Echo du CERPA - No 1 - Octobre 1997a

Magazine Overview

Title: L'Echo du CERPA
Issue Date: October 1997
Issue Number: 1
Price: 20 F.
Publisher: Centre d'Etudes et de Recherches sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux (CERPA)
Country of Publication: France
Language: French

This inaugural issue of L'Echo du CERPA, a publication from the French research center CERPA, coincides with the 50th anniversary of the modern UFO era, marked by events in 1947 such as the Kenneth Arnold sighting and the Roswell incident. The magazine aims to be a regular, practical publication informing readers about the progress of UFO investigations and the broader community's research, distinguishing itself from more sensationalist or superficial media by focusing on verifiable facts.

CERPA and Its Activities

The editorial introduces CERPA as a non-profit association that sustains itself through member dues and volunteer-managed commercial activities. Its diverse activities include:

• Information meetings, social gatherings, and astronomical observation sessions.
• Organization of conferences, film screenings, and debate dinners.
• Hosting the biennial 'Journées Internationales d'ufologie' (International Ufology Days) in Marseille, described as the most important ufological congress in France.
• Visits to scientific institutions like observatories and meteorological centers.
• Field investigations and research in collaboration with scientific bodies.
• Design and fabrication of equipment for detection and physical measurements.
• Operation of a Minitel server (3615 OVNITEL) for information dissemination, testimony exchange, and discussion on unidentified aerospace phenomena.
• A shop offering a wide range of ufology-related items, including books, magazines, videos, and detectors, as well as a library of 400 book titles.

Editorial Stance

The editorial, titled 'EDITORIAL', expresses the satisfaction of launching this new publication, fulfilling a promise made in a previous newsletter (INFO CERPA N° 3). It emphasizes the publication's role in sharing the passion for ufology and informing about investigations. The editors aim to present real, simple-to-verify facts rather than sensational or dubious claims. They encourage readers to spread the word to ensure the bulletin's success. The editorial notes the 50th anniversary of the 'Flying Saucers' and laments the lack of attention it received in France compared to other countries, wishing the journal a long life.

Table of Contents

The 'Sommaire' (Table of Contents) lists various articles and sections, including:

• 'L'éditorial' (The Editorial)
• 'Dieu des Ovnis et des Hommes' (God of UFOs and Men) by Olivier RIEFFEL
• 'Réunions du CERPA' (CERPA Meetings)
• 'Avion contre OVNI Argentine' (Plane vs. UFO Argentina)
• 'Flashs! Flashs!'
• 'Réseau correspondants' (Correspondent Network)
• 'La boutique du CERPA' (CERPA's Shop)
• 'Les livres' (Books)
• 'Les cassettes vidéo' (Video Cassettes)
• 'Pin's'
• 'Cinquantenaire' (Fiftieth Anniversary)
• 'Observation et contacts insolites' (Unusual Observations and Contacts)
• 'Dernière minute' (Latest News)
• 'Un brin d'humour' (A Bit of Humor)
• 'Observations en France' (Observations in France)
• 'Bon de Commande' (Order Form)

It also highlights information available directly from CERPA, including activities, testimonies, Q&A, debates, and letters.

Article: 'DE DIEU, DES OVNIS ET DES HOMMES' (God of UFOs and Men)

This article, presented as a preliminary reflection for a meeting between CERPA members and clergy in June 1997, explores the complex relationship between UFO phenomena, religious beliefs, and the nature of humanity. The author posits that the UFO phenomenon has become a societal issue, influencing various opinions.

The article begins by defining UFOs ('objets volants non identifiés' - unidentified flying objects) as tangible entities, but notes a shift towards a less material interpretation. It cites scientist DUPONT-CAZON, who categorizes UFO phenomena into three types: approximately 50% are individual or collective hallucinations (psychology/parapsychology); 45% are real but misinterpreted observations (terrestrial or meteorological origins like atmospheric re-entries, balloons, or aircraft); and only 5% remain unexplained. Ufologists are primarily interested in this unexplained 5%, which is implicitly linked to an extraterrestrial origin.

The author then discusses different interpretations of these intelligent extraterrestrial beings:

1. Scientific Expeditions: Some view them as scientific expeditions from other planets, given Earth's unique position for life's evolution.
2. Advanced Entities: Others believe they are highly evolved entities, possibly disembodied, carrying a 'message' for humanity, linking this to parapsychology.
3. Diabolical Origin: A significant minority, including some ecclesiastics, believe UFOs are of diabolical origin, intended to distract humanity from true faith. This perspective suggests demons can create illusions, even influencing radar signals to appear more material.

The article questions the nature of these intelligences, pondering if they are angels, demons, or simply other humans. It argues that a scientific approach should focus on the material and human aspects of these beings, if they exist, leaving parapsychology and religion aside. The author suggests that instead of a singular 'THE' extraterrestrials, there are 'SOME' extraterrestrials, implying diversity and not necessarily superiority.

It is proposed that if extraterrestrial life exists, civilizations might be at various technological stages, some potentially less advanced than current human technology. The author emphasizes that belief in UFOs is not a matter of faith but of observation.

The article criticizes how media and organizations exploit the UFO phenomenon for profit, often portraying extraterrestrials as monstrous or malevolent. It contrasts this with more benign depictions like the film 'Cocoon'. The author questions the 'politically correct' approach that dictates how ufologists should interpret evidence, citing specific individuals and publications that enforce a particular narrative.

Theological and Philosophical Considerations

The article delves into theological questions, particularly concerning humanity's place in creation. It agrees with the religious view that humans are the pinnacle of creation due to their exceptional consciousness, which allows them to appreciate and thank their Creator. However, it questions whether Earthlings are the sole possessors of this status.

Biologically, humans are mammals and primates. The article notes that while Homo sapiens sapiens is the only extant species of the Homo genus, prehistoric hominids belonged to different, possibly more primitive, species. It raises the question of when the immortal soul enters the human lineage, acknowledging that theologians do not contest evolutionary facts.

The author poses a profound question: If God created humans with reflective thought, language, and emotions, could He not have created other intelligent beings with similar capacities, perhaps with different physiologies? This challenges the notion of 'monsters' and suggests the possibility of 'brothers' with whom humans share fundamental similarities, even if not meant to merge.

It is argued that admitting the possibility of other human-like species is not impious. The article references a biblical passage where a prophet criticizes limiting God's presence to Israel. It questions the prudence of dismissing such possibilities out of hand, likening it to the historical rejection of scientific truths, such as Galileo's heliocentric model.

The text also touches upon the 'Ummo affair', a purported extraterrestrial contact case, and suggests that religious leaders should seriously consider the implications of extraterrestrial existence, framing it as a well-posed problem that is half-solved.

DANIELLE SERRA-JOULIN, a Doctor in Prehistory and teacher, provides footnotes clarifying human evolution (Australopithecines, Archanthropians, Palanthropians, Neanthropians) and the concept of 'double articulation' in human language.

'Politically Correct' Ufology and the Film Controversy

The article criticizes the 'politically correct' discourse surrounding ufology, particularly concerning the film by RAY SANTILLI. The author expresses frustration with individuals and media outlets (like JEAN-LUC RIVIERA and PIERRE LAGRANGE) who dictate how the French ufological community should interpret the film, labeling it an 'arnarque' (scam) and a 'pantin' (puppet). The author asserts that only ten French individuals, including himself and JACQUES PRADEL, saw the film in London on May 5, 1995.

He recalls a prediction made years ago that ufologists would reject tangible proof of UFOs due to their ingrained belief systems. He quotes 'petite Thérèse' advising to 'put your pride under your feet' and suggests that those who missed the May 5th viewing should remain silent. The author shares his profound sentiment that the film depicted a genuine autopsy performed in the USA between 1927 and 1967 on an unidentified body resembling a hybrid being.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the 50th anniversary of the UFO phenomenon, exploring its multifaceted nature from scientific, religious, and societal perspectives. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, emphasizing factual reporting and encouraging open-minded yet rigorous investigation into UFOs. The magazine positions itself as a platform for sharing passion and knowledge within the ufological community, advocating for a balanced approach that avoids sensationalism and embraces verifiable evidence. It also highlights CERPA's role as a central hub for ufological activities in France.

This issue of "LA BOUTIQU" (Volume 1, Issue 11, dated 1997) is a French publication from CERPA, dedicated to ufology and related phenomena. The cover headline, "LE LIVRE DONT TOUT LE MONDE PARLE ! LDLN - A PREMIE," suggests a focus on significant books and discussions within the field. The visual on the cover depicts a swirling, luminous object against a dark background, hinting at the mysterious nature of UFOs and atmospheric events.

Key Articles and Reports

Argentine Aircraft Incident

A prominent report details an incident on August 1, 1995, in San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina, where an Aerolineas Argentinas flight with 103 passengers had to abort its landing due to a UFO. The object, described as a white "flying saucer" moving at high speed, disrupted air traffic for about fifteen minutes and caused a city-wide power outage. The pilot, Jorge Polanco, reported seeing a bright white light approaching at extreme speed before stopping abruptly about a hundred meters away. The incident was briefly covered in European media, with France-Soir highlighting the near-crash. J.J. Velasco of SEPRA acknowledged the case, suggesting it indicated an "intelligent phenomenon," while also mentioning common confusions with disco lights. Further reports mention a similar sighting in Argentina on August 17, 1995, near Cutral-Co, where a UFO was allegedly filmed, but the quality was poor.

French Atmospheric Re-entry Event

The issue also addresses the event of November 5, 1990, over France, where a multitude of lights in a triangular formation were observed. The official explanation from SEPRA, based on NASA data, was the disintegration of a Russian Proton rocket stage. However, many ufologists reject this explanation due to perceived contradictions and inaccuracies, questioning whether it's a cover-up or incompetence. The article suggests that atmospheric re-entry phenomena are not well understood by SEPRA and that this specific event, along with others, likely explains most UFO sightings, though some inexplicable cases may remain.

Col de Vence Observations

A report from the M6 program "Zone Interdite" on September 21, 1997, is mentioned, focusing on numerous observations at the Col de Vence (06). Photographs shown during the program reportedly left viewers perplexed regarding their origins. The report involved ufologists Pierre Beake and Jacques Carter, as well as a ufological group from Nice.

Ufological News and Events

The magazine highlights various ufological activities and publications. A small ufological association in Meriel (95), OVNILAB, publishes a monthly bulletin, "OVNI PRESSE," featuring NASA photos allegedly showing UFOs on the moon and a special report on the Roswell incident, including an autopsy film. A new book, "ISSAHA," by Jean d'Argoun, a medium and ufologist, is announced, foretelling a messianic figure from space arriving in southern France. The book is available for purchase through CERPA.

A ufological conference is scheduled for October 18 in Drummondville, Québec, organized by François Bourbeau, focusing on "50 years later, where is science?" Contact information for OVNI ALERTE is provided.

CERPA's Network and Publications

The issue details the CERPA's network of correspondents across France and internationally, providing names, addresses, and phone numbers for individuals who can receive testimonies and information. This network includes correspondents in Algeria, the United States, and Russia.

CERPA also promotes its own publications, including books like "LE CREUX DE LA VAGUE" by Robert Alessandri, "Les deux faces de l'ufologie en Russie" by Boris Chourinov, and "The Roswell Footage" by Philip Mantle. They also offer back issues of their "Revue AMA" and other series like "LA SOUCOUPE VOLANTE" and "UNIVERS OVNI N°1."

Video collections are also advertised, including "COLLECTION CERPA," "LE CONGRES DE MARSEILLE EN VIDEO" featuring Budd Hopkins and Derrel Sims, "COLLECTION SITES ENIGMATIQUES" by Pierre Beake, and "COLLECTION LES PORTES DU FUTUR" presented by Jimmy Gieu, covering topics from EBEs to governments secrets and UFOs in France.

Notable Quotes and Themes

An excerpt from Carl Gustav Jung's "MYTHE MODERNE" (on UFOs) is featured, expressing concern about humanity's unpreparedness for future events and the potential suffering of those caught by surprise. This quote underscores a recurring theme of the need for preparation and understanding in the face of unexplained phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of LA BOUTIQU strongly emphasizes the ongoing investigation and reporting of UFO sightings and related phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting official explanations alongside skeptical viewpoints and promoting ufological research. There's a clear effort to document sightings, analyze them, and provide resources for further study, including books, videos, and a network for sharing information. The publication seems to advocate for a deeper understanding of these events, moving beyond simplistic explanations and encouraging a more informed public discourse on the subject. The recurring mention of the Roswell incident and the inclusion of works by prominent ufologists like Budd Hopkins and Jacques Vallée indicate a commitment to exploring the historical and contemporary aspects of the UFO phenomenon.

This document is the proceedings from the 2nd International Ufology Days held in Marseille in 1992. Titled "LES ACTES DES DEUXIEMES JOURNEES INTERNATIONALES D'UFOLOGIE A MARSEILLE (1992)", it is presented as a compilation of diverse ideas and works by authors from numerous countries, covering over 80 pages of dense text.

Table of Contents and Featured Articles

The issue lists several articles and their authors:

• G. Pattera: "Deux projecteurs éblouissants à Parme." (Two dazzling projectors in Parma.)
• M. Figuet & E. Maillot: "Etudes comparative de deux R R 3." (Comparative studies of two R R 3.)
• S. Bendamarji: "Les Ovnis et l'Islam." (UFOs and Islam.)
• B. Chourinov: "Le miracle de Pétrozavodsk." (The miracle of Pétrozavodsk.)
• J.M. Raoux: "La propulsion des vaisseaux interstellaires." (The propulsion of interstellar vessels.)
• M. Cavallo: "La parapsychologie clé du phénomène ?" (Is parapsychology the key to the phenomenon?)
• D. Minazzoli: "Un problème éminemment politique." (An eminently political problem.)
• S. Freixedo: "Pour une prise de conscience des actions extraterrestres." (For an awareness of extraterrestrial actions.)
• V. Poli: "Lettre ouverte aux organisateurs." (Open letter to the organizers.)
• G.C. Andrews: "D'autres mondes dans celui-ci." (Other worlds in this one.)
• J. Derel: "Un destin hors du commun." (An extraordinary destiny.)

Additionally, it mentions four reference works:

• "Les « soucoupes volantes » arrivent" by Richard D. Nolane.
• "Extraterrestres, secret d'état" by J.G. Gresle.
• "Ovnis 50 ans de secret" by Gildas Bourdais.
• "ROSWELL << The day after >>" by Colonel Corso.

CERPA Events and Merchandise

The document highlights the CERPA (Centre d'Étude et de Recherche sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux) organization, particularly its event in Marseille. It mentions a mini-cruise of three days towards Corsica aboard the ship "Napoléon Bonaparte" on June 9, 1997, as an original way to celebrate the anniversary of "flying saucers" and the Roswell crash. This event involved a dozen participants and included conferences with Gildas Bourdais and Giorgo Pattera, who presented official American documents from the FBI, US Air Force, and CIA.

CERPA also offers merchandise:

• Pins of the Belgian UFO (grand format) for 50.00 F or 65.00 F by registered mail.
• UFO pins with a responder from CERPA.
• Pins for the second international days of CERPA (referencing an event at N.D. de la Garde with a phenomenon).
• A Russian pin in memory of Félix Ziguel.
• A pin from the Moscow Ufological Association.
• These latter three items are priced at 25.00 F (postage included) or 40.00 F by registered mail.

Personal Account of a UFO Encounter

A significant portion of the document is dedicated to a detailed personal account of a UFO sighting. The narrator, a professional trainer and consultant, recounts an experience that occurred on a sailing trip. While at sea, his companion, a man with extensive knowledge of ufology, told him he would experience something unique. During the night, a triangular object, approximately fifty meters in size, appeared, emitting a faint blue halo. The object approached at high speed, hovered, and then ascended and disappeared without a sound. The companion explained that the object was able to avoid radar detection due to an energy field resembling electromagnetism and advised the narrator not to speak about the event to protect his career.

The narrator also investigated the companion, discovering he had a mysterious background involving work in private international intelligence and access to sensitive defense information. He had also reportedly spent time at NASA and met astrophysicist Carl Sagan.

Other Sightings and Observations

Several other brief reports of UFO sightings are included:

• On May 7, 1997, near Pacy sur Eure, a group of 20-25 white lights were observed moving irregularly in an arc, then forming a V-shaped beam towards the ground, before paralleling and then overtaking the vehicle.
• On August 17, 1997, at the Port du Moulin Blanc, two objects were seen flying side-by-side, one large and one small, with constant speed and no visible lights.
• On August 31, 1997, in Vaucluse, a metallic, brilliant object resembling a large cigar was observed moving slowly high in the sky.
• On September 1, 1997, a 15-year-old boy named Philippe Aude-Bert reported a humming sound, a green and blue light, a power outage, and inexplicable human cries of distress, suggesting an encounter in Charroux.
• On June 22, 1997, in Monclar de Quercy (81), a perfectly circular trace, about 4 meters in diameter with white filaments, was found on a property, though no aerial phenomenon was observed at the time.

News and Announcements

A "DERNIERE MINUTE" section announces with shock and dismay the disappearance of Sofiane Bendamarji in Algeria on December 15, 1995. He was arrested at an armed checkpoint and is presumed to have been abducted. This is considered a great loss for CERPA.

Humorous Section

A humorous piece titled "RECETTE POUR FAIRE DISPARAITRE UNE ASSOCIATION" (Recipe for making an association disappear) offers satirical advice on how to undermine an organization through passive resistance and criticism.

Film Review

A brief mention of the film "M.I.B. (MEN IN BLACK)" is made, noting it's a comedy film but quite far from the real MIB (Men in Black).

Contact Information

Contact details are provided for CERPA, including their postal address, telephone number, and a note about returning order forms with payment. The publication "LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT", described as the oldest French Ufology magazine (40th year), is also promoted with its correspondence address.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, investigations, and the broader implications of ufology, including potential extraterrestrial contact and government secrecy. The CERPA organization plays a central role, organizing events and offering merchandise. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into unexplained phenomena, as evidenced by the detailed accounts and the presentation of official documents. There is also an undercurrent of personal experience and the challenges faced by those who investigate or report such phenomena, as highlighted in the personal account and the 'recipe' for association demise. The publication promotes itself as a serious platform for ufological research and discussion.

'L'Echo du CERPA' is a publication from CERPA, featuring a prominent photograph on its cover taken by Paul Trent on May 11, 1950. The issue details the organization's administrative structure and provides information for prospective members and subscribers.

Conseil d'Administration (Board of Directors)

The issue lists the members of CERPA's Board of Directors:

• Président d'Honneur (Honorary President): Gérard Roméo
• Président (President): Bernard Hugues
• Trésorier (Treasurer): Jean-Claude Croce
• Secrétaire administratif (Administrative Secretary): Sylvain Zei
• Responsables d'enquêtes (Investigation Leaders): Catherine Saclier and Henri Olzierski
• Paraspychologie: Raymond Spinosi

Membership and Subscription Information

A 'Formulaire d'Adhésion au CERPA' (Membership Application Form) is included, allowing individuals to join the organization. Two membership options are presented:

• Adhésion simple (Simple Membership): 230,00 F.
• De soutien (Support Membership): 350,00 F.

Additionally, the form details how to subscribe to 'L'Echo du CERPA' for one year, which includes four issues and costs 70,00 Frs. Payments can be made by cheque or postal order payable to CERPA and sent to CERPA - B.P. 114, 13363 MARSEILLE CEDEX 10.

Key Feature: Paul Trent Photograph

The cover prominently displays a photograph attributed to Paul Trent, dated May 11, 1950. This image is likely a central piece of content for this issue, possibly related to a UFO sighting or investigation conducted by CERPA.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue focuses on organizational structure, membership drives, and the promotion of the magazine 'L'Echo du CERPA'. The inclusion of the Paul Trent photograph suggests a strong emphasis on UFO evidence and investigation, aligning with the organization's likely focus on parapsychology and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of active engagement with the public through membership and information dissemination.