AMA - No 01 - 1990 fev

Magazine Overview

A.M.A. (Aerospace, Meteorology, Astronomy) is the bulletin of the Centre d'Etudes et de Recherches sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux (CERPA), a non-profit association founded by a young team of volunteer researchers. This first issue, dated February 1990, is dedicated to the investigation of aerospace phenomena, with a particular focus on the 'Traces a Valensole' case and UFO sightings in Belgium.

Editorial

The editorial introduces A.M.A. as a new title for the research undertaken by CERPA. It emphasizes a commitment to studying aerospace, astronomical, and meteorological phenomena with scientific rigor. The editorial acknowledges that while many phenomena are easily explainable (citing examples like weather balloons, ball lightning, meteorites, satellite debris, and plasmas), approximately 38% remain unexplained. It calls for collective effort in this research, aiming to uncover the truth.

Reflexion sur les OVNI (Reflection on UFOs)

This section, translated by Gérard ROMEO from an article by Jorges L. GARCIA VENTURINI for LA NACION, Buenos Aires, 1978, delves into the philosophical and practical aspects of UFOs. It draws a parallel with Heidegger's concept of philosophy interrogating the 'extra-ordinary'. The author argues that the greatest difficulty lies in understanding the 'ordinary' and 'banal' aspects of everyday life, which can obscure reality. UFOs, despite their often sensationalized portrayal, are presented as a significant human inquiry. The article notes the origin of the term UFO (Unidentified Flying Object) and its translation to OVNI (Objet Volant Non Identifié). It posits that while the vast majority of objects in space are known (estimated at 93%), a small percentage (around 7%) remain unexplained. The author suggests that, provisionally, UFOs may not hold inherent mystery and could have tangible scientific explanations, but acknowledges the potential for new apparitions to increase the unexplained percentage. The article also touches upon the probability of extraterrestrial life, citing astronomical figures for stars and planets in the Milky Way, and suggests that the existence of intelligent life elsewhere is a logical mathematical conclusion, making terrestrial UFO sightings secondary to this broader question.

Avalanche de Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés en Belgique (Avalanche of Unidentified Aerospace Phenomena in Belgium)

This article details a series of unusual aerial phenomena observed in Belgium between late November and mid-December 1989. The sightings, primarily in the Eupen region, involved a large, dark triangle with powerful white projectors and a blinking red-orange spot. Witnesses described it as gigantic, silent, or emitting a whistling/humming sound, unlike conventional aircraft. An investigation by SOBEPS (Société Belge des Phénomènes Spatiaux), based in Brussels, confirmed the material reality of the phenomenon, ruling out hypotheses such as aircraft, AWACS, lasers, or giant holograms. The conditions were clear, with strong winds. The slow or rapid evolution of these apparitions did not match known terrestrial craft. Military authorities, initially silent, later acknowledged interception procedures and denied any confidential trials. The Gendarmerie Belge cooperated closely with SOBEPS. The article notes that luminous triangular forms had been observed in Belgium previously, in 1972.

The investigation into these Belgian sightings led to speculation about the American F-117A stealth fighter, described as black and triangular. The article introduces the F-117A, the first stealth aircraft used by the USAF, in service since 1985 and based in Tonopah, Nevada. It mentions its use in the Panamanian conflict and its precision. Information also circulates that it might have been piloted by Royal Air Force aviators and appeared over Europe during NATO exercises. The F-117A was reportedly flown at night in its early days, sometimes accompanied by other aircraft.

Contact Information and Disclaimer

The bulletin provides contact information for SOBEPS in Brussels for those interested in their analysis of such facts. It also includes a disclaimer stating that all published articles engage only the responsibility of their authors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unidentified aerospace phenomena, the scientific approach to such studies, and the philosophical implications of potential extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance is one of cautious scientific inquiry, distinguishing between easily explainable phenomena and those requiring further investigation, while also considering the broader astronomical context for the possibility of life beyond Earth. The issue highlights specific cases like Valensole and Belgian sightings, and introduces advanced military technology like the F-117A as a potential explanation for some observed phenomena.

This document appears to be an issue of a French publication focused on aerospace phenomena, UFOs (OVNIs), and related scientific investigations. The issue details the activities of a center dedicated to these topics and presents a case study of a UAP trace event in Valensole, France.

Activities of the Center

The first page outlines the diverse activities undertaken by the center. These include:

• Work Meetings: Focused on aerospace, meteorological, and astronomical phenomena.
• Investigations: On testimonies of unidentified aerospace phenomena (UAP).
• Astronomy Vigils: Initiation sessions for astronomy and sky surveillance, held approximately once a month.
• Site Visits: Excursions to locations where unidentified aerospace and terrestrial phenomena have appeared.
• Scientific Visits: Tours of scientific organizations such as astronomical observatories, regional air navigation centers, meteorological centers, and CNRS laboratories.
• Film Screenings: Cinematographic sessions.
• Social Gatherings: Friendly meals with debates.
• Congress Participation: Involvement in scientific and research congresses on unidentified aerospace phenomena.
• Bulletin Production: Diffusion and preparation of the A.M.A bulletin (Aerospace, Meteorology, Astronomy).
• Library Lending: Access to a library with over 200 titles.

The page concludes with a call to action, "PARTICIPEZ ACTIVEMENT," and a motto emphasizing camaraderie: "LE CERPA, C'EST D'ABORD UNE AMITIE" (CERPA is first and foremost friendship).

The Disturbing "OVNI" Phenomenon

This section discusses how the UFO phenomenon is often unsettling, particularly for those in authority. It suggests that certain associations and official bodies attempt to discredit UAP-related affairs, leading to the ridicule or silencing of witnesses. The article notes that many scientists are convinced of the phenomenon's existence but remain silent due to fear of ridicule or threats. An anecdote is shared about an astrophysicist who, upon observing a UFO making sharp right-angle turns, refused to accept it was a UFO, attributing his reaction to pride and an unwillingness to question his established knowledge.

The text criticizes some periodicals for mocking ufology, citing examples of Belgian witnesses describing a 'frite'-shaped UFO and a Russian report of a 'banana'-shaped UFO. The author suggests that the press, often allergic to 'little green men,' may sensationalize or distort reports, possibly due to strict directives.

A quote attributed to Lincoln, "On peut tromper le Peuple un certain temps, mais pas indéfiniment..." (One can fool the People for a time, but not indefinitely...), is used to imply that the truth about UAPs will eventually emerge.

Soviet UAP Sightings: The "Banana" Case

Page 3 features an illustration and text related to a Soviet UAP sighting. A reconstitution, based on witness testimonies, depicts a banana-shaped object that reportedly flew over the gardens of Voronej in September 1989. Below this is a drawing by a Soviet schoolchild, which the text notes now resembles a pineapple. The accompanying text questions the reliability of such accounts, stating, "A qui se fier ?" (Who to trust?).

A note from the editorial staff (N.d.A.) asserts that the "pineapple" is clearly a UAP that emerged from a "banana"-shaped vessel.

Are UFOs Returning to Valensole?

This article details an investigation into suspicious traces discovered by an agricultural worker in a lavender field near Valensole, France, on June 22, 1989. The discovery coincided with the 25th anniversary of the Maurice Masse case, which had previously garnered regional press attention.

According to the report, a Gendarmerie Commander dispatched helicopters to the area. These helicopters, while surveying for a reported plane crash, were able to photograph the traces. The author, who was investigating a separate UMMO affair in Digne, learned of the Valensole traces and requested to see them. He was granted permission, but faced a dilemma regarding informing his UAP research association (CEO-France). He was informed that the SEPRA (formerly GEPAN), now the "Service d'Expertise des Phénomènes de Rentrées Atmosphériques," would handle the investigation if needed. However, SEPRA did not visit the site, and the author's subsequent exclusion from his group for attempting to share information led him to conduct his own independent investigation.

The Facts of the Valensole Traces

The agricultural worker discovered a large, yellowed area in his lavender field, contrasting with the surrounding green. This area had the shape of a horseshoe, approximately forty meters long and twenty meters wide. In the center, the witness reported three rectangular indentations in the soil, about 35 cm long and 20 cm wide, arranged horizontally like basins. However, only one of these was clearly defined.

Investigators Bernard Hugues and Pégcurier visited the site on June 24, 1989, prior to the witness's August 27 statement. They noted only two superimposed indentations in the soil, spaced two meters apart. The larger measured 79 cm by 23 cm, and the second measured 50 cm by 30 cm, both with an approximate depth of 7 cm.

The farmer believed the traces predated June 15, the date of heavy rainfall in the area. He speculated they might be from helicopters, as such aircraft are sometimes seen near fields during military exercises, which he stated were almost daily occurrences.

In addition to the two indentations, about a dozen lavender plants nearby were dessicated, with two completely dead. Their stems were bent towards the ground but not broken. Another dozen plants appeared traumatized with bent stems.

No signs of burning were noted.

Official and Scientific Investigations

On June 22, 1989, the farmer contacted the Gendarmerie of Valensole, who recorded his statement and visited the site. They conducted measurements for radioactivity, which proved negative, and took aerial photos via helicopter. The farmer's wife accompanied the Gendarmerie.

The information soon spread through public rumor and a local radio station, reaching a journalist in Digne. The article mentions that the Centre d'Etudes et de Recherches sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux (CERPA) would continue the study.

CERPA's Investigations and Preliminary Results

Given the scale of the traces and the absence of any observed aerospace phenomenon, CERPA decided to conduct in-depth investigations. Soil samples were sent to a private agronomic research laboratory in southern France and another laboratory affiliated with CNRS. The analyses were ongoing at the time of publication.

CERPA also sought information from various organizations:

• Protection des Végétaux (Plant Protection): Had no knowledge of the traces.
• Gendarmerie Nationale: Provided a judicial report, a copy of which CERPA requested and was authorized to consult.
• State-Major of the Army: Remained silent after several correspondences.
• Laboratoire de Physique de l'Exosphère: The research station at Catalany, responsible for measuring North Sea wave amplitudes, was informed late about the traces and reported nothing unusual.
• Stratospheric Balloon Launch Center: A balloon launched on June 16 landed near Bergerac.
• Electricité de France (EDF): Reported no abnormal electrical network disturbances in the Valensole area during the period.
• Météorologie Nationale (National Meteorology): Confirmed two evening thunderstorms occurred between June 2 and June 13, 1989.
• Centre d'Etudes Nucléaire de Cadarache: Its security services learned of the traces via the local Gendarmerie.
• Centre Régional de la Navigation Aérienne (CRNA) Sud-Est: Its civilian radars detected no abnormal echoes near the plateau.

Preliminary Results from CNRS Analysis

Soil samples were collected, and dimensional measurements and physical parameters were recorded. A CNRS laboratory produced an analysis report with conclusions described as "astonishing."

The examination included:

• Stereomicroscopy: Aimed at detecting physical alteration of rock or mineral grains, foreign solids, or impregnation. No suspicious alteration traces were found, nor any visible foreign solids or liquids. Color variations were also not noted when comparing samples to a control. However, the possibility of very low concentrations of toxic chemicals was not excluded, suggesting a more detailed chemical analysis would be beneficial.
• pH Measurement: The pH of humidified soil samples ranged from 7.20 to 7.65. These values were considered of relative interest due to the natural variability of pH. No significant differences were found between the control sample and the other two.
• Mineralogy (X-ray Diffractometry): All three samples showed the presence of Quartz, Calcite, Miscovite, Illite, Iron Oxides, Smectite, and Kaolinite. These components were in an unaltered mineralogical state. The report notes that if high temperatures had affected the surface, one would expect to see the disappearance or weakening of Kaolinite (which decomposes at 550°C) and a color change in iron oxides (Gothite, Limonite) to Hematite due to heat.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The publication consistently focuses on the investigation of unidentified aerospace phenomena (UAP/OVNI), emphasizing scientific rigor and detailed reporting. It highlights the challenges posed by media skepticism and the need for thorough, objective analysis. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UAP events, encouraging active participation and fostering a sense of community among researchers, as suggested by the motto "CERPA is first and foremost friendship."

This issue of OVNI-PRESENCE, identified as issue numbers 43-44, is published by A.E.S.V. and is in French. It covers a range of topics related to UFOs, the paranormal, and legends, with a focus on investigations, witness accounts, and recent events in the field.

Analysis of an Incident

The issue begins with a section on conclusions drawn from analyses of a particular type of manifestation, stating that while the investigations were not exhaustive, they did not provide a definitive explanation. However, probabilities were suggested, including clandestine experimentation with chemicals at very low concentrations and high phytotoxicity, which would benefit from consultation with laboratories like I.N.R.A. Another possibility considered is the action of physical factors such as high-power ultrasound or clandestine spraying of volatile organic solvents (hydrocarbons, organo-chlorates, ketones), which, despite being toxic, leave no residue.

Several hypotheses are then presented for exclusion. The phenomenon of ball lightning is ruled out due to the absence of vitrified minerals in the analyses, as such minerals would melt into glass upon contact with electric arcs. It is noted that a large lightning impact would only be noticeable on a surface of less than one square meter. Information from Météorage, a private lightning information company, confirmed no lightning impacts within 3.5 km southeast of Valensole during the first half of June, thus excluding this cause for an event in that region.

Drilling is also excluded because there was no accumulation of mud or vehicle tire tracks observed over several meters, and no drilling casings were found. The landing of a classic aircraft is deemed impossible due to the lack of clear traces like tire skids over tens of meters, especially considering the ground was very wet from heavy June rains.

The article concludes that very few hypotheses can be definitively set aside, given the numerous possibilities for producing such traces with various means. The authors promise to return to the origin of an important alteration of a lavender field in a future bulletin, suggesting that the public is unaware of the true nature of such events.

News and Updates

The issue includes several news items and announcements. It reports with sadness the death of René FOUERE, an animator of GEPA and a researcher of truth, who was instrumental in bringing the UMMO affair to public attention through a book by Antonio RIBERA. Another death noted is that of Jean-Louis FOREST, a founder of the Institut Mondial des Sciences Avancées and director of SVEPS.

A wave of unidentified aerospace phenomena is reported over Belgium in October and also in the USSR. Following the fall of the Berlin Wall and the opening up of Eastern Bloc countries, the USSR is also experiencing this wave, with reports of landings in Voronej, Perm, and numerous contactees. International press dispatches have covered these events, suggesting the USSR is opening up to the paranormal and may be more advanced in this field than previously thought.

Jean SIDER, author of "Ultra Top-Secret, ces Ovnis qui font peur," is cited for demonstrating in the latest OVNI-Présence (issue Nº43-44) that the Majestic 12 story is a hoax, raising questions about who benefited from it.

The release of "La Manipulation occulte" by Jean-Michel LESAGE (pseudonym) is announced. The author, possibly Pierre DELVAL, explores the occult hypothesis of the UFO phenomenon, aligning with the ideas of ufologist Jacques VALLEE in "La Grande Manipulation" and Jean ROBIN in "La Grande Parodie."

Conferences and Publications

Announcements are made for upcoming events. A new Ufological congress is scheduled for April 28-30, 1990, in Lyon, organized by the Association d'Etudes sur les Soucoupes Volantes (A.E.S.V.). The group expects fruitful contacts and provides contact information for inquiries. Mrs. MEADEN, BOUNIAS, BOURBEAU, and others are expected to attend.

The A.E.S.V. is also launching a Minitel service, "3615 Code OVNI" or "SOS OVNI," to provide real-time UFO information.

Additionally, a major congress on UFOs, humanoid visitors, extraterrestrials, and abductions took place in Trenton, New Jersey, USA, from March 30 to April 1, 1990. This initiative was led by Mr. Pat.J.MARCATTILIO and included participation from renowned ufologists like Mr. SPRINKLE, HUNEEUS, and HOPKINS.

Jacques Vallée's latest book, "Confrontations: Une recherche d'un scientifique pour un contact extra-terrestre," is mentioned as having just been released in the United States in English. The author's prolific output, with two books in one year, is noted with pleasure.

Support and Membership

Pages 23 and 26 contain appeals for support. The magazine highlights that its research is costly, citing an example of 1000F for field analyses. Readers are encouraged to support the publication through subscriptions, with the subscription price listed as 70FF (payable to C.E.R.P.A.). Readers are also invited to become members or correspondents of C.E.R.P.A.

A book advertisement on page 26 promotes "La Manipulation Occulte" by Jean-Michel LESAGE, posing the question: "UFOs, Products of Malevolent Forces?"

Tales and Legends

The issue features a section titled "CONTES ET LEGENDES" (Tales and Legends), which explores myths and reported anomalous events from various regions.

Peru

The section begins with a description of Peru as a land of "apocalypse," characterized by diverse latitudes and altitudes, from torrid coastal deserts to polar cold, and verdant valleys interspersed with hostile obstacles. It describes a land where time seems to stand still, between the megalopolis of Lima and deeply rooted ancestral Amazonian tribes.

The Andean man is portrayed as living between the supernatural and the real, practicing a syncretism between the religion of the Sons of the Sun and the imposed monotheistic religion. Nature spirits are believed to inhabit stones, lagoons, mountains, and homes, requiring offerings.

Four suns are said to have risen and extinguished before the golden sun of the Incas: the Sun of Water, destroyed by the Andean deluge; the Sun of Air, by hurricanes; the Sun of Fire, by volcanoes; and finally, the Sun of Earth, whose gold was sweat, now transformed into drops of blood.

Two specific incidents from Peru are recounted:

• Nahuimpuquio (1920s-1930s): A hamlet in a high valley where a small spark from the sky ignited a roof without causing damage. It is questioned if this was a tear from Viracocha, the "Sun of Suns."
• Huallanca (1960s): A village at 1400 meters altitude, with palm trees against a backdrop of snow, where a river carved a path to the ocean.

Lima

The city of Lima, founded by Pizarro, is described as the "Venice of cursed lovers," a Creole city facing the Spanish coast, a mirror to ethnic groups descending to form new shantytowns. It is a melting pot of cultures where beliefs and legends intertwine with colonial stones, imbuing them with life.

Apparitions are common, with reports of lamentations of the dead near a stadium and fishermen recounting luminous phenomena, apparitions, and disappearances of boats, as well as tales of sirens.

Chorillos (circa 1975)

On the beach of Chorillos, around midnight, a woman took a walk after a marital dispute and witnessed a light illuminating the sky. She saw a woman emerge from the water, wearing a brilliant dress with wide sleeves, resembling a geisha's attire, with long, dry hair. The apparition, seemingly smiling, addressed the witness in an unknown language with a slow, resonant voice. After a brief "message," the apparition submerged in the reverse direction of its arrival.

Abancay Avenue (June 11, 1975)

Another witness, Tomasa Calderon, an eighty-year-old woman, was walking home when she encountered a surreal scene. The familiar Abancay Avenue transformed into a futuristic environment with new, brilliant, modern buildings and European-looking passersby. The cars were also new and elegant. She felt as if she were in an "American dream" or a "modern delirium." When she asked a man for directions to the University Park, she touched his arm, and he turned slowly. The "mirage" reportedly reappeared two or three months later at the same time and place, though more fleetingly. In both instances, Tomasa experienced headaches and a loss of appetite for several days.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, presenting investigations, analyses, and witness testimonies. It maintains a stance of open inquiry into UFOs and related subjects, encouraging reader participation through subscriptions and membership. The editorial tone suggests a belief in the reality of these phenomena and a commitment to uncovering their origins, often hinting at possibilities beyond conventional explanations. The inclusion of legends and historical accounts from various cultures suggests a broader interest in anomalous events and their potential connections to a hidden reality.

This document appears to be a small, experimental bulletin from CERPA, issue number 31. It is primarily in French and consists of two pages. The first page contains acknowledgments, while the second page is an advertisement.

Page 1: Acknowledgments

The first page begins with a message from CERPA (Centre d'Étude et de Recherche sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux) expressing gratitude to several individuals for their contributions to the realization of this experimental bulletin. CERPA hopes that the bulletin will be improved in future issues. The individuals thanked are listed as:

• Messieurs: Armand RUIZ
• Michel SEYER
• Henri BALLESTRIERO

Additionally, the bulletin acknowledges the support of "Librairie l'Etoile du Mage" located in Marseille.

The page number is indicated as '31' at the bottom.

Page 2: Advertisement

The second page features a prominent advertisement with the heading "ALLO PHENOMENES SPATIAUX" (Hello Spatial Phenomena). The advertisement includes a graphic of a telephone receiver. Below the heading, it provides a contact telephone number: "TEL: 91.60.21.12". It also specifies that the service is available "24H/24H" (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) and includes the word "REPONDEUR" (answering machine), suggesting it is a contact line for reporting or inquiring about spatial phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The content suggests CERPA is involved in the study and research of aerospace phenomena, likely UFOs or UAPs, given the advertisement. The experimental nature of the bulletin indicates an ongoing effort to disseminate information and potentially gather reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of collaboration and improvement, seeking input and contributions from individuals and organizations.