UFO Informations - No 40 - 2e trim 1983

Magazine Overview

Title: U.F.O.-INFORMATIONS
Issue: 40
Date: Second quarter 1983
Publisher: ASSOCIATION DES AMIS DE MARC THIROUIN
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 0210 6826
Price: 15.00F

Content Summary

This issue of U.F.O.-INFORMATIONS, number 40, published in the second quarter of 1983, features a comprehensive exploration of the term "extraterrestrial" and its evolving meanings, particularly within the context of ufology. The magazine also details the activities and collaborations of ufological research groups.

Editorial: "QUAND UN 'MATERIALISME' EN CHASSE UN AUTRE!"

The editorial, signed M. DORIER, discusses the history of ideas in ufology, noting how scientific progress is driven by human endeavor. It highlights the evolution of thought regarding UFOs, contrasting the early "rationalist" and "materialist" explanations (viewing UFOs as "nuts and bolts" machines) with the more "spiritualist" or parapsychological approaches that linked UFOs to the human mind. The editorial suggests that the "extraterrestrial" hypothesis, initially gaining traction, eventually led to a complex interplay where both materialist and spiritualist interpretations coexist, often in a cyclical manner. It cautions against premature conclusions and emphasizes the need for continued research rather than rigid belief systems, asserting that theories often gain dominance by negating aspects of the phenomenon.

Article: "Un exemple de mot transfuge : le mot 'extraterrestre'"

This article, with a supplement and errata on page 6, delves into the etymology and semantic shifts of the word "extraterrestre." It notes that the term became widely known and entered the "Petit Larousse illustré" in 1980 with definitions related to being outside Earth's atmosphere or an inhabitant of another planet. However, the article traces its origins in the late 19th century, where it primarily signified "spiritual," "non-material," or "celestial," contrasting with "terrestrial" or "human." Writers like Charles Baudelaire and Mallarmé used it in a context of poetic idealism and mystical expression, often outside religious frameworks. The term's usage evolved with advancements in astronomy and the study of celestial bodies, leading to a more material sense of "originating from outside Earth." By the 1930s, it was used in scientific contexts, such as "extraterrestrial X-rays." While the spiritualist acceptance largely faded, it reappeared in theological discussions. The article highlights Carl-Gustav Jung's concept of a "modern myth" emerging in 1947 with the rise of flying saucer reports and "contactee" testimonies. The word "extraterrestrial" then underwent a grammatical and semantic transformation, evolving from an adjective to a noun. This shift was influenced by the idea of inhabitants from other planets, a concept explored by thinkers like Fontenelle and Flammarion. The article notes that science fiction writers initially preferred terms like "Martians" or "Selenites" before "extraterrestrial" became more common. The book "Les Extraterrestres" by Paul Thomas (Paul Misraki) in 1962 is cited as a marker for the increased lexical use of the term. The article concludes by stating that the scientific acceptance of the possibility of extraterrestrial life, coupled with the growing discourse around UFOs, has given the idea of extraterrestrials considerable weight, often positioning them as superior beings, a concept that has fueled various cults and millenarian beliefs.

Other Content:

• Editorial: (p.5)
• A word example: The word "extraterrestrial" (p.7)
• The mystery of the 'Mary Celeste': A simple sea drama (p.13)
• Humor: (p.20)
• About: (p.22)
• What is a skeptic?: (p.25)
• The twilight of GEPAN: (p.30)
• Leafing through the archives: (p.33)
• Observation Dossier: (p.37)
• Activities: (p.42)
• Library: (p.47)

The issue also includes subscription information for "Abonnement annuel" (annual subscription) at 60.00F, "Abonnement de soutien" (support subscription) from 100.00F, and foreign rates at 80.00F. Payment can be made by bank check to A.A.M.T. DORIER Michel. The editorial team is listed as M. DORIER, with the publication being a quarterly, number 40, from the second quarter of 1983. The price for a single issue is 15.00F.

CEPS-CENAP Information

Page 4 provides details about CEPS (Centre d'étude des phénomènes spatiaux) and CENAP (Centrales Erforschungsnetz aussergewöhnlicher Phänomene). CEPS/CENAP, founded in early 1983, aims for the objective study and dissemination of ufological information. CEPS, based in Luxembourg, and CENAP, in Mannheim, Germany, operate a liaison office for French-speaking European countries. They seek collaboration and exchange of ideas, collecting various materials on UFO phenomena, including press clippings, books, investigation reports, photos, and films. They invite research groups from French-speaking countries to share their material in exchange for payment or information. CENAP in Germany has ten years of experience and extensive archives. CEPS/CENAP will publish two journals: "INFO-CEPS" in French, covering German investigations, and "INFO-CEPS" in German, covering French investigations. Both are quarterly, with the French edition due in June 1983 and the German in September 1983. The journals are independent, funded solely by subscribers and the editor. The contact address for becoming a correspondent-collaborator is SCHMITZ GILBERT, 14, rue d'Amélie, L-3214 BETTEMBOURG, LUXEMBOURG.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of language and concepts within ufology, particularly the term "extraterrestrial." The editorial stance, as expressed by M. DORIER, is one of open-minded but rigorous inquiry, advocating for continued research and a nuanced understanding that avoids dogmatism. The publication also emphasizes international collaboration in ufological studies, as evidenced by the CEPS-CENAP initiative. The magazine appears to be a platform for exploring the historical, linguistic, and scientific dimensions of UFO phenomena, encouraging a balanced perspective that acknowledges both material and potentially more abstract interpretations.

This issue of the magazine, titled "Le Mystère du Mary Celeste," presents a detailed investigation into the famous maritime case, reframing it as a "Simple Drama of the Sea" rather than an unsolvable enigma. The cover features the title prominently, along with the subtitle and the author's name, Jean SIDER. The publication date is indicated as "ler juin 1983."

The Evolution of the Term 'Extraterrestrial'

The issue begins with an exploration of how the term 'extraterrestrial' has evolved. Initially associated with physical encounters, it has increasingly shifted towards psychic and mystical communication. The article traces this semantic evolution through three phases: the traditional religious view of a dualistic universe (celestial/spiritual vs. earthly/material), the modern rationalist view of a homogeneous, boundless space, and a contemporary syncretic view that blends science with para-religious beliefs. This shift is linked to a desire to fill the void left by the decline of traditional religious belief, with extraterrestrials taking on the attributes of deities. The language used in religious apparitions, such as 'celestial,' 'messages,' 'encounter,' and 'otherworldly,' is now applied to extraterrestrial phenomena, reflecting a secularization of the 'marvelous.'

The 'Mary Celeste' Mystery Debunked

The main focus of the magazine is the 'Mary Celeste' incident. The author, Jean SIDER, argues that this case, long considered one of the greatest maritime mysteries, has actually been solved for decades. He criticizes various authors and investigators, including Lawrence David Kusche and Charles Hocking, for failing to uncover the solution.

The Facts of the Case

The 'Mary Celeste,' an American brig, set sail from New York on November 7, 1872, bound for Genoa, carrying a cargo of whale oil, essence, and commercial alcohol. On board were Captain Benjamin Briggs, his wife Mary Sellars, Lieutenant Hullock, and 14 crew members. On December 13, the ship was found abandoned by the crew of the 'Dei Gratia,' commanded by Captain Moorhouse. The two lifeboats were missing.

The Role of John Penberton and the 'Dei Gratia'

The article highlights an 80-year-old man, John Penberton, who was the cook on the 'Mary Celeste.' He was outraged by a 1925 English magazine article that accused him of poisoning the crew. Penberton claimed to know the truth. The 'Dei Gratia' and its captain, Moorhouse, played a crucial role. Moorhouse claimed to have found the 'Mary Celeste' abandoned on December 4th and boarded it on the 5th. However, the article points out an immediate contradiction: a partially eaten, still-warm meal was found, suggesting the abandonment was recent and possibly staged.

The Conspiracy and Insurance Fraud

SIDER posits that the 'Mary Celeste' incident was a deliberate act, possibly an insurance scam. Captain Briggs was reportedly having difficulties finding a reliable crew, partly due to the foul smell from his cargo. He was also at odds with the 'loggers' (hotel and tavern keepers who supplied sailors) who controlled the maritime labor market in New York. Briggs had a past negative encounter with a logger named Finlay.

The Crew and the 'Dei Gratia's' Involvement

Captain Moorhouse of the 'Dei Gratia' and Captain Briggs had a prior friendly relationship and allegedly made a secret agreement. Moorhouse offered to take some of Briggs' cargo on his ship to make the 'Mary Celeste' less vulnerable. He lent Briggs three experienced sailors. However, Finlay, seeking revenge on Briggs, supplied some of the crew, including Carl Venholdt, who was described as a troublemaker.

The Tragic Events Aboard the 'Mary Celeste'

Several incidents led to the ship's abandonment:

1. Carl Venholdt's Mutiny: Upon leaving New York, Venholdt, drunk, attacked Lieutenant Hullock, who subdued him.
2. Mrs. Briggs' Death: A severe storm caused the ship to list, and a piano belonging to Mrs. Briggs slid and crushed her, leading to her death hours later.
3. Captain Briggs' Descent into Madness: Grief-stricken and possibly influenced by alcohol, Captain Briggs accused Hullock of his wife's murder, leading to a physical confrontation.
4. Carl Venholdt's Disappearance: During a drunken brawl, Carl Venholdt fell overboard and drowned.
5. Hullock and Sailors' Desertion: On November 29, near Santa Maria in the Azores, Lieutenant Hullock and two sailors supplied by Finlay disembarked, promising to return but never did. They likely feared being implicated in the deaths and investigations.

Moorhouse's Role in the 'Fraud'

When the 'Dei Gratia' encountered the 'Mary Celeste' again, Moorhouse saw an opportunity. He took the four survivors (Briggs, his wife's body, Hullock, and the two sailors) aboard his ship. He then placed a prize crew on the 'Mary Celeste' and ordered his second-in-command to inspect it, leading to the official report of abandonment. SIDER suggests Moorhouse fabricated the story of a 24-hour search to claim salvage money, a reward for bringing abandoned vessels to port. He likely bribed his own crew and coerced Penberton into silence.

The 'Baby' Piano Confusion

The article also addresses the confusion about a 'baby' on board. This was a small piano, nicknamed 'baby' due to its size, which belonged to Mrs. Briggs. Some investigators mistakenly believed it belonged to a child because of the small women's clothing found on the ship.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance is clearly that the 'Mary Celeste' is not a mystery but a case of human drama, psychological breakdown, and deliberate fraud. The article aims to debunk sensationalist theories, particularly those involving extraterrestrials or supernatural phenomena, which have become common in popular literature. The author expresses a desire to see this case presented accurately, though he acknowledges that legends, once established, are difficult to dispel. The issue also touches upon the evolving perception of 'extraterrestrials,' linking it to a modern search for meaning and the secularization of spiritual concepts, a theme that resonates with the idea of filling the void left by traditional beliefs.

This issue of the A.P.R.O. Bulletin, dated August 23, 1983, features a cover headline and title 'Le Crépuscule du GEPAN' (The Twilight of GEPAN) by Philippe Schneider. The magazine is in French and focuses on ufology, with a particular critique of skeptical approaches and alleged cover-ups.

The GEPAN and its Critics

The article 'Le Crépuscule du GEPAN' by Philippe Schneider details the creation and activities of the French organization GEPAN, established in 1977. Initially intended to study 'non-identified aerospace phenomena' (UFOs), GEPAN was shrouded in secrecy. By early 1983, rumors of its impending dissolution were circulating. The author suggests that GEPAN, despite initial hopes from the ufology community, became 'divisive' rather than a 'unifier.' It increasingly operated in a 'confidential' manner, refusing to collaborate with independent researchers and adopting an 'attentisme' (wait-and-see) attitude.

The article mentions the submission of a 'confidential' report on GEPAN's activities to then-Prime Minister Raymond Barre. Furthermore, a decree was issued by authorities to refuse communication of Gendarmerie investigation reports concerning UFO sightings, citing the protection of witnesses' private lives. This move effectively ended any illusion of transparency. The 'resignation' of two prominent external consultants—an astrophysicist and a physicist—is also noted, suggesting a further 'reductionist' trend, possibly influenced by figures like Jean-François Gille.

Critique of Skeptical Ufologists: Oberg and Klass

Another significant section, translated by Jean Sider, focuses on the work of American ufologists James E. Oberg and Philip Klass, described as 'experts' in 'systematic negation.' The author, likely Coral E. Lorenzen based on the byline, argues that these scientists use 'condemnable methods' to debunk prominent UFO cases. The article criticizes Oberg's book, 'Ufos and Outer Space Mysteries,' deeming its content not worth the paper it's printed on. Oberg is accused of misrepresenting his own persona and text, being neither 'amiable' nor 'skeptical.'

The article contrasts Oberg's approach with the definition of a skeptic from Webster's dictionary, suggesting that Oberg's method is better described as 'DENIGRER' (to denigrate, to belittle, to discredit maliciously).

The Travis Walton Case

The article scrutinizes Oberg's handling of the Travis Walton case. Oberg allegedly used a tactic of suggesting that the loggers involved, including Travis Walton, were in a 'delicate financial situation.' This claim is attributed to Philip Klass, who reportedly sent a letter to A.P.R.O. in November 1975, shortly after the alleged abduction, urging them not to investigate the case. The author suggests this was a move to protect their theories rather than out of concern for A.P.R.O.

The article recounts the basic outline of the Walton case: six companions witnessed a structured object, a beam struck Walton, and he disappeared for five days. Upon his return, he claimed to have been abducted. The author points out that Klass's 'investigation' relied solely on telephone inquiries, primarily aimed at denigrating the protagonists. The article questions how Walton could have survived for five days in the November cold with minimal clothing, and how he was not seen by numerous search parties, including those on horseback, by air, and by helicopter.

The Trindade Island Case

James E. Oberg's book is also criticized for its handling of the Trindade Island UFO photograph from January 1958. Oberg labeled the witness as a 'professional photo manipulator.' The article refutes this, explaining that the witness was a professional Navy photographer covering exercises. While he admitted to having performed photo manipulations as part of his profession, this did not make him a 'professional photo manipulator' in the sense Oberg implied. The article also challenges Donald Menzel's claim that the case was a hoax, stating that Menzel himself perpetuated a hoax by misrepresenting official statements.

Specifically, the article analyzes Menzel's citation of a supposed 'official declaration from the Navy' regarding the Trindade Island photo. Menzel allegedly altered the terms, inserting 'la réalité de' (the reality of) and omitting key phrases, while changing 'sufficient evidence' to 'sufficient proofs.' The author argues that these modifications were deliberate to obscure the fact that the object was seen and photographed above the island.

Broader Implications and Editorial Stance

The article concludes by questioning the motives behind such misrepresentations. It posits that Oberg might be trying to provide a 'satisfactory explanation' for scientific credibility or, alternatively, cooperating with a government conspiracy to eliminate credible UFO evidence. Given the alleged misinterpretations of both the Walton and Trindade Island cases, the author expresses caution regarding the rest of Oberg's work.

The 'Note de Jean SIDER' summarizes the situation in American ufology as 'dominated' by Oberg and Klass, who use 'condemnable methods' to dismantle cases. Sider laments that while French 'obstruction champions' may have less impressive credentials, they are equally active and lack intellectual honesty. The piece ends with a rhetorical question about the possibility of future success in such a climate.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of official UFO investigations (like GEPAN), the exposure of alleged disinformation tactics by skeptical researchers, and the defense of specific UFO cases against debunking efforts. The editorial stance is clearly against systematic denial and in favor of a more open and honest investigation of UFO phenomena, criticizing those who prioritize discrediting evidence over objective analysis. The issue highlights a perceived struggle between genuine inquiry and a powerful, possibly government-backed, effort to suppress or dismiss UFO-related information.

This issue, titled 'En feuilletant les archives...', delves into a blend of historical accounts of 'prodigies' and contemporary UFO/UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings. The magazine aims to clarify 'rumors' surrounding these phenomena, distinguishing between fact and fiction, particularly concerning the French GEPAN (Groupement d'Études et de Recherches en Phénomènes Aérospatiaux Non-identifiés) organization.

GEPAN's Restructuring and Future

The article highlights a recent decision by GEPAN's Scientific Council to modify the organization's composition and orientation, particularly the Toulouse group. Mr. Alain Esterle is reportedly moving to more significant functions, replaced by a technician with a lower rank. The team's size is reduced, and its budget is cut. A key recommendation is to prioritize Gendarmerie reports, implying that GEPAN might be placed on 'standby' until further notice. This move is reportedly based on a limited number of 'significant' reports, which has led authorities and the CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales) to reconsider the level of interest in UFO notifications. The situation is described as a 'twilight' rather than a definitive end, with the UFO issue being framed as not solely scientific but also sociological and political.

The author expresses a lack of surprise at this situation, attributing it to the perceived mediocrity and rushed nature of GEPAN's technical notes and their refusal to publish 'listings.' The article also touches upon the 'ISOCELIE' theory and critiques those who study phenomena without understanding them, referencing the work of Jacques Vallée and the idea that UFOs are not purely psychological but may involve irreducible extraterrestrial intelligence.

Historical Accounts of Prodigies

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to reprinting and analyzing historical accounts of 'prodigies' cited by Julius Obsequens, an ancient Roman writer. These accounts, dating back to the Roman Republic, describe unusual celestial and terrestrial events that were interpreted as omens. Examples include:

• Rain of earth and blood in Campania and Praeneste.
• Wool growing on trees in Veienti.
• Three women in Terracina struck by lightning after a sacrifice.
• A bronze equestrian statue in Rome expelling blood from its mouth.
• A swan flying into the Temple of Victory.
• A girl born without hands in Privernum.
• A celestial troupe of musicians in Cephalenia.
• A storm causing destruction and a rain of earth.
• A pig born with human hands and feet in Caere.
• Children born with four hands and feet.
• A bull emitting flames from its mouth without causing harm.
• A three-legged boy born with one hand in Amiternum.
• Objects struck by lightning in Rome and its surroundings.
• Rivers of blood flowing on the earth.
• The sky and earth appearing to burn at night.
• Sacred gold being gnawed by rats in Frusino.
• Two colored circles surrounding the sun in Lanuvium.
• A star burning for thirty-two days.
• The siege of Carthage and brutal treatment of Roman prisoners.

These historical accounts are presented with Latin text and an 1850 French translation, emphasizing their antiquity and the context in which they were recorded. The article notes that parts of Obsequens' work have been lost and reconstructed.

Contemporary UFO/UAP Sightings and Reports

The magazine also compiles a series of recent UFO/UAP sightings from around the world:

• Canada: An adolescent in Montreal reported a third-type encounter with an extraterrestrial in a cornfield, after witnessing a mysterious flying object.
• Brazil: The Brazilian Ministry of Aeronautics sent a team to investigate debris of a mysterious aircraft found in the Maranhao forest.
• France: Multiple sightings are reported, including a large vertical black trail near Romagnieu, a luminous object over Marignane Airport, and a fireball over Privas.
• Germany: A luminous pyramid-shaped object was observed over Nuremberg, Bavaria, at high altitude.
• Bolivia: Peasants in Tacobamba reported extraterrestrial visitors in flying objects who were allegedly harming their livestock.
• Spain: An industrialist in Bilbao recorded the sound of an unidentified flying object for 30 minutes.
• Mexico: Parapsychologists in Puebla claimed to have recorded extraterrestrial voices and phenomena.
• Chile: A gigantic UFO caused panic in San Javier, appearing as a luminous object and a triangular object with a powerful light.

These reports often include details about the object's appearance, behavior, altitude, and the witnesses' reactions, ranging from fear to scientific curiosity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unexplained phenomena, the historical context of such events, and the perceived challenges in official UFO research. The editorial stance appears critical of the current handling of UFO investigations, particularly by organizations like GEPAN, suggesting a lack of transparency and a tendency towards dismissal or downplaying of evidence. The framing of the UFO issue as sociological and political, alongside the scientific aspect, is a key takeaway. The magazine seems to advocate for a more open and thorough examination of these phenomena, drawing parallels between ancient omens and modern sightings.

Notable Quotes

• "Le problème ufo-logique n'est plus uniquement scientifique, mais sociologique et POLITIQUE."

FAQ

• What is the current status of the GEPAN organization? GEPAN's composition and orientation have been modified, with its budget reduced, and a recommendation to prioritize Gendarmerie reports, suggesting it is being placed on standby until further notice.
• What historical accounts of 'prodigies' are discussed? The issue references 'Des Prodiges' by Julius Obsequens, detailing miraculous events and omens from ancient Rome, including celestial phenomena, unusual births, and natural disasters.
• Where have recent UFO sightings been reported? Recent sightings have been reported in Canada, Brazil, France (various regions), Germany, Bolivia, Spain, Mexico, and Chile.
• What are some of the characteristics described for the observed UFOs? Observed UFOs have been described as luminous pyramids, large and reddish-orange objects, fireballs, and silent, fast-moving objects with luminous beams and sometimes triangular or funnel shapes.

This issue of L'A.A.M.T., dated June 14, 1983, focuses on the activities within the French ufology community. It includes reports on meetings, new initiatives, and book reviews, with a strong emphasis on the organizational aspects of ufological research.

Unidentified Object Sighting

The issue begins with a report of an unidentified luminous object observed at midnight. The object had an enlarged, brilliant face and three lights (orange, red, and green) underneath. It performed circular movements for approximately two minutes before heading north and disappearing rapidly. The sighting occurred under clear skies, which facilitated visibility. The source is cited as "La Tercera de la hora" from June 14, 1983.

Associations de la Drôme et d'Ailleurs

Une Association au Service des Associations

This section introduces AS-SERVICES, an initiative born from the realization that grouping resources would help associations overcome common problems, particularly financial and notoriety-related ones. Five associations from Valence collaborated to create AS-SERVICES, which became operational in June 1983, establishing its own premises and equipment. Its primary goal is to offer real technical support and necessary services to other associations.

Activités

Assemblée Générale de l'A.A.M.T., March 13, 1983, Arthemonay

The general assembly of L'A.A.M.T. was attended by several members, including Michel Dorier, Rolande Dorier, Marie Rougon, Gérard Rougon, David Duquesnoy, Régine Duquesnoy, André Chaloin, and Michel Figuet. The low turnout was regretted, with an emphasis placed on the fragile nature of associations and the need for constant member support. The situation of L'A.A.M.T. necessitates an increase in subscription and membership fees, urging members and readers to find new subscribers to prevent the association's disappearance.

La Fédération Française d'Ufologie (F.F.U.), March 19-20, 1983, Sorgues

The F.F.U. held a meeting in Sorgues, with L'A.A.M.T. represented by Michel Dorier, Rolande Dorier, and Charlotte Fievee. Organized by J.P. and Lilyane Troadec of G.R.E.P.O., the meeting discussed the upcoming publication of a book on UFOs by Presses Universitaires de France and the preparation for the National F.F.U. Congress in May 1983.

Congrès Ufologique International, May 7-8, 1983, Lyon

L'A.A.M.T. was represented at this international congress by David Duquesnoy, Régine Duquesnoy, Michel Dorier, Charlotte Fievee, Rolande Dorier, and Michel Figuet. The congress was highlighted as a significant event in French ufology, showcasing the dynamism of the F.F.U. leadership and the enthusiasm of French researchers. The F.F.U., founded in 1980, comprises about twenty associations and independent researchers, aiming to coordinate efforts, improve research methods, and act as an intermediary between groups, the state, the scientific community, and the public.

#### Goals of the F.F.U.

• To associate and coordinate the efforts of groups and independent researchers nationally for more effective UFO phenomenon approaches.
• To improve and develop new working methods.
• To serve as an intermediary between these groups, researchers, the state, the scientific community, the general public, and similar international organizations.
• To work towards better international coordination.

#### Consultants

The F.F.U. has launched a consultant program, involving scientists from various fields (geology, psychology, cosmic rays) to provide expertise on specific UFO cases. These consultants are considered essential for research.

#### Notable Presentations at the International Congress

• Michel Figuet presented findings from his database of 900 close encounters and 300 cases involving humanoids.
• Xavier Molle discussed the interpretation of the Bible through a "soucoupique" (UFO-related) narrative.
• Jean-Christophe Veve presented a solid case from Trans-en-Provence in 1982 with ground traces.
• Michel Coste and Gilles Durand analyzed the value of historical testimonies and their parallels with current ones.
• Patrice Cubeau (GRC) proposed a model for report elaboration to maximize observational knowledge.
• Claud Mauge examined the arguments for and against the socio-psychological hypothesis regarding UFO phenomena.
• Michel Piccin critiqued the state of French ufology.
• Thierry Pinvidic studied the motifs of saucer imagery in Algerian rural populations to understand stereotype dispersion.
• Jacques Scornaux explored the psycho-sociological hypothesis, suggesting that even if UFOs are misperceptions of known phenomena, the cultural distortion itself warrants study.

#### The Psycho-Sociological Hypothesis (HPS)

Scornaux argued that the HPS is not reductionist and that the cultural context can create new phenomena. He noted that the sociological paradigm, which assumes human rationality, struggles to accept the irrational aspects of UFO phenomena. He proposed that HPS could help identify the physically inexplicable residue of UFO cases, serving as a refined tool for research.

Congress Organization

The congress was structured by Liliane and Jean-Pierre Troadec, and Richard Varrault, key figures in the F.F.U. and ufological groups. The event received coverage from local press, including Dauphiné-Libéré and the Rhône-Alpes journal.

C.E.C.R.U. and F.F.U. Communications

The European Committee for Coordination of Ufological Research (CECRU) has ceased to exist. Its dissolution was confirmed at a meeting in Dijon in October 1981 and reinforced by discussions in Vevey in February 1982. Former members are urged to remove any reference to CECRU from their publications. The F.F.U. recommends that former CECRU members contact its General Secretary to explore new forms of cooperation.

#### F.F.U. Secretariat Information

• General Secretary: Jean-Pierre Troadec, 45 rue du Bon Pasteur, 69004 Lyon.
• External Relations Secretariat: Richard Varrault, 71 rue du Dauphiné, 69003 Lyon.

F.F.U. Committee Meeting, June 25-26, 1983, Sorgues (Vaucluse)

The L'A.A.M.T. was represented by Charlotte Fievee. The meeting highlighted the F.F.U.'s scientific consultants, who are available to assist with specific cases but can only be contacted through the F.F.U. itself.

Accord Mutuel de Transmission des Données (A.M.T.D.)

This initiative, originating from A.I.H.P.I., aims to prevent ufologists from losing credit for their shared documents. It is a contract that ufologists can have their correspondents sign to ensure their information is not used without permission. While not legally binding, it serves as a moral agreement.

Archives d'Emile Tizané

Emile Tizané, known for his works on virgin apparitions and haunted houses, passed away in Montpellier. The F.F.U., through Bernard Dupi of the PALMOS group, had proposed to collect his archives to prevent their loss. However, Tizané's documents have already been bequeathed to the Metapsychic Institute in Sao-Paulo, Brazil, making them inaccessible to French researchers.

À Retenir (To Remember)

• The next F.F.U. Federal Assembly will be held on October 8-9, 1983, in Troyes, focusing on bringing together F.F.U. members.
• The October 1983 assembly is organized by the Troyen Research Group on UFOs (G.T.R. OVNI), with Guy Capet leading the event.
• The German group C.E.N.A.P. is organizing its third "U.A.P. MEETING" in Mannheim on September 9-11, 1983.

Bibliothèque (Library)

Book Reviews:

• Philippe Schneyder - OVNI PREMIER BILAN (Ed. du Rocher): Reviewed as a useful update on UFO knowledge for new readers and a source of original elements for researchers. The review acknowledges the difficulty of creating a "perfect" or entirely new book on the subject and encourages critical engagement to advance knowledge.

• Josef Giebel - PROPHETIES FACE A LA SCIENCE (Sand et Tahou): Explores parallels between prophetic announcements and scientific futurology.

• W.R. Chettoui - LA NOUVELLE PARAPSYCHOLOGIE (F. Sorlot, F. Lancre): Defines parapsychology as offering premises for approaching primordial truth and becoming a future metaphysics.

• J. Pradel and J. Yves Casgha - HAITI, LA REPUBLIQUE DES MORTS-VIVANTS: This dossier concludes that zombies exist, produced by criminal intoxication that reduces metabolism, simulating apparent death.

• SORCIERE ET SORCELLERIE EN PAYS D'OC (Ed. Seuil): A study of rural witchcraft in the "pays d'oc" region, linked to 16th-century European witchcraft, described as a noir tale or police enigma.

• Eric Guerrier - DE BETHLEEM A LA FIN DES TEMPS (Editions du Rocher): Explores biblical prophecy, Gnostic teachings, and the concept of the end times within Christianity.

• R. de Lafforest - PRESENCE DES INVISIBLES (Editions R. Laffont): A book that may appeal to regional readers due to alleged events in Ardèche, but its lack of verifiable references makes it suspect, suggesting potential invention.

Association Information

• The Regional Association "LUMIERES DANS LA NUIT" Drôme-Ardèche is a member of the F.F.U.
• The Bureau composition is listed, with David Duquesnoy as President and Michel Dorier as Secretary General.
• Administration, subscriptions, and editorial matters are handled by Monsieur Dorier Michel at "LA BERFIE", Arthemonay.
• The bulletin is a product of collective analysis and reflection, and contributions are welcomed.
• Articles, photos, and drawings are protected by copyright law.
• The publication is printed by L'AAMT.
• Director of publication: Michel Dorier.

F.F.U. Information

• The Federation Française d'Ufologie (F.F.U.) is presented as the premier national organization reporting on French ufological reality and the sole organization with an international vocation and representative status.
• Contact information for the General Secretariat and External Relations is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the organizational and collaborative aspects of ufology in France, highlighting the F.F.U.'s role in coordinating research, disseminating information, and fostering a scientific approach. There is a clear focus on the need for structured research, the development of methodologies, and the importance of inter-group cooperation. The issue also touches upon the challenges of funding and maintaining associations, as well as the critical evaluation of hypotheses, particularly the psycho-sociological perspective. The book reviews cover a range of topics from UFOs to parapsychology and historical witchcraft, reflecting a broad interest in the unexplained and the irrational.