GEPO No 18 - OVNI & Cie - GEPO Informations - No 18 - 1er trim 1981

Magazine Overview

This document is the 18th issue of the French magazine "O.V.N.I. et compagnie," published by GEPO. The issue, dated 1979, is presented as a bulletin of information from the "Groupe d'Etudes du Phénomène OVNI" (GEPO). Despite a delay in publication, the issue is described as exceptional in size and quality, with apologies offered to readers for the tardiness due to numerous problems.

Contents Overview

The magazine covers a wide array of topics related to UFOs and the paranormal. The table of contents on the first page lists articles such as "O.V.N.I. & SOCIOPYCHOLOGIE," "OBSERVATION A LA CELLE ST CYR," "O.V.N.I. & LIEUX MAGIQUES," "LE SHERIFF & L'O.V.N.I.," "L'ILLUSION DES VIES SUCCESSIVES," "L'AHURRISSANTE HISTOIRE DE L'ETRE CONGELE," "LES MYSTERES DE LA LUNE," and "HISTOIRES DE MORTS-VIVANTS." It also includes a "DROIT DE REPONSE" (Right of Reply) from Jean BASTIDE to Gilles SMIENA, an article on "L'AFFAIRE DE LA CARAVELLE ESPAGNOLE," a "PSEUDO-DEBAT," "ETRANGES METEORITES," "ACTUALITES & INFORMATIONS," and the continuation of the "CATALOGUE MONDIAL Pasqualini."

Editorial and Publisher Information

The magazine is edited and published by GEPO, with editorial responsibilities held by H. DELILLE and ROCHER, in collaboration with regional correspondents. The bulletin is produced in Paris and printed in Saint Symphorien de Lay (Loire). The publisher apologizes for any typographical errors that may have slipped into the texts. Reproduction of articles is permitted, except for those marked "RI," provided the source and author are credited.

Key Articles and Themes

The Illusion of Successive Lives

One significant article, "L'ILLUSION DES VIES SUCCESSIVES," delves into the concept of reincarnation. It discusses how reincarnationists explain the innate talents of geniuses, using Mozart as an example. The article references Stanford Institute's research on alpha waves in the brain, suggesting that geniuses emit alpha waves during creative periods, which are also present during relaxation. It questions the validity of memory regression, citing the case of Ruth Simons and Bridey Murphy, and suggests that the phenomenon might be due to unconscious fabulation rather than actual past-life recall. The article also touches upon social issues like malnutrition and injustice, arguing that they cannot be justified by reincarnation doctrines. It posits that the evolution of spirits progresses with civilization and that humanity will reach a higher level. The concept of electrons within human cells potentially storing memories is explored, suggesting that these memories are transferred after death, making the spirit a part of the universe's collective experience. The article concludes by referencing biblical passages, including Jesus's response to the Sadducees about the resurrection and the nature of angels, to support the idea of spiritual evolution and immortality.

The Spanish Caravelle Affair

Several pages are dedicated to "L'AFFAIRE DE LA CARAVELLE ESPAGNOLE" (The Spanish Caravelle Affair), detailing an incident on November 2, 1979. A Spanish Airlines Caravelle (flight JK-297) carrying 109 passengers was reportedly followed by one or more UFOs over Ibiza. The UFOs, described as emitting red light and sparks, allegedly pursued the aircraft for four hours, forcing it to make an emergency landing at Valencia airport. While the pilot claimed the UFOs were a threat, most passengers stated they saw nothing, accusing the pilot of fabricating the story to mask a technical failure. The airline's deputy director confirmed no technical failure, stating the landing was for passenger safety. The Ministry of Defense classified the subject as reserved, and some aviation circles speculated the UFOs could be American 6th Fleet aircraft.

Another report from "Prensa Libre" (November 15, 1979) reiterates the pilot's account, describing the UFO as a "diabolically fast" object that forced him to descend rapidly to avoid a collision. The pilot described two powerful red lights that illuminated the surroundings. The article notes that the Ministry of Transport initiated an investigation.

A pilot of a Spanish plane also described a UFO that "played" and "pursued" his aircraft over the Mediterranean. He described the object as large, with powerful red lights, and its movements as perfectly coordinated. He stated the UFO appeared on its left side, forcing him to descend from 9000m to 5800m due to the risk of collision with an unidentified aircraft. Airport intelligence suggested a nearby air force base attempted to intercept the UFO, but it maintained a constant distance.

Other Reports and Sections

"ACTUALITES & INFORMATIONS" (News & Information) section provides brief reports on ufological events and sightings:

• SPEPSE Conference (October 26, 1979): A conference in Avignon, organized with the Rallye des Loutards, gathered about fifty people, including amateur researchers. The topics included "Information" and a debate, with socio-psychological interpretation being dominant.
• ROLAND (December 12, 1979): Vera and Tony Rivera, along with neighbors, observed a luminous ball rotating, joined by a second white ball.
• ANGLES (December 11, 1979): Two people observed three luminous balls arranged in a triangle.
• VAROIS (December 15, 1979): A fighter pilot observed a metallic blue, half-moon shaped object, approximately four meters long, hovering over a field.

Catalog of UFO Sightings

The "CATALOGUE MONDIAL Pasqualini (suite)" lists numerous UFO sightings with dates, locations, and brief descriptions, primarily from September and October 1954. The entries include details like the type of object, its characteristics, and sometimes the source of the information.

Service de Presse & Livres

This section reviews various ufological publications and bulletins, including "BULLETIN DU GUB N°5," "SKYWATCH N°34," "RECHERCHES UFCLOGI U N," "GERS-INFO N°6," "UFOLOGIA N°21," "LES CHRONI DEL CLAU NOI," and "LOS CARONIUS SPALAL GREGU NO." It also highlights new books such as "LE NOAVO GORDIEN OU LA FANTASTING HISTOIRE DES OVNI" by Thierry PINVIDIC, "DU LYSTERE DES ORIGINES AU RETOUR D'AMILIUS LA LUMIERE" by Pierre Frobert, and "LA GRANDE PEUR MARTIENNE" by Barthel and Brucker.

Correspondents

The magazine lists its correspondents across France and internationally, including Switzerland, Luxembourg, Belgium, Canada, England, and Italy. It emphasizes the search for new correspondents and welcomes information from anyone.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the exploration of consciousness and spirituality (particularly reincarnation), and the investigation of unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, aiming to present information from various sources without overt bias, as indicated by the statement that articles are published without sectarianism and only engage their authors. There is a clear effort to document and analyze UFO events, as seen in the detailed catalog and the reporting of specific incidents. The magazine also engages with broader philosophical and scientific questions, such as the nature of memory, consciousness, and spiritual evolution.

This issue of LDL magazine, identified as N°178 and dated 1984, delves into several intriguing topics, primarily focusing on the debate surrounding UFO origins, a controversial case involving a 'frozen man,' and a compilation of mysterious phenomena observed on the Moon. The publication is based in France and is written in French.

Response to Criticism: UFO Origins Debate

The issue opens with a lengthy response from Juan Bastide to an article by Gilles Siena (writing under a pseudonym) published in LDL N°184. Bastide expresses his obligation to critique Siena's piece, which he feels unfairly targets the work of Aimé Michel, a book that Bastide's associates, Jacques Bonabot and Vicents Juan Ballester Olmos, had appreciated. Bastide criticizes Siena for focusing on what he calls 'extreme and regrettable examples' from 'The Memory of UFOs' (La mémoire des OVNI) by the Argonauts to Extra-terrestrials, thereby prejudicing the book. Bastide asserts that Siena dismisses the extraterrestrial hypothesis a priori, leading to 'worst blunders.' He defends the book's title and content, suggesting Siena missed the connection between the title and the book's exploration of UFOs. Bastide also points out that Siena misrepresented his own work, claiming Michel had called his book a 'pioneering work,' a quote that Bastide states Siena appropriated. Bastide questions Siena's qualifications to critique the book, despite his systematic purchase of related literature, arguing that quantity does not equal quality. He quotes Aimé Michel on the need for in-depth study of Grail legends, French literature, and historical sites, suggesting a broader, more profound approach to understanding mysteries.

The Astonishing Story of the Frozen Man

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the case of the 'frozen man,' an alleged discovery made on December 17, 1968, by Dr. Bernard Heuvelmans and journalist Ivan T. Sanderson. The story details the discovery of a 'snowman's' corpse preserved in a large block of ice, found in a fairground booth. The owner, Frank D. Hansen, provided conflicting accounts of its origin, initially claiming it was fished by Japanese sailors and later that it was found off Kamchatka. The narrative highlights the bizarre circumstances, including Hansen's evasiveness and the involvement of a mysterious Hollywood magnate. Heuvelmans' closer examination revealed decomposition and an odor, suggesting it wasn't naturally frozen. He noted human-like and simian features, questioning its authenticity. The article explores the immense difficulty of artificially replicating such a specimen, including its imperfections, hair, and even the smell of decay. It dismisses the possibility of it being a simple surgical creation or a prehistoric fossil, given its condition and the lack of evidence for such beings. The investigation delves into Hansen's behavior, his refusal to allow scientific analysis, and the eventual claim that the specimen was replaced by a replica. The FBI became involved, but the case was deemed outside their jurisdiction without proof of a crime. The article suggests a potential cover-up, possibly involving smuggling or illegal acquisition, and notes the absence of any customs records. The narrative culminates with Hansen's final, improbable claim that he killed the 'hairy man' in self-defense during a hunting trip in Minnesota, a story met with skepticism due to its implausibility and lack of corroborating evidence from local inhabitants.

Hypotheses and Scientific Scrutiny

The 'frozen man' case is analyzed through various hypotheses: a complete fake, an ordinary human from an unknown race, a genetic anomaly, a hybrid, or a fossilized human. The article leans towards the possibility of an unknown, surviving hominid. It discusses the scientific community's resistance to new discoveries, citing a statement by Professor J. Biegert of the University of Zurich, who dismissed the idea of surviving Neanderthals as an absurdity and emphasized the dominance of Homo Sapiens. The article criticizes this stance as a denial of the unknown. It further explores the possibility of Neanderthals surviving and their representation in prehistoric art, suggesting that depictions of hairy beings alongside animals might represent them. The 'Iceman' of Minnesota, though deceased, is presented as having 'hidden again' from a science that reacted with horror.

The 'Iceman' and its Journey

The article traces the 'frozen man' specimen's movements, including its exhibition in Canada and its eventual return to the US under suspicious circumstances, hinting at powerful connections. Hansen's subsequent claims about a replica and his demand for total amnesty before revealing more details add to the intrigue. The case is linked to the drug trade and military secrets, suggesting a complex web of illicit activities and cover-ups. The article references the work of Boris Porchnev on hominoids and their geographical distribution, suggesting the continued existence of some specimens, possibly including the 'hairy man' found in Vietnam and brought back by Hansen.

The Mysteries of the Moon

This section compiles a chronological list of unexplained phenomena observed on the Moon, starting from December 10, 1685, with Bianchini's observation of a 'reddish ray' in the Platon crater during an eclipse. Subsequent entries detail sightings of luminous spots, rays, geometric lights, and even the disappearance of a crater. Notable observations include those by Webb, Ingall, Trouvelot, Gruithuisen, Holton, Burgess, and numerous astronomers during a 1944 event where something reflecting solar light was seen in the Platon crater. The list also includes reports of UFOs appearing en masse on the Moon in December 1947, with numerous luminous points. More specific sightings include an 'immense bridge' in the Sea of Crises, a straight band resembling a landing strip, a bright blue-violet light, and a 'discharge electric' phenomenon. The section concludes with a Japanese professor observing inscriptions on the Moon's surface and a report of a temporary hill. The final entries from the 1960s describe bands of light, flying saucers, and flashing lights in various craters.

Stories of the Living Dead

This section explores the historical fear of being buried alive and the customs and precautions taken to avoid it. It recounts instances of individuals mistakenly declared dead who later revived, often in horrifying circumstances. The article mentions ancient practices like the tombs of Syracuse with air holes and provisions, Roman customs of waiting days before burial, and Chinese and Tartar traditions. It highlights the persistent fear throughout the Middle Ages and the 19th century, leading to widespread panic about premature burials and the emergence of myths like vampires, fueled by cases of 'living dead' whose bodies showed signs of life after death, such as hair and nail growth. The text provides anecdotal evidence of resuscitations, including a man revived in a common grave, a bishop who awoke before his funeral, and an anatomist who was dissecting a man who then sat up. It also recounts a case of a young girl presumed dead who was violated by a priest before her burial, only to later give birth to his child.

The Science of Death and Life

The article critically examines traditional diagnostic methods for death, arguing that none are infallible and have led to premature burials. It questions the reliability of electroencephalograms and electrocardiograms, citing cases of individuals who were clinically dead but revived. The concept of death is presented as not instantaneous, with cellular life persisting for varying durations. The article challenges the traditional understanding of cell death, suggesting a hierarchy where the destruction of higher-value cells doesn't immediately lead to the destruction of lower-value ones. It notes that phenomena like hair and nail growth after death, previously cited as proof of life, are now understood differently. The text emphasizes that modern medical equipment can detect subtle signs of life, and mentions fakirs and yogis who can induce states of partial insensibility. It discusses catalepsy, cardiac arrest, and the possibility of slow-motion biological processes, citing the case of a drowned student who was revived after 38 minutes. The article concludes by noting that some animals can survive extended periods underwater by slowing their metabolism, suggesting a potential parallel for humans.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent human fascination with the unknown, the challenges of scientific verification, and the potential for cover-ups and skepticism to obscure the truth. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that encourages open-minded inquiry into phenomena that defy conventional explanation, whether they be extraterrestrial, cryptid, or lunar anomalies. It highlights historical accounts and ongoing research, suggesting that established scientific paradigms may be too rigid to accommodate certain realities. The editorial tone seems to advocate for a deeper, more comprehensive approach to understanding mysteries, urging readers to question official narratives and consider alternative possibilities.

This issue of "OVNI & SOCIO-PSYCHOLOGIE" (likely from late 1979, given the reference to a TV debate on September 24, 1979) explores a range of topics related to unexplained phenomena, with a particular focus on UFOs and their potential explanations, as well as intriguing cases of apparent death and revival.

Apparent Death and Revival

The issue begins with several accounts of individuals who were revived after being presumed dead. A seven-year-old child in Lyon, France, survived being submerged in the Saône river for twenty minutes, requiring six hours of resuscitation. A 30-year-old English woman, Elsie Wering, revived ten hours after being declared dead. A Cuban boy, Armando Soccares, survived ten hours of flight in the landing gear of a plane at -19°C. These cases challenge conventional understanding of death and highlight the potential for revival even after extended periods without vital signs.

The article discusses the theory of bio-electronics, a technique that uses electronic movements at the cellular and atomic level to diagnose death or life. It suggests that this technology could prevent premature burials. The text also touches upon the phenomenon of 'buried alive,' citing statistics that suggest a significant percentage of individuals are mistakenly buried while still alive. It describes how gravediggers have discovered evidence of struggle within coffins, such as gnawed bones and torn flesh, indicating the person was alive when buried.

A French inventor has developed a special coffin designed to aid survival if buried alive. This coffin includes an air supply, a chemical toilet, and communication devices. The article mentions the inventor's own experience of being buried alive fifteen years prior.

UFO Sightings and Investigations

The magazine reports on a dramatic UFO incident involving Val Johnson, a deputy sheriff in Warren, Minnesota, USA. He described being attacked by a bright light on a rural road, which caused him to lose consciousness, burn his eyes, and damage his car. This event was investigated by the Centre d'Etudes d'Ojets Volanta Non Identifiés (CEOVNI).

Another report details an observation by Rua Johnson, an automobilist from Vermillion, South Dakota, USA, who witnessed a bright light approaching his car, forcing him to stop. The light illuminated his car before disappearing.

An investigation by the GEPO (Groupe d'Etude du Phénomène O.V.N.I.) in France documented an observation in Celle-St-Cyr, Yonne, where a luminous, trapezoidal object was seen moving silently at high speed. The object was described as having dimensions similar to a tourist plane.

UFOs and Ancient Sites

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to exploring the correlation between UFO sightings and ancient sites. A map is presented showing that UFO appearances often coincide with megalithic sites, religious buildings, and ancient Templar commanderies. Examples include:

• A UFO sighting in Vareilles, near St. Maurice en Gourgois, which also has a 'talking stone,' a haunted house, and a Templar commandery.
• Sightings in the Malmont region, near Draguignan, which also hosted a famous third-kind encounter in 1973.
• An observation in Luriecq near a well-known dolmen.
• Spectacular landings at Guisay, a site with a rock with cupules, a subterranean passage, and a legend of a mysterious cave.
• Sightings near Châteauneuf, a location with a medieval castle and enigmatic underground passages.
• A presumed landing at La Tour En Jaros, a site that once housed a pyramid dedicated to the Sun God.
• Sightings near Saint-Cyprien, where a medieval Templar manor once stood.
• An observation of a red ball hovering over a stream near Malval, a site with unusual occurrences.
• Reports of powerful flashes of light at a location called 'Chateau-Beliss' near Pélussin, in an area with Celtic remains.

The article suggests that these correlations might indicate a deeper connection between UFO phenomena and places of ancient significance.

Pseudo-Debate on UFOs

The issue includes a transcript of a televised debate on UFOs from September 1979, featuring various experts. André Brahic, an astronomer, expressed skepticism, stating that astronomers have never seen a UFO. Alain Esterle from GEPAN countered that scientists do observe UFOs, often through their telescopes, and mentioned a Soviet report indicating scientists see more UFOs. Ichtiaque Rasool from NASA stated there wasn't enough proof. Esterle defended GEPAN's work, suggesting a physical phenomenon is behind some observations and that rejecting data a priori is an error. Jean Michel Tarre mentioned alleged CIA documents about an alien landing in Arizona. Robert Clarke stated NASA was doing nothing in this area. J-M Jarre questioned the possibility of other life forms. Ellen Margoulis, a biology professor, argued that imagining other life forms is difficult based solely on human criteria.

The debate then shifted to the existence of extraterrestrial life and radio astronomy. Brahic noted the nearest star is four light-years away. The discussion highlighted the challenges in detecting extraterrestrial signals due to the vastness of space and the multitude of signals emitted by planets.

The section concludes with a critical assessment of the debate, calling it unambitious and lamenting the lack of progress in understanding UFOs. It mentions an upcoming program on UFOs on FR3.

Socio-Psychological Explanations

Another section explores the socio-psychological hypothesis for UFOs, suggesting that they might be a creation of the collective unconscious influenced by myths. It cites examples of misidentifications, such as a farmer mistaking a car repair for a Martian repairing his saucer, and clouds playing tricks with the moon to create the illusion of an orange-shaped object.

However, the article cautions against applying this hypothesis universally, stating, "One should not make the particular a general theory." It also presents a case from Indiana, USA, where a 12-year-old boy named Oliver disappeared near a well, with his cries heard from above, suggesting a possible abduction scenario.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the mystery of UFOs, the scientific and pseudoscientific approaches to understanding them, the nature of life and death, and the potential connection between modern phenomena and ancient sites. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and evidence, from scientific skepticism to belief in extraterrestrial visitation and the significance of ancient mysteries. There's a clear interest in exploring the boundaries of current scientific understanding and challenging conventional explanations for unexplained events.

Title: LULIERES DANS LA NUIT
Issue: Nº188
Date: November 1979

This issue of LULIERES DANS LA NUIT, published by Nouvelles Editions Rationnalistes, focuses on the extraterrestrial hypothesis as an explanation for UFO phenomena. The cover headline, "Sur ce que vaut encore la thèse extra-terrestre?" (On the value of the extraterrestrial hypothesis?), sets the tone for an exploration of various sightings and their potential implications.

Extraterrestrial Hypothesis and Witness Testimony

The article begins by discussing a phenomenon where approximately 250 men witnessed "stationary clouds in the shape of bread" that later disappeared. It notes that the extraterrestrial hypothesis is frequently suggested in many cases, acknowledging that witnesses might be influenced by their professions (e.g., a nurse seeing flying syringes, a jeweler observing a pectoral-like object).

Notable Sightings and Encounters

Two significant incidents are detailed:

• August 25, 1951: In Lubbock, Texas, USA, numerous witnesses, including scientists, observed a light formation arranged in a semi-circle. The event is reported to have occurred twice.
• April 25, 1977: A Chilean corporal and seven soldiers on patrol encountered a luminous phenomenon in a field. Described as a light "twenty meters in diameter and oval-shaped," the corporal was drawn to the object, disappeared under its influence, and reappeared later with a beard, his watch having advanced by five days and fifteen minutes.

The text emphasizes that dozens of similar accounts exist worldwide. It posits that while the unknown may reside in nature, it is difficult to distinguish between an unknown natural phenomenon and an illusion.

Analysis and Skepticism

Michel Monnerie is quoted questioning whether humanity is merely "the playthings of extraterrestrials or the playthings of ourselves?" He suggests that the omnipresent myth of UFOs awakens with every opportunity for observation, leading to a potential over-reliance on the extraterrestrial explanation. The authors acknowledge that while the extraterrestrial theory is compelling, there is a significant leap required to apply it universally to all UFO phenomena.

Evidence and Explanations

The issue raises questions about the explanations for the evidence presented in UFO cases, such as traces on the ground (col), "angel hair," photographs, and physical effects on witnesses. It suggests that after careful examination, many "proofs" elude rational explanation.

Cited Works and Authors

The article references several books and authors contributing to the discussion on UFOs and unexplained phenomena:

• "Sur ce que vaut encore la thèse extra-terrestre?" by Gerard Marchais (from LULIERES DANS LA NUIT Nº188)
• "La grande peur Hartienne" by G. Barthel and J. Brucker (published by Nouvelles Editions Rationnalistes)
• "Disparitions Mysterieuses" by Patrice Gaston (published by Robert Laffont)
• "Le Naufrage des extru-terrestres" by Bichol Monzuris (published by Nouvelles editions rationnalistes)
• A report from "L'Union" on November 30, 1979
• "Le dossier secret des OVNI" by A. Soneider & H. Malthaner (published by De Vecchi)
• "Et si les OVNI n'existaiont pas?" by Michel Monnerie (published by Humanoides Associés)
• Works by J.C. Bourret (published by Editions Franco Empire)

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the exploration of the extraterrestrial hypothesis as a potential explanation for UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting evidence and witness accounts while also acknowledging skepticism and the possibility of psychological influences or other unknown natural phenomena. The publication encourages readers to consider the evidence but also to approach the subject with a degree of caution, recognizing the difficulty in definitively proving extraterrestrial involvement.