Phenomena - No 20 - 1994 03

Magazine Overview

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: No. 20
Date: March-April 1994
Publisher: SOS OVNI
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 1157-4704
Price: 28 F

This issue of Phénomèna, subtitled 'la revue des phénomènes OVNI' (the review of UFO phenomena), delves into a series of mysterious events that occurred in Colorado, USA, over several months. The cover prominently features the headline 'PHENOMENES ETRANGES DANS LE COLORADO' (Strange Phenomena in Colorado), accompanied by an illustration of a UFO above a Jeep.

Editorial Stance and Introduction

The editorial, titled 'L'éternel recommencement ?' (The eternal recommencement?), draws an analogy between the unpredictable nature of life and the study of UFOs. It emphasizes that there isn't a single UFO phenomenon but multiple ones, and that attempts to fit them into a single hypothesis are futile. The magazine aims to present various facets of this reality without imposing a specific model, whether scientific or pseudo-scientific, leaving readers to draw their own conclusions. The editorial highlights specific cases covered in this issue, including events in Colorado, a sighting at Willamette Pass, and an investigation into a potential UFO trace in the Ardennes.

Key Articles and Reports

Mysteries in Colorado

This section details a series of unusual events in Colorado. On January 12, 1994, NORAD detected a 'significant explosion' and fire in the San Luis Valley. Despite a search by local authorities, no cause was found. The report notes that NORAD coordinates were imprecise. On January 15, two objects were seen hovering over Capulin, Colorado. Later, on January 17, a 'blue light' was observed, leading to a search. On January 18, an officer reported seeing three large, unidentified helicopters with powerful lights. The article also mentions a sighting on November 30, 1993, near Crestone/Moffat, where residents saw an object described as 'the size of the Moon'.

Further incidents include the filming of two helicopter formations on December 1, 1993, and a large, unidentified light moving towards Gunnison. On December 2, a large fire was reported south of Rock Creek Canyon. On December 9, residents of Baca Grants experienced strong vibrations and a sound likened to a 'supersonic bang'. On December 13, a luminous object was seen descending towards the ground near Hooper.

Animal Mutilations in Colorado

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to mysterious animal mutilations. On December 14, 1993, a large bull weighing 850 kg was found dead on a ranch in Costilla County. Its hindquarters and testicles had been removed with extreme precision, and the tissues were unusually hard, suggesting a calorific instrument was used. Dr. John Altshuler, a pathologist from Denver, examined the samples. Another incident involved a cow killed near Eagle, Colorado, with a 14 cm deep hole in its chest.

'The Achilles' Heel'?

This article discusses the elusive nature of UFO phenomena and the challenges in studying them. It contrasts the fleeting nature of most sightings with 'pockets' of persistent, long-term observations in specific regions. Examples cited include the Hessdalen lights in Norway and UFO waves in Belgium. The article proposes the need for a coordinated European rapid intervention vehicle to investigate such persistent phenomena, suggesting that while national efforts are insufficient, a truly European approach with scientific and technical support could yield new insights.

International Reports

Philippines: Around 6000 observations in the Formosa Strait were studied by experts, with some remaining unexplained.

Belgium: On February 17, 1994, gendarmes observed a luminous point near Wavre, described as being the size of a bright star.

Gard (France): On February 19-20, 1994, multiple witnesses in Nîmes reported seeing a 'strange luminous phenomenon' in the sky, later identified as a Sky Tracker spotlight used for a local festival.

Alpes-Maritimes (France): On March 5, 1994, a UFOlogist and companions observed a large, dark triangular object with lights at each end passing silently over the Col de Vence.

Ardennes (France): On March 5-6, 1994, two 'frog hunters' reported a powerful, bright white-yellow light in the woods near Gué-d'Hossus, described as a luminous band several meters high.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the persistent and varied nature of unexplained phenomena, particularly in the Colorado region. The magazine maintains its stance of presenting factual accounts and witness testimonies without sensationalism or pre-conceived conclusions. It advocates for rigorous investigation and a multi-faceted approach to understanding these events, emphasizing that a single explanation is unlikely. The editorial highlights the importance of detailed reporting and investigation, as exemplified by the work of SOS OVNI and the proposed European coordination for persistent UFO sightings.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: Mars - Avr. - 1994
Content Type: Magazine issue focusing on ufology and unexplained phenomena.

Key Articles and Features

Recent Sightings and Investigations

• Trans-en-Provence Case: The magazine revisits the Trans-en-Provence case, noting that while the press reported the event, a circular grass trace discovered later was not definitively linked to the aerial observation. The Office National des Forêts identified the plant as Carex, and local forestry officials suggested plants can grow in circles. The article calls for a thorough investigation to resolve uncertainties.
• Var Sighting (March 5, 1994): An automobilist near Hyères and Saint-Tropez reported luminous phenomena, possibly from a Sky Tracker, with overlapping rows of faint lights.
• Bas-Rhin Sighting (March 8, 1994): A witness observed a rugby ball-shaped object, approximately 4-5 meters in diameter with sharp contours, hovering for about fifteen minutes. It appeared and disappeared erratically under a light cloud cover.
• Switzerland Sighting (March 10, 1994): In Stabio, a witness reported seeing three objects "virevolting" in the sky at an altitude of 1000 meters.
• Brignoles Sighting (March 18, 1994): Several people reported a luminous phenomenon described as a bright flash or explosion.

The Ummo Affair

• The magazine delves into the "Ummo affair," detailing how in 1968, Spain learned of extraterrestrials from the planet Ummo who had been communicating via letters. The messages were described as cold, precise, and scientific. The article notes that in 1991, France became aware of the affair through the work of scientist Jean-Pierre Petit. It highlights Renaud Marhic's research, which identified "Ummo agents" and explored the possibility of intergalactic communication or a manipulation of public opinion.

Book Reviews and Notes

• "OVNI: Les vérités cachées de l'enquête officielle" by Robert Roussel: This book is praised for its in-depth look at the GEPAN (Groupement d'Etude des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés) and its successor, SEPRA. The review suggests that while the book details the official investigation, it also points to potential issues with the structure and effectiveness of SEPRA, particularly in handling cases like Nort-sur-Erdre.
• "Entre Ufólogos, Creyentes y Contactados" by Ignacio Cabria García: This book is described as a comprehensive social history of ufology in Spain, covering its origins, scientific debates, and the influence of the Ummo affair. It examines the evolution of ufology towards a new form of religiosity and suggests that the study of UFOs should involve both physicists and social scientists.
• "UFO Abductions in Gulf Breeze" by Ed and Frances Walters: This book is mentioned in the context of the controversial Gulf Breeze photos.
• "Alien Liaison" by Timothy Good: This book, translated into French, is presented as an illustration of Good's work, though the review notes potential issues with the footnotes and the list of associations.
• "L'Empire du Milieu troublé par les ovnis" by Shi Bo: A long-awaited book by a Chinese author is noted.
• "Vague d'OVNIS sur la Belgique Tome I": This book is highlighted as a comprehensive study of Belgian UFO sightings.

Photo Analysis: The Willamette Pass Case

• The magazine dedicates significant space to analyzing the famous Willamette Pass photograph from 1966. Initially presented as a potential UFO, the article details physicist Irwin Wieder's investigation. Wieder's research suggests the photo might be a hoax, possibly created by photographing a road sign with snow, designed to resemble the reported "Chinese hat" object. Experiments with a replica sign reportedly produced similar visual effects, leading to the conclusion that the photo likely belongs to the category of photographic hoaxes.

Press Review

• Denmark: Ufo Nyt reports on sightings of "two moons," luminous flashes detected by NASA, and the death of Evald Maarup, known for a significant UFO sighting in 1970. It also covers observations of an "orange circle" in the North Sea.
• France: A review of an article in Le Nouvel Observateur discusses the "extraterrestrial" aspect of paranormal phenomena. It quotes François Biraud, who distinguishes between scientific hypotheses about extraterrestrial life and personal belief regarding UFOs, stating he has "no interest" in UFOs.
• Mexico: The launch of a new, skeptical ufology magazine, "Perspectivas Ufológicas," is announced. The first issue focuses on landings and includes articles on objectivity, specific landing cases, and explanations for traces.
• Other Publications: The "Mais aussi :" section lists numerous international UFO publications, including those from Spain, Great Britain, Italy, Belgium, Sweden, Germany, Ukraine, and the USA, covering topics from crop circles to SETI and the Ummo affair.

Other Sections

• Bloc-notes: This section contains various short news items, including efforts to uncover classified military UFO films, reports on Soviet UFO research, Steven Spielberg's potential interest in the Roswell case, and news about UFO-related books and organizations.
• Manifestations à venir: This section lists upcoming UFO-related events in the USA and provides contact information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Phénomèna maintains a critical and investigative approach to ufology. The magazine presents a wide range of UFO reports, from alleged sightings to detailed analyses of photographic evidence and historical cases like the Ummo affair. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous research, scientific scrutiny, and media awareness. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to critically evaluate information while acknowledging the persistent mysteries surrounding the UFO phenomenon. The magazine also highlights the role of various organizations and publications in the field, fostering a sense of community among researchers and enthusiasts.

Phénomèna, Mars-Avril 1994 issue, is a French-language magazine dedicated to the study of UFO phenomena. Published by SOS OVNI, it serves as a platform for reporting on investigations, sharing reader opinions, and announcing relevant publications and events in the field of ufology.

En direct d'SOS OVNI

This section highlights the operational aspects of SOS OVNI, an association that functions as a surveillance and expertise network for UFO cases. It collaborates with the Professional Association of Air Traffic Control and has established regional branches across France. The association provides its volunteers and members with resources for data analysis, including radar verification, laboratory analysis, meteorological and astronomical data, and access to various documents and publications. This column promises to provide regular updates on the organization's activities.

Nouvelles de Beux

This article revisits the case of a sighting in Beux (57) reported in a previous issue (Phénomèna nº 17). A witness claimed to have observed a strong luminosity surrounding their vehicle on August 7, 1993, at 22:45, which then disappeared. The witness also reported experiencing headaches within a 34-meter radius of the observation point. SOS OVNI Est initiated an investigation, developing a protocol to gather objective data and arranging for the witness to be accompanied by investigators and a physician for medical examinations, including blood tests. However, the investigation was hampered by the witness's lack of cooperation. The witness cited a sudden overload of work as an excuse for not attending the scheduled medical appointment and subsequently became unresponsive to SOS OVNI's numerous attempts to contact them. The magazine expresses surprise and doubt regarding the witness's genuine desire to pursue the matter, especially given the incapacitating nature of their reported headaches. The article suggests that the witness's lack of engagement might stem from a lack of foundation for the case. SOS OVNI emphasizes its ethical commitment to respecting witnesses and their testimonies, stating they would never force anyone to participate. However, they reserve the right to their own interpretations. Due to the witness's uncooperative stance, SOS OVNI has decided to no longer consider this case of significant interest, expressing a hope for future cooperation from the witness.

Vous dites ? (Reader Letters)

This section features correspondence from readers, with the magazine reserving the right to edit letters for publication. Anonymous letters will not be published.

• Pierre Lagrange (Paris) expresses gratitude for the attention given to the journal *Ethnologie Française* and questions whether the solution to UFO-related issues lies in acquiring more resources, and if so, what modifications to the field and knowledge base would result. He also inquires if Isabelle Stengers' article at the end of the issue applies to UFOs.
• Christophe Rombouts (Marcq-en-Baroeul) clarifies that Jocelyn Morel, the subject of a case discussed within the GNEOVNI group, holds no official responsibility within the organization. He states that Morel's writings are his own responsibility and initiative, not necessarily reflecting the association's stance. Rombouts notes that the GNEOVNI leadership cannot control everything published before its release and regrets any negative remarks made by Morel towards the magazine, asserting they do not represent the GNEOVNI's views. He expresses a desire to maintain positive relationships with other ufological associations for mutual enrichment.
• The Editorial Staff responds to Christophe Rombouts, clarifying that they had deemed it necessary to "recenter" the GNEOVNI's position following certain "outbursts" that frequently target SOS OVNI, often from milieux that primarily criticize others. They assert that SOS OVNI does not engage in "politics" within ufology but will not tolerate gratuitous malice, even if they do not always react to foolishness.
• Monsieur T. Pinvidic is addressed by an unnamed correspondent who thanks the magazine for allowing him to read Pinvidic's opinion on the "Trans-en-Provence" case. The correspondent dismisses Pinvidic's comments as being made on topics outside his competence and disciplines for which he lacks the necessary qualifications. He accuses Pinvidic of polemicizing based on fragmented and incomplete data, substituting subjective opinions for objectivity, and failing to verify his sources. The correspondent notes that such reactions are consistent with someone who presents himself as a specialist in a phenomenon that does not exist. He concludes by stating that he has nothing to prove and leaves Pinvidic responsible for his positions and intentions, which he suggests are likely proportional to his curriculum vitae.
• Prof. Dr. M. Bounias (Avignon), Director of Research, provides comments inspired by recent reader letters and the editorial responses. He quotes the maxim "Extraordinary claims require extraordinary proofs," arguing that less extraordinary claims (like mundane explanations for UFO cases) should not be satisfied with approximate evidence (like rumors). He criticizes the reliance on anecdotal evidence and the lack of scientific rigor in some ufological discussions, citing examples from a publication about Ummo and the Trans-en-Provence case. Bounias emphasizes that scientific method requires providing all information used to reach conclusions for them to be accepted. He notes that this tactic of using arguments without explanation is used not only to explain embarrassing cases but also to attack individuals, referencing accusations against his own methods and the magazine's source verification. He concludes by asking, "Where is the proof?"

La rédaction (The Editorial Staff)

The editorial staff responds to the GNEOVNI's clarification. They state that Christophe Rombouts had deemed it useful to "recenter" the GNEOVNI's position due to "outbursts" that frequently affect SOS OVNI, often from individuals who spend their time criticizing others. The editorial staff reiterates that SOS OVNI does not engage in "politics" within ufology but cannot accept gratuitous malice, even if they do not always react to foolishness.

Appel aux lecteurs (Call to Readers)

This section appeals to readers for financial support to help the magazine *Phénomèna* expand its reach. The goal is to increase the number of readers, which would provide the means for wider distribution and potentially color pages and more content. The magazine plans to use national advertising to achieve this. A previous fundraising effort, which allowed for advertising in *Mystères* magazine, was successful. The current fundraising goal is to reach 20,000 to 30,000 French Francs, after which *Phénomèna* will invest in national advertising. The current amount raised in the "cagnotte" (kitty) is 00500.00 FF. Readers are encouraged to contribute any amount, and the funds will be used solely for advertising, with expenses justified in the magazine. Readers are invited to join the effort to "move ufological life forward."

Annonces (Advertisements)

This section contains various classified ads:

• Buy/Sell/Trade: Requests for UFO-related pins, foreign language UFO books and magazines, specific books by authors like Jean Sider, J. Allen Hynek, and Jacques Vallée, and TV programs about the Belgian UFO wave. Also, requests for photocopies or original documents concerning UFO debates within the UN or NATO, and specific books about extraterrestrials and UFOs.
• Offers: Sale of UFO books and magazines, including titles by A. Michel, H. Durrant, J.C. Bourret, J.A. Hynek, Ch. Garreau, R. Roussel, and others. Also, sale of 24 issues of the Belgian magazine "Kadath" and 21 used UFO books.
• Divers (Miscellaneous): Announcements for upcoming meetings of the GERU (Groupe-ment d'Etudes et de Recherches Ufologiques) in Roubaix, France. Information about UFO Norway News, a publication offering an overview of Norwegian UFO cases in English, with subscription details. Announcement of the Centre de Recherches et d'Etudes des Phénomènes Spatiaux (CREPS) in St-Médard-en-Jalles, France, which aims to inform the public about UFO presence through conferences, debates, and slideshows. It also publishes a bulletin analyzing regional cases. Announcement of a working document titled "OVNI, LE DOSSIER RHONE-ALPES, ARCHIVES 1993" by Jean-Pierre Troadec of SOS OVNI Rhône, which compiles approximately 150 press clippings from the region between 1950-1993. A request for pins, magnets, or other gadgets related to space or the supernatural from Jean-Claude Bouillé. A request for a UFO investigator in Bordeaux to assist with an investigation in Médoc, involving a 1973 UFO case. A general call for free classified ads for buying, selling, or seeking items related to ufology.

Exceptionnel! PARUTION AVRIL 94

This section announces the release of "Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique 2: UNE ENIGME NON RESOLUE," the second volume of a comprehensive work by the Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux. This book, over 500 pages with numerous illustrations, provides a complete overview of one of the strangest UFO waves in history. It is offered exclusively in France through SOS OVNI. The price for members is 150 FF (including postage), and for non-members, it is 180 FF plus 20 FF for postage and packaging. The magazine also includes an order form for this publication.

Vient de paraître (Just Published)

This section announces the release of "Les OVNI en Provence" by Michel Figuet and Henri Julien. Michel Figuet is the author of "OVNI: le premier dossier complet des rencontres rapprochées en France," and Henri Julien is the author of "Chasseurs d'OVNI." This new book is described as the first catalog of UFO sightings in Provence, spanning six departments. It contains 226 pages with numerous illustrations and covers sightings from the early days to the present, including luminous phenomena, ground objects, and encounters with beings. It is presented as an essential addition to any ufology library, following previous works on UFOs in Brittany, Ardennes, and Cotentin. An order form is provided for this book, priced at 125 FF plus 20 FF for postage and packaging for non-members, and 100 FF including postage for SOS OVNI members.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phénomèna revolve around the active role of SOS OVNI in investigating and reporting on UFO phenomena, the importance of rigorous methodology and evidence in ufological research, and the engagement with its readership through letters and appeals for support. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that balances open-mindedness towards witness testimonies with a critical, evidence-based approach, as exemplified by the discussions on skepticism and the scientific method. The editorial stance is one of promoting ufological research while maintaining a degree of critical inquiry and transparency with its audience. The magazine actively seeks to inform and engage its readers, encouraging them to participate in the dissemination of information and the support of ufological publications.