Approche - no 08 - Hiver 1975 1976

Magazine Overview

This issue of OVNI, a quarterly publication from the Société Varoise d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux (SVEPS), is dated winter 1975-76 and identified as issue number 8. The cover features a striking graphic and the headline, "Ces phénomènes inexpliqués sont la préfiguration de notre devenir" (These unexplained phenomena are the prefiguration of our future), attributed to R. Hardy. The magazine's price is 3 French Francs, with an annual subscription costing 10 Francs.

Editorial: Exchanges and Cooperation

The editorial section addresses the regrettable sterile conflicts observed among French ufological associations. The SVEPS emphasizes that differences in viewpoints should be seen as complementary, as the complex problem of ufology has many facets. The association's founder, Dr. Hardy, intended for it to be independent but open to collaboration. The editorial criticizes associations that engage in public disputes and personal attacks, suggesting private correspondence as a more constructive approach to resolving disagreements. SVEPS states its commitment to working with all associations, responding to correspondence, and not taking sides in inter-group animosities. They also note that exchanges of publications are systematically sent to known associations, and they lament when reciprocal exchanges are not received.

Stage - Enquiries

This section details an upcoming stage or training program organized by SVEPS, listing the speakers and their respective fields. Topics covered include astronomy, meteorology, aeronautics, geology, vegetal biology, journalism, psychology, technology of equipment, psychotronics (related to ufology), informatics for archives, and the assessment of credibility and the study of humanoids. The program aims to provide a rigorous selection process.

Key Incidents and Investigations

Vaison-la-Romaine, Vaucluse - June 28, 1974

This report details an observation made by Gérard G., a 24-year-old farmer, and later corroborated by his father. Gérard observed a diamond-shaped object with four lights at its extremities hovering above the trees. The object then descended behind a hill. Upon investigation, Gérard found the object at a lower altitude, approximately 60 meters away and 5-6 meters high, between two trees. When he turned off his headlights, the object's lights extinguished, and it ascended silently and disappeared without a trace. His father also saw the object briefly in his rearview mirror. The object was described as approximately twenty meters wide, with a whitish mass between the orange lights. No physical effects were noted on the witness.

Lion-sur-Mer, Calvados - August 2-8, 1975

This case involves M. Aubin and his relatives, the Beausoleils, who observed a luminous phenomenon on a clear, starry night. They described a ball or glow, about the size of a satellite, with a yellowish-white color. A truncated beam of light, six to seven times the diameter of the ball, extended from it, with a grey-green color. The combined object moved horizontally from East to West at a speed estimated to be faster than an airplane. The observation lasted about five minutes, with no audible noise. The altitude was estimated between 4,000 and 5,000 meters. The witnesses noted that the object's form, color, and trajectory remained constant throughout the observation.

Beaumont-Hague - November 21-22, 1975

An initial report on television suggested a UFO sighting over Beaumont-Hague. However, an investigation by SVEPS revealed that the phenomenon was a large hot air balloon named GERARD-A-HEINEKEN. The balloon was impressive in size, measuring 71 meters in height with a 30-meter diameter and a volume of 14,000 m³. It had four burners and a nacelle capable of carrying 33 people. The balloon had departed from Melbury, England, and was attempting to break a hot air balloon endurance record. It was illuminated and mistaken for a UFO while crossing the English Channel and flying over Beaumont-Hague.

Other Sections

Jura

This section briefly mentions an observation by a police judicial officer, M.B., who reported a white ball appearing in front of his car and following him. Due to the lack of corroborating evidence and the witness's professional background, the investigators express caution regarding the case's veracity.

Interviews: SVEPS - AAMT, Valence - October 26, 1975

This section highlights the positive relationship between SVEPS and the Association des Amis de Marc Thirouin (AAMT). The meeting aimed to establish lasting cooperation between the two associations. SVEPS also presented its new OVTEC III detector.

The Triangle of Fashion

This brief article notes that the American government has created a commission to study magnetic anomalies in the Bermuda Triangle, and the Prime Minister of Grenada has called for a "psychic investigation" commission on the same mystery.

Book Reviews

The magazine includes several book reviews:

• "La Parapsychologie Ouvre le Futur" by Werner Keller: Praised for its rigor and detailed account of parapsychology facts and studies, it is recommended by the parapsychology section.
• "La Malédiction des Pharaons" by Philipp Vandenberg: Described as having a pleasant approach but lacking in archaeological knowledge, it speculates on advanced Egyptian science.
• "Nos Ancêtres Venus du Cosmos" by Maurice Chatelain: Considered a dense and uneven book, it requires careful reading and potentially advanced computational analysis for its astronomical interpretations.
• "La Cabale" by Papus: A well-presented book, deemed suitable for specialists due to its complex subject matter.
• "Les Pierres Mystérieuses du Var" by Eric Kalmar: An encyclopedic local guide to dolmens and menhirs, though the reviewer criticizes the inclusion of UFOs as detracting from the book's quality.

Reality and Perception

This article by Dr. J.F. Lantrua explores how humans perceive the world through their senses. It discusses the limitations of human senses compared to modern technology and examines arguments from animal physiology and psychophysiology. The article highlights how different species have varying sensory ranges and how perception itself is a complex, multi-stage process involving detection, discrimination, identification, and evaluation, and that perception is often global, relying on pre-existing schemas.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of OVNI magazine strongly emphasizes scientific rigor, objective investigation, and collaboration within the ufological community. The editorial stance is one of open communication and mutual respect among different associations, rejecting internal conflicts and promoting a unified approach to understanding unexplained phenomena. The magazine also delves into the scientific and philosophical aspects of perception, suggesting that our understanding of reality may be limited by our sensory apparatus. The recurring theme is the pursuit of knowledge through careful study and the sharing of information, whether it concerns specific sightings, historical mysteries, or the fundamental nature of human consciousness.

This issue of APPROCHE, dated June 1979, is the 17th issue of Volume 1, published by S.V.E.P.S. in France. It features a cover headline of 'Science-Fiction' and includes a wide range of articles covering ufology, scientific research, astronomy, and historical/archaeological mysteries. The issue is priced at 20 FF and has an ISSN of 0750-4014.

Perception and Gestalt Theory

The issue begins with an exploration of perceptual structures, referred to as 'GESTALT' or primitive structures. It discusses the 'Law of Pregnance,' which posits that the simplest, most regular, and most homogeneous organization is perceived. The theory suggests that organisms strive to minimize the information they process. The perceived reality is also influenced by the observer's reactions and motivations. A key conclusion is that each animal species, including humans, lives in its own unique perceptual world, with different windows onto reality. The article questions whether scientific 'a priori' assumptions are objective or induced by perception, drawing a parallel between the human ear's internal structure (involved in spatial orientation) and the mathematical system of coordinates (x, y, z) used to define space.

Project Starlight International

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to 'Project Starlight International' (PSI), an American initiative that aims to study UFOs using advanced technology. PSI is described as a specialized branch of the 'Association for the Understanding of Man Inc.' The project's core idea is to use technology for detection, control, and recording, believing that technology offers greater sensitivity and objectivity than human observers, who can be influenced by prejudices and emotions. Engineers and physicists are tasked with analyzing the data. The project utilizes a 'UFO/Vector' system, incorporating a video-modulated laser, a Schmidt Cassegrain telescope, a video camera, and a panoramic module. They also employ magnetic sensors to detect abnormal magnetic perturbations indicative of UFO presence and three synchronized cameras for recording events. The project is also developing a parabolic microphone system to capture sounds emitted by UFOs, distinguishing them from aircraft. While acknowledging the possibility of parapsychological components, PSI's working hypothesis focuses on the technological aspects of the phenomenon.

Astronomical Phenomena: Novae and Supernovae

Jean RABUEL, President of S.A.H.A., explains the phenomena of novae and supernovae. He describes stars as incandescent masses of hydrogen and helium undergoing nuclear reactions that transform hydrogen into helium, generating energy and increasing temperature. Our Sun is expected to get hotter, eventually leading to life's extinction on Earth due to heat rather than cold. A nova occurs when a star's gaseous envelope explodes, causing a sudden, massive increase in luminosity (thousands of times greater) over a few hours, with matter expelled at high speeds. These events are relatively rare. Supernovae are even more significant explosions observed in distant galaxies, with luminosities thousands of times greater than the Sun. The Crab Nebula is cited as the remnant of a supernova observed in 1054. These cosmic explosions are described as catastrophic events on a scale far beyond human experience.

Historical and Archaeological Mysteries

The White God of the Year of the Reeds

This article by R. AUDEMARD explores the historical context of Hernan Cortes' arrival in Mexico in 1519. It details the expedition's landing in Yucatan, the initial conflict with indigenous peoples, and the subsequent interactions with Montecuma, the Aztec emperor. Montecuma, informed of the Spaniards' arrival and strange ships, sent gifts and messages, concerned whether Cortes was the return of the legendary 'Quetzalcoatl,' the white, bearded god who had departed their people. The article suggests that Montecuma's indecision, influenced by internal tribal divisions and the advanced weaponry of the Spanish, contributed to the fall of the Aztec Empire. The author emphasizes the significant role of religious factors and superstition in the Spanish conquest, noting the vast disparity in numbers between the Spanish forces and the Aztec warriors.

The Enigma of the Palenque Slab Resolved: The Vimanacipede

Jacques ARMESIO reports on his successful initiation into Maya mysteries in Mexico. He reveals the secret of a device depicted on the Palenque slab, described as the 'Vimanacipede.' The article presents a drawing of this complex and technologically advanced 'engine,' highlighting its intricate design and sophisticated nature.

Ufology as a Scientific Discipline

Dr. Willy SMITH of Lycoming College discusses the need for a schematic framework for ufology. He notes that ufology, once neglected by the scientific community, is gradually gaining respectability, possibly in reaction to the Condon Report. He observes that scientists in various fields are showing interest, and UFO studies are being conducted in some US colleges and universities. Smith proposes a framework that begins with a strange event that captures a witness's attention, leading to communication with authorities. After the event, only fleeting traces and the witness's impression remain, along with an investigative report. This report allows experts to determine if the case is exceptional or has conventional explanations. Cases that defy scientific explanation are considered the essence of the UFO phenomenon. Smith emphasizes that ufology has many branches, each requiring specialization, and his framework aims to provide a starting point for research, focusing on material aspects, observed effects on vehicles and electronics, and the dynamic and kinetic characteristics of UFOs.

Science Fiction Reviews

The magazine includes a section dedicated to science fiction reviews, introduced by R. AUDEMARD. This section aims to provide readers with critiques of new science fiction works.

• "UN MONDE DE HEROS" by YANN MENEZ: Described as a blend of classic and modern science fiction, with irony and morbid poetry.
• "L'ENJEU GALACTIQUE" by Peter RANDA: A rewritten version of an earlier novel, noted for its fast pace but criticized for being an 'abuse of confidence' due to its recycled nature.
• "ZEL" by L. SPRAGUE DE CAMP: A heroic space opera with humor, recommended for reading with a second degree of interpretation.
• "LES MARTEAUX DE VULCAIN" by Philippe K. DICK: A classic story with similarities to Clifford D. Simak's work, considered a good read.
• "LA VENUS DE LIMMENADROK" by Jacques HOVEN: A story featuring characters that blend elements of Pierre Benoit and Philippe José Farmer, praised for its engaging characters and sustained narrative.
• "LUMIERE CENDREE" by Arthur C. CLARKE: A story by a veteran science fiction author, noted as being a bit dated but still charming.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section on meteorological probes, explaining their use in atmospheric measurements and recovery via parachute. A 'HELP!' section invites readers to assist with international correspondence and translations for S.V.E.P.S.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rigorous, scientific approach to ufology, emphasizing technological investigation and data analysis over speculation or parapsychological explanations, as exemplified by Project Starlight International. It also shows a strong interest in the intersection of science fiction and speculative ideas, reviewing contemporary works. The historical articles suggest a fascination with ancient civilizations and their potential connections to unexplained phenomena, framing these narratives within a context of exploration and mystery. The editorial stance appears to be open to diverse subjects as long as they are treated seriously and scientifically, as stated in the introduction to the 'White God' article.

This issue of "Approche" magazine, identified by issue number 19, focuses heavily on the enigmatic Bermuda Triangle. The cover prominently features the headline "LE TRIANGLE DES BERMUDES LES MYSTERES DU TRIANGLE DES BERMUDES," suggesting a deep dive into the unexplained phenomena associated with this region.

The Bermuda Triangle: Mysteries and Books

The lead article discusses the growing attention given to physical anomalies within a specific globe area, referred to by navigators as the "Devil's Triangle" and more commonly known as the Bermuda Triangle. It highlights that, until recently, no serious work had been dedicated to this subject. The article references two recent books by American authors: "Le Mystère du Triangle des Bermudes" by Richard Winer and "Le Triangle des Bermudes" by Charles Berlitz. These are described as comprehensive, journalistic-style works detailing disappearances of planes, boats, and crews in the region over recent years.

The author notes that while these books present indisputable facts, crossing the line to suggest a connection with extra-terrestrial elements is a frontier not to be breached. However, the article draws a parallel between the Bermuda Triangle and other enduring mysteries such as the Pyramids, Easter Island, the Nazca lines, and Baalbek, as well as UFOs, stating that their commonality lies in being part of unsolved mysteries.

Editorial Commentary and Critiques

Another section features a critical commentary by R. Audemard titled "AH DIEU QUE LA PUBLICITE EST BELLE!" This piece satirizes a television personality, M. Vorhilon, who appears frequently on Philippe Bouvard's show on A2, discussing his encounters with extra-terrestrials and their "saucer" or "cup"-shaped craft. Audemard likens Vorhilon to a prophet, recounting his supposed meetings with historical figures like Mahomet, Jesus, and Buddha, and his descriptions of "robots of flesh" with blue stones on their foreheads.

The commentary also addresses M. Clarke, a science commentator for TF1, who Audemard believes had an easy target in criticizing UFO contactees, landings, and humanoid sightings. Audemard suggests that while contactees are often dismissed by ufologists, landings and humanoid sightings warrant serious study rather than outright rejection. He also touches upon the idea that UFOs are a natural part of human experience.

Audemard concludes by noting that M. Clarke, in his own way, is a counterpart to M. Vorhilon, though less dangerous, and expresses a desire to move on, feeling he has dedicated too much space to Vorhilon, which is precisely what the personality seeks.

UFO Detection Technology: OVTEC

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to promoting "OVTEC," described as a "modular UFO detector with an induction coil" for home use. The advertisement highlights its features: sensitivity (2500), autonomous power supply, a powerful loudspeaker, and a large induction coil. It mentions that the device detects frequencies across all ranges and operates only when an abnormal magnetic field is present. The OVTEC system is also adaptable for calculating field intensity and frequency, and includes a clock.

Subscription and Membership Information

The magazine details subscription options for "Approche," with a 4-issue subscription costing 10 F in France and 16 F abroad. It also provides information on membership in the SVEPS organization, with annual fees for active members (80 F), supporting members (starting at 100 F), and students (25 F). The magazine emphasizes that all payments are annual, starting from January, and that members will receive any back issues published in the current year. Payments are to be made via bank or postal checks, explicitly stating "NO MANDATE."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the mysteries surrounding the Bermuda Triangle and UFO phenomena. The magazine appears to present information on these topics, referencing books and promoting a UFO detection device. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena and drawing parallels between various global mysteries, the editorial stance, as expressed through the commentary on M. Vorhilon and the cautious approach to extra-terrestrial claims, suggests a critical yet open-minded perspective on the subject matter. The promotion of OVTEC indicates an interest in practical applications and research into UFO detection.