Ovni Presence - No 24 - Decembre 1982

Magazine Overview

Title: Ovni Présence
Issue: Trimestriel N° 24
Date: Décembre 1982 (4th trimester, 7th year)
Publisher: Association d'Etude sur les Soucoupes Volantes (AESV)
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 0223-0976
Price: 5 FS - 15 FF

This issue of Ovni Présence, a quarterly bulletin from the Association d'Etude sur les Soucoupes Volantes (AESV), delves deeply into the controversial Cergy-Pontoise UFO case, presenting a critical and investigative approach. The cover headline, 'Cergy sous la loupe: un jeu de boules très spécial,' immediately signals a detailed examination of this prominent French UFO incident.

Editorial and Publisher Information

The editorial, titled 'PROLOGUE,' reflects on the past year and the future direction of the publication. It expresses gratitude to readers for their encouragement and support, especially during difficult times. The editors acknowledge the growth in subscriptions but note that it is insufficient to auto-finance the magazine, which relies on member contributions, donations, book sales, and limited advertising. A key announcement is the expansion of the editorial team, which will now be independent of the AESV. The issue also introduces new regular sections and proposes the possibility of 'extra pages' for subscribers willing to pay more, offering additional benefits like free services and a book.

The AESV is presented as a non-profit association founded in 1974, dedicated to the objective and rational study of UFO phenomena and the dissemination of ufological information. The editorial team includes Perry Petrakis and Yves Bosson, with abstracts by Petrakis and elements by Jean-Pierre Troadec. Lilyane Troadec handles impressions, and Yves Bosson is responsible for layout and typesetting. Yves Bosson is also the responsible editor, and the magazine is printed in Switzerland by Imprimerie des Lerreux.

Table of Contents (Sommaire)

The issue features a comprehensive table of contents, outlining the articles and their page numbers:

• PROLOGUE (p. 3)
• ÉLÉMENTS (p. 4)
• VOUS AVEZ DIT EFFETS PHYSIQUES ? by Michel Piccin (p. 5)
• LE BOUILLON DE CULTURE by Michel Piccin (p. 8)
• CERGY-PONTOISE CONNECTION by Jean-Pierre Troadec (p. 11)
• PORTRAIT D'UN SCIENTIFIQUE MONDIALEMENT AVANCÉ by Michel Piccin (p. 15)
• REPÈRES (p. 19)
• INTERVIEW MARCEL THAON (p. 20)
• WANTED (p. 26)
• CAPHARNAÜM by Serge Leuba (p. 26)
• ZONE FRANCHE IV (p. 27)
• ABSTRACTS (p. 28)

Analysis of the Cergy-Pontoise Case

The core of this issue is dedicated to a detailed and critical examination of the Cergy-Pontoise case, which involved the alleged abduction of Franck Fontaine in November 1979. The article 'Cergy-Pontoise sous la loupe' (Cergy under the magnifying glass) and 'Vous avez dit effets physiques?' (Did you say physical effects?) by Michel Piccin and Jean-Pierre Troadec, respectively, aim to dissect the case with a 'lucid and prudent' perspective, moving beyond initial sensationalism.

Questioning the Evidence

The authors express skepticism regarding the 'physical effects' claimed in the case. They note that initial claims of magnetic remanence and radioactivity were unsubstantiated. The article highlights that 'advanced scientists' stated UFOs do not function on nuclear energy, which they found to be a convenient explanation for the lack of radioactivity. Furthermore, no ground traces were found, nor were any on the vehicle involved.

The Cortisol Controversy

A significant portion of the investigation focuses on the alleged elevated cortisol levels in Franck Fontaine's blood. The article details how a Parisian ufologist claimed to have received information from GEPAN (Groupe d'Études et de Recherches des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés) about a threefold increase in cortisol, suggesting Franck Fontaine had experienced exceptional events. However, the authors present counter-evidence: Monsieur Alain Esterle, the physician who took the blood sample, stated that the cortisol level was within the upper limit of normal and that he never claimed it had doubled or tripled. Jean-Pierre Prévost's initial claims and subsequent evasiveness regarding providing documentation are also scrutinized.

Photographic Evidence and Testimonies

The issue also addresses photographic evidence, specifically images published in 'Le Parisien' and 'Approche' allegedly showing luminous spheres. The authors point out inconsistencies in the number of spheres depicted in different accounts and photographs, particularly concerning Jean-Pierre Prévost's statements. They suggest that the photos might be misinterpretations of ordinary light phenomena. The article also mentions that the original photos taken by Franck Fontaine were reportedly destroyed by his mother out of fear.

Media and Ufological Influence

The authors criticize the media's role in sensationalizing the case and the 'exploitation commerciale' (commercial exploitation) by some individuals and media outlets. They suggest that the Cergy-Pontoise case, rather than being a singular event, is a product of a 'bouillon de culture' (culture broth) of ufological narratives and media hype.

The Role of Jean-Pierre Prévost

Jean-Pierre Prévost is portrayed as a central figure in the Cergy-Pontoise case, often described as the 'cerveau de Cergy' (brain of Cergy). The article notes his past reputation as a 'blagueur' (prankster) and questions the reliability of his accounts and the photographic evidence he provided. The 'law of silence' surrounding Franck Fontaine's experiences is highlighted as more revealing than Prévost's lengthy explanations.

Ufological Organizations and Activities

The issue also provides updates on ufological organizations in France:

• CNEGU (Comité Nord-Est des Groupements Ufologiques): The 13th session was held in Chaumont in October 1982, attended by representatives from nine groups. The session covered case studies and discussions on the commercial use of ufological information. CNEGU publishes technical information notes for its members.
• FFU (Fédération Française d'Ufologie): Founded in October 1980, the FFU comprises 19 associations and 6 independent members. It holds regular sessions across France, with a recent one in Dijon in November 1982 featuring speakers on various ufological topics. The FFU publishes reports on these sessions.

Other Articles

• 'Le Bouillon de Culture': This section by Michel Piccin discusses various events and media productions related to UFOs and alleged encounters in the period leading up to and following the Cergy-Pontoise case, including the Raël affair and TV programs, suggesting a broader context of ufological narratives.
• 'Portrait d'un Scientifique Mondialement Avancé': This article, by Michel Piccin, likely profiles a prominent figure in the scientific community, possibly in relation to UFO research or skepticism.
• 'Interview Marcel Thaon': An interview with Marcel Thaon, a figure in ufology.
• 'Wanted' and 'Capharnaüm': These sections appear to be classified ads or short notices.
• 'Zone Franche IV' and 'Abstracts': These are likely concluding sections, possibly for further information or summaries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Ovni Présence adopts a rigorous, investigative, and critical stance towards ufology. The magazine emphasizes the importance of objective study, rational analysis, and the careful examination of evidence, particularly in high-profile cases like Cergy-Pontoise. It actively questions sensationalism, media hype, and unsubstantiated claims, even from within the ufological community. The editorial highlights the commitment to maintaining a high standard of quality and rigor, despite financial constraints. The publication serves as a platform for detailed case studies, organizational news, and critical discourse within the French ufological landscape.

This issue of 'cergy-pontoise connection' delves into various aspects of ufology, focusing on specific cases, investigative methodologies, and the commercialization of UFO phenomena. It features articles on the controversial Cergy-Pontoise case, the 'Great Encounter of the Possible' event, and critical analyses of UFO investigations, including an interview with Marcel Thaon.

The Cergy-Pontoise Case and its Aftermath

The issue revisits the 'Cergy-Pontoise Connection' case, which gained significant media attention in November 1979. Franck Fontaine claimed to have been abducted by a UFO for a week, with his account allegedly supported by Jean-Pierre Prévost and Salomon N'Diaye. The article highlights how the press extensively covered these claims. It also notes that the idea for the 'Great Encounter of the Possible' originated from a conversation between Jean-Pierre Prévost and a young couple, Cathy and Patrick Marsilli. This event, held in July 1982 in Lesquidic (Sud-Finistère), aimed to address global issues and find solutions, with a tone that was more natural and less focused on mystical or supernatural aspects, despite the underlying concerns about war, violence, misery, and famine.

The article questions the reliability of hypnosis, a key element in the Cergy-Pontoise investigation, as conducted by Daniel Huget. It points out that hypnosis can be manipulated and that statements made under hypnosis are not necessarily truthful. The text also mentions that Salomon N'Diaye, one of the witnesses, has remained relatively silent since the events.

Jean-Pierre Prévost is presented as a central figure, having launched a free radio project called Radio-Korrrigan, aiming to broadcast uncensored information. He is also associated with the publication of a review, 'Le Grand Contact,' which he previously edited. The 'Great Encounter of the Possible' was intended to cover broader topics like vegetarianism, nuclear issues, naturopathy, meditation, poetry, and theater, in addition to UFOs. Despite being free of charge, the event attracted only a few hundred people, and the organization was reportedly lacking.

Critiques and Skepticism

The issue presents a critical perspective on the Cergy-Pontoise case, with some suggesting it was a fabrication ('bidon'). Jean-Pierre Prévost is quoted as admitting he continued to talk about the case to amuse himself by observing public credulity and that he had difficulty staging the affair. This is contrasted with the views of independent researchers like Jean Bastide, Michel Piccin, and Jean Sider, who have arrived at negative conclusions regarding the case. The CEPAN (Groupe d'Etude des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés) is cited for its conclusions that UFO phenomena often involve numerous errors, lies, and fabrications, sometimes stemming from a psychological need to deform or create information.

Franck Fontaine's subsequent legal troubles are also detailed, including his arrest for theft and possession of hashish, suggesting a potential shift from UFO claims to criminal activities.

Debates on Commercialization and Investigation Methods

A radio debate is described, featuring Jimmy Guieu and Daniel Huguet, who represented what the author terms the 'older school' of ufology, defending the authenticity of UFO cases. The author, along with colleagues, argued against the commercial exploitation of such affairs. Guieu and Huguet are portrayed as proponents of the 'authenticity' of cases like Miguères and Cergy-Pontoise, while the author's side sought to demonstrate the contrary. Guieu's credentials and past awards are listed, but his approach is characterized as commercially driven, with the publication of books and extensive lecture tours.

The article questions the 'objective facts' presented by Guieu, suggesting they are based on press reports from the time of the incidents. It also highlights the financial aspect, noting the significant royalties earned from the 'Cergy-Pontoise' investigation, implying a commercial motive.

The issue also touches upon the 'Miguères' case, mentioning a counter-enquiry by Perry Petrakis and the involvement of Alain Lefeuvre. It notes that Dr. Pagès denied that his reports were accurately represented by Jean Miguères, stating that Miguères owed more to surgeons than to extraterrestrials.

Organizations and Research

Information is provided on various ufological organizations. ASSAP (Association for the Scientific Study of Anomalous Phenomena), a British association founded in 1981, aims to gather and communicate information on anomalies, encourage scientific research, and create a multidisciplinary forum. It has around 300 members and is developing a national investigative network and a library.

Upcoming events are announced, including an international UFO congress in Lyon in May 1983 organized by the FFU (Fédération Française d'Ufologie), and the third international congress of BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) in August 1983, featuring prominent ufologists.

Interview with Marcel Thaon

Marcel Thaon, a psychologist and science fiction specialist, is interviewed. He discusses Carl Jung's theories on the collective unconscious, suggesting that UFO sightings might be projections of societal anxieties and desires for saviors, particularly during times of crisis. He critiques the idea of a collective unconscious in Jung's sense, proposing that societal stress leads to the formation of psychological 'life buoys.' Thaon views the popular aspect of ufology as a 'caricature' of science fiction history and questions the direct equation of UFOs with extraterrestrial technology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO claims, particularly the Cergy-Pontoise case. There is a strong emphasis on skepticism towards contactee narratives and investigations that rely heavily on hypnosis. The articles highlight the potential for commercial exploitation within the ufology community and advocate for a more rigorous, evidence-based approach. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, questioning sensationalism and promoting a balanced perspective on anomalous phenomena, while acknowledging the existence of genuine, less publicized cases.

Title: Ovni-Présence
Issue: 20
Volume: IV
Date: July 1982 (raw date: II.IV.VII-1982)
Publisher: Observatoire des Parasciences
Country: France
Language: French
Cover Headline: UFOLOGUE MODELE PRATIQUANT L'UFOLOGIE BIEN PENSANTE (Model Ufologist Practicing Thoughtful Ufology)

This issue of Ovni-Présence, published by the Observatoire des Parasciences, focuses heavily on the psychological and perceptual aspects of UFO phenomena, featuring interviews and articles that explore the subjective nature of sightings and the collective psychological factors at play.

Key Articles and Interviews

Interview with Marcel Thaon: The Psychology of Perception and Interpretation

Marcel Thaon, a French clinical psychologist, discusses his views on UFO phenomena, emphasizing that he does not believe in a genetically inscribed collective consciousness but rather in group problems that concern specific social groups at certain historical moments. His hope is that UFO phenomena have an objective reality, and that humanity is not alone, but that the answers might come from within rather than solely from external sources. He is interested in how groups perceive and interpret events, especially during times of crisis.

Thaon questions the extent to which Jung's hypotheses can explain UFOs, suggesting that while Jung's ideas open up a field of application, they don't necessarily explain the objective reality. He posits that an ambiguous or unusual visual stimulus can be a projective support, especially if it is outside the observer's daily experience. Drawing a parallel with Lamarck, he notes that we often see what we expect to see, and that observation is inherently an interpretation. His working hypothesis is a mix of objective elements, the subject's projections, and collective social problems, particularly during crises.

He clarifies that he is not solely focused on defining objective elements but acknowledges the interplay between vision and interpretation, where the witness provides both in a jumbled manner. He often works with psychodrama groups, confronting him with group phenomena. He likens the spread of information in rumors to how group phenomena can arise, where multiple people believe they perceive the same thing, even if the initial stimulus is ambiguous.

Thaon believes Jung's work captures only a part of the truth. While Jung's description might be psychologically accurate, it doesn't address the objective aspect. Social psychology, he argues, attempts to account for social phenomena by articulating the psychological and the social, a connection he feels has been insufficiently studied. He dismisses the idea of archetypes, but believes cultural groups influence perception.

He explains that perceptual frameworks are shaped by culture and daily life, leading people to interpret the extraordinary through the lens of the known. The extraordinary remains invisible until the mind learns to 'see' it. Anyone can see something strange and transform it; the more ambiguous the stimulus, the greater the projective element. When deviating from the usual framework, individuals transform objective reality according to their own understanding. Situations of observing unidentified phenomena at night are particularly ambiguous, forcing individuals to find meaning internally, as it is not directly provided.

He elaborates that the unconscious part of the process involves the observer transforming the phenomenon. Humans are not accustomed to accepting the unknown, so they create theories, whether scientific or individual, to fill the void. For instance, a technological object from a non-technological civilization would be understood only through the terms of that civilization's existing knowledge, such as divinity. Historically, religious-ideological systems provided such frameworks.

Thaon addresses the question of whether observation can be objective. He argues that it is impossible, as even a banal situation cannot yield a neutral observation. In clinical psychology, the goal is to understand the subject's internal experience in relation to what they observed. Objectivity is defined by a framework, and by asserting our own objectivity, we become that framework. Our eyes define the difference between the real and the imaginary. He concludes that true objectivity is unattainable without an external reference, which is absent without the divine.

He states that clinical tests cannot definitively prove objectivity, as they would inherently be subjective. While some have attempted to separate projective and subjective parts of an observation, the results are not very promising. GEPAN's hypothesis is that the more an observer expects to see a UFO (familiar with the culture), the more they project, which is a methodological starting point but requires further research.

Regarding why many ufologists have never seen a UFO, Thaon suggests that internal rules of perception are at play. Some may strongly desire to see a UFO but are psychologically inhibited. He draws a parallel with parapsychology, where researchers often lack the very abilities they study.

Concerning lie detectors and hypnosis, Thaon believes they do not prove the reality of 'abductions.' Lie detectors measure emotional reactions, not truth. Hypnosis is not a truth serum but a way to access the unconscious. He argues that while these techniques can transform perception into certainty, they do not guarantee objective truth. He emphasizes that even with strong convictions, absolute certainty is not possible.

He notes that the phenomenon often seeks to respond to a social crisis, a crisis of certainty, which is as relevant today as in the past. He acknowledges that as a psychologist, he will interpret the phenomenon through his own psychological lens but will not reject other viewpoints.

The Role of Science Fiction and Collective Phenomena

Thaon discusses how science fiction, particularly popular SF, has utilized the theme of UFOs. He suggests that talented authors draw from a common source, while others symbolize their personal fears. Visual SF (comics, cinema) is particularly effective because cinema's visual vector can engage with group problems that give rise to popular UFO myths. He points to Spielberg's films, which portray ETs as potentially friendly, a shift from pre-war narratives, suggesting a common fantastical substrate outside of visual stimulus.

He considers popular ufology a caricature of SF history. The social group, initially surprised by scientific advancements, sought new frameworks. Science then created literary genres to address human desires and scientific discoveries, transforming them into objects of desire. This is seen as a way to give a mythical function to scientific discoveries through fiction.

At the other end of the spectrum, he describes the psychotic individual who uses scientific objects as manifestations of their desires and delusions, seeing persecution from atomic radiation, for example. The writer places their text in fiction, making it human; the psychotic makes it a slave to their desires. The UFO witness, however, starts with a physical substrate and follows a similar path to the writer, but instead of fiction, gives it a status of reality.

He posits that the collective aspect of UFO phenomena is significant. For example, a millenarist sect studied by Ettinger believed in the end of the world and salvation by ETs. When the predicted date passed without incident, the group's crisis was not resolved by objective reality alone. They eventually found a new narrative, suggesting a need for collective meaning-making.

Thaon also touches upon the idea of 'contactees' and their potential psychological profiles. He suggests that some individuals may have a need for attention and may project their desire for external validation onto ETs, seeing themselves as chosen spokespersons. This can stem from feelings of powerlessness, particularly in contexts like psychiatric hospitals where individuals may feel dependent and overlooked.

He distinguishes between the psychological explanation of these phenomena and the question of the existence of flying saucers themselves. He notes that approximately 70% of psychiatric patients suffer from paraphrrenia, with about 10% manifesting ET delusions, though neuroleptics may mask this. These delusions are often narcissistic and salvation-oriented, with powerful entities sending messages about the end of the world.

Regarding the effect of drugs, Thaon states that drugs can sometimes trigger organized delusions, allowing internal thoughts to manifest externally. This is often observed with LSD users, who may feel controlled by divine entities or crushed by immense powers, interpreting their surroundings as messages.

He confirms that personal crises can also induce significant delusions, even without drug use, citing postpartum psychoses as an example.

When asked about close encounters (RR), Thaon acknowledges a real substrate but finds it improbable for a single witness to have only one RR without fabricating it. He believes that while eliminating fabricators is necessary, the phenomenon itself is not entirely baseless.

He contemplates how a witness of a close encounter might, over time, become a psychotic 'contactee.' He suggests that the psychological trauma of encountering what is perceived as ETs, combined with the attention received, can create fissures in the psyche, the extent of which may only be revealed later.

Other Sections

WANTED: This section features a call for individuals interested in hyperfrequency studies related to ufology, seeking information and contacts. It also includes advertisements for books on UFOs by George Adamski, Desmond Leslie, and Jimmy Guieu.

PETITES ANNONCES GRATUITES: This section promotes the "Revue de Parapsychologie," a multidisciplinary publication covering various psi phenomena. It details subscription information and contact details for the GERP.

CAPHARNAOM: This section humorously critiques the complex and often bizarre jargon created by ufologists, listing numerous acronyms and abbreviations. It also makes a satirical comparison between ufology and official administration, suggesting that both can become overly complicated.

ZONE FRANCHE IV: UFOLOGUE MODELE PRATIQUANT L'UFOLOGIE BIEN PENSANTE: This section presents a parody of the Lord's Prayer, adapted to a UFO context, asking for the daily 'OVNI' and forgiveness for not forgiving those who have offended the aliens. It is presented as a rare, numbered example of an "authentic Aime Missel."

Imprimerie Des Lerreux: This is an advertisement for a printing company.

• ABSTRACTS: This section provides summaries of other articles:
• "DID YOU SAY PHYSICAL EFFECTS?" by Michel Piccin, analyzing the alleged Cergy-Pontoise abduction case.
• "CERCY-PONTOISE CONNECTION" by Jean-Pierre Troadec, following up on the protagonists of the Cergy-Pontoise abduction three years later.

BULLETIN D'ABONNEMENT, D'ADHESION, DE COMMANDE: This is a subscription and order form for "Ovni-Présence," offering various subscription options, book purchases, and membership in the AESV.

Contact Information: This section provides contact details for the "Observatoire des Parasciences," including postal address, email, and website links for "Ovni-Présence" and "Anomalies."

Important Note: A legal notice is included, prohibiting the unauthorized retrieval and online distribution of the publication's digital version, with only the AFU (Archives for the Unexplained) website being authorized for online publication.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the psychological dimensions of UFO phenomena, the subjective nature of perception and interpretation, and the influence of collective consciousness and social crises. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to understand the human element behind UFO reports rather than simply accepting them at face value. There is a clear emphasis on psychological explanations, the role of projection, and the potential for delusion, while still acknowledging the possibility of an objective, unknown phenomenon. The magazine also engages with the cultural impact of science fiction on UFO beliefs and critiques the sometimes overly complex and jargon-filled nature of ufology itself.