Approche - no 17 - 1978

Magazine Overview

Title: APPROCHE
Issue: Trimestriel N° 17 (Volume N. 3)
Date: 1974 (indicated by cover dates)
Publisher: S.V.E.P.S. and SOVEPS
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 0396 339 X
Price: 3 F

This issue of 'Approche' magazine, a quarterly publication focused on UFOs and related phenomena, features a prominent cover story titled "NANCY: CATALOGUE de FORMES." The cover displays nine distinct UFO sighting reports from various locations in France, dated primarily in 1974, each accompanied by a small illustration and location details. The magazine's editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into UFO phenomena, advocating for scientific rigor and transparency, while also critiquing official skepticism and secrecy.

Editorial: Tour de France ufologique

The editorial, written by Thierry PINVIDIC and Rémi RENAUX, reflects on a "Tour de France Ufologique" conducted in the summer of 1977. They observe that the French ufological community is numerous, with a considerable presence across the country, though some regions face difficulties in organizing investigations. The contributors note that ufologists come from diverse socio-professional backgrounds, with a notable proportion being teachers, possibly due to their educational vocation and available time for research. The editorial emphasizes that ufology is deeply rooted in France but suffers from a lack of strong leadership, particularly north of the Loire, leading to disorganization. A key point raised is the potential for increased effectiveness through better information circulation, mutual trust, and a standardized national approach to investigation methods, citing the Rhône-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region as an example. The challenges stemming from volunteerism, such as funding and communication, are acknowledged. The authors propose annual "entretiens ufologiques de France" (French ufological interviews) to foster collaboration and awareness of current research. They also stress the importance of private groups in supporting official research bodies like GEPAN, which has a two-year period to prove itself. The editorial concludes with a call for collective effort to elevate ufology to the status of a science, thereby deterring charlatans and speculative writers. The piece is signed by Thierry PINVIDIC.

Frantz CREBELY's Commentary

Frantz CREBELY comments on the editorial, agreeing with the difficulty of concisely expressing the subject matter. He highlights the value of the "tour de France" as a way to understand French ufology and notes that the ufologists encountered are different from those seen in congresses. He suggests that a psycho-sociologist could find ample material for a thesis on this milieu. CREBELY echoes the sentiment of uniting private UFO groups, a goal he and his colleagues have pursued for years. He stresses the need for a common structure for these groups, independent of any single association or publication, to address collective challenges. He mentions SVEPS's participation in various structured encounters to foster collaboration and share methods. CREBELY addresses the issue of "science and benevolence," linking it to the need for ufology to be recognized as a science. He argues that once ufology gains credibility through rigorous methods, its practitioners will be taken more seriously, potentially leading to better funding and conditions, akin to astronomy or entomology. He cautions against blaming external entities like POHER, GEPAN, or the government, urging focus on the work ahead and finding a balance between official services and private research. The commentary is signed by Frantz CREBELY.

J.-L. FOREST on Approach and Observation

J.-L. FOREST contributes a piece titled "UNE IDEE..." (An Idea...). He draws an analogy between the process of gaining the trust of wild animals and approaching UFO phenomena. He explains that when trying to gain an animal's trust, the initial step is simply to be present and allow the animal to observe and accept the human's presence. Only later do further contacts occur. He likens this to the initial phase of UFO encounters, where the UFO and its occupants (Ufonautes) present themselves to accustom humans to their presence. He questions when the "second phase" of this process will occur, implying a progression in the nature of UFO encounters. He also briefly mentions the text by Thierry PINVIDIC as a concise and effective way to understand French ufology.

"Vague d'objets dans le Sud de la France" (Wave of Objects in Southern France)

This section details numerous UFO sightings reported in the Provence region of France. The author questions whether all these sightings are truly "ufological," suggesting that many might be attributable to human activities like rocket launches and satellite debris. However, the possibility of these events being intertwined with genuine UFO observations remains, making definitive conclusions difficult. The article presents specific incidents:

• December 31, 1977 (Apt): Four witnesses, including two gendarmes, reported a red-orange ball-shaped object with a white trail, descending in a spiral at about 100 meters altitude.
• January 31, 1978 (Nice): A silent, stationary object with blue and orange colors was observed hovering in front of a building.
• February 15, 1978 (Tourtour): Two witnesses observed a metallic object emitting sparks, moving silently south-north at low altitude.
• February 15, 1978 (Le Castellet): A witness confirmed seeing an object described by others, stating it was definitely not an airplane.
• February 15, 1978 (Sainte-Anne-d'Evenos): A luminous, ovoide, red-orange object emitting a red-orange flame-like trail moved rapidly and silently south-west to north-east at low altitude.
• February 19, 1978 (La Ciotat): Two witnesses observed a cigar-shaped object, similar to a zeppelin, with a strong metallic shine and an orange plume, moving south-north at the speed of a dirigible.
• February 21, 1978 (Carcassonne): Reports of a fiery ogive, green in front and orange at the rear, moving at high speed from east to west, and a large white glow near a forest, suggesting a crash. The object was reportedly tracked from Lyon.
• February 21, 1978 (Mee-sur-Seine): A green ball with alternating luminosity, followed by a white trail, moved across the clouds.
• February 22, 1978 (Antibes): A large, luminous ball with a long incandescent tail moved south-east to north-west at low altitude.
• February 22, 1978 (Entrevaux): A blue ball with a white trail crossed the valley at high speed and low altitude.
• February 22, 1978 (Le Cannet-Rochelle): A small blue ball followed by a white trail was observed.
• February 22, 1978 (La Colle sur Loup): A blue ball that turned orange, then blue again, moved silently at high speed south-west.
• February 22, 1978 (Toulon): A bluish patch moved north-south over the city. The meteorological services denied launching any weather balloons. Another witness described a green, luminous ball with a yellowish halo that split into three parts.
• February 22, 1978 (Damgan): A green object moving very fast and suddenly extinguishing.
• February 25, 1978 (Nice): A long blue and white trail from a fireball, moving at very low altitude.
• February 25, 1978 (Cannes): A blue-green ball with a red-orange and white tail moved east-west at high speed.
• February 27, 1978 (Baqu de Saint-Jeannet): A large red ball with a blue center remained stationary for several seconds before disappearing with a whistle.
• February 27, 1978 (La Roquebrussanne): A red-orange football-sized object with a luminous halo moved at high speed from south-west to north-east, stopping at 500 meters altitude before accelerating away.
• March 4, 1978 (Valensole): A disc-shaped object, about 10 meters wide, with red and orange lights, ascended vertically and then moved horizontally at extreme speed.

The article notes that while some events might be human-made, contradictory testimonies warrant further investigation. The author emphasizes the value of "counter-enquiries" even for identified objects.

Les OVNI à l'O.N.U. (UFOs at the UN)

This section, the second part, details a provisional stenographic report from the 101st session of the UN General Assembly held in New York on December 13, 1977. The assembly discussed a recommendation from the Special Political Committee (A/32/430) concerning the creation of a UN body or department to research, coordinate, and disseminate information on unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. The recommendation was adopted by consensus. The representative of Grenada, M. DOLLAND, explained his delegation's position. He expressed pleasure at the adoption and thanked other delegations, particularly the United States, for modifying their stances. He noted that the initial proposal was more ambitious, but the current resolution was more modest. Sir Eric Gairy, Prime Minister of Grenada, believed the scientific study of UFOs was crucial for understanding humanity's place in the universe and for addressing global social, economic, and political issues. The financial implications were estimated at around $16,000, considered minimal compared to other proposals. The Grenadian delegation stressed that their initiative was not merely about the existence of extraterrestrial intelligence but about understanding the relationship between Earth, other worlds, and extraterrestrial beings. The report also references the messages carried by the Voyager spacecraft, highlighting the UN Secretary-General's message of peace and friendship.

The article then quotes Richard Thomas of the British 'Evening News' from November 25, discussing the skepticism and secrecy surrounding UFOs in Great Britain, contrasting it with France's official recognition. Charles Gibbs-Smith, an aeronautical historian, is quoted calling the denial of UFO existence "absurd" and suggesting government unease with the phenomenon. Charles Bowen, editor of 'Flying Saucer Review,' is cited stating that credible professionals like pilots and police have seen UFOs, and that British pilots have been instructed not to discuss UFO sightings publicly. Bowen is helping to establish a national network of independent investigators.

Book Reviews

• "Et si les OVNI n'existaient pas ?" by Michel MONNERIE: Reviewed as a potentially sarcastic work that, despite its premise, provides a valuable "dossier de contre-enquêtes" (counter-enquiry file). The reviewer notes that Monnerie's conclusions, which reduce UFOs to socio-psychological phenomena, are not universally accepted by ufologists. The book is described as the work of a discouraged researcher.
• "LE TRIANGLE DE LA MORT" by Jimmy GUIEU: This novel is presented as a blend of supposed real events and fictional adventure set in the Bermuda Triangle. The reviewer recommends it as an engaging read for fans of the genre.
• "UN MONDE DE CHIENS" by Jean MAZARIN: A science fiction novel from the "Fleuve Noir, Anticipation" series, about a rebellion of dog-men on a distant planet. Described as a lighthearted space opera.
• "LES RATES" by Gilles THOMAS: Another "Fleuve Noir, Anticipation" novel, dealing with children with PSI powers. The reviewer finds it unoriginal, comparing it unfavorably to 'The Possessed' by Th. Sturgeon.
• "NUIT D'EMEUTE" by Paul BERA: A "Fleuve Noir" novel where a machine-dominated society faces a social conflict. The reviewer notes the familiar theme but finds the characters engaging.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of 'Approche' are the detailed reporting and cataloging of UFO sightings, particularly a wave in Southern France in early 1978, and the broader context of ufological research and organization. The magazine advocates for a scientific approach to UFOs, emphasizing the need for collaboration among researchers and greater transparency from governments. There is a clear critique of excessive skepticism and official secrecy, particularly in the UK. The inclusion of the UN discussion highlights an international perspective on the UFO phenomenon. The reviews of science fiction novels suggest an interest in speculative fiction related to space and advanced phenomena, often drawing parallels to real-world UFO discussions. The editorial stance is one of serious, evidence-based inquiry, aiming to elevate ufology to a recognized field of study while acknowledging the challenges and complexities involved.

This issue of g.p.u.n., dated June 1977, presents a statistical study of UFO sightings in a specific region, primarily focusing on the area around Nancy, France. The magazine also delves into the controversial field of parapsychology and investigative journalism.

Statistical Study of UFOs in a Region

The main feature is a statistical analysis of UFO observations conducted by the G.P.U.N. (15 rue Gilbert de Pixérécourt, 54000 NANCY). The study covers observations from 1963 to 1977, with a focus on cases within the Nancy region. Out of 63 cases examined, 48 involved objects observed at high or medium altitudes, with 23 of these cases having a possibility of confusion with natural phenomena. Eight cases involved low-altitude flyovers, including three static hovering instances. Four cases were reported as landings without ground traces, and two involved 'humanoids' but without surrounding UFO activity, making them difficult to define. The study highlights a prevalence of spherical and saucer-shaped objects among the observed forms, alongside other less common shapes that have been reported in other testimonies.

The cover and internal pages display numerous small illustrations depicting various alleged UFO sightings, categorized by date and location, such as:

• 1969: Tomblaine (spherical object), S Max (high altitude object)
• 1972: Vaudraching (object with radiating lines)
• 1973: Flavigny (crescent-shaped object), Tomblaine (object with radiating lines)
• 1974: Agincourt (object with radiating lines), Jarville (triangular object), Entre Void et Mauvages (object with radiating lines), Darney (object with radiating lines), Font Romeu (rope-like object), Biot (circular object), Bainville-aux-Saules (object with radiating lines), Bainville-aux-Sanies (object with radiating lines)
• 1975: Boyxiere-aux-Dames, Nancy-Laxou, Fraimbois, S Max, Senoncourt, Clairefontaine, Nancy, Lattre-sous-Amance, Malzeville, Baroilles-et-Menil, Nancy
• 1976: Nancy, Vandoeuvre, Padoux, Art-sur-Meurthe, Vandoeuvre, Tomblaine, Frouard, Clairefontaine, Cirey-sur-Vezouze, Malzeville, Vandoeuvre, Evres-en-Argon
• 1977: Vandoeuvre

Parapsychology and 'Healers'

The issue features an article by Yves Lignon, a professor at the University of Toulouse-Mirail, titled "Les chirurgiens à mains nues" (Surgeons with Bare Hands). This section critically examines the phenomenon of 'healers,' particularly Michel Carayon, who claimed to perform operations without surgical instruments, often with media attention. Lignon, representing the G.2E.2P (Groupe d'études expérimentales des phénomènes paranormaux) of the University of Toulouse-le-Mirail, expresses strong skepticism. The G.2E.2P. views the claims surrounding Philippine healers as a commercial enterprise, often based on deception, and points out that those who have been scientifically observed have been caught in fraudulent acts. While not denying the existence of parapsychological phenomena, the G.2E.2P. emphasizes that their authenticity is not proven. They state that Michel Carayon refused to cooperate with their investigation, which was aimed at establishing the phenomenon's authenticity. The G.2E.2P. strongly advises the public, especially those who are ill, to avoid seeking services from such individuals due to the lack of scientific guarantees and the potential for exploitation.

Portuguese UFO Cases (1976-1977)

Another section details UFO cases from Portugal, specifically covering the period 1976-1977, as documented by CIDOVNI. These cases include:

• January 1977: Reports of electrical motor noises, strange lights over the sea, mysterious explosions, immobile lights, lenticular UFOs emitting white light, and spherical objects flying at low altitude. One case describes a humanoid figure observed near Ança.
• January 1977: Further reports include UFOs described as rugby balls emitting white-green light, unidentified aircraft pursued by the Portuguese Air Force, circular objects with red and blue lights, and circular objects emitting grey and silver light.
• January 1977: A detailed account of a UFO described as a "ball of light" that moved silently with a blue-orange trail. Other sightings include spherical objects with white, red, and blue parts, and a loud explosion sound from the sea. An oval white UFO was observed crossing a national road at high speed.

A table summarizes these Portuguese observations, listing dates, times, locations, and original sources.

First National Ufology Congress in Spain

The magazine reports on the first national ufology congress held in Spain on December 3-4, 1977. The event is described as "unfortunate and rushed." The author notes a dialectical confrontation between serious researchers and amateurs or charlatans. The congress featured a diverse range of speakers, including pioneers in the field like Antoni Ribera and Eduardo Buelta, alongside individuals whose contributions to ufology are questioned. The article suggests that the inclusion of less scientifically rigorous speakers was likely an attempt to ensure popular appeal and economic benefits, as purely scientific presentations might be perceived as too complex or less sensational for the general public.

Other Reports

• Mysterious Little Men (January 12, 1977): An expedition was planned to the Amazon basin to verify claims by an engineering student, José Alvarez, who reported being saved from drowning by small, green-skinned beings with claws.
• "The Balls of Aveyron" Investigation: The second part of an investigation into the "Balls of Aveyron" phenomenon, which questions witness testimonies and suggests exaggeration or fabrication by the son of the primary witnesses. The father's testimony indicates a shift in his account, downplaying the events and questioning his son's claims.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes a critical and scientific approach to UFO phenomena and parapsychology. The G.P.U.N. study aims for statistical rigor, while the article on 'healers' highlights the need for scientific evidence and warns against unsubstantiated claims. The report on the Spanish congress criticizes the mix of serious research with sensationalism. The overall stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, demanding verifiable evidence and scientific methodology in the study of unexplained phenomena, while acknowledging the public's interest in such topics.

This issue of 'APPROCHE' magazine, dated January 1977, focuses on UFO sightings and related topics. The cover prominently features reports from Brazil under the headline 'BRESiL TEMOIGNAGES SUR LES OBSERVATIONS DE JANVIER 1977', alongside a critical review of Steven Spielberg's film 'Rencontre du troisième type' (Close Encounters of the Third Kind).

UFO Sightings and Testimonies

Brazil - Porto Alegre and Guaiba

The magazine details several UFO observations from Brazil in January 1977. In Porto Alegre, two photographers, Alfonso Abraham and Dantino Rilfas, captured images of a luminous object described as a 'flying saucer' by witnesses. The object appeared briefly, followed by another luminous point. Another report from Porto Alegre describes a photographer observing and photographing a bright object in the sky that was neither an airplane nor a meteorite. The object was seen around 9:45 AM. Additionally, a strange light was observed over Guaiba, which astronomer Edmundo Veira suggested might be a local light source reflecting off a cloud, creating a mirror effect. He ruled out planets or stars due to the object's brief appearance. The possibility of a meteorological balloon was also mentioned.

Stockholm, Sweden

Residents of Stockholm and the Arlanda Airport control tower reported seeing a strange luminous phenomenon on the night of Monday to Tuesday (April 19, 1977). It was described as a 'fireball with a tail and surrounded by small black clouds'.

California, USA

In Southern California, two diamond-shaped objects surrounded by a blue light halo were observed by police helicopter pilots. Shortly after, seven members of the US Air Force from March Air Force Base witnessed two silver diamond-shaped objects with blue light halos moving at high speed. These mysterious objects left no traces on the base's radar.

Witness Testimony Analysis

One article includes a transcript of an interview with a witness who described seeing a luminous object, referred to as an 'obus' (shell) or 'flying saucer'. The witness recounts the event, including interactions with the Gendarmerie and her son's involvement. She expresses skepticism about official investigations and the tendency for people to dismiss such sightings. The interview touches upon the possibility of hallucinations and the exaggeration of details by her son.

Film Review: 'Rencontre du troisième type' (Close Encounters of the Third Kind)

This section offers a critical perspective on Steven Spielberg's film. While acknowledging the film's spectacular effects and its attempt to incorporate scientific elements and a French researcher, the reviewer expresses a negative overall opinion. The film is criticized for its exaggeration and sensationalism, which the reviewer believes can lead to the perpetuation of false ideas about UFOs. The reviewer contrasts the film's fictional portrayal with the reality of ufology as experienced by those involved in serious research and investigation, emphasizing that the film presents a dream-like scenario that does not align with their understanding of UFO phenomena.

SVEPS: Plans for Action

This section outlines the plans of the SVEPS (Société d'étude des phénomènes spatiaux) organization. It addresses the risk of a small group dominating decisions and proposes greater transparency and member involvement. Key initiatives include opening bureau meetings and correspondence to all members, encouraging participation in sky surveillance, collecting regional UFO information, and supporting the creation of new ufology associations. The article emphasizes the organization's open and rigorous approach to ufology.

Rectificatif

A correction is made regarding a previous article titled 'Enquêtes au Canada', clarifying that the investigations took place in 1973 and were communicated by UFO-Quebec.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of 'Approche' consistently highlights the importance of witness testimony, photographic evidence, and scientific investigation in understanding UFO phenomena. The magazine appears to advocate for serious, rigorous research into UFOs, distinguishing it from sensationalized portrayals in popular media like Spielberg's film. There is a clear editorial stance supporting the efforts of organizations like SVEPS to promote transparency and active participation among their members in the field of ufology. The magazine also demonstrates an international scope, featuring reports from Brazil, Sweden, and the USA, alongside its French context.