Phenomena - No 40 - 1998 12

Magazine Overview

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: No. 40
Date: December 1998
Publisher: SOS OVNI
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 1157-4704
Price: 33,00 FF

This issue of Phénomèna, a bi-monthly publication by SOS OVNI dedicated to the study of UFO phenomena, delves into various aspects of the topic, with a significant focus on the popular 'X-Files' franchise and its cultural impact.

Cover Story: X-Files: Where is the Truth?

The cover prominently features the movie "X-Files: Fight the Future" and poses the question "Where is the truth?". The magazine explores the series' premise, which posits a pervasive government conspiracy and extraterrestrial involvement, and its resonance with public distrust. The article "La vérité est ailleurs... mais où?" by Perry Petrakis examines the growing 'conspiracy theory' as a new dogma, questioning why those who seek truth often veer into delusion. It links this to figures like Milton William Cooper and the broader theories surrounding a 'New World Order', the CFR, and the Trilateral Commission. The article highlights how 'X-Files' taps into existing American anxieties stemming from events like the Kennedy assassinations, Vietnam, Watergate, and Irangate, reinforcing the idea that the government hides truths.

Chris Carter, the creator of 'X-Files', is quoted stating that the series' paranoid nature reflects reality and that its suffocating tone illustrates how the world functions. The magazine suggests that the series, and the film, are presented as quasi-documentary, drawing parallels to real-world events and conspiracy narratives.

Scientific Investigations and the 'Sturrock Report'

An article titled "La Science au chevet de l'ovni" (Science at the Bedside of the UFO) discusses the 'Sturrock Report', published on June 29, 1998. This report emerged from a workshop held in September-October 1997 at the Pocantico Conference Center, organized by the Society for Scientific Exploration. The goal was to have neutral scientists and ufologists confront each other, hoping the latter's evidence would convince the former of the need for further research into UFOs. The report, authored by a panel of scientists including Jacques Vallée, Richard Haines, and Michael Swords, concluded that while some reported UFO cases might involve rare phenomena like electrical activity, there was no convincing evidence of unknown physical phenomena or extraterrestrial intelligence. However, the panel recommended carefully evaluating UFO testimonies, suggesting that further study could be useful.

UFOs and Religion

The issue includes an article exploring the intersection of UFOs and religion, with a specific section titled "TOVNIS ET RELIGION SATAN EST-IL EXTRATERRESTRE ?" (UFOs and Religion: Is Satan an Extraterrestrial?). This suggests an examination of how UFO phenomena might be interpreted through religious or theological lenses, potentially linking extraterrestrial beings to figures like Satan.

Specific Cases and Investigations

Several specific cases and investigations are highlighted:

• Enquête à Voreppe: Une RR2 bien controversée: An investigation into a controversial RR2 (Reported Close Encounter of the Second Kind) in Voreppe, France.
• Rapport Sturrock: As detailed above, the scientific panel's findings on UFO evidence.
• Les scientifiques se penchent sur les ovnis: A general overview of scientific interest in UFOs, referencing the Sturrock Report.
• The magazine also touches upon the plot of 'X-Files: Fight the Future', including elements like the Oklahoma City bombing, the Hanta virus, and the alleged assassination of Marilyn Monroe as potential conspiracy elements.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

Phénomèna, through its editorial content and the articles presented, maintains a critical and analytical stance towards UFO phenomena. The publication aims to distinguish between serious investigation and sensationalism or dogmatism. The editorial "Le mauvais augure" expresses concern over the persistent sensationalism and unfounded claims within some ufological circles, lamenting that lessons from past incidents, like the Heaven's Gate cult, are not learned. The magazine emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor and critical thinking when approaching the complex subject of UFOs. Recurring themes include government secrecy, conspiracy theories, the potential for extraterrestrial contact, and the scientific community's engagement with unconventional phenomena.

Other Content

The issue also features "Annonces gratuites" (Free Ads), "Bloc-notes" (Notepad), "En France et dans le Monde" (In France and Around the World), "Revue de presse" (Press Review), and "Lectures" (Readings), providing a comprehensive look at the UFO landscape from various perspectives.

Phénomèna, issue from 1998, with the cover headline "Ovnis et religion" (UFOs and Religion), delves into the intersection of UFO phenomena with religious interpretations and conspiracy theories, while also touching upon scientific investigations into the subject.

Scientific Panel and Investigation

The magazine details the work of a scientific panel, including physicists and planetary scientists, convened to examine the UFO problem. The panel, initiated by Laurance S. Rockefeller, acknowledged the unsatisfactory state of understanding and the need for rigorous scientific investigation. They concluded that while simple answers are unlikely, unexplained observations offer opportunities for new scientific learning. The panel emphasized the importance of focusing on cases with independent physical elements and strong testimonies, and suggested a formal exchange between ufologists and physicists, along with institutional support for research.

The report also highlights the role of the French GEPAN/SEPRA as a model for UFO data collection and analysis. However, it notes omissions in SEPRA's reports, particularly concerning ground traces, and points out that certain cases, like the Trans-en-Provence landing, were excluded due to specific criteria, despite potential evidence.

Ufology and its Evolution

The article traces the evolution of ufology, noting its shift from a perceived scientific discipline in the late 1970s to a more mystical and conspiratorial field by the late 1990s. It criticizes the compilation of books that promote 'contact' with extraterrestrials and suggests that some ufologists are driven by personal agendas rather than objective research. The role of Jean-Jacques Velasco and the SEPRA is discussed, with the panel expressing strong positive impressions of their work, despite some criticisms regarding their reporting.

Religious and Apocalyptic Interpretations

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the religious and apocalyptic interpretations of UFO phenomena. It discusses how some view UFOs as demonic manifestations or tools of the devil, linking them to prophecies of the end times and a 'Great Coup' or 'Great Catacomb.' This perspective is contrasted with extraterrestrial explanations, with some authors suggesting that UFOs are part of a 'counter-initiation' aimed at deceiving humanity.

Conspiracy Theories and the 'World Government'

The magazine explores various conspiracy theories, particularly those involving a 'World Government' orchestrating global events. It mentions the idea of Nazi flying saucers originating from secret bases in South America and the concept of advanced terrestrial UFOs hidden at Area 51. These theories are often linked to extremist political groups and antisemitic sentiments, suggesting that UFOs are part of a satanic plan to enslave humanity.

Specific Cases and Research

Several specific cases are mentioned, including the 'Christelle' case, the 'Joe le Taxi' case (which was identified as a radar signal), and the Sisteron incident. The article also references books and research on UFOs, such as Jacques Vallée's "Science Interdite" and G.T. Meaden's work on crop circles.

Jehovah's Witnesses' Stance

The issue includes the perspective of Jehovah's Witnesses, who view UFO phenomena as a means by which demons and Satan mislead humanity, diverting attention from the 'good news.' They advise against wasting time on such studies, especially in the context of the apocalypse.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the tension between scientific investigation and mystical/religious interpretations of UFOs, the prevalence of conspiracy theories, and the perceived shift in ufology towards more sensational and less rigorous approaches. The editorial stance appears to favor a critical examination of all claims, advocating for scientific rigor while acknowledging the complexity and persistent mystery surrounding the UFO phenomenon. The magazine also highlights the importance of organized research and data collection, as exemplified by the French GEPAN/SEPRA.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: 1998
Date: 1998
Type: Magazine focused on UFOs and paranormal phenomena.

Key Articles and Features

Obituaries

The issue begins by commemorating the passing of several figures in the ufology community. François Couten, known for his frequent calls to discuss his 'important' political-ufological findings, is remembered. Colonel Philip Corso, author of 'The Day After Roswell,' is mentioned as a 'shooting star' of ufology, though often dismissed by conspiracy theorists. Colman von Keviczki, an activist for UFOs at the United Nations, is also noted for his influence in organizing UN sessions on UFOs in the mid-1970s.

Contest Winners

A section congratulates the numerous participants in a contest to win CD ROMs offered by Phénomèna and Editions Marshall Cavendish. The winners are listed with their locations.

Potential Misidentifications

Two categories of potential misidentifications are highlighted. The first concerns aeronautics, with Southwest Airlines planning to equip its entire fleet with powerful, flashing landing lights by mid-1999 to increase visibility. United Airlines is testing a similar concept, while American Airlines is observing the results.

The second category relates to astronomy, specifically the progressive orbital deployment of seventy-seven Iridium satellites. These satellites, equipped with mirrors, can reflect sunlight, creating brief, intense pulsations visible from Earth. The issue notes the existence of websites dedicated to tracking these phenomena and mentions the possibility of 'NOSS Triads' spy satellites being visible to the naked eye.

Merchandise and Promotions

Several pages are dedicated to promoting merchandise related to aliens and UFOs, particularly in anticipation of Christmas. This includes 'Alien' themed T-shirts, figurines of various alien types (Grey, Reptilian, Roswell, Neonate, Ancient, Nordic, Chupacabra, Robot), and models of spacecraft like the 'Beam Craft,' 'Daylight Disk,' 'Scout Craft,' 'Triangle Craft,' and 'Mother Ship.' Order forms and contact details for 'Chaud Biz Ness' are provided.

The EQ Pegasi Signal Controversy

A significant portion of the magazine delves into the alleged detection of an artificial signal from the constellation Pegasus. Paul Dore, a self-proclaimed British engineer from Siemens, announced on the internet in October 1998 that he had captured a powerful, repetitive signal using the SETIFOX program. He provided GIF images of his recordings and calculated the signal's origin to be from the EQ Pegasi system, approximately 22 light-years away.

This claim generated considerable debate. John M. Dollan of the University of Montana expressed skepticism, deeming EQ Pegasi an 'improbable' location for intelligent life due to its nature as a red dwarf star system. Despite this, Dore announced receiving three more signals. Professor Nathan Cohen of Boston University dismissed the event as a 'hoax.' The SETI League, through Dr. Paul Shuch, officially stated that none of their 63 active stations worldwide could confirm the signal, and that it had been discredited by radio astronomers.

The controversy escalated when a person claiming to be the 'real' Paul Dore accused 'Doe' (presumably Paul Dore) of stealing information from his inactive website. Later, three individuals, allegedly from the NSA, a government communications headquarters, and the RAF, contacted 'Doe,' claiming the signal was not extraterrestrial but originated from a 'satellite collector of intelligence' known as 'Project 415,' and that he was compelled to sign a non-disclosure agreement.

The observatory at Effelsberg, Germany, denied having aimed their radio telescope at EQ Pegasi. The magazine notes that the debate continues, with possibilities ranging from a complete hoax to an misinterpretation or a kernel of truth within a larger, possibly delusional, narrative.

UFO Sightings in France

Several UFO sightings across France are reported, suggesting a potential 'wave' of observations during the summer of 1998. The magazine emphasizes the need for prudence and objectivity, noting that media attention often leads to an increase in reported sightings, sometimes fueled by a desire for attention or by hoaxes.

• Lac de Sainte-Croix (Var): On June 24, 1998, a tourist reported seeing a large, silent, triangular object with five or six yellow lights flying low. The object disappeared rapidly. The witness, a professional photographer, created a drawing of the phenomenon.
• Rognac (Bouches-du-Rhône): On the same night, another witness reported an observation similar to the one at Lac de Sainte-Croix, suggesting it might be the same phenomenon.
• Saint-Martin-de-la-Brasque (Vaucluse): On June 26, 1998, a resident reported seeing a 'luminous bar' composed of a row of spots. The phenomenon moved, turned, and reappeared. The observation was witnessed by a large portion of the village during a local festival.
• Spezet (Finistère): On August 8, 1998, a witness reported seeing three white lights moving in a straight line from east to west.

Other News Items

• Henry di Cienzo's Reward: The owner of 'La Soucoupe Volante' restaurant near Niagara Falls is offering a million-dollar reward for a genuine flying saucer or authenticated pieces.
• Abydos Fresco Clarification: A reader provided clarification on a photograph of an Egyptian fresco at Abydos, suggesting that alleged 'helicopter' and 'airplane' depictions were likely the result of Ramses II engraving his name over his father's, and that the photograph itself may have been retouched.
• Paul Misraki's Death: The composer Paul Misraki, known for his work with Ray Ventura and his later interest in parapsychology and UFOs (authoring 'Les Extraterrestres'), passed away at age 90.
• Lisbon Panic: A broadcast of Orson Welles' 'The War of the Worlds' on Portuguese radio caused panic among listeners, despite being presented as fiction.
• Ex-Soviet UFOs: A TNT television report on UFOs in the former Soviet Union is mentioned, which allegedly presented 'secret documents' recovered from the KGB. The report included claims of recovered UFO fragments near Berezovsky.
• New Jersey Murder: A man pleaded guilty to murdering his wife, claiming he did so to save her from an imminent extraterrestrial invasion.
• SOS OVNI Website: The SOS OVNI organization launched its website.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, scientific inquiry, and potential government secrecy. There's a recurring theme of skepticism towards sensational claims, balanced with an openness to investigating genuine reports. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation, as evidenced by the SOS OVNI reports, while also acknowledging the possibility of hoaxes and misidentifications. The magazine also engages with the public through contests and by providing platforms for reader contributions and discussions. The promotion of UFO-themed merchandise suggests an effort to connect with and cater to the interests of its readership.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: 31
Volume: 10
Year: 1998
Publisher: Phénomèna
Country: France
Language: French
Price: 35 F

This issue of Phénomèna, a French magazine dedicated to UFO phenomena, delves into numerous sightings and investigations from 1998. The cover prominently displays the magazine's title and subtitle, 'la revue des phénomènes OVNI' (the review of UFO phenomena), along with the issue number and year.

Key Articles and Investigations

The Ardennes Case

The issue dedicates significant attention to the widely reported case in the Ardennes, France. On the night of August 10, 1998, between midnight and 2 AM, witnesses reported observing a large, dark triangular object with rounded edges and a red light at its center. The object was described as silent and not blinking, unlike conventional aircraft. While the initial media coverage suggested a possible misidentification with a simple airplane, the article notes the extensive media attention, including reports on national television.

Prauthoy (Haute-Marne)

On the same night as the Ardennes sighting, August 10, 1998, around 11 PM, residents of Prauthoy reported hearing a significant, prolonged noise, less jarring than an airplane's. Some also reported seeing red and white lights in the sky that did not move. Two days later, on August 12, suspicious traces were discovered in a field, consisting of two parallel tracks and crushed, discolored grass, along with a triangle connecting them. Gendarmerie investigations, including soil and radioactivity tests, yielded negative results. While some investigators suggested the traces might be from an old construction, the article leaves the possibility of a connection to the earlier sighting open.

Denain (Nord)

On August 12, 1998, around 11:15 PM, a man and his son in Denain reported observing a triangular object with lights moving slowly across the sky. The object then accelerated and disappeared. The description bears a resemblance to the Ardennes sighting.

Poitiers (Vienne)

Several witnesses in Poitiers reported seeing an 'object' in the sky on August 14, 1998, around 1 AM.

Voreppe (Isère) - A Second Type Encounter?

This section extensively covers the Voreppe case, which gained significant media attention. On September 6, 1998, a family in Voreppe filmed a luminous object described as large, with a dark, oval shape and red lights. The object was reportedly hovering about ten meters above a cherry tree, causing electromagnetic disturbances and scorching some branches. The gendarmerie and SEPRA (Service d'Expertise des Phénomènes de Rentrée Atmosphérique) investigated. The article details the media frenzy, the family's reluctance to be interviewed, and the SEPRA's eventual explanation of a helium-filled balloon representing an animal, possibly a ladybug, about one meter in diameter. This explanation is met with skepticism by the witnesses and ufologists, who point out inconsistencies in the size and shape descriptions compared to typical balloons.

Other International Sightings

• Saint-Etienne (Loire): Two firefighters reported seeing two triangular objects with orange lights moving silently on August 9, 1998.
• Le Havre (Seine Maritime): Gendarmes, police, and port personnel observed a luminous object described as a disc with three points on September 18, 1998. SEPRA suggested a misidentification with Jupiter and its moons, a theory questioned by the article due to visibility issues.
• Galliach, Northern Ireland: On June 17, 1998, several people reported seeing three silver spheres overhead.
• Frome (Somerset), UK: A man reported a dark, boomerang-shaped object moving at high speed on August 18, 1998.
• Matunuck (Rhode Island), USA: A couple observed a V-shaped object on July 22, 1998.
• Walton (Kentucky), USA: A couple observed a star-like object that later reappeared with other objects, one described as cigar-shaped.
• Perth Amboy (New Jersey), USA: A man and his friend observed an oval, silver object on August 30, 1998.
• Sedona (Arizona), USA: Four witnesses reported a very large UFO over Sedona on July 15, 1998.
• Melbourne (Victoria), Australia: Residents reported a triangular phenomenon described as the size of a large building on August 2, 1998.
• Chiangzhou (Hebei), China: Military radar detected an unidentified object on October 19, 1998, leading to a fighter jet intercept. The object was described as a classic flying saucer.
• Rieti, Italy: A police officer observed a disc-shaped object flying low over the Tiber River on October 3, 1998.
• Fredelsloh, Germany: A couple observed a large, rotating object with concentric circles of lights on April 3, 1998.

Air Chaud - The Balloon Hypothesis

This section critically examines the 'Air Chaud' (Hot Air) balloon hypothesis, particularly in relation to the Voreppe case. The article interviews Airstar, a regional manufacturer of illuminated balloons, detailing their products like Lunix, Solarc, Gala, Sirocco, and Crystal. While acknowledging that some balloons can resemble UFOs, the article questions the plausibility of the specific explanation for Voreppe, especially regarding the size and shape of the alleged 'ladybug' balloon. It highlights that the SEPRA's final explanation was met with disappointment and irritation by the witnesses.

Reviews of UFO Publications

• The issue includes a 'Revue de Presse' section reviewing various UFO-related publications:
• Hungary: A new magazine titled 'UFO' from the association IUFORC is reviewed. The article notes the complex ufological landscape in Hungary and the emergence of IUFORC from the historical HUFON group.
• France: The 'UFO Creps' bulletin is reviewed, praised for its constructive approach and a strong editorial against 'cretinism' in the UFO field.
• USA: Barry Greenwood's work on 'UFO Historical' is mentioned, focusing on the historical aspect of UFO studies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently presents witness testimonies as the primary source of information, acknowledging the 'fragility' and 'uncertainty' of human perception. While official explanations are often presented, the articles frequently question their validity or highlight inconsistencies, suggesting that many cases remain unexplained. The editorial stance appears to be one of thorough investigation and open-mindedness, encouraging readers to consider the evidence presented without immediately dismissing the possibility of genuine anomalous phenomena. The recurring theme is the persistent mystery surrounding UFO sightings and the challenges in obtaining definitive explanations.

This issue of Phénomèna, a French magazine dedicated to UFO phenomena, is a "Hors Série" (Special Issue) from 1998. The cover headline is "LES PREUVES SCIENTIFIQUES" (Scientific Proofs), suggesting a focus on evidence and factual reporting within the field of ufology. The magazine is published by SOS OVNI in France.

Review of VSD's UFO Special Issue

The issue begins with a review of the VSD special issue on UFOs, noting its ambition to make a significant impact. The reviewer questions the choice of Jean-Gabriel Greslé as "technical advisor" and Alain Boudier as "editorial advisor," finding their contributions unclear or non-existent in the ufological domain, especially when compared to established figures like Jean-Claude Ribes and François Louange. While acknowledging the potential for the issue to facilitate testimonies from pilots, the reviewer expresses skepticism about the editorial direction.

The review also touches upon the technical aspects of the VSD issue, noting its generally good design. However, it criticizes a perceived tendency to exclude less credible testimonies, leading to a "conspiracy" atmosphere. Specific examples of factual inaccuracies are pointed out, such as the misplacement of the Trinidad case. A particularly contentious point is the explanation of atmospheric re-entry phenomena, where a quote attributed to B. Thouanel suggests that objects burn up at high altitudes, a claim the reviewer finds contrary to reality. The review also critiques the explanation of a Soviet rocket sighting, suggesting it was a misidentified airplane.

Despite these criticisms, the reviewer concedes that, in some aspects, the VSD issue offers a relatively serious panorama of the UFO question compared to other mainstream press publications.

Dossier Brûlant Review

The issue also reviews the first number of "Dossier Brûlant," a publication entirely dedicated to UFOs. The reviewer notes that while some publications offer a mix of good and bad content, this particular issue is categorized as "food for thought." It features numerous illustrations and covers topics such as alien abductions, landings, crashes, and the Ummites, presenting a "hodgepodge" of claims and "new" ideas. The reviewer suggests that readers are unlikely to learn anything new and that the publication might not last long.

Other Publications Reviewed

Several other publications are mentioned in a "Mais aussi" (But also) section, including:

• Contact OVNI, n° 51 (1998, France)
• Facteur X, n° 36-40 (1998, France)
• Mufon UFO Journal, n° 362-365 (June-September 1998, USA)
• Science Frontières, n° 33-35 (August-November 1998, France)
• Il Giornale dei Misteri, n° 322-325 (August-November 1998, Italy)
• Lumières dans la Nuit, n° 347-349 (1998, France)
• CENAP-Infoline, n°77-79 (September 1998, Germany)
• Journal für UFO Forschung, n°4 (1998, Germany)
• Magonia, n° 64 (August 1998, Great Britain)
• Ufo-Nyt, n° 3 (1998, Denmark)
• UFO-Rama, n° 9 (August 1998, Italy)
• Mas Alla, n°114-117 (August-November 1998, Spain)
• Les Mystères de l'Est, n°4 (1998, France)
• Génération Séries, n° 25-26 (3rd-4th trim. 1998)
• O.V.N.I. Bulletin de Liaison pour l'Etude des Sectes, n° 59 (3rd trim. 1998, France)
• Ovni Marne, new bulletin (1998, France)
• The Cropwatcher, n° 31 (Summer 1998, Great Britain)
• CENAP Report, n° 252 (June 1998, Germany)
• Papers d'Ovnis, n° 10 (July-August 1998, Spain), featuring a special dossier on an object observed in Vilar-Alfena.
• International UFO Reporter, Vol. 23, n° 3 (Autumn 1998, USA), with an article on the "Sturrock Workshop" by Michael Swords.
• Evidencia OVNI, n°17 (1998, Puerto Rico)
• Pentagrama, n° 3 (1998, Spain)

Cited Reviews

Addresses are provided for several UFO-related publications, including Szines UFO (Hungary), UFO Creps (France), UFO Historical Review (USA), VSD (France), and Dossier Brûlant (France).

Upcoming Events

Information is provided for several UFO conferences and events in the USA:

• 8th Annual International UFO Congress (February 21-27)
• 11th Annual Ozark UFO Conference (April 2-11)
• 30th Annual MUFON 1999 International UFO Symposium (July 24)

Sighting in Haute-Loire

A detailed account is given of a sighting in Haute-Loire, France, on the night of August 10-11, 1998. Three independent groups of witnesses observed a phenomenon described as a "quadrilateral mass with a mauve and orangée light at each extremity." Madame CB described an "evasive V-shaped object" moving from south to north without noise at a relatively low altitude. Monsieur and Madame G observed the quadrilateral mass with lights and heard a sound like a "lawnmower." The observation was confirmed by other individuals in St-Etienne. The article invites anyone who witnessed a similar phenomenon to contact SOS OVNI.

SOS OVNI Languedoc

An announcement invites individuals in the Languedoc region of France to participate actively in UFO research by joining the SOS OVNI delegation as investigators, correspondents, or archivists. Contact information for Bruno is provided.

Letter to the Editor: "Fichier Poher"

A letter from Claude Maugé of Figeac discusses the "Fichier Poher" (Poher File). Maugé expresses appreciation for an interview with C. Poher published in a previous issue of Phénomèna, suggesting it clarifies the origins and beginnings of GEPAN. He believes Poher's presentation of facts aligns best with reality, despite differing accounts from other individuals. Maugé suggests that "crimes" he previously suspected Poher of were actually "misdemeanors," possibly due to a lack of oversight in the coding of cases for the file. He also mentions a programming error that led to incorrect statistical calculations. Maugé directs readers to a book by Thierry Pinvidic for more complete information.

Correction

A mini-rectification is made regarding the name of a psychologist who collaborated with GEPAN; her name is Françoise Askévis, not Asquévis.

Book Reviews: "X" by Christian Vilà

The magazine reviews "X," a novel by Christian Vilà, described as a "soucoupique" (UFO-themed) novel with a hyper-realistic style. The story involves a "contactee" trying to escape pursuers who want to discover the secret of "X." The reviewer notes references to Jacques Pradel and Jimmy Guieu, and the inclusion of the Jack and Jackie Valley couple.

Book Review: "Voyage dans le Temps ou Soixante Heures dans l'Espace Intersidéral" by Yves Pia

This review discusses a book by Yves Pia, an engineer, which is described as a poetic-philosophical narrative about humanity's future and science. The author and his wife, Marie-France, are depicted in a story of abduction by extraterrestrials, which serves as a catalyst for reconsidering humanity's place in the universe. The reviewer notes that the book is published by Louise Courteau, a publisher known for its lack of strict editorial standards.

Book Review: "Les Racines du Futur" by Cyrille Odon

"Les Racines du Futur" is presented not as a novel, but as an "initiatory journey" into the "5th Dimension," a subtle state of matter vibrating at speeds superior to light, inhabited by "Etherians." The reviewer expresses skepticism, viewing it as unbridled fantasy and noting that the author and his wife claim this experience as their "daily reality." The book is published by Louise Courteau.

Book Review: "Les Paraterrestres" by Gérard Demarcq

This review discusses Gérard Demarcq's book, "Les Paraterrestres - La Terre à l'Origine des Extraterrestres." The reviewer criticizes the book's premise that extraterrestrials are actually terrestrial beings who emigrated, arguing that it underestimates human ancestors and presupposes the existence of UFOs. The reviewer suggests that the book's technical demonstrations, while potentially convincing to the uninitiated, require verification by specialists. The publisher, Ramuel, is noted for publishing cult literature supposedly transcribing messages from extraterrestrials.

Book Review: "The UFO Encyclopedia" by Jerome Clark

The review highlights the second edition of Jerome Clark's "The UFO Encyclopedia," now in two volumes totaling 1178 pages. The reviewer praises its reliability and the extensive references (94 pages). However, the reviewer notes the absence of European counterparts and the high cost, while still deeming it worth the price. The publisher is Omnigraphics Inc. in Detroit, USA.

Book Review: "Les Paraterrestres" by Gérard Demarcq (continued)

This section continues the review of Gérard Demarcq's work, referencing his earlier book "L'Homme et... les Extraterrestres." Demarcq's theory suggests that extraterrestrials originate from an ancient, technologically advanced terrestrial civilization hidden in space. The reviewer finds this theory unconvincing and questions the impact of such demonstrations. The book is published by ARPPAM-Edition.

CD-ROM Review: "The X-Files: The Film"

The issue reviews the "X Files Le Film" CD-ROM/CD Audio, noting it is not for sale and likely to become a collector's item. It allows users to explore the universe of Chris Carter and the film "Fight the Future." The CD-ROM includes trailers, clips, music, synopsis, photos, filmographies, and biographies. While it may disappoint UFO enthusiasts, it does feature a song by the Foo Fighters. The reviewer mentions that the CD-ROM is structured like a press kit with interviews of Chris Carter, David Duchovny, and Gillian Anderson. The navigation is described as simple but unexplained. The minimum system requirements for PC and Macintosh are listed.

Back Issues of Phénomèna

A comprehensive list of available back issues of Phénomèna is provided, with titles and brief descriptions for each issue from number 18 to 37. Readers can order these issues by mail.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phénomèna demonstrates a critical and analytical approach to ufological claims. While reviewing various publications and events, the magazine frequently questions the evidence, methodology, and editorial choices presented. There is a clear emphasis on scientific rigor and a skepticism towards unsubstantiated theories or sensationalism, as seen in the critiques of the VSD special issue and the "Dossier Brûlant." The magazine also engages with academic and historical aspects of ufology, as evidenced by the review of Jerome Clark's encyclopedia. The editorial stance appears to favor well-researched, evidence-based discussions over pure speculation, while still acknowledging the ongoing interest in UFO phenomena. The inclusion of book and CD-ROM reviews suggests a broad coverage of related media. The magazine also actively seeks reader participation and feedback, as shown by the call for contributors to SOS OVNI and the letter to the editor.