Ovni Presence - No 28

Magazine Overview

Title: ovni présence
Issue: N°28
Date: December 1983 (4th Quarter, 8th Year)
Publisher: Association d'Etude sur les Soucoupes Volantes (AESV)
Country: France
Price: 15 FF ~ 5 FS

This issue of Ovni Présence, a quarterly publication from the Association d'Etude sur les Soucoupes Volantes, delves into various aspects of ufology, with a strong emphasis on case studies, critical analysis, and the historical context of the phenomenon. The cover story highlights the mysterious lights observed in Norway, while the issue also features a significant interview with Marc Hallet, who offers a unique perspective on the field.

Editorial and Publisher Information

Ovni-présence is published by the Association d'Etude sur les Soucoupes Volantes (AESV), with editorial and subscription addresses in Switzerland and France. The AESV is 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 states that the magazine has seen an increase in subscriptions, allowing for improvements in printing, page count, and distribution. It promises new sections, prominent authors, and special issues, aiming for a new tone in ufological press.

Table of Contents

The issue includes a diverse range of articles:

• Prologue: "Vers un tournant dans l'édition ufologique ?" (Towards a turning point in ufological publishing?)
• Interview: Marc Hallet - "Mes recherches ne portent pas directement sur les UFO, même quand j'étudie un cas ufologique."
• Cover Story: "NORVEGE : QUE LES LUMIERES SOIENT..." (Norway: Let there be lights...) - Des lueurs bizarres pour une affaire bizarre...
• Arendal: "UNE VAGUE QUI EN VAUT D'AUTRES" (A wave that is worth others)
• Éclairages: The opinion of Hilary Evans
• Pan sur le bec ! by Thierry Pinvidic
• Henry Durrant Répond: Sonderburo and traps for copiers
• L'OVNI DU 6 JUIN NE FAISAIT QUE PASSER by Perry Petrakis
• Fantaisies Hypnotiques: Hypnosis: a proof that is not one by Steuart Campbell

Cover Story: Norway - Lights in the Night

The cover features a striking image related to the Hessdalen, Norway, sightings. The article details the mysterious objects observed since December 1981 in the Hessdalen valley, approximately 80 km south of Trondheim. Hundreds of witnesses reported strange luminous phenomena for which no satisfactory explanation has yet been provided. The valley is described geographically as mountainous and sparsely populated. The phenomena were often described as bright, pulsating white lights, sometimes red, and occasionally appeared as 'fuselage'-shaped or solid objects without wings. These lights were observed moving at various speeds, stopping, ascending rapidly, or accelerating. In most cases, only one object was seen, and no sound was heard. The observations often occurred between 19:30 and 23:00. The article notes that the 'wave' of observations in Hessdalen began around the same time as a similar wave in Arendal. The Norwegian television (NRK) attempted to film the phenomenon in early 1982, but the resulting footage was of low quality. Initial statistical studies by UFO-NORGE and NIVFO are presented, analyzing the timing, duration, and appearance of the observed lights.

Interview with Marc Hallet

Marc Hallet discusses his personal journey in ufology, starting from an interest in animal and Earth mysteries. He recounts his early immersion in the works of prominent ufologists like Guieu, Ruppelt, and Keyhoe, and his later involvement with the Belgian UFO Investigation (BUFOI), which provided him with extensive documentation on early UFO cases, particularly those involving 'contactees' like George Adamski. Hallet expresses a critical view of the field, stating that ufology has progressed little and often repeats itself. He details his disillusionment with the Adamski case, concluding that while there might be a core of truth, much of it was fabricated. He criticizes the methods of some ufological publishers and authors, accusing them of prioritizing commercial interests over rigorous research. Hallet now identifies as a 'modest mythologist' rather than an ufologist, believing that understanding myths and their evolution is key to understanding UFO phenomena. He argues that many UFO reports can be understood through the lens of mythology, religious apparitions, and socio-psychological phenomena. He criticizes figures like Aimé Michel for their perceived lack of rigor and reliance on sensationalism. Hallet outlines his own research methodology, which involves critical analysis, historical context, and socio-psychological perspectives, emphasizing that he studies cases based on his interests, which often lean towards the more complex and less easily explained phenomena.

Hallet also discusses his publishing projects, including a book on Adamski and his disciples, and critical studies on the origins of religions, the Virgin Mary apparitions, and the 'paleolithic UFO shapes' controversy. He expresses a desire to create a parallel publishing network for serious, critical ufological works outside of commercial constraints.

Other Articles and Sections

• "Vers un tournant dans l'édition ufologique ?": This prologue discusses the trend of self-publishing in ufology, suggesting it might lead to more critical and less degraded information compared to traditional publishing.
• "Éclairages : l'avis d'Hilary Evans": Presents the perspective of Hilary Evans on ufological matters.
• "Pan sur le bec !" by Thierry Pinvidic: A piece by Thierry Pinvidic.
• "Henry Durrant Répond": Discusses 'Sonderburo' and 'copier traps'.
• "L'OVNI DU 6 JUIN NE FAISAIT QUE PASSER" by Perry Petrakis: A case study by Perry Petrakis.
• "Fantaisies Hypnotiques: L'hypnose : une preuve qui n'en est pas une" by Steuart Campbell: Explores the role of hypnosis in UFO research.
• "Clips and Claps": A section featuring brief news items and observations, including mentions of new books by Bertrand Méheust and Rémy Chauvin, Philip Klass's book "UFOs: the public deceived," and news from Italy regarding ufological literature.

Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical approach to ufology. It questions sensationalism and commercialization within the field, advocating for rigorous research, historical context, and a multidisciplinary perspective that includes mythology and socio-psychology. The editorial stance appears to be one of seeking objective truth while acknowledging the complex psychological and cultural factors that influence UFO beliefs and reports. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between serious research and what the magazine perceives as unsubstantiated claims or 'organized absurdity'. The interview with Marc Hallet exemplifies this critical stance, challenging many conventional ideas within ufology and proposing alternative frameworks for understanding the phenomenon.

This issue of "Ovni-Présence," dated September 1983, delves into two significant areas of ufological interest: the ongoing and perplexing phenomena observed in Hessdalen, Norway, and a critical analysis of the use of hypnosis in UFO investigations.

Hessdalen: A Persistent Enigma

The magazine presents detailed accounts of sightings in the Hessdalen region, building upon previous reports. The article highlights observations from late 1981 through early 1982, including:

• Early Observations: Descriptions of 'fuselage' or 'torpedo' shaped objects with a 'brilliant silver' or 'steel' hue, exhibiting rapid movements, loopings, and spiral trajectories. Witnesses reported no audible sound emitted by these objects.
• The Aspas Farm Sightings: Ruth Mary Moe, Age Moe, and John Aspas reported seeing a brilliant 'oval thing' hovering above Finnsahøgda, approximately 3 km from the Aspas farm, with clearly defined contours.
• January 1982 Incident: Age Moe and John Aspas observed an object that initially appeared as a star but then grew brighter and approached them. It split into two distinct luminous objects that ascended vertically. Later, four objects were seen moving erratically.
• Bjarne Lillevold's Testimony: On September 24, 1982, Bjarne Lillevold and a friend witnessed a luminous object near Hessdalen. Lillevold later observed one object hovering near a chalet, emitting a powerful light and appearing 'larger than the building' nearby. He described it as resembling a 'Christmas tree upside down' with a pulsating red light and an uneven 'halo.' The object oscillated and disappeared when approaching the ground.
• Expeditionary Efforts: Representatives from UFO-NORGE and UFO-Sverige conducted numerous investigations in Hessdalen, taking photographs and setting up observation camps. Major expeditions occurred in March, September, October, and November 1982.
• Military Involvement: In late March 1982, the air force officially sent two officers to investigate the Hessdalen phenomena. While they observed no specific objects, they reported seeing numerous satellites, shooting stars, aircraft, and 'UFOs in the four corners of the terrain.' The commander of the Norwegian Air Force acknowledged the seriousness of reports from credible individuals, suggesting that while natural explanations exist, some cases remain difficult to explain.
• Geophysical Aspects: The Hessdalen region is noted for its rich mineral deposits and strong magnetic field, leading to speculation about its potential connection to the observed phenomena, whether extraterrestrial or related to 'earthlights.'
• Intelligent Manifestations: Leif Havik and Arne Thomassen reported observing and photographing significant luminous objects moving slowly and erratically, leading to the belief that these objects were controlled.

The Controversial Use of Hypnosis in UFO Investigations

The magazine dedicates a significant portion to questioning the reliability of hypnosis in UFO research, particularly in cases of alleged alien abductions.

• The Problem of Imagination: Recent studies from the USA suggest that imagination and invention can heavily influence narratives recounted by subjects under hypnosis, making it difficult even for experts to distinguish between reality and fabrication.
• Avoiding Suggestion: It is crucial to avoid influencing the subject during hypnotic sessions. The article highlights the risk of 'pseudo-memories' being created when hypnotists guide subjects with leading questions or pre-existing knowledge.
• Expert Opinions: Martin T. Orne, a recognized authority on hypnosis, is cited extensively. He argues that hypnotic regression is an abuse in abduction cases due to the role of fantasy and the potential for subjects to feign or confabulate memories. Orne emphasizes that hypnosis does not make memory more precise but rather more consistent, potentially solidifying false recollections.
• Lawson's Study: Alvin H. Lawson's research, which suggested little difference between 'imaginary' and 'real' abductions under hypnosis, is discussed. While Lawson later acknowledged differences, the study raised concerns about the credibility of hypnotic accounts.
• Proposed Safeguards: Orne recommends strict procedures for using hypnosis in investigations, including: 1. Hypnosis should only be conducted by a psychologist or psychiatrist experienced in its use. 2. The hypnotist should not be verbally informed of the case details beforehand but should receive a written aide-mémoire to avoid influencing the subject. 3. All interactions between the psychologist/psychiatrist and the subject must be video recorded. 4. Only the hypnotist and the subject should be present during the session to prevent external influences.
• Skepticism Towards Hypnotic Evidence: The article concludes that while hypnosis might be used in some contexts, its application in UFO abduction cases is highly questionable, and evidence derived from it should be treated with extreme skepticism.

Other Articles and Features

• The June 6, 1983 UFO Sighting: An investigation into a luminous phenomenon observed across Europe, described as fusiform with flames. The article explores potential explanations, including a missile launch, and notes the lack of reports from Spain and Portugal.
• Readers' Corner: A section featuring a letter from Henry Durrant responding to an article by Thierry Pinvidic, addressing accusations of 'cheating' and clarifying the origins of certain UFO-related stories and alleged 'traps' for researchers.
• Editorial Stance: The editorial team invites readers to share their opinions on the Hessdalen case, shifting the focus from commentary to reader engagement.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and analytical approach to ufology. While presenting witness testimonies and evidence from ongoing investigations like Hessdalen, it maintains a strong skeptical stance, particularly concerning the reliability of subjective accounts and the methodologies employed in research. The extensive discussion on hypnosis underscores the editorial commitment to rigorous investigation and the avoidance of unsubstantiated claims. The "Readers' Corner" section indicates an openness to debate and reader participation, fostering a dialogue within the ufological community. The publication appears to prioritize factual reporting and scientific scrutiny over sensationalism, encouraging readers to critically evaluate the information presented.