AESV - no 17

Magazine Overview

This issue of the A.E.S.V. Bulletin, number 17, published in June 1981, is the sixth year of publication for this quarterly review dedicated to the study of flying saucers. The cover prominently features the headline "LES O.V.N.I. EN CHINE" (UFOs in China), suggesting a focus on sightings and research in that region.

Editorial: For True Ufological Coordination

The editorial, titled "For True Ufological Coordination," addresses the proliferation of ufological organizations and the need for a structured approach to coordination. The author, Yves Bosson, argues for a hierarchical structure ranging from independent ufologists to national, continental, and global confederations. He emphasizes that effective coordination is crucial for standardizing research methodologies, definitions, and classifications, enabling ufologists worldwide to work collaboratively and avoid redundant efforts. Bosson critiques the current fragmented landscape, suggesting that organizations should align with broader frameworks like PICUFOR and CECRU to achieve greater efficiency and impact.

Impressions: The Influence of Climate on Ufology

Michel Monnerie's "Impressions" section reviews "Le Naufrage des Extra-Terrestres" by Michel Monnerie, which explores the influence of the socio-cultural climate on ufological phenomena. Monnerie argues that the 'UFO myth' is a continuation of earlier narratives and that the context in which sightings occur is as important as the sightings themselves. The review highlights Monnerie's analysis of the 1897 wave of sightings in the US and his attempt to link UFO phenomena to broader cultural narratives. However, the reviewer points out potential inaccuracies in Monnerie's claims regarding Switzerland's UFO observations and its alleged 'US influence.'

The Airlon Project

The "Airlon" project, detailed on page 4, is a research initiative in Switzerland aimed at simulating UFO phenomena by launching hot air balloons. The project's goal is to observe public reactions, measure the sociological impact of perceived UFOs, and refine research methodologies. The article describes the evolution of the project, from initial balloon designs to the use of 'UFO-Solar' balloons, and recounts several test flights, highlighting the challenges posed by wind and technical difficulties. The project seeks to bridge the gap between ufology and human sciences.

Interview with Pierre Versins

An extensive interview with Pierre Versins, curator of the "Maison d'Ailleurs" (a museum of utopia, extraordinary voyages, and science fiction), explores his views on UFOs and their connection to science fiction. Versins emphasizes the importance of imagination in understanding UFO phenomena and discusses the influence of science fiction authors on the study of UFOs. He addresses criticisms of Bertrand Meheust's work and clarifies his stance on the 'mythico-physical' theory. Versins also touches upon the limitations of current ufological documentation and the need for more original research.

Code of Ufological Ethics

A supplementary section presents the "Code de Déontologie Ufologique" (Code of Ufological Ethics) developed by the CECRU. This code aims to establish ethical guidelines for ufologists, particularly in response to 'commercial ufology' and questionable practices. It emphasizes respecting witnesses, avoiding exploitation, and promoting objective research. The code outlines principles for relations between ufologists and with external bodies like the press and scientific communities.

UFOs in China

This section details the emergence of UFO sightings and research in China, with reports from early 1980. It introduces the China UFO Research Organisation (CURO), founded in May 1980, which has documented numerous sightings. The article includes accounts of specific incidents, such as a cone-shaped object observed in Dagang and a discoidal object seen in Jinghai. The CURO's president, Cha Leping, expresses an open-minded approach to studying UFOs, acknowledging the possibility of extraterrestrial origins while stressing the need for scientific investigation.

Analysis of French Ufological Press

An analysis of 75 French ufological magazines and bulletins from 1980 reveals trends in content and presentation. The study categorizes articles into general topics, investigations, reviews, and editorials, noting a significant portion dedicated to general articles and case studies. The author critiques the often-poor presentation, repetition of information, and the prevalence of 'white pages' (blank pages) in some publications. The article suggests that a consolidation of resources and efforts could lead to more effective and professional ufological research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the global nature of UFO phenomena (with a focus on China), the organizational challenges within ufology, the ethical considerations of research, and the intersection of ufology with science fiction and broader cultural narratives. The editorial stance, as expressed by Yves Bosson and the CECRU, advocates for rigorous, objective, and collaborative research, emphasizing the need for ethical practices and a move away from sensationalism and commercial exploitation. There is a clear call for greater professionalism and a more scientific approach to the study of UFOs.

This issue of AESV, identified as number 16 and dated April 1981, focuses on UFO sightings and related phenomena, particularly in China. The magazine features reader contributions, reports on specific incidents, and discussions on the nature of UFOs.

UFO Sightings in China

The issue details several UFO encounters reported in China:

• Wuhan University Students: Three students observed a UFO on November 11th, described as saucer-shaped with yellow and white lights, estimated at 3000 feet, and observed for 15 minutes. It moved slowly to the northeast and then to the southwest.
• Beijing Institute Students: Two students from a Beijing institute photographed a white, luminous object on August 24th around 4 AM. They described it as initially resembling an incomplete moon emerging from behind a mountain, but its irregular movement indicated it was not celestial. They observed it for about half an hour, noting it emitted no sound.
• Zhangpu Incident (July 7, 1977): This is presented as a more serious case. During an outdoor film screening attended by over 3000 people in Zhangpu, Fujian province, two mysterious objects emitting a bright orange light flew low over the crowd. The objects were described as being only a few feet apart and made no sound. The ensuing panic resulted in the deaths of two children from trampling and injuries to 300 people. Public security officials reviewed the film footage under similar conditions but found nothing abnormal.
• Gansu Province Sighting (October 23, 1978): A group of Chinese Air Force pilots observed a large, luminous, rectangular object flying at an altitude of approximately 21,000 feet (6400 meters) for 2-3 minutes. The object was described as having very bright lights.

International Connections and Analysis

The magazine suggests potential links between Chinese UFO sightings and those reported internationally:

• Valentich Case Connection: The Zhangpu incident is noted as occurring shortly after the disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich in Australia on October 21st. The article mentions Valentich's radio report of a large, green-glowing, rectangular object hovering near him over Bass Strait before communications were lost. Residents of King Island confirmed seeing a similar green light.
• CURO's Categorization: Cha Leping, president of CURO (Center for UFO Research), is quoted categorizing UFOs into three types: 1. Saucer-like, balloon-like, or egg-shaped, with bright silver light during the day and orange/red at night. 2. Large and rectangular (rarely seen). 3. Resembling spiral nebulae with a bright core and smaller points of light.
• Possible Meteorite Event: An article mentions that 22 reports from Shanghai and surrounding provinces were likely caused by a large meteorite. This object entered the atmosphere on August 26, 1980, over eastern China, appearing as a fireball at an altitude of about 60 kilometers. It broke into several burning pieces, leaving a debris cloud. Two observatories tracked its descent over 1000 km, estimating its initial weight at over 1000 tons.

Reader Contributions and Other Features

• Letters to the Editor:
• Dominique Moreau from St-Etienne corrects a report about Venus being mistaken for a UFO in Dammarie-les-Lys, citing G.E.O.S. conclusions.
• Antonio Ribera expresses gratitude for the publication of his discourse and notes its impact, mentioning its translation into English by "The SBI Report" of New York.
• PSILOG: The magazine highlights PSILOG, a Quebec-based parapsychology team publishing a bimonthly review on paranormal topics, noting its high quality and French language.
• Airlon Project: A brief mention of the Airlon project, involving balloons, suggests it is progressing towards execution in the autumn.
• Research Participation: A call to action invites readers to participate in UFO research by drawing UFOs and providing specific personal and observational details. These drawings are to be sent to AESV for Switzerland or Thierry Pinvidic for other countries, with results to be studied in the USA.
• Interview Excerpts: References are made to an interview with Bertrand Meheust on science fiction and flying saucers, and information about "La Maison d'Ailleurs" (The House of Elsewhere), a Swiss research center.
• Book Reviews/Recommendations: Mentions of books like "Hypothèses Extraterrestres," "La mémoire des OVNI," and "La grande peur martienne" are included, along with an offer to purchase them.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the reporting of UFO sightings, the analysis of these events, and the encouragement of public participation in research. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, presenting various cases and analyses while also acknowledging the need for critical evaluation and cross-referencing with known astronomical or meteorological events. The magazine aims to connect international UFO phenomena and foster a community of researchers and enthusiasts.