pensamiento Ufológico' (Ufological Thought Conference) and its 'frustrated final'. The author expresses support for the spirit of the new organizers, acknowledging that the CIU (Comision de Investigaciones Ufologicas) backed the initiative. Even after formally separating from the direction of the event, at least two CIU members voluntarily assisted with tasks such as diffusion and minimal preparations to ensure adequate reception for delegates from other provinces.

However, the article clarifies that the cited collaborators were not responsible for the conference's outcome, as they lacked decision-making power. Furthermore, they do not necessarily share the arguments presented by the Organizing Committee to justify the surprise cancellation of the Jornadas just days before they were scheduled to occur.

For those seeking details on the reasons for the cancellation, the "Declaración del Comité Organizador" (Declaration of the Organizing Committee), dated March 28, 1985, can be obtained by sending a request to Roberto E. Banchs, Jornadas del Pensamiento Ufológico, C.C. 9, suc. 26, 1426 Buenos Aires.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's editorial stance appears to be one of independent thought and a commitment to providing a platform for speculative fiction and ufological discussions, distinct from mainstream distribution channels. It champions the 'other' and the 'unfindable'. The publication also engages with current events within the ufology community, such as the controversial cancellation of a major conference, offering a perspective that seeks to clarify roles and responsibilities.