Phenomene OVNI - No 03 - 2e trim 1978

Magazine Overview

This issue, number 3, of 'le phénomène O.V.N.I.' was published in the second quarter of 1978 by the Comité Savoyard d'études et de Recherches Ufologiques (CSERU). The cover prominently features the title 'le phénomène O.V.N.I.' and the CSERU logo.

Table of Contents

The 'sommaire' (table of contents) on page 1 lists the various articles and their page numbers. It includes an editorial by Nicolas Greslou, articles on 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' by Jacques Roulet, 'Psi dans la Nuit' by Michel Picard, the UN and UFOs, a piece titled 'If UFOs didn't exist...' by Michel Picard, an article on Cassiopée by Marcel Petit, a humorous drawing by Jean Pierre Petit, a discussion on hallucinations by Jacques Bosso, a section on radio amateurs, a 'Tribune libre' by Marc Derive, an article on C.E.C.R.L. by Nicolas Greslou, an 'ABC of UFOs' by Pierre Lebeau, a section on historical cases, structures of CSERU, and a 'Bloc Notes'. The issue is dated '2è trimestre 1978' and priced at 5 francs.

A quote from BERGSON (1907) is featured: "It is necessary to break with scientific habits that respond to the fundamental requirements of thought, to do violence to the mind, to go back up the natural slope of intelligence."

Editorial: 'Des espoirs' by Nicolas Greslou

Nicolas Greslou's editorial reflects on a period of 'flottement' (wavering) in ufology, noting that despite momentary setbacks, the study of UFOs continues. He acknowledges that a field as 'déroutante' (bewildering) as UFO research naturally experiences fluctuations. However, he emphasizes the 'inébranlable' (unshakeable) will to advance. Greslou highlights several positive developments:

1. The UN's willingness to examine the UFO phenomenon, even if it yields no immediate results, is deemed a meritorious attempt.
2. The CEPAN (Comité d'Études des Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés) is able to continue its work calmly and honestly, referencing an interview with Claude POHER in 'Paris-Match'.
3. Increased public awareness due to Steven Spielberg's film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind', although the film itself remains a subject of discussion and not universally acclaimed.
4. The establishment of private UFO research structures, such as the C.E.C.R.L. (Comité Européen de Coordination de la Recherche Ufologique), which held a working meeting in Chambéry in March 1978, bringing together 17 French-speaking ufological groups.

Greslou concludes that the conditions are ripe for accelerating UFO research and placing it on a solid, long-term footing. He likens the ufologists' task to that of Sisyphus, but with a hopeful twist: just as Sisyphus's rock eventually wore down, making his task easier, the persistent efforts of ufologists might lead to a less arduous, demoralizing endeavor.

'Rencontres rapprochées...' (Close Encounters...)

This section, spanning pages 3 to 6, appears to be an analysis or summary related to Steven Spielberg's film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind', framed within the context of UFO sightings in North America.

On page 3, it begins by referencing a discovery in the Sonora desert, Mexico, where scientists found five combat aircraft from the 'numero neuf' squadron, which had disappeared in the Bermuda Triangle in 1945. The pilots, found in a large spaceship, had not aged.

Page 4 describes an event at the Indiana-Polis airport control tower where a UFO was detected by three airliners, whose pilots refused to file official reports. It then shifts to Nuncie, Indiana, detailing an incident where a child named Barry was awakened by strange activity, and his mother, Julia, witnessed a 'ballet d'OVNI' (ballet of UFOs) before Barry was abducted. The narrative then follows an electrician, Roy Neary, who experiences a power outage and encounters extraordinary phenomena, including his car stalling and a bright light. He later meets Julia, and they both discover inexplicable burns on their faces and bodies.

Page 5 continues the narrative, describing how Roy and Julia become agitated and obsessed with an image of a mountain. Lacombe is mentioned organizing a conference in Washington about mysterious music heard from the sky, which he struggled to explain to scientists. The military attempts to debunk UFO sightings, but an authority notes the need for tangible proof. An observatory detects signals from an object near the moon, leading to coordinates for a meeting point in Wyoming. Roy and Julia are drawn there, and a secret base is established for contact with extraterrestrials. Multiple UFOs are observed, and a large craft appears, initiating a 'dialogue musical et lumineux' (musical and luminous dialogue).

Page 6 concludes the film analysis. Roy and Julia approach the craft and encounter the pilots from the 'numero neuf' squadron, along with other beings, who have not aged. A 'hideous' humanoid appears with small entities. A gestural dialogue occurs between Lacombe and the creature. The film ends with images of a mother reunited with her son, and a man accepting his destiny.

The author, Jacques ROULLET, offers conclusions on how different audiences perceive the film. 'Profanes' (laypeople) may be disappointed, seeking thrills and finding the film too slow or incomprehensible. Others are 'sensibilisés' (sensitized), having their curiosity piqued. Those interested in UFOs might find it a valuable, albeit complex, exploration.

Ufologists, on the other hand, are described as having very positive reactions. The film is seen as the result of extensive research, attempting to link physical events with parapsychological phenomena. The author notes that Spielberg and Professor Hyneck tried to connect accepted physical events with parapsychological events, which are still not widely accepted.

'Psi dans la Nuit' (Psi in the Night) by Michel Picard

This article, spanning pages 7 to 10, delves into the complex and often controversial relationship between Psi phenomena (parapsychology) and UFOs.

Michel Picard begins by referencing Raymond Veillith's desire for debates on ideas rather than individuals. However, he argues that discussing an idea inevitably involves its author, making it difficult to avoid personal attacks. Picard fears that many engage in polemics without realizing it, like Jourdain who spoke prose without knowing it.

He expresses concern that the editorial committee of 'LDLN' (Lumières Dans La Nuit) might be engaging in polemics by vetoing texts they deem 'polémique' (polemical).

Picard states that 'Psi' is increasingly invading our lives, describing it as a 'virus galopant' (galloping virus) of modern times, whose propagation is evident and contagious. He notes that while its nature is unknown, it can be attributed to anything without contradiction. Parapsychologists, he observes, attempt to study Psi using statistics, quantum physics, and electroencephalograms, but Psi remains elusive, escaping any 'cage de Faraday' and defying notions of distance, space-time, and chance. It seems to require a human environment for propagation, with humans possessing 'Psi à l'état endémique' (Psi in an endemic state).

Picard highlights the 'redoutable capacité de pénétration' (formidable penetration capacity) of Psi, which has spread from literature to the general public, animals, plants, metallurgy, and even ufology. This has led to a situation where ufologists are 'souffrant du Psi' (suffering from Psi), while parapsychologists are 'frustrés' (frustrated) by their inability to fully control it, leading them to focus on UFOs. Conversely, ufological journals are becoming filled with Psi, and parapsychological journals are increasingly incorporating UFOs.

Picard provides two specific examples:

1. The review 'Psi dans la nuit' (October 1977), originally ufological, has progressively become a platform for Psi, featuring three or four UFO investigations alongside numerous Psi articles. He lists various 'types' of Psi discussed: Vieroudy's Psi (described as a 'véritable abcès de fixation' - a true abscess of fixation), Lagarde's Psi (more subtle, thought to have escaped from 'Encyclopaedia Universalis'), the Psi of an experimental observation evening ('culinary' in its restrictive mode, requiring abstinence from alcohol, meat, and smoking), and Hyneck's Psi (timid, fearing a connection between UFOs and psychic phenomena).
2. Parapsychologists are increasingly incorporating UFOs into their studies, using them as an excuse to explore their own theories. Picard cites the review 'parapsychologie' and the proceedings of the Reims symposium. He argues that when UFOs are analyzed through a Psi lens, they become phenomena of 'oniroplstie' (dream-like states), 'ectoplasmie' (ectoplasm), 'apparitions', or 'hallucinations'. He criticizes parapsychologists for prioritizing their convictions over proof, dismissing the 'Extra-Terrestrial Hypothesis' (HET) as a 'new scientific religion' and 'untenable extraterrestrial theory' that is not exploitable or verifiable. Instead, they prefer to frame UFOs within a parapsychological context, which they deem more investigable.

Picard concludes that when confronted with physical traces of UFOs, parapsychologists resort to 'ectoplasmes' (ectoplasms). He finds it audacious that they give public conferences on themes like 'aspects parapsychologiques des ovni', 'soucoupes volantes et parapsychologie', and 'les ovni sont-ils des phénomènes paranormaux ?'.

He expresses frustration with this encroachment, stating that both ufology and parapsychology are in their infancy, akin to medicine before Hippocrates or physics before Galileo. He advocates for leaving Psi to parapsychologists and UFOs to ufologists, rather than complicating matters by amalgamating them. He believes that interdisciplinary research will eventually occur but is not optimistic about the current trend of speculative theories.

Picard offers his 'antidote' to 'Psi-Ovni' discussions: citing 'SCHATZMANN' and the 'Bulletin de l'Union Rationaliste', acknowledging that it's not a panacea but a tool he uses, and that he 'laughs with those he can'.

The article includes a list of recommended books on parapsychology, such as 'Histoire naturelle du surnaturel' by Llyal Watson, 'la parapsychologie dévoilée' by Scott Rogo, 'certaines choses que je ne 'explique pas' by Remy CHAUVIN, and the proceedings of the Reims symposium.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the analysis of UFO phenomena, particularly through the lens of popular culture (Spielberg's film), and the critical examination of the relationship between ufology and parapsychology. The editorial stance, as articulated by Nicolas Greslou and Michel Picard, is one of cautious optimism regarding UFO research while expressing skepticism and concern about the conflation of UFOs with parapsychological phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous investigation and a critique of speculative or unproven theories. The magazine appears to advocate for distinct approaches to each field, while acknowledging the potential for overlap and the need for scientific inquiry.

This issue of "ONU ET OVNI" (UN and UFOs) focuses on the United Nations' engagement with the UFO phenomenon, featuring a report adopted by the General Assembly and an article critiquing a psychological explanation for UFO sightings.

UN Report on UFOs

The issue begins by informing readers that the text voted by the UN's Special Political Committee on the UFO problem, proposed by the State of Grenada, was adopted by the General Assembly in its 32nd session on December 13, 1977, in New York. Henry Durrant provided the official minutes, including the intervention of M. Dolland for Grenada. The article emphasizes the rarity of such official communications.

M. Dolland's Intervention (Grenada)

M. Dolland expressed Grenada's pleasure at the adoption of the Special Political Committee's report (A/32/430) and thanked the delegations, particularly the United States, for modifying their positions to achieve consensus. He noted that the second draft resolution was more modest than the initial one, which had proposed a UN body to research UFOs and related phenomena. Dolland stated that Grenada's Prime Minister, Sir Eric Gairy, considered this issue of extreme importance for humanity, believing that UFO research should be integrated into efforts to solve global social, economic, and political problems. Grenada's initiative aimed to allow the international community to understand the relationship between Earth and other extraterrestrial worlds and beings.

Dolland clarified that Grenada's revised proposal was not driven by financial concerns, as the initial measures were estimated to cost only $16,000. He highlighted the lack of information on the UFO phenomenon, making it difficult for many nations, especially smaller ones, to properly assess the issue. Grenada understood that member states and specialized institutions needed more time and information to study the phenomenon.

Dolland also referenced the messages carried by the Voyager spacecraft, quoting the UN Secretary-General's message of peace and friendship to potential extraterrestrial civilizations. He stressed that humanity is but a small part of the universe and expressed hope for contact.

Media Reaction and Skepticism

The article notes that Grenada's proposal garnered significant international attention, with major newspapers in the US and UK publishing detailed articles, treating the issue with seriousness rather than as a joke. Journalist Richard Thomas of The Evening News is quoted, suggesting that Great Britain treats UFOs with more official skepticism and secrecy than other countries, unlike France, Brazil, and Argentina, which have officially recognized them. Thomas quotes Charles Gibbs-Smith, an aeronautical historian, who calls the official stance of not believing in UFOs until proven otherwise 'completely absurd' and suggests government discomfort with the unknown.

Charles Bowen's Views

Charles Bowen, editor of Flying Saucer Review, is cited stating that credible individuals like pilots and police officers have seen UFOs, and he believes there is something significant that warrants investigation. Bowen claims British pilots have been strictly instructed not to speak publicly about UFO sightings. He is assisting ufologist Jenny Randall in establishing a national network of independent investigators.

Michel Picard's Critique of Monnerie's Book

The second major section of the magazine is a review by Michel Picard of a book by Monnerie, titled "Et si les OVNI n'existaient pas ?" (If UFOs Didn't Exist?). Picard, identifying himself as an 'Ufomane, parapsychopath,' takes issue with Monnerie's attempt to reduce the UFO phenomenon to psychological explanations such as waking dreams, hallucinations, and contagious psychoses. Picard argues that Monnerie, despite being involved in ufology for years, lacks a scientific background (he is not a psychologist) and has built a model that attempts to rationalize all facets of UFO phenomena.

Picard presents counter-arguments:

1. General Counter-Arguments: He cites scientific studies indicating a 90% positive conclusion on the objective reality of UFOs from non-directly concerned scientists, with only 10% remaining undecided. He also points out that even the Condon report, which included many psychologists and sociologists, could not reduce all cases to psychological explanations, leaving 10% irreducible.
2. Systematic Refutation: Picard challenges Monnerie's terminology, such as 'waking dream,' arguing it's imprecise. He refutes Monnerie's use of 'hypnagogic hallucinations' and 'pre-oneiric hallucinations,' stating they are either pathological or not directly related to UFO experiences. He also disputes the concept of 'auto-hypnosis' as described by Monnerie, asserting that subjects remain capable of concentration and normal sensory perception.
3. Critique of 'Collective Myth': Picard dismisses the idea of a universal, obligatory 'collective myth' of UFOs as a convenient explanation that avoids genuine research. He questions why, if the myth is so pervasive, reported sightings are so few.

Picard concludes that Monnerie's book is useful in showing what *not* to do – creating a global model based on complex and uncertain data. However, he criticizes the book for not presenting cases that would refute its model and suggests Monnerie's approach may stem from the 'Corbelin Experience,' a psychological experiment.

Cassiopée Section

The issue also includes a section on the constellation Cassiopée, its mythology, and then transitions to UFO reports. It details a 1963 sighting in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, where three boys reported seeing a luminous sphere with entities. Another incident from 1965 in Torrent, Argentina, describes a transparent craft landing and beings with single eyes emerging.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to advocate for serious, open investigation into UFO phenomena, contrasting with purely psychological explanations. It highlights the importance of international cooperation and criticizes information censorship. The editorial stance supports the 'old guard' of ufologists who have been investigating for years, suggesting a skepticism towards newer approaches that heavily rely on psychology and parapsychology without rigorous evidence. The publication aims to bring attention to the UFO issue at an international level and encourages the disclosure of information by governments.

This issue of "tribune libre" (issue 2, volume 2, dated January 1978) is a French-language publication focused on ufology and related phenomena. It features articles that explore the intersection of UFO sightings with ancient myths, psychological explanations for sightings, and the organizational efforts within the ufological community.

Articles and Content

The Celtic Connection and the Fomores

The issue begins by questioning the tendency to look for extraterrestrial origins solely in external sources, suggesting a connection to Celtic mythology. It introduces the "Fomores," described as large, sometimes one-eyed beings from Irish folklore, who are presented as potentially extraterrestrial visitors. The article references Edmond Coarer-Kalondan and the Welsh druid Talieslin, citing a triade that describes a mystical city. The name "Dana" is linked to the constellation Cassiopeia, suggesting a celestial connection.

Hallucinations, Illusions, and Interpretations

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to exploring the psychological aspects of UFO sightings, specifically hallucinations and illusions. The article defines hallucination as a perception without an external object, citing Esquirol's definition. It differentiates between hallucinations and illusions, where the latter is a distorted perception of a real object. The text also discusses interpretations, where a real event is distorted by faulty judgment. The article questions whether UFO witnesses could be experiencing hallucinations, especially if they are already interested in the phenomenon. However, it notes that physical evidence, such as traces left on the ground, makes purely hallucinatory explanations less plausible.

UFOs and Radio-Amateurs

An article by Bernard Collin, identified as a radio-amateur (F1 ESR), clarifies the role of radio-amateurs in relation to UFO observations. He emphasizes that while radio-amateurs are not a direct communication channel for UFO sightings, they can collaborate in studying potential electromagnetic phenomena associated with UFOs. The article also distinguishes radio-amateurs from "Citizen Band" operators.

A Specific Sighting: February 15, 1978

An account by Jacques Bosso details a specific UFO sighting on February 15, 1978. At 7 AM, a red ball followed by a luminous trail was observed flying on a south-north trajectory over the "chaîne de l'Epine." By 12:30 PM, six other witnesses had come forward, and by 2 PM, the scale of observations indicated a national trajectory. The article highlights the effectiveness of the inter-group alert network in coordinating investigations and the press's role in soliciting further testimonies. It notes the lack of official Gendarmerie involvement and the preference of witnesses to report to private groups. The official classification of the phenomenon by CEPAN as "space debris or a large meteorite" is also mentioned.

The CECRU and Ufological Coordination

An article introduces the "Comité Européen de Coordination de la Recherche Ufologique" (CECRU), a new organization formed by ufological groups in French-speaking Europe. The CECRU aims to foster exchanges, coordinate actions, and harmonize research efforts among its member associations. The article traces the genesis of the CECRU from earlier meetings and discussions, emphasizing the principle of maintaining group autonomy while facilitating collaboration. The first official meeting was held in Chambéry in March 1978.

Reflections on the Study of UFOs

An article by Marc Derive reflects on the often frustrating nature of studying UFOs. It suggests that while initial discovery can be exhilarating, the lack of definitive answers can lead to demoralization. The author posits that UFOs may have always been observed, with descriptions evolving based on the cultural context of the time. He questions whether the study of UFOs has truly advanced and suggests that the phenomenon's inherent lack of clear definition might be its "absolute weapon," making it uninteresting and leading to the disengagement of passionate researchers. The article also touches upon the potential impact of proving the existence of another intelligence on human society, suggesting that despite the initial shock, daily life might continue largely unchanged.

Comic Strip

A comic strip titled "Quelque part dans le Cosmos...." is included, depicting an alien on a console and another alien in a spaceship, with dialogue related to inter-galactic space and a task being completed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "tribune libre" consistently explores the multifaceted nature of UFO phenomena, moving beyond simple sightings to examine their potential connections to ancient myths, psychological interpretations, and the organizational structures of ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging detailed investigation while acknowledging the challenges and potential for misinterpretation. There's a clear emphasis on the importance of organized research and the sharing of information within the ufological community. The publication seems to advocate for a rational yet open-minded approach to the subject, encouraging readers to consider various possibilities without necessarily accepting them as absolute truth.

This issue of 'enquêtes' is published by CSERU, with the publication director being Nicolas GRESLOU. The issue, identified by its page numbers 30-36, was printed in France in the second quarter of 1978. The magazine focuses on ufology, with a particular emphasis on coordination among French groups and the presentation of historical cases and refutations of skeptical arguments.

The CECRU: A New Coordination Initiative

The lead article discusses the formation and structure of the CECRU (Comité Européen de Coordination de la Recherche Ufologique). This initiative, born from a meeting in Chambery, brought together 17 French ufological groups. The CECRU is not a federation or union but a cooperation protocol that allows for the coordination of research and actions among its members. It operates with a rotating presidency, with different groups taking charge of the committee for specific periods. The current structure involves CSERL (Chambery) leading in March, followed by AAMT (Valence) in June, and SFEPSE (Paris region) in the autumn. This rotating system aims to prevent any single entity from dominating the committee and to geographically involve a maximum number of groups. The absence of formal statutes and commissions is seen as a way to avoid bureaucratic delays. The article acknowledges that the CECRU's development will be a long process with challenges but expresses hope for its promising future, emphasizing that it is the collective creation of all involved.

A.B.C.-OVNI: Demystifying UFOs

This section is designed to introduce readers new to ufology to the subject. It addresses common skeptical arguments and provides refutations. The arguments discussed include:

1. Experimental or Secret Weapons: This argument, considered outdated since the 1950s, is refuted by the age of the alleged experiments and the implausibility of testing secret weapons over populated areas. It also notes that UFO observations predate modern warfare.
2. Why Don't UFO Pilots Contact Heads of State? Several explanations are offered: humans may not be interesting to them; contact could be psychologically or physically dangerous; communication might be impossible due to vast differences in civilization; a higher authority might prohibit it; or the phenomena might not involve physically present beings but rather projections or future/past entities.
3. Scientists and Astronomers Have Never Seen UFOs: This is dismissed as a gross falsehood, with the article asserting that the 'rationalist' scientific establishment often suppresses phenomena it cannot control, leading to ostracism for those who deviate. It mentions French engineers and a former Air Force Chief of Staff who have supported UFO research, and notes the existence of authenticated photos and radar evidence.
4. UFO Performance is Scientifically Impossible: This argument is deemed weak, questioning the extent of human scientific knowledge about the universe.
5. Why Don't Authorities Officially Disclose UFO Information? Potential reasons include fear of mass reactions (like the 'War of the Worlds' panic), scientific and rationalist blockages, metaphysical or religious fears, fear of the unknown, and the potential disruption of traditional social consciousness and nationalistic interests. Group dynamics among officials might also prevent information dissemination.

Historical Investigations: Savoy Cases

This section presents two historical UFO cases from the Savoy region:

• Chambery, January 6, 1896: A bolide was observed with a fusiform shape, initially white, then sky blue, turning violet and emerald green. It disappeared after 25-30 seconds without sound or sparks. The report is cited from the 'Bulletin de la Société astronomique de France', year 1896.
• Arèches, August 1, 1947: Mme Langevin reported seeing three dark, rounded objects approaching the village at a speed not exceeding 200 km/h. The objects were arranged in a triangle and appeared metallic, with a rotating lenticular part and a fixed dome. They were visible for about 21 years prior to the 1968 investigation. The report is sourced from the 'Phénomènes Spatianx' revue of the GEPA.

The magazine appeals to readers for information on other historical observations in the two Savoy regions.

CSERU Structure and Operations

Details are provided about the CSERU's internal structure, listing the members of its bureau, including Nicolas GRESLOU (President), Jacques ROULET (Vice-President), Jacques DOSSO (Vice-President), Marc DERIVE (Secretary), Jean Louis BOUBET and Roland LEQUEIX (Treasurers), Antoine BARTOLO (Technical Material), and Serge CHAZOTTES (Archivist). It also lists regional delegates for various locations in France. The CSERU's headquarters and correspondence address are given as Chambery, with specific contact numbers. Permanences are held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. The CSERU is described as a participating society in the European Committee for the Coordination of Ufological Research (CECRU).

Contributions and Subscriptions

All collaborators are volunteers, and benefits are reinvested in ufological research and the magazine. 'Phenomène OVNI' will publish articles based on available space, with authors being responsible for their content. Articles, photos, and drawings are protected by copyright law, and reproduction requires written authorization from CSERU. The publication details indicate it was printed in France by CSERU using a duplicator, with legal deposit in the second quarter of 1978. Subscription rates are 20 francs for four issues within France and 30 francs for foreign countries. A 'support subscription' is 30 francs, and membership with subscription is 50 francs, granting access to the library, conferences, and other member benefits.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine strongly advocates for the serious study of UFO phenomena, actively refuting skeptical arguments and promoting a rational yet open-minded approach. It emphasizes the importance of coordination and information sharing among ufological groups, as exemplified by the CECRU initiative. The publication of historical cases highlights the long-standing nature of UFO sightings and aims to build a comprehensive catalog of observations. The editorial stance is one of persistent investigation and a belief in the potential for significant discoveries in the field of ufology, despite the challenges posed by mainstream scientific and societal skepticism.