Phenomene OVNI - No 11 - 2e trim 1980

Magazine Overview

This issue of 'Le phénomène OVNI', published by CSERU (Comité Savoyard d'études et de Recherches Ufologiques), is issue number 11, dated the second quarter of 1980. The cover prominently displays the title 'le phénomène O.V.N.I' and the organization's acronym. The price is 6.50 French Francs, and the ISSN is 0180-2011.

Table of Contents

The table of contents lists several articles:

• Sommaire, page 1
• L'étonnant cas NUNEZ (The Astonishing Nunez Case), by Jean ISDER, pages 2-5.
• Les OVNI du passé : le double point de vue de l'historien-ufologue, 2è partie (UFOs of the Past: The Double Viewpoint of the Historian-Ufologist, Part 2), by Gilbert CORNU, pages 6-15.
• Humour by Jean Pierre PETIT (Aix-les-Bains), pages 16-17.
• L'influence des OVNI sur les radars (The Influence of UFOs on Radars), by Lindy WHITEHURST, pages 18-24.
• Courrier (Mailbag): Letters from Pierre GUERIN, Marcel PETIT, and Jacques SCORNAUX, pages 25-29.
• Special U.R.S.S. (Part 2), pages 30-34.
• Bloc Notes (Notebook), page 35.
• Structures, page 36.

The issue also includes a quote from Victor Hugo: "La science est ouverte, mais les savants sont fermés" (Science is open, but scientists are closed).

The Astonishing Nunez Case

This article by Jean SIDER details an incident that occurred in Argentina during the summer of 1978. The Nunez case involves Francisco Nunez (66, auto mechanic) and his son Carmelo (23), residents of Mendoza. On July 6, 1978, around 9:00 PM, while driving to a friend's house, their Chevrolet suddenly seemed to leave the road and float. The landscape around them became dark, and they lost perception of the road and engine noise. They experienced a sense of euphoria and a slight chill. A purple light enveloped the vehicle, and they observed immense buildings resembling those of New York's Empire State Building, lining what appeared to be a wide, illuminated avenue. The city was described as being of a dominant red color, with red light bathing the landscape and sky. There were no signs of automotive activity, pedestrians, trees, or animals. The car, seemingly flying, moved at a speed far exceeding terrestrial capabilities. Carmelo Nunez found the steering wheel unresponsive. The experience lasted about 10-15 minutes before the car returned to the road near Guaymallen. The witnesses were initially hesitant to recount the event due to its incredible nature. However, Carmelo eventually confided in a colleague, leading to the story reaching police sub-inspector Adolfo Siniscalchi and journalists. A hypnosis session conducted by Dr. Alfredo Stefanelli for the 'National Enquirer' reportedly had both witnesses recount the same story without alteration, suggesting they were not lying. The car itself showed no signs of unusual manipulation. The article also notes that the following day, a flotilla of 25-30 UFOs was observed in the same region by numerous workers, progressing towards Mendoza.

UFOs of the Past: The Historian-Ufologist's Viewpoint

This extensive article by Gilbert CORNU, the second part of a study, examines the methodology of ufology from a historical perspective. Cornu argues that while history is a rigorous discipline focused on evidence and factual reconstruction, ufology, despite dealing with real phenomena, often strays into fiction and imagination. He contrasts the meticulous work of historians, who spend years accumulating and verifying data, with the less rigorous approach sometimes found in ufology. Cornu acknowledges that history itself has evolved, with contemporary historians aiming to discover underlying laws rather than just describing events, moving towards 'human sciences'. He suggests that ufology, like history, is an activity of knowledge, but it is still in its 'infancy'. He criticizes the lack of rigor among some ufologists and journalists, citing examples of unverified cases and sensationalism. Cornu stresses the importance of distinguishing between genuine UFO phenomena and other events (like religious apparitions or animal mutilations) to avoid discrediting ufology as a 'catch-all' for the absurd. He advocates for identifying common characteristics of UFO phenomena to establish their value and enable a 'sorting' process between true and false cases, allowing for comparison with 'neighboring' phenomena. The goal, he states, should be to study the mechanisms, causes, and consequences of UFO phenomena, seeking their 'laws' rather than merely describing incidents.

Other Sections

• Humour: A lighthearted piece by Jean Pierre PETIT.
• The Influence of UFOs on Radars: An article by Lindy WHITEHURST exploring this topic.
• Special U.R.S.S.: The second part of a report on UFOs in the Soviet Union.
• Bloc Notes: A section for miscellaneous notes.
• Structures: An article on 'Structures'.
• Courrier: A letters section featuring correspondence from Pierre GUERIN, Marcel PETIT, and Jacques SCORNAUX.

The issue also includes a section detailing the CSERU's activities, including thanks to the municipality of Chambéry for a subsidy, information about an upcoming congress in Lyon, details of monthly meetings in Chambéry, and the availability of their library.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, emphasizing the need for a scientific and rigorous approach, akin to historical research. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based inquiry, distinguishing between factual accounts and speculative or fictional interpretations. The Nunez case serves as a prime example of an event that, while extraordinary, is presented with an attempt to gather details and context. The article on historical ufology strongly advocates for methodological rigor, drawing parallels with the evolution of historical sciences and warning against the potential for ufology to become a repository for unsubstantiated claims. There is a clear effort to elevate ufology towards a recognized discipline by demanding higher standards of evidence and analysis.

This issue of *Phénomènes Spatiaux*, Volume 13, Issue 183, dated February 1979, delves into the critical challenges facing ufological research, primarily focusing on the lack of proper documentation and archives, and the implications of radar surveillance limitations.

The Scientific Condition for Ufology

The article begins by stating that for ufology to be considered a science, a significant effort is required to establish it as such. This involves a monumental task of gathering and organizing historical documents, which is a prerequisite for scientific recognition. The author posits that this work will likely take decades and may lead to significant revisions and divisions within the field.

The fundamental condition for scientific research, particularly for historians, is the collection and secure storage of original documents that serve as proof of events. The article notes that historical figures themselves often created archives to support their claims. It traces the history of archives in France, from royal archives dating back to the 8th century, consolidated by Philippe Auguste in the 13th century, and later reorganized and housed in the Hôtel de Soubise. Departmental archives are highlighted as particularly useful for ufologists due to their accessibility and relevance.

Similarly, libraries have ancient origins, with the famous Library of Alexandria being a prime example. In France, the National Library's oldest collections date back to François I. The article mentions that libraries have proliferated and specialized since the time of Louis XIV, with an index of French libraries published in 1950.

Crucially, archives and libraries are described as public spaces for work, offering access to documents for anyone with a valid reason. This communal access is fundamental to historical and scientific research, as it guarantees the authenticity of testimonies and sources by allowing for immediate verification of cited references.

The State of Ufological Documentation

The central question posed is whether an equivalent system exists for ufology. The answer is a stark "nothing, or practically nothing." The author dismisses the idea of rivaling official institutions by reconstructing original UFO documents from the past, deeming it impossible. Instead, the focus shifts to contemporary cases.

The article distinguishes between historical UFO references, which are mere textual allusions with no possibility of further investigation, and present-day cases (since 1947). The latter's documentation is described as scattered in the drawers of ufological groups or with individual investigators. The author emphasizes the need to differentiate between these two types of documents.

While official archives may hold documents related to past events, there is a significant lack of organized archives for recent UFO cases. The author notes that private investigators' reports are often kept in personal files, and there is no comprehensive catalog of UFO cases available from organizations like APRO or NICAP, as lamented by Hynek. In France, ufological groups typically provide only brief summaries of their investigations to magazines, making it difficult to access the full details without the original reports.

Military or gendarmerie investigations, when published, are often for commercial exploitation and lack scientific rigor or public control. The GEPAN archives are strictly reserved for their researchers, which contradicts the principles of scientific research that require public access to documents.

The article criticizes some authors, like Jean Robin, for denouncing perceived "occultist" tendencies among ufologists, suggesting this criticism is unfortunately accurate and needs to be addressed.

Lack of Public Ufological Libraries

There is also a notable absence of public ufology libraries where individuals can consult available works, especially foreign publications that are difficult and expensive to obtain individually. The author laments the difficulty of acquiring specific books like those by Plantier, Scully, Heard, or Keyhoe, which are essential for understanding early ufology. Municipal libraries are often poorly stocked, classifying ufology under esotericism or occultism, and thus providing only minimal resources.

The issue of complete collections of ufological magazines is also raised, with the author stating that finding a complete collection of *Flying Saucer Review* in France is nearly impossible, and even collections of French magazines require significant effort to compile.

The Importance of Documentation and Accessibility

The author stresses that reconstructing essential documentation requires years of dedicated effort, akin to collecting incunabula. Many rare early issues are kept secret by their owners to avoid theft or unwanted attention. While some might believe this information is available within ufological groups, the article asserts that this is largely untrue. Many groups possess limited documentation, which they jealously guard for personal use, contrary to the scientific spirit.

Exceptions like the Belgian SOBEPS are mentioned, though they have not published a catalog of their holdings. A survey conducted in late 1976/early 1977 revealed a widespread lack of documentation and a general unwillingness to cooperate among French ufological groups. Visits to group headquarters confirmed this, with empty shelves and disorganized archives.

The GEOS group, directed by Gérard Lebat, is cited as a rare example of a group that allows researchers free access to its archives.

Furthermore, when groups do possess books and magazines, these are often treated as exclusive property of the members or the president, as illustrated by an anecdote where a book was denied for consultation because it was a personal gift to the president.

Future Prospects and Challenges

While one might hope for improved documentation when the archives of groups or prominent researchers become public, the article suggests this is not a simple prospect. Citing Aimé Michel, it notes that the essential information is contained in personal documents not yet ready for disclosure. Legal delays for accessing documents (e.g., 30 years for ordinary documents, 60 for judicial, 100 for notarial) further complicate matters. The fate of private archives, such as those of Marc Thiroin and his secretary, is presented as a cautionary tale.

The author concludes this section by reiterating the principle that the primary condition for fruitful scientific research is the establishment of documentation centers with free access. This effort, he argues, must come from the groups themselves, not individuals. Until this is achieved, ufology will remain relegated to the domain of occultism by scientists and historians.

Radar Surveillance and UFO Incursions

The latter part of the issue shifts focus to the question of how UFOs can materialize anywhere in the world without detection. The article explores the possibility of secret bases in remote or underwater locations. A key question is the origin and direction of these objects, particularly concerning their entry into US airspace.

The article notes that the southwestern United States, particularly New Mexico, was an early focus of UFO sightings. It suggests a pattern where UFO activity seemed to concentrate around military installations, industrial complexes, and power plants. The choice of the less populated southwestern regions over more populous northern and eastern areas is pondered, with potential explanations including the desire to avoid terrestrial observers or simply the lower population density.

In 1969, a Soviet MIG aircraft requested permission to land in Florida, and a Cuban airliner requested landing instructions near New Orleans. Both incidents highlighted significant weaknesses in US air defense and radar surveillance. The MIG's unhindered approach suggested that even potentially hostile aircraft could violate US airspace without detection. The Cuban airliner incident, in particular, demonstrated that aircraft could approach within miles of a major city and its airport without being detected by radar until they were very close.

These events led to an investigation by Congressman F. Edward Hebert, which concluded that US air defense was theoretically weak and its interception capabilities were insufficient due to budget cuts. The sovereignty of US airspace was deemed not absolutely inviolable, and the existence of a 1,500-mile gap in air defense coverage in the southern US was identified. The article suggests that these radar gaps might explain how UFOs could have freely accessed US territory for years.

The article quotes a Federal Aviation Administration official stating that aircraft must request to be controlled for detection to occur, implying that unidentified or even identified aircraft could pass undetected if they did not comply.

In 1966, an Air Force captain acknowledged that NORAD could detect unusual aircraft over North America, but the implication was that this detection was not absolute or comprehensive, especially concerning potential threats from the south.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the fundamental requirements for ufology to be considered a legitimate scientific field: the establishment of accessible archives, comprehensive documentation, and rigorous research methodologies. The editorial stance is critical of the current state of ufological organizations, highlighting their insular nature, lack of cooperation, and secretive practices regarding documentation. The article advocates for transparency and public access to information as essential for advancing the field. It also points to significant vulnerabilities in military radar surveillance, suggesting these could be exploited by both conventional adversaries and potentially by UFOs. The overall tone is one of urgency, calling for a shift towards a more scientific and open approach to ufology.

This issue of COURRIER, dated February 1980, is a French-language publication from the CSERU, focusing on ufology. It features articles and letters discussing UFO detection, military radar capabilities, and alleged cover-ups.

Radar Detection and Military Limitations

The magazine highlights the difficulties in detecting UFOs using radar, particularly in the southern United States. Articles explain how radar systems have limitations, especially with low-altitude objects, and how budget cuts have reduced NORAD's operational capacity, creating gaps in surveillance. The issue mentions the FAA's role and its own limitations in radar coverage. The vulnerability of radar systems to low-altitude aircraft is demonstrated through examples like the YU.95 incident.

UFO Sightings and Incidents

Several UFO incidents are discussed, including the well-known Socorro case from 1964, where a police officer encountered an egg-shaped UFO and humanoids. Another case from 1977 involves a Russian bomber being lost and then reappearing, showcasing radar blind spots. The article also touches upon a 1979 incident off the Spanish coast where a charter plane was allegedly harassed by UFOs not detected by civilian radar.

Military Secrecy and Investigation Practices

The publication raises concerns about military secrecy surrounding UFO sightings, with regulations like Air Force Regulation AFR 200-2 imposing severe penalties for divulging information. The article by Lindy Whitehurst, translated by Jean Sider, discusses the challenges of UFO investigation, including the potential for bias and the influence of the investigator on witness testimony. It critiques the methods used in some investigations, particularly those involving hypnosis, suggesting that they can lead to fabricated or distorted accounts.

Ufological Debates and Contradictions

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a debate between ufologists regarding historical accounts and alleged contradictions. A letter from Pierre Guérin addresses claims made by 'T. Riplixe' concerning the travel dates of J. Allen Hynek to France and his interactions with Aimé Michel. Guérin clarifies the timeline and nature of Hynek's professional visits, refuting insinuations of deception by prominent ufologists.

Marian Apparitions and UFOs

An article by Marcel Petit explores the correlations between Marian apparitions and UFO phenomena. It lists various shared characteristics, such as sudden emotional states, psychic abilities, and messages of love and peace, suggesting a potential overlap or common origin for these experiences. The article also notes that while Marian apparitions are often reported by believers, UFO witnesses are frequently skeptical before their encounters.

Specific Cases and Technical Aspects

The issue delves into technical aspects of radar, including the use of ECM (Electronic Countermeasures) by military aircraft to jam or camouflage their radar signatures. It also discusses the limitations of radar in detecting objects based on their angular characteristics and speed, leading to certain UFOs being overlooked by the systems.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the limitations and vulnerabilities of radar technology in detecting UFOs, the alleged secrecy and cover-up practices by military and governmental bodies, and the critical examination of UFO investigation methodologies. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, aiming to shed light on these complex issues by presenting various perspectives and debates within the ufological community. There is a clear emphasis on the need for rigorous investigation and a cautious approach to interpreting witness accounts, particularly when influenced by psychological factors or leading questions.

This issue of STRUCTURES, identified as issue number 2 and part of volume 10, was published in the second quarter of 1980 by CSERU in France. The cover prominently features the title 'D' URSS' (From the USSR), suggesting a focus on Soviet UFO phenomena. The price is listed as 25 Francs for four issues, with foreign subscriptions costing 30 Francs.

Editorial Content

The issue opens with an article by Jacques SCORNAUX, titled 'non seulement ne progresse plus...' which critiques the state of ufology. Scornaux argues that ufologists should focus on improving their investigative methods and credibility rather than engaging in internal polemics. He expresses skepticism about certain claims, particularly those related to UFO crashes, and suggests that the persistent elusiveness of UFOs contradicts the idea of crashes. He concludes by stating his intention to end his participation in this debate.

Following Scornaux's piece are notes referencing scientific articles on memory malleability and hypnosis, as well as a reference to a paper on imaginary abductees and an article by Dominique Caudron on 'Monkey Business'.

The main feature of this issue is a section titled 'D' URSS' (From the USSR), which presents articles and reports related to UFO sightings and phenomena in the Soviet Union. This section is introduced as a continuation of previous coverage and includes an article by Vladimir GUEORGIEVITCH, identified as the Assistant Director of the Section of Submarine Research at the USSR Academy of Sciences. His contribution, an abstract from a 1977 conference, details a significant UFO event on September 20, 1977, over Helsinki, Leningrad, and Petrozavodsk. The object, described as a fiery light, performed vertical maneuvers, released two probes, and was observed by numerous witnesses. The report includes details about its size (estimated at 100-105 meters) and its interaction with a boat and Lake Onega.

Further reports from the 'D' URSS' section cover other alleged UFO incidents and encounters:

• Tioumen: Reports of UFOs appearing as fireballs moving at immense speeds.
• Colombia: A UFO was recorded traveling at 44,000 km/h.
• Teheran, Iran (December 1976): A UFO appeared, and attempts to approach it resulted in its systems failing and the pilots experiencing difficulties. A probe detached from the object landed in the province. The Iranian government reportedly contacted the USSR and USA regarding this event, which was described as a potential test of a new weapon. Information provided by the Iranian government indicated the object was spherical, 4.4 meters in diameter and 5 meters high, with occupants described as 2.5 meters tall in metallic suits.
• NATO Rocket Launch Base (Mediterranean, 1976): A UFO appeared, and missiles fired at it exploded prematurely, suggesting an invisible barrier.
• Borisoglebsk, USSR (1975): Lieutenant Palzev encountered a dome-shaped UFO, experienced an elastic barrier, and lost consciousness, recalling two figures inside.

The issue also discusses the characteristics of UFOs and their occupants, referred to as 'argonauts'. It notes that UFOs vary in size from 4 meters to 1.5 km and come in various shapes (spherical, cylindrical, discs). The 'argonauts' are described in three types: small (33-100 cm) with long, thin extremities and large heads; normal human size; and giant (3-3.5 m) with immense physical strength. The material composition of alleged UFO wreckage is mentioned, including magnesium, aluminum, zinc, and strontium, with a specific gravity of 1.86 g/cm3.

Encounters with 'argonauts' are detailed, including:

• Apollo 2 Mission: Astronauts Armstrong, Collins, and Aldrin reportedly encountered a gigantic UFO during their moon landing. The object followed them, and they experienced a 5-hour delay in receiving clearance to exit the lunar module, possibly due to the UFO's presence.
• Apollo 13 Mission: During a lunar experiment, a UFO was observed near the spacecraft, and the mission's outcome may have been influenced by the 'argonauts'.
• Brazil: A mine was found with walls and supports made of a material with extreme finishing and covered in plastic with glass fibers. Armstrong was reportedly leading an expedition to this mine.
• Kazakhstan: A quarry with vitrified rock surfaces was discovered.
• USA: Efforts are being made to attract 'argonauts' using thousands of projectors in the Rocky Mountains. A UFO was observed at 16,000 km/h, and a signal interpreted as 'Pi' was reportedly answered with a deciphered signal of '1/Pi'.
• The Hill Case (USA): The most interesting case highlighted is the direct contact between the Hill couple and 'argonauts'. Their encounter led to memory recovery, and the constellation from which the 'argonauts' originated was calculated to be 37 light-years away, with the stars recently discovered.

Structures Organization and Operations

The latter part of the magazine details the organization 'STRUCTURES' (likely CSERU, given the context). It lists the members of the Bureau, including Nicolas GRESLOU as president, Jacques ROULET and Jacques BOSSO as vice-presidents, Marc DERIVE as secretary, and Antoine BARTOLO as head of technical material. It also lists other members of the administrative council and regional delegates who can be contacted for information. The headquarters and correspondence address are provided as CSERU, 266 quai Charles Ravet, 73000 Chambery, with permanent office hours on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month.

The 'BLOC NOTES' section explains that collaborators are volunteers and profits are reinvested in ufological research and the review. Articles, photos, and drawings are protected by copyright law. Subscription and membership details are provided, with an annual subscription costing 25 Francs (4 issues) and 30 Francs for foreign subscribers. Membership benefits include access to the library, attendance at monthly conferences, consultation of anonymized investigations, and participation in the organization's life. Payment can be made by bank check or CCP.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes the need for scientific rigor and improved investigative methods within ufology, as articulated by Jacques Scornaux. It highlights a perceived shift within the Soviet scientific community towards studying UFO phenomena, as evidenced by the article from Vladimir Gueorgievitch. The magazine presents a range of UFO sightings and alleged alien encounters, with a particular focus on incidents within the USSR. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into UFOs, seeking credible evidence and scientific validation, while also acknowledging the controversial nature of the subject and the challenges in establishing definitive proof. The inclusion of details about the CSERU organization and its operations suggests a commitment to furthering ufological research through a structured approach.