SCIENCE & VIE

Magazine Overview

Title: SCIENCE & VIE
Issue: 935
Date: August 1995
Country: France
Price: 23,00 F

This issue of Science & Vie prominently features a cover story about a French researcher discovering the origin of life. However, a significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed investigation into the Roswell incident and the alleged alien autopsy film, presented as "EXTRA-TERRESTRES: La grande arnaque" (Extraterrestrials: The Big Scam).

Un chercheur français découvre l'origine de la vie

This article, highlighted on the cover, focuses on a French researcher's groundbreaking discovery related to the origin of life. While the specifics of the discovery are not detailed in the provided text snippets, its placement on the cover suggests it is a major scientific breakthrough reported in this issue.

EXTRA-TERRESTRES: La grande arnaque

This multi-page investigation, authored by Pierre Lagrange, critically examines the Roswell incident and the controversial alien autopsy film released by Ray Santilli. The article argues that Santilli is a manipulative showman exploiting public credulity by reviving the Roswell UFO crash myth with sensationalized footage.

The Roswell Incident: A Re-examination

The article traces the history of the Roswell incident, which began on July 8, 1947, with the initial announcement by the Roswell Army Air Field of the capture of a flying saucer. This was quickly retracted, with the military claiming the debris was from a weather balloon. The magazine highlights how this event, initially dismissed, was resurrected decades later by ufologists.

Key figures like Stanton Friedman and William L. Moore are mentioned for their role in reviving the Roswell case in the late 1970s and 1980s. The article discusses various claims, including the discovery of alien bodies and the existence of a secret group called Majestic 12 (MJ12) allegedly involved in a cover-up. However, the magazine asserts that these claims lack credible evidence.

Debunking the Alien Autopsy Film

A significant focus is placed on the alien autopsy film, presented as a sensational piece of evidence. The article points out that the film, allegedly purchased by Ray Santilli, has been widely circulated and accepted by some media outlets. However, the magazine's investigation reveals that the film's footage is questionable, and the claims surrounding it have not withstood scrutiny. The article suggests that the film is likely a fabrication, possibly using latex mannequins, and that Santilli is exploiting the public's fascination with UFOs for commercial gain.

Military Explanations and Project Mogul

The magazine delves into the military's perspective, referencing the Air Force's official report. It explains that the debris found at Roswell was likely from Project Mogul, a top-secret U.S. Air Force program designed to detect Soviet nuclear tests using high-altitude balloons. The article quotes Colonel Richard Weaver, who suggests that the term "flying saucer" used at the time might have had a different meaning, not necessarily implying extraterrestrial origin.

Testimonies from individuals like Jesse Marcel and Irving Newton are presented, highlighting the confusion and differing interpretations of the debris. The article notes that while Marcel was intrigued by the debris, suggesting it was not a balloon, Newton, a meteorological officer, recognized it as such. The magazine questions the reliability of testimonies, especially those recalled decades later, and points out inconsistencies in witness accounts.

The Role of Ufologists and Media

The article criticizes the sensationalism surrounding UFO reports, particularly the role of ufologists and popular media in perpetuating myths. It mentions how certain ufologists have been accused of fabricating evidence or relying on unreliable sources. The magazine also touches upon other alleged UFO crash incidents, such as the Aztec, New Mexico case, which are also presented as hoaxes or misinterpretations.

The "Big Scam" and Media Manipulation

The core argument of the "La grande arnaque" section is that the Roswell incident and the alien autopsy film are elaborate hoaxes designed to deceive the public. The article emphasizes that despite decades of claims and alleged evidence, no concrete proof of extraterrestrial visitation has emerged. It suggests that the media's eagerness to report on sensational UFO stories, often without critical analysis, contributes to the spread of misinformation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Science & Vie adopts a strongly skeptical and critical stance towards UFO phenomena, particularly the Roswell incident and related claims. The editorial stance is one of promoting scientific rigor and critical thinking, urging readers to question sensationalist narratives and demand verifiable evidence. The magazine champions the scientific method, contrasting it with the speculative and often unsubstantiated claims prevalent in ufology. The cover story on the origin of life reinforces the magazine's commitment to reporting on genuine scientific advancements, while the extensive investigation into Roswell serves to debunk what it considers a persistent and harmful myth fueled by media hype and public gullibility.