AI Magazine Summary
UFO Log - No 06 - 1999 01
AI-Generated Summary
Title: UFO LOG Issue: #06 Date: January 1999 Type: Fanzine dedicated to all trends in ufology.
Magazine Overview
Title: UFO LOG
Issue: #06
Date: January 1999
Type: Fanzine dedicated to all trends in ufology.
Editorial Stance (Edito)
François Hays, in his editorial, encourages readers to write more often, fostering a dialogue within the magazine. He emphasizes the importance of questioning and open-mindedness in ufology, urging readers to avoid dismissing ideas or people based on hearsay. He suggests that progress in understanding UFO phenomena relies on constructive dialogue and questioning, rather than contempt or the acceptance of unsubstantiated claims.
Articles
REFLEXION: OVNIS - Une illusion peut en cacher une autre...
By Jean-Pierre Tennevin, this article, previously published in "Science Frontières," explores the complex nature of UFO phenomena. Tennevin argues that after fifty years of interest, the core mystery of UFOs remains elusive. He posits that UFOs are not simply alien spacecraft but may involve psychic phenomena and intrusions of the 'superhuman' into human history, potentially as ancient as humanity itself. He highlights the difficulty in understanding UFO motivations, comparing it to the inability of Papuan tribes to grasp the motivations of American soldiers. Tennevin criticizes the scientific community's tendency to dismiss UFOs, often resorting to ridicule or simplistic explanations like ball lightning or marsh gas. He also touches upon governmental secrecy and the creation of official bodies that produce confusing reports to placate public curiosity without revealing substantive information. The article suggests that the scientific community's reluctance stems from a fear of confronting phenomena that challenge their materialistic worldview and the established order. Tennevin also notes the connection between UFO sightings and other paranormal phenomena, such as hauntings and mediumship, suggesting a common underlying intelligence.
LES SOUCOUPES VOLANTES TERRESTRES
This section, authored by François Hays, investigates the history and development of terrestrial flying saucer projects, questioning whether they could be the source of some UFO sightings.
#### The V7 Project
The article details the alleged Nazi V7 project, citing articles from German magazines in the 1950s and the claims of Captain R. Schriever. It mentions the involvement of engineers like Habermohl, Schriever, Bellonzo, and Miethe. However, it notes the lack of definitive proof of successful testing and highlights discrepancies in reported dates and specifications (e.g., speed of 2000 km/h, which was not achieved until 1958). The text also references the Vril Society and its alleged experiments with antigravitic aerial vehicles in conjunction with aliens.
#### The "Flying Flapjack" (V-173)
This part discusses the American Navy's "Flying Flapjack" or "Navy flounder" (V-173), a circular aircraft developed during WWII. Initially featured in Mechanix Illustrated in May 1947, its existence was officially revealed in April 1950. Despite media attention suggesting it could be the origin of UFO sightings, the article notes that its development faced stability issues and was eventually abandoned by the US Navy in 1948 due to the advent of jet propulsion.
#### The Avrocar
The Avrocar project, initiated by A.V. Roe Canada Ltd, is presented as a revolutionary aircraft that consumed vast sums of money without achieving its ambitious goals. Initially conceived as the Avro-Omega in 1953 with a target speed of 2400 km/h, the project was later modified and became the Avrocar VZ-9V. Despite promises of advanced testing, the prototype, unveiled in August 1960, could only achieve a speed of 60 km/h and an altitude of one meter, proving highly unstable. The US Air Force withdrew from the project in December 1961, and the Avrocar ultimately ended up in a museum.
#### Other Projects
The section briefly mentions other historical projects and designs for unconventional aircraft, including those by Nathan Price, J.F. King, John Sherwood, Paul Moller, Constantin Lent, Hans Lippisch, Edmond Nazare, Olen Sipe, René Couzinet, and others. It concludes that most of these projects failed to materialize or achieve significant success, suggesting a missing element in their development.
ROSWELL
This short section indicates that new information has emerged regarding the Roswell incident, suggesting that the situation was more complex than initially believed.
SUBSTANCES EXTRATERRESTRES
This article provides a retrospective on substances allegedly left behind by UFOs.
CRITIQUE: Vers une police civile des idées ?
This piece discusses the concept of a civilian police force for ideas, implying a need for critical evaluation and regulation of information.
RAPPORT DE POCANTICO
This is the first part of an analysis of the Sturrock Report, summarizing a colloquium.
Sections
ABONNEMENT
Information on how to subscribe to UFO LOG and support the publication.
BOOKS
A review of American books and comic books related to ufology.
UFO MERCHANDISE
A mention of the availability of various UFO-themed merchandise.
REVUE DE PRESSE
A review of recent press coverage related to ufology.
LE COURRIER DES LECTEURS
Letters from readers to the magazine.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, with a particular focus on terrestrial flying saucer projects and the historical context of their development. The magazine appears to maintain an open-minded yet critical stance, encouraging detailed research and questioning while acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding and the prevalence of secrecy. The editorial emphasizes the importance of dialogue and the avoidance of dogmatism within the ufological community. There is a clear skepticism towards simplistic explanations and a recognition of the profound philosophical implications of the UFO phenomenon.
This issue of UFO LOG, dated January 1999, focuses heavily on the Roswell incident, with the main article by Jean Sider titled 'ROSWELL: Dégonflons la baudruche.' (Roswell: Let's Deflate the Balloon). The issue also includes a critique of scientific approaches to paranormal phenomena and an article on substances allegedly left behind by UFOs.
ROSWELL: Dégonflons la baudruche. by Jean Sider
Jean Sider revisits the Roswell incident, arguing that the 'debunkers' are merely spreading misinformation and that the official explanation of a weather balloon, particularly from Project Mogul, is flawed. He criticizes the media for accepting the narrative without question, citing the example of General Ramey's press conference and the subsequent explanation of a 'weather balloon'. Sider highlights an article from The New York Times (July 9, 1947) that, despite its headline about a 'weather balloon' solving the mystery, also mentions the widespread rumors and the initial confusion, suggesting that the explanation was not as straightforward as presented.
Sider contends that confusing a weather balloon with a UFO is absurd and points out that the existence of 80 weather stations launching balloons daily would imply a high potential for similar 'incidents' if the official explanation were true.
The article further debunks the 'cluster-balloon' explanation for the Roswell crash, referencing documents and testimonies that indicate the debris was sent to Wright Field for examination. He cites former Colonel Thomas J. DuBose, who confirmed the shipment of debris, and a teletype message from the FBI detailing the transfer of a 'disk' to Wright Field. Sider argues that the military's extensive search of the crash site, even after the supposed identification of the debris, suggests something more significant than a simple balloon.
He also addresses the claim that the debris was from Project Mogul, citing a declassified Air Force memorandum from 1949 that detailed the project and its balloons, suggesting it wasn't classified at the time. Sider emphasizes that all weather balloons, including those from Project Mogul, were systematically labeled with identification and contact information, which would have prevented misidentification.
Sider criticizes those who ignore the presence of these labels, accusing them of intellectual dishonesty. He references the testimony of General Arthur Exon, who stated that experts could not identify the Roswell debris, suggesting it might have come from a Russian craft or an extraterrestrial vehicle.
Finally, Sider discusses a posthumous 'proof' provided by General Ramey, referring to a deciphered message from a photograph of Ramey holding a document. While acknowledging the ongoing verification of this decipherment, he notes that the message mentions 'VICTIMS' and 'POWERS ARE NEEDED SITE,' which he finds inconsistent with a simple balloon crash.
The 'Saucers' Return; They're Only Balloons (New York Times, September 28, 1947)
This section reprints a New York Times article from September 28, 1947, which reports on sightings of 'flying saucers' over New Jersey, Queens, and Connecticut. The article explains that these were identified as a cluster of balloons carrying cosmic ray detecting equipment, released as part of a joint experiment by Brookhaven National Laboratory and New York University, in collaboration with the US Navy. The balloons were designed to transmit measurements of neutron intensity in the upper atmosphere.
Cluster-balloons à gogo.
This is a commentary on the New York Times article, reiterating that the US Navy, like Project Mogul, used cluster-balloons. It highlights that these balloons were intended to carry scientific equipment for measuring atmospheric conditions and that their recovery was anticipated. The author notes that the balloons were 20 feet in dimension, similar to those used in Project Mogul, and were launched by Princeton University with the US Navy's collaboration. The article also mentions that these balloons were equipped with identification tags promising rewards for their return.
Other aspects that are baffling:
This section discusses the claims of James Bond-Johnson, who allegedly deciphered a message from a photograph of General Ramey. Bond-Johnson's interpretation includes claims of discovering hieroglyph-like signs and numbers on the debris. The author expresses skepticism about these findings, particularly the association of hieroglyphs with the debris, and notes that other researchers have suggested that the debris found at Brazel's ranch might have been a mix of extraterrestrial material and weather balloon parts.
The second lie of General Ramey.
This section revisits the Roswell incident, focusing on General Ramey's alleged deception. It highlights that the 'disk' found at Roswell was identified as a weather balloon, and its shipment to Wright Field was supposedly canceled. However, the author presents evidence, including a teletype message from the FBI and testimony from former Colonel Thomas J. DuBose, suggesting that the debris was indeed sent to Wright Field via special aircraft. The article questions the necessity of a special plane for a simple weather balloon and points out that the debris was handled by high-ranking officers, indicating its perceived importance.
Conclusions.
The author concludes that the testimonies of Jesse Marcel Sr. and Jr., along with other witnesses who handled debris, rule out the cluster-balloon explanation due to the physical properties of the materials. The article lists materials found, such as neoprene, nylon, parachute silk, and radiosonde components, and notes that polyethylene replaced neoprene in later launches. It asserts that these materials would not have fooled experienced military personnel.
Posthumous proof provided by General Ramey?
This section discusses a new development in late 1998 concerning the decipherment of a document held by General Ramey in a photograph. James Bond-Johnson, a reporter-photographer, along with researcher Ron Regher, claims to have deciphered fragments of the document using advanced technology. The deciphered text includes phrases like 'THE VICTIMS OF...AT FORT WORTH, TEX.' and 'POWERS ARE NEEDED SITE,' which the author finds intriguing and inconsistent with a simple balloon crash explanation.
SUBSTANCES EXTRATERRESTRES (Extraterrestrial Substances) by Hervé CLERGOT
This article explores cases where UFOs allegedly leave behind physical traces and strange substances. Hervé Clergot presents several examples:
- 'Angel Hair': A fine, thread-like substance that quickly sublimates, making analysis difficult. Cases are cited from Oléron (1952), Gaillac (1952), Saint-Père-en-Retz (1954), Graulhet (1954), and Vienne (1954) in France.
- Black Deposits: A black, tar-like substance found at a landing site in the Gard region of France, which caused discoloration and drying of plant leaves. Analysis showed no disease but did not determine the nature of the black substance.
- Burnt Substance: A circular area covered in a black, burnt substance resembling slag was found in Crépy-en-Valois, France. Vegetation around the area was destroyed. Samples were sent for analysis, but results were not disclosed.
- Blackish Substance (Australia): A similar blackish substance was found on a vehicle in Australia in 1988 after it was allegedly lifted by an ovoid object. The analysis results are unknown.
- Blackish Substance (France): Another instance of a blackish powder depositing on a vehicle in France, which dissipated as the vehicle moved, while the occupants were trying to evade the UFO.
- Argentinian Case: In Argentina (December 21, 1963), a family observed luminous tubes and objects, with light corridors. A substance composed of a high concentration of calcium carbonate (96.48%) and potassium carbonate (3.51%) was found. The substance was described as small, fragile spheres that crushed easily.
Clergot notes that many of these substances contain elements commonly found in the environment, such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which are used in fertilizers and industrial processes. He questions whether these deposits are intentional or the result of interaction with the terrestrial environment. He also points out that magnesium, while not commonly used as fertilizer, is found in light alloys, suggesting a possible link to solid objects.
CRITIQUE (Critique) by Michel Picard
This section features a critique by Michel Picard, who questions the scientific community's approach to paranormal phenomena. He criticizes the 'zététique' movement, particularly its French iteration, for being dogmatic and dismissive of unconventional claims. Picard argues that the French version of zététique, promoted by figures like Henri Broch and associated with the University of Nice-Sophia-Antipolis, is a distorted imitation of the American model. He believes that the inclusion of zététique in higher education, endorsed by the Ministry of National Education, represents a 'brainwashing' attempt to impose a rationalist ideology that dismisses anything inexplicable.
Picard quotes Victor Hugo: "If science does not want these facts, ignorance will take them (...) By what right, moreover, do you say to a fact: go away? By what right do you chase away a phenomenon? By what right do you say to the unexpected: I will not examine you?"
He criticizes the 'elite' intellectual circles for their 'forced denial' and 'interpretive obsession' when faced with phenomena that challenge their rigid definition of reason. Picard contrasts this with the work of Marcello Truzzi, founder of Zetetic Scholar, who advocated for an open-minded scientific inquiry into anomalies.
References
The issue includes a list of references, primarily books and articles related to UFO research, including works by Kevin Randle, Don Schmitt, Loren E. Gross, Karl T. Pflock, and D.B. Johnson.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the Roswell incident, alleged UFO cover-ups by government and military entities, the scientific debunking of UFO phenomena, and the exploration of physical evidence left by UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be critical of official explanations and skeptical of mainstream scientific dismissal of UFO reports, advocating for a more open and thorough investigation of anomalous phenomena. The magazine positions itself as a platform for alternative perspectives on UFOlogy, challenging conventional narratives and encouraging critical thinking among its readers.
This issue of UFO LOG, dated January 1999, features a lengthy critical analysis titled 'CRITIQUE' which spans multiple pages and discusses various aspects of skepticism, ufology, and the scientific community's stance on the paranormal. The cover art is a cartoon by J.P. Tennevin depicting a figure reading a book titled 'ANERIES' and holding a handkerchief, with an alien figure observing.
Critique: The 'Tartuffology' Phenomenon
The central theme of the critique is the concept of 'Tartuffology,' a term coined by Jean-Pierre Tennevin to describe a skeptical and dogmatic approach to the paranormal, particularly ufology. The author argues that this phenomenon is prevalent in the French scientific and intellectual milieu, characterized by a rigid adherence to a 'scientifically correct' worldview that dismisses anything inexplicable.
Henri Broch and the Million Franc Challenge
The article begins by discussing Henri Broch, a physicist and member of the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal (CSICOP). Broch is presented as a proponent of this skeptical stance, exemplified by a million-franc challenge he issued to demonstrate the falsity of paranormal claims. The author notes the significant increase in the challenge amount from a previous offer in 1977, suggesting a strong conviction or provocation. The involvement of a Belgian researcher, Jacques Théodor, in backing this challenge is also highlighted.
The critique draws on an article by J.C. Dufour in 'Le Monde' which describes Broch's 'passion' for debunking paranormal claims, framing him as a scientist dedicated to proving that unexplained phenomena are natural. However, the author views this passion as a form of dogmatism, comparing Broch's approach unfavorably to that of researchers like Rémy Chauvin or Arthur Koestler, who are seen as more open-minded.
Pierre Lagrange and 'Anomalies'
The article then turns its attention to Pierre Lagrange, editor-in-chief of the review 'Anomalies,' which focuses on UFOs and the paranormal. Lagrange is portrayed as a sociologist who, according to the author, uses his discipline to denigrate ufology. The critique suggests that Lagrange conflates ufology with extreme-right ideologies and engages in 'debunking' on command, citing an alleged statement by Lagrange that he was paid by his university to debunk UFOs.
Lagrange's approach is characterized as a sociological analysis of the cultural context of UFO beliefs rather than a direct investigation of the phenomena themselves. The author criticizes Lagrange's assertion that UFO stories are merely products of human imagination and his tendency to link ufologists with conspiracy theories and even neo-Nazism, particularly in the context of the US.
The 'Civil Police of Ideas'
A recurring concern throughout the critique is the emergence of a 'civil police of ideas' or 'civil police of minds.' This concept refers to an intellectual climate, fostered by dominant ideologies and institutions like universities, that seeks to control and suppress unconventional thought. The article suggests that this 'police' aims to enforce a narrow definition of science and rationality, marginalizing or even persecuting those who explore the paranormal.
The Pocantico Report
The critique also examines the 'Pocantico Report,' a summary of a 1998 workshop organized by Peter A. Sturrock. The workshop brought together ufologists and scientists to review physical data associated with UFO reports. The report's jury, composed of scientists from various fields, concluded that while some reported incidents involved rare phenomena (like electrical activity or radar anomalies), there was no convincing evidence for unknown physical processes or extraterrestrial intelligence. The jury suggested that some cases might be explained by secret military activities.
The author notes that the Pocantico Report, while acknowledging the importance of investigating unexplained phenomena, emphasizes the need for scientific rigor and objectivity. It also highlights the role of scientific societies and journals in promoting UFO research and the potential benefit of collaboration between scientists and ufologists.
Critiques of the Report and Scientific Stance
Despite the report's attempt at scientific evaluation, the article implies that the broader scientific community remains largely resistant to UFO research. The author criticizes the report's emphasis on 'physical evidence' as a means to resolve the UFO problem, suggesting that it overlooks the subjective and experiential aspects of sightings. The article also points out the report's reliance on existing scientific frameworks and its cautious approach to phenomena that challenge conventional understanding.
Conclusion: The Nature of 'Tartuffology'
In conclusion, the article defines 'Tartuffology' as a philosophy of evasion and intellectual hibernation, driven by a fear of the irrational and inexplicable. It argues that this phenomenon, rooted in a dogmatic adherence to reason, leads to the systematic rejection and suppression of unconventional ideas, ultimately hindering genuine scientific inquiry. The author laments that in France, the pursuit of the paranormal is increasingly framed as a threat to intellectual heritage, leading to a climate where critical thinking is stifled.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this critique are the perceived dogmatism and reductionism within the mainstream scientific community, the suppression of research into the paranormal, and the rise of a 'civil police of ideas' that enforces a narrow definition of rationality. The editorial stance is clearly critical of this trend, advocating for a more open-minded and less dogmatic approach to understanding unexplained phenomena. The article champions the importance of curiosity and the exploration of the unknown, even if it challenges established scientific paradigms.
This issue of UFO LOG, dated January 1999 (Volume 1999, Issue 06), features a comprehensive report titled "RAPPORT DE POCANTICO" (Pocantico Report). The magazine is published by ASSOCIATION NEXUS in France and is in French.
The Pocantico Report: A Scientific Symposium on UFOs
The "Rapport de Pocantico" details the findings and conclusions of a symposium where experts presented their research on UFOs, applying scientific tools to complex and often neglected problems. The jury, composed of scientists, concluded that while a single, simple answer to the UFO phenomenon is improbable, further scientific study of unexplained events could lead to new knowledge. They emphasized the importance of focusing on cases with abundant independent physical data and solid testimony, and suggested regular contact between the ufological community and physicists.
The report highlights the potential for institutional support for UFO research and commends the French GEPAN/SEPRA for its effective model of collecting and analyzing UFO data since 1977. Notably, the jury drew attention to potential health risks associated with UFO events, citing witness reports of symptoms similar to radiation exposure.
The jury also reviewed the conclusions of Dr. Edward U. Condon from his 1968 study, acknowledging that while past UFO research may not have significantly advanced scientific knowledge, the possibility remains that studying unexplained phenomena can lead to new discoveries, especially with current scientific progress and the example of GEPAN/SEPRA.
Section 3: Photographic Data
This section focuses on photographic evidence, often linked to unexpected observations. Richard F. Haines discussed a case from Vancouver Island (October 8, 1981) involving a photograph of a silver disk, which advanced analysis could not conventionally explain. The jury noted that a single photographic element might not be sufficient to convince a neutral scientist of a strange phenomenon's existence, especially with modern techniques for creating hoaxes, unless corroborated by convincing eyewitness accounts.
Section 4: Luminosity Estimates
Astrophysicist Jacques F. Vallée presented "Luminosity Estimates" based on various indicators like photographs and comparisons with the moon's brightness. His results varied widely, showing no particular pattern. The jury pointed out that these estimations assumed isotropic radiation, which might be inappropriate for direct emissions, and that distance estimations could be debatable.
Section 5: Radar Data
Jean Jacques Velasco, head of SEPRA, reported that 21% of cases in the Weinstein Catalogue of pilot encounters involved radar-optics. He also mentioned that out of 12 aeronautical cases reported to GEPAN/SEPRA since 1982, 3 or 4 were considered radar-optical. A notable case from January 28, 1994, near Paris, involved a one-kilometer diameter disk observed visually from an airplane and detected by military radar.
Section 6: Interferences with Vehicles
Illobrand von Ludwiger discussed radar information, including data from the Swiss army and Professor A. Meessen, highlighting that many radar cases without visual observation are due to anomalous wave propagation. He emphasized the limitation of military radar data for UFO detection. Erling Strand presented the "Project Hessdalen," which studied luminous phenomena in Norway. While no definitive conclusions were reached, some luminous manifestations were linked to magnetic disturbances. The jury found these repeated phenomena to be of particular study interest.
Mark Rodeghier summarized his work on vehicle interference cases, detailing the Haines City incident (March 20, 1992) where an object projected a light beam into a vehicle, causing a cooling effect and shock to the witness. The jury expressed interest in such reports but requested more detailed information.
Section 7: Interferences with Aircraft Equipment
Haines compiled a catalogue of 185 electromagnetic events related to aircraft equipment, primarily radar detection and radio effects. He detailed two cases, including one from March 12, 1977, where a United Airlines plane on autopilot deviated from its course while a bright light was observed, with compasses showing anomalies. The jury noted the deviation but found the cause could be diverse, emphasizing the need for more definitive facts and critical analysis of data.
Section 8: Gravitational and Inertial Effects
Michael D. Swords presented the case of Captain Coyne (March 18, 1973), involving a red light, a cigar-shaped object, and helicopter malfunctions. The jury found such reports interesting but difficult to draw conclusions from without solid physical proof, such as a study of the compass.
Section 9: Ground Traces
Velasco discussed ground traces associated with UFO reports, emphasizing the need for operational procedures to distinguish between genuine traces, hoaxes, or unrelated phenomena. He proposed experiments to reproduce these traces.
Section 10: Vegetation Damage
Velasco also covered cases of vegetation damage, including four studied by GEPAN/SEPRA, involving flattened grass, dried plants, and altered leaves. The jury was impressed by the detailed laboratory analysis of plant samples and suggested further research into the effects of various radiations and aggressions on vegetation, as well as techniques used in hoaxes.
Section 11: Physiological Effects on Witnesses
John F. Schuessler presented physiological effects on witnesses, including sensations of heat, cold, shock, paralysis, and burns. He highlighted the Cash/Landrum case (December 29, 1980) as a significant public health issue due to the symptoms experienced by the witnesses, including cancer. The jury proposed possible causes for observed effects and suggested further tests, while noting the lack of independent witnesses in many cases.
Section 12: Analysis of Debris
Vallée's analysis of debris cases included the Aurora crash (1897) and ten other cases. He outlined criteria for accreditating such reports, focusing on the phenomenon's unusual nature, recovery circumstances, link to the object, and competent physical analysis. The analyzed materials were described as light, conductive materials like aluminum, and slag-like substances. Vallée concluded that no unknown elements or advanced technology were found, but the jury encouraged further investigation of cases meeting specific criteria.
Books and Media Reviews
The magazine also includes reviews of several books and videos related to UFOs and related topics:
- "UFOs and Alien Contact: Two Centuries of Mystery" by Robert E. Bartholomew and George S. Howard: A retrospective of UFO history with a sociological approach.
- "Fortean Studies Volume 4": A collection of articles on mysteries, including the disappearance of lighthouse keepers, the green children of Woolpit, and UFO sightings.
- "Gods of the New Millennium" by Alan F. Alford: Discusses UFO-archaeology, reiterating common theories without new evidence.
- "Frauds, Myths and Mysteries" by Kenneth L. Feder: Critically examines mysteries, comparing them to scientifically explained phenomena, focusing on archaeo-ufology, Atlantis, Stonehenge, and crop circles.
- "UFO Odyssey" by Brad Steiger and Sherry Hansen Steiger: A new approach to the UFO phenomenon, examining its consequences for humanity.
- "Sci-Fi Channel Alien Contact" by John and Anne Spencer: A general overview of UFOs, including archaeo-ufology, abductions, and Men in Black.
- "Confirmation: Hard Evidence of Aliens Among Us" by Whitley Strieber: Argues for the existence of aliens based on implants found in abductees.
- "Sci-Fi Channel UFO Sightings" by Alan Baker: A general overview of UFO sightings worldwide.
- "Into the Unknown Abduction Video": A documentary exploring alien abductions, attempting to distinguish between reality and imagination.
- "UFOs: The Footage Archives Videos": A series of documentaries covering 45 years of UFO observations.
- "Luftwaffe 1946 Vol.3 TP": A graphic novel collecting issues #6-12 of "Projekt Saucer."
- "Barbi Twins Adventures Color Special: The Roswell Incident": A comic book featuring two heroines investigating a mysterious black box from a crashed UFO.
- "Stargods Visions": An art-book with illustrations of original designs.
- "Xenos Arrow": A comic book about a young alien in a galactic zoo.
Merchandise
The magazine also features a section on UFO-related merchandise, including:
- X-Files Alien Resin Maquette by Amalgameted Dynamics.
- Chupacabra PVC Figures.
- X-Files Movie Alien Statue (Mulder, Scully, and alien).
- Mars Attacks merchandise, including a flying saucer, action figures, and a disintegrator.
Revue de Presse (Press Review)
This section reviews various publications:
- VISIONS DU FUTUR #18 & #19: Features interviews on exobiology and a case of abduction in Puerto Rico.
- SCIENCE FRONTIERES #35: Briefly mentions UFO observations from the summer and autumn, and includes dossiers on Jacques Bergier and the Chernobyl accident.
- PARASCIENCES #34: Discusses the connection between Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) and UFO close encounters, and also covers the Shroud of Turin.
- FACTEUR X: Continues its series with dossiers on fetal implantation by extraterrestrials, the "Blue Book" project, an interview with Jean-Jacques Velasco, the Belgian UFO wave, and Bob Lazar and Area 51.
- SCIENCE & VIE: Features an article on exobiology, noting the magazine's recent logo change.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the analysis of various types of evidence (photographic, radar, physical traces), and the potential physiological and medical impacts on witnesses. The editorial stance, as reflected in the Pocantico report summary, is one of cautious optimism regarding the potential for scientific advancement through the study of unexplained phenomena, while emphasizing the need for rigorous methodology and interdisciplinary collaboration. The magazine also actively reviews books, media, and other publications related to UFOs and the paranormal, providing a broad overview of the field for its readership.
UFO LOG #06, dated January 1999, is a French ufology magazine published by the association Nexus. The issue presents a 'Revue de Presse' (Press Review) section, reader letters, and a feature on a comic strip. The magazine aims for a tone that balances serious analysis with humor, while striving to maintain neutrality.
Press Review
The "Revue de Presse" section covers several UFO publications:
- UFO NEWSLETTER #23 (October 1998): This four-page monthly newsletter, edited by Olivier Raynaud, features news and information on UFO observations. It includes a summary of Ardennes sightings, the Haute-Marne case, and a detailed look at the Voreppe affair. It also reprints a text by Pierre Lagrange and features a new layout.
- LE DOSSIER MARLIENS: The CNEGU (Centre National d'Étude des Phénomènes Spatiaux) has released a special, A4-sized issue dedicated to the Marliens case, which occurred in May 1967 in Côte d'Or. This 60-page dossier is described as comprehensive, including maps, sketches, bibliography, investigation details, and press clippings.
- UFOMANIA #22 (December 1998): This issue is highlighted for its color cover and unchanged price, a credit to editor Didier Gomez. It revisits two famous cases: Cussac and Valensole. The magazine also includes numerous testimonies, regular sections, and news on UFOs in Normandy, Voreppe, and Fragnes. Didier Gomez's highly anticipated book is also mentioned as being available.
- ÇA EXISTE #mai 1998: This review describes 'Ça Existe' as a very amateurish, A4-sized, typewritten magazine from Belgium. It's characterized as a disjointed collection of letters and short texts, making it difficult to follow. The reviewer awaits future issues for a more definitive opinion.
- PHENOMENA #40: This issue is briefly reviewed, noting its X-Files-themed cover. The content is described as consistent with previous issues, featuring articles on sects and UFOs (Catholicism, Jehovah's Witnesses), the Pocantico conference, an investigation report on Voreppe, regular columns, and some color pages. It's considered increasingly commercial but still interesting.
Letters to the Editor
Several readers contribute to the "Courrier des lecteurs" section, offering feedback and raising points:
- Didier Charnay thanks readers for their input, noting that while the letters are few, they are interesting and encouraging. He emphasizes the magazine's openness to suggestions for improvement and its balanced approach between serious analysis and sharp humor.
- Frédéric Lienhard re-subscribes, praising the magazine's tone as a mix of serious analysis and biting humor. He appreciates the magazine's role in providing information often missing from official media and values the intellectual exchange between different ufological viewpoints, provided facts are not denied.
- A reader from the Sentinelle group (who creates photo montages for Sentinel News) expresses admiration for UFO LOG and its interesting content, though the magazine is borrowed. This reader then raises a significant point about the alleged discovery by Egyptologist Guy Gruais of a monumental humanoid head sculpture in a rectangular pit on the Moon. The reader expresses dismay at the lack of attention this discovery has received, especially from French ufology circles, and questions why information must often come from the USA to be taken seriously. The reader also discusses the challenges of verifying such extraordinary claims, the potential risks involved in revealing such information, and the need for solid evidence. The editor, Didier Charnay, responds by stating his need for concrete proof and detailed documentation before reporting such a story, emphasizing a non-sensationalist approach and the importance of the discoverer providing sufficient information.
- F. Hays comments on the recent change in format of the "Lumières dans la Nuit" bulletin to A4, attributing it to a recent move and economic imperatives, and expressing disappointment that subscribers were not consulted.
- Gilles Munsch shares information regarding a book by Jean-Paul Ronecker on folkloric tales from Lorraine, providing him with additional relevant documents from the "La Ligne Bleue" and "L'Inconnu" for his research.
BIBLE ET OVNI : LA GRANDE REVELATION?
This section introduces a book by Yannick Auffret and Gérard Demarcq that proposes a link between the Bible and UFOs. The book reportedly deciphers the scientific and historical content of biblical texts, suggests the terrestrial origin of UFOs and their occupants, and posits the existence of a highly advanced, multi-faceted space-faring civilization dating back 45,000 years. Professor Gérard Demarcq's hypothesis of a technologically advanced 'Primo-Civilisation' on Earth is mentioned, and Yannick Auffret's work on deciphering Hebrew texts is cited, suggesting that 'Paraterrestres' (mentioned by Demarcq) are indeed referenced in the Bible as instigators. The book is scheduled for publication by Editions Cheminement in the second trimester of 1999.
Comic Strip Feature
LA TROISIÈME SOUPCOUP: This section features the cover and an interior panel from the comic strip "Les Aventures de Fripounet et Marisette," created by R. Bonnet and published by Editions Fleurus in the third trimester of 1957.
Information – Contact
This section provides contact details for UFO LOG, noting that the latest issue available is #25 (Summer 2011) and a new issue is being prepared for 2019. It also mentions that older issues are still available. UFO LOG is edited by the association Nexus, with Didier Charnay as the contact person. The website is www.ufolog.org.
Important Note
A legal notice states that the digital version of UFO LOG is protected by copyright. Users are permitted to download and store issues for personal archives but are prohibited from posting them online on any website, blog, forum, or social network. The only authorized online publication is by AFU (Archives for the Unexplained). Unauthorized digital distribution may lead to legal action.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the review and critique of UFO publications, the ongoing debates and controversies within the ufology community, and the presentation of specific UFO cases and theories. The editorial stance, as expressed by Didier Charnay, is one of cautious skepticism, emphasizing the need for rigorous evidence and detailed documentation before accepting extraordinary claims. There's a clear preference for a balanced, non-sensationalist approach to reporting, encouraging readers to contribute with factual information rather than speculation. The issue also touches upon the intersection of ufology with ancient history, biblical studies, and even folklore, reflecting the broad scope of interest within the field.