Approche - no 11 - Septembre-Octobre 1976

Magazine Overview

This issue of APPROCHE magazine, number 11, published in September-October 1976 by the SOCIETE VAROISE D'ETUDE DES PHENOMENES SPATIAUX (SVEPS), features a cover headline focusing on 'TRACES à COLMARS' and also includes content related to 'CHARROUX JUGE SAGAN'. The price for a single issue is 3 F, with an annual subscription at 10 F.

Editorial: La Doctrine de la SVEPS

The editorial, signed G.T.M. from the 'THEORIES ET METHODES' group, addresses the delay of the previous issue and reiterates the importance of their founder's ideas. It introduces the current issue's focus on the relationship with 'irrational' phenomena. The editorial grapples with defining 'irrational' and 'paranormal' versus 'supranormal' realms. It argues that while 'paranormal' phenomena might be scientifically investigable, 'supranormal' phenomena suggest the possibility of superior logic and ethics beyond human comprehension. The piece touches upon the historical role of religion and the potential for a new era of understanding, referencing Jean-Louis FOREST's thoughts from 1974 on human evolution and transformation. The author posits that embracing the 'Ailleurs' (elsewhere) is more dynamic than religious dogma or technological optimism, advocating for a new knowledge that transcends mutual contempt.

Key Articles and Features

Traces à Colmars

The cover prominently features 'TRACES à COLMARS', suggesting an article or report on ground traces or evidence found in Colmars. The accompanying image on the cover depicts a field with visible disturbances.

Charroux Juge Sagan

This section appears to be a critical examination or debate involving Robert Charroux and Carl Sagan. A photo of Robert Charroux is included, identified as a researcher of treasures, globe-trotter, and journalist exploring diverse historical and human activity domains beyond orthodox science. Charroux's work establishes a nomenclature for terrestrial anomalies. The text presents Carl Sagan as a scientist, but questions his wisdom ('SAGE? SUREMENT PAS!'). Sagan, the American physicist and current star of the 'VIKING' operation, has published 'Cosmic Connection ou l'Appel des Etoiles'. The article notes Sagan's intelligence and likability, as well as his role in initiating the interstellar message on Pioneer 10.

#### Analysis of 'Cosmic Connection'

Robert Charroux's text, presented despite not representing the magazine's official position, analyzes Sagan's book. Charroux agrees with Sagan that advanced civilizations likely exist beyond our solar system but questions their presence within our solar system. He emphasizes the need for Earthlings to study extraterrestrial civilizations. The primary communication method discussed is radio waves. Charroux is skeptical about the credibility of UFO phenomena as conventionally presented. He engages in a thought experiment, calculating the number of interstellar launches required for even one UFO visit per year from a million advanced civilizations, concluding that such activity would be immense and potentially inefficient. Charroux also critiques Sagan's limited knowledge of mythology, particularly Sumerian, and his apparent ignorance of Indian and South American mythologies. He suggests that Sagan's calculations are based on an overestimation of civilization lifespan and that our own civilization may be nearing its end. Charroux posits that advanced civilizations might use methods of communication inaccessible to us, likening Earth's current state to that of indigenous tribes communicating via tam-tam, unable to comprehend radio waves. He questions the possibility of deciphering messages from beings with fundamentally different genetic programming, instincts, and mental processes, unless the message is exceptionally clear and simple.

The Stupidity of Earthlings

This section, likely by Charroux, continues the theme of humanity's limited understanding in the context of potential cosmic communication. It argues that due to vast distances, direct radio dialogues are impractical, and even transmitting our knowledge would take centuries. The author suggests that advanced extraterrestrials might find our attempts at communication primitive. The piece questions whether humanity is capable of deciphering messages from advanced civilizations, pointing out our struggles with deciphering ancient human languages like Rongo-Rongo or Mayan codices. The author concludes that Earthlings might be considered 'stupid' in this context. He suggests that advanced civilizations might have developed communication methods that are clear and easy to understand, but also notes that the response to any message might arrive long after the solutions have been found.

Extra-Terrestrials as Saviors?

This part explores the idea that super-intelligent extraterrestrials could provide instructions to prevent self-destruction, a risk faced by societies possessing nuclear weapons. However, it also warns of the potential danger if these extraterrestrials required Earth's resources like oxygen, water, or living space.

Vague d'observations au Nord de l'Espagne (Wave of Observations in Northern Spain)

This section details several UFO sightings reported in Northern Spain between December 1974 and January 1975. These include:

• December 6-14, 1974: An object observed in ALCORTA (VIZCAYA) with red and green edges and blue flashes, remaining stationary.
• December 7-21, 1974: A white, rounded UFO observed in PORTUGALETE with a rectilinear trajectory and zigzag movements.
• December 8-22, 1974: A similar object to the previous one, but larger and clearer, with varying luminosity, observed in PORTUGALETE.
• December 9-26, 1974: A bright light observed near the moon at high altitude.
• January 1, 1975: Soldiers near BURGOS reported a cone-shaped object with a white-yellowish light that landed, followed by the appearance of four other lights.
• January 3, 1975: An official report from the 3rd Air Region denied any UFO activity in BARDENAS REALES (NAVARRA), attributing sightings to optical effects.
• January 10, 1975: A student observed an oval-shaped object with its own light moving at a constant speed near VENTA DE BANOS (PALENCIA).
• January 13-14, 1975: A very intense white light was observed stationary above hills near ORORBIA (PAMPLONA).
• January 14-15, 1975: The same white light was observed by other witnesses in OROBIA.

These reports are attributed to the Ufological group A.A. Ovnis and cite local newspapers as sources.

Other Sections

• On nous écrit... (Letters to the Editor): Features correspondence from Raymond BONNAVENTURE, who discusses the possibility of creating a Federation of Ufological Study and Research and emphasizes treating others with empathy. He also expresses his admiration for the magazine's direction.
• In Memoriam: This section commemorates Barthelemy TALADOIRE, a professor, writer, and academic who focused on ancient cultures. He was also known for his work in theater and as a Provençal figure.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of the unexplained, scientific inquiry, and esoteric perspectives. There is a clear interest in challenging conventional scientific paradigms and exploring phenomena that lie beyond current understanding. The editorial stance appears to favor open-mindedness towards the 'supranormal' and a critical examination of established scientific views, particularly in the context of UFOs and potential extraterrestrial contact. The magazine seems to advocate for a more profound understanding of humanity's place in the cosmos, moving beyond anthropocentrism and technological determinism. The critique of Carl Sagan's work suggests a preference for more speculative and esoteric interpretations of cosmic phenomena over purely scientific ones.

This issue of REVUE DE PRESSE, dated 1970-1971, focuses heavily on a mysterious incident in Colmars, France, where unusual traces were discovered in the mountains. The main article, "COLMARS LES GENDARMES SUR LES TRACES," details an investigation by the Gendarmerie into these findings, which are suspected to be of UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) origin. The issue also delves into the nature of luminous UAP phenomena and explores alchemical symbolism.

Colmars: Gendarmes Investigate Mysterious Traces

The central narrative revolves around an article published in "NICE-MATIN" on July 11, 1976, titled "COLMARS (A.H.P.): Traces mystérieuses dans la montagne." This article reported the discovery of strange traces near the hamlet of Aurent, within the commune of Castellet les Sausses. The traces were described as two parallel, deep, and rectilinear sillons, extending for at least 20 meters, starting from an imposing rock and ending abruptly.

More disturbingly, the rocks and pebbles adjacent to the area were reportedly pulverized. The terrain is described as inaccessible to tractors or other heavy machinery, and even helicopters would find it difficult to land without leaving similar traces.

Witness Accounts and Initial Discoveries

M. MATHIAS, a shepherd known in Colmars, discovered these traces. He reported seeing strange marks in the "Vallon des Pasquiers," near a stream, about 300 meters from the "Cabane du Vallon des Foues." He indicated an arc-shaped trace ending at the foot of a rock and mentioned two parallel tracks, though he only paid close attention to the deeper one due to poor weather.

On July 14, several people from Colmars, guided by Monsieur ESCAUFFIER, visited the site to take measurements and photographs, and collect samples.

Gendarmerie Investigation

The S.V.E.P.S. contacted the Gendarmerie brigade in Entrevaux and regional authorities. By the end of August, they received a detailed report from the Gendarmerie. The report, largely reproduced in the article, describes the traces as "mysterious" and considers them to be "OVNI traces" (UFO traces), justifying their inclusion in this publication.

On July 15, 1976, Henri P. (Maréchal des Logis Chef) and C. Claude (Gendarme) went to the location to meet the shepherd. He was not at the cabin, but an invitation was left for him to contact the Gendarmerie. On July 16, Monsieur L., a gamekeeper in Colmars, confirmed the presence of traces near the Foues cabin.

Detailed Description of the Traces

On June 25, 1976, upon arrival at the Foues cabin, two abnormal and parallel tracks were observed. Over a distance of twenty meters, only one track remained. The entire formation measured approximately 50 meters. The origin of these traces could not be precisely determined, and no unusual objects were found nearby.

The traces formed a circular arc approximately 56 meters long, with a 53-meter chord and a 4-meter arrow, oriented South-North. The investigation identified several key points:

• Point of Impact: A broken rock at the superior right part of its surface, located in a small excavation.
• Excavation: An excavation of undetermined origin was noted, with grass pulled out and projected westward. A small shrub nearby had its bark torn off.
• Main Trace: Approximately 0.20 meters wide, with a depth varying from 1 to 7 centimeters. It started lightly and became significantly deeper over 3.50 meters, with grass uprooted. This trace disappeared and reappeared, continuing for about 43 meters before ending near a large rock.
• Parallel Trace: A second, less pronounced trace was located 0.30 meters away from the main one.
• Third Trace: A third, very indistinct trace was observed to the West, between 1.50 and 1.70 meters away.
• Scratched Rocks: Rocks and pebbles showed signs of being broken by a violent impact. Scratched pebbles suggested contact with an object that left no metallic, plastic, or rubber trace.

Analysis of the Traces

The article notes that the traces appear to have been made by a wide object, possibly a skid, and that no identical traces were found. The shepherd discovered them upon his arrival in late June, before the snowmelt. Numerous small pebbles had settled into the main trace, indicating its age.

The article speculates that the traces were made by a non-determined object, possibly paired with another similar one 0.30 meters away, suggesting a maneuver was executed by an engine.

Possible explanations like helicopter or airplane landings were considered unlikely due to the terrain and proximity to obstacles. While several "Trial" motorcycles have since visited the area, their tracks do not match the discovered ones.

The Luminous Radiation of the UFO Phenomenon

This section, authored by R.J. HARDY, a Doctor of Sciences from the New York Academy of Sciences, discusses the characteristics of UAP luminosity. It suggests that this radiation, which varies in intensity and color, spans from infrared to ultraviolet, exceeding the visible spectrum. Infrared radiation might contribute to observed heat effects, and other electromagnetic radiations could be involved, causing phenomena like plant desiccation without carbonization.

The author emphasizes the importance of capturing photographic or cinematographic evidence of the spectral distribution of UAP light sources. He proposes methods for amateur researchers to document these phenomena, whether by capturing wide-field shots or by optically tracking objects with narrow-field objectives.

Hardy questions whether UAP radiation is continuous, like thermal radiation from excited atoms and molecules, or discrete, like gas discharges or fluorescent tubes. He suggests it could be a mix or something entirely different, encouraging research into ways to image these events.

The Monks Alchemists

This section explores alchemical symbolism, presented as a series of keys or stages. It references the "Jalons Alchimiques" (Alchemical Milestones) and the hermetic tradition. Key symbols and their interpretations include:

• The Sun: Symbol of gold and perfection, representing the goal of the adept. It's also a physical agent in the "Great Work."
• The Moon: Symbol of silver, playing a significant role through its mechanical influence. It represents the feminine principle, contrasting with the Sun's masculine principle.
• The "Salts": Two "salts" produced at the end of the first work, essential for the second.
• Hermaphrodite: Symbolizing the union of the Sun and Moon.
• The Dragon: To be combatted in the first part of the work, representing the operator's struggle with matter.
• The Conch: Refers to the birth of Venus and the morning star, linked to the alchemist's prima materia.
• The Lily on the Dung: Represents purity emerging from fetid matter.
• The Rose: Symbolizes both the difficulty and the accomplishment of the Great Work.
• The Mirror: Used to polarize solar light, essential for manipulations.
• The Precious Stone: Identifies with the "Chrysopoeia," born from the union of fundamental principles.
• The Pearl: Corresponds to the "return button" and relates to the Matéria Prima.
• The Door: Signifies the necessity of opening the way, with its "two leaves opening with a crash."

A diagram illustrates correspondences between alchemical elements (Dragon, Pearl, Lis, Porte, Tour) and principles (Soleil, Pierre Précieuse, Rose, Miroir, Soleil).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unexplained phenomena, particularly physical traces attributed to UAPs, and the exploration of esoteric and symbolic knowledge (alchemy). The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unusual events, presenting detailed reports and scientific perspectives while also engaging with symbolic interpretations. The Gendarmerie's involvement lends an air of official investigation to the Colmars case, lending it significant weight.

This issue of "APPROCHE" magazine, published in French, delves into a variety of subjects related to the unexplained, science fiction, and historical mysteries. The cover prominently features "LE CAS DE BEDARRIDES : les PHOTOS," indicating a focus on a specific UFO case with photographic evidence. The magazine includes book reviews, articles on scientific phenomena, and discussions on symbolism.

Articles and Reviews

Le Cas de Bedarrides : les Photos

This section presents photographs related to the Bedarrides UFO case. Photo 1 shows the beings as seen by the witness, Antoine. Photo 2 depicts the presumed location where the ovoid craft was stationed. The article notes that these photos were received after the previous issue's report, apologizing for the delay and presenting them with "all our excuses." The investigation is attributed to LDLN and OURANOS.

Bureau de l'Invisible by Jean-Gaston Vandel

This review discusses Jean-Gaston Vandel's book, published in the "Anticipation" collection of Fleuve Noir. The reviewer notes the presence of an astronaut on the cover, despite the story not focusing on space. The book is highlighted for introducing parapsychology and PSI phenomena into the collection, moving beyond its usual "Space Opera" themes. The book is described as a significant addition to the collection.

Caroline Oh! Caroline by Paul Van Herk

Paul Van Herk's novel is described as "enormous" and likely to appeal to a wide audience. The story is set in a world where the Pope performs miracles, Napoleon won Waterloo, and Black and Indigenous people conquered America, led by a fanatical, racist, white corporal who is a Wagner admirer. The protagonist, possibly Adolf, periodically escapes bomb attacks. The book is published by Le Masque - Science-Fiction.

Science-Fiction: Les Chaînes de l'Avenir by Philip K. Dick

This review discusses Philip K. Dick's "Les Chaînes de l'Avenir," calling it a "minor Dick" but still representative of his unique world, particularly concerning PSI phenomena. The reviewer questions whether a person can see into the future a year in advance or relive their death twice. While deemed a passionate book, it is not considered to reach the heights of Dick's other works like "Ubik" or "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" (referred to as "Le Maître du Haut Château"). It is published by Le Masque - Science-Fiction.

L'Ère du Satisfacteur by Frédéric Polhl

Frédéric Polhl's novel explores the limits of consumer society and a "crazy but horribly logical world." The "satisfacteur" is described as a computer terminal, an automatic dispenser, a telephone, and a counselor – an indispensable element of modern life. The protagonist, Forester, will experience this concept firsthand. The book is from Le Masque - Science-Fiction.

Les Tziganes du Triangle Austral by Jan de Fast

This review of Jan de Fast's novel describes a world governed by a matriarchal law. The protagonist, Doctor Alan, manages to restore the situation using technological devices, thereby restoring the past and future of the SBAHAS. The book is presented as an enjoyable read, published under the "Anticipation Fiction" label by Fleuve Noir.

Soccoro «Saucer» in a Pentagon Pantry by Ray Stanford

This article focuses on Ray Stanford's book, an investigation into the Soccoro UFO incident of April 24, 1964, involving police officer Lonnie Zamora. Stanford, president of the project Starlight International, spent five years gathering testimonies from numerous witnesses of the landing. The book is praised for its passion, detailed investigation, and excellent illustrations, presented in a luxurious hardcover format typical of American publications. It is published by BLUEAPPLE BOOKS.

Le Mystère des OVNI by S. Perrin

This review is highly critical of S. Perrin's book, stating that the author has merely reproduced articles and photos from various UFO magazines without adding any original contribution. The reviewer expresses a strong desire for the public to ignore such works, which exploit the UFO phenomenon without offering any substance. The book is published by PYGMALION.

La Science Face à l'Inconnu by F.L. Boschke

F.L. Boschke's book is reviewed, with the author's assertion that our knowledge of the universe is full of gaps being highlighted. The reviewer points out that Boschke's own work contains significant omissions, particularly regarding the 1908 Tunguska explosion, which is dismissed as a meteorite without further study. The book's treatment of UFOs is also criticized as unserious, suggesting they are natural phenomena yet to be understood. The reviewer notes the author's claim that no astronomers have observed UFOs, which is contradicted by a lengthy list of astronomers who have. The book is described as containing banalities and uninspired compilations, with a chapter on UFOs deemed full of falsehoods and rigid affirmations.

«Les Druides - Science et philosophie» by Paul and René Bou Chet

This book is commended for shedding light on a European cultural and religious background, rather than drawing from Eastern traditions. However, the reviewer finds the text often confusing, which detracts from its documentary value. The book is seen as a valuable addition to the history of religions, offering direct testimony. The authors are noted for their numerous references to Christianity, despite representing a religion and society that predates it.

Guides de la France Mystérieuse and Guide de la Provence Mystérieuse

These two reissued guides are recommended for readers interested in exploring the mysterious aspects of France and Provence. They are described as providing concrete examples that satisfy curiosity and are easily verifiable, making them essential additions to any library.

Deuxième série de figures (Alchemy and Symbolism)

This section discusses a series of figures, possibly recent, found in a sacristy, which confirm previous observations. One figure is identified as a stoat with half white and half red fur, resembling an ermine. The bicolored aspect is linked to the principle of duality, "dry water," and "cold fire." The ouroboros is mentioned as an emblem of the alchemical "great work," symbolizing the cyclical fusion of macrocosmic and microcosmic forces. The author, Michel Saint-Ailme, questions whether this alchemical symbolism contradicts the traditional Christian interpretation previously proposed, concluding that both interpretations can coexist within the same framework of meaning.

OVTEC: Your Individual Laboratory at Home!

This is an advertisement for OVTEC, a modular UFO detector with an induction coil. It is described as sensitive, new, compact, and high-performing. The device detects various frequencies, has a sensitivity of 2500 Y, and operates autonomously, consuming power only when a magnetic field is detected. It features a powerful loudspeaker and comes with a guarantee and instructions. The system is modular and can be adapted for measuring field intensity and frequency, and includes a clock. The advertisement also mentions a subscription drive for the OVTEC device, with a price of approximately 150 to 200 francs, managed by SVEPS.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of UFOs, unexplained phenomena, and the paranormal, often juxtaposed with science fiction literature. There is a clear interest in detailed investigations and eyewitness accounts, as seen in the Bedarrides and Soccoro case reports. The reviews of science fiction books highlight themes of PSI phenomena, future societies, and the impact of technology and consumerism. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, as evidenced by the harsh review of S. Perrin's book and the detailed critique of F.L. Boschke's work. The magazine also shows an interest in historical mysteries and esoteric symbolism, such as alchemy.