Recherches Ufologiques - No 16 - 3e et 4e trim 1982

Magazine Overview

Title: RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES
Issue: N° 16
Publisher: G.N.E.O.V.N.I. (Groupement Nordiste d'Etudes et de Recherches Ufologiques)
Date: 3rd/4th Quarter 1982
Price: 5 francs
Country of Publication: France
Language: French

This issue of 'RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES' (Ufological Research) is the 16th bulletin published by the GNEOVNI, a French ufological research group. The cover prominently features the group's name and the issue number, alongside a map of Northern France highlighting cities like Calais, Boulogne, Lille, and Arras, and a graphic of the Earth with a stylized object. The issue is dated as the 3rd/4th quarter of 1982, with a cover price of 5 francs. The ISSN is listed as 0180 150.

Editorial Content

Editorial: "Voilà une année de passée..."

The editorial, penned by Ph. FINET, reflects on the past year, noting that while it may have seemed quiet, it was marked by the significant release of Steven Spielberg's film "E.T.". The author contrasts the public's perception of "E.T." as a mere commercial film with its potential deeper meaning, suggesting it's a psychoanalytic commentary on society and humanity's future. FINET argues that Spielberg's work, particularly the "Encounter" series and "E.T.", is a deliberate progression, building upon themes like the Bermuda Triangle and the existence of extraterrestrials. The editorial posits that "E.T." delivers a profound message: "NON SEULEMENT NOUS NE SOMMES PAS SEULS, MAIS ILS EXISTENT!" (Not only are we not alone, but they exist!), calling it a significant gift to ufologists worldwide.

Les Mots du Président (The President's Words)

In this section, the President, Ph. FINET, addresses the organization's statutes, which prohibit discussion of politics or religion to ensure the group's existence. However, he acknowledges the inherent link between ufology and history, which is often intertwined with politics and religion. He recalls the historical "witch hunts" where UFOs were attributed to "Judeo-communists" and how UFOs have influenced ancestral mythologies and religions. FINET then introduces two articles in this issue, expressing hope they will be well-received and not generate controversy. The first is by the treasurer, René Leconte, described as a "personal ideological exposé" that, while potentially controversial, presents truths that are not debatable at a superficial level. The second article is by a mysterious Russian scholar or journalist named Sanarev from Novosibirsk, who has sent an article published in an American scientific journal about "E.T.", which was then published in the USA and is now featured in this French ufology review. The author notes that this article was translated from American to French by one of their members.

Due to the length of these two articles, they will be published in installments, with the continuation promised in the next issue (N°17).

Articles and Features

Sommaire (Table of Contents)

• The table of contents lists the following items:
• EDITORIAL
• LES MOTS DU PRESIDENT
• CATALOGUE REGIONAL - JANVIER 74 -(suite)
• A PROPOS DES DOSSIERS DE L'ECRAN DU 1 DECEMBRE 1981
• LA PLURALITE DES MONDES HABITES (1ère partie) by R. LECONTE
• INFOS-ECHOS- UFOS
• NATURE ET ORIGINES DES S.V. ET DES PETITS HOMMES VERTS (1ère partie) by V. SANAROV

Catalogue Régional (Regional Catalog) - January 1974 (Continued)

This section meticulously details UFO sightings reported in January 1974 in Northern France. Each entry includes the date, location, type of sighting (coded), and a description:

• January 8, 1974, TRITH ST LEGER: A rotating ball, rose then green, observed for 20 minutes.
• January 8, 1974, AVION: A luminous red-orange object with blinking lights moved slowly towards the ground and disappeared behind trees.
• January 11, 1974, LILLE: Two red "windows" with a frame, accompanied by a blinking white ball, moved low in the sky.
• January 11, 1974, COUDEKERQUE BRANCHE: A luminous ball zigzagged, approached, stopped, and then released other balls. The phenomenon was extremely bright.
• January 14, 1974, ST AMAND: A "star" descended, turned red, and began to blink.
• January 17, 1974, LILLE: A dark round object with luminous yellow rings, resembling Saturn.
• January 20, 1974, MAUBEUGE: A green disc-shaped object with colored lights passed at low altitude.
• January 22, 1974, DENAIN: A scintillating ball moved from SW to NE, while a larger white ball with orange lights approached from the opposite direction. They merged, descended, and disappeared, then reappeared with a blinding light.
• January 27, 1974, WALLERS: A yellow fireball intensified its luminosity for 2 minutes before disappearing.
• January 29, 1974, ROOST WARENDIN: Two red-orange spheres were seen moving towards Douai.
• January 29, 1974, MAUBEUGE: A plane was followed by an orange disc-shaped object.

The catalog is noted to continue in the next issue.

Other Articles:

• "A PROPOS DES DOSSIERS DE L'ECRAN DU 1 DECEMBRE 1981" by J.P. D'H ONDT.
• "LA PLURALITE DES MONDES HABITES (1ère partie)" by R. LECONTE. This article is described as a "personal ideological exposé" and is presented despite potential reservations about its classification.
• "INFOS-ECHOS- UFOS" is a section for news and echoes.
• "NATURE ET ORIGINES DES S.V. ET DES PETITS HOMMES VERTS (1ère partie)" by V. SANAROV. This article is the one contributed by the Russian author.

Organization Information

GNEOVNI Details:

• Secretariat: 879 Route de Béthune, 62136 LESTREM. Tel: (21) 26.17.73.
• Founded: 1965, operating under the French law of July 1, 1901, for non-profit associations.
• Mission: To publish the bulletin "RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES" to inform the public about unusual aerial phenomena in Northern France.
• Affiliations: Member of the European Committee for Coordination of Ufological Research (C.E.C.R.U.) and the French Federation of Ufology (F.F.U.).
• Meetings: Organizes quarterly public information meetings. Inquiries should be directed to the Secretariat for locations and dates.
• Reproduction: Authorized with specification of the bulletin's title and address.
• Subscription: 4 issues for 20 francs (check or postal stamps), payable to the GNEOVNI Secretariat.
• Director of Publication: D'HONDT, 879 Route de Béthune, LESTREM 62.
• Legal Deposit Number: 3/4 trimestre 1982 (3/4 Quarter 1982).
• Commission Paritaire Number: 60110.

SOBEPS:

Listed on the cover is SOBEPS (Société Belge d'Etude des Phénomènes Spatiaux asbl), located at Avenue Paul Janson, 74, 1070 Bruxelles, with phone number 02/524.28.48. This indicates a Belgian organization involved in the study of spatial phenomena.

Meetings in 1983:

• Announced meetings for GNEOVNI in 1983 are scheduled at the collective residence "Corail", 2 rue de la briquetterie, entrance rue du Fg de Roubaix in Lille, at 3 PM on:
• February 20
• May 8
• September 18
• December 18

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of ufology with popular culture (specifically the "E.T." film), historical analysis of UFO phenomena, and the cataloging of contemporary sightings. The editorial stance, particularly from the President, Ph. FINET, is one of open inquiry, acknowledging the complexities and historical baggage of ufology while embracing new evidence and interpretations. There's a clear effort to present diverse viewpoints, even those that might be ideologically charged, as long as they contribute to the discussion of UFO phenomena. The publication also emphasizes its role as an informative body, providing a platform for research and public awareness within the ufological community.

This document is a collection of articles and correspondence related to ufology, primarily from the perspective of the GNEOVNI (Groupement d'Études et de Recherches sur les Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-Identifiés) organization. The content spans discussions on a television program, theological and scientific perspectives on extraterrestrial life, and updates on ufological activities.

'Dossiers de l'Ecran' TV Program Analysis

J.P. D'Hondt, secretary of GNEOVNI, writes about his participation in a television program called "Dossiers de l'Ecran" on December 1, 1981. He expresses disappointment that the program offered nothing new to ufology and that his role was limited to that of a witness. He recounts being contacted by television on short notice and that the program's producers had already "announced the color," seeking a witness rather than a broader discussion. D'Hondt questioned why GNEOVNI was contacted, and was told it was due to the group's reputation for seriousness. He also proposed other witnesses and his own observation, published in LDLN n° 96, but these were not prioritized. During a brief pre-interview, he asked the presenter, Gilles Schneider, if he could discuss private groups, but was told it was not the subject of the debate. His offered slides of alleged UFOs were also not shown. He felt constrained to remain solely in his role as a witness.

He found it difficult to get a word in during the program but did not regret his participation, as it allowed him to meet Alain ESTERLE, the head of GEPAN. D'Hondt found Esterle to be reserved and defensive, possibly due to constant solicitations from less rigorous ufologists and scrutiny from scientific colleagues.

D'Hondt also addresses the constant attacks on GEPAN by private groups, which he and his colleagues at GNEOVNI find inexplicable. While acknowledging that GEPAN's results might not be as rapid as expected since a meeting in Toulouse on September 12, 1978, he urges patience and the "benefit of the doubt." He warns that if GEPAN is constantly criticized, it will only provide ammunition for those in the scientific community hostile to the UFO phenomenon, hindering its study.

The Plurality of Inhabited Worlds: Extraterrestrial Existence

This section, the first part of a larger article, addresses the hypothesis of extraterrestrial beings, referred to as "EXTRA-TERRESTRES." D'Hondt notes that this term has historically sparked discussions among scientists and theologians regarding the existence and origin of inhabited worlds in the cosmos. He links this to debates on polygenism, monogenism, and egocentrism.

A reader's letter is quoted, which praises the article's suppositions about other inhabited worlds but requests more precision on the scientific and theological declarations cited. The reader points to Pope Pius XII's 1950 encyclical "HUMANI GENEVIS," which confirmed the dogma of creation by God of a single human couple, thus consecrating monogenism. The reader wishes to know the exact texts of declarations supporting the plurality of inhabited worlds.

D'Hondt responds by referencing earlier discussions on the subject, including a 1973 article in the international review "OURANOS" involving Francis Consolin and Father Roguet. He also mentions a letter from Mr. Laval Henri of Lyon. He then addresses the reader's request by citing Pope Pius XII's implicit statement in 1956 that it was not forbidden to think that other planets might be inhabited. He also refers to Roger Masson's reflection in "La France Catholique" (July 6, 1973) on the evolution of theology and the mystery of creation.

Further supporting the idea of extraterrestrial life, D'Hondt quotes Aimé Michel, an early ufologist, who responded to a reader doubting the existence of extraterrestrials. Michel stated that while many astronomers believe flying saucers are real, their behavior suggests a concerted effort to prevent irrefutable proof. He favors the idea of an "infinitely populated universe of intelligent creatures," a concept he attributes to Cardinal Nicolas de Cuse from the 15th century.

Aimé Michel also cites Père Francis J. CONNEL, a theologian, who stated in "La France Catholique" (July 7, 1972) that it's conceivable for beings from space to exist in a natural state, destined for natural happiness after death, and possessing intelligence superior to ours, even if deprived of the "world of grace." Connel concluded that Catholic principles are compatible with the possibility of life on other planets.

D'Hondt then brings in scientific perspectives, referencing astronomer Abbé MOREUX, who in his 1934 book "A TRAVERS LES ESPACES CELESTES," imagined that life might have already flourished on the Moon during secondary geological periods. Moreux also suggested that celestial bodies, like generations, pass, implying a continuous process of life's development.

He further quotes Moreux's statement that physical laws and chemical conditions for cell existence are universal, suggesting that life could exist on other planets. The article also references a 1978 article in "LES INFORMATIONS CATHOLIQUES INTERNATIONALES" and a film about UFO manifestations, "Rencontre du 3° type," which reportedly included authentic UFO events.

Jean-Pierre Manigne's commentary on the film "Rencontre du 3° type" is discussed. Manigne accepts the possibility of different types of UFO manifestations, including the 4th type, referencing the Antonio Villas Boas case. The article notes that while the film is seasoned with science fiction, it also deals with "REALLY REGISTERED" UFO events. The author emphasizes that the witnesses' mental health and honesty are not to be doubted.

Scientific and Theological Perspectives on Inhabited Worlds

The article continues by citing Fontenelle's "Entretiens sur la pluralité des mondes," Pascal, Professor R.P. Dominique GRASSO, and Abbé Moreux's book "Les autres mondes sont-ils habités." This is presented as evidence that the Church is evolving and that science and faith are not irreconcilable. The author argues that scientists actively seeking knowledge are not naive.

D'Hondt acknowledges theories of evolution, transformism (Lamarck, Darwin), and Teilhard de Chardin's discoveries as valid for understanding the universe's creation. However, he also cites an article by Chandra WICKRAMASINGHE from the May 1982 "LE COURRIER DE L'UNESCO" titled "ET SI DARWIN AVAIT TORT" (What if Darwin Was Wrong?). Wickramasinghe's conclusion, shared by the author, favors a universe that is essentially eternal and infinite, with a Creator of life, a superior intelligence that emerged naturally. The article states that the Earth is not the material center of the universe, nor the seat of the highest intelligence.

Ufological News and Activities

The document includes a section on "INFOS ECHOES UFO" which provides updates on ufological groups and activities.

• Birth Announcement: Denis, son of Michel and Madame Michel Delerue, members of GNEOVNI, was born on September 29.
• New Group: The G.R.U.A. (Groupement de Recherches Ufologiques Audomarois) has been created under the aegis of Stéphane VANGREVENINGE. GNEOVNI offers its sponsorship to this new group in the Nord de la France region.
• GNEOVNI on Radio: J-P D'Hondt and Ph. Finet of GNEOVNI were interviewed on Radio-Marchiennes (FM 102.5) for an hour, discussing the importance of the UFO phenomenon. The radio station promised a series of broadcasts in March 1983.
• Media Solicitations: GNEOVNI receives many requests from free and local radio stations but often finds itself used as a "filler." They note that enthusiasm wanes when interviewers are asked to travel for recordings.
• Radar Technology: Three radars are under construction for the Norwegian Air Defenses, designed to withstand extreme cold and operate in remote regions. These advanced, three-dimensional, long-range, and automatic radars will be operational in 1984. This information is linked to a previous article about "The Air Forces and UFOs."
• UFOs and Polar Regions: The article questions whether classical or even advanced radars are hindered by extreme cold in polar regions. It suggests that UFOs might have a clear path over the poles until 1984, after which radars will be more effective.
• Where to Find 'Recherches Ufologiques': The bulletin is available at "Furet du Nord" and "Maison de la Presse" in Lille, and at the "Hotel-Restaurant Angelika" in Merville.
• Seeking Support: The publication seeks merchants or individuals with good connections to help distribute their bulletin on a consignment basis, offering flexible terms.
• Reader Contributions: The "VOS QUESTIONS... NOS REPONSES" (Your Questions... Our Answers) section is open, but no questions have been received recently. Readers are invited to submit articles for a potential new chronicle in "Recherches Ufologiques."
• Subscription Information: Due to rising costs, non-members will need to include postage stamps with their correspondence. The price of the bulletin will increase slightly, but GNEOVNI aims to remain the cheapest among ufological reviews.
• New Year's Greetings: The issue concludes with New Year's wishes from the President, Secretary, and Bureau of GNEOVNI.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of ufology with theology and science, the challenges faced by ufological organizations like GNEOVNI and GEPAN, and the media's portrayal of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is one of critical engagement, advocating for rigorous research, open discussion, and a balanced perspective that considers both scientific evidence and theological implications. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of GNEOVNI as a serious platform for ufological inquiry and a defense against what they perceive as unwarranted attacks on related organizations.

This issue of "RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES" features a diverse range of topics related to unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. It opens with a call for reader opinions on a film, followed by discussions on advanced military technology and astronomical concepts. The core of the issue delves into historical UFO cases and the scientific study of these phenomena, exploring theories about their origin and nature.

Reader Feedback and Current Events

The magazine begins by soliciting reader feedback on a film, inviting them to share their thoughts and perspectives. It also mentions the appointment of M. d'Allest as the new director of the French space research agency CNES, noting his potential openness to science fiction becoming reality, which is of particular interest to French ufologists. A brief mention is made of a planned friendly meal in 1983.

Technological and Scientific Insights

An article discusses the "practically indiscernible" radar signature of the American "STEALTH" military aircraft, attributing its stealth capabilities to a rubberized coating and the elimination of sharp angles. This technological advancement is paralleled with the rounded shapes of UFOs and the concept of a "rubberized" or elastic metallic material. The issue also touches upon current astronomical topics, such as supernovas and black holes, referencing the potential transformation of the star Eta Carinae into a supernova and the immense scale of a black hole that would require three hundred million years to traverse.

Historical UFO Cases and Analysis

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an article by Valerii I. Sanarov, titled "NATURE ET ORIGINE DES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES ET DES PETITS HOMMES VERTS" (Nature and Origin of Flying Saucers and Little Green Men). Sanarov examines the problem of UFOs and their occupants, suggesting that many accounts might be rooted in folklore and oral traditions. He references numerous studies and bibliographies on the subject.

Sanarov presents several historical cases:

• Fred Valentich Disappearance (1978): The article recounts the disappearance of Australian pilot Fred Valentich over Bass Strait, detailing the radio transmission that described an object with metallic reflections and green lights. Despite extensive searches, the pilot and his aircraft were never found, and while it's acknowledged as a UFO encounter, its nature remains inconclusive.
• Aurora, Texas Incident (1897): This case involves the crash of a strange aircraft near Aurora, Texas. The inspection of the pilot's remains reportedly led to the conclusion that he was from the planet Mars.
• Leroy, Kansas Incident (1897): Alexander Hamilton, a rancher, and his family witnessed a cigar-shaped object land near their cattle enclosure. They observed six "strange beings" (two men, one woman, and three children) and an object with a transparent material. The object reportedly emitted a light, and a large turbine wheel was seen above it before the craft ascended.

Sanarov notes that the Leroy incident was published in the "Yates Center Farmer's Advocate" and later reprinted. He also includes a letter from E.F. Hudson, who claimed that Alex Hamilton was the true inventor of human flight, suggesting a possible connection between these early aviation claims and the UFO reports.

Sanarov also discusses the historical context of dirigibles, mentioning early pioneers like Albert, Tissandier, Renard, Krebs, and Santos Dumont. He points out that in the late 19th century, there were numerous reports of piloted "airships" or " or "cigars" across the United States, often described with powerful projectors. He notes that Thomas Edison considered the idea of dirigibles absurd, questioning how such craft could be kept secret.

Interpretation and Folklore

Sanarov posits that the Hamilton story might be a premonitory dream about space conquest or a result of the public's fascination with the emerging technology of dirigibles. He suggests that the wave of dirigible sightings at the end of the 19th century was linked to the era of their construction. He concludes that human technical capabilities can be anticipated not only by science fiction writers but also by ordinary people, and that dreams can materialize into "ingenious accounts of anonymous testimonies," forming a basis for oral folklore.

Erratum and Future Content

An "ERRATUM" section addresses the precise measurements cited in Sanarov's article, explaining that the translator converted Anglo-Saxon measurements to European standards to maintain the article's integrity. The issue concludes by announcing that the next issue of "RECHERCHES UFOLOGIQUES" will feature the continuation of Sanarov's article, which will include a comparison of "element-types" from "Tales and Legends" worldwide, accounts of "airship" observations, the "symbolism" of the "Fafirs' rope trick," and "element-types of certain UFO observations."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, scientific inquiry, and historical accounts. There is a clear interest in both contemporary UFO sightings and historical precedents, as well as the technological and psychological factors that might contribute to these reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation, encouraging reader participation and presenting diverse theories, from extraterrestrial origins to folkloric interpretations and advanced technological explanations. The inclusion of historical aviation and astronomical concepts suggests a broad approach to understanding phenomena that challenge conventional explanations.