Approche - no 12 - Decembre-Janvier 1976 77

Magazine Overview

Title: APPROCHE
Issue: 12
Date: December-January 1976-77
Publisher: SOCIETE VAROISE D'ETUDE DES PHENOMENES SPATIAUX
Country: France
Language: French
Price: 3F

This issue of "Approche" magazine, published by the Varoise Society for the Study of Spatial Phenomena (SVEPS), features a cover headline of "NOUVELLES PHOTOS" (New Photos) and highlights the "MARLIENS" case, along with other new photographic evidence.

UFOLOGUES DE LA REGION PARISIENNE

The SVEPS is expanding its reach to the Paris region, with the goal of establishing a sister organization named SPEPS (Société Parisienne d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux). This initiative is spearheaded by Raymond BONNAVENTURE, an engineer and former Secretary General of the AAMT, who has relocated to Paris for professional reasons. The article encourages those interested in ufology to contact him.

A NOS AMIS DU VAUCLUSE

This section announces the creation of the SOVEPS (Société Vauclusienne d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux), modeled after the SVEPS. The group's bureau is formed around Roger TRALONGO, Christian LANGLUME, and Paul LESCOP. Their postal address is provided, and they have a telephone number. SOVEPS held a conference in Avignon and is organizing a technical meeting for ufologists in the South-East of France to improve coordination.

A L'ECOUTE DES EXTRA-TERRESTRES

Reporting from Dallas, Texas, this article details NASA's plans to begin listening for extraterrestrial signals from space in two years, starting in the autumn of 1978 for a five-year program. NASA specialist Bob EDELSON stated that while the US technology might eventually allow for sending messages into interstellar space, intercepting existing signals is a more immediate goal. Edelson believes that detecting such messages would prove the existence of other evolved civilizations, emphasizing that it's inconceivable for humanity to be alone in the galaxy.

EDITORIAL: LA DOCTRINE SVEPS

Written by Frantz CREBELY and G.T.M., this editorial addresses the relationship between ufology and the "irrational." The authors acknowledge that their recent editorials might have led readers to question if they were still discussing ufology or venturing into mysticism. They clarify that their constraints are editorial and space-related. The editorial highlights a growing awareness among private ufologists about their collective strength and willingness to engage. It discusses the challenge of discrimination between private groups and scientific researchers, noting that while serious private groups are recognizable, scientists often do not treat them as equals, viewing them as mere sources of raw data. The editorial quotes Michel BOUGARD, president of the Belgian society SOBEPS, who expresses concerns about this divide and the need for a more structured approach to ufology. BOUGARD emphasizes that the research should be scientific, involving data collection by qualified investigators, followed by scientific analysis and research committees composed of multidisciplinary scientists. He suggests exploring new research avenues in biology, chemistry, psychology, and medicine related to UFO phenomena.

UN PROBLEME ACTUEL

This section delves into the core issue of the relationship between science and private societies. The SVEPS has long maintained a position of bridging the gap between scientific and public understanding, aiming to be a pivot between two complementary, rather than opposing, universes. The article notes that private research groups are becoming more organized and structured, with Michel BOUGARD of SOBEPS expressing concerns about the discrimination faced by private researchers from scientists. He attributes this to a perceived anarchy within national ufology groups. The editorial argues that while scientific researchers may be hesitant to engage, private groups are machines for accumulating observation reports, often for the benefit of scientists seeking "first-hand" information. BOUGARD stresses that the philosophy of SOBEPS, and by extension SVEPS, is to link ufological research to scientific methodology, and that limiting a group's role to mere data collection is an error.

UN AVENIR DE L'UFOLOGIE

Michel BOUGARD outlines his vision for the future of ufological research. He stresses the need for scientific rigor in investigations, which he feels is currently lacking, leading to a "discredit." He proposes a three-stage approach: 1) systematic collection of testimonies using strict rules set by qualified investigators and scientists; 2) treatment of this information and research, including forming multidisciplinary scientific committees to study the UFO phenomenon in various fields like biology, chemistry, psychology, and medicine; and 3) information dissemination. He also touches upon the financial challenges faced by private groups and the need for funding to promote systematic information sharing with the scientific community.

REACTION TO MICHEL BOUGARD'S VIEWS

The article presents the reactions of two well-known figures, Claude POHER and Aimé MICHEL, to BOUGARD's statements. POHER views the situation as a matter of time, noting the limited hours dedicated to UFO research. He agrees that fundamental information, such as observation reports, must reach professional researchers, acknowledging the time constraints faced by private investigators. MICHEL offers three remarks: 1) ufology is not a science due to a lack of defined limits and adequate methods, making the distinction between professionals and amateurs illusory; 2) the unknown nature of the object means no one can fully master the experience, but scientists have the advantage of knowing how to learn; and 3) reality surpasses fiction, and focus should remain on facts derived from amateur investigations.

LA POSITION DE LA S.V.E.P.S.

The SVEPS acknowledges the sincerity and seriousness of the positions taken by BOUGARD, POHER, and MICHEL. While agreeing with BOUGARD's concerns, they express a fear of sterile polemics. The magazine's decision to republish extensive extracts is not to criticize scientists but to foster better understanding. The editorial notes that while exchanges might be unpleasant, it's better than silence. It emphasizes that being an ufologist is demanding, often requiring significant time beyond normal work, and is more of a second job without compensation. The SVEPS aims to facilitate understanding between scientists and the public and to assist scientists in their work.

COMMENTAIRES ET PROPOSITIONS

Regarding the discrimination between official researchers and private associations, the SVEPS believes something must be done. They share Claude POHER's sentiment about the lack of time being a catastrophic factor hindering exchanges. However, they suggest a fundamental shift in mental attitude is needed. Private researchers, to be heard, must first prove their credibility. Each association, like SVEPS, should contribute to this effort.

L'INVOLONTAIRE ASCENSION DU CAPITAINE COYNE

This article details a UFO sighting and encounter that occurred in September 1973 in the USA. Captain Laurence J. COYNE and his three-man crew were flying a helicopter from Columbus, Ohio, to Cleveland, Illinois. Near Mansfield, Ohio, at 2,500 feet, they observed a luminous object approaching at high speed. COYNE descended to 1,700 feet to avoid a collision. The object stopped 500 feet above the helicopter, described as a cigar-shaped structure with a dome, emitting red light in front and green light at the rear. The object's light illuminated the helicopter's interior. The most remarkable aspect of the event was that COYNE's altimeter began to indicate an upward movement, showing the helicopter rising from 3,500 feet to 3,800 feet without any input from the pilot or engine. This unexplained ascent occurred without noise or turbulence. COYNE realized the helicopter had behaved like a UFO, suggesting that UFOs might be able to communicate their properties to other objects. After this, the object moved away towards the Northwest. COYNE admitted to being frightened by this experience.

OVNI en rase-mottes sur Orange

This report describes an observation by three adolescents (aged 11, 17, and 18) in the Orange region of France on May 15, 1976, around 11:30 PM. The sky was clear. The main witness, Melle Murielle F., reported seeing a yellow, dazzling light approaching at high speed, blinking like a car's turn signal. The object, described as cigar-shaped, descended in a straight line towards them. The light was intense. Fearing a crash, they took shelter but then went out to observe again. The object was now flying horizontally at a very low speed and silently. It passed directly overhead, appearing as a large, spindle-shaped object with a central circular part that seemed material. They lost sight of it, thinking it might have crashed nearby. The object had emitted a white "smoke" and seemed to lose altitude, leading them to search for a fallen object. Two friends on motorcycles arrived later, and one of them searched the area. The object was described as having a trajectory that moved horizontally at low altitude, then disappeared. The witnesses reported no physical or psychological effects from the encounter, except for an intense fear due to the strangeness of the phenomenon, the late hour, and their age.

LES TRACES nouvelles photos DE MARLIENS

This article, referencing an article by Jean CERLES and René FOUERE in "Phénomènes Spatiaux" No. 13, discusses the traces found in Marliens, France. These traces, dating back to 1967, are described as a relatively old but significant case. Unlike the Colmars-les-Alpes case, the discovery of these imprints was not linked to a UFO observation but occurred by chance. The traces are illustrated with photographic documents provided by the C.S.E.R.U. (Comité Savoyard d'Etudes et de Recherches Ufologiques). The terrain revealed a series of imprints, channels, cavities, and "tubes" of extraordinary complexity, excluding the possibility of any known terrestrial or aerial vehicle being responsible. The article dismisses explanations like lightning (no burning traces), projectiles (no metallic debris), or explosives (due to the shape). The traces form a convex polygon, with six furrows radiating from the center, on which the displaced earth fell back inwards. A narrow fissure extends into an adjacent field. The central part of the ground movement shows intense pressure, with hard, dehydrated earth resembling baked clay, yet the surrounding vegetation (barley, clover, grass) was unharmed. There were no traces of burning. The soil lacked humidity within an eight-meter radius. At the center of the "starfish" formation, a circular imprint 40 cm in diameter and 30 cm deep was found. From this, a 12 cm diameter cylindrical imprint, bent at its center and 10 cm deep, extended 80 cm. Six furrows, averaging 12 cm wide and 25 cm deep, radiated from the central cavity, their walls covered in the grey-mauve powder. The furrows contained six wells, each 12 cm in diameter and of varying depth, with hemispherical hollows at their base. From these hollows, 4 cm diameter holes penetrated the soil at a 45° angle.

BOOK REVIEWS

This section briefly reviews recent publications related to UFO phenomena. It notes a lack of new UFO books for the quarter but prefers this to a flood of questionable literature. Books reviewed include:

• SHAMBALA OASIS DE LUMIERE by ANDREW THOMAS: A book on Shambala, described as an Oasis of Cosmic Culture that influenced humanity's history, linked to traditional calls for peace and fraternity. It includes photographic documentation.
• LES SOCIETES SECRETES EN CHINE by Serge HUTIN: This work explores Chinese secret societies, particularly the Triad, and their role in Chinese history, including insurrections. HUTIN discusses the concept of revolution and tradition as components of an eternal China. The book is described as accessible with an impressive bibliography.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Approche" revolve around the detailed investigation of UFO sightings and physical trace evidence, the challenges and methodologies of ufological research, and the critical relationship between private ufology groups and the scientific community. The editorial stance, as expressed by the SVEPS, is one of advocating for a scientific approach to ufology, promoting better understanding and collaboration between researchers and the public, and emphasizing the need for credibility and rigorous investigation by private groups. The magazine aims to present factual accounts and encourage a more structured and scientifically grounded approach to the study of unexplained aerial phenomena.

APPROCHE, Issue 11, dated "Bonne Année Ufologique 77 !!!" (Happy Ufological New Year 77!!!), is a French-language magazine focused on ufology, scientific anomalies, and science fiction. Published by SVEPS, this issue delves into a variety of intriguing topics, including unexplained physical phenomena, scientific experiments, and literary reviews.

The Mechanical Mystery of the Holes

The magazine presents a detailed examination of a peculiar mechanical problem concerning holes found in the ground. These holes, described as perfectly cylindrical and reaching depths of up to 1 meter, pose a significant challenge to explain. The access shafts to these holes are only 12 cm in diameter, and the article questions how such precise and deep excavations could have been made without causing damage to the narrow access points. The text explores various hypotheses, including the use of a telescopic drilling device, but dismisses them due to inconsistencies with the observed characteristics. The article suggests that flexible hollow tubes, possibly rotating, might have been used to create these holes, explaining the observed striations within them. The soil composition is noted as argillaceous, and a peculiar mauve powder was found, which was analyzed and found to be silica crystals exhibiting signs of partial fusion, a finding that contradicted the lack of heat evidence at the site.

Biocommunication Experiments with Eggs

Another significant section of the magazine focuses on biocommunication, specifically experiments conducted by Docteur Jean-François Lantrua involving chicken eggs. The research builds upon previous work suggesting that non-fertilized eggs produce measurable electrical currents that vary with physicochemical conditions and potentially 'PSI' (paranormal) conditions. Lantrua's work aims to demonstrate that the interpretation of these electrical tracings is more complex than previously assumed. The experiments involve connecting eggs to an electrocardiogram (ECG) to record electrical potentials. The article details the experimental setup, including the use of saline electrodes and oscilloscopes, and describes the observed electrical signals, which are characterized as square pulses of varying duration and intensity. Different rhythms are identified, including a 'Normal' or 'Rest' rhythm and 'Excitation' rhythms that respond to external stimuli. The study also explores the potential for biocommunication by immersing one egg in hot water while another, connected to the ECG, is nearby, observing the electrical responses.

Scientific Analysis and Observations

The issue also touches upon the analysis of the soil and the mauve powder found at the site of the mysterious holes. A chemist engineer, F.R. de Brem, noted that soil samples from the impact area re-humidified more slowly than control samples. The mauve powder, analyzed by the Municipal Laboratory of Paris and later by X-ray spectrography at the Faculty of Sciences in Dijon, was identified as small silica crystals with rounded edges, suggesting a partial fusion at temperatures around 1500°C. This finding is presented as contradictory to the absence of fire traces on the vegetation. The article also mentions a curious observation of a powder trace in a natural fissure, extending like a ribbon. These findings lead to the conclusion that the powder was likely heated elsewhere before being deposited.

Science Fiction Book Reviews

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to reviews of science fiction books. These include "Machu Picchu" by Simone Waisbard, "Les Enfants de l'Histoire" by Kurt Steiner, "A l'Aube des Tenebres" by Fritz Leiber, "S.O.S. Andromede" by Jan de Fast, "Chasse Cosmique" by L. Sprague de Camp, "Les Rats" by James Herbert, "Kothar l'Aventurier" by Gadner F. Fox, "Les Doigts du Hasard" by René-Jacques Victor, "Attaque Parallele" by J.-P. Garen, "Les Assaillants" by Peter Randa, and "L'Autoroute Sauvage" by Gilles Thomas. The reviews offer brief summaries and critical assessments of each work.

UFO Report and Ornithological Investigation

The magazine includes a report titled "OVNI ou Oiseaux?" (UFO or Birds?), detailing an experience from June 1972. The witness, Monsieur S., along with his family, observed birds in aviaries becoming extremely agitated and attempting to escape. Initially, the phenomenon was attributed to a hawk, but the sky was clear. The report was then sent to Monsieur Alberny, an ornithologist, for his expert opinion. Alberny's analysis, based on ornithological knowledge, suggests a possible explanation for the observed event, though the magazine refrains from drawing definitive conclusions, leaving the dossier open for further discussion and suggestions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of APPROCHE demonstrates a consistent interest in unexplained phenomena, particularly those with a mechanical or physical anomaly, such as the mysterious holes. The magazine also shows a strong commitment to scientific investigation, as evidenced by the detailed analysis of the mauve powder and the biocommunication experiments. The inclusion of numerous science fiction book reviews highlights a connection between speculative fiction and the magazine's broader themes of the unknown and the future. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting evidence and expert opinions while encouraging reader participation and further investigation, as seen in the "OVNI ou Oiseaux?" section. The publication is supported by volunteers, with any profits reinvested in scientific research.

This issue of "APPROCHE" magazine, Volume 7, Issue 30, dated September 1976, published by S.V.E.P.S. in France, focuses on UFO phenomena. The cover headline is "OVNI lumineux sur PORTO" (Luminous UFO over PORTO).

Article: OVNI lumineux sur PORTO

This section details a UFO sighting that occurred in Rio Tinto Gondomar, a suburb of Porto, Portugal, on February 29, 1976. The event was witnessed by José Garudo and several members of the CEAFI (a UFO research group in Porto). The object was initially described as a luminous, brilliant white, solid sphere, appearing to come from the sea and then turning sharply North. Witnesses noted its smooth, gliding movement without apparent propulsion. Later, the object was described as dark, hairy, and shaped like inverted crescents, moving at a rapid speed. Its apparent size was estimated at half a centimeter at a distance of about 3 km, with an altitude of 80 to 100 meters. Several photos of the phenomenon were taken using a REFLEX TOPCON-UNIREX camera with a 50mm lens. The article notes that the CEAFI provided these photos and an adaptation of an initial article by José Figueiredo.

Witness Report from June 14, 1972

An accompanying report describes an observation from June 14, 1972. The witness initially saw what appeared to be three enormous eagles accompanied by thousands of hawks, forming a large vortex. However, the witness concluded they were not birds but strange, dark, hairy, inverted crescent-shaped objects that glided without flapping their wings. The silence of captive birds and the fear of family members indicated the unusual nature of the event. Using 16x binoculars, the witness observed that the 'hawks' appeared 'very clear' despite being usually blurry. The objects were described as moving smoothly and disappearing slowly over the horizon.

A summary of a letter from M. Alberny, likely a response to the witness report, questions the witness's ornithological knowledge, suggesting that the description might not accurately represent eagles and hawks. It also notes the extraordinary nature of simultaneous sightings of three vultures and thousands of hawks in that location and date.

Article: ! CHARROUX contre SAGAN!

This section features an editorial discussing the position of Robert Charroux, described as an esotericist and researcher of human history and the "unusual." The editorial contrasts Charroux's approach with that of Carl Sagan, a scientist. It acknowledges Charroux's work in cataloging "terrestrial oddities" and his hypothesis of parallel universes. The editorial expresses doubt about Sagan's scientific certainty regarding the universe's size and composition, particularly his "big bang" theory, calling it "hardly serious." It suggests Sagan might be using rhetoric to create illusions. The article then presents the "Initiate's" perspective that extraterrestrials will not come to Earth, especially not to save humanity, and that UFOs are not merely fantasies but may involve collective hallucinations or 'egregores'.

Article: UN SAVANT PARLE: LES EXTRA-TERRESTRES NE VIENDRONT PAS

This article elaborates on the "Initiate's" views, contrasting them with those of scientists like Sagan, Shklovsky, and Dyson. The "Initiate" argues that while civilizations might reach a high level of advancement, they cannot achieve god-like status or control the cosmos. This is attributed to cyclical natural disasters like earthquakes, deluges, and celestial fires, which are seen as mechanisms of the "Great Intelligence" that governs the universe. The "Initiate" believes that humans, due to their inherent flaws and limitations, are incapable of becoming a supreme intelligence or safely managing cosmic order. The article criticizes scientists who propose that humans will eventually regulate the cosmos, calling them arrogant and ignorant. It states that human civilizations have a limited lifespan, estimated at around 12,000 years, and that terrestrial beings will not colonize space, nor will space-faring peoples colonize Earth.

Article: LA DEMENCE DES SORCIERS: REMPLACER DIEU PAR L'HOMME

This section continues the critique of the idea that humanity can replace or supplant the "Great Intelligence." It reiterates that natural disasters are part of the universe's regulatory mechanism. The author argues that it is illogical to assume that a "Great Intelligence" would allow humans or extraterrestrials to gain enough knowledge to endanger the universe. The "Initiate" states that humans are a reflection of God, not God itself, and that the scientific community's belief in humanity's future cosmic dominion is misguided. The article emphasizes that human civilizations are transient and that the Earth will not be colonized by extraterrestrials.

Article: SUITE DE L'EDITORIAL

This editorial discusses the methodology and organization of ufology. It proposes a collaborative approach involving scientific research, amateur investigations, and public information dissemination. The author criticizes the tendency for some ufological groups to act as "mandarins" and suggests the creation of a forum for researchers to share knowledge and provide training. The editorial also addresses the issue of distinguishing between "good" and "bad" ufological societies, advocating for support rather than judgment, while warning against the hegemonic tendencies of certain groups or publications.

Article: LA METHODE EN UFOLOGIE

This section delves into the methods of ufological research, emphasizing that it goes beyond mere "scientific" labels. It highlights the polymorphous nature of the UFO phenomenon and the need for logical reasoning based on facts, distinguishing between proof and probability. The article suggests developing a spirit of rigor rather than strictly adhering to experimental methods. It acknowledges the potential impact of UFO phenomena on witnesses, leading to psychological and sociological shifts. The author argues that no branch of knowledge is outside the scope of ufology.

Article: ET LES ENQUETES?

This part of the editorial questions the primacy of investigations, suggesting that while important, they are often retrospective. It calls for moving beyond mere investigation to real-time detection and measurement of UFO phenomena, despite the imperfections of existing detection stations. The article stresses the need to develop and implement detection equipment, even if initial results are not spectacular.

Article: SON FONETIENNEMENT EST DES PLUS SIMPLES: UN SIMPLE BOUTON A PRESSER ET...

This section, accompanied by a comic strip, humorously depicts the simplicity of a UFO detector. The comic shows a "researcher" and a "president" interacting with a device that seems to detect UFOs with a simple button press. The dialogue suggests a humorous take on the idea of readily available UFO detection technology.

Article: BIEN LE TITRE DE «PERE DE LA DETECTION UFOLOGIQUE»

This section discusses the importance of rigorous training for UFO investigators. It suggests that while on-the-job training is valuable, formal training in multiple techniques would be beneficial. The author criticizes the practice of issuing "investigator cards" to magazine subscribers, deeming it undesirable. The article concludes that on-the-job training and staged training are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary.

Article: ET LA DETECTION?

This part reiterates the need to move beyond investigation to real-time detection and measurement of UFO phenomena. It acknowledges the imperfections of current detection stations but argues that attempting actual realizations is necessary to develop methodologies. The article calls for the development of individual detectors and laboratory stations in France, even without expecting immediate spectacular results.

Article: L'ARGENT, TOUJOURS L'ARGENT!

This section addresses the significant issue of funding in ufology. It highlights the lack of time available for research and the substantial costs associated with running magazines, purchasing equipment, administration, and developing educational programs. The author questions whether the state would finance a research center, especially one that is independent. The article suggests that UFO research overlaps with new energy studies and the future of humanity, making it a crucial field. It points out that while research projects like laboratory stations were conceived in Europe in the 1960s, they are now being realized in the United States due to more favorable financial and tax conditions for patronage.

Article: NOTES

This section provides references and brief notes related to the articles. It lists publications like INFORESPACE, SOBEPS, "Lumières dans la nuit," and mentions contacts for surveillance programs. It also includes a note about a medium who claims to predict UFO passages and a reference to a book by Jean-Claude Bourret.

SECTION SURVEILLANCE

This section announces a surveillance program by SVEPS, inviting members and subscribers to participate. It outlines the purpose of the program, which involves monthly surveillance activities at various locations. It provides contact information for Eric Cohen.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the need for rigorous methodology in ufological research, moving beyond mere anecdotal accounts to scientific investigation and detection. There is a critical stance towards purely speculative or dogmatic approaches, particularly those that dismiss scientific findings or promote overly optimistic views of humanity's cosmic destiny. The publication advocates for a more grounded, evidence-based approach, while acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding and the financial challenges faced by independent research groups. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, critical analysis, and a call for greater organization and professionalism within the ufological community.