Phenomena - No 29 - 1995 09

Magazine Overview

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: Bimestriel numéro 29
Date: Septembre-Octobre 1995
Price: 28 F
ISSN: 1157-4704
Publisher: SOS OVNI
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of Phénomèna, subtitled 'la revue des phénomènes OVNI' (the review of UFO phenomena), is dedicated to a special dossier concerning the controversial 'alien autopsy' film, purportedly showing the post-mortem examination of an extraterrestrial. The cover prominently features the headline 'L'EXTRATERRESTRE AUTOPSIE' and lists various articles exploring different facets of the case, including 'TOUTES LES COULISSES' (All the behind-the-scenes), 'LE TEXTE DU GAO' (The GAO text), 'LES DECLARATIONS DU CAMERAMAN' (The cameraman's declarations), and 'L'AVIS DES MEDÉGINS' (The doctors' opinion).

Editorial and Content Overview

The editorial, titled 'Un flou plus qu'artistique' (A blur more than artistic), sets the tone by acknowledging the difficulty in establishing the facts surrounding the film's emergence. It notes that the film appeared on the market relatively recently, despite the Roswell incident itself being documented for a longer period. The magazine aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the investigations into this affair, which seemingly emerged from nowhere. The editorial highlights that the special issue was expanded to accommodate the extensive coverage, with some regular sections postponed.

The issue dedicates significant space to the 'alien autopsy' film, presenting testimonies and analyses. It features the 'declaration' of the alleged cameraman, who recounts his military service and involvement in filming the Roswell crash aftermath and subsequent autopsies. This declaration, while detailed, is presented with caution due to its anonymous source and the involvement of Ray Santilli, who is also a central figure in the film's promotion.

Several articles delve into the reactions and skepticism surrounding the film. 'Réactions à l'Etranger' (Reactions Abroad) details critical assessments from UFO publications in Great Britain and Italy. The Italian center CISU argues that if the film is genuine, it belongs to the US Air Force, making Santilli's commercialization of it potentially illegal. Conversely, if it's a fake, then selling it as authentic is fraud. The article also mentions that Italian ufologists widely distributed images from the film to circumvent Santilli's control.

Spanish skepticism is also noted, with journalist Javier Sierra expressing doubts about the film's authenticity, particularly regarding the lack of hygiene during the examination and its timing with a US government investigation into Roswell. The French media landscape is described as largely skeptical, with notable exceptions like TF1 and VSD, which initially 'broke' the story. Science et Vie magazine is highlighted for its critical stance, labeling the film as a 'grand arnaque' (big scam) and suggesting it's a manipulation by a producer exploiting public credulity.

Key Figures and Organizations

The magazine mentions several key individuals involved in the UFO field and the film's promotion or investigation, including Ray Santilli, Philip Mantle (Director of Investigations at the British UFO Research Association), Jack Barnett (the alleged cameraman), Jacques Vallée, Javier Sierra, Jenny Randles, Stanton Friedman, Reg Presley, Simon Fitzpatrick, and Richard Doty (former AFOSI agent). Organizations like SOS OVNI, UFO Magazine, CISU, and various media outlets (TF1, VSD, Science et Vie, The Daily Mirror, Variety) are also referenced.

The Roswell Incident and the Film

The issue revisits the Roswell incident as the backdrop for the 'alien autopsy' film. The cameraman's account describes the recovery of a 'flying saucer' and the examination of three extraterrestrial beings, one of whom was deceased. He recounts filming the crash site, the debris, and later, autopsies. The narrative suggests that the film was offered to Steven Spielberg, who reportedly declined it, and that the cameraman acquired the footage under circumstances that remain somewhat ambiguous.

Skepticism and Counterarguments

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to debunking the film. Arguments against its authenticity include:

• Anonymity of the Cameraman: The source of the information is anonymous, and the details are relayed through Santilli, who has a vested interest in the film.
• Commercial Exploitation: The rapid commercialization and alleged high price of the film footage (35,000 USD mentioned by Jacques Vallée) suggest a profit motive.
• Lack of Scientific Rigor: Critics point to the lack of proper hygiene during the autopsy filming and the questionable methods used.
• Inconsistencies in the Narrative: The gradual release of information (film, then autopsy, then living aliens) is seen as a marketing tactic rather than a genuine revelation.
• Legal and Ownership Issues: The debate over the film's copyright and ownership, with arguments that it should belong to the US Air Force if authentic.
• Expert Opinions: Various ufologists and media outlets have declared the film a fake or a manipulation.

Other Content

Beyond the main dossier, the issue includes a section on 'L'Ordre du Temple Solaire : Templiers, extraterrestres et terroristes' (The Order of the Solar Temple: Templars, extraterrestres and terrorists), suggesting a connection or comparison being drawn between different phenomena. There are also sections for 'Lectures' (Readings) and 'Revue de presse' (Press review).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of sensational claims within the UFO community. Phénomèna, through its 'Comité Conseil Scientifique et Technique' (Scientific and Technical Advisory Committee), which includes scientists, technicians, and engineers, aims to differentiate between serious research and sensationalism. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism, prioritizing scientific methodology and evidence over dogma and speculation. While acknowledging the potential importance of studying UFO phenomena, the magazine emphasizes the need for rigorous investigation and a clear distinction between credible evidence and hoaxes or manipulations. The issue champions the idea of separating serious research from sensationalism and dogma, a core objective of the SOS OVNI association.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: Sep. - Oct. - 1995 (Volume 24)
Publisher: Phénomèna
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of Phénomèna focuses heavily on the Roswell incident, presenting a detailed analysis of the General Accounting Office (GAO) report and scrutinizing the controversial 'Roswell autopsy film'. The magazine adopts a journalistic approach, aiming to dissect the claims and evidence surrounding these key aspects of the Roswell affair.

The GAO Report: A Detailed Examination

The lead article, "Le texte complet du GAO...", presents the full text of the General Accounting Office's report, which was initiated following a request from Republican Senator Steven Schiff. The report details the GAO's extensive research into the Roswell crash, including a review of numerous classified and unclassified documents from July 1947 through the 1950s, sourced from various organizations like the Department of Defense and the FBI. The GAO's investigation aimed to determine the procedures for investigating similar aerial accidents and to locate governmental archives concerning the Roswell crash.

Key Findings of the GAO Report:

• 1947 Regulations: In 1947, Air Force regulations dictated that aerial accident investigations in New Mexico were handled by the Air Force. All recorded accidents involved military aircraft and occurred after July 8, 1947, the date the RAAF public relations office reported the 'flying disc' recovery. The Navy recorded no accidents in New Mexico during July 1947.
• Balloon vs. Disc: Air Force officials informed the GAO that there were no specific regulations at the time requiring a report on the crash of a meteorological balloon.
• Destroyed Archives: The research revealed that some official archives concerning RAAF activities had been destroyed, while others were spared. Administrative archives from March 1945 to December 1949, and messages from October 1946 to December 1949, were destroyed. The destruction records did not specify who authorized or decided on the destruction.
• Documentary Evidence: The investigation uncovered two key documents from 1947: a joint report from the 509th Bomb Group and RAAF discussing the recovery of a 'flying disc' later identified as a balloon with a radar reflector, and a July 8, 1947, FBI teletype message corroborating this. However, the Air Force's 1946-1953 report on unidentified flying objects (Project Blue Book Special Report #14) did not mention the recovery of an aerial object near Roswell in July 1947.
• Accident Investigations: The article details the investigation into aerial accidents. In July 1947, Air Force personnel were involved in the recovery of an aerial object near Roswell. Official procedures stipulated that aerial accident reports were to be kept permanently, unlike reports for meteorological balloon crashes. The Air Force Security Agency was responsible for maintaining these reports. Four such accidents were found for July 1947 in New Mexico, all involving military aircraft and occurring after the 'flying disc' report.
• Archive Search: The search extended to units assigned to RAAF in July 1947, including the 509th Bomb Group, 1st Air Transport Unit, 427th Air Base Squadron, and the 1395th Military Police Company. Destruction records indicated that historical records of the 509th Bomb Group and RAAF from February to October 1947 were transferred, with the 509th's information bureau noting it was busy responding to requests about the 'flying disc' which turned out to be a balloon.
• FBI Teletype: A July 8, 1947, teletype message from the FBI Dallas office to its Cincinnati headquarters reported that the 8th Air Force HQ had informed them of the recovery of a hexagonal disc suspended by a cable from a large balloon near Roswell. The object was to be sent to Wright Field for examination and resembled a high-altitude balloon with a radar reflector. The FBI stated no investigation would be undertaken.
• Agency Responses: The Department of Defense stated that the July 1994 Air Force report represented the entirety of their research. The NSC, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, and Department of Energy responded that they had no official documents. The FBI confirmed its teletype message but stated all information had been processed according to prior requests under the Freedom of Information Act.
• CIA Findings: The CIA indicated that previous searches of its UFO files had not yielded anything on the Roswell crash, though it couldn't be certain if a specific search had ever been conducted. A keyword search for 'Roswell, New Mexico' in CIA databases in May 1995 found no documents related to the affair.

Scrutiny of the 'Roswell Autopsy Film'

The magazine dedicates significant space to analyzing the film presented by filmmaker Ray Santilli, which purports to show the autopsy of an alien recovered from the Roswell crash. The article, "Autorisation de douter" (Authorization to doubt), raises several points of contention regarding the film's authenticity.

Technical and Provenance Concerns:

• Black and White Footage: The film is in black and white, which is questioned given that the US Army possessed color cameras in 1947 and used them during the Pacific War. The article suggests a forger might use black and white to appear more authentic.
• Amateurish Quality: The film's hesitant and sometimes clumsy movements, noted by professionals like Nicolas Maillard and Simon Fitzpatrick, are presented as potentially contributing to an 'artistic blur' or 'hallmark of authenticity'. However, this is also seen as a weakness in the narrative.
• Theft Allegation: Ray Santilli claimed to have stolen 22 film reels from the US Air Force. The article highlights the extreme difficulty of such a feat, given the high security surrounding top-secret documents, suggesting it would require 'Houdini-like' talent.
• 'Restricted Access A01' Code: The film was marked with the code 'Restricted Access A01' when shown in the US. However, this is not a recognized US classification code. Santilli claimed to have found it on a film canister before transferring it to the film itself, but later prudently removed it.
• Detlev Bronk's Name: The name Detlev Bronk appears on a notepad in the original film, supposedly indicating him as one of the surgeons responsible for the autopsy. The article points out that Bronk was linked to the fraudulent MJ12 documents in 1984, where he was alleged to be responsible for analyzing four extraterrestrial bodies. This connection is seen as problematic, especially since the MJ12 documents have been proven to be a hoax.
• Alien Description: The film's depiction of the alien is contrasted with witness testimonies. Glenn Dennis, a funeral home employee at the time, recalled being asked about small coffins and preserving bodies. He was told the military had recovered four extraterrestrial bodies, described as having four fingers with suction cups, not six as shown in Santilli's film.

Media and Ufological Reactions:

• Press Conference: A press conference held on August 24, 1995, by TF1 Vidéo to launch the 'Roswell' cassette generated discussion. Jacques Pradel, a journalist involved, stated that the approach to such phenomena should be standard journalistic practice, not different simply because they involve UFOs.
• Medical Perspective: Dr. Braun, a medical professional, expressed skepticism, noting that the individuals performing the autopsy appeared to be surgeons rather than anatomists. He commented on the alien's organ resembling a liver exposed to cold, and the 'cadaveric lividities' consistent with prolonged cold storage. He found the body to be anthropomorphic yet dissimilar to a human due to its peculiarities.
• Jean-Pierre Petit's Suggestion: Petit suggested that the 'eyes' of the alien might have been large, dark, and possibly covered by lenses, comparing them to 'sunglasses' that would appear as 'enormous black eyes' if seen in the 13th century.
• Josiane Pujol's Caution: Pujol noted that while many of the malformations might be individually known in medicine, they did not collectively explain the entire condition.
• TF1's Role: TF1's acquisition of the film for a significant sum (estimated at 30 million French francs from 27 foreign televisions) is presented as a commercial venture, not an endorsement of authenticity. TF1 stated they never claimed the document was verified.
• Ufologist Reactions: The article notes differing reactions among ufologists. George Wingfield and Colin Andrews were criticized for having different standards in their reports. Stanton Friedman offered $100,000 for the film to be expertly examined, but this did not materialize. Ray Santilli was accused of prioritizing promotion over research and avoiding direct engagement with critical ufologists.
• Kodak's Involvement: Santilli claimed Kodak authenticated the film, dating it to 1947. However, Kodak later issued a statement on July 14, 1995, clarifying that they had seen portions of the film and its leader, but could not confirm its authenticity. They stated that while it might be footage from the era, it did not prove the extraterrestrial origin of the subjects. Kodak also noted that dating codes repeat every 20 years, casting doubt on the specific 1947 dating.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance is one of critical inquiry, employing journalistic rigor to examine both official reports and controversial claims. The editorial team clearly believes in applying standard investigative methods to UFO phenomena, rather than accepting extraordinary claims without thorough vetting. The recurring themes are the analysis of government documents, the critical evaluation of photographic and film evidence, the role of media in shaping public perception, and the internal dynamics and controversies within the ufology community. The magazine aims to separate fact from speculation, highlighting discrepancies and questioning the narratives presented by those with vested interests, particularly in the commercial exploitation of UFO-related material.

This issue of Phénomèna, dated September-October 1995, focuses heavily on the controversial Roswell extraterrestrial autopsy film and the complex organization known as the Order of the Temple Solaire (OTS).

The Roswell Autopsy Film: Reactions and Analysis

The magazine presents a detailed examination of the alleged Roswell autopsy film, gathering reactions from various experts and the public via the Minitel service 36 15 SOS OVNI. The cover headline itself poses the question: "L'extraterrestre de Roswell: vos réactions sur le 36 15 SOS OVNI".

Kodak's Involvement and Limitations

An article details the technical aspects of the film's fabrication, noting that while Kodak was involved in film production, they could not definitively confirm the film's age or origin. The symbols found on the film samples suggest potential manufacturing dates in 1927, 1947, or 1967, leaving the exact date of manufacture uncertain. Kodak stated they were unable to categorically confirm the film's age or exposure date.

Public and Expert Opinions

Many public reactions, shared through the SOS OVNI Minitel service, express skepticism. A doctor, identified only as Paul, asserts that the depicted autopsy is a fake, likely made with latex figures, citing the speed of the procedure and the unnatural appearance of the body. He claims that no medical professional would perform such a rushed autopsy.

Christian Page from SOS OVNI Quebec noted that he had not seen the Roswell film, despite Kodak offering to examine it. Richard C. Sabin from the Natural History Museum in London stated that his institution was incorrectly cited by Santilli regarding the film's promotion on Channel 4, and that the opinions expressed were not those of his museum's team. Dr. Paul O'Higgins, an anatomist, also expressed skepticism, noting the autopsy was completed in a few hours, which he found implausible for an extraterrestrial examination.

Medical Professionals' Criticisms

Several medical professionals, who preferred to remain anonymous, highlighted significant implausibilities in the film:

• Duration: An autopsy of this nature could not realistically be completed in under two hours, as suggested by a clock visible in the footage.
• Injuries: The depicted injuries do not appear to be consistent with the cause of death.
• Physiology: The muscle tone and body posture contradict known human physiology, particularly the complete collapse of the body and the absence of muscle prominence in a corpse.
• Surgical Details: The abdominal cavity is shown open without the use of retractors, and the corneas remain clear and bulging throughout, which is unnatural for a deceased subject.
• Equipment: The 'operating table' lacks channels for fluid collection, and the chest tissues are held open without retractors.

Alternative Explanations

Some experts suggested the body might be a human with exceptional conditions or deformities. The magazine presents images of a child with a nasal tumor and a patient with Progeria, a rare aging disease, as potential comparisons, questioning if a manipulated corpse of a deceased adolescent suffering from a rare disease could have been used.

Technical Analysis of the Film

CFX (Creature Effects), a special effects company, analyzed the film and concluded it was likely a hoax, produced within the last couple of years. They noted the blandness of the alien's features and the lack of convincing detail. Cliff Wallace of CFX stated that while they were surprised by the lack of visible seam marks (suggesting a mold), they remained convinced the film was a hoax and not produced recently. They also pointed out that the "hieroglyphs" on the alien's body clearly read "VIDEO O TV", and that there was no indication of it being filmed on 16mm.

The '10:10' Coincidence

An unusual coincidence is noted: the clock in the film is set to approximately 10:10, a time frequently used in publicity photos of watches for aesthetic reasons. This is presented as a potentially intriguing, though not conclusive, detail.

The Order of the Temple Solaire (OTS): Templars, Extraterrestrials, and Terrorists

This section delves into the complex and disturbing case of the Order of the Temple Solaire (OTS), an organization involved in a massacre of 53 members on October 5, 1994. Renaud Marhic's investigation, published by L'Horizon Chimérique, is featured through an interview and excerpts.

Manipulation and Deception

Phénomèna had previously revealed how OTS leaders simulated '3rd type encounters' to manipulate followers, using complex special effects like holograms to show 'extraterrestrial masters'. The article suggests a link between an alleged UFO sighting over Montreal (featured in Phénomèna nº13) and the OTS's activities, noting its occurrence above a location linked to the group.

Sect vs. Secret Society

Renaud Marhic distinguishes between sects and secret societies. Sects actively recruit and use coercive methods, while secret societies are more selective, attracting individuals with shared philosophical or mystical values. The OTS, he argues, combined elements of both, initially operating as a secret society but becoming more overtly sect-like.

Neo-Templarism and Political Agendas

The OTS claimed to be successors to the historical Knights Templar. The magazine explores the history of the Templars, their suppression by Philip IV of France, and the persistent rumors of their survival. The OTS's philosophy incorporated mystical, political, and extraterrestrial themes, aiming for a profound transformation of the world.

Joseph Di Mambro and Connections

The investigation highlights Joseph Di Mambro as the true leader of the OTS, a figure with a history in secret societies. Di Mambro was allegedly involved with groups like the Sovereign and Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem (SMOTJ) and the Ordre Rénové du Temple (ORT). The article suggests a strong ideological connection between Di Mambro and Origas, the former grand master of ORT, who was also an agent of Nazi counter-espionage and had ties to extremist movements.

The Role of Luc Jouret

Luc Jouret, a homeopathic doctor, was tasked with recruiting members and managing finances for the OTS. He eventually succeeded Origas as grand master of ORT but later had to step down due to financial disputes.

The OTS Structure

Marhic describes a three-tiered system within the OTS: a non-profit association for recruitment, a commercial network for promotion, and a secret society for the most dedicated members. The group's activities, initially intended to be discreet, became public due to psychological issues and media attention, leading to the OTS being thrust into the spotlight.

The 'Extraterrestrial' Element

The OTS incorporated extraterrestrial themes, with alleged beings from Sirius and Proxima mentioned. This aspect was used to manipulate followers, with complex special effects creating the illusion of contact. The magazine questions the plausibility of such extraterrestrial life having similar physical characteristics to humans (two arms, two legs).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phénomèna demonstrates a critical and investigative approach to paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards sensational claims, particularly regarding the Roswell film, while also acknowledging the emotional impact of such evidence. The magazine prioritizes detailed analysis, expert opinions, and historical context. The investigation into the OTS highlights a concern with manipulative organizations that exploit belief systems, including UFOlogy, for their own ends. The recurring themes are the critical examination of UFO evidence, the analysis of cults and secret societies, and the intersection of these phenomena with historical narratives and political agendas.

This issue of Phénomèna, dated September-October 1995, focuses on the complex and often sinister connections between secret societies, terrorism, and ufology. The cover story, "Les Templiers du SAC: sociétés secrètes et terrorisme," immediately sets a tone of investigation into clandestine organizations.

The OTS and its Predecessors

The magazine delves into the history of the Ordre du Temple Solaire (OTS) and its predecessor, the Ordre Souverain et Militaire du Temple de Jérusalem (OSMTJ). It is revealed that the OSMTJ was a neo-Templar group infiltrated by the Service d'Action Civique (SAC), a French intelligence and action service. The SAC allegedly used the OSMTJ to gather political and economic intelligence, gain favors, and collect large sums of money by distributing Templar trinkets and diplomas to high society members. The article details power struggles within the OSMTJ, particularly the ousting of Regent Da Sousa Fontes by Charly Lascorz, a key figure in the SAC. General Zdrojewski, a Polish-born Frenchman manipulated by the SAC, took over the French section of the OSMTJ.

The text highlights the alleged criminal activities of the OTS, including its potential involvement in arms and drug trafficking, though the magazine suggests that the UFO theme might have been used as a cover for illicit activities, possibly related to drugs. The article also touches upon the controversial "survival kits" sold by the OTS, containing homeopathic remedies that were allegedly just sugar pills, representing a significant medical scandal.

The Shawinigan Sud Connection

A significant portion of the issue investigates a suspicious project in Shawinigan Sud, Canada. A consortium, seeking investors for a 5-star hotel complex that included a landing strip for flying saucers, is examined. The project's absurdity and the consortium's evasiveness about the origin of their funds raise red flags. François Bourbeau, director of the Quebecois magazine "Alter Ego," was involved in seeking investors and eventually withdrew, suspecting money laundering related to drug trafficking. The company Spectra Communications Internationales, which was to publish "Alter Ego," was later burglarized, with all its archives stolen, effectively erasing any written records of the consortium's dealings.

The article posits that the consortium may have used the UFO theme to camouflage illicit activities, possibly involving aircraft carrying illegal cargo. The connection to the OTS is explored through coincidences, such as the OTS using extraterrestrial themes to manipulate followers and Joseph Di Mambro's investments in real estate, mirroring the hotel complex project. Shawinigan Sud is also geographically close to the OTS's "survival farm" in Saint-Anne de la Pérade.

The Roswell Incident and Other UFO Cases

The "Revue de presse" section focuses on a dossier in the American magazine OMNI (Autumn 1995) dedicated to the Roswell incident. The dossier, presented in three modules, re-examines the case without offering much new to specialists but contextualizes it within the local economy's exploitation of the UFO myth. It features the testimony of Glenn Dennis, a key witness who allegedly observed strange things on the Roswell base during an autopsy of extraterrestrial beings. The story is relayed through an intermediary nurse who later disappeared. The OMNI dossier also includes an investigation by Paul McCarthy, who sought to verify claims made by researchers Schmitt and Randle regarding the alleged erasure of records of nurses who worked at Roswell in 1947. McCarthy managed to locate five nurses, but none confirmed participation in any exceptional events, and a sixth woman remained unidentified.

Another article discusses "Expedientes Insolitos" (Unusual Files), a book by Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos, which examines the involvement of the Spanish Army in UFO phenomena. The book reportedly details UFO sightings, government classifications, and declassifications, but with a strong emphasis on the author's own research and self-citation.

Book Reviews and Reader Contributions

The magazine includes reviews of several books. "Le Sphinx va parler" by Philippe Jullien is described as a hermetic work dealing with occult themes, the search for the Graal-Crystal, and extraterrestrial contact, though its high price and dense content are noted as drawbacks.

The "Vous dites?" section features letters from readers. One reader, Raoul Robé, questions the credibility of researcher Colin Andrews, accusing him of being misled by false crop circles and using unverified information. Another reader defends the magazine's critical stance, arguing that neutrality does not mean accepting all discourses uncritically and that the magazine's role is to examine evidence presented by groups claiming extraordinary contacts.

A reader named Dominique Bar from Tahiti expresses a critical view of the magazine's approach, questioning the verification of sources and accusing the publication of lacking true neutrality. The editorial response defends the magazine's methodology, stating that it examines speculative and operative domains and that its role is to analyze evidence presented by groups, regardless of their beliefs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Throughout the issue, recurring themes include the investigation of secret societies and their potential links to terrorism and criminal activities, the exploration of UFO phenomena and alleged extraterrestrial contact, and the critical examination of evidence and claims made by researchers and organizations. The magazine maintains a stance of critical inquiry, seeking to uncover hidden connections and expose potential manipulations, while also acknowledging the speculative nature of many of the topics discussed. The editorial team emphasizes its commitment to neutrality in its investigations, aiming to analyze evidence objectively rather than accepting claims at face value.