La Revue des Soucoupes Volantes - No 4 - 1978

Magazine Overview

This issue of La Revue des Soucoupes Volantes, Volume 2, Number II, published in 1978 by Michel Moutet Editeur, France, features a cover price of 9.50 F. The ISSN is 0152.7924. The issue is dedicated to exploring the connections between various phenomena, including spiritualism, UFOs, and the paranormal, alongside science fiction reviews.

Editorial

The editorial, titled 'L'essentiel' (The Essential), highlights three key themes for the issue: the relationship between spiritualism and UFO phenomena (page 7), the respect due to witnesses of paranormal events (page 19), and the often-overlooked perception of phenomena by animals (page 27). The editor notes the return to a normal volume after a special promotion issue and promises a variety of content to entertain readers. A forthcoming article from 'La Chronique du Paranormal' about a 'Gallipoli abduction' is mentioned, emphasizing the importance of context in understanding paranormal events. The editorial also announces a lexicon of ufological terms for younger readers in the next issue.

Articles and Features

Des Esprits aux Extraterrestres

This article, by Pierre Viéroudy, delves into the historical shift from spiritualism to the belief in extraterrestrials. It begins by discussing the limitations of specialized knowledge and the work of researchers like Jacques Vallée, who sought to bridge folklore and UFO phenomena. Vallée's 'Passport to Magonia' is cited as a work that suggests the characteristics of UFO occupants align with those of mythological figures like fairies and elves. The article then contrasts the manifestations of 'disembodied spirits' in the 19th century with the emergence of extraterrestrial beliefs after 1945, particularly following the Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947. It posits that the fear of atomic annihilation may have contributed to the projection of these fears onto extraterrestrial visitors.

Les Esprits Désincarnés

This section, continuing the theme from the previous article, traces the history of spiritualism in the mid-19th century, coinciding with the rise of positivism. It recounts the famous Fox sisters' rappings and the subsequent belief in communication with the dead. The article mentions prominent mediums like Florence Cook and Daniel Dunglas Home, and the experimental verification of spiritualist doctrines. However, it notes a decline in spiritualism in the early 20th century, with a shift towards the appearance of 'strange objects' in the planet's atmosphere.

Les Extraterrestres

This section discusses the post-1945 search for meaning in the West, leading to the emergence of the extraterrestrial myth. It links this to the anxieties surrounding the atomic threat and the 1947 Kenneth Arnold sighting. The article notes that by 1954, the myth had solidified, with the idea that extraterrestrials were monitoring Earth due to atomic explosions. It mentions that these craft were photographed, tracked by radar, and left traces.

Foudre en Boule ?

This article details a specific incident in Normandy during November 1975. A luminous ball of light, described as bright yellow and the size of a tennis ball, appeared 300 meters in front of a moving van. It approached at high speed, parallel to the ground, and impacted the windshield. The only sound was that of the glass, and the object seemingly disappeared on impact, leaving a tiny point of impact on the windshield but no hole.

Other Sections

• Editorial: Highlights key articles and themes.
• Entretiens avec... Jimmy Guieu (suite) et André Chalouin: Interviews with notable figures.
• La Para-Ufologie ou la mort des «petits hommes verts»: An article by Michel Granger.
• «Flying Saucer Review» Revue de Presse: A press review by Marc Hallet.
• L'enquête en question: An article by Guillaume Kervendal.
• Lignes ouvertes: A section for reader correspondence.
• «Le ciel était vert a Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône»: A report on a sighting.
• Au dossier de la perception: Une exactitude trop parfaite?: An article by Marc Hallet, illustrated by Patrice Raynaud, exploring animal perception.
• La Chronique du Paranormal: Directed by Daniel Réju, featuring a haunted sheepfold story.
• Astronomie: Le mystérieux satellite de Vénus: An article by Marc Hallet.
• Tribune: Classification du phénomène O.V.N.I. et réalité des faits: An article by Michel Sorgues.
• Nous avons reçu: A section listing and briefly describing other publications received by the magazine.
• Livres: Reviews of science fiction books, including works by Richard Bessière, Michel Monnerie, A. Schneider, H. Malthaner, Johnn Brunner, Ch. et N. Henneberg, Marianne Leconte, Martin Slang, James Gunn, Edmond Hamilton, Piet Legay, Franck Dartal, Gilles Thomas, André Caroff, K.-H. Scheer, C. Darleton, Jan de Fast, Maurice Limat, Georges Murcie, and Dan Dastier.
• Avis à nos collaborateurs: A notice regarding an increase in editorial rates.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of the paranormal, spiritualism, and UFO phenomena. The editorial stance emphasizes a thorough and contextual approach to investigating these subjects, respecting witness accounts and considering all possible angles, including psychological and even animal perception. There is a clear effort to connect historical beliefs (spiritualism) with modern phenomena (UFOs), suggesting a continuity in human fascination with the unknown and the otherworldly. The magazine also actively engages with the science fiction genre, reviewing contemporary works and exploring speculative futures. The issue also touches upon social issues like pollution and vegetarianism, broadening its scope beyond purely ufological topics.

This issue of "Flying Saucer Review" (Vol. 23, No. 3 & 4, June/August 1977) presents a shift in ufological thought, moving away from purely physical interpretations of UFOs towards parapsychological and psychic explanations. The cover features a stylized celestial scene with a UFO and the headline "LA PARA - UFOLOGIE OU la mort des «petits hommes verts»", indicating a focus on the transformation of the field.

Interviews

Jimmy Guieu

Jimmy Guieu discusses the relationship between UFOs and humanity as a "power struggle," albeit a subtle one, with extraterrestrial beings having previously exerted discreet influence. He suggests they have the capacity for more brutal intervention, citing historical examples. Guieu also touches upon research into time travel and the potential for a "super mafia" controlling new energy sources. He expresses skepticism about the French GEPAN (Group for the Study of Aerospace Phenomena) providing conclusive answers, suggesting their aim might be to exclude amateurs. Guieu advocates for a scientific commission with governmental funding to study the phenomenon.

André Chalouin

André Chalouin, a long-time proponent of UFO existence, details his engagement with the phenomenon since the late 1940s. He initially faced skepticism and was considered a "gentle eccentric." Chalouin highlights the importance of Aimé Michel's book "Lueurs sur les Soucoupes Volantes" in raising awareness of UFOs as a significant scientific problem. He notes the shift in ufology towards viewing UFOs as potentially psychic or meta-terrestrial, influenced by collective human consciousness and the "alternate reality" theory.

Thematic Articles

Ectoplasms Extra-Terrestrials

This section explores the growing trend of linking UFOs to parapsychological phenomena. It questions the traditional image of "little green men" and suggests that UFO experiences might be purely psychic. The article recounts a case in Liverpool where a UFO landing coincided with the materialization of extraterrestrial-like figures, drawing parallels to spiritualist séances and ectoplasm.

"Contactés" or "Illuminés"?

This article examines the "alternate reality" theory, which posits that extraterrestrials cannot materialize physically but influence humans through ideas, dreams, or psychodramas. It references Carl Jung's hypothesis of UFOs as a psychic dramatization of modern spiritual crises. The piece contrasts this with the more tangible experiences reported by some "contactees," such as Ray Stanford, who describes physical materializations of beings called "Brothers" and encounters with luminous spheres.

"Flying Saucer Review" Review

This section reviews two issues of "Flying Saucer Review" (Vol. 23, No. 1 & 2). The articles discussed include a case from Columbia involving alleged alien medical procedures, and a lengthy, seemingly absurd account of Betty Hill's experiences, which the reviewer criticizes for its lack of scientific rigor and reliance on hypnosis. The review also touches upon the influence of science fiction films like "The Day The Earth Stood Still" and Spielberg's "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" on shaping public perception and ufological narratives.

Lunar Anomalies

A detailed analysis of thousands of lunar photographs taken by NASA missions (Ranger, Lunar Orbiter, Apollo) is presented. The authors conclude that many purported "anomalies" or "constructions" reported by parallel researchers are misinterpretations of natural features, optical illusions, or defects in the photographic process. While dismissing most claims of artificial structures, the article acknowledges the possibility of incomprehensible traces on the lunar surface and artificially transformed reliefs, suggesting they are ancient.

The Investigation in Question

This article addresses the fundamental questions surrounding UFOs: Do they exist? Who are they? What do they want? It acknowledges that while the existence of UFOs is increasingly accepted, the nature of the phenomenon remains elusive. The authors emphasize the importance of rigorous investigation, focusing on the witness's testimony and ensuring that the investigator's own biases do not distort the facts. They highlight that the phenomenon affects all segments of society and that many reported cases, despite official investigations, remain unexplained.

Associations

Brief descriptions are provided for two ufological organizations:

• S.P.E.P.S.E. (Société Parisienne d'Étude des Phénomènes Spatiaux et Étranges): An organization dedicated to the study of UFOs and related phenomena, aiming to foster reflection, exchange, and research across various disciplines.
• G.R.E.P.O. (Groupement de Recherches et d'Études du Phénomène O.V.N.I. du Vaucluse): A regional group focused on UFO research, public information, and sky observation within the Vaucluse department of France.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the evolving nature of ufology, the increasing integration of parapsychological concepts, and the critical evaluation of evidence. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that encourages rigorous, scientific investigation while acknowledging the limitations of current understanding and the potential for psychic or meta-terrestrial explanations. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine research and sensationalism, particularly in the critique of certain ufological practices and the influence of popular media.

This issue of "Lignes Ouvertes," Volume 2, Issue 3, dated July 1978, published by "Revue des Soucoupes Volantes," is a French magazine priced at 12 F. The cover features the title 'SAVOIR MAÎTRISE' with an artistic representation of an hourglass, a clock, and a chained figure, suggesting themes of knowledge, control, and the passage of time.

Key Articles and Features

UFO Encounters and Investigations:

The magazine presents several detailed accounts of UFO sightings and alleged encounters, with a particular focus on cases investigated by the Gendarmerie Nationale.

• Petite Ile, La Réunion (February 14, 1975): The article details the investigation by gendarmes into Antoine Séverin's report of a UFO landing and an encounter with three 'Michelin men' who extracted plants from his cornfield. Séverin's testimony is described as fragmented due to emotional distress, but the gendarmes meticulously gathered information over several days. The incident involved a luminous, round object, a descending ladder, and small figures. Residual radioactivity was not found on Séverin or his clothes.

• Plaine des Caffres, La Réunion (July 31, 1968): This case, occurring a few years prior, involved Monsieur Luc Fontaine reporting a strange object resembling a flying saucer that hovered above a clearing. Two small figures in suits and helmets were observed. The object emitted an intense glow before ascending. Investigations by the Gendarmerie and Protection Civile detected low-intensity radioactivity on Fontaine's clothing and higher levels at the site, with measurements suggesting a geometric pattern.

• Riec-sur-Belon, Finistère (September 29, 1974): A family reported observing a large, luminous object, described as a semi-sphere, with red circles at its base. Three figures, described as oval-bodied with rounded heads and silver in color, emerged and moved towards the witnesses. The event caused fear, leading the family to seek refuge with a neighbor.

• Nantes (September 29, 1974): Another alleged landing occurred in the Parc de la Gaudinière around the same time as the Riec-sur-Belon sighting. This incident, occurring in an urban area, was not investigated by the Gendarmerie, as it fell under the jurisdiction of the State Police, who were apparently not notified. The object was described as 10 meters long and 5-6 meters high, and may have left traces.

• Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône (July 1, 1965): Roger Cattola and his crew witnessed a green sky phenomenon that lasted for over 10 minutes. This sighting was reported after reading about a similar event involving Maurice Masse.

• Valensole (July 1, 1965): Maurice Masse, then 13 years old, reported an encounter with a UFO and two small humanoids in a lavender field. He described being paralyzed by a tube-like device and witnessing the beings harvest lavender. Masse later expressed a detached attitude towards UFO investigations, suggesting many accounts are fabricated or exaggerated.

Analysis and Commentary:

• Need for Coordinated Investigation: The magazine emphasizes the importance of collaboration between private UFO groups and official services, highlighting that private groups possess knowledge of the phenomenon, while official services have access and authority. A unified doctrine and precise directives for investigators are deemed necessary.

• Critique of Scientific Approach: In the "Lignes Ouvertes" section, Julien H. Kaneko suggests that understanding UFOs and paranormal phenomena requires a depersonalized, objective, and non-anthropocentric approach, viewing them as aspects of a fundamental 'Unique Reality.'

• Debate on Scientific Rigor: Thierry Pinvidic critiques Anne-Marie Normant's review of M. Viéroudy's work, questioning the scientific basis of experiments only accessible to the researcher. Normant defends the scientific methodology, citing Claude Bernard's rules for experimentation, and argues that Viéroudy's work represents the first scientific experimentation on the UFO phenomenon, provided his core postulate (reproducibility of UFO phenomena) is accepted.

• Near-Death Experiences: The article "APRES LA MORT" reviews Dr. Moody's book "La Vie après la Vie" (Life After Life), criticizing it as a collection of imprecise facts and declarations lacking scientific rigor. It contrasts Moody's work with Simon Monneret's "Vivre sa Mort" (Living One's Death), which offers a more critical, psychological, and biocultural explanation for near-death experiences, leading to opposite conclusions.

• The Nature of Perception and Reality: The article "Une Exactitude Trop Parfaite ?" by Camille Flammarion explores how our perception of reality is constructed by the brain, which interprets sensory data. It suggests that our understanding of space, time, and even colors might be illusions or conventions programmed into our brains. The article references experiments with prism glasses that distort vision, showing how the brain can adapt and create a coherent, albeit illusory, world. It also touches upon the subjective nature of time perception across different cultures and individuals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance:

The magazine consistently advocates for rigorous, objective, and coordinated investigation into UFO phenomena. It highlights the need for a scientific approach while acknowledging the psychological and perceptual factors that can influence witness accounts. There's a recurring theme of questioning conventional understanding of reality, consciousness, and time, suggesting that our perceived world may be a construct. The editorial stance supports open inquiry and the sharing of information, while also expressing skepticism towards sensationalism and unverified claims. The magazine seems to lean towards the idea that UFO phenomena, regardless of their origin (extraterrestrial or otherwise), are significant enough to warrant serious study and require a unified effort from both official and private sectors.

Notable Quotes:

• "Ce que nous savons de plus sûr c'est que les choses ne sont pas ce qu'elles nous paraissent, ni dans l'espace ni dans le temps." - Camille Flammarion

• "Vous pensez bien que tout ce qui a été dit et écrit c'est plus ou moins exact. [...] Mais je n'ai pas parlé..." - Maurice Masse (implied)

• "Je mets quiconque au défi, dit-il, de réaliser une photo de soucoupe en vol et de jour, surtout lorsque celle-ci a un aspect métallique, comme la vôtre: vous pouvez être pratiquement certain que la photo est truquée. De nuit, je ne dis pas..." - Maurice Masse

FAQ:

• What is the main focus of the 'Lignes Ouvertes' section? The 'Lignes Ouvertes' section primarily features selected extracts from reader letters, focusing on originality, questions, and critiques that offer interesting insights to the readership.
• What were the key events described in the La Réunion UFO cases? The La Réunion cases involve witness Antoine Séverin reporting an encounter with a UFO and 'Michelin men' in 1975, and Luc Fontaine observing a strange object with residual radioactivity in 1968.
• What is the magazine's stance on the scientific validity of UFO research? The magazine encourages a scientific approach to UFO phenomena, emphasizing objective investigation and the need for a unified doctrine among private groups and official services.
• How does the article 'Une Exactitude Trop Parfaite ?' discuss perception? This article suggests that our perception of reality, including space and time, is heavily influenced by our brain's interpretation of sensory information, potentially creating illusions and a 'programmed' view of the world.

Summary of Key Incidents:

• February 14, 1975: Antoine Séverin's UFO encounter and 'Michelin man' sighting in Petite Ile, La Réunion.
• July 31, 1968: Luc Fontaine's UFO observation and detection of radioactivity in Plaine des Caffres, La Réunion.
• July 1, 1965: Roger Cattola's green sky phenomenon sighting near Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône.
• July 1, 1965: Maurice Masse's encounter with a UFO and humanoids in Valensole.
• September 29, 1974: A family's UFO sighting in Riec-sur-Belon, Finistère.
• September 29, 1974: Alleged UFO landing in Nantes (uninvestigated).

Themes: UFO Landing, Alien Encounter, Government Investigation, Psychological Effects, Consciousness, Perception, Time.

Tags: UFO, Unidentified Flying Object, Alien, Encounter, Landing, Witness, Gendarmerie, Investigation, La Réunion, Petite Ile, Antoine Séverin, Michelin men, Radioactivity, Plaine des Caffres, Luc Fontaine, Riec-sur-Belon, Nantes, Perception, Consciousness, Time.

This issue of "Planète" (Number 37, November-December 1967) delves into a variety of intriguing and often speculative topics, ranging from historical military campaigns to the nature of reality and scientific mysteries. The cover prominently features a striking graphic of the moon with clock elements, hinting at themes of time and celestial phenomena, and poses the provocative question: "'ENLEVEMENT' OU PIEUX MENSONGE?" (Abduction or Pious Lie?).

The Gallipoli Enigma: "Abduction" or Pious Lie?

The issue opens with a detailed account of the Franco-British Expedition to the Dardanelles in 1915, focusing on the Gallipoli campaign. It recounts the military objectives, the difficulties faced, and the eventual evacuation. The article highlights a peculiar incident involving the disappearance of the 5th Norfolk Regiment, which the Turkish forces claimed no knowledge of. This event, coupled with other reported disappearances, leads the author to question whether these were instances of 'abductions' or fabrications, suggesting that UFOs might be a relatively recent phenomenon, exploiting our limited understanding of space and time.

The Nature of Time, Space, and Consciousness

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to exploring the philosophical and scientific implications of time, space, and matter. Drawing on the ideas of thinkers like Berkeley, Max Planck, Louis de Broglie, and Arthur Eddington, the articles suggest that our perception of reality might be fundamentally flawed. The concept of consciousness as the primary reality, with matter being a derivative, is explored. The writings of Sir James Jeans are particularly influential here, with his ideas on how individual perceptions create distinct realities and the possibility that the universe itself is a form of 'Great Thought' or cosmic consciousness.

The 'Neith' Satellite of Venus: A Historical Mystery

Another extensive section is dedicated to the historical enigma of a supposed satellite of Venus, known as 'Neith.' The article meticulously traces the observations made by astronomers from the 17th to the 19th centuries, detailing the initial reports, subsequent sightings, and the growing skepticism. It discusses various explanations proposed, including optical illusions, instrument malfunctions, and even extraterrestrial spacecraft. Ultimately, the article concludes, based on the critical synthesis by Paul Stroobant and others, that the 'Neith' satellite did not exist, attributing the sightings to misinterpretations and the limitations of early astronomical instruments.

The Haunted Bergerie of Fenestre

A more personal and anecdotal piece recounts the experiences of Mme Péquignot at an old shepherd's hut near Fenestre in the French Alps. The area is described as a 'high place' with a history of Templar knights and a mysterious Black Virgin statue. Mme Péquignot's chalet, built on the site of an old refuge, becomes the scene of intense poltergeist activity, including unexplained noises, moving objects, and disembodied cries. Despite investigations into the site's past, no definitive explanation is found, leaving the mystery of the 'invisible' forces unresolved.

UFOs and the Evolution of Ufology

The magazine includes an interview or commentary on the evolution of UFO research, discussing the shift from 'soucoupisme' (flying saucer studies) to 'ufology.' The author notes the increased public awareness and reduced ridicule associated with UFOs, while acknowledging that the fundamental understanding of the phenomenon has not drastically changed. Theories about UFOs originating from parallel dimensions or being manifestations of a higher consciousness are touched upon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Planète" consistently explores the boundaries of conventional scientific and historical understanding. It champions a critical yet open-minded approach to phenomena that challenge established paradigms, whether they be military mysteries, the nature of reality, or unexplained aerial objects. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging deeper inquiry into the unknown, questioning accepted truths, and considering alternative explanations, often drawing from philosophical and speculative scientific theories. The magazine aims to bridge the gap between established science and the more esoteric or unexplained aspects of existence.

Title: Les Cahiers du REALISME FANTASTIQUE
Issue: NUMÉRO 2
Date: 2nd quarter 1978 (Cover date: 1978-04)
Publisher: N.M.P.P.
Country: France
Language: French
Price: 12 FF

This issue of "Les Cahiers du Réalisme Fantastique" focuses heavily on the study and classification of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), presenting a detailed system developed by Michel Sorgues. The magazine also features excerpts from articles on various paranormal and science fiction themes, book reviews, and news from the ufology community.

Classification of UFO Phenomena by Michel Sorgues

The central piece of this issue is Michel Sorgues's proposed classification system for UFO phenomena. He begins by emphasizing the need for a strict definition of UFOs, distinguishing them from misidentifications like balloons, planes, or satellites. The classification aims to organize the complex and varied manifestations of the phenomenon.

Phases of Observation:

• A: High Altitude Observations: Characterized by a bright, moving point, often at night or day, which is not a known object. This category includes potential confusions with stars or satellites, but also cases with real, unusual displacements like 90-degree turns.
• B: Medium Altitude Observations: Includes unusual lights at night and, during the day, objects that do not conform to conventional aerodynamics or aerodynes, termed "Ufodynamique" objects.
• C: Low and Very Low Altitude Observations: Divided into evolving and static (hovering) observations. This can include objects moving at very low altitudes or appearing stationary without touching the ground (quasi-landings).
• D: Landings: This category focuses on the phenomenon itself, not the specific maneuvers or traces. It includes landings where occupants are or are not observed, and cases where only traces of a landing are found without direct observation of the craft.
• E: Observations of Occupants: Sorgues stresses the importance of defining "occupants" as beings observed descending from a UFO, without knowing their origin or function aboard the craft. This category is further divided into observations of UFOs on the ground with occupants, and observations of occupants without a nearby UFO.
• F: Contacts: This category, considered the logical culmination of planetary exploration, includes close encounters with occupants, the exchange of information or "messages" (defined as information transfer from an occupant to a witness), and telepathic communications, even without the immediate presence of a UFO.

Secondary Classifications:

Sorgues also proposes secondary classifications based on the types of UFOs observed (balls, discs, cigar-shaped) and their grouping (solitary, in groups, launching or reintegrating other types). He further adds an "observation quality index" based on the method of observation (naked eye, optical instrument, photo/film, radar, space observation).

Excerpts from Articles

The magazine features three excerpts from articles intended for a wider audience:

• "In Sole Posuit Tabernacula Sua" by Gérard Cordonnier: This excerpt recounts two events from September and October, describing a solar phenomenon with a luminous globe, a yellow-gold atmosphere, and a rain of white flowers. It also mentions a message from "Notre-Dame du Rosaire" urging people to change their lives and ask for forgiveness.
• "Une noce au pays des lutins" by R.P. Chrysopée: This piece discusses a case involving an ambassador, a doctor, and a valet, linked to a UFO case involving Joe Simonton, a Wisconsin farmer who received cakes from extraterrestrials. The author suggests a symbolic meaning behind the sharing of food, relating it to traditions.
• "Des Hommes Lumineux au Nord-Cameroun" by Jean-Jacques Jaillat: This excerpt describes a village belief in "luminous beings" that are the "doubles" of people sleeping. It recounts a story where young men decided to "corner" a "luminous being" and found that it did not exist, suggesting a rational explanation for a local legend.

Letters and Reviews

Letters:

• Letter from Michel Picard: Criticizes J.C. Bourret for exaggerated claims and for allegedly diverting funds to private groups, while acknowledging Bourret's right to earn money.
• Letter from Marie-Claire Pompei: Argues that television, with its frequencies, can be traumatizing and lead to violent dreams or mental projection, linking increased TV sales to UFO wave occurrences. She calls for television's potential sophological implications to be treated as a public danger.

Book Reviews and Mentions:

The "LIGNES OUVERTES" section includes a letter referencing books by Michel Monnerie and Pierre Viéroudy. Several science fiction books are reviewed or mentioned:

• "L'homme venu des étoiles" by Peter Randa: A story about a man in a French village who suddenly recovers his sanity, with subsequent strange incidents.
• "Mémoire génétique" by J.P. Garen: A story about a baby found in a forest after Earth enters the galactic era.
• "Quelques lingots d'irridium" by J. et D. Le May: A space chase story with police, pirates, and a superhuman pilot.
• "Les chevaliers de l'espace" by J.G. Vandel: A story about a nuclear war averted by mysterious destruction-diverting devices.
• "La planète introuvable" by B.-R. Bruss: Explores a planet where time seems to accelerate and decelerate unpredictably.
• "La peur géante" by Stefan Wul: A highly regarded work that offers a hypothesis on the origin of "Flying Saucers."

Breves (Short News)

• J. Allen Hyneck's Presence: Dr. J. Allen Hynek attended the 6th National Congress of Research Groups in Florence, Italy, in May 1978.
• "Bizarre?" Magazine: Announcement of a new Swiss ufology magazine called "Bizarre?", with its first issue planned for September 15th.
• Support for the Review: Readers are encouraged to support "La Revue des Soucoupes Volantes" by ensuring its visibility in newsstands and by checking for its proper display.
• A.P.R.O. and Hypnosis: The Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (A.P.R.O.) is mentioned for its approach to investigating "witnesses" through pendulum dowsing instead of hypnosis, questioning its scientific rigor.

Conditions of Subscription and Sale

Information regarding subscription and single issue sales is provided, with the issue being available for 12 FF and the deposit legal date being the 2nd quarter of 1978. The printing number is 1, and the edition number is 8. The printer is DE-MARCHI in Marseille.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the systematic study and classification of UFO phenomena, the exploration of extraterrestrial hypotheses, and the intersection of science fiction with potential real-world events. The editorial stance, as exemplified by Michel Sorgues's classification, is one of rigorous investigation and a desire to move beyond mere speculation, while acknowledging the complexity and the potential for phenomena to be more than just extraterrestrial in origin. The inclusion of book reviews and letters from readers indicates an engagement with a broad spectrum of ideas within the realm of the fantastic and the unexplained.