Approche - no 18 - 1978

Magazine Overview

Title: APPROCHE
Issue: TRIMESTRIEL N° 18
Date: 1978
Publisher: GROUPE PRIVE UFOLOGIQUE NANCEIEN
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 0396 339 X
Price: 4 F.

This issue of APPROCHE magazine, a quarterly publication focused on ufology, presents a comprehensive look at various facets of the phenomenon in 1978. The cover prominently features the headline "TRACES et HUMANOIDE ?" alongside an inset image related to the Sturno case and a mention of "MONTLUCON 78... coup d'œil sur l'ufologie." The magazine discusses the growing official interest in UFOs, a major conference, detailed statistical analyses of sightings, and a specific case study from Italy.

Editorial: Les « officiels » face à l'ovni

The editorial, written by Frantz CREBELY, addresses the evolving relationship between official institutions and ufology. It begins by quoting an ufologist friend who predicts that politicians will attempt to "recuperate" ufology, similar to how they did with ecology. CREBELY reflects on past difficulties where cultural associations felt like "pigeons" to politicians. He notes that previously, "official circles" referred mainly to scientists within state organizations like C.N.E.S., C.N.R.S., or G.E.P.A.N. However, between 1950 and 1970, state reaction to UFOs was minimal, with private associations and independent researchers largely creating the current ufological landscape. The editorial acknowledges a shift, attributing the growing interest from scientists and politicians to a modification in public sentiment favoring ufology since the early 1970s. While welcoming this development, the author warns that private associations and their animators risk being forgotten if they do not continue to advocate for public understanding. He stresses the need for continued work, supported by the public, through investigations and information dissemination. The challenge lies in maintaining independence and avoiding "recuperation" by official bodies, even while collaborating. The editorial concludes by posing the question of how to secure the necessary resources for this ongoing task.

2º Congrès de MONTLUÇON

This section, co-authored by Frantz CREBELY and Denise GERIN, reports on the second Montluçon Congress held in April 1978. Following a somewhat ironic or disillusioned experience at the 1976 congress, the authors returned to find a similar parapsychological focus but with diverse presentations. The congress served as an occasion for contacts and exchanges, offering a "temperature check" of the current state of ufology. The Saturday sessions featured various participants, including Dominique CAUDRON (G.N.E. OVNI), who presented a retrospective on orthoteny, arguing that geographical alignments were not unique to ufology and that simulations showed no conclusive evidence. CREBELY and GERIN themselves presented their work, examining the sociological interactions of UFO phenomena and their own milieu of ufologists. Michel DUFOURNY (Group 03100) discussed the use of hypnosis in investigations, with a caveat about the lack of medical control. Michel FIGUET (A.A.M.T.) presented his extensive catalogue of landing cases in France, earning applause for his diligent work. Jean-Jacques JAILLAT analyzed the correlations between UFO phenomena and popular folklore, a presentation described as excellent but difficult for some attendees. The Parisian team, represented by Thierry PINVIDIC (S.P.E.P.S.E.), presented their work, which was summarized for the magazine. Rémi RENAUX (Aubois Ufology Group) presented research by Jean-Charles FUMOUX on logical observation patterns, questioning if it represented a new form of orthoteny. Gilbert CORNU presented a correlative statistic between Marian apparitions and UFO phenomena, noting it was an early stage of his research. Pierre BERTHAULT discussed hypotheses on the phenomenon, suggesting manipulation by an "abstract intelligence" and proposing a "super-hypothesis" of interaction between human energy and an ambient intelligence. The evening involved a debate on whether ufology should focus on suppositions or material facts, with discussions on "unconscious" and "global" intelligences. The debate included humorous exchanges, such as one about ants and another about slugs at a masked ball. FIGUET eventually expressed frustration with GIRAUD's systematic doubts about testimonies, stating, "You take people for idiots, for God's sake!" GIRAUD offered a pertinent remark about the difficulty of applying scientific methodology to historical material. The article notes that due to this difficulty, S.V.E.P.S. and A.A.M.J. would not sign a text defining ufology the next day, as too many aspects remained open to question. Despite the debates, the congress was considered enriching, with PINVIDIC concluding that it might be too early to form hypotheses and advocating for a focus on methodology and experiences.

STATISTIQUE SUR UNE REGION (G.P.U.N.)

This section presents a statistical study conducted by the G.P.U.N. (Groupe Privé Ufologique Nancéien) on 63 UFO observation cases from 1963 to 1977 in a specific region, likely Meurthe-et-Moselle, France. The study aims to reflect general characteristics of the phenomenon. Of the 63 cases:

• Phenomena Observed:
• 23 cases (36.50%) were high-altitude observations with possible confusion with stars, satellites, or meteors.
• 3 cases (4.76%) were high-altitude, clearly anomalous observations.
• 14 cases (22.20%) involved medium-altitude, nighttime observations of unusual lights.
• 8 cases (12.60%) were medium-altitude observations of UFO-dynamic craft.
• 5 cases (7.93%) involved low-altitude evolutive flights.
• 3 cases (4.76%) were low-altitude static flights.
• 4 cases (6.34%) were landings.
• No cases of ground traces without OVNI observation were reported.
• No cases of OVNI on the ground with occupants were reported.
• 2 cases involved humanoids without nearby OVNI.
• 1 case (1.58%) was a close encounter with humanoids.
• No cases of contact or contactees were reported.
• No cases of messages without OVNI observation were reported.

• Situation Over Time:
• The number of reported cases showed a regular progression from 1974 to 1976, with a peak in 1976.
• Monthly distribution showed peaks in April, July, and August.

• Observation Duration:
• Most observations were very short. The majority lasted between a few seconds and 5 minutes.

• Geographical Situation:
• Most cases occurred in Meurthe-et-Moselle, with a greater distribution in isolated regions (50%) compared to urban zones (30%) and isolated habitations (20%).

• Witnesses:
• Observations were typically made by few witnesses: 25 cases with 2 witnesses, 14 with one, and 10 with three.
• The majority of witnesses were adults.
• Witnesses came from various socio-professional categories, with a notable presence of school teachers and workers.

• The Phenomenon:
• The majority of cases (85.93%) involved a single object. Four cases (6.25%) involved two objects, and two cases (3.12%) involved three.
• Humanoid sightings were rare (4.68%), with some descriptions of "humanoids" without accompanying OVNI and one case of 6 humanoids inside OVNI.
• Observed forms were diverse, with "lueur" (glow) and "sphere" being the most frequent. Some OVNI had details like lights, portholes, and sparks.
• 8 cases of humanoids were reported, two with a robotic aspect.

• Object Characteristics:
• Shape: Sphere, disc, cigar, egg-shaped, saucer, glow, croissant, rectangle, triangle, cone, trail, undefined or complex shapes.
• Luminosity: In 46 cases (30.66%), the OVNI was luminous; in 7 cases (4.66%), it was dark.
• Color: White (16%), Orange (12.66%), Red (12.66%), Multi-colored (10%), Yellow (4.66%), Metallic (4%), Blue (2.66%), Green (1.58%).
• Sound: The vast majority (69.60%) were silent. Some reported whistling or humming sounds.
• Dimensions: Object dimensions varied, with many cases falling between 0-15 meters.
• Height: For non-UFO-dynamic objects, heights ranged from 0 to 3 meters, with many indeterminate or unknown.
• Occupant Size: For 8 occupants, sizes ranged from 0 to 2 meters.
• Altitude: High altitude (+500m) was most common (42.85%), followed by medium altitude (50-500m) and low altitude (-50m).
• Distance: Over 46% of observations were from over 1 km away.
• Photographs: Only 4 out of 63 cases involved photographs, with only one yielding positive results.

• Conclusion:
• The study concluded that 36.50% of observations could be explained, while 63.50% remained inexplicable.
• The regional phenomenon showed annual patterns with a peak in 1976, coinciding with a mini-wave. Months of April, July, and August were most frequent.
• A theoretical typical observation involves a luminous or white sphere, observed without sound, at an altitude above 500 meters, lasting 1-5 minutes, by two adult witnesses in an isolated region.
• Regional observations shared general characteristics with national/global statistics but showed regional particularities, such as a greater variety of shapes and more overflights in urban areas.

CHRONIQUES DE L'UFOLOGIE ITALIENNE: STURNO: traces et humanoide ?

This article, reproduced from "GIORNALE DEI MISTERI" and translated by Guillemette AGUILAR, details an extraordinary event that occurred recently in Irpine, Italy. The case is notable for combining trace evidence with the observation of a humanoid entity.

The article distinguishes between two types of contacts with "strange beings": occasional, surprise encounters with individuals unfamiliar with ufology, and continuous contacts resulting from intense verification of pre-organized theses. The latter, often telepathic or mediumistic, can lead to mysticism and fanaticism, making ufological studies cautious due to their suggestiveness and unverifiability. Occasional physical contact, however, offers greater possibilities for control and credibility, as historical facts, even if distorted by witness memory, can still lead to verifiable traces or markers.

The Sturno case involves a "tangible" aspect where the unknown entity manifests physically, appearing as a living, animated humanoid, or sometimes with a "cybernetic" robot-like behavior. The other aspect involves paranormal phenomena like dematerialization and telepathy.

The specific incident occurred on the night of May 30, 1977, near the village of Sturno. Two students, Rocco Cerullo and Michele Giovanelli, driving on a provincial road, noticed a red light blinking among the bushes about sixty meters away. Unable to reach it by car, they approached on foot. They saw two more lights filtering through the foliage, seemingly from above. Feeling a sudden sense of fear, they retreated to their car and returned to the village. There, they recounted their experience to several villagers, including Amelio Capobianco, Antonio Pascucci, and Arturo d'Ambrosio. After a brief discussion, they decided to return to the site together by car. They observed the lights still shining but, due to an inexplicable fear, did not approach. On their way back to the village, they noticed a luminous halo on the flank of a hill near an abandoned stone quarry.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of APPROCHE revolve around the evolving landscape of ufology, particularly the increasing interaction with official bodies and the public. There's a strong emphasis on rigorous investigation, statistical analysis, and the distinction between verifiable evidence (like physical traces) and more speculative or potentially misleading phenomena (like telepathic contact). The magazine champions the role of private associations and independent researchers in advancing the field, while acknowledging the need for broader public understanding and potential collaboration with scientific and governmental institutions. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious optimism regarding the growing acceptance of ufology, coupled with a firm commitment to maintaining independence and methodological rigor to avoid being co-opted or sensationalized. The statistical study highlights the persistent inexplicability of a majority of UFO sightings, reinforcing the need for continued research.

APPROCHE magazine, issue number 55, dated April 28, 1978, is a French publication focused on ufology and related phenomena. This issue features a cover story titled 'contre - enquête sur les "BOULES DE L'AVEYRON"' (Counter-investigation into the 'Balls of Aveyron'), along with interviews, news reports, and analyses of UFO sightings and research.

Key Articles and Features

'contre - enquête sur les "BOULES DE L'AVEYRON"' (3rd part)

This extensive investigation into the 'Balls of Aveyron' case, authored by Maurice COUZINIE, Michel PRATX, and J. Luc VIDAL, critically examines witness testimonies. The authors visited the site of the reported sightings and found that the described locations were visible from nearby farms and a village, contrary to the initial claims. They interviewed local inhabitants who reported nothing unusual. The investigation questions the reliability of the son's account, suggesting possible misinterpretations or fabrications, while acknowledging the sincerity of the father and grandmother. The authors propose that the 'boules' might have been car headlights and that the 'obus' (shell) remains an unexplained element, though a misinterpretation is considered possible. They emphasize the need for caution and patience in UFO investigations, likening them to police inquiries.

Interview with Michel FIGUET

Michel FIGUET, a dedicated ufologist, discusses his passion for studying UFOs since a 1965 encounter in Fort de France, Martinique. He describes his work as an 'activist' in private ufology, focusing on field investigations, witness contact, and archival research. Figuet maintains extensive files on UFO cases, including 'survols' (flyovers) and 'rencontres rapprochées' (close encounters). He highlights the importance of topography in understanding sightings and discusses the need for a scientific, logical, and methodical approach to the phenomenon, distinguishing it from parapsychological or psychosociological explanations. He also calls for private investigators to re-contact witnesses from 1954 to gather more information before it's lost.

Thierry PINVIDIC on a New Approach to UFOs

Thierry PINVIDIC presents a framework for a new, scientific approach to studying UFOs, emphasizing logical analysis and information processing. He argues that the term 'OVNI' (UFO) is loaded with preconceived notions and that a clear, unambiguous lexicon is needed. Pinvidic proposes conceptualizing the phenomenon as something that 'delivers information' and suggests analyzing it through a structure of belief, as previously noted by Jacques Vallee. He advocates for 'antiparadoxes' and a new way of thinking, moving beyond classical methodologies. The article includes a synoptic diagram illustrating the transmission of information, involving emitters, receivers, integrators, and dispatchers, and discusses the role of collective and individual assimilation of information.

'Boules de l'Aveyron' Conclusions

Commentaries from Michel Prats, Jean-Luc Vidal, and Maurice Couzinié offer further perspectives on the 'Boules de l'Aveyron' case. Prats suggests that psychological factors might be at play, linking them to the witness's background rather than the observed phenomena. Vidal concludes that while the father and grandfather were sincere, the son's account is rejected. He posits that the 'boules' could be car headlights and the 'obus' is unexplained, but a misinterpretation is possible. Couzinié states he cannot consider the main witness's account of the 'obus' and car chase.

Jimmy Carter's UFO Sighting

This section details a UFO observation by Jimmy Carter, then Governor of Georgia, in October 1969. Carter and other members of the Leary Georgia Lions Club witnessed a luminous object for 10-12 minutes. The object, described as bluish then reddish, bright, and silent, approached, stopped, and moved away. Its size was comparable to the moon, and it was estimated to be about 30 meters above the horizon, at a distance of 300 to 900 meters. No airport or research center was nearby, and no aircraft were observed. Carter did not offer an opinion on the nature of the object in his report.

NASA News: Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI)

This report highlights a NASA publication summarizing the findings of a group of 16 scientists on detecting extraterrestrial intelligence. The study suggests that a serious search for intelligent extraterrestrial life is feasible and can be undertaken with modest resources. It recommends significant SETI programs and notes that SETI is an international endeavor where the US can play a leading role. NASA has requested $2 million for fiscal year 1979 to initiate a SETI program using existing radio telescopes and advanced technology, with research planned to start in October 1978 and last for five years.

Other News and Reviews

• Soleil sur Stonehenge by Gerald S. Hawkins is reviewed as a fascinating book that uses a computer to reveal Stonehenge's mysteries as an astronomical observatory.
• Il Giornale dei Misteri is described as a professional Italian magazine covering ufology, parapsychology, esotericism, and history.
• Le Cycle des Algoans by Peter Randa is a science fiction novel reviewed as an original and pleasant read.
• Malpertuis Jean Ray Le Masque Fantastique is a book described as an exceptional work of mystery and suspense.
• Limbo by Bernard Wolfe is praised as a masterpiece of science fiction.
• Le Temps Désarticulé by Philip K. Dick is reviewed as a significant novel in his cycle, capturing his characteristic schizophrenia.
• The 3rd Comic Strip Festival in Toulon is covered, highlighting the participation of APPROCHE and SVEPS, and featuring a conference by Frantz Crebely on UFOs in comics. Several comic albums are discussed, including those by LOB and GIGI, and works by Hergé, Dan Cooper, and Ulysse.
• Dernières Nouvelles (Latest News) section reports on several UFO sightings: two luminous projectors over Ajaccio, France; two flying saucer formations over the Cordillera des Andes, Argentina; a metallic object falling near the Argentina-Bolivia border; and a photograph of a UFO taken in Canada by two Quebecois.
• An announcement regarding the price increase of the magazine APPROCHE due to rising costs is included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific and analytical approach to ufology, urging researchers to move beyond speculation and embrace rigorous investigation methods. There's a recurring emphasis on distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misinterpretations, hoaxes, or psychological factors. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking evidence-based conclusions while acknowledging the complexity and mystery of UFO phenomena. The magazine also covers international UFO news and explores the intersection of ufology with science fiction and other speculative fields.

Title: UFO ROUNDUP
Issue: VOL. 12, NO. 1
Date: JANUARY 1987
Publisher: Mutual UFO Network, Inc.
Country: USA
ISSN: 0741-9603
Price: $2.00

This issue of UFO Roundup, dated January 1987, prominently features the headline "THE GREYS ARE HERE!", signaling a deep dive into the phenomenon of 'Grey' aliens and their alleged interactions with humanity. The magazine covers a wide spectrum of UFO and UAP-related topics, drawing on the work of prominent investigators, researchers, and authors in the field.

Key Articles and Themes

The Greys Are Here!

The central theme of this issue revolves around the 'Grey' alien type, characterized by their small stature, large heads, and big black eyes. The magazine presents numerous abduction accounts, detailing the experiences of individuals who claim to have been taken aboard UFOs and subjected to examinations and other interactions by these beings. The psychological and physical effects of these alleged abductions are explored, with contributions from researchers like Budd Hopkins and Raymond Fowler, who have extensively documented such cases.

Historical UFO Incidents

The issue revisits significant historical UFO events, most notably the Roswell incident of 1947. The alleged crash of a UFO near Roswell, New Mexico, and the subsequent recovery of debris and possibly alien bodies by the U.S. military, is presented as a pivotal moment in UFO history. The magazine likely examines the evidence, witness testimonies, and the ongoing debate surrounding government secrecy and cover-ups related to this event.

Government Investigations and Cover-ups

UFO ROUNDUP critically assesses the role of government agencies, such as the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and its Project Blue Book, in investigating UFO sightings. The magazine explores the official explanations often provided for sightings and questions whether these investigations were thorough or designed to conceal the true nature of the phenomena. The involvement of intelligence agencies like the CIA and FBI in UFO-related matters is also likely touched upon, with a focus on the potential for a widespread government cover-up.

Leading Investigators and Researchers

• This issue features insights from a wide array of respected figures in the UFO community. Contributors and individuals discussed include:
• Stanton Friedman: Known for his work on the Roswell incident and nuclear physicist background.
• Budd Hopkins: A pioneer in the study of alien abductions.
• J. Allen Hynek: An astronomer who consulted for Project Blue Book and later became a proponent of serious UFO study.
• Gordon Cooper: An early NASA astronaut who spoke publicly about his own UFO experiences.
• Jacques Vallee: A computer scientist and author who has explored the anthropological and sociological aspects of the UFO phenomenon.
• Raymond Fowler: Investigator known for his detailed abduction case studies.
• Charles Hall: A former U.S. Air Force enlisted man who claims to have encountered aliens at Nellis Air Force Base.
• Brad Steiger & Timothy Good: Prolific authors who have written extensively on UFOs and related mysteries.
• Jenny Randles: A British UFO researcher.
• Paul Fuller: An investigator.
• John E. Mack: A Harvard psychiatrist who studied abduction experiences.
• David Jacobs: A historian focusing on alien abduction.
• Robert Sheaffer & Philip Klass: Skeptical investigators who often offer alternative explanations.
• Jerome Clark & John Keel: Authors known for their deep dives into UFO lore and paranormal phenomena.
• Walter Webb, Jim Lorenzen, and Coral Lorenzen: Early MUFON investigators.

Object Characteristics and Sightings

The magazine provides descriptions of various UFO sightings, detailing the characteristics of the craft observed. These include a range of shapes such as discs, cigars, triangles, spheres, ovals, and rectangles, with reported colors from silver to green. The behavior of these objects is described as including hovering, rapid acceleration, silent flight, and formation flying. Speed estimates often exceed Mach 10, with altitudes ranging from low to high. Reports also mention electromagnetic interference with electronics and physical traces left on the ground.

Geographic Scope

While the focus is heavily on North America, particularly the USA (Roswell, Area 51, Nevada, New Mexico, Arizona, Texas, California, Colorado), the issue may also touch upon sightings and research from other countries like Great Britain, France, Canada, and Mexico, indicating a global interest in the phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

UFO ROUNDUP consistently adopts a stance that takes the UFO phenomenon seriously, often leaning towards the interpretation that Earth is being visited by extraterrestrial intelligences. The magazine champions the work of ufologists who believe in the reality of UFOs and alien encounters, while also engaging with skeptical viewpoints, though typically to refute them or highlight perceived flaws in their reasoning. The recurring themes include the prevalence of alien abductions, the potential for government deception, the advanced technology of UFOs, and the search for definitive proof of extraterrestrial visitation. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocacy for open investigation and disclosure of information regarding UFOs and potential alien contact.