AMA - No 07 - 1993 dec

Magazine Overview

This issue of AMA magazine, identified as N°7 and dated December 1993, is published by CERPA (Centre d'Études et de Recherches sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux). The cover prominently features the "2nd International UFO Days in Marseille" and a piece titled "Meteorites: The Threat is Precise." It also references events from November 5, 1990, and March 31, 1993.

CERPA Organization and Activities

Page 2 provides details about CERPA, a non-profit association founded in October 1989 by Bernard Hugues, Gérard Romeo, and Patrick Teboul. Its objective is the research of astronomical, meteorological, and aerospace phenomena. The page lists the organization's headquarters in Marseille, contact information, its administrative council (Bernard Hugues as President, Gérard Romeo as Treasurer, Victor Tondut as Secretary, Dominique Bau for investigations, Robert Alessandri for IT, and Gilles Pfauwadel for parapsychology), and the editorial team for the "Revue AMA" (Bernard Hugues as Publication Director, with a committee including Jean-Louis Decanis, Robert Alessandri, Gérard Romeo, Victor Tondut, and Simone Cauvin). The printing is handled by CERPA, with maquette by Robert Alessandri and drawings by Jocelyn Morel. The issue notes that reproduction is prohibited without authorization.

Editorial

The editorial by Bernard Hugues on page 4 reflects on CERPA's active year, marked by a conference in Toulouse and a national television appearance on "Coucou c'est nous." The launch of their Minitel service is also highlighted. The editorial mentions the upcoming September 1993 conference where the "Ummo affair" was a major topic. It acknowledges a delay in the magazine's publication but expresses hope for a regular rhythm due to the absence of conferences the following year. Hugues wishes readers a happy new year 1994, hoping it will be as rich in ufological events as 1993.

An erratum on page 4 corrects a missing phrase in an article by Dante Minazzoli in issue N°6, reproducing a quote from Roberto Pinotti's book "OVNI, visiteurs de l'espace" about humanity's role in a cosmic process.

Articles and Features

"A Quoi Jouent-Ils?" (What Are They Playing At?) by Gilles Pfauwadel (Page 5): This article delves into the complex world of "contactees." Pfauwadel discusses the simplicity and recurring themes in messages from extraterrestrials (ETs) concerning global issues like war and pollution. He points out contradictions among contactees regarding ET origins and the unfulfilled prophecies of official contact or major events. The author questions the tendency of some contactees to embellish their experiences, possibly due to personal fantasies or pride. He notes that few prominent figures emerge from this group, and those who do often form sects. Pfauwadel draws an analogy with communication with deceased loved ones, suggesting a potential common source or operation by "external" entities. He humorously outlines a hypothetical recipe for creating a future contactee, involving mystical contact and storytelling, followed by observation of human reactions. The article concludes by questioning the ultimate purpose of these interactions and who truly controls the situation, referencing a mythological quote about "gods playing with men."

"Les Extraterrestres de Reagan et Gorbatchev, II (Suite et Fin)" (The Extraterrestrials of Reagan and Gorbachev, Part II - End) (Page 6): This article explores the implications of statements made by Reagan and Gorbachev regarding extraterrestrial threats. It suggests that both superpowers possess sufficient documentation on the subject, implying a shared, albeit concealed, knowledge. The author posits that the powers-that-be are aware of the truth but cannot reveal it due to the potential for global upheaval and the elimination of existing privileges. The article references Brinsley le Poer Trench's assertion that authorities knew about flying saucers as early as 1947 and had prepared the public for decades. It criticizes the lack of follow-up on any educational program. The author views the "dialogue of fools" between Reagan and Gorbachev as a forced acknowledgment of the issue, driven by increasing pressure. The article suggests that the "imposture" continues through framing ETs as aggressors or through ambiguous statements. It predicts that the truth about UFOs will emerge gradually, influenced by global evolution and the growing threat of nuclear war. The author mentions the "Majestic 12" document and the SETI program as potential avenues for information or disinformation. The article distinguishes between peaceful ET civilizations preparing for contact and aggressive ones, noting a shift in the balance of power.

"Ufologie et Politique" (Ufology and Politics) (Page 7): This section continues the discussion on extraterrestrial civilizations and their potential interaction with humanity. It suggests that some ET civilizations may have struggled on Earth's terrestrial chessboard, but a cosmic consciousness is now triumphing. The author questions how humanity can achieve cosmic and interstellar flight while remaining spiritually underdeveloped. It posits that aggressive civilizations are unlikely to remain in an embryonic state indefinitely. The article argues that intelligent beings who conquer space must also open themselves to universal consciousness and fraternity. The Intergalactic Confederation is presented as a force that will impose itself on aggressive civilizations and guide humanity towards maturity. The author quotes Antonio Ribera, who suggested that extraterrestrials might have confined humanity to prevent contamination of other worlds due to human prejudices and ambitions. The article speculates that human space travel will likely rely on automated systems rather than manned missions for long distances. It criticizes the irrational and savage nature of world leaders, contrasting them with the oppressed masses fighting against tyranny. The article references Andrei Sakharov's statement about humanity's need for cooperation and the existence of advanced civilizations in the universe, and Jean Cocteau's thoughts on time and eternity.

"Marseille, Septembre 1992: Deuxièmes Journées Internationales d'Ufologie" (Marseille, September 1992: Second International UFO Days) (Pages 8-10): This is a detailed report on the conference held from September 25-27, 1992, at the Hôtel La Capitainerie des Galères in Marseille. The event featured presentations on Belgian and Swiss UFO observations, including interviews with scientists and military personnel. Notable speakers included:

• Chris: Presented new NASA documents on UFOs, focusing on Belgian and Swiss observations.
• Mr Meessen: A professor from the Catholic University of Louvain, who affirmed encountering unexplained phenomena of possible extraterrestrial origin.
• Swiss Air Force Official: Discussed UFO observations and the Swiss government's interest in the subject.
• Giorgio Pattera (CUN, Italy): Presented a case of a close encounter of the first kind (R.R.1) near Parma, including investigations and agronomical samples.
• Michel Figuet: His presentation on close encounters of the third and fourth types was read by the author.
• Jean-Louis Ruchon: Journalist and colleague of Figuet.
• Louis Estival: Presented his ten years of experience with extraterrestrial entities.
• Sofiane Bendamardji: Discussed "OVNI et Coran," exploring religious aspects, djinns, and the plurality of worlds.
• André Streel (Belgium): Provided information on the 1990 Belgian UFO wave, analyzed by SOBEPS.
• Frantz Jost (Switzerland): Spoke about the arrival of an "extraterrestrial" named Vivi Poli and her teachings.
• Boris Chourinov (Moscow): Evoked the miracle of Petrozavodsk, a significant Russian UFO case.
• Salvador Freixedo: Shared personal experiences from the USA, South America, and Brazil, discussing "abductees" and negative effects associated with UFO phenomena.
• Henri Sicaud: Discussed the idea of plural worlds in Buddhism and the incompatibility of contact with extraterrestrial civilizations.
• Vivi Poli: Claimed to be an "Ummite" incarnate, presenting herself as an extraterrestrial.
• Jean-Michel Raoux: Presented a technical exposition on time and space travel using vehicles of physical dimension and extraterrestrial technology.
• Maurizio Cavallo (Institut Clarion, Italy): Discussed parapsychology as a key to the UFO mystery, presenting photographs of craft.
• Dante Minazzoli: Addressed the political dimension of UFO phenomena, suggesting government disinformation.
• George Andrews (USA): Presented on extraterrestrial civilizations existing among us, both benevolent and aggressive.
• Jeanine Derel (Aurena): Claimed to be a contactee since childhood, sharing observations and intersidereal journeys.
• Pierre Beake: Presented video cassettes on the Vence region, known for strange luminous phenomena.

The report notes a lively debate between ufologists and pseudo-contactees. It highlights the variety of topics covered, from scientific analysis to spiritual interpretations and political implications of UFO phenomena.

"Météorites : La Menace se Précise" (Meteorites: The Threat is Precise) (Page 1): This headline suggests an article or section dedicated to the topic of meteorites and their potential threat.

"Le 31 Mars 93, Réplique du 5 Novembre 90" (March 31, 93, Replay of November 5, 90) (Page 3): This likely refers to a follow-up or comparison of two significant UFO/luminous phenomenon events.

"Nouvelles de l'Espace" (News from Space) (Page 3): This section includes brief updates such as "Mars-Observer no longer responds," "Mega-SETI is finished," and "Hubble has put on its glasses."

"Nouveautés Vidéo" (New Videos) (Page 3): Mentions "Intruders, The Gates of the Future."

"Nouveaux Livres" (New Books) (Page 3): Lists authors like J.-C. Bourret, J.-J. Velasco, J.-G. Greslé, T. Pinvidic, R. Chauvin, and F. Marie.

"Courrier" (Mail) (Page 3): Includes responses concerning "Les Survivants," "SCEAU responds to Guy Tarade," and "Raël, ufological dictation."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around ufology, extraterrestrial contact, and the potential implications for humanity. There's a strong emphasis on international conferences and the sharing of research and personal experiences. The magazine also touches upon the political and societal aspects of UFO phenomena, including government secrecy and disinformation. The editorial stance, as stated, is one of neutrality, presenting various viewpoints without endorsing any specific one. The issue highlights the growing interest in ufology and the need to explore these phenomena, even those considered marginal or controversial, such as contactee experiences.

This issue of AMA magazine, dated December 1993, features a prominent cover story titled "DE MARS A VENUS ET DE VENUS A MARS," exploring the historical and mythological connections between these planets and the concept of extraterrestrial life.

Article: DE MARS A VENUS ET DE VENUS A MARS

This article, authored by Jean-Louis Decanis, delves into the evolution of human perception regarding Mars and its potential inhabitants. It begins with the 19th-century observations of Martian canals by Schiaparelli, which fueled speculation about artificial constructions and extraterrestrial life. The narrative then touches upon George Wells' 'War of the Worlds' and Orson Welles' radio broadcast, which cemented the image of Martians as green invaders. The article notes a shift in ufology following Georges Adamski's encounter in 1952, introducing the idea of benevolent extraterrestrials from Venus promoting messages of love and peace. Decanis posits that the aggressive nature attributed to Martians might stem from a psychological confrontation with the mythological god Mars, symbolizing war and aggression. He suggests that modern ufology grapples with a spectrum of extraterrestrial beings, from malevolent to benevolent, and the concept of an intergalactic confederation.

Article: METEORITES: LA MENACE SE PRÉCISE

This section discusses the risks posed by asteroids and comets to Earth. It explains that while most asteroids are in a belt between Mars and Jupiter, some, known as Earth Grazer Asteroids (EGAs), have orbits that cross Earth's. The article mentions the asteroid Toutatis, which was closely observed in December 1992 and is composed of two smaller asteroids. It addresses public concern about a potential collision with Toutatis in 2000, but reassures readers that its orbit is now well-known, eliminating immediate collision risks. The text also highlights comets as potential dangers, noting that many orbit in the opposite direction to Earth, making head-on collisions more energetic and dangerous. It estimates that over 500 periodic comets could pose a threat, with 95% being unknown.

Article: ATTENTION AUX COMETES

This part of the magazine focuses on comets as potential threats. It explains that comets originate from the outer solar system and can have orbits that intersect Earth's path. Unlike asteroids, many comets orbit in the opposite direction to Earth, increasing the potential impact energy. The article estimates that over 500 periodic comets may pose a risk, and that 95% of these are unknown. It also mentions 'dormant' comets, whose solid nuclei may constitute a significant portion of EGAs.

Article: LES ETOILES FILANTES

This section clarifies that 'shooting stars' are actually dust particles left behind by comets. It explains that regular meteor showers occur when Earth passes through the debris trail of a comet. The article mentions the Aquarids and Orionids (linked to the Swift-Tuttle comet) and the Perseids. While the 1993 Perseid shower was not as spectacular as predicted, it is noted that the Swift-Tuttle comet itself posed a potential collision risk in 2126, though calculations have since reduced this danger. The primary concern remains unknown comets.

Article: IMPACTS DANS LE PASSE

This article examines historical impact events and their consequences. It details the Tunguska event of 1908 in Siberia, where a large fireball caused immense destruction. The article discusses various hypotheses for the Tunguska event, including an asteroid or comet impact. It then broadens the scope to discuss 'astroblems' (impact craters) and their role in Earth's history, citing the Meteor Crater in Arizona. The text emphasizes the scientific consensus that a major asteroid impact at the end of the Cretaceous period caused the extinction of the dinosaurs and three-quarters of life on Earth 65 million years ago. It also suggests that impacts have influenced human history, citing potential links to the 'ten plagues of Egypt' and the withdrawal of the Red Sea, and discusses the climatic effects of impacts, including potential 'nuclear winter' scenarios for continental impacts and warming for oceanic impacts.

Article: UN ROLE HISTORIQUE

This section continues the discussion on the historical role of impacts. It explores the possibility that meteorite impacts have influenced climate and life on Earth, citing evidence from Antarctic ice cores. The article suggests that impacts can cause drastic climate shifts, such as the rapid warming event 11,500 years ago, which may have contributed to the end of the last glacial period. It also draws a parallel with Plato's account of the sinking of Atlantis, suggesting a possible connection to a giant tidal wave caused by an impact.

Article: COMMENT LES EVITER?

This article addresses the prevention and mitigation of asteroid and comet impacts. It describes a meeting in Tucson where scientists and military personnel discussed methods for predicting and deflecting such objects, including using gas jets or nuclear charges. The article notes a divergence in motivations between scientists interested in studying near-Earth asteroids and the military's focus on threat elimination. It also raises the possibility of asteroids being used as weapons by advanced civilizations, a concept that was reportedly abandoned by major powers due to its catastrophic potential.

Article: UNE ARME TERRIBLE

This section elaborates on the weaponization of asteroids and comets. It suggests that a precisely calculated deflection of an asteroid like Toutatis could cause a catastrophic impact. The article also questions the naturalness of the Cretaceous-P-T extinction event, proposing that multiple asteroid impacts may have occurred simultaneously, possibly triggered by a passing star or a hypothetical companion star named Nemesis. It discusses the time scales involved in such events and their potential role in the rise of mammals and primates.

Article: LE 31 MARS 93, REPLIQUE DU 5 NOVEMBRE 90

This report details a wave of unexplained luminous phenomena (ULPs) observed in France on March 31, 1993, and compares it to a similar event on November 5, 1990. The phenomena included green, blue, and yellow lights moving in triangular formations. Initial explanations involving atmospheric re-entry of Russian rocket stages were refuted by Soviet space services and independent analysis. The article highlights the involvement of various witnesses, including police and gendarmes, and describes specific sightings, such as a silent, luminous tube and large green cigar-shaped objects with rotating propellers. Despite official explanations, the article expresses skepticism and questions the transparency of organizations like SEPRA.

Article: OBSERVATIONS

This section presents further details and witness accounts of the March 31, 1993, ULP event. It includes a testimony from Aubagne, describing a triangular formation of intense blue-white lights with a yellowish, irregular glow, surrounded by a whitish halo and fumerolles. The article notes that Russian authorities have not confirmed or denied the re-entry of their rockets, leading to speculation about a state secret. It questions why Europe seems to be a frequent location for such events.

Article: FLASHES*FLASHES*FLASHES***FLASHES

This section provides a collection of brief news items related to UFOs and space exploration. It mentions visitors promoting books on extraterrestrials, a TV show featuring a contactee's encounter with luminous phenomena, and a program discussing new mysteries of Mars, including evidence of ancient rivers. Other items include reports on strange observations in Poitou-Charentes, an article on the 'Great Manipulation' of UFOs, and a Science & Vie feature on the future of Mars exploration. It also announces the publication of a book titled "OVNI : vers une anthologie d'un mythe contemporain" and mentions a fictional book about a KGB operation involving an unidentified craft.

Article: FLASHES*FLASHES*FLASHES***F_ASHES

This section continues with brief news items. It reports on a UFO congress in Paris, a TV report on the Hessdalen lights in Norway, and a presentation of the CERPA organization and its Minitel server. It also mentions a Science & Vie article on extraterrestrial planets and the TOPS project, and the 7th European Ufology Meetings in Lyon, noting a potential decline in participation and the exclusion of CERPA.

Article: NOUVELLES DE L'ESPACE

This article focuses on the failures in Mars exploration, particularly the loss of the Mars Observer probe. It details a history of unsuccessful Soviet and American missions to Mars since 1960, including launch failures, guidance errors, and communication losses. The article notes that only 6 out of 15 missions have been successful, a poor record. It revisits the 'Face on Mars' phenomenon, photographed by Viking, and discusses the ongoing debate about its artificial origin. The author expresses doubt about finding extraterrestrial evidence on Mars and suggests that the failures might be due to an unknown intelligence prolonging popular mysteries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of ufology, astronomy, mythology, and historical events. There is a clear interest in unexplained aerial phenomena, extraterrestrial life, and the potential impact of celestial bodies on Earth's history and future. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, questioning official explanations and encouraging further investigation into these subjects. The magazine also highlights the challenges and controversies within the ufology community itself.

References

The issue includes a list of references, indicating the sources used for the articles, covering topics such as habitable universes, extraterrestrial civilizations, and the science of UFOs.

Key Persons Mentioned

Schiaparelli, George Wells, Orson Welles, Georges Adamski, Jean-Louis Decanis, Jackson, Moore, Isaac Asimov, Jean-Bruno Renard, Jean-Claude Bourret, Desmond Leslie, Nadia Julien, Jean Chevalier, Alain Gheerbrant, Milutin Milankovitch, Platon, Dante Minazzoli, Ronald Reagan, Robert Alessandri, Christophe Dechavanne.

Organizations Mentioned

CERPA, NASA, CNES, A.F.P., NORAD, US Spacecom, KGB, ADFI.

Locations Mentioned

Mars, Venus, Earth, Tucson, Siberia, Tunguska, Europe, Arizona, Egypt, Red Sea, Sea of Reeds, Antarctica, Atlantis, Bahamas, Marseille, Loire, St-Symphorien-de-Lay, Bouches-du-Rhône, Hérault, Vienne.

Themes

UFOs, Extraterrestrials, Asteroids, Comets, Impacts, Astronomy.

Tags

Mars, Venus, extraterrestrials, UFOs, asteroids, comets, impacts, Tunguska, meteorites, astronomy, space exploration, Mars Observer, Viking, Phobos, Ufology.

This issue of AMA (Aérospatiale, Météorologie, Astronomie) magazine, number 7, dated December 1993, focuses on astronautics and ufology. It features articles on the end of NASA's Mega-SETI project, the successful repair of the Hubble Space Telescope, and a review of various books and videos related to UFOs and extraterrestrial phenomena.

Mega-SETI: c'est fini!

The lead article announces the discontinuation of the Mega-SETI project, launched by NASA on October 12, 1992, the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America. This ambitious program aimed to use powerful radio telescopes to search for signals from extraterrestrial civilizations for ten years. The first year was an trial period, highlighting the need to improve methods for filtering terrestrial interference. However, the project faced opposition from some American parliamentarians who, influenced by fanciful UFO sightings, sought to discredit research into extraterrestrial civilizations. This opposition led Congress to refuse to renew the modest budget of 15 million dollars for 1994, which was significantly less than the cost of repairing the Hubble telescope or NASA's total budget. The article speculates on the reasons for this fear of extraterrestrial signals, suggesting a mix of religious and human vanity, where the desire for humanity to be unique is paramount.

Hubble a mis ses lunettes

This section reports on the successful mission to repair the Hubble Space Telescope. Launched in April 1990, seven years behind schedule, Hubble initially transmitted blurry images due to a defect in its mirror's size, a consequence of cost-saving measures. Technical issues, such as vibrations from solar panels, also affected its performance. While computer processing partially corrected the images, the results were suboptimal. The NASA mission, carried out by the Endeavour shuttle crew from December 2 to 14, involved replacing the mirror with a set of corrective lenses and performing minor repairs, including replacing solar panels. The first images transmitted after the repair are fully satisfactory, finally providing astronomers with the instrument they had been promised for ten years. The article notes that while Hubble will contribute significantly to astronomy, its exorbitant cost of 3 billion dollars could have funded Mega-SETI for two centuries. It also mentions the next generation of terrestrial telescopes with adaptive optics and deformable mirrors.

New Books

The magazine features several reviews of new books related to ufology and science fiction:

• OVNIS, LA SCIENCE AVANCE by Jean-Claude Bourret and Jean-Jacques Velasco: This review is highly critical of the book, suggesting that Bourret's contribution is minimal and that Velasco is the primary author. The reviewer questions Velasco's scientific rigor and his methods of explaining away UFO sightings, particularly his reliance on atmospheric re-entry explanations and his dismissal of witness testimonies. The reviewer also criticizes Velasco's interpretation of the Trans-en-Provence case and his theories about the Ummo affair and the Belgian wave.
• OBJETS VOLANTS NON IDENTIFIES, UN PILOTE DE LIGNE PARLE by Jean-Gabriel Greslé: This book is presented as a serious defense of the extraterrestrial hypothesis. Greslé, a former pilot with 40 years of experience, shares his personal UFO observations and discusses the history of UFOs and government approaches to the phenomenon. The review highlights his conclusion that governments are aware of the origin of UFOs and have maintained secrecy for 45 years. Greslé also suggests that alleged cattle mutilations might be a government-orchestrated cover-up for studies on the effects of chemical or radioactive pollution.
• OVNI, VERS UNE ANTHROPOLOGIE D'UN MYTHE CONTEMPORAIN (collective work edited by Thierry Pinvidic): This extensive book, with contributions from 23 authors, shifts the focus from the extraterrestrial hypothesis to a psychosociological interpretation of UFO phenomena. The reviewer notes that Pinvidic himself no longer believes in UFOs as extraterrestrial craft. The book covers various aspects of ufology, including historical cases, statistical analyses, and the human factor in observations, and includes a comprehensive bibliography of French UFO literature.
• OVNI CONTACT by Franck Marie: This book is described as a significant literary event, presenting the preliminary findings of a 30-month investigation into UFO sightings in France. It details 400 UFO observations on November 5, 1990, including reports of large black masses and triangular craft. The author calls for an urgent parliamentary inquiry and suggests that these events may represent the first stage of an extraterrestrial contact.
• LE NOUVEAU GOLEM by Rémy Chauvin: This science fiction novel explores themes of artificial intelligence, extraterrestrial communication, and the potential dangers of a quantum network. The protagonist, Paul, an advanced computer, establishes contact with extraterrestrials, but also with a malevolent entity that seeks to destroy new civilizations. The book attempts to explain unexplained phenomena in ufology and parapsychology.

Videos and Other Items

The magazine also lists various videos and items available for purchase from CERPA, including:

• LE CERPA ENQUETE (video documentary on French UFO cases)
• CONFERENCE CONTACTES (video of a conference with contactees)
• SITES ENIGMATIQUES: LE COL DE VENCE (video on UFOs and Roman presence)
• SITES ENIGMATIQUES: SAINT BARNABE (video on monoliths and UFO traces)
• Intruders (TV film review)
• Les Portes du futur (series of video cassettes by Jimmy Guieu)
• OVNI-L'ÉNIGME (video summarizing two ufology congresses in Marseille)
• Keychains, pins, and other merchandise.

Activities of Our Center

The magazine outlines the activities of CERPA, which include work meetings, investigations, astronomical observation vigils, outings to UFO sighting locations, visits to scientific institutions, conferences, and the organization of international congresses on UFOs. CERPA also manages a Minitel server (3615 OVNITEL) for information exchange and offers a library of over 200 titles.

Subscription and Membership

Information is provided on how to subscribe to the AMA bulletin and become a member or correspondent of CERPA, detailing the benefits and costs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the challenges and controversies surrounding UFO research, the role of government secrecy, and the interpretation of phenomena through scientific, psychosociological, or extraterrestrial lenses. The editorial stance appears to favor open investigation into UFO phenomena, while critically examining various hypotheses and the methodologies employed by researchers and organizations. There is a clear emphasis on presenting diverse perspectives, from the scientific repair of space telescopes to the critical review of ufological literature and the promotion of CERPA's activities.

Title: Courrier
Issue: 7
Date: December 1993
Publisher: Groupe S.C.E.A.U.
Country: France

Article 1: LE GROUPE S.C.E.A.U. SEXPLIQUE

This section addresses a criticism by Guy Tarade in a previous issue of 'Courrier' regarding the SCEAU group's project to collect ufological archives. Tarade questioned the congresses in Lyon and the SCEAU project, calling it an attempt to "recover all ufological archives held by all those who, for half a century, have collected and collated documents on this subject that has become taboo."

René Faudrin, President of the SCEAU association, clarifies the group's initiative, which he states is not a manipulation. The project, named "SAUVEGARDE ET CONSERVATION DES ETUDES ET ARCHIVES UFOLOGIQUES" (Safeguarding and Conservation of Ufological Studies and Archives), aims to make these archives accessible to everyone. Faudrin shares his personal experience in Alsace, where he found a lack of organized ufological groups and a difficulty in accessing past observations. He emphasizes that if all relevant documents had been preserved, his work would have been much easier.

The project's goal is twofold: to encourage current researchers to ensure their work is available for future generations, preventing redundant investigations, and to urge older researchers who have ceased their activities to safeguard their documents before they disappear. To ensure long-term preservation, SCEAU is collaborating with state institutions like the Archives Nationales and Archives Départementales, which are under the Ministry of Culture. They are establishing deposit agreements, allowing researchers to directly deposit their archives with these institutions. SCEAU acts as a service provider, without profit, for those who wish to participate.

Faudrin stresses that simply depositing archives is not enough; they must be made accessible. Through deposit contracts, documents will be available for consultation and reproduction, subject to the owner's consent or legal restrictions.

The SCEAU project is structured as a non-profit association under the 1901 law. Faudrin acknowledges that the project is long-term and depends on the commitment of its members. The ultimate objective is to increase public knowledge and understanding of ufology.

Article 2: LIBRE OPINION - A PROPOS DE RAEL (Opinion - Regarding Raël)

Robert Alessandri writes in response to criticisms he received after a positive review of Raël's book, "Le Racisme religieux." He clarifies that he is solely responsible for his opinions and that his article was written quickly. He states his intention was not to promote Raël's movement or denigrate the ADFI (Association de défense des familles et des individus), whose influence he generally considers positive, though he is bothered by the inability to discuss its negative aspects.

Alessandri believes that the debate surrounding "sects" has become so fanatical that people are unable to interpret written content objectively. He reiterates his view that Raël is, at best, an "amiable joker" and at worst, a "vulgar swindler," a "highly contestable contactee," and "excessive and partial." While finding Raël's contact narrative "completely far-fetched," Alessandri acknowledges that Raël has some interesting ideas.

He draws parallels with his appreciation for Ron Hubbard's science fiction, despite not being a Scientologist, and his interest in the Bible, despite being an atheist. He argues that one should not dismiss an author's work based on personal disagreements or affiliations.

Alessandri's main point is that while he found Raël's book interesting because it defends sects (a perspective he finds rare), he does not judge people based solely on accusations. He admits that some individuals find balance and fulfillment in these groups, and that others have their lives broken due to ADFI's interventions. He notes that the "also" in his statement was meant to indicate that the inverse cases (negative impacts of sects) are more frequent.

He criticizes the media's focus on Japanese suicides while downplaying the rising suicide rates in France, which he links to societal malaise. Alessandri suggests that joining a sect might be preferable to suicide for a desperate individual, and if the ADFI can later help them leave the sect and regain self-sufficiency, that would be even better.

He points out that the criticisms leveled against sects (e.g., breaking up families, destroying personality) are also applicable to religious orders, but these are not viewed negatively because they serve "true" religion. He also argues that some football clubs can be more fanatical and detrimental to families than many sects.

Alessandri concludes by stating that his opinions are his own and that he has written to the UNADFI expressing his preference for frank explanations over underhanded pressure. He notes that he has not received a response from the UNADFI regarding subscription to their bulletin, suggesting it is easier to obtain the "parish bulletin" of many sects than that of the ADFI.

Article 3: Une dictée sous le signe des extraterrestres (A Dictation Under the Sign of Extraterrestrials)

This short piece describes Robert Alessandri's participation in the semi-finals of "Dicos d'or," a French spelling competition, which took place in 25 cities on November 6th. The theme of the dictation, chosen by host Bernard Pivot, was "the future," with a focus on subjects of interest to ufologists. Questions included identifying the science that studies UFOs and terms related to astronomy, space, and extraterrestrials.

Alessandri notes that dictionaries now commonly spell "OVNI" (UFO) in lowercase, considering it part of the common language, and suggests ufologists should adopt this convention. He qualified for the finals, held on December 11th at the National Assembly, where the theme was less to his liking, and he performed poorly. He observed the impressive library and halls of the Assembly and mentioned the catering by Lenôtre.

Article 4: LA VIE DES ASSOCIATIONS (The Life of Associations)

This section provides updates on various ufological associations:

• Réseau Nord CERPA: Founded by Jocelyn Morel (GNEOVNI investigator/illustrator) and CERPA, this network will investigate in northern France.
• GNEOVNI Archives: The GNEOVNI has tragically lost all its archives, representing thirty years of work. They are appealing for help from anyone with old investigations, newspaper clippings, or other documents related to northern France. In return, they offer drawings.
• CERPA Funding: CERPA risks losing its "occult funding" from SEPRA following a critique of a book by Velasco. They are relying on funding from NASA, the CIA, the KGB Nostalgics Association, and the Grand Lodge of Freemasons. Their Minitel service can be accessed via 3615 OVNITEL*NASA, *CIA, or *GLJFM.
• GEFRU (Groupement d'Etudes Franco-Russe d'Ufologie): A new independent association formed simultaneously in France and Russia. It aims to investigate UFOs in both countries, exchange information, and organize meetings between French and Russian researchers. GEFRU will publish an exclusive document by Boris Chourinov on ufology in Russia. The membership fee is 150 F.

Advertisement: ALLO PHENOMENES SPATIAUX

This is an advertisement for a 24-hour hotline service called "ALLO PHENOMENES SPATIAUX" with the phone number 91-60-21-12. It also promotes the Minitel service 3615 OVNITEL for information, testimonies, and questions/responses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features discussions on ufology, the activities of various ufological associations, and the challenges they face, including archival preservation and funding. There is a clear editorial stance in favor of open discussion and the sharing of information, as evidenced by the 'Libre Opinion' section and the clarification of the SCEAU group's project. The magazine also touches upon broader societal issues, such as the nature of sects and public perception, through opinion pieces. The inclusion of the "Dicos d'or" segment and the advertisement for a UFO hotline suggest an effort to engage a wider audience with ufological themes.