Realite ou Fiction - No 03 - 1979

Magazine Overview

Title: REALITE OU FICTION
Issue: N°3
Date: 1979
Publisher: GROUPE PRIVE UFOLOGIQUE NANCEIEN
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of 'Realite ou Fiction' delves into the world of ufology, presenting a collection of UFO observations, analyses, and discussions on the growing scientific and military interest in unidentified aerial phenomena.

Editorial: Les Ufologues jugés...

The editorial reflects on the nearly thirty-year history of amateur ufological research. It notes that despite initial skepticism and negative results from scientific bodies like the US commissions of the 1950s, ufologists persisted. The creation of G.E.P.A.N. by CNES in France, which began investigating UFOs, is highlighted as a revolutionary step, leading to the conclusion that the phenomenon exists. The editorial criticizes the press for mocking ufological associations and some authors for severely criticizing the work of these pioneers, emphasizing the dedication and limited resources involved. It suggests that while G.E.P.A.N. is opening its doors to amateur researchers and considering their accumulated data, the field will evolve with more rigor and resources, but must not forget its origins.

Analysis of an Observation (1967)

This section provides a detailed personal account and analysis of a UFO sighting that occurred on Saturday, October 7, 1967, above the agglomeration of Nancy, France, between 7 PM and 8 PM. The observer, an experienced free-flight competitor and astronomy enthusiast, describes the weather conditions as stormy with intermittent clearings. The phenomenon, observed in a clear sky, initially appeared as an extremely bright, white light, resembling a flare or burning magnesium, producing a smoke-like vapor. The object was immobile despite strong winds. The observer then describes the object evolving, appearing as a sphere rotating on its vertical axis, changing color from yellow to orange and red, with a turbulent ring around its equator. It seemed to increase in apparent volume before progressively dimming and losing contrast with the sky, yet maintaining sharp contours. The entire event lasted approximately 45 seconds. The observer, who is also a draftsman with a good memory, concludes that the phenomenon was not a conventional aircraft and was not subject to atmospheric conditions. He notes the incongruity of such an event occurring above a large city without any public notice or media coverage.

Observations from the Groupe Privé Ufologique Nancéien

This section presents two specific UFO observation reports from the Groupe Privé Ufologique Nancéien:

Observation of a Cigar in the Sky of Nancy (January 11, 1979)

On Wednesday, January 11, 1979, at approximately 8:30 PM, a witness in Nancy observed a strange object in the sky towards the west. The object was described as oval, horizontally elongated, and matte red, appearing to rotate. It remained stationary for about 10 minutes before slowly moving away, then suddenly accelerating and disappearing behind houses. The observation lasted at least 10 minutes, and the object's distance was estimated to be several kilometers. No structural details were noted, nor were any sounds or perturbations perceived. The object's speed varied from slow to rapid.

Observation of a Luminous Phenomenon at High Altitude (July 27, 1979)

On Friday, July 27, 1979, around 8:50 PM, a couple in Nancy observed a violent light from an object flying over the rooftops. The object was described as having an indefinite shape due to its brightness, with a brilliant yellow color, and appeared to be approaching, growing larger. It seemed stationary in the sky for about five minutes before its strong glow progressively faded. This was the second time they had witnessed a strange light in that part of the sky. The phenomenon was located approximately 1 km away and at an altitude below 1000 meters. The light was fixed and brilliant yellow, with apparent dimensions comparable to a few centimeters. No sound or disturbance was perceived, and the weather was warm with a slightly cloudy sky.

Les extra-terrestres survolent-ils les bases de missiles? OVNI: l'armée témoigne

This article, published in 'Est Républicain' on June 24, 1979, discusses the growing seriousness with which scientists, armies, and governments are treating UFO phenomena. It mentions that scientists are no longer dismissing the subject and that information from French, American, and Chilean military archives is being revealed. The article references reports from the KGB and CIA, and the work of authors like Jean-Claude Bourret and Johannes Von Buttlar. It touches upon theories of extraterrestrial visitation throughout history, citing figures like Charles Bowen and Erich von Däniken, and the idea that miracles might be manifestations of extraterrestrials. The article also notes the US military's interest since 1942, the joint US-Canadian efforts, Soviet investigations, and France's involvement through Gendarmerie reports. The creation of a UN body in 1978 to coordinate UFO research is also mentioned. The article concludes by questioning the motives behind these extensive investigations, suggesting they are not merely for public amusement, and hints at the possibility of extraterrestrial involvement with sensitive sites like nuclear bases, referencing an alleged UFO sighting over Ayatollah Khomeini's residence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the serious investigation of UFO phenomena, the growing acceptance of ufology as a field of study, and the involvement of scientific and military institutions. The editorial stance is one of defending the legitimacy of ufological research against public ridicule and skepticism, while acknowledging the need for scientific rigor. The article on military testimony suggests a shift from dismissal to active investigation of UFOs by global powers. The overall tone is one of presenting evidence and encouraging a more open-minded approach to unexplained aerial phenomena.