Repas Ufologiques - 2009 07

Magazine Overview

This document is the July 2009 monthly newsletter from the "Réseau des Repas Ufologiques" (Ufological Meetings Network), a French organization dedicated to the study of UFOs and unexplained phenomena. The newsletter provides information on upcoming ufological meetings across France, reports on investigations into specific cases, and shares testimonies from witnesses.

Upcoming Meetings and Events

The cover prominently features upcoming "Rendez-vous" (meetings) in various French cities. A new meeting point, "Repas Ufologique de Nice," is launching on June 27, 2009, at Texas Trucks in Nice. Other scheduled meetings include:

• Paris: July 7, 2009. The event faced last-minute cancellations, including that of Ghislain Sanchez, the head of the "Centrale Ufologique," who was to present his organization and discuss Operation Suricate. The organizers hoped for a substitute speaker or a replacement program.
• Brest: July 4, 2009, at 6:15 PM at Cafétéria CASINO, Centre Commercial GÉANT.
• Toulouse: July 8, 2009, at 7:00 PM at FLUNCH.
• Bordeaux: July 3, 2009, at 7:00 PM at Cafétéria Saint Médard.
• Montpellier: July 17, 2009, at 7:00 PM at LA BRASSERIE DU DÔME.
• Champagnole/Lons-le-Saunier (Jura): July 3, 2009, at 7:00 PM at FLUNCH.
• Vichy: July 3, 2009, at 7:00 PM at Cafétéria Casino.

A "Week-End de l'Étrange" (Weekend of the Strange) is also announced for August 8-9, 2009, at the Village du Livre in Fontenoy-la-Joute.

Case Study: The 'Medusa' Photo from Col de Vence

An article titled "LA PHOTO DE LA 'MÉDUSE' DU COL DE VENCE : UN TRUCAGE GROSSIER QUI N'A PAS RÉSILTÉ AUX ENQUÊTEURS" (The 'Medusa' Photo from Col de Vence: A Gross Hoax That Did Not Withstand Investigators) details an investigation into a widely circulated photograph. The author expresses frustration with the time and resources wasted on "plaisantins" (jokers) who spread fake UFO photos and videos. The article highlights the "Medusa" photo, which gained attention in "NICE MATIN." The author suspected it was a fake due to its appearance and the retouching visible in a magnified view. The investigation, involving "Pierre Beake des Officiels du Col de Vence (O CD V)" and an analyst known as "Mr 'Eleven'," uncovered evidence that the object in the photo might have been a modified joystick. The investigation, described as a "technical and police inquiry," ultimately led to the "faussaire" (forger) confessing to fabricating the entire affair. The article praises the work of private ufologists and contrasts it with the perceived lack of transparency from official sources.

Pilot Testimony: November 5, 1990 Sighting

Another significant section presents the testimony of Philippe Dem, a commercial airline pilot, regarding an unknown aerial phenomenon he witnessed on November 5, 1990. The official explanation provided by GEIPAN (the French government agency for studying UFOs) was the reentry of a Proton rocket stage. However, Dem's account, along with those of over a thousand other witnesses, contradicts this explanation. Dem describes an object with a different trajectory, not appearing like a reentry, and moving at a low altitude. He recounts his observation while piloting a Beechcraft 200 at 10,000 feet near Melun, approaching Orly airport. He describes a dark, elongated object with bright lights, moving rectilinearly without any electromagnetic interference or sound. He estimates its size to be comparable to a large ship seen from a hundred meters away. His co-pilot, an engineer, also observed the phenomenon. Dem initially dismissed it as another aircraft but noted the unusual brightness of its lights. The phenomenon's trajectory was West to East, opposite to his own. He notes that the object's structure was visible when it passed closest to him. He and his co-pilot considered contacting air traffic control but decided against it. The article mentions that Dem had been reluctant to file a report due to the official explanation but has discussed it with colleagues. This account was compiled in June 2009 after several exchanges with the witness.

Petition for UFO Information

A section announces a petition launched from June 2 to July 14, 2009, addressed to the President of the French Republic, demanding "DES INFORMATIONS ET DES ÉTUDES COMPLEMENTAIRES SUR LE PHÉNOMÈNE OVNI" (Information and Complementary Studies on the UFO Phenomenon). The petition was supported by various ufology associations. The newsletter notes that hundreds of people had already sent their petitions and emphasizes the need for ufologists to be active in this movement, as newcomers are increasingly taking the lead.

Uruguayan Air Force and UFOs

The newsletter reports that the Uruguayan Air Force is interested in UFOs, having established a permanent commission called CRIDOVNI on August 9, 1979. The commission's objective is to study UFOs, and it comprises six full-time and five part-time personnel, supported by numerous correspondents across the country. Information about CRIDOVNI can be found on the Uruguayan Air Force website.

Video Investigation: Morocco

An article by Remy Fauchereau presents an "UNE ENQUÊTE VIDÉO AUTHENTIQUE ET PLEIN DE NATUREL SUR UNE ANCIENNE OBSERVATION FAITE AU MAROC" (An Authentic and Natural Video Investigation of an Old Observation Made in Morocco). Fauchereau investigates an old UFO sighting from Morocco, managing to locate and interview the witness. The resulting video testimony is described as a "true confession, full of authenticity and deeply touching."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes ufological meetings as vital platforms for discussion and information sharing. There is a clear stance against the dissemination of hoaxes and fake evidence, advocating for rigorous investigation and the exposure of fraudulent cases, as exemplified by the Col de Vence photo analysis. The publication also encourages public engagement with the UFO phenomenon, as seen in the petition to the French President, and highlights official interest in UFOs from international bodies like the Uruguayan Air Force. The editorial tone is one of active investigation, critical analysis, and a desire for greater transparency regarding UFOs.