Phenomena - No 08 - 1992 03

Magazine Overview

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: No. 8
Date: Mars-Avril 1992
Publisher: SOS OVNI
Price: 25 F
ISSN: 1157-4704

This issue of Phénomèna, a bimonthly publication of SOS OVNI, focuses heavily on the "Ummo affair," presenting a detailed investigation that posits a strong connection between the alleged extraterrestrial communications and Soviet disinformation tactics, particularly those of the KGB. The magazine aims to study UFO phenomena without dogma or sensationalism, but this issue leans into a critical analysis of a specific case.

Editorial: Une question d'intelligence

The editorial, "Une question d'intelligence," addresses the persistent questions surrounding "little grays," "Ummits," and alleged extraterrestrial bases. It criticizes certain French ufological circles for being "intoxicated" by a minority who uncritically adopt American ufological folklore without verification. The editorial argues that France has its own interesting cases and laments the spread of misinformation, citing claims of people disappearing by the thousands, human remains in formaldehyde, and humanoids held in refrigerators. It also mentions a past rumor about Reagan making a "mondovision" announcement regarding extraterrestrials.

Article: UMMO: un château rouge en Espagne ?

This extensive article, authored by Renaud Marhic, explores the Ummo phenomenon through the lens of potential Soviet manipulation. It begins by presenting two declarations concerning the origin of the SIDA virus: one attributed to the "Ummites" in 1989, claiming it was a genetic manipulation experiment gone wrong in a US laboratory, and another, a rumor from the ex-KGB, stating the virus was a failed CIA experiment. The author notes the striking similarity between these claims, first observed in December 1991 following an interview with former Soviet counter-espionage official General Kalouguine.

The article posits that the Ummites' social system, as described in their letters, closely resembles the Soviet communist system, emphasizing a planetary government, a society where individualism is suppressed, and a scientific pragmatism that controls all aspects of life. This model is compared to the Soviet system's revolutionary origins and its methods for maintaining control.

Ummites' View of Earth and Politics

The Ummites, who allegedly first manifested in 1965 in Spain, sent letters defining their stance on terrestrial politics. These letters express solidarity with figures who fought for social transformation, including Bertrand Russell, Mohandas K. Gandhi, Che Guevara, Helder Camara, Pope John XXIII, Martin Luther King, Karl Marx, Emmanuel Mounier, Albert Schweitzer, and Leon Tolstoy. The author highlights that many on this list are associated with peace movements, social justice, or leftist ideologies, suggesting the Ummites chose a "left-wing" or "progressive" camp, particularly during the Franco era in Spain.

The article points out that six out of ten individuals listed are religious figures or laypeople known for reformist or progressive stances, suggesting a connection to the Catholic Church, which was ultra-conservative in Spain at the time. The author concludes that the Ummites' focus on Spain, a country without a strong legal communist party, and their promotion of ideas that could be seen as communist propaganda, especially in the context of Franco's regime, indicates a strategic objective.

Scientific Underpinnings and Soviet Connections

The article emphasizes that the scientific component of the Ummites' communications is crucial. It notes that their scientific theories, particularly the concept of "twin universes" (univers géminaires), were first published in the Soviet Union by Andrei Sakharov in 1967. The author questions how these theories, published by a scientist under state protection, could have been disseminated so widely and easily to an alleged extraterrestrial group without Soviet knowledge or involvement.

Furthermore, the article links the Ummo affair to the KGB's "Desinformatsiya" division, a unit specializing in disinformation. It explains that this division employed sociologists, psychologists, and historians to craft propaganda, using "gray propaganda" (a mix of truth and lies) or "black propaganda" (outright falsehoods) to manipulate public perception. The article suggests that the Ummo communications, with their scientific claims and political messages, fit this pattern.

The Voronej Incident

The article revisits the alleged UFO landing in Voronej, USSR, in September 1989. It describes reports of humanoids emerging from the craft, a circular trace left on the ground, abnormal radioactivity, and a fragment of extraterrestrial rock. However, it also presents counter-evidence, including analysis by French scientist Claude Poher in 1977 which suggested photos of a similar incident in San José de Valderas were of models. Furthermore, Soviet investigations in Voronej concluded that the ground trace existed before the alleged landing, and the "rock" was merely iron ore. The author suggests the incident was likely a hoax, possibly orchestrated to generate publicity for the Ummo affair and its alleged Soviet connections.

"Red Castle" and CIA Suspicions

The article also addresses the alleged involvement of the CIA, noting that some authors associate the agency with the Ummo affair. It mentions claims of Ummites discovering listening devices in their homes and receiving letters with documents implicating a CIA agent. Jean-Pierre Petit is cited as stating that the Americans code-named the Ummo affair "Red Castle." However, the article contrasts this with the KGB's more prominent alleged role, suggesting that while the CIA might have been a target of suspicion, the KGB's strategic use of the Ummo phenomenon was more significant.

The "Plasma Weapon" and Arms Race

Starting in 1975, Ummo communications began focusing on a "monstrous" US weapons project codenamed "DMP 32," described as a "plasma weapon" with apocalyptic potential. The Ummites allegedly warned of a planet vitrified by its use. This narrative, the article argues, aligns with Soviet propaganda themes that emphasized the US's aggressive arms race and the USSR's supposed commitment to disarmament. The Ummites' messages suggested that while the US was pursuing dangerous weapons like the plasma weapon and SIDA, the USSR understood the risks and was practicing disarmament.

The Voice of Ummo

The article examines the "voice" of the Ummites, referencing a 1968 telephone conversation recorded by Rafaël Farriols. Analysis by Bernard Teston at CNRS described the voice as "non-human," potentially produced by a vocoder. The article notes that while vocoders were not common in 1968, they existed and were used in telecommunication research. It also points to Soviet research in voice coding and recognition dating back to 1949, citing Solzhenitsyn's "The First Circle" and a confession from a former KGB agent who worked on acoustic technology, including devices for listening through glass.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the Ummo phenomenon, its potential manipulation by Soviet intelligence (KGB), and its use as a vehicle for Cold War propaganda. The magazine critically examines the evidence, suggesting that many aspects of the Ummo case, including scientific claims and alleged UFO sightings, were strategically crafted to serve Soviet interests. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards unverified claims and a focus on uncovering the underlying political and intelligence motivations behind reported phenomena. The article concludes by presenting its findings as a potential explanation for the Ummo affair, leaving the reader to ponder the validity of the hypothesis.

This issue of *Phénomèna*, identified as number 8 and dated Mars-Avril, presents a renewed editorial direction with a new logo, typography, and the addition of artists Thierry Rocher and Didier Moreau. Editor Perry Petrakis explains that while the magazine aims to provide a comprehensive overview of global ufological news without sensationalism, it relies on reader support to progress and potentially adopt more advanced production techniques like color printing.

Editorial and Reader Engagement

The editorial team acknowledges the numerous letters and suggestions received from readers, which are crucial for the magazine's improvement. They highlight the desire for more pages, new sections, and more illustrations. The magazine's core objective, set in the 1990s, remains to present a complete panorama of ufological news, free from sensationalism. However, the limitations of volunteer work are stressed, and readers are urged to contribute to the magazine's success and continued development.

Key Articles and Investigations

"Une question d'intelligence" (A Question of Intelligence)

This section critically examines the nature of information in ufology, cautioning readers against blindly accepting claims, especially those from anonymous sources. It references the alleged 1947 Roswell crash and the subsequent 'MJ12' cover-up as examples of how information can be manipulated. The article cites Paul Watzlawick's work on self-validating hypotheses, suggesting that once a belief is formed, contradictory evidence is often dismissed or reinterpreted. While acknowledging the existence of significant cases like Roswell, Rendlesham, and the 'Ummo' phenomenon, the author raises the possibility that some of these might be orchestrated 'intelligence' operations designed to destabilize governments.

"Revue de presse" (Press Review)

This regular section provides a summary of recent ufological news from various international publications:

• USA: The *Fair Witness Project* quarterly is highlighted for its articles on RPVs (Remotely Piloted Vehicles) used in the Gulf War, the Philadelphia Experiment (suggesting it was an attempt to make a ship invisible to radar using low-frequency electromagnetic waves), and Whitley Strieber's UFO circular. It also notes Betty Hill's retirement from ufology and mentions US authorities examining Soviet cases.
• France: The radio station Skyrock's collaboration with *L'Echo des Savanes* magazine for a segment on 'Martians landing in Rozay-en-Brie' is criticized for its dubious quality, comparing it unfavorably to a past fake landing event in the Gard region.
• Italy: The *Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici* publishes *Rassegna Casistica*, a periodical detailing contemporary and historical UFO observations.
• Great Britain: The *SUFOG* (Sheffield UFO Group) bulletin is praised for its content, including reports on mysterious helicopters and Scandinavian sightings.

"Mais aussi:" (Also:)

This section lists numerous other ufological publications reviewed, including *UFO Contact* (Denmark), *The Australian UFO Bulletin*, *The Journal of Meteorology*, *Ruh ve Madde* (Turkey), *Just Cause* (USA), *OCENAP Report* (Germany), *International UFO Reporter* (USA), *Orbiter* (USA), *Circular Paracientifica del Noreste* (Spain), *Spirit and Matter* (Turkey), *Notizie Ufo* (Italy), *Il Giornale dei Misteri* (Italy), *Quest International* (Great Britain), *Quatrième Dimension* (CEI), *Dornier Post* (Germany), and *Mufon Ufo Journal* (USA). It notes the discontinuation of the *NUFOC-Journal* and its replacement by *NUFOC-Flash* and *NUFOC Sighting News*.

"Exceptionnel!" (Exceptional!)

This feature announces a landmark legal victory in Europe where an association successfully sued the Ministry of Defense to obtain UFO-related documents. The case pertains to an alleged UFO crash near Saint-Geniez in the late 1970s, which was reportedly recovered by the military and kept secret. SOS OVNI pursued this 'Sisteron Affair' through the courts.

"Bloc-notes" (Notepad)

• Philadelphia Experiment: Rumors suggest the US government is trying to buy back the ship used in the 1943 Philadelphia Experiment, which allegedly caused a ship and its crew to disappear and reappear dramatically. The ship, later renamed 'Aetos', was sold to the Greek navy.
• RPVs: The development of new Remotely Piloted Vehicles (RPVs) is mentioned, including the Sikorsky 'Cypher' prototype, designed for high-speed flight and altitude.
• Commemorations: The 25th anniversary of the TV series 'The Invaders' was celebrated in France, with actor Roy Thinnes making an appearance. A souvenir book and music cassettes were also released.
• 'Light Years' by Gary Kinder: This book, focusing on the controversial Swiss contactee Eduard 'Billy' Meier, has been translated into French. Meier is considered by many to be a dubious figure.
• Icelandic Survey: A survey by the University of Iceland found that 55% of respondents believed in the existence of elves, a higher percentage than those who believe in UFOs.
• Ciel et Espace Magazine: This magazine is reportedly preparing a dossier on UFOs and extraterrestrials.

"Sous peine d'enlèvement..." (Under Penalty of Abduction...)

This extensive article by Renaud Marhic delves into the phenomenon of alien abductions, contrasting it with earlier 'contactee' narratives. It begins by referencing Michael Jackson's music video 'Black or White,' which includes a scene depicting an alien abduction, suggesting this theme is becoming more prevalent in popular culture.

• The Betty and Barney Hill Case: The article details the famous 1961 abduction of Betty and Barney Hill, who reported being taken aboard a UFO and subjected to medical examinations. Their experience, initially a 'hole' in their memory, was later recalled under hypnosis, transforming it into a seminal abduction account.
• The 'Malig' Case (France): The core of this investigation focuses on a French witness, 'Malig,' who reported multiple encounters with luminous spheres and alleged abductions near the Kerloas menhir in Finistère, Brittany. The first incident occurred on March 19, 1980, where Malig experienced a loss of consciousness and a subsequent 'examination' inside a sphere by 'aquatic' humanoids. A similar event happened on March 14, 1983, where Malig felt compelled to return to the site and encountered the sphere again, this time near the menhir. The article describes Malig's fear, his attempts to understand the phenomenon, and the involvement of local authorities, including Gendarme Keravel, who attempted to facilitate further observation by clearing the area.
• Comparative Analysis: The article contrasts the 'abductee' experience with that of the 'contactee,' portraying the former as traumatic and often accompanied by partial amnesia, unlike the more positive and revelatory experiences of contactees like Adamski. It also mentions the work of researchers like Thomas Eddie Bullard, who analyzed hundreds of abduction cases globally, and Budd Hopkins, whose books 'Missing Time' and 'Intruders' popularized the phenomenon in the USA.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings, alleged alien encounters, and related phenomena. It adopts a critical yet open-minded approach, emphasizing the importance of rigorous investigation, verification of sources, and the challenges of separating fact from fiction in ufology. The editorial stance is to present information from various international sources, encourage reader participation, and advocate for greater transparency from authorities regarding UFO-related data. The magazine also highlights the growing media interest in UFOs and abductions, noting their increasing presence in popular culture.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: Mars-Avril
Date: Undetermined (Cover indicates Mars-Avril)
Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of *Phénomèna* delves into UFO sightings and related phenomena, with a particular focus on cases from the 1980s and the challenges of ufological investigation. It includes detailed accounts of sightings, correspondence from readers, and information about upcoming events in the field.

Investigations and Witness Accounts

The magazine presents detailed accounts of UFO sightings, emphasizing the importance of witness credibility and rigorous investigation. It highlights the case of M. Tanguy, who reported observing a luminous object near St-Renan on March 15, 1983. Tanguy described a reddish sphere with a blue trail that descended vertically and disappeared over the horizon. The duration of his observation was estimated at four minutes, though the article suggests a shorter actual duration based on distance and speed calculations. Military and aeronautical checks provided no explanation.

Another significant case detailed is from Milizac on the same date, March 15, 1983. An adolescent and her mother observed an orange sphere with a halo, which remained immobile between two trees for approximately three minutes. The article notes that the location was difficult to access due to mud.

The magazine also revisits earlier reports from Malig, mentioning sightings in March 1980 and March 1983 near a menhir. The authors acknowledge that some reported sightings turn out to be rumors or misidentifications, such as a woman who likely saw a boat light.

The Dordogne Filaments Case

A section is dedicated to the 'filaments' of the Dordogne, emphasizing the need for precise data and scientific analysis. The article references a laboratory analysis from Saclay that identified a 'polymer of mass 44'. The magazine questions the clarity and completeness of this report, particularly the meaning of 'mass 44' and the lack of information about the base compound. It contrasts this with analyses conducted in St-Etienne, suggesting that the possibilities for such analysis were temporary.

Reader Correspondence and Editorial Stance

The 'Vous dites ?' section features letters from readers, including Yves Lignon from GEEPP Toulouse and Thierry Rocher from Paris. Lignon praises the magazine's investigative approach, particularly the St-Geniez case, and commends the publication for its serious approach to research. Rocher highlights the importance of precise facts, referencing the Dordogne filaments and a case from Lac Sverjesjoen, questioning its meteorological classification. He also brings up the Alfarano affair and the opinion of B. Thouanel on UFOs.

The editorial response addresses these points, clarifying the regional focus for the Dordogne filaments based on press references and questioning the context of the 'Etrangetés et Mystères' publication regarding the mass spectrometry analysis. The editors express openness to discussing the Belgian wave and acknowledge that the origin of the Lac Sverjesjoen phenomenon remains unknown to meteorologists.

Upcoming Events and Services

Lyon 1992 Conference: The magazine announces the sixth edition of the 'Rencontres Européennes de Lyon' (European UFO Encounters) to be held from May 1st to May 3rd, 1992. This event aims to be a forum for reflection and discussion, bringing together European researchers and scientists to share findings and foster a better understanding of unidentified aerospace phenomena. Notable speakers mentioned include Yves Bosson, Frédéric Dumerchat, Michel Figuet, Jean-Pierre Ségonnes, and Jean-Pierre Troadec.

SOS OVNI PRESSE SERVICE: A promotional section details the services of SOS OVNI PRESSE SERVICE, which compiles and sells press clippings related to UFOs in France. For 130 French Francs, subscribers receive a series of 100 articles, compiled chronologically and sent monthly starting from January 1992. The service uses the Argus de la Presse to monitor over 400 publications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the meticulous investigation of UFO sightings, the critical analysis of evidence, and the distinction between genuine phenomena and misidentifications or hoaxes. The magazine emphasizes scientific rigor and encourages reader participation through correspondence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, grounded in factual reporting and critical evaluation, while also promoting the exchange of information within the ufological community and with the scientific establishment.