Ovni Presence - No 46 - Aout 1991

Magazine Overview

Title: Ovni Présence
Issue: No. 46
Date: August 1991
Publisher: SOS-Ovni
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of Ovni Présence, number 46, published in August 1991, delves into significant UFO and anomalous phenomena cases, with a strong emphasis on scientific investigation and witness testimony. The cover prominently features the "Rencontre du 2e Type" (2nd Type Encounter) in Trans-en-Provence, marking the tenth anniversary of the event, and "Prodiges dans les blés!" (Prodigies in the Wheat Fields), highlighting crop circle phenomena.

Edito: Lavande contre luzerne sauvage

The editorial contrasts the 1965 Valensole humanoid encounter with the 1981 Trans-en-Provence case. While Valensole is known for humanoids, Trans-en-Provence is noted for the physical traces left by a landed UFO. An analysis of wild alfalfa samples from Trans-en-Provence by Michel Bounias revealed cellular degeneration, challenging Valensole's prominence in French ufology.

Main Articles and Features

Retour à Trans-en-Provence: medicago minima par Jacques Vallée (p. 5)

Jacques Vallée revisits the Trans-en-Provence UFO case, which occurred in 1981. His 1988 visit to the site and interviews with the witness, Renato Niccolai, and his wife are detailed. The article discusses the analysis of soil samples, conducted by an American laboratory, which supported the conclusions of French scientists consulted by CNES. The analysis found no traces of cement, oil, or chemical contaminants that could suggest the presence of tractors or other vehicles. The surface sample showed biological matter (vegetables and insects), while the subsurface sample did not, consistent with the location of the traces.

Le bilan scientifique : dix ans après ! traces à Trans par Michel Bounias (p. 11)

Michel Bounias provides an update on his scientific work concerning the Trans-en-Provence case. His analysis of wild alfalfa samples showed cellular degeneration, suggesting an unusual phenomenon affected the plants. The article emphasizes that his findings support the witness's account and previous analyses by French laboratories.

"Prodiges dans les blés!" - Crop Circles

The issue dedicates significant attention to crop circles, presenting two main hypotheses: the involvement of an unknown meteorological phenomenon, specifically a "plasma vortex" (interview with G.T. Meaden, p. 17), and the possibility of human fabrication (discussed by Raoul Robé, p. 23). The complex geometric patterns in English fields are questioned as to their origin, whether meteorological or man-made.

Interview with G.T. Meaden: vortex plasmatique et crop circles (p. 17)

This interview explores G.T. Meaden's theory of plasma vortices as the cause of crop circles. His explanation was popular among researchers but has seen a decline in acceptance.

Cercles et faussaires dans les blés - Rouletabille contre Sherlock Holmes par Raoul Robé (p. 23)

This article examines the crop circle phenomenon from the perspective of potential human fabrication, contrasting it with the more esoteric explanations.

Enquête du GEPAN (p. 7)

Descriptions from a GEPAN (Groupe d'Études et de Recherches sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés) investigation of the Trans-en-Provence object are presented. The object was described as two inverted saucers, about 1.50m high, with a lead-like color and a prominent rim. Underneath, there were parts resembling 'reactors' or 'feet', and two hatches. The GEPAN noted discrepancies in witness descriptions regarding the object's size and its relation to the ground marks.

Enquête Lumières dans la Nuit (p. 7)

Another description of the Trans-en-Provence object, comparing it to two unequal hemispheres with a flat, protruding rim. The horizontal diameter was larger than its height. The witness compared the undercarriage accessories to four mason's buckets. This account noted a height discrepancy (2-2.5m) with the ground marks, suggesting a spherical shape rather than a disk.

Enquête C.E.O.S.E. (p. 7)

This investigation mentions a "belt of 'large rivets'" around the object and perceived "asperities" as it ascended.

Enquête Michel Figuet (p. 7)

Figuet clarifies that he never stated there were large rivets, but acknowledged the possibility of a "wrought iron UFO." He also mentioned two deployed feet on one side and two others, not visible but in place, forming a circumference of two hatches.

Analyse des échantillons (p. 8, 9, 10)

Detailed analysis of soil samples (Q1 and Q2) from the Trans-en-Provence site is presented. The samples contained aluminum, silicon, calcium, iron, and potassium. Sample Q1, taken from the surface, also contained biological matter (vegetables, insects), while Q2, from below the surface, did not. Microscopic and X-ray analyses confirmed the presence of organic matter and common soil constituents. The results were deemed compatible with the witness's account and did not reveal any evidence of construction materials or drilling substances, supporting the authenticity of the traces.

OVNI et Guerre du Golfe (p. 4)

This section explores potential links between UFOs and the Gulf War, mentioning a false missile alert in Israel caused by satellite debris and the naming of "black moving objects" (BMO) for Saudi women by Anglo-Saxon soldiers. It also touches on the architecture of the Monument to the Unknown Soldier in Baghdad, described as evoking a flying saucer.

Enlèvement en Colombie ? (p. 3)

A brief report about a Colombian farmer who claimed to have been abducted by "metallic yellow" humanoids from a "beer bottle" shaped craft. The report notes the story's potential for skepticism due to its timing and the witness's immediate public recounting.

Mort d'Henri Lothe (p. 4)

A tribute to the French ethnologist Henri Lothe, a specialist in Saharan civilizations, who passed away at 87. Lothe's work on Saharan rock art, including depictions of large figures with "Martian-like" contours, is mentioned, along with how some ufologists interpreted these as extraterrestrial beings.

Clips & Claps (p. 3, 4)

• This section contains various short news items:
• Boules de Lumière Orange: Greg Long of MUFON studied orange light balls, testing Michael Persinger's geophysical model.
• Fringues!: Mentions merchandise related to the Roswell crash.
• Cinquièmes Rencontres Européennes de Lyon: A report on the 1991 European UFO conference in Lyon, covering topics like UFO archives, Soviet ufology, the Belgian wave, Chinese ufology, and European abductions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a stance of serious investigation into UFO phenomena, prioritizing scientific analysis, detailed witness testimony, and the exploration of various hypotheses. There is a clear effort to differentiate between well-documented cases like Trans-en-Provence and more speculative or potentially fabricated accounts. The publication also engages with related topics such as crop circles, ancient art, and the broader context of anomalous phenomena. The editorial team appears to be composed of dedicated researchers and enthusiasts committed to the study of UFOs.

The magazine also provides practical information for its readers, including details on how to subscribe, contact SOS-Ovni, and access information via Minitel. The inclusion of a "Readers' Corner" suggests an interactive approach, encouraging reader contributions.

Title: Ovni-Présence
Issue: No. 46
Date: August 1991
Content Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Ovni-Présence features a detailed scientific analysis of the 1981 Trans-en-Provence UFO event, ten years after its occurrence. It also includes an interview with Dr. G.T. Meaden on crop circles and a critical report on a CSICOP conference in Brussels.

ETUDE: Le bilan scientifique... dix ans après ! (The Scientific Assessment... Ten Years Later!)

This extensive study, authored by Michel Bounias, revisits the Trans-en-Provence incident of January 1981. Bounias explains that the event's significance was amplified by a pre-existing research agreement between CNES (National Centre for Space Studies) and INRA (National Institute for Agronomic Research) to study unidentified aerospace phenomena if they occurred under suitable conditions.

The Scientific Methodology

Bounias addresses two main reasons why UFOs have historically been excluded from scientific study: their unpredictable nature, making preparation difficult, and the subjective implications of the UFO hypothesis, which can challenge established scientific thought. He argues that neither reason is valid. The unpredictability does not negate the reality of the phenomenon, and scientific progress often arises from observing deviations from accepted laws. He posits that experimental conditions only affect the quality of analysis, not the phenomenon itself.

The Research Phase

The choice of analytical targets for biochemical reactions is dictated by available resources, as metabolic processes are interconnected. The probability of detecting effects increases with the sensitivity of the chosen targets.

What Modifications Were Observed in the Trans-en-Provence Vegetation?

Biochemical modifications in plants were monitored over time and space.

a) In Time:

• Short-term (4 days post-observation): A weakening of photosynthetic equipment was observed, with more degraded chlorophylls than carotenoids. Sugar concentration decreased, while free amino acids accumulated, indicating a state similar to plant aging, but occurring in young leaves at the site of the alleged UFO landing.
• Medium-term (40 days post-observation): The trauma evolved. Photosynthetic apparatus remained weakened near the trace, but glucose levels increased significantly, while free amino acids were abnormally low. This suggests a shift in energy metabolism.
• Long-term (2 years post-observation): The area returned to a near-natural state, with plants showing normal fluctuations. Analyses indicated that free amino acid levels varied inversely with chlorophyll and carotenoid concentrations, and glucose levels varied similarly. This normalization allowed for a better appreciation of the variations observed two years prior, closer to the potential influence period of the UFO.

b) In Space:

Algebraic calculations showed that biochemical alterations generally diminished with distance from the trace. The intensity of effects was highest at the epicenter and decreased with distance, often following an inverse square law. This statistically significant result suggests an electromagnetic or gravitational factor, assuming a linear response of plant metabolism to such influences.

Bounias notes that other biphasic response patterns were also observed, indicating a reversal of response with increasing intensity of the cause.

What Known Factors Could Be Imputed to the Observed Biochemical Modifications in Trans-en-Provence?

To definitively resolve the Trans-en-Provence case, Bounias suggests repeating the landing with a similar UFO and conducting the same analyses under comparable conditions. He notes that an offer for such research has been made.

He then explores alternative interpretations:

a) Chemical Intoxication:

Laboratory studies of metabolic inhibitors (poisons) produced symptoms affecting the analyzed components of wild alfalfa. While some herbicides have been described in recent publications, divergences prevent a definitive conclusion. The possibility of cement or mortar spillage was ruled out by soil pH analysis. Hydrocarbon residues were not detected. Chemical explanations become complex when trying to account for quantitative dose/effect and time/effect relationships, which require specific timing and conditions for the toxic agent. Recreating such a scenario would be a massive research undertaking. The idea of superimposing a false trace over a chemical spill site, with decreasing concentration away from the point of origin, implies deliberate falsification and a successful deception, which is unlikely given the unknown nature of sample collection.

b) Physical Factor:

Experimental modeling of a purely thermal effect was interesting but insufficient. Lightning could be a candidate, but divergences exist. Ionizing radiation also seems unlikely. Variations in light intensity can cause effects, but not those observed. The most compatible hypothesis, requiring further experimental research, is a electromagnetic field.

The Trans-en-Provence affair remains far from being closed.

CLIPS & CLAPS

This section provides brief news items:

• OVNIS A SHEFFIELD (UFOs in Sheffield): Announcement of the sixth international ufological congress in Sheffield, England, from August 16-18. The event, organized by BUFORA, ICUR, MUFON, and IUR, will feature various ufologists, an abductee, and famous witnesses.
• MAISON D'AILLEURS (House of Elsewhere): News about the reopening of the Maison d'Ailleurs in Yverdon-les-Bains, Switzerland, with a new team led by Roger Gaillard, the curator. It mentions a humorous anecdote about the founder, Pierre Versins.

L'autre dogmatisme (The Other Dogmatism)

This report by Jacques Scornaux covers a CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal) conference held in Brussels on August 10-11, 1990. CSICOP, described as the 'American pursuers of the paranormal,' convened with international associations.

Grand-messe rationaliste à Bruxelles (Rationalist High Mass in Brussels)

Scornaux describes the event as a gathering of about a hundred people. Paul Kurtz, President of CSICOP, emphasized investigating before concluding and promoting critical thinking. However, Scornaux argues that beneath this official discourse lies a more abrupt stance. He cites Professor Vermeersch of Ghent University, who stated that phenomena conflicting with established scientific truths or appearing to be mere rumors should not even be investigated. Vermeersch used the analogy of Blanche-Neige's letter to the seven dwarfs and dismissed telepathy by arguing that information transfer requires energy/matter transfer, which is impossible without it.

Scornaux notes that these extreme views did not elicit dissent. He also recounts an anecdote where a speaker claimed that new scientific theories (relativity, quantum mechanics) only modified physics 'at the margins' and that Newtonian mechanics remained fundamentally valid.

He criticizes the speakers' outdated views and their complaints about lack of media attention, comparing them to their adversaries in their desire for recognition. He observes that the younger attendees did not challenge the older speakers, creating an impression of a sect.

Scornaux suggests that CSICOP's goal is not to liberate the public from dogma but to replace it with their own. He contrasts this with the pluralism of opinions found in events like the Lyon Meetings or the 1988 Brussels Congress.

He recounts his own intervention, suggesting that young people should be taught to distrust all dogma and absolute truths, and to embrace relative truths. He felt his point was not understood.

The Organization That Runs Smoothly...

This section provides background on the Tornado and Storm Research Organization (TORRO), founded in 1974 by George Terence Meaden. TORRO's initial aim was to accurately assess the consequences of tornadoes in Great Britain. By 1975, it had a database of nearly 1000 tornado incidents, which grew as its scope expanded to include hailstorms, whirlwinds, and ball lightning. In 1984, TORRO absorbed the Thunderstorm Census Organization, extending its reach. In 1980, Meaden began studying crop circles, suspecting a meteorological origin.

L'INTERVIEW: George Terence Meaden

This interview focuses on Dr. George Terence Meaden's research into crop circles.

"I could determine with my eyes closed if a circle is authentic or not."

Dr. Meaden has studied the phenomenon of 'atmospheric electromagnetic vortex' since 1980, postulating its existence based on circular traces found in cereal fields in Southern England. His hypothesis suggests a type of cold plasma, low-density, different from ball lightning but related to it. His book, 'The Circles Effect and Its Mysteries,' has been well-received and is being translated into Japanese. Meaden holds a PhD in solid-state physics and has worked at various universities and research establishments. His research interests include tornadoes, whirlwinds, and ball lightning.

Why do you not limit yourself to the strictly meteorological or physical domain?

Meaden believes a meteorological or physical solution is possible without resorting to other sciences. He acknowledges that no single domain can explain everything but that many things can be explained using these fields. He anticipates significant discoveries in the coming years. He notes that the physical form of circles is only one aspect; there are multiple levels of study, requiring specialists from various fields. He sees the problem of circles, and even more complex figures, as fundamentally meteorological, involving vortex formation. However, he also perceives a less palpable element, mentioning luminous balls preceding circle appearances, which directly relates to the UFO problem. He suggests that many cases of unidentified aerial lights could be explained by these vortices. While acknowledging that thousands of other cases may not be explained this way, and that extraterrestrial explanations might be possible, he focuses on the meteorological hypothesis for circles and luminous balls. He also points out that these vortices leave electrical or magnetic traces that can influence animal behavior and potentially cause psychological effects in sensitive individuals. He leaves the psychological aspect to other researchers.

Don't you think that the multiplicity of geometric shapes, which are quite sophisticated, complicates the problem? Can you invoke the meteorological hypothesis even for these complex figures?

Meaden believes the complexity adds to the beauty of the phenomenon. He mentions that researchers like John Snow (Purdue University) and Tokio Kikushi (Kyushu University) have developed theories on vortex formation. He also refers to experiments with smoke rings that visually demonstrate complexity. Kikushi suggests a 'rebound' effect when a vortex hits the ground, potentially creating the first ring and subsequent ones. Meaden feels that classical physics can explain these phenomena, but acknowledges the existence of electromagnetic effects with different consequences, such as stopping vehicles or frightening animals. He describes the situation as very complicated.

He summarizes that, at this level, it's a problem of fluid mechanics. He suggests that experiments in fluid dynamics laboratories could help resolve these issues. Regarding the psychological incidence, he believes it's likely a physical reaction affecting muscles or the brain temporarily, but admits this is speculative. He contrasts this with the possibility of the phenomenon having its own intelligence, a 'paraphysical' aspect.

You mentioned the accumulation of testimonies about UFOs, where people have reportedly suffered consequences from proximity to luminous balls of unknown origin. Could this be due to electromagnetic forces affecting receptive individuals?

Meaden acknowledges the possibility of electromagnetic forces explaining such accounts, but stresses that he is speaking outside his area of expertise. He suggests that there is room for various competencies around this phenomenon.

Regarding crop circles in Great Britain, can you give an idea of the percentage of authentic circles versus those created by hoaxers?

Meaden estimates that the television industry creates circles for its own purposes annually. He also believes people will conduct their own experiments. He states that he can determine authenticity by detecting residual magnetism or electromagnetic effects left by vortices. He notes that while he can visit most circles, some will remain inaccessible. He also suggests that people creating UFO stories might also create circles to support their claims, urging vigilance.

So, fake circles would serve to legitimize UFO observations?

Meaden advises caution, particularly regarding circles in Florida or Gulf Breeze, questioning if there's a link or an attempt to legitimize previous affairs. He notes that in Great Britain, the danger is less significant when he can be on-site.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Ovni-Présence strongly advocates for a scientific approach to unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs and crop circles. It critiques dogmatic skepticism, as exemplified by the CSICOP conference, and promotes open-minded yet rigorous investigation. The magazine highlights research into potential physical and biological effects of anomalous events, as seen in the Trans-en-Provence case and the study of crop circles. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the limits of current scientific understanding and the possibility of novel phenomena.

This issue of Ovni-Présence, number 46, dated August 1991, focuses heavily on the phenomenon of crop circles, with a prominent cover story titled "Cercles et faussaires dans les blés" (Circles and Fakers in the Wheat Fields) by Raoul Robé. The magazine also includes sections on "Impressions," featuring reviews of books related to ufology and the occult, and a report on a conference about fabulous beasts and cryptozoology.

Crop Circles: Investigation and Theories

The main section of the magazine is dedicated to the crop circle phenomenon, presenting it as a complex subject with multiple contributing factors. An interview with physicist G.T. Meaden highlights the difficulty in understanding the precise conditions that lead to circle formation, suggesting that atmospheric conditions play a role. He notes that while simple circles were initially observed, the phenomenon has evolved to include more complex figures like quintuplets and rings, making it challenging to study. Meaden expresses a desire to predict and observe circle formation in the future, and mentions his work in indicating favorable atmospheric conditions for their creation.

Raoul Robé details two French expeditions to England in 1989 and 1990, organized by the group VECA (Voyage d'Etude des Cercles Anglais). These missions aimed to investigate the growing number of crop circles appearing in the British countryside. The reports describe encounters with British researchers like Colin Andrews and Pat Delgado, and visits to well-known sites such as Cheesefoot Head and Silbury Hill. The French team meticulously documented formations, took measurements, and observed the physical characteristics of the flattened wheat stalks. They noted the precision of the circles, the absence of broken stalks, and the neat edges.

Robé presents a strong case for the human fabrication hypothesis. He points to several indicators: the phenomenon being concentrated in specific areas of Southern England, the proximity of formations to roads and access paths, the use of landscape features as reference points, and the visibility of circles from public areas. He also notes that the complexity and variety of designs have increased over time, suggesting a learned skill and possibly a competitive element among creators. The article mentions a simulated crop circle creation in Verdes, France, which was executed in one hour under the supervision of a bailiff, demonstrating the feasibility of human construction.

The magazine also touches upon the commercialization of the phenomenon, with tourists flocking to sites and some farmers charging for access or selling merchandise. The increasing media attention, including TV reports and articles, has contributed to the spread of the phenomenon globally.

"The Locust's Cry in the Wheat Fields at Night..."

A sidebar recounts an unusual experience during a crop circle surveillance night in 1989 at Cheesefoot Head. A team reported hearing a regular, powerful sound that did not seem to come from an insect. The sound was later identified by ornithologists as the cry of a locustelle. The article expresses frustration that this observation was later misrepresented in a book as an "unidentified mysterious noise," highlighting a perceived lack of seriousness in some UFO research circles.

Book Reviews and Other Sections

"Perspectives: A Radical Examination of the Alien Abduction Phenomenon" by John Spencer

Claude Maugé reviews John Spencer's book, which focuses on alien abductions. Maugé notes Spencer's critical approach, questioning some widely accepted abduction narratives and suggesting that psychological factors might play a significant role. Spencer examines cases, including the Hill abduction and the Gulf Breeze sightings, with a degree of skepticism. He also considers the influence of science fiction films on abduction accounts and explores alternative hypotheses, including purely psychological explanations. While Maugé finds the book stimulating, he points out some inaccuracies and questions Spencer's assertion about the prevalence of the extraterrestrial hypothesis (HET) in British ufology.

"Lovecraft and Saucers?"

This section, written by Frédéric Dumerchat and Pierre Lagrange, explores the historical connections between science fiction, particularly the works of H.P. Lovecraft and Richard Shaver, and the emergence of ufology. It discusses how early science fiction magazines published stories that foreshadowed UFO narratives and how authors like Lovecraft's themes were interpreted by some as occult prophecies related to extraterrestrial interventions. The article also touches upon the growing number of pilgrims visiting Giubiasco, Switzerland, due to alleged apparitions of the Virgin Mary to seer Pino Casagrande, and the community's reactions to the influx.

"Fabulous Beasts: Between Folklore and Cryptozoology"

This report summarizes a conference held at the University of Surrey that brought together folklorists and cryptozoologists. The discussions focused on the concept of mythological animals, with folklorists presenting on legendary creatures from various cultures, and naturalists discussing the potential for real, undiscovered animals to be the basis for myths. The article highlights Adrienne Mayor's work on the origin of the griffin and mentions a point of tension regarding the sources used by historian Boris Porchnev. The presence of Bigfoot researcher Erik Beckjord and his controversial film is also noted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena with scientific inquiry, psychological interpretation, and historical context. There is a clear interest in distinguishing between genuine unexplained events and potential hoaxes or misinterpretations, as evidenced by the detailed investigation into crop circles and the critical review of abduction literature. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and a multi-disciplinary approach, while acknowledging the speculative nature of much of the subject matter. The magazine also highlights the commercial and media aspects that have come to surround phenomena like crop circles.

Title: Ovni-Présence
Issue: 46
Date: August 1991
Publisher: Observatoire des Parasciences
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of Ovni-Présence, dated August 1991, features a prominent cover story on "Swiss Observations in 1990," detailing numerous UFO sightings across Switzerland. It also includes a critical review of the re-edition of Charles Hoy Fort's "The Book of Damned," a debate on alleged plagiarism in comic book illustrations, and discussions on various UFO-related controversies and research.

Swiss Observations in 1990

The magazine meticulously documents a series of UFO sightings that occurred in Switzerland during 1990. These reports are presented with specific dates, locations, and witness testimonies, often including details about the object's appearance, behavior, and duration of observation.

• April 17: A resident of Locle observed an irregular semi-circle with a bright, moving light.
• May 4-5: In the Lugano region, multiple witnesses reported luminous objects, identified by an ufologist as discotheque projector lights.
• May 15: In Chêne-Bougeries (Geneva), two individuals saw five diffuse lights forming a square, with a sixth light moving erratically.
• May 19: A student in La Creusaz (Valais) witnessed a bright orange light moving horizontally.
• June 8: In Marin-Epagnier (Neuchâtel), a photographer captured an anomaly in a photo of an airplane: a blue object with a white and yellow trail.
• July 21: In Boll (Berne), a civil servant observed a circular white object moving southwards, described as tennis ball-sized.
• July 24: A retiree in Coppet (Vaud) reported an intense white light that appeared as a disk or saucer, moving slightly and rotating.
• August 16: Near Hoher Kasten (Appenzell), a couple saw a luminous disk drop a ball of light before disappearing.
• August 18: Near Bienne, a family observed four white lights dancing in the sky, moving in sync with their car.
• August 25: A cyclist between Hinteregg and Egg (Zurich) reported seeing a swarm of about twenty objects.
• August 27: In Meyrin (Geneva), a couple observed a yellow-orange fireball that expanded and then vanished.
• September 16: In Dornach (Soleure), three women and a man saw a silent, reddish luminous ball moving at high speed.
• September 25: An air traffic controller at Geneva-Cointrin airport observed a light moving at very high speed.
• October 8: In Glion (Vaud), a resident observed three white lights in an irregular triangle formation that suddenly dispersed.
• October 14: A couple driving from Lostorf to Zurich observed three luminous white disks that rearranged themselves and were connected by chains of lights.

Fort and the Uses of Fort

This section reviews the 1990 re-edition of Charles Hoy Fort's "The Book of Damned" by Néo editions. The author, Jean-Louis Brodu, questions the decision to retain Jacques Bergier's original foreword instead of Robert Benayoun's successive prefaces. Brodu argues that Bergier's foreword perpetuates a mythologized image of Fort as an "hermit of the Bronx and sworn enemy of science," obscuring the controversy raised by Benayoun regarding the appropriation of Fort's work by authors of "The Matin des magiciens." The article suggests that Fort's work is interpreted by readers based on their own preconceptions, serving as a basis for marginal identities or as a source for para-scientific beliefs. It highlights that while some see Fort as a prophet or precursor to ancient astronaut theories, others view him as a master of collage and a humorist reflecting on the relationship between credulity and knowledge.

Readers' Corner

This section features several letters and responses from readers, addressing various topics:

• Edgar P. Jacobs: Plagiarist? Jean-Marc Deschamps raises the issue of striking similarities between illustrations by Dudouyt for H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds" and Edgar P. Jacobs' 1946 illustrations for the same novel. The article cites a 1972 review by Denis Philippe that accused Jacobs of plagiarism, noting that some illustrations were nearly identical, only inverted. Edgar P. Jacobs responds, refuting the plagiarism claims and stating that the similarities are due to fidelity to Wells' text and artistic technique. He argues that his "Martian machine" design was deliberately archaic to fit the "end of the century" style of the novel.

• Marxism and Non-Contact: A Reply: Dante Minazzoli responds to a critique by Bruno Mancusi of his book "Perché gli extraterrestri non prendono contatto pubblicamente?" Minazzoli accuses Mancusi of superficiality and of attempting to ridicule the book rather than engage in serious debate. He clarifies that he does not claim extraterrestrials are communists, but rather that Mancusi's theory suggests that humanity would be ready for contact if it had adopted a Marxist system.

• Marxism: The Author Rebuffs: Bruno Mancusi replies to Minazzoli, questioning the basis for Minazzoli's claims about extraterrestrials and their reasons for not making contact. Mancusi points out that Minazzoli's book is based on speculation rather than evidence and highlights passages where Minazzoli seems to imply that a Marxist society would be ready for contact.

• Counter-Measure: Renaud Marhic responds to a reader who questioned his article on "The Belgian Wave." Marhic clarifies that his cited sources are not limited to older articles and defends his assertion that Belgian UFO technology is not significantly more advanced than current terrestrial technology. He also questions the methodology used by the Belgian Air Force in their investigation.

• A Letter from Aimé Michel: Aimé Michel confirms a previous suggestion to publish everything, reflecting on his long-held belief that the true nature of UFOs is complex, possibly involving both physical and psychological elements. He suggests that current approaches, including parapsychology, are dead ends and that SETI represents the most promising avenue for research due to its methodology.

• Blatant Lies: Jean Sider expresses disappointment with issue #45 for publishing an article by A. Dumoulin about the F-117A, which he claims is full of gross inaccuracies, preferring a more reliable source from the manufacturer. The editorial team responds by stating that Dumoulin's text was presented as a press release to illustrate the controversy surrounding the Belgian wave, and they invite Sider to provide his list of alleged inaccuracies.

• The Belgian Wave and Skepticism: Filip Rekoms of NUFOC Belgium addresses the perception of more UFO sightings in Wallonia than Flanders. He argues that this is due to SOBEPS's prompt reporting to the media, which raises public awareness. Rekoms suggests that many reported sightings in Wallonia are conventional aircraft, and that the "triangle" shape is a popular form that people tend to associate with UFOs.

Books

A section titled "LIVRES ANCIENS & MODERNES" advertises a seller of out-of-print books on Science, Philosophy, Religion, Esotericism, Folklore, and Varia.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the phenomenon of UFOs and unexplained aerial phenomena through detailed witness reports, critical analysis, and reader feedback. There is a clear emphasis on presenting documented cases, while also engaging in debates about interpretation, scientific validity, and the potential for extraterrestrial contact. The magazine appears to foster a critical yet open-minded approach to the subject, encouraging discussion and diverse perspectives, as seen in the "Readers' Corner." The editorial stance seems to favor rigorous investigation and a questioning of established narratives, whether they originate from official sources, popular ufology, or even within the scientific community.