GEPO No 22 - OVNI & Cie - GEPO Informations - No 22 - janv- avril 1981

Magazine Overview

Title: OVNI & COMPAGNIE
Issue: Nº22
Date: January-February-March-April 1981
Publisher: GEPO (Groupement d'Etude du Phénomène O.V.N.I.)
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of OVNI & COMPAGNIE, published by GEPO, is a bulletin dedicated to the study of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). It aims to inform and foster open discussion within the ufology community.

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the past year, 1980, for the GEPO group, noting its steady progress, regular bulletin publication, and increased contacts through meetings and conferences. A significant development highlighted is the group's recognition of the importance of parapsychology in UFO studies, acknowledging the influence of Michel Monnerie in bringing this perspective to light. The editorial emphasizes that while the group is exploring this hypothesis, it remains open to other possibilities. It describes the current issue (Nº22) as high in both quality and quantity, featuring a cover created by Ronald Juille and Thierry Rocher. The content is presented as being more 'scientific' with articles on 'the greenhouse effect,' 'holograms,' and a dossier on 'Sleep and Dreams.' The issue also includes an article questioning whether history can be changed and reiterates the publication's commitment to freedom of expression. Regular sections like 'Observations,' 'Networks,' and 'Press Service' are present, along with a new science fiction column by Thierry Rocher. The editorial concludes by wishing readers a Happy New Year 1981 and expressing hope for advancements in ufology.

Dossier Observations

This section compiles various UFO sighting reports from different dates and locations:

• January 14, 1980: A Malian defense minister reportedly communicated a secret report to the Ansa agency about UFOs observed by air traffic controllers. The report allegedly detailed an oval object appearing during a military exercise on October 27, 1977, involving multiple military bases and aircraft, observed by pilots for approximately four minutes at an altitude of 4500-10000 meters.
• August 8, 1980: An oval object was observed for several hours off the coast of Palawan, Philippines. The following day, flying saucers were seen over Burrias and near Chico and San Fernando.
• September 16, 1980: In Cusset, Allier, France, witnesses observed three luminous objects performing a strange ballet in the sky. One object, described as a white, red, and green blinking light, disappeared and reappeared, then flew towards Vichy.
• October 1980: Residents of Bonneuil sur Marne, France, reported seeing two star-like lights, one larger than the other, connected by an intense white-yellow core. A third, different object, red, yellow, and green, appeared later, moving slowly and then abruptly stopping.
• October 5, 1980: A large, red, blinking object remained stationary for three minutes near Waterloo, France, before disappearing.
• October 29, 1980: An oval object was sighted near La Verpillère, Saint Symphorien de Lay, France.
• October 3, 1980: In Saint-Léger-du-Roanne, France, a nurseryman observed two luminous, stationary lights in the sky, positioned in a line, at an altitude of 300-500 meters.

Catalogues and Information

This issue also includes several lists and information sections:

• Réalité ou fiction Nº6 (GPUN): A publication featuring articles on ufoscopy and simultaneous observation of luminous phenomena.
• UFO information spécial Nº28 (AAMT): A study on orthoteny and isocely, described as a complete and interesting dossier but too scientific for the general public.
• Les chroniques de la CLEU Nº14: Covers the Cergy-Pontoise/Valensole affair, the Vidal case, and Atlantis.
• Panorama UFO Nº2 et 3: An Italian journal with photocopied press articles and in-depth pieces on UFOs in Italy and worldwide, including ancient accounts and unusual reports.
• Ufologie Nº24 spécial URSS (CFRU): Focuses on UFOs in the USSR, a new Amityville in Italy, and current events.
• Recherches ufologiques Nº11 (GNEOVNI): Features articles on the president's words, a potentially controversial article, research at a higher level, and the existence of anti-UFO sentiment.
• OVNI 43 Nº12 (GLRU): Includes 'The Great Paranoia' by J. Bastide, a journey around the red planet, and God facing UFOs.
• UFO bulletin Nº6 (SLUB): Discusses hypotheses on the functioning of SVs, a UFO pursuit of a caravelle, and the link between parapsychology and ufology.
• Circulaire de liaison Nº9 (CEMOCPI): Reports on ongoing work, research direction on the Pilat maternal area, and inter-CEMOCPI activities.
• Skywatch Nº37 (MAPIT): Features articles on the Loch Ness enigma and sightings, presented in English.
• Lumières dans la nuit Nº198 (LDLN): Covers atmospheric anomalies in the USSR, extraterrestrial contact, and the Motunau photo.
• Le phénomène ovni Nº12 (CSERU): Discusses UFOs of the past, the ET hypothesis, and dirigibles versus balloons in 1909.
• CATALOGUE MONDIAL PASQUALINI - GEPO: A detailed list of UFO sightings recorded by Mr. Jm Pasqualini from January to November 1955, noting dates, locations, and object classifications.

La Grande Paranoia

This section presents an excerpt from a letter by Jean Bastide, addressed to GEPO and other UFO groups, critiquing J. Robin's book "Les objets volants non-identifiés ou la grande parodie." Bastide argues that Robin suggests UFO phenomena are part of a long-standing, orchestrated plan by military and scientific entities, manipulated by 'E.T.' or 'intra-terrestrials.' Bastide finds Robin's assimilation of Nazism, ufology, and demonology problematic, suggesting Robin's work stems from a 'great paranoia' characterized by ego inflation, exaggerated suspicion, and biased judgment. Bastide concludes that while Robin's work might be a parody, it risks misleading readers.

GEPO: GE POING

This article discusses the GEPO group's approach to ufology, emphasizing a desire to advance and evolve. It acknowledges the challenges and the need for individual contributions. The group aims to be more than just a passive observer, actively seeking knowledge and integrating parapsychology into their studies. They face limitations in resources and time, making active participation in large-scale ufological research difficult. The bulletin serves as their primary means of contact with other groups. The article also touches upon the concept of 'reciprocity' in information exchange and the personal lives of members impacting their ufological work. The group's dual presence in Paris and Saint-Symphorien de Lay is seen as an advantage for staying informed. They acknowledge that large gatherings are often inaccessible due to distance. The article concludes by stating that while the existence of 'something' is accepted, the next challenge is to understand 'why' and 'how' it exists.

A Newcomer in French Ufology: GE.O.V.I.

This section introduces the GE.O.V.I. (Groupement d'Etudes des Objets Volants Inconnus), a new association founded in Clermont-Ferrand a year prior. GE.O.V.I. aims to study UFO phenomena rigorously and seriously, avoiding political and religious polemics. It is currently the only association in the Puy-de-Dome region dedicated to UFOs and astronomy. The group has grown into a significant regional association, comprising individuals from diverse professions and age groups. GE.O.V.I. emphasizes its scientific nature and its role in raising public awareness about UFOs. Their activities include public meetings for serious discussions, astronomical information sessions with slide projections, and dedicated study evenings for observing the sky and potential UFOs. They possess advanced equipment and a dedicated observation field. Future plans include establishing a specialized library and conducting investigations throughout the Auvergne region. The section highlights a recent investigation in Pinols (Haute Loire) where two witnesses reported a phenomenon that coincided with a similar sighting four years prior, suggesting a periodicity. The group is actively seeking investigators from all regions of France to expand its research network.

Becoming a GE.O.V.I. Investigator

This section outlines how individuals can become investigators for GE.O.V.I. It requires writing to the association and sending a form with a 50 franc payment, which grants a membership card and the right to conduct investigations. Members are expected to submit their findings for publication in the GE.O.V.I. journal. The section also promotes subscribing to the upcoming GE.O.V.I. revue, which will feature investigations, witness accounts, photos, poems, and games. Additionally, GE.O.V.I. plans to release an emblem sticker. The importance of solidarity among ufological associations is stressed to scientifically demonstrate the reality of UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes open discussion and freedom of expression in the field of ufology. It emphasizes a scientific approach while acknowledging the potential role of parapsychology. The publication aims to inform the public and connect various ufological groups, fostering collaboration and solidarity. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to engage with different perspectives, as seen in the critique of Jean Robin's book. The magazine also highlights the activities of ufological groups, encouraging reader participation in research and investigation.

This issue of 'LE SOMMEIL' (The Sleep) delves into various aspects of sleep, dreams, and related phenomena, extending into philosophical and scientific explorations of time travel, parapsychology, and the physics of light.

The Science of Sleep

The magazine begins by emphasizing the importance of sleep, stating that humans spend approximately 30 years of their lives sleeping. It introduces the electro-encephalograph (EEG) as a revolutionary tool developed around 1950 for studying sleep by measuring brainwave variations. The text explains that sleep is characterized by different cycles, influenced by internal biological rhythms (circadian rhythms) and external factors like light. It details the various rhythms: high frequency (cellular, pulse, respiration), medium frequency (circadian, endocrine), and low frequency (longer cycles like menstrual or hibernation).

Sleep Stages

The issue meticulously describes the stages of sleep. Stage 1, or light sleep, is a transition phase with decreasing alpha waves. Stage 2 involves beta waves and is characterized by eye movements and sensitivity to external stimuli. Stage 3 marks the transition to deep sleep with delta waves. Stage 4 is deep sleep, where delta waves are at their maximum. Paradoxical sleep (SP), also known as REM sleep, is presented as a distinct phase where the brain shows activity similar to wakefulness, with rapid eye movements and dreaming. This phase constitutes about 20% of total sleep time.

Functions of Sleep

Sleep, particularly REM sleep, is described as having restorative functions, including the production of dreams, mental fatigue restoration, and facilitation of learning and memory. Slow-wave sleep (SL) is associated with physical restoration, healing, and wound cicatrization. The text notes that the brain remains active during sleep, processing information.

Sleep Disorders and Phenomena

The magazine discusses various sleep-related phenomena and disorders. It touches upon the effects of sleep deprivation, noting that it impairs attention, learning, and memory, and can lead to psychological issues. It also covers hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness) and insomnia, distinguishing between accidental and maladaptive forms. Causes for insomnia are varied, including external stimuli, psychological factors, and underlying medical conditions. The text suggests remedies such as herbal infusions, relaxation techniques, yoga, and acupuncture, while cautioning against the overuse of medication.

Dreams and the Unconscious

Dreams are presented as essential for mental balance and as a mediator between unconscious desires and conscious language. The psychoanalytic perspective suggests that forgotten dreams are those that have fulfilled their role. Dreams can be influenced by external sensory stimuli, internal physical or mental states, and recent events or childhood memories. The structure of a dream is divided into manifest content (images) and latent content (abstract thought), regulated by the unconscious mind's censorship. Dreams are described as a continuous flow of images and emotions, often using a logic different from conscious thought.

Paranormal Aspects of Dreams

The issue explores the connection between dreams and parapsychological phenomena, including precognition, clairvoyance, and telepathy. It notes that while historically taken seriously, these phenomena are now studied by parapsychology. The text suggests that dreams can sometimes reflect or influence events, though distinguishing between genuine paranormal experiences and coincidences or subliminal memory is challenging. It highlights research from the Maimonides Hospital suggesting that ESP phenomena are facilitated during REM sleep and that individuals might use their psi faculties to resolve problems during dreams. The concept of 'psi vigilance' is introduced, where the mind explores its internal and external environment during sleep to identify threats.

Time Travel and History

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the philosophical implications of time travel, inspired by a dialogue from a science fiction novel. It poses the question of whether one can change the course of history. The text posits that while a time traveler might exist physically in the past, direct interference with major events, such as altering one's lineage, would be impossible due to the risk of creating temporal paradoxes and endangering the future. The moral implications of such actions are also considered.

Physics of Light: Lasers and Holograms

The magazine concludes with an explanation of lasers and holograms. It defines optics as the branch of physics concerned with light, describing light as waves and explaining that natural light is composed of all colors of the spectrum, while coherent light, produced by lasers, consists of waves of identical length. The process by which lasers amplify light through stimulated emission is detailed. Holograms are then explained as a method for recording and displaying three-dimensional images, preserving depth and parallax, which are made possible by the coherent light source of a laser.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the multifaceted nature of sleep and dreams, their psychological and physiological significance, and their potential connection to extraordinary phenomena like time travel and parapsychology. The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific inquiry, exploring both established scientific understanding and more speculative theories, encouraging readers to consider the complex interplay between the mind, the body, and the universe. The magazine aims to educate and provoke thought on these often mysterious aspects of human experience.

This issue of "Science et Vie" from November 1980 explores a range of scientific and speculative topics, including the principles and applications of holography, the theoretical concept of black holes, the phenomenon of stigmata exemplified by Marthe Robin, and the science fiction genre's relationship with scientific progress. It also touches upon environmental concerns like the greenhouse effect.

Holography: Capturing Reality in 3D

The magazine begins with an in-depth explanation of holography. It describes how holograms create a three-dimensional image that allows viewers to perceive different perspectives of an object, even seeing around hidden parts. The realization of holograms is attributed to the invention of holographic plates capable of recording thousands of lines per millimeter and the invention of the laser. The process of recording a hologram involves splitting a laser beam, with one part directed onto the holographic plate and the other onto the object. The object then diffuses light onto the plate, where it interferes with the direct beam. This interference pattern, representing the object's optical path and relief, is memorized on the plate. To reconstruct the image, the developed plate is illuminated by a point-like monochromatic light source in the same position as the original laser. The result is a luminous image, an exact volumetric replica of the object. The article also mentions various techniques to enhance holographic images, making them brighter, observable in white light, superimposable, viewable by reflection, and capable of displaying true colors.

Further applications of holography are listed, including the creation of large-scale laser-observable holograms, maquette holograms, advertising holograms, and signaling holograms. Other applications include non-destructive testing of parts (checking forms, thicknesses, surface states, and displacements), optical information processing, and data storage. The Musée de l'Holographie at the Centre Beaubourg in Paris is mentioned.

Black Holes: Theoretical Wonders or Scientific Fact?

The issue then shifts to the fascinating and extraordinary concept of black holes, described as a theoretical construct born from the imagination of mathematicians. The article questions whether they are purely theoretical or have a basis in reality, noting that they challenge many established concepts. Philosophically, if matter can be absorbed, it might also be restituted elsewhere, potentially leading to the creation of galaxies and challenging religious narratives of creation. Black holes also question Einstein's laws of relativity and the speed of light, as they are theorized to possess such strong gravitational pull that they could capture planets and stars, implying speeds exceeding that of light. The article suggests that black holes are a modern human fantasy, a way to subjugate society by making scientists appear intelligent and advancing science through fantastical ideas when truth is not sufficiently compelling.

It is argued that science fiction often provides the imaginative fuel for scientific progress. The article uses Jules Verne's works as an example, noting that his fictional submarines and lunar capsules have become realities. It poses the question of where fiction ends and science begins, suggesting that while black holes are currently hypothetical, they might become reality in the future. The article criticizes the public's acceptance of black holes as fact due to extensive advertising and commercial hype, comparing it to the trend of skateboarding. It also points out that researchers often leverage popular trends to gain credibility, citing examples of scientists affiliated with universities or observatories.

Marthe Robin: The Last Stigmatized Person?

This section delves into the phenomenon of stigmata, which has been documented since St. Francis of Assisi in 1224. Stigmatized individuals, typically pious women, are said to experience the Passion of Christ, manifesting bloody marks (wounds) on their bodies, particularly on Fridays. They reportedly enter ecstatic states, bleed profusely, and survive on consecrated hosts alone. The term 'stigmatized' is derived from the resemblance of these marks to bruises. While often seen as a religious phenomenon, the article notes that stigmata might have pre-Christian origins, citing the example of Spiménide of Cnossos in the 6th century BC, who practiced extreme fasting and maceration and was believed to possess supernatural powers. The article focuses on Marthe Robin, a contemporary stigmatized individual living in seclusion in a village in the Drome region of France. Her condition reportedly began on November 11, 1918, when she collapsed at the age of 16. Despite her condition, she reportedly offered advice, provided some care, healed the sick, and converted non-believers. Following this, she gained followers, including Abbé Finet, who took charge of her care. From that point on, she lived in darkness, rarely eating or drinking except for the consecrated host, and continued to exhibit stigmata. The article expresses skepticism about the verifiable nature of these accounts, relying on testimonies. It mentions the establishment of numerous 'Marthe Robin Foyer' centers, suggesting significant financial gain. The author questions the visibility and impact of Marthe Robin, given her seclusion and rare utterances, suggesting that the phenomenon is not easily provable.

Science Fiction: Boundaries and Evolution

The magazine features a discussion on the boundaries between science and fiction, stemming from debates organized around the release of the film "Le Trou Noir" (The Black Hole). The debates covered topics such as cinematic special effects, the nature of black holes, and the relationship between science fiction (SF) and science (SV). The article highlights that defining the precise limits of science fiction is difficult, as it often intertwines with the fantastic. It notes that SF can be seen as exploring future scientific discoveries or as a means of bringing fiction into reality. The article posits that SF has evolved, with French SF developing distinct characteristics from its American counterpart, often focusing on more socio-political themes and introducing novel concepts. The article suggests that SF's imaginative capacity drives scientific progress, providing new horizons for researchers. It argues that pure science is rare, as it is constantly aided by imagination. SF is presented as a genre with no limits, touching upon politics, history, and linguistics, and is described as 'future-fiction'. The article compares the current state of French SF cinema to that of SF books in 1950, characterized by space opera and action over ideas, but with a larger audience. It notes that "2001: A Space Odyssey" was a rare film that successfully blended ideas and special effects, but the phenomenon of UFOs gained prominence with films like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and "Star Wars," the latter being criticized for exploiting SF ideas without proper development. The article laments that films with strong ideas but fewer special effects are less recognized, and that the focus on special effects in blockbusters often overshadows the narrative. It suggests that SF cinema, like disaster and horror films, will eventually exhaust its novelty. The article also touches upon the commercial aspect of SF films, where used sets and props are recycled, and mentions the potential for SF to be used for propaganda or to create illusions. It concludes by stating that SF is a tool that can stimulate the mind and direct it towards solutions, even if the phenomenon itself remains unexplained.

Scientific Observations and Phenomena

Several brief scientific notes are included:

• Loch Ness Monitoring: M. Parker of Partech Electronics is installing special buoys with instruments in Loch Ness to monitor pollution and oceanographic data, transmitting information to the Tiros-N satellite.
• Lunar Lights: Dr. A. Mills of Leicester University suggests that lunar lights observed on the moon could be caused by solar ray diffraction on lunar dust clouds, ionization from solar radiation interacting with rocks, or the electrical charge of lunar dust.
• Isaac Newton's Hair: Analysis of Isaac Newton's hair revealed an abnormal amount of lead and mercury, possibly due to his alchemical experiments, raising questions about whether his discoveries were influenced by his mental state.
• Cosmic Flashes (Perseids): The Earth passes through a swarm of cosmic dust bodies in August, causing meteor showers known as Perseids. These dust particles, ranging from grams to tons, heat up upon entering the atmosphere, creating visible streaks. The article notes that these ionized trails can be used for radio communication. Other meteor showers mentioned include Capricornids, Alpha-Capricornids, Aquarids, and Cygnids.

The Greenhouse Effect: A Warning from Venus

The issue concludes with an explanation of the greenhouse effect, using Venus as a stark example. The process is described as solar radiation passing through the atmosphere, heating the ground and oceans, which then re-emit infrared radiation. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is opaque to infrared, trapping this heat and warming the planet. While Earth's atmosphere contains only about 0.03% CO2, Venus's atmosphere is almost entirely CO2 (97%), making it an extremely hot and inhospitable world with surface temperatures reaching 445-480°C. The article warns that human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, are increasing the CO2 concentration in Earth's atmosphere, potentially leading to a progressive and accelerated greenhouse effect. It expresses hope that this CO2 remains trapped in Earth's rocks and oceans and that the current atmospheric level is maintained, but acknowledges the risk of reaching a point of no return.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, speculation, and popular culture. There's a clear interest in phenomena that blur the lines between established science and more imaginative or theoretical concepts, such as holography, black holes, and UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, questioning established narratives and encouraging readers to think independently. The inclusion of science fiction as a source of inspiration for science suggests an open-minded approach to discovery. The article on Marthe Robin, while presented factually, carries an undertone of skepticism regarding the verifiability of the claims, reflecting a cautious approach to phenomena that lack empirical evidence. The piece on the greenhouse effect serves as a clear warning, highlighting the potential consequences of human actions on the environment and urging a proactive response.

This issue of 'Planète' magazine, identified as Volume 1, Issue 14, published in 1973, focuses on the science fiction narrative of 'La Planète Sauvage.' The cover features a striking, surreal illustration of two alien figures, hinting at the themes of extraterrestrial life and advanced civilizations. The magazine's price is listed as 12 F.

Summary of 'Oms en série' by Stefan Wul

The core of this issue is a summary of Stefan Wul's book, 'Oms en série' (also published as 'Présence du futur' by Denoël). This book served as the basis for the animated film 'La Planète Sauvage,' directed by René Laloux and Roland Topor. The narrative unfolds on the planet Ygam, where a technologically superior species, the Draags, subjugates another species known as the Oms.

The story begins with the Oms, described as a unified people working in secret, planning an 'exodus' to a new, wild continent. They secretly construct three large ships to transport a significant number of Oms away from the Draags' control. However, the journey is perilous, and one of the three ships is lost due to an accidental sinking during the crossing.

Despite the loss, the Oms reach their new continent. Meanwhile, on Ygam, the Draags, initially dismissive of the Oms' capabilities, are alerted when one of their ships accidentally discovers the fugitives. This discovery sparks panic among the Draags, who realize the Oms are far more intelligent and capable than they had assumed. A brutal extermination campaign is launched against any remaining wild Oms on other continents.

Master Sinh, a scientist previously mocked by his peers, is appointed to lead the Draag government. He advocates for the use of all means necessary to annihilate the Oms. The Draags launch ten offensive rockets towards the Oms' hidden city, but these attacks are rendered ineffective as the city is protected by an impenetrable energy field. The Oms' advanced defense capabilities leave the Draags stunned, realizing their enemies have become too intelligent.

In a strategic move, the Oms decide to bluff. They aim to convince the Draags that they possess the power to destroy Draag cities, thereby forcing the Draags to negotiate from a position of perceived weakness. The Oms present themselves not as enemies, but as defenders of their own liberty. This tactic proves successful, and the Draags accept the Oms' ultimatum.

The summary concludes by stating that on Ygam, the great Draags and the small Oms eventually form a single, unique people, implying a resolution that integrates both species.

Editorial Information

The summary is attributed to 'T.R.' The issue also lists the ISSN as 0338-111X and the price as 12 F.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of 'Planète' magazine strongly engages with themes of science fiction, alien civilizations, subjugation, rebellion, and the evolution of intelligence. The editorial stance appears to champion the underdog and highlight the potential for intelligence and unity to overcome oppression. The focus on 'La Planète Sauvage' suggests an interest in exploring complex societal structures, interspecies relations, and the future of humanity or other sentient beings. The magazine seems to position itself as a platform for thought-provoking narratives that challenge conventional perceptions of power and intelligence.