OVNI INFO 34 - No 08 - 2e trim 1980

Magazine Overview

Title: Bulletin d Information
Issue: 34
Publisher: GROUPE PALMOS
Date: Bimestriel (Bimonthly), likely 1980 based on internal references.
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the French ufology publication "Bulletin d Information" from the GROUPE PALMOS, identified as issue number 34 and volume N08, focuses heavily on a specific UFO sighting investigation and reports on the activities of ufological organizations.

Editorial

The editorial section, dated April 1, 1980, announces the return of the president after his national service, expressing optimism for the upcoming months which are packed with activities including conferences, a dinner-debate, and meetings of ufological groups in Montluçon and Dijon. The editorial emphasizes the need for continued moral, material, and financial support from members to achieve the group's objectives, such as establishing a local base, diverse activities, and acquiring investigation equipment. It also addresses concerns about external attempts to undermine objective ufological research by promoting specific theories about UFO origins. The editorial urges members to maintain an open and critical spirit, which is presented as the hallmark of GROUPE PALMOS.

Key Articles and Reports

Dossier Enquêtes: Le Cerceau de Lunel

This section details an investigation into an observation that occurred on December 19, 1979, around 7 AM near Lunel (Hérault, France). The witnesses were a mother, referred to as Madame A., and her daughter, Sylvie. The mother reported being unable to move her body while her car's engine was running, experiencing a sensation of being disconnected from her physical self, and hearing her daughter's voice as if from a distance. She also noted a powerful engine sound and a fleeting hot flash with an indefinable smell. After regaining mobility, she found the garage gate half-open and her daughter Sylvie behind it. Sylvie described seeing a luminous circle, about a meter in diameter, moving from a low wall towards a cypress tree. She described it as having a luminous aura, like a bicycle wheel without spokes, with a transparent center. She initially thought she was dreaming but then called out to her mother. When her mother emerged, the object was gone, but a large white stain, similar in size to the cypress tree's shadow, was observed on the asphalt. The observation lasted about one minute.

The investigation report includes a detailed plan of the location, noting the proximity of the RN 113, an industrial warehouse, power lines (63 KV and 15000 V), the SNCF railway line, and the Canal du Bas Rhône. The climate was clear with no wind and a temperature of around 7°C.

The report further elaborates on the phenomenon's characteristics: a circle with a diameter of 1m to 1.10m and a thickness of 5/10 mm, which moved towards the cypress tree in 7-8 seconds, estimating its speed at around 60 km/h. It was observed only by Sylvie, while her mother experienced physical effects. The white stain was pear-shaped, approximately 2 meters wide at the base and 3 meters high.

Witness testimonies are analyzed: Madame A. is described as not believing in UFOs but having had an extraordinary experience, recalling a previous frightening incident with her TV in August 1979. Sylvie, who believes in UFOs, did not assimilate the event to an extraterrestrial manifestation. The report notes concordance between their testimonies: Sylvie saw the phenomenon, and her mother felt its effects.

An annex mentions that during thunderstorms, blue flames emanated from electrical outlets and switches in Madame A.'s house, leading to the installation of an isolating socket. The house's electrical transformer was also damaged by lightning. Madame A. is sensitive to static electricity. Shortly before the observation, her two dogs and two cats were found lying together in front of the entrance door, seemingly eager to get inside. No physical traces were found on the ground.

The conclusion of the Lunel investigation states that it was a very good observation providing interesting elements for studying a specific type of unidentified phenomenon, suggesting it was not extraterrestrial but rather an unknown electromagnetic phenomenon.

Compte Rendu de la 6ième Session du C.E.C.R.U.

This section provides a summary of the 6th session of the European Committee for Ufological Research (CECRU), held in Avignon on October 27-28, 1979. The report, established by the GREPC (Groupement de Recherches et d'Etudes du Phénomène OVNI - Vaucluse), highlights key discussions and decisions. René FAUDRIIN, President of GREPO, opened the session, emphasizing the collective interest in the UFO phenomenon as a potential manifestation of other lives and the need for better organization and discipline to understand it. He expressed hope for progress and noted that future meetings were planned for March, June, and October, with two of them to be held in Northern France.

A communication was given by A. MARTINEZ (VERONICA) on practical adjustments following various differences within the CECRU framework.

The report lists participating ufological groups, including AAMT, AMATEURS D'INSOLITE, AESV Suisse, AESV Aix en Provence, ADRUP, CEMOCPI, CERPI, CLEU, CLLDLN, CSERU, FUNO, GFUN, GRIPHOM, GUB, PALMOS (represented by JP CHARTON, B DUPI, JP ROGER), SLEPS, GEPO, SLUB, SVEPS, UREO, and VERONICA.

Decisions made during the Commission d'Enquête (Investigation Commission) meeting in Dijon included:
1. Luc Vincent (AAMT) presenting optical tests that were well-received, and he would develop a new geological questionnaire.
2. Dominique CAUDRON (GNEOVNI) proposing that the standard observation report format be studied in Avignon.
3. Press clippings to be sent to Gilbert PEYRET (GLRU).
4. The commission requested the collection of telephone numbers to create an alert network.
5. The initiative for GENDARMERIE reports and reports from CECRU member groups was left for local determination.

Tribune Libre: Par Jean Bastide (La grande paranoia)

This is a free tribune article by Jean Bastide, discussing the concept of 'great paranoia' in the context of UFO phenomena.

J'ai été dans un OVNI avec mon chien

This title suggests a personal account of an encounter within a UFO, involving the author and their dog.

Palmos Infos

This section likely contains news and updates related to the GROUPE PALMOS.

Mots Croisés

This indicates a crossword puzzle section.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around detailed UFO sighting investigations, the importance of organized ufological research, and the need for critical thinking. The editorial stance is one of open-minded inquiry, emphasizing objective study without preconceived notions, and a desire to advance the understanding of the UFO phenomenon, which they lean towards classifying as an unknown electromagnetic event rather than extraterrestrial. The publication also serves as a platform for member contributions and organizational updates within the ufological community.

This issue of "TRIBUNE !!! LIBRE" (Issue 14) features a prominent article titled "LA GRANDE PARANOIA" by JEAN BASTIDE. The magazine appears to be a French publication focused on ufology and related phenomena, with this issue delving into the organizational structures, research methodologies, and inter-group dynamics within the ufological community, as well as critically examining a specific book on the subject.

Structure and Organization of Ufological Research

The document details the operational framework of various commissions established within the CECRU (Comité Européen de Coordination de la Recherche Ufologique), following its sixth session in Avignon. These commissions cover a wide range of activities:

• Commission Enquêtes (Investigations): Focused on analyzing UFO photos and providing general information with the clichés. A standardized coding model was adopted for international use.
• Commission Gestion des Groupements - Operationnel Public: Dealt with technical and budgetary aspects for organizing sessions, conferences, and public engagement, including what to offer and sell to the public.
• Commission Contactes: Discussed cases of contact, particularly in Corsica and the Vence region, and initiated the study of a file containing 270 cases worldwide.
• Commission Veillées d'Observation (Observation Watch): Aimed to establish a network of observers and a system for national observation evenings, with reports to be centralized by SVEPS.
• Commission Etude et Documents (Study and Documents): Appears to be responsible for secretariat duties.
• Commission Détection: Focused on technical dossiers, results of CEMOCPI's investigation into detection methods, and the inventory of investigation areas for private groups. It also addressed issues related to the calibration of measurement devices and the use of radio networks.
• Commission Scientifique: Intended to respond to the scientific needs of private groups by engaging in dialogue with "official" scientists.
• Commission Administrative: Involved presenting messages from GEPAN regarding private groups, discussing a code of ethics, and reviewing correspondence with various embassies and organizations.

GEPAN's Role and Interaction with Private Groups

A significant theme is the relationship between private ufological associations and official bodies, particularly GEPAN (Groupe d'Études des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés). A directive from GEPAN, communicated via PALMOS, indicated that private ufological associations could only maintain informal contact with Gendarmerie and that GEPAN was the sole interlocutor to be considered. This directive aimed to prevent private groups from intervening in the information-gathering process of the Gendarmerie Nationale.

Correspondence between CECRU and GEPAN, specifically a letter from CECRU to Alain Esterlé (Head of GEPAN) and Esterlé's response, highlights tensions and differing perspectives. CECRU expressed concern that private groups were not receiving assistance and that their contributions were being overlooked. They requested GEPAN to indicate its position on their work and suggested a more collaborative approach. Esterlé, in his reply, clarified GEPAN's stance, stating that regular correspondence with private groups was not feasible due to availability and secretariat issues. He also addressed specific projects like MAGONIA and emphasized that GEPAN aimed to be an "attentive and interested observer" rather than a direct sponsor. He noted that GEPAN had adopted some ideas from private groups and was open to collaboration, as evidenced by a letter sent to American groups proposing collaboration on specific studies.

Review of "La Grande Paranoia" by Jean Robin

The article "LA GRANDE PARANOIA: par JEAN BASTIDE" offers a scathing critique of Jean Robin's book, "Les Objets Volants Non Identifiés ou la Grande Parodie." The reviewer questions Robin's methodology, his choice of sources, and his conclusions.

• Bibliography and Sources: The review highlights an "étrange bibliographie," noting that Robin cites authors with questionable relevance to ufology, including figures associated with esotericism and mysticism (e.g., Réné Guenon, Saint Paul, Saint Matthieu) alongside ufologists. The reviewer suggests that Robin's work is filled with "non-sens et contradictions internes."
• Critique of Robin's Arguments: The reviewer criticizes Robin for his superficial treatment of cases, his "superbe d'ironiser, généraliser et pontifier," and his alleged "ignorance" of the subject. Specific points of contention include Robin's assimilation of "men in black" (MIB) with humanoids, his views on the nature of extraterrestrial beings, and his alleged tendency to mix ufology with demonology and Nazism.
• Assimilation with Demonology: A major criticism is Robin's alleged conflation of physical extraterrestrial beings with "démons" or "êtres symboliques immatériels," suggesting he is stuck in a medieval mindset. The review points out that Robin rejects the idea of mixing OVNI and the paranormal but then proceeds to equate humanoids with demons.
• "Hypothèse Paranoïaque du Plan": The review dismisses Robin's idea that a grand plan is being orchestrated by extraterrestrials or intra-terrestrials, calling it a "ruse" or "mystification." Robin's assertion that ufology originated in Nazi Germany is also questioned.
• "Parodie ou Paranoïa?": The article concludes by questioning whether Robin's work is a "parody" or a manifestation of paranoia, suggesting that his attempt to dismiss extraterrestrial themes through parody might stem from fear.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the need for a more scientific, structured, and collaborative approach to ufological research. It highlights the efforts of organizations like CECRU to professionalize the field through commissions, standardized methodologies, and dialogue with official scientific bodies. The editorial stance is critical of sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims, as demonstrated by the detailed critique of Jean Robin's book. There's a clear push for rigorous investigation, data collection, and a distinction between scientific inquiry and speculative or pseudoscientific interpretations. The magazine also underscores the challenges faced by private research groups, particularly in terms of resources and their relationship with official agencies like GEPAN, advocating for a more recognized and cooperative partnership.

This issue of OVNI INFO 34, published by GROUPE PALMOS, is dated the 2nd Quarter of 1980 and carries the ISSN 0222-4313. The cover headline is "J'AI ETE DANS UN OVNI AVEC MON CHIEN" (I WAS IN A UFO WITH MY DOG), an article by Juan Antonio POLO, translated from Spanish by Andre and Neige Mortes.

Main Article: Julio's OVNI Encounter

The central piece details the extraordinary experience of a man named Julio, described as a prominent Madrid merchant with a high intellect and no signs of schizophrenia or paranoia. The article, originally published in the Spanish publication 'La Gaceta Ilustrada' on June 10, 1979, recounts Julio's alleged encounter with an Unidentified Flying Object (OVNI) and extraterrestrial beings.

On the morning of Sunday, February 5, 1978, Julio was hunting partridges in the province of Soria, Spain, with his dog, Mus. He felt drawn to a path off the main road. Upon entering the path, his car stopped, the radio ceased functioning, and all lights went out. Julio suspected a coil failure. When he exited the car, his dog became nervous. Suddenly, two human-like figures, approximately 1.90 to 1.95 meters tall, wearing green apple-colored suits, yellow hoods, and gloves, approached him. Their suits were one-piece, without zippers or seams.

Julio was invited into the OVNI, which he describes as a very large vessel, about fifty meters in diameter, hovering three meters above the ground. A cylindrical elevator descended from its center. The craft was metallic and silver. Inside, he navigated a circular corridor and entered a circular room illuminated by a strange, intense white light emanating from the floor, walls, and ceiling. There were four tables and cabinets with blinking panels.

Julio engaged in telepathic communication with the beings, who asked him about Earth. He recalls seeing symbols, including a three, a square, a seven, and a symbol resembling Gemini, which he associated with the planet 'Unmo'. The beings requested permission to examine his dog and then him, taking blood samples with a normal syringe. They also performed examinations on him, seating him at a table surrounded by blinking 'pictos'.

A whistle sounded, and the beings sat down. The screen in front of Julio became opaque, then white, revealing an older man who spoke to the beings. Julio couldn't understand the language but noted its phonetic similarity to Korean. They examined his rifle and cartridges.

Julio was then informed he could leave. Before departing, he was subjected to further interrogation, particularly about Earth's social organization. He communicated his responses telepathically. He was then escorted to the exit of the OVNI and descended in the elevator with his dog. He emerged as dawn was breaking.

Hypnotic Revelations

The article notes that Julio's initial account was given in a normal state of consciousness. However, under hypnosis and sophrology treatment over two sessions, he revealed more details. He stated he spent almost four hours inside the OVNI. During one session, he described being taken down a corridor where he felt he was flying. His dog appeared dead. He was undressed and placed in a glass sphere, the top of which was spherical and the bottom a grid, with intense light above. He couldn't move or close his eyes or mouth.

The beings explained they wanted to collect liquid samples. One being inserted a tube through his esophagus, causing discomfort. Other tubes were placed in his mouth and eye, and he was poked in the back. Samples of cerebrospinal fluid, urine, and sperm were shown. He felt his movements were controlled, increasing his anguish. He was seated, cables were placed on his head and chest, and he couldn't breathe. He feared the OVNI might start moving.

At this point, Julio looked out a window and saw stars. He feared being taken to their planet. The OVNI then moved, and he saw many craters, possibly on the Moon. He described a very large, blue sphere with spirals, feeling he was still on Earth but experiencing a sensation of continued travel. He felt happy and saw the Moon, large and brilliant. Julio confessed under hypnosis that there was a moment he wished to stay on the Moon.

After this, his account reverted to what he had stated in his normal state. His third-type encounter concluded, and he found himself back in Soria, hunting partridges.

Commentary by Jean Bastide

• Jean Bastide provides a critical commentary on the article's author, suggesting several potential flaws:
• Self-aggrandizement (Ego-hypertrophy): The author's excessive self-focus and lack of references.
• Exaggerated Mistrust: A general suspicion towards everyone, including military and scientists.
• Judgmental Fallacy: The author's tendency to rely on opinions and use absurd arguments to support them.

Bastide notes that these points align with criteria for the 'paranoia syndrome,' but he hastens to clarify that he is not equating the author with such a condition. He suggests the author may lack discernment, potentially misleading readers.

He concludes by quoting Aristotle: "Anyone can get angry – that is easy. But to be angry with the right person, and to the right degree, and at the right time, and for the right purpose, and in the right way – that is not within everybody's power and is not easy."

Bastide states that he felt compelled to express these points, even if it displeased a minority. He signs off as the author of "LA MEMOIRE DES OVNI" (The Memory of UFOs) on January 22, 1980.

Group Palmos Announcements and News

Monthly Meetings

Monthly meetings are held on the first Saturday of each month at 9 PM at the Centre International des Jeunes (C.I.J.) in Montpellier. Dates mentioned are April 5, May 3, and June 7.

International Sky Watches

Evening sky observation sessions are scheduled for Saturdays: April 12, May 17, June 14, and July 12, August 9. The gathering point is Place des Arceaux (near the gymnasium) between 8 PM and 9 PM. Contact the secretariat or president for confirmation.

Library Service

Members in good standing with their dues are reminded that the library service is open. They can borrow books, received magazines, and certain documents. Requests can be made during monthly meetings or to the secretariat.

Conferences in France

• "RENCONTRES RAPPROCHEES EN FRANCE": A conference by Michel Figuet (author of the encyclopedia of Close Encounters) will be presented in Montpellier on Friday, April 4, 1980, at 9 PM in the Salle Frederic Mistral.

Inter-Group Meetings

• Journées Ufologiques de Montluçon 80: Scheduled for April 11-13, 1980, at the Maison des Jeunes et de la Culture in Montluçon. Organized by Groupe 03100, this is the fourth edition. It will feature discussions among ufologists, not open to the public or journalists.
• 7th Congress of the European Committee for the Coordination of Ufological Research: To be held on May 17-18, 1980, near Dijon. Organized by ADRUP (Association Dijonnaise de recherches Ufologiques et parapsychologiques).

Palmos Group Information

The issue encourages readers to spread the word about Groupe Palmos, its research, and its bulletin "OVNI INFO 34" to increase their numbers and effectiveness.

Recent Observations

• February 8, 1980: An OVNI was observed by many people across the territory around 6:20 PM. Testimonies were collected from Montpellier, Béziers, St Georges d'Orques, Aix en Provence, and Lyon. Three members of Groupe Palmos (J.L. Perruchot, J.P. Roger, and B. Dupi) were among the witnesses. The Department of Geology and Mineralogy at Clermont-Ferrand II suggested the phenomenon was the atmospheric re-entry of a meteorite.
• February 9, 1980: Two large spheres emitting a glow were observed by a young woman around 9:45 PM near Montpellier, possibly mistaken for an aircraft landing light.
• March 1, 1980: The Gendarmerie of Seine et Marne collected testimonies from several people who followed the trajectory of two "OVNI"s over the Bois de Monte-en-Geole.

Readers are urged to quickly submit any observations and unusual information they possess.

Subscription and Membership

Details are provided for subscribing to the "OVNI INFO 34" review and for joining Groupe Palmos. A free membership is offered for sponsoring five new subscribers. Subscription prices are 30 francs for the bulletin alone, 50 francs for the bulletin plus simple adhesion, and 60 francs for the bulletin plus supporting adhesion. Subscription forms are to be returned to GROUPE PALMOS, 1 Rue Parlier, 34000 Montpellier.

Crossword Puzzle

A crossword puzzle titled "MOTS + CRUISES" (Words + Crossings) is included, with horizontal and vertical clues related to ufology and general knowledge. A grid and solution for a previous puzzle (Solution N° 7) are also present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are personal accounts of UFO encounters, scientific explanations for phenomena, announcements of ufological events and meetings, and the promotion of the Groupe Palmos organization and its bulletin. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, while also acknowledging and presenting scientific or skeptical viewpoints, as seen in Jean Bastide's commentary. There is a strong emphasis on encouraging witness reports and fostering a community of researchers and enthusiasts.