Phenomene OVNI - No 02 - 1er trim 1978

Magazine Overview

'Phenomène OVNI', Issue No. 2, published in the first quarter of 1978 by the Comité Savoyard d'études et de Recherches Ufologiques (CSERU), is a French-language magazine dedicated to the study of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs).

Editorial

In the editorial, Nicolas Greslou, the president of CSERU, marks the second issue of 'Phenomène OVNI' as a significant step, noting that the magazine has reached cruising speed. He expresses satisfaction with the positive reception of the first issue, which garnered 200 subscribers, a notable achievement for a regionally focused publication. Greslou acknowledges the challenges of creating a magazine with limited experience but emphasizes the encouragement received to persevere in improving both quality and quantity. He points out that signed articles represent the author's views, not necessarily the CSERU's. The editorial also addresses the delicate position of the magazine, aiming to cater to both the general public and seasoned ufologists, acknowledging potential criticism of being too simplistic or too specialized. Greslou stresses the importance of remaining vigilant, especially at a time when ufology is perceived to be facing internal crises with the emergence of 'demoralized' and 'deviationist' ufologists. He concludes by expressing hope that the efforts of ufologists will eventually contribute to understanding what is called 'the greatest problem posed to humanity'.

Articles and Features

A propos du GEPAN

This section discusses the creation of GEPAN (Groupe d'Études des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non Identifiés), an official French body for studying unidentified aerospace phenomena. The article expresses three main reactions: satisfaction, joy, and regrets. Satisfaction stems from the official recognition and funding for ufological research in France, placing it at the forefront. Joy is derived from the involvement of competent and open-minded scientists. However, regrets are voiced due to GEPAN's stated intention not to collaborate with private ufological groups, as declared by Hubert Curien, president of the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales. The article speculates that this stance might be due to a perceived lack of scientific competence in private groups or their sometimes 'fringe' or 'cultist' nature. The author laments the potential widening of the gap between official and private research, emphasizing that serious private groups possess valuable local knowledge and credibility with witnesses.

The article also touches upon the financial aspects, mentioning a budget of 100,000 francs, which is considered modest for comprehensive research. Concerns are raised about the composition of the scientific council and the potential for its members to be hostile to the OVNI issue. The duration of GEPAN's existence is also a point of concern, as a short lifespan would prevent a thorough methodological approach to the phenomenon.

Special Jean-Claude Bourret

This special section is dedicated to Jean-Claude Bourret, a journalist and television personality who has taken a public stance on the OVNI issue. The article highlights his role as a 'traveling salesman' for ufology in France, making him a familiar figure to the public.

Positive Aspects:

1. Public Awareness: Bourret is credited with sensitizing the public to the OVNI issue more effectively in four years than previous decades of attempts. His television presence creates a 'star' image that draws the public in, launching an enthusiasm for ufology that will persist even if he leaves television.
2. Credibility: Through his books and conscientious journalism, Bourret has brought previously confidential aspects of ufology to light, such as interviews with government officials and the publication of official reports. This has made the cause more credible and encouraged a more serious public examination of the OVNI dossier.
3. Support for Scientists: Bourret's work has served as a platform for scientists whose research was previously clandestine or unknown. His efforts have made it less risky for scientists to publicly engage with the OVNI subject.
4. Support for Private Groups: Bourret provides support, financial aid, and publicity to serious private ufological groups like CSERU, even contributing to their funding and subscriber base.

Nuances and Criticisms:

1. Audience Demographics: Bourret's conferences are well-attended, but it's unclear if attendees are primarily interested in the OVNI phenomenon or in Bourret himself. The debates following conferences often remain at a basic level due to the audience's lack of information, and the conferences themselves may not offer new insights to those already knowledgeable.
2. Financial Aspect: Some remarks suggest that Bourret's involvement is financially motivated. While he has offered free conferences, it is acknowledged that he benefits financially from his successful events. However, the positive impact on ufology is considered to outweigh the financial aspect.
3. Television Programming: A significant criticism is the lack of serious, honest televised programs on the OVNI subject. Bourret is urged to use his influence to organize such programs, inviting serious and competent individuals, rather than allowing 'fake' or 'trick' shows that present a negative image of ufology.

The section concludes by stating that French ufology owes a great debt to Jean-Claude Bourret.

Interview with Jean-Claude Bourret

In an interview, Jean-Claude Bourret discusses several key aspects of ufology:

1. 'Fondation Bourret': He confirms the existence of a 'Fondation Bourret' since October 1977, which operates without a formal legal structure. Its purpose is to provide financial support and resources to serious ufological groups, funded by his conference earnings.
2. Lessons from Conferences: Bourret observes that people are thirsty for the extraordinary, making ufologists responsible for providing accurate information. He notes that his audiences are diverse in age and profession. However, he finds that many attendees are more interested in sensational stories than in critically analyzing the phenomenon, often asking repetitive questions about contact, the Bermuda Triangle, and the origin of UFOs.
3. Definition of a Serious Ufological Group: A serious group, in Bourret's view, has scientific advisors, even if they are skeptical. The goal is to conduct scientific work and avoid falling into mere belief or the systematic collection of unverified facts. He emphasizes that this requires time, resources, and funding.
4. Ufology and Parapsychology: Bourret expresses caution regarding the trend of ufology moving towards parapsychology. While open to exploring potential truths in fantastic ideas, he finds parapsychology to be rife with falsifications and lacking in scientifically verified facts. He acknowledges the existence of individuals with genuine extra-sensory perception but finds the link between parapsychology and UFOs, particularly the idea of psychic creation, to be highly questionable and even 'ridiculous'. He dismisses theories suggesting UFOs are projections of future technology, citing historical accounts like Pliny the Elder's description of a 'burning shield' as evidence against such a narrow interpretation.
5. Ufological Groups and Scientists: Bourret states that relationships between serious ufological groups and scientists are discreet. Scientists lack the extensive information that private groups can gather.
6. Opinion on GEPAN: He fears GEPAN might be short-lived due to government priorities and unfavorable economic conditions. He recalls a previous attempt in 1974 to create a similar commission that was shelved due to the oil crisis. Bourret is concerned that GEPAN may lack sufficient resources and that the right questions are not being asked about the OVNI phenomenon.
7. Most Plausible Hypothesis: Bourret admits that, despite extensive study, he cannot definitively state the most plausible hypothesis for the origin of UFOs, as the dossier is complex and contains elements that defy easy explanation.

Other Content

The issue also includes a 'Sommaire' (Table of Contents) listing various articles, an editorial, a section on GEPAN, a special feature on Jean-Claude Bourret, a 'Tribune libre' (Open Forum) by Michel Picard titled 'les évadés de la planète Marx', an article on sky surveillance by Serge Chazottes, a 'Revue de presse' (Press Review), and a 'Bloc-Notes' (Notepad) section. A quote from Aristotle, "L'ignorant affirme, le sage doute, le savant réfléchit", is featured prominently.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the official recognition of ufology in France through GEPAN, the significant public impact of media figures like Jean-Claude Bourret, and the ongoing debate about the scientific credibility and direction of ufological research, including its relationship with parapsychology. The editorial stance, as expressed by Nicolas Greslou, is one of cautious optimism, emphasizing the need for rigorous scientific inquiry, collaboration, and a balanced approach to understanding the OVNI phenomenon, while acknowledging the challenges and internal divisions within the ufological community.

This issue of "Tribune Libre" (Free Tribune), dated October 1977, focuses on the topic of UFOs and related scientific and philosophical debates. The magazine features a significant interview with author Jean-Claude Bourret, alongside critical reviews of his work by Michel Picard and Marc Derive. The publication delves into the complexities of ufology, its relationship with science, and the influence of various ideologies.

Interview with Jean-Claude Bourret

In an interview, Jean-Claude Bourret discusses his perspective on the extraterrestrial hypothesis as a potentially valid but scientifically challenging explanation for UFO phenomena. He expresses uncertainty about the current situation in the USSR and USA regarding UFO research. Bourret clarifies that his writing on UFOs is not primarily a commercial venture, noting that his books have print runs of 40,000 to 70,000 copies, with his latest being the most successful. He mentions that his first book was translated into several languages, but the second faced resistance from foreign publishers due to its scientific content. Bourret states that he has explored the topic extensively in his three books and does not plan a fourth on UFOs. Instead, he intends to return to his career as an investigative journalist, focusing on other domains, such as herbal medicine, which he likens to the 'scandal' surrounding UFOs.

Book Reviews and Critiques

The issue presents two distinct viewpoints on Bourret's latest book, "La Science face aux Extraterrestres" (Science Facing Extraterrestrials).

Michel Picard's Review

Michel Picard acknowledges Bourret's success in raising public awareness about UFOs, earning him the title "Monsieur OVNI." He credits Bourret with supporting regional ufology groups and contributing to amateur research through donations and material loans. However, Picard criticizes Bourret for not fully embracing his role as a public relations figure between amateur ufologists and scientists, highlighting a significant communication gap and mutual misunderstanding within the field. Picard notes the absence of many scientists in Bourret's third book, which he feels lacks a guiding principle and suffers from disjointed connections. He describes the book's content as a reflection of a reactive, ad-hoc policy, with communication with 'extraterrestrials' being one-sided. Picard finds the 'new UFO dossier' unoriginal, with the only potentially interesting element being a survey, which he warns could lead to biased conclusions if exploited by rationalist psycho-sociologists.

Picard also points out specific issues in the book, including Bourret's adoption of the 'computer myth' concept, the presence of typographical errors, and the analysis of traces from Ronchin, which he notes is considered dubious by Dr. Jacques Scornaux. Picard concludes that ufology will only become a science when amateurs collaborate with sufficient scientific knowledge or allow competent scientists to lead the research. He also critiques the book's scientific appendix, finding René Hardy's theory unconvincing and noting that such ideas, if scientifically sound, would be widely published.

Marc Derive's Review

Marc Derive expresses a preference for Bourret's latest book, praising its sincerity, intellectual engagement, and scientific rigor. He believes the book was not written to follow a trend but to synthesize existing information on a controversial subject, avoiding sensationalism and prioritizing scientific references. Derive particularly appreciates Bourret's courage in openly supporting the UFO phenomenon, contrasting it with the public and media ridicule often faced by those interested in the subject. He argues that Bourret's stance encourages others who are working to advance the field despite opposition. Derive suggests that anyone reading the book will be moved by the quality of its argumentation and recommends Bourret for interviews on the topic.

"Tribune Libre" Section

This section features a piece by Michel Picard titled "Ou "Les Evadés de la Planète Marx"" (Or "The Escaped from Planet Marx"). Picard responds to reactions to the first issue's "Tribune Libre" section, particularly addressing criticisms from a reader regarding Marc Derive's article. Picard refutes the idea of politicizing ufology, stating it should remain neutral in political terms. He acknowledges Derive's sincerity and the value of his contribution, even if his arguments are concise. Picard emphasizes that his own perspective is not aligned with the left or right, rejecting simplistic political labels.

Picard then discusses his personal views on the current state of humanity, describing it as a 'closed field' where conflicting ideologies clash. He questions the fundamental search for meaning and identity, noting that politics, philosophy, and religion have historically failed to provide satisfactory answers. He observes a growing trend towards the 'irrational' and the 'supernatural,' particularly in the USA since the 1960s, which he sees as being exploited by commercial interests. Picard criticizes the quality of this literature as inversely proportional to its commercial appeal, citing examples like the popularity of esotericism, occultism, and sensationalized accounts of UFOs and other phenomena.

He argues that a lack of critical thinking and a reliance on simplistic explanations contribute to this trend. Picard highlights the insufficiencies of politics, philosophy, and religion in providing guidance, suggesting they have created systems of thought that avoid genuine reflection. He points to the rise of sects, social unrest, and a general disaffection with politics and traditional faith as evidence of this societal malaise.

Picard further critiques various reductionist philosophies, such as those of Marx, Freud, Hegel, and Sartre, which he believes reduce human beings to mere mechanisms, actions, economic dependencies, or libidinal drives. He refers to these as 'anti-consciousness' philosophies that mask the human condition. He notes the emergence of 'new philosophers' who attempt to move beyond Marxist dogma, but suggests that even their ideas can be problematic.

Picard expresses a preference for a science that is open to all phenomena and themes, including those rejected by the establishment. He criticizes the 'official science' for its ideological censorship, which he believes creates a barrier between readers and information, particularly concerning UFOs. He cites an example of a review in "Le Monde" that omitted crucial information about Pierre Guérin's work on UFO evidence. Picard advocates for a science that addresses fundamental questions about nature, origin, and destiny, rather than adhering to rigid, ideologically driven frameworks. He warns against the 'ideological capture' of ufology and parapsychology by dominant or dominated ideologies.

Notes and References

The issue concludes with a section of notes and references, citing various books, articles, and publications that support the arguments presented in the "Tribune Libre" section. These references include works by Louis Pauwels, Soljenitsyne, Glucksmann, B.H. Levy, Jean-Marie Benoist, Maurice Clavel, Arthur Koestler, Jacques Monod, François de Closets, Jean-François Revel, Remy Chauvin, and Aimé Michel. The notes also provide context for the political and intellectual climate of the time, referencing student movements and the perceived decline of traditional political and religious influence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of ufology, the nature of scientific inquiry, and the influence of ideology on public perception and knowledge. The editorial stance appears to favor a more open and critical approach to UFO phenomena, urging for a science that is not constrained by dogmatic rationalism or ideological biases. There is a clear concern about censorship and the manipulation of information, particularly within scientific and media circles. The magazine champions intellectual honesty and courage in confronting controversial subjects, encouraging readers to think critically and question established narratives.

This issue of "surveillance du ciel" (Sky Surveillance), issue number 2, published in November 1977, focuses on UFO observations and related phenomena. The magazine is published by CSERU and originates from France.

CSERU Sky Surveillance Program

The lead article details the CSERU's sky surveillance evenings, which began that summer. These monthly events, organized in collaboration with French and international ufological groups, aim to systematically cover national territory and even border regions, with the help of observers from Belgium, Italy, and Switzerland. Each regional group submits a report to the central SVEPS office in Toulon, which compiles a synthesis of all participant results within three weeks. The CSERU organizes these sessions at Mont-Revard (1500m) and is equipped with binoculars, telescopes, photographic apparatus, magnetic field detectors, Geiger counters, star charts, and compasses. Future projects for 1978 include establishing a second surveillance group on the Epine mountain range, with radio communication between groups to cover a wider geographical and celestial area. The project is expected to be operational in the spring. Additionally, national amateur radio links are being established to rapidly report any trajectory or observation to other ufologists.

The results of these surveillance evenings are presented as valuable for both neophytes learning about the sky and for serious alerts. A specific incident on October 29, 1977, is detailed: a luminous yellow ball was observed moving from NW to NE, crossing the sky in 40 seconds with two distinct accelerations. A magnetic field detector activated, and two photos were taken. A second appearance of a similar yellow ball was noted later that night, with immediate detector activation but a 15-second disappearance. An investigation is ongoing.

Individuals interested in participating can contact CSERU for dates and instructions. Sessions are canceled in case of bad weather.

Letters and Comments

A section titled "COURRIER" (Mail) opens the discussion, inviting readers to share their ideas, critiques, and suggestions. This section features a pertinent remark from Jacques SCORNAUX, a doctor of sciences and a leading French ufologist, regarding the magazine's article on the "1908 Tunguska event" (published in issue 1).

Scornaux offers several remarks: he questions the assertion that a comet would have been visible well before the event, suggesting a small comet could explain the destruction. He also challenges the idea that the comet's entry angle into the atmosphere would necessarily be close to 90 degrees. Scornaux finds the argument about the object's low speed to be the only truly convincing point against a natural cosmic phenomenon. He criticizes the claim of a change in direction, citing Maurice de SAN, who reviewed the original testimonies and found no mention of such a modification. Scornaux also expresses caution regarding the work of Weverbergh, stating that only the chapter on Romanian observations, co-written with Ion Hobana, is trustworthy. He suggests that Weverbergh's other information is second or third-hand. Scornaux recommends drawing more inspiration from Maurice de SAN's study on Tunguska, which he considers the best, as it relies on original testimonies and rigorously explores the hypothesis of an accidental explosion of a cosmic vessel.

Despite these critiques, Scornaux acknowledges that the magazine has reached an excellent level.

"Dans la presse" (In the Press) Section

This section compiles news snippets from various publications:

• "Une base d'OVNI dans les Pyrénées, près de Huesca ?" (A UFO base in the Pyrenees, near Huesca?): Reports a wave of UFO sightings in the Huesca region of Spain, with multiple witnesses describing luminous and strange characteristics. A drawing teacher in Huesca reported observing a UFO that illuminated his house all night. Some believe a UFO base exists in the Pyrenees, prompting expeditions to locate it.
• "Une dixième planète dans le système solaire ?" (A tenth planet in the solar system?): Pasadena, California – An astronomer at the California Institute of Technology may have discovered a tenth planet. The object, not yet classified, is described as neither an asteroid, moon, nor comet. It is approximately 160 km in diameter and orbits the sun between Saturn and Uranus, on a plane similar to other planets, at a distance of 2.4 billion km from Earth, with a rotation period of 115 years.
• "OVNI et manoeuvres de l'Otan" (UFOs and NATO maneuvers): Lisbon's "A capital" newspaper reports that mysterious UFOs were observed over the ocean off the coast during NATO's "Safari" maneuvers.
• "Un OVNI aperçu au large de l'Afrique Australe" (A UFO sighted off the coast of Southern Africa): On November 15th, an unidentified flying object was sighted over a Portuguese fishing boat, the "Pardelas," off the coast of Southern Africa. The object reflected a strong light onto the boat for eight minutes, causing alarm systems to malfunction. The UFO then departed at high speed.
• "Un OVNI dans le ciel gardois" (A UFO in the Gard sky): In Nîmes, France, inhabitants reported seeing a grey, immobile, silent ball-like object suspended a few meters above the ground. It had two circular lights and a violet light at its base. It ascended slowly and disappeared.
• "Nations Unies : 1978 année des OVNI ?" (United Nations: 1978 Year of UFOs?): Grenada has requested the UN to hold a general assembly on UFOs. Prime Minister Sir Eric Gairy aims to raise global awareness and has proposed that the UN declare 1978 the "Year of UFOs" and establish an agency for their study. He notes President Carter's interest and his own claim of having seen a UFO.
• "Phénomènes étranges sur le Tchad" (Strange phenomena over Chad): Residents of N'Djamena, Krim-Krim, and Beinamar reported unusual phenomena. In N'Djamena, a luminous object resembling a shooting star traversed the sky. In Krim-Krim, 12 detonations and flashes were heard and seen. In Beinamar, 11 lights were observed flying in silence. The article notes that these events were not preceded or followed by aircraft.

"GANYMÈDE" (Ganymede)

This section discusses Jupiter's moon, Ganymede. It mentions the Pioneer 10 spacecraft's flyby in 1973, its instruments, and Jupiter's magnetic field. The article speculates on the possibility of life on Ganymede, noting its chemical similarity to the Sun and its radiation output. It then delves into the mythological aspects of Ganymede, linking it to Zeus and the concept of the "Age of Aquarius." Ufologically, it recounts an alleged communication event in Brazil in 1952, where Dino Kraspedon claimed to have met beings from Io and Ganymede. The section also references a "voyage" to Ganymede described as a likely hoax. It notes that rumors of advanced beings from Ganymede in Latin America date back to at least 1950, possibly originating from psychic contacts.

The article then looks at current space missions, mentioning the Voyager 1 and 2 launches towards Jupiter in August 1977, with a flyby scheduled for March 1979. It also details NASA's "JUPITER ORBITER PROBE MISSION," a shuttle mission planned for January 1982, which will study Jupiter and its moons, including Ganymede.

"Un CONGRES DE PARAPSYCHOLOGIE" (A Parapsychology Congress)

This section reports on the "first congress of applied parapsychology" held in Lyon on December 17-18, 1977. The event was organized by the hypnologist CHRIS. The congress featured several speakers, including Professor LIGNON (Toulouse), Mme LAMOURET (clairvoyant and medium), Regine SERS (sensitive and telerathe), Jean Pierre GIRARD (PK effects specialist), Jimmy GUIEL (ufologist and parapsychologist), Alain GADMER (parapsychology researcher), and Mgr SCHAFFNER (orthodox exorcist).

Chris, the organizer, is described as dynamic and dedicated to the science of hypnosis, focusing on medical assistance, laboratory research, and public awareness through performances. He explains that hypnotic sleep is a natural state and that hypnosis allows for deeper investigation into the subconscious and unconscious. He differentiates hypnosis from sophrology, emphasizing that hypnosis goes further by inhibiting reflex phenomena and allowing for introspection. Chris stresses that hypnosis is not mind possession and cannot be performed against one's will. He highlights its potential for relaxation, treatment of psychological and psychosomatic conditions, memory enhancement, and even telepathy and extra-retinal vision. Chris concludes by expressing a wish for French universities to recognize parapsychology as a science.

Professor LIGNON, a statistician from Toulouse, supports Chris's work, stating that any reproducible experience is scientific. He believes parapsychology meets these criteria but faces challenges in securing funding. Lignon discusses psi and PK phenomena, referencing studies on energy transfers and the potential for influencing electronic devices through thought. He considers these experiences reproducible and scientifically relevant.

Mme LAMOURET, a medium and clairvoyant, shares her abilities, including telepathy with her son located 1000 km away, suggesting a hereditary component. She also demonstrates psychometry with objects belonging to attendees, providing convincing results but attributing them to a higher power. She believes in the survival of the soul after death.

Jimmy GUIEU, initially an ufologist, now focuses on parapsychology. He presents the case of Jean Claude Pentel, a rugby player from Marseille who unintentionally causes paranormal phenomena, such as objects moving on their own, ink bottles flying, and furniture shifting. Psychiatrists consider Pentel normal, and Guieu, despite witnessing some events, offers no rational explanation, merely observing.

"Dernière Minute : un Mystère Éclairci ?" (Last Minute: A Mystery Cleared Up?)

This addendum, by Michel PICARD, discusses the book "Archives des autres Mondes" by Robert CHARROUX. Picard notes that Charroux's work on extraterrestrials, particularly his concept of "mental projections" and his citation of psychoanalyst Jung, bears a striking resemblance to the theories of P. Vieroudy (also known as Berthault). Picard suggests that Vieroudy and Charroux might be the same person or closely linked. He also points to the "Prince de Melchisédech," who claims UFOs originate from Earth, as another figure whose ideas align with Vieroudy's. Picard concludes that these connections explain the "hallucinatory truth" and that the Prince, Vieroudy, Berthault, and Charroux might all represent a single entity or concept.

A note at the end of this section indicates that the next issue (number 3) will address the psychological and parapsychological explanations for UFOs, including a more comprehensive study of Vieroudy's theories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena, presenting both observational data and theoretical discussions. There is a strong emphasis on scientific methodology, with calls for reproducibility and rigorous investigation, as seen in the critiques of articles and the discussions of parapsychology experiments. The publication also delves into mythological and historical connections, as exemplified by the article on Ganymede. The editorial stance appears open to a wide range of possibilities, from direct observation to psychological interpretations, while maintaining a critical approach to unsubstantiated claims. The inclusion of letters from readers and news snippets from other publications suggests an effort to engage with the broader ufological community and current events.

This issue of "Phénomène OVNI" (Issue 171, January 1978) is published by CSERU and focuses on parapsychology and ufology. The cover headline is "STRUCTURES", suggesting an investigative theme.

Key Articles and Features

Parapsychological Investigations

The issue begins by discussing the unpredictable nature of certain phenomena, noting that while they cannot be reproduced at will, they must be considered. Jean-Pierre Girard, a former prestidigitator, is presented as someone who conducts his parapsychological experiments in his leisure time. His work involves metals, minerals, and micro-organisms. His most spectacular feat, similar to Uri Geller's, is the plastic deformation of iron bars, reportedly conducted in a specialized laboratory with scientific controls. Experiments using strain gauges and oscillographs suggest that metal deformation occurs constantly rather than through the usual elastic phase. Girard also reportedly influences the hardening or softening of iron and has conducted complex experiments on cellular multiplication of micro-organisms in a French pharmaceutical laboratory. These interventions are described as physically and nervously taxing.

Alain Gadmer, described as a sympathetic figure known in ufological and parapsychological circles, discusses phenomena perceived by people around individuals near death or after death, often at great distances. He proposes a concept of "symbiosis or syntonization between beings," leading to "universal communication and interaction." The author notes that Gadmer's ideas, while intelligent, are not always easily accepted and that more time could have been spent on certain aspects of his dense and sometimes hermetic presentation.

Régine Bers, identified as "Mme Chris," is highlighted for her successful extra-retinal vision experiments under hypnosis, organized by Professor Lignon. She also participates in hypnosis sessions led by Chris to induce relaxation in the audience. Bers is described as Chris's indispensable collaborator.

Monseigneur Schaffner, an Orthodox Bishop from Antibes and an exorcism specialist, is also featured. Despite the surprising nature of his specialty, his 10-minute conference, delivered with remarkable ease, raises questions about haunted houses and enchantments. The author notes that while these topics seem distant from theology or metaphysics, Schaffner's statement, "Christ was certainly the greatest parapsychologist," was striking.

Conclusion and Editorial Stance

The "CONCLUSION" section congratulates Chris for organizing the congress, dismissing detractors who have not attended. It poses the question of how to view these phenomena, stating that the real issue is not belief but honest observation and compilation of facts. The hope is expressed that parapsychology and ufology will eventually be considered as normal scientific disciplines, akin to mathematics or physics, which may one day explain them. The report is presented as an honest account of the parapsychology congress, with the primary activity of CSERU being ufology. The article aims to objectively relay the participants' contributions.

United Nations and UFOs

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the United Nations' attention to the UFO problem. It details a resolution from the 32nd session of the UN's Special Political Committee on November 30, 1977. The resolution, proposed by the representative of Grenada, requests the Secretary-General to consider the subject and prepare a report for the 33rd session. This report would cover the history and current status of the UFO phenomenon, results of studies, data from member states and international organizations (like UNESCO, WHO, IAEA, UNEP), past and present UN activities, international agreements regarding contact with extraterrestrial life, and scientific, technological, economic, legal, and political aspects. It also calls for an analysis of the advantages, disadvantages, and dangers of contact with extraterrestrial intelligence and practical means to promote international cooperation in UFO research.

The resolution was transmitted to all member states, and the topic was scheduled for inclusion in the agenda of the 33rd UN General Assembly. The translation into French is credited to Henry Durrant, a ufologist. The article notes that this is not the first time the UN has addressed UFOs, recalling previous efforts that yielded no results, such as a memorandum from VonKeviczky to U. Thant in 1966 and proposals by James Mac Donald in 1967. The author reflects that for 30 years, commissions, reports, and congresses have occurred, and ufologists have been waiting, quoting "Anne, my sister Anne, do you see nothing?" The publication promises to keep readers informed of any developments.

Chambéry UFO Sighting (February 10, 1975)

A detailed report describes a UFO sighting over Chambéry on February 10, 1975, at 7 AM. The witness, Mlle M.P.A., a 17-year-old student, observed a very bright light moving at high speed across the sky. The phenomenon consisted of 6 to 7 silver luminous balls forming a "grape cluster" that moved in a straight line from Northeast to Southwest. The observation lasted 10 to 20 seconds, during which individual "grains" detached and diminished, with the main cluster moving towards Mont Granier before all lights extinguished. Mlle M.P.A. compared it to a "fireworks rocket" moving horizontally. The object was at eye level, about 80 meters above Chambéry, and estimated to be within 4,000 meters distance. The calculated speed was between 600 and 1,800 km/h. The report notes that the witness is considered reliable and that the observation is considered a genuine UFO sighting, as other explanations are unlikely.

Related Sightings and Analysis

Remarkably, on the same day and at the same time, about thirty similar observations were reported in various southeastern French departments. These included sightings in Boulicu-les-Annonay, St Etienne de Valoux, Lemps, Secheras, and many other locations. The report highlights that almost all testimonies agree on a North-South trajectory and describe a group of several balls, with some impression of the object about to crash into a mountain. Most phenomena occurred on mountainsides and lasted only a few seconds. The report notes the difficulty in explaining how two gendarmes in Touvet observed a phenomenon at the same time as others observed a Chambéry-Valence trajectory, both on the mountainside. The CNES (National Centre for Space Studies) confirmed it was not a satellite re-entry. The possibility of a meteorite is dismissed due to its unusual trajectory and altitude changes. The report concludes that it is likely a "flying object not identified" and that scientists, particularly from GEPAN, should study this case, possibly linking it to the Carces landing.

Sources

The report cites several sources for the information, including a report from Francis CONSOLIN for Grenoble, the review "Approche" (SVEPS), "Ouranos," "Ufo-Informations" (AAMT), and the review "Lumières dans la nuit."

Structures Organization Details

The magazine also provides details about the "STRUCTURES" organization, listing its Bureau members: Nicolas Greslou (president), Jacques Roulet (vice-president), Jacques Bosso (vice-president), Marc Derive (secretary), Jean-Louis Boubet and Roland Lequeux (treasurers), Antoine Bartolo (technical material manager), and Serge Chazottes (archivist). It also lists other members of the Administrative Council and Regional Delegates who can be contacted for information. The CSERU headquarters and correspondence address in Chambéry are provided, along with information about permanent office hours.

Bloc Notes

The "BLOC NOTES" section states that all collaborators are volunteers and that any profits from CSERU are reinvested in ufological research and the review. Articles published in "Phénomène OVNI" represent the author's responsibility. Reproduction of articles requires written authorization from CSERU. The publication details are provided: printed in France, Director of publication Nicolas Greslou, printed by CSERU, legal deposit in the first trimester of 1978. Subscription and membership fees are listed: 20 fcs for the review (4 issues), 30 fcs for a support subscription (or foreign subscription), 30 fcs for CSERU membership (without the review), and 50 fcs for membership plus subscription. Member benefits include access to the library, attendance at conferences, consultation of anonymized investigations, participation in the general assembly, and opportunities to conduct investigations after training.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are parapsychology (psychokinesis, extra-retinal vision, universal communication) and ufology, with a particular focus on official recognition and research efforts, as exemplified by the UN resolution. The editorial stance is one of objective reporting and compilation of facts, encouraging the scientific community to investigate these phenomena, which are often dismissed by mainstream science. There is a clear advocacy for the serious study of UFOs and parapsychological events, viewing them as legitimate areas of scientific inquiry.