Approche - no 01 - Decembre 1973

Magazine Overview

This document is the first issue of 'APPROCHE', a quarterly publication from the SOCIETE VAROISE D'ETUDE DES PHENOMENES SPATIAUX (SVEPS), dated December 1973. The cover prominently features the title 'APPROCHE' and a quote from R. HARDY stating, 'These unexplained phenomena are the foreshadowing of our future.' The magazine's stated purpose is to explore the limits of the possible by venturing into the impossible, particularly within the field of ufology.

Editorial

The editorial, written by J.-L. FOREST, titled 'APPROCHE' ET PROCHE FUTUR' (Approach and Near Future), emphasizes the evolution of knowledge and the current stage of ufology. It posits that ufology has reached a plateau of acquired knowledge that needs to be surpassed. Referencing the work of Bergier and Pauwels, the editorial suggests a 'sas' (airlock) has been created to facilitate communication between a rich past and a promising present. The launch of 'APPROCHE' is presented as an 'EVENT,' aiming to provide deeper studies and a new sense to research, fostering communion with what some call the 'inhuman' future. The magazine's name reflects a desire to closely examine and understand the mysteries of ufology and to gather those who wish to participate in transforming humanity through preparation for a mutation towards new forms of intelligence.

Organization and Activities of SVEPS

The SVEPS, based at 6, rue Paulin-Guérin, 83100 TOULON, holds its permanent meetings on Tuesdays and Fridays from 5 PM to 7 PM. The issue lists key personnel, including René HARDY as Founding President, J.-L. FOREST as President, and F. CREBELY as Director of Publications. The organization is described as different, with a focus on building a strong, united family of researchers. The bulletin will now highlight only meetings of significant importance. Notable meetings mentioned include one on July 7, 1973, discussing extraordinary events in the Toulon region since late June; an investigation on July 16, 1973, led by Mr. CESA; a general meeting on October 13, 1973; a meeting on October 30, 1973; an assembly on parapsychology on October 20, 1973; a dinner debate on November 7, 1973; an information meeting on November 10, 1973; and a general assembly on November 23, 1973.

Plans d'Action

F. CREBELY outlines the association's plans, emphasizing the need for members to know each other and for research to be productive, open, and scientific, with a 'Station-Laboratoire' being a key development. The journal itself is presented as a crucial link between members, encouraging commentary and circulation. The issue addresses the presence of advertising, explaining it is necessary due to financial constraints, and asks readers to support the advertisers who have helped the association.

Investigations and Sightings

The magazine details several specific investigations and sightings:

Festival à TOULON

This section, authored by V. CESA and F. CARRERE, recounts a series of observations on June 25, 1973, near Toulon. Starting with a call from M. Forest about a large red ball over Mont-Caume at 9:15 PM, the report details multiple luminous objects observed between 9:20 PM and 10:35 PM. These objects, described as luminous points, moved in various directions, with some appearing to follow similar trajectories. The report notes that objects 1-3, 5-7 were brighter and larger than objects 4 and 8, which were suspected to be satellites. The luminosity of these objects increased, giving the appearance of accelerating speed. The investigation involved multiple witnesses, including M. Forest, M. Compain, and M. Cohin.

Station-Laboratoire, nouvelle dimension de l'Ufologie

This article by J.-P. COMPAIN discusses the establishment of a laboratory for ufological research.

Paramatière paradoxale

E. COHIN contributes an article on paradoxical paramatter.

Observation photographique du ciel

R. J. HARDY writes about photographic observations of the sky.

Detailed Sightings Reports:

• June 21, 1973 (22:15): An observation near Beaucaire (Gard) by M. Breysse Denys and others described a luminous object the size of half the full moon, white in color, and disc-shaped, moving from west to east without leaving a trace.
• June 23-24, 1973: Marcel POMARES of Toulon reported observing a very bright star-like object moving from southwest to northeast on June 24th, followed by a smaller, faster object. On June 23rd, from his apartment, he observed a twinkling star-like object moving towards Mont-Faron.
• June 25, 1973: The report details a series of observations, including a large white ball appearing at 45 degrees altitude, observed with a 15x magnification telescope. The object disappeared abruptly. Subsequently, five luminous points were observed following the same trajectory as earlier sightings.
• June 26, 1973: M. GOZZO of Revest reported observing a luminous, nebulous, elongated object moving slowly from northwest to southeast, with an apparent dimension of a 10-cent coin at arm's length. The observation lasted 2-3 minutes, and the witness was fascinated, convinced of its existence.
• June 26, 1973 (21:00): An object was observed moving from the Coudon area towards the memorial, appearing to triple in volume and change hue before becoming a distant point. Another object appeared at 9:45 PM, moving in a circular path before disappearing behind Mont-Faron.

Analysis of SKYLAB Fragments

An analysis of observations on June 26, 1973, suggests that many luminous objects moving from west to east correspond to SKYLAB fragments. A list of 'Instants T' with associated fragments (J, F, E, K, H, SKYLAB) is provided, along with time intervals between them. The report notes that some fragments were brighter than others. It also speculates that UFOs might use space experiments to manifest unnoticed.

Other Witness Reports

A witness from Bully (Rhône) reported observing trains of UFOs moving from northeast to southeast since July 3, 1973, appearing as multiple luminous points or a cigar-shaped object with a bright front light. Another witness in Vaucluse saw six UFOs moving in formation at 5-minute intervals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the systematic investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena, the activities and growth of the SVEPS organization, and the scientific approach to ufology. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, encouraging members and the public to share observations and contribute to a rigorous, scientific understanding of UFOs. There is a clear emphasis on the potential significance of these phenomena for humanity's future and the need to prepare for transformative changes. The magazine positions itself as a platform for detailed reporting, analysis, and discussion within the ufological community.

This issue of "Nouvelle Dimension de l'Ufologie" (New Dimension of Ufology), dated June 1973, is published by STATION - LABORATOIRE and focuses on UFO sightings and the scientific investigation of these phenomena. The cover headline highlights a commentary on a sighting, suggesting a focus on analysis and interpretation.

Witness Accounts and Sightings

The magazine presents several detailed witness accounts from June and July 1973, primarily from the Toulon and Cuers regions of France.

Cuers Sighting (June 29, 1973)

M. Richard provides a commentary on a sighting, noting that the object was likely below the Coudon hill, explaining why he and his sons did not see it from their balcony. He also mentions that Monsieur Forest, observing from further west, saw nothing, reinforcing the idea of a low-altitude object. The account from M. Mérola Alban describes an observation made at 7:20 PM. The witness's son observed an object appearing above the Barre de Cuers, moving from the Northwest. The object was described as large, the size of a full moon, with a yellow-orange color and a pale halo. Its shape was elongated, round at the front, and saw-toothed at the rear. Its speed was estimated at 800 km/h, and it moved without noise. The object performed a 180-degree turn and then continued its trajectory, leaving a light cloud envelope. The witness's son, accustomed to hearing airplanes, noted the object's silence.

Toulon Sightings (June 30, July 3, July 6, 1973)

Mme Mayeux reported an observation on June 30th at 9 PM. She described an object descending behind Mont-Caume, which she termed a 'flying cigar.' This object, with two dark wings, ascended in zigzags, leaving a black smoke trail, and crossed the sky. Monsieur Carrère interviewed Mme Mayeux and confirmed her account, noting the general direction of movement as Northwest-Southeast. The magazine also includes a drawing by Mme Mayeux depicting the object's trajectory and relative positions.

On July 3rd, M. Le Dû reported seeing a large red ball at low altitude moving rectilinearly from Southeast to Northwest, faster than a satellite he usually observes. The weather was clear with no clouds or wind.

Madame Chabre, an elderly woman living on the 6th floor in Toulon, provided a particularly striking account from July 6th between 11 PM and midnight. She observed an object described as 'extraordinary' in size and brightness, appearing over the sea towards Porquerolles. She initially found it immobile. The object was described as yellow-gold, very bright, with a slight orange hue, and a distinct green point underneath. It appeared to be twice as long as it was thick, and the green point was about half the thickness of the main body. She estimated its apparent size to be 10 cm at arm's length. She also noted that its luminosity seemed to diminish periodically.

Commentary and Analysis

Vincent CESA provides commentary on the collected observations from June 21st to July 6th, 1973. He notes that while not all observations may have been reported, witnesses are increasingly willing to come forward. He categorizes the sightings as potentially including artificial satellites, Venus, 'balcon-sondes' (balcony probes), and UFOs. CESA points out that many apparitions occurred on June 25th and 29th, coinciding with large-scale military maneuvers and a solar eclipse, suggesting these events might have influenced or masked UFO activity. He also mentions the 'Tibère' rocket incident of March 18, 1972, where UFO manifestations were linked to its atmospheric reentry, suggesting that UFOs might appear more frequently around significant terrestrial events or experiments.

He emphasizes the need for caution, as distinguishing between natural, artificial, and unknown phenomena is challenging. CESA also notes the general movement patterns of satellites (West to East) and discusses the concept of 'quadrillage' (grid-like patterns) in UFO directions, suggesting a systematic study of regions. The issue also touches upon the idea of 'psychic spaces' and the potential for humanity's evolution to be through psychic rather than spatial means, linking it to the concept of collective thought over millennia.

Technological Developments in UFO Detection

Pages 5-8 detail the work of the "STATION - LABORATOIRE NOUVELLE DIMENSION DE L'UFOLOGIE." The study of UFOs involves analyzing observer reports, radar data, physical effects, traces, and object shapes. The existence of non-terrestrial, super-evolved intelligent life is implied if UFOs exceed current technological capabilities. The text highlights the potential for private researchers to gather physical evidence of UFOs, such as detecting variations in magnetic fields. A proposed system involves using two different sensors to simultaneously record distinct physical phenomena (magnetic and gravific) associated with UFOs. This would represent a significant scientific advancement, allowing for quantitative, real-time study rather than historical cataloging.

The proposed automatic station would operate continuously, detecting UFOs and their atmospheric environment. It would be miniaturized and transportable, requiring only a power source. The system includes sensors for UFO characteristics (magnetic field, luminosity, radiation, shape, displacement) and meteorological data (pressure, temperature, humidity, wind, luminosity). Data is processed by a central unit, with the project being continued by Marc Marinello after the death of Dr. Hardy. The system is designed to transition from a 'standby' state to an 'alert' state, triggering alarms and recording observations. The response to a detected UFO could involve emitting light signals or radiation. The initial cost for the first phase is estimated at fifteen thousand francs, excluding magnetic tape recorders and integrated computer processing.

Paradoxical Matter and Generalities on Artificial Satellites

An article titled "PARAMATIERE PARADOXALE" (Paradoxical Matter) discusses observations since 1955 of antiparticles like antiprotons, antineutrinos, and antideuterons, made possible by synchrotrons. Physicists have concluded that nuclear forces binding atomic nuclei have analogues in antimatter. This leads to the hypothesis of an antimatter universe, an exact replica of ours. The annihilation of matter and antimatter results in gamma rays. The schematic representation of this concept is noted to resemble the Chinese Yin and Yang symbol. The article suggests a reconciliation between physics and metaphysics, with physicists increasingly confronting processes rather than objects at the atomic level. It posits that the universe might be more like a great thought than a machine, quoting Professor Arthur Eddington on the mental nature of the universe's material. The author also speculates that humanity's future evolution might lie in psychic rather than spatial directions.

Another section, "GENERALITES SUR LES SATELLITES ARTIFICIELS" (Generalities on Artificial Satellites), explains that most satellites orbit from West to East to utilize Earth's rotation. Satellite orbits are inclined planes passing through Earth's center, determining their coverage. It is estimated that at least 2,500 artificial celestial objects orbit the Earth. The conclusion section clarifies that any luminous point moving in a regular trajectory should be cataloged as an artificial satellite. UFOs are defined by characteristics such as significant stops and restarts, apparent size much larger than stars or planets, and movement against a natural background (unlike weather balloons which move against the wind). Other potential confusions include airplanes, helicopters, rockets, comets, and meteors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained aerial phenomena with scientific inquiry and technological development. There is a clear editorial stance favoring rigorous investigation, data collection, and analysis, moving beyond mere anecdotal evidence. The issue highlights the challenges in distinguishing between known and unknown phenomena, while also embracing the possibility of non-terrestrial origins for some sightings. The articles suggest a belief that scientific methods, even those employed by private researchers, can contribute to understanding UFOs. The discussion on paradoxial matter and the potential link between physics and metaphysics indicates a broader philosophical and scientific curiosity beyond just UAP sightings, exploring the fundamental nature of reality and consciousness.

Title: Observation photographique du ciel
Issue Date: December 1970
Publisher: Lumière Dans La Nuit
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of "Observation photographique du ciel" emphasizes the crucial role of amateur research and scientific methodology in understanding UFO phenomena. It advocates for the development of detection and measurement tools, particularly through photography, to distinguish between genuine UFOs and natural aerial events.

Scientific Approach to UFO Photography

The lead article by R.-J. HARDY proposes a systematic photographic method for UFO detection. It suggests that coordinated observations by multiple operators using overlapping fields of view, similar to techniques used for studying meteor trajectories, can yield significant scientific data. The article outlines a simple yet effective setup using a 24x36 camera with a rotating disk. This disk, equipped with sectors that alternately block and reveal the lens, creates a 'pointillé' or dotted trail of the object's path on the film. This technique allows for the measurement of angular velocities, which can range from 1 to 100 degrees per second. The author provides examples of angular velocities for objects at different altitudes and speeds, such as 6°/s and 60°/s.

A 50mm lens is noted to cover a 40° field of view. The rotating disk, operating at 45 RPM (approximately 8 sectors per second), can record an object moving across the field in 0.6 seconds (3.6 occultations) or 6 seconds (36 occultations). The 'occultations' or interruptions in the object's trail are key to evaluating its angular speed. For stationary objects, a long exposure would result in a fixed point, contrasting with the slow movement of stars which would appear as short streaks. For brief luminous events, a short exposure might miss the object or leave a trace difficult to interpret compared to the 'cut-out' effect of the rotating disk.

The use of color film is also recommended, as it can capture potential color variations of the object, aiding in its identification. The article acknowledges that for very slow-moving UFOs, the occultations might not be visible, but the resulting continuous trace would likely differ in direction and length from that of a star. The challenge of long exposure times is discussed, noting that without diaphragming, the sky's background light could overexpose the film, obscuring fainter objects. A compromise in exposure settings is suggested, to be determined through experimentation.

To determine the actual trajectory and speed of an object, the article suggests using two or more cameras placed at known distances and oriented to achieve overlapping coverage. By analyzing the photographic signatures—trajectory, speed, color, shape, and intensity changes—researchers can differentiate UFOs from natural phenomena like shooting stars.

UFO Detections and Sightings

The issue also includes a section on "DIAPOS U.F.O.," reporting on a disappointing experience with photographic slides from Editions CASADA-MONT, which turned out to be childish drawings. More concrete reports are presented under "DETECTIONS."

On June 29, 1973, a detection device belonging to M. BASQUIN in SIX-FOURS was triggered at 22:55. This was followed by an observation by M. RISSO of a large, bright point that zig-zagged, flashed three times, and moved south before stabilizing towards the east. The event occurred in the Mourillon area.

On July 5, 1973, in Toulon, M. RISSO reported a prolonged detector activation that forced him to stop it. A subsequent sky search yielded no results. RISSO also noted a persistent issue with his GEOS V detector's compass, which was previously deflected by a metal wall but no longer is after this incident, suggesting a possible interaction or change related to the event.

Book Reviews

Two books are reviewed: "MYSTERIEUSES SOUPES VOLANTES" by Aimé MICHEL, and Jacques VALLEE and LAGARDE. The review praises the latter for its immersive quality, making the reader feel like a participant in the investigation by posing questions that the reader would ask themselves. The book is described as one that is difficult to put down once started.

Advertisements and Affiliations

The magazine contains several advertisements for local businesses in Toulon, France, including "MÉDITERRANÉE-BOISSONS," a supplier of alcoholic beverages; "PAPETERIE-IMPRIMERIE 'SIGURD'" for office supplies; "La Maison Electrique TOULON" for electrical appliances; "LA PLEIADE" bookstore for UFO and "Insolite" publications; and "SAUNA CLUB TOULON." There is also an advertisement for "PUBLI magazine HEBDO" for classified ads.

Additionally, there is a section on "ADHESIONS A LA S.V.E.P.S." (Société Varoise d'Etude des Phénomènes Spaciaux), detailing membership fees for 1974 (Student: 15 F, Active Member: 30 F, Supporter: 50 F) and requiring photos and a questionnaire for new members. Parental authorization is required for minors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the importance of rigorous, scientific investigation into UFO phenomena, particularly through photographic evidence. The editorial stance clearly favors a methodical, data-driven approach, encouraging amateur participation while emphasizing the need for reliable equipment and techniques. The publication aims to provide practical advice and share findings that can help demystify UFO reports and distinguish them from known natural or man-made objects. The inclusion of book reviews and advertisements for relevant businesses suggests an effort to build a community and resource network for UFO enthusiasts.