Circulaire CIGU - No 07-08 - 1989 avri .mai

Magazine Overview

This issue of "CIRCULAIRE CIGU" (N° 7 & 8) from April-May 1989, published by the "Comité Ile-de-France des Groupements Ufologiques", presents a collection of reports on UFO sightings, unusual phenomena, and related topics. Prepared by Thierry ROCHER and Gilles DURAND, with redaction and layout by Jeanine DURAND, Gilles DURAND, and Dominique DOUX, the circular aims to provide more information than previous issues.

UFO Sightings and Observations

Marseille Incident (March 17, 1989) An inhabitant of Marseille reported seeing an "extremely luminous object shaped like a cigar" moving at a "hallucinatory speed" towards the North. The phenomenon lasted only a few seconds, and other witnesses have since come forward.

Bogota Airport Alert (April 1, 1989) The international airport of BOGOTA-ELDORADO in Colombia was placed on alert after an OVNI (Unidentified Flying Object) was sighted. The object was detected by radar and seen by multiple people. Flights were diverted to another airport 500 km away. The report humorously notes the date, suggesting it might have been an April Fool's joke.

Strange White Trail in Provence (March 21, 1989) Thousands of people in southeastern France and Italy witnessed an "immense white, fluorescent trail" high in the sky, which vanished towards Friuli. Initially unidentified, it was later confirmed to be the result of a rocket launch from the Landes Test Centre near Biscarrosse. This type of phenomenon, involving research rockets reaching the stratosphere, has occurred before.

Luminous Mass in Western France (March 13, 1989) On the night of March 13-14, 1989, around 11 PM, many people observed a luminous mass, described as sometimes orange, fluo, red, or green, moving across the sky for one to two minutes. This was identified by the Poitevine Popular Astronomy Society as an aurora borealis, unusual for the region, possibly linked to intense solar activity.

Other Topics and Sections

UFO and the Use of UFAUX A report describes a unique street lamp at the Montparnasse Commercial Centre in Paris, which resembles a "flying saucer" with luminous portholes. Photos were taken, and the author humorously comments on the ufologists' potential interpretations.

Green Ray in Provence A laser designed to measure atmospheric density was tested in Provence. The green ray, 50 cm in diameter, was sent vertically to an altitude of 100 km, using atmospheric molecules as a support.

Insolite/Parapsy

• Cryptozoology: An expedition of 7 Chinese journalists is tracking the Yeti in the Himalayas for two years, equipped with jeeps, video cameras, tents, and electric batons.
• Cryptoanthropology: A report on Daniel VACCARO's photographic exhibition in Marseille, featuring portraits of the Rahute people from Nepal.
• Apparitions: A Marian apparition is reported in Birmingham, Great Britain, with a photo presented by LA5. Another report mentions a "Black Virgin" apparition in RWANDA.
• Xeroxlore: This section explains xeroxlore as folklore spread via photocopies, including rumors about LSD transfers and humorous texts circulating.
• Traditional Medicines: A report on two Filipino doctors arrested in Switzerland for practicing medicine illegally. It also details a report on "bare-handed" surgery from the Philippines, presented on "Ciel Mon Mardi", discussing its potential as a placebo for psychosomatic illnesses.
• Sects: The "Raëlian Movement" is highlighted, with articles in "Notre Histoire" and "Réforme" discussing their implantation in France. Other French sects are also mentioned in "Le Choc du Mois".
• Mexico - Anthropos: A report on the dismantling of a drug trafficking network in Northern Mexico, which also involved human bone discoveries and suspected Voodoo and Satanic rituals, including cannibalism. The leader of the sect was reportedly assassinated.
• Colombia - Zombies of Noel: During Christmas, criminals used a drug called "burundanga" to incapacitate victims, turning them into "zombies" who were then robbed.

Travaux/Activites (Work/Activities)

• Messages: Several sections are dedicated to messages from readers and collaborators:
• Gilles MUNSCH is seeking photos related to CNEGU sessions.
• Thierry ROCHER and CIGU are looking for contact information for UFO associations not listed in known directories.
• Yves CHOSSON is organizing an operation to identify "Corn Circles" in France, similar to those found in England, and asks for participation and reports.
• Eric MAILLOT offers his services to calculate the azimuths of the Moon and planets for ufologists.
• Parapsychovni: The CERPI in Paris is researching the use of parapsychology in attempts to contact UFOs.
• African Therapies: A description of rituals practiced by African anthropophagous sorcerers, specifically the "N'DOEP" ritual, a therapy for mental illnesses. A medical team is planning to study these practices in Senegal.
• Psychotronics: The "Organisation pour la Recherche en Psychotronique" (ORP) was founded to structure parapsychology research in France and promote European coordination.
• Zooms: A report on a filmed interview with ufologists in Paris, including François BOURBEAU and Thierry ROCHER, for a documentary on UFOs.
• Librairie: Jean-Luc PROUST is opening an esoteric bookstore in Bordeaux.
• Demandez-lui la Lune: Eric MAILLOT is compiling a catalogue of alleged UFO observations and their potential confusion with celestial bodies.
• Coup de Foudre (Ball Lightning): The CNEGU is focusing on ball lightning research and has contacted a French CNRS specialist.
• W.A.U.R.L.D. (bis): Patrick VIDAL's project is progressing, with a circular distributed to ufologists.
• British Holidays: The CNEGU is planning a trip to Great Britain in August to visit "Corn Circle" sites.
• Rappel: A call for readers to report any ongoing projects, local events, or personal UFO/paranormal investigations.

Manifestations (Events)

• Les Rencontres de Lyon (Lyon Meetings): The 3rd annual meetings, organized by AESV, brought together nearly 80 participants from various countries. The event featured scientific and ufological communications, with notable figures like Jacques VALLEE and William MOORE present. Discussions covered topics from Roswell to John LEAR's statements.
• Science & Illusions: The "Premier Festival Science et Illusions" / "Incroyable mais Faux !" event was deemed a failure due to poor organization, lack of media coverage, and difficult access. Despite this, the "Haunted House" exhibit was a success.
• Rencontres en V.O (Live Encounters):
• Bill Moore & The Socios: Bill Moore visited Paris and met with local ufologists, discussing topics like the Roswell incident and "MAJESTIC 12".
• François Bourbeau, A Cousin in Paris: François Bourbeau, a key contact for CIGU in Quebec, participated in the Lyon meetings and visited Paris, meeting with local personalities and visiting astronomical observatories.
• Alejandro Chionetti, First Tango in Paris: Alejandro Chionetti, an Argentine ufologist, met with Jacques SCORNAUX and discussed his research into UFO cases in Argentina, leaning towards psycho-sociological explanations. He shared documents on an Argentine landing and a catalogue of Peruvian UFO cases.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The "CIRCULAIRE CIGU" consistently promotes ufology and the investigation of unexplained phenomena. It encourages reader participation through reporting sightings, sharing information, and engaging in organized research projects like the "Corn Circle" investigation. The publication also covers a wide range of "insolite" topics, from cryptozoology to parapsychology and various cults, reflecting a broad interest in the unusual and the potentially paranormal. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging critical thinking while also acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena. There's a clear effort to connect with and inform the ufological community through various channels, including reports on conferences, individual research, and the sharing of contact information.

This issue of CCIGU, dated April 1989, is a French publication focusing on ufology, paranormal phenomena, and related scientific and pseudoscientific investigations. It presents a collection of articles, reviews, and news items, often referencing other publications and events.

Content Breakdown

Cryptozoology and Anomalous Sightings

The issue begins with a mention of Alejandro Chionetti discussing cryptozoology in Argentina, including reports of "bigfoot" and aquatic monsters in Patagonian lakes. Chionetti reportedly denies recent sightings of megatheriums, contrary to Heuvelmans' writings.

Science and Skepticism

A section titled "DE PASSAGE A PARIS" features Henri Broch from the University of Nice, who is also associated with CSICOP in France. Broch, despite his skeptical tendencies, is noted for recognizing errors made by his peers and acknowledging the validity of research by certain amateurs when confronted with what he terms "elucubrations" from some scientists.

Paranormal Investigations

Laurent Corbin, described as a parapsychologist from Normandy, is highlighted for his work in Caen, where he runs a practice that does not involve traditional divination methods like card reading. Instead, he assists individuals seeking to resolve issues related to ectoplasms or poltergeists, stating that most cases he encounters find very physical solutions.

Ufology Publications and News

The magazine announces that "LA REVUE D'UFOLOGIE" has been taken over by Joël Mesnard since 1988 and is published bi-monthly. It also lists several book releases and publications:

• "L'ESPACE ET LA VIE" by Hubert Planel (Editions Larousse): Discusses physiological problems faced by humans in space and the possibility of extraterrestrial life.
• "SILENCE AU POINT D'EAU" by Emmanuel Davoust (Editions Teknea): A highly recommended book reviewed from "La Recherche" magazine, which examines the search for extraterrestrial civilizations.
• "AIRSHIP CHRONICLE": Publications from FUFOR (Fund for UFO Research) on "Airships," the "Gulf Breeze" case, and "Abductions."
• "STRIMER'S": A monthly magazine on esotericism and alternative medicine.
• "LA 12ème PLANETE" by Zacharia Sitchin (Editions Souffle): Described as a chronicle of Earth.
• "PERCEPTIONS": A quarterly magazine focused on New Age topics like meditation, ecology, crystals, and Tarot.
• "ENERGIES DE L'ERE DU VERSEAU": A New Age magazine.
• "LES APPARITIONS DE KIBEHO" by Gabriel Maindron (Editions OEIL): Covers Marian apparitions in Rwanda.
• "LE PHENOMENE DES OVNI": A previously presented work praised for its graphic quality and comprehensive approach to UFO phenomena.

Media and Broadcasts

Several media segments are noted:

• "CHOCS" (TF1, April 17, 1989): Featured "Les Fous de la Télé" (TV Fools), who infiltrate TV shows. Two segments are mentioned: "Monsieur Météo" and "Le Prince en exil" from Atlantis.
• "CIEL MON MARDI" (TF1, May 23, 1989): Included a segment on "Les Médecins aux Mains Nues."
• "ECRAN TOTAL" (France-Inter, February 15, 1989): Discussed ghosts, poltergeists, and spirits following the film "Ghostbusters," with guests J-Y. Casgha and R. Chauvin.
• "RADIO SCOOPS": Mentions J-Y. Casgha's regular "insolite" (unusual) chronicle on France-Inter.

Case Studies and Investigations

A detailed account is given of the "Lucy" phenomenon at the Château de Veauce, involving unexplained lights and technical glitches during a TV crew's investigation. The report mentions 7 witnesses observing the phenomenon, with photos taken and audio recordings made. The investigation concluded that a capacitor discharge in a microphone might explain a sound, but the duration was unusual.

Another segment discusses the institutionalization of the irrational in society and its commercial use. It also touches upon unusual photos showing lights and figures, and mentions cases like Ted Serios and Uri Geller.

Organizations and Contacts

The issue provides extensive contact information for various ufology and paranormal research groups in France and internationally:

• France: A.L.E.P.I. (Louhans), C.U.A. (Aquitaine), C.G.U. 47 (Lot), C.E.P.S. (Boulogne-sur-Mer), C.E.R.U.S. (Lyon), G.E.R.U. (Roubaix), GNEOVNI (Lille).
• International: OVNI ALERTE (Canada), O.S.U. (Italy), ufologists in France (Jeannot BUTEUX, Fabrice CURLIER, Thierry PINVIDIC), and contacts in Germany (Thomas MEHNER), USA (Nick H. EDWARDS), and Argentina (Alex CHIONETTI).

Annexes and Special Reports

Several annexes provide supplementary information:

• Annex 1: "Rayon vert en Provence": Reports on a laser apparatus developed by a European optics company to measure atmospheric density, creating a green ray visible in Provence.
• Annex 2: A whimsical, anonymous message from an "entity from outer space" claiming to be transformed into a sheet of paper.
• Annex 3: "CORN CIRCLES" - FORMES: Illustrates various configurations of crop circles observed up to the end of 1987.
• Annex 4: Le CERPI: Describes the "Cercle d'Etudes et de Recherches sur les Phénomènes Inexpliqués," a non-profit association dedicated to studying parapsychology and ufology.
• Annex 5: PSYCHOTRONIQUE: Details the "Organisation pour la Recherche en Psychotronique" (ORP), its first working session, and its aim to establish a French Society of Parapsychology. It also mentions the "Projet Structure" for research coordination and the "Projet EUROPSI" for European-level research.
• Annex 5 bis: PSYCHOTRONIQUE: Lists various activities and publications related to psychotronics and parapsychology, including animal experimentation legislation, neuroscience colloquiums, the founding of the "Institut des Champs Limites de la Psyché," the ERASMUS program, and a call for publications on parapsychology from 1988.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena (ufology, cryptozoology, paranormal events) with scientific inquiry and skepticism. There's a clear interest in documenting cases, reviewing relevant literature, and connecting researchers and enthusiasts. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation, acknowledging both the unexplained and the need for rigorous research, while also providing a platform for various organizations and individuals in the field. The inclusion of CSICOP's representative suggests an engagement with the skeptical community, balanced by coverage of paranormal topics.

This document is a collection of materials related to the 'Premier Festival Science et Illusions' and UFO research publications. The primary focus is on an event held in Ivry-sur-Seine, France, from May 13 to May 21, 1989, which aimed to critically examine and confront paranormal claims, mystification, and charlatanism with scientific perspectives. It also includes information about UFO-related publications available from FUFOR / Fund For UFO Research in the USA.

Premier Festival Science et Illusions

The 'Premier Festival Science et Illusions' was organized with support from the French Ministry of Research and Technology, the Ministry of Culture, Communication, Grand Works, and the Bicentennial, and the General Council of Val de Marne. The event's stated purpose was to stand against mystifiers, charlatanism, and exploiters of credulity.

Event Details

• Location: A IVRY-SUR-SEINE - ESPACE GLANDAS
• Dates: May 13 to May 21, 1989
• Opening: Friday, May 12, 1989, at 6 PM
• General Delegate: Alain CUNIOT

Festival Attractions

The festival featured several attractions:

• Son Village Exposition: An exhibition village.
• Son Tribunal "La Cour des Miracles": A tribunal featuring television stars, likely for debunking or critical discussion.
• Sa Véritable "Maison Hantée": A 'haunted house' with ghosts and spiritualism demonstrations.
• Ses Conférences Populaires: Popular conferences.
• Sa Fanfare: A fanfare band.
• Ses Points Buffet: Buffet services.
• Son "Musée Magique": A 'magic museum.'

Advisory Committee

The festival had an extensive advisory committee comprising numerous academics and public figures, including Pr. Maurice TUBIANA, Pr. Jean-Paul E CANDE, Pr. Albert JACQUARD, Pr. Maurice GROSS, Pr. Evry SCHATZMAN, Henri BROCH, Jean-Pierre ADAM, François CAVANNA, and others known for their work in science, culture, and skepticism.

Revue d'Ufologie: LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT

This section introduces 'LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT' (Lights in the Night), a bimonthly UFOlogy review. It highlights that for over forty years, thousands of witnesses worldwide have observed unexplained aerial phenomena. The review aims to publish information and reflections on the UFO phenomenon, including carefully analyzed observations, synthesis articles, and news from around the world.

• Publication Frequency: Bimonthly
• Content: UFO observations, analysis, synthesis articles, global news.
• Subscription (1989): 150 F (France), 185 F (Abroad).
• Subscription Address: Joël Mesnard, 5, rue Lamartine, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge.

FUFOR / Fund For UFO Research Publications

This part of the document lists several publications available from FUFOR / Fund For UFO Research, located in Mount Rainier, USA. These publications focus on historical UFO cases and related investigations.

• The "Great Airship Mystery" (U.S. 1896-1897 & Great Britain 1912-1913): Two extensive investigations are offered, comprising catalogs of sightings and analyses. These are presented as the most thorough analyses of this aspect of UFO history before 1947.
• *The U.S. report by Robert G. Neeley, Jr.* (263 pages, illustrated) costs $40.00.
• *UFOs of 1896-1897: the Airship Wave* by Robert G. Neeley, Jr. (324 pages) costs $50.00.
• *The 1912-1913 British Phantom Airship Scare* by Nigel Watson, Granville Oldroyd, and David Clarke (29 pages, illustrated) costs $6.00.
• *The 1912-1913 British Phantom Airship Scare Catalog* by Watson et al. (509 pages, illustrated) costs $80.00.
• A History of the Gulf Breeze, Florida Sightings by Bruce Maccabee, Ph.D. (125 pages, illustrated) costs $25.00. This is a revised and updated version of a paper from the 1988 MUFON Symposium.
• The OMNI Abduction Questionnaires: Preliminary Results by Robert P. Swiatek (10 pages) costs $5.00. This analyzes responses to a survey on possible abduction cases.

FUFOR also mentions its assistance with two national television programs on the UFO phenomenon scheduled for October: one on the Gulf Breeze case for NBC's "Unexplained Mysteries," and a syndicated program about U.S. Government UFO cover-ups. Dr. Maccabee was interviewed for both.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The document strongly advocates for a critical and scientific approach to phenomena often labeled as paranormal or unexplained. The 'Premier Festival Science et Illusions' is explicitly positioned against 'mystifiers, charlatanism, and exploiters of credulity.' The inclusion of 'LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT' and the detailed listings of UFO research publications, particularly those focusing on historical cases and critical analysis, suggest an editorial stance that values rigorous investigation and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, while still acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena that warrant study.