AESV - no 07

Magazine Overview

This issue of AESV (Association d'Étude sur les Soucoupes Volantes) is the 7th publication of its 3rd year, dated July 1978. It is a quarterly magazine priced at 5 Francs, published in France.

Table of Contents (Sommaire)

• The issue features a detailed table of contents, including:
• Notice importante (Important Notice)
• Editorial
• Bibliography
• Recent Information
• Article: 'Les Ufologues au pied du Mur' (Ufologists at the Foot of the Wall)
• Le C.I.J.U.
• Service de presse (Press Service)
• Necrology
• Free classified ads
• Reports on Bessiere and Christine Dequerlor's presentations in Aix.
• Astronomy: Magnitudes and Astronomical Lexicon.
• Recent Information
• Dossier: The Forms of UFOs (Graphics)
• 3 months of observations
• Last Minute: Observation in Tarbes.

Important Notice

The magazine clarifies that there is only one UFO association in Aix, A.E.S.V., located at 40 Rue Mignet, and that the address of M. Robert Coste should no longer be used for association matters, as he is now the deputy secretary.

Editorial

The editorial discusses the scope of the Neuchâtel section of AESV, which focuses on local investigations while handling administrative tasks for the entire Swiss section. It emphasizes the shared goals of research and information with the main AESV in Aix and expresses a willingness to collaborate with other Swiss and foreign groups through article exchanges.

Articles and Features

'Face a Face avec les Extraterrestres' (Face to Face with Extraterrestrials)

Due to technical issues, the planned article on the Maurice Masse case is postponed to the next issue. The magazine congratulates Michel Langard and Christel Demitri on their marriage.

Bibliography

The issue lists several books related to UFOs and extraterrestrials, including works by Robert Roussel, Rene Pacaut, and Jean Bastide.

Informations (Information)

• This section covers recent events and news:
• A report on an AESV debate on April 18th, which included a screening of 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind'.
• News about John Searl, a British electrician who has developed a prototype flying saucer powered by magnetic force, with plans to build a 2000-seat version.
• A warning about postal employees potentially stealing periodicals and a procedure for readers to report missing issues.

'Les Ufologues au Pied du Mur' (Ufologists at the Foot of the Wall)

This article critically examines the state of ufology, suggesting it may be shifting towards parapsychology and losing its objective focus. It argues that UFOs are real phenomena and that the field needs to remain precise and scientific, referencing historical cases like Maurice Masse. The author expresses concern that the current direction might harm the credibility of ufology.

'Reellement Extra-Terrestres?' (Really Extraterrestrials?)

This section questions the direction of some specialized magazines that publish articles with little connection to traditional ufology, such as plasmic materializations. It emphasizes the need to integrate parapsychology with UFO study but warns against losing sight of the core phenomenon.

'Voilà Maintenant 30 Ans' (Now 30 Years Ago)

The author reflects on the study of UFOs over the past 30 years, noting the challenges and the need for continued rigorous research, despite potential discouragement from certain figures.

'Un Moment de Découragement' (A Moment of Discouragement)

This brief section urges ufologists not to succumb to discouragement and emphasizes that their attitude will shape future scientific research into UFOs. It quotes Robert Ardrey: "It is by striving to reach the inaccessible that we make impossible what would be achievable."

Service de Presse (Press Service)

This extensive section lists numerous ufological publications from Luxembourg, Switzerland, Portugal, and France, providing their titles, addresses, and issue numbers. It also includes information on upcoming national UFO vigils.

Necrology

The issue reports the deaths of two notable figures: Robert Charroux, an internationally renowned writer, and Jean Tyrode, a long-time collaborator of the 'Lumieres dans la Nuit' review.

Free Classified Ads

This section offers free classified ads for readers, including requests for old UFO books and offers for translation services.

Conferences

• Conference by Richard Bessiere at the Palais des Congrès: Bessiere, Director of the C.R.O.V.N.I. Centre, presented an audio-visual conference on UFOs and mysteries, featuring 200 slides and TOP-SECRET documents. The event was attended by a large and interested public, though the subsequent debate was complicated by the presence of representatives from groups like Raelians.
• Conference by Christine Dequerlor in Caerles (Bar) on March 5, 1978: Dequerlor shared her findings from a 1970 trip to Peru, where she discovered Toro Muerto, a desert site with over 100,000 petroglyphs. These carvings depict Inca mythology, customs, and beliefs, including enigmatic figures resembling astronauts and flying craft. She noted the local fear surrounding the sacred site and discussed the potential for two truths: one for scientists and one for the public, suggesting that religious convictions and the desire to avoid public alarm contribute to the rejection of extraterrestrial phenomena.

Astronomy

This section discusses variable stars and how amateur astronomers can measure their magnitude. It explains the Pogson formula and the method of comparing a variable star's brightness to nearby reference stars.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a serious, scientific approach to ufology, emphasizing research and information. It criticizes sensationalism and pseudo-scientific methods within the field. There is a strong emphasis on international collaboration and the exchange of information among ufological groups. The publication also highlights the importance of objective investigation and the reality of the UFO phenomenon, while acknowledging the need to integrate findings from related disciplines like parapsychology and astronomy.

This issue of "HYPOTHESE OV.N.I." is a bi-monthly publication, entirely in color, focusing on UFO phenomena. The cover prominently features a call to action for young and passionate readers interested in learning more about UFOs. The issue is dated "TOUT EN COULEUR" and appears to be from 1978, with the specific issue identifier being "8 F". The publisher is identified as "GROUPE PRIVÉ UFOLOGIQUE NANCEIEN" from Nancy, France.

Astronomical Methodologies

The magazine begins with an explanation of the "Argelander method" for determining stellar magnitudes. This method involves comparing the brightness of a variable star to reference stars, using a system of 'degrees' to quantify the difference in brightness. The text details how to assign degrees based on perceived differences in luminosity, from one degree (slight difference) to five degrees (very noticeable difference). It also outlines a calculation method to derive the variable star's magnitude (mv) using the magnitudes of comparison stars (A and B) and the observed degree differences. The article notes that experienced observers can express these differences directly in tenths of a magnitude, extending the method's applicability.

UFO Phenomenon Analysis (1963-1977)

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a statistical study of UFO phenomena conducted by the "Groupe Privé Ufologique Nancéien" (GPUN) based on observations from 1963 to 1977. This study, covering 63 cases, categorizes sightings based on various criteria:

Observation Classification:

• High-altitude observations: 23 cases (36.50%) were potentially confusable with natural or artificial phenomena, while 3 cases (4.76%) were clearly anomalous.
• Medium-altitude observations: 14 cases (22.20%) involved unusual lights, and 8 cases (12.60%) were described as 'dynamic type' observations.
• Low-altitude observations: 5 cases (7.93%) were 'evolving' flyovers, and 3 cases (4.76%) were 'static' flyovers.
• Landings: 4 cases (6.34%) involved observed landings, while 0 cases involved discovered traces without observation.
• Occupants: 0 cases involved UFOs on the ground with occupants, and 2 cases (3.17%) involved occupants without a visible UFO.
• Contact: 1 case (1.58%) involved a close encounter with occupants, and 0 cases involved direct contact or messages.

Temporal and Geographical Distribution:

• Annual Situation: The number of cases fluctuated annually, with a peak in 1976 (27 cases, 42.85%) and a significant increase in 1975 (16 cases, 25.39%).
• Monthly Situation: The phenomenon was most frequently observed in July (17.46%), August (14.28%), and September (4.76%), with a notable dip in January and February.
• Hourly Situation: Observations were most common between 10 PM and 11 PM (25.39%), followed by 9 PM to 10 PM (12.69%) and 8 PM to 9 PM (9.59%).
• Duration of Observation: The most common duration was between 1 to 5 minutes (38.09%), followed by a few seconds (35.33%).
• Geographical Distribution: The majority of cases were reported in Meurthe-et-Moselle (51) (71.42%), followed by Vosges (88) (11.11%) and Meuse (55) (6.34%). Urban areas like Nancy and Vandoeuvre showed a higher concentration of sightings.

Witness and Phenomenon Characteristics:

• Witness Demographics: The majority of witnesses were adults (50.80%), with a significant portion being young adults (14-20 years old, 42.62%). Professions included students (40.43%), workers (33.33%), and unknown (15.30%).
• Phenomenon Characteristics: The study analyzed 71 objects and 8 'OVNIens' (occupants). Common shapes included spheres (29.58%), disks (17.72%), and cylinders (10.12%). The most frequent colors were luminous (30.66%), white (16.00%), orange (12.66%), and red (12.66%). Many objects emitted no sound, but some reported whistling or crackling. The altitude was predominantly high (>500m, 42.85%). Distances between witnesses and objects varied, with many observations occurring within 10 km.

Conclusion of the Study:

The study concluded that out of 65 regional cases involving 71 objects and 8 'OVNIens', 36.50% could be explained (though with difficulty) by misinterpretation of known phenomena, while 63.50% remained inexplicable. The phenomenon in the region showed an annual peak in 1976, coinciding with a mini-wave of sightings. The most frequent months were April, July, and August. A typical theoretical sighting involved a luminous sphere or object observed at high altitude, moving silently, often between 10 PM and 11 PM in a rural area, with two adult witnesses. Regional particularities included a greater variety of shapes in Meurthe-et-Moselle and more sightings in urban areas compared to national statistics.

Information Section

This section provides various news items and reports:

• Ernest Joly's Discovery: A farmer in Lays-sur-le-Doubs reported discovering mysterious traces in his barley field, consisting of a large furrow and anchor points. This led to a police investigation and the involvement of specialists.
• Bern Thunderclap: Residents of Berne were awakened by a loud thunderclap that broke shop windows, a phenomenon meteorologists found unusual.
• Rectificatif (Correction): An earlier article about Captain Mantell is corrected to state that his body was found near the wreckage of his aircraft, citing Donald Keyhoe.

UFO Sightings Reports (April-June 1978)

The magazine details numerous UFO sightings from April to June 1978 across France and other locations:

• April 2nd: A luminous phenomenon of red and white balls flanking a green ball was observed near the "Mascareigne 2" ship.
• April 3rd: A minister and a German official observed a silent, round object flying low over Mahé island.
• April 5th: A luminous ball was seen to grow and disappear intermittently in Vaudreuil (Eure).
• April 7th: A high-altitude object composed of two parts was observed moving slowly over St-Dié (Vosges).
• April 11th: An object resembling a star was seen over Aix en Provence (BR).
• April 19th: A cigar-shaped object with a red light was observed at low altitude over Bilbao, Spain.
• April 21st: A luminous phenomenon was observed multiple times over Perrieres (Calvados), appearing as a ball with various colored lights.
• April 23rd: Two witnesses observed a red ball-like object moving at low altitude over Pierre de Bresse (Saône-et-Loire).
• April 24th: Mysterious traces were discovered in a field in Pierre de Bresse (Saône et Loire).
• April 25th: A luminous, elongated object was observed by witnesses in their vicinity, which had previously illuminated their room.
• April 27th: A UFO reportedly flew over the Vaucluse region for half an hour, emitting a red glow and gyroscopic lights.
• April (undated): UFOs were sighted near Bagnols/ceze and in the Gard region, described as indefinable shapes with red-orange lights.
• May 2nd: A saucer-shaped object with flashing lights was observed moving slowly over Mornas (Vaucluse).
• May 3rd: A large red ball-like object was seen evolving over Buzit (Finistère), appearing to land and take off multiple times.
• May 6th: A luminous object with an orange cap moved east to west over the castle of Montgeoffroy (Maine et Loire).
• June 3rd: A red glow was observed over St Bonnet de Mure (Rhône).
• June 4th: Two luminous clusters were observed from a distance over the desert of California.
• June 6th: A green halo with black traces around an orange, yellow, and brown object was observed, with the objects moving rapidly in a '3' formation before disappearing.
• June 15th: A luminous phenomenon of red and white balls flanking a larger green ball was observed over Ales (Gard), leaving a luminous trail.
• June 20th: Three luminous points were observed moving in formation without noise over Montpellier and Avignon.
• June 26th: Three ovoid balls in a triangle formation, emitting a green glow, were observed over Corsica, moving towards the sea before disappearing into the clouds.

Lexicon

The issue includes a "LEXIQUE" section defining astronomical terms such as "Naine Blanche" (White Dwarf) and "Nébuleuse" (Nebula), explaining their characteristics and scientific understanding.

"Facettes" Publication

There is a promotional section for "FACETTES," a monthly magazine described as a mirror of curiosity, publishing questions from readers and answers from other readers. It covers a wide range of subjects including history, language, science, and curiosities, excluding politics and genealogies. It also features a bibliographic section on books and chronicles periodicals that are not widely discussed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed reporting and statistical analysis of UFO sightings, emphasizing the unexplained nature of a significant portion of these events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, presenting data and witness accounts for readers to consider. The publication aims to inform and engage a curious readership, particularly younger individuals interested in the subject. There is a clear emphasis on presenting factual data, even when the phenomena remain mysterious.

Title: LA FRANCE DU MERIDIONAL
Issue: 11.215
Volume: 39
Date: Wednesday, July 19, 1978
Publisher: Observatoire des Parasciences
Country: France
Original Language: French
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Main Cover Story: "Escadrille d'O.V.N.I. dans le ciel tarbais" (Squadron of UFOs in the Tarbais Sky)

The cover story reports on the observation of four unidentified flying objects (UFOs) near Tarbes on the night of July 10th. Three young monitors from a holiday camp in Tarasteix (Hautes-Pyrénées) witnessed the event between 1:00 AM and 4:00 AM. The objects were described as having different shapes: spherical, elongated, and rectangular. They emitted flashing red and blue lights, and one had a dazzling yellow light. The witnesses, identified as Pierre Barrieu (17), Alain Dieumegard (16), and Daniel Sauneuf (15), provided detailed accounts. The first object was spherical and ascended, then took an oval shape about twelve meters in apparent diameter, with flashing red and blue lights at the front. The second object was cigar-shaped with flashing lights at the front. The third was rectangular and emitted a dazzling yellow light. The objects reportedly passed within 3 meters of the witnesses, with each passage lasting one to two minutes. The UFOs were observed moving in a North-South direction.

Another report mentions that the gendarmerie of Tarbes was alerted to a troubling UFO observation on the night of July 10-11. The article also notes that specialists from the CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales) in Toulouse were investigating the case. The CNES team, composed of about twenty people from various organizations, officially gathers, analyzes, and verifies around a hundred testimonies annually. They consider UFOs to have incontestable scientific interest, often attributing sightings to poorly understood atmospheric phenomena or aerial vehicles like planes, helicopters, or powerful searchlights, and balloons.

Media Analysis: "Scandal of the so-called 'informative' newspapers"

The magazine critically analyzes how different newspapers reported the same UFO sighting near Tarbes. It highlights significant discrepancies and errors in reporting across various publications, suggesting a "scandal of the so-called 'informative' newspapers."

• Le Figaro (July 20, 1978): Praised for providing a serious report without errors in date, location, or the number of witnesses. However, it omitted the names of four witnesses, only mentioning the Pere Mercier, whose existence was unknown to other papers.
• Le Méridional (July 19, 1978): Found interesting but reduced the number of "heroes" to three, excluding Pere Mercier. It had no transcription errors regarding locations or times. It also mentioned a group of lights of similar nature, found nowhere else.
• Le Provençal (July 19, 1978): Similar to Le Méridional, it reported the event but omitted details and focused on the lights.
• Le Parisien Libéré (July 20, 1978): Described as not "committing" by stating "several craft" instead of a specific number, thus lacking precision. It reported 3 witnesses instead of 5 but had no transcription errors.
• Nice Matin (Alps, July 19, 1978): Considered to have the most errors. Its headline was "Battle of UFOs in the Béarn Sky." The date was shifted to the 9th, and UFOs were described as multiplying mysteriously and seen in the dozens (20 in total) engaged in battle. It reported 4 out of 5 witnesses (no trace of Pere Mercier). Errors included misspellings of witness names (Berriau instead of Barrieu, Armelle Sauneuf instead of Daniel Sauneuf) and an incorrect apparent diameter of 10 meters instead of a dozen.

The article questions whether these are errors of transcription or deliberate misinformation ("mauvaise volonté"). It concludes that the CNES observers in Toulouse found the young witnesses' accounts interesting due to their concordance and seriousness, despite the media's flawed reporting.

The author, "PERRY," emphasizes that press articles on the same case usually stem from a single dispatch from a news agency. He recalls a previous instance where a report from Meyrargues on January 11th had to be corrected in several publications. PERRY advises readers to "read LE Figaro or ask directly from a press agency" for reliable information.

Contact Information

The magazine provides contact details for the "Observatoire des Parasciences," including a postal address in Marseille, France, and an email address ([email protected]). It also lists URLs related to articles, "Ovni-Présence," and "Anomalies" hosted on lescahiers.net.

A note importante (important note) is included, stating that it is forbidden to retrieve the digital version of the publication and put it online on any website, blog, or social network. The only authorized online publication is on the AFU (Archives for the Unexplained) website. Unauthorized publications will be considered copyright infringement and subject to prosecution.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the reporting and analysis of UFO sightings, specifically focusing on an event in the Tarbes region. The editorial stance is critical of media reporting practices, highlighting inaccuracies and sensationalism in how UFO events are presented to the public. The magazine advocates for more rigorous and truthful journalism, implicitly promoting its own publication as a more reliable source of information on such phenomena. There is an underlying theme of validating the scientific interest in UFOs, as evidenced by the mention of CNES investigations, while simultaneously debunking inaccurate media portrayals.