UFO Quebec - No 11 - 3e trim 1977

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO-QUEBEC
Issue: 11
Date: Third Quarter 1977 (July-August-September)
Publisher: UFO-QUEBEC (Association UFO-QUEBEC, non-profit)
Country: Canada
Language: French
ISSN: 0317 - 9311
Price: $1.00

Editorial

The editorial, written by Norbert Spehner, highlights the continued UFO activity in Quebec, noting a sighting of four UFOs on September 11th and three of them near Beloeil on September 12th, 1977. Spehner expresses reservations about publishing an article by Marc Leduc on Claude Vorilhon (Raël), calling Vorilhon a "false prophet" who abuses people's credulity and discredits ufological research, suggesting he might be manipulated by government agencies. Spehner personally finds Raël's claims to be less credible than science fiction. He also addresses the "Langevin affair," confirming that J.F. Langevin confessed his UFO photo was a fake from the "Space Alert" series and attempted blackmail. Spehner dismisses Langevin, stating he has wasted enough time and saliva. The editorial then introduces an article by Wido Hoville on how to build a UFO detector, promising more accessible models in future issues. Administratively, UFO-QUEBEC has been registered as a non-profit corporation, and the use of its name is now legally protected. The editorial board has been expanded to a committee responsible for text selection and layout. Spehner encourages readers to send in their cases, investigation reports, and comments.

Investigations and Reports

Enquêtes au Québec (Investigations in Quebec) and Enquêtes Récentes (Recent Investigations) detail several UFO sightings:

• Montréal-Nord, May 2, 1977: Three witnesses observed a large, bright, stationary object that later moved slowly from West to East. It was described as a machine with pulsating red lights in the center and a stable, inclined movement. The object was estimated to be two times larger than a normal star and appeared to be the size of a Cessna.
• Beloeil, May 15, 1977: A witness saw a brilliant aluminum disc moving at high speed from the South, which slowed down as it approached the zenith before disappearing. The observation lasted only 30 seconds.
• Beloeil, May 17, 1977: A witness observed a yellowish, crescent-shaped object with a faint halo moving very fast from Southwest to Northeast without sound, lasting 5 to 6 seconds.
• Beloeil, May 21, 1977: Three objects in a V-formation, described as luminous croissants with a whitish halo, moved at high speed without sound. Later, a group of 15 round objects with a whitish halo, like satellites, were observed moving from West to East.
• Beloeil, July 24, 1977: Four witnesses observed a strange, fir-tree-shaped object moving silently and vertically. This was followed by a second, white disc-shaped object that moved faster and without sound. The fir-tree object was described as pale grey and transparent, with luminous circles and squares on its underside.
• Thetford Mines, July 19, 1977 (Article from "L'OR BLANC"): Two witnesses reported seeing multiple luminous objects in the sky between 10 PM and midnight. The objects moved in symmetrical and ordered patterns, sometimes forming triangles. They emitted flashes and changed direction, moving towards various locations like Sacré-Cœur-de-Marie and St-Daniel. One witness described a "diamond white" object that pivoted and then shot towards Robertsonville. The objects were described as having a faint glow in the center and were seen to move in a north-south line, returning to the east.
• Vandry, Abitibi, July 1944: Two young sisters, Lisette and Lise Bergeron, observed a large, golden, disc-shaped object with rotating colored lights and a cylindrical part that descended and ascended silently. The object was estimated to be 30 meters in diameter and 10 meters high. The event lasted about 20 minutes and caused physical effects on the children, including temporary deafness.

La Détection des UFOs (UFO Detection) by Wido Hoville provides technical details on building a UFO detector.

A Propos de Raël (About Raël) by Marc Leduc investigates Claude Vorilhon (Raël), presenting him as a controversial figure.

L'UFO du Lac Howard ? Identifié (The UFO of Lake Howard? Identified) by Wido Hoville.

Le Débat Continue (The Debate Continues).

UFOs et Cinéma (UFOs and Cinema) by Claude Mac Duff.

Other Sections

• Courrier (Mail): Includes contributions from Michel Gravel and Doris Bédard, who provide the article on the Thetford Mines sighting.
• Abonnements (Subscriptions): Information on how to subscribe to UFO-QUEBEC, including regular and supporting subscriptions, and pricing for single issues and international orders.
• Attention: Adresse pour abonnements (Attention: Address for Subscriptions): Provides the mailing address for subscriptions.
• Conseillers Scientifiques (Scientific Advisors): Lists the scientific advisors for the magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings and investigations within Quebec, aiming to document and analyze these phenomena. The editorial stance, particularly from Norbert Spehner, is critical of individuals who may exploit public credulity regarding UFOs, suggesting a need for rigorous investigation and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims. There is an emphasis on providing technical information, such as how to build a UFO detector, and encouraging reader participation through reports and observations. The magazine also touches upon historical cases and the broader context of UFO research, referencing external publications and historical accounts.

Key Persons Mentioned

• Norbert Spehner (President, Editorial)
• Philippe Blaquière (Vice-President)
• Wido Hoville (President, Investigator)
• Marc Leduc (Investigator, Author)
• Michel Gravel (Contributor)
• Doris Bédard (Contributor)
• Claude Vorilhon (Raël) (Subject of article)
• J.F. Langevin (Subject of case)
• Maurice Masse (Subject of case)
• May Veber (Author)
• Don Donderi (Scientific Advisor)
• Jeff Holt (Scientific Advisor)
• Marcel Constantin (Scientific Advisor)
• Guy Tardif (Scientific Advisor)

Organizations Mentioned

• UFO-QUEBEC
• Association UFO-QUEBEC
• CIA
• Bibliothèque Nationale du Québec
• Bibliothèque Nationale du Canada
• Sélection du Reader's Digest

Locations Mentioned

• Montréal, Canada
• Saint-Bruno, Canada
• Rougemont, Canada
• St-Hilaire, Canada
• St-Hyacinthe, Canada
• Joliette, Canada
• Berthierville, Canada
• Les Laurentides, Canada
• Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Canada
• Beloeil, Canada
• Abitibi, Canada
• Sanmaur, Canada
• La Tuque, Canada
• Gouin Reservoir, Canada
• Vandry, Canada
• Thetford Mines, Canada
• Robertsonville, Canada
• Sacré-Cœur-de-Marie, Canada
• St-Daniel, Canada
• Europe

Themes

UFO Sightings, UFO Investigations, UFO Reports, Extraterrestrials, UFO Technology

Tags

UFO, Quebec, Sighting, Investigation, Report, Disc, Saucer, Crescent, V-shape, Fir tree, Silent, Fast, High altitude, Thetford Mines, Beloeil

FAQ

Q: What is UFO-Quebec?
A: UFO-Quebec is a quarterly magazine dedicated to information and research on Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), published by the non-profit association UFO-QUEBEC.

Q: How can I report a UFO sighting?
A: If you observe a UFO, you can call one of the listed investigator phone numbers for your region to report it immediately. Someone will be dispatched to the location as soon as possible.

Q: What kind of UFOs were reported in this issue?
A: This issue details sightings of disc-shaped objects, crescent-shaped objects, V-shaped formations, and objects described as being shaped like a fir tree, with various colors and behaviors.

Q: What are the subscription details for UFO-Quebec?
A: A regular subscription costs $4.00 for 4 issues (1 year), a supporting subscription is $10.00 for 4 issues (1 year), with an additional $1.00 for air service to Europe. Single issues can be purchased for $1.00.

This issue of UFO-QUEBEC, titled "LA DETECTION DES UFOS," delves into the practical aspects of detecting Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and explores the controversial 'Raël' movement. The magazine aims to provide readers with information on how to build UFO detection devices and discusses the broader context of UFO phenomena and related beliefs.

UFO Detection Methods

The article introduces three primary principles for UFO detection:

Type A: Magnetic Field Induction on a Coil

This method uses a coil to detect induced magnetic fields from a UFO, generating a weak current that is amplified to trigger an alarm. The Type A detector described uses a 20,000-ohm coil connected to a Siemens or Phillips TAA 293 amplifier, with a gain of approximately 95 decibels. A 40-ohm relay is used to trigger an electronic alarm. The detector operates on 6-9 volts DC. The article notes that while this type functions well within a close range (around 150 meters), it may not be sensitive enough for distant magnetic impulses. False alarms can occur due to atmospheric conditions or nearby electrical interference, though it is stated that passing cars or planes do not trigger it. Testing involves passing a small magnet near the coil or using a running drill.

Type B: Magnetic Field Induction via Compass Needle

Similar to Type A, the Type B detector also relies on magnetic field variations but uses a compass needle. A significant deflection of the compass needle indicates a strong magnetic field variation. A light beam from a lamp (200 LUX) strikes a photo-transistor, allowing a current to pass, which then triggers the alarm after amplification. This particular model operates on 20-24 volts DC. The article recommends a constant power supply and advises against using standard batteries due to the continuous need for the lamp to be on. It suggests using two 12-volt batteries in series with a rechargeable battery or an automatic shut-off charger.

Technical Specifications and Components

Detailed circuit diagrams and parts lists are provided for both Type A and Type B detectors. The components include integrated circuits like the TAA 293 and TAA 861, transistors (AC 187K, AC 188K, BPY 62, BCY 59), diodes (BA 103), relays, potentiometers, and resistors. The article lists specific order numbers and suppliers like Radio-Shack, Cesco Electronique, and Payette Electrique. Specifications for linear integrated semiconductor circuits, NPN silicon photo transistors, and silicon diodes in metal cases are also included, detailing their electrical characteristics and order numbers.

The Raël Movement

The issue dedicates significant space to the 'Raël' movement, founded by Claude Vorillon (Raël). The article describes Raël's teachings, which are presented as an atheistic religion based on extraterrestrial beings called 'Elohims' who created humanity. Raël's message emphasizes a utopian future, the abolition of money and war, and a society based on intellectual quotients and merit. His followers are encouraged to contribute financially to build a grand temple dedicated to pleasure and technology, where the 'chosen' will live with the Elohims.

Raël's Background and Conferences

The author recounts how he was introduced to the Raël movement through Rejean, a member. An interview with Raël is described, highlighting his patience and the transcription of the lengthy recording. The article notes that Raël's conferences repeat the content of his books, delivered with charisma and conviction, often claiming his messages are telepathically received from the Elohims.

Criticism and Comparison

The article contrasts the Raël movement with serious ufological research. It criticizes the tendency to group UFOs, prophets, and other phenomena together, causing confusion. While Raël offers answers and a sense of certainty, serious ufology focuses on empirical evidence and methodical investigation of current sightings. The author expresses discomfort with the conflation of ufology and 'contactee' narratives, emphasizing the distinction between scientific inquiry and religious belief.

Ufological Debate

A significant portion of the magazine features a debate between a philosopher, M. Van Praag, and a pilot, M. Charles Robert, published in the Danish aviation journal 'WOLKENRIDDER'. Van Praag suggests that ufologists are subjected to a 'witch hunt,' implying that pilots who report UFO sightings face ridicule, penalties, and medical examinations. Robert, a pilot with extensive flight experience, refutes this, stating he has never encountered such treatment or heard of it among his colleagues. He challenges Van Praag to provide evidence, such as names of pilots or companies, to support his claims.

Robert Sapienza's Response

Robert Sapienza responds to both Van Praag and Robert, critiquing their arguments. He finds Van Praag's points too general and partly inaccurate, particularly regarding pilots' interest in UFOs. Sapienza clarifies the distinction between UFOs (Unidentified Flying Objects) and 'flying saucers,' noting that while the latter is a category of UFO, their extraterrestrial origin is unproven. He acknowledges that pilots have reported UFOs exhibiting maneuvers that defy known physics but dismisses the idea of a 'witch hunt' against researchers. Sapienza also counters Robert's skepticism, arguing that personal non-observation does not disprove the existence of phenomena like St. Elmo's Fire or UFOs, and points out that aviation journals do discuss UFOs.

Case Study: The Howard Lake UFO Incident

The issue revisits the 'Langevin case' from Lac Howard, Quebec, initially published in UFO-QUEBEC. It reveals that the photograph submitted by Jean-François Langevin was a fabrication, part of a television series called "ALERTE DANS L'ESPACE." The article concludes that Langevin likely 'doctored' his observation to make it more fantastic, possibly due to personal vanity or a desire for recognition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a distinction between serious, evidence-based ufological research and the more speculative or faith-based narratives of 'contactees' and religious movements like Raëlism. The editorial stance appears to favor methodical investigation and critical analysis, while acknowledging the public's fascination with UFOs and related phenomena. There is a clear effort to debunk hoaxes and misinformation within the ufological community. The recurring theme is the need for clarity and distinction between different types of claims and approaches to understanding UFOs. The magazine encourages reader participation and feedback, inviting them to share their results and inquiries.

This issue, titled 'UFOS ET CINEMA' (UFOs and Cinema), issue number 22, published by Éditions Québec-Amérique, delves into the representation of UFOs and extraterrestrials in film and television. The article, authored by Claude Mac Duff, explores the evolution of this theme in popular media and critically examines the highly anticipated American film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind,' directed by Steven Spielberg.

The Evolution of UFOs in Cinema

The article begins by noting the enduring popularity of UFOs and extraterrestrial themes in cinema and television. It observes a shift in how these subjects are presented. Early portrayals, particularly from the 1930s to the 1960s, often depicted aliens as 'evil invaders.' However, in more recent years, there has been a growing trend to explore the concept of Earth being visited by beings from other worlds in the past and present. This shift is noted in documentary and semi-documentary films, as well as in romanticized documentaries and literature.

'Close Encounters of the Third Kind': A Detailed Look

A significant portion of the article is dedicated to Steven Spielberg's 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind,' slated for release in late 1977. The author highlights that this film is considered to be the most well-made and well-documented film on the subject to date, aiming to be close to ufological reality. The article presents opinions and viewpoints from various individuals within the ufology community, including researchers, journalists, and authors.

Lucius Farish, a researcher and analyst for the American group Mutual UFO Network (MUFON), confirms the film's production and notes that while it's not strictly a documentary, it is very well-made, with Dr. Hynek serving as a technical advisor. The film's title is directly linked to Hynek's classification of UFO observation cases.

An early preview from THE ARKANSAS GAZETTE in December 1976 is quoted, describing the film as Spielberg's third major work, distinct from his suspense thriller 'Jaws.' It mentions that the film concerns extraterrestrial visitors and that Spielberg planned to shoot scenes in Bombay, India. The film's production budget is noted as $13 million, with Columbia Pictures distributing it.

Spielberg expresses his dissatisfaction with how television series like 'Space Patrol' and 'Cosmos 1999' often portray interactions between different civilizations as adversarial. He also suggests that 'Close Encounters' is a continuation of a film he made at age 17.

François Truffaut, discussing his role in the film, describes himself as an agnostic but acknowledges the growing body of evidence supporting the reality of UFOs. He calls his role a 'limited responsibility.' Truffaut's participation as an actor in an American film under Spielberg's direction is highlighted.

The article also references an article from the NATIONAL ENQUIRER, which provides extensive details about the film. Columbia Pictures reportedly invested $20 million in 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind,' a significant increase from the $9 million budget for 'Jaws.' The film stars Richard Dreyfuss and is expected to be a major box-office success, with producers hoping to recoup the substantial investment. The filming took place in a colossal aircraft hangar in Mobile, Alabama, which is equipped with $400 million worth of real equipment, similar to that used by NASA.

Critical Reception and Industry Buzz

Charles Bowen, editor of the renowned 'Flying Saucer Review,' notes a resurgence of media interest in ufology, with both television and cinema featuring the topic. He points out that 'Flying Saucer Review' was directly contacted by Columbia Pictures about their intention to produce a suspense film about UFOs and their occupants, suggesting that the studio had been influenced by publications like 'Flying Saucer Review' and the work of researchers like Hynek and Vallée. The title 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' is seen as a direct nod to Hynek's classification system.

William Dennis Hauck, editor-in-chief of 'The MUFON UFO Journal,' shares his anticipation for the film's release in December, predicting it will offer a completely different perspective on UFOs than what television viewers are accustomed to. He believes it will significantly boost the ufological movement globally and expects a popularity comparable to 'Jaws.' He also mentions another film, 'Alien Encounter,' being developed by Hal Roach Productions, leading to a plagiarism lawsuit from Columbia.

Walter Andrus, Director of MUFON, comments on a CBS children's information special titled 'Flying Saucers: What Are They?' He criticizes the program, written by Joe Siegel and directed by Vern Diamond, for presenting Philip Klass as an 'expert' and for what he perceives as an attempt at 'denigration' and 'brainwashing.' Andrus anticipates a flood of protest letters to CBS.

Public Reaction and Future Implications

The article speculates on the potential financial success of the film, drawing parallels to the success of 'Jaws.' It notes the polarized public reaction to UFOs, ranging from intense interest and fascination to outright repulsion or terror. The film's impact on witnesses of 'third kind' encounters is also considered: will it encourage them to speak out, or will it reinforce their desire for secrecy?

The author acknowledges the significant advertising surrounding major films, especially American productions, and advises caution, suggesting that publicity is often driven by the need for profitability rather than the intrinsic value of the film. The article concludes by stating that only time will tell how the film will be received and what its ultimate impact will be, emphasizing that the presentation and spirit of the film are crucial to its reception.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of UFO phenomena with cinema and television, the evolving portrayal of extraterrestrials in media, and the specific impact of 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' on public perception and the ufological community. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious optimism regarding the film's potential to advance the understanding and acceptance of ufology, while also acknowledging the commercial pressures and potential for sensationalism in media portrayals of such sensitive topics. The publication, UFO-Quebec, actively solicits articles, reports, and testimonies, indicating a commitment to exploring and disseminating information on UFO phenomena.