Approche - no 16 - 1978

Magazine Overview

Title: APPROCHE
Issue: Trimestriel N° 16
Publisher: SOCIETE VAROISE D'ETUDE DES PHENOMENES SPATIAUX (SVEPS)
Country: France
Date: Undetermined, but likely late 1977 or early 1978 given the content.

This issue of 'Approche' magazine, a publication of the Société Varoise d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux (SVEPS), focuses on the "Vague 76-77" (Wave 76-77), with a particular emphasis on sightings in Portugal. It also explores the presence and study of UFOs within the United Nations framework and touches upon parapsychology, specifically in relation to Philippine healers. The magazine advocates for a serious, scientific approach to ufology, moving beyond mere belief.

Editorial: "Oser pour comprendre!"

The editorial, titled "Oser pour comprendre!" (Dare to understand!), which serves as the SVEPS's motto, calls for a more profound engagement with the UFO phenomenon. It critiques the superficiality of public interest and the hesitant approach of official bodies, such as the French GEPAN, which, while acknowledged as an effort, is seen as too discreet. The editorial argues that the French government's actions are hampered by the fear of public ridicule and political criticism, leading to a "timid" approach. It contrasts this with the support received from the Gendarmerie. The authors express frustration with the passive attitude of some members who expect the magazine to provide all the answers without contributing to the research itself. They emphasize that serious ufological work involves a composite of tasks like surveillance, investigation, documentation, and material fabrication, which are often overlooked in favor of discussing well-known cases. The core message is that understanding requires active participation and a commitment beyond passive observation, urging members to contribute to the collective effort to advance the study of UFOs and convince both the public and the state of its importance.

Dernières Nouvelles: Brazil - 500 km in a UFO

This section reports on an incident in Cuiaba, Brazil, where a young boy named Manoel Roberto claimed to have been frightened by a large luminous object and subsequently found 500 km away in Rondonopolis. He alleged that eight small, red-clothed men were inside the craft. However, his adoptive mother, Marlène Alves, dismissed the story as the "fertile imagination" of the child, stating he had never left Rondonopolis. The report notes contradictions in her account, particularly her lack of immediate concern for the boy. Despite the child's alleged retraction, the case remains debated due to unsettling elements, including an unexplained power outage in Rondonopolis at the time of Manoel's supposed release.

Nancy: Investigations to Follow

This article details UFO investigations conducted by the Groupe Privé Ufologique Nancéien (G.P.U.N.) in the Nancy region of France, focusing on observations from 1974 to 1975. The G.P.U.N. reports encountering a "matism" (lethargy or resistance) from witnesses, which hindered their investigations. Despite this, they present several strange facts, including:

• January 1, 1974, Agincourt: Two luminous masses were observed in a field near Agincourt. A couple driving from Essey to Agincourt noticed the field illuminated as if by daylight. They observed two blue, electric-arc-like luminous masses hovering low, about 300m from the road. One had a small yellow lamp on top. The masses moved slowly across the field for about fifteen minutes. The car's engine was not affected. Subsequent examination of the site revealed muddy ground with no discernible traces.
• 1975, Laitre-sous-Amance: An adjoint to the mayor reported seeing a group of people in a field with "balises funéraires" (funerary beacons), similar to those used in aviation. The people seemed to be waiting for something. The witness also noticed a car-like shape in the field.
• December 1975, Laitre-sous-Amance: A repeated observation of a luminous phenomenon, possibly an landing, occurred near the village. The G.P.U.N. documented a white, bell-shaped luminous mass with a flat top, emitting a whitish fog from its base and featuring two red blinkers. It was described as being 4-5 meters in base diameter and 3 meters high, possibly resting on the ground. The object was observed to take off at incredible speed and disappear towards Nancy. The witnesses, a couple, were frightened. Later investigations found 6-meter diameter burnt grass circles at the suspected landing site.

The article notes that the region around Agincourt and Laitre-sous-Amance has been the site of numerous UFO sightings since January 1974. The area is characterized by its topography, including hills and a valley. The report suggests that while the phenomena might involve landing craft, the lack of adequate equipment (like infrared cameras) limited the scientific analysis. The witnesses in the Laitre-sous-Amance case were described as credible, and the woman's mother had previously seen similar orange spheres.

Les OVNI à l'O.N.U. (UFOs at the UN)

This section presents a document from the United Nations General Assembly (A/SPC/32/L.20) dated November 30, 1977, concerning the creation of a UN department or body for the study of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. The resolution, proposed by Grenada, acknowledges the global significance of the UFO phenomenon and the growing awareness of it worldwide. It recognizes that individual countries are undertaking research and that efforts to understand UFOs could profoundly impact humanity. The resolution requests the Secretary-General to prepare a report for the 33rd session of the General Assembly, covering the history, current status, and implications of UFO research, including data from member states and specialized agencies. It also asks for an analysis of the potential benefits, drawbacks, and dangers of contact with extraterrestrial intelligence and practical means for international cooperation. The document highlights the contribution of Henri DURRANT in providing documentation for this work.

Surveillances du Ciel: Flash sur une Soirée

This report details the tenth international sky surveillance event organized by the SVEPS on November 26, 1977. Teams were stationed at various observation points, including the summit of Notre-Dame du Mai. Despite clear skies and numerous stars, no UFOs were observed during the night. The report mentions false alarms, such as the identification of Jupiter as a potential object. The observers noted the intense cold and the low probability of witnessing an unusual phenomenon, but expressed their determination to continue their efforts.

Le Traitement de l'Information sur les UFO (The Treatment of Information on UFOs)

This section, translated from a Spanish article by Roberto BANCHS, proposes a systematic classification of UFO phenomena based on observed characteristics, aiming to exclude preconceived notions. It introduces a four-type classification system:

• Type 1: Landing or semi-landing with entities forming a crew. (Class A: simple observation; Class B: entities appearing interested in the witness).
• Type 2: Objects with angular dimensions, positioned on or near the ground. (Class A: discernible shape; Class B: with traces).
• Type 3: Objects with angular dimensions, observed at a limited altitude. (Class A: continuous trajectory; Class B: anomalous behavior).
• Type 4: Luminous or punctual phenomena. (Class A: luminous phenomena; Class B: punctual objects with continuous trajectory; Class C: punctual objects with anomalous behavior).

This classification aims to provide a structured framework for analyzing UFO reports.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of UFO sightings, the push for official and international recognition and study of the phenomenon, and the importance of a rigorous, scientific approach over mere speculation or belief. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of active, dedicated research, urging members to contribute their time and effort. There is a strong emphasis on the need for understanding the phenomenon through diligent work rather than passive observation or sensationalism. The magazine positions itself as a platform for serious ufological inquiry, aiming to advance the field through detailed case studies and a commitment to scientific methodology.

This issue of 'cidovni' from 1977, published by the MUSEU NACIONAL DA CIENCIA E DA TECNICA in Portugal, focuses on UFO phenomena. The cover headline is 'la micro-vague 76.77', and the issue includes a detailed classification system for UFO observations, a compilation of sightings from Portugal and Canada, and theoretical discussions on the nature and implications of UFOs.

Classification System: Codage d'evaluation

The magazine introduces a comprehensive 'Codage d'evaluation' system designed to systematically categorize UFO observations. This system breaks down observations into several key parameters:

• Heure d'observation (Time of Observation): Categorized from 'toute la nuit' (all night) to specific time blocks like 'nuit entre 20 et 22 h' (night between 8 and 10 PM), 'matin entre 8 et 10 h' (morning between 8 and 10 AM), and 'crepuscule' (twilight).
• Durée d'observation (Duration of Observation): Measured in minutes and hours, ranging from '1 à 30 min' (1 to 30 min) to 'plus d'une h' (more than one hour).
• Forme de l'objet (Object Shape): Includes descriptions like 'ponctuel' (punctual), 'circulaire' (circular), 'triangulaire' (triangular), and 'allongé' (elongated).
• Couleur de l'objet (Object Color): Options include 'blanc' (white), 'jaune' (yellow), 'rouge, jaune ou blanc vert' (red, yellow or green-white), 'rose' (pink), and 'bleuté' (bluish).
• Trajectoire (Trajectory): Described as 'rectiligne' (rectilinear), 'parabolique' (parabolic), 'orbitale' (orbital), 'quasiment imperceptible' (almost imperceptible), and 'variable' (variable).
• Manœuvres (Maneuvers): Classified as 'sautillement' (hopping), 'balancement' (swaying), 'changements de direction' (changes of direction), and 'aucune' (none).
• Vitesse (Speed): Rated on a scale from 'quasiment imperceptible' (almost imperceptible) to 'élevée' (high) and 'imprécis' (imprecise).
• Dégagements (Emissions/Emanations): Includes 'auréole' (halo) and 'détonation' (detonation).

The document also provides interpretations for terms like 'Comportement anormal' (abnormal behavior), 'Effets' (effects, e.g., electromagnetic, radioactive), 'Manifestation d'intérêt' (manifestation of interest, concerning entities), 'Altitude limite' (altitude limit, relative to treetops), and 'Phénomènes resplendissants' (resplendent phenomena, luminous phenomena without a perceived object).

CIDOVNI: Center for UFO Investigation and Documentation

The article introduces CIDOVNI, a center supported by the National Museum of Science and Technology in Coimbra, Portugal. Founded in September 1973, CIDOVNI has two fundamental objectives:

1. Investigation: To pursue a more independent, comprehensive, and scientific 'ovnilogie' (UFOlogy) for the 1980s, moving away from what is described as a confused discipline lacking epistemology and rigorous study.
2. Documentation: To create a data processing service for all Portuguese UFO groups, intended to function in parallel with a national electronic detection network.

CIDOVNI plans to specialize its research in a limited region (Tras-os-Montes, Beiras, Azores, and Madeira), considered a 'zone of election' for unusual phenomena. Representatives are also planned for Lisbon, Porto, and Faro.

The article highlights Portugal's potential in this field and notes that while other 'micro-wave' publications have covered UFOs, the December 1976-January 1977 issue's significance might not have been recognized abroad. CIDOVNI felt compelled to produce this work, as no one else seemed to be undertaking it.

Case Studies: Portugal

The issue presents a series of UFO sightings from Portugal, primarily from December 1976 and January 1977:

• Cas 1/2/3: Reports of noises followed by tremors of unknown origin, with the National Institute of Meteorology and Geophysics ruling out terrestrial or maritime sources, pointing to the aerial environment. These events intensified on December 12 and 19, 1976.
• Cas 4 (28/12/76): Two green-silver light flashes, lasting seconds, formed a dome-like light (approx. 100m diameter) over a football field. Witnesses reported detonations and strong gusts of wind, with secondary effects felt up to 150m away.
• Cas 5 (same day): Violent yellow-green flashes accompanied by a deep sound were observed, causing a significant electromagnetic effect on domestic installations. One witness reported a preceding ray of light that formed a large question mark.
• Cas 6 (same day): An OVNI was observed by two CIDOVNI members, moving north-south at low speed and high altitude. It stopped for five minutes before accelerating northwest-southeast, with an estimated diameter of about 10 meters.
• Cas 7 (29/12): An OVNI intercepted a TAP flight from Lisbon to Rio. The pilot described it as tricolored (yellow, red, orange), moving silently at high speed, with visible portholes.
• Cas 8 (same day): An OVNI was observed by several people, moving north-south at low altitude and moderate speed. The Gendarmerie conducted an investigation.
• Cas 9/10/11: An object with characteristics similar to a previous case was observed, with colors including green, orange, and yellow, seen by dozens of people up to 35km away.
• Cas 12 (31/12/76): An oval OVNI emitting a strong white light and a faint hum hovered over a car, causing an electrical system failure.
• Cas 13 (1/1/77): Similar characteristics to the previous case, with low altitude and high speed.
• Cas 14/17/25 (1, 2, and 3 January 77): A sparkling OVNI appeared at dusk, remained immobile until 10 PM, then disappeared after changing color from white to bright orange. It was observed by hundreds and filmed in color by RTP.

A table provides a chronological list of sightings from December 8, 1976, to January 3, 1977, including date, time, location, and source.

Case Studies: Canada

The magazine also features UFO sightings from Canada, communicated by S. TORTORA of UFO-QUEBEC:

• BELOEIL (July 8, 1973): A witness observed a luminous, matte white triangle moving from southeast to northwest. Four objects were seen in formation inside the triangle, escorted by a paler rectangle of light. The witness heard no sound and could not estimate the altitude.
• JOLIETTE (October 14, 1973): A stationary object was observed high above a house, appearing as a large red teardrop. It then moved northwest, leaving a short white trail and serpentining in the sky for several minutes.
• BETHIERVILLE (November 18, 1976): A family observed a luminous blue ball above Sorel that changed color to red, then green, and back to red. The object remained stationary for fifteen minutes before disappearing.
• BETHIERVILLE (November 30, 1976): A red and orange oval object was seen above treetops. Later, a second identical object stabilized above the first, followed by a smaller, more agitated object that changed shape. The three objects then appeared to approach, growing larger, before disappearing.
• BETHIERVILLE (December 1, 1976): A neighbor reported a suspicious light. Binoculars revealed an elongated, pointed, vertically oriented disk, with a red right side and a bright yellow left side. A white ray of light emanated from its summit, remaining visible for several minutes after the object disappeared.

Sardaigne: UFO Pursues Helicopters

This section details an incident in Sardinia where a luminous orange object pursued two helicopters during an exercise for over five minutes at an altitude of approximately 300 meters. The object was observed by a Colonel of the Air Force and other officers, prompting an investigation by the General of Aviation and the Ministry of Defense. The object reportedly moved away at a speed that no known object could achieve.

Hypotheses on UFOs

The issue delves into theoretical aspects of UFO phenomena, presenting three different perspectives:

• Sociological Aspect: Examines how UFOs are perceived through the lens of science fiction and reality, influenced by societal mindsets and eras.
• Metaphysical Aspect: Suggests that UFOs might originate from a physics beyond our current understanding.
• Technological and Philosophical Aspect: Views UFOs as a confrontation between two technologies and two civilizations.

The article discusses the 'OVNI-machine' hypothesis, suggesting extraterrestrial origins, and acknowledges that even great minds like Einstein might be mistaken. It also explores the parapsychological hypothesis, linking UFOs to unknown creative energy from human consciousness or the environment. A third hypothesis suggests religious or supernatural origins, placing UFOs in a realm beyond our own.

The text questions why UFOs don't make direct contact, suggesting that if they are 'extra-physical' beings with a logic parallel to ours, proximity to Earth might be limited by the speed of light and the constraints of space-time as described by Einstein. The article also touches upon the idea that our current understanding of physics is limited and that future discoveries might reveal phenomena currently deemed metaphysical.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the systematic investigation and documentation of UFO sightings, the classification of observed phenomena, and the exploration of various theoretical frameworks to understand UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging a deeper understanding of the phenomenon beyond conventional explanations, while maintaining a critical and scientific approach. The magazine aims to bridge the gap between science fiction and reality, acknowledging the limitations of current scientific knowledge and the potential for future discoveries in physics and consciousness.

The publication emphasizes the importance of detailed observation and rigorous analysis, as exemplified by the detailed classification system and the presentation of numerous case studies. It also highlights the international interest in UFOs and the ongoing efforts by various organizations to study them. The overall tone is one of exploration and a quest for knowledge regarding this persistent and enigmatic phenomenon.

APPROCHE, Issue 19, published in 1978, is a French-language magazine focusing on parapsychology, ufology, and related anomalous phenomena. This issue features articles that encourage a scientific and rational approach to understanding unexplained events, while also exploring controversial topics like psychic surgery and the nature of UFOs.

Articles

FACE A FACE ENTRE DEUX TECHNOLOGIES by Roland Vernisau

This article uses the example of the differing approaches of American and Russian space programs to achieve in-flight docking as an analogy for understanding UFOs. Vernisau argues that just as two nations with equal scientific knowledge can develop vastly different technological solutions, UFOs might represent a different, not necessarily superior, technology. He suggests that the evasive nature of UFOs could be due to a fundamental difference in technology or understanding, making communication difficult, akin to trying to bridge a chasm without knowing its depth or width. The core idea is that the perceived 'superiority' of UFO technology might simply be a matter of difference, opening new perspectives on the mystery of contact.

A PROPOS DES GUÉRISSEURS PHILIPPINS by René Perot

René Perot, an engineer, addresses the regional press's sensationalism surrounding Philippine healers. He strongly advocates for parapsychology to be treated as a serious scientific discipline, conducted in laboratories rather than public spectacles. Perot stresses that the term 'supernatural' should be avoided, as all phenomena are part of nature, either known or unknown. He quotes Rémy Chauvin, Rougeoreille, and Charles Nodier to emphasize that certainty is elusive and that one should not dismiss facts simply because they are unusual. The article calls for a scientific verification of the claims made by Philippine healers, distinguishing between reality and fraud, and adopting an 'expectative' rather than a dismissive or overly accepting stance.

UNE CONCEPTION DE LA PARAPSYCHOLOGIE (Author not explicitly named, likely René Perot)

This section critiques the sensational advertising of psychics and healers in popular media, labeling many as charlatans or naive individuals. It argues that a scientific approach to parapsychology requires rigorous investigation away from public scrutiny. The author discusses the claims of Philippine and Brazilian healers who allegedly perform surgeries without instruments, pain, or scars, acknowledging that while these claims seem far-fetched, they should not be dismissed outright. The article highlights the importance of psychosomatic effects and the placebo effect, citing the need for careful study of the extraction of biological matter from patients, which could be real or fraudulent. It mentions investigations by German researchers like Alfred Stelter and Professor Schiebeler, and the work of French psychic Jean-Pierre Girard, who is studied scientifically by Charles Crussard. The author concludes by urging for a reasonable, serious, and scientific approach, publishing results only when they are undeniably valid.

L'HERITAGE DES EXTRA-TERRESTRES by Michel Granger (Book Review)

This is a review of Michel Granger's book, which is described as interesting for those passionate about the case of Uri Geller and the controversies surrounding him. The review notes that the book covers aspects of parapsychological research and the debates between its proponents and detractors. It also dedicates a significant part to ectoplasm, a phenomenon from the past. The reviewer expresses regret that the book does not include psychoanalytic perspectives on these phenomena and criticizes the title for gratuitously linking parapsychology to extraterrestrials, questioning if it's a mere commercial ploy.

LES FRERES DE L'INFINI by Peter Kolosimo (Book Review)

This review praises Peter Kolosimo's book for avoiding sensationalism and instead drawing parallels between scientific facts and science fiction. The reviewer finds the book to be a compelling narrative that makes the reader question the origins of humanity, suggesting it will be a landmark publication.

OVNI ET EXTRATERRESTRES by Yves Naud (Book Review)

This review of a series of four small books by Yves Naud finds the content to be uneven. While the UFO aspect is considered positive, the focus is primarily on the historical aspects of UFO phenomena from 1500 to 1900. The review notes that one volume, 'SIRACUSA', is particularly weak, filled with dubious sources and a jumble of unrelated topics. The other volumes are better but still contain errors, leading the reviewer to conclude that the series, despite its attractive presentation, is a missed opportunity.

LES OVNI DU PASSE by Christiane Piens (Book Review)

Christiane Piens, co-author of 'A la recherche des OVNI', tackles the difficult and contested subject of UFO manifestations throughout history. The review states that the book covers topics such as the Tunguska event, the Fatima apparitions, and phantom armies. While the treatment is described as intelligent and not entirely new, the book is recommended for inclusion in any ufologist's library.

ADHESIONS A LA S.V.E.P.S.

This section provides information on how to join the S.V.E.P.S. (Société de Recherches et d'Etudes sur les Phénomènes Spatiaux et Terrestres), including membership categories (active, student, supporting) and subscription rates for the revue 'APPROCHE'. It specifies payment methods and the start date for subscriptions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a rational, scientific, and critical approach to parapsychological and UFO phenomena. It warns against sensationalism, fraud, and unsubstantiated claims, while simultaneously encouraging serious investigation of anomalous events. The editorial stance is one of open-minded inquiry grounded in empirical evidence and rigorous methodology, distinguishing between the known and the unknown within the natural world. There's a clear emphasis on scientific verification and a rejection of pseudoscientific or purely speculative approaches, even when discussing extraordinary claims.