UFO Log - No 07 - 1999 04

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO LOG
Issue: # 07
Date: April 1999
Publisher: ASSOCIATION NEXUS
Country: France
Language: French
ISSN: 1284-926X
Price: 25FF (France), 30FF (Étranger)

UFO LOG is a non-profit fanzine created by passionate amateurs for enthusiasts, covering the UFO phenomenon and related topics. It aims to gather information from all ufological trends and give a voice to those who wish to express themselves on the subject. The magazine is published quarterly.

Table of Contents and Key Articles

Articles:

• EXOBIOLOGIE - LA VIE DES BETES (By Jean-Paul RONECKER) This article humorously examines the 'Ufologue' as a species, describing them as small, often irrational creatures obsessed with 'Zovenis' (UFOs or extraterrestrials). It categorizes ufologists into various sub-species like 'Dahufoloque' (Religious), 'Tordufoloaue' (Hysterical), 'Boulonneur' (Materialistic), and 'Nébuleux' (Hypocritical), highlighting their often contradictory and self-serving approaches to ufology. The author suggests that ufologists hinder rather than help the resolution of the UFO mystery.

• EXOBIOLOGIE - Le Compilateur, Le Déboulonneur, Le Mythomane (Continued from previous page) This section continues the humorous classification of ufologists. The 'Compilateur' is described as someone who compiles cases without drawing meaningful conclusions. The 'Déboulonneur' is characterized by their constant need to contradict others, regardless of the truth. The 'Mythomane' is depicted as someone who creates elaborate, often sexualized, mythologies around UFOs.

• LA SAINTE OVNIVISATION (By Jean-Louis Décanis) This humorous piece presents a selection of quirky and often absurd UFO-related anecdotes and 'cases' from an almanac. It includes humorous observations and 'facts' about extraterrestrial encounters, crop circles, and ufological beliefs, often with a satirical twist.

• MIMETISME - Sciences & Déni This section features two articles: "L'ovni est un mythe" by Bertrand Méhoust, which suggests UFOs are a modern myth influenced by science fiction and collective unconsciousness, and "Mais que sont les ovnis devenus ?" by Gérald Messalié, which claims UFO observations and testimonies have disappeared, attributing past sightings to misinterpretations or known phenomena.

• MIMETISME - Un Ummite à la rédaction A humorous anecdote about discovering an 'Ummite' among the magazine's editors, who was then 'decapitated' to reveal red blood, black lungs, and a brown liver. The Ummite was identified by their inclusion of scientific truths in their texts.

• Mortadel News This section presents several short, satirical pieces:
• "L'invasion des 'Petits Roses'" warns humorously about small, pink, pig-faced aliens abducting citizens.
• "Le Pire du Milieu troublé par les ovnis ?" by Shi Bo Lata, suggests China has been long overflown by UFOs.
• "Des soucoupes volantes américaines aux assiettes anglaises" by Marc Hallaie, offers a broad overview of UFO phenomena.
• "La science avance." by Jean-Claude Gorret, notes that science is attempting to sort through ufological claims.
• An interview with M. Villas Boas is mentioned.
• A list of numerous testimonies and events are briefly noted, including "Le crash de Sowell" and "Le rapport de Porcantico."

• MIMETISME - EUROmania This section focuses on European ufology. It discusses a book titled "L'Euro des ovnis" and recounts the large wave of UFO sightings on November 5, 1990, from Toulouse to Strasbourg. It also details the 'case of the century' involving a ballet of 15 unidentified objects over Maastricht, which the NSA reportedly investigated, though socio-psychologists dismissed it as a myth. The section also touches upon European ufologists and the 'triangle wave,' questioning the role of organizations like the Trilateral Commission and Freemasons in security.

• Ufo Gog This section contains humorous and satirical articles related to UFOs and toilets:
• "Dossier : classement des WC par type" by Jacques Vécés, proposes a new classification system for toilets.
• "Le Pissomètre" by Didier Charnier, describes a device to measure urine stream speed and force.
• "Enquête : 71.4% des témoins n'avaient pas leur lunette" by François Maïs, humorously questions the reliability of testimonies.
• "Critique: Pourquoi je me suis engueulé avec Sider ?" by Michel Fricard, discusses a disagreement related to socio-psychological theories.
• "Critique: Halte aux socio-psy." by Jean Cyberg, dismisses socio-psychological explanations for UFO phenomena.
• "Gogwell" by Jean Cyberg, humorously links a UFO crash to a toilet chain.

• LE RAPPORT DE POCANTICO (By Claude Maugé) This is a continuation of an article discussing the Pocantico conference. It details the contributions of CUFOS participants, including Swords and Rodeghier. Swords reports on the seminar's proceedings, the luxurious setting, and the initial tension among participants due to language barriers, which was later eased. He highlights Velasco as the 'hero of the meeting.' Rodeghier analyzes why ufological research has progressed so little over 50 years, attributing it to a lack of resources and personnel. The article notes the jury's critical stance towards ufological data and the need for more rigorous scientific study.

Rubriques:

• ABONNEMENT Information on how to subscribe to UFO LOG, encouraging readers to support the fanzine.

• CHRONIQUE DE L'AILLEURS Discusses mysterious phenomena from different eras.

• BD ET OVNI Highlights comic books related to ufology.

• BOOKS ET MERCHANDISE Features books, comics, and American objects inspired by ufology.

• LIVRES Presents recent French books.

• REVUE DE PRESSE A review of recent press coverage of ufology.

• COURRIER DES LECTEURS A section for reader letters.

• DIVERS Miscellaneous content.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a critical and often humorous stance towards ufology. While acknowledging the existence of the UFO phenomenon and the passion of its researchers, UFO LOG frequently satirizes the methods, theories, and personalities within the ufological community. There's a recurring theme of debunking overly simplistic or fantastical explanations, while also poking fun at the 'debunkers' themselves. The editorial seems to favor a more grounded, albeit still curious, approach to the subject, emphasizing the need for scientific rigor while not dismissing the mystery entirely. The magazine also showcases a strong DIY, fanzine ethos, with contributions from various individuals and a focus on diverse perspectives, even if presented satirically. The changes in layout and production suggest an effort to modernize the fanzine's presentation and reach a wider audience.

This issue of UFO LOG, dated April 1999, features a critical analysis of the "Rapport de Pocantico" (Pocantico Report) and related UFO phenomena. The magazine delves into the shortcomings of ufological research, the handling of evidence, and historical case studies, while also critiquing specific authors and their interpretations.

Critiques of the Pocantico Report and Ufologists

The lead article, "RAPPORT DE POCANTICO," by Michel Picard, scrutinizes the presentations made at the Pocantico workshop. Picard questions the selection of cases, suggesting that some presented as strong evidence were flawed or had alternative explanations that were not adequately addressed. He criticizes ufologists like Jacques Vallée and Jean Sider for potentially omitting crucial information that could have provided a more balanced perspective. The article highlights the jury's own declaration that evaluations must be made with objectivity and a willingness to consider competing hypotheses, implying that this standard was not always met by the presenters.

Picard also points out the potential for ufologists to be less than honest by withholding information from jury members, suggesting that the presence of a skeptical ufologist might have prevented such omissions. He laments the lack of focus on solid physical data and the tendency to delve into more speculative aspects of the UFO phenomenon, such as animal mutilations and alien genetic experiments.

Analysis of Specific UFO Cases

The article examines several cases discussed in the context of the Pocantico report:

• Greifswald: The CENAP group suggests the observed lights were flares used for military missile targets, a conclusion that Picard notes Vallée may have ignored.
• Nort-sur-Erdre: Renaud Marhic's investigation is mentioned as potentially explaining the sounds recorded by a witness, though not the effects on vegetation.
• Trans-en-Provence: The case is presented as less clear-cut than some ufologists suggest, with questions raised about the GEPAN's intervention time, the interpretation of circular traces, the origin of recovered materials, and the analysis of plant samples.
• Mansfield Helicopter Case: Picard notes that P.J. Klass offered objections, suggesting the object was a meteor, and argues that these arguments deserved discussion, contrary to what might have been presented.

Historical Airship Sightings and Jean Sider's Interpretations

Another significant section of the magazine is dedicated to a critique of Jean Sider's work, particularly his book "L'airship de 1897." Michel Picard challenges Sider's dismissal of several historical accounts from 1897 involving airships and anchors.

• Sioux City, Iowa (March 26, 1897): Robert Hibbard reported an airship's anchor snagging his pants and dragging him. Sider dismisses this as a potential hoax or drunken hallucination, suggesting dirigibles of that era did not have anchors.
• Saginaw, Michigan (April 5, 1897): An airship reportedly dropped an anchor that hit a house, and a beer bottle was thrown.
• Merkel, Texas (April 26, 1897): A similar account describes a heavy object with a rope and anchor, from which a man descended before cutting the rope and departing. The anchor was reportedly displayed locally.

Picard argues that Sider's skepticism is too rigid and that he imposes arbitrary restrictions on what constitutes a valid UFO case, such as requiring a 'leak' from the occupants. Picard advocates for examining all evidence without preconceived notions, referencing Aimé Michel's principle of examining everything without necessarily believing it.

Picard then presents a similar account from the 12th century, from Gervais de Tilbury's "Le livre des merveilles," involving a boat-like object with a rope and anchor, suggesting that such narratives are not unique to the 1897 wave and may reflect enduring archetypes or beliefs.

The Roswell Incident and the Mogul Balloon Theory

The magazine also features an article by Jean Sider himself, titled "ROSWELL: E FINITA LA COMEDIA MOGUL." Sider vehemently refutes the official US Air Force explanation of the Roswell crash being a Mogul cluster-balloon. He criticizes "debunkers" for uncritically accepting this explanation and accuses the US Air Force of perpetuating a falsehood.

Sider challenges the claims that Major Jesse Marcel mistook debris for an unknown object, arguing that the materials of the Mogul balloons were not unknown and that the explanation is fabricated. He states that his new article will definitively disprove the Mogul balloon theory using irrefutable evidence, implying that the official explanation is a second lie from the US Air Force.

The Transistor and Technological Transfer

Further critiquing Sider, the article "Et un transistor dans le jardin de Sider!" by Michel Picard, addresses the "technological transfer" hypothesis, which suggests that the US gained advanced technology from recovered UFOs after 1947.

Picard argues against this theory, pointing out that the transistor, a foundational component of modern electronics, was invented and patented in 1930 by Julius Edgar Lilienfeld, long before the Roswell incident. He cites an article from "Planète" magazine (Nov./Dec. 1966) that details this early patent. Picard contends that while the transistor's invention may have been ahead of its time, its development was not dependent on UFO technology. He suggests that the Second World War and subsequent scientific advancements, rather than alien technology, were the true catalysts for rapid technological evolution.

Picard also explores the potential involvement of scientists like John Von Neumann and Norbert Wiener in the broader context of UFO research, suggesting that their work might have been influenced by or contributed to the intellectual climate surrounding UFO phenomena, even if not directly through technological transfer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes a critical and analytical approach to ufology. It champions scientific rigor, objectivity, and the examination of evidence without preconceived biases. The editorial stance appears to favor a skeptical yet open-minded investigation of UFO phenomena, challenging both overly credulous believers and dismissive debunkers. There is a strong undercurrent of advocating for a return to more grounded, evidence-based research within the field of ufology, contrasting it with what the authors perceive as sensationalism or unsubstantiated speculation.

This issue of UFO LOG, dated April 1999, focuses on the enduring mystery of the Roswell incident. The cover story, "Le major Marcel se serait trompé" (Major Marcel would have been mistaken), immediately challenges the conventional explanations. The magazine delves into the details of the Roswell crash, scrutinizing the official narratives and presenting arguments that suggest a deliberate cover-up.

The "Mogul Project" and Cluster Balloons

The article systematically dismantles the theory that the Roswell debris was from a "Mogul Project" cluster balloon. It highlights that polyethylene, a key material in these balloons, was a new material in 1947 but lacked the unique properties of the recovered debris. Furthermore, the article points out that the specific cluster balloon launch (number 4 on June 4, 1947) cited by debunkers like Karl T. Pflock and Charles Moore, is problematic. According to Charles Moore, cluster balloons with polyethylene envelopes were only used starting July 3, 1947, and launch number 4 used Neoprene, a material known for a long time. This discrepancy is presented as evidence against the Mogul Project explanation.

The article also scrutinizes the radar reflectors allegedly attached to these balloons. Charles Moore stated that radar reflectors were removed from launches starting June 5, 1947, due to ineffectiveness. This contradicts the idea that the reflectors from launch number 4 could have caused confusion. The article suggests that the Pentagon's own reports, particularly the drawing of launch number 2, are fabricated, with the reflectors disproportionately large compared to the balloons, to make the explanation more plausible.

Witness Testimonies and Pressure

The testimony of farmer W. Brazel and his neighbors, along with the sheriff, is discussed. The article implies that Brazel was pressured by military police on July 9th to alter his initial statement about the discovery of the debris, suggesting a coordinated effort to control the narrative. The meeting held on July 8th involving Major Jesse A. Marcel and other military personnel further indicates a high-level discussion about the debris.

The Role of Diversion and Secrecy

The article posits that the cluster balloon program was used as a diversionary tactic. A press conference held at Alamogordo on July 9th, involving a cluster balloon demonstration, is presented as an example of this. The author suggests that this was intended to mislead both the press and the military personnel who knew that balloons with radar reflectors were no longer being launched after June 5th.

The Mystery of Launch Number 9

A significant point of contention is the fate of "launch number 9." While Charles Moore initially suggested it might have been used for a classified "off-program" launch, he later retracted this, stating that launch number 9 "NEVER TOOK PLACE." This contradiction is seen as further evidence of pressure and manipulation by the Pentagon to fit the cluster balloon narrative.

Historical Precedents and Other Cases

Beyond the Roswell incident, the magazine includes a section titled "CHRONIQUE DE L'AILLEURS" (Chronicle from Elsewhere) which compiles numerous historical accounts of strange aerial phenomena and unexplained events dating back centuries. These range from ancient carvings of cylindrical objects to reports of luminous spheres, "phantom armies," and unusual atmospheric events.

Another section, "La couleur tombée du ciel" (The color that fell from the sky), details an incident in Cincinnati in 1955 where a red, sticky liquid rained down, causing damage to plants and a peach tree. The article notes that the Air Force investigated but did not release its findings.

Analysis of "Substances Left by UFOs"

A "REMARQUES" (Remarks) section by Gérard Demarcq comments on an article by Hervé Clergot concerning substances found after UFO sightings. Demarcq, a geologist, offers insights into the scientific analysis of such materials, emphasizing the need for aseptic collection and comparative soil samples. He discusses potential explanations for phenomena like "angel hair" and black deposits, considering both terrestrial and extraterrestrial origins, and the possibility of physico-chemical interactions caused by UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the questioning of official narratives, the suggestion of government cover-ups, and the exploration of alternative explanations for unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of the "weather balloon" and "Mogul Project" explanations for Roswell, favoring the interpretation that a genuine, unknown craft was involved and its discovery was deliberately obscured. The magazine aims to present evidence and arguments that support the existence of UFOs and the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation, while critically examining the efforts to debunk these phenomena.

Title: UFO LOG
Issue: 07
Date: April 1999
Publisher: Association Nexus
Country: France
Language: French

This issue of UFO LOG, titled "BD & OVNI," delves into the intersection of ufology and comic books. The editor, D.C., introduces a new section dedicated to exploring how UFOs have influenced comic artists and editors, suggesting that comic books often serve as an entry point into ufology for many.

BD & OVNI: The Comic Book Connection

The main feature explores the influence of UFOs on the comic book industry. It highlights a series of three original comic albums published by Editions Dargaud in the 1970s: "Le dossier des soucoupes volantes" (1972), "Ceux venus d'ailleurs" (1973), and "OVNI. dimension autre" (1975). These albums, written by Jacques Lob and illustrated by Robert Gigi, are noted for detailing numerous UFO testimonies and encounters, including the Hopkinsville creature, Villas Boas, and the Hill couple. The article mentions that these albums were later reissued as a single collection titled "Les apparitions d'ovni" in 1979.

The section also touches upon other comic-related UFO content, such as the "Decoy" mini-series and the "BD" comic book, and mentions that some stories from the Lob and Gigi albums were pre-published in "Pilote" magazine.

Book Reviews

The "BOOKS" section reviews several books related to ufology and paranormal phenomena:

• "The Uninvited: An Exposé of the Alien Abduction Phenomena" by Nick Pope: This book examines alien abduction cases, drawing on the author's work for the British government. It is presented as an objective analysis, despite a lack of definitive conclusions.
• "Time Travel Handbook" by David Childress: This collective work explores scientific theories of time travel, from Nikola Tesla to the Philadelphia Experiment, and includes numerous illustrations and diagrams.
• "UFOs, JFK and Elvis" by Richard Blezer: This book addresses various conspiracy theories, including those surrounding UFOs, with the author taking a humorous yet critical stance on conspiracism, highlighting its dangers.
• "OVNIS : les envahisseurs démasqués" by Jean Sider: This new work by Jean Sider attempts to globalize paranormal phenomena, suggesting that UFO entities and related manifestations stem from ancient, underlying causes, even linking them to biblical accounts.
• "OVNIS : 50 ans de secret" by Gildas Bourdais: This book aims to convince readers of the reality of UFOs by presenting serious dossiers from pilots, astronauts, and government sources, covering UFO waves, state investigations, cattle mutilations, and the Roswell incident.

UFO Merchandise

The "UFO MERCHANDISE" section features:

• Alien Newborn Resin Statue: A statue of a 'Grey' alien created by Japanese sculptor Oniki.
• Alien Warrior Statue: A statue of an Alien warrior from the films, sculpted by Takayuki Takeya.
• Alien Figure Kit: A plastic model kit of an Alien warrior from the first two "Alien" films.

Review of the Press (Revue de Presse)

This section reviews various magazines and publications covering paranormal and ufological topics:

• Visions du Futur #20 (February 1999): Features an interview with Luc Mary about Venus and exobiology.
• Facteur X (#45 and #46): Covers the Jason Andrews affair, encounters with UFOs, and the dangers associated with them.
• Parasciences #35 (December 1998): Discusses UFOs, NDEs, and includes reflections by Michel Picard and Jean Sider.
• Anomalies #5 (March 1999): Focuses on ufology and cryptology, critiquing Philip Corso's book and discussing the Sturrock report.
• Nexus #1 (March-April 1999): A translation of the American magazine, covering conspiracies, parallel sciences, and ufology, including a testimony about an officer's contact with aliens and crop circle reports.
• Sentinel News #12 (January-March 1999): Covers diverse topics like the face on Mars, Uri Geller, and various UFO-related news.
• INH Contact #4 (January 1999): Continues the dispute between Robert Alessandri and Jean-Jacques Vélasco.
• La Presse Ufologique (February 1999): Described as strange and surprising, this publication aims to disseminate ufological information.

Letters from Readers (Courrier des Lecteurs)

This section features several letters from readers:

• Eric Maillot critiques several articles, questioning the validity of UFO cases presented, particularly those involving "angel hair" and the Crépy-en-Valois trace, suggesting they are misidentified natural phenomena like spider webs or lunar reflections. He also challenges Jean Sider's interpretation of the Roswell case, asking if an electrical storm was considered.
• Thierry Van De Leur responds to a previous letter, defending his position on a potential monumental sculpture on the Moon. He outlines a protocol for verifying this information through NASA, emphasizing the importance of objective proof and encouraging others to follow the procedure.
• Another letter discusses the alleged alien in a septic tank, humorously framed as a skeptical viewpoint.

Divers (Miscellaneous)

• Pierre Lagrange's views: Jean-Luc Rivera comments on Pierre Lagrange's statements, suggesting that Lagrange's approach is a strategic career choice rather than a reflection of genuine belief, and that disinformation tactics by organizations like the MJ-12 or the Santilli autopsy are more effective.
• Personal Ad: An offer to sell or exchange UFO-related dossiers and magazines.
• Personal Message: Jean-Paul Ronecker thanks Gilles Munsch for information and for sending "La Ligne Bleue survolée."
• Invitation: Announcement of monthly Parisian Ufology Dinners, held on the first Tuesday of each month.

Reviews of Amateur Adult Comic Books

This section briefly presents two adult comic books: "La mission infernale" by Edition Bellevue and "La révolte des damnés" by Bastille Editions, both undated and likely from the early 1980s.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of ufology and popular culture, particularly comic books. The magazine aims to bridge the gap between serious ufological research and more accessible forms of media. There's an emphasis on critical analysis, with reader letters challenging presented cases and questioning the methodologies of some ufologists. The editorial stance appears to be open to diverse perspectives within ufology while also encouraging rigorous investigation and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims. The magazine also highlights the importance of historical cases and the ongoing efforts to understand the UFO phenomenon.

This document pertains to the fanzine 'Ufo Log'. It provides contact information and a significant note regarding the copyright and distribution of its digital versions. The latest issue mentioned is number 25, released in the summer of 2011, with a new issue reportedly in preparation for 2019. The fanzine is published by the association Nexus, with contact details provided for Didier Charnay at an address in Bourg-en-Bresse, France, and a website www.ufolog.org.

Contact Information

The fanzine 'Ufo Log' is edited by the association Nexus. The contact person listed is Didier Charnay, with the postal address being c/o Didier Charnay, 2 rue des Chanterelles, 01000 Bourg-en-Bresse, France. The official website is www.ufolog.org.

Important Note on Digital Version Copyright

A critical section titled 'NOTE IMPORTANTE' (Important Note) details the copyright protection of the digital version of 'Ufo Log'. It states that internet users have the right to download and store digitized issues in their personal archives. However, they are explicitly forbidden from publishing these issues online on any website, blog, forum, or social network. The only authorized online publication platform is the AFU (Archives for the Unexplained). Any unauthorized digital publication of 'Ufo Log' is considered prohibited and may result in legal proceedings. This policy is reiterated in English, emphasizing that unauthorized digital publication may lead to legal action.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this document is the dissemination of information regarding the 'Ufo Log' fanzine, focusing on its publication status, contact details, and crucially, its digital copyright policy. The editorial stance is clear: to protect the intellectual property of the fanzine's digital content while allowing personal archival use, with strict controls over online sharing to maintain authorized distribution channels.