Phenomena - No 02 - 1991 03

Magazine Overview

Phénomèna is a bimonthly publication from SOS OVNI, a non-profit association dedicated to the study of UFO phenomena without dogma or mystical sensationalism. This issue, number 2, dated March-April 1991, features a cover price of 25 French Francs. The main cover headline highlights an exclusive report with photos of the phenomenon observed on November 5th, posing the question: 'UFOs or planes?'

Editorial

The editorial expresses gratitude for reader encouragement and acknowledges that recent events, such as the Gulf War, have understandably shifted public attention away from ufology. However, it emphasizes that UFO observations continue, albeit through less conventional channels. The editorial asserts Phénomèna's crucial role in seeking out and disseminating ufological information, aiming to provide readers with a welcome distraction.

Table of Contents

The issue includes an editorial, articles titled 'The UFOs We Build,' 'The UFO of November 5th: Why the Surprise?', 'The UFO of November 5th: The Photos,' 'Press Review,' 'What Do You Say?', 'Angels Get Their Heads Blown,' and a communiqué from Editions Laffont. The cover photos are noted as being from the November 5, 1990 phenomenon, sourced from amateur video footage provided by SEPRA.

Article: The UFOs We Build

This article, by Renaud Marhic and Gilbert Rolland, discusses the evolution of military aviation, focusing on 'stealth technology,' 'phantom aircraft,' and 'invisible hunters.' It notes that prototypes are taking on unusual shapes, blurring the lines between advanced aircraft and potential UFOs. The piece references the F117A 'stealth fighter,' highlighting its role in the Gulf War and its age, suggesting it is becoming somewhat outdated. The article also touches upon the B2 'stealth bomber,' an 'imposing flying wing' not seen in the Gulf. It mentions the YF22A and YF23A, advanced fighters, and the A12, intended for naval aviation. The authors suggest that the term 'Aurora,' previously associated with a single hypersonic prototype, might refer to a broader program involving advanced propulsion systems. Reports from Aviation Week and Space Technology are cited, detailing strange aircraft observed in the Nevada desert, including silent triangular craft and a 30-meter long object nicknamed 'Puiser' due to its pulsating sound and high speed.

The article also explores the concept of 'hyper-maneuverability' through the X31 program, which aims to create highly agile combat aircraft. It notes that many of these advanced prototypes, due to their unfamiliar designs and capabilities, could be mistaken for UFOs by the public. The article references sightings in Antelope Valley, California, and details investigations by MUFON representatives, including reports of 'glowing discs' and 'boomerangs.' The possibility that military efforts might be based on 'anti-gravity' technology is raised, leading to the speculative question of whether the military has developed genuine UFOs.

Article: The UFO of November 5th: Why the Surprise?

This section, authored by Renaud Marhic, addresses the controversy surrounding the explanation of the November 5, 1990 phenomenon as the atmospheric re-entry of a Soviet Proton rocket stage. The article presents information from the French Navy frigate Jean Bart, which observed the phenomenon on November 5, 1990, at 19:03, reporting white, fixed and flashing lights of unequal intensity and triangular shape, moving at high speed (estimated at 500 knots) northeast, leaving luminous trails. The observation occurred below cloud cover, at an altitude of approximately 3000 meters.

However, the article points out a discrepancy with the Service d'Expertise des Phénomènes de Rentree Atmosphérique (SEPRA), which stated the Proton rocket stage entered the atmosphere over France at an altitude of 110 km and exited at 83 km, making it impossible to be observed at 3 km altitude. The Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES) later issued a communiqué on November 27th, explaining how witnesses might have been misled by optical effects, but correcting the date of the Proton re-entry to November 3rd. The article questions how professionals like the crew of an anti-aircraft frigate could be mistaken. It also references an amateur astronomer, Pierre Temmerman, who noted the object's magnitude (-3), making it as bright as Venus, and confirms the SEPRA's conclusions but points out a slight anomaly in the observation times between the Jean Bart and tracking observers.

Article: Three Fires

This short piece by Renaud Marhic describes a personal sighting on November 5, 1990, around 19:00, near Massy, France. While driving, the author observed an aircraft (possibly a Fokker 27) flying at an unusually low altitude and with intense engine noise, seemingly 'regaining power.' The author notes two unusual aspects: the aircraft's trajectory was not its usual approach path, and it flew almost directly over his vehicle.

Article: The UFO of November 5th: The Photos

This section, also by Renaud Marhic and Gilbert Rolland, revisits the November 5th phenomenon. It includes a report from the CNES dated January 15, 1991, confirming the observation by the Jean Bart and detailing its characteristics: triangular shape, white lights, high speed, and luminous trails. The report also mentions that the phenomenon might be explained by the disintegration of a defunct satellite. The article notes that the SEPRA initially suggested the explanation of a Proton rocket re-entry, but this was later corrected by the CNES to November 3rd, not November 5th. The authors suggest that the events of November 5th likely prompted the deployment of French Air Force operational patrols. They emphasize that many witnesses maintain that what they observed was neither rocket debris nor conventional aircraft. A testimony from an optical engineer and president of HGH, a company specializing in long-range targeting systems for national defense, is presented as an example of a credible witness.

Additionally, a testimony collected in the Médoc region describes a 'formidable explosion' and is considered one of the earliest observations of the phenomenon as it approached France.

Notes and References

The issue includes a section of notes and references, citing articles from Science et Vie, Aviation Week and Space Technology, and UFO Brigantia, as well as books on stealth aircraft and flying wings. It also references previous issues of Phénomèna.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the potential for misidentification of advanced military aircraft as UFOs, the ongoing mystery surrounding specific UFO sightings like the November 5th event, and the role of ufological publications in investigating and reporting on these phenomena. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, seeking information wherever it may be found, and presenting evidence and analysis without succumbing to dogma or sensationalism. The magazine aims to inform and perhaps entertain its readers by exploring the unexplained aspects of aerial phenomena.

This issue of Phénomèna, dated Mars-Avril, focuses on UFO phenomena with a prominent cover story detailing a triangular object sighting. The magazine presents a mix of witness testimonies, news from the ufological community, and reviews of relevant literature.

Cover Story: Circulaires disposés en triangle

The lead article describes a personal sighting by G. Gaussorgues, an engineer from the École Supérieure d'Optique. On November 5, 1990, around 7:10 PM, while driving, Gaussorgues observed an object in the sky. Initially, he mistook it for another aircraft, but upon closer inspection, he realized it was an unidentified flying object. The object was described as a "invisible mass in the night," delimited at the front by a pale white halo and at the rear by three white circular lights arranged in a triangle. These lights were connected by a luminous trail that fluctuated, resembling condensation trails from aircraft wings. The object was moving at a low altitude (50 to 100 meters) and at a distance of approximately 100 meters from his vehicle, on a transversal trajectory. The parallax effect allowed him to estimate the distance. Its speed was too slow for a conventional airplane, leading him to consider the possibility of a helicopter. He lowered his car window to observe it more clearly. The object continued on a west-to-east route in complete silence. The red traffic light at a crossroads provided him with time for analysis, allowing him to eliminate terrestrial aircraft hypotheses. He noted the object's geometric arrangement of lights forming a tetrahedron, with a height of about 10 meters, a width of about 20 meters, and a length of about 30 meters. There was a complete absence of sound. Three white light beams were visible at the rear, and the structure between the lights was not visible, although ambient lighting allowed him to distinguish the structure of a Fokker aircraft. When the traffic light turned green, the object was very close to the ground, heading towards Orly Airport, and disappeared behind a small hill. The witness was left with a "huge question mark."

Witness Testimony: Premiers instants

This section recounts a sighting by M. Pulido on November 5, 1990, around 7:00 PM, near St-Isidore in the Médoc region. While in a duck blind, Pulido observed a formidable explosion of white light to the west, low above the dunes and the ocean. This was followed by the formation of a luminous mushroom-shaped cloud, described as two centimeters wide at arm's length, surrounded by a halo. As Pulido called his companions, he saw a group of luminous points emerge from the cloud and head towards the shore. The spectacle was described as magnificent, with lights of various colors moving silently at the same speed, giving the impression of approaching aircraft. Approximately thirty luminous points of different sizes were observed. The trajectory was oriented west-southwest/east-northeast, passing almost vertically overhead. The witnesses noted that stars were visible between the lights, ruling out an aircraft. The lights were followed by trails, compared to "Milky Way" streaks. The phenomenon lasted about one minute and thirty seconds to two minutes before disappearing. The mushroom cloud remained visible but less bright, deforming and vanishing. The stars were not visible behind the trails, and the phenomenon did not appear to change altitude.

Video Documentation: Documents extraits d'un film vidéo amateur

This section presents stills from a 23-second amateur video recorded on November 5, 1990, at 7:00 PM. The witness followed the phenomenon from left to right. The images show the appearance of a nearly equilateral triangle, with its lower angle formed by three luminous points. The witness zoomed in on the phenomenon, which maintained its proportions. A distinct triangular shape is visible, with a bright glow in the lower left angle followed by a trail. Close-ups show this glow varying in intensity and sometimes fragmenting. The final phase shows the object just before it disappeared behind a house. Reproduction is prohibited.

Revue de presse

This section offers a review of ufological publications from around the world.

U.S.A.

An article in the Mufon UFO Journal (November 1990) discusses the controversial photos by Ed Walters, who used the pseudonym Mr. Ed. The controversy intensified in June 1990 when a model was allegedly found in the attic of one of Walters' former homes. MUFON published a counter-analysis of photo 19 by Bruce Maccabee, asserting that it cannot be determined to be a hoax. The issue also features an article by William F. Hamilton, referencing Aviation Week and Space Technology, about unusual aircraft being tested in Antelope Valley, California, employing anti-gravity and magnetohydrodynamic techniques.

Belgique

This section explores hypotheses for the Belgian UFO wave of recent years, considering F117A, B2 bombers, or unknown conventional aircraft, as well as extraterrestrial technology. According to Nufoc journal (January 1990), the explanation might lie in unconventional, unknown weaponry. The author, Paul Vanbrabant, bases this on observations from Aviation Week and Space Technology, noting the minimal evolution between the SR71's speed in the 1960s and modern aircraft like the F16, despite significant advancements in aeronautics. However, the author acknowledges that this hypothesis does not answer all questions.

Australie

This review criticizes The Australian UFO Bulletin (December 1990) for its reporting on Belgian events, mentioning Prof. Meussens, Colonel de Brauwere, and Jean-Pierre Petit, misidentifying Petit's role. The tone of the article is described as problematic.

Argentine

Ufo Press is reported to have ceased publication. Its successor, El Ojo Escéptico, is published by the "Argentine Center for the Investigation and Refutation of Pseudoscience." The review notes articles by H. Broch.

Bloc-notes

This section provides brief news items:

• The death of John G. Fuller, author of "Incident at Exeter" and "The Interrupted Journey," is announced. He passed away at 76 from cancer.
• Canal Plus has acquired the rights to the film E.T., and Michel Denisot is expected to host Steven Spielberg on his show "Zénith" for its broadcast.
• A poll in the National Enquirer suggests that 6 out of 10 Americans believe Earth has been visited by extraterrestrials.
• Contrary to previous information, no specific broadcast was dedicated to Claude Vorilhon/Raël.

Espagne

This section highlights the latest issue of Cuadernos de Ufologia (No. 9-10, Sept.-Dec. 1990), a 160-page publication. It includes a mini-dossier on the Belgian events, an article on atmospheric entries, news from the USSR, and a "mega-dossier" on major disappointments in contemporary ufology, such as MJ12, the Moore case, and the Gulf Breeze case.

Grande-Bretagne

This section recommends "Infore space" for information on the Belgian UFO wave and "The Journal of Meteorology" (Vol. 16, No. 156, February 1991) for crop circle phenomena. The latter is described as a technical journal by G.T. Meaden, covering climate and its manifestations, including a summary of 1990 crop circle events.

Other Publications Mentioned

Several other publications are listed: Bulletin d'Information ufologique (USSR), Journal of Meteorology (UK), Le Sablier (France), Ufo Contact (Denmark), Fenomenos Anomales (Spain), La quatrième dimension (USSR), OMNL (USA), Mufon UFO Journal (USA), Badge (France), Rassegna Casistica (Italy), and Les Hommes volants (France).

Letters to the Editor

Letter from Colonel Ratie, Paris

Colonel Ratie confirms that the French Air Force is indeed collaborating with the Service d'Expertise des Phénomènes de Rentrée Atmosphérique of CNES in Toulouse on unidentified phenomena. However, he states that information regarding structures and means used in National Defense is classified and cannot be disclosed.

Letter from Jean Sider, Clichy

Jean Sider comments on the magazine's coverage, noting the absence of interviews with "serious" scientists who approach the subject objectively. He suggests that the magazine should publish an interview with a SEPRA representative to discuss official investigations, given that the subject seems to be closed.

Letter from M.D.V. Lanouaille

M.D.V. Lanouaille expresses satisfaction with the first issue of Phénomèna, praising its quality. He suggests a slight delay in publication to allow for better proofreading to avoid minor errors. He also recommends a better map for page 21. Regarding the "Bloc-notes" section, he questions the inclusion of the Hobana point and suggests being more selective with information. He also advises on how to handle rumors, recommending follow-up in subsequent issues.

Letter from Mr. Philip Mantle

Mr. Philip Mantle is seeking to purchase UFO/saucer models, both new and used, as well as ufological gadgets (badges, stickers, T-shirts, videos, etc.) at reasonable prices. He requests correspondence in English.

Humeur: Les anges se fendent la gueule

This section, authored by Perry Petrakis, critically examines the Raëlian movement and its leader, Claude Vorilhon (Raël). The article highlights Vorilhon's public platform on TF1, his desire to reshape the world, and the movement's promotional materials, which include attractive women and sensual meditation. The Raëlian movement is described as a large international organization with numerous adherents, offices, and telecommunication services, often renting luxury hotels for its events. The author argues that it is not a religion but rather a ufological group, despite its claims. The article delves into Vorilhon's concept of "geniocracy," a totalitarian global government ruled by a select few geniuses. It also touches upon controversial aspects, such as the requirement for Raëlians to donate their bodies for potential bone extraction. The piece further criticizes Vorilhon's political views, citing a press release concerning a "World Army of Peacekeepers" during the Gulf War, which suggested a less violent approach to conflict. The author points out Vorilhon's apparent bias against Arab-Muslim culture, suggesting that Saddam Hussein's actions were influenced by his upbringing, contrasting it with a hypothetical upbringing in Sweden. The article concludes by characterizing the Raëlian movement as contradictory, condemning intolerance while exhibiting it, and promoting opposing ideas.

Jacques Vallée: Confrontations

This section reviews Jacques Vallée's book "Confrontations: Un scientifique à la recherche du contact avec un autre monde." The book, following his previous work "Autres dimensions," presents the results of a ten-year investigation into UFO phenomena in France, the USA, and Brazil. Vallée posits that UFOs are not imaginary but likely not extraterrestrial in origin. He suggests they represent a complex, potentially hostile technology from "another dimension." The book details witness reports and case studies, including instances where individuals who approached UFOs reportedly lost their lives. Vallée's research includes investigations into mysterious deaths and physical evidence. The book is illustrated with witness reports, maps, sketches, diagrams, and photographs, offering a comprehensive view of a phenomenon often underestimated by the scientific community. Jacques Vallée, a French-born computer scientist living in California, has published twelve books on the subject, with over a million copies sold. He also served as the inspiration for the scientist character in Steven Spielberg's film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."

En France et dans le Monde...

Bouches-du-Rhône

A brief report from SOS OVNI on February 7, 1991, describes a luminous object observed over the Bouches-du-Rhône region. The object, described as a bright, light-green ball the size of a ping pong ball, followed a southeast to northwest trajectory before turning yellow and disappearing behind a hill. An investigation is underway.

ERRATA

This section corrects an error in a previous issue, clarifying that a photo on page 11 of issue No. 1 was of the cover of the British magazine "Quest International," not a different publication. It also corrects a detail on page 12, line 21, regarding the distance to an object.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO and UAP phenomena through witness accounts, scientific analysis, and reviews of international ufological news. There is a clear interest in detailed case studies, such as the triangular object sighting and the Belgian UFO wave. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various hypotheses and encouraging further investigation, while also critically examining claims and debunking hoaxes where appropriate. The inclusion of letters to the editor suggests an engagement with reader feedback and a desire to address their concerns and questions. The magazine also touches upon related topics, such as the Raëlian movement and the work of researchers like Jacques Vallée, indicating a broad scope within the realm of unexplained phenomena.