Phenomena - No 06 - 1991 11

Magazine Overview

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: No. 6
Date: November-December 1991
Publisher: SOS OVNI
Price: 25 F
ISSN: 1157-4704
Country: France
Language: French

Main Cover Story: "Etrange nuage sur la Dordogne"

The cover of this issue of Phénomèna highlights a mysterious event that occurred on October 3, 1991, in the Dordogne region of France. A significant radar anomaly, described as a "strange cloud" measuring 100 km in length and 30 km in width, was detected by the interregional meteorological center of the Southwest. This phenomenon coincided with a series of power micro-cuts reported by EDF (Électricité de France) agents in Bergerac.

Investigations and Eyewitness Accounts

SOS OVNI initiated an investigation into the event. M. Pellen, a meteorologist at the interregional center, confirmed the radar echo's characteristics: it was detected at an altitude of approximately 800 meters, beneath a temperature inversion at 1500 meters. The echo had a "lens" shape, with its maximum density recorded around 9:00 PM, showing a 40db signal on the radar. Notably, the phenomenon remained perfectly stationary for the entire duration of the observation, which lasted about three hours.

The Ant Swarm Hypothesis

M. Pellen initially suggested that the anomaly might be caused by insects, specifically flying ants, a hypothesis that was also explored by EDF. Investigations with the newspaper "Sud Ouest" and "Radio France Dordogne" revealed that flying ant swarms were indeed frequent in the Dordogne region, with an unusual increase noted by farmers, passersby, and entomologists. EDF suggested that these swarms, agglutinated into "clouds" between the ground and a thousand meters, possibly carried by southwest updrafts, could have caused sparking on high-voltage lines, leading to the observed power fluctuations and lights.

However, several questions remained. The sheer scale of the phenomenon and its prolonged immobility were difficult to explain solely by insect activity. Furthermore, residues discovered on the ground by various individuals, described as fine fibers that reddened and shriveled when exposed to flame, and possessing a resistance of 600 ohms, did not fit the profile of ants.

Other Sightings and Expert Opinions

Two women, Françoise M. and Sylvie C., reported observing a strange, elongated object with internal lights and flashing lights moving silently over the road near Brives. Later, near Festalemps, they witnessed a bright green bolide that appeared to stop before disappearing. Sylvie also reported seeing a large, dark, circular mass with intense flashing lights above her car near La Jemaye.

Bernadette Darchen, an ant specialist based in Dordogne, provided insights into ant swarming. She explained that swarming is a natural process for reproduction, involving winged males and females. She confirmed that an unusually large swarm of male ants occurred around October 3rd, possibly due to specific weather conditions (a cold spring followed by mild weather). While she acknowledged the abundance of ants, she expressed skepticism that they alone could account for the radar echo's intensity or the power line issues. She found the synchronized swarming of all ant species in the region on the same day to be particularly remarkable and unprecedented.

Further Questions and Analysis

The article raises further questions about the nature of the residues found, their potential link to an alloy, and whether they could have been responsible for the short circuits. The possibility of the radar detecting "decoys" or phenomena related to atmospheric re-entry was also considered. The investigation into the Dordogne event was ongoing, with further analysis of the residues planned.

Other Articles

"La Belgique avant la vague" (Belgium Before the Wave): This section likely discusses UFO or anomalous phenomena observed in Belgium preceding a significant event or period of increased sightings.

"Ummites et réalité" (Ummites and Reality): This article explores the nature and existence of beings known as Ummites, a topic within ufology that posits extraterrestrial visitors who have allegedly communicated with humans.

"Dossier Dordogne: Un nuage bien étrange" (Dordogne File: A Very Strange Cloud): This is the main investigative piece detailed above, focusing on the radar anomaly and the ant swarm hypothesis.

"Interview de Madame Darchen" (Interview with Mrs. Darchen): This section features an interview with the ant specialist, providing her expert perspective on the swarming phenomenon.

"UFO et usage de faux" (UFOs and Falsification): This article likely examines cases of hoaxes or misidentified phenomena within the UFO field.

"En France et dans le Monde" (In France and in the World): This section probably provides a roundup of recent UFO sightings and related news from France and internationally.

"Ovni ou bolide ?" (UFO or Meteor?): This piece likely discusses the distinction between UFO sightings and natural celestial events like meteors.

"Vous dites ?" (What Do You Say?): This section might be a reader feedback or opinion column.

"Pourquoi les ufologues ne croient pas à Ummo" (Why Ufologists Don't Believe in Ummo): This article presents arguments or reasons why some ufologists are skeptical of the Ummo phenomenon.

"Bloc-notes" (Notepad): A miscellaneous section for shorter notes or updates.

"Vague d'ovnis sur la Belgique" (Wave of UFOs over Belgium): This article likely details a period of increased UFO sightings in Belgium.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phénomèna revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena, meteorological anomalies, and the intersection of scientific investigation with eyewitness testimony. The magazine's editorial stance, as stated in its introduction, is to "study the UFO phenomenon outside of any dogmatism and any consideration of a mystical or sensationalist nature." This suggests a commitment to rigorous, objective, and current information, aiming to provide a serious platform for exploring these complex subjects. The focus on the Dordogne event, the detailed interviews, and the exploration of various hypotheses demonstrate this approach. The inclusion of topics like Ummites and UFOs in Belgium indicates a broad interest in the field of ufology, while maintaining a critical and analytical perspective.

This issue of Phénomèna, dated November-December, focuses on the theme of "UFOs and the use of fakes," exploring instances where UFO phenomena might be fabricated or manipulated. The magazine presents a critical look at ufology, questioning the authenticity of evidence and the motives behind certain claims.

Article: Mysterious Fibers and EDF Disturbances

The issue begins by detailing an incident in the Langon region of France, where power outages on October 3rd coincided with unusual phenomena. Gendarmerie in Langon reported no anomalies, but the following day, strange white fibers were discovered on a garden tree by Mme B. in Roumanières. These fibers, described as a white, compressed, hair-like mass, were also found by her daughter in Bergerac. Mme B. later found similar fibers in a neighboring cornfield. Jacques Arnouil, a retired EDF operator, also collected these fibers and discovered they were electrically conductive. This led him to suspect a connection with the EDF network disturbances.

M. Rago, a foreman at the Bergerac EDF district, confirmed a crisis situation on the night of October 3rd, requiring technicians to work late. He described seeing arcs on the insulators of a pylon, noting that while nothing appeared out of the ordinary, there was a burning sensation.

Further analysis of the fibers under a microscope revealed they consist of two types of filaments: one approximately 20 microns in diameter, with a metallic appearance (tin) and brittle; the other smaller, resembling translucent, hollow glass fiber. These materials are resistant to heat. The fibers were found in various locations in the region, often in the form of flattened discs of white 'hair' 4 to 5 cm long. The results of ongoing analyses are awaited to determine their origin.

Article: UFOs and the Use of Fakes

This section, authored by Renaud Marhic, delves into the concept of 'manipulators' who, according to Jacques Vallée, systematically create and disseminate fake UFO evidence to fuel belief in extraterrestrial contact. The article contrasts genuine UFO observations with deliberate fabrications.

Case Study: Lac du Der-Chantecoq

A sighting on February 1st, 1975, at Lac du Der-Chantecoq, involved three men observing a white, opaline sphere about 80 cm to 1 meter in diameter, hovering a few centimeters above the ground. The object emitted a low hum and retreated each time the witnesses approached, eventually disappearing.

Animal Mutilations

The article discusses the phenomenon of animal mutilations, particularly cattle, which began around 1973. These cases often involve the complete removal of udders and squares of skin, with clean, scalpel-like cuts. Despite official explanations blaming predators like coyotes and buzzards, the article highlights the unusual aspects, such as the lack of predator interest in the carcasses and the specific nature of the excisions (e.g., sexual organs). The phenomenon gained widespread attention and fueled speculation about extraterrestrial involvement.

The Majestic 12 (MJ12) Document

In 1987, the MJ12 affair resurfaced. This involved a purported document from 1952, addressed to President Eisenhower, detailing a top-secret commission. The document claimed a UFO and its occupants crashed near Roswell in 1947. The article notes that while the signature of President Truman on a related document ('Memorandum Truman') is authentic, the document itself is considered a fake. The purpose of such fabrications is seen as discrediting researchers or promoting the idea that extraterrestrials are already present.

Crop Circles

The article touches upon the phenomenon of crop circles, particularly in England. While investigations often point to human origins, many interpret them as UFO landing traces. The recent 'confession' of Doug Bower and David Chorley in September 1991, claiming responsibility for creating crop circles, is presented as unconvincing to many, including ufologists and scientists.

The Ummo Affair

This section discusses the 'Ummo affair,' involving a series of letters signed 'Ummo' received by ufologists and scientists, primarily in Spain. Jean-Pierre Petit, a researcher at CNRS, believes the letters, which detail theoretical cosmology and a revolutionary propulsion system, are of extraterrestrial origin. However, the article notes that many scientists remain unconvinced, suggesting the possibility of human fabrication ('corbeaux'). The author suggests that the scientific data from the Ummo affair should be rigorously examined by experts.

Article: Belgium Before the Wave

This section, also by Renaud Marhic, examines Belgium's UFO landscape before the wave of sightings that began in late 1989. It presents two documents:

1. US Air Force Telex (January 1987): This internal telex describes an aerial observation near Belgium. Three individuals observed a large, bright orange luminous ball accompanied by a smaller purple light. The object appeared to be slightly flattened and varied in distance. A second, more intense orange light, described as a cylinder, was also noted closer to the ground. The observation lasted about half an hour.
2. Belgian UFO Opinion Poll (January 1988): Conducted by INUSOP for 'Pourquoi pas?' and RTBF, this poll revealed that 52% of Belgians believed in extraterrestrial life. However, only 3% claimed to have personally seen a UFO, and a mere seven respondents reported close encounters. The poll also highlighted regional differences, with Flanders being more skeptical.

Article: UFO or Meteor?

This testimony, from the Bas-Rhin region, describes three young people observing two flame-colored lights that traversed the sky and disappeared behind buildings. The phenomenon was described as unusual but potentially consistent with a meteor entering the atmosphere. The report notes that similar phenomena were reportedly observed elsewhere in the region.

Letters to the Editor

Several letters are included:

• Denys Breysse (Antony): Expresses concern about Jean-Pierre Petit's dismissive attitude towards ufologists and his recourse to magazines to gather support for his 'phantom project.' He also criticizes Petit's claims of possessing 'THE' solution to the UFO problem and his tendency to veer into belief in revelations similar to those of 1950s contactees.
• Didier Moreau (Cholet): Responds to Breysse's suggestion of an interview with Jean-Pierre Petit, stating that the magazine has already covered Petit's work extensively and that his discourse has not evolved. He refers readers to previous issues of 'Ovni-présence' for more on Petit.
• Anonymous: Questions the lack of detail in the magazine's reporting of UFO sightings, specifically whether official police or gendarmerie reports exist. The writer expresses a desire for information on observations recorded by the Gendarmerie Nationale.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently questions the authenticity of UFO evidence, highlighting instances of potential hoaxes, manipulations, and disinformation. The magazine adopts a critical and analytical stance, encouraging readers to discern between genuine phenomena and fabricated claims. There is a recurring theme of skepticism towards sensationalist claims and a preference for rational approaches to ufology, while acknowledging the complexity and mystery surrounding the subject. The editorial team emphasizes their right to edit letters and their commitment to preserving the original intent of authors, while refusing anonymous submissions. They also highlight their ongoing commitment to reporting on UFO phenomena and related investigations.

This issue of Phénomèna, dated Novembre-Décembre, focuses on critical examinations within the field of ufology, featuring articles that question established phenomena and movements. The cover headline, "Pourquoi les ufologues ne croient pas à UMMO" (Why ufologists do not believe in UMMO), sets a tone of skepticism and in-depth analysis.

UMMO Phenomenon: A Critical Look

The lead article by O Renaud Marhic explores the reasons behind the lack of credibility for the UMMO affair among serious ufologists. It highlights that recent 'revelations' by Jean-Pierre Petit have not significantly changed this perception. Marhic cites concerns from colleagues in the Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux (SOBEPS) and researchers like Jean Sider and Jacques Vallée, who suggest the UMMO case might be a manipulation by a human group exploiting public interest in UFOs. The article specifically critiques Petit's interpretation of Ummo communications, pointing out inconsistencies such as the description of Ummo's solar system, which only mentions one sun while the star Wolf 424 is known to be double, implying two suns should be visible. Furthermore, the article challenges Petit's claims about the timing of scientific concepts like 'twin universes' and magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) presented in the Ummo letters. It argues that these concepts were already known or proposed by human scientists (like Andreï Sakharov in 1967 for twin universes, and research by E. Velikhov, A. Solbes, Sutton, and Sherman for MHD in the early 1960s) before the Ummo letters supposedly introduced them. Petit's own references in a 1976 book by Jean-Claude Bourret are also noted. When questioned, Petit attributed the date 1962 to his book being written quickly and stated he was not the 'archivist' of the story, an argument deemed unconvincing.

The Raël Movement: A Reader's Response and Editorial Rebuttal

A letter from Thierry Demilly of Besançon defends the Raël movement against an article by Perry Petrakis, calling Petrakis's claims 'stupidities' and 'entirely false.' Demilly clarifies that Raëlians do not donate their bodies to Raël but have a portion of their frontal bone removed after death for 'recreation.' He suggests Petrakis read Raël's books for accurate information.

The editorial response, attributed to La rédaction, acknowledges Demilly's letter but questions Phénomèna's objectivity if it doesn't challenge readers' convictions. The editors address the use of the term 'Master' for Claude Vorilhon (Raël), explaining it was used generically. They point out that Vorilhon himself claims to be a 'Guide of Guides' and a messianic figure. The editorial quotes extensively from Vorilhon's writings, citing references from his book "Les extraterrestres m'ont emmené sur leur planète" (The extraterrestrials took me to their planet). These quotes suggest a potentially racist and totalitarian ideology, including advocating for corporal punishment for children, criticizing democracy, and proposing a plan to activate existing racism to incite a global racial war for personal power and wealth, targeting Arab, Asian, and Black races for their perceived control of resources.

The editorial concludes by stating they have indeed read Vorilhon and that his views are evident even without reading his books, citing a recent television appearance. They assert that Phénomèna is at peace with itself regarding this issue.

News and Updates

Encouragements to Phénomèna is a brief note from Gilles Munsch of CNEGU/VECA Remiremont, praising an article by Renaud on crop circles and providing a clarification: an American mentioned in the article, Erik Bechjord, director of the Crypto Phenomena Museum in Malibu, was identified as such later.

Bloc-notes section contains several short updates:

• End of an Era: The 'inter-comités' project, which aimed to harmonize ufological research through various regional committees like the CIGU (Ile-de-France), CPCGU (Poitou-Charentes), and CUB (Brittany), is being dissolved due to a lack of manpower and resources. The CUB is becoming SOS OVNI Nord-Ouest, and Thierry Rocher is taking over SOS OVNI Paris.
• Strange Skylight: A four-minute segment on crop circles and 'pranksters' was aired on Thierry Ardison's show "Double Jeu."
• Postal Strike: A strike in the Aix-en-Provence region caused delays in mail delivery.
• SOBEPS Book: Many orders have been received for the SOBEPS book on the Belgian UFO wave, and customers are asked for patience as the order will be processed globally.
• "Revue de presse" Postponed: The "Press Review" section is postponed to the next issue due to current events.
• "Dessiner c'est gagner!" (Drawing is Winning!): The magazine invites readers to submit drawings, providing guidelines on format, style (black and white, ink), and subject matter (ufological news, not political or polemical).
• "Objetos volantes no identificados" (Unidentified Flying Objects): Cuadernos de Ufologia has published a presentation booklet for their "Journées Internationales" in Santander, Spain, listing notable attendees.
• "Merci Tonton": A mention of the second issue of Jimmy Guieu's bestseller "EBE," noting that Phénomèna is cited within it.

Lyon 1992 Conference Announced

The fifth edition of the European Encounters of Lyon dedicated to the UFO phenomenon is scheduled for May 1st to 3rd, 1992. The event aims to foster reflection, research updates, media information, and dialogue between ufologists and scientists. While closed to the public, inscriptions are being examined. Interested parties can write to SOS OVNI at the provided address in Aix-en-Provence.

Belgian UFO Wave Book Review

The article "Vague d'ovnis sur la Belgique" announces the publication of a comprehensive book by SOBEPS detailing the Belgian UFO wave. The book features 12 chapters by prominent ufologists and physicists, covering observations, media coverage, and technical analyses, including radar detections and the 'Herschel' effect. It also includes personal and philosophical reflections on the wave's significance and the role of ufology.

Distribution Notice

A separate page announces the exclusive distribution in France of the book "Vague d'ovnis sur la Belgique - Un dossier exceptionnel" by SOBEPS. The 500-page illustrated book is available for 180 francs plus 20 francs for shipping and handling, totaling 200 francs. Orders should be sent to SOS OVNI.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue demonstrates a strong commitment to critical inquiry within ufology, particularly evident in the detailed debunking of the UMMO case and the firm stance against what the editors perceive as problematic aspects of the Raël movement. The magazine actively engages with its readership through letters and calls for submissions. There is a clear emphasis on scientific rigor, even when discussing controversial topics, and a dedication to providing comprehensive coverage of significant ufological events like the Belgian UFO wave. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism towards sensational claims, prioritizing factual analysis and reasoned debate.