Recherches Ufologiques - No 08 - 2e trim 1979

Magazine Overview

This is issue number 8 of "Groupement Nordiste d'Etudes - Recherches Ufologiques," published quarterly in the second trimester of 1979. The price is 4 French Francs. The organization, GNEOVNI, was founded in 1965 and aims to inform the public about unusual celestial phenomena in Northern France. It is affiliated with "CUFOS-FRANCE" for the Nord and Pas-de-Calais departments and is a member of the European Committee for the Coordination of Ufological Research (C.E.C.R.U.). The bulletin is printed by the GNEOVNI secretariat in Lestrem.

Editorial

The editorial, signed by President Roger Caffiaux, acknowledges that the phenomenon of UFOs remains unexplained. It quotes J.A. Hynek, suggesting that UFOs represent a fascinating area of future study that could reveal insights into the future, much like television would have appeared to Plato. The editorial emphasizes that ufologists currently rely on hypotheses, which can differ and even contradict each other. It encourages readers to send their reflections and critiques, which will be studied and may be published. The editorial highlights that articles reflect the authors' thoughts and that apparent contradictions within the same issue are normal. It also discusses the role of a researcher, who must examine evidence objectively, like a judge, considering both incriminating and exculpatory facts. The piece concludes by stating that a review with a fixed opinion on UFOs would be suspect, and the true end of the review would be when the phenomenon is definitively explained, leaving no more unidentified flying objects.

Featured Articles and Content

"OVNI : Le premier Dossier Complet des Rencontres Rapprochées en France"

This section presents a review of a new book by Michel Figuet and Jean-Louis Ruchon, with a preface by Aimé Michel. The book is described as the first comprehensive compilation of close encounter UFO reports in France, covering cases from 1906 to January 1, 1977. It contains 600 cases, meticulously classified and presented, with new studies and counter-enquiries that have helped to correct errors in location, date, and facts, and to demystify previously accepted cases. The book is presented as a valuable research document for those interested in UFOs and is expected to challenge the convictions of skeptics.

"Avis" (Notice)

This section announces that GNEOVNI will have an information stand at the annual Lille fair on Monday, September 3, 1979. The stand will sell bulletins, books, and offer free items for the benefit of the group. Readers are invited to attend and are encouraged to bring old books or objects to sell for the group's budget.

"L'ETRANGE" by Philippe Finet

This article, subtitled "a chronicle," concludes that aerial vision reports of circular objects, localized in longitude and latitude, and lacking a typical religious or legendary context, transmitted through popular tradition from epochs predating our century, must be rigorously included in an objective study of the M.O.C. (Manned Objects in the Sky) phenomenon. It references Jacques Vallée's book "Les Phénomènes Insolites de l'Espace" and suggests that some ancient chronicles relate strange aerial observations.

"Vos questions, nos réponses" (Your questions, our answers)

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"Les petites nouvelles astronomiques" by Richard Berque

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"Science et extra-science" by Philippe Finet

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"Mr Dupont et les ovni" by Philippe Finet

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"Aspects divers du phénomène ovni" by Vincent Archer

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"Info-groupement"

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"Incroyable mais vrai" by Philippe Finet

This article discusses a case from Michel Bougard's book "La Chronique des OVNI," detailing an observation from 384 to 600 AD involving Saint Columcille. During a synod, Columcille requested the release of Scandlann Mor, which was refused. That night, a pillar of fire appeared, moved towards the prison, and emitted a luminous ray that broke Scandlann Mor's chains. A voice then called him, and an "angel" freed him. Aedh Mac Ainmuire, impressed, recognized St. Columcille's divine mission. Bougard notes that St. Columcille had many strange incidents and contacts with "angels" and other aerial wonders. The article questions why Scandlann Mor was imprisoned and why St. Columcille intervened so strongly, suggesting the involvement of "extra-terrestrial friends." The author posits that if these characters were symbolic, the legend would be incoherent. However, since they were real people, the aerial intervention is questioned as a mere legend. The article suggests that the names of the characters, when translated, might hold the key to solving the problem, referencing ideas from the book "Les Celtes et les Extra-Terrestres."

"Un Choix Pour Vos Livres" (A Choice For Your Books)

This section reminds members of GNEOVNI about a 10% discount on books purchased through the "Le Furet Du Nord" bookstore. It lists several recommended titles related to science fiction, esotericism, and UFOs, including works by Pierre Kohler, Isaac Asimov, J.C. Bourret, J. Scornaux & Ch. Piens, A. Ducrocq, J. Vallée, D. Keyhoe, and Coarer & Gwezenn. It also notes that some titles were previously featured in issue number 7.

"Catalogue Régional"

This section details the methodology for compiling the regional UFO catalogue for the Nord and Pas-de-Calais departments. It provides the definition of a UFO according to Professor Hynek of CUFOS. The catalogue is compiled from GNEOVNI's own investigations, witness reports, press articles, and specialized magazines. It outlines three classification systems used: Vallée's (Type I-V), GEPAN's (A-D, C'), and Hynek's (NL, DD, RV, CE-I, CE-II, CE-III). The issue then lists several specific UFO cases from 1967, including details of the date, location, object type, and a brief description of the sighting. Readers can request full case reports by mail.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the ongoing investigation and documentation of UFO phenomena, particularly in Northern France. There is a strong emphasis on rigorous research, the collection and classification of sightings, and the open-minded consideration of various hypotheses. The editorial stance is one of scientific inquiry, acknowledging the current lack of definitive explanations while encouraging further study and public participation. The issue also touches upon the historical context of UFO-like events, suggesting that such phenomena may have been observed and interpreted differently throughout history. The GNEOVNI promotes itself as a central hub for collecting and disseminating this information within its region.

This issue of ANOMALIE, dated May 22, 1978, focuses on UFO sightings and investigations, primarily in France. The magazine presents a chronological catalog of reported incidents from 1967 to 1970, alongside a detailed investigation into a specific 1978 event.

Catalog of Sightings (1967-1970)

The magazine meticulously lists numerous UFO sightings, providing dates, locations (departments and towns), and brief descriptions. These entries detail observations of various aerial phenomena:

• September 9, 1967: Saméon (59) - Two round, brilliant objects moving slowly westward.
• October 11, 1967: Arras (62) - An oblong, orange-brilliant object moving silently at high speed.
• November 1967: Marcq en Baroeul (59) - A green then orange light observed.
• January 12, 1968: Lille (59) - An intense green light seen for several seconds, possibly an 'electro-meteor'.
• January 1968: Calais (62) - A luminous object moving at high speed in a zig-zag pattern at low altitude, disappearing into a cloud.
• March 23, 1968: Watten (59) - An oval object, brighter than Venus, with a trailing effect.
• July 1968: Bouvignies (59) - A yellow circular object observed passing vertically at high altitude.
• August 19, 1968: Steenwerck (59) - A strange, luminous body changing shape and illuminating the landscape.
• August 19, 1968: Sin le Noble (59) - An orange disc-shaped object evolving rapidly southward.
• September 4, 1968: Liévin (62) - A lightly luminous circular object moving East to West, then reversing direction.
• November 20, 1968: Calais (62) - Several red streaks moving East, possibly a satellite disintegration or meteorite.
• November 26, 1968: Galametz (62) - Seven luminous objects grouped together moving eastward.
• June 1969: St Amand (59) - A luminous disc observed hovering, then ascending rapidly.
• July 1969: Vitry en Artois (62) - Several witnesses saw a brilliant object moving slowly southward, emitting green lights.
• August 1969: Etaples (62) - A strange cloud-like phenomenon was photographed, which then disappeared.
• September 3, 1969: Lille (59) - A white ball, less bright than Venus, moved rapidly from Northwest to zenith.
• September 12, 1969: Arras (62) - A large dark object evolved above Arras, then ascended rapidly and disappeared into clouds.
• September 17, 1969: Avesnes les Lubert (59) - A bright point, larger than Venus, emitting white and red flashes.
• October 1969: Coudekerque-Branche (59) - A yellow-orange object, initially immobile, then moved away at high speed.
• January 9, 1970: Croix (59) - A nebulosity in the shape of a crescent, little luminous, moving erratically across the sky.
• January 29, 1970: Hellemmes (59) - An orange circular object, the size of a tennis ball, descended vertically at high speed.
• March 15, 1970: Bergues (59) - A blue-green ball traversed the sky slowly.

Investigation: Beaufort Incident (May 22, 1978)

The core of this issue is a detailed investigation by M. Bigorne into an event that occurred on May 22, 1978, at 23:30 near Beaufort (Nord). Claude D., a 30-year-old plumber, and his friend Kime X. reported seeing a reddish glow on the horizon that materialized into a large, red, luminous object. The object appeared to be directly in front of their car, above electrical poles, and was described as an inverted saucer with a bright white neon spot underneath. They took refuge in a nearby house. The object then moved slowly, its imposing size preventing it from landing. Claude D. described it as having sharp contours with a slight orange halo. No sound was heard, and their car's headlights were unaffected. The object eventually moved away towards Solre-le-Château.

Claude D. and Kime X. later had difficulty sleeping due to fear. The investigation took place on August 1, 1978. Claude D. was found to be a reliable witness. He estimated the object's apparent size to be over 30 times the lunar diameter. Kime X. added that the object was slightly blurry with a halo. Both estimated the duration of the sighting from initial vision to the arrival of a second vehicle at seven minutes. They believed the object reacted to their car's headlights and moved away when a second vehicle arrived.

Further inquiries involved Claude D.'s mother, sister, and brother-in-law, who also saw a large, red, luminous disc-like object in the sky, but it appeared immobile to them. They all went to bed, with Claude D. and Kime X. remaining agitated.

Meteorological verification indicated low clouds, stratus, and strato-cumulus, with stable winds and no precipitation. The moon was not visible. Astronomical calculations showed that the moon's position at the time of the sighting was significantly different from the reported object's location.

Contact with the EDF (electricity company) revealed no anomalies on high-voltage lines. Residents of the house where the witnesses took refuge recalled no unusual events. The local air base (BA 103) and aerodrome reported no aircraft or helicopters in the area at the time.

Other Sections

• Questions & Answers: This section addresses reader inquiries. One question concerns the origin of the

This issue of "INFO GROUPEMENT" (Issue No. 5) focuses on UFOs and extraterrestrial phenomena, featuring a mix of public opinion surveys, detailed case studies, and organizational updates within the ufology community. The magazine explores the scientific and public perception of UFOs, with a strong emphasis on rigorous investigation.

Cover Story: "ILS DEBARQUENT !" (They are landing!)

The cover headline, "ILS DEBARQUENT !", immediately sets a tone of imminent extraterrestrial arrival. The accompanying article discusses the work of the CNRS and GEPAN in studying electromagnetic phenomena related to UFOs. It suggests that if scientists and orthodox thinkers collaborated, the "top secret" classification of such phenomena might be lifted, and many mysterious UFO events could be explained. The article humorously advises against showing identification to potential extraterrestrials.

Public Opinion on UFOs: The SOFRES Poll

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the results of a SOFRES poll conducted for "Le Pèlerin" (Issue No. 5035, June 3, 1979). The poll surveyed 2000 French individuals aged 15 and over regarding their explanations for the presence of UFOs. Surprisingly, "one in four French people" believe in the existence of "piloted craft from other planets." The article notes that the pollsters and "Le Pèlerin" editors might have been terrified if they had been present during a GEPAN meeting. It also contrasts these findings with a smaller survey conducted by Jean-Claude Bourret, suggesting a discrepancy.

• The poll results indicate:
• 30% explain UFOs by natural phenomena.
• 21% attribute them to flying craft sent from Earth.
• 12% suggest hallucinations (mentioning "Mr Monnerie").
• 20% "don't know" (referred to as "Les Duponts").
• 25% believe they are "FLYING CRAFT FROM ANOTHER PLANET," which the author views with skepticism, attributing it to the "Duponts" "inventing" things.

The article further points out that even "3 out of 4 French people" do not believe in "flying machines of unknown nature," suggesting this might be why Claude Poher "went on vacation, depressed." The author questions the reliability of the poll due to the age of the respondents.

Demographic Analysis of UFO Beliefs

Expanding on the SOFRES poll, the article analyzes the correlation between age and belief in extraterrestrial explanations. It notes that 40% of those favorable to the extra-terrestrial explanation are under 25, with decreasing percentages in older age groups. The belief is also linked to social status and habitat, with employees and managers more likely to accept UFOs than farmers, and urban dwellers more so than rural ones. The South-East region shows the highest percentage (32%) for the extra-terrestrial explanation, while the East and West are at 23% and 24% respectively. The article notes the absence of data for the Nord region in the SOFRES report.

Case Studies: Abductions and Encounters

The Hills Case

This case involves Barney and Betty Hills, who in the night of September 19-20, 1961, experienced two hours of missing time after observing a luminous ovoid craft. Under hypnosis, they recounted undergoing medical examinations by small, metallic-skinned beings with large heads and slanted eyes. A significant detail is a star map drawn by Barney Hills, which astrophysicists later confirmed as authentic and highly detailed, predating any known astronomical charts of that accuracy.

The Antonio Villas Boas Case

On the night of October 15-16, 1957, Antonio Villas Boas reported being abducted by a UFO and taken aboard the craft. He underwent "medical tests" and was left with a humanoid female for the purpose of an "accouplement" (mating), which reportedly occurred. He was later released.

The Hélène Giuliana Case

More recently, on the night of June 10-11, 1976, a 20-year-old woman, Hélène Giuliana, observed a luminous orange form while driving. Frightened, she stopped and hid her face. When she looked again, the object had vanished. Upon returning home, she realized two hours had passed, with no memory of the intervening time. Her description of events under hypnosis was similar to that of the Hills.

Other Cases

The article briefly mentions the case of VALDES, a corporal who disappeared for a quarter of an hour, apparently abducted by a UFO, and reappeared five days older. This is cited from Bulletin No. 5: "Brève Rencontre Dans L'Espace-Temps" by Berqué and Finet.

Hypotheses on Extraterrestrial Motives

Vincent Archer proposes hypotheses for why extraterrestrials might be visiting Earth:

1. Study of Humanity: The most logical hypothesis, similar to how zoologists or ethnologists study other species. This aligns with the fictionalized accounts in the film "L'Invasion des Soucoupes Volantes."
2. Playful Interaction: A more fantastic hypothesis suggests that visitors might be "playing" with humans, projecting their fantasies.

The author concludes that these remain hypotheses until the "main interested parties" can be questioned, leaving the UFO dossier with more questions.

"INCROYABLE MAIS VRAI" (Incredible But True) - A Report from the "Other Side"

This section presents a purported anonymous report from extraterrestrial beings. The report expresses frustration that despite their efforts, humans largely disbelieve their existence. They describe accidental destruction of humans who approach their reconnaissance craft too closely. They mention using different colored lights on their craft for safety, similar to primitive human technology. They note that some humans become aggressive or fearful when encountered, while others are more receptive when presented with robots resembling themselves.

The report highlights a paradox: despite their "perturbations," three-quarters of humans refuse to believe in their existence. While acknowledging the plurality of worlds and the reality of their reconnaissance craft, many humans still doubt their presence. The report laments the destruction of a human chosen as a "spokesperson" through a "bizarre rite" dictated by primitive human spirit. It claims this individual had been taught anti-gravity techniques, including walking on water.

The report concludes with the statement: "They do not believe in us! They are the Arbitrary made human!" and expresses helplessness. It also notes that humans are in an "intermediate evolution" phase, different from other species they have encountered.

Group Information and Updates

Raelists

The "INFO GROUPEMENT" section begins by mentioning the Raelists, described as "humanoids" whose activity is not very "proper." They are holding information meetings in a Lille café every Thursday. However, due to laws regarding non-profit organizations, the exact location and time are not disclosed to avoid publicity, as commercial solicitation is punishable by prison.

Observations

Numerous recent observations in the region have been received by mail, and investigations are ongoing before publication.

Skylab

A warning is issued about Skylab, not because it poses a direct threat, but because it might interfere with UFO observations and mislead witnesses, especially around June 21st. Contact information for the vice-president, Caudron, is provided for inquiries.

New Ufological Section

A ufological section has been created at the Léo-Lagrange club in Hellemmes, with which the group maintains good relations. This section will be led by Richard Berque and will include conferences, field work, and observation nights.

GNEOVNI Meeting

The GNEOVNI meeting had few attendees, possibly due to good weather encouraging daytime observations.

J-C Bourret's Upcoming Book

J-C Bourret has announced an upcoming publication titled "Les OVNI: L'ARMEE PARLE" (UFOs: The Army Speaks).

New GEPAN Classification Code

A new classification code proposed by GEPAN, supplementing Vallée and Hynek's system, was presented by Secretary J-P D'Hondt. This code aims to improve classification by adding more precision. The full code is to be found in the bulletin.

Official Ufological Research Groups

Only two countries have official ufological research groups: France and North Korea.

"Rencontre du Troisième Type" (Close Encounters of the Third Kind) Event

Vice-president Caudron attended an inquiry committee meeting in Dourdan, which included delegates from other groups. The meeting was described as having the committee president, their vice-president, and finally, a "third type" (referring to a third participant).

Courier from GEPAN

Alain Esterlee, the new director of the official French GEPAN, has sent a circular to private groups. He reaffirms GEPAN's goal of coherent UFO phenomenon research through a scientific methodology, emphasizing local group work. Groups focusing on scientific approaches are prioritized, excluding groups like the Raelists. The ideology of Monnerie is accepted, though debated. GNEOVNI's founding principle has always been a scientific approach.

Humor and the Bulletin

Humor and cartoons, previously criticized for their presence in the bulletin, will no longer be included. For those who enjoyed them, an "obituary chronicle" will be published in black and white. "Marginal humorists" are also informed that Italian confrere Clypeus has sent a special edition of his "Ufo and Fortean Phenomena" magazine titled "UMMORISMO," containing humorous drawings and stories about Martians.

Regional Catalog Update

Seven binders now contain almost all regional observations for the Nord-Pas de Calais region, meticulously classified by the General Secretary, with the help of Madame Delerue. To improve chronological research, practical calendars are needed. Annual P&T "almanach" calendars with local maps are considered the most useful. Readers are asked to send any such calendars from 1950 to the present to the General Secretariat.

New Questionnaire Procedure

Vice-President Caudron is working with GEPAN to establish a new, less "administrative" and more "interview-like" questionnaire, which will be more psychological. This new procedure is intended to replace the one currently used by LDLN and the National Gendarmerie. It is called "drawer questionnaire" and the hope is it won't be forgotten.

GNEOVNI Directory

The GNEOVNI directory is still in progress. Information requests sent previously may have slowed decisions, but the deadline is now annulled, and submissions are accepted indefinitely. The directory's purpose is to foster coherence, friendly understanding, and mutual aid among GNEOVNI members. It will be exclusively for members and not for commercial use.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the public's perception and belief in extraterrestrial life, and the detailed analysis of specific UFO cases, particularly those involving alleged abductions. The editorial stance appears to favor a rigorous, scientific approach to ufology, as exemplified by GEPAN and GNEOVNI, while expressing skepticism towards less evidence-based claims or sensationalism. There's a clear distinction made between scientific inquiry and more speculative or pseudoscientific interpretations of UFO events. The magazine also highlights the organizational aspects of the ufology community in France, including updates on meetings, publications, and collaborative efforts.