AI Magazine Summary
OVNI INFO 34 - No 09 - 3e trim 1980
AI-Generated Summary
Title: Bulletin d Information du Groupe Palmos
Magazine Overview
Title: Bulletin d Information du Groupe Palmos
Issue: 34
Date: June 1980
Publisher: GROUPE PALMOS
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 0222 - 4313
Price: 5F00
Cover Headline: OVNI INFO 34
Document Type: Magazine Issue
Cover Description: The cover features a circular, abstract graphic with concentric rings and a central eye-like shape, surrounded by large, bold letters spelling 'OVNI INFO'. The magazine title 'GROUPE PALMOS' is prominently displayed above, with issue details and price below.
Editorial Content
Editorial
The editorial section on page 4 expresses the profound regret of the Groupe Palmos members regarding the disappearance of their Vice-President, Mr. Pierre PARISELLE, who passed away on May 29, 1980. Pierre Pariselle, an engineer and former student of Polytechnique, was also a member of the Montpellier Academy of Sciences and President of the Foyer Rural of Teyran. His lifelong interest in UFO phenomena had led him to contribute significantly to the Groupe PALMOS' research. His communication to the Academy of Sciences, titled "What I think about UFOs," was reproduced in previous issues (Nº 1, 2/3, and 4). His contributions were particularly appreciated during conferences. He was instrumental in the interview with Colonel NURY, commander of the Hérault Gendarmerie, and actively participated in the investigation near Lunel, reported in issue N° 8. In recognition of his friendship and dedication, the association unanimously decided to grant him the title of honorary president. The association extends its condolences to Madame PARISELLE and her children.
The editorial is signed by J.P. ROGER (Secrétaire Général) and B. DUPI (Le Président).
Tribune Libre: L'Affaire du Pigeon sur le Mur (The Pigeon on the Wall Affair)
This section, authored by Michel FIGURT, begins on page 5 and continues through page 8, analyzing specific UFO cases, particularly those from the celebrated day of October 14, 1954. Figurt questions the assertion by authors Barthel and Brucker that some cases from that day were hoaxes, noting their failure to provide investigation results.
Analysis of a Day (October 14, 1954):
- Saint Romain sous Gourdon and Les Brosses Tillots: An observation of a luminous circular object at dusk on the D.91 road. The account is presented as two separate testimonies, one from Saint Romain and one from Brosses Tillots.
- Montceau les Mines (M.B.): While riding a moped on the D.91, the engine stopped inexplicably. M.B. saw a luminous circular object about fifty meters away. Upon returning, he found his moped's engine working again.
- Chazey (M.M. Jeannet and M. Garnier): Driving on the D.25, their car's headlights and engine stopped when a reddish ball passed at low altitude.
- Quegnon and Ciry le Noble (M. André Cognard): An object passed overhead at low altitude, moving towards the North-West.
- Saint Germain du Bois (M. Marcel Lonjarret): A farmer observed a luminous red-orange disc resting behind a hedge in a cornfield around 7 PM.
- Louhans (Monsieur Pasquier and M. Delaye): The sub-prefect and his secretary observed a green luminous object.
- Ciry le Noble and Montceau les Mines (Jacques Vallée): An object was observed descending without noise, described as a large bolide.
Further Observations on October 14, 1954:
- Tresques (Gard) at 5:30 PM: An OVNI was observed moving from East to West.
- Aramon at 6 PM: A "brilliant rocket" descending towards the old bridge was seen.
- Saint Auban and Volonne (Hautes Provence): A UFO was observed.
- REDON (Bouches du Rhône) at 6:09 PM: M. Gaston Laurent and his niece observed a sparkling orange "craft" coming from the East.
- Marseille at 6 PM: Journalists witnessed a red-orange object disappearing towards the North-North-West.
- La Tour d'Aigues (Vaucluse): Gervais Reynier and others saw a luminous disc that appeared to land.
- Carpentras at 6 PM: Witnesses observed a cigar-shaped object emitting sparks.
- Avignon at 6:10 PM: M. Blanc and a companion observed a luminous ball emitting a "flame."
- Fuveau (Bouches du Rhône) at 6:30 PM: An instructor and students observed a luminous, elongated object moving away.
- Montfroc and Valence (Drôme): A "bolide" was observed with a green color.
- Bron (Rhône): Two individuals saw two green objects moving north.
- Cardonnay (Saône et Loire): Two grape harvesters saw a disc that turned red.
- Palleay (Saône et Loire): A farmer observed a round, green luminous object.
- Meursanges (Doubs): Mr. and Mrs. Vitré observed a luminous phenomenon that changed color and descended slowly.
- Chevigny en Valière, Poligny, and Tassenières (Jura): An object appeared as a green and orange "flame."
The author notes the curious behavior of these "bolides," their changing colors, and the physical effects observed, such as vehicle engine stalls and headlight failures. The article also mentions a large-dimension balloon probe observed in the Alpes de Haute Provence for cosmic ray studies, questioning the "psychosis" surrounding the day's events.
Figurt concludes by referencing his own investigation into the disintegration of a Soviet satellite on February 15, 1978, noting the consistent witness descriptions of its shape, color, and trajectory, and the precise time recorded by witnesses' watches.
He also lists references for further reading, including works by Aimé Michel, Jean Claude Bourret, and Michel Figuet himself.
"OVNI : TOUTE LA LUMIERE" (UFO: All the Light)
This section, starting on page 10, discusses an article found in a wholesale electrical material supplier's catalog, which turned out to be a publicity campaign for a new fluorescent tube (OV from P.....). The author, Jean Paul ROGER, expresses surprise and mixed reactions from a presentation at the 7th CECRU in Dijon. Some saw it as beneficial publicity for UFO phenomena, while others worried about the discredit it might bring to serious ufology. The general impression was that UFOs are being used as a publicity tool.
The article also touches upon the historical presence of unusual aerial phenomena, citing ancient documents and the Bible. It highlights that UFOs are no longer dismissed as mere sulfurous or obscurantist phenomena, with national gendarmeries taking them seriously and scientists actively investigating.
It mentions the "OPERATION OVNIS VA CONQUERIR LA FRANCE" launched in March 1980.
Other Sections
- Humour: A comic strip on page 9 features a philosophical discussion between two characters, Jojo and Lulu, about the existence of intelligent life elsewhere, with Jojo preferring not to ponder the question and Lulu struggling to convince Jojo of life's existence on Earth. A subsequent riddle involves proving an equality using only five bars.
- Palmos Infos: This section, appearing on pages 18-19, likely contains news and updates from the Groupe Palmos.
- Mots Croisés: A crossword puzzle is listed on page 20.
Contact Information and Subscriptions
Page 2 provides details for subscribing to "OVNI INFO 34" and becoming a member of the Groupe Palmos. Subscription options include the review alone (30 F), review plus membership (50 F), or a supporting membership (60 F). The subscription period runs from January to December. Payments are to be made to Groupe Palmos, with CCP MONTPELLIER 413 - 70 N. Correspondence can be sent to Groupe Palmos, 1 rue Parlier, 34000 MONTPELLIER. Telephone numbers for Bernard DUPI ((67) 66.00.88) and Patrick JUELLE ((67) 66.00.61) are provided for inquiries and electronic shortwave communications respectively.
Monthly meetings are held on the first Saturday of each month at the Centre International des Jeunes, impasse de la Petite Corraterie, Montpellier, at 9 PM.
Page 3 also lists new contact details for the Sète section of Groupe Palmos, with Monsieur Michel NOUGUIER at N° 15, LES GRILLONS, LA PEYRADE, 34 110 FRONTIGNAN, and his telephone number (67) 48.68.74.
Furthermore, page 3 announces that Groupe Palmos has acquired a 24/7 answering machine to receive UFO testimonies and information, urging readers to disseminate this information. The number provided is (67) 66.00.88.
O.C.E. (Ondes Courtes Electronique)
Details for O.C.E. are provided on page 2, including their address (9, rue des Balances, 34000 MONTPELLIER) and telephone number (66.00.61). They offer services related to radio, telephones, radio amateurism, electronic components, kits, surplus, metal detectors, alarms, and fire detection.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of OVNI INFO strongly emphasizes the serious investigation of UFO phenomena, moving beyond mere speculation. The editorial stance, as stated in the disclaimer, is that articles reflect the authors' views and may not necessarily align with the Groupe Palmos' opinion, but they are published to "progress the truth." The bulletin actively engages with witness testimonies, historical cases, and the scientific and official (Gendarmerie) approaches to UFOs. There's a clear effort to present a more rigorous and documented approach to ufology, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by sensationalism and potential hoaxes. The use of UFOs in advertising is noted with concern, highlighting the tension between public interest and serious research.
This issue of 'Courrier Inter Planetaire' from May 28, 1955, is a significant publication focusing on the phenomenon of flying saucers (UFOs) and related topics. It is presented as an extract from issue number 5 and includes contributions that highlight the ongoing interest and debate surrounding these unexplained aerial objects.
Letter from Professor C. G. Jung
A central piece in this issue is a letter from Professor Dr. C. G. Jung, dated Zurich, April 28, 1955. Addressed to 'Monsieur' (presumably the editor or a correspondent), Jung expresses his continued interest in the 'flying saucer' problem. However, he admits that he is still unable to form a concise opinion on the matter. He criticizes many books on the subject for their lack of critical spirit and for containing absurdities. Jung reiterates his stance from a 'Weltwoche' interview, stating, 'One sees something; the question is only: "What"? And on this subject, I am not yet clear.' He mentions that high-ranking American military personalities seem to have positive ideas, likely based on material evidence like photographs, which are unknown to him. He recounts an anecdote about a doctor in Guatemala who observed a disk for an hour, completely forgetting to use his camera. Jung emphasizes his interest solely in facts, noting that opinions on the phenomenon are often limited, even from scientific sources.
Open Letter to Professor Jung
Following Jung's letter, an 'Open Letter to Professor Jung' (also an extract from issue No. 5 of 'Le courrier interplanétaire') is presented. The author, identified as Alfred Nahon (the director), acknowledges Jung's subscription to 'courrier interplanétaire' and expresses that the intent is not to engage in polemics but to share affinities. Nahon praises Jung for publicly acknowledging his interest in the 'flying saucer problem' and for having read extensively on the subject. The author states that while Jung remains 'not yet clear' after assimilating the documentation, their own research has provided 'certainties and absolute, irrefutable proofs.' They assert that one cannot read these books and facts without knowing the truth.
The letter references Major Keyhoe's book, 'The Saucer Files,' which allegedly implicates counter-espionage services in disseminating fallacious communiqués from official investigation commissions. The author counters the idea that these are secret military craft by pointing out that unlike conventional aircraft, 'soucoupes volantes' are never fired upon. They argue that the testimonies, which include those of specialists, technicians, astronomers, and aviators, are from people of sound mind and spirit, and that Jung, as a psychologist, would understand the validity of such testimonies. The author concludes that 'something is seen' that moves very fast and silently, with speeds estimated between 14 and 40,000 km/h, a feat impossible for terrestrial beings.
The Issue of Censorship
The article delves into the concept of a 'universal silence' or 'censorship' surrounding flying saucers, particularly noting a shift from official reports in 1949 alluding to space visitors to a 1954 communiqué stating that flying saucers exist only in the imagination of witnesses. The author attributes this to a desire to hide a prodigious reality for fear of panic and to gradually prepare public opinion. The research of Major Donald Keyhoe is highlighted, with his findings considered part of a public education effort in America.
Keyhoe's conclusions from around 1950 are presented:
1. Earth has been observed periodically by other planets for at least two centuries.
2. Observations increased significantly in 1947, following atomic explosions in 1943.
3. These observations are intermittent, part of a vast exploration that will continue indefinitely, with no immediate contact sought, possibly due to obstacles or incomplete plans of the explorers.
The article suggests that authorities might fear public panic, leading to a cycle of denials and suggestions of interplanetary travel. Two necessities are identified: learning about propulsion energy and preventing information from reaching enemy countries. The author posits that censorship might be periodic, lasting a year or more, or even complete silence.
Specific Incidents and Observations
The magazine details several alleged incidents and observations:
- Millevaches Plateau, France: A series of landings began on September 9, 1954. The account of witness M. Mazaud was examined by intelligence and air force officers and found to be without flaws.
- Vallée du grand Morih, France: On September 30, 1954, M. Eugéne Farnier, a former aviator, observed an object hovering and rotating at high speed, moving vertically from 400 to 50 meters. The object returned daily for a week.
- Connection to Uranium: Immediately after the Farnier sighting, an American company began prospecting for uranium and petroleum in the area, raising questions of coincidence.
- Mars Proximity: The article notes an increase in UFO appearances near Mars's perigee, suggesting Mars might serve as a relay point.
- Guatemala Incident: The anecdote of the doctor observing a disk for an hour without using his camera is reiterated as evidence against skepticism.
Technical Notes and Publications
The issue includes a section on 'Technical Notes from GEPAN / CNES' and 'Information Notes.' It mentions that GEPAN regularly publishes information and technical notes. These include:
- A technical note detailing methods used by GEPAN for analysis, classification, and coding of UFO testimony documents.
- An information note presenting statistical studies of observations made in the USSR.
- A technical note comparing statistical studies from independent files, including a statistical analysis of French Gendarmerie reports up to 1978 and comparisons with French, Soviet, and American files.
These notes are available for purchase, with information notes being free.
Photography of the Sky
A section titled 'PHOTOGRAPHIE DU CIEL AVEC VOTRE APPAREIL PHOTO' provides guidance on taking astronomical photographs with a standard 50mm lens. It details necessary equipment (tripod, cable release, aperture of 2.8 or higher), film types (AGFAPAN 400, TRI X, FWICOLOR 400, KODACOLOR 400), and shooting techniques (pointing towards cardinal directions and zenith, exposure times of 15, 30 minutes, or 1 hour, avoiding moonlight). It emphasizes noting all equipment characteristics and settings. Precautions include acclimatizing the camera, using a stable support, and operating away from light pollution and during non-full moon periods. The section warns that artificial satellites appear as stars moving rectilinearly and may emit flashes.
Revue de Presse
This section reviews articles from 'MIDI LIBRE' under the rubric 'AU RENDEZ-VOUS DE L'ETRANGE,' covering paranormal phenomena like hauntings, apparitions, premonitions, telekinesis, mediumship, and distant action. It lists several article titles from March to June 1955, including topics like a "Malgache Ghost," a table moving, a "Messenger from the Other World," a death prophecy, a supernatural light, and a terrifying commotion.
It then details several UFO sightings reported in early 1980:
- January 1980: Two flying saucers appeared near Castro Contrigo, Spain.
- January 24, 1980: A dark, 5-6 meter diameter UFO was observed near Chapelle Basse-mer, France, emitting red and orange light before disappearing rapidly.
- February 11, 1980: A UFO was reported over Montpellier, France.
- February 12, 1980: Luminous spheres were seen in the sky over Carcassonne, France.
- February 14, 1980: A flotilla of UFOs was sighted between Copiado and Conception, Chile, coinciding with the disappearance of a fishing boat crew.
- February 25, 1980: In Concepcion, Chile, a small fishing boat was found adrift after a luminous phenomenon was observed.
- Meteorite Sighting: A luminous phenomenon observed on February 8, 1955, was identified as a meteorite's atmospheric reentry, with its trajectory passing over several French departments.
- Moscow Attacks UFOs: An article from 'Est Républicain' reports that 'Pravda' condemned the sensationalism given to UFO appearances by some publications, denying inventions by the Soviet Academy of Sciences and stating that atmospheric anomalies are being analyzed.
Palmos Infos
This section details the activities of the 'Groupe Palmos':
- Conferences: A list of conferences held from February to June 1980 in various locations in France (Mauguio, Lunel, Montpellier, Béziers, Saint-Martin de Londres, Montagnac).
- Ufological Meetings: Mentions participation in the Ufological Days of Montluçon and the 7th CERRU in Dijon, including a study of the 'RAEL' case and contacts with 'ambassadors.'
- Summer Conference Calendar: A provisional schedule for July and August 1980 in Palavas, Carnon, and La Grande Motte.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of UFOs, the challenges in obtaining clear and objective information due to potential censorship and sensationalism, and the importance of scientific investigation and credible witness testimony. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, critical analysis, and a belief that there is a tangible phenomenon to be understood, despite official denials or attempts to downplay sightings. The magazine actively seeks contributions from its readers, encouraging them to share observations and testimonies, aiming to build a larger body of evidence and increase the effectiveness of their research group, Palmos.
Title: OVNI.INFO
Issue: 1er Trimestre 1980 (1st Quarter 1980)
Publisher: GROUPE PALMOS
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 0222 - 4313
Document Type: Magazine Issue
This issue of OVNI.INFO serves as the information bulletin for the GROUPE PALMOS, an association dedicated to researching testimonies about Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and unusual phenomena. Published in the first quarter of 1980, the bulletin details the association's activities, membership drives, and contact information.
Meetings and Observations
The bulletin announces that there will be no monthly meetings at C.I.J. during the summer. Instead, reports will be presented during observation evenings. It also outlines the schedule for "INTERNATIONALES DU CIEL" (International Sky Watch) events, which are planned for specific dates throughout the year: July 12 - August 09, September 6 - September 11, October 8 - November 8, and December 6. For summer evening observations, participants are advised to inquire at the secretariat or consult the press. The gathering point for these observations is Place des Arceaux (near the gymnasium), between 8:00 PM and 9:30 PM.
Library Services
Members who are up-to-date with their subscriptions are reminded that the association's library is open to them. They can borrow books and access magazines received through the press service, as well as certain documents and publications from organizations like CECRU and GEPAN.
Contact Information and Subscriptions
Key contact information for GROUPE PALMOS is provided. The primary telephone number for the group is (67) 66.00.88, which features an answering machine. A second number, (66.00.61), is noted as being transposed and should be associated with OCE in Place Saint Denis. The bulletin also includes a special offer: sponsoring five new subscribers to "OVNI INFO 34" can earn a free membership to GROUPE PALMOS or a free book.
The full address for GROUPE PALMOS is 1 Rue Parlier, 34000 Montpellier, with the same telephone number (67) 66.00.88. The association operates as a non-profit organization under the Law of 1901, with CCP (Compte Courant Postal) number 413 70 N in Montpellier.
- Subscription options for the "OVNI INFO 34" review are detailed:
- Simple subscription: 30 Francs
- Subscription + Simple Membership: 50 Francs
- Subscription + Support Membership: Over 60 Francs
Membership and Subscription Form
A form is included for new subscriptions and memberships, requesting details such as Name, First Name, Date and Place of Birth, Address, City, Postal Code, Telephone, and Profession. It also includes fields for signing up for the "OVNI INFO 34" review and for membership, with the different tiers clearly marked.
Crossword Puzzle
Page 2 features a crossword puzzle titled "MOTS I CROISES" (Crossed Words), with horizontal and vertical clues related to UFOs and general knowledge. The solution to puzzle number 8 is provided.
Advertisements
Page 4 contains an advertisement for "D.C.E." located at 18 Place St. Denis, 34000 Montpellier. This establishment sells CB radio equipment (CB27MHZ and accessories) and emphasizes competitive pricing and extensive margins, mentioning brands like President, Ham-International, and Midland. They also offer "CREDIT GRATUIT" (free credit) and mail-order sales, noting that the equipment may not be homologated (approved) according to PTT code article L 89. The ad suggests these devices are recommended for observation evenings.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around active engagement with the UFO community through meetings, observations, and publications. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting information sharing, encouraging membership, and facilitating communication among enthusiasts. The inclusion of a crossword puzzle and advertisements for related equipment suggests an effort to engage readers on multiple levels and potentially generate revenue to support the association's activities.