GEPO No 29 - OVNI & Cie - GEPO Informations - No 29 - 1er trim 1983

Magazine Overview

This issue of GEPO INFORMATIONS et compagnie, dated March 1983, features a cover illustration depicting a surreal cityscape and a crowd looking upwards, suggesting themes of mystery and discovery. The magazine is published by GEPO INFORMATIONS et compagnie and is in French.

Editorial (Ronald Juille)

The editorial discusses Bertrand Méheust's article questioning why science fiction writers tend to avoid the UFO phenomenon. It explores the idea of a 'collective unconscious' and how myths can become reality. The editorial highlights how the process of becoming aware of a psychic process modifies that process, posing the question of its role in the evolution of phenomena. It references historical media events that caused public panic, such as Orson Welles' 1938 'War of the Worlds' radio broadcast and Jean Nocher's 1946 broadcast in France, as well as a similar incident involving J.C. Bourset in 1962. These examples illustrate how media can create widespread fear and illusion.

The Ufologist's Journey

Jean-Pierre Troadec's article, 'Comment peut-on expliquer la démission de certains ufologues?', analyzes the reasons behind the abandonment of ufology by some enthusiasts. It identifies two main types of ufologists: the young student who becomes deeply immersed, and the married man who dedicates his free time to the subject. The article suggests that while ufology can be a passionate pursuit, it often leads to isolation and can strain personal relationships. It notes that many ufologists eventually leave the field, often due to disillusionment, a feeling of having exhausted the subject, or life changes. The piece also touches on the cyclical nature of ufological research, where new investigators often repeat the work of predecessors.

The Nature of Ufology and Its Practitioners

Another section, likely continuing Troadec's analysis, further explores the characteristics and challenges of ufology. It acknowledges that despite skepticism from some scientists, dedicated and competent ufologists exist. However, it points out that the field can be perceived as lacking seriousness due to uncoordinated projects and a lack of follow-through. The article distinguishes between serious ufologists and 'soucoupistes' (saucerists), who often hold more fantastical beliefs about extraterrestrial visitors. It emphasizes the scientific approach required for credible ufological research and notes that the field has not progressed significantly over decades, with researchers often repeating past mistakes.

Ufology as a Demanding Pursuit

The article stresses that ufology is a demanding mistress that requires commitment and adaptation. It suggests that for those who find it difficult to manage alone, involving partners or friends can make the passion more sustainable. The piece calls for ufologists to be conscious of their responsibility and to continue their work with rigor and dedication, learning from the experiences of those who came before. It criticizes the nostalgic adherence to outdated ideas and encourages adaptation to new perspectives.

Ufology and Media Influence

The issue also features a section titled 'LA PRESSE UFOLOGIQUE' (Ufological Press), which lists various ufological publications and their contents. These include 'OVNI-PRESENCE', 'CENAP-REPORT', 'UFOLOGIA', 'UFO-INFORMATIONS', 'RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES', 'BULLETIN DU GEOVNI', 'NUOVE REALTA NOTIZIE', 'IMSA CONTACT EST NOI', and 'AURIAU'. These listings provide insight into the ufological landscape and the topics being discussed within the community, often touching upon media portrayals, scientific investigations, and historical cases.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of ufology, the psychology of ufologists, the impact of media on public perception of unexplained phenomena, and the challenges of conducting serious research in the field. The editorial stance appears to advocate for a rigorous, scientific approach to ufology while acknowledging the passionate dedication of its practitioners. It highlights the historical influence of media in shaping public opinion about UFOs and encourages ufologists to maintain credibility through diligent and honest investigation.

This issue features an in-depth interview with ufologist Henry Durrani, conducted by Thierry Rocher. The interview, spanning multiple pages, delves into Durrani's research methods, his latest book, and his views on the current state of ufology. The magazine also includes several short reports on recent UFO-related incidents and a discussion about the controversial 'Sonder Buro' organization.

Interview with Henry Durrani

Durrani's Latest Book and Research Methods

Thierry Rocher (TR) begins by asking Henry Durrani (HD) about his new, fourth book, which Durrani describes as 'dense and unbalanced.' He reveals that the book uses the Old Testament as its primary source, explaining that he could not have started with older texts due to material limitations. Durrani emphasizes that his approach is not one of interpretation but of strict re-translation, aligning the biblical texts with geological, paleontological, and archaeological research. He notes that the phenomenon described in the Bible follows a similar pattern to scientific explanations, suggesting that either everything is random or there are non-coincidental patterns at play.

Durrani explains that his method of logical deduction, moving from earlier periods to the present, allows for predicting future periods and understanding interstellar transport. He believes this approach can make the existence of extraterrestrial craft conceivable to 'reasonable' people.

The Extraterrestrial Hypothesis and Historical Texts

When asked if it's appropriate to link UFO phenomena to the extraterrestrial hypothesis, Durrani states it's a hypothesis 'nourished by facts,' first articulated by Major D.E. Keyhoe. He acknowledges other hypotheses but argues they often suppress inconvenient cases. He specifically dismisses the socio-psychological hypothesis as insufficient on its own but suggests it can integrate other explanations.

Durrani criticizes the idea that UFOs are solely psychological phenomena, stating that many researchers have spent considerable time and resources trying to prove UFOs don't exist, only to find they continue to manifest. He asserts that if the evidence presented by dependent researchers were valid, UFOs would no longer be a topic of discussion, and psychiatric clinics would be full. He claims to have acquired certainty through rigorous investigation.

He explains that understanding people from different time periods requires 'plunging into texts,' particularly those with apparent 'errors' that are actually anomalies designed to make the reader think. He mentions that the Old Testament has remained unchanged for millennia and that its passages can be extraordinary and troubling when viewed through the lens of UFO research. He also touches upon the possibility of biblical texts being mathematically calculated before being coded, a feat that computers can now perform.

The 'Sonder Buro' Controversy

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the 'Sonder Buro Nr 13,' a supposed Nazi UFO research organization. Durrani reveals that he invented this information. He explains that he was contacted by Thierry Pinvidic, who had read his book 'Le Noeud Cordien.' After a phone conversation, Pinvidic learned that the 'Sonder Buro' information was fabricated and that Durrani was not the only one to have used it. Durrani admits to sending a letter to Mr. Dorier of AAMT to confirm these facts, and Philippe Schneider of CNROVNI-France also confirmed the fabrication.

Durrani recounts how he sent a letter to Henry Durrant in September 1982, informing him of this contradiction. Durrant replied that the 'Sonder Buro Nr 13' information appeared in his 1970 book, 'Le Livre Noir des Soucoupes Volantes,' and that it was his experience that this information was fabricated. Durrani expresses disappointment that some ufologists seem to believe anything presented to them, even if it's fabricated, as long as it appears interesting. He cites several authors who have mentioned the 'Sonder Buro' without verifying the source.

Views on Independent Ufology and Science Fiction

Durrani expresses reservations about the current state of independent ufology, stating he 'swims lamentably' in it. He acknowledges the group 'LDLN' as well-structured but feels his own network of informants has been more effective. He confirms that his book information is verified, having abandoned journalism in 1967 due to its lack of seriousness. He believes that in the field of UFO research, everything must be controlled.

Regarding the case of Cergy-Pontoise, he expresses respect for Jimmy Guieu but notes that Guieu himself was later misled. Durrani's interest in ufology began in 1966-67 after a difficult personal event, which led him to see the 'global problem' of UFOs.

He views science fiction as a genre with significant literary merit, superior to some contemporary novels. However, he dislikes the term 'mysterious' and prefers to remain grounded. He has no scientific basis to appreciate parapsychology, which he notes is being seriously studied by the Russians under the name 'psychotronics.'

The Future of Ufology and Media Influence

Durrani predicts that ufology, like parapsychology, will eventually be discovered by mainstream scientists under a different name. He believes that the best approach is to continue research seriously without imposing one's viewpoint as the sole explanation. He has conducted solitary investigations but has not participated in official inquiries.

He acknowledges receiving a lot of mail regarding his books, but believes their impact is limited due to the small proportion of people interested in UFOs. He is optimistic that UFOs will become less astonishing and feared.

Durrani is critical of media influence, particularly citing films like Spielberg's 'E.T.' He argues that media actions are inherently negative as they reflect the established society. He believes that 'E.T.' and 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' were presented as science fiction to bypass societal scrutiny.

Other Topics

Durrani discusses his preference for independent work, avoiding 'sectarian quarrels.' He mentions that his fourth book will be the culmination of his research. He also touches upon the possibility of extraterrestrial life being involved in the 're-habitation' of a pre-existing planet, suggesting a radical shift in religious and philosophical understanding.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the extraterrestrial hypothesis and historical anomalies. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous, evidence-based research, with a critical eye towards sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of verifying information and a skepticism towards established narratives, whether scientific, historical, or media-driven. The 'Sonder Buro' incident highlights a concern with the potential for fabrication and deception within the ufology community itself. The recurring theme is the persistent nature of the UFO phenomenon and the ongoing efforts to understand it through diverse research methodologies, including historical text analysis and investigative journalism.

Title: OVNI & COMPAGNIE
Issue: N°29
Date: Janvier-Février-Mars 1983 (January-February-March 1983)
Type: Quarterly bulletin of information and liaison
Publisher: OVNI & Cie
Affiliation: CEPO (Groupe d'Etude du Phénomène OVNI), officially registered under the French law of July 1, 1901. Member of the FFU (Fédération Française d'Ufologie).

Editorial Policy and Content

The editorial team of OVNI & COMPAGNIE has implemented a new policy to ensure the exclusivity of its published content. This decision was made in response to the recurring issue of the same articles appearing in multiple different magazines, which is seen as a waste of space and financial resources. Consequently, the magazine will now only publish articles for which it has total exclusivity. The pages are open to all contributors, but the responsibility for the content of any published article rests solely with the author, with the editorial staff disclaiming any liability.

Upcoming Events

Congress of the Fédération Française d'Ufologie (FFU)

• Location: Lyon (Rhône-France)
• Dates: May 7 and 8, 1983

The FFU is organizing a ufology congress over a weekend in May. This event is expected to bring together French and international ufologists who will present their research and work. Presentations will be conducted in French. The organizers aim to create a dynamic environment rich in new information.

• For inquiries regarding the congress, interested parties can contact:
• General Secretariat of the FFU: J.P. TROADEC, 45 Rue du Bon Pasteur, 69001 LYON.
• For international inquiries: FFU-Relations Exterieures, Richard VARRAULT, 71, Rue Du Dauphiné, 69003 LYON-France.

Publication and Contact Information

• ISSN: 0247-3704
• Secretariat: 42470 Saint-Symphorien-de-Lay (France)
• Telephone: 16(77) 64.72.51
• Responsible individuals: MM DELILLE, ROCHER & JUILLE
• Editorial: Dominique DELILLE
• Cover: Thierry ROCHER (Reproduction prohibited)
• Photocopies: M. GIRARD
• Printing: GEPO (Volunteer Realization)

The bulletin was officially declared on June 4, 1960, at the Parquet of the Procureur de la République of the Tribunal de Grande Instance of Roanne (Loire).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue revolves around the organization and announcement of a significant ufology conference, highlighting the collaborative efforts within the French ufological community and its international connections. The editorial stance emphasizes a commitment to quality and exclusivity in content, aiming to provide unique and valuable information to its readership while managing resources efficiently. The publication also serves as an official organ for disseminating information and fostering communication within the ufology field.