Phenomena - No 24 - 1994 11

Magazine Overview

Phénomèna is a bimonthly publication from SOS OVNI, a non-profit association dedicated to the study of UFO phenomena without dogma or sensationalism. This issue, dated November-December 1994, features a slightly reduced format but an increased page count to 36 pages, a change made to keep subscription prices stable.

Un petit centimètre (A Small Centimeter)

This editorial explains the magazine's decision to slightly reduce its format to absorb rising costs of paper, printing, and postage, while increasing the number of pages to 36. The aim is to remain the most affordable UFO magazine on the market and to continue serving its readership.

Roswell: suite mais pas fin (Roswell: Sequel but Not the End)

This article by Perry Petrakis examines the Roswell incident in light of a 1994 US Air Force report. The report, a 23-page document signed by Colonel Richard L. Weaver, concluded that the event was related to Project Mogul, a secret project aimed at detecting Soviet nuclear tests. The article details the initial events of July 1947, including the recovery of debris by rancher Bill Brazel and the subsequent involvement of Major Jesse Marcel. It highlights how the incident became a myth, fueled by publications like the National Inquirer and the book 'The Roswell Incident.' The article also touches upon the political pressure from ufologists, leading to Senator Steve Schiff's request for an investigation by the General Accounting Office (GAO). The US Air Force report is presented as a refutation of ufological arguments, emphasizing the lack of written evidence for an extraterrestrial crash and the necessity of extensive documentation in military operations.

Ordre du Temple Solaire : rencontres du 3ème type en sous-sol... (Order of the Solar Temple: Third Kind Encounters Underground...)

This article by Renaud Marhic investigates the Order of the Solar Temple (OTS) following the discovery of 48 members found dead in two burned chalets in Switzerland and five more in Canada in October 1994. The piece focuses on the cosmic destiny promised by leaders Luc Jouret and Joseph Di Mambro, which involved extraterrestrials from the planet Proxima saving the chosen few from an apocalypse. The article includes testimony from Claude Giron, a former collaborator of Luc Jouret, who describes Jouret's syncretic beliefs, blending Templar philosophy, homeopathy, and esoteric ideas. Giron recounts how Jouret claimed not to be interested in UFOs, yet spoke of "non-revealed worlds" and even suggested he was not from the same planet. The article suggests that the extraterrestrial contact was the sect's primary secret, crucial for their followers' belief in escaping the end of the world, and that financial contributions were essential for achieving this salvation.

L'affaire Ummo : Les extraterrestres qui venaient du froid (The Ummo Affair: The Extraterrestrials Who Came from the Cold)

This section presents a book review of "L'affaire Ummo: Les extraterrestres qui venaient du froid" by Renaud Marhic. The book revisits the Ummo affair, which began in Spain in 1968 with reports of strange letters from extraterrestrials called Ummites. The affair gained renewed attention in France in 1991 due to scientist Jean-Pierre Petit's research. Renaud Marhic's investigation retraces the Ummo agents in France and Spain and explores the possibility of this being either genuine intergalactic communication or a massive manipulation of public opinion. The book reportedly includes the first publication of the earliest Ummo texts from 1967 and a letter from 1991 concerning the Gulf War, offering insights into their geopolitical views.

De l'étranger... (From Abroad...)

This section provides information on accessing the Minitel service from abroad, noting that it functions like a computerized databank and can be accessed with a computer and modem. Readers are invited to inquire about the procedure.

Nous remercions pour leur collaboration à l'élaboration de ce numéro (We thank for their collaboration in the creation of this issue)

This section lists individuals who contributed to the issue: Christian Daubioul, William P. La Parl, Monique de Gélas, Freddy Sosson, Philippe Ferrié, Jean-Luc Noguera, Gabriel Constantinescu, Christian Soudet, and Bruno Mancusi.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena, often linking them to broader themes of unexplained events, government secrecy, and fringe beliefs. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, presenting information from various sources, including official reports and personal testimonies, while maintaining a degree of skepticism and encouraging readers to form their own conclusions. The magazine also shows an interest in the intersection of UFOs with other phenomena, such as cults and esoteric beliefs, as seen in the articles on the Order of the Solar Temple and the Ummo affair.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: Nov. - Déc. - 1994 (Volume 21)
Publisher: Phénomèna
Country: France
Language: French
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Phénomèna delves into a variety of mysterious phenomena, with a strong focus on the controversial Order of the Solar Temple (OTS) and a specific UFO sighting in Gué-d'Hossus, France.

The Order of the Solar Temple: A Syncretic and Dangerous Cult

The central narrative of the magazine revolves around the Order of the Solar Temple, its leaders Luc Jouret and Joseph Di Mambro, and the tragic events that unfolded. The article details Jouret's background, from his early interest in macrobiotics and yoga to his later fascination with 'healers' and his medical practice in Belgium and France. It highlights his 'Science de Vie' seminars and the creation of 'Clubs de Vie' under associations like Amenta and Archédia.

Joseph Di Mambro is portrayed as a more enigmatic figure, with a past conviction for fraud. The article suggests a connection between Di Mambro and organized crime, specifically the Sicilian Carlacci family involved in arms and drug trafficking. The OTS's financial operations, including millions of dollars deposited into accounts like BCCI, are scrutinized, raising suspicions of money laundering.

The magazine questions the motives behind the OTS members' actions, particularly the supposed suicide, contrasting it with the idea of being 'called' by extraterrestrial masters from Proxima. It references Jacques Vallée's theories that cults claiming extraterrestrial contact often serve as a cover for manipulation, political extremism, or espionage.

The Rise and Fall of the Order of the Solar Temple

• A timeline details the construction of the Order of the Solar Temple:
• 1981: Luc Jouret founds the Organisation Internationale Chevaleresque Tradition Solaire (OICTS).
• 1983: Jouret joins the Ordre Rénové du Temple (ORT) but later secedes.
• 1984: OICTS becomes the Ordre du Temple Solaire (OTS).
• 1984-1991: Archédia clubs act as fronts for the OTS, and Amenta publishes related journals.
• 1985: Agata SARL is created for publishing and organizing Jouret's events.
• 1988: Agata is dissolved due to financial losses.
• 1990: Editions Atlanta distributes Jouret's works.
• 1993: OTS members are investigated in Quebec for attempting to acquire weapons for a mysterious group 'Q37'.
• 1993-1994: The elite of the OTS, potential victims, are linked to 'L'Ecole Des Mystères' and 'The Golden Way', controlled by Di Mambro.

The article also includes excerpts from a post-mortem letter from the OTS, expressing a planned 'transit' rather than suicide, and a refusal to participate in 'decadent' human systems.

UFO Trace in Gué-d'Hossus

The issue investigates a mysterious trace discovered in Gué-d'Hossus, France, following the observation of an unidentified light. Two fishermen reported a strong, white-yellow light illuminating a section of woods on the night of March 5-6, 1994. The light, described as brighter than a football field's illumination, faded after about ten seconds.

The next morning, a circular trace of scorched grass, 5.60 meters in diameter, was found in the clearing. The CEEPA (European Centre for Study of Aerial Phenomena) noted that the affected area was a protected forest site. The ONF (National Office of Water and Forests) confirmed the presence of 'carex' plants and found no evidence of chemical exposure on the young shoots within the trace.

While the trace's connection to the light remains uncertain, the article explores potential explanations. Investigations by the Departmental Directorate of Equipment and Customs found no specific missions in the area. The possibility of powerful projectors used by poachers is also considered. Specialists from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries could not provide a logical explanation, suggesting it might be due to a prank or a concentrated herbicide application, but no residual traces were found.

The article contrasts this with the phenomenon of 'witch's circles' (ronds de sorcière), which are typically caused by fungal growth and result in modified vegetation within an annular band, with the grass inside being dessicated and the outer and inner areas being more lush.

SOS OVNI: A Network for Ufological Research

Renaud Marhic, an investigator for SOS OVNI, discusses the organization's structure and activities. SOS OVNI is presented as a national network for UFO case monitoring, analysis, and expertise, with various regional representations across France and Quebec. The association utilizes resources for data analysis, laboratory checks, and access to official documents.

Marhic explains his personal involvement, stemming from an investigation in Nort-sur-Erdre in 1987, which highlighted SOS OVNI's effectiveness. He emphasizes the organization's focus on serious, verifiable research, contrasting it with more superficial approaches.

SOS OVNI Nord-Ouest, led by Marhic, has conducted regional UFO investigations, including cases in Riec-sur-Belon and Guipavas, and compiles a regional catalog of UFO sightings. Marhic expresses satisfaction with SOS OVNI's role in providing precise information on ufological current events, contributing to a better understanding of the field.

Book Review: 'Without Consent'

The magazine reviews 'Without Consent,' a 204-page book co-authored by journalist Carl Nagaitis and Philip Mantle. The book surveys missing-time and abduction phenomena in Great Britain, presenting cases with a degree of humility and rigor often lacking in other works. It categorizes cases as 'indisputable,' 'quasi,' or related to psychological phenomena and 'sexual aggressions.' The review praises the book's comprehensive approach and its value for ufological libraries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue highlights the dangers of syncretism in belief systems, particularly evident in the Order of the Solar Temple's blend of various religions and philosophies. It underscores the importance of rigorous, scientific investigation in ufology, as championed by SOS OVNI, while also acknowledging the complex and often elusive nature of these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to uncover the truth behind mysterious events and organizations, whether they involve alleged extraterrestrial contact or human-driven manipulation and deception.

This issue of "Phénomèna" magazine, dated November-December 1994, focuses on UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings and investigations primarily from the second half of 1994, with a particular emphasis on events in France. The cover headline, "En France et dans le Monde..." (In France and in the World...), sets the stage for a collection of detailed case reports and analyses.

Detailed Case Reports

The magazine begins by highlighting the significant increase in UFO observations handled by the SOS OVNI network and independent researchers during the latter half of 1994. Instead of a simple enumeration, the article delves into some of the most interesting cases.

Lozère and Var Sightings (Late June - Early July 1994)

One of the earliest reported incidents involved the discovery of two unidentified traces on a hard surface in Lozère, found by Madame D.S. and her garage staff. Due to the circumstances, no formal investigation was immediately launched. Shortly after, in the Var region, a father and son reported seeing multiple luminous points on July 1st and 3rd. The son, D.L., observed seven points moving silently in a straight line, which then formed an arrowhead formation before disappearing. His father later witnessed a similar event with seven points in a triangular formation.

Saône-et-Loire and Montpellier Events (Early July 1994)

On July 5th, near Sornay and Verdun-sur-le-Doubs in Saône-et-Loire, Madame A. and friends observed luminous beams of light. The object, initially stationary, approached and illuminated the ground with sharp-contoured yellow-green light beams. Madame A. took photos, though they revealed nothing upon development. She described the object as elongated and moving silently and slowly. On July 14th, a family in Montpellier witnessed a green fireball moving rapidly and rectilinearly across the sky.

Metz and Mont Blanc Observations (August 1994)

August brought more sightings. On August 2nd, near Metz, a young witness named O.L. observed an unusual yellow star-like object that moved, changed shape, and projected two luminous cones. The object was photographed. On August 4th, during a walk in the Mont Blanc massif, a witness named M.F. photographed the Aiguille du Midi, and the developed photo revealed an unusual triangular shape, possibly a hang glider or jet aircraft.

Mont Ventoux and Gard/Lozère Incidents (Mid-Late August 1994)

The magazine references a previous report of a "flying cigar" observed over Mont Ventoux on August 19th. Later, on August 24th, a couple and their grandson driving between Montmirat and Pont de Monvert witnessed four bright, luminous squares on the ground near the road.

Saint-Gervais-sur-Mare and Audabre Sightings (Late August 1994)

Starting around August 26th, a series of phenomena were observed near Saint-Gervais-sur-Mare. On the 26th, a phenomenon remained immobile before moving away and returning the next day, leaving no visible trace. On August 27th, a group of young people reported seeing a beam of light and later an object with a "V" shaped wing or a vertical third wing.

Narbonne Traces and Analysis (Late August - October 1994)

The issue dedicates significant attention to traces discovered near Narbonne. Initially reported on August 17th, the traces were investigated by the gendarmerie and the Service d'Expertise des Phénomènes. An analysis by M. Cavéribère, a specialist from the Ministry of Agriculture, suggested the traces were caused by a parasitic fungus, "Rouilles brunes," which requires two host species. Further investigation by Jean-Luc involved collecting samples for laboratory analysis. The traces were described as geometric, including a large "U" shape with four shorter expansions, within a 5-meter circle.

Other Sightings and Reports

Other reported incidents include a sighting on September 25th near Muret (Haute Garonne) of an oval, elongated object with rainbow colors descending towards the ground. The magazine also mentions a report from the Midi Libre about traces discovered in Lozère on August 17th, which the gendarmerie investigated.

Bloc-notes (Notebook)

This section provides brief updates and notes on various UFO-related topics:

• Roswell Crash: Donald R. Schmitt claims Jesse Marcel knew everything about the Mogul project and that the official story of a weather balloon might be a cover-up. The report suggests the Mogul flight "4" was not recovered.
• Meteorite Fall: A spectacular event on September 9th over the US West Coast was described as resembling a meteorite, accompanied by a loud rumble.
• Roswell Report: A nearly 200-page report by Karl T. Pflock is available, suggesting a Mogul balloon crash at Roswell, but also the possibility of a crashed saucer nearby.
• Félicien Diffonty: The mayor of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, known for his eccentric decrees, recommended drinking local wine for sun protection and had previously banned UFOs from flying over his commune.
• Pierre Monnet: The contactee published a new book, "Contacts d'outre-espace," detailing messages received, and emphasizing his non-traditional approach to the subject.
• Australian UFO Activity: Keith Basterfield reports an increase in UFO activity in Australia and the creation of the Australian UFO Abduction Study Centre.
• Political UFO Stance: Wiley, a Republican candidate in the US Senate race, criticized the government for hiding the truth about UFOs.
• SOS OVNI Reorganization: The SOS OVNI Centre in France has a new head, Philippe Siguret, and Philippe Ferrié is now in charge of SOS OVNI Nord.
• Bucharest Incident: Three young people disguised as vampires/aliens terrorized street cleaners in Bucharest, leading to a police intervention and fines.
• Men in Black (MIB): William Moore suggests that MIBs are real, often associated with suppressing UFO witnesses.
• Fictitious Meteorite: A staged "meteorite fall" event was orchestrated in Gonfreville l'Orcher (Seine-Maritime) as a promotional stunt for a science fiction exhibition.

Revue de Presse (Press Review)

This section reviews recent UFO-related publications:

• Great Britain: "UFO Magazine" (Vol. 13, No. 4) features articles on the Tunguska event, Roswell crash, military involvement in monitoring UFO activity in the North Sea (Operation AENEID), and the mysterious disappearance of a military pilot.
• USA: "Scientific American" (October 1994) dedicated an entire issue to "Life in the Universe," discussing cosmology, the origins of life, and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Carl Sagan's contribution highlights the abundance of chemistry for life's emergence. "International UFO Reporter" (Vol. 19, No. 4) features an article by Edward J. Ruppelt about a 1955 convention of contactees in Giant Rock, California.
• Other Publications: A list of various international UFO magazines and newsletters is provided, including "Alter Ego" (Canada), "Il Giornale dei Misteri" (Italy), "Skylink" (UK), "Magonia" (France), "UFO-Nyt" (Denmark), "Les Cahiers Zététiques" (France), "Skeptics UFO Newsletter" (USA), and "Fortean Times" (UK).

Special Feature: "Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique 2" (UFO Wave in Belgium 2)

The magazine promotes the second volume of "Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique: Une énigme non résolue," a comprehensive 500-page work detailing UFO wave observations in Belgium, with numerous illustrations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the growing number of UFO sightings and the increasing involvement of investigators and witnesses using photographic and video equipment. There's a clear effort to present detailed, factual accounts of events, often supported by witness testimonies and the findings of investigations. The magazine also highlights the scientific approach to analyzing phenomena, as seen in the Narbonne case. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena, encouraging readers to stay informed and report their own observations. The "Bloc-notes" section suggests a critical view of official explanations and a keen interest in alternative theories and historical UFO cases. The "Revue de Presse" indicates a broad interest in how UFOs are covered in both specialized and mainstream media.

Phénomèna, issue Nov.-Dec. 1994, Volume 23, is a French-language magazine dedicated to UFO phenomena and related mysteries. This issue features a critical review of Alain Gillot-Pétré's book, a detailed look at the Belgian UFO wave, and various reader contributions.

Notes de lecture: Les Charlatans du Ciel

The magazine begins with a critical review of Alain Gillot-Pétré's tenth book, "Les Charlatans du Ciel." The reviewer, writing for Phénomèna, characterizes the book as an argument that UFOs are not evidence of extraterrestrial visitation, but rather misinterpretations of meteorological phenomena or other mundane events. Gillot-Pétré, referred to as "Monsieur Météo," reportedly bases his conclusions on limited evidence, including a confusion between a UFO and car headlights, and a personal sighting of a 'flying saucer' which turned out to be a weather balloon. The review criticizes Gillot-Pétré's style as verbose and his methodology as employing an "amalgam" tactic, similar to dismissing all meteorologists because some make incorrect long-term forecasts. The review also points out that Gillot-Pétré ignores the possibility of space travel advancements and claims astronomers have never observed UFOs, which the reviewer refutes by citing amateur astronomers and the observation by Jacques Vallée in 1961.

Vague d'OVNI sur la Belgique - Tome I

This section announces the availability of "Tome I" from the Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux (SOBEPS). The book, over 500 pages with color photos, details a significant wave of UFO observations in Belgium. The magazine encourages readers to acquire this book, noting it will be complemented by "Tome II."

Vous dites ?

This section comprises reader correspondence. Jean-Luc Rivera writes in response to a previous review of Gildas Bourdais' book, defending the Kelly-Hopkinsville case and citing Isabel Davis's extensive investigation as authoritative, contrary to the critique's suggestion of a dubious grillage (grating) and family reputation. Rivera also comments on the lack of an index in the reviewed book and the presentation of a photo from Scotland.

The editorial response to Rivera acknowledges his clarifications, particularly regarding the Kelly-Hopkinsville case. The magazine reiterates its stance that for controversial subjects like UFOs, it's best to select "irreproachable" cases to convince skeptics, and that the initial critique aimed to highlight the investigator's lingering doubts. Regarding the index, the editors explain cost constraints, comparing it to other publications. They also address the photo presentation, noting limitations in available imagery.

Joaquim Fernandes from Portugal praises the magazine and mentions that "Anomalia" is preparing a second issue featuring the Alfena case with color photos and analysis.

M.J.C. Croce, a Gendarme from Avignon, writes to correct a misrepresentation in a Meridional d'Avignon article that cited him and his profession regarding a family's sighting of lights near Mont Ventoux. Croce states that the family wished to remain anonymous and that the Gendarmerie's role is to collect data, not to promote specific theories or link phenomena to earthquakes. He requests a rectification in Phénomèna.

The editorial response to Croce clarifies that Phénomèna did not name any specific individuals in its previous report and had expressed reservations about the information attributed to the Gendarmerie of Avignon. They also explain that the Toulouse official group does not systematically receive PVs (police reports) from the Gendarmerie, as such transmissions are decided by the Direction Générale in Paris.

Patrick Saber from Brest commends the magazine, particularly a report on Mars. He notes that a tetrahedron visible in a photo of a Martian site was cropped out and requests the full image. He also mentions a photo of the "Face on Mars" illuminated from the right and asks if the magazine possesses it.

The editorial response to Saber acknowledges the interest in Mars and explains that while many photos exist, those that are "out of the ordinary" are not always readily available or free of rights. The focus was on highlighting lesser-known "monuments" in France.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phénomèna demonstrates a consistent editorial stance of critical inquiry into UFO phenomena. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained aerial phenomena and encouraging the reporting of sightings, the magazine maintains a skeptical yet open-minded approach. It emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, distinguishing between factual reporting and speculative theories. The magazine actively engages with its readership through the "Vous dites ?" section, fostering a dialogue on UFO cases and ufological research. There is a clear effort to debunk sensationalism and present a balanced perspective, as seen in the critique of Gillot-Pétré's book and the careful handling of reader submissions. The recurring themes include the analysis of specific UFO cases, the review of relevant literature, and the promotion of ufological research and information exchange among enthusiasts and organizations.