Phenomena - No 19 - 1994 01

Magazine Overview

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: No. 19
Date: January-February 1994
Publisher: SOS OVNI
Type: Bi-monthly magazine on UFO phenomena.

Sachons rester vigilants (Let's Remain Vigilant)

This editorial section sets a tone of cautious optimism regarding upcoming events. It highlights two key developments: the publication of two books on UFO phenomena in April, one by Robert Roussel and another by the Belgian Society for the Study of Space Phenomena. More significantly, it anticipates a decision from the Commission of Energy, Research, and Technology to establish a European structure dedicated to investigating UFO observations and informing the public. The editorial expresses excitement about this prospect but also a degree of apprehension regarding its implementation.

It specifically mentions Jean-Jacques Velasco, who heads the Service d'Expertise des Phénomènes de Rentrées Atmosphériques, and notes his broad mandate from the European Parliament to extend his activities across Europe without apparent oversight. The editorial questions whether journalists and researchers will be informed about the modus operandi of this new structure, contrasting it with the current SEPRA. The section concludes with a call for vigilance to avoid a dead end.

La mystification d'Ummo : des aveux qui appartiennent à l'histoire (The Ummo Mystification: Confessions Belonging to History)

This lengthy article by Renaud Marhic details the confession of José Luis Jordàn Peña, who claims to have authored the Ummo letters for 26 years. The article posits that the Ummo affair has moved from ufology into history, particularly the recent history of Spain. It recounts how Peña, after years of denial, finally admitted his role in a conversation with journalist Javier Sierra. The confession, though not definitive proof, confirms a strong presumption against Peña.

The article explores the context of the Ummo letters, which began in 1965, and their anti-Franco, anti-American, and pro-communist stance. It suggests that the letters were part of a political manipulation strategy, possibly orchestrated by the KGB, within the specific sociopolitical climate of Francoist Spain. The DGS (General Directorate of Security) is criticized for its apparent inaction, which the author suggests might be due to the government's potential involvement or the mystifiers' ability to evade detection. The article highlights the political nature of the Ummo communications, noting their critique of the "organic State" and technocratic government, which aligned with the political discourse of the time.

It also touches upon the Ummites' description of their own society as a socialist, religious, and scientific structure, devoid of private property and focused on collective well-being. The article contrasts this with the socio-economic models of Earth, including capitalism and various forms of socialism.

Lettre à M. Campo sur le tissu social d'Ummo 1967 (Letter to Mr. Campo on the Social Fabric of Ummo 1967)

This section presents a letter from the Ummites to Manuel Campo, expressing concerns about totalitarianism. The Ummites define "Droit" (Law) as applicable only to states respecting basic human rights, as outlined in the UN Charter and Vatican II. They criticize totalitarian regimes, particularly non-socialist ones, as being run by oligarchies and employing technocracy to maintain power. They also note that even Marxist socialist states stifle basic freedoms. The letter suggests a convergence of major terrestrial philosophies—Christianity, Marxism, and existentialism—towards a unified phase, citing figures like Garaudy who acknowledged the possibility of Marxism accepting God and the Roman Church moving towards socialism.

Lettre à F. Sesma sur la vie quotidienne sur Ummo 1966 (Letter to F. Sesma on Daily Life on Ummo 1966)

Another letter to F. Sesma discusses the Ummites' views on gambling, which they consider detrimental to intellectual faculties and contributing to social inequality. They contrast this with their own society, where such practices are absent.

Lettre à F. Sesma à propos des contacts allégués de ce dernier avec un extraterrestre nommé Saliano 1967 (Date probable) (Letter to F. Sesma Regarding His Alleged Contacts with an Extraterrestrial Named Saliano 1967 (Probable Date))

In this letter, the Ummites ask F. Sesma to refrain from mixing their information with that from other alleged extraterrestrial contacts, specifically mentioning Saliano. They reiterate the conditions under which Sesma was chosen as a correspondent, emphasizing his independence and courage in a country (Spain) described as internationally backward and under a dictatorial regime.

Lettre à l'Association Eridani (regroupant les destinataires madrilènes des lettres d'Ummo) sur l'assimilation de l'idéologie ummite par les terriens 1971 (Letter to the Eridani Association (Grouping the Madrid Recipients of Ummo Letters) on the Assimilation of Ummo Ideology by Terrestrials 1971)

This letter warns against the danger for Earthlings of replacing their own ideological concepts with those of Ummo. However, it also suggests that there are substitutable ideas on Earth that can be adopted without fear.

Lettre aux hommes de la Terre sur la situation actuelle du tissu social terrestre vu par Ummo 1973 (Letter to the Men of Earth on the Current Situation of the Terrestrial Social Fabric as Seen by Ummo 1973)

The Ummites explain that great leaders can significantly alter the evolution of terrestrial social structures. They observe that in the current Indochinese conflict, a small nation supported by China and the Soviet Union is heroically fighting a larger nation, the United States. They note that President Nixon's apparent peace treaty faced obstacles due to the US's economic-military structure. The letter also critiques democracy, suggesting that a significant portion of the population desires to be led by a military figure rather than be free. It criticizes capitalism, describing European, Asian, African, Oceanian, and American economies as based on perfected capitalist models where capital is controlled by elite groups, offering basic well-being through artificial consumer goods, leading to "abrutissement" (stupification).

La déliquescence étatique que connut la décennie 65/75 était bien sûr propice à tous les agitateurs, à toutes les subversions (The State Delinquency of the 65/75 Decade Was Certainly Conducive to All Agitators, to All Subversions)

This section elaborates on the political manipulation hypothesis concerning the Ummo affair. It states that the manipulation began in late 1965 or early 1966, during the "late techno-Francoism" period. It highlights the shift of key economic positions to technocrats from Opus Dei and the economic liberalization that changed Spain. This period also saw the rise of democratic movements and growing dissent within the Franco regime, leading to a period of hesitation and tolerance towards opposition groups.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena, with a particular focus on the Ummo case and its alleged extraterrestrial origins. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical investigation, seeking to uncover the truth behind these phenomena while being wary of manipulation, whether political or otherwise. There is a strong emphasis on historical context, particularly the political landscape of Spain during the Franco era, to understand the Ummo affair. The magazine also shows an interest in the broader implications of UFOs, including their potential impact on society and the need for official investigation and public information, as evidenced by the discussion of the European Parliament's initiative. The publication is associated with SOS OVNI, an organization dedicated to studying UFO phenomena without dogmatism.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue Date: January-February 1994
Cover Headline: The Truth According to the Liar

Political Context and the Ummo Affair

The issue begins by detailing the political liberalization in Spain following Franco's death, noting the passage of new press and religious freedom laws in the mid-1960s, while acknowledging that repression of dissent persisted. It highlights the role of figures like José Luis Jordan Peña and the 'Ummo' phenomenon in this context.

The Confession of José Luis Jordan Peña

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the confession of José Luis Jordan Peña, who admits to orchestrating the Ummo affair for 26 years. Peña's confession, presented through letters, reveals the deception was intended to explore the concept of 'myth' and involved a group of 'intelligent and generous friends.' He outlines a 'code of ethics' for the operation, emphasizing mutual friendship, respect for ideas, and avoiding financial gain or the appearance of a sect. The article critically examines Peña's claims, pointing out inconsistencies and past deceptions, particularly regarding his previous denials and the alleged financial motivations.

Ummo's Political Commentary

The magazine also presents Ummo's perspective on global politics, including their views on the United States possessing an extraordinary weapon, their support for the ETA terrorist organization, and their critique of capitalist exploitation. Ummo expresses a more favorable view of socialism, judging it with understanding while expecting it to fulfill its promises. They analyze the formation of communist nations and the desire for social structures that would liberate humanity from private property.

European Parliament and UFOs

The Proposal for a European UFO Observation Centre

Another major section focuses on the European Parliament's consideration of creating an official body to study UFOs. The article traces the initiative back to a wave of sightings in Belgium in 1989-1990, which led Belgian deputy Elio di Rupo to propose the creation of a European UFO Observation Centre. The proposal was sent to the Commission of Energy, Research, and Technology (CERT). The report, authored by Italian deputy Tulio Regge, is analyzed in detail. Regge, an astrophysicist, is presented as not being a fervent UFO proponent but as having undertaken a thorough investigation. The report reviews historical UFO cases, including Kenneth Arnold's sighting, and discusses various explanations, including military secrets. Regge's conclusion suggests that while most sightings can be explained, a small percentage remain inexplicable, warranting further scientific investigation. He warns against the dangers of misinformation and the potential for a 'new Middle Ages' if public opinion is manipulated by mystical ideologies and 'parasciences.'

SEPRA's Role and Concerns

The article discusses the potential role of the Service d'Expertise des Phénomènes de Rentrée Atmosphérique (SEPRA) in this endeavor. While acknowledging SEPRA's existing work, the author raises concerns about the lack of clear oversight and accountability for an expanded mandate, questioning how the organization will be supervised and who will be responsible for its results.

Case Study: Tronville-en-Barrois

An Encounter in Meuse

The magazine details an investigation into a UFO sighting in Tronville-en-Barrois, Meuse, which occurred on the night of January 2-3, 1994. The witnesses, the L. family, reported a bright white light and a circular object with a dome, approximately 5 meters in diameter, with lights and what appeared to be humanoid figures inside. The object was observed at a distance of about 80 meters.

Investigation and Challenges

The journalists faced initial difficulties in obtaining a full account due to the witnesses' reluctance, stemming from a potentially misleading local newspaper report. The investigation involved visiting the site, speaking with the gendarmes, and re-interviewing the witnesses. The article notes the presence of other ufologists and the ongoing nature of the inquiry, which includes checking for TV interference, effects on a car, and other related phenomena.

Alternative Explanations and Ongoing Inquiry

While the witnesses maintained their account, some external explanations, such as a car, were suggested. The investigation also touched upon other UFO-related activities in the area and the possibility of parallel observations. The article concludes by stating that the investigation is ongoing.

Bloc-notes (News Briefs)

This section provides a series of short news items related to UFO phenomena:

• Astronaut X Story Musgrave expressed readiness for extraterrestrial encounters in space.
• Steve Schiff, a US Congressman, requested the General Accounting Office to reopen the Roswell investigation.
• A statistical report on UFO sightings in Italy from 1979-1990 is mentioned, highlighting a peak in 1980.
• A Popular Science article on the secret Aurora program of stealth aircraft is referenced.
• An observation in Bouches-du-Rhône is clarified as a weather balloon, with the Gendarmerie not intervening.
• Upcoming books on UFO phenomena by Robert Roussel are announced.
• The Rendlesham Forest incident was featured on the TF1 program 'Mystères'.

SOS OVNI Press Clippings

SOS OVNI offers a collection of press clippings from 1993, covering various UFO-related topics such as crop circles, European UFO encounters, and other observations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores themes of deception, media manipulation, and the scientific versus pseudoscientific approaches to UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears critical of unsubstantiated claims and emphasizes the need for rigorous investigation and factual reporting, as exemplified by the critical analysis of the Ummo confession and the cautious approach to the European Parliament's UFO initiative. There is a clear concern about the public's susceptibility to misinformation and the potential for 'mystical ideologies' to gain undue influence.

This issue of Phénomèna, dated January-February 1994, focuses on a variety of UFO-related topics, including detailed witness accounts, investigative reports, and a review of current literature and debates within the ufology community.

Key Articles and Reports

The Tronville-en-Barrois Case

The issue details an incident in Tronville-en-Barrois, France, where witnesses M.L. and his wife reported observing a dense white light on the ground. The initial hypothesis suggested a car, specifically a Citroën CX, was involved, based on the testimony of M.F. and a gendarmerie investigation. The gendarmerie confirmed they had pursued a similar car earlier that night. However, upon inspection of the site, witnesses reported finding three circular traces on the ground, suggesting pressure. M.F. initially seemed reluctant to discuss the case, referring inquiries to the gendarmerie, who confirmed they were investigating a car-related explanation and had not treated it as an OVNI (UFO) case.

The Bacqueville Incident

Another significant report concerns an observation in Bacqueville, Eure, France, by witness D.M. on January 4, 1994. D.M. described a bright yellow, incandescent light moving in the sky, which he initially mistook for a star. He observed a conical object with colorful lights rotating and appearing to land. The phenomenon later reappeared, closer and more luminous. D.M. reported feeling observed and experiencing strange sensations in his back and limbs, likening it to being 'examined'. The gendarmerie confirmed D.M. was frightened and established a report. Christian Soudet of SOS OVNI Seine-Maritime took on the investigation.

The UMMO Affair

A prominent section is dedicated to 'L'AFFAIRE UMMO : LES EXTRATERRESTRES QUI VENAIENT DU FROID' (The UMMO Affair: The Extraterrestrials Who Came From the Cold). This segment traces the history of the UMMO phenomenon, starting with alleged communications received in Spain in 1968. The messages, described as cold, precise, and scientific, were from an extraterrestrial expedition from the planet Ummo. The article highlights the rediscovery of the affair in France in 1991 through the work of scientist Jean-Pierre Peut. It also mentions Renaud Marhic's investigation, which identified correspondents and 'agents of Ummo' in France and Spain. The article presents texts from the early days of the Ummo phenomenon on Earth and a letter concerning the Gulf War, offering a new perspective on the UMMO affair and the general UFO phenomenon.

Review of the Press

The 'Revue de presse' (Press Review) section offers a bimestrial overview of specialized publications. This issue highlights:

• MUFON UFO Journal (USA): Praised for its article on 'abductions' and 'fantasy prone personalities', and the 'False Memory Syndrome', noting its increasing acceptance in US courts.
• Canadian Research: A study from Carleton University in Ottawa investigated UFO witnesses, comparing them to a control group. The results suggested that UFO witnesses, particularly those reporting 'close encounters' (RR1/RR2), did not show significant differences in psychometric tests compared to the general population, except for a higher IQ and a stronger belief in UFOs. For abduction cases, the link to psychophysiological disorders during sleep phases was noted.
• Thresholds Magazine (USA): A new quarterly magazine dedicated to UFOs, science, and Earth mysteries, commended for its professional layout and source citation.
• Other Publications: Mentions of Skeptics UFO Newsletter, UFO Magazine, UfoNyt, Awareness, Celacanthe, UFO Library, Il Giornale dei Misteri, Contact OVNI, Fortean Times, NUFOC-Flash, The Crop Watcher, and Enigmas.

Other Phenomena and Reports

• South Africa: A report from Rivonia, Johannesburg, about a UFO observed at low altitude emitting a noise and flashing red lights.
• Bulgaria: In Tsaritchina, villagers reported seeing 12 UFOs over 22 months, with one witness describing a cone-shaped object and a burnt grass trace.
• Meuse, France: The L. family in Tronville-en-Barrois witnessed a strange, dense light on the ground, described as a close encounter with an object and beings.
• Eure, France: A detailed account of D.M.'s observation of a conical object in Bacqueville.
• Nord, France: A report from Wavrin about an oval, illuminated object observed by D.R. and his wife, who took photographs.
• Belgian UFO Wave: Information about a book detailing the 1990 Belgian UFO wave, published by SOBEPS.

Editorial Debate

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a debate between the editorial team and critics, particularly Thierry Pinvidic. Pinvidic criticizes the magazine's editorial choices, including the length and placement of letters and responses, and accuses the publication of bias and manipulation to cater to a pro-OVNI readership. The magazine defends its editorial policy, stating its aim to present diverse viewpoints and engage in open debate, while also addressing specific criticisms regarding scientific contributions and the handling of certain cases.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently aims to present a broad spectrum of UFO-related phenomena, from alleged sightings and encounters to scientific investigations and critical analyses. There is a clear effort to document witness testimonies, often in detail, and to report on the findings of official and independent investigations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the complexity of the subject matter and encouraging debate. The magazine actively engages with criticisms, as seen in the exchange with Thierry Pinvidic, positioning itself as a platform for discussion within the ufology community. The 'Review of the Press' section indicates a commitment to staying informed about international developments in the field. The magazine also highlights its reliance on reader contributions and support, as evidenced by the 'cagnotte' (fundraising) section.

Phénomèna, January-February 1994 issue (Volume L 94), is a French-language magazine dedicated to ufology and unexplained phenomena. This issue delves into specific investigations, book reviews, and reader requests, providing a snapshot of the ufological community's interests and activities at the time.

Investigation into a Belgian UFO Case

The lead article, authored by Gilles Munsch and Christine Zwygart, discusses an investigation into a UFO observation by a family. Initially, the witnesses described a coherent account, but later accounts became influenced by external factors and the desire to label the event as something extraordinary. The investigation by the gendarmerie, prompted by media attention, focused on a solitary witness's account. After two weeks, the investigation led to the confession of an individual whose actions explained the affair and corroborated the solitary witness's version. The article notes that subsequent 'annex' events, such as observations and traces, occurring in the family's immediate environment, were found to be less substantial and possibly linked to a subconscious need to validate the initial event. The authors suggest that a car evolving on the path could explain the observation, though they acknowledge that some descriptive details remain contradictory and require further exploration. They conclude that there is a strong probability that a car was indeed present and that the observation can be explained by it, presenting a presumption of proof. The article emphasizes that this is a preliminary synthesis and a full report will be published upon completion of the investigation.

Book Reviews and Promotions

Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique 2

SOS OVNI is exclusively offering the second volume of the book "Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique" (UFO Wave over Belgium 2), subtitled "UNE ENIGME NON RESOLUE" (An Unresolved Enigma). This work by SOBEPS is described as over 500 pages with numerous illustrations, providing a comprehensive overview of one of the most unusual UFO waves in ufological history. The magazine provides an order form for members and non-members, with prices for the book and postage.

Les OVNI en Provence

This section announces the publication of "Les OVNI en Provence" (UFOs in Provence) by Michel Figuet and Henri Julien. Figuet, author of "OVNI: le premier dossier complet des rencontres rapprochées en France," and Julien, author of "Chasseurs d'OVNI," have compiled a catalog of UFO observations in six departments of Southern France (Hautes-Alpes, Alpes de Haute-Provence, Vaucluse, Bouches-du-Rhône, Var, Alpes-Maritimes). The 226-page book includes numerous illustrations and covers early observations, luminous phenomena, ground objects, and encounters with beings. It is presented as an essential addition to the library of anyone interested in the UFO history of the region, following previous works on UFOs in Brittany, Ardennes, and Cotentin.

Reader Services and Announcements

Recherches (Requests)

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to reader requests for specific books, articles, photocopies, or information related to ufology. These requests span a wide range of topics, including:

• Pins related to UFOs and extraterrestrials.
• Copies of specific TV programs and documentaries about Mars and UFOs.
• Books by authors such as Jean Sider, J. Allen Hynek, Jacques Vallée, Frank Edwards, Charles Bowen, Donald Keyhoe, and Edward Ruppelt.
• Information on the Belgian UFO wave and specific UFO sightings.
• Details about "Men in Black" (M.I.B.) phenomena.
• Reports on UFO observations in specific regions of France and Switzerland.
• Information on UFO debates within the UN and NATO.

Offres (Offers)

Several readers are offering to sell or trade UFO-related materials, including:

• Back issues of the Belgian magazine "Kadath."
• Used books on UFOs by various authors.
• Original editions of UFO-related books.

Divers (Miscellaneous)

• GERU Meetings: The Groupement d'Etudes et de Recherches Ufologiques (GERU) announces its 1994 meeting schedule, held monthly in Roubaix, France.
• UFO Norway News: Information is provided on subscribing to "UFO Norway News," an English-language overview of current Norwegian UFO cases and excerpts from the Norwegian magazine "UFO."
• CREPS: The Centre de Recherches et d'Etudes des Phénomènes Spatiaux (CREPS) announces its objectives to inform the public about UFO presence through conferences, slide shows, and a bulletin analyzing regional cases.
• SOS OVNI Document: Jean-Pierre Troadec, head of the SOS OVNI Rhône antenna, has published a working document titled "OVNI, LE DOSSIER RHONE-ALPES, ARCHIVES 1993." This document, presented in two volumes, compiles approximately 150 press clippings detailing UFO observations in the Rhône-Alpes region from 1950-1993.
• Personal Collection: A reader, Jean-Claude Bouillé, is seeking pins, magnets, or other gadgets related to astronautics or the supernatural to help fill his time.

Free Classifieds

Phénomèna offers a free classified ad service for readers to buy, sell, or search for items. Submissions can be sent to SOS OVNI at the provided address.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed investigation of specific UFO cases, the promotion and review of ufological literature, and the facilitation of communication within the ufological community through reader services like classified ads and research requests. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting findings from investigations while acknowledging the need for rigorous evidence and further research. The magazine actively encourages reader participation and information sharing, positioning itself as a central hub for ufological activity in France and Europe.