UFO Quebec - No 17 - 1er trim 1979

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO-QUEBEC, identified as number 17 and dated the first quarter of 1979, is a trimestrial magazine focused on information and research concerning unidentified flying objects. The cover features a prominent graphic of an alien figure and a disc, with the magazine title and 'INFORMATIONS RECHERCHES' clearly displayed. The price is $1.25.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Norbert Spehner, reflects on the year 1979 and the ongoing mystery of UFOs. Spehner notes that despite the passage of time, the UFO dossier has not significantly progressed, and a true breakthrough would require something radically new. He highlights a significant legal victory in the United States where a group of ufologists successfully sued the CIA, forcing the agency to release hundreds, if not thousands, of pages of documents related to UFOs. This action challenges the notion of 'cover-ups' and espionage, revealing the CIA's involvement in investigating UFOs, infiltrating research groups, and intimidating witnesses. Spehner also mentions the ongoing efforts of CAUS (Citizen Against UFO Secrecy) to obtain UFO crash debris and occupant-related documents from the US Air Force, suggesting this could be a major step forward in UFO research.

The editorial also briefly touches upon preliminary findings by Wido Hoville regarding the correlation between UFO phenomena and solar activity, inviting readers to share any relevant information. Spehner concludes by thanking collaborators for their feedback on a planned symposium.

Table of Contents (Sommaire)

The table of contents lists various articles and reports:

• EDITORIAL by Norbert Spehner (Page 3)
• ENQUETES AU QUEBEC (Investigations in Quebec) (Page 4)
• UNE OBSERVATION A LACHINE by Marc Leduc (Page 4)
• UNE OBSERVATION A TERREBONNE by Marc Leduc (Page 5)
• UNE OBSERVATION A VALLEYFIELD by Pierre Roy, Marc Leduc (Page 6)
• PHENOMENE UFO ET ACTIVITE SOLAIRE by Wido Hoville (Page 7)
• CATALOGUE UFO QUEBEC (Page 11)
• CAUS CONTRE USAF (Page 18)
• NOTES SUR UNE POLEMIQUE by Marc Leduc (Page 20)
• NOTES SUR L'ESTIMATION DES RAPPORTS by Marc Leduc (Page 23)
• STATISTIQUES PARTIELLES POUR L'ANNEE 1973 by Marc Leduc (Page 24)

Corporation Information

The magazine provides details about the LA CORPORATION U.F.O.-QUEBEC, describing it as a non-profit association dedicated to studying unidentified flying objects. It lists the general direction and administration, including:

• DIRECTEUR: Marc Leduc
• PRESIDENT: Wido Hoville
• VICE-PRESIDENT: Philippe Blaquière
• SECRETAIRE: Norbert Spehner

It also outlines the sectors of activity, such as editorial, subscriptions, correspondence, archives, general information, translation, accounting, and investigations. Key personnel in these sectors are named.

Subscription rates are provided, with a regular subscription costing $5 for 4 issues (1 year) and a supporting subscription costing $10. Additional charges apply for European subscriptions ($1 for surface mail, $2 for airmail). Checks and money orders should be made payable to UFO-QUEBEC. The magazine is also available free in exchange for other publications of a similar nature.

Article: UNE OBSERVATION A LACHINE (QUE.) - LE 5 JUILLET 1978

Investigator Marc Leduc reports on a case where he did not meet the witness in person. The witness, who contacted UFO-QUEBEC through the Montreal Planetarium, described seeing three small, circular discs, about two feet in diameter, flying at an altitude of approximately 70 feet from west to east. The discs were perfectly circular when viewed vertically, with a dome on top, and had a uniform milky white color. The space between each disc was three feet, and the formation extended twelve feet. The witness reported no sound, and the sky was clear. The witness, a metal sculptor, also mentioned seeing a 'mother ship' about five minutes before observing the three discs, which he believed were probes. He felt the objects were probes because they produced no vapor, noise, or visible means of propulsion, and he believed they were not occupied. The witness also noted that the objects glided silently and without pollution. He estimated the altitude of the 'mother ship' and another craft at around 40,000 feet, with a beautiful orange halo. The witness also reported seeing similar objects on the following three nights.

Leduc notes that the witness's estimation of size and altitude is based on comparison with chimneys and television antennas due to the low altitude. The short duration of the observation is attributed to the witness being in his backyard, limited by houses. The witness's account is considered probable (index of Probability 3) due to its consistency and the witness's previous observations in 1967 and 1964.

Article: UNE OBSERVATION A TERREBONNE (QUE.) - LE 22 OCTOBRE 1978

Investigator Marc Leduc recounts an observation made by one of his adult ufology course students. The student reported seeing a red light above trees at 7:25 PM on Sunday, October 22, 1978. The light, initially resembling an airplane, began to bob and descend. The student's car almost stopped completely as the light appeared to halt. Upon resuming movement, the light changed from red to white and rapidly moved away, disappearing towards the east. The witness initially estimated the light to be 500 feet away and 300 feet high, with a size of a few feet. The object stopped for 2 to 4 seconds before changing color and speed.

During a reconstruction of the event, it was determined that the witness's distance estimations were likely inaccurate. The object passed near a lamppost, and its altitude was estimated to be around 50 feet at its lowest point. The total observation lasted about twenty seconds, with a rapid departure estimated to cover three miles in 4-6 seconds. The witness was not agitated by the presence of conventional aircraft, distinguishing the observed light from airplane position lights. Leduc assigns a probability index of 4 to this case, citing the object's movements, stop, altitude, rapid departure, and color change, as well as the witness's composure and the external context of UFO activity worldwide at the time.

Article: UN OUNI BRILLE DANS LE CIEL DE WINNIPEG

This section reproduces a news article from 'La Presse' dated October 25, 1978, reporting an incident in Winnipeg on October 22, 1978. An Air Canada pilot and four airport control tower employees reported seeing a bright red object above the southern part of the city. The pilot initially thought it might be another aircraft. The control tower confirmed seeing the light but noted it was not detected by radar. Simultaneously, dozens of citizens in the area heard a first detonation and saw the brilliant red object. The object disappeared after a second, final detonation. The article mentions that the witness in Lachine reported seeing a similar UFO a few hours prior, suggesting a possible connection.

Article: UNE OBSERVATION A VALLEYFIELD - LE 25 JANVIER 1967

This report details an observation made by two police officers, Constable C. Bougie and the primary witness, M. L. Simon, on January 25, 1967, at 10:12 PM. They observed a luminous object described as a 'globe of mercury' moving from northwest to southeast at a speed comparable to a jet plane. The object had a flat bottom and a red halo around it, and it emitted a thick white smoke from its rear, trailing for about half a mile. The observation lasted approximately one minute to one minute and twenty seconds. The witness compared the object's apparent size to that of the moon. The report notes a possible light humming sound. The object's strangeness index is rated at 3, with a reliability index of 4, based on the witness's testimony, the consistency of the report, and the investigators' judgment. The observation is classified as a 'Lumière Nocturne' (Nocturnal Light) rather than a Close Encounter of the second kind, despite the mention of a humming sound, which is considered doubtful.

Article: Phénomène UFO et Activité Solaire

This article by Wido Hoville explores the potential correlation between solar cycles and UFO activity. Hoville was prompted by a discussion with an electrical company employee who noted a possible link based on a 'Science et Vie' article. Hoville undertook research to establish a correlation, acknowledging his limitations as an astronomer but his dedication to UFO research. He aimed to create graphs comparing solar activity (sunspot data) with UFO observations over the past thirty years.

He consulted approximately 150 issues of 'SKY & TELESCOPE' for solar data and obtained UFO observation data from Dr. David Saunders, a former member of the Condon Committee and affiliated with Dr. Hynek's Center for UFO Studies. Saunders' UFO-Catalogue contains over 60,000 cases. Saunders confirmed that this research area was largely unexplored and encouraged Hoville, noting his own suspicion of a link between UFO waves (61-month cycle) and the 11-year solar cycle. Saunders cautioned that a conclusive study would require more than 30 years of data, but Hoville also considered historical UFO waves from 1897, 1909, and 1933.

Hoville established four graphs:

• Graphique A: Solar activity from 1800 to 1977 versus UFO waves.
• Graphique B: Solar activity from 1947 to 1977 versus UFO activity (Saunders' statistics).
• Graphique BI: Solar activity from 1964 to 1977 versus UFO activity (Statistics from the French National Research Center).
• Graphique D: Solar activity from 1940 to 1977 versus planetary attraction (Jupiter, Earth, Venus) combined.

Hoville notes that Graphique A illustrates a correlation, with UFO activity generally absent during the peak of the solar cycle (maximum sunspots). Recent UFO waves, as well as the 1897 'airships' wave and the 1909 New Zealand wave, seem to follow this pattern. He observes that UFO activity appears to be most prevalent shortly before (1-3 years) or sometimes after the solar cycle maximum. The solar cycle is approximately 11 years, with the next maximum predicted for 1981, possibly influenced by a planetary alignment in 1982.

Graphique B provides a more precise correlation, but notes that the 1947 and 1957 waves might be influenced by publicity (the Arnold case) and the launch of Sputnik, respectively. Saunders suggests these were 'tapageuse' (sensational) publicity-driven waves. Hoville emphasizes that UFO activity is relatively low during the solar cycle maximum and vice-versa. This correlation is further supported by Graphique C, which uses Claude Poher's statistics from France, suggesting that the Arnold and Condon publicity had less impact in Europe than in the US.

Notice to Correspondents

A notice requests that correspondents include a self-addressed stamped envelope for replies to reduce costs and facilitate the magazine's work.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings and investigations within Quebec, the scientific exploration of potential links between UFO phenomena and astronomical events (specifically solar cycles), and the implications of government transparency regarding UFO information. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and a belief that significant progress in understanding UFOs is possible, particularly with increased access to official documentation. The magazine actively encourages reader participation through submissions and correspondence, positioning itself as a hub for UFO research in the Quebec region.

This issue of UFO-QUEBEC, identified as issue 13 and dated 1978, is a compilation of UFO observation reports from Quebec and Canada. It aims to systematically categorize and analyze these sightings, providing explanations for identified flying objects (IFO) and detailed descriptions for unidentified flying objects (UFO).

Origins and Definitions

The reports originate from various sources, including provincial, national, and international collaborators, ufological groups, government agencies, and the general public via media. An "observation of UFO" is defined as any abnormal phenomenon, usually aerial, that cannot be attributed to a known conventional object after investigation, due to its appearance, behavior, or effects.

Classification System

• The catalogue employs a classification system based on Dr. J. Allen Hynek's typology:
• NL (Nocturnal Light): Distant lights in the night sky, resistant to conventional explanations.
• DD (Daylight Disc): Objects observed during the day, not necessarily disc-shaped.
• RV (Radar Visual): UFOs detected by radar and simultaneously observed by witnesses.
• CE-I (Close Encounter of the First Kind): UFOs observed within 150 meters.
• CE-II (Close Encounter of the Second Kind): CE-I encounters with physical traces on the ground, environmental effects, or physiological effects on the witness.
• CE-III (Close Encounter of the Third Kind): CE-I encounters involving observation of occupants or contact with humanoids.

Analytical Indices

• Two indices are used for analysis:
• Indice d'étrangeté (Strangeness Index): Rates the unusualness of a report from 0 (normal explanation) to 10 (extraordinary), based on various characteristics like movement, luminosity, altitude, and behavior. A score of 3 or 4 is considered the threshold for further study.
• Indice de probabilité (Probability Index): Assesses the likelihood of the event occurring as described, considering factors like witness count, report cohesion, and investigator judgment. A score of 0 is rejected, while 10 is considered absolutely reliable. Cases scoring 3 or higher are retained.

Catalogued Sightings (1975-1978)

The magazine presents a series of detailed UFO sighting reports, each including date, time, duration, strangeness and probability scores, type (NL, DD, RV, CE), number of witnesses, and location. Notable entries include:

• June 1975: A luminous, opaque, elliptical object (DD) observed near Stanbridge-Station, Bedford, Canada, described as the size of a grapefruit.
• April 1978: A large cigar-shaped object with brilliant lights (NL) observed near St. Sauveur, Quebec, Canada, estimated at 2000 feet distance and 500 feet altitude.
• July 1978: A saucer-shaped object with a dome (DD) observed near St. Germain de Grantham, Canada, described as gold-colored and silent.
• November 1978: An egg-shaped, luminous object (NL) observed near St. Placide, Canada, which stopped twice before disappearing.
• August 1978: A multi-colored serpentine object (LN) observed near Lac Clair, La Macaza, Canada, by eight witnesses, described as round with brilliant circles.
• September 1978: Several luminous points (LN) observed near Beloeil, Quebec, Canada.
• October 1978: A brilliant, water-drop-shaped object (DD) observed near Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
• October 1978: A formation of several UFOs (LN) observed near Beloeil, Quebec, Canada, exhibiting high-speed maneuvers.
• November 1978: A luminous, circular object (LN) observed near Beloeil, Quebec, Canada, exhibiting rapid directional changes.
• November 1978: A triangular object (DD) observed near Marieville, Canada, flying parallel to a car.
• November 1978: A luminous oval disc (LN) observed near Longueuil, Canada, moving at high speed.
• November 1978: Two groups of lights (LN) observed near Deslisle, Quebec, Canada, forming a precise vertical pattern.

Correlation with Solar Activity

One section discusses the correlation between solar activity (sunspots) and UFO waves, referencing data from the National Research Council in Ottawa dating back to 1965. It notes similarities in patterns and suggests that UFO waves might be linked to planetary or solar mechanisms. The article highlights that maximum UFO activity seems to occur when solar activity and planetary attraction are at their lowest.

Scientific Explanations and Hypotheses

Another article explores scientific hypotheses for UFO phenomena. It discusses the work of Dr. Michael Persinger and Gyslaine F. Lafrenière, who suggest that 85% of close encounter cases could be explained by intense solar electromagnetic storms causing oscillations in Earth's magnetic field, potentially leading to phenomena like ball lightning or ionization of the air. The author expresses skepticism about this theory, particularly regarding its applicability to all cases and the claim of 85% explanation. An alternative hypothesis is proposed, suggesting that UFOs might seek refuge in Earth's electromagnetic field during major solar eruptions when the solar cycle is in its low phase.

CAUS Lawsuit Against USAF

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the legal action initiated by CAUS (Citizen Against U.F.O. Secrecy) against the United States Air Force (USAF). CAUS is seeking the disclosure of documents related to the recovery of crashed UFO wreckage and occupants, citing an incident from the late 1940s near the Texas-Mexico border. This action is pursued under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The article details the legal process, the involvement of lawyers, and the need for public financial support for the lawsuit. It highlights the success of the Ground Saucer Watch (GSW) in a similar FOIA lawsuit against the CIA, which led to the release of UFO-related documents.

Debate on UFO Interpretation

The issue includes a segment titled "L'ESSENTIEL DE LA COMMUNICATION DE F. SEGUIN" (The Essence of F. Seguin's Communication), which presents a critical view on UFO phenomena. Fernand Seguin, a science communicator, suggests that most UFO sightings can be explained by conventional phenomena, and that the belief in extraterrestrial UFOs stems from a human need to believe. He argues that if extraterrestrials existed, they would either be too primitive to travel or too advanced to be interested in humanity. This perspective is contrasted with a letter from Alain Lortie, who protests Seguin's dismissive stance, and a subsequent debate where the author of the article (likely Norbert Spehner) participated. The debate highlights the public's reaction to expert opinions that downplay UFO significance.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a scientific and investigative approach to UFO phenomena, advocating for transparency and the disclosure of government information. It encourages critical analysis of sightings and theories, while also acknowledging the persistent mystery and the potential significance of UFO events. The editorial stance supports the pursuit of evidence-based understanding and legal avenues to uncover facts, as exemplified by the CAUS lawsuit. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between scientifically explainable events and those that remain anomalous, and on the importance of rigorous investigation rather than mere speculation or dismissal.

This issue of 'Billet' from Le Devoir, dated Tuesday, January 9, 1979, focuses on the ongoing debate surrounding UFOs, particularly the controversial stance of scientist Fernand Seguin. The magazine presents excerpts from reader letters and a transcript of a debate on Radio-Canada's 'La Science et Vous' program, alongside an editorial commentary and statistical data on UFO sightings.

Reader Reactions to Fernand Seguin

The issue opens with a letter from Suzanne Roy of St. Jean, Quebec, expressing strong disappointment with Fernand Seguin's public statements on UFOs. Roy criticizes Seguin for what she perceives as a dismissive attitude towards evidence and witness testimony, comparing him unfavorably to older, more open-minded scientists. She argues that Seguin's prestige as a scientific popularizer lends undue weight to his skepticism, influencing public opinion negatively and discouraging individuals who have had unexplained experiences from coming forward for fear of ridicule. Roy contends that Seguin's approach is not only unscientific but also harmful, as it abuses the public's trust by denying phenomena that are increasingly supported by evidence.

Another set of excerpts, from 'Pourquoi Fernand Seguin Doute-t-il des Ovnis?' published in 'La Presse' on January 15, 1979, further illustrates this sentiment. The author, who previously admired Seguin, expresses shock at his perceived lack of openness, emphasizing that the study of UFOs is distinct from religion and that many scientists share a more open-minded perspective. The letter suggests that Seguin's negative stance will instill fear and prevent open discussion, potentially hindering valuable research.

The Radio-Canada Debate: Science vs. Credulity

The core of the issue is a transcript of a debate on Radio-Canada's 'La Science et Vous' program, featuring Fernand Seguin (F.S.), Alain Lortie (A.L.), and Marc Leduc (M.L.). Seguin defends his position, stating he has a scientific and prudent attitude, and criticizes the 'credulity' of those who believe in extraterrestrial vehicles. He argues that while he deplores scientific orthodoxy, he also rejects blind belief. Seguin calls for rigorous scientific groups to examine the small proportion of 'inexplicable' UFO cases.

Marc Leduc and Alain Lortie challenge Seguin's approach. Leduc suggests that the motivation for research can include the possibility of extraterrestrial visitors and notes Seguin's past recommendations of UFO-Quebec, implying he is not entirely unfamiliar with the subject. Leduc also points out that the scientific community often reacts with intolerance to subjects like astrology, and Seguin's own position might be perceived as orthodox by some.

Alain Lortie questions what evidence would be sufficient, asking if authenticated photos are not enough. Seguin responds that it's difficult to identify objects from outside our everyday universe and that 'absence of proof is not proof of absence.' He suggests that terrestrial explanations are more plausible for the small fraction of unexplained cases and that science cannot prove a negative.

Seguin expresses frustration that his prudent examination of the phenomenon is met with intolerance. He wishes for a recognized group with rigorous evaluation criteria to study the 'bizarre inexplicable events.' Leduc suggests Seguin should not dismiss serious literature on the subject. Seguin counters that such literature is not accepted by the scientific community, which tends to react defensively to beliefs that challenge its established framework.

Evaluating UFO Reports: Marc Leduc's Analysis

Marc Leduc contributes an article titled 'Notes sur les estimations des rapports' (Notes on the Estimation of Reports). He discusses the challenges in proving the existence of UFOs and the varied responses one might receive from different experts. Leduc focuses on the 'mass of observation reports' as a key element used by ufologists to argue for the existence of UFOs, particularly the extraterrestrial hypothesis. However, he stresses that the value of these reports is not uniform and depends heavily on the evaluation process.

Leduc outlines several factors influencing an investigator's assessment of a report:

1. Authority in the Field: Investigators with greater authority tend to be more severe in their judgments.
2. The 'Halo' Effect: A report or event can acquire a reputation (positive or negative) that precedes it, influencing how it's perceived.
3. Investigator's Appreciation Criteria: Investigators may use their evaluations to enhance their personal files or group standing. Their approach can be paternalistic or aggressive, depending on their emotional charge.
4. Contrast Effect: The evaluation of a current case can be influenced by the immediately preceding case. An excellent case might make a subsequent average case seem weaker, and vice versa.
5. Logical Error: Investigators may incorporate subjective data, such as the witness's age, social situation, or education, into their decision-making, which can bias their assessment.

Leduc concludes that the value of report estimations is a fluctuating variable due to these subjective considerations. He notes that these technical aspects of evaluation are common in various scientific fields and cites Roland Louis's work on measurement and evaluation as a reference.

Statistical Data on UFO Observations (1973)

The issue includes partial statistical data for UFO observation reports from 1973. Two graphs and accompanying tables show:

• Reports by Month: The number of reports peaks in November (47 reports), followed by October (14 reports) and September (14 reports). The lowest numbers are in January, March, and April (0-2 reports).
• Reports by Hour of Day: The data shows a significant increase in reports during the evening and night hours, with the highest numbers occurring between 9 PM (21 reports) and 10 PM (22 reports), followed by 8 PM (16 reports) and 11 PM (14 reports). The early morning and daytime hours show considerably fewer reports.

It is noted that these distributions do not represent the entirety of observation reports for 1973.

Editorial Postface

Norbert Spehner provides an editorial postface, criticizing the common media practice of bringing in an 'expert' to downplay unusual events, likening it to a 'liar of service' for official bodies. He suggests Fernand Seguin made a mistake by engaging in the debate, especially since his statement was recorded before he saw the film in question. Spehner argues that the public's reaction to Seguin was healthy, indicating a growing awareness and resistance to manipulation. He predicts that UFO phenomena will eventually impose themselves due to increasingly spectacular and irrefutable manifestations. Spehner warns journalists and popularizers who adopt an anti-UFO stance to please the scientific establishment that they risk alienating an increasingly informed public.

UFO Quebec Contact Information

The issue concludes with contact information for UFO Quebec, providing phone numbers for different regions (Montreal, Rougemont, St. Hyacinthe, Joliette, Laurentides) for reporting UFO observations and reaching investigators.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the conflict between scientific skepticism and public belief regarding UFOs, the role of media in shaping public perception, and the methodology of evaluating evidence. The editorial stance, particularly in the postface and reader letters, is critical of rigid scientific orthodoxy and dismissive attitudes towards unexplained phenomena, advocating for a more open and evidence-based approach to UFO research. The inclusion of statistical data suggests an effort to ground the discussion in observable patterns, even if the interpretation remains contentious.