Phenomene OVNI - No 09 - 4e trim 1979

Magazine Overview

This issue of "le phénomène O.V.N.I." is number 9, published in the 4th trimester of 1979 by CSERU (Comité Savoyard d'études et de Recherches Ufologiques). The cover prominently features the title "le phénomène O.V.N.I." and the CSERU logo.

Table of Contents

The table of contents lists several articles and features:

• "L'enlèvement de Colby" by Jean SIDER (pp 2-8)
• "Tribune Libre: Jean François GILLE et Michel PICARD" (pp 9-12)
• "Les OVNI du Passé: 'la fascinante étoile Sirius', ou 'de la cosmogonie des Dogons'" by Christiane PIENS (pp 13-15)
• "Humour: 'JP PETIT et JP PETIT'" (pp 16-17)
• "Mutes Story (suite)" by Jean SIDER (pp 18-22)
• "Carte Blanche à... Nicolas GRESLOU" (pp 23-24)
• "Courrier: J.SCORNAUX, A. SYLVESTRE-FANTHET, Wido HOVILLE" (pp 25-30)
• "Notre dossier ENQUETES: quasi-atterrissage à St Paul sur Yenne" (pp 31-34)
• "Structures" (p 35)
• "Bloc Notes" (p 36)

A quote from Jean COCTEAU is included: "la vie n'est possible que dans l'eau d'un aquarium. Toute forme qui s'en approche est un phantasme" (reflection of a red fish).

The price per issue is 6.50 French Francs.

Article: L'enlèvement de Colby

This extensive article by Jean SIDER details a case of alleged alien abduction involving a couple, Joe and Carrol, and their infant son Luke, which occurred on June 20, 1976, near Colby, Kansas, USA. The author emphasizes the importance of investigating such cases, even if they seem systematic or originate from the United States. He provides statistical context for the US population and its technological development, suggesting a correlation with UFO interest.

SIDER highlights the prevalence of night travel in the US and the fact that most "abduction" cases occur at night. He also points to the widespread use of hypnotherapy in the US, which has been instrumental in uncovering details of many abduction cases where witnesses were initially seeking treatment for other ailments. The article references the famous HILLS couple and a case involving "Raymond SHEARER" as examples.

While acknowledging the possibility of hoaxes, SIDER asserts that his personal study of about twenty abduction cases reveals a high degree of seriousness and authenticity, supported by investigators. He notes that while the US has a high number of such incidents, France also has cases, citing an interesting one near Hostun in the Drome region in July 1976, which was allegedly sabotaged by the hypnosis organizers, rendering it unusable for pure research.

The Colby case, occurring around the same time as the Hostun incident, is presented in detail. Joe and Carrol, a young couple with their baby Luke, were driving on highway 70 when they observed unusual orange and blue lights that grew larger. Their car experienced engine trouble, and they saw a bizarre object ascending into the sky. Under hypnosis, they recalled details of being inside a large, brightly lit craft with complex equipment. Carrol described a "window" or screen showing an external landscape and a "tube" structure. She underwent a procedure involving a metallic chair and a tube-like apparatus pressing on her back. She also recalled being in another room and feeling a mental impulse to return to the main room.

Two humanoids appeared, returning baby Luke to Carrol. She observed a "window" showing a starry sky and the Earth receding. Later, the screen went dark, and she experienced a feeling of numbness and rising temperature. Upon returning to the ground, she saw the landscape again. She was instructed to return to the room with the wall apparatus, where two humanoids were playing with Luke. She was then instructed to lie on another table, and a shock was administered. She felt herself being carried out of the vessel.

Joe's account, while less detailed, mentioned being alone in a dark room with an object pressing on his arm and experiencing heat, difficulty breathing, and a feeling of his feet being in "several socks." He observed a metallic cabinet and a device with light "bubbles." Two humanoids appeared, giving him a small card and a rod. He was guided through five rooms to the exit, where he saw another humanoid carrying Carrol. He also perceived a "spire of luminous energy" emanating from one of the humanoids, which induced a feeling of oneness and happiness, describing the beings as "peaceful."

Both Joe and Carrol were returned to their car. Physical traces were found on both of them, including bruises, needle marks, scratches, and swelling. Carrol was traumatized and fell ill. Joe reported hearing a voice saying, "This is my planet!" which caused him to momentarily lose control of the car.

Upon returning home, they showed their injuries to a pastor, who attributed their experience to demonic influence and warned them against hypnosis.

The article further details the hypnosis sessions, emphasizing Mr. Sigismonde's cautious approach. It describes the humanoids as human-sized, with pear-shaped heads, skin resembling skulls, and bodies covered in "folds of sausages" like a Michelin man. Their suits were described as metallic tubes. The "vessel" was described as a classic "saucer" shape, with estimated dimensions and rotating lights.

Tribune Libre: "La Grande Peur des Intellectuels Français devant les Soucoupes Volantes"

This section features an article by Jean-François GILLE, a doctor of sciences and researcher at the CNRS, originally published in "Le MONDE" on August 17, 1979. GILLE critiques the French intellectual establishment's dismissal of UFO phenomena, attributing it to a form of anti-Americanism and a reluctance to confront the reality of UFOs.

He recalls a 1970s article in "Le MONDE" by a psychoanalyst who stigmatized the "space conquest" as a wasteful endeavor and urged humanity to focus on self-discovery. GILLE contrasts this with the UFO phenomenon, suggesting that the rejection of space exploration might be a subconscious motivation for the intellectual elite's dismissal of UFOs.

He recounts the 1947 Kenneth Arnold sighting and the subsequent media frenzy. GILLE then contrasts this with the dismissive attitude of French authorities, citing psychiatrist Professor Heuyer's 1954 statement labeling UFO sightings as a "collective psychosis" originating from overseas. GILLE argues that Heuyer, as an authority, should have verified the origin of the phenomenon. He further illustrates the intellectual's bias with an anecdote about a French judge who dismissed a book because it was written by an American.

The article suggests that this anti-American sentiment and condescension towards phenomena perceived as originating from the US contribute to the French intelligentsia's rejection of UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "le phénomène O.V.N.I." strongly advocates for the serious investigation of UFO phenomena, particularly abduction cases. The editorial stance is one of open-mindedness and a critical examination of witness testimonies, often employing hypnosis as a research tool. There is a clear critique of skepticism, especially when it appears rooted in prejudice (such as anti-Americanism) rather than scientific rigor. The magazine aims to present detailed case studies and analyses, encouraging readers to draw their own conclusions while providing a platform for ufological research and discussion.

This issue of "LES OVNI DU PASSE" (UFOs of the Past), published by CSERU in July 1979, features a cover story on "THE FASCINATING STAR SIRIUS" and explores various facets of the UFO phenomenon, including scientific skepticism, ancient cosmologies, and unexplained animal mutilations.

The Scientific Community's Stance on UFOs

The lead article by Jean François GILLE critiques the popular and scientific tendency to dismiss UFOs, attributing it to a 'binary dialectic' that excludes any 'third force' or 'esclave' perspective. He argues that the demise of universal religious belief has led to the discarding of intermediate beings, making the idea of superior extraterrestrial intelligence seem 'irremédiablement surplombante'. GILLE criticizes the scientific community for its silence on UFOs, except for minor efforts like the 'Condon Report', and for its general disinterest, preferring to focus on distant galactic civilizations via radio telescopes.

He highlights Dr. David Saunders' catalog of over eighty thousand UFO sightings, noting that not all witnesses are 'mentally deficient,' citing Clyde Tombaugh, the discoverer of Pluto, as an example. The article also points to recent scientific advancements that make extraterrestrial presence less astonishing, referencing the work of French physicist Jean-Pierre Petit on atmospheric propulsion for lenticular vehicles and theoretical concepts of spacetime shortcuts that could overcome the speed of light limitation. The author laments that these latter points were censored by 'Le Monde' newspaper.

GILLE questions the lack of attention given by the French press to the UN Special Political Committee's discussion on Unidentified Flying Objects on November 27, 1978. He concludes that if scientists continue to ignore the problem, society risks a rapid descent into a 'counter-culture' devoid of control, similar to the fall of ancient civilizations.

Critique of 'La Recherche' Magazine's UFO Dossier

A letter from Michel PICARD, editor-in-chief of "SCIENCES-FRONTIERE," criticizes a series of articles on UFOs published in the July-August 1979 issue of "LA RECHERCHE." Picard argues that the magazine, in its attempt to lend a scientific veneer to the UFO issue, has gone astray. He specifically targets an article co-authored by Michel GRANGER, described as a prolific compiler of paranormal phenomena, and an astrophysicist Hubert REEVES, who is presented as a psychosociologist. Picard questions Granger's conclusion that proof of UFO reality must be sought outside astronautics, implying it should be found in Granger's own books. He also criticizes Reeves for using the 'tactical skepticism' approach and referencing C.G. Jung's theories on the collective unconscious, which Picard deems scientifically controversial and unfalsifiable.

Picard contends that the "LA RECHERCHE" dossier reflects a 'philosophical refusal based on a rationalization of negative beliefs,' citing Pierre GURRIN's work. He praises only the article by Alain ESTERLE, head of GEPAN, for expressing a normal and desirable methodological approach to UFOs. Picard also provides a bibliography of relevant works on extraterrestrial civilizations and SETI.

The Dogon Cosmology and the Star Sirius

Christiane PIENS, a Belgian ufologist, contributes an article exploring the Dogon people's cosmology and its connection to the star Sirius. She notes that Sirius has been significant to ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians (as Sothis) and Babylonians, Chinese, Mayas, and North Americans. The Dogon cosmology specifically mentions 'Po-tolo,' identified as Sirius-B, an invisible companion star discovered in 1862. Bessel had previously suspected its existence in 1834, proposing a perturbing body to explain irregularities in Sirius's system.

Sirius-B is described as a white dwarf, a star in its final evolutionary stage. The article also touches upon the Dogon mention of Sirius-C (Emme Ya), which has not yet been discovered, and notes that astronomers in the 1880s considered the possibility of a third celestial body in the Sirius system. Piens points out discrepancies between the Dogon description of Sirius-C's orbital period and astronomical data, and also mentions Camille Flammarion's writings on the Sirius system.

Piens critically examines the idea that the Dogon's astronomical knowledge, including details about Sirius-B, might be derived from advanced extraterrestrial civilizations. She suggests that these elements were likely integrated during contacts with colonists, missionaries, and explorers, similar to how the Dogons may have adopted the cult of Sirius from the Egyptians when they were part of the Kingdom of Timbuktu. She argues that the astronomical elements seem to be based on scientific knowledge from before the 1930s, with discrepancies suggesting a non-Dogon origin, and that it would be strange for an advanced civilization to make such astronomical errors.

Animal Mutilations and UFOs

Another section of the magazine addresses the phenomenon of animal mutilations, stating that it continues globally, with a significant number of cases in the United States. The article details a case in Newquay, England, where a swan, two geese, three ducks, and two wallabies were found decapitated and drained of blood, with no signs of struggle. Inspector Robert Wilkinson of Scotland-Yard noted high radioactivity at the scene and received reports of UFO sightings the previous evening, leading the Ministry of Defence to request a report.

Cases from Australia are also mentioned, including cattle found 'massacred' with bones broken and precise portions of flesh removed. In the same sector, a large anthropoid creature, described as a 'YOWIE' or 'BIGFOOT,' was sighted. The article suggests that Anglo-Saxon countries tend to centralize these incidents, though isolated cases are noted in Bolivia and Puerto Rico. Reports of unexplained animal massacres in South Africa and Canada are also mentioned, with allegations of authorities silencing farmers in Ontario.

In Camargue, France, a herd of 65 bulls was found drowned in a canal, with no hoof prints on the banks, leading a young scientist to hypothesize that a UFO's magnetic field lifted the animals and dropped them. The article also touches on rumors of ufologists dying under bizarre circumstances and the disappearance of Dane Edwards, a journalist specializing in animal mutilations, who claimed to have a dossier on the subject but never revealed its contents.

Finally, the article notes efforts in New Mexico to establish commissions of inquiry into 'mutes' (mutilated animals), with one state-level commission created and a senator working towards a national commission.

Editorial Notes and Humor

The editorial section clarifies the identity of Jean-Pierre Petit, distinguishing between a cartoonist and a physicist who theorized about magnetohydrodynamic aerodynes. It also includes a humorous cartoon depicting aliens discussing UFOs and a call for reader contributions of drawings and humor, even if critical of UFOs or ufologists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently questions the mainstream scientific and media approach to UFOs, advocating for a more open and serious investigation. It highlights the perceived bias against UFO phenomena and champions alternative theories and perspectives, particularly those that challenge conventional scientific paradigms. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to consider evidence that is often dismissed by official channels. The recurring theme is the 'mystery' surrounding UFOs and related phenomena, and the perceived 'refusal' of established authorities to fully engage with them.

This issue of "COURRIER" features a "CARTE BLANCHE" section, a regular column for reader contributions, with this particular installment dated November 25, 1979, and dedicated to Nicolas Greslou. The issue delves into several ufological topics, primarily focusing on animal mutilations, alleged government cover-ups, and the controversial "KLEE" case.

Animal Mutilations and Strategic Installations

The article highlights the work of private researcher David Perkins, who observed a correlation between animal mutilation sites and strategic installations related to atomic weapons production. Perkins theorizes that extraterrestrials might be investigating potential radioactivity leaks from these sites, using animal samples for analysis. This hypothesis is presented as a more intelligent explanation than attributing the mutilations to predators or deranged groups.

An upcoming detailed article on "mutes" (animal mutilations) is announced for publication in "L.D.L.N."

Official Investigations and "Debunking"

The issue discusses an official commission, headed by the FBI, investigating cattle mutilations in New Mexico. Senator Harrison Schmitt played a role in its establishment. However, the article expresses skepticism about these official inquiries, suggesting their primary goal is "debunking" – reducing unexplained events to mundane incidents. The timing of these official investigations, shortly after discoveries by the Valdez-Burgess-Schoenfeld trio, is seen as an attempt by authorities to regain control of the narrative and prevent a potentially embarrassing situation.

Reference is made to the Los Alamos State Laboratories, which in November 1978, attributed animal mutilations to vultures, coyotes, and wild dogs. This explanation is contrasted with the findings of Dr. William Fitz-Gerald, who investigated the "mutes" privately and suggested predators with "20-centimeter blades" were responsible, implying a more sophisticated cause than natural predators.

Questioning Official Commissions

Further evidence is presented to question the credibility of official "commissions." In 1975, a Colorado commission, chaired by Carl Whiteside and involving the CBI and FBI, was allegedly ineffective. Examples are given of sheriffs who exposed the flawed methods of these commissions by submitting artificially mutilated animal samples, which were then misidentified as predator attacks.

Concerns are raised about pressure on sheriffs to withhold information from journalists, as reported by the "Star-Telegram." Sheriff Harry L. Graves of Sterling County, Colorado, reportedly received threats for his investigations into animal mutilations.

The "KLEE" Case and Signal Propagation

Armand Sylvestre-Panthet contributes an article refuting criticisms of his previous piece on the "KLEE" case. The KLEE incident involved anomalous TV signal reception from a US station (KLEE) that reportedly overshadowed national broadcasts for several days. Sylvestre-Panthet argues that this was not a mere trick but a remarkable case of abnormal propagation of very short waves, citing similar instances of long-distance reception, including London's signal in South Africa and Spanish TV in Rhodesia.

He challenges the analysis of astronomer Frank Drake, who dismissed the KLEE case as a fabrication by a small English manufacturer. Sylvestre-Panthet contends that Drake overlooked the impact of solar activity on ionospheric conditions, which can significantly extend the range of radio waves.

Critiques of Ufological Research

Jacques Scornaux contributes to the "Courrier" section, expressing reservations about the "car crash" cases and UFO crash narratives in the United States, urging caution. He critiques Jean Sider's lengthy response to his earlier comments, accusing Sider of inventing new proof methods. Scornaux also questions the evidence for UFO crashes, finding the testimonies insufficient and potentially influenced by the "MOONDUST" project.

Scornaux proposes an alternative hypothesis: that alleged censorship activities might be a deliberate misdirection, designed to draw attention to the UFO phenomenon and create the impression of hidden evidence. He suggests this could be a form of crowd psychology manipulation.

He also scrutinizes Leonard Stringfield's investigation methods, particularly in the case of three women allegedly abducted by a UFO. Scornaux points out two major flaws: showing humanoid drawings to a witness before she described them, and conducting joint interrogations under hypnosis, which he believes could have influenced the testimonies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently questions official narratives and investigations, particularly those related to animal mutilations and UFOs. There is a strong undercurrent of suspicion towards government agencies and a belief that information is being withheld or manipulated. The articles advocate for independent research and critical analysis of both official reports and established ufological theories. The magazine appears to favor more unconventional explanations for phenomena, often linking them to extraterrestrial intelligence or advanced, possibly hidden, technologies. The editorial stance leans towards skepticism of debunking efforts and a belief in the genuine mystery surrounding UFOs and related events.

This issue of "enquêtes" (Investigations), published by CSERU (European Committee for the Coordination of Ufological Research), focuses on ufological research and reports. The issue contains several articles, including a detailed investigation of a significant UAP sighting in France, correspondence on UFO-related topics, and organizational information about CSERU.

Article: Quasi-Landing in St Paul sur Yenne, Savoie

The main article details an incident that occurred on June 19, 1976, near St Paul sur Yenne, Savoie, France. The observation involved a couple, Maurice S. and Chantal P., who reported seeing a luminous, flattened sphere with a diffuse halo, approximately 8 to 9 meters long and 2 to 2.50 meters high, hovering about 1 meter above the ground near a vineyard. The object was observed for about 5 minutes. The witnesses also noticed a person running on the roadside, who appeared to emerge from a nearby path. The investigation team, including MM Roulet, Derive, Greslou, Bec, and Saussaye, conducted inquiries on July 10-11, 1976, and later in September and December 1976, and even in October 1979.

One of the key challenges in the investigation was identifying and interviewing the 'third man' seen running on the road. This individual was later identified as Monsieur Bibet, a farmer living in a nearby isolated house. Bibet was initially uncooperative and evasive, even threatening the investigators with a shotgun. After intervention by the local veterinarian, Dr. Saussaye, who knew Bibet, some information was gleaned. Bibet claimed he was asleep during the incident, then that he saw nothing, and later stated it was none of their business. However, it was revealed that shortly before his death, Bibet had reportedly told a doctor that he had seen something 'terrifying' but refused to provide details to avoid trouble and prevent the phenomenon from recurring. This posthumous confirmation significantly bolstered the credibility of the primary witnesses' account.

The article also explores possible explanations for the object, ruling out common causes like bonfires, vehicles, or helicopters due to the object's characteristics (fixed, sharp light, no noise, duration of observation). The investigators concluded that the event was not a hoax, citing the witnesses' sincerity and the corroboration from the 'third man'. The article includes a sketch illustrating the object's position relative to the road, vineyard, and Bibet's house.

Correspondence and Other Reports

Another section features correspondence from Wido Hoville, described as a prominent Canadian ufologist and head of the "UFO-QUEBEC" group. Hoville responds to reservations raised in the magazine regarding the C.A.U.S. affair, particularly the argument about why UFO crashes are reported primarily in the USA. Hoville shares his own doubts but recounts meeting people from CAUS in Washington in 1979 and learning of an incident in Canada involving a Canadian military college physics professor. He also mentions investigating a possible crash in England in 1966 with over 30 witnesses, an event he claims was not widely known. Hoville suggests that a cover-up is likely and notes that Canada is enacting a 'Freedom of Information' law, which they intend to use to question authorities about the physics professor's case.

A brief note also mentions a potential wave of sightings in France during late November and early December 1979, including two cases in Savoie that CSERU is investigating. The organization emphasizes the need for collaboration among French ufological groups to share information effectively.

CSERU Organization and Operations

The issue provides details about the CSERU organization, including its structure, members, and activities. The Bureau members are listed, with Nicolas GRESLOU as president, Jacques ROULET and Jacques BOSSO as vice-presidents, Marc DERIVE as secretary, and others responsible for technical material, archiving, and investigations. Regional delegates are also listed for contact throughout France.

The CSERU headquarters and correspondence address are provided as 266 quai Charles Ravet, 73000 Chambery. Permanences are held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. CSERU is also a member of the European Committee for the Coordination of Ufological Research.

Information on subscriptions and memberships is included, with different tiers offering various benefits, such as access to the library, attendance at monthly conferences, and participation in investigations. The cost for a subscription to the review is 25 French Francs for four issues within France and 30 Francs for foreign subscriptions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around detailed UFO/UAP investigations, witness testimony, the challenges of ufological research (including potential cover-ups and uncooperative witnesses), and the organizational efforts of CSERU to promote and coordinate this research in France and Europe. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious, methodical investigation, emphasizing the need for rigorous data collection and analysis, while acknowledging the difficulties inherent in the field. The magazine encourages reader participation and contributions, highlighting the voluntary nature of the organization and the reinvestment of any profits into research.