Phenomena - No 22 - 1994 07

Magazine Overview

Phénomèna, issue number 22, published bimonthly in July-August 1994, is a publication of SOS OVNI, a non-profit association dedicated to the study of UFO phenomena. The magazine's objective is to investigate UFOs without dogma or sensationalism, aiming for a scientific and analytical approach. This issue is priced at 28 French Francs and carries the ISSN 1157-4704.

Editorial Stance: Stepping Off the Beaten Path

The editorial, titled "Sortir des sentiers battus" (Stepping Off the Beaten Path), thanks readers for their support and encourages subscriptions to ensure better diffusion. It highlights that this issue deviates from standard ufology and astronomy topics to explore the "Mars mystery." The editorial notes that while Anglo-Saxon press has discussed this, the French debate remains classic. The issue aims to present current knowledge about Mars and suggests a potential "lobby" within American scientists. It also features a report on a filmed object in Normandie that currently lacks explanation. The editorial concludes by wishing readers pleasant holidays and anticipating the next issue in September.

Key Articles and Features

Object Filmed in Normandie

This article details a sighting on May 14, 1994, in the Manche department of France. A witness, E.C., and his wife observed a dark, slow-moving object resembling a deflated balloon with a nacelle. The object was filmed using an Akai PVS CS 500 E camcorder. The observation lasted about thirty minutes. The object appeared solid with three apparent volumes and clear zones, sometimes showing jerky movements. The film's analysis is complicated by camera shake, but the object's size on a TV screen was estimated to be about the size of a 10-centime coin. The witness's wife had contacted "La Voix du Nord" newspaper, and the couple was also interviewed by a regional cable TV channel and an investigator from "Lumières dans la Nuit." The local gendarmes considered it a hang glider, but the investigation may proceed to the Service d'Expertise des Phénomènes de Rentrée Atmosphérique. The article includes a map of the observation area.

Mars and its Mysteries

This section, authored by Curt Sutherly, delves into the mysteries surrounding Mars and space exploration. It begins by discussing the loss of the Mars Observer probe, launched in 1992, which went silent on August 21, 1993, as it approached Mars. The probe was designed for photographic reconnaissance and atmospheric measurements. The article recounts the attempts to re-establish contact and the eventual silence, marking another loss for space missions to Mars. It then reviews the history of Soviet and American Mars missions, noting past failures and problems with probes like Zond 2, Mariner 3, Mariner 4, Mariner 7, and the Soviet Fobos 2 probe, which mysteriously lost contact in March 1989 after sending enigmatic images. The article questions whether these issues are coincidental or indicative of something more, suggesting that Mars may still hold secrets.

A Loaded Past (Un passé chargé)

This article traces the history of unusual observations and phenomena related to Mars, dating back to the early 20th century. It mentions figures like Tesla and Marconi who claimed to detect signals from Mars. William Pickering's 1926 paper in "Scientific American" discussed geometric figures observed on Mars. In 1954, Dr. Tsuneo Sakehi, a Japanese expert, detected a 5-second glow and attributed it to nuclear reactions. Later that year, and in 1956, observers reported a giant cloud-like form on Mars that disappeared nightly. The article also touches upon the "Grand Démon Galactique" theory proposed by Time magazine journalists regarding the disappearance of Soviet probes. It notes the bizarre incident of a rock with a "B" or "8" engraving photographed by the Viking probe in 1976 and the mysterious failure of a Soviet probe after photographing debris on Phobos in 1989. The article concludes that while these events are intriguing, definitive proof of extraterrestrial activity is lacking, and speculation continues.

Block-notes (Notebook)

This section provides a collection of shorter news items:

• The "Ekip" Aircraft: A Russian-built "saucer" aircraft, the Ekip, is discussed. Its prototype is operational, and a definitive version is expected to measure 36x25 meters, carry 40 tons of cargo, and reach speeds of 750 km/h at an altitude of 12,000 meters, making it a potential competitor in aviation. A tele-commanded model capable of carrying 2 tons is planned for launch. The article notes that the project is taken seriously by Western aerospace specialists.
• Ekip on French TV: A report featuring a flight of an Ekip model and interviews with its creators was broadcast on France 2's 13:00 news on July 15, 1994. The footage showed a small aircraft with a noisy, unsteady flight.
• Wally Schirra and UFOs: An anecdote about astronaut Walter "Wally" Schirra is shared. During a Gemini mission on December 15, 1965, he reportedly pranked Houston by claiming to have seen UFOs, which he then revealed to be the "reindeer of Santa Claus."
• Roswell Film: Reference is made to a film about the Roswell crash, with its production reportedly taken over by Paul Davids after HBO abandoned the project. The film's main actors include Martin Sheen and Kyle MacLachlan.
• Saint-Priest UFO Hoax: The magazine clarifies a previous report about a prank UFO photo published by the "Couleur de Saint-Priest" newspaper for April Fool's Day, explaining that the image was actually reflections on the photographer's lens.
• Swiss Military UFO Dossier: A report from the Swiss Telegraph Agency states that the Swiss Federal Military Department secretly held a UFO dossier from 1971 to 1988, while denying its existence. The dossier reportedly contained questionnaires, letters, and descriptions, including one from military pilots in March 1971 who saw a white, luminous point that formed a beam and disappeared.

Weather Analysis (Qu'en dit la météo ?)

This section analyzes the weather conditions on May 14, 1994, the date of the Normandie UFO sighting. Using a TEMSI map provided by Météo France, the article examines wind patterns at 850 millibars (approximately 1400 meters altitude). A southwest front was moving inland at about 36 km/h. The observed UFO's trajectory was similar, moving from southwest to northeast at a slow relative speed. The article rules out conventional aircraft and kites due to the object's speed and lack of noise. While a balloon is considered a possibility, its owner remains unidentified. The ADBN, an organization commemorating the D-Day landings, confirmed no unusual aerial activity that evening. The article concludes that while a balloon is a possibility, no definitive owner has been found.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phénomèna demonstrates a commitment to exploring unusual phenomena with a critical and analytical perspective. The magazine tackles subjects ranging from alleged UFO sightings and space mysteries to historical anomalies and technological developments. The editorial stance consistently promotes a scientific approach, encouraging readers to question and analyze information rather than accepting it uncritically. The inclusion of weather analysis for the Normandie sighting and historical context for Mars anomalies underscores this methodical approach. The magazine also highlights the importance of reader contributions and the collaborative efforts within the ufological community.

Phénomèna, July-August 1994 issue, focuses on unexplained phenomena, particularly in the realm of space and alleged extraterrestrial evidence. The main cover headline is "Des signes dans le ciel" (Signs in the sky), hinting at the mysterious content within.

Des signes dans le ciel

This section explores the enduring fascination with Mars, from early observations of "canals" by Schiapparelli to the 1938 Orson Welles broadcast that fueled popular imagination. It questions whether the interest in Mars stems from popular beliefs or a factual basis. The article highlights the numerous failed American and Soviet missions to Mars, noting the low success rate of probes like Viking, which were intended to detect signs of life but could not definitively answer the question.

Recent discoveries suggest Mars has polar ice caps and possibly liquid water. Two scientists involved in the Viking experiments claim it's more probable that life was detected than not. They presented photos showing the progression of a moss-like substance on rocks and a Martian meteorite found in Antarctica that contained elements essential for life.

The "Face on Mars," photographed by Viking, has become a focal point for a dissident group called The Mars Mission. This group, led by Richard Hoagland, has sought to disseminate information independently of NASA. Hoagland was reportedly sidelined in 1992 due to his conspiratorial theories, including accusations that NASA deliberately deactivated a probe to hide the truth.

According to David Percy, European director of The Mars Mission, Hoagland's theories were deemed too conspiratorial. The Mars Mission group has identified various structures in the "Face" image, including pyramids, a cliff-like formation, and a spiral mound, collectively naming the area "Cydonia."

Fobos and the Mystery of Mars's Moons

The article details the fate of the Soviet Fobos probes. Fobos 1 failed during a programmed exchange, with the Russians attributing it to an operator error. Fobos 2 continued its mission, analyzing solar wind and interplanetary shock waves. It entered a temporary orbit around Mars and was meant to study the moon Phobos. The Soviet Union had been interested in Phobos and Deimos since 1960, following the work of astrophysicist I. S. Shklovskii, who re-examined earlier findings by American astronomer B. P. Sharpless.

Sharpless had concluded in 1944 that Phobos had an unstable orbit and would eventually be consumed by Mars's atmosphere. Shklovskii investigated this, ruling out gravitational effects from Mars and the Sun. He calculated that Phobos's low density suggested it might be hollow, potentially artificial.

In 1976, Viking 1 measured Phobos's density, finding it low but not low enough to support the hollow hypothesis. NASA scientists concluded Phobos was composed of carbonaceous chondrite, suggesting it was an asteroid captured by Mars's orbit after detaching from the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.

Swift's Martian Moons and Kepler's Speculations

An intriguing connection is made to Jonathan Swift's "Gulliver's Travels" (1726), which described two Martian moons with orbital periods of 10 and 21.5 hours. These figures are remarkably close to the actual periods of Phobos (7 hours 39 minutes) and Deimos (30 hours 18 minutes), discovered by Asaph Hall in 1877. The article questions how Swift could have known this information, suggesting he might have drawn from Kepler's speculations. Kepler, who discovered planetary laws in the 16th century, had speculated that Mars had two moons based on the pattern of Venus (0 moons) and Earth (1 moon), and the then-believed discovery of four Jovian moons.

Robert J. Durant noted in "Pursuit" that while Swift's figures were not perfectly accurate, they were surprisingly close, prompting speculation about the existence of historical documents detailing these orbits.

The "Phantom Rockets" Phenomenon

This section revisits the "phantom rockets" observed in Scandinavia in 1946, previously discussed in a 1947 US intelligence report. The report suggested these were German missiles recovered by the Soviets and tested. However, the article questions this hypothesis, citing the chronological timeline of missile development. It highlights that the US recovered the bulk of German rocket technology and engineers, including Wernher von Braun, through the "Osenberg list" and the capture of documents from Pennemünde and Nordhausen. The US launched its first V2 rocket in April 1946, while the Soviets did not launch theirs until October 1947, with only five successful launches out of eleven reconstituted V2s.

The intelligence report itself expresses uncertainty, suggesting the phenomena might have been meteors or fireworks, or a small number of V1 missiles tested by the Soviets. The article points out the report's author seemed hesitant, trying to reconcile the evidence with the idea of Soviet capabilities while acknowledging the possibility of misidentification.

Von Braun vs. Korolev: The Space Race

The article introduces the book "Von Braun contre Korolev: Duel pour la conquête de l'espace" by Pierre Kohler and Jean-René Germain. It frames the space race as a consequence of the arms race, where scientific advancement was intertwined with military objectives. Von Braun is credited with the first moon landing (via the V2 rocket), while Korolev led the development of Sputnik and Gagarin's spaceflight, alongside intercontinental ballistic missiles.

The book is described as a dual history, offering insights into the rivalry and the scientific and technological developments driven by post-war competition. It suggests that the "phantom rockets" might have been a consequence of this intense competition and the limited information available to intelligence agencies.

Mars Observer and Future Missions

The loss of the Mars Observer probe is discussed, with various theories proposed, including transistor failure, orbital miscalculation, or a rupture in the hydrazine/oxygen tanks. Engineers at JPL dismissed the idea of an explosion as highly improbable due to the probe's multiple backup systems.

However, some observers suggested the probe was intact and transmitting data, but the information was being withheld because it revealed evidence of alien presence on or around Mars. The article notes that the Mars Observer camera, created by geologist Michael Malin, was capable of high-resolution imaging, intended to resolve the mystery of the "Face on Mars."

Despite the setbacks, an agreement was signed between Russia and the US in September 1993 for space exploration cooperation, potentially accelerating the development of the Freedom space station and paving the way for manned missions to the Moon and Mars. NASA was planning to send a flotilla of small probes called "Clementines" to Mars in late 1994, originally developed for the "Star Wars" program, which were much cheaper than Mars Observer.

A joint Franco-Russian mission was planned for October 1994, involving a balloon probe to analyze Mars's atmosphere. The loss of Mars Observer jeopardized this mission, making the "Clementines" potentially the last hope for saving it.

The NASA explanation for probe failures involves micro-particles or stellar dust near Mars affecting trajectories and delicate instruments. The article concludes by suggesting that if this is not mere bad luck, humanity might need "Star Wars" technology for future unmanned missions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of scientific inquiry, historical speculation, and the potential for extraterrestrial phenomena. There's a recurring theme of mystery surrounding Mars, its anomalies, and the challenges of space exploration. The magazine seems to present various hypotheses, from natural explanations to more unconventional theories involving artificial structures and alien intelligence, without definitively endorsing any single one. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, encouraging readers to consider different possibilities while awaiting further data. The discussion of the "phantom rockets" and the Von Braun-Korolev rivalry highlights the role of historical context, intelligence gathering, and geopolitical competition in shaping our understanding of technological advancements and unexplained events.

Phénomèna, Issue: Juil. - Août - 1994. This issue, published by SOS OVNI, focuses on a diverse range of topics within the realm of ufology and the paranormal, offering a mix of book reviews, case reports, and news from the ufological community.

Notes de lecture: Allergies and Aliens

The magazine features a review of Albert Budden's book, "Allergies and Aliens: The Visitation Experience: An Environmental Health Issue." Budden, an expert in Environmental Medicine, proposes a novel hypothesis that a significant portion of alleged alien abduction experiences can be attributed to physiological phenomena. He suggests that the human body can develop a form of 'memory' of electromagnetic 'aggressions,' similar to allergies. This hypersensitivity, triggered by past electrical or electromagnetic accidents, can manifest in various symptoms when exposed to certain environmental conditions, such as 'hot spots' with concentrated electromagnetic emissions. These symptoms can range from 'electrolysis' (a metallic taste) to 'somasthesia' and 'electroanesthesia,' and in severe cases, can lead to disorientation, paralysis, hallucinations, and a distorted sense of time. Budden argues that these physical effects could explain psychological repercussions often reported by abductees, such as increased ecological awareness, altered belief systems, and heightened sensitivity to spiritual matters. The review emphasizes that Budden does not entirely dismiss the possibility of genuine UFOs but offers a verifiable alternative explanation.

En France et dans le Monde

Bouches-du-Rhône

A report from SOS OVNI details a sighting on April 4, 1994, near Aix-en-Provence, where a witness observed a luminous, vertical bar emitting a variable yellow light. The phenomenon, which lasted about fifteen minutes, was not detected by radar.

Grande-Bretagne

An observation from March 24, 1994, in West Yorkshire is described, involving numerous lights seen by many people. One witness reported a large light followed by myriads of smaller lights. Another witness, a police officer, described a large triangular object with a red light in each angle. The investigation by 'Quest' could not identify the phenomenon, but it was compared to a previous report of a 'flying wing' with lights resembling a starry sky.

Appel aux lecteurs

Phénomèna appeals to its readers for financial support to increase its diffusion, particularly through national advertising. A collection fund has been initiated, with the goal of reaching 20,000 to 30,000 francs to enable national advertising campaigns.

En direct d'SOS OVNI

This section introduces SOS OVNI as an association and network for UFO case analysis and expertise, with representations across France. It aims to provide analysis, control, and diffusion of UFO-related data.

Ufologie québécoise : le grand renouveau

This article discusses a resurgence in ufology in Quebec, Canada. It highlights the efforts of François Bourbeau, who launched the magazine 'Alter Ego' and the television show of the same name, and Christian Page, who heads OCIPE and previously represented MUFON. The article notes that OCIPE has ended its affiliation with MUFON due to the latter's perceived sensationalism and has joined forces with SOS OVNI.

L'Affaire UMMO : Les Extraterrestres qui venaient du froid

This section delves into the Ummo affair, detailing the mysterious correspondence received by individuals in Spain starting in 1968 from extraterrestrials from the planet Ummo. The messages are described as cold, precise, and scientific. The article references Jean-Pierre Petit's book, which brought the affair to wider attention in France in 1991. It also mentions Renaud Marhic's investigation, which identified 'Ummo agents' and published texts from the Ummites, including a letter about the Gulf War.

Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique

This section promotes the second volume of a book by the Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux (SOBEPS) detailing the Belgian UFO wave. The book, over 500 pages with color illustrations, provides a comprehensive overview of this significant wave of observations.

Exceptionnel !

This section offers the second volume of the 'Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique' book as an exclusive offer to French readers. It also promotes another book, 'OVNI en Provence,' by Michel Figuet and Henri Julien, which catalogs UFO observations in six departments of southern France.

Revue de presse

This section provides a curated review of ufological publications from around the world:

• USA: The 'Journal of UFO Studies' is highlighted for its articles on the Falcon Lake encounter, crop circles, and thematic analysis of abduction narratives. It also mentions a code of ethics for dealing with abductees.
• Espagne: The Spanish magazine 'Mas Alla' is described as a leading public magazine on the paranormal and UFOs, featuring monthly UFO news and an article on 'UFO: State Secret.'
• France: 'Ciel et Espace' discusses the SETI project (Phoenix), its funding through private donations, and the debate surrounding its scientific value. It also touches upon the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence and the anthropocentric nature of SETI's search.

Sommaires des numéros 1 à 20 du magazine Phénomèna

A comprehensive list of articles published in the first 20 issues of Phénomèna magazine is provided, covering a wide array of UFO-related topics from 1991 to 1994. This serves as a catalog for readers to complete their collections.

Vous dites ?

This section features reader correspondence:

• Jean Colas provides details about the vegetation anomaly observed near Gué-d'Hossus (Ardennes) following a luminous phenomenon, noting that the circle of affected plants showed signs of heat or radiation from above.
• Claude Mauge clarifies that the 'Teesdale Affair' was a hoax and discusses the 'Ouranos' group, noting its continued existence and publications despite a shift in focus towards global conspiracy theories.
• Frédérique Sagnès shares a 'transvideo' recording that appears to show a UFO, but the editor suggests it might be a reflection from a television screen.
• Eric Pelet congratulates the magazine on its quality and upcoming distribution in kiosks.
• Jacques Zampaglione praises the magazine's quality and encourages its continued pursuit of UFO information.

les Objets Volants Non Identifiables

This section reviews the book "Les Objets Volants Non Identifiables" by Daniel Mavrakis and Marie-Pierre Olivier. The book is described as a rigorous historical overview of UFO phenomena and a courageous examination of 'contactee' testimonies. It is noted as being currently out of print but is considered a comprehensive synthesis of current knowledge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded approach to UFO phenomena. It prioritizes verifiable information, scientific investigation, and diverse perspectives. While acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena, it also explores potential physiological, psychological, and even hoax-related explanations, as seen in the review of Albert Budden's book and the discussion of the Ummo affair. The publication actively engages with its readership through the 'Vous dites?' section and appeals for community support to enhance its reach. The editorial stance appears to be one of thorough investigation and balanced reporting, aiming to inform rather than sensationalize.

Phénomèna, issue dated July-August 1994, is a French-language magazine focused on UFOs and anomalous phenomena. The cover headline "OUVREZ UNE FENETRE SUR DE NOUVEAUX MONDES..." (Open a window to new worlds...) invites readers to explore the unknown. The issue features a subscription offer and showcases past cover stories.

Contents

Editorial and News

The magazine begins with a note from the divisionnaire Fehrlin, suggesting a cautious approach to information dissemination. A new issue of the "Associated Investigators Report," authored by Todd Zechel, is highlighted, focusing on individuals connected to ufology and intelligence agencies, particularly Karl Pflock's alleged involvement with the CIA and the Department of Defense regarding the Roswell incident.

Scientific Discoveries

An article from the American magazine "Science" (April 23rd) reports the discovery of three exoplanets by American scientists using the Arecibo radio telescope in Puerto Rico. Two of these planets are Earth-sized, and the third is moon-sized, orbiting a star named PSR B1257+12. The scientists state that while life as we know it may not exist there, the discovery confirms the existence of planetary systems beyond our own solar system. The two larger planets are located 53 and 70 million kilometers from their star, with orbital periods of 67 and 98 days, respectively.

Reader Correspondence and Publications

Readers are reminded to update their addresses to ensure uninterrupted delivery of the magazine. Two new monographs are mentioned: "Los Identificados" by Dr. Roberto Banchs from Argentina, detailing recent important observations, and "Les deux faces de l'ufologie en Russie" (The two faces of ufology in Russia) by Boris Chourinov, published by the Groupement d'Etudes Franco-Russe d'Ufologie.

Incident Reports

A significant event occurred near Montreal on June 14th, involving a loud boom and a small scare. News agencies reported a meteorite fall south of the Saint-Laurent River, with a local resident, Stéphane Forcier, discovering a rock fragment in a 12 cm deep hole.

Classified Ads (RECHERCHES & OFFRES)

The magazine features a substantial section for free classified ads, categorized into "RECHERCHES" (Searches) and "OFFRES" (Offers).

Searches include:

• Books by J. Plantier, Brad Steiger, J. A. Hynek, and Ruppelt.
• Pins related to UFOs from France and abroad.
• Copies of the ARTE broadcast "Farewell from Mars" and "Flying Saucers Versus Earth."
• Books by Jean Sider, J. Allen Hynek, Jacques Vallée, and Jean Miguères.
• A reproduction of a photo taken in Andorra in 1976, and contact information for individuals with magnetic detectors.
• Reports of UFO incidents involving magnetic detectors, with a request for photocopies.
• Ufological books and magazines in Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese.
• Books by Henry Durrant ("Le livre noir des soucoupes volantes" and "Premières enquêtes sur les humanoïdes extraterrestres").
• Articles (photocopies or originals) concerning "Men in Black" (M.I.B.) and their documented cases.
• A report on a "Man in Black" (M.I.B.) observation in the Cher department in the late 1960s/early 1970s.
• Information or documents regarding UFO debates within the UN (or OTAN).
• Witnesses of UFO sightings, close encounters, and contacts in the Loire-Atlantique region.

Offers include:

• Original editions of books by Adamski, Granger, Hynek, and others, including "Les soucoupes volantes ont atterri" (1954 edition).
• Various French and English books and magazines on UFOs and related topics.

DIVERS (Miscellaneous)

• UFO Norway News: This section provides an overview of current Norwegian UFO cases and excerpts from the Norwegian magazine "UFO." The publication is in English and available via subscription, with prices for Europe and the USA/elsewhere.
• CREPS (Centre de Recherches et d'Etudes des Phénomènes Spatiaux): This organization aims to inform the public about UFOs through conferences, debates, and a bulletin analyzing regional cases. Contact information is provided.
• Jean-Pierre Troadec's Publication: Jean-Pierre Troadec, head of the SOS OVNI Rhône antenna, has published "OVNI, LE DOSSIER RHONE-ALPES, ARCHIVES 1993." This 80-page document in two volumes compiles approximately 150 press clippings of UFO observations in the Rhône-Alpes region from 1950-1993, focusing on contemporary, sociological, and historical data.
• Collector's Request: Jean-Claude Bouillé is seeking pins, magnets, or other gadgets related to astronautics or the supernatural to help him through difficult times.
• Investigator Search: An investigator is sought in Bordeaux to conduct an investigation in the Medoc region with a videographer for a UFO case that occurred on August 20, 1973.

Editorial Notes

An "Attention" box advises readers to send in their notices when their ads are no longer valid and mentions the use of a fax line and a 36.15 SOS OVNI number. The editorial team disclaims responsibility for the offers made in this section.

Subscription Information

The back page features a prominent subscription form for Phénomèna, offering a one-year subscription (6 issues) for 150 French francs (discounted from 168 francs). It also includes details for ordering back issues and a coupon for a special offer on "George Adamski, quête du visible et de l'invisible."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes ufology as a field of serious inquiry, evidenced by its coverage of scientific discoveries, detailed case reports, and the publication of specialized research. The classified ads section demonstrates a vibrant community actively seeking information, books, and connections. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation and information sharing, while also acknowledging the need for careful verification and responsible reporting, as suggested by the initial editorial note and the disclaimer for the classified ads.