Approche - no 06 - Printemps 1975

Magazine Overview

This issue of "APPROCHE" is the sixth quarterly publication from the "SOCIETE VAROISE D'ETUDE DES PHENOMENES SPATIAUX" (SVEPS). The cover features a striking blue and white design with the title "OVNI" and a quote from R. HARDY stating, "These unexplained phenomena are the prefiguration of our future." The cover also depicts stylized flying saucer-like objects against a starry background.

Editorial and Society Mission

The editorial, co-authored by J.-L. FOREST and F. CREBELY, discusses the founding principles of SVEPS, emphasizing the scientific rigor inherited from its founder, engineer Dr. R. HARDY. The editorial stresses the importance of distinguishing between proven facts and hypotheses, cautioning against letting the fantastical nature of some observations lead to unchecked speculation. It highlights two examples: Georges Adamski's claim of speaking with an extraterrestrial and ancient texts describing 'flying chariots' or 'wheels of fire,' which are interpreted as potential precursors to modern UFO sightings.

The society's mission is to foster a multidisciplinary approach to UFO research, encouraging collaboration and open-mindedness among scientists, paranormal researchers, and spiritualists. They aim to provide a platform for rigorous investigation, distinguishing between the proven and the probable.

Key Articles and Investigations

NOS ENQUETES (Our Investigations)

This section details several UFO sightings and related phenomena:

• PIGNANS - 27.10.74: Michel AUGIER reported observing a bright, round, luminous object that ascended, moved north, then changed direction and moved west for approximately 35 minutes. The object was described as brilliant white with sharp edges, no halo or iridescence, and its trajectory was slightly undulating. Its size was estimated to be about 10 times larger than Venus. The atmospheric conditions were clear with some clouds, cool temperature, and a strong Mistral wind.
• BRIGNOLES - 6.10.52: An anonymous witness reported seeing an object moving at an estimated speed of 2,500 km/h, with a dimension estimated to be three times that of a DC-3. This sighting is linked to a description in Aimé Michel's book "Lueurs sur les soucoupes volantes" of a 'flying egg' seen by Air France pilots.
• CARCES - 10.2.75: This entry refers to a previous investigation by SVEPS into unusual vegetation anomalies (rust, fungal disease) in a field where a UFO had been observed. The investigation suggested that the plants might have been anemic and more susceptible to disease. It also notes that the car of witness Monsieur Fraisse lost its particular shine, and his dog refused to enter the car.

NUL NOVI SUB CAELO (Nothing New Under the Sky)

Authored by B.A. TALADOIRE, Professor at the Faculty of Letters of Aix-en-Provence, this article explores historical accounts of celestial phenomena, particularly "celestial fires" (fulmina) mentioned by ancient Latin authors like Cicero, Caesar, Virgil, and Pliny the Elder. Taladoire draws parallels between these ancient descriptions and modern UFO reports, specifically mentioning "discus," "pithéos" (barrel-shaped objects), and "ceraties." He references Pliny the Elder's "Historia Naturalis," detailing accounts of "burning shields" and a "spark" that grew in size and luminosity before retreating into the sky. The author suggests that these historical accounts warrant serious study and could contribute to the ongoing UFO dossier.

La RECHERCHE PSI et le PENDULE SCRIPTEUR (Psi Research and the Scriptor Pendulum)

This article, translated by Y. BEGNIS and authored by R.J. HARDY, explores the phenomenon of the "scriptor pendulum." It posits that the pendulum's movement is not caused by external forces but by the operator's subconscious actions, superimposed on conscious intent. The article discusses experiments designed to demonstrate these subconscious movements, including the use of oscillographs to detect imperceptible hand movements. It also touches upon the idea that psi phenomena, like those detected by dowsers or mediums, are cerebral in nature and can be demonstrated through sensitive physical apparatus.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "APPROCHE" consistently emphasizes a scientific and rigorous approach to studying unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs. The editorial stance is one of open-minded investigation, distinguishing between factual observation and speculative interpretation. The magazine aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and the public through information dissemination. There is a clear commitment to advancing knowledge, as stated in the editorial: "Our society is also designed to enable permanent interconnections between these 'levels' (purely formal and without real boundaries, let us repeat) as well as between people from very diverse cultural backgrounds." The publication also highlights the historical context of UFO sightings, linking ancient accounts to modern observations, and explores the psychological and subconscious aspects of paranormal experiences.

This issue of APPROCHE magazine, identified by its issue number 9, presents a diverse range of articles spanning ufology, technology, geology, and parapsychology. The publication emphasizes scientific rigor and critical analysis, as highlighted by the editorial stance in several sections.

Articles

A LA RECHERCHE DES EXTRA-TERRESTRES by Alfred ROULET

Alfred ROULET's article is praised for its scientific tone and acknowledgment of doubt. It analyzes the efforts of scientists like Hoyle, Sagan, and Shklovski in attempting to contact extraterrestrial civilizations. The review notes a weakness in the article's focus on American UFO research, overlooking significant French (Hardy, Poher, Michel) and South American (Pereira) contributions. Despite this, the book is recommended for its direction in research, though it is described as a costly endeavor.

RADIESTHESIE GRAPHIQUE by Jean AUSCHER

This review commends Jean AUSCHER's book for its honest approach to radiesthesia, moving beyond pseudo-scientific jargon. It highlights the author's focus on the normal faculty of the human brain, specifically intuition, as the basis for radiesthesia. The article notes AUSCHER's development of a method for recording results using a 'pendulum scripteur,' which allows for numerous and revealing experiments. The book is available for purchase directly from the author.

GUERISONS P.S.I. by Alfred STELTER

Alfred STELTER's book is described as a modern approach to parapsychological phenomena, particularly paranormal healing. The author, a biologist, presents a well-documented work with an extensive bibliography, including cases of Filipino surgeons operating with bare hands. The book aims for a synthetic understanding of phenomena that may appear disparate from a scientific perspective, suggesting a common underlying dimension.

LA GNOSE DE PRINCETON by Raymond RUYER

Raymond RUYER's book attempts to popularize a new mindset prevalent in high society, which blends scientific and religious aspects. The reviewer finds the book difficult to read and based on questionable hypotheses, questioning whether the goal of popularization was achieved. The book is described as disconcerting but likely to spark debate among readers, potentially fulfilling RUYER's unstated aim of challenging perspectives.

INTRODUCTION AUX MICRO-ORDINATEURS (3ème partie) by Marc MARINELLO

Marc MARINELLO continues his series on micro-computers, focusing on the central unit's role within a station. He explains how the central unit, connected via a communication bus, sends commands to peripherals and receives data from measurement circuits. The article emphasizes the flexibility of computer-controlled systems, which can be modified through programming. MARINELLO also revisits the INTEL 8080 language, promising more detailed explanations in future installments. The instructions are categorized into six colored groups for easier separation.

LES FAILLES by J.F. LAPEYRE

J.F. LAPEYRE's article explores geological faults, aiming to clarify their association with UFO phenomena. The piece distinguishes between superficial and deep faults, explaining their formation and impact on terrain. It details terms like 'lips,' 'fault plane,' 'breccia,' and 'fault mirror.' The article also differentiates between normal and inverse faults, and 'conforme' and 'contraire' faults based on their orientation relative to rock layers. The grouping of faults and their influence on geographical morphology, such as the Rhine Valley, are also discussed.

UN TEST INSOLITE et CREDIBILITE (2ème PARTIE) by Albert Adell SABATES

This article, translated from an original by STENDER and undertaken by Madame HARDY and Mademoiselle G. SCOTTO, delves into the credibility factor of UFO witnesses. It posits that a witness's credibility can be zero if they lack the necessary human qualities for trust. The article explores various components of credibility, including profession, moral reputation, social behavior, physical and mental health, and visual acuity. It argues that a witness's background and daily activities should be considered when evaluating their testimony, and that a skeptical approach is necessary.

PLANS D'ACTION by Frantz CREBELY

Frantz CREBELY addresses the direct and rigorous tone of the publication, defending it as necessary for conveying the S.V.E.P.S.'s originality and commitment to rigor. Two proposals are put forth: a 'STAGE-ENQUETE' (Stage-Investigation) requiring a theoretical and practical examination to validate investigator cards, and a two-tiered membership structure for sympathizers and active members who contribute to ufological knowledge. Suggestions for the organization of these initiatives are solicited.

RUBRIQUE - COURRIER

Following a suggestion from Marc MARINELLO, a new 'Courrier S.V.E.P.S.' section is proposed, where the editorial team and specialists would answer reader questions. The adoption of this section is contingent on reader interest, with a note on potential space limitations.

CONFERENCES

The S.V.E.P.S. has participated in numerous public awareness events concerning UFOs, including round tables and conferences in various locations across France. The magazine also highlights past 'TEMOIGNAGE' events where witnesses of UFO observations were brought into contact with the public for case reconstructions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the scientific investigation of unexplained phenomena, the importance of critical thinking and skepticism, and the exploration of new technologies. The editorial stance consistently promotes a rigorous, evidence-based approach to ufology and related fields, while also acknowledging the value of intuition and subjective experience. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between credible evidence and speculation, and on understanding the psychological and social factors that influence witness testimony.

Title: APPROCHES
Issue: 20
Volume: 6
Date: January 1979 (inferred from issue number and context)
Publisher: CMPP
Country: France
Language: French
Price: 10 F (France), 16 F (Foreign)

Content Summary

This issue of APPROCHES magazine, titled "L'esprit complexe de l'homme est habitué à tout déformer..." (The complex human mind is accustomed to distorting everything...), delves into several interconnected themes: the intricacies of the human psyche, adaptation to societal and personal circumstances, and the exploration of parapsychological phenomena.

The Human Mind and Adaptation

The lead article discusses how the human mind often distorts reality, leading to the misuse of leisure time in seeking novel, sometimes twisted, emotions. It highlights the necessity of having indispensable knowledge for such pursuits, warning that a lack of it can lead to unforeseen consequences. The text emphasizes that individuals are conditioned by their environment and that their acquired culture must be adapted to their milieu. A key argument is that an educated, mentally sound individual with a high degree of culture is better equipped to face life's material and spiritual variations than a disadvantaged illiterate person. The concept of 'lies' is presented as a tool for the oppressed and those who create fictional worlds to satisfy their illusions, contrasting them with cultivated individuals whose existence is more grounded.

The magazine argues that happiness is found in adapting to one's time, its demands, necessities, laws, and wonders. This adaptation, it suggests, is best achieved through culture. While acknowledging the possibility of happiness for an ascetic living in isolation, the text categorizes such a person as maladjusted, having created a fictional world to escape harsh influences. It asserts that few are truly invulnerable to socio-cultural environments and that a minimum of education, understanding, love, curiosity, and a desire to live are necessary to resist life's adversities and acquire the malleability needed for social integration. Subconscious culture and an appropriate conscience are presented as pathways to happy experiences, avoiding the need to retreat into illusory fantasies.

Parapsychology and the Pendulum

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to parapsychological phenomena, specifically the use of the pendulum as a tool for detection and communication. The article explains that the pendulum's movements (lines, ovals, circles) form a code that is simple yet requires precise orientation and specific shapes. The rhythmic, almost automatic movements of the pendulum, particularly those of the thumb and index finger, are described as being adept for precision work and translating thought into writing. These movements are said to be stored in the subconscious, which then provides answers when the operator is in a state of attentive vigilance.

The process involves the operator entering a specific mental state, distinct from external distractions but not entirely closed off. This state of abstraction, focused on the posed question, is crucial. The article notes that the operator's faculties and the results obtained depend on their ability to achieve this mental state and their physiological and psychological conditions. Factors like fatigue or anemia can negatively impact active systems, particularly at the synaptic level. The use of hypnotic drugs can lead to inhibition, while stimulants increase vigilance. The mental state of the operator, their effective conditioning, and the nature of the experience are critical; a lack of active subconscious interest can hinder success. A psychic objective, a 'fil de sympathies' (thread of sympathies) as termed by Abbé Mermet, is necessary for connection. The issue highlights that urgent cases can yield greater success probabilities, suggesting that time and space have no bearing on the outcome.

Estimating Angular Measurements

Another section addresses the difficulty witnesses of celestial phenomena have in evaluating angular dimensions. It proposes a simple reference base for interviewers: by extending an arm, one can measure the angular dimension of parts of the hand projected onto the horizon. Specifically, a thumb covers approximately 25 degrees, a closed fist 9 degrees, and spread fingers 22 degrees. The article notes that when measuring the angular diameter of the moon or sun, one is surprised to find that a little finger is sufficient to cover them, as their diameter is only about 0.5 degrees.

Illustrations

The issue includes several black and white illustrations depicting various disc-shaped objects in space, some with trails, near celestial bodies like the moon and sun. These illustrations likely accompany the articles discussing UFO phenomena. A final illustration shows a table with a book, knives, and question marks, possibly symbolizing mystery or investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of the human mind, consciousness, and unexplained phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of culture, education, and mental discipline in navigating life and understanding complex issues, including those that lie beyond conventional scientific explanation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into parapsychology, UFOs, and the potential of the human mind, while grounding discussions in psychological and sociological observations. The publication encourages a proactive and culturally informed approach to life's challenges and mysteries.