Phenomena - No 28 - 1995 07

Magazine Overview

Phénomèna, issue 28, published in July-August 1995, is a bi-monthly publication of SOS OVNI, an association dedicated to studying UFO phenomena without dogma or sensationalism. The magazine covers a range of topics related to UFOs, aviation, and unexplained aerial phenomena.

Key Articles and Features

The Saucers of the US Air Force and the Darkstar Project

This section delves into the development of military-industrial aviation, focusing on aircraft that could be mistaken for UFOs. The article highlights the Darkstar, a cutting-edge aircraft whose design is compared to more innovative current models. It also draws parallels with older projects, some over thirty years old, that have recently been declassified by the US military. The Darkstar, officially known as Tier III Minus, is a stealthy, remotely piloted vehicle (RPV) developed by Boeing and Lockheed Martin. It is described as an ellipsoid-shaped aircraft capable of observing a basketball on the ground from 45,000 feet, even in adverse weather. General Kenneth R. Israel is quoted emphasizing the increasing reliance on unmanned aircraft for safety and intelligence gathering. The Darkstar, costing 10 million dollars, boasts impressive capabilities, including vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL), a horseshoe shape with two long wings, a 23-meter wingspan, a height of about 1.70 meters, and a cruising speed of approximately 350 km/h. It has an autonomy of nearly 1000 kilometers and can stay airborne for over 8 hours. The article speculates on its advanced stealth features, protected electromagnetic links, and all-weather detection systems. Its ability to be guided by satellite means it can be deployed globally without a 'umbilical cord'. The prototype is expected to fly by August 1995, with trials extending to 1998. The magazine warns readers to be vigilant for potential military encounters.

The Avrocar and Early Disc Projects

The article discusses the Avrocar, a project from the Canadian company A.V. Roe Canada Ltd, which was tasked with developing a high-performance, vertical-takeoff airborne weapon. The project aimed to consolidate innovative aeronautical ideas. The report received was a detailed specification of required capabilities, intended to correct false impressions from previous information and to alert intelligence services to potential Soviet advancements in similar areas. The Avrocar's design was based on the most innovative current models. Early disc-shaped aircraft projects are also mentioned, including the German V7 and the American Flying Flapjack. Despite technological advancements, early attempts at disc-shaped aircraft were not entirely successful. The article notes that the Avrocar project faced significant challenges, including high development costs and complex piloting requirements, leading to its eventual abandonment and the prototype being stored.

The Valentich Affair: New Elements

This section revisits the case of Frederick Valentich, who disappeared in October 1978 while piloting his light aircraft over Bass Strait, Australia. Valentich reported seeing an unidentified flying object before his disappearance. The article suggests that this man may have been truly abducted by a UFO. It also mentions the release of a video cassette by TF1 Vidéo titled 'L'extraterrestre de Roswell' (The Roswell Alien), which includes footage of an alleged alien autopsy. The magazine promises to cover this topic extensively in its next issue.

Encounters and Sightings

Several other UFO-related events and cases are discussed:

• A Nancy, 1982: An oval-shaped object was observed at a close distance of 50 cm, causing grass to straighten and plants to wither.
• A near-collision with a UFO: An article mentions a 'quasi-collision' with a UFO involving a Boeing Argentin aircraft.
• The 'Amarante' affair: This case is featured in the 'Classics of the unidentified' section.
• Roswell Incident: The magazine references a report by C.B. Moore, linking balloon flight number 4 of Project Mogul in June 1947 to the Roswell incident.
• Unidentified Aerial Object near Zwischbergen, Switzerland: A project by Wim van Utrecht and Frits van der Veldt, called Celestia, aims to document and publish investigations into interesting unidentified aerial phenomena. Their first dossier concerns a UFO photographed near Zwischbergen on July 26, 1975.

Other News and Publications

• Roswell Research: Kevin Randle and Schmitt, researchers of the Roswell incident, have separated due to disagreements about Randle's background and the credibility of their research.
• 'L'Odyssée de l'Etrange': A new edition is scheduled for release in late September.
• 'Aux frontières du Réel': M6 is broadcasting a new series of 25 episodes of this show.
• 'Science Frontières': A new monthly magazine focusing on scientific frontiers is launching.
• John Mack's 'Abduction': The French translation of John Mack's book on alien abductions is set to be released on August 29.
• SOS OVNI Contact Information: The magazine provides updated phone and fax numbers for SOS OVNI.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Phénomèna maintains a stance of objective study of UFO phenomena, aiming to avoid dogmatism and sensationalism. The magazine consistently reports on military aviation projects that might be mistaken for UFOs, such as the Darkstar and Avrocar, highlighting the intersection of advanced technology and unexplained sightings. It also covers significant UFO cases, investigations, and related publications, encouraging readers to stay informed and observant. The editorial team actively seeks contributions and feedback from its readership, as indicated by the call for responses to a reader survey.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue Date: July-August 1995
Content Focus: This issue of Phénomèna, a French ufology magazine, presents a collection of recent UFO/UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings and investigations from around the world, alongside updates on the activities of the SOS OVNI association.

International Sightings

France

Royan (Charente-Maritime): On the night of April 21-22, 1995, several people in Royan reported seeing strange lights and what they described as immense flying saucers. The phenomenon was later identified by the gendarmerie as being caused by the laser projector of a discotheque, 'La Clef des Champs,' located in Saujon, whose lights could be seen up to 30 kilometers away.

Narbonne (Hérault): On the evening of August 16, 1995, a reader reported seeing two cigar-shaped, very luminous objects that disappeared at high speed towards Narbonne. The gendarmerie in Murviel-les-Béziers had received no other similar reports.

Tourettes (Var): On August 30, 1995, a man reported observing a strange, isolated cloud in the sky. Using binoculars, he distinguished a cigar-shaped, dark brown form with a silver light on its ventral side that blinked every five seconds. The phenomenon, observed in complete silence, slowly disappeared.

Italy

Rome: On the evening of July 18, 1995, between 11:45 PM and midnight, a witness in Rome reported seeing a very luminous, pear-shaped, orange phenomenon that rotated on its axis. It then moved upwards in a curved, zig-zag trajectory before stopping for 2-3 minutes. It subsequently turned white, returned to its original position, and then 'dissolved' into place like a fading star. Investigations with the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici yielded no other witnesses.

Argentina

Bariloche: On the evening of July 31, 1995, at approximately 8:15 PM, pilot Jorge Polanco, piloting a 737 aircraft from Aerolinas Argentinas, reported a very strong light less than 100 meters from his plane during his landing approach. After confirming with air traffic control that no other aircraft was in the vicinity, Polanco performed evasive maneuvers. The unidentified object, described as an upside-down saucer, maintained a parallel trajectory at an estimated distance of 100 meters, moving at an estimated 2000 km/h. The object's strong magnetic field reportedly disrupted airport instrumentation. The incident was also witnessed by a military crew from the gendarmerie. The Argentine Air Force stated the observation was not within their competence.

Other Argentine Sightings: The magazine also mentions another observation in Argentina on August 17, 1995, involving a school teacher and a firefighter who reported a blue, intermittent light that caused a city-wide power outage. The object reportedly hovered three meters above the ground before disappearing.

Australia

The 'Affaire Valentich': The issue revisits the case of pilot Frederick Valentich, who disappeared on October 21, 1978, off the coast of Australia after reporting a UFO. The article questions previously ignored aspects of the case, such as the possibility of the UFO being another aircraft or a secret military operation. SOS OVNI Québec's research with Australian authorities yielded perplexing results. The article details the radio transmissions between Valentich and air traffic controller Stephen Robey, highlighting Robey's assurances that no military or other aircraft were in the sector. It explores various hypotheses, including a deliberate hoax, a genuine UFO encounter, or a military incident. A detailed scenario suggests Valentich orchestrated his own disappearance, possibly crashing into the sea near Tasmania. The article also notes that Valentich was a relatively inexperienced pilot with only 150 flight hours and had only recently obtained his night flying permit. It questions why he would have carried extra fuel and life vests if he intended to fly to King Island as stated, and suggests he may have mistaken a lighthouse or Venus for a UFO.

SOS OVNI Activities

SOS OVNI Network: The magazine provides an overview of the SOS OVNI association, describing it as a network of vigilance, alert, and expertise for UFO cases, linked with air traffic control radar systems. It details the association's representations across France and in Quebec, and its analytical capabilities, including radar verification, laboratory analysis, and meteorological data.

SOS OVNI Sud-Ouest: The 'Questions à...' section features an interview with Jean-Pierre Segonnes, director of SOS OVNI Sud-Ouest. He explains his motivation for joining SOS OVNI, citing the need for collective investigation and the organization's structured approach. The Sud-Ouest group focuses on monitoring potential UFO manifestations and maintaining readiness for rapid intervention. They also participate in public events like 'La Nuit des Etoiles Filantes.' Their current efforts include compiling a catalog of UFO sightings in Gironde.

Dordogne Case (October 3, 1991): A significant case is discussed involving a 100 km long, 30 km wide cloud detected by radar over Dordogne, causing communication and power disruptions. Simultaneously, ant colonies swarmed en masse, and fine white filaments, identified as aluminum, were found. This event occurred on the same night and in the same sector where an automobilist and her children reported observing a dark mass with intense flashing lights.

Paris Forum: SOS OVNI Seine participated in the 'Forum Nonsiamosoli' in Paris, organized around the experiences of a stigmatized person and an Italian contactee. The forum focused on themes of mutual understanding, love, peace, and environmental protection, blending religious and ufological elements. The event showcased ufological-pictorial and musical works, and presented video documents of alleged UFOs, including footage from the Discovery mission STS 48.

SOS OVNI Seine: This branch of SOS OVNI regularly participates in ufological gatherings in Paris, which bring together researchers, witnesses, and enthusiasts. They recently met with Chilean ufologist Jorge Eduardo Anfruns Dumont.

SOS OVNI Headquarters: The main office of SOS OVNI experienced a significant increase in correspondence following the publication of the association's contact details in VSD magazine and the release of issue #27 of their review. They have also had various media interventions, including interviews with Radio France International and France Inter. The organization was also involved in the investigation of the Santilli film and organized its General Assembly. They also provided assistance to VSD for an edition and won a legal case against the Ministry of Defense for the second time.

Press Clippings Archive: The magazine offers a compilation of press clippings from 1994, serving as a raw source of information for researchers. This collection includes approximately 80 articles from various origins, covering cases such as Tronville-en-Barrois, Bacqueville, Narbonne, and Le Col de Vence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently reports on UFO/UAP sightings from diverse geographical locations, emphasizing the need for rigorous investigation and analysis. It highlights the efforts of the SOS OVNI association in collecting, verifying, and disseminating information on these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, exploring various hypotheses while grounding the reports in available evidence and witness testimonies. There is a clear effort to connect with the public through various media and investigative initiatives, aiming to demystify and document UFO phenomena.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue Date: July-August 1995
Content Focus: This issue of Phénomèna magazine, a French publication dedicated to ufology and unexplained phenomena, features a range of articles covering UFO sightings, investigations, scientific analysis, and media coverage of related topics.

The Valentich Case: Controversy and Investigation

The issue delves into the perplexing case of Guido Valentich, an Australian pilot who disappeared after reporting a UFO encounter in April 1982. The article explores various hypotheses, including the possibility of a hoax or disorientation, as suggested by Dr. Haines in his 'Melbourne Episode'. Steven Robey, a controller who interacted with Valentich, recounts the pilot's agitated state and expresses doubt about a fabricated story. The article also mentions a similar incident involving another pilot. Despite the ongoing debate, the extraterrestrial hypothesis is presented as a plausible explanation.

Nancy, 1982: A Close Encounter with an Ovoid Object

This section details a remarkable UFO sighting that occurred in Nancy, France, on October 21, 1982. The witness, identified as 'L.', a cellular biology researcher, reported a 20-minute encounter with a brilliant, ovoid object hovering approximately one meter above his garden. The object, measuring about 1.50 meters in diameter and 0.80 meters in thickness, had a blue lagoon-colored upper hemisphere and a metallic polished lower hemisphere. The encounter resulted in visible effects on the surrounding vegetation, with grass straightening and a plant showing signs of dehydration.

Scientific Analysis and GEPAN's Involvement

The GEPAN (Groupe d'Etudes des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés), now SEPRA, investigated the Nancy case. Initial attempts to photograph the object were unsuccessful. The GEPAN collected plant samples, though the initial handling by gendarmes was criticized. Subsequent analysis, including that by Professor Bpunias of INRA, noted that the affected plants exhibited accelerated aging, with mature seeds. Jean-Jacques Velasco, then an investigator for GEPAN and later director of SEPRA, stated that measurements revealed a significant difference between the healthy and affected plants. The report also considered the possibility of intense electrical fields, potentially exceeding 30 kilovolts per meter, causing the observed effects on the vegetation and the straightening of grass.

Witness Psychology and Official Scrutiny

The psychological profile of the witness 'L.' was assessed by GEPAN investigators, who found no indication of an affabulatory tendency. The article references a later testimony by a nervous 'L.' on Michel Polac's show 'Droit de réponse', highlighting the contrast with his initial, more composed statements during the GEPAN investigation.

Media and Ufological Reviews

The magazine includes a 'Revue de presse' section, summarizing articles from various publications.

French Press: * Sciences et Avenir (Hors série n° 101): A special issue on parasciences is reviewed, with sociologist Pierre Lagrange's articles on the invention of UFOs and paranormal phenomena noted for their sociological approach but criticized for not fully engaging with field knowledge. * Connexions (n° 2): This New Age-oriented magazine from New Caledonia is described as focusing on spirituality and cosmic consciousness, with articles on figures like Claude Chapeau and Jean-Pierre Petit.

US Press: * High Times (n° 240): This magazine, dedicated to 'soft drugs', featured a special issue on UFOs. The article notes its potential illegality in France due to its content and mentions its coverage of military efforts to monitor the skies from remote locations like Freedom Ridge.

International Coverage: * Science et Vie (n° 935): The magazine critiques an article on 'extraterrestres' that it claims was influenced by sociologist Pierre Lagrange. It suggests that the article, while aiming to demystify the subject, paradoxically published more photos than other sources and offered moral lessons.

Film Review: 'The Puppet Masters'

This section reviews the film 'The Puppet Masters', based on Robert A. Heinlein's novel. The plot involves extraterrestrial creatures that take control of human brains, turning them into marionettes. The review notes the film's manichean worldview and the presence of children building a saucer as a trap. While acknowledging the high quality of special effects, the reviewer suggests the film may not achieve the status of a classic in the science fiction genre.

Other Sections

• SOS OVNI: An announcement offers a dossier of press clippings concerning the November 5, 1990, event, which was widely observed and identified as a piece of a Russian satellite re-entering the atmosphere. The dossier is presented as a tool for those interested in this controversial event.
• Appel aux lecteurs: A call for reader contributions to fund national advertising for the magazine, aiming to increase its reach and circulation.
• Sommaires des numéros 1 à 23: A list of past articles published in Phénomèna, providing a comprehensive overview of the magazine's content over its early issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phénomèna include the investigation of UFO sightings, the analysis of witness testimonies, the role of scientific institutions like GEPAN/SEPRA, and the critical examination of media coverage and popular culture's portrayal of UFOs and related phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to present detailed accounts and analyses while acknowledging the complexities and controversies surrounding the subject matter. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between rigorous investigation and sensationalism, and a desire to promote ufology as a serious field of study.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue Date: July-August 1995
Publisher: SOS OVNI
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of Phénomèna focuses on the enigmatic Ummo affair, presenting it as the key to a larger mystery. The cover prominently features the title "UMMO: LA CLE DU MYSTERE" and the subtitle "L'AFFAIRE UMMO : LES EXTRA-TERRESTRES QUI VENAIENT DU FROID" (The Ummo Affair: The Extraterrestrials Who Came From The Cold).

The Ummo Affair: Extraterrestrials From The Cold

The main article details the Ummo affair, beginning with its emergence in Spain in 1968. The Spanish press reported that for three years, men and women in the country had been receiving strange, one-way messages from an extraterrestrial expeditionary corps from the planet Ummo. Unlike typical 'alien contact' stories, these messages were described as cold, precise, and scientific, devoid of messianism.

In 1991, the affair gained significant traction in France through the revelations of scientist Jean-Pierre Petit, a research director at the CNRS. His best-selling book sold over 100,000 copies, and the media extensively covered the Ummo phenomenon in France for several months.

The article emphasizes that not everything about this strange affair has been revealed. It highlights the investigative work of Renaud Marhic, who, through a police-like investigation in France and Spain, reportedly rediscovered the trail of the Ummites. Marhic met with individuals who were their correspondents and identified the 'agents of Ummo' – those who spoke on behalf of the extraterrestrials on Earth.

The publication questions whether the Ummo phenomenon represents a genuine intergalactic communication or a sophisticated manipulation of public opinion. The book, intended to inform the public, is said to shed new light on the Ummo affair and the UFO phenomenon in general.

This issue also publishes for the first time texts from the early days of Ummo on Earth (1967), as well as a letter concerning the Gulf War (1991), which is noted as the last known correspondence received in Spain. These documents are described as eloquent, detailing the Ummites' arrival on Earth and their commentary on geopolitical issues.

Personal Accounts and Sightings

An incident report is included regarding a UFO sighting on March 31, 1993, at 02:15 AM near Limonest or Communay, France. The object was described as a long dark mass with three green headlights, leaving smoke trails. The witness, M. Laloy J.L., is seeking other witnesses for this event.

Research and Information Requests

The magazine features a 'RECHERCHES' (Research) section where individuals seek specific books, documents, and information related to UFOs and extraterrestrial phenomena. These requests include:

• The book "Le mystère des soucoupes volantes" by F. Scully.
• Books on Tesla, anti-gravity, and George Adamski's work.
• Testimonies and documents for studying the UFO phenomenon.
• The Italian UFO magazine "CLYPEUS" and specific articles about Roman coins and flying objects.
• Books such as "ET Connection," "Nos maîtres les extraterrestres," "La révélation 1996," "Le sage du Tibet," and others by Jimmy Guieu, Jean Migueres, and Lobsang Rampa.
• Cases of third-type encounters with paralysis, specifically mentioning the Valensole case.
• Information related to the Roswell incident, including books, photos, documents, and geographical plans.
• Books "Le mystère de Roswell" by Charles Berlitz and William L. Moore, and "Ils n'étaient pas seuls sur la Lune" (The NASA Secret Dossier) by William L. Moore.

Offers and Publications for Sale

The 'OFFRES' (Offers) section lists items for sale:

• A October 12, 1992 edition of Newsweek with a cover story on US scientists searching for aliens.
• An out-of-print July 1990 OMNI Magazine featuring Mars exploration and UFO Update.
• Books including "OVNI: Dossier secret" (Sider), "Enlèvements extraterrestres : les témoins parlent" (Hopkins), and "Le Mystère des ovnis" (R.J. Perrin).
• Several books related to UFOs and extraterrestrials, such as "La Révélation" (Miguères), "Le cobaye et les scientifiques" (Miguères), "Ces mystérieux ovnis" (Ribera), "Des signes dans le ciel" (Misraki), "Extraterrestres ou voyageurs du temps" (Laronde), "A la recherche des civilisations ET." (Landsburg), and "Les soucoupes volantes ont atterri" (Leslie/Adamski).
• A general catalog of UFO sightings in the Hérault department between 1954 and 1994, titled "MYSTERES EN PAYS D'OC."

Miscellaneous

The 'DIVERS' (Miscellaneous) section contains requests for information and personal ads:

• A researcher from Tenerife is seeking information and a copy of an article from "La Nouvelle Gazette" dated July 24, 1979, about a UFO event observed by a Belgian couple on January 17, 1979.
• A 52-year-old man in the Lyon region is looking for a female companion interested in UFOs, natural life, and Yoga.
• An individual passionate about ufology is searching for an association near Saint-Etienne.
• Bruno Mazzocchi, an investigator since 1971, offers monthly UFO surveillance nights in the Lyon region and has an extensive collection of UFO-related materials.
• "EL OJO CRITICO" is interested in exchanging information about anomalous phenomena with groups and associations worldwide.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the Ummo affair, presented as a significant and complex case that goes beyond typical UFO narratives. The magazine seems to adopt a stance of critical inquiry, questioning the authenticity of the Ummo communications and exploring the possibility of manipulation. The inclusion of investigative journalism by Renaud Marhic and scientific commentary from Jean-Pierre Petit suggests an effort to provide a deeper, more analytical perspective on the phenomenon. The publication also serves as a platform for researchers and enthusiasts to share information, seek specific data, and report sightings, indicating a commitment to documenting and understanding UFO-related events and theories.