Phenomena - No 41 - 1999 01

Magazine Overview

Title: Phénomèna
Subtitle: la revue des phénomènes OVNI (The review of UFO phenomena)
Issue: Number 41
Date: April 1999
Publisher: SOS OVNI
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 1157-4704
Price: 33 FF.

This issue of Phénomèna, a bi-monthly publication by SOS OVNI, aims to study UFO phenomena outside of dogma and sensationalism. It features a striking cover with the headline 'AUTOPSIE DU NOUVEAU' (Autopsy of the Newborn) and images related to the Voreppe film and alleged extraterrestrial evidence. The issue delves into the controversial MJ12 documents, the Roswell incident, and the phenomenon of UFO hoaxes.

The MJ12: New Documents

Perry Petrakis's article discusses the current trend in ufology of 'commercial quinzenaires' where individuals present sensational revelations. He notes the rise of forgers creating content like alien autopsies and Roswell debris. The article highlights the 'emballement' (excitement) surrounding ufology as the year 2000 approaches, with increasing consequences for 'weak minds'.

Petrakis recounts the history of the MJ12, starting in 1978 when Jaime Shandera, Stanton Friedman, and William Moore reopened the Roswell case. He mentions Shandera receiving an undeveloped film roll in 1984 containing photos of a purported report prepared for President Dwight Eisenhower by Admiral Roscoe Hillencoetter, the first director of the CIA. This document allegedly confirms the existence of a secret MJ12 commission created on September 24, 1947, to study UFO crash remnants.

However, the authenticity of these documents has been questioned since their circulation in 1987. Researchers noted that the 'secret' stamps resembled those from a 'do-it-yourself' kit and that Truman's signature on a letter accompanying the document was identical to an authentic signature. The article also mentions William Moore admitting to being manipulated by officers from the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) to influence ufologists.

The MJ12 case was revived by new documents surfacing in recent years. In 1994, ufologist Don Berliner received a film roll containing photographic reproductions of a document, possibly the Special Operations Manual SOM1-01. This manual, purportedly detailing extraterrestrial technology and recovery, is described as being highly classified ('TOP SECRET/MAJIC EYES ONLY') but is noted for its non-conformity with security regulations. The article points out that the document's cover markings ('RESTRICTED' and 'TOP SECRET') violate federal regulations, which require only the highest classification level. Furthermore, 'EYES ONLY' documents are meant for single-use and destruction, making their inclusion in a manual nonsensical.

The article questions the purpose of the SOM1-01 document, suggesting it aims to provoke anti-government reactions. It also touches upon the financial aspects, mentioning the FUFOR (Fund for UFO Research) providing funds to Friedman for MJ12 document analysis and the involvement of financiers like Robert Bigelow and Joe Firmage, a Silicon Valley pioneer who left his company to promote his belief in extraterrestrial influence on scientific advancements.

The Voreppe Film and Italian Investigation

The table of contents indicates a section on 'Voreppe: les photos du document vidéo' (Voreppe: photos from the video document) on page 18, and 'Trans, enquête italienne' (Trans, Italian investigation) on page 40. These suggest coverage of specific UFO cases or evidence.

Hoaxes and Deception

An article titled 'Des faux en tous genres' (Hoaxes of all kinds) discusses the tradition of fabricated evidence in the paranormal field, citing the Cottingley fairies photographs and the Ummo letters as examples. The Cottingley fairies were revealed as a hoax by Elsie Wright decades later. The Ummo letters, attributed to extraterrestrials, were actually written by José Luis Jordan Peña. The article explores the motivations behind such hoaxes, including financial gain and the desire to promote political ideas, as seen in the Ummo affair.

Regarding the MJ12 documents, the article states that the consensus is that they are likely fakes, fabricated and disseminated for specific reasons. The SOM01 document, failing to convince, faded into obscurity. However, new documents of uncertain origin appeared in 1996, attributed to Timothy Cooper, who allegedly received them from Thomas Cantwheel. The circumstances of their transfer, deposited in Cooper's mailbox between 1992 and 1996, are described as suspicious. The article notes that Timothy Cooper later ceded these documents to Dr. Robert M. Wood and his son Ryan, whose father worked for McDonnel Douglas Aerospace, a company reportedly interested in the UFO phenomenon.

Committee for Scientific and Technical Council

Page 3 introduces the 'Comité Conseil Scientifique et Technique' (Scientific and Technical Council Committee) of SOS OVNI. This committee comprises scientists, technicians, and engineers who support SOS OVNI's methodology and seriousness in studying UFO phenomena. The goal is to distinguish between serious research and sensationalism. The committee members listed include Patrick Chassagneux (Météo France), Charles Bomy (Navigation Aérienne), Francis Martin (Météo France), Didier Leclercq (Linguist), Michèle Delplanque (CNRS), Valérie Salvador (Archéologue), and Guillaume de Lamérie (Neuropsychiatre).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's editorial stance, as expressed in the 'L'emballement' (The Frenzy) section, is critical of sensationalism and quasi-religious beliefs within ufology. It emphasizes the need for serious, scientific investigation and distinguishes itself from groups driven by dogma, financial gain, or pseudoscience. The publication aims to provide factual information and analysis, debunking hoaxes while acknowledging the potential significance of the UFO phenomenon. The recurring theme is the tension between genuine investigation and the proliferation of fabricated evidence and speculative theories, particularly as the new millennium approaches.

Phénomèna, la revue des phénomènes OVNI, issue number 40, published in 1999, focuses on the complex and often controversial aspects of UFO research. This issue delves into the purported MJ12 documents, the historical context of early atomic age scientists' involvement with UFO concerns, and the challenges of analyzing visual evidence of unexplained aerial phenomena.

The MJ12 Controversy and Historical Documents

The magazine critically examines the MJ12 documents, presenting them as part of a larger narrative that has circulated for years, often involving alleged "cash flows" and financial manipulation. It highlights the efforts of ufologists to authenticate these documents, including detailed analysis of paper, letterheads, and historical context. Barry Greenwood is cited for his work in scrutinizing these documents, pointing out anachronisms such as the mention of "retrovirus" in a supposed 1950s report. The article suggests that the creation of these documents required significant effort, including knowledge of military procedures and historical details, and that their political implications, particularly concerning American right-wing conspiracy theories, are also noteworthy.

Several key documents are discussed: a supposed directive to General Nathan Twining regarding the recovery of unidentified objects at White Sands, dated July 8, 1947; a letter signed "V.B." attributed to Vannevar Bush, discussing the logical coherence of certain information but doubting presidential consideration; and a report from the Interplanetary Phenomenon Unit (IPU) detailing security measures and the presence of notable figures like Oppenheimer, Werner von Braun, and others at a crash site. The report also mentions psychological distress among military personnel involved and potential contamination issues.

Further documents include a report by W.B. Smith on the Earth's magnetic field and UFOs, and a letter from Dr. Robert Sarbacher confirming the involvement of John von Neumann and Vannevar Bush in a saucer recovery.

Analysis of the Voreppe Film

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the "Rencontre Rapprochée à Voreppe : le film" (Close Encounter in Voreppe: The Film). This section details an incident where a family filmed an object in Voreppe, France, on September 6, 1998. Initially, official bodies like the CNES (Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales) suggested it might be an unidentified phenomenon, but later communications referred to it as a "balloon filled with helium representing an animal." The magazine presents the film, noting its average quality and the difficulty in analyzing it due to its low resolution (72 PPI). The analysis highlights that the object, described by witnesses as having colors like black and red, and resembling a "ladybug," moved with oscillations characteristic of a balloon affected by air currents. The article emphasizes the contradiction between witness descriptions and the official explanation, suggesting that the poor quality of the recording and the potential for misinterpretation are key factors.

Global UFO Sightings and Reports

The issue compiles numerous UFO sightings from various locations:

• France: A luminous phenomenon was reported in Ribaute-les-Tavernes, Gard, described as two blue and green circles. A more detailed report from Millau describes a filmed event involving luminous points.
• United Kingdom: A disc-shaped object was observed over the sea near Millisle, Northern Ireland, and a white object was seen over London.
• Spain: Triangular formations of red and white lights were observed over El Marche and Torrox.
• Ireland: A video of a triangular object was recorded over Larntown.
• Norway: The Hessdalen detection station reported unidentified lights.
• Australia: Multiple sightings are reported, including an orange, oval object near Kulgera and a bright yellow light observed by a farmer near Bollon, which later split into two blue lights. A large number of white lights were seen over Taree.
• Canada: A large "object" was reportedly seen over Toronto, and a couple observed grouped white lights in a circular formation near Montreal.
• United States: A luminous disk was captured by a surveillance camera in Methow Valley, Washington. In Cross Lanes, West Virginia, a silver-gray disk was seen near a jet. In Laurel, Mississippi, a large, luminous, trapezoidal object was reported.
• Mexico: Thousands reported a bright white light over the Sierra Madre mountains in Jalisco and Aguascaliente.

Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the authenticity of UFO evidence, particularly the MJ12 documents, and the challenges of interpreting visual data. The magazine adopts a critical stance, questioning sensational claims and emphasizing the need for rigorous analysis. It highlights the potential for misidentification, hoaxes, and psychological factors in UFO reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism, encouraging critical thinking while acknowledging the persistence of unexplained phenomena and the ongoing research efforts by various organizations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Phénomèna consistently explores the intersection of ufology with government secrecy, scientific analysis, and public perception. The magazine seems to favor a critical approach, dissecting claims and documents to uncover potential inconsistencies or alternative explanations. The recurring emphasis on the difficulty of analyzing visual evidence, the potential for hoaxes like the MJ12 documents, and the need for verifiable data suggests an editorial stance that values scientific rigor and skepticism over uncritical acceptance of extraordinary claims. The publication aims to inform readers about ongoing investigations and debates within the UFO community, encouraging them to approach the subject with a discerning eye.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: 27
Date: 1999

This issue of Phénomèna, a magazine dedicated to UFO phenomena, features several articles exploring various aspects of ufology, including specific sightings, controversial films, and research initiatives.

The Voreppe Phenomenon: A Flying Ladybug?

The issue begins by analyzing a film from Voreppe, France, showing a dark object against a blue sky. The object's characteristics, such as its lack of reflectivity, are discussed. The article notes that the object does not appear to reflect sunlight, and some images suggest a clearer part adjacent to the dark area. The origin of the object is speculated to be a balloon, possibly in the shape of a ladybug, though definitive identification is difficult. The analysis of the video, including techniques like embossing and color filtering, reveals potential protuberances but no clear identification of features like legs or a head. The article suggests that a definitive analysis would require access to the original film and expertise from organizations like SEPRA.

The Hunt for the Flying Ladybug Balloon

This section delves into the commercial aspect of 'flying ladybug' balloons. It highlights that numerous companies globally, particularly in the US and Australia, manufacture these balloons, which are then sold through various subsidiaries. An example of a company specializing in inflatable animals, including insects, is mentioned, but they declined to provide further information. The article concludes that while the object in the Voreppe film is likely a balloon due to its erratic movements, 'ladybug' remains an identification by default, lacking final proof.

UFO Sightings and Investigations

Several 'Bloc-Notes' sections present brief reports on various UFO-related events and research:

• New York Photo (1962): A photo allegedly taken by Auguste Roberts over New York in 1962, showing a saucer-shaped object diving into a lake, is compared to a previously published photo from Costa Rica. Roberts was known for collecting photos of dubious origin.
• Charleville-Mézières Sightings (August 1998): Ufologist Jean-Luc Lemaire suggests a drone hypothesis to explain sightings of varied lights and a low rumble in the region of Charleville-Mézières. However, the article notes that most deployed drones are of Canadian manufacture and have a different, elongated shape.
• Hessdalen Project: The Spanish foundation Anomalies awarded its first prizes, with the international Zurich prize going to Erling Strand for his work on the Hessdalen Project, which aims to 'track' recurring phenomena in a Norwegian valley.
• Spanish UFOlogy Awards: Several awards were given for research in Spanish ufology, including to Juan A. Fernandez Peris for his work on a 1979 case involving an aircraft encounter, and J.M. Gonzalez for compiling archives of Manuel Osuna.
• New Scientific Council Member: Madame Michèle Delplanque, a Doctor Engineer in Physics specializing in high-atmosphere physics, joins the Scientific and Technical Advisory Board of SOS OVNI.
• Jerusalem Arrests: Fourteen people were arrested in Jerusalem by anti-millenarist units, suspected of being part of a group intending to force the Second Coming in 1999.
• Lyon Encounters (1996): The proceedings of the 8th European Encounters of Lyon (1996) are still available, featuring studies by European specialists on ufology.
• Venus and Jupiter Conjunction (February 1999): Numerous calls reported a bright, stationary object in the sky, which astronomical charts identified as the conjunction of Venus and Jupiter.

The Roswell Autopsy Film: New Elements

This is a major focus of the issue, detailing the controversy surrounding the alleged alien autopsy film.

• AFP Release (March 1995): Agence France Presse reported that specialists had obtained a film showing an extraterrestrial autopsy, allegedly acquired by British producer Ray Santilli from a cameraman who had 'stolen' the footage in 1947.
• Santilli's Strategy: The article suggests Santilli's strategy was to gain the blessing of ufologists before presenting the film to television networks. Philip Mantle, director of investigations at the British UFO Research Association, is cited as providing crucial support.
• Film Description: Santilli described the film as showing three to five creatures, some mutilated, with debris found about a week after the crash. He also suggested some organs appeared to be supported by electronic devices.
• Hoax Allegations: The magazine presents strong evidence and expert opinions suggesting the film is a hoax. It discusses the anonymity of the cameraman, the questionable muscular tone of the creature, and the impossibility of analyzing the film reels. The article highlights that many special effects creators are convinced it's a fake.
• 'Entrevue' Magazine's Claim: The January 1999 issue of 'Entrevue' magazine promised 'proof of the scam,' with author Pierre Blois claiming a correspondent admitted to fabricating the mannequin used as the 'extraterrestrial.' The article analyzes the images presented in 'Entrevue,' finding them to be largely repetitive of previous claims.
• TF1's Involvement: Despite doubts about authenticity, TF1 acquired the rights to broadcast the film. Jacques Pradel negotiated the deal in London, focusing on the second and third sequences of the film. TF1 planned to air it as part of 'L'Odyssée de l'Etrange' and produce a cassette.
• Cassette Release and Sales: The 'Roswell' cassette was released in August 1995 and sold over 25,000 copies, despite the lack of guaranteed authenticity. The article notes the significant profit margins for TF1.

Cyber Space and UFOs

The magazine announces that SOS OVNI is now online at www.sosovni.com. It also mentions an upcoming astronomical event on April 5, 2000: the conjunction of Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn.

Other Cases and Research

• Willamette Pass Photo: The 1966 photo from Willamette Pass, Oregon, previously revealed as a hoax in 1993, is mentioned.
• Beaver Photo Analysis: The photo from Beaver, Pennsylvania (1967), is analyzed, with the lights identified as the Moon, not a UFO.
• Commercial Products: The magazine features advertisements for 'Alien Keychains' and 'Millennium Miniatures' (Aliens and their spaceships), sold by Chaud Biz Ness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently questions the authenticity of UFO evidence, particularly the Roswell autopsy film, presenting it as a likely hoax orchestrated for financial gain. The magazine emphasizes critical analysis and the need for verifiable proof, while also covering a range of UFO-related news and research from around the world. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensational claims, favoring a more grounded, investigative approach to ufology.

Title: Phénomèna
Issue: 39
Date: 1999
Publisher: SOS OVNI
Country: France
Language: French

The 'Alien Autopsy' Hoax Exposed

The lead story in this issue of Phénomèna delves into the 'Alien Autopsy' case, revealing it as one of the century's biggest hoaxes. The article details how Ray Santilli, who promoted the film, is now distancing himself from the affair. The investigation, spearheaded by Karl Korff, identified two British individuals, Keith Bateman and Andy Price-Watts, as the creators of the infamous footage.

Bateman and Price-Watts, owners of AK Music, admitted to creating the hoax in 1994. They used props like a wig holder for the alien head and animal entrails for realism, filming in a dark barn to simulate a clandestine operation. Their motivation was partly to capitalize on Santilli's interest in such material and possibly to preempt his own media strategy. The article highlights how 'The Mail on Sunday' published an exposé in January 1999, confirming Korff's findings and naming Bateman and Price-Watts as the perpetrators.

Media and Ufology

Phénomèna also reviews various publications and media coverage related to UFO phenomena. It notes the French magazine 'L'Oracle' for its controversial content, linking it to far-right ideologies and figures like Julius Evola. In contrast, 'Science et Vie' is praised for a surprisingly positive and neutral article on extraterrestrial life and UFOs in its January 1999 issue, marking a potential shift in scientific media's approach.

Several international UFO magazines are reviewed, including 'UFO Magazine' (UK), noted for its coverage of a triangular object sighting over Bristol Channel, and Italian publications like 'UFO La Visita Extraterrestre' and 'Il Giornale dei Misteri', often featuring contactees like Giorgio Bongiovanni.

Research and Case Files

The issue includes a section on 'Unidentified Flying Objects' and the Condon Report, referencing a case from Sisteron in 1972 that involved legal proceedings. It also discusses the 'circles effect' theory by G.T. Meaden and highlights the importance of counter-investigations.

Reader Contributions and Analysis

A reader, Comble Michaël Dole, writes in to challenge the magazine's classification of the Chupacabras phenomenon as a rural rumor. He details specific characteristics of Chupacabras attacks on livestock, such as precise perforations and lack of struggle signs, arguing they are inconsistent with known animal predators and suggesting a more unusual cause.

Another reader, Pascal Michel, responds to an article defending conspiracy theories. He argues that simply denouncing them is insufficient and that a deeper analysis is needed to explain their popularity, particularly in relation to shows like 'The X-Files' and the public's belief in UFOs.

Phénomèna's editorial stance, as articulated in its response, is to present verifiable facts and encourage reflection, acknowledging the challenges of dealing with conspiracy theories and the reactions they provoke.

Other News and Events

The magazine also provides updates on the SETI project, which is leveraging the internet for data analysis, and mentions the 'Projet Mask', an alleged attempt to intoxicate the ufological community. Upcoming UFO conferences in the US and UK are listed, along with contact information for SOS OVNI.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Phénomèna consistently focuses on critical analysis of UFO phenomena, distinguishing between genuine research and hoaxes or sensationalism. The magazine appears to champion a scientific approach while acknowledging the public's fascination with the unexplained. It actively debunks hoaxes, analyzes media coverage, and provides a platform for diverse viewpoints within the ufological community, often highlighting the need for rigorous investigation and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims. The editorial stance is one of journalistic presentation of facts, encouraging readers to think critically about UFO-related topics.

Phénomèna, issue 1999, is a French magazine dedicated to UFO phenomena. This issue prominently features an in-depth investigation into the "Trans-en-Provence" case.

The Trans-en-Provence Case: An Italian Investigation

The cover story, "Trans: l'enquête italienne" (Trans: The Italian Investigation), delves into the renowned UFO case that occurred on January 8, 1981. On that date, Renato Niccolai, from his property in Trans-en-Provence in the Var region of France, observed an ovoïde object. The object reportedly landed on a restanque (a type of terrace), leaving behind a "trace on the ground" that subsequently became famous, before departing.

The initial accounts and subsequent investigations by French ufologists and organizations like GEPAN (Groupement d'Étude des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés) and SERPAN (Société d'Enquête et de Recherche sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non identifiés) focused heavily on the physical trace. Analyses conducted by Professor Michel Bounias of INRA (Institut National de Recherches Agronomiques) revealed a "phytopathological trauma" on the wild luzerne (Medicago Minima) collected from the site. This finding led GEPAN to use the case as evidence for the potential existence of inexplicable phenomena.

However, the magazine highlights a new investigation by the Italian Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU), initiated on September 4, 1998, by Matteo Leone and Paolo Fiorino. This Italian "counter-investigation" took a different approach, focusing on contextual analysis of existing published information rather than solely on the trace, which was seventeen years old by then and unlikely to yield new revelations.

The CISU investigators found that many French ufologists had misinterpreted or overlooked key aspects of the case. They noted that the witness, Renato Niccolai, was of Italian origin and spoke French with difficulty, leading to potential communication issues. The Italian report suggests that Niccolai was a man with a strong sense of irony, a trait that seemed to have escaped many previous investigators. This irony, they argue, might explain some of his more enigmatic statements.

Challenging Previous Interpretations

The article contrasts the Italian findings with earlier French analyses. For instance, the hypothesis that Niccolai might have been under the influence of medication capable of causing hallucinations, as suggested by Michel Monnerie, was dismissed by the CISU. They examined Niccolai's medical records at the time of the incident and concluded that no medication he was taking could have induced hallucinatory states.

Furthermore, the timing of a reported drilling operation was re-examined. While some earlier interpretations suggested the trace was a result of this drilling, the CISU, citing Michel Figuet, confirmed that the drilling operation actually took place in 1982, a year *after* the incident, thus ruling it out as an explanation for the trace's appearance.

The CISU's work aimed not to definitively prove or disprove the UFO landing, but rather to highlight the shortcomings and potential biases in previous investigations. They suggested that the trace could have been caused by various terrestrial vehicles, such as a concrete mixer, a drilling rig, a forklift, or even a motorcycle. The initial police report (PV d'audition du 9 janvier 1981) described the trace as two distinct parts, diametrically opposed, about 0.80 meters long, with black striations resembling skid marks.

Related Publications and Reviews

The issue also includes a section on "Lectures" (Readings), reviewing several books related to UFOs and related phenomena. One review discusses "Les OVNI et autres Objets Volants" by Sabine Delmarti, published by Editions De Vecchi, describing it as a comprehensive overview of UFO cases and hypotheses, suitable for the uninitiated.

Another book reviewed is "Voyage au bout de la Secte" (Journey to the End of the Cult) by Renaud Marhic and Stéphane de Keyser, published by Buchet/Chastel. This book explores the world of apocalyptic and extremist cults, with Stéphane de Keyser recounting his experience of mental manipulation.

Advertisements and Classifieds

Several pages are dedicated to "Annonces gratuites" (Free Ads), featuring requests for correspondence and documents related to UFOs, exobiology, and extraterrestrial phenomena. Advertisers are seeking specific issues of "Phénomèna" and other UFO-related literature, as well as testimonies about UFO sightings and related events.

There are also "Offres" (Offers) sections where individuals are selling UFO-related books, videos, and back issues of magazines like "Nostra" and "Lumières dans la Nuit."

A "DIVERS" (Miscellaneous) section includes a call for independent investigators interested in joining UFO groups, and a request for individuals who can translate articles from French to German for CENAP.

The "SOS OVNI" section features appeals from regional SOS OVNI groups seeking publicity materials related to UFOs and extraterrestrials, as well as eyewitness accounts of sightings in August.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Phénomèna demonstrates a commitment to critical analysis and re-evaluation of well-known UFO cases. The "Trans-en-Provence" case is presented as an example where initial interpretations, particularly by French ufologists, may have been flawed due to misinterpretations of the witness's testimony and an overemphasis on physical evidence without considering all contextual factors. The magazine appears to favor a balanced approach, acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena while also encouraging rigorous investigation and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims. The inclusion of book reviews and classified ads suggests an aim to serve a community of enthusiasts and researchers by providing information, facilitating connections, and offering resources within the field of ufology.