Phenomena - No 33 - 1996 05

Magazine Overview

Phénomèna, Bimestriel no. 33, dated May-June 1996, is a publication by SOS OVNI, a non-profit association dedicated to the study of UFO phenomena. The magazine aims to approach the subject with scientific rigor, avoiding dogmatism and sensationalism. This issue features a prominent cover story on a UFO crash in Brazil, along with articles exploring the possibility of life on Mars, UFO sightings in Belgium, and reports from France.

Editorial and Content Highlights

Editorial: 'Oyez les marchands de soupe'

The editorial, likely written by the editor-in-chief Perry Petrakis, draws a parallel between the millenarian fears of the year 1000 and the anxieties surrounding the turn of the 21st century. It warns against 'soup vendors'—individuals or groups who exploit public fears with sensationalized prophecies or unfounded claims, whether they involve extraterrestrials, cults, or misguided militias. The editorial urges readers to maintain critical thinking and discernment, especially in an era of increasing disinformation.

Cover Story: 'CRASH D'UN OVNI AU BRESIL' (UFO Crash in Brazil)

This section details the Varginha UFO incident, which gained significant media attention. The event reportedly began on January 20th in Varginha, Brazil, when three young girls allegedly saw a non-conventional craft and several extraterrestrial beings. The story was amplified by national press and a Brazilian television program. The article notes that military vehicles were seen near the site, and firefighters were alerted to a 'wild beast' in the park. The incident involved alleged capture of beings and their transport to a hospital, with claims of American involvement. The magazine also mentions other UFO-related events in Brazil, such as sightings in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, and a case involving a camper van near Sao Paulo where the witness experienced heat, memory loss, and found physical traces.

Article: 'Brésil : la fièvre des ovnis' (Brazil: The UFO Fever)

This article by Cristiane Ramalho and Hélio Contreiras explores the intensification of UFO and humanoid sightings in Brazil. It reports over 50 cases in the Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo regions between August and November 1995. A detailed account is given of Edson Roberto Marcelo, a businessman who reported his camper van being illuminated by a strong light, causing him to lose consciousness and experience physical effects. His vehicle also showed signs of damage. The article also touches upon the 'Vale do Amanhecer' sect, which incorporates ufology into its beliefs, and the popular legend of 'Boitata'.

Article: 'Brésil, terre de contraste' (Brazil, Land of Contrast)

This piece further examines the ufological landscape in Brazil, describing it as a country of contrasts with a population receptive to UFO culture. It notes the existence of numerous ufological groups and 'discoports' (landing sites). The article mentions the historical case of Antonio Villas Boas and the influence of US ufology. It also discusses the 'Vale do Amanhecer' sect, founded by Tia Neiva, which blends elements of Umbanda, spiritism, Hinduism, and ufology, and has a large following. The article highlights the difficulty in obtaining official investigations into UFO cases in Brazil, with the Ministry of Aeronautics being unconvinced of the utility of such groups, despite confidential archives existing.

Article: 'Un crash d'ovni à Varginha ?' (A UFO Crash in Varginha?)

This article revisits the Varginha incident, detailing the events of January 20th and the subsequent media coverage. It describes the alleged sighting of an object and beings by three young girls, Liliane Farima de Silva, Valquiria Fatima de Silva, and Katia Andrade Xavier. The article mentions the involvement of military personnel, the alleged capture of beings, and the transport of one deceased entity to a hospital. It also notes reports of American civilians present and potential NORAD alerts to Brazilian authorities. The article also includes a separate account from Jorge Divino Pereira, who experienced a strange light phenomenon on August 31st, 1995, in Aparecida do Norte.

Other Articles and Sections:

• 'Les contactés : la vie des uns...' (The Contactees: The Lives of Some...): This section likely delves into the experiences and testimonies of individuals who claim to have had contact with extraterrestrial beings.
• 'En France et dans le Monde' (In France and Around the World): This section provides updates on UFO sightings and related news from various international locations.
• 'Cinéma, lectures...' (Cinema, Readings...): This likely reviews films or books related to UFOs and science fiction.
• 'Mars, la vie après tout?' (Mars, Life After All?): This article explores the scientific and speculative aspects of the possibility of life on Mars, possibly referencing recent findings or theories.
• 'Revue de presse' (Press Review): This section compiles and comments on media coverage of UFO-related events.
• 'Vous dites ?' (What Do You Say?): This is likely a section for reader feedback or letters.
• 'Vos annonces' (Your Ads): A section for classified advertisements.
• 'Comité Conseil Scientifique et Technique': This page introduces the scientific advisory committee of SOS OVNI, listing its members and their professional backgrounds, emphasizing their commitment to serious UFO research.
• 'Discos Voadores' (Flying Saucers): This is a recurring section, likely dedicated to UFO reports and analysis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence and intensification of UFO sightings and related phenomena in Brazil, the challenges of conducting serious UFO research amidst sensationalism and lack of official recognition, and the importance of critical thinking. The magazine's stance, as articulated in the editorial and through the establishment of its scientific committee, is to promote a rational, evidence-based approach to understanding UFOs, distinguishing credible investigation from unfounded speculation and exploitation of public interest. The issue also touches upon broader themes of societal anxieties and the search for meaning, as seen in the comparison to historical millenarian fears and the exploration of life beyond Earth.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue Date: 1996
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Phénomèna, published in 1996, offers a diverse collection of articles and reports related to UFO phenomena, extraterrestrial encounters, and related societal impacts. The magazine covers a range of topics from debunked scientific signals to personal testimonies, government documents, and the commercial aspects of ufology.

Bloc-notes

The 'Bloc-notes' section provides a series of short, diverse news items:

• False Alien Signal: Astronomers in Australia initially thought they detected an intelligent signal from a distant planet, but it turned out to be from a microwave oven in the building below.
• US Public Opinion on UFOs: A Newsweek poll revealed that 48% of Americans believe UFOs are real, while 51% think there might be a scientific explanation. Belief in UFOs decreases with age.
• CAUS Victory: The organization Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS) obtained 240 pages of UFO-related documents from the US National Security Agency, military intelligence, and the Defense Intelligence Agency.
• Roswell as a Tourist Trap: The American magazine Forbes criticized the 'ufology-business' in Roswell, New Mexico, highlighting the presence of three UFO museums, landing sites, and a UFO festival that attracts thousands of tourists and generates significant revenue.
• MIB Film Rumors: Steven Spielberg is rumored to be preparing a film about the Men in Black (MIB), with Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones potentially starring.
• Spanish UFO Images: New images published in the Spanish magazine Mas Alla allegedly show a crashed saucer and an alien autopsy, but the article suggests they are not credible.
• UFO Abduction Insurance: Joe Tagliarini, from Enfield, UK, offers UFO abduction insurance, covering medical expenses and loan repayments if an abduction is officially recognized by the UN.
• Extraterrestrial Bet: A British bettor won $1540 by betting that extraterrestrial life would be discovered before the end of the year, following a recent NASA announcement about potential past life on Mars.
• Jerome Clark's Encyclopedia: Information is provided on how to obtain Jerome Clark's encyclopedia from Arcturus Books.

Page 2: Book Reviews and News

• Book Offer: Arcturus Books offers Jerome Clark's encyclopedia at a discounted price and a catalog of UFO-related books.
• Freedom of Information Act Weakened: Steven Aftergood reports that the Clinton administration has further weakened the Freedom of Information Act, with a court ruling that the National Security Council is not an 'Agency' under the law. Similar decisions were made for the DIA, NRO, and NIMA.
• Renaud Marhic's Book: A new book by Renaud Marhic and Alain Kerlidou, 'Sectes et Mouvements initiatiques en Bretagne' (Sects and Initiatory Movements in Brittany), is announced.
• Roswell Debris Analysis: An Associated Press report suggests that a piece of debris from the alleged Roswell crash may have a terrestrial origin, based on extensive analysis of its isotopic signature.
• Raël's Ufoland: The magazine reports on Claude Vorilhon (Raël)'s plan to build 'Ufoland,' a theme park dedicated to UFOs, in Valcour, Canada.
• Stanton Friedman's MJ12 Book: Stanton Friedman's book 'Top Secret/Majic,' concerning the alleged secret MJ12 group, is released.
• Lyon UFO Conference: The European UFO Meetings in Lyon are announced for November 9-11.
• Anomalies Magazine: The new magazine 'Anomalies,' replacing 'Ovni-Présence,' is launched with Pierre Lagrange as editor-in-chief.
• Subscription Reminder: SOS OVNI requests subscribers to be patient with order processing and to notify them of address changes.

Page 3: The Belgian UFO Wave and the LoFLYTE Project

• Belgian UFO Wave Hypothesis: The article discusses rumors linking the 1989-1991 Belgian UFO wave to a new American aircraft prototype called the LoFLYTE.
• LoFLYTE Explained: The LoFLYTE is described as a triangular, secret prototype aircraft developed by Accurate Automation Corporation (AAC) for the NASA, capable of flying at 5000 km/h and 'surfing' shockwaves. It is designed for low observable flight tests and uses advanced technologies, including neural networks for navigation.
• LoFLYTE's Origin: The article traces the rumor of the LoFLYTE back to a Sunday Times article by Maurice Chittenden.
• LoFLYTE's Purpose: The LoFLYTE program aims to test advanced technologies for stealthy hypersonic aircraft. The first two models will be remotely piloted and subsonic, but will share the wave-surfer design for Mach 5 flight. Subsequent models will be larger and more sophisticated.
• Conclusion on LoFLYTE: The article concludes that the LoFLYTE is unlikely to be the cause of the Belgian UFO sightings, given its experimental nature and development stage.

Page 4: Back Issues of Phénomèna

This page lists the available back issues of Phénomèna magazine from issue #1 (January-February 1991) to #26 (March-April 1995), detailing the articles featured in each issue. It also provides information on pricing and how to order.

Page 5: Contactees - The Lives of Some, The Opinions of Others

• Introduction to Contactees: This section introduces the phenomenon of 'Contactees' – individuals who claim to have encountered extraterrestrials and non-human intelligences. It notes that their testimonies range from the bizarre to the dramatic, often met with skepticism or disbelief.
• Spirale Association: The article mentions the 'Spirale' association, founded in 1983 by P. Marsilli, with the goal of promoting the expression of individuals who have had contact experiences. The association organized a 'luminarisation of the planet' event in Saint-Vincent-sur-Oust.
• The Cergy-Pontoise Incident: The article recounts the 1978 alleged UFO abduction of Franck Fontaine in Cergy-Pontoise, France. Fontaine's friends, Salomon N'Diaye and Jean-Pierre Prévost, were present. The incident was later revealed to be a hoax orchestrated by Prévost, who admitted it was 'bidon' (bogus).
• False Hope: Despite gatherings for a prophesied 'Grand Contact' in 1980 or 1983, it never materialized, leading to disappointment and the exposure of the hoax.
• Prévost's 'Le Grand Contact': Jean-Pierre Prévost, after the Cergy incident, promoted 'Le Grand Contact,' an association presented as non-profit, which aimed to prepare for extraterrestrial contact.

Page 6: Spirale's Activities and Demise

• Spirale's Growth and Reach: The 'Spirale' association, fueled by Patrick Marsilli and Jean-Pierre Prévost's shared belief in extraterrestrial messages, gained traction. The magazine 'Spirale' was distributed widely, and the association established links with other 'New Age' movements and media outlets.
• Real Estate Venture: Spirale initiated a real estate venture to promote 'OM houses,' a new architectural concept.
• The End of Spirale: In August 1985, Spirale held its final meeting. Patrick Marsilli, influenced by Michel Mélandre (who claimed to be a messenger of Christ), decided to follow Mélandre to Egypt and Mount Sinai, urging members to abandon their material possessions and family ties.

Page 7: Contactee Beliefs and the 'Spatial Militantism'

• Apocalyptic Vision: The article describes the belief system of some contactees, which includes an apocalyptic vision where the chosen are saved by extraterrestrials and their cosmic vessels. Those who obstruct this path face a grim fate.
• Psychological Interpretation: The author suggests that while some may see these movements as gatherings of deluded mystics, they often stem from material or psychological problems, or a heightened sensitivity. The age range of participants is broad, from seven to seventy-seven.
• 'Spatial Militantism': The concept of 'spatial militantism' is introduced, describing individuals who, driven by the anticipation of extraterrestrial arrival, seek to rally others around their cause.
• Diverse Motivations: The article notes that instigators of these groups, the 'Contactee stars,' have varied motivations, including those who are con artists, psychologically disturbed, or genuine believers.
• Madame C.'s Testimony: The narrative shifts to Madame C., a sixty-eight-year-old woman who contacted SOS OVNI to share her story. She recounts meeting Jean-Paul, who claimed to have been abducted by aliens and taken to a planet called Stella, where many abducted French citizens are held.
• Jean-Paul's Mission: Jean-Paul was tasked by the extraterrestrials to inform their families and chose Madame C. to continue this mission.

Page 8: Madame C.'s Story and Extraterrestrial Descriptions

• Madame C.'s Encounter: Madame C. describes being paralyzed by Jean-Paul, who warned her about the impending contact with extraterrestrials.
• Extraterrestrial Descriptions: The extraterrestrials are described as 'porcelain blue giants' and their planet as one where two antagonistic species, one dwarf and one giant, coexist.
• Verification Challenges: The article notes the difficulty in verifying such testimonies, as the described individuals and events often do not correspond to reality.
• Parallels to Past Trauma: The author points out parallels between Madame C.'s story and her past experiences, such as her husband's involvement with repatriated French deportees and her daughter's marriage to a German man whose family lived near Dachau. These elements seem to have been woven into a fantastical narrative.
• Marseille Incident: The article briefly mentions another location, Marseille, and a villa with a sundial inscribed with 'It is later than you think,' hinting at another potential contactee story.
• Madame X's Testimony: The focus shifts to Madame X, who contacted SOS OVNI on August 13, 1987. She reported seeing a luminous point in her living room on August 26, 1978, which she initially dismissed as a prank by her son.

Page 9: Madame X's Experience and Psychological Interpretations

• The Luminous Point: Madame X describes the luminous point as a 'small very luminous ring' that stopped a meter away from her. Her husband, partially obscured by a wall, did not see it.
• Post-Encounter Life: After this event, Madame X felt compelled to write poetry, inspired by Greek mythology, and developed an interest in atomic physics, genetics, and astrophysics.
• Lightning Strike Coincidence: Approximately a month before the interview, a lightning strike hit Madame X's house. She saw it as a sign related to her earlier encounter, as the bolt struck near where she had seen the phenomenon. The lightning caused significant damage to the house.
• Madame X's Interpretation: Madame X interpreted the sinistre event as a sign and noted a green trace on her robe and the muret where the lightning struck.
• Scientific vs. Poetic Reality: The article questions whether Madame X's account, like others, represents a 'poetic and surrealist vision of the universe' rather than a literal reality.
• Psychiatric Perspectives on Contactees: The article discusses the tendency to 'psychiatrize' contactees, noting that psychiatrists often find symptoms of delusional psychosis in their accounts. It highlights the popular mistrust of psychiatry in France.
• Defining Psychosis: The article briefly touches upon the definition of psychosis, distinguishing it from neurosis, and noting that while the term is broad, it refers to mental illnesses where the subject is not aware of their disorder.

Page 10: Distinguishing Contactees from Abductees and the ENOC Concept

• Psychiatric Hypothesis: The article posits that the psychiatric hypothesis is relevant when examining the nature of 'Contactees,' acknowledging that psychiatry moves beyond mere hypothesis to medicalization.
• Contactee vs. Abductee Distinction: A key distinction is made between 'Contactees' and 'Abductees.' Contactees often report positive experiences, receiving benefits, and finding meaning in their encounters. Abductees, however, recount involuntary experiences, often with disgust or horror, involving medical tests on UFOs and being returned without explanation.
• ENOC (Etat Non Ordinaire de Conscience): The article introduces the concept of 'ENOC' (Non-Ordinary State of Consciousness), proposed by Michel Monnerie and Bertrand Méheust. This concept aims to understand UFO testimonies, from close encounters to abductions, from a psychological perspective, suggesting that these experiences might be related to altered states of consciousness rather than purely psychiatric disorders.
• Critique of BDA (Bouffée Délirante Aiguë): The article acknowledges that the diagnosis of 'Bouffée Délirante Aiguë' (Acute Delusional Episode) can be overly broad, but it serves as a starting point for analyzing such testimonies within a psychiatric framework.
• Medicalization of UFO Experiences: The article notes that while psychiatry can analyze experiences in terms of classic psychology, the notion of 'ENOC' offers a potentially more nuanced approach to understanding these phenomena, especially when the witness is not demonstrably unbalanced.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phénomèna revolve around the multifaceted nature of UFO phenomena and alleged extraterrestrial encounters. The magazine explores the spectrum from hoaxes and commercial exploitation to genuine personal testimonies and their psychological interpretations. There's a clear editorial stance that encourages critical examination of claims, distinguishing between verifiable facts and subjective experiences, while also acknowledging the complexity of human consciousness and the potential for altered states of awareness (ENOC) to influence reported experiences. The magazine seems to advocate for a more nuanced approach than simple psychiatric dismissal of all UFO-related accounts, while remaining grounded in the need for evidence and logical analysis. The recurring mention of 'Bloc-notes' suggests a regular feature providing brief, diverse updates on the UFO world.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: 22
Volume: 1996
Publisher: SOS OVNI
Country: France
Language: French
Date: 1996

This issue of Phénomèna, published by SOS OVNI, delves into the complex intersection of UFO phenomena, psychology, and scientific discovery. It features articles that explore the potential psychiatric interpretations of UFO contact experiences, the latest UFO sightings from around the world, and a groundbreaking announcement from NASA regarding potential evidence of past life on Mars.

The Psychology of Contactees

The magazine begins by examining the question of whether individuals reporting UFO encounters, or 'contactees,' might be suffering from delusional disorders. It introduces various psychiatric syndromes such as chronic hallucinatory psychosis, schizophrenia, acute delirious episode, paranoia, paraphrrenia, and melancholia. The article lists symptoms like hallucinations, mental automatism, imaginative vision, fabulation, illusion, false recognition, and intuition, suggesting that these could be used to 'psychiatrize' contactees. It highlights that paranoia is characterized by megalomania, mistrust, and faulty judgment, while paraphrrenia involves rich and detailed fabulation. The text also draws parallels between the experiences of contactees and religious testimonies, questioning the justification for psychiatric labeling when individuals choose an 'other reality' similar to choosing a god.

Key psychiatric concepts are defined, including hallucination (perception without an object), mental automatism (loss of thought privacy, ideas and actions being imposed or commented upon), imaginative vision (adding images to real perception), fabulation (discourse disconnected from reality), illusion (erroneous mental perception), and false recognition (believing one recognizes strangers). The article notes that psychotics are often unaware of their troubles and that non-socialization does not automatically justify psychiatric intervention. It also points out that contactees sometimes exhibit symptoms similar to those of classic deliriants like paranoiacs and schizophrenics, leading some to be hospitalized in specialized facilities.

Global UFO Sightings in 1996

The issue provides a detailed chronicle of UFO sightings reported throughout 1996, covering various locations:

• Lithuania (June 25): Two gendarmes near Vilnius observed a round, luminous object hovering at 20-30 meters, emitting a strange crackling noise before ascending rapidly towards the city. The object left a circular trace in the vegetation.
• Austria (July 11): In Drosendorf, a 76-year-old man witnessed a triangular, luminous object land in a field. His attempt to film it was thwarted by dead batteries. An investigation revealed a triangular trace with 10cm deep circular holes and burnt grass.
• Alpes-Maritimes, France (July 14): A couple and their children saw a luminous object, described as 'like a neon,' visible for three minutes. It moved south and then vertically before disappearing.
• Kazakhstan (July 24): Dozens of officers in Alma Ata observed a diamond-shaped object, described as 'steel-like,' emitting red and yellow pulsations and a green ray for approximately 100 minutes.
• Chile (July 4 & 9): Multiple sightings were reported, including a large luminous source accompanied by smaller lights near Pichoy airport and an object observed for thirty minutes by hundreds of inhabitants in Chillan.
• Israel (August 4): Hundreds of people in Moshav Tomar witnessed a luminous object with two smaller lights, emitting colored flashes.
• Northern France (August 1): A significant luminous phenomenon was observed by hundreds across several departments, described as a 'fireball,' a 'large cigar,' or a 'luminous sphere.'
• Rhône, France (August 11-12): A witness on the D485 road saw an extremely luminous phenomenon, described as 'not quite round, not quite oval,' radiating intense light. It changed shape from round to crescent and then a point of light before disappearing.
• Argentina (May 15 & August 14): Numerous witnesses in Chubut and other regions observed a large luminous sphere that transformed into a diffuse ring of light, causing a power outage in Comodoro. An agriculturalist reported seeing an object escorting his vehicle, displaying protrusions resembling feet.

Mars: The Search for Life

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the NASA announcement on August 6, 1996, concerning the Allan Hills 84001 meteorite. This meteorite, discovered in Antarctica and originating from Mars, was found to contain microscopic structures resembling fossilized primitive life forms and carbon compounds. David McKay, the lead geochemist, explained that initial analysis was disappointing until high-resolution microscopy and mass spectrometry revealed these minute 'organic traces' and 'microscopic worms.'

The article emphasizes that NASA's announcement was cautious, stating the possibility of past life rather than definitive proof. Scientists worldwide expressed prudence, acknowledging the presence of the traces but requiring extraordinary evidence for such extraordinary claims. The discovery, however, ignited public and political interest, with President Bill Clinton calling for the full mobilization of the US space program to confirm the findings. Vice-President Al Gore was tasked with organizing a scientific summit to discuss the implications.

The magazine also touches upon the broader implications of finding extraterrestrial life, posing questions about the potential for life on other celestial bodies like Io and Europa and the possibility of numerous life-bearing solar systems. It notes the controversy surrounding the 'face on Mars' and the upcoming scientific missions to map the planet.

Other Features

The issue includes a review of Patrick Huet's collection "Lyon Sentimental," specifically the fascicule "Rencontre du 3ème type au Moyen-âge," which recounts a real-life event from 840 AD involving a landing object and extraterrestrial beings.

It also features a book review of "Les Objets Volants Non Identifiables" by Daniel Mavrakis and Marie-Pierre Olivier, which provides a historical overview and analysis of UFO hypotheses and contactee testimonies.

Finally, the magazine includes information on ordering the "PRESSE: DOSSIER 95" press clipping collection from SOS OVNI and promotes their weekly minitel service and debates.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the psychological interpretation of UFO phenomena, the global reporting of unusual aerial objects, and the scientific pursuit of extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting both the scientific and psychological perspectives on UFOs while also highlighting significant scientific developments like the Mars meteorite findings. There is a clear effort to connect seemingly disparate phenomena, suggesting a unified interest in the unexplained and the potentially extraordinary.

Phénomèna, issue 33, 1996, is a French magazine dedicated to UFOs and paranormal phenomena. This issue features a 'Press Review' section, covering various publications from around the world, alongside reader contributions, event announcements, and classified ads.

Press Review

USA

The magazine 'Fate' is described as similar to the former 'Nostra' magazine, covering a wide range of paranormal and strange subjects with a touch of sensationalism. It is noted for its large circulation in the US. An article on the 'Apocalypse' predicted for May 5, 2000, and the discovery of a crystal skull in the San Luis Valley, Colorado, are highlighted.

'UFO Magazine' (July-August 1996) is presented as a professional US publication focusing on UFOs, published by Vicki Cooper and Don Ecker. It is noted for its independence from specific ufological groups and its comprehensive coverage of current events, including cases, interviews, and book reviews.

'Newsweek' (July 8, 1996) is discussed for its sociological analysis of the public's long-standing fascination with the paranormal, particularly in the context of the film 'Independence Day'. The article questions why the paranormal has become a significant trend, suggesting it serves as a substitute religion for some. While acknowledging the clarity of the analysis, the review criticizes its tendency to focus on pathology and its limited consideration of the extraterrestrial hypothesis, concluding with a quote from Arthur C. Clarke on the terrifying implications of humanity being alone or not alone in the universe.

Brazil

The Brazilian magazine 'UFO' (October 1995) is highlighted for its coverage of the 'alien autopsy' phenomenon that gained attention in the summer of 1995. While the magazine is described as well-produced and featuring contributions from specialists, it expresses reservations about the authenticity of the 'document'. The issue is noted for its extensive coverage of the Varginhas case and its significant role in disseminating recent information concerning Brazil.

Spain

'German Circular Planes', a dossier sent by Justo Miranda, is reviewed. Miranda, a historian of aeronautics, details experimental circular aircraft developed by the Germans before the end of World War II, including the BMW Flûgelrad-II V3 and the Fw Triebflügel. The dossier is praised for its documentation and illustrations.

France

'Science et Vie' magazine, usually critical of UFO-related topics, is noted for dedicating several covers to UFOs in recent months. The August issue featured articles by Roman Ikonikoff, discussing the Trans-en-Provence case and suggesting that UFO propulsion could be economical, possibly using nuclear fusion.

Reader Contributions ('Vous dites ?')

Letter from Roger Kalifa (Montpellier)

Roger Kalifa, a subscriber, praises Phénomèna for its interesting information and the rapid reproduction of UFO photos. However, he criticizes the magazine's editorial approach as overly academic and rational, questioning why certain phenomena like the Ummo case or the Roswell autopsy are dismissed while others are accepted. He suggests that the magazine should apply the same critical scrutiny to all photographic evidence of UFOs, rather than dismissing them as simple hoaxes.

Response from the Editorial Staff

The editorial staff acknowledges Kalifa's feedback, stating that they strive for objectivity and informativeness. They explain that their approach, which involves careful verification and cautious presentation of information, is not meant to be dismissive but rather to ensure accuracy. They defend their right to present information critically and to allow authors to express their views, even if they are not always in agreement. They also note that their cautious stance is not an attempt to censor but a commitment to their duty of informing the public.

Letter from a Reader concerning 'Sects'

Another reader points out that the UN Commission on Religious Affairs recommends replacing the term 'sect' with 'New Religious Minorities'. The reader notes that Phénomèna used the term 'sect' on page 33 of issue 32 and requests that the magazine adhere to the UN recommendation. The reader also draws a parallel between the use of the term 'sect' and historical periods of denunciation, referencing the Nazis' use of similar tactics against Jewish people.

Response from the Editorial Staff regarding 'Sects'

The editorial staff thanks the reader for their comment and acknowledges the recommendation. They explain that the term 'sect' has become pejorative due to the actions of certain groups like Jim Jones's followers, David Koresh's group, and AOUM, which have resulted in mass deaths. They argue that regardless of the label used, any group that proselytizes and seeks to control its members through various means warrants scrutiny. They also highlight that some 'New Religious Minorities' operate like states within states, with their own networks and finances, and that their leadership often lacks genuine spirituality. The reader's specific example of the Raëlian movement, which allegedly promoted 'love of differences' while previously denouncing 'Arab-Muslims', is questioned. The reader also quotes Claude Vorilhon, the Raëlian leader, on intelligence-based eligibility for voting, suggesting a lack of commitment to universal tolerance.

Letter from Sylvain Redouté (Mériel)

Sylvain Redouté, a member of the OVNI-LAB association, points out a suspicious object in a photograph in Phénomèna issue 32, page 14: a coin among the debris transmitted to the Roswell Museum. He states that his colleagues and he could not find a valid explanation for its presence.

Editorial Response to the Coin Observation

The editorial staff acknowledges the observation of an unidentified object in the photograph and questions whether it is a low-value coin or intended to provide a sense of scale. They submit the question to the readers' discernment.

Letter from C. Rougerie (Ste-Geneviève-des-Bois)

C. Rougerie, after examining reproductions of R. Santilli's film reels, shares a letter received from Maxwell AFB in 1992 that includes a detailed seal. He also analyzes the labels on the reels, noting 'Bobine 64: Autopsie -2- Tête' and 'Bobine 31?: Recovery = Récupération? De l'épave? Du cadavre?', and expresses confusion over 'Bobine 52: Trumans? Frumans? Irumans?'

Upcoming Events

The magazine lists several upcoming UFO and metaphysical conventions and conferences in September, October, and November 1996, including events in Tampa (USA), New Hampshire (USA), Missouri (USA), Madison (USA), Brisbane (Australia), Huntsville (USA), Otley (UK), and Lyon (France).

Classified Ads ('Annonces gratuites')

This section features various reader requests and offers:

Research Requests:

• A legal professional seeks articles and books on UFO history and science.
• A reader seeks books by Bertrand Méheust, Jacques Vallée, Aimé Michel, and Henry Durant.
• A reader is looking for testimonies and documents for UFO discoveries.
• A reader is buying books by Jacques Bergier and others.
• A reader is looking for books by George Adamski, Jimmy Guieu, and Erik von Däniken.
• A reader is searching for the books "Les enfants de Belial" and "Les ovnis de l'Apocalypse".

Offers:

• A reader is selling 10 books and 5 magazines on UFOs.
• A reader is selling various UFO-related books, including works by Jean Sider, A. Ribera, D. Jacobs, and H. Durrant.
• A reader is selling 37 magazines on UFOs from 1968 to 1975.
• A reader is selling 45 rare and hard-to-find books on UFOs and extraterrestrial phenomena.
• A reader is selling approximately 1500 books, comics, and video/CDs, including rare items.
• A reader is selling press clippings about UFOs from regional newspapers.

Miscellaneous:

• A 21-year-old individual is seeking testimonies from people who have experienced paranormal manifestations and is looking for writing partners for a literary project.
• A 30-year-old man is seeking a pen pal interested in UFOs and astronomy for discussions and friendship.
• The ALBA association is organizing public observations of UFO phenomena and inviting ufologists from the Nord-Pas de Calais region to participate.
• A reader is seeking witnesses or information on unexplained phenomena observed in Djamena (Chad), Hautmont, Bourboule, and Reunion Island.
• A reader passionate about ufology is looking for an association or individuals with similar interests for idea exchange and is seeking documents, photos, and testimonies on UFOs.
• A man from Valence is seeking a 20-year-old woman for discussions on UFOs and astronomy, friendship, and other topics.
• UFOlogia is seeking documents or testimonies about UFO sightings in the Rhône-Alpes region and aims to create a structure to record these observations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Phénomèna include the review of international UFO and paranormal publications, the public's fascination with the unexplained, and the challenges of verifying and presenting evidence in ufology. The editorial stance emphasizes objectivity, thoroughness, and a commitment to informing the public responsibly, while also acknowledging reader feedback and engaging in critical discourse. The debate around the term 'sect' and its implications highlights the magazine's awareness of societal sensitivities and historical context. The inclusion of reader-submitted research requests and offers fosters a sense of community among enthusiasts.