Ovni Presence - No 42 - Aout 1989

Magazine Overview

Title: Ovni-Présence
Issue: N° 42
Date: August 1989
Volume: Thirteenth year
Publisher: Association d'Etude sur les Soucoupes Volantes (AESV)
Country: France
ISSN: 0223-0976
Price: 25 FF / 6 FS

This issue of Ovni-Présence, a French magazine dedicated to the study of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), presents a diverse range of articles, investigations, and news items related to the phenomenon. The cover prominently features an exclusive dossier on the 'Wideye', a type of aircraft that can be mistaken for a UFO, and highlights the growing role of Remotely Piloted Vehicles (RPVs) in military contexts.

Contents Overview

Dossier: The Wideye

The magazine dedicates significant attention to the 'Wideye', a topic explored in an exclusive dossier starting on page 10. This section, authored by Perry Petrakis, introduces Remotely Piloted Vehicles (RPVs) as a category of diverse, remotely controlled flying machines. Initially developed for military reconnaissance, RPVs have become increasingly specialized. The article emphasizes that these projects are often classified under 'confidential defense' and should not be confused with UFOs. It posits that the rapid evolution of combat doctrines and lessons learned from recent conflicts have led to a significant modification in the military landscape, with RPVs playing a crucial role. The article describes a hypothetical scenario in Southern England on March 16th, where a couple observed a strange, cone-shaped light emanating from an object that moved silently along the terrain, suggesting that such observations might increasingly be attributed to RPVs in the future due to their discreet nature, low noise levels, and advanced reliability.

Investigation: Plounevez-Moëdec

Authored by Renaud Marhic, this section details an investigation conducted by SOS-OVNI (a French UFO reporting organization) into a sighting that occurred on February 7th in Plounevez-Moëdec, Côtes-du-Nord. The witness, an artisan, reported observing an unidentified aerial phenomenon (PANI) that resembled an airplane but was silent and moved in a peculiar manner. The investigation team arrived five hours after the initial report. The witness described seeing a white point that initially appeared to be a bird, then a small and a large airplane. He noted that the object, unlike the commercial airliner he also observed, made no noise and followed the airliner's path at a lower altitude before disappearing behind a house. During the on-site investigation, a monomotor propeller aircraft appeared, flying in the opposite direction of the described phenomenon. The witness noted that this aircraft made a noise, unlike the object he had previously seen. The article discusses the challenges of distinguishing between conventional aircraft and potential UFOs, especially when witnesses have visual impairments or when the aircraft are not equipped with transponders, making them difficult to identify by air traffic control.

Portrait: Jean-Claude Ladrat, Constructor of Saucers

This article, written by Frédéric Dumerchat, profiles Jean-Claude Ladrat, a French individual known for building 'flying saucers'. Ladrat, born in 1945, lives in Germignac and has gained media attention for his constructions. The article recounts his ambitious project to build a saucer, the Ladritan I, with a diameter of 2.70 meters and a height of 2.10 meters, using materials like plywood and plastic foam. He attempted to sail this craft from Dakar, Senegal, to the Bermuda Triangle in December 1983, but the journey ended unsuccessfully in March 1984 when he was rescued by a Spanish trawler and had to abandon his vessel. The article suggests that Ladrat's fascination with UFOs stems from an experience he had in 1969 while at sea, where he observed a luminous fog and associated it with a 'psychic entity' or 'master' not of extraterrestrial origin. He has since been constructing new craft, including the Ladritan II, with the intention of returning to the Bermuda Triangle and possibly visiting the star Altaïr. The article notes Ladrat's interest in themes like the 'master', the Bermuda Triangle, and Atlantis, and his belief that UFOs might originate from the future or another dimension. Despite his unique pursuits, he is described as a 'fantastic tinkerer' in the vein of Ferdinand Cheval, and ultimately, a realist.

Other Articles and News

• Clips & Claps: This section provides short news items and updates. It mentions the launch of a new Swiss UFO magazine called 'Sign', the WAURLD project (World Annual Ufo Reports Listing Device) from the Netherlands, and the closure of the German UFO-Nachrichten magazine after 33 years of publication due to the editor's failing eyesight.
• Meteorite in New Zealand: A rare event where a meteorite containing carbon and water reportedly fell in New Zealand on June 12th, observed as a scarlet fireball.
• The Skies Illuminated: Reports of small aurora borealis phenomena observed in Finistère, France, around March 15th, described as whitish spots, arcs, and luminous jets.
• Congress in Frankfurt: An announcement for a large UFO congress at Frankfurt Airport from October 26th to 29th, featuring prominent figures in the UFO field.
• Out of Print Issues: A notice that several issues of Ovni-Présence are now out of print and becoming rare.
• The Minister and the UFO: A brief mention of former French Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jean-François Deniau, admitting to having observed a UFO at sea, which reportedly caused consternation among his cabinet members.
• Encore un livre sur Meier!: A review of a new book by Wendelle C. Stevens about Eduard Meier, titled 'Message from the Pleiades'.
• Un CSICOP à l'italienne: The founding of CICAP (Comitato per l'indagine e il Controllo delle Affermazioni sul Paranormale) in Turin, Italy, a skeptical organization similar to the US CSICOP, aimed at debunking paranormal claims.
• Third European Meetings in Lyon: A report on the successful third European UFO conference held in Lyon from April 29th to May 1st, which brought together approximately 90 participants from various countries and covered diverse themes related to UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Ovni-Présence consistently explores the UFO phenomenon from multiple angles, including witness testimonies, scientific investigations, historical cases, and the potential for misidentification with conventional technology. The magazine appears to maintain a stance of open inquiry, presenting evidence and theories while also acknowledging skeptical viewpoints and the challenges of definitive proof. There is a recurring theme of distinguishing between genuine unexplained phenomena and misidentified aircraft, particularly advanced military technology like RPVs. The publication also highlights the international nature of UFO research and the community of enthusiasts and researchers involved. The editorial stance seems to be one of documenting and analyzing the phenomenon, encouraging critical thinking, and providing a platform for discussion within the UFO community.

Title: Ovni-Présence
Issue: 42
Date: August 1989
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of Ovni-Présence, titled "ETAT DES LIEUX" (State of Affairs), focuses on the evolving landscape of Remotely Piloted Vehicles (RPVs) and their increasing integration into military strategies. The magazine explores various RPV models, their technological advancements, and their potential implications, including the possibility of misidentification with unidentified flying objects (UFOs).

The State of RPVs: A Global Overview

The article begins by establishing that the search for intelligence using RPVs is not a simple task. It notes that while some RPVs, like the Marchetti heliscope, might be mistaken for UFOs, most are designed for specific military purposes. The French company Aerospatiale produces models like the CT 20, R 20, and C 22, which have either a missile-like fusiform shape or an airplane-like configuration. Matra, in collaboration with German firm MBB, is developing the Brevel, a conventionally shaped aircraft.

RPV 5100

Developed by CAC Systèmes in the Paris region, the RPV 5100 is a conventionally configured aircraft. Information is scarce due to its "defense confidentiality" status. It is likely launched by catapult and recovered by a 70m² parachute. With an interchangeable payload and a 30 kg capacity, it is capable of performing various RPV missions. Its specifications include a maximum speed of approximately 230 km/h, a range of 100 km, and an autonomy of 6 hours.

SAM (Motorized Aerological Probes)

The French Establishment for Studies and Meteorological Research developed the SAM series in the 1970s for rapid, repetitive, and fine exploration of air volumes. While advantageous for their speed, economy, and simplicity, these civilian probes are limited by visual telemetry and can only study a cubic kilometer. The SAM-b consists of a polystyrene disc with a 1.20 m diameter, equipped with fins and a model aircraft motor. It can be launched by hand and lands on its belly. It can also be used for pollution measurements. The SAM-b uses a 10 cm³ two-stroke engine, giving it the capabilities of a model aircraft, with a ceiling of 500 m.

RPVs in Switzerland

Switzerland's RPV history is short but marked by incidents, including the purchase of Scout Mazlat from Israel, which led to threats from the Jihad Islamic. Switzerland also uses aircraft from Farner Air Service, which manufactures RPVs for the Federal Military Department (DMF).

#### The Ranger ADS 90

Initial trials for the Scout Mazlat took place between 1985 and 1987. Switzerland purchased a system including four RPVs, two control stations, and infrastructure for 13 million Swiss francs. Despite difficulties, including the crash of two RPVs, Switzerland was expected to acquire 12 more systems in 1987 for 50 million francs. The Scout Mazlat, used extensively by the Israeli army, is a classic airplane-configuration RPV used for reconnaissance, target acquisition, and coastal patrols. Due to its limitations in certain latitudes, the DMF decided to modify the "Scout" system, leading to a technical assistance contract with Israel and four Swiss companies to develop the "Ranger ADS 90". This new aircraft, similar in configuration to the "Scout", can fly for five hours at up to 220 km/h and is launched by catapult. It was expected to be tested by the Swiss army in 1990.

• Scout Specifications:
• Wingspan: 4.96 m
• Length: 3.68 m
• Height: 0.94 m
• Max Speed: 176 km/h
• Ceiling: 4,575 m
• Range: 100 km
• Autonomy: 7 h

#### The AATS Topaz KZD 85

The AATS (Anti Aircraft Training System) KZD 85, with the Topaz as its current model, is used by the DMF as a target for training the Swiss armed forces. It is a conventional "aircraft-type" RPV powered by a two-stroke engine. It is launched by catapult and recovered by parachute or lands on its belly. The target version is inexpensive, but the reusable version can be equipped with an impact indicator for towed targets. The Topaz comes in two sizes; the smaller model has the following specifications:

• Small Topaz Model Specifications:
• Wingspan: 2.50 m
• Length: 2.02 m
• Height: 0.62 m
• Max Speed: 200 km/h
• Ceiling: 2,500 m
• Range: 4 km
• Autonomy: 30 min

RPVs in Great Britain

Great Britain, known for its high number of UFO sightings, also possesses a considerable number of automated aerial devices, including mini-drones and helicopters. Some of these, while conventional, raise questions about their origin.

#### The Mote, the Wisp, and the Pupil

Westland developed the Mote in 1975, a 13 kg device with two rotors. It was quickly replaced by the Wisp in 1976, which was larger (32 kg), flew for 30 minutes at 102 km/h, and had a similar shape to the Sprite. In 1975, Westland also studied the Pupil, an improved Wisp weighing 45.5 kg. However, the Pupil never progressed beyond the design stage. The Wideye, intended for battlefield surveillance, had a range of 50 km. Its first flight was in 1978, but it proved too heavy and large, leading to the abandonment of the project in 1979.

#### The Wideye and the Wite

The Wideye featured two two-stroke engines totaling 18 hp. It had low radar and acoustic signatures and was controlled via radio link for real-time data. It could take off and land like a helicopter. Its weight was 125 kg. The Wideye used four "legs" for landing, which could retract during flight. In 1977, it was replaced by a project called Wite, which was not realized.

#### The Sprite

The Sprite is a current operational RPV that has garnered significant interest in the USA and Europe. Studied since early 1981, it is a small, highly maneuverable drone with a low radar signature and rapid deployment capability. It has a flattened sphere shape with four quadrants: two housing the 6 hp engines and fuel, one containing guidance and flight systems (gyroscope, accelerometer, transmitter-receiver), and the fourth for the detachable payload. The payload can include a high-definition thermal camera, a laser/camera target acquisition system, an NBC detector, or an electronic decoy. Weighing 40 kg, the Sprite has been launched from ships, lawns, roads, and fields. Like the Wideye, it takes off and lands like a helicopter on four "legs" that are radar-invisible.

RPVs in Canada

Canadair appears to have exclusive rights for RPV design and manufacturing in Canada. Among its three catalog models, two are fusiform (missile-like), and the third, the Sentinel, has a hourglass shape.

#### The CL 227 Sentinel

The CL 227 Sentinel is developed for military reconnaissance and has had its applications expanded through extensive testing. It is likely supplied to the US Army and some NATO forces. Described as a "flying peanut," it is a high-performance, versatile, rapid, and economical drone. Its payload can be adapted for various missions, including alert, jamming, electronic intelligence, target acquisition, and designation, as well as civilian or military tasks. The CL 227 was designed by Canadair in the 1970s. Its development involved two initial phases (study and development) from 1980 to 1985, with hundreds of test flights. In January 1986, the Canadian government partnered with Canadair for the final project phase, with a budget of 62 million Canadian dollars, aiming for over 500 units to be commercialized. The Sentinel has a virtually null thermal, acoustic, and radar signature. It can land almost anywhere thanks to a circular rail at its base. It is powered by a gas turbine engine developing 50 hp and is controlled by a real-time radio data link.

• CL 227 Specifications:
• Rotor diameter: 8.00 m
• Base diameter: 1.60 m
• Height: 2.70 m
• Empty weight: 350 kg
• Max takeoff weight: 550 kg
• Autonomy: 24 h
• Ceiling: 300 m
• Rate of climb: 3 m/s

RPVs in the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG)

The FRG has a significant and diverse range of RPVs, with programs conducted by MBB (Brevel program with France) and Dornier (DAR, Spähplattform, Kiebitz, or Argus II programs). Dornier's devices are studied here as they might be mistaken for UFOs.

#### The Spähplattform (Scout)

This RPV consists of two superimposed rings connected by a central axis. The upper ring houses the rotor, while the lower ring has stabilizers. The entire unit is tethered to a ground vehicle by a cable that supplies its energy. The Spähplattform is designed to provide a clear view of difficult terrain where direct visual observation is not possible, similar to a periscope. It can carry a 5 kg camera and be deployed in seconds. Lacking autonomous propulsion, it relies on a ground vehicle for operation.

• Spähplattform Dimensions:
• Rotor diameter: 1.20 m
• Empty weight: 30 kg
• Total weight: 35 kg
• Rate of climb: 5 m/s
• Ceiling: 50 m
• Flight duration: 1 min

#### The DAR (Drohne Anti-Radar)

This anti-radar RPV has a classic delta-wing configuration. Its role is to detect and destroy enemy radar installations in case of war. It is designed for simple deployment from a truck and autonomously navigates towards enemy lines, diving when a radar is detected. It is difficult to detect by radar and can be equipped for other missions.

• DAR Specifications:
• Length: 2.25 m
• Wingspan: 2.00 m
• Height: 0.35 m
• Weight: 110 kg
• Max Speed: 250 km/h
• Ceiling: 3,000 m

#### The Kiebitz Do 34

Developed under the Franco-German Argus program in 1974, the Kiebitz Do 34 is a "heavy" Remote Piloted Helicopter (RPH). Its takeoff weight is significant at 550 kg. Its conical shape remains attached to its transport vehicle by a cable. This RPV can remain airborne for over 24 hours at an altitude of 300 m, performing retransmission, detection, acquisition, and tracking of targets, especially at low altitudes. The first prototype reached 300 m in May 1979, with development completed in October 1980.

The Thermo Skyship

The Thermo Skyship, developed by Malcolm Wren (later of Wren Shyships and Advanced Airship Corporation), is presented as a dream technology that demonstrates humanity's ability to confront dreams with reality. Although not strictly an RPV, its structure and concept are noteworthy. Developed between 1976 and 1978, it was intended to prove the project's viability and was to be built with French and English components. Three commercial versions were planned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue emphasizes the rapid advancement and diversification of RPV technology, driven by military needs for reconnaissance, surveillance, and engagement. The magazine highlights the increasing sophistication and cost-effectiveness of these unmanned systems. There's an underlying theme that the unconventional designs and capabilities of some RPVs could lead to public misidentification as UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of informative reporting, detailing the technical specifications and strategic importance of these emerging technologies in the late 1980s.

Title: Ovni-Présence
Issue: 42
Date: August 1989
Publisher: Observatoire des Parasciences
Country: France

This issue of Ovni-Présence offers a diverse range of articles, from technological advancements in drone systems to deep dives into psychological and esoteric theories surrounding UFO phenomena, and comprehensive bibliographical resources.

Le Priamos: Advanced Drone Technology

The lead article introduces "Le Priamos," an advanced detection and targeting system, described as a mini-helicopter drone. Destined to replace the Do 34, its first prototype flew in 1987. Priamos is expected to be a highly valued Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) in its category. The development program aims to reduce its vulnerability through "Stealth" technology. The drone is designed for high maneuverability, small size, and an intermittent electronic detection system. The onboard radar is specified as the French LCT Orphée II. The Priamos system will be ground-linked via radio using the "ADLER" terminal. While positioned as a flagship for Dornier's RPV industry, it will also serve as a platform for experimenting with new technologies, including "stealth" and secure air-to-ground communication.

Each unit was intended to have a maximum speed of 100 knots and a minimum operational range of 480 km. The article notes that the reasons for the project's abandonment are unknown, speculating it may have been deemed too innovative. Technical specifications are provided, including payload capacities (6t, 150t, 500t), diameter (46m, 128m, 215m), height (13m, 36m, 60m), rotor diameter (6.10m), fuselage length (2.04m), height (2.79m), ground traces (1.52m), empty weight (458kg), and takeoff weight (1057kg). Performance capabilities include reaching 2,000m in approximately 5 minutes, a ceiling of 4,000m, a radar range of 60-80 km, and an autonomy of about 1 hour 30 minutes.

Book Review: The Archetype Experience by Gregory L. Little

Reviewed by Claude Maugé, this section discusses Gregory L. Little's book, "The Archetype Experience: Resolving the Mystery of UFOs and Biblical Prophecies Through the Concept of Synchronicity." The review highlights that the book draws heavily on C.G. Jung's concepts of synchronicity and archetypes. Little's work extends beyond UFOs, aiming to explain historical cycles and biblical prophecies through an archetypal lens. The ufological overview section of the book is described as brief but generally adequate for non-specialists, presenting arguments for UFO existence and common hypotheses. However, the reviewer notes that Little appears to accept information uncritically and repeats errors, such as misidentifying Aimé Michel as an engineer/mathematician. Little dismisses conventional explanations for UFOs (geophysical phenomena, insect swarms, hoaxes, etc.) individually, but the reviewer suggests a combination of these might explain the phenomenon. The book also explores manifestations comparable to UFOs found in spiritualist and occult literature, and a theory of historical cycles based on the precession of the equinoxes.

Little's core concept is the "theorie synchronet," a dual system of archetypes: internal (originating within the human unconscious, appearing in dreams, crises, or induced by hypnosis) and external (existing independently, capable of materializing, and potentially manifesting involuntarily or through rituals). The experience of a UFO sighting is explained as a synchronicity between the perception of a mundane physical stimulus and the simultaneous emergence of an internal archetypal image, onto which symbolic meaning is projected.

The reviewer finds Little's attempt to explain UFOs, parapsychology, and spiritual traditions in a unified way conceptually legitimate, though contestable. The link to cycle theory and biblical prophecies is deemed more gratuitous. The review points out factual errors, such as stating Huygens was French and misrepresenting scientific skepticism about falling stones. The reviewer also questions Little's critique of parapsychology, noting that the argument used against it could be turned against the hypothesis of external archetypes.

Book Review: Communion and Cat Magic by Whitley Strieber

This section features reviews of two books by Whitley Strieber: "Communion" and "Cat Magic."

Communion: Reviewed by Claude Maugé, "Communion" is described as a significant work in UFO literature. Whitley Strieber, known for his horror novels, recounts alleged alien abduction experiences starting in December 1985. The book details encounters with non-human creatures, described as hallucinatory and horrific, involving what Strieber calls "examinations" and potentially sexual acts. The reviewer notes that the narrative aligns with common abduction testimonies and conveys a sense of sincerity and authenticity, despite the author's own doubts. Strieber's financial support for MUFON and warnings against the misuse of his themes by others are mentioned as arguments for his credibility.

Cat Magic: Reviewed by Joëlle Rose, "Cat Magic" is presented as a horror novel set in Maywell, where terrifying events blur reality and the supernatural. The story involves sorcerers, a preacher, and a community on the edge of the supernatural. Key characters include Georges Walker, Mandy, and Bonnie. A central element is Tom, a cat that transitions between worlds. The review highlights that Strieber, also the author of "Communion," uses similar themes of transformation, rebirth, and spiritual awakening in both works. The description of a shamanic rite is noted as being almost identical in both books. "Cat Magic" explores the intersection of science and sorcery, leading to a heroine's journey through death and rebirth, gaining wisdom and clairvoyance.

Renaud Marhic also comments on Strieber's work, particularly "Transformation," his latest book, where Strieber claims to have sufficient proof of the reality of his "Visitors." Marhic suggests that Strieber's experiences might be a product of his era's imagination or altered states of consciousness, and that "Cat Magic" could support this second hypothesis. He also considers "Communion" a potential commercial hoax.

Bibliographical Resources: A Geo-Bibliography of Anomalies by George Eberhart

Reviewed by Pierre Lagrange, this section discusses George M. Eberhart's "A Geo-Bibliography of Anomalies: Primary Access to Observations of UFOs, Ghosts, and Others Mysterious Phenomena." Published in 1980, it precedes Eberhart's "UFOs and the Extraterrestrial Contact Movement: a Bibliography." The book classifies approximately 186 types of anomalies, defined in a glossary. It is a massive work, with over 1030 pages, geographically organizing phenomena encountered in North America. The review notes that while specialists might find minor omissions (e.g., specific articles about the Lake Payette monster), the bibliography is an essential resource for anyone investigating North American anomalies. It provides precise references for thousands of reported phenomena, categorized by region, state, city, and even Native American tribes.

Clips & Claps

This section contains brief news items:

• Repertoire: The ufological meeting point at 22 rue du Vertbois in Paris has moved to 80, avenue de Clichy, the new address for Thierry Pinvidic.
• Bref: A new collection titled "Bref" (Brief) is launched by Editions du Cerf/Fides, aiming to reach a broader audience beyond the exclusively Catholic readership. Titles include "Les sectes" (Sects), "Les extraterrestres" (Extraterrestrials), "La découverte de l'univers" (The Discovery of the Universe), and "Le spiritisme" (Spiritualism). The "Extraterrestrials" volume by J.-B. Renard is noted as the first in French to treat extraterrestrials as a new form of religiosity.
• Rambo à Nort-sur-Erdre: This item reports on a man known as "Rambo" (Bernard Florent), who suffered from amnesia, claiming only memories of the Vietnam War and ufologist Jimmy Guieu. He reappeared in Nort-sur-Erdre, France, after being interned in Fréjus and Blain. He was identified as a businessman from Cognac with a history of such disappearances. Curiously, he stated that the solution to his problem lay in ufology, and reappeared in a town where UFO sightings had reportedly been frequent.

Subscription Offer

The back cover features a subscription offer for Ovni-Présence, inviting readers to subscribe and receive two special issues as a gift, with options for "GEPAN: une manip de trop," "Des cas, rien que des cas," "Speciale Italia," and "Very british (spécial Grande-Bretagne)." Subscription details for France and Switzerland are provided.

Contact Information

The final page lists contact information for the Observatoire des Parasciences, including a PO Box in Marseille, France, an email address, and URLs for accessing articles and the magazine online. It also includes an important note prohibiting the unauthorized retrieval and online posting of the digital version of the publication, warning that such actions will be considered copyright infringement and subject to prosecution.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena (UFOs, parapsychology, occultism) with psychological theories (Jungian archetypes, synchronicity) and personal narratives. There is a clear interest in both the scientific and esoteric aspects of these subjects, as evidenced by the coverage of drone technology alongside discussions of spiritualism and alleged alien encounters. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various hypotheses and personal accounts while also engaging in critical review and fact-checking, as seen in the book reviews. The inclusion of bibliographical resources and news briefs suggests a commitment to providing a comprehensive overview of the field.