Ovni Presence - No 22

Magazine Overview

Title: ovni présence
Issue: Trimestriel N°22
Date: Juillet-Août 1982 (Juillet-Aout)
Publisher: Association d'Etude sur les Soucoupes Volantes (AESV)
Country: Switzerland

This issue of Ovni Présence, the 22nd quarterly bulletin and seventh year of publication, delves into various aspects of ufology, with a particular focus on the intersection of UFO phenomena with technology and critical analysis. The cover prominently features the title 'ovni présence' and highlights 'photo d'ovni & ordinateur,' alongside two visual representations of potential UFO evidence: a blurry oval shape and a ring-shaped ground trace.

Editorial Stance and Challenges

The editorial, titled 'LA PRESSE UFOLOGIQUE DEPRECIEE ?' (Ufological Press Disparaged?), addresses the precarious state of ufological publications. It notes the cessation or slowdown of several magazines and bulletins, including 'APPROCHE,' 'HYPOTHESE EXTRATERRESTRES,' 'INFORESPACE,' and 'LUMIÈRES DANS LA NUIT.' Ovni-présence itself faces financial challenges due to rising postal and printing costs, leading to a reduction in print runs and limitations on press service copies. The editorial laments that UFOs are no longer a popular topic, impacting readership and advertising. Despite these difficulties, the publication vows to maintain its critical stance and freedom of expression, even if it means ceasing publication.

Key Articles and Interviews

Interview: Michel Monnerie

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an exclusive interview with Michel Monnerie, who offers a critical and socio-psychological perspective on ufology. Monnerie argues that many UFO cases are dangerous for ufologists themselves, as they can lead to uncritical belief rather than scientific investigation. He criticizes the tendency within ufology to prioritize belief over evidence and to create 'codes' and 'laws' that stifle objective analysis. Monnerie suggests that UFO phenomena can often be explained by psychological factors, collective beliefs, and misinterpretations, rather than necessarily implying extraterrestrial visitation. He contrasts the scientific method, which evolves and corrects itself, with the dogmatic nature of some ufological beliefs. Monnerie's work, particularly his books, aims to bring a more rational and critical approach to the study of UFOs, challenging established narratives and encouraging researchers to examine their own biases.

"WHAT MORE, Mr. MOORE ?" - Controversy and Correspondence

This section addresses the fallout from a previous article by Klaus Webner titled 'Mister X, l'extraterrestre est un poisson d'avril!' (Mister X, the extraterrestrial is an April Fool's joke!). The article, published in Ovni-présence (N°19/20), questioned the authenticity of a photo of an alleged extraterrestrial used in a book by Berlitz and Moore. The magazine publishes a letter from William L. Moore, a professional author, speaker, researcher, and investigator, who expresses his fatigue with Klaus Webner's attempts to 'inflate his ego.' Moore defends his book, stating that the 'Mister X' section comprised only two pages out of 222 and that the information was presented without claiming authenticity. He also defends the inclusion of astronaut accounts, noting they were presented as existing narratives, not necessarily factual. Moore accuses Webner of ignoring the bulk of his book, which he claims focuses on other aspects, and of making unsubstantiated claims about UFOs being weather balloons or spy satellites. Moore requests that Ovni-présence publish his version of events to provide a balanced perspective, suggesting Webner is more interested in self-publicity than truth.

The magazine's commentary on Moore's letter highlights that the 'Mister X' episode, despite its brevity, was suggestive and potentially influenced readers towards the extraterrestrial hypothesis. The editors note that the inclusion of such elements late in the book, without verification, places a significant responsibility on the authors, especially given the book's translation into multiple languages. They also mention that Moore's letter is part of a campaign to counter criticism of his work and book.

"FLYING SWISSER..." - Raëlian Movement and Military Service

This short piece reports on Jean-Claude Reuille, the leader of the Swiss Raëlian movement, who was sentenced to four months in prison and excluded from the army for refusing military service. Reuille reportedly believes in 'little green men' but not 'grey-green men.' The article notes the involvement of Claude Vorilhon, the founder of the Raëlian movement, who testified on Reuille's behalf. The report also mentions the Raëlian Foundation's expansion into Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Andorra, the Bahamas, and Panama.

"ENCORE DE LA SF ET DES SV..." - Science Fiction and UFO Congress

This brief announcement informs readers about the Third International Francophone Congress on Science Fiction and the Fantastic, to be held at the Université du Québec à Chicoutimi from July 14-18, 1982. The congress will feature prominent figures in French science fiction and two individuals known in ufology: Ion Hobana and B. Méheust, who will present on 'Archaic Origins of Representations in the Scientific Marvelous.' The announcement highlights the common ground between science fiction and ufology, particularly in their animators.

"INFORMATIQUE & UFOLOGIE" - Computers in UFO Research

This article explores the potential applications of computers in ufology. It outlines six key uses:
1. Address Files: For managing contacts of ufologists, association members, and subscribers, and for accounting.
2. Observation Case Files: For cataloging UFO sightings, allowing for maximum exploitation of data and potential network distribution. Challenges include codifying information and the difficulty of accurately transcribing detailed reports.
3. Library Files: For cataloging books and journals, enabling comprehensive referencing.
4. Statistical Studies: For analyzing data from case files.
5. Detection Stations: For monitoring phenomena.
6. UFO Photo Analysis: For examining photographic evidence.

The article emphasizes the ease of creating address and library files, while acknowledging the complexities of case file management and statistical analysis. It suggests that computers can significantly save time and improve the organization of ufological research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Ovni Présence reflects a strong commitment to critical thinking and scientific rigor within ufology. The editorial board, including Perry Petrakis, Serge Leuba, Yves Bosson, and Charles Blaser, appears dedicated to presenting a balanced and analytical perspective, even in the face of financial and public interest challenges. The interview with Michel Monnerie is central to this theme, promoting a socio-psychological approach and questioning the uncritical acceptance of UFO evidence. The magazine also engages with controversies, such as the 'Mister X' case, by providing platforms for different viewpoints, albeit with a clear editorial leaning towards skepticism and rigorous investigation. The inclusion of articles on computer applications in ufology further underscores a forward-looking, technologically informed approach to the subject. The overall stance is one of cautious inquiry, urging readers and researchers alike to distinguish between belief and evidence, and to apply scientific methods to the study of unexplained phenomena.

This issue of Ovni-Présence, dated May 5, 1951, focuses on the intersection of ufology with technology, particularly computer science and photography. The magazine explores how these fields can be utilized for research, analysis, and documentation of UFO phenomena.

Articles

Computer and Ufology (p.19)

This section discusses the current and potential applications of data processing in ufology. It highlights the utility of computers for tasks such as indexing member addresses, cataloging encounters, managing book lists, and performing statistical analysis. The article suggests that computers could also supervise automatic control projects and potentially connect them into a network, thereby enhancing research capabilities. The author notes the numerous possibilities offered by data processing and microcomputers for the field.

Photography and Ufology (p.21)

This article addresses the challenge of authenticating UFO photographs. It acknowledges that while many photos have been taken, some are known hoaxes, while others fall into a gray area, making definitive classification difficult. The emergence of computer analysis, exemplified by the "Ground Saucer Watch" (GSW) in the USA, is presented as a counterbalance to this ambiguity. The article posits that even if a photograph is not legal testimony, it can provide a better visual idea of what a UFO might look like. It also includes a quote from Beat BIFFIGER, translated by Marie-Louise TANGUY, stating that "Formal proof is illusory in this field."

Statistical Studies (p.19)

This section touches upon the existing statistical studies and operational installations for UFO case analysis. It points out that the lack of comprehensive case files and the limited number of reliable data points hinder statistical analysis. The author suggests that creating detailed case files is a prerequisite for drawing meaningful conclusions. The current situation is described as a "statu quo" until the sample size and quality of data improve.

Detection Stations (p.20)

The concept of automated UFO detection stations is explored. These stations could be monitored 24/7 by a computer, ideally with multiple stations networked to a central computer that directs detection efforts. Such a system could track phenomena from various locations. The article notes that while some such systems exist in the USA, they are not yet performant or numerous enough. The primary obstacle identified is the significant financial investment required. The author emphasizes that the station technology should precede the computerization and raises questions about optimal placement and the number of stations needed for effective coverage.

Photo Analysis Methods

Pages 20 and 21 detail advanced methods for analyzing UFO photographs:

• Photometry: This method uses light intensity to determine object characteristics. In the presence of contextual elements like clouds, trees, or buildings, calculations can estimate distance, diameter, and volume, helping to identify improbable dimensions that might indicate a hoax.
• Densitometry: This technique analyzes the distribution of gray tones and contrast in an image. It can provide indications of an object's distance and help verify the consistency of findings across an image. Significant uncertainties may suggest a hoax.
• Computer Analysis: This sophisticated method, exemplified by the GSW in the USA, uses computers to analyze photos. It can enlarge details, enhance colors, measure volume, and reveal contours, effectively detecting subtle manipulations like objects suspended by wires. The analysis also includes optical density measurements to determine object shape and surface characteristics. The computer generates graphs that are compared to known objects to assess authenticity.

The Saas-Fee Case (p.23)

This case, from July 26, 1975, involves three Dutch individuals photographing an object near Saas-Fee, Switzerland. Computer analysis by W. Spaulding indicated that the object was not suspended by wires, was not a plate or frisbee, possessed a metallic surface structure, appeared three-dimensional, and was photographed at a single distance. While not considered definitive proof, the analysis suggested it was likely not a fake.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the growing importance of technological tools, particularly computers and advanced photographic analysis techniques, in the serious study of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor a rigorous, research-oriented approach, moving beyond mere anecdotal evidence. There is a clear recognition that while photographic evidence can be compelling, its authenticity is often questionable and requires sophisticated analysis to verify. The financial aspect is repeatedly cited as a major hurdle for implementing advanced research methods and infrastructure, such as detection stations.