AMA - No 06 - 1993 avril

Magazine Overview

This issue of AMA, number 6, published in April 1993, is a bulletin from the Centre d'Études et de Recherches sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux (CERPA). The cover prominently features a tribute to Aimé Michel, a significant figure in ufology who passed away in late 1992. The main headline announces his death and the mourning of the ufological community. A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a dossier on 'Censorship and Exclusion Discrediting French Ufology,' highlighting conflicts and perceived unfair treatment of CERPA by other organizations.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Bernard Hugues, reflects on the recent passing of Aimé Michel, describing him as a pioneer of ufological research. Hugues recounts Michel's early interest in flying saucers dating back to 1946 and mentions that CERPA had the opportunity to interview him in 1991, with the interview to be published in a future issue. The editorial also announces the launch of CERPA's public Minitel service (3615 OVNITEL) and upcoming events, including public conferences and the third international ufology days in September. Hugues expresses disappointment and denounces the 'unjust exclusion' of CERPA from an international congress in Lyon, organized by SOS-OVNI, and accuses SOS-OVNI of 'shameful censorship' of articles about CERPA. He criticizes this behavior as dishonest and intolerant, damaging the image of the French ufological community, and calls for a more unified and healthy environment for studying the phenomenon.

Key Articles and Sections

Souvenirs à la mémoire d'Aimé Michel (Memories in Memory of Aimé Michel)

Authored by Dante Minazzoli and translated from Spanish, this article shares personal recollections of Aimé Michel. The author recounts how Antonio Ribera introduced him to Michel in 1985. He describes his initial phone call and subsequent meetings with Michel, including a visit to his home in St-Vincent-les-Forts. Michel's intellectual curiosity is highlighted, particularly his interest in the political and philosophical discussions of the time, including the works of Artur Koestler and Charles Plisnier, and his views on the complexities of Marxism versus Stalinism. The article touches upon Michel's discussions about Jean-Pierre Petit's book on UFOs and Jacques Vallée's works, noting Michel's belief that while new books could be written, adding something fundamentally new to the phenomenon was difficult. The author also recalls a conversation about the nature of extraterrestrial civilizations and the psychological revolution required for humanity to accept the possibility of non-religious, intelligent universes.

Michel's ideas from his 1969 work, 'Naissance de l'homme cosmique' (Birth of the Cosmic Man), are discussed, emphasizing his views on the plurality of inhabited worlds and the potential for human psychological development towards a cosmic consciousness. His 1977 postface to 'Mystérieux Objets Célestes' is also referenced, where he elaborated on the idea that advanced cosmic civilizations would possess a profound understanding of psychophysics, integrating psychic phenomena into science. Michel's perspective on UFOs is presented as predicting phenomena consistent with the extraterrestrial hypothesis (H.E.T.), suggesting that the observed UFOs align with what H.E.T. would predict, even if the exact nature of UFOs remains unknown.

Ummo et l'astronomie (Ummo and Astronomy)

This extensive article by Robert Alessandri critically examines the astronomical claims made by the Ummo civilization, particularly in relation to the star system Wolf 424. The author contrasts the information provided by Ummo with scientific data, often highlighting discrepancies. Alessandri addresses Dominique Caudron's interpretation of the Belgian UFO wave as being explained by stealth aircraft, a theory he finds insufficient. He then delves into the Ummo claims about their home planet, including its orbital characteristics around Wolf 424. Scientific literature on habitability in binary star systems, specifically referencing Robert S. Harrington's work, is used to assess the plausibility of Ummo's described orbit. The article argues that Ummo's stated orbital radius is compatible with a stable orbit within the Wolf 424 system, but questions the description of a second planet at a greater distance. Alessandri also discusses the Ummo claim of axial nutation without a natural satellite, challenging Caudron's binary reasoning and suggesting that a second star could indeed cause such an effect, though the exact amplitude would require further study. A significant portion of the article is dedicated to debunking the Ummo's stated mass for their star, Wolf 424, by comparing it with the scientifically determined mass based on orbital mechanics. Alessandri concludes that the Ummites are likely lying or mistaken about their origin and the characteristics of their home system, suggesting their documents might be intended to mislead or influence rather than inform.

La Planète-Ouef (The Egg Planet)

This section continues the discussion on the Ummo civilization's astronomical claims. It focuses on the description of their home planet's shape, which is said to be elongated rather than bulging at the equator due to a strong magnetic field. The article discusses the scientific understanding of planetary magnetic fields and their potential effects on planetary shape. While acknowledging that a strong magnetic field could plausibly cause an elongation, the article expresses skepticism about the specific values provided by the Ummites and the scientific basis for such a phenomenon. It also touches upon the possibility of detecting extrasolar planets using astrometric and spectroscopic methods, noting that recent advancements in spectroscopy offer more promising avenues for discovering planets, particularly those closer to their stars.

La Nutation sans Lune (Nutation without a Moon)

This part of the 'Ummo et l'astronomie' article addresses another Ummo claim: that their planet experiences axial nutation, a phenomenon typically caused by a moon, despite Ummo having no natural satellite. The author criticizes Dominique Caudron's simplistic reasoning, which dismisses the Ummo claim based on the Earth's moon-induced nutation. The article suggests that other celestial bodies, such as a companion star, could also induce such an oscillation. It highlights the Ummites' potential knowledge of the Wolf 424 system's companion star as a possible explanation for their claim, contrasting this with Caudron's assumption that they simply copied Earth's nutation data without understanding its cause.

Les Ummites mentent... et alors? (The Ummos Lie... So What?)

This section directly confronts the discrepancies in the Ummo claims, particularly regarding the mass of their star, Wolf 424. The article contrasts the Ummo-provided mass with the scientifically determined mass, which is significantly lower. It dismisses the Ummo explanation involving an interstellar cloud as improbable. The author concludes that the Ummites are likely not truthful about their origin and that their documents may serve a purpose beyond simple information dissemination, possibly to influence or mislead. The article entertains the possibility that the Ummites are either hoaxers, agents of intelligence services, or genuine extraterrestrials who are intentionally providing false information.

Ummo. Planète à découvrir? (Ummo. Planet to Discover?)

This concluding section of the Ummo analysis ponders the purpose behind the Ummites' fabricated planetary system. It suggests that despite the inaccuracies, the Ummo documents have spurred original scientific research. The article speculates that the fictional planetary system might contain real information that will be confirmed by future astronomical discoveries. It discusses the ongoing progress in detecting extrasolar planets, particularly through methods like astrometry and spectroscopy, and the potential for discovering Earth-like planets in the future.

Other Sections

• Editorial: Discussed above.
• Flashes: Brief news items, likely related to ufology.
• La Boutique du CERPA: Information on items available for purchase from CERPA, including a SOBEPS UFO wave Belgian pin.
• Nouveaux Livres: A section listing new book releases.
• Courrier: A letters to the editor section.
• Inscription aux Troisièmes Journées Internationales d'Ufologie: Information on registering for an upcoming international ufology conference.
• Abonnement, Adhésion: Subscription and membership information for AMA and CERPA.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of AMA include the memory and legacy of Aimé Michel, the challenges and conflicts within the French ufological community (specifically concerning censorship and exclusion), and a critical examination of the Ummo phenomenon from an astronomical perspective. The editorial stance, as expressed by Bernard Hugues, is one of defending CERPA against perceived unfair attacks and censorship, advocating for a more collaborative and less divisive approach to ufological research. The magazine also demonstrates a commitment to scientific inquiry, as seen in the detailed analysis of the Ummo claims, and a desire to inform its readership about current events and research in ufology and related fields.

This issue of AMA magazine, dated April 1993, focuses on the intersection of astronomy and UFO phenomena, with a prominent section titled "UMMO ET L'ASTRONOMIE." The magazine explores scientific possibilities for detecting extraterrestrial planets, draws parallels between ancient knowledge and modern discoveries, and discusses the broader implications of potential alien contact.

Ummo and Astronomy

The article "Ummo et l'Astronomie" discusses the potential for detecting telluric planets, similar to Earth, orbiting other stars. It highlights the limitations of current astrometric methods and the advantages of spectrometric techniques, suggesting that with advancements, planets like the hypothetical 'Ummo' planet could be detected around less luminous stars like Wolf 424. The author posits that the Ummo planet, if it exists, is likely more massive than Earth and orbits a low-mass star, making it easier to detect.

Wolf 424 and Sirius: Same Combat?

This section draws a parallel between the hypothetical Ummo planet and the astronomical knowledge of the Dogon people. The Dogons' traditions mention a companion to Sirius, which was later discovered as Sirius B, a dense white dwarf star. The article also notes the Dogons' reference to a third, undiscovered star, around which a planet might orbit, potentially originating from 'gods' who initiated the Dogons. It discusses recent astronomical findings that suggest the presence of two small, unknown stars near Sirius, which could be companions. The author reflects on the possibility of extraterrestrial visitors, referencing Richard D. Nolane's work, but cautions against blindly trusting 'contactee' accounts.

Petit Commentaire

This section features a commentary on physicist Jean-Pierre Petit's work, particularly his research inspired by Ummo documents. The author defends Petit against accusations of naivety, asserting that Petit remains prudent in his conclusions and finds it improbable that terrestrial researchers could independently achieve such breakthroughs in physics and cosmology. The article highlights that Petit's recent cosmological model, which explains many UFO characteristics and incorporates a variable gravitational constant and light speed, was inspired by Ummo texts, a fact the author finds deeply troubling.

Observations Around the World

This section provides a compilation of recent UFO sightings and related events from January to March 1993:

• January 18-19, 1993: A meteorite approximately ten meters in diameter reportedly fell in the Istria region (Italy/Yugoslavia), destroying a house and causing deaths. A film of the event was shown on Euronews. Luminous phenomena were also observed in the Parma region, Italy, with divergent explanations from ufologists and astronomers. Unidentified phenomena were reported above the Puy de Dôme in France, with conclusions suggesting a possible war projectile from Yugoslavia.
• January 25, 1993: Witnesses observed a metallic object (UFO) plunging into the Gulf of Genoa, Italy.
• January 30-31, 1993: A UFO reportedly caused damage by destroying the cap of a wood-fired oven in the Vienne department, France.
• March 17, 1993: A UFO reportedly fell in southern India, causing panic. Investigations are ongoing.
• The article notes a general increase in UFO testimonies worldwide during March.

UFO-Pictorial Study

This article by Jean-Louis Decanis examines historical paintings for potential depictions of UFOs. It references a 1566 engraving, a 15th-century tapestry from Notre-Dame de Beaune, and a painting by Filippo Lippi. The author has reviewed over 1500 Italian paintings and identified three with possible ufological attributes:

• A) Alessio Baldovinetti's "The Virgin and Child" (c. 1450): Features clouds with "saucer-like" shapes.
• B) Carlo Crivelli's "Annunciation" (1490): Shows a circular opening in the sky from which a beam of light strikes the Virgin.
• C) Antonio Campi's "Mysteries of the Passion, Resurrection, and Ascension" (c. 1569): Depicts an opening in the sky behind the crucified figures, revealing a sphere filled with clouds within a golden tunnel.

The author suggests that many other such works may remain undiscovered.

Extraterrestrials and Presidents

This section, by Dante Minazzoli, discusses statements made by US President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbatchev regarding the possibility of an extraterrestrial threat. Reagan reportedly suggested to Gorbatchev that a common alien threat could facilitate US-Soviet reconciliation. Gorbatchev, while acknowledging the idea, emphasized that focusing on immediate terrestrial problems was more important. Minazzoli interprets these statements as a response to pressure from extraterrestrials, who are preparing humanity for a "cosmic contact." He argues that the truth about alien visitation is being gradually revealed, and that governments have long suppressed information about UFOs. The author also touches upon the "perestroika" reforms in the USSR and the resistance from conservative elements within the bureaucracy.

SOS OVNI Censors CERPA!

This article criticizes the SOS OVNI Presse Service for allegedly censoring articles related to CERPA (Centre d'études et de recherches sur les phénomènes aérospatiaux). The author claims that SOS OVNI, which compiles press articles on UFOs, deliberately omitted numerous articles about CERPA's events, particularly its second international UFO days in Marseille. The article accuses SOS OVNI of providing a biased and incomplete service to its subscribers and invites those who have experienced similar censorship to come forward.

Marseille Infos: UFOs: Encounters of a Particular Type

This report covers the 2nd International UFO Days organized by CERPA in Marseille. The event featured numerous specialists discussing various aspects of ufology, including astronomy, meteorology, and psycho-sociology. A key speaker was Boris Chourinov, a Russian professor who presented on the "miracle of Petrozavodsk." The article also mentions a testimony from Viviane Poli, who claims to be an extraterrestrial, and Dominique Bau, who recounts a UFO sighting from 1969 in Nantes.

The CERPA Forbidden in Lyon!

This piece details an alleged exclusion of CERPA members from the Lyon Encounters, organized by SOS OVNI. The author, Robert Alessandri, recounts his own experience of being denied entry despite being a member of ufological associations. He criticizes Perry Petrakis, an organizer, for what he perceives as a sectarian approach to ufology and for attempting to discredit CERPA. The article highlights a quote from Guy Tarade about "manipulation" at UFO conferences, suggesting that such criticisms may have contributed to CERPA's exclusion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of scientific inquiry and unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs. There's a strong emphasis on the potential for scientific discovery related to extraterrestrial life and technology, as seen in the articles on Ummo, Wolf 424, and the Dogon knowledge. The publication also engages with the political and social implications of UFOs, including government secrecy and the role of media. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, critical analysis of claims, and a desire to uncover the truth, even when it challenges established norms or faces opposition from within the ufology community itself. The magazine also seems to champion independent research and critical thinking, as evidenced by its defense of Jean-Pierre Petit and its critique of censorship within ufological circles.

This issue of AEROSPATIALE (AMA N°6 - AVRIL 1993) focuses on the "Znamia" experiment, a significant UFO sighting, and broader themes in ufology and space exploration.

Znamia: An Identified Flying Object

The lead article details the Znamia experiment, which took place over Russian territory on Thursday, February 4th, and Friday, February 5th, 1993. The experiment involved deploying a 20-meter diameter mirror in space at an altitude of 400 km. The goal was to create a 4 km diameter illuminated spot on Earth, intended to be visible as a very bright point, more luminous than the full moon. However, due to the satellite's high speed, the phenomenon was only visible for fractions of a second. The satellite passed over Central Europe and France on Thursday between 6:21 and 6:25 AM, and on Friday around 5:30 AM. Despite the SEPRA (Service d'Expertise Phénomènes de Rentrée Atmosphérique) at CNES in Toulouse inviting witnesses to report observations, there were primarily confusions with Venus and general observations of the satellite, with no clear reports of the expected flash. The mirror was composed of reflective bands fixed in rolls to a Progress module, which were unfurled by centrifugal force during the module's rotation. This experiment was part of the Znamia project (meaning "flag"), conceived by the Kosmitcheskaïa Regata consortium, with future applications envisioned for creating a complete ring around the Earth and solar sails for spacecraft propulsion.

Flashbacks and News

This section provides a series of short news items and updates related to ufology and related topics:

• May 1-3, 1992: The sixth European Ufology Encounters were held in Lyon, organized by SOS OVNI. CERPA was not invited or represented.
• August 10, 1992: *Femme actuelle* magazine featured an interview with Jean-Pierre Petit, who expressed a critical view of the ufological community, deeming them insufficiently rigorous.
• October 12, 1992: NASA launched the MEGA-SETI project, a major initiative to search for extraterrestrial civilizations.
• Autumn 1992: TV programs like *Savoir Plus* and *Puissance 40* discussed extraterrestrial civilizations, featuring astronomers Jean Heidmann and François Biraud. A segment also covered the Bermuda Triangle and an expedition to Antarctica by Michel Maurette.
• October 1992: Jean-Luc Chaumeil's book *Le Temps et les OVNI* was published. His ambitious plan to organize a World Ufology Congress in Cannes did not materialize.
• November 1992: *L'Evénement du jeudi* magazine dedicated several columns to scientists specializing in the search for extraterrestrial life. Many other large-circulation magazines also covered this topic.
• November 2, 1992: *Femme actuelle* published an article on the assassination of "contactee" Jean Miguères.
• November 13, 1992: *VSD* magazine reported on a Russian dirigible shaped like a flying saucer used for material transport.
• November 26: The TV show *Coucou c'est nous* featured Jimmy Guicu discussing his book *Nos Maîtres les Extraterrestres*. The book mentions CERPA's visit to the St Michel de Provence observatory and claims the existence of secret tunnels housing UFO photographic documents, a claim CERPA denies knowledge of.
• December 1992: Jean Heidmann published *Intelligences extraterrestres*. *Science et Vie Junior* featured an article on flying objects like flying men apparatuses and a replica of a flying saucer.
• December 27, 1992: The pioneer of French ufology, aged 73, disappeared in St-Vincent-les-Forts.
• January 1993: *Science et Vie Junior* released a special issue on extraterrestrial life, focusing on psycho-sociological aspects of UFOs.
• January 21, 1993: The TV show *Mystères* discussed the Roswell crash, with astronomers and meteorologists offering a disappointing debate.
• February 10, 1993: The TV show *Coucou c'est nous* again discussed extraterrestrials detained by the U.S. Air Force.

CERPA's Call to Action

A section urges readers to support CERPA, particularly in response to their exclusion from the Lyon encounters. It encourages adherence to CERPA for a year, offering benefits like a subscription to the review and discounted entry to events.

New Books

This section reviews several recent books:

• Jean HEIDMANN: *Intelligences extraterrestres* (Editions Odile Jacob - 130F): Reviewed by Robert Alessandri. The book is praised for its comprehensive overview of the search for life in the universe and communication attempts with extraterrestrials. However, it is criticized for dismissing UFOs as a separate field from SETI and for its brief, dismissive treatment of UFO cases. The reviewer notes that while Heidmann acknowledges the possibility of advanced civilizations, he seems hesitant to consider UFOs as a manifestation of such.
• Paule PICARD: *Rendez-vous avec les Extra-Terrestres* (Editions Michel Lafon - 109F): Reviewed by Robert Alessandri. This book, despite its subtitle referencing Ezechiel's visions and MEGA-SETI, is primarily about UFOs. The reviewer criticizes its simplistic equation of UFOs = extraterrestrial vehicles and its reliance on classic UFO cases, suggesting it might appeal to a general audience unfamiliar with ufology.
• Sandrine CHARTIER: *Enquête sur un Mystère: Les OVNI* (Editions Amarande - 89F): Reviewed by Robert Alessandri. This book is described as more complete and better documented than Picard's, covering animal mutilations, crop circles, and the history of UFOs. While the extraterrestrial hypothesis is considered, other hypotheses are also discussed. The reviewer notes that Chartier, a journalist, does not appear to be a long-time ufologist and may not fully grasp the roles of those she interviews. It is recommended as a basic introduction to ufology.
• Raël: *Le Racisme religieux financé par le gouvernement socialiste* (Self-published): Reviewed by Robert Alessandri. The book defends sects against media attacks, particularly from the ADFI, which Raël claims is government-subsidized. Raël also discusses the death of Jean Miguères, accusing ADFI of inciting hatred. The reviewer notes that while Raël is a controversial figure, his book provides examples of lives broken by ADFI interventions and argues for the defense of freedom of religious association.
• Richard D. NOLANE: *Autrefois les Extraterrestres* (Dossiers Vaugirard - 35F): Reviewed by Robert Alessandri. This book is highly praised for its serious and well-researched approach to ancient extraterrestrial manifestations. Nolane examines archaeological enigmas, ancient texts, legends, and atmospheric phenomena, distinguishing between credible evidence and fabricated stories. The reviewer commends Nolane's rational approach and his pertinent remarks on modern UFO phenomena, suggesting that the "Stage Director" behind these events may be extraterrestrial.
• Larousse: *La Mémoire de l'Humanité: Les Grandes Enigmes* (195F): Reviewed by Robert Alessandri. This comprehensive book covers a wide range of mysteries, including UFOs, historical enigmas, religious phenomena, scientific questions, ancient civilizations, and more. Each enigma is detailed over two pages. While acknowledging potential errors and the book's brevity in covering complex subjects, the reviewer recommends it for its breadth and illustration, especially for its coverage of UFO-related topics.

CERPA Boutique

Pages 4, 5, and 10 advertise various items for sale by CERPA, including books, keychains (detector), pins, VHS tapes of conferences and investigations, and audio cassettes. Prices are listed in French Francs (F).

Events

• May 1-2: Conferences and debates titled "CONSCIENCE 93" organized by ASSOCIATION UNIVERS 21 at HOTEL MAEVA-PRADO PLAGE.

L'Indochinoise Maison

Page 9 features an advertisement for "L'INDOCHINOISE MAISON" in Marseille, offering old and new books, B.D.s, dictionaries, periodicals, maps, travel selections for Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, typical and contemporary furniture, artisanal goods, and a restaurant/tea room. They also host periodic conferences.

Intellects and Smiles in Coin

An anonymous reader's letter is published, reflecting on the term "OVNI" and its dual nature of fascination and scientific skepticism. The letter questions why direct contact with extraterrestrials has not occurred, suggesting it may be due to humanity's own evolutionary stage.

Short Grey: The Game

A review of the computer role-playing game "The Short Grey," where the player controls a "mean extraterrestrial." The reviewer notes that the game's portrayal of aliens differs from typical "little green men" descriptions and praises it as one of the best games released for Atari ST and Commodore Amiga.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers UFO phenomena, extraterrestrial life, and related scientific and historical investigations. There is a clear focus on providing information about books, events, and research within the ufological community, particularly from a French perspective. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, while also critically evaluating claims and differentiating between rigorous research and sensationalism. The magazine also champions the organization CERPA and its activities, highlighting its role in the French ufological landscape and its efforts to counter perceived exclusion or misrepresentation.

This document is an issue of the magazine "AMA", specifically number 6, dated April 1993. It is published by CERPA (Centre d'Etudes et de Recherches sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux) and focuses on ufology and related phenomena. The primary content revolves around the upcoming "Troisièmes Journées internationales sur les OVNI" (Third International UFO Days) organized by CERPA in Marseille.

CERPA and its Mission

The letter from CERPA, dated April 8, 1993, introduces the organization, stating it was created four years prior and has become a leading French ufological organization. CERPA's main objective is the scientific study of unidentified aerospace phenomena (OVNI), as well as astronomical and meteorological phenomena, with scientific rigor. Their activities include field investigations, publishing a quarterly bulletin, organizing observation nights, and maintaining a library with over 200 titles on UFOs.

Third International UFO Days Conference

The core of this issue is the announcement and invitation to the "Troisièmes Journées internationales d'ufologie" (Third International Ufology Days) organized by CERPA. The conference is scheduled for Saturday, September 11, and Sunday, September 12, 1993, at the Hôtel Arcade in Marseille. The theme is "LES OVNI (HYPOTHESES, RECHERCHES ACTUELLES, PERSPECTIVES, EVOCATION DES DERNIERS CAS, FILM INEDIT SUR DEUX ABDUCTEES AU ZIMBABWE) DANS LE MONDE ENTIER" (UFOs: Hypotheses, Current Research, Perspectives, Evocation of Recent Cases, Unreleased Film on Two Abductees in Zimbabwe) Worldwide.

The congress aims to bring together French and international researchers, both private and professional, from diverse fields including ufology, astronomy, meteorology, aerospace, psychosociology, social sciences, religions, and philosophy. It is open to ufologists, research groups, independent researchers, scientists, government agencies, the public, and the media.

The venue, Hôtel Arcade, is described as modern and conveniently located next to the Saint Charles train station, with easy access to transportation hubs like the airport, metro, and highways.

Participation and Registration

Attendees are invited to participate actively or by their presence. Those wishing to present publications or books will have the opportunity to do so. Several renowned ufologists from around the world are expected to attend. The letter lists some of the past participants in these Journées: Jean-François GILLE, Dante MINAZZOLI, Sofiane BENDAMARJI (Algeria), Roberto PINOTTI (Italy), Boris CHOURINOV (U.R.S.S.), and Salvador FREIXEDO (Spain).

A mandatory registration form is included for the conference. The entry fee is 130 French Francs (F). Participants who wish to present a communication must submit a written summary in French or English by August 15, 1993. The number of presentations is limited, and CERPA reserves the right to select those deemed most interesting. Presenters are committed to not retracting their proposed exposé, as this could significantly disrupt the event.

Accommodation can also be reserved at the Hôtel Arcade/St Charles, with options for single, double, triple, and quadruple rooms, with prices ranging from 290 F to 360 F per night. Information on other reasonably priced hotels nearby is also available.

Support for CERPA

Separate sections of the magazine appeal for financial support. One section highlights that "OUR RESEARCH COSTS A LOT!" and mentions "1000 F FOR FIELD ANALYSES," urging readers to support CERPA through subscriptions. The price for a subscription to 4 issues is 70 F. Additionally, readers can become members or correspondents of CERPA for 230 F, which grants preferential entry to all organized events and a one-year subscription to the magazine.

Minitel and Contact Information

CERPA provides multiple contact methods, including a telephone number for "Allo Phénomènes spatiaux" (91 60 21 12, a 24/7 answering service), a direct line (91 69 75 55), a fax number (91 03 17 37), and a Minitel code (3615 OVNITEL). The Minitel service is visually represented on the back cover with a drawing of a UFO and a satellite dish.

Exclusion from Lyon Event

An intriguing note on the final page states, "DO NOT JOIN CERPA! IF YOU WANT TO ATTEND THE LYON MEETINGS." It clarifies that the organizers of that specific event have clearly indicated that all CERPA members would be excluded.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are ufology, scientific investigation of unexplained phenomena, and the promotion of conferences and research. CERPA's editorial stance is clearly in favor of a rigorous, scientific approach to studying UFOs, encouraging participation and support from the public and researchers alike. The magazine serves as a platform for announcing events, soliciting contributions, and seeking financial support for their research activities.