Clypeus UFO and Fortean Phenomena - 1978 No 12

Magazine Overview

This issue of CLYPEUS UFO AND FORTEAN PHENOMENA, Volume II, Number 6 (12), dated November-December 1978, is presented as a supplement to Clypeus n°53. The magazine is directed by Edoardo Russo and published in Italy. It is a bi-monthly publication.

Editorial Content

The issue begins with an editorial titled "ARRIVEDERCI !!!" which announces a significant change for the publication. The editorial states that this is the last issue of "UFO and Fortean Phenomena" as a supplement. However, the magazine will not cease publication but will undergo a "metamorphosis" and "new course" starting next year. The publication will be renamed "UFOLOGIA" and will expand to include more Italian content, such as articles, facts, investigations, and commentary, while maintaining its international scope and originality. The editorial staff will be augmented by members of the Centro Torinese Ricerche Ufologiche (CTRU), whose own cyclostyled newsletter has been noted for its timely, independent, and critical content.

The issue highlights a shift in focus towards Italian ufology, with four out of five signed articles and one unsigned document pertaining to French UFO research and the "opening" of the French governmental UFO study organization, GEPAN, to private groups.

Featured Articles and Sections

• "Editoriale Arrivederci!!!": This editorial announces the end of "UFO and Fortean Phenomena" as a supplement and the upcoming relaunch as "UFOLOGIA" with a new structure and increased focus on Italian content.
• "Appunti statistici sul fenomeno UFO" by Fred Merritt: This article details the UFOCAT database, created by Dr. David R. Saunders, which contains nearly 90,000 UFO case entries. Merritt explains the database's structure, the categorization of entries (total, non-primary, non-representative, type O, primary), and the advantages of its detailed cataloging system. The article also presents statistical data on UFO reports, including their distribution by type, time of day, and month, differentiating between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
• "Osservatorio": This section is reduced in this issue. It includes a brief mention of "Gli UFO e la Camera dei Lord" (UFOs and the House of Lords) and "Necrologi" (Obituaries).
• "Le aperture del GEPAN ai gruppi privati" by Fernand Lagarde: Lagarde discusses GEPAN's move towards collaboration with private UFO research groups, viewing it as a positive step.
• "I gruppi privati e la ricerca ufologica" by Claude Poher: Poher offers a perspective on the "frustrating" relationship between private UFO groups and scientific researchers.
• "Scienza 'ufficiale' ed UFO" by Jimmy Guieu: Guieu presents a critical view of the official scientific approach to UFOs, describing a situation akin to the "new Condon Report" and suggesting a somewhat paranoid atmosphere.
• "Incontro col G.E.P.A.N." by Jean Sider: Sider provides a detailed account of a meeting with GEPAN and French UFO groups, referencing Guieu's attitude without naming him directly.
• "Le conclusioni del G.E.P.A.N.": This section includes a "reserved" document detailing GEPAN's work in 1978, reportedly received through unofficial channels.

Statistical Analysis (UFOCAT and Project Bluebook)

The magazine dedicates a significant portion to statistical analysis of UFO phenomena. The article "Appunti statistici sul fenomeno UFO" by Fred Merritt delves into the UFOCAT database, detailing its contents and methodology. It presents data on:

• Report Types: Categorization of reports based on characteristics like stationary objects, moving objects, close encounters, landings, occupants, and physical effects.
• Temporal Distribution: Analysis of UFO sightings by year (1947-1976), month (comparing Northern and Southern Hemispheres), and time of day.
• Duration of Observation: Comparison of sighting durations for reports with low and high "strangeness coefficients," indicating that more unusual cases tend to have longer observation times.
• Witness Demographics: Analysis of reports based on the number of witnesses, age, and sex, noting that most cases involve more than one witness, and that adult males are predominant.
• Strangeness Coefficient: Examination of the "strangeness coefficient" in relation to the number of witnesses and the data from Project Bluebook, suggesting an increase in reports with higher strangeness over time.
• UFOs and Physical Traces: Reference to Ted Phillips' catalog of UFO cases involving physical traces, noting the proximity of witnesses to UFOs that leave such evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue emphasizes a move towards greater focus on Italian ufology and research, while acknowledging the international contributions that have characterized its previous format. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical yet open-minded investigation, valuing originality, factual reporting, and a touch of humor and irony. The transition to "UFOLOGIA" signals an intent to consolidate and expand the coverage of UFO and Fortean phenomena from an Italian perspective.

Cover Art

The cover features a drawing by J. Darbier from the magazine "The Prism" (1966), showcasing a dynamic collection of various UFO designs in flight.

Title: UFOLOGIA
Issue: PRIMO NUMERO (First Issue)
Volume: 10
Issue Date: May-June 1978
Publisher: Centro Torinese Ricerche Ufologiche
Country: Italy
Language: Italian

This issue of UFOLOGIA magazine, dated May-June 1978, focuses on the scientific and official approaches to studying Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs).

Classification of UFO Reports

The magazine delves into the classification of UFO reports based on a 'strangeness coefficient' and duration. The reports are categorized into types:

• Type 1 (Low Strangeness): Characterized by long durations, often attributable to planets, stars, or fixed lights, or brief, continuous movements like meteors or aircraft.
• Type 2 (Medium Strangeness): Involves objects with continuous movement and duration, or those that stop and change direction, sometimes exhibiting inertia. These can be problematic to identify, with a typical duration curve between 1 and 14 minutes.
• Type 3 (High Strangeness): This category includes reports with occupants, interferences (injuries, memory lapses, abductions), and direct contacts with entities. These are considered the most unusual.

Specifically, Type 4 reports involve objects that repeatedly stop or change direction. Type 5 refers to close encounters (under 150 meters), and Type 6 to actual landings. A peak in observation duration between 5 and 14 minutes is noted across these types, suggesting witnesses have sufficient time to observe and recognize the unusual nature of the phenomenon. A secondary peak for sightings over an hour is also observed.

GEPAN: The French Official UFO Study Group

The article "LE APERTURE DEL G.E.P.A.N. AI GRUPPI PRIVATI" by Fernand Lagarde details the establishment and objectives of GEPAN (Groupement d'Etude des Phénomènes Aérospatiales Non identifiés). Founded in May 1977 under the auspices of CNES (Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales), GEPAN aims to conduct scientific research into UFOs, involving scientists from various disciplines. The initiative was largely driven by Claude Poher, who initially sought to demystify UFOs but encountered inexplicable phenomena.

GEPAN operates under a Scientific Committee composed of individuals both knowledgeable and unfamiliar with UFOs. The committee's approval is crucial for GEPAN's continued work. The article highlights the organization's efforts to be transparent with private research groups, organizing study sessions and sharing methodologies. A significant development mentioned is the preparation of a report for the UN on GEPAN's research methods.

However, the article also expresses concerns about GEPAN's approach, particularly regarding the Scientific Committee's composition and its perceived tendency towards skepticism, reminiscent of the Condon Committee in the USA. The author notes that the committee members are not necessarily UFO experts but provide recommendations, raising questions about the objectivity and transparency of the organization.

The Role of Private UFO Research Groups

Claude Poher, in his article "I GRUPPI PRIVATI E LA RICERCA UFOLOGICA," emphasizes the vital role of private UFO research groups. He distinguishes between the general public, private group members, professional researchers, and scientists. Poher argues that while the public is often misinformed, private groups provide crucial, well-informed data to professional researchers. He stresses that UFO research is more of a vocation than a profession, requiring immense dedication and time, often outside normal working hours.

Poher highlights the challenge of limited time for researchers, estimating that processing his archive of approximately 9000 cases would take 750 consecutive hours, even with a minimal five minutes per case. He points out that private groups are essential for collecting and relaying sighting reports to professional researchers, preventing the latter from being overwhelmed by correspondence. Despite the frustration of the 'distance' between investigators and researchers, Poher calls for continued patience and rigor from private groups, acknowledging the necessary silence from researchers due to their workload.

Parliamentary Initiative in the UK

The article "Gli UFO e la Camera dei Lord" by Jimmy Guieu reports on the parliamentary initiative by the Earl of Clancarty (Brinsley Le Poer Trench) in the British House of Lords. Clancarty, a known ufologist, submitted five written requests to the government concerning UFOs. Initially, responses from the Ministers of Defense and the Interior were negative, denying knowledge of certain interviews. However, a response from the Minister of Education confirmed the existence of a study group on Unidentified Aerospace Phenomena (GEPAN) within the French National Space Studies Centre in Toulouse. Clancarty's subsequent inquiries led the Ministry of Defense to admit obtaining a transcript of an interview with the French Minister of Defense, Robert Galley.

The Earl of Clancarty also presented a motion for a parliamentary debate on UFOs, citing the increasing global number of sightings and the need for international study. The debate was scheduled for January 18th. The article notes the growing interest among members of the House of Lords in UFOs, with the Librarian of the House considering the inclusion of the Flying Saucer Review in the library's collection.

"Official Science" and UFOs

Jimmy Guieu's article "SCIENZA ‹UFFICIALE› ED UFO" critically examines the official scientific stance on UFOs. He commends astrophysicist Pierre Kohler for his open-mindedness, contrasting him with other scientists who dismiss UFOs without proper investigation. Guieu expresses concern that GEPAN might follow a similar path to the Condon Committee, aiming to 'drown the fish' by focusing on socio-psychological aspects rather than the objective reality of UFOs.

Guieu recounts his participation in a GEPAN meeting where researchers presented their intentions and methodologies. While agreeing with the principles, he notes a disquieting emphasis on treating witness testimonies with skepticism, akin to the Condon Committee's approach. He points out that the GEPAN Scientific Council's recommendations require prior consultation before any publication, suggesting a potential attempt to control information. The council members, who are not necessarily UFO experts, are tasked with providing opinions and recommendations, which Guieu views as a questionable use of their 'competence'.

Guieu also criticizes the GEPAN Scientific Committee's perceived hostility towards UFO proponents, citing an incident where a member sarcastically dismissed the idea of students being passionate about UFOs. He concludes that GEPAN might be a front for a secret organization acquiring strange information, particularly concerning close encounters, without the knowledge of its members. He suggests that this situation could lead to a new period of 'obscurantism' regarding UFOs.

Obituaries

The issue includes obituaries for three notable figures in ufology:

• Jean Tyrode: A prominent French researcher, known for investigating cases like Arc-sous-Cicon and Taizé, and for his extensive casework.
• Jean Sendy: A scholar who interpreted biblical history through the lens of 'space archaeology' and extraterrestrial intervention.
• "Long John" Nebel: A New York radio host who interviewed contactees and ufologists, and wrote extensively on the subject.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific study of UFOs, the challenges of official investigations versus private research, and the critical examination of organizations like GEPAN. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious optimism regarding scientific inquiry into UFOs, but with a strong undercurrent of skepticism towards official bodies that may be influenced by skepticism or secrecy. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of data collection by private groups and the need for transparency and objectivity in research. The magazine advocates for a rigorous, scientific approach while remaining open to the possibility of genuine, unexplained phenomena.

This issue of the magazine features an in-depth report titled "INCONTRO COL GEPAN" by Jean Sider, detailing a significant meeting held on September 12, 1978. The meeting brought together representatives from various private ufological research associations with GEPAN (Groupement d'Etude des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés), the official French organization for the study of unidentified aerospace phenomena, established within CNES (Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales). The event took place in Toulouse and was attended by approximately a hundred participants.

GEPAN's Structure and Activities

Claude Poher, the director of GEPAN, opened the meeting by outlining the organization's activities, goals, and future programs. He emphasized the embryonic stage of its structures and that research results would be more significant in the long term. GEPAN has secured cooperation from the Air Force and Navy, as well as the National Meteorology service, though the Army had not yet responded. Currently, about fifty people work for GEPAN, most on a part-time basis (10-30%), with two working full-time. The organization is divided into seven specialized working groups:

• Group of Rapid Intervention: An interdisciplinary team of six people (five engineers) that acts based on a three-phase procedure: alert, decision to investigate, and investigation.
• Group of Trace Detection: Consists of seven engineers who work with the Rapid Intervention group. They focus on three types of traces: vegetation, ground, and alterations on electrical equipment. Their primary goal is to preserve and protect localized traces for accurate study. They employ specific procedures for sample collection (soil and plants) and measurements using instruments like penetrometers and scissometers.
• Group of Radar Alarm: Composed of seven people, this group works with the Rapid Intervention group and maintains contact with civil and military aviation radar stations and meteorological services. They have a procedure for obtaining and studying radar echo information stored on magnetic tapes, which can provide data on object speed, acceleration, behavior, and intensity.
• Group of Analysis and Evaluation: This is the first group established, comprising twenty multidisciplinary scientists from CNES who dedicate 10% of their time to GEPAN. They classify sighting reports into four categories: identified phenomena, cases likely due to known phenomena, unidentified phenomena of low interest, and unidentified phenomena of interest for further study. Each case is evaluated using a sighting evaluation sheet and a classification sheet, categorizing them into six types (e.g., night lights, daytime disks, radar-visuals, close encounters of types 1, 2, and 3), using a nomenclature similar to Dr. Hynek's. They also assign a credibility rating (relative value, high, medium, or low).
• Group of National Archive and Statistics: Utilizes CNES's advanced computer equipment for data processing and statistical studies to ensure information homogeneity and provide researchers with observational data. They plan to create an archive of witnesses and a general external archive.
• Group of Archiving Coding: Fifteen people, including five IT specialists, are responsible for coding and storing sighting data in a computer. To prevent personal bias, personnel are rotated. This group aims to highlight specific characteristics of sightings and eventually incorporate external data.
• Optical Group: Focuses on the luminous aspect of phenomena, photographs, shape, dimensions, colors, brightness, angular position, and trajectory. They are also developing an optical simulator to reconstruct sightings using witness memory and projected slides, and a spectrograph for nocturnal sky observations.

GEPAN's Methodology and Findings

Claude Poher discussed the methodology employed by GEPAN, emphasizing its continuous refinement. He highlighted the importance of collaboration with the Gendarmerie Nationale, noting that while they provide assistance, it's based on their means and not a systematic obligation. Poher also stressed that GEPAN has no authority to issue directives to gendarmes. He acknowledged that while the Gendarmerie is generally helpful, they are not yet fully organized to operate with the desired efficiency, given the large number of brigades.

Poher expressed that GEPAN relies on the goodwill of private UFO groups, who are spread across the country and ready to assist in various ways, such as protecting landing sites or collecting initial witness statements. He noted that local gendarmerie brigades are often overwhelmed with their daily missions and may not prioritize UFO-related work. To address this, Poher plans to offer preparation courses at CNES for private investigators from officially recognized ufological associations.

The afternoon session was dedicated to the methodology of each of the seven groups. The group leaders explained their systems, strategies, and practical experiences. A key aspect of witness interviews is conducting them on-site, isolating the witness from others, and having them relive the event by recreating the conditions (location, time, vehicle) and actions before, during, and after the sighting to engage their visual memory. The importance of not leading the witness or suggesting answers was emphasized. A specialist in language and psychology is present at each inquiry to analyze the witness's personality, character, and mentality through carefully structured conversations.

Annual Report and Scientific Council's Input

Claude Poher presented GEPAN's balance sheet as of September 1, 1978. The 1977 report focused on global phenomenon knowledge through statistical analysis of gendarmerie reports and verification of personal studies. The 1978 report was primarily observational. Key findings included:

1. Witnesses in examined reports genuinely observed the described facts (with one exception).
2. Identified phenomena were not recognized (with one exception).
3. Witnesses appeared to have observed a material phenomenon related to a flying machine with unknown sustentation and propulsion methods.
4. These conclusions were reached after eliminating doubtful cases and misinterpretations.
5. The study of such phenomena could provide humanity with new knowledge for technological advancement.

The annual report was met with applause. Poher then discussed the Scientific Council, composed of seven high-level scientists who supervise GEPAN's work. The council, which was initially meant to meet twice a year, will now meet only once annually. Dr. Gruau, Principal Inspector of CNES and Secretary of the Scientific Council, detailed the council's role and its "Opinions and recommendations" issued in 1977 and 1978. He stressed the need for continued research with utmost scientific rigor and objectivity. The council also requested GEPAN to present a brochure on its methodology and statistical results by October 1978, to encourage witness reports and improve information quality. A film on rare phenomena was also proposed for public dissemination.

Collaboration and Future Outlook

Poher encouraged private groups to reflect on the morning's discussions and submit written suggestions to foster collaboration between scientists and private research. He described this initial contact as a friendly gesture towards those who had long advocated for an official UFO research body. Poher hopes this will bring together "benevolent individuals among professionals" and facilitate understanding of the collaboration's benefits.

Poher reiterated GEPAN's primary goal: to convince the scientific community of the phenomenon's reality, acknowledging that many scientists remain hostile to its study. He believes that if the scientific community accepts GEPAN's work as valid, research will be greatly facilitated, funding will increase, and personnel numbers will double or triple.

Letter from Jerome Clark

A section includes a letter from US researcher Jerome Clark, who received a summary of GEPAN's operations from an American academic working in Europe. Clark describes the French investigation as "the most complete ever conducted on the UFO mystery." He notes that GEPAN's conclusions, while potentially controversial, suggest that the phenomenon is not easily explained and that the investigation makes it more enigmatic. The letter lists the prestigious institutions that form GEPAN's Scientific Committee. Clark shares a summary of GEPAN's report, which details studies conducted in the first half of 1978. Three special groups (rapid intervention, trace analysis, radar alert) were created but underutilized. The core of the work involved eleven cases with high strangeness and credibility, only one of which had a conventional explanation. The report concludes that the phenomenon involves a type of flying machine with unknown propulsion and sustentation methods.

GEPAN's Creation and Early Work

GEPAN was created in 1977 under Claude Poher, who has since resigned but whose work continues. In 1977, GEPAN focused on verifying statistical data compiled by Poher and studied two night light cases that remained unidentified. In 1978, the organization expanded to investigate real-life cases, receiving alerts via telex from the French Gendarmerie. The report was approved by the supervising scientific council and was printed in a limited, secret run of 120 copies.

Philately and UFOs

Another section, "IN ORBITA CON I FRANCOBOLLI" (In Orbit with Stamps) by Phil Aster, explores the theme of UFOs in philately. It notes that numerous postal administrations have issued stamps related to flying saucers, and many entities have adopted postmarks featuring UFOs. The article highlights how the Soviet Union included UFOs in its space series, creating a new philatelic theme. The author discusses the difficulty of covering such niche topics in standard philatelic columns due to space and audience limitations. The article mentions specific examples:

• A 1947 US stamp depicting Mount Rainier, where Kenneth Arnold had a sensational sighting.
• Postmarks featuring flying saucers, often resembling George Adamski's famous photographs, which some critics suggest are merely large lamps.
• A German postmark showing a flying "cigar" with smaller disks.
• Stamps from Guinea Equatorial depicting UFOs, with inscriptions suggesting "interplanetary collaboration."
• A stamp from Togo showing the surface of Mars with circular marks.
• A stamp from Colombia featuring Guglielmo Marconi with a luminous object in the sky, interpreted by some as a UFO.
• A stamp from Guinea Equatorial showing a UFO disk, linked to George Adamski's sighting at Mount Palomar in 1952.
• A Soviet stamp depicting a UFO in flight.
• Stamps from Guinea Equatorial related to space exploration, including a probe on Venus with mysterious lights.

The article suggests that the theme of the unusual is vast and invites philatelists to explore these mysteries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, extraterrestrial phenomena, and scientific investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into these subjects, as evidenced by the detailed coverage of GEPAN's official research efforts and the exploration of UFOs in philately. The publication aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and public interest in the unusual, encouraging a rigorous and objective approach to understanding these phenomena.